In Touch with Hadleigh May 2020

In Touch

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with Chattisham, Hadleigh, Hintlesham, Raydon, with Hadleigh Layham & Holton St Mary Volume 1 • Issue No. 5 • FEBRUARY 2016 Volume 5 • Issue No. 8 • MAY 2020

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In Touch Online

A WORD FROM THE EDITOR KEEPING IN TOUCH Until it’s safe for our delivery teams to work again we have decided to publish online and have worked quickly to create a dedicated area on the website for each publication area.

We’re constantly adding new content and engaging with local, regional and national organisations to share often critical information and to support the local groups established in response to the COVID-19 crisis. We’ve also added a directory to make it easier to find the businesses which are still operating and available to take your call. www.keepingintouchwith.co.uk You may well be reading this online and if it’s your first visit to our website, you are very welcome.

If you have a printer and know someone who can’t access the online edition, you can download and print a PDF from the website. We have also left a small number of printed copies at key locations in the area, though I suspect they will disappear rather quickly.

Every aspect of life as we know it has been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and it’s impossible to know when we can expect ‘normal’ life to resume. Tragically many lives have been lost, including far too many NHS and healthcare staff to whom we owe an enormous debt, as we do to everyone who continues to work, in any capacity, on what is now referred to as the ‘front line’.

Many of us are working from home, fortunate to still have jobs while many others have lost theirs. Many local businesses have been forced to shut down temporarily (we hope) while others have adapted to meet a growing need for home deliveries or alternative services and products.

Through all this we have seen the emergence of an extraordinary sense of community responsibility with support networks or hubs forming almost overnight to ensure those is most need or self-isolating have access to essential supplies. In traