SEN
Issue 5
Gifts
Pregnancy
Education
Magazine Give A Little This Christmas
Fabulous Gifts For All The Family
Your ve ry own
Snuggles
ac
For bespoke bags with a funky edge… As a mum myself I know only too well about the
earth. As a result of this struggle Funky Little
Steph also expanding her collections to include
perils of finding the perfect nappy changing
Bugs was born and creates fun and unique
Toddler Bags; which again are fun, colourful
bag; it needs to do a lot of things and all too
designs delighting mums and dads the
and practical too. They make a great Christmas
often if feels like the high street falls short. For
world over.
gift and kids will love to have a bag of their own
a start it needs to be multifunctional – it will
to carry their bits and pieces in. then there are
become your combined handbag and nappy
With collections featuring designs such as the
the baby accessories and lovely designs for
bag ideally keeping separate those leaky baby
popular Marvel Comic series, Mr Men, Polka
Christmas such as the personalised Santa sacks
wipes and your mobile phone. Then it needs
Dots, Butterflies and pretty much everything
and gift bags. Or, for the grownups there are
to be stylish- you need to like it so it needs to
in between, bespoke commissioned designs
the Tote Bags and unique Jean Bags which are
appeal visually. Then it needs to be practical
are also welcomed; if you can’t see it chances
made from actual jeans!
– it needs to have specific homes for the
are that Steph can make it; “Our bags are
abundance of baby essentials you now need to
all handmade by myself and I welcome your
Creative, unique and truly bespoke the bags
take with you as you leave the house. Last but
specifications whether it’s the pattern or
and gifts at Funky Little Bugs are perfect
not least it needs to be affordable – it can’t cost
practical specifics like how many zips you want
for sourcing your upcoming festive season
a third of your new baby items allowance!
nearly anything can be accommodated!” Steph
shopping and adding to your Santa wish list.
told us.
Or, if you can’t find what you are looking for
Thankfully Funky Little Bugs create handmade,
purchase a gift voucher and give a gift they will
bespoke nappy bags which tick all the right
Machine washable with all the handy extras
nappy bag boxes! Hurrah. Founded after owner
such as Velcro stick on’s so they don’t slip
and mum of five, Steph (so by a woman who
down the pushchair handles all show that their
knows what she needs from a nappy bag)
creator is a mum who knows what’s important
struggled to find a bag which was practical,
when it comes to the usefulness of your bag!
reflected her personal style and didn’t cost the
New designs are always being added with
02
really love this year. www.funkylittlebugs.com
Contents 04
Christmas Gifts
32
Training Twos
68
Autism
It’s time to start thinking about those allimportant Christmas Gifts, and whilst some people are not keen on the whole affair we have decided that the way to love it, is to start early, gradually and predominantly online from the comfort of your own armchair! We have even gathered some great gift guides to help you along your way!
As your babe grows to a tot at the speed of lightening there are aspects to this stage that need covering (aside from the occasional tantrums!) such as potty training, healthy food habits and toys to help them develop. We have picked out a few companies to help with this fun but sometimes challenging stage!
Autism is a condition that is very close to our hearts here at Achieve Magazine and this issue we focus on what’s happening from the Anna Kennedy Online team as well as some great organisations offering specialist care for both young people and adults.
28
50
96
Pregnancy Preparation
One of the biggest aspects on pregnancy is the feeling of anticipation to meet this new little human you are growing. Part and parcel of this anticipation is preparation, getting all the essentials ready and waiting for your impending bundle of joy all adds to the excitement. Take a look at some of our picks for the real essentials at this wonderful time.
Tomorrow’s Talent
The talent of tomorrow needn’t all be about the X Factor, there are hundreds of talented youth out there just waiting for the right guidance and support to hone their skills for a bright future. Whether it’s a classical instrument or passion for drama there are some great schools and organisations to help them along their way, just take a look at some of our selections.
Accessible Britain
Britain is beautiful and so many of us are lucky enough to explore it without any physical restraints, however for those with mobility difficulties Britain isn’t so wide open to explore, particularly its coastal aspects. That’s why we have selected some great companies who offer opportunities for those with mobility concerns to get out there and make the most of our green
Company Director: Jenny Cross - jenny@crossproductions.co.uk Editor: Sally Smith - sally@crossproductions.co.uk Head of Operations: Leanne Baker - leanne@crossproductions.co.uk Design: Rachael Bambrough - design@crossproductions.co.uk Editorial Director: Emily Kirton - editorials@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Emily Davison - emily@crossproductions.co.uk Media Account Manager: Emma Cross - emma@crossproductions.co.uk Postal Address: Cross Productions, 17 Mandervell Road, Oadby, Leicester, LE2 5LR Distribution: Media Matters Direct www.mediamattersdirect.co.uk Published by: Cross Productions Ltd www.achieve-magazine.co.uk Email: info@crossproductions.co.uk Telephone: 0116 2712573
Achieve 03
Christmas
Gifts
Christmas Gifts Galore! Christmas is coming! That’s right, it’s just around the corner and before you know it you will be gathered at the family table tucking into your traditional dinner wondering where on earth the year went. Christmas shopping is never easy, particularly if your list is as long as your arm…that’s why we have vowed to start early this year and have brought you some of our favourite picks this festive season to help you get the gifts for friends and family
Yoyo Chilrens Wear
Win Green
Cherish and Cherubs
will love to receive.
Making Christmas shopping a pleasure… Yup, it’s that time of year again; time to buy those unique, thoughtful, well made yet affordable Christmas gifts! It’s no easy task particularly if you want to ensure that the recipient genuinely loves what you give. However, we know of a company who makes this whole process not only entirely possible but that makes the experience enjoyable too… intrigued? Then read on…. The Little British Company was launched in 2013 by Jacky who has always had a passion for all the lovely things Britain has to offer and wanted to come up with a website that would exhibit the gorgeous products you can find on your doorstep produces in beautiful Britain. What’s more is that she developed a place where people can buy British made, high quality goods and support our UK traders and it means you, as the consumer, don’t have to break the bank! The range of great gifts on offer is extensive with the ethos the same whichever the product; it needs to have a quirky edge, be different from what you might usually find (no run of the mill stuff here!), be well made and not cost the earth. As a result of their ethos you will find a whole host of delightful gifts for your friends and family that they will be thrilled to receive (perhaps you could even pop in a gift or two for yourself, we won’t tell!). You can find candles, ceramics, quirky signs, stationary, gifts and toys for the little ones and even jewellery and men’s grooming products too. There is something for everyone on your list at the easy to use online gift shop. This award winning company is driven by their passion to support British made goods and ultimately delivering them to you, 1st class and gift wrapped, to enjoy! This helps to complete this lovely companies selling ethos and provide a service which means you can make Christmas gift buying the enjoyable, stress free experience it really ought to be! So, what are you waiting for? Get started at www.TheLittleBritishCompany.co.uk and tick those pressi’s off your list with your feet up from the comfort of your arm chair (mulled wine and mince pie optional!).
04
Get 10 % off wit h the discou nt cod e ACHIE VE10!
Pigeon for clothing with heart Buying unique, high-quality, well-designed baby and children’s clothing needn’t be such a chore; with the discovery of Pigeon our search for finding affordable organic cotton clothing for our children, whether for our own or as a gift for others, is over! With a collection of seasonal rompers, allin-ones, hats, scarves, t-shirts, trousers and dresses from babies up to 8 years, Pigeon is the name to watch in childrenswear. Established by mum of two and businesswoman Jane Shepherd back in 2004, Pigeon has always been about strong designs which are ethically made; “I discovered a lot about the cotton trade back then and was shocked to find that the production of cotton was accountable for over 25% of all insecticide use around the world and this was so appalling to me that I endeavoured to start really supporting the organic cotton crops with a clothing range of my own.” And so…..Pigeon was born.
The vibrant collections were loved very quickly and with consistently inspirational designs Jane and her close-knit team slowly but surely infiltrated their collections within hundreds of small boutiques across the country, as well as reaching a large market with John Lewis; “I have always wanted to design and found that with the creative team we had right here in the UK we were producing pieces that we were really proud of, for a keen and wide audience. Thankfully our designs appeared to reach out to those that were looking for something that bit different, of high quality and with an ecoconscience.” Jane told us. These budget-savvy designs are all about their long-term wear; the high-quality, wash-well items last so well that they can be passed through the family with designs often working for both boys and girls; “We like to offer something different to the norm in our pieces, unique colours and designs which are equally suitable for both genders means that many people are passing Pigeon pieces through the family, I love
this concept – it’s green shopping at its best!” Jane enthused. Ideal as part of your essential pieces for your little one’s wardrobe, as a gift for that newborn in your friendship circle or indeed as gifts for Christmas, a Pigeon item will make for happy parents and happy wearers too! Designing and creating pieces with an eco-conscience is more than a handy accolade for Pigeon, the team’s commitment to working with organically approved cotton providers and manufacturers with strong working ethics is at the heart of Pigeon and it’s this commitment that shines through with each range. The collections really speak for themselves; it’s children’s clothing as it should be. Shop the current collection at www.pigeonorganics.com at John Lewis and hundreds of lovely boutiques across the country.
Achieve 05
Christmas made easy at WOW Toys The Christmas season is really all about the children, right? Seeing their faces light up as you count down the days on the calendar? Getting them all excited on Christmas Eve with the promise of Father Christmas and a day filled with their toys and treats galore is where the real thrill comes from in the festive season. However, buying the toys to fill them with such delight may not necessarily fill you with delight as you scour all the shops for the latest fad must haves and expensive bits that you know won’t last longer than five minutes. This is where WOW Toys save the day! With a growing collection of toys which always have the WOW factor, you will find everything your child’s heart desires this Christmas online at Argos, Hamleys and Amazon to name a few as well as a host of ever expanding independent toy shops worldwide! Delightfully more than that, you will find toys they will adore with themes they love such as Princesses and Trucks plus much more besides. They are toys that they will love for years and give them hours of joy - all at affordable prices too! WOW Toys is the culmination of one toy designer’s dream to bring vibrant and exciting toys of his own collection to the public; “I wanted to create toys that children will love for many years, that don’t need batteries to make them work and which children can enjoy from a young age and continue to play with as they grow. It’s a real joy to be designing toys that so many children love and a real privilege that WOW Toys are so many children’s favourite toy in their toy box.” WOW Toys Founder and Toy Designer Nadim Ednan-Laperouse told us. Enabling your child to indulge in their imagination and play with pieces which appeal in the early years and continue to appeal as they learn and discover new things; meaning great long term value for money, a WOW toy is designed for their enjoyment at play but also their development in play too. Bright colours, sounds and chunky shapes provide important visual, auditory and tactile stimulation whilst each and every toy joyfully doesn’t require batteries! This concept is a thrilling one to us and most parents out there; classic toys which require plenty of imagination without technology. Good, old-fashioned play that both children and parents can truly appreciate with each toy made from stern stuff. Talking of their makeup, a WOW toy uses the very best in plastics with no piece that snap off and can be played with (and even dropped down a flight of stairs) without fear of breakage! Our cover features the unique and very exciting WOW advent calendars designed for children as young as 1 year upwards. With two to choose from; WOW Wonderland and WOW Town these unisex calendars provide your child with a small, cute toy to play with each and every day in the countdown to Christmas! Each day in the lead up to Christmas reveals a toy which can be matched with numbers on the folddown play scene to create a magical Christmas story. So, to make Christmas even more magical this year, make it a WOW Toy Christmas! Visit www.wowtoys.com to discover more and to find a list of stockists both online and stores.
06
1.
2.
0 1 p o T
WOW Toys This Christmas
3.
Dexter the Digger – Dig your way around the construction site with this WOW classic vehicle
7.
mini WOW Cars – The best out & about vehicles for 1year+
4.
Enjoy Christmas with the award winning Flip ‘n’ Tip Fred
8.
RSPCA Vehicles – Ideal for all animal loving children
Advent Calendars – The perfect way to start counting down to the exciting day for 1-5 year olds
5.
Danny’s Diving Adventure – The ultimate bath toy
9.
Arctic Archie – Enjoy a snowy Christmas with this arctic snowmobile set
My Pocket Friends – The perfect stocking filler
6.
Pippa’s Princess Carriage – Become a princess this Christmas with Pippa’s Princess Carriage
10.
Emergency Rescue – Save the day with this emergency themed 3 in 1 multipack toy
www.wowtoys.com Achieve 17
Gifts for Kids
Diamanté Heart Tshirts £16.50 www.facebook.com/ pureandinnocenttutus
Had Originals - Kids Tube Scarf RRP £14.99 www.had-originals.com
Teen Dream – the Christmas gift that allows 11-years olds to get motoring. Buy a voucher for a 30 or 60 minute session (£31.99/ £59.95) which can be redeemed at 33 venues across Great Britain, www.youngdriver.eu
Microwave heated soft cuddly toys make perfect gifts for children of all ages, offering warmth and comfort to help relaxation and sleep. See the full range at www.coziewarmers. co.uk online ordering available
Toy Shop Playhouse:- We challenge anyone not to be captivated by the traditional charm of this beautifully handembroidered and appliquéd Toy Shop Playhouse. From £200 at www.wingreen.co.uk
The sporty Grommet is known for comfort on the backs of kids everywhere. Ideal for ages 5-10. RRP £39.99 www.keltyeurope.eu
Perfect for kids and adults alike, Shaken Udder milkshakes are an ideal picnic treat, promising delicious and indulgent flavours. £1.49 RRP available in Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose stores.
Princess Toy Bag:- What better way to store all those new toys than with this beautifully embroidered and appliquéd, 100% cotton Toy Bag. Available in a variety of designs for £40 at www.wingreen.co.uk
Lab in a bag, Come to your senses RRP £14.99 from Amazon
Lab in a bag, Newtons antics RRP £14.99 from Amazon
Yuck Great Geysers RRP £14.99 from Amazon
Pixie Long Sleeved T-shirt Long-sleeved purple t-shirt with embroided pixie and flowers image. It come in 4 sizes for ages from 3-7 years old. 100% high quality soft Turkish cotton. RRP £17. www.placefootwear.com
Plum Snowdrop Interactive Wooden Kitchen £99.00 www.plumproducts.com
Purple SwimFin - the world’s only vertical swimming aid that will leave children feeling safe and secure in the water! www.swimfin.co.uk £21.99
Frozen Olaf & Sven Nappy cake, perfect Unisex Christmas gift for a new baby, or baby shower. £52.99 and FREE UK Delivery. www.coochycoonappycakes.co.uk
Pink tutus £22.00 www.facebook.com/ pureandinnocenttutus
win green
Red Glitter Ballerinas £14.99 -Younger girls beautiful red ballerina in shimmering glitter with detachable rose trim and adjustable velcro strap. Available in sizes 8 to 13 www.thesparkleclub.co.uk
Red Glitter Heeled Party Shoes £15.99 - Gorgeous heeled court shoes in shimmering red glitter, featuring a detachable rose trim. Adjustable velcro ankle strap. Available in sizes 10 to 3 www.thesparkleclub.co.uk
GoVinci Backpack - The all-inone backpack, drawing table & mobile art display. £19.99 www.fiesta-tots.co.uk
jo for girls
Pendant - For a personal touch buy these delightful initial pendants brought to you by Jo for Girls®. Chain size choices are 14”, 16” or 18” - from £19.50 www.joforgirls.co.uk
08
Our Top Online Boutiques
Dribblers bandana style dribble bibs are the next generation in bibs for teething babies & toddlers or children & adults with special needs. The unique waterproof lining and a neat design makes them a funky yet practical accessory for any outfit! 07725844714 www.dribblers.co.uk dribblers.bibs@gmail.com
Find a stunning range of special occasion wear for children at Little Jems! 10% off your first order for by quoting AM10!
www.littlejemsmanchester.co.uk admin@littlejemsmanchester.co.uk 0161 370 9323
Cherish & Cherubs for gifts that little bit different info@cherishandcherubs.co.uk www.cherishandcherubs.co.uk
Bespoke artwork, a great gift for the new arrival in the family. You choose the wording and we produce a stylised print. Distinctive gifts that can be treasured for years. From as little as ÂŁ26.95
t. 01276 462614 m. 07850 718238 e. info@mytimeframe.co.uk
10% off first order with this voucher code: CP10
exclusively at www.lucymoose.com Achieve 09
Babies love playing with their feet! Play, pull, crinkle, ratt le, touch!
Playtoes are pram shoes that have been designed with high contrast colours, patterns and interactive character themed add-ons. These stimulate baby’s vision and encourages baby to reach, grab and kick, working those muscles! With every kick, tug or wiggle, the Playtoes rattle, squeak and crinkle to keep your baby entertained.
07503 219505 claire@playtoes.co.uk TB7838 Skibzwww.playtoes.co.uk Products Advert 110x70mm with names_Layout 1 13/02/2014 16:11 Page 2
Original, quirky, innovative, products to help little ones feel more comfortable Refined fastenings
Unique gathered centre
Doublez
7% Discount on all orders Use code ACH84
The home for great ideas for Parents, Babies & Young Children
Reversible fabrics
Skibz
Co-ordinating labels
NEW Check out all our designs at
10
We aim to make it easy for parents shopping online to find the right products for them. We offer products that we believe to be the best in their category based on quality, value for money and ease of use!
www.skibz.co.uk
01977 663306
Swap bibs for Skibz
www.babe-equip.co.uk
!
Our Favourite Children’s Gifts from Nubie Nubie is a one stop shop for all things stylish and cool for your little one! From fresh high-quality nursery, playroom and kid's bedroom furniture to gorgeous gifts, toys and gifts!
Skip Hop Giraffe Zoo Lunchie £13.99
k Stick and Stac animals £19
Cool Play Tent by 9 Ferm Living £12
Melissa and Doug Decorate Your Own - Vanity Set £12.99
Ferm Living Rush Hour Guitar Cushion £39.95
Achieve 11
Gifts for baby
Colin the Crab Pop Up Book RRP £7.99 and can be bought from www.gonecrabbing.co.uk or on Amazon.
My First Flopsy Bunny soft toy is made from premium soft plush to ensure she is as gentle against baby’s skin as can be. RRP: £12.99 Stockists: John Lewis and all good independents
Hand-made Sweeter 4 pack Bandana Bibs £10 from www.bandana-bibs.co.uk
This cute trio of two adorable birdies and one wise owl by Skip Hop invites baby to grab, squeeze, and roll. £18.95 from www.nubie.co.uk
Splash About’s BabySnug, an award-winning baby wetsuit with built-in swim nappy. The perfect starter suit for baby swim lessons! £22.99 www.splashabout.com
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Tummy Time Plush Caterpillar. Designed to stimulate baby’s senses and encourage their early development. RRP: £19.99 Stockist: Amazon and all good independents
BabySonic – Electric Toothbrush for 0 – 3 year olds. Small lightweight handle, Tiny vibrating brush-head, Light-up handle, 2 minute timer, replacement brushhead and battery included. RRP - £8.99 www.brushbaby.co.uk
Mocc Ons RRP £9.99 www.sockons.co.uk – fab slipper socks for babies and toddlers. New styles include Cowboy and Ballerina
Call us on 0871 423 5656 or visit us at www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk
10% off
& free delivery* Quote ACH42 online or bring this voucher into a store *10% offer not valid on sale items, multibuys, gift vouchers or Micro Scooters. The offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. This voucher is valid until 31.12.14. Free delivery to UK and Ireland. See website for full details.
Apple Daisy Happy Nappy to keep all nasties inside and ensure a leak-free swim for baby! £9.99 from www.splashabout.com
Set of ten vintage stacking alphabet blocks, beautifully illustrated five sided alphabet learning blocks in a carrying box. £14.99 from www.loubilou.com
Christmas collection Ways to keep in touch:
TOZIE Slippers for Babies and Toddlers • • • • • •
Designed to Stay on Anti-slip Grips on Soft Soles Elasticated Ankle Flexible and Lightweight Next best thing to bare feet Easy to put on by turning down the back and sliding foot in • Variety of sizes and colours ONLY £10.00 Fab Pop-on Buggy Blankets with sleeves let babies and toddlers have fun and play with their toys when they are in their buggies, car seats or wheelchairs. Keeps them warm and snug from their neck to their toes!
Fitted over all harnesses makes them quick and easy to put on and take off which is great for our changeable British Weather! ONLY £15 Online ordering available
www.coziewarmers.co.uk 01525 718097
10% discount available by entering code ACH
12
Minene for beautiful baby As many of us are mums here at Achieve we love to uncover beautiful baby boutiques and with the finding of Minene.co.uk we knew we had to tell you all about it. Home to a stunning range of vibrant and innovative essential baby items which all enjoy a Minene twist and stylish spin, Minene is the brand to look out for when seeking gorgeous baby goods. Set up by three good friends and young mums Minene was started with a vision to create pieces that they simply struggled to find for themselves on the existing market. “We, like most mums love to find beautiful pieces for our babies and to use in our everyday lives. We put our heads and skills together and Minene was born. We love that we get to provide gifts for a new-born or 1st birthday, or parents shopping for their little ones, everybody loves tiny, beautiful, soft products, and this has always been what we are all about!” Rebecca told us. They most certainly do bring beautiful products to us from new-born essentials such as swaddling muslins and the adorable Mi 1st Bath Buddies - which provide bath supports in 3 friendly characters, to the wildly popular storage range which is ideal from birth right up to young adults and perfect for any room in the home! Storage with children is a huge concern for most parents and the Minene storage collection is more than ideal with a huge choice in fabric patterns! Then there are the stunning clothes, pushchair liners, toys and bedding ranges; all of which share their design and quirky edge appeal. With Christmas just around the corner the Minene shopping experience is a wonderfully stress free one with the online boutique and collections available in John Lewis, Ocado, Boots, Argos and much more. If you buy online not only is it a far more relaxed Christmas shopping experience but a lot of their products arrive to you in a beautiful organza bag – all wrapped up and looking cute on arrival! These perfectly made products are a delight to purchase and receive providing mum and babe with products that offer both functionality and style too. Minene is growing and is now distributed in over 20 countries worldwide but happily despite their growing success the team remain committed to their roots; providing gorgeous products for gorgeous babies!.
www.minene.co.uk Minene love to be social, check out their Facebook and twitter pages for competitions and funny anecdotes: MineneUk.Ltd. Enter code ‘Achieve20’ for 20% discount!
Fiesta Tots - equipping family fun. We are an online store for travel-related baby and child products. Our range is evolving however and new stock is being added all the time. We are now open for business with a physical shop - this means more stock choice and a more hands-on customer service for you - just the way we like it. Come pay us a visit if your near, we'd love to chat. Fiesta Tots , 11 Piries Place, Horsham, West Susses RH12 1EH 01403 217656 sales@fiesta-tots.co.uk
www.fiesta-tots.co.uk
Coochy Coo Nappy Cakes® Adorable, affordable nappy cakes and new baby gifts. Our gifts are available in various sizes, so if you want a small gift from yourself or if you are clubbing together as a group, our designs make an ideal present to give as a pregnancy gift, at a baby shower, or as a gift for a colleague that is leaving work to go on maternity leave. www.coochycoonappycakes.co.uk
info@coochycoonappycakes.co.uk 07580 058 471
Achieve 13
Catch that dribble the stylish way with the help of Bibbles Bandana Bibs! With their wide collection of bandana bibs made in Nottingham by caring grannies you are sure to find something you will love! Bibbles are made with a quality soft cotton top fabric to absorb wetness and a soft fleece under layer to act as a barrier, preventing clothing and baby’s chin from becoming wet and uncomfortable. Adjustable nickel free press-studs means it’s a comfy fit and being machine washable, your Bibble will last for years! .
Leicester’s Themed Portrait Specialists Themed portrait experiences make perfect gifts this Christmas! From Fairies, to Pirates and now a new Disney Frozen inspired “Ice Princess” Experience! www.walkerimages.co.uk 0116 278 9042
Unit 13, Cornwall Business Centre, Cornwall Rd, South Wigston, Leicester, LE18 4XH
14
10% Off your 1st order with code ACHIEVE
www.bandana-bibs.co.uk
The best way to move a sleeping baby. The Snugglebundl gets our vote….. From personal experience there are things that you are told you will need for your new-born that are essential and then there are things that you think you need that simply end up gathering dust. The
Lift without strain
Snugglebundl is one of the essentials that you do need! The handy, simple yet effective wrap with handles is a new parent’s lifesaver for many reasons. Initially it was designed to help you the mother in those early stages after labour to let you lift, lay and move your baby easily as they sleep with the use of two soft strong handles. It has a soft head rest which safely supports your baby’s neck when lifting and laying (no more wincing as you bend over to pick baby up, even after C section). Yet that’s not the only merit of this wonder wrap; it’s unique design is supportive to baby even when you lift to move baby from place to place i.e. from car seat (never lift the car seat out the car again!) to home, from car seat to shopping trolley seat and from sleeping in your arms to cot; your baby’s sleep won’t be interrupted allowing you and your family to enjoy truly restful moments and a natural flow to your day. The Snugglebundl has come a long way from conception to birth (pardon the pun!), David Solomons came up with the idea years ago after noticing difficulty with his wife’s labour recovery, and his bad back at the time; “I came up with using a wrap just to make it easier to lift and lay down my daughter, I found it was the only way myself and my wife could easily move her and discovered that I could easily move her as she stayed soundly asleep too!” However, it wasn’t until David told his designer friend Mike Edwards and his wife Heidi about his idea that it came into fruition; “Mike and Heidi were really enthusiastic about the idea and knew we had something special, they came on board and then we really started to bring the idea to life!” Having worked through many prototypes and undergone rigorous testing the Snugglebundl as it is today was created. Available in two designs, the colourful spotty and the neutral cream, the Snugglebundl is machine and tumble dryer safe, is especially cosy with soft materials and has the ability to lightly swaddle and provide discrete breastfeeding cover too. Receiving rave reviews from new parents, celebrities and baby experts from all over the Snugglebundle also gets our vote; not only is it perfect for new parents everywhere but it makes an ideal mum to be gift this Christmas or baby shower too!
Move without waking
Buy online at www.snugglebundl.co.uk and in selected Boots stores and baby shops across the UK.
Multi Award Winning Design
ap in ndles!”
Feed with ease
10% discount code ‘achE1’ - especially for Achieve readers! w w w. s n u g g l e b u n d l . c o . u k Achieve 15
Gifts for Kids swimfin
Pretty pâtisserie unit perfect for serving up ‘cakes’ to friends or for pretend tea parties. Encourages creative and imaginative role play. Self assembly. Suitable from 3yrs. £89 from www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk
The Magnetic Songwriters Kit. These are mini word magnets to attach to your fridge. They are in themed packs including Girl Groups, Blues, Heavy Metal, Power Ballads, Hip Hop and Country. RRP £6.99
Orange SwimFin - the world’s only vertical swimming aid that will leave children feeling safe and secure in the water! www.swimfin.co.uk £21.99
Learn how to needle felt with our Barn Owl kit. You’ll use the barbed felting needles to stab the wool into life, creating a beautiful woollen sculpture to treasure forever. RRP 17.50. Aged 10+ www.thelittlebritishcompany.co.uk
KitSound Audio Beanie’s - a stylish, warm beanie with headphones that can be connected to your iPod, smartphone or tablet. RRP: from £19.99 - £24.99 & available in most high street and online retailers
Brain Noodles: Flowers Creative fun making unique flowers with their own personalities! Fabulous for kids who love to make and create. SRP: £12.95 Stockists: Amazon
Sweet Treats Earrings in 4 cute designs - pink ice cream cones, vanilla ice cream cones, pink cup cakes & purple cup cakes. £4.89 www.giftsfortweens.co.uk
STUFF YOUR DOODLES Step 1: Doodle your doodle, Step 2: Send your doodle to the moose, Step 3: Be patient while moose goes to work… Step 4: Look out for the postie! www.lucymoose.com
incy wincy
Colourful personalised letter train Use the colourful letter carriages to make up your own magnetic name train. A wonderful gift for a young child or as a keepsake for a newborn.£5 + £2.50 per letter. www.cherishandcherubs.co.uk
Hand knitted baby sets in 100% Merino wool. Set comprises of Hat,mitts and the little boots have knitted soles. £30.00 www.incywincycashmere.co.uk
busy peas
Pippin Friendship Charm Bracelet. This is an exciting luxury jewellery making kit designed specifically with the Tween in mind! £12.50 www.giftsfortweens.co.uk
A retro ride on scooter with authentic detailing. Multi directional casters give free flowing movement in all directions for great indoor fun. £54.99 from www.loubilou.com
Carry Carrot soft toy and a copy of The Veggie Bunch Go Camping storybook, presented in a transparent gift pod tied with green ribbon and a Busy Peas gift tag. A charming gift! £16.95 www.busypeas.co.uk
babe equip
Bear Family Dress-Up Puzzle £9.99. This cute puzzle offers the perfect opportuntiy to practice emotions, turn taking, developing communication skills. It’s fun to change their expressions and their clothing to express their every mood. RosyandBo.com
16
Easy-on, easy-off, EzSox £7.99. The “I can do it” sock! Reinforced loops give fingers an easier grip for pulling on socks! Dressing and self-help skills, confidence and independence, fine motor development, coordination. RosyandBo.com
DECORATE YOUR OWN DINOSAUR FIGURINES Complete with 6 pots of colourful and non-toxic paint, easy to clean paintbrush and 2 sold resin dinosaur figurines, your child has everything needed to decorate the dinosaur models. £5.99 www.babe-equip.co.uk
skibz
Stimulate baby’s senses with Bumblebee Shoes from Playtoes. £22 www.playtoes.co.uk/store
Skibz is the Original Award winning bandana style dribble bib! Check out our latest Christmas Made in Britain limited Edition design. Want 20% off? Enter XMAS20. £10.00 www.skibz.co.uk
babe equip
Little Pals Cookie Baking Set Everything you need to bake the perfect biscuits! Age 3+ £11.99 www.babe-equip.co.uk
Bracelet - On trend, gorgeous Freshwater Pearl Bracelets from Jo for Girls® available in white or pink and 2 sizes. Priced from £25. www.joforgirls.co.uk
Easy shopping at Babe-equip One of the key things any mother and father go
where we came away with so many things!
as much more besides. Cathy and Ed are
through as they prepare for the birth of their first
Some of which were essential of course, but so
always on the lookout for the very best products
born is the gathering of masses of baby things.
much of it really wasn’t! So much of it we were
for the very best prices meaning you can find
The feeling is one of excitement and panic as
talked into by sales assistants or simply we
brands such as Redkite, Clevermama and
they gather countless essentials and lots of
bought because it was there and we wanted
Tippitoes to name a few. “We love to source new
non-essentials too. How many new parents
to feel really prepared. We found it amazing at
products which fit our ethos for our customers,
soon discover that much of what they bought
just how much of it was such a waste and we
some of our current favourites in the run up
in this time isn’t quite as essential as they
certainly wanted to provide a way of advising
to the festive season include the Kiddimoto
were advised it would be? Not only does the
other parents against the perils of buying it all!
range – a perfect range of balance bikes and
excesses of equipment seem like such a waste
We both had the relevant business experience
equipment for a stylish high quality Christmas
afterwards but it also leaves you full of questions
and now armed with the parental experience too
gift this year as are the EverEarth range of eco-
as to how on earth you got talked into that
we knew Babe- equip would be a great way of
friendly wooden toys.” Cathy told us.
rocking all singing all dancing moses basket!
combining the two.” Cathy told us. Quality and value for money is key for the
Babe-equip is one of the very few places where
Home to a wide but clear range of products
small approachable team at Babe-equip with a
you can get all your baby essentials under one
which all refreshingly come with extensive
welcoming approach to their customers; they
easy to use shop roof whose ethos is worlds
information on the product and advice you can
appreciate that new parents are looking for real
apart from the rest in terms of providing goods
find all the true baby essentials at affordable
advice and strive to offer an informed honest
that you actually will need without the confusion
prices with ease. Peruse the carefully selected,
approach always.
of lots of other things that you really won’t
high quality great value for money ranges from
need at all! Founded by parents Cathy and Ed
the comfort of your home and choose essentials
Enjoy easy shopping with great service and
Morgan; Babe-equip was born out of their own
for pregnant mum, new-born baby and even
prompt delivery at www.babe-equip.co.uk
experiences. “During my pregnancy with our
toddlers and young children such as toiletries,
daughter we went on countless shopping trips
buggy and pram accessories and toys as well
7% Discount on all orders with code ACHAR Valid until 31/12/14 and not valid with any other code
Incy Wincy Cashmere
Nubie Boutique offers the stylish home owner cool, fun and chic children’s furniture and accessories and is home to a wide variety in gifts for the tots in your life plus, rather pleasantly, there isn’t a quick fix present in sight… just high quality stylish gifts that both parents and children will love. Owner Amanda shares her big tip on Christmas gift buying for children this year… ‘Christmas Shopping. There you go, I said it! Whilst it might feel like it’s quite early to be discussing Christmas gifts, here in the retail world we are gathering collections for you happy festive shoppers to give gleefully this year already. This issue I want to offer you a big piece of advice if I may for when it comes to choosing gifts carefully this year. For a start, how many gifts that you bought in a plastic panic at the end of shopping season last year are still going strong this year? How many have weathered the quality storm and indeed how many have wavered after your tot decided that it wasn’t so cool after all? So many toys have a short shelf life and with this in mind try to think of shopping earlier; make sure what they say they want is still the case a month or two down the line. Look for toys with lasting power such as high quality pieces or even items to decorate their rooms with. It’s likely they will get a lot of what’s on their list so maybe as the parent opt for something that you all will love in the home this year. To help you on this better gift buying road this issue I have included my top ten gifts from us at Nubie that the whole family will love…I promise.’ Amanda at Nubie Boutique.
Is there a “Special someone” aged 2-7 years, who loves their own special things and loves stories? Someone who loves to play, rapt in their own imagination? It’s a beautiful thing to see a child playing happily and one of the treasured memories of childhood. The world has changed so much, especially for children. The time for imaginative play is being squeezed out by the pace of modern life and the rapid development of computer related toys. Do you remember how you played when you were a child? It probably involved lots of make-believe. Zandra Johnson, the CEO of Fairytale Furniture, is a passionate advocate for the importance of free imaginative play. “Children love things that are especially for them and they love stories. So we put the two together and design chairs to engage the child, not just make small sized copies of adult chairs. For every chair we design we write an illustrated story book and include it with the chair.” Being a mum Zandra is very aware how active children are and each design is rigorously tested for safety and stability. It is also important to Fairytale Furniture that our handmade chairs and toy chairs are ethically sourced and eco-friendly. Did you keep something from your childhood, something you loved and played with? Fairytale Children’s Furniture is made to be loved and treasured and passed down to the next generation with all its associated childhood memories. Zandra says, “Children seem to relate to the chairs straight away and begin to play. Something that we didn’t foresee was how the chairs become special reading chairs. The children love to read and rock, returning to the chair with yet another book – even if they are only “pretend reading” – it’s establishing a pattern and a love of books”.
So, sit back, relax and discover Christmas gifts for the kids made easy at
www.fairytalechildrensfurniture.co.uk
www.nubie.co.uk
facebook.com/fairytalechairs
18
@FairytaleChairs
Stunning, hand knitted designs at Incy Discovering beautiful handcrafted baby’s clothing is somewhat of a passion for this writer. With a little one on the way that has a winter due date my long-term love for handknitted clothing pieces has gone crazy and Incy Wincy Cashmere has only furthered this knitted baby wardrobe epidemic I seem to have! The Stunning hand-knitted pieces in traditional designs from Pam at Incy Wincy seem to have struck a particular chord and we are thrilled to give you an insight into this really rather special online boutique. Having been knitting since the tender age of 14 (along with her mother and three sisters), knitting is a passion (or addiction!) that Pam thrives upon. Creating timeless designs drawing from her extensive library of modern and vintage patterns has never got tiresome; “Quite simply I love knitting and always have so producing jackets, outfits, hats, gloves and shoes which are loved for years to come by parents and babies alike is a true thrill!” Pam told us. Whether it’s a traditional jacket and bonnet or one of the latest Japanese inspired crocheted to order amigurumi characters there is something for every taste making Incy WIncy the ideal shop to indulge for your own brood or as a gift to friends and family. Each piece is made using the highest quality merino wool or cashmere which Pam sources herself and every item is made to her high standards by her very own hands; “I make each and every item myself, mainly because I get so much pleasure from it but also to make sure my standards are maintained!” Pam enthused. So, to discover hand knitted designs that will be cherished for years to come visit www.incywincycashmere.co.uk
Swimming for all! Swimming is a truly wonderful form of exercise and what’s great is that it doesn’t discriminate, yes that’s right I did say that - swimming is non-discriminative! Whatever your age, level of fitness, body shape or swimming skills there is a way into swimming for you. Baby swimming is C
great for you and babe, it gives them confidence, trains the natural
M
reflexes and increases mother and baby bonding time (what’s not to like?!). For toddlers many local pools will offer lessons and fun family
Y
CM
splash times to get them active and help confidence in the water whilst
MY
they are young, this can be made especially fun and proactive with the CY
use of the SwimFin (all have the added advantage of parental peace of
CMY
mind too!) .There are loads of fun gifts you can give this Christmas to K
encourage the little ones to get swimming; perhaps a new costume, float or water toy to get them in a watery frame of mind? Swimming can also be really beneficial during pregnancy, after a minor injury, the elderly or during a particularly stressful time that your body may be going through, it’s a gentle exercise that takes the weight off your bones and allows for stretching without damage. Of course, you should consult your doctor first, but generally swimming is a great recovery excursive. So, what are you waiting for?
Get swimming!
the best
style in
Winter is
warmth
Trusted by parents Loved by kids
Winter has arrived & so has the chilly weather! Our Warm in Water range ensures that little bodies are kept toasty warm while learning to swim & splashing about in the pool this Winter. If only they came in adult sizes!
BabySnug with built in Happy Nappy protection
Fuss free changing BabyWrap
Ultimate coverage WarmInOne
www.splashabout.com
Snugly Après Splash towelling
Like our Facebook page SplashaboutUK to be the first to receive news & special offers on our wide range of products. For more information & to view our full range of products visit: www.splashabout.com
Achieve 19
B Bareef autiful oot with y Use p our first o Book nline romo ord co de ‘Ba e refoo r. t’.
Enjoy
15% off
your next order with offer code: ACH914 Smart Start Toys offer quality wooden and educational toys, games and bedroom accessories and furniture for children of all ages. Our award winning toys are innovative and fun providing extensive learning and play value.
Visit op! h our s aturday
ay - S 0pm Mon0dam - 5:3 3 : 9
We offer a gift wrapping service and a speedy delivery to all UK Mainland addresses.
01558 824755
sales@evestoyshop.co.uk
or visit us at: 1 King St, Llandeilo, Camarthenshire, SA19 6AA
Beautifully made to treasure for years. Children’s chairs each with their own illustrated story book. Sure to provide hours of fun, reading, rocking and imaginative play.
For 20% special discount until 31st December 2014 quote AM20 Whilst stock lasts
www.fairytalechildrensfurniture.co.uk @FairytaleChairs facebook.com/fairytalechairs
20
www.smartstart-toys.co.uk Free delivery on orders of over £60
Top 10 Games from Orchard Toys!
Shopping List
Tell the Time Lotto
Crazy Chefs
Pop to the Shops
Rocket Game
Race to fill your trolley with our bestselling game Shopping List! Who will be the first to find all the items on their list and load their trolley in this fun memory game? SRP: £7.50
A ‘learn the time’ lotto. Say the time aloud and try to make a match on your action-packed playing boards. Children learn and develop skills with analogue and digital times. SRP: £7.50
Help the crazy chefs make a meal. Join the chefs in the crazy kitchen and collect everything they need to make a meal. Then grab your plate and wait for your dish to cook! SRP: £7.50
Help children learn about handling money and giving change, by playing this fun shopping game. Move from shop to shop, using plastic money to buy lots of different items. SRP: £9.50
Blast into space with this fun counting and matching game! Choose a launch pad and blast into space collecting as many loop-theloops as you can on the way! SRP: £7.50
Where’s My Cupcake
Greedy Gorilla
Old MacDonald Lotto
Alphabet Lotto
Giant Road Jigsaw
Match and collect delicious cupcakes in this fun sharing game. Remember you manners as other players offer to share their cupcakes with you, then make your own from the tasty recipe supplied! SRP: £7.50
A healthy eating game........ Encourage healthier eating in a fun way. Use the healthy food cards to create nutritious meals and post the junk food into the gorilla’s mouth to make him burp! Includes real burping noise! SRP: £11.75
A fun farmyard lotto for very young players. Make lots of noises and actions as you find the farm cards to match the pictures on your playing board. Be the first player to match your farmer and you win the game! SRP: £9.50
Learn the letters of the alphabet in this fun lotto game! Choose which side of the board you play on and try to be the first player to find all the cards that match the letters or pictures on your lotto board. 4 ways to play! SRP: £9.50
Design lots of different road layouts using the 20 chunky interchangeable puzzle pieces. Add to the fun with your own favourite toy cars. SRP: £13.95
Achieve 21
Give the gift of a cosy sleep this Christmas… What better gift could you give a family with a
a comfort blanket. A bright fleecy lion Snuggle
sizes in children and teenagers with the Original
young child this Christmas than a great night’s
Sac with a tail was the answer. The concept
Snuggle Sac.
sleep? Well, that’s certainly what the parents
worked brilliantly and the business was started.
among us in the office voted for!
Not only does this wonderful invention solve Available in a wide range of bright designs,
the blankets on the floor problems at night,
The Snuggle Sac is the perfect cosy sleep
including Harry Potter (which was created after
they also provide a great deal of comfort and
aid for toddlers (from 18 months old) right up
author JK Rowling infamously included the
fun on long car journeys, staying in different
to teenagers and beyond. These soft, cosy
Snuggle Sac in one of her Potter books!) as well
environments such as on holiday, sleepovers, or
sleeping bags were the brainchild of mum of
as current favourites Pirates and Fairies to name
simply whilst snuggling in front of their favourite
two, Tina Goldsmith, who realised her own
a few.
film or book. They provide a level of comfort and
toddler’s world had been turned upside down
familiarity that children and parents the world
by the birth of a new baby brother. He had been
The Snuggle Sacs are machine washable
moved into his first big bed, was waking up cold
and can be tumble dried at low temperatures
with his covers on the floor, was refusing to have
overcoming inevitable accidents during toddler
The snuggle Sac Company are very proud
a daytime nap and didn’t want to go to nursery.
years and making them perfect for every night of
to be endorsed and recommended by the
She decided he needed something to keep him
the year. The collection has designs for toddlers
highly acclaimed children’s sleep expert, Vicki
warm and secure at night, which had the appeal
as they transition from cot to bed in the My First
Dawson, founder of The Children’s
of a favourite teddy bear and the portability of
Snuggle Sac range and caters for two further
Sleep Charity.
22
over love about the Snuggle Sac.
“Familiarity and routine is also important for children to sleep well and the Snuggle Sac is fully transportable and even comes with it’s own bag meaning that it can be taken on holiday or sleepovers.”
She said, “The Snuggle Sac is a great product and can help children to feel more secure at night time. Kicking duvets off during the night can be a common problem and can disturb sleep patterns, the Snuggle Sac alleviates this problem providing children with a consistent sleep environment which is essential for a good night’s sleep. Familiarity and routine is also important for children to sleep well and the Images by Eliza Boo Photography
Snuggle Sac is fully transportable and even comes with it’s own bag meaning that it can be taken on holiday or sleepovers. The product washes well and is great for allergy sufferers.” No wonder us here at Achieve Mag are recommending the Snuggle Sac as the gift of a cosy sleep this Christmas.
www.snugglesac.com
Win! an Original Snugglesac!! All you need to do is send your name and contact details to: competitions@crossproductions.co.uk with the subject ‘Snugglesac’ by 26th September 2014.
Achieve 23
jo for girls
www.joforgirls.co.uk Use code AC25 now and save 25%
24
There isn’t an adult among us who doesn’t cherish a childhood Christmas memory. Whether it be the excitement of discovering the stocking at the foot of your bed, the memories of fun and laughter in a family-filled home or the enjoyment of hours spent playing with new toys. With a range of products designed to motivate, inspire and encourage children to create a world of memories all of their own, we believe that Win Green should take pride of place on any Christmas Wishlist. Beautifully hand embroidered and appliquéd, Win Green’s collection of 100% cotton children’s playhouses and accessories not only make the most adorable Christmas gifts, they have all the ingredients required to create lasting memories of imagination and make-believe, all year round. For boys playhouses include a Garage, Pirate Shack and Barn; fun and colourful, trimmed with bright ginghams and adorned with cars, buried treasure and tractors. Playhouses for girls include a Fairy Cottage, Princess Castle and Gingerbread Cottage; beautiful and delicate, trimmed with pretty mini-ginghams and decorated with fairies, butterflies, flowers and cupcakes. Selected playhouses can be personalised too, so why not add your child’s name for that extra special touch! Each range also includes coordinating accessories of Toy Bags, Bean Bags, Aprons, Decorative Hangings and Cushions … great to complete the range or as beautiful Christmas gifts, just on their own! Brimming with character and traditional charm, Win Green products recreate the qualities of the old-fashioned toy, where detail was the key ingredient; encouraging children to explore their own imaginations and create their own Christmas memories.
Use Code ACHIEVE for your 10% Discount
To explore Win Green’s charming collection of playhouses & accessories and make someone’s Christmas extra special this year, just visit www.wingreen.co.uk and discover the magical word of Win Green!
Pixie and Punk Children's Gifts designed with love in Twickenham, UK from 6 months to 7 years. Each kids gift pack includes a high quality cotton children’s t-shirt and a cotton bag with a character on it, plus you have the option of buying a Photo Story Children’s Book starring the same character! An exciting & educational children’s gift this Christmas!
tagore@longshotventures.com
www.pixieandpunk.com
07928 464020 yoyochildrenswear@hotmail.co.uk
www.yoyochildrenswear.com Achieve 25
Explore our wonderful world of children’s toys, clothes, and accessories at www.loubilou.com
The Sparkle Club is an online shop supplying beautiful girl's special occasion shoes, bags and accessories from baby to young lady. Our products are designed with beautiful princesses in mind from UK baby size 0 to older girls size 3. In fact the more glitter and sparkle the better as far as we are concerned.
www.thesparkleclub.co.uk
Gifts for Teens
loubilou_advert_acheive_94x68.indd 1
31/07/2014 12:36
Magnetic Songwriters Kit, contains 320 magnetic word tiles themed for 1 of 6 musical genres. A great gift for all those wannabe songwriters who require a little lyrical inspiration. £6.99 www.thatcompanycalledif.com
HemingwayDesign for Briers Tulips Classic Boot - Fashionable and practical for teenagers and a must have for the following year’s festivals. £37 www.briersltd.co.uk
Nano Quad RC Drone Good things come in small packages and this fun-packed marvel of miniaturisation is the world’s tiniest radio controlled drone. £32.99 www.thefowndry.com
These unique speakers feature dancing water in sync with your music. The speakers are fully compatible with your MP3 Player, iPod/iPads/iPhone, Smartphones and all other musical output devices £24.99 www.maplin.co.uk
Toxic Laundry RRP £15 available from www.justmustard.com
Young Driver offers 11-17 year olds the chance to get behind the wheel of a real car with a qualified instructor before they’re legally allowed to drive. 30 minute £31.99, 60 minute £59.95. Available at www.youngdriver.eu
PERK!ER great family sharing Rocky Road that are also gluten free! RRP £2 from Tesco, Asda & www.perkier.co.uk
Shake’n’Make RRP £15 available from www.justmustard.com
Hot Cookie RRP £10 available from www.justmustard.com
Mood Lighting RRp &5 available from www.justmustard.com
26
A word from Hannah As we all get back into the swing of the new school year, I am again wondering how I am going to juggle work and children? I am mother of two children, aged seven and five. Rosy, my older child has autism and complex learning disabilities and needs one-to-one care. Finding appropriate, affordable childcare can be a challenge for any parent; for those whose children have disabilities, it is sometimes an insurmountable one. The problems of childcare for Rosy meant the only option for me to return to work was to fit around the problems of her childcare. Last year I set up RosyandBo.com selling toys, gifts and products for children with special needs; work gives me a sense of identity again, and hopefully an income. But I would like Rosy to be included in a mainstream afterschool club so she can go with her brother who does not have special needs. I did initially return to work at my local city council – a job I loved – but the difficulties in arranging flexible working and affordable childcare lead me to leave my job. In fact 72 percent of families with disabled children have cut back or given up work because of childcare problems. It is not statutory for local authorities to provide affordable, appropriate childcare for children with disabilities and it needs to be. Often the childcare provision is inadequate or insufficient. The truth is that many areas do not have enough childcare for this group of children. No parent wants to leave their child in care they feel isn't suited to them, yet parents of children with disabilities have to make that choice all the time, based on cost. In addition to the lack of formal childcare, parents of children with special needs often cannot rely on the informal arrangements many families find invaluable – play dates, childcare swaps, drop in sessions and so on. Rosy's grandmothers have been amazing but it is much harder for friends to help out. I don't have the network for Rosy, which is so easy to set up for my son. Good quality childcare is important not only in allowing parents to work, but also for the development and wellbeing of the child and the rest of the family. I would like to see raised awareness of the difficulties faced by parents of disabled children combining work and care. Improved childcare provision, employment practice and support services to enable more parents of disabled children to enter and remain in work. And also a change in attitudes: parents of disabled children can work, have valuable skills, knowledge and experience and need support to remain employed. Rosy and I gave evidence to an Independent Parliamentary Inquiry recently and the report reveals widespread failures for disabled children across the childcare system. MPs and Peers are now calling for all parties to address the serious faults at the heart of our childcare system which has led to thousands of disabled children - from toddlers to teenagers - missing out on vital education and social opportunities. Key Facts • 41% of families with disabled children aged three and four are unable to access the full 15 hours free entitlement to childcare and early years education due to a chronic lack of appropriate settings or lack of funding. • 86% of parent carers who responded to the Inquiry’s survey reported paying above average childcare costs, with 38% paying £11-20 and 5% paying more than £20. • 72% of families with disabled children have cut back or given up work because of childcare problems • The childcare situation gets worse as a disabled child gets older: the cost increases and availability gets even more limited as mainstream holiday and after school clubs are often not inclusive • There is confusion among local authorities, nurseries and schools about what their duties are in providing childcare for disabled children. To begin to tackle some of these key issues, the Inquiry is calling on all parties to commit to developing a coherent policy to improve access to affordable, accessible, and appropriate childcare for all children:
Achieve 27
Pregnancy
Preparation
Exciting Pregnancy Preparation! The countdown till baby’s due date is a very exciting time (I should know, sat here 6 months along!) and the preparation is all part of that excitement and nesting time. If you feel prepared it all seems a little less scary and that can only be a good thing! We are well aware though that every shop out there will tell you that you need this that and the other to keep baby happy, but really they don’t need very much at all! That’s why we have selected some companies who simply provide the nice
The Pretty Company
Busy Peas
The Pretty Company
Everything you need to travel safely with your family. Car Seats, Prams, Sun Shades and Travel Items and a whole lot more all available in store or online.
essentials….
For belly, birth, breast feeding and beyond Gownies
TM
The prettiest way to keep your cool on the maternity ward!
20 Kathryn Avenue, Monks Cross, York. North Yorkshire. YO32 9JS
28
From only £29.99 with FREE UK shipping
Nighties and pyjamas • Prepacked hospital bags • Bellybands
www.paulstride.co.uk enquiries@paulstride.co.uk 01904 674800
Pretty and practical hospital gowns for your labour and birth
Use code AM10 for 10% discount
See the full range at theprettycompany.com
Mum to be
Baby Girl Zebra Nappy Cake, beautiful gift to welcome a baby girl. £45.00 and FREE UK delivery. www.coochycoonappycakes.co.uk
Snugglebundl - Wrap up and Move babies as they sleep whilst fully supporting your baby’s head, neck and spine. £34.99 www.snugglebundl.co.uk
Tots bots Teenyfits Newborn cloth nappy, designed to fit from 5 to 14lbs. £9.99 from www.funkymonkeypants.com
Soft reversible multi-colour silhouette blanket £23.00 www.pigeonorganics.com
Luxury three tier Dumbo nappy cake for a baby boy, with hidden keepsake capsule and more gifts inside. £60.00 and FREE UK Delivery. www.coochycoonappycakes.co.uk
LumiPotti™ is the first night light potty with a sensitive night light that takes children from day-time toilet training through to dry nights. RRP £23.99. www.lumipotti.com
Gorgeously soft babygown with built in, fold down scratch mits and elasticated opening at the bottom for super quick nappy changes, perfect for those first nights. £25.00 www.theprettycompany.com
Bosie Bunny, Shetland Rabbit. £95 available from www.etsy/ Shetlandteddybearco.com
Nautical stripe romper (short sleeves/legs) with contrasting buttons and binding. £19.40 www.pigeonorganics.com
Peat Pea Luxury Collection - Pea print all in one, knotted hat and bib, Peat Pea soft toy and The Little Peas storybook, presented in a beautiful handmade white gift box. £70 from www.busypeas.co.uk
hauck The Varioguard with Isofixbase for children from 0 months to 18 kg of weight. The Varioguard is an amazingly flexible car seat with Isofixbase which can be used for many years. It provides you and your child with the latest technology and the highest level of safety. This car seat is ECE 44/04 approved (current car seat standard) and meets all the requirements to transport your baby safe and secure.
phone: 01978 664 362
mail: info@hauckuk.com
web: www.hauckuk.com
Achieve 29
murals Birmingham based Sweetart Murals create graffiti and mural art for children’s bedrooms, nurseries, homes, schools, community projects and businesses throughout the UK. With professionalism and passion we bring your ideas to life through engaging, eye-catching murals that inspire, educate and fuel creativity.
www.sweetartmurals.co.uk hello@sweetartmurals.co.uk 07795 071296 @Sweetart _ murals
30
Preparing your baby’s nursery
www.sweetartmurals.co.uk
Decorating baby’s nursery when www.nubie.co.uk you are expecting is such a lovely thing to do. As you imagine your new babe in its new cot and decorate the walls with accessories and fill it all with those essentials it can be a real pleasure – and happily aids and assists those nesting urges all at once too. There are some lovely companies out there with essentials and accessories to make your nursery the space you want it to be and this shopping process can be so much fun. Firstly, if you know the sex of your baby you can pick a colour scheme depending, or, if you don’t know you can also pick a theme but probably don’t opt for pink or blue! If you don’t know the gender, go for neutral colours which can be added to once babe is born or choose accessories that aren’t gender specific for now, or can always add more girl or boy things later. Just a cot, storage unit of some kind and a few shelves form the basics, then it’s time to add the touches, maybe a cute rug and lightshade, a blackout blind and a few cuddly toys and pictures to adorn the walls. It’s easy to make a room a nursery and with just a few essentials and a couple of accessories your room will be perfect in no time….now all you need is for that babe to arrive to fill it!
www.kidswallstickers.co.uk
Achieve 31
Training
Potty Training Troubles & Triumphs! As your tot reaches two, it’s time to consider potty training! Eek I hear you cry. There is
Two’s
loads of advice out there on how best to get them started but really, you as the parent need to just go with the flow (excuse the pun!). Honestly it’s not as bad as you would think, especially with all the latest pull up nappies and potty gizmos these days. Why not make it fun for them? Reward charts and stickers mean prizes? Or, let them choose their own big girl or big boy pants perhaps with their favourite cartoon characters. It’s of course important to be encouraging and accidents will inevitably happen along the way.We say make sure they are ready, go in too soon and you could have quite the task
LumiPotti
Funky Monkey Pants
on your hands but go in just right and you will LumiPotti
have them training in no time!
Potty Training? Bright bots washable training pants have been developed with an absorbent layer to assist your toddler in toilet training. They’ve been designed to look and feel just like the underpants that “bigger kids” wear and so encourage your child to progress through training. Available in 4 sizes and 12 colours!
LumiPotti’s movement activated, removable night light guides children through to independent night toileting LumiPotti encourages children’s natural progression through every stage for total toilet training. See our website and facebook pages to find out about our next toilet training clinic, or to get started on your toilet training journey today Sign up for our newsletter and download your FREE ‘Dry Feet Toilet Training Guide & Reward Chart’!
info@lumipotti.com
32
www.lumipotti.com
02392 735482
Telephone 01295 810008 Email merrygorounduk@btconnect.com
www.merrygorounduk.co.uk
Bin your cloth nappy fears… Hmmm the world of cloth nappies carries with
How would I get started?
it a whole lot of advantages over its disposable competition and yet with so many more
There is quite a wide choice out there
advantages to going cloth over disposable
but on my site I only stock nappies that
what’s stopping you from using them? Why do
I am confident are some of the best out
so many of us consider it but end up going
there. I always advise to use cloth from birth
down the disposable route anyway? The three
to potty 15-20 nappies are recommended to
main advantages of cloth nappies are the
use full time. They are far more cost effective
smaller impact they have on the environment,
than people think, sure you have an initial
they are cost effective over the long term and
can also find a whole host of other essentials
outlay but over time they are a far cheaper
they are also far more comfortable for baby’s
such as organic toiletries from Weleda and
alternative to disposables. I am more than
bot. The only disadvantage we can see comes
happy to offer advice to customers too, so if you
through a lack of understanding about which
are thinking about it but aren’t sure I can help
nappies to go for, how they work and the
and has grown so much that we now have a unit
is something that parents are often concerned
predicament in mind we had a chat with Funky
on an industrial estate!
about but honestly I feel they are less messy
Monkey Pants founder Emma to get her advice
that the disposables! The removable liners and
on how to go cloth with ease…
the nappies themselves can easily be placed in an allocated bin with mesh bag which can be
Why do you think there is a growing interest in going cloth?
recently stunning clothing from organic brand Piccalilli. The business was started 5 years ago,
you get started! The cleaning of the nappies
options that are available to you. With this nappy
Jason as well as beautiful wooden toys and just
So, to enter the altogether more cost effective, eco-friendly world of cloth nappies bin your fears instead of years of disposables and visit
popped into the washing machine on a rinse
www.funkymonkeypants.com to get started.
first then a 40 degree wash! Simple as that.
Why do you think it is that so many parents find Funky Monkey Pants a great way to shop?
I think there is a growing conscience when it comes to how many disposable nappies a family uses in a day and the effect that has on the environment, but also that parents are seeking something more comfortable for their
Thanks for saying so! From feedback I get from
babies. It’s also likely that with our generation of
parents it’s that they find the whole thing a lot
parents we wore terry towelling nappies when
more of an accessible option for them; they trust
we were babies and the modern alternative to
that I only find and provide the nappies that
terry towel nappies are so advanced it makes the whole thing far more of an accessible option.
are good! They also comment that I offer real advice, that things are affordable and that they
www.funkymonkeypants.com
01326560812
Free Shipping to UK on orders over £35! Achieve 33
Inspirational
mums
Inspiring Busy Mums! All due respect goes to the mums who manage to do it all, juggling family life with business is never easy yet these women seem to do it with ease, well they appear to do it with ease! Well done ladies. This feature we take a peek into the lives and businesses of these wonder mums; Lynne with her highly successful Gem Team Marketing company, Mala at La Jolie Ronde teaching our youth languages, Jacqui at Jacapella spreading joy and learning through music, Helen at Tots Play brings essential developmental play to our lives and Kate at Bumps and Bashes teaches us all the important first aid stuff
La Jolie Ronde
Coochy Coo Nappy Cakes
Jacappella
ATTENTION ALL MUMS! Hi, I’m Lynne James, I am highly experienced in helping people, especially Mums, develop careers and part time incomes, to suit their individual needs and lifestyles, from home, without compromising their current work or family commitments.
when we have children around….
Can you speak fluent French or Spanish? Want your own business, working from home, part-time?
Are you looking to work part time and flexibly around children and/ or other commitments? Would you like to earn £300-£500 pm extra income, or a career income of £2,000-£5,000+ pm? Although not essential, do you have experience in sales, marketing, recruitment, teaching or training, or do you enjoy Facebook and know how it use it? You will receive second to none support and mentoring, and be working under the umbrella of a well-established organisation and in a hugely successful, and very friendly team. For further information or an informal chat, please call me on 01295 722525.
34
Want to be a part of an “award winning” company?
'Lynne has been instrumental in changing our future. Working alongside her has given my family financial peace of mind. This is all down to Lynne's professionalism, warmth, experience and never ending words of encouragement; she has believed in me a lot longer than I have!' Mandie Cran
La Jolie Ronde GENUINELY gives you the opportunity to operate your own business. Run French and/or Spanish classes for nursery and primary age children by purchasing a licence to use the La Jolie Ronde methodology. No teaching experience required; you simply work the hours you want to!!!
‘Working with Lynne meant I was always there for my three wonderful children. When I became a single Mother, Lynne was there to help me secure an income to the stage it paid my mortgage which was vital as I have no income from my ex-husband and would have lost my house!’ Hesione Waugh
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 01949 839715 or visit www.lajolieronde.co.uk/runyourownclass
Join Jacappella’s Musical Journey! Do you love singing and have a good sense of rhythm? Would you love to have your own music teaching business where every day is full of great music, lovely children and rewarding moments? If so, Jacappella can give you the tools to build a flexible and fun business that fits seamlessly around your family life. Jacappella realise that starting your own business can be daunting and so they have put together a fantastic training package with everything you need to get started. Their ongoing support and web based management system together with great unique songs and an endless supply of tried and tested lesson plans means you will soon be delivering fun filled, educational Jacappella classes in your own exclusive area. Jacappella’s programme of classes take children on a musical journey. Through carefully written fun and vibrant activities, children learn to play percussion instruments, to dance, sing, clap, tap, listen and move to music at regular classes across the country. Jacappella has built up an outstanding reputation for quality music education for children from birth to 7 years and is gradually expanding its teams all over the UK. To meet this growing demand for classes they need your help! “The Jacappella dream is to make affordable music tuition available to as many children as we can. We want to share that dream with vibrant, enthusiastic individuals who are as passionate about music as we are. If you are looking for a new career that fits around family life and would like to be part of our exciting and supportive team we would like to hear from you.” says mum and entrepreneur, Jacqui Phillips, who founded Jacappella when her own three children were small, “I was desperate to find a career that would enable me to still have time to be fully involved with the upbringing of my children and running music classes seemed the obvious solution. In a relatively short space of time, with hard work and persistence, I was able to build a teaching business that provided a full time income while working part time hours and still being able to attend sports days and nativities!” Jacappella offers two levels of entry for prospective teachers, the full Franchise for those that want to build a big business with other teachers teaching for them and the Associate Teacher Licence, which is a more affordable option for those that want a smaller business teaching classes themselves or perhaps want to dip their toe in the water and see if this is the business for them. Jacappella want to make their music available to as many children as possible. If you are energetic, passionate about music and want the chance to establish your own business and protect your work life balance email jacqui@jacappella.co.uk
Every Class Your EveryChild Class Needs In One! Your Child Needs In One! Tots Play is a Unique, Multi-Activity Play Programme designed especially for Toddlers. TotsBabies Play isand a Unique, Multi-Activity
Play Programme designed especially Combining the Toddlers. Developmental Benefits for Babies and of Massage, Yoga, Music, Signing and Sensory Exploration into one exciting, Combining the Developmental Benefits interactive means thatand of Massage,programme Yoga, Music, Signing there is so much to engage inspire Sensory Exploration into oneand exciting, both child and parent alike thatthat smiles, interactive programme means cuddles and lots to of fun are guaranteed! there is so much engage and inspire both child and parent alike that smiles, Bring tofun Your Area cuddlesTots and Play lots of are Local guaranteed! The Tots PlayPlay Franchise Programme Bring Tots to Your Local Area offers a flexible, affordable, family friendly opportunity, where The Totsbusiness Play Franchise Programme you can earn what you are worth offers a flexible, affordable, familyand have time for youropportunity, family too. where friendly business
you can earn what you are worth and Why touch today and find out have not timeget forinyour family too. how bringing laughter, inspiration and support local families could Why notto get in touch today andsoon findbe out all in bringing a day’s work! how laughter, inspiration and support to local families could soon be all in a day’s work!
New Franchise Opportunities Would you like to run your own business that saves lives? Train to become a first aid instructor for families! Develop an excellent business within your area. Exciting and rewarding opportunities for the right candidates. New Franchise Opportunities. Ideal for mums who want to work around their own family and gain their own independence back. Full Training included.
www.bumpsandbashes.com
Find out more at www.totsplay.co.uk or by calling 01633 897841
franchise@bumpsandbashes.com
Find out more at www.totsplay.co.uk or by calling 01633 897841
0800 9179525 Achieve 35
Achieve supports Loubob’s Legacy We feel it’s important to bring you news of charities which have become close to our hearts with the view that you too can help in any way you can. Loubob’s Legacy of Leicester is one such foundation whose story is not only heart wrenching but also inspirational, it’s a charity that has touched so many and the number is growing. Set up by mum Aylee Loubob’s Legacy is a charity with a mission to raise £1 million to build a research centre for brain tumour research in honour of her son Louis’ lost battle with the disease. Louis’ battle with disease started at the tender age of 4 when he was diagnosed with Leukaemia, after undergoing extensive treatment he fought it and won only to suffer a relapse at age 7. He fought this too yet suffered repercussions from his body rejecting some of the transplanted bone-marrow; then followed an accident with a HGV lorry hitting him whilst on a pavement in which he lost a lot of leg muscle and tissue and then came Louis’ biggest blow; he was diagnosed with a brain tumour at 13. Considered a terminal cancer, Brain Tumour research is vastly under represented with very little input from cancer charities, it’s an area of
research that is shockingly low considering brain tumours are responsible for 1% of deaths in young people in the UK. Louis mum is a determined character and fought tirelessly for treatments and new drugs for Louis; “The battle with his brain tumour was huge, our whole family found it all so much of a fight to get the latest drugs and treatments for him, it really shouldn’t be this way! That’s why we set up the charity, to bring much needed awareness and funding to a research area that is so very desperate for it. Louis gained strength from the new drugs we fought for and he went through stages of better health but when he got Pneumonia and starting having strokes his body could no longer cope and after the family providing round the clock care he passed away. Even at the end his spirit was the same, funny and loving; he was thrilled to meet his new baby brother and it was Louis who gave us strength rather than the other way around. We were always going to set up the charity after he was diagnosed and are completely unphased by the figure we need to reach, I know we will get there and I hope along the way I can bring people his funny stories so that his character can live on!”
Aylee told us. And get there they will, the charity has adopted Louis character and it runs through everything; from the desire to start a Loubob Rockfest (Louis was a huge music fan) to Aylee attempting a huge zip line in Wales (she’s scared of heights!) and everything in between the legacy is built on Louis humour, determination and go get ‘em attitude to life. So, how can you help? Loubob’s Legacy are calling for businesses to sponsor large local events such as the festival , they are looking for individuals to fundraise ( the crazier and more daring the better) and of course individuals to donate….every bit in any way that you can will help this inspirational charity to reach its goal! Like the page on Facebook to receive updates, read Louis stories and bid on amazing auction prizes.
facebook.com/loubobslegacy Contact Aylee on 07900898284
36
Paradise Pillows for comfort when you need it most Anyone who has experienced having a mastectomy or lumpectomy after having been diagnosed with breast cancer will tell you about the discomfort that occurs under the arm, usually as a result of lymph nodes being removed. This extremely sensitive area makes it very hard to get comfortable as the patient recovers when sitting, sleeping or generally going about their day. This was the case for Linda, who after undergoing a lumpectomy herself received a pillow similar to the Paradise Pillow in the post from her sister; “My sister in Australia had a mastectomy a few years previous to my operation and used a shaped pillow under her arm when she slept. She sent me one as we couldn’t find anything even remotely similar in the UK, I found it so very useful and soon set about creating my own version!” Linda told us. And so, Paradise Pillows was born. Shaped in just the right way using lovely soft silky materials, the Paradise Pillow is affordable and comes in a wide range of colours and designs. The shape and materials provide optimum comfort and they can be hand washed to ensure you keep it at its best. The pillow provides relief post op for some time; with Linda often receiving comments from customers saying that they are using it and finding comfort in it even years after their operations. The pillow is widely approved by hospitals and nurses in her local area and word of mouth is spreading, yet Linda is still keen to continue making them herself; “I have a very supportive husband who helps out if things get hectic – he’s a great pillow stuffer! I have really high standards for each pillow …plus, I love making them!” To purchase a pillow at just £14.95 with 50p of each sae going to Linda’s local hospice visit www.paradisepillows.co.uk or call 01492 582819
Paradise Pillows Introducing specially designed post op breast comfort, the Paradise Pillow.
The Paradise Pillow has been designed and especially shaped to relieve pressure on the under arm and breast region following surgery. Paradise Pillow is moon shaped to fit snugly under the arm and has ribbon ties to make the size adjustable and to keep it in place. Each Paradise Pillow is made from a satin material to eliminate friction, pillows can be produced in a variety of colours. Paradise Pillows are filled with the softest of stuffing to reduce pressure on the wound. For further information please contact Linda on 01492 582819
www.paradisepillows.co.uk Anita Care Tonya Bra – Raising money for MacMillan During the month of October 2014 Anita Care and Style No: 5706X RRP: £30 (excl VAT) Colours: Black, Champagne, Nude Available in: 32-42 A-D Stockists www.eloise.co.uk
Eloise.co.uk will be donating 10% of profits on the Tonya special bra to MacMillan Cancer Support. Tonya is a best-selling soft cup bra that is practically invisible under clothes, especially tightfitting garments such as T-shirts, a fact which is enhanced by the nude colour-way. The Tonya is pocketed on both sides and the pockets are made of delicate breathable tulle. Flat edging bands around the neckline and arms ensure it remains extremely soft on the skin. The straps are padded throughout with supple fibrefill and are wider as the size increases and the stretch adjustable back has a four position fastener.
Achieve 37
MedicAlert for jewellery that saves lives…
Who are Bumps and Bashes? Bumps and Bashes First aid for babies & children was created out of a need in 2009. Kate Naylor knew the importance of first aid and having two young children, couldn’t find a course that was relevant for parents. Bumps & Bashes could do better, than that what was on offer and developed a class that is specific to parents. Retraining and so much research, Bumps & Bashes was born. This class is to empower parents and feedback and results have been amazing. Learning first aid for your family will be the most inexpensive, essential skills to learn. We are group of passionate dedicated first aid trainers, who also have young children of our own or an interest in baby & children safety. Our classes are not watered down and you are not overloaded with irrelevant information. Let face it in an emergency, there’s no flip chart or PowerPoint to help you, so we conduct our class in a relaxed informal environment making it very easy for you to remember. All you want is to make sure your children are kept as safe as possible, until the professionals can take over in an emergency. Although we can teach all first aid courses, it has always been important to specialise in baby & children first aid for parents as we have been doing since 2009. Mainly through recommendations we have grown and we will always offer a free refresher course, so as your children grow, so will your first aid knowledge. 1000’s of parents have taken the short time to learn first aid for their baby, children & own families, that can save lives. Although this class covers Choking, CPR, Recovery position for all the family, it is design with parents in mind and covers lots more which can prevent a minor incident turning into a Major Injury. We don’t believe in wrapping babies & children in cotton wool. Kids play, it’s how they learn but bumps, bashes and everyday accidents are inevitable. If it’s more serious and your child needs your help in an emergency, would you know what to do? Parents love the convenience (Home Classes) and the relevance of our courses. We don’t talk about filling in accidents books, just keeping your children & babies as safe as possible in those vital minutes, until the ambulance arrives.
Letting those around you know important medical information about you in time of need could be lifesaving. MedicAlert ID bracelets, necklaces and watches help make sure that you receive fast, relevant treatment in an emergency from members of the public, work colleagues and the medical professionals who assist you. Worn on your pulse point, they carry the international medical symbol and are an effective way to communicate vital details … because every moment matters. The MedicAlert also keeps secure, detailed medical records for members which can be updated at any time. This information can be accessed by emergency staff, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, from anywhere in the world, using their specialist emergency telephone number engraved on the jewellery. In the UK, well over 300,000 MedicAlert members and their families have benefitted from the peace of mind that their medical conditions and wishes will be known to medical staff in an emergency. The jewellery is not only practical but attractive too with a wide range of classic and fashionable designs with prices from only £19.99. The membership costs the equivalent of less than 8 pence a day. MedicAlert is a global charity that receives no support from the Government or the NHS, relying on membership fees and donations and the sales of Medical jewellery. www.medicalert.org.uk/home
Marina Bracelet From £79.00 This beautiful MedicAlert Marina Bracelet will remind you of warm evenings by the coast. Made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, this beautiful bracelet has three strands of mixed blue 4mm crystals that have an AB sparkle that really shimmers in the light. This bracelet is the perfect accompaniment to the mixed blue trends of the season, and will easily take you from day into evening. This bracelet has a hallmarked silver disc, which is polished to a high shine by our team of jewellers.
If you are not completely satisfied immediately after the event, you will receive a 100% refund.
Designed and made in the UK by our expert jeweller, not only is this suitable for a variety of sizes, the Marina Bracelet is perfect for occasional wear such as parties, nights out etc. For more constant wear we would advise you to select from the range of stainless steel, silver or gold bracelets.
Find out more information, or find a class near you at www.bumpsandbashes.com
MedicAlert beaded jewellery is suitable for members aged 6 years and older.
Call: 0800 9179525 or email: classes@bumpsandbashes.com
www.medicalert.org.uk/home
38
The Mother of New Invention
Prepared parenting with Medpac her daughter needed to carry at all times, along
the Medpacs help protect the medicine.” The
with ID and treatment plans that was required by
Medpac is also perfect for mums on the go; you
her school. Objective well and truly achieved,
can carry those first aid essentials for example
the affordable Medpac does all she set out to do
on that day trip out.
and more besides! Knowing you have all the medical essentials you Jayne Tarrant had the idea for Medpacs when
need to hand; whether it’s for carrying asthma
her daughter, Jessica, now aged nine, started
inhalers, adrenaline auto-injectors, diabetic
school and as an epilepsy sufferer needed
medicine, epilepsy medicine, antibiotics, allergy
to carry emergency medicine with her. “The
medicines and antihistamines, or any other
teachers needed two sets with photo ID and
medication and first aid, the Medpac gives
a medical plan, and all I could find to put
you the carrier, parent or carer added piece of
everything in was an old make-up bag,” she
mind and provides steps towards independent
said. Sure that there could be a better way to
living. It’s easy to find due to its vibrant colour,
send her daughter to school with this important
its easily identifiable thanks to its Medpac ID
kit Jayne set about designing a suitable bag
Card and the treatment card inside provides the
from scratch herself; “My first prototype wasn’t
opportunity to add all the vital information and
quite right, so I redesigned it,” she said. “It
a care plan required allowing medication to be
needed to be practical, durable and affordable.
given swiftly and safely if needed. Adding to the
It took six months to get the design right.” It’s
essential kit is the Medpac Wristband, a bargain
safe to safe the work was worth it, whilst her
price for such an essential and potentially
daughter has grown out of her epilepsy she says
lifesaving item, the wristband acts as an alert
condition or disability.
that this has helped her discover the Medpac’s
to the public that the wearer may need prompt
uses for other purposes too; “Lots of Jessica’s
medical attention at any given moment.
The Medpac makes this aspect of parental
friends have allergies or asthma and the bags
One of the biggest responsibilities as a parent is to be prepared for eventualities when out and about with your children, or, when you leave your children in the care of others for the day. This starts from new-born age with the nappies and creams etc right through to when they go to school and you prep their school bag to include the essentials for their day. By sorting the things that they need to make their day easier you are doing your job right! This concept couldn’t be more important than if your child has medical needs, whether it’s from being poorly for a couple of days and making sure you have the calpol through to if your child has a medical
preparation that much easier. The Medpac was born from personal need by one mum’s mission to create a well-designed, purposeful bag in which to put her daughters medication in that
help teachers keep everything together. Older
To find out more and
children also have to carry their own medicines
to purchase visit
in senior school and things like inhalers can get
www.medpac.co.uk
full of dust in the bottom of a school bag, so
Achieve 39
Gifts for Mum & Dad
Caralicious Caramel and Vodka ideal as a dinner liqueur or mixed with other drinks and is versatile to cook with! £20.00 www.fabulousvodka.co.uk
Organic Moisturising Day Cream 30ml, a brilliant all round moisturiser that locks in moisture whilst allowing it to breathe. Perfect for yummy mummies! £27 from www.beyondorganicskincare.com
Start Hipsters Twin Pack £18 www.justsloggi.co.uk
Unique, hand finished seasonal cards by www.janiewilson.co.uk. Prices started from £2.99
Personalised hand & footprints contoured to the print shape in fine silver. Have the prints of your loved ones miniaturised and embedded in silver to treasure forever in a unique piece of silver jewellery! £139 www.touchonsilver.co.uk
Zpac set of 4 packing cubes help you to pack more efficiently and maximize the space in your suitcase. www.jpillow.com £29.99
Jpillow neck support for sleeping sitting up during transit £29.95 www.jpillow.com
Leef microSD card reader allows people to move content such as pictures, movies and documents between microSD memory cards and compatible Android devices quickly, simply and securely. From Amazon.co.uk & Phones4U
Goggle Box TV trivia board game. Players will love proving their TV knowledge and this fun, challenging and competitive board game is a brilliant addition for Christmas. SRP: £20 - £25, WH Smith, Amazon
Handmade organic wool bear £95 available from www.etsy/ Shetlandteddybearco.com
DRY OFF WITH SNUGPAK Snugpak’s Microfibre Antibacterial Travel Towel - now available in five sizes! RRP £9.95 www.snugpak.com
The Supertooth D4 is a portable and stylish speaker, mirroring a retro megaphone. £49.99 / Available from John Lewis
This Perfect Man Kit is a great way to get your man introduced to the world’s manliest and coolest grooming range. RRP £49.99 available from Tesco, Amazon, ASOS & more.
The Tour de Ted Body Maintenance Kit (£12, Boots) features two body sprays and two body washes in Tour de Ted’s signature scents
New antibacterial mobile phone case from BioArmor, which kills 99.99 % of germs and bacteria £14.99 each and are available at Amazon UK, O2, Phones4U, Tesco Direct and EE.
Create your own white Christmas with Limited Edition Lindor Stracciatella Truffles (200g) RRP £4.89 from all ma jor supermarkets and Lindt online.
Highland Park Dark Origins offers a naturally dark, rich flavour with sherried spice, a chocolate twist and the signature sweet smoke. Available in select whisky retailers including Harrods (RRP £65). www.highlandpark.co.uk
Glass domes with your choice of butterfly. This dome is with a Papilio Ulysses. 19cm high x 16cm diameter. £90 www.butterflydomes.co.uk
Personalised hand and footprints including paw prints, contoured to the print shape in fine silver, attached to a Box Filed Toggle Bracelet. £85.00 www.touchonsilver.co.uk
Organic Mango and Lime Lip Balm 7ml Simply smooth over lips when feeling chapped, sore, dry or just when you want your lips to feel moisturised. £8.26 from www.beyondorganicskincare.com
40
For The Perfect Underwear Pick the perfect present for your loved one this Christmas. We love the underwear range at justsloggi!
01332 811732
www.justsloggi.co.uk Touch on Silver YN 1.12:Layout 1
25/7/12
15:46
Page 1
Create a Lasting Impression Individual handmade charms in precious silver creating a lasting impression of the shining light in your life.
Individual handmade charms in precious silver creating a lasting impression of the shining light in your life.
Ideal gifts for those special occasions; the list is endless, ageless and timeless.
Ideal gifts for those special occasions; the list is endless, ageless and timeless.
Ideal gifts for
Create a Lasting Impression those special occasions: the
list ischarms endless, Individual handmade in precious silver creatingageless a lasting and impression
timeless. of the shining light in your life.
Our jewellery and keepsakes encapsulate Ideal gifts for those your child’s footprints, handprints, Our jewellery and special occasions; thekeepsakes encapsulate your child’s handprints, footprints, drawings and drawings list is endless, ageless and writing in silver giving a lifelong memento. writing in silver giving a and timeless. lifelong memento.
Ou kee you foo writ lifel
For orders over £75 please quote FAMILY2013 to receive a 10% For orders over £75 please quote NEWBORN2014 ACHIEVE2014 to receive a 10% discount For orders over £75 please quote FAMILY2013 to receive a 10% discount
Visit the new organics range at the etsy shop:
loveshetlandteddybears.co.uk www.etsy/Shetlandteddybearco.com
Call for more in 07884 438757 or Or visit us at www.touchonsilver.co.uk Or visit u Call for more information 07884 438757 or 07775 873458
HANDMADE IN THE SHETLAND ISLANDS Create a Lasting Impression
Create a Lasting Impression
Achieve 41 www.touchons
Butterfly Domes London artist Charlotte Proudlove is proud to
present her Butterfly Cabinets. These bespoke cabinets, built by fine British craftsmen, are inspired by traditional Victorian taxidermy display cases. These Butterfly Cabinets can be tailor made in different styles with butterflies and fabric of choice and in a large range of stunning colours. The range includes floor standing and wall mounted cabinets as well as bespoke shadow box frames. Charlotte also makes butterfly domes butterflies in antique, vintage or modern glass dome which can be tailor made with butterflies and domes of choice. Her domes have been Exhibited in London galleries, featured in Vogue, House and Garden and Marie Claire. Her work can currently be seen on the set of Channel 4’s Four Rooms and her domes have been used in two catwalk shows for London Fashion Week. For further information please contact Charlotte Proudlove on 07951 110147 or email on
butterflydomes@btinternet.com or visit the website www.butterflydomes.co.uk
BUTTERFLY DOMES. Butterflies in glass domes. You can choose the butterflies you would like used in your dome or select from the domes on the website. Visit www.butterflydomes.co.uk or call Charlotte on 07951 110147 for more details.
Snowshill Alpacas Snowshill Hill Barn, Temple Guiting, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 5XX Contact Roger Mount on 01386 853 841 or 07711044106 Email: snowshillalpacas@btinternet.com Web: www.snowshillalpacas.com
Love your toes? Keep them cosy with Charlton Alpaca socks.
A selection of stunning potential Stud Males, Pet Males and Breeding Females, in a variety of colours, are usually available. Why not phone to arrange a visit?For stud services; please visit our website to view our large selection of top quality studs. We adhere to good biosecurity practices and badger deterrent fencing was installed in 2009.
42
Luxurious home grown alpaca socks in an exciting range of colours. Contrast, stripy and boot socks, walking, shooting and cosy bed socks, all made in Britain incorporating the finest fleeces from our herd of beautiful alpacas. Manufactured exclusively for Charlton Alpacas by J Alex Swift Ltd of Hathern. Prices from ÂŁ12.00 per pair. www.charltonalpacas.com
Discover the right Energy Solutions for your home With the costs in energy prices on the continuous increase it can feel like there is no way to save; especially if you live in an older or larger property. The good news is there are ways but making your home more energy efficient and therefore saving you money is not as straightforward as making a few commonplace adjustments; particularly for older buildings and grade listed properties. To make effective changes for the long term you need to enlist the help of some experts. Energy Solutions are those experts. As Jonathan Clark is at the helm with his 5 years of experience in the field; you and your property can find the right way for your individual energy needs; “With older properties they were never designed to be energy efficient and many people are seduced by all kind of quick fix energy saving offers and technologies and whilst some of these are suitable they are certainly not to be treated as a one size fits all situation. It’s important for many aspects of the property to be considered before money is
spent on these adjustments and that’s where we come in!” Jonathan explained.
specific adjustments not a penny is wasted. These changes mean that your property will;
Energy Solutions will initially visit your home to do the following;
1. Save you money – the rising energy costs aren’t slowing up, make changes now to save in the future • Taking time to understand the unique 2. Take the correct care of your home – nature of your house – evaluating by opting for the right solution for your its strengths and weaknesses from an home you are preventing any future energy aspect damage that making the wrong • Assess how the house hangs onto its choices could bring. heat, carefully recommending 3. Improve the comfort of your home- appropriate ways in which heat loss changing just a few things can really can be substantially reduced increase the comfort factor of your • Consider and advise how the house home and who doesn’t want a cosier can better generate and control its home?! heat • Being sure no harm is done to the Energy Solutions aren’t affiliated with any building, either aesthetically or supplier or manufacturer so their advice is physically. honest and impartial always; they simply want the best for you and your home. Contact the Whilst assessing and implementing the energy experts now on 01844 201216 appropriate energy changes the expert team will save you money in the long term with property www.esthame.co.uk
Achieve 43
Food & Drink
Taylor’s Late Bottled Vintage Port 2009 £14.99 Available nationwide Seductive Morello cherry aromas on the nose with sweet cassis, plums and blackberry flavours on the palate.
Tanqueray London Dry Gin comes in a striking and iconic green bottle inspired by the traditional three-piece cocktail shaker. Stockist suggestions: Tanqueray London Dry Gin £26.60 (1L bottle) at Waitrose
Wonderful Pistachios are a great Christmas snack to have during your favourite Christmas film. Share them around in a bowl or keep the packet for yourself either way they are sure to bring a bit of Christmas cheer to snacking!
Galaxy Hot Chocolate is the perfect winter warmer. There is nothing more comforting in the dark winter months than a mug of Galaxy with your favourite marshmallows or cream on top!
Godiva’s new range of “biscuit chocolates” They come in three flavours: Milk Chocolate Strawberry, Dark Chocolate Truffle & Hazelnut Praline £7 for pack of 12 from www.godivachocolates.co.uk
Beanies have a great range of flavoured coffees, and all Beanies flavours are no syrup and no chemicals and just 2 calories per cup. Prices start at £2.50 www.beaniesflavourco.co.uk
Ferrero Raffaello Ballotin Box (£3.89) - perfect for fans of coconut treats, Ferrero Raffaello are enchantingly tasty chocolate alternatives, with a toasted almond at their heart. All ma jor retailers
Lindt Master Chocolatier Collection a unique selection of 16 delectable chocolate recipes - the perfect gift this Christmas! 305g box RRP: £12.99 from all ma jor supermarkets and Lindt online.
New supersize 500g version of the Christmas classic Lindt Bear. RRP £14.99 from all ma jor supermarkets and Lindt online.
Freemark Abbey – 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Available from Armit Wines – www.armitwines.co.uk £32
Elderflower & Lime and Peach, Pear and Honey Iced-Teas offer a convenient shortcut to instant ice tea. The two new iced tea concentrates are 100% natural have been launched in Sainsbury’s
Crabbie’s mulled wine - a unique and delicious twist on the iconic Christmas drink. £9 for two at Tesco and Morrison’s at Christmas.
Shloer Celebration Pink Fizz is a fresh and fruity combination with the vibrant flavours of red and white grape juices fused together to create a beautiful sparkling rosé juice drink. Best serve chilled. RRP £2.99 Available in supermarkets nationwide
Queso Fresco - 250 grams £5.75. Ideal for enchiladas, and can be used like feta or halloumi. www.coolchile.co.uk
Queso Chihuahua - 250 grams £6.25. Ideal for quesadillas, burritos & nachos. www.coolchile.co.uk
Bacofoil Non-Stick Foil, Bacofoil Lined Parchment and Bacofoil EasyCut Cling Film. Perfect for your Christmas Dinner!
PERK!ER great family sharing Tiffin that are also gluten free! RRP £2 from Tesco, Asda & www.perkier.co.uk
Laphroaig Select new expression offers a deep, smoky taste yet surprises the palate with a gentle sweetness. Available at Morrison, www.thewhiskyexchange.com and www.masterofmalt.com (RRP £34.99
The Macallan Gold - Showcasing the single malt’s natural colour, The Macallan Gold has notes of vanilla followed by dark chocolate, with lingering floral and light oak notes. RRP £37.63 from all ma jor retailers
Highland Park 12 Year Old - single malt boasts a honey sweetness, followed by fruity notes with a hint of gentle smoke. RRP £34.04 from all ma jor retailers
44
SELFRIDGES LAUNCHES 'MEET THE MAKERS'
Welcome to the Fabulous Vodka Company
MEET THE MAKERS FOOD is the new FASHION - Celebrating the artisans and the tastemakers in Selfridges first store take-over campaign for food. For the first time in the history of Selfridges, the Selfridges Windows will celebrate the makers and producers from the latest gastronomic creations found at Selfridges. All 24 windows will be dedicated to the tastemakers who define our food experiences, the way we farm, challenging our perceptions of art in food but above all to showcase the best talent in food right now across all stores in the Food Halls. Selfridges will also play host to ‘Meet the Michelins’, an exciting and unique opportunity to sample inspiring dishes from the home counties most creative and talented chefs every Monday for five weeks in its London store. Customers will experience over 350 demo’s, in store sampling and food events from tantalising daily demonstrations with top chefs to walking tours of the confectionery and food halls, as well as introducing over 500 new products to the Food Hall. THE WINDOWS Seen by a weekly audience of over 1 million people per week, each window will showcase the innovators, boundary pushers and food designers that inspire and shake our food world and each window will be brought to life by artisan producers, creators and food artists highlighting their ‘art’ whether it be a gin distiller to an artistic window made entirely of cake. All the artisans taking part in the scheme will also display their products in-store within the FoodHall, and will host dedicated evening talks regarding their chosen profession. Confirmed artisans include Cannon & Cannon, Fabrique, Meringue Girls, Camden Town Brewery, Cambridge Gin, White Lyan, Wayward Plants, Scott Hove, Fernando Laposse.
At The Fabulous Vodka Company we have a mission, which is to develop and produce the finest alcoholic drinks. We only use the purest spirits blended or distilled with the finest natural ingredients to produce the smoothest most delicious drinks suitable for drinking neat, over ice, in a cocktail, or as an ingredient in delicious food dishes. All of The Fabulous Vodka company’s drinks are made without compromise, using the finest ingredients and the best methods and practises. www.fabulousvodka.co.uk Tel: 07902 209532
Toast with Tanqueray Gin this Christmas Mulled Spiced Apple Tanqueray Punch Ingredients:
35ml Tanqueray London Dry 60ml Pressed Apple Juice 25ml Spiced Sugar Syrup 15ml Fresh Lemon Juice Cinnamon stick
Whole Fresh Apple
Whole Fresh Orange Cloves
Method: Add all the ingredients to a saucepan and add cloves, cinnamon and orange peel, heat up and serve into a latte glass with a clove studded apple slice. (You can multiply the recipe to make a large batch if you are entertaining friends) Tanqueray London Dry Gin is available £26.60 (1L bottle) at Waitrose or £22.50 (70cl bottle) gift boxed at Alexander and James.
Achieve 45
Mum & Dad are getting married Wedding Wonderland! Weddings, weddings, weddings we love a good wedding here at Achieve Magazine and in this issue we take a look at some great wedding suppliers that the UK has to offer. In particular we provide you with some much needed contacts if you are getting married with your own children being able to attend, bridesmaid dresses and even wedding babysitting services to ensure your nuptials all go to plan with your children being able to Horsley Photographic
Little Jems
Horsley Photographic
enjoy all the day brings too!
Add a sweet touch to your special day with sweet carts and candy buffets from Sweet Memories! Tel: 07722422341 or 07914670315 Email: enquiries@sweetmemories.co.uk
www.sweetmemoriesbirmingham.co.uk
Sprinkle Of Magic We d d i n g P l a n n e r s
We believe that your day should be individual and unique as you are. Not being afraid to push boundaries in planning your special day, taking away the stress whilst you remain in full control is our passion. Wedding packages to suit all budgets and lifestyles giving you flexibility in what you want from a wedding planner makes us unique. Price from ÂŁ30 to our full planning package, not forgetting our bespoke package along with a beautiful range of stock to hire for your special day.
Facebook: /HorsleyPhotographic 46
07961 477081 www.sprinkleofmagic.co.uk www.facebook.com/sprinkleofmagic.co.uk
Find a stunning range of children’s Flower Girl & Bridesmaid dresses & accessories at Little Jems! 10% off your first order for by quoting AM10!
www.littlejemsmanchester.co.uk admin@littlejemsmanchester.co.uk 0161 370 9323
Want you and your children to enjoy a wedding day to its fullest? Sue Aidley of Sue’s Childcare provides crèche services to your children at a wedding or event allowing the parents to enjoy the party with the children taken care of. Her team of two, which includes herself, are both CRB cleared and registered Child-minders with a wealth of experience behind them. With an emphasis on a high quality of care and providing for the children in a way that you the parents would like, Sue’s Childcare will ensure everyone can relax and enjoy the big day… including the little ones.
Capturing Memories for Life
Horsley Photographic Midlands based wedding photographer
Contact: 07595 714677 Facebook: /HorsleyPhotographic
Beautiful handmade occasion wear for girls, boys and teens.
Eddie Judd/ Pierre Carr
www.littlejemsmanchester.co.uk
9 Roche Avenue, Leek, Staffordshire, ST13 6QH Tel: 01538 371 292 or 07792207505 Email: saidley123@talktalk.net
www.littlebevan.co.uk Achieve 47
New and unique wedding gift keeps memories safe forever The founders of MyBabyLog are excited to announce the launch of their beautiful new product – the MyWeddingLog. An unusual and thoughtful gift for newly weds, this gorgeous keepsake box allows couples to capture their wedding day memories for years – and generations – to come. Featuring multiple compartments and a gorgeous gold clasp, the MyWeddingLog stores and protects precious wedding day mementos that can so easily be forgotten – whether that’s a pinch of confetti or those tear-jerking speeches. And because memories are made to be revisited, the box opens up to reveal each keepsake lovingly presented. With a timeless and elegant colour scheme to suit all tastes, the upper compartments feature: •
A beautiful wedding day verse for the new husband and wife.
•
A wall-mounted box envelope for their vows.
•
A large picture frame for their favourite photograph or marriage certificate.
•
A wedding day diary to record the key events of the day.
Additionally, a lift-out section provides a pretty home for small but cherished items and a lower compartment houses larger souvenirs. So whether it’s photographs, cufflinks, speeches, table plans or even those special honeymoon tickets, the couple can rest assured that nothing gets forgotten. MyWeddingLog keepsake chests are available to buy online at:
www.mybabylog.co.uk
or email info@myweddinglog.co.uk
48
A wedding venue to suit you To choose Best Western’s Weston Hall as the hosts for your wedding day is a choice you will forever delight in. From the stunning surroundings to the attentive and friendly staff they always strive to give you one of the best days of your life. A delightful Elizabethan manor
rooms and a delicious breakfast served in the hotel’s restaurant in the morning. The hotel prides itself on a flexible approach to your big day. For your wedding you can choose from a selection of wedding reception rooms,
house in the heart of the beautiful Warwickshire
a wide choice of carefully prepared wedding
guests from the minute you arrive. Sitting pretty
They can provide you with a toast master, a
countryside Weston Hall will delight you and your breakfast menus and evening reception buffets. in 7 acres of grounds, the 16th Century manor house is a delight at every turn.
choice of bridal suites and a personal wedding co-coordinator to ensure everything comes together and goes to plan! The most important
You can choose from a selection of wedding day thing to the wedding team and indeed every packages and of course create them entirely to your requirements for your special day, with the team delighted in helping you make choices which will create the day of your dreams. Whether you are planning on an intimate civil ceremony and reception for 10 close family members and friends or looking to host a larger gathering for up to 250; the team will help make it a reality. The Grade II manor house and extensive gardens make for a photographers dream and will provide you with lasting
member of staff at the hotel is that you enjoy a stress free build up to and on your wedding day so that you can simply relax and delight in your day with the knowledge that it’s all taken care of. The hotel’s head chef is a proud one and insists on using fresh, local ingredients wherever possible and with a huge choice in really rather special menu selections you can be assured you and your special guests will be delighted at the gastronomic offerings making your wedding
memories and images for years to come.
breakfast memorable for all the right reasons.
In a great central location, the manor house
no one need miss out on the delicious delights!
Plus, with dietary requirements catered for too,
is a short drive from Coventry, Stratford upon
So, for a wedding that is entirely you and a place
than ideal for guests travelling from all over the
memories forever more contact Weston Hall for
Avon, Leamington Spa and Warwick and is more in which to create lasting, joyful wedding day country. Of course, the accommodation your
a personal visit to the hotel and a chat with the
guests can expect is also of a luxurious standard co-ordinator about your dream day.
Tel: 02476 312 989 weddings@westonhallhotel.co.uk
with 38 individually decorated character filled
Achieve 49
Tomorrows
Talent
Tomorrows Talent Nurtured Today The TV programmes aren’t the only way to discovering and nurturing tomorrow’s talent, there are loads of amazing training courses, colleges and organisations out there who provide a supportive and educational role in developing the talents of today for tomorrow. From budding classical musicians to young actors and actresses there is loads of help out there regardless of how much money you have to invest in their development. Take a look at just some of the organisations we have mentioned here in this very issue to help your
Jelly and Bean
Future Talent
Our Lady’s Convent School
young ‘an excel!
Farmside Childrens Day Care
Farmside Child Day Care offers a child orientated open-plan learning community for children from 6 weeks to 14 years. Our aim is to offer a friendly, safe and homely environment for your child, encouraging them to learn through play at their own pace.
- Child-focused environment - Parents are involved in every stage of their child’s learning
Ladybird Nursery: A vibrant setting for your child
- No strict routines
Tel: 0121 440 5706
- Highly-qualified, friendly and patient team of staff
info@theladybirdnursery.co.uk
01530 589547
Ladybird Day Nursery, 110 Edgbaston Road, Moseley, Birmingham, B12 9QA
www.farmsidechilddaycare.com
www.theladybirdnursery.co.uk
8 FOREST ROAD, HUGGLESCOTE, COALVILLE, LE67 3SH
50
Educational learning aids
My Pal Scout - Numbers & sensory play. 6 months+. Play games, learn a song, introduce feelings, animals, numbers and more. £8.99
AlphaPup - Phonics & motor skills. 1 year+. Early exposure to phonics and vocabulary. £16.99
BazZoo® Minibeast Modular Caterpillar - £143.94 Modular seats ideal for group work or reading corners. www.EdenLearningSpaces.co.uk
Gold Stars® Key Stage 1 Workbooks (Age 5-6, Age 6-7) Fun, affordable and educational, the Gold Stars® range is available nationwide from Sainsbury’s, WHSmith, Morrisons, Wilkinson and other good retailers.
LeapReader - Reading & writing skills. 4 years+. £39.99
Toddler Pack plus DVD the new Jo Jingles DVD. Includes a pair of Claves, Set of Wings, Ring my bell Bean Bag £23.00 each from www.jojingles. com
These “50 Best” bookmarks are designed to inspire young readers as they list 50 all time favourite reads. Available from all good bookshops, RRP £1.99
MAKE LEARNING FUN THIS SUMMER WITH GOLD STARS® Gold Stars® educational range from Parragon is the perfect learning support over the summer holidays for 0-11 year olds.
The Goula Calendar Clock is a simple but clever wooden clock & calendar that allows children to learn the months & seasons, weather conditions, days in a week & time of day. RRP £24.99 available from Amazon.co.uk
Monkey Wellbeing is a new series of children’s health and wellbeing education resources, designed to teach children about healthcare and NHS services. www.monkeywellbeing.com
NHS brings ‘Monkey’ on-board to reduce childrens’ anxiety The Patient Information Forum (PiF) has heralded ‘Monkey Wellbeing’ as a great example of how to produce child friendly healthcare information in their newly released ‘Guide to Producing Health Information for Children and Young People’. Until now, parents and healthcare professionals have had insufficient child-friendly resources to help young children and their families prepare for the ordeal of healthcare procedures, which can be highly stressful for young children. Recently, over half of healthcare professionals1 surveyed admitted that they don’t currently provide any information specifically aimed at children. A new range of storybooks entitled ‘Monkey Wellbeing,’ which aims to minimise this trauma, has been welcomed by NHS England, who believe the innovative, child friendly resources, will better equip parents and healthcare professionals to guide children through a healthcare experience. Trialled at paediatric hospital The Royal Alexandra in Brighton, the resources have been a resounding success. According to Dr. Kali, consultant paediatric surgeon “I have seen first-hand how these resources can have a significant impact on a child’s hospital experience and health outcomes. I believe the more relaxed a child is, the less stressed the parents are and this helps the overall recuperation and sense of well-being.
www.monkeywellbeing.com
The quickest way ever to teach time For PARENTS
www.aramazu.com/parents
“very impressed” TimesOnline For TEACHERS
www.aramazu.com/teach-time Achieve 51
There has been a lot of talk in the press lately about parents no longer putting an importance on reading with their children at bedtime. The thought makes us feel very sad, reading with your child is a wonderful, bonding experience and in a world dominated by technology it can all too often feel like our days are filled with screens, even for the little ones. Helping your child discover the joy of reading can be achieved through the Jelly and Bean book series. Reading with your child helps to develop their speech, spark their imagination and provide valuable lessons about the world too. The Jelly and Bean book series does all these things and more. Their combination of humorous stories, striking illustrations and simple words make it a successful and fun reading experience for everyone. Analytic phonics, regular CVC words and ‘tricky’ words are introduced gradually making the learning to read process accessible and challenging all at once. The books allow children to progress within their own capabilities and the engaging stories and characters keep them entertained and motivated to read and learn more. “We never miss story time before bed and more recently I have felt a shift in my daughter’s desire to join in with the reading; she has wanted to read to me or her dad instead! The Jelly & Bean books are the perfect way to introduce this. I have read a few of the books now with my young daughter and we both love them! They are not too complicated or over the top, just simple words to help her identify the sounds and how the words look on the page. She loves the characters and illustrations and after just a couple of reads she is really starting to recognise the words. I can see that they would be a wonderful way into independent reading for all children, whatever their abilities.” Achieve Writer Emily Kirton comments.
Your Advertisement Proof
Progress Magazine January 2014 Edition
Please return this proof sheet with any amendments or your approval by
FRIDAY
10/01/2014
www.jellyandbean.co.uk
“Learners make good progress in developing independent living skills and in the extent “
to which they can carry out personal care tasks for themselves Bogs Lane, Harrogate, HG1 4ED
2011 Ofsted Inspection
Henshaws College - a great place to learn Henshaws College provides a personalised education for young people with learning difficulties, sensory impairments and physical disabilities. We will empower you with the skills and independence you need to achieve the future you want. • A curriculum rich in skills for Life, Learning and Work • Nationally recognised excellence in IT and Assistive Technology • Education, Care and Therapies working together to support learners • Expertise in visual impairment • First class Residential, Sports and Media facilities • Day and residential placements available
Henshaws College - part of your Local Offer For more information call 01423 886451 or email admissions@henshaws.ac.uk
www.henshaws.ac.uk Registered Charity No: 221888
52
The Creative Learning Journey with Anna Kennedy OBE
All the educational facilities at Anna Kennedy Online were created to provide the strong, educational environment that the mainstream simply doesn’t offer to those with Autism. Anna has poured blood sweat and tears into creating environments in which it’s attending children thrive, learn and grow, providing a place in which they receive the education they deserve. Hillingdon Manor School and Baston House provide the kind of schooling which changes lives and as part of their ground-breaking curriculum the schools have adopted The Creative Learning Journey; a special innovative and purposeful curriculum for Primary Schools. Its whole purpose is to provide the kind of curriculum that is original, exciting and creative which re-ignites children’s learning. This unique curriculum focuses on a combination of personal learning skills and the use of technology too with online resources. The foundations are provides with Thematic Wheels, School Planning, Pupil Assessment which are the frameworks for all schools following the curriculum; through these tools the teachers can identify individual skills, create cross curricular links and of course help to provide a structured plan for each and every day. • The cross curricular links can be made from the CLJ’s topic wheels approach helping
children to make connections with their learning. Use existing, and create further, cross-curricular themes within 6 areas of learning rather than as more disjointed discrete subjects. • Access skills and knowledge that promotes progression and cohesion throughout the school, links all the skills directly to the National Curriculum, and automatically tracks both the skills and the National Curriculum. • Promote the principles and values of Excellence and Enjoyment, Every Child Matters and SEAL as well as supporting the development of Community Cohesion and Global Citizenship. The Creative Learning Journey helps provide a level of confidence in the teachers and the school as a whole and the students enjoy the gradual development of learning through fun methods and a curriculum which focuses on individual need and social skills too. There is also a strong emphasis on team work and solving problems and developing ideas. “The curriculum is working so very well
so far, we have had nothing but positive feedback from teachers, students and parents since we started. Many of the
teachers express with great enthusiasm
that the framework is wonderfully adaptable yet provides all the support they could
need. Students seem to have a great deal of fun whilst learning and there has a been a
marked improvement all round, parents have noticed too and area always commenting
on how much fun their children seem to be
having at school whilst developing so well. It’s worked for us that’s for sure!” Anna Kennedy OBE comments.
The topics the schools have covered so far this year include; Marvellous Me Britain in the past (The Victorians) Earth, the Moon and beyond Pirates, heroes and wild things Water, rivers and the deep blue seas Around the World in 80 days To find out more call Hillingdon Manor on: (0) 1895 420315 Visit: www.hillingdonmanorschool.org.uk/ primary/curriculum/
www.annakennedyonline.com
Achieve 53
Learning for Life and Work FOR YOUNG PEOPLE WITH COMMUNICATION AND LEARNING DIFFICULTIES
Our school
Look out world Ben Barnett is coming for you! Jonny Lakin built Woodside Lodge with the school’s star pupil, Ben, in mind. With a dream to create a learning environment for young people affected by Autism that was quite unlike anything else he has created something really rather special. Jonny opened Woodside Lodge in Quorn Leicestershire in 2013 for a place in which students can thrive and hasn’t looked back. The school offers a unique study plan to a small number of students aged between 11 and 19 with a curriculum that incorporates Maths, English, ICT, PSHE, Life skills as well as Land Based Studies, Cooking, Art, Forest Schools, Music, Photography, Citizenship, PE and much more besides. The farm site enables a host of outdoor education, working the land, caring for animals, doing archery and learning all kinds of agricultural skills too. Woodside’s star pupil, Ben Barnett started in August 2013 and adopted his star student role pretty quickly, both academically and personally; “The other students see him as a big cool brother really, he’s a real team player and to think that when I was imagining this school I had Ben in mind as my ‘typical’ student it’s quite mind-blowing to see him doing so well here really! It’s amazing to see his confidence grow every day, a real pleasure.” Jonny enthused. Since starting at the school Ben has achieved L1 functional Skills in English, Maths and ICT as well as ASDAN Personal and Social Development. Not only that but this special piece of artwork has won him a ‘Highly Commended’ certificate from Leicestershire Arts Annual Awards. But, perhaps most importantly Ben has thrived personally too with academia qualifications under his belt and a new found confidence and communication skills, he is happier than ever before; “My family have noticed the change in me, they can see that I am a lot happier and far more positive than ever. I now feel ready for the big wide world! Woodside is great!” Ben told us. Find out more at www.woodside-lodge.co.uk or call : 07903 137897
54
The Royal School for Deaf Children Margate caters for children who have a hearing impairment and additional needs including emotional, behavioural or medical problems. We can also meet the needs of children with communication difficulties.
Our farm Monkshill Farm offers a range of programmes, work experience and apprenticeship placements.
Our college At Westgate College we continue to build upon the knowledge and skills that young people have gained through their school education. Students have access to a range of qualifications and support appropriate to meet individual needs. We offer vocational and non vocational programmes from 16 years onwards.
The Royal School for Deaf Children Margate & Westgate College Victoria Rd, Victoria Rd, Margate, Margate,Kent KentCT9 CT91NB. 1NB.Telephone/Textphone: Telephone/Textphone:01843 01843227561 227561SMS: SMS:07797 07797800015 800015Fax: Fax:01943 01843227637 227637 School email: enquiries@royalschoolfordeaf.kent.sch.uk Website: www.johntowsendtrust.org.uk School email: enquiries@royalschoolfordeaf.kent.sch.uk Website: www.townsendtrust.org
The UK’s leading specialist residential further education college for people aged 16+ with a visual impairment is based in Hereford. A free ‘Have a Go’ weekend takes place on 25-26 October for young people aged 13-16 who are exploring their future options.
Places available for September 2015 start ‘Good’ with outstanding elements ~ Ofsted 2013 Company limited by guarantee number 2367626
A series of children's stories intended to help children cope with new situations found in most families. www.suziebooks.co.uk 07971182991
For more information or to book an informal, personalised tour of the campus, call 01432 376 621, email info@rnc.ac.uk or visit www.rnc.ac.uk RNCHereford Registered charity number 1000388
@RNC_official
The nostalgia Teen Dream of school days the Christmas gift that allows 11-years olds to get motoring
Ahhhh the school days…what do they conjure up for you? Fun and laughter, friends and sports days or tedious and never-ending? We think a healthy mix of all is probably the mix in most common responses to that question! Whatever your age a funny mix of something like nostalgia with happy memories will likely be your thoughts as you look back over your schooling years. There are things that as a parent though I know I will say that my parents said to me amongst them; ‘Do your best’ ‘Tuck your shirt in’ ‘Have you got your kit?’ and the truly classic ‘Your school years are the best years, you have got it easy kid!’ and how many times as a parent do you smile when you ask your child what they did that day, only to get the response ‘stuff!’ as you recall that is your response you gave your folks to the question too! Whilst schools and education changes continuously some things never do, one of them being these parental questions. With the new school term in full swing, its likely that your household has restored some of that lovely reassuring routine that makes life that little bit easier for us parents and although they may not always like to admit it makes for happier children too. They need the stimulation that school brings and if it’s a good school, the right school for your child, they will thrive. Of course, there are many ways to ‘re-live’ your happy school days, take a look over your old text books, dig out those cringy school photos and experience that heady mix of feeling glad and sad all at once. The bad and the good all simply part of growing up and coming out of the other side!
Teenagers are notoriously difficult to buy gifts for, but Young Driver vouchers offer an ideal mix of fun and usefulness!
Choose a Head Start for Your Son or Daughter’s Education
Young Driver provides driving lessons for 11-17 year olds at 33 venues across Great Britain. Youngsters are taught on private property in dual control cars by fully qualified instructors. A whole road system is created to help the drivers learn everything from changing gears and parking to using roundabouts and manoeuvring a slalom, and an emphasis is put on responsible and safe driving.
Choosing the right educational start for your son or daughter is an extremely important decision in any parent’s life. Our Lady’s Convent School (OLCS), is an independent establishment, co-educational for ages 3 to 11 then our girls progress to our single sex Senior School (11 to 16) and Sixth Form (16 to 18).
We sent Head of Operations, Leanne Baker’s 12 year old son Tod to test the water, and see what all the fuss was about! “The hour long session Tod had today was amazing! He absolutely loved being in control of a real car, and I was amazed at how quickly he picked it up. He was so confident by the end of the lesson, I really think this will help his driving later on in life - and it will lower his insurance too! Learning early, and in a controlled, safe environment really puts my mind at ease! The instructor was so patient and helpful that Tod felt comfortable as soon as he stepped in the car. He really enjoyed the experience and I’d definitely recommend it!!” Buy a voucher for a 30 or 60 minute session which can be redeemed at 33 venues across Great Britain, from www.youngdriver.eu or 0844 371 9010. 30 minute lesson voucher - £31.99 60 minute lesson voucher - £59.95 Vouchers are valid for nine months.
We know that happy, stimulated students learn more and we provide a cheerful, family environment where our pupils flourish. We have a long tradition of providing an holistic approach to education where your child will be encouraged and challenged to perform to his or her best abilities; our strong academic results reflect how well our students of all ages respond to this approach. We guarantee small class sizes and whilst we are founded on Christian values we respect and welcome all faiths. An excellent feature of the School is the careful balance achieved between hard work and opportunities to get involved in a range of extra-curricular activities, productions, House events and curriculum-enhancing visits. To understand what makes our School special come and have a look round, drop in to our next open evening on 30th September, 6pm to 8pm and meet students, staff and the Headteacher. Alternatively you can arrange a tour at a time to suit you, please ring now to book; we would be delighted to meet you and discuss how we can equip your son or daughter for life. For more information please ring our Admissions team on 01509 263901 or visit our website: www.olcs.leics.sch.uk
Achieve 55
Our secondary achievers. Every one of our secondary pupils has a tailor-made, individual learning programme. Small classes are taught by specialist teachers and speech and language therapy is provided on campus. All of which is backed by our
Independent Day School for Girls from 4-18 years
excellent support facilities. So combine this with our structured approach to the development of life and independence skills and you’ll see the reason for our recent success with national qualifications and value added scores. For full details of the various day or residential options, please call 01332 362512 (voice/text). Royal School for the Deaf Derby, Ashbourne Road, Derby DE22 3BH. E-mail: principal@rsdd.org.uk www.rsd-derby.org Reg. Charity No. 1062507
Education and Fulfilment through Challenge and Support
Hamilton Lodge
School & College - Primary to FE Our Child Centred Communication approach supports the development of both English and BSL
Our Lady’s Convent School
_0414.indd 1
23/1/14 16:18:29
Independent Day School
30th September
Open Evening, 6pm to 8pm
11th November
Open Morning, 9.30am to 12 noon
• Co-educational Nursery and Primary School (3–11) • Girls only Senior and Sixth Form (11–18) • Catholic School welcoming all denominations • Talk to our Headteacher, staff and students • Central Loughborough location (off Park Road) • Personalised guided tours, no appointment necessary • See at first hand the enriched curriculum we offer
56
Open events throughout the year For more information or to request a prospectus please contact Our Lady’s Convent School, Gray Street, Loughborough LE11 2DZ Tel:
01509 263901 Web:
www.OLCS.leics.sch.uk
Email:
Conquering a Mountain
Our year 11 students went on an outward bound trip to Wales this summer. They started the week by climbing Mount Snowdon the highest point in the British Isles outside the Scottish Highlands. After their nine hour trek they were glad of a curry.
Free BSL Classes for Parents and Carers
Hamilton Lodge is now pleased to offer FREE day time BSL classes for parents and carers of deaf children whether the children attend Hamilton Lodge or not.
office@olcs.leics.sch.uk Member of ISA
www.hamiltonlsc.co.uk
@hamiltonlodge
hamiltonlodgesc
A Word From The Head
The joy of learning an instrument They say that the best way to learn an instrument is to start young, i.e when your young mind simply takes on learning a whole lot easier than an adult one! One of the best ways to encourage learning an instrument is to simply lead by example, have an instrument in the house and it’s likely their curiosity will lead them to picking it up and trying it for themselves. Then of course as they get a bit older school age perhaps, there are often great opportunities to learn an instrument in a school or college environment, maybe their peers are learning and the chance to practice with them or even to start a band grows stronger. However it’s not only the joy in learning and instrument that is brought to a young person but also the sense of responsibility which truly looking after their instrument carries. With a piano for example perhaps they could take charge in keeping it clean, organising when tuning may be required etc. or, for a guitar if the strings are looking a bit tired and in need of replacing. So, as a parent how do you encourage your child to learn and continue to learn to play an instrument? Well, if your budget will allow lessons is an obvious starting block as by going regularly you are allowing them that space to develop their skills. Or, if it’s more of a band set up than a classical one find some practice space for them at home so that they can really go for it in a creatively encouraged setting. The most important aspect to anyone learning to play any instrument and honing their skills is giving the individual the tools and time to practice, after all its practise that makes perfect!
Tring Park School for the Performing Arts is one of a tiny handful of residential and day schools in the UK that stand at the forefront of specialist performing arts education. In addition, at Tring Park you will also receive a full and rounded education to GCSE, BTEC and A Level (we offer up to 17 A Level subjects), in an atmosphere of high academic performance. At Tring Park talented young people from 8 – 19 can specialise in Dance, Drama, Musical Theatre or Commercial Music, whilst gaining excellent academic qualifications. Entrance is via audition and scholarships are available for Dance via the Government’s Music and Dance Scheme and Dance and Drama Awards. School scholarships and bursaries are available for Drama and Musical Theatre. Alumni success Past pupils include Caroline Quentin, Thandie Newton and Jane Seymour. Daisy Ridley has a starring role in the next three Star Wars films; Lily James will be seen as Cinderella in the Disney blockbuster; Jessica Brown Findlay starred in BBC1’s Jamaica Inn and both have starred in ITV’s Downton Abbey. Bryony Hannah and Helen George starred in BBC1’s Call the Midwife and Tring Park alumni are appearing in key roles in many West End musicals. Tyrone Singleton and Max Westwell are Soloists at Birmingham Royal Ballet and the school boasts dancers in companies including English National Ballet, New York City Ballet and the Ballet Company of Serbia. Apply online for Open Days: 3rd, 9th and 10th October. Email: info@tringpark.com www.tringpark.com/opendays Website: www.tringpark.com Registered charity no. 1040330
Achieve 57
10 MARCH to 20 APRIL 2015
For information please go to www.london-handel-festival.com
Deadline: 9 January 2015 Age: 23-34 All Handel repertoire First Round: 23-25 February Semi-Final: 9 April Final: 20 April
www.london-handel-festival.com
Tring_Junior_OD_190x137_Layout 1 08/07/2014 16:27 Page 1
GIVING TALENTED CHILDREN A HEAD START TO A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE Tring Park for young people with outstanding talent in Ballet, Dance, Drama, Musical Theatre and Commercial Music Co-educational boarding and day school for children from age 8 – 19 Outstanding academic education to A Level
OPEN DAYS
3, 9 &10 OCTOBER
To book: www.tringpark.com/opendays Tel. 01442 821516
www.tringpark.com Photo: Brian O’Carroll Registered charity no. 1040330
info@tringpark.com or tel. 01442 824255
58
Historic Conway Hall Purpose built in 1929, the main concert hall can seat audiences up to 400 Excellent acoustics, wooden floors, natural light, intimate atmosphere Convenient central location just 3 minutes from Holborn tube Rehearsals up to full orchestra Resident Bösendorfer grand piano Smaller halls and studios available for auditions, classes workshops & examinations Also available for conferences, receptions and film shoots For further details please contact us: Tel: 020 7405 1818 Email: lettings@ethicalsoc.org.uk www.conwayhall.org.uk
Conway Hall: Embracing Independence Since 1787 Conway Hall is a very special location, not only
played host to countless chamber concerts with
musicians to sit amongst each other. These are
is it one of the world’s most important landmarks
its ground-breaking acoustics and technologies.
just a handful of the exciting and ever diverse
due to its diverse and rich history as a place for
Conway Hall’s musical legacy is one of its most
events taking place soon; to find out more about
independent, intellectual, political and cultural
important which has always and still does make
upcoming events and hire options visit
life but since it opened its doors in 1929 it has
classical music accessible and affordable for
always strived to be a place which welcomes
all. The now Grade II listed building welcomes
www.conwayhall.org.uk call: 020 7405 1818
and thrives on its diverse and free thinking
a huge variety of guests throughout the year as
ethos. As a meeting place for independent
a venue hire and meeting place for a diverse
thought, music, lectures and events since its
range of groups, organisations and scheduled
opening it has seen and heard many highly
programmes of events with a variety of lectures,
influential writers, thinkers and musicians and
classes, performances, community and social
continues to do so.
events.
However, the society started even earlier than
Upcoming events include some very exciting
Conway Hall itself with humanists forming an
things for autumn with the Festival of Life
ethical society as far back as 1787. Hugely
in September which includes lectures and
important figures such as William Morris, George
demonstrations on environmentalism, artistic
Bernard Shaw and various Suffragettes all
expression and much more as well as a brand
contributed to lectures heralding freedom from
new programme of weekday evening lectures
slavery, campaigning for women’s rights and
which are scheduled to begin that will approach
much more besides over the years making the
contemporary and ethical issues effecting
group one of the most important free thinking
society and the capital today. For the passionate
societies in history to date. In the 1900’s
music lover you will delight in the Music up
Conway Hall was built with a vision of a home
Close 6 week course which offers attendees
for the society, which today still includes the
the opportunity to discover more than most
purpose built library, many meeting rooms, and
about music culminating in a unique concert
of course the 400 capacity main hall which has
experience which enables the students and
Achieve 59
VOICE TRIALS for boys aged 7 & 8 8 November 2014 Substantial scholarships are awarded and choristers enjoy the superb and extensive facilities of St Edmund’s School. The Master of Choristers, David Flood, is always pleased to meet and advise parents and their sons. For further details please telephone
01227 865242
davidf@canterbury-cathedral.org
@No1Cathedral 60
VOICE TRIALS for boys aged 7 & 8 8 November 2014 Substantial scholarships are awarded and choristers enjoy the superb and extensive facilities of St Edmund’s School. The Master of Choristers, David Flood, is always Chorister Voice Trials pleased to meet and advise parents and their sons. Canterbury Cathedral Choir is looking to award
Cambridge PianoForte : The only name for your piano
substantial scholarships to talented boys who The 38th London Handel Festival will would like to join them in September 2015. For further details run from 10 March to 20 April 2015. This Auditions, for a long time referred to as a please Voice telephone Trial, will be held on 8th November 2014. unique Festival will include Handel’s
01227 865242 Semele, which is full of glorious arias and
Don’t wait until then, though! Any boy who davidf@canterbury-cathedral.org will take place at the Queen Elizabeth will be in year 3 at school from September and who enjoys singing can be considered Hall, conducted by Laurence Cummings and the Cathedral organist, David Flood, will @No1Cathedral (Musical Director). This will be followed be delighted to meet and advise them at any by Handel’s opera, Giove in Argo, rarely convenient time. It is not necessary to have had any musical training at all: it just potential performed but brought to the Britten that Dr Flood is keen to see. He will give lots of Theatre, Royal College of Music, in a encouragement, help about how to prepare for collaboration with the brilliant young the audition and can answer any queries and give all sorts of information. He makes sure that singers in the International Opera School. all the music-making in the Cathedral is fun and Much of the Festival takes place at St the life of a chorister is a wonderful and unique experience. George’s, Hanover Square (Handel’s The choristers, all 25 of them, enjoy the excellent facilities of St Edmund’s School, Canterbury and receive very substantial scholarships from the Cathedral. The Cathedral Choir House has recently enjoyed a £2 million renovation. During the last year this famous choir has been featured on national television and radio and toured to Norway in April. They enjoy the very highest reputation and renown across the world and perform to many thousands of people every year, at home and through radio and television. They will tour in the southern USA in 2015: their fourth such trip in recent years. Their CD “Ceremony” was recently heralded by the Sunday Times as “world class”. The unique life of a chorister is full of excitement and the huge reward of being part of such a special team. It is the chance of a lifetime. For further information, please contact David Flood on 01227 865242 or davidf@canterbury-cathedral.org.
Church) and performances there will include the Final of the 14th Handel Singing Competition which encourages young singers to focus on Handel repertoire and gives them performance opportunities; a Lunchtime Series which gives a platform to young singers and players; Walks and Talks. Invited groups will include Solomon’s Knot and Saraband. The Festival also ventures out to Coram Fields and the Foundling Museum, which Handel supported, and where three concerts will take place. For full details please go to the Festival website:
www.london-handel-festival.com.
Behind every successful musician there is a chance you will find not only a high quality instrument but a team of people who finely tune that instrument to make it perform at its best. Cambridge PianoForte have been providing first class services to pianists and musicians both amateur and professional. Starting out at the University of Cambridge over 30 years ago their aims and objectives of excellence have never faltered, in fact their skills and attention to detail has only become even more refined. Over their successful years they have built a strong reputation which has enabled them to promote and actively support countless concerts, musical festivals, and other music events, with many with international artists such as Radu Lupu, Mitsuko Uchida, Natalie Klien and Tom Poster. Providing a wealth of services including restoration and removal as well as their renowned tuning and servicing; Cambridge PianoForte are experts in this field with the technicians of the highest calibre possible. This same expert commitment applies to their servicing too; with many people unaware of how important it is to keep their piano in tip top condition Cambridge PianoForte’s services are invaluable at ensuring your piano is in its best possible condition and is well looked after giving you an instrument that will last for many years to come. Perhaps most significantly the company offer piano hire for many types of events with high quality grand and upright pianos which of course includes tuning, delivery and collection all included. The choice is exceptional with good quality uprights through to full size Steinway & Sons concert grand piano. With many many years of experience in hiring the team are very flexible in respect of delivery timings and locations. So, for all your piano needs turn to the only name in the industry. www.cambridgemusic.net Call: (0)1223 424007
Achieve 61
If you love to sing, are aged 9-19 9-14 and would like to be considered for the choir we want to hear from you.
Tootling Ted Flute Performer & Teacher
Private Teaching
Contact us and / or obtain application forms at:-
nccgb.com The NCCGB PO Box 116 Alresford Hants SO24 0YN T: 07894 021279 E: info@nccgb.com President: Bob Chilcott, Musical Director: Lissa Gray
The strength of Kate’s passion for music and the flute has made her an inspirational teacher. For over twenty-five years, she has taught the flute at all levels from absolute beginner to post-diploma and to all ages from six to sixty. If you have any questions regarding Tootling Ted please feel free to contact Kate on:
Patrons: The Duchess of Kent, Sir David Willcocks CBE, MC
01895 674278
& Sir Richard Stilgoe OBE, DL
kate@tootlingted.co.uk
Administrator: Kim Reffell Registered Charity No. 1093292
www.tootlingted.co.uk
CAMBRIDGE PIANOFORTE LLP
Celebrating 10 years Co-founders The Duchess of Kent Nicholas Robinson
Steinway & Sons - Sales, Hire & Service in East Anglia A WIDE RANGE OF GRAND, UPRIGHT & DIGITAL PIANOS
Providing essential and sustained opportunities for gifted young musicians from low-income backgrounds in the UK. Can we support you? Can you support us?
PIANO TUNING - PIANO RESTORATION - PIANO REMOVALS STRING INSTRUMENTS - SHEET MUSIC - ACCESSORIES
01223 424007
www.cambridgemusic.net - info@cambridgemusic.net 10-12 Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge. CB4 2PA 62
futuretalent.org 020 7182 4676 Reg. Charity No. 1107747
Future Talent needs YOU! Future Talent is a special charity whose work really struck a chord with us here at Achieve. Being an educational magazine which strives to support organisations, companies and charities of an educational ethos in each and every issue Future Talent was a charity we knew our readers would want to know all about. To reach the required standard to become a professional musician takes years of training and can be extremely expensive. Providing sustained critical support to enable exceptional musical talent to flourish, Future Talent finds, funds, nurtures and monitors gifted musicians aged between 5 and 18 whose current financial circumstances prevent them from fulfilling their musical potential and pursuing their career dreams.
The National Children’s Choir of Great Britain brings together talented young singers from throughout the UK, to enable them to enjoy making music under the guidance of inspired teachers. The choir meets for residential courses during the Easter and summer holidays, when choir members can develop their vocal technique and musicianship skills. NCCGB is divided into four choirs; the Junior (treble) choirs are made up of the Yellow Choir (age 9 – 11), Blue Choir (Year 7 – 10) and Green (advanced) Choir (also Year 7 - 10). The Senior (SATB) Choir is for girls age 15+ and boys with changed voices. During courses choir members sing together in their individual choirs and the massed choir, work with singing tutors in individual lessons and enjoy the experience of working with others who share their passion for singing. The choir has performed in the Royal Albert Hall and Birmingham Symphony Hall, and every year gives a public concert at the end of the summer course. Their repertoire ranges from traditional works of the Renaissance to modern day classics, and they are renowned for the purity of the sound they produce.
Supporting musicians from all genres, the charity awards grants to purchase instruments, music lessons, fees for specialist training courses and memberships to national training ensembles such as the National Youth Orchestra and National Youth Choir making them a vital support for taking away some of the financial strain on young talented musicians and their families. However, the charity provides much more than financial support with a focus on supporting the individuals and their families with any emotional challenges, guidance and mentoring and performance opportunities whilst pursuing their dreams of becoming a successful musician. Funding for music is available to all children at a basic level in the UK and again as young professionals, but there is a funding gap during the ‘development’ years, a gap that the charity fills. Future Talent has big dreams too, dreams to make possible what might be thought impossible. Co-founded by The Duchess of Kent in 2004, after teaching music in Hull, the charity has never lost focus on what it is all about and seeks talent from all corners of the UK. Of course for the charity to continue this important work it needs the generosity of the public to continue, relying 100% on donations, so visit www.futuretalent.org to find out how you can donate or support these exceptional young people. Or, perhaps the charity can help you?! If you are a budding musician but struggle with funding you can apply for help from the 8th September 2014.
2014 marks the beginning of an exciting journey for NCCGB. The choir looks forward to a performance during the Edinburgh Festival in 2015, and a tour of Northern Spain in 2016. The choir will also begin its new non-auditioned workshop programme. These workshops, which are not residential, will ensure that all children who have the desire to sing have the opportunity to benefit from the choir's resources.
Future Talent aspires to make a career in music of any genre a reality for all talent, regardless of geography, ethnicity or disability.
Further information about the National Children’s Choir of Great Britain may be found at www.nccgb.com or by emailing info@nccgb.com.
Or visit cafonline.org to make an online donation NB: CAF retains 5% of your donation
www.furturetalent.org
To make a donation to Future Talent, please send a cheque to: Future Talent, 33 Cavendish Square, London, W1G 0PW Name: ……………………………… Address: …………………………………………… Telephone number: ……………………………......
£50 will pay for two music lessons £500 will pay for a term at a specialist music school (parental contribution) £5,000 will look after a young musician for three years
Fluting, Tootling Ted! Kate Walsh is the talented and passionate flutist behind her warm cuddly and friendly alter-ego Tootling Ted. Music has always been her passion, it has driven her to perform and teach countless times and it’s the joy of sharing her music with others that really ignites her flame. Kate originally studied flute at the London College of Music with Ann Cherry and graduated with the full spectrum of qualifications. She subsequently pursued her studies with Colin Fleming of the Ulster Orchestra and in various master classes with other international flautists. Her postgraduate qualifications are an M.A. from City University, London and an LGSMD from the Guildhall School of Music and a PGCE from Roehampton. She also now possesses almost the full spectrum of instruments from the piccolo through the E flat flute, standard flute in C, alto flute, flutes d’amore in A and B flat and bass flute. Her performing career has embraced all types of music. She has played with a wide range of local, national and regional ensembles and orchestras and prides herself on playing events and venues of a very diverse spectrum! Including prestigious ballets and orchestras all over the world to cruise ships and high streets and everything in between! First and foremost this makes her into a performer. Ever since she was a young girl the flute has been her special instrument and it’s the joy she finds in it that she is so keen to share. This is through performing and teaching where she is able to motivate her students, young and old, with her passion. Whether you are looking for a performer or for a teacher you can discover more about her work at her website www.tootlingted.co.uk. Tel: 01895 674278/ Mob: 07889 716181
Achieve 63
Christmas Campaign
give a little
Christmas Charity Cheer Of course it’s easy for us all to say we should give and do more for charity but this festive season we have come up with a simple and realistic idea to get you helping the causes that need it. How about a donation of the money you would ordinarily spend on buying and posting Christmas Cards to a good cause? Simply wish your friends and family good festive cheer over the phone or in person and tell them what you did with the money you would have spent on their card!
Phoenix Children’s Foundation
Christina Noble Children’s Foundation
You never know, they might be inspired to do Leicestershire County Council
the same.
Please help us to raise money in memory of Bill Text POPS53 £2 / £5 / £10 to 70070 to donate now. eg POPS53 £5
LLR Registered charity no. 216032
The mission of Christina Noble Children’s Foundation is to give all children their childhood by providing the necessary protection, care and education for them to sleep in peace, surrounded by love. Without this caring, protective foundation in life, the future of any child is bleak. A happy and secure childhood is one of the most precious and enduring memories we can have and sets the foundation for the life we lead as adults. The opportunity to experience a happy childhood is the right of every child. Our work is dependent on public generosity, donations like yours make an enormous difference to the help we can offer the children.
Childhood is the foundation of life, help us make it a good one. www.cncf.org Tel: 0207 381 8550 Email: uk@cncf.org Tweet us @cncfuk
64
Like us at www.facebook.com/christinanoblechildrensfoundationUk
Skydive for Leukaemia and Lymphoma research! “I have never done a sky dive before but felt the urge to do
something big for this amazing charity with my partner; Kerry and her sister Gayle-Caroline. So many of us know or have
known someone who has suffered with cancer and if I can raise enough to make a difference I will gladly step out of a plane!
Donations are made in memory of a Kerry & Gayle-Caroline’s dad Bill Jackson, who fought Acute Myeloid Leukaemia for 5 months before sadly passing in April 2014.” Emily Davison, Achieve Media Director Comments.
www.leukaemialymphomaresearch.org.uk/
Tickle, shown here getting in the Xmas spirit
When you are out and about on the streets, braving the wind, rain and the cold this Christmas, you may smile and your heart may be warmed a little when you see, us accompanied by our miniature Shetland ponies, raising funds and awareness in aid of severely ill and disabled children, who live locally to any area in which we appear.
We are the Phoenix Children’s Foundation and we provide specialist equipment and therapies to children aged 3 to 18 years old. Typically sensory and music therapy, riding lessons for the disabled and custom built tricycles or specialist hoists are funded in the main.
Sadly, some children will not have many Christmas times. Rainbows is here for them and the people who love them most. Help us be there by giving a small gift this festive season.
To give a gift visit: www.rainbows.co.uk/donate
When you put your hard earned coins in our buckets, you can be confident that your valuable donations are put to good use in your community. We are a small charity relying solely on public help and we are run mostly by volunteers and have next to no advertising budget, therefore all monies raised recently are going to Leicesterhire hospital’s children’s wards. Having funded many children since our beginnings in 2006, we still need your help to continue this valuable and rewarding work! You can assist us with your time, volunteering for us, to raise funds directly, or you could hold small events like coffee mornings or a dressing down for work day, and help us from the comfort of your own home or involve your local community. For more information on how you can do this and for details of who we have helped, please see our website at www.phoenixcharity.org.. Thank you and a Merry Christmas from the team at the Phoenix Children’s Foundation!
Max and his mum my Registered Charity Number: 1014051
Established in 1988, the Children's Heart Surgery Fund is a charity providing support for children and adults born with Congenital Heart Defects and their families. CHSF provides valuable equipment, resources and research, as well as providing a support service for both the children and their families along the way.
Based at the Leeds General Infirmary, CHSF covers the regions of Yorkshire, Humberside and North Lincolnshire. Around 400 children from these regions need open heart surgery every year. We aim to ensure these children have the best possible chance of survival and to help their families in whatever way needed during their stay in hospital. Our work is overseen by a board of Trustees – made up of clinical staff, parents and business leaders. We raise money to help the children’s heart unit at the Leeds General Infirmary provide superb care for its young patients and their families, but our work doesn’t stop there. More than 40% of the children who have an operation will need long-term care, and each year 10,000 children pass through the unit. We
support them every step of the way – from womb to adulthood.
Donate Organise a fundraising event or take part in one of our events
Text CHSF01 £(amount you wish to donate i.e. £5) to 70070
Volunteer
Visit our website
A lot of opportunities, such as bag
www.chsf.org.uk
packing, local ambassador, administration, etc.
Fire Walk - 07 November 2014, 17:30 - 21:00 Stockeld Park , Wetherby, LS22 4AN To join Team CHSF & take part, contact CHSF on 0113 3923987 or email events@chsf.org.uk Prices: Registration Fee - £25.00 Registered charity in the UK. Registered charity number (1148359). Registered company number (8152970)
Do you know a child that needs our help? Dreams Come True work with terminally and seriously ill children and young people to help them fulfil their dreams. For more information and a nomination form visit www.dreamscometrue.uk.com or call 01428 726330. Registered as a Charity in England and Wales (800248) and in Scotland (SC043878)
Achieve 65
Big Things Happening at Soft Touch Arts in 2014 Soft Touch Arts Ltd is a Leicester-based charity established in 1986 which uses arts, media and music activities to engage disadvantaged young people. The unique, arts-based approach attracts young people who have disengaged, or are at risk of disengaging, from education or employment and brings them into a supportive environment where they can build up the confidence and skills they need to re-engage. Soft Touch activities cover a wide spectrum from graffiti, t-shirt printing, stencilling, video making, song writing and music technology to sculpture building, woodwork, welding and bike blinging! The Soft Touch method helps young people who lack opportunities or have challenges in their lives to develop the creative, social and employability skills they need for a better future. The dedicated staff help young people get back on track if things have gone wrong, try new things, build the confidence and resilience to change negative or risky behaviours, and progress to lead more fulfilling lives. Soft Touch’s work also tackles local and national problems like gang culture, anti-social behaviour and unhealthy lifestyles through sessions in schools, colleges and community settings throughout Leicestershire. One particular group which has recently benefited from involvement with Soft Touch is
66
a school for children with special educational needs in Leicester. Soft Touch Director, Joe Crofton, has been running music sessions giving children with a range of disabilities the chance to create their own music through touch technology using iPads. Joe explains “What I have noticed is that it’s not important what I might think of as a ‘good’ song. These children have been so happy because they are making music. They have been making the sounds, creating their own arrangements. It has been their own creation. It’s the taking part in an activity, being involved and given a chance to be creative that really matters. It’s important, it’s inclusive, and it makes children happy.” Soft Touch is currently going through a period of change in order to expand its hugely successful work with young people. One of those changes is the purchase of a new building in New Walk which is undergoing refurbishment through the summer and will open in late 2014 as Leicester’s first Youth Arts and Heritage Centre. At the same time the organisation has been working hard to raise its profile. These efforts have resulted in Soft Touch being declared the winners of the not-for-profit category in this year’s Leicester Mercury Business Awards, a special moment for the staff who have worked tirelessly over the years, quietly getting on with the work!
In July, Soft Touch will launch the ‘Creating Opportunity’ campaign to bring local businesses on board to fundraise and get involved with the organisation. Supporting a great local charity is a fantastic way to inspire your staff, raise your profile, generate positive PR and demonstrate your commitment to the community as well as bringing your business public recognition at the annual Soft Touch Business Reception. Soft Touch is looking for local businesses which will nominate Soft Touch as their Charity of the Year for 2015 or sponsor a project of their choice. As part of the campaign there is also the opportunity for individuals to become Soft Touch Champions and take on two challenges - a creative one and a physical one - to raise funds for Soft Touch. As an award winning local charity, Soft Touch has a proven track record of success. It’s time to get on board and help create more opportunities for more young people. For further information visit the Soft Touch website www.soft-touch.org.uk or contact Christina Wigmore Email: chris@soft-touch.org.uk Tel: 0116 2702706 softtoucharts @softtoucharts
Busting the myths
Lynn*, Foster Carer of teenagers for Leicestershire County Council says: “I thought it would be scary to look after teenagers, but once they feel safe and welcome, it's amazing to see them open up and show who they really are. When Luke* came to us, he was angry at the world. It wasn't surprising really, given what he'd been through. A few months later though, he was calmer; he respected our home and accepted our boundaries and rules. He even started doing the washing up at times! We realised he just needed to feel like he belonged somewhere and that somebody actually cared about what he did with his life. I'd encourage people to find out how they could help some of Leicestershire's teenagers through fostering. All they need is security, boundaries and a sense of value – oh, and probably a lift here and there!” *Real names have been changed. Photo is of an actor.
Could you fit fostering into your life? There are so many different ways to foster and Leicestershire County Council is actively recruiting carers for a range of ages, from newborn babies to teenagers. If you think you could make space for a child, please find out how to take the next step by getting in touch on 0116 305 0505 or visiting www.spaceforachild.com You can also find the team at events and open evenings around the county. We’re taking our bus on the road to give you an opportunity to come and have an informal chat. If you have an event that we could bring the bus to, please get in touch.
Achieve 67
Autism
Awareness
Autism Awareness Autism is a subject that is very close to us here at Achieve and we are always looking for colleges, schools and organisations which help bring awareness to the condition in a bid to help our readers come to understand more about it. We always hope that one of our articles might strike a chord with someone who wouldn’t ordinarily have thought about autism, or even with a parent who is going through a child’s autism diagnosis. We will always campaign for greater autism awareness and this issue is no different in that
Sensory Spectacle
Tough Furniture
Baston House School
plight….
Carddies, which are Made in the UK, are very appealing sets of Card People who live in a box: you colour them in, give them names, make up their stories, and bring them to life. RRP £8.99 Carddies store at www.amazon.co.uk. Carddies have amazing reviews from parents with children with SEN: “I love the idea behind Carddies and feel they would be brilliant
for creating social stories for a child on the autism spectrum while encouraging creativity and improvements in fine motor skills. Carddies were kind enough to send both A-S and Little man (aka a boy with Apsergers) a pack each to try. Now A-S is very creative when it comes to arts and crafts where Little man has always had difficulties with his fine motor skills and therefore will normally give up very quickly on anything that requires any colouring.” ( http://aspergersinfo.wordpress. com/?s=carddies)
68
Get a new perspective on autism
Doucecroft School ~ Further Education Adult Residential Services ~ Study Centres Support for Families and Professionals Training ~ Conferences 01206 577678 www.autism-anglia.org.uk
In recent years a great deal has been done to help the general public and professionals alike understand more about what it means to be autistic, yet there is still so much more that can be done. The more we come to have a greater understanding of the condition the easier we can make the lives of those with it. We can start to understand more when we experience the way a person with autism sees the world and everything in it, afterall what better way is there to gain further understanding of the condition than to experience just some of what it’s like to perceive things in the way that a person with autism does? Sensory Spectacle give the world this exact opportunity; for everyone to experience the sensory perceptions of those with autism. Founded by Becky Lyddon, the educational Sensory workshops, installations, consultations and exhibitions were created to give the world a better understanding of the autistic sensory world. Their installations provide the opportunity for visitors to experience a range of sensory role play and stimulus, rather like an interactive art exhibition, which helps the user see the world as someone on the autistic spectrum may see it. More than this though Becky and her team provide these experiences and educational discussions in places of work, at schools as well as one on one consultation to help people gain new understanding. Visit www.sensoryspectacle.co.uk to find out more about this unique and revolutionary service. Call: +44(0)7763620636
Achieve 69
Lilias Ahmeira: Rebalancing you and your family’s health Everything is energy and is measurable by frequency. The chair you are sitting on, the table and everything you can think of, has a frequency. These frequencies enable us to ascertain a whole host of health and wellbeing issues, which, if unbalanced and can cause discomfort and dis-ease in your body. Now it is possible to check if various areas of your body are functioning efficiently through reading the frequencies of individual organs and aspects of the body. Everyone deserves to live a healthy, happy and more productive life and the Quantum Infinity Technology introduced by Lilias Ahmeira is paving the way to a new way of taking back your health and wellbeing.
When it comes to our eating habits, so many of us simply get it wrong. We soak up the latest fad diets and try to listen to the general information given to us by the latest studies. However, so much written in the press and media about diets and health are obtaining their information from food manufacturing companies, leaning evidence in favour of their foods. It can be a confusing and misleading minefield! But, it would seem the information behind it, isn’t exactly rocket science. These days the general consensus is that if you try to eat foods that the earth naturally provides avoiding processed foods and take
regular exercise you are at least half way there. So, why is it that this message is so often lost? Especially, on our young children? As a mother myself I know only too well the battles for ensuring my daughter gets the right food each day; fending off sugar is one the toughest parts especially when so much in advertising and general consciousness says we should offer our children sweet treats as ‘rewards’. The link between their diets and weight is just one of the external signposts for an unhealthy lifestyle, but another is the general health and wellbeing in our children. Their moods and productivity, their energy levels and of course how many outward physical signs such as sickness they have are all a product of the diets they take. There are also many links and study’s which point to behavioural conditions and diets too such as ADHD, for example. One Holistic Therapist in particular explores these signs at a deeper level and has a proven track record for getting results is Lilias Ahmeira. Lilias has nearly two decades of experience working with clients and uses the latest technology to ascertain a person’s health with the Quantum Infinity Ilife. Lilias loves this technology as it allows her to see a client anywhere in the world, in person or via skype with the same degree of accuracy. Using a number of different methods, all of which really
70
come down to the same starting point, that we are all energy, all of which can be measured and balanced Lilias simply needs four pieces of information to make up your unique energy signature. Your name, date of birth, photograph and a voice frequency. Many chronic illnesses or imbalances in the body have an emotional component, which can have a huge knock on affect on the body. Lilias told us that this again can be assessed and a way found to gently bring the psych into a better disposition. Heavy Metal Toxicity, Lyme Disease, KPU and Electromagnetic Fields are becoming more and
more common place as our lives get more and
and mass produced today as it proves too much
The emphasis with Lilias is to look at the
more advanced. Sadly they are most often
for the digestion. She feels that many children
bigger picture, to take the causes and effects
found as a group in Autistic children, a condition
will be experiencing its effects in the form of an
of certain frequencies within your body to re-
that so many health practitioners ordinarily know
illnesses, allergy or infection today.
address the imbalance and restore physical
very little about. Lilias has years of experience
The good news is, these damages can be
and mental health. Each individual is looked
and having a child with Autism herself it is a
rectified Lilias explains that the body has a
at in a unique way with Lilias’ ethos of what
specialist area for her, and one that she is very
wonderful mechanism of self-healing if given
is one man’s remedy can be another man’s
passionate about. Being able to tap into the root
the chance and the right help. A change in
poison ensuring the best outcome for you
cause of these conditions and uncover ways
diet, avoiding grain and sugar and increasing
and your body is found. Lilias and her team
to bring the body back to its homeostasis is
natural unprocessed foods and drinking pure
assess everyone individually and respect their
extremely rewarding for Lilias.
unadulterated water in your children’s diet
own special qualities and says that the root
will have astounding effects on their health
cause of a problem may have come across the
In terms of your children’s health Lilias believes
and happiness. Knowing where to focus
placenta from the mother, it may be from your
that many of the body’s natural frequencies and
your efforts, makes a huge difference to any
work place, or emotionally / subconsciously you
rhythms can become out of sync when certain
outcome.
are preventing yourself from moving forward in
aspects of the body become inflamed due to dietary choices and she explained to us that she feels that most of todays’ children have inflammation in their bodies due to the grains and sugar in their diet. This inflammation is known to cause many complications, but more specifically it can cause Leaky Gut and Leaky Brain. The effects on the brain in turn may affect insulin levels and behavioural difficulties as well as well as long term happiness and wellbeing. Lilias explained that in her view the gut simply can’t process the wheat that is being hybridised
some way (known to Lilias as self-sabotage). Areas of typical testing include: • • • • • • • •
Heavy Metal Toxicity Solvent Poisoning Viruses Parasites Bacteria Fungi Electromagnetic Stress Geopathic Stress
•
Emotional and Physical Pain
•
and subconscious Self Sabotage
Lastly she feels that it may be a hobby you are involved in which may be the core issue. Unless you ask the right questions of the body and or the person, Lilias feels you will not find the answers you are looking for. She looks forward to welcoming YOU, when the time is right.
www.liliasahmeira.com
Achieve 71
Baston House is a school where students excel!
All the educational facilities at Anna Kennedy Online were created to provide the strong, educational environment that the mainstream simply doesn’t offer to those with Autism. Anna has poured blood sweat and tears into creating environments in which it’s attending children thrive, learn and grow, providing a place in which they receive the education they deserve. It all started in 1999, after Anna was turned away from 26 special needs schools for her two sons. Not one to settle for second best, Anna was hell bent on creating a school environment that was good enough for her sons. So, she re-mortgaged her house and created her own! Yes, you read that right, she built her own school! She transformed a derelict council building in Middlesex, West London into Hillingdon Manor School. Soon supply couldn’t reach the demand and so she later opened Baston House and then further down the line West London Community College, thus creating the perfect, supportive educational environment for her children and plenty of others too from the age of three and a half to 19 and beyond. The success of each school is of course down to Anna’s initial drive and passion to create an environment in which individuals, no matter their age or background, could enjoy education delivered in a way that not only provided a happy environment but a productive one too. These schools deliver for so many individuals and in turn their families, changing their lives for the better.
Spotlight on Baston House Baston House School provides a centre of excellence in education and development for children aged between 5 and 16 years of age who have been diagnosed with an autistic spectrum condition (ASC) Baston House has a strong mission statement: Baston House School strives to provide effective specialist education and support to pupils on the Autistic Spectrum and to their families, enabling pupils to achieve their full potential in education and in life outside school. Our goal is to break down the barriers to learning that our students encounter and to help them to equip themselves for as independent a life as possible outside of school. Our approach is based on an eclectic fusion of child-centred and autism-specific strategies and techniques, with a clear focus on improving communication and interaction skills through positive interventions.
72
Here we highlight one particular family’s successes with joining Baston House School. CASE STUDY
Raeshaun Aged 12 Rachelle lives in Lewisham with her three children, the eldest of whom, Raeshaun, is twelve years old. Sink or swim? When choosing a school for a child there are many things to take into account, but for a parents with a child on the autistic spectrum the decisions can be much more difficult. Whilst some children with the condition may flourish in a mainstream setting, others will struggle and some may fall between the two categories. This was the situation in which Rachelle found herself with her son, Raeshaun. “We decided to send Raeshaun to a mainstream primary school and for the first few years we had no major problems,” she says. “Although he had some speech delay and a short attention span, the small and fairly informal environment suited him well and we were happy with the decision.” Rachelle lives in Lewisham with her three children, the eldest of whom, Raeshaun, is twelve years old. Rachelle despaired of finding the right school for her son until she discovered Baston House “It was only as he got older that things started to get more difficult as the school was not used to handling autistic children and they suggested we look for a place elsewhere. However, we persevered and he was able to stay there until the end.” Grey cloud of despair It was a secondary level that Rachelle began to realise that something would have to change. “I was still convinced that Raeshaun would be fine in the mainstream as long as he had appropriate one-to-one support like any child with learning difficulties, but school after school turned us down. I did hours of research trying to find an answer, but had no help from anywhere and it was like a big grey cloud was hanging over me.” Enough is enough
Eventually, Rachelle found a school which would accept Raeshaun and was assured that his needs would be fully met in terms of extra help and support. “I was told that he would have a dedicated TA at all times but it soon became clear that this wasn’t happening,” she says. “When I was allowed to meet her I could see that she didn’t have the specialist knowledge to deal with Raeshaun and he obviously wasn’t coping well. Then he started taking time off school, through illness or just because he didn’t want to go and it was only when I spoke to the parents of another child that I discovered he was being bullied. That was enough for me.” Fitting in at last Rachelle approached Baston House which agreed to offer Raeshaun a place. “We went to visit and loved the warm welcome and the fact that they understood exactly what we needed.” Having completed a three-day trial period at Baston, Raeshaun pleaded to be allowed to go there. “He liked it straightaway and felt that he fitted in,” says Rachelle. “The school was brilliant and managed the transfer very quickly
so there was minimal disruption, and for the first time in many months I felt able to relax.” Small steps, big progress Although Raeshaun has only been at Baston for a few weeks, family and friends have noted a marked difference in him. “There has been a dramatic change,” explains Rachelle. “He used to go to school because he had to, now he actively enjoys it. He understands his lessons whereas before he often shut himself off and he is taking a real interest in what he is learning. At home he is much happier, sleeps better and is more affectionate, so the move to Baston has had a very positive effect on us all.”
www.hillcrestcare.co.uk www.bastonhouse.org.uk www.annakennedyonline.com
Achieve 73
Autism play is making The Trip to Edinburgh West London Community College Play is headed to Edinburgh! West London Community College, a specialist independent living skills provision for adults with Autism or Asperger’s, put on a Christmas play to remember last year with a piece written by the colleges very own Jamie Foster; “In previous years we have put on our own adapted versions of plays, this has been the first year where we have written and produced our own. It was a great way of bringing up real life issues and scenarios associated with Autism in an entertaining and therefore memorable way.” Jamie told us. The play, which tells the tale of a trip to London for a group of adults with Autism and the highs and lows of their journey, was written by Jamie and performed by students at the college in front of a packed crowd. Well, to say the play was a success in as understatement as The Trip play is now headed to Edinburgh! ; “The show was so well received by an audience consisting of theatre industry and care professionals and emergency services representatives that we have taken the brave decision to take the show to this year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival. What started off as a dream in my programme note, has quickly become a reality, I couldn’t be prouder of everyone involved!” Jamie enthuses. Having become increasingly frustrated by the obvious lack of autism awareness and being inspired by the success of West End smash hit ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time’, Jamie Foster’s original piece offers as much to educate as it has to entertain. Uniquely performed by a complete cast of adults proud to be on the autism spectrum, they are offering audiences the opportunity to learn a thing or two straight from the horse’s mouth. Catch The Trip, a new comedy supported by Hillcrest Care Limited and Anna Kennedy Online, which stands at the forefront of its genre in its quest to raise awareness about the complex condition that is autism in Edinburgh soon. Writer and director, Jamie Foster, displays a flare for showcasing human emotions and relationships, having been undoubtedly influenced by John Godber and Simon Stephens; this is a moving piece that hopes to strike a chord with all that witness it.
74
“It was a great way of bringing up real life issues and scenarios associated with Autism in an entertaining and therefore memorable way.”
Listings Information Venue: Greenside at Nicholson Square (209) Tickets: £6 (full) or £4 (concessions) Date: 1st – 9th August 2014 Venue Box Office: 0131 618 6967 Time: 12:40pm www.annakennedyonline.com
And the winners are.. That’s right dear Achieve readers it’s that time again! After the huge success of Wear It for Autism in 2013 Anna Kennedy and her team were inundated with requests to do it all again and not ones to disappoint their adoring audience its set to be even bigger and better than before!
The date is set – Monday 6th October (make sure it’s in your diary), the team have a magnificent venue and some surprise guests too! Eek! To further the good cause for awareness this year the Wear it For Autism event is also supported by Models of Diversity and their good friends at Pineapple Performing Arts. Find out more about their amazing work on www.modelsofdiversity.org and www.pineapplearts.com The concept behind Wear It for Autism’ is pampering Mums, Dads, Grandparents and Carers – who either have autism themselves or care for those living with the condition. Sounds good doesn’t it? They can expect a full makeover and will take centre-stage in a super-stylish fashion event at London’s Millennium Hotel, 17 Sloane Street; Knightsbridge; London, SW1X 9NU on Oct 6th. The event will take place in Le Chinois Restaurant and Bar. Anna Kennedy OBE said: “The idea behind Wear It for Autism was to spoil those who usually never get a chance to treat – or even think – of themselves. Living with autism can be challenging and extremely demanding so we wanted to create a special event that would be fun for all involved.” Tickets for the show will be available soon and all ticket holders will receive FREE goody bags! The judges Steven Smith, Angel Sinclair, Dr Pam Spurr and Maggie Paterson, Sam Tomlin, Fiona Shepherd emotionally picked out their winners from each category . “Many tears were shed through this process since many of the nominations were heart wrenching and inspirational.” Anna explains.
The Winners are …. Mums : Ann Wright, Sharon King, Maimuna Mutaasa and Lisa Embery-Donaghy Dads : Craig Binns and Lee Cook Grandparent : Sandra Trotter Family : Anne & Steven Rann Adult with Autism : Dani Bowman Child with Autism : Sophie Jayne Garner Young Carers : Demi Stamp and Emma Bell
Congratulations to you all Celebrities presenters this year include Arlene Phillips CBE, Kirk Norcross, Abz, Keith Mason, Dr Pam Spurr, Amy Willerton, Steve King, Jason Leech and many more .All the winners will be treated to a top-to-toe makeover by styling experts and take part in the ‘Wear It for Autism’ catwalk show. Fashion Stylist Lewis Duncan Weedon has kindly agreed to style the winners with clothing from the Wish Want Wear Designer Clothing Collection!
Tickets for the show are available now, priced at £15 each and all ticket holders will receive FREE goody bags, so what are you waiting for? Grab your tickets now! Anna Kennedy and Samantha Tomlin, an of the Ambassadors of Models of Diversity who is supporting Wear It For Autism, and also a mum of young boy on the spectrum.
Please email lisa.robins@thevines.org.uk for a ticket order form. Sponsors are Taste of Texas Jerky, Living Autism, Miglio Jewellry, Models of Diversity, Wish Want Wear, Damsel in a Dress and many more if you would like to be a sponsor please contact anna@annakennedyonline.co.uk. Take a look at last year’s show filmed by Sky TV : www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3YjUx9O13I www.annakennedyonline.com
Achieve 75
Poor show from the House of Commons Thousands of parents including Anna Kennedy OBE herself were left angry and shocked that only a mere 11 of the MP’s managed to show up for an Autism debate held at the House of Commons recently despite the issue being so prevalent and urgent in the education system today. The debate opened by the Liberal Democrat MP for Burnley, Gordon Birtwistle, who said that he was pleased with the number of Members in the Chamber who wished to debate this important subject. Anna Kennedy OBE didn’t share his overzealous sentiment at the attendance though and tweeted:
‘Bursting at the seams as we speak hmmmmm maybe not #mps4autism #autism’ with over 21300 shares by parents since its clear this poor show has angered many; “I
understand that MPs can't attend every debate, but for just 11 to turn up for
a debate on such an important issue is really poor," she said. "Especially considering that one in 64 children are diagnosed with autism, so this is an issue that will affect a large amount of their constituents. The debates were triggered by families from
but unless more people start turning up to these
the community group Kwade: Kids with autism
debates, nothing is ever going to move forward.
demand education, who asked their local
When children with autism get the right support
MP Gordon Birtwistle to raise the issue in
they can progress and feel empowered, but
parliament. Gordon Birtwistle raised the issue
there are a lot of families who aren't getting the
of the difficulties faced by parents when trying
right support and they're really struggling. My
to get a diagnosis for their child, and how this
sons, Patrick and Angelo were diagnosed in
impacts upon the child’s education. He said that
1994 and 1997 and I’m not hearing anything
children with a statement of special educational
different in 2014. It’s quite sad. Awareness is
needs are eight times more likely to be excluded
improving but it needs to be more than that.”
than their peers.
needs to listen at a grass roots level to people with autism and their families, to hear what they’re going through. At the moment it feels like families are not being listened to, and they’re being penalised because their child has a disability.” As ever Anna is the voice for parents who so often get unheard and it’s this responsibility to
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State
them that makes Anna so frustrated at these
However, Anna had strong views on this and
for Education Edward Timpson stated that this
poor attendances.
believed that the debate simply went over old
this was the third debate on the autism and
ground, so was left disappointed to say the
education in the last 18 months, and whilst this
Interview with Anna from Parentdish.co.uk
least; “The
was true Anna explained that it was the poor
Keep up to date with the latest at
attendance at each of them that really made
www.annakennedyonline.com
fact so few MPs show up to these debates means that every time they just go over the same ground and that doesn’t led to anything changing.”
“Autism is a spectrum disorder which affects all children differently, so there's no easy answer,
76
it seem not so worthwhile; “There were only around three people at the last debate and two of them looked like they were asleep!” She then added; “If
I could have a meeting with the new Education Minister, Nicky Morgan, I’d tell her that she really
Independent Living And spinal injury
The Keys to Independent Living As we reach adulthood independent living is something we come to take for granted but for those with mobility or learning difficulties entirely independent living is not always possible. This issue, we look at some inspirational companies that specialise in Spinal Injury. We then look at just some of the ways a more independent way of life can be achieved. Whether it’s through assisted living or in the access and use of excellent mobility scooters or wheelchairs; there are some excellent companies providing care and equipment to enable a more independent
Epilepsy Society
Beach Easy
Mybility
way of living.
LIVE IT YOUR WAY
us at d LVeisgitaS lLifaen in sMaNfe ex & aidca sr yoSuhrow
Down on the beach
Hobbies & Sports
Unprecedented flexibility and independence to safely and comfortably handle a range of challenging terrains including: Mud, Grass, Sand, Steep Slopes, Cobbles, Steps and even Snow. Best of all its extraordinary manoeuvrability means that it can handle tight corners indoors and is kind to your carpets and floors.
Tel: 0330 555 0545 or See Our Videos at www.mybility.co.uk/videos Mybility-HPadvert-revisedV2.indd 1
ÂŁ9 75 0
Call for a Free Demonstration
Al l fo in a rs n ta d r nd ea ar dy d m to od go el
The Mybility Stand Up All Terrain Wheelchair also has a flexible seating system that allows you to electronically adjust your body posture at will to either lie down flat, stand up, or choose any angle In between.
26/02/2014 10:53
Achieve 77
The Beach Easy It’s Safer to be Seen… There are over 300,000 mobility chairs, scooters and wheelchair users in the UK alone, and this number is rising. Whilst they give users added independence and freedom there are circumstances which could potentially be dangerous for these users, such as crossing a road in the evenings or poor weather conditions, or simply being amongst pavement traffic. Due to the height of the chairs and outside conditions visibility is dangerously reduced for users and is a growing concern. A company called “Safer to be Seen” started looking into this problem three years ago and came up with a durable, stylish, universal nylon bright bag which includes reflective strips. The unique bag fits all scooters, chairs, wheelchairs and rolling walkers. The “VisiBag” is a stylish rucksack that attaches to all mobility vehicles as well as wheelchairs and rollators. The bag includes an added separate accessory - the stick holder which fits securely to either side of the bag. It’s durable too and made from 600x600D heavy duty polyester, it’s robust and shower proof and has a large top opening compartment and a front flat document pouch for ease of use. Quick to open and access your belongings each bag is opened by easily gripped zips. So, the Visibag provides the perfect practical yet stylish safety solution for all mobility and scooter users. £23.50 which INCLUDES DELIVERY! Stick holders are £4.99 each or two for £8.00. 07855788727
www.safertobeseen.com
safertobeseen@hotmail.com
Please refer to "Achieve Magazine" for a 10% discount!
All Terrain Wheelchairs
Beach trips made Easy …. Who doesn’t love to take in the beauty of a seaside view? Everyone loves to be by the sea, whether for a full day of seaside fun or a short walk to take in the views and fresh sea air, it’s good for the soul, isn’t it? So, with this in mind, why shouldn’t everyone be able to take a trip along the seashore? For wheelchair users this hasn’t always been an option, especially with so many chairs that are great for easy terrains, but struggle on sand or rocky paths. This is where the Beach Easy chairs come in. Designed specifically for the beaches tricky terrain these lightweight chairs are ground-breaking in their approach to wheelchair mobility. Boasting super lightweight materials, quick release footplates, soft, padded and washable textiles, special balloon beach tyres, lap seat belts and compact folding size for loading and unloading to and from your car, it’s a wheelchair unlike any other. “I can’t believe how easy it travels along the soft Algarve sand, we will now be able to go to the beach as a whole family” one happy customer comments. Affordable, adaptable and suitable for a whole range of terrains (including snow for those that like their adventures colder!) see for yourself how the Beach Easy chairs could open up your world.
www.beachwheelchairs.co.uk Call: 07801710750
H.W.Pickrell Gardiners Lane North, Crays Hill, Billericay, Essex CM11 2XE Mobile: 07860 894331 Fax: (01268) 284951
Telephone: (01268) 521033
email: sales@hwpickrell.co.uk www.hwpickrell.co.uk
NEW & USED ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORT AT AFFORDABLE PRICES We specialise in the sale and purchase of quality used wheelchair accessible vehicles and ambulances. They can be bought as seen or refurbished and sign-written to your own requirements. 12 months M.O.T and 12 months warranty, Independent Engineers inspection report supplied F.O.C. • FREE DELIVERY SERVICE AVAILABLE • ALL BUSES COMPLY WITH THE LATEST REGULATIONS • LEASE HIRE. LEASE PURCHASE AVAILABLE • ALWAYS LARGE STOCK OF ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES • OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK SUNDAY BY APPOINTMENT
All current stock available to view at:
www.hwpickrell.co.uk 78
Mybility Stand Up Kids’ Wheel Chair Designed To Grow With Your Child The newly launched Mybility Stand Up Kids’ Wheelchair is the only truly all terrain stand up on the market for children. Mybility’s specialist seating system has been scaled down to meet the needs of younger children aged 5 to 10 years. It has also been designed to grow with your child because the frame, which has a 10 year lifespan, guaranteed by our 10 year frame warranty, can be easily be converted to fit an older child or adult with adult sized seating. This wheelchair will give your child unprecedented freedom to keep up with their peers by enabling them to take part in a wider range of play, sports and activities. The amazing flexibility of the seat means that it can enable a standing position, laying down flat and virtually any position in between. It also has a convenient seat riser for reaching shelves and higher tables. Safety The wheelchair holds all relevant EU safety certificates for use in a vehicle and if required we can restrict the speed as appropriate for your child’s age and abilities. Full user trainer is included in the price for your child. Attendant controls We are able to offer two options of attendant controls. Either an additional joystick on the back of the wheelchair or a wireless remote control with proximity detector to restrict the distance your child can travel away from you for added safety. To book a FREE demonstration please call: 0330 555 0545 or see www.mybility.co.uk/video
Lewis Reed First for Mobility Solutions
ProMove: The Heavy Hoist Alternative
Lewis Reed (WAV) Ltd is the leading UK vehicle supplier specialising in the conversion of vehicles to aid the mobility of wheelchair users. We sell and rent new and used specialist and adapted vehicles for the disabled and wheelchair user, delivering outstanding service to our customers each and every day.
When out and about taking your hoist may not always be a viable option; they are often heavy and cumbersome and there may not be the space in whichever form you are travelling to bring it with you. Yet of course if you have some limitations on the ease of your mobility the last thing you need is something else which will limit your mobility and freedom. However with the ProMove sling you can leave that heavy hoist at home by taking something far more convenient and lightweight!
We are well equipped to deal with the assessment and delivery of a wide range of wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) turning your problems into ideal solutions - Nationwide. From the compact and beautifully crafted Skoda Roomster to the luxurious Mercedes Range, Lewis Reed has a vehicle to suit all the family’s needs.
Independence We realise that everybody is an individual. Every person deserves to lead an independent and normal life. We recognise an essential role of being independent is the ease of mobility. For many clients needing help with mobility solutions, confusion and frustration is what we are told they experience with not knowing where to go and what to do. Lewis Reed aim to smooth those worries away. We are always at hand to help with a whole range of issues. We believe our clients don’t need to compromise, everyone has their own set of circumstances and everyone’s situation is different. It therefore follows that there are no two solutions exactly the same either. We are confident we will find the best vehicle in the most cost effective manner for each client to best fit their circumstance. To partake in the Lewis Reed experience call our sales team NOW on 0800 247 1001. You can find us on www.lewisreedgroup.co.uk, Facebook and Twitter.
The ProMove Sling is a disabled lifting sling for when you can’t take your hoist with you. It can help disabled people transfer from a wheelchair to just about anywhere. It’s incredibly light and portable so you need not worry about any limitations. It makes a lift and transfer safe, comfortable and dignified. It’s easy to use and is designed to be placed beneath you in a seated position, your team of two or more operatives can then easily lift and move you to another position or location. However the sling can also be used for an individual lying down by adopting a log roll technique or the aid of a slide sheet. The function and accessibility of the sling means it can be used in a wide range of circumstances by individuals, emergency services, airports, and also schools, colleges and social care. Indeed the ProMove can be used in an endless list of situations thus opening things up for those with mobility restrictions. Ideal for use on holiday or for day trips out, and pretty much anywhere you may need to transfer. The sling is available in three sizes and has been extensively tested for its suitability and safety. Visit www.promove.uk.com to purchase one or to find out more.
Achieve 79
Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Converters Association
80
Cyclone Mobility can help change your life Cyclone Mobility are a company who know exactly what they are talking about. The leading suppliers of bespoke, lightweight wheelchairs they are the UK’s foremost rehabilitation and training specialists. Offering a full range of treatments, services and products from Functional Electrical Stimulation therapy and equipment and Far Infrared Heat Therapy, to ReWalk training and systems and multi-gym the team have 120 year’s worth of combined experience of life in a wheelchair. Run by Managing Director Dave Hawkins, who became a paraplegic in 1980 after breaking his back, and founder Stuart Dunne, who was rendered tetraplegic after a serious road accident in 1985, the team draw on their own experiences as well as extensive research into the latest technologies, their expert sales team, a qualified physiotherapist, sport rehabilitator, sex therapist and a chiropodist. Their objective is pretty clear whoever you speak to; Cyclone want to transform the lives of disabled people across the UK by maximising their customers’ range of movement, fitness levels and general health, and helping them to regain a new level of independence and control in their everyday lives. They do this by offering a state-of-the-art Cyclone Plus purpose-built rehabilitation and training facility, along with some of the world’s most advanced mobility aid technology. The team work closely with their clients at every stage to meet their individual requirements and help them to focus on what they can achieve with the help of the right products for them. They of course have a strong empathy with the circumstances and hurdles their clients are facing; and therefore only offer real advice and products that will help transform lives. Today the company is the UK’s foremost rehabilitation and training specialist for individuals with severe walking impairments. Lorraine Mack, who is Tetraplegic has experience so much positivity since turning to Cyclone and her comments are in the same light as so many other individuals who have used their services: "FES is a huge part of my life, and significantly improves my general health and well-being, keeping me fit and preparing me for when a cure comes along. I’m extremely grateful to Stuart and the team at Cyclone, who have continued to provide me with their on-going support over the past seven years and are always ready to help me with any problems." Find out how they can help you too by visiting www.cyclonemobility.com or calling : 0800 180 48 50 / 01964 623 881
Creating safe and beautiful Sunken Trampolines for SEN Indoor
Outdoor
Rebound Therapy
Sunken Trampolines are experts in the installation of all types of trampolines across the UK. Whether it is a recreational outdoor trampoline or an indoor Rebound Therapy trampoline we work with you to decide on the best solution for your needs. For further information and examples of their work please visit their website www.sunkentrampolines.co.uk. The Sunken Trampoline has becoming increasingly popular in special needs schools; partly because the trampoline is a piece of apparatus that virtually all people, regardless of their abilities, can access, benefit from and enjoy. Be it a purely recreational piece of equipment or a specific Rebound Therapy trampoline a Sunken Trampoline adds great value to the enjoyment and well being of all its users no matter what age.
www.sunkentrampolines.co.uk Telephone: 0208 767 4911
Email: sales@sunkentrampolines.co.uk
Achieve 81
m ed i m o tio n GE T M OVIN G E V ERYDAY...
Take enjoyable effective exercise at home with MOTOmed’s passive, assisted & active therapy system Easy to use software with a range of training programmes, spasm control and analysis
Used extensively in UK hospitals, therapy centres and private homes
INTEREST FREE HIRE/BUY PLAN AVAILABLE Call now for a FREE demonstration: 01559 384097
Wide range of arm and leg accessories
Sole UK importer for
Childrens Model
Bed Model
Parkinsons
tel: 01559 384097 sales@medimotion.co.uk
www.medimotion.co.uk
We will support you the way you want us to!
Our support is different for each person as we design it around their individual needs and wishes. We will work with you, your family and other people important in your life, to make sure we get this right for you. We can support you to live in your own home, with other people or when you are out and about. We can support you for a few hours a week to 24 hours each day. We will help you build your skills to become more confident and independent so that you can make choices about everything that affects your life and puts you in control.
0800 0884 377 United Response is an award winning charity and has been supporting young people and adults with a wide range of needs and disabilities for 40 years.
get.support@unitedresponse.org.uk www.unitedresponse.org.uk/get-support Registered Charity No. 265249
Bibbleplus+
The functional and stylish solution for older children and adults who have difficulties with drooling and dribbling With the success of Bibbles.co.uk the team quickly found a demand for Bibble bibs for older children & adults with various disabilities which caused problems with drooling and dribbling. They developed the product to suit and now have a range of fantastic designs for the adult and older child market. The range features great colours and designs available in 4 different sizes and with the unique combination of cotton and fleece wetness is absorbed which prevents the wearer’s clothing and chin becoming wet and uncomfortable. A great practical choice made with the same commitment to quality as the original Bibble but meets the needs of a different market too!
Receive 10% off your 1st order with code ACHIEVE
www.bibbleplus.co.uk Achieve 83
Healthcare Resource Management
Person Centred Care For You Are you in receipt of a personal budget? Don’t know where to go for good independent advice? The Directors of Quartz Healthcare have a wealth of experience in the world of Learning Difficulties and mental health, setting up individual person centred lifelong care from mild to severe conditions. Whether your requirement is specialist housing, just some activity support, or anything in-between.
Contact us now for an informal chat on
0845 034 7758 and ask for Ian Woodley (director) Based in East Anglia but covering the UK
www.quartzhealthcare.co.uk
Unique stair solutions for you The Stair Climbing Company works on an
and it can be transported and stored easily.
individual basis; whether you are seeking a stair
The Stair Climber is the perfect solution for so
climber for your home or business the approach
many needs and is particularly great where a
is always a unique one. Firstly discovering what
fixed stair lift may not be an option, perhaps
your needs are and then matching you with the
due to space, the type of stairs they have or
product that will make your life more mobile, and
not wanting to permanently alter the home or
therefore a lot easier. Providing an alternative
business. The team are more than helpful with
to stair lifts or where there are no available lifts
a keen and expert approach to finding the right
with powered machine that would provide an
solution for you, even offering a hiring or try
independent living and access solution, The
before you buy service.
Stair Climbing company excel in providing the right service and product for you.
Case Study: Iain approached The Stair Climbing Company in March searching for a
Whilst it may seem that the world is a more
solution for his mother to get up and downstairs
accessible place for those with mobility
from her second floor flat. Iain’s mother Ursula
difficulties, there are still a great deal of hurdles
suffers from COPD, a condition the renders her
or instances when the practicalities are not in
out of breath and exhaustion after only moderate
place; this is where The Stair Climbers come
exertion, so help with the stairs was crucial to
in. Providing practical solutions to improve your
assist with mobility and quality of life. This was
quality of life when living with a disability a Stair
particularly important whilst Iain was recovering
Climber can be used to help those less able to
from a leg operation and had reduced mobility
join in at social occasions with relatives, visit
himself. The communal stair case and landing
public places of interest and even be present at
meant that no permanent alternatives could be
a family event where venues have restrictions to
used and Ursula’s condition meant that getting
access upper floors. Of course, this accessibility
up and downstairs was only going to become
that the Stair Climber provides is priceless
more of a challenge in the future, especially
for so many and with so many great features
while Iain recovered from his operation. The
it’s a portable solution opening up situations
stairs were a good size with a generous landing
and opportunities for the user where it might
which meant Iain’s mother Ursula could use the
otherwise not have been possible thus opening
tracked Stair Climber and move her wheelchair
up the world for the user. Light in weight, the
up and downstairs safe and securely. The Stair
machine does all the work so you don’t have to
Climbing Company advised Iain on the options
that would best suit his needs and Iain had sent photographs of the stairs to help us give him the best advice. David and Emma took the Stair Climber to train Ian and practice with his mother using the tracked Stair Climber. Iain hired the Vimec T09 Stair Climber for four weeks from The Stair Climbing Company. Iain found the Stair Climber a great benefit at a time when it was most needed for him and his Mother and an added benefit that also helped them to take groceries upstairs Find out more at www.tsccl.co.uk or call 0845 544 1043
Achieve 85
for Professionals When? Wednesday 15 October 2014 Starts 10.00am. Finishes 3.30pm. There’s a free lunch too!
Where? DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Sheffield Park Chesterfield Road South, Sheffield S8 8BW
A workshop day with two national experts
for Parents and Carers When? Tuesday 14 October 2014 Starts 10.00am. Finishes 3.30pm. There’s a free lunch too!
Where? DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Sheffield Park Chesterfield Road South, Sheffield S8 8BW
What will I learn? • Practical guidance Through presentations and interactive workshops you will receive practical guidance and learn effective approaches directly relevant to your own needs and those of your children or young people including positively addressing behavioural challenges and accessing the right resources.
Graham Firth An Intensive Interaction Project Leader for Leeds and York Partnerships NHS Foundation Trust and Director of the Intensive Interaction Institute. Graham is a recognised expert in the field who has researched and written extensively in relation to Intensive Interaction, delivering workshops and presentations regularly in the UK and internationally. Intensive interaction is an approach to teaching the pre-speech fundamentals of communication to children and adults who have severe learning difficulties and/or autism. Angela Stanton-Greenwood A Therapeutic Crisis Intervention consultant to Cornell University in New York USA. Angela is the co-author of the TCI syllabus for individuals with a developmental disability and speaks at conferences in the UK, Ireland and USA. TCI is a behaviour support system that focuses on making connections with the individuals we support and helping them to learn the skills that enable them to cope with life events, and improve their quality of life.
• Hear from parents, Cathy and Martin Billett as they share their experiences of supporting their autistic son. • Our professional speakers include clinical psychologists, therapeutic crisis intervention consultants, teachers and researchers. Tap into the in-depth knowledge and fire questions at our professional speakers, John Clements, Professor Barry Carpenter and Angela Stanton-Greenwood.
www.hesleygroup.co
.uk/events/sheffield
Enquiries freephone 0800 055 6789 www.hesleygroup.co.uk Established in 1975, the Hesley Group provides specialist support through its schools, colleges and adult residential services with a highly experienced and expert multidisciplinary educational, care and therapeutic staff resource, in high quality purpose built settings. We’re focused on positive outcomes and progress towards sustainable independence.
86
The Hesley Group: Enhanc ing Lives
The Hesley Group is one of the most strikingly important organisations that we here at Achieve have come across. The fact that they have been changing the lives of young people and adults with autism, learning disabilities and complex behavioural needs since it was established in 1975 doesn’t necessarily make it a unique organisation; but its commitment to the type of care received by the people they support does. Offering the best possible care, education and vocational opportunities for young people and adults The Hesley Group offer the kind of life changing services and support that are consistent throughout the organisation, with each and every staff member offering a truly individualised level of support to each and every
Focus on : Adult Services at Hesley The Hesley Group not only support young people with autism and learning disabilities but they also extend this service to adults after their educational years. With residential settings which
boast excellent facilities and a safe, welcoming, thriving and supportive environment for adults,
as well as an unparallelled level of commitment to the very best care, The Hesley Group has done and will continue to change adult lives. Hesley are an organisation who constantly evolve and
innovate in their support for people with complex needs to develop and progress. Both Intensive Interaction and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention are key to this. These specialist approaches are provided by highly experienced professionals who draw upon the principles of both Intensive
Interaction and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention with a strong team structure to deliver the effective care throughout the organisation. Fundamentally the framework of support at Hesley is about
seeing an individual from a rounded viewpoint and leaving behind any previous labelling that a
person may have experienced that could be stilting their happiness and progress previously. For
example, where an individual may previously have been labelled ‘difficult’ Hesley see the individual from the perspective that they are not difficult but a ‘person in difficulty’. This shift in perspective
makes all the difference and is a shift which is actually quite simple but a very highly effective one
person.
in delivering a better level of care. The staff members at Hesley recognise that each person’s care
Providing a holistic approach to the care and
services to really build on the relationships and support that’s needed for each and every person.
education of all its individuals, Hesley offer a wide variety of services for young people and adults on a residential basis, meaning individuals gain the highest level of support and therapeutic input which is available around the clock.
has a long term perspective and they are continuously working together with a range of therapeutic This approach is found through the whole of the group with the Hesley Enhancing Lives Programme and training for staff always progressive. Life at Hesley for an adult is a rewarding one with an emphasis built on the careful consideration of exactly what a person needs to thrive.
www.hesleygroup.co.uk
CALL: 01302 866906
For enquiries about referrals, placement availability, visits or brochure information, please call freephone number 0800 055 6789. The Hesley Group are running a free training event for people who work with adults or children with complex needs. The event focuses on Enhancing Lives by making connections through Intensive Interaction and Therapeutic Crisis Intervention. When & Where: 15th Oct 2014 at 10am, Sheffield.
Achieve 87
Quartz Healthcare: Finding the right care for YOU The introduction of personal budgets for those
reputable organisation you can find it and be
requiring mental healthcare, psychiatric care
put at ease. Offering a wealth of information,
and behavioural care is a huge leap for the
support, advice and services, a consultation
individuals, their families and their carers. It
with Quartz can have a life-changing effect on
gives people a choice. However, with choice
individuals and their families simply because
comes a great deal of pressure to get it right
they take an individual’s needs as first priority.
and with so much choice out there how can
Having worked with a range of professional
you discover the best options possible for
services and organisations over the years
you and your individual situation? It can feel
Director Ian Woodley and his close knit team
The ethos at Quartz Healthcare is not only
like a minefield! With the right choices for
are highly qualified to help you and your family
centred around an individual’s approach but
the individual and those around them you
to achieve long term solutions rather than quick
also takes a great deal of care considering
can achieve a greater quality of life. Whilst
fix decisions; “No person’s needs will be exactly
the family of the individual too; how best to
suddenly now being given the choice and
the same as another’s, that’s why with each
set about provisions which are suitable for
control over your budget is liberating it can be
and every client we look at the case holistically,
everyone’s lives.
a confusing time for some; all that choice with no idea of where to turn. Where do you get an unbiased approach to your care needs? One which carries the very best of intentions, recommendations and highest quality of advice for the long term? Turning to the care providers may not be the best place to get this unbiased approach, especially as these care providers will be keen to have you on board. You needn’t carry these concerns alone though, there is an unbiased approach waiting to help you in Quartz Healthcare. Their consultation service is really rather unique by helping you in all aspects of your budget so that everything is well thought out through discussion and informed choices mean that you and your responsibility for your health budget needn’t be the worry that it could be. Getting an expert opinion on these sensitive issues is vital and with Quartz, a growing, highly
88
including how their care has been in the past and where they would like it to be in the future. Our initial chats are obligation free and cost free so that individuals can feel at ease in the knowledge that we are truly offering services that enhance their lives and take everything into account.” Director Ian Woodley told us.
This is all done with an honest approach and can only be achieved through deep discussion with the individual and family members; “We feel that so many service are provided through form filling and this really is the opposite of our approach, we ensure that everyone feels at ease to discuss these matters, which are quite often sensitive and loaded with emotional
“
No person’s needs will be exactly the same as another’s, that’s why with each and every client we look at the case and where they would like it to be in the future.
things too. After all, finding the right care for you means we need to find out your specific needs and wants as an individual and family – it’s the only way to get things right.” Ian told us. Quartz is an organisation who knows a thing or two about healthcare provisions in the first place, having been providing temporary and permanent staff for mental healthcare and psychiatry establishments for many years to many loyal and satisfied clients. Quartz supply staff and recruitment services to those who require it and their experience and commitment to providing an outstanding level of service is second to none. Yet despite excelling in this field, and it being a notable aspect to the business, it’s their consultancy service that we here at Achieve want to focus on, we feel it’s an essential service that our readers just have to know about! Not only does their consultancy service help people gain greater independence but ultimately it leads to greater happiness in their lives.
”
holistically, including how their care has been in the past
After they have established exactly what
Quartz then set the wheels in motion, putting
a person needs the experienced and
in as much assistance or as little as you would
approachable team will look at all the ways
like, they can provide ongoing administrative
in which they can make it happen; “After the
support and care or simply assist you in finding
chatting and planning stage we then pull on
the right kind of care. Drawing on a wealth
a variety of resources, contacts and services
of professional healthcare organisations and
to put our carefully laid out plans in place,
institutions such as private medical centres,
it’s this part that is so rewarding really, being
specialist care homes, healthcare communities
able to offer exactly what an individual needs
and professional individuals that Quartz has
for a brighter future. This can be life changing
worked with for a number of years it really is all
for individuals and can often be as a result of
tailored to an individual and their needs and
simply listening to what the clients and families
ideas, whatever Quartz can do to help they will,
want. For example, if we have a client on the
can and do!
Autistic Spectrum that says that they don’t want to be in an environment with lots of people, we
Contact Quartz to see how they can help
will look at ways in which the person can live as
you and your family get the right care and
independently as possible, and therefore, as
assistance for a better life today:
is usually the case, as happily as possible. It’s
www.quartzhealthcare.co.uk. Director Ian
really about listening, taking the time to find out what’s better all round for an individual and their family.” Ian explained.
Woodley on 01603 626265 and Director Mark Stevens on 01206 710101.
Achieve 89
90
Go Provence for a holiday like no other Go Provence has been providing meaningful
years and bring to
and supported holidays in Provence for both
the project much
children and adults who need low to medium
valued experience.
levels of support in their everyday lives for years
Then there is Ian’s
now. Based in a spectacular region of Provence,
wife Anna and
South of France, called The Gorges du Verdon
also Karen who
(Verdon Gorge) where the biggest canyon in
both bring a great
Europe can be found; Go Provence provide
deal of enthusiasm
holidays with plenty of action by genuine people
and experience to
groves, sunny pockets of sunflower fields and
and therefore provide holidays to remember with
complete the friendly team.
vineyards as well as the ancient medieval village where your beautiful house is located. You can
heaps of heart and soul. There’s a wide choice of holidays available with
expect kayaking, hiking, meals out, picnics,
The all-inclusive packages take the stresses out
Go Provence, all of which include everything
boules, cruises, wine tasting and much more
of planning whilst the dedicated and experience
you could possibly need. From your transport
besides. Your food and care is also completely
team ensure that you are in safe and very
and accommodation through to your meals
taken care of with delicious freshly cooked
capable hands. Founded by Ian, his wife Anna
and everything in between you won’t have to
meals throughout the day and care is planned to
and their good friend Neil the team is a team
worry about a thing, all you need to do is enjoy!
cater for your exact, individual needs.
who all know the area very well. Having lived in
Activities are planned each and every day
the area for well over 30 years combined they
which allow you to explore the beautiful area
With holidays always selling out fast and so
are passionate about the beauty of the area
complete with its rocky canyon which towers
many commenting on their holiday of a lifetime
and sharing it with others. Both Ian and Neil
up to 700m above the river Verdon, 300 days
had with Go Provence this important holiday
have worked extensively with individuals who
of sunshine, fields filled with rows of purple
provider is quite unlike any other. Offering
need support in their everyday lives over the
lavender, cheerful bright red poppies, olive
the chance to experience a break away in a beautiful area of the world, run by professional yet warm and friendly individuals who care about you, your needs and perhaps above all giving you the holiday of a lifetime they are a holiday provider that so many are talking about. Find out why for yourself, visit www.goprovence.co.uk or call 00 33 (0) 4 86 56 65 61 or Mobile 00 33 (0)6 83 86 22 25. Email: Ian@goprovence.co.uk
Achieve 91
Helping children with social, emotional, and behaviour issues with Play Therapy Do you know, or work with, a child who:
· Is suffering from a loss or bereavement?
· Is finding it difficult to concentrate or learn?
· Is adopted or fostered?
· Is at risk of being/is excluded from school?
· Is withdrawn or continually unhappy?
· Can’t control anger?
· Bullies others or is bullied themselves?
· Has suffered trauma?
· Finds it difficult to make friends?
· Has suffered emotional, physical or sexual abuse?
· Quarrels frequently with peers or siblings?
· Has autistic tendencies?
· Has nightmares or has disturbed sleep?
· Is suffering because of separated/divorced parents?
· Displays inappropriate behaviour?
· Is suffering from anxiety, stress or phobias?
· Doesn't play?
Then you need to know how play and creative arts therapies can help them to heal and enable their potential There are currently over 700 Play Therapy UK (PTUK) registered play therapy practitioners. However, England and Wales needs an estimated 16,000 therapists to work with children between the ages of 4 and 12. There are plenty of career opportunities. Recent developments - a better way of helping children that is quality assured The Integrative Holistic model of Play Therapy has been developed by Play Therapy UK, over the past 10 years, working with children of many cultures and countries. It integrates: - Working with unconscious and conscious processes - Non-directive and directive approaches - The use of many therapeutic creative arts media The model uses the ‘Therapeutic Play Tool-Kit’: sand tray work; drawing and painting; clay; music; puppets; movement; masks; therapeutic story telling; guided imagery. Our therapists are trained to communicate with the child using the media that the child has chosen.
Holistic: The model takes into account all the needs of the child including: emotional; physical; communication; understanding and thinking; caring for self; moral and spiritual; social relationships; creativity.
The recent Regulation of Play Therapy has been a major step forward in the recognition and credibility of the profession. The Register of Play and Creative Arts Therapists, managed by Play Therapy UK was approved by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA) under the new Accredited Voluntary Register (AVR) scheme in April 2012. The PTUK Register is currently the only one accredited by the PSA for Play Therapy: www.playtherapyregister.org.uk. The AVR mark provides recognition of a Therapist’s commitment to quality giving protection for the public, employers and commissioners of services.
Play Therapy is very effective for most children, but not a miracle cure for all PTUK conducts continuous research
The extent of the improvement depends
measuring what happens in real life
upon the severity of the presenting issues –
conditions, taking into account all the
the more severe the problems the greater the
variables of the child, the environment
percentage of children showing a positive
and the therapists. An analysis of 8026
change. 74% for those with slight/moderate
cases from 507 PTUK practitioners showed
problems, 83% for those with severe
that between 74% and 83% of children
problems. A statistical test indicates that
PTI standards, show a positive change.
due to chance.
receiving play therapy, delivered to PTUK/
these results are less than one in a thousand
www.playtherapyregister.org.uk www.playtherapy.org.uk
92
How does Play Therapy work in practice? These case studies have been provided by a PTUK Registrant,
Lisa Astwood. It shows play therapy in action. The names of the clients have been changed to protect their identities.
Is one therapeutic creative arts medium effective on its own? Play Therapy can use various creative arts media. Len was adopted as a toddler. He was very nervous and anxious, found it extremely difficult to finish a task and seemed preoccupied with whether people approved of his actions, work or behaviour. Ron was often disengaged with his surroundings and found it very difficult to sustain or establish friendships. He was an only child with no one to play with; his mother had a full time job from an early stage. Len used sand trays in all his sessions. He silently took a whole session to create a tray which resembled chaos, as if he had simply poured everything into the tray. I felt this represented Len’s unconscious memories of when he was separated from his mother, particularly powerful as there were layers of things piled on top of one another. In the second session he used wet sand, telling me about the ingredients he was adding to the ‘stew’. The ingredients were re-buried and dug up numerous times before the stew was complete as if the burying laid to rest memories. In the last session, he used horses to represent a ‘family’, and the tray was more ordered and calm. Subsequently Len has been able to focus for longer and form more productive relationships. His psychometric score showed a significant improvement. With Ron, I focused the first
session on sand play. First he knocked over the neatly lined up figures in the cupboard, happier with chaos. He used the sand to play out a sort of movie he needed to get out of his head, lining up various army vehicles, soldiers, goblins, werewolves, dragons to create an aggressive battle scene where everything died and no one tried to save anyone. Placing the figures in a line contrasted with the haphazard, reflecting his lack of clarity in his relationships. He was able to bring his unconscious thoughts and feelings to his conscious using the sand tray, but he found it hard to focus; a variety of media might make him feel less pressured to focus on one task for an entire session. As he had shown anger and frustration I chose clay (it is especially good for the release of anger). Ron was instantly drawn to the clay, grabbing it roughly, and splatting it on a surface repeatedly. In other sessions Ron used battling puppets to re-enact the subconscious turmoil over his relationship with his parents. By the end of his sessions Ron’s psychometric score also improved significantly and communication at home became easier. Using just one medium can be effective - Len was able to use sandplay to re-organise his emotions and it was easy to track the changes in him. For others focusing on a single medium is restrictive and access to different media is crucial; Ron needed to act his feelings out in different ways in order to make sense of things.
High quality therapeutic play training is essential. As shown in the cases, the needs of the two boys were different. Sand tray
work on its own was effective with one but the other chose sand, clay and puppets. An effective therapist has to communicate with the child in whatever creative arts medium they choose. They have to set and hold safe boundaries, focus closely on the child and
judge when verbal reflection will add to the healing process. Becoming a PTUK Registrant requires more than a couple of short courses and reading a few books.
Enable children’s potential - build a new career!
What to do next:
Add to your existing skills as a teacher, nurse, counsellor, psychotherapist, social or care worker by becoming a Registered Certified Practitioner in Therapeutic Play Skills.
- Ask for our 28 page guide to Careers in Play Therapy and course details does it sound the sort of thing that you would like to do?
Or, why not start a new career? If you have more than two years working with children in any capacity you could grab this new, exciting opportunity.
- If you’re not quite sure, come to a one-day introductory event. Experience our style of training. Will it suit you? - Decide between the 5 x three-day weekend format, delivered in venues all over the UK, or our fast track 15 day intensive Summer School, held at APAC’s lovely venue in the South of France, once a year.
By training to become a Registered Certified Play Therapist you will open yourself up to many new career options: become a Filial Play Coach - Either email: mokijep@aol.com or contact: to work with parents; a Counsellor of Children and Young People; a Penny Miles - Course Administrator Practitioner in Sand Play Therapy Skills. APAC Ltd The APAC courses are the only ones accredited by PTUK that meet The Coach House the requirements of the Register. They teach you how the children will Belmont Road experience Play Therapy, give you the practical skills needed for practice Uckfield, East Sussex as well as the informing psychological theories and neurobiological TN22 1 BP evidence. They will also help you to discover more about yourself through 01825 761143 the experiential exercises. www.playtherapy.org.uk
Achieve 93
www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/care
Residential care Nursing care Day care Domiciliary care Supported living
We know the transition from child to adult services can be a big step for young people and their families, and we aim to make the process as easy as possible. With a unique combination of flexible care services and medical expertise, we support those with epilepsy who also have associated and additional complications, including physical and learning difficulties, brain injury and autism. Our highly skilled care staff are friendly and supportive, adapting to the needs of every individual and delivering care in safe and socially engaging environments. At Epilepsy Society, everyone is supported to achieve the greatest possible independence. For information on any of our services, or to arrange a visit, please contact us: 01494 601 374 | care.services@epilepsysociety.org.uk Chesham Lane, Chalfont St. Peter, Buckinghamshire, SL9 0RL Epilepsy Society is the working name for The National Society for Epilepsy Registered charity no: 206186
™
Anything is possible with SpaceKraft...
The ProMove Sling, for when you can’t take your hoist with you. The ProMove Sling is a disabled lifting sling for when you can’t take your hoist with you. It can help disabled people transfer from a wheelchair to just about anywhere.
We’ve been creating Multi-Sensory Environments for well over 20 years. Constantly at the leading edge of sensory evolution to create an unrivalled range of multi-sensory products and environments, designed for your needs.
Touch
Email: enquiries@promove.uk.com Telephone: 01970 820893
www.promove.uk.com 94
Visual
Hearing
Multi-sensory
For a FREE copy of our 2014 catalogue please call or email: 01274 581007 enquiries@spacekraft.co.uk
www.spacekraft.co.uk
Supporting young adults with complex needs and epilepsy to live as full and independent a life as possible is what Epilepsy Society prides itself on. Yvonne Patrick, manager of one of the Charity's care homes, said: 'We are all about individualised care and empowerment. We start by learning about people's dreams and aspirations, then we work to support them to be involved in every decision about their lives – what they choose to eat each day, what they wear, what activities they take part in and what trips they go on. 'A multidisciplinary approach means the Charity can support people who have associated and co-existing conditions, including physical and learning disabilities, mental health issues, brain injury and autism, to get the best out of life.' Right from the start, Julie and Karina, Epilepsy Society's placement managers, work with the individual, their family, staff and care managers to ensure the best outcome is achieved for everyone seeking a place at Epilepsy Society's Chalfont Centre.
Nineteen year-old George, for example, has severe learning disability, autistic spectrum disorder and epilepsy. His previous placement broke down due to a combination of his epilepsy and his challenging behaviour. His family felt he had regressed, so were extremely anxious about his future care. They wanted him to regain and develop daily living skills, take part in a wide range of activities and be able to venture out into the local community. In short, they wanted him to have a better quality of life. When George first arrived at Epilepsy Society's Chalfont Centre in December 2012 his behaviour was extremely challenging and the move and adjusting to it was hard as he finds change difficult. Fast forward to today and George has achieved significant personal triumphs each impacting positively on his life. He now sits down to eat using cutlery and is happy to help prepare meals. Staff helped George with life skills, increasing the control he has over his life. This has significantly helped him to enjoy mealtimes and his general mood
and behaviour is now positive. George's care workers have worked hard with him, building up rapport and trust. His negative behaviour is better, which means he can now enjoy more community based activities. His personal favourites are horse riding, trips to the zoo, swimming, group outings and watching films at the cinema. He is also keen to be involved in social activities with other people living at Epilepsy Society's Chalfont Centre. Improved communication has led to increased compliancy, so much so that George is happy to incorporate healthy snacks into his diet, take his medication and follow his personal care routines. For the first time George is able to communicate his needs and is better understood, allowing him to make choices about his food and drink, what he wears, who he spends time with and what activities he likes to take part in. This improved self awareness means George has a better sense of identity and can concentrate for longer. Importantly, he has also learnt to relax and enjoy the time he spends with staff using the multisensory equipment and techniques. Working closely with Epilepsy Society staff, his devoted parents Joanna and Pasquale were able to improve funding of George's care package, which has enabled him to achieve so much more in his life. Joanna said; "We were so happy when George was able to move to an Epilepsy Society care home and as the previous placement had broken down mainly due to George’s assessed needs not being met, we were happy that Epilepsy Society’s staff were as committed as us to ensure George’s needs would be fully met under their care. As a result, George seems to be thriving in his new home and we have seen huge improvements in him and in the quality of life he is now able to lead. As George has lived most of his life at home with us, it is difficult for both George and ourselves to adjust to him living in a care facility, so we are very happy that Epilepsy Society seems to understand this issue and welcomes our continued involvement in George’s life. It is reassuring to us that we can work together with staff to enable George to have as much control over his own life as possible and that we have the same aim; to make George’s life as fulfilling as it can be.” Yvonne Patrick agrees: 'Because enablement
is at the heart of everything Epilepsy Society does, people like George are involved as fully as possible in all aspects of their life. We have a weekly Talkback advocacy group for people with disabilities. We work with people to build individualised communication plans - we use assistive technology and make everything as visual as possible using pictures or objects. Many residents have developed their own communication board to help make choices throughout the day. 'We’ve got a large greenhouse for cultivating plants and adjoining land for planting out. Individuals enjoy sowing seeds and caring for a range of plants, including many vegetables – when these are picked, they, and other people living in the houses, enjoy eating them too! 'Everyone living at Chalfont also has access to the full multi-disciplinary support team including neurologists, epilepsy specialist nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychotherapists, an art therapist and speech and language therapists.' The Charity has six care homes. The two newest, opened since 2009, provide specialist accommodation in a contemporary living environment. All homes have communal living and dining rooms alongside large enclosed gardens. Residents are encouraged to personalise their bedrooms to make them as individual as they are themselves. Continual assessment of all needs is built into the ethos of Epilepsy Society and strong family involvement is actively encouraged. For more information, please get in touch with our Placement Managers Telephone: 01494 601 374 Email: care.services@epilepsysociety.org.uk Epilepsy Society, Chesham Lane, Chalfont St Peter, Bucks, SL9 0RJ www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/care
Achieve 95
Accessible
Holidays
Accessible Holidays For All We all need a holiday every once in a while, right? But, what if you are someone who needs support? Whether a low level of support or high level thankfully there are some amazing companies set up with your supported holiday all planned and ready to go! All you need to do is turn up and have the holiday of a lifetime! So, what are you waiting for? Read on and find out about some upcoming holidays which will let you explore
Appen House
Beach Easy
Crelling Harnesses Ltd
with the support you need.
Crelling Harnesses Ltd
Appin House
Self-catering accommodation in the Scottish Highlands
www.appinhouse.co.uk 01631 - 730207 Appin House, Appin, Argyll, Scotland PA38 4BN
Special needs harnesses for vehicle seats, wheelchairs, shower & bath hoists, commode chairs, walking reins and more.
Tel: 01253 852298 Fax: 01253 821780 www.crelling.com Email: info@crelling.com
We make simple belts and full supportive harnesses for all kinds of special needs, including challenging behaviour. 96
Appin House
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAYS IN FRANCE DO YOU NEED A HOLIDAY?
SIX MODERN WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE APARTMENTS IN BRITTANY. FRANCE EXCELLENT TRAVEL LINKS. WE ARE CLOSE TO MANY PORTS AND AIRPORTS 20% DISCOUNT AVAILABLE ON ALL FERRY CROSSINGS WITH BRITTANY FERRIES LARGE RIVER FRONT GARDEN WITH BBQ - TERRACE - CHILDRENS PLAY AREA ENGLISH TV - DVD - STEREO - WASHING MACHINES & ALL THE MOD CONS ACCESS TO COMPUTERS & INTERNET - OR - BRING YOUR LAPTOP - FREE WIFI OPEN ALL YEAR TO BOTH DISABLED AND NON-DISABLED TRAVELLERS ALIKE SHOWER CHAIRS - PROFILING BEDS - PRESSURE MATTRESSES - HOISTS & MORE PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS - PHOTOS - SPECIAL OFFERS
BOOK NOW FOR 2015 USING THE BOOKING CODE: ACHIEVE FOR A 10% DISCOUNT
Achieve 97
‘The Travel Agent’ has won the award for Outstanding Contribution to Tourism at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2014. This prestigious accolade was one of 17 awards presented at a ceremony held at The Jockey Club, Cheltenham Racecourse, Cheltenhamon 12 May. The awards – celebrating their silver jubilee this year - promote excellence in England’s tourism industry and celebrate the very best the country has to offer. Other awards announced at the ceremony in Cheltenham included the best Bed and Breakfast, Small Hotel, Tourism Experience, Tourism Pub of the Year, Taste of England, Sustainable Tourism, Business Tourism and Access for All Tourism Award. The 31 Gold and Silver winners were selected by a panel of tourism industry experts and chaired by VisitEngland Board Member and Chief Executive of the Blenheim Estate in Oxfordshire, John Hoy. VisitEngland chief executive James Berresford said: “The VisitEngland Awards for Excellence celebrates the very best in the tourism industry. It is the highest accolade in English Tourism and recognises the true champions of our industry, and the top quality visitor experiences we are fortunate to have on offer in England. The competition is of an increasingly high standard and so I offer my sincere congratulations to all our winners on this tremendous achievement, particularly the Gold Award winners for their exemplary contribution to tourism in this country.” The Calvert Trust, featured in this issue of Achieve won Gold at the awards! Calvert are an organisation whose vision to help disabled people, their carers and families get outside into the countryside and explore exciting outdoor pursuits! They won Gold in the Access for All category www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor. Eureka, who are in this very issue too took Silver in the same category! Eureka is a fun, interactive children’s museum and educational charity based in Halifax, West Yorkshire, where children play to learn and grown-ups learn to play. Well done to both! www.eureka.org.uk
VisitEngland Reveals winners of the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2014
Calvert Trust Exmoor enables people of any ability to experience challenging and enjoyable activity holidays. At our fully accessible residential centre on the edge of Exmoor National Park all activities are specifically designed and equipped to cater for everyone. Stay with us for a few days, a week, or come just for the day; however long you are here you will discover it's what you CAN do that Counts!
01598 763221
exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk
The full list of winners can be found at www.visitenglandawards.com
98
g n i p m a C y Happ with Vango The importance of getting out in the great outdoors is huge for your children. Getting them away from all the technologies that seem so important found in the home is crucial in letting your kids explore the world in which they live. By giving them the opportunity to be children and explore nature you are helping to show them one of life’s greatest simple pleasures. Here at Achieve we love getting the kids outside and one of the ways that help to make this happen are the clever lot at Vango with their high quality tents and easy setup; they make putting up the tent child’s play…literally! The Cross clang decided to try out the claims for easy tent assembly at Vango for themselves and were surprised at just how easy and fun the whole process was; “I am keen to get the whole family out and about camping more so when we were asked to try out the Vango we jumped at the chance! One of the only things that have put me off going camping before is the prospect of having to put the tent up but with the Vango it couldn’t be easier. We tested it out in the garden as a trial run and were amazed at how quick we did it with no family feuds too! I just sat back and let the kids do it for themselves, not ones for following instructions they went ahead and figured it out for themselves – it was that easy! The kids can’t wait for the adventures to begin now and we are planning our first camping trip soon. They did try the tent out for size and comfort in the garden overnight and said there was loads of space and it remained cosy and dry so we know already that we are onto a camping winner with Vango!” Cross Productions Director, Jenny Cross comments. The Vango team have showed their commitment to helping the youth of today to get outdoors with their campaign of bringing fun and informative videos for children on how to pitch a tent. Having joined forces with the UK’s biggest outdoor learning programme, Natural Connections, the team are keen to get started on the ‘Cheeky Little Campers’ mission to involve ten primary schools across the South West. Each school will be gifted a Vango Tent and set the task to produce a video that’s both fun and informative in how they go about pitching their tent! To find out more and to purchase a Vango for you and your family visit www.vango.co.uk ‘Cheeky Little Campers’ videos can be viewed online at http://www.vango.co.uk/gb/ content/52-cheeky-little-campers . Tweet @ vango or @ntrlconnections with the hashtag #cheekylittlecampers to get involved in the campaign!
#cheekylitt
lecampers
The What’s On
guide
This Time of Year is full of Fun… We love this time of year; particularly for those with young families! All the fun of Halloween, Bonfire Night and Christmas too there is so much going on and so many excuses to get together with loved ones and have a great time! We can’t wait to don our Halloween gear and go trick or treating, to light the bonfire on fireworks night and get cosy with the family watching the fireworks. Then there is Disney on Ice to go to which is set to be a real showstopper and then of course it’s the
Twin Lakes
#cheekylittlecampers
Disney on Ice
ultimate in family holidays..Christmas!
DISNEY ON ICE CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF MAGIC in a One-of a- Kind Skating Spectacular Featuring More Than 60 Disney Characters Including the Stars of Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their friends from Disney’s Mulan, The Lion King and Pinocchio, and Disney/Pixar’s Finding Nemo, The Incredibles and Toy Story, take to the ice for a grand celebration in Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic. Produced by Feld Entertainment, this fanfare production features more than 60 unforgettable Disney stars that span the decades, a singalong score of award-winning Disney music, stunning choreography, elaborate sets and beautiful costumes. With Mickey and Minnie leading the fun, audiences enjoy breathtaking production numbers choreographed by Emmy Award®-winner Sarah Kawahara. Kawahara previously worked with Michelle Kwan and choreographed the skating segment for the Opening Ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics. Complementing Kawahara’s fabulous skate sequences are the memorable tunes compiled by music directors Art Kempel and Stan Beard that bring the wonderful memories of Disney to life on ice. Scenic Designer David Potts and Lighting Designer LeRoy Bennett create the mood and settings that showcase extraordinary Disney moments. Outfitting this cast of more than 60 characters was the challenge facing Costume Designer Scott Lane. His dazzling designs range from Mickey’s Marching Band, to the “It’s a Small World” dolls, to the stars of Mulan and Finding Nemo. The bright colors and minimal structure in the Nemo costumes allow the characters to move freely in order to mimic the natural movement in water. Renowned designer Bob Mackie also lends his talents to a red sequined evening gown worn by Minnie. Scenic Designer David Potts, who has worked on numerous Broadway productions, creates a theatrical atmosphere on ice. Skaters weave around and enliven the “It's a Small World” sequence amidst sparkling floats that turn into a radiant light parade; a blanket of snow and an avalanche fall as Mulan battles the Huns; and a giant present is opened to reveal Buzz Lightyear as he’s first introduced to that favorite toy cowboy, Woody and his pal Jessie. To discover more about Disney On Ice, log on to www.disneyonice.co.uk, or visit us on Facebook and YouTube. Tickets are available now – booking fees apply.
Disney On Ice celebrates 100 Years of Magic will be touring the UK from the 24th September 2014 until the 4th January 2015. Visit www.disneyonice.co.uk for a venue near you.
100
Achieve 101
When it comes to exploring the UK during October, a motorhome is ideal. Families, couples and groups of friends have been using motorhomes from Motorholme as the perfect way to explore the countryside for many years now. People of all ages can enjoy the freedom of the open road and the excitement of discovering new places from the convenience of a comfortable home on wheels. So whether you’re heading to the seaside to watch the fireworks across the beach or want to seek out some of the remotest spots in the Scottish Highlands, a motorhome offers the best way to see it all in style. Motorholme has the largest fleet of motorhomes for hire in the UK with vehicle pick-up points located throughout the country. So as well as providing unparalleled choice, they also pride themselves on being able to offer unbeatable convenience. With a record of over 15,000 motorhome hires, Motorholme have collated their top tips for October trips:
1. Plan your trip. Be sure to plan your trip
before hitting the road. Spontaeous stops and exploring different routes is fun but having a plan in place is the best way to make the most of your time in a motorhome. When you are looking at a map of the country you are touring, remember the distances involved and the amount of time it will take to travel from one place to another. To visit the entire British Isles, Scotland and Wales in a week or less is totally impractical - all you’ll see is lots of motorways and not much scenery. Better to limit your trip to a few key places that you really want to visit and enjoy the journey.
not practical to add one later, and find out how many bikes the rack will hold.
5.
Check that campsites are open. A common mistake is presuming that a campsite is open all year round – most are closed from November until March due to the ground being too soft to support the weight of a motorhome. With this in mind, the October half term should allow you to have a wide range of choice but you can find details of all the sites open in the UK in guides like the Caravan Club Site Guide.
6.
Do not overfill the fresh water tank. If you are staying on a campsite, there is no need to carry water between sites – it’s very heavy and will burn fuel and affect the handling and performance of the vehicle. Better to fill the water tank up to about a third full (maximum) initially and when you arrive on site, fill up.
7. Use the campsite facilities where possible.
Although a motorhome has a toilet, shower, hot water etc. they do not compare with the facilities you will find on most campsites. It’s much better to use the site facilities wherever possible – it keeps the motorhome cleaner and you’ll have less to do when you want to move on. Most sites provide mains power hook-up and when you connect to their power supply, switch the fridge and the heater over to running on mains electric, rather than using your gas.
2. Book your first two campsites in advance. 8. Make sure you carry a spare gas bottle. With the first couple of nights covered you can relax and spend the time getting to know your new home. Campsites also get very busy during school holidays so it takes the stress out of searching for somewhere to rest when tired.
3. Avoid bringing rigid suitcases. Despite
being more spacious than a tent, when you hire a motorhome, you have a limited amount of space, so your suitcases can really get in the way! Better to bring your clothes in a soft bag or rucksack which you can easily store away using the minimum amount of space.
4. Pack light! On a camping holiday, you do not need lots of changes of clothing or large toys, gadgets etc. If you are bringing bicycles, check the vehicle has a bike rack fitted – it’s
If you are travelling for a long period of time in Europe, you should carry a spare gas bottle. It is impossible to refill a UK gas bottle in Europe and it’s also difficult to use a European gas bottle in a UK vehicle. The best solution is to use the gas economically and to carry a spare. Again, using campsite facilities will extend the life of your gas supply! With over 500 motorhomes available to hire throughout Britain, wherever you are and however long your trip is going to be, the team at Motorholme can help.
www.motorholme.co.uk
Bonfire & Halloween Ideas
Maille Mustard with Horseradish is priced at £1.49 (205g) and is available at Waitrose, Tesco and Ocado and online at www.maille.co.uk/
Perfect for a warming meal after watching the fireworks, Secret Sausages are vegetarian sausages with 90% less fat, 50% fewer calories and 35% less salt than your normal sausage. RRP £3.49 Available at Ocado & www.secret-sausages.com.
Kozi Kidz Varberg Stars Jacket - 100% waterproof with a cosy fleece lining and a bright star patterned exterior – perfect for enjoying bonfire night, whatever the weather. £42 www.kozikidz.com
Zombie Action Stickers RRP £5 available from www.justmustard. com
Double Dog RRP £10 available from www.justmustard.com
Perfect Trick or Treating Fabric Bag £1 from Sainsbuy’s or www.sainsburys.co.uk
Candy bowl with Wendy Legs £!5 from Sainsbury’s or www.sainsburys.co.uk
Kozi Kidz Uggla Jacket. Bright orange and covered with adorable owls, what better way to keeps the kids warm and dry on Halloween than with Kozi Kidz’ Uggla Rain Jacket. £37.80 www.kozikidz.com
Happy Halloween Felt Garland £3 from Sainsbury’s or www.sainsburys.co.uk
QVS 20 Rectangle Make-up Sponges – Ideal for children’s halloween make-up for use with liquid, powder or cream makeup, the neighbours will soon be screaming with fright and delight! RRP £4.99 www.qvsbeauty.co.uk
Halloween at Twinlakes Twinlakes award winning Family Scream Park offers a wicked supernatural blend at Halloween… with unique family spine-tingling attractions, we have grown 20,000 FREE pumpkins for you to carve or paint with magnificent prizes, wicked workshops, meet our Marty friendly Monster ! and our forgetful Witch !! creepy competitions and trick & treat! Screamie award winner for best seasonal attraction 2011. Twinlakes is packed full of fangtastic Halloween surprises for the whole family! Laugh along with us as you see spine-chilling Halloween happenings in our not so scary, scare- zones! Where you might meet one of our friendly Halloween characters! Experience eerie entertainment!! Beware of the spooky ghosts and ghouls. as they go …. BOO!!!! Encounter Creepy Critters with scuttling beetles, stinging scorpions, hairy tarantulas, scaly snakes and twisted creatures. Our friendly farm team will help you brave your fears at our daily handling sessions ! For the older boys and girls – Dare you brave the dark and deadly corners, as Dungeon Quest comes alive? New – Marty Monsters straw bale maze a big challenge for smaller people! Interactive fun in the Haunted Black Knights Castle Hunt as Jason the Jester has a quest for King Dave… can you help him? Plus The New Multi Sensory Eerie Express Train that takes you on a journey that will have you shouting out loud and looking for our uninvited Halloween guests, a must for the whole family! then why not brave a ‘not so scary’ tale lies deep within the Farmhouse of Fear… clown around in curtains chaos maze! for more information and to see what others say visit our facebook page ! 2013 delivers a day to remember this Halloween for the whole family, you wont find better in the UK. Book now and save online at www.twinlakespark.co.uk *Voted UK’s Best Daytime Halloween Attraction, Scare Awards 2011.
The Best All-Weather FUN HALLOWEEN DAY OUT for the whole family! Join us …. we promise not to give you ….frightmares!’
Achieve 103
Happy Tweens this Christmas!
Buying gifts for the children in your life, whether they are your own or family and friend’s children is no easy task but buying for the ‘Tween’ age is even harder! What on earth do you get that seems both age appropriate and something that the parents will like too?! It feels like a tough task for us here at Achieve this Christmas and so when we discovered the So Tween Boutique online we knew our readers would want to know about it too! Giftsfortweens.co.uk is home to a huge choice in gifts suitable for the tween age range, you know that tricky stage when they aren’t kiddies but aren’t teens either! Discover great priced, high quality gifts for the girls and boys as well as party bags and eco-friendly inspired pieces too. At the age where children are cool, funky, cute and inquisitive
all at once the Gifts for Tweens boutique seems to respond to their gift desires perfectly with an aim to offer a choice of creative, fun and unique toys and gifts for children between the ages of 6-12 years old, that both you and the tweens will love! Brands at the easy to use, pleasure to shop on site include: Seedling, Top Model, Horses Dreams, Kidz n Cats, Little Experience, Rock n Regal, Ridleys by Wild and Wolf, Spiegelburg and Cupcakes and Cartwheels. Plus, the increasingly popular Kimmi Dolls who promote friendship, fun, happiness and BFF’s. one of the top priorities for the buyers at Gifts for Tweens is to provide a variety of choice of course but it’s also to include toys and activities of high quality with toys that are not only fun but get their imaginations going too; ensuring they stay in the children’s mind-
set just a little bit longer and KidsonRoof, a wonderful Dutch design for playful kids is perfect for that! The site provides an effortless shopping experience for an age range that seems to be all too often neglected on the high street – no trawling through shop after shop and resorting to things just to have something to give them anymore! With all the exceptional gifts, toys, clothes and accessories which encourage kids to have fun, be active and use their imagination, your gift will be a delight to give and receive.
Shop online at www.giftsfortweens.co.uk and take the stress out of shopping for tweens this Christmas.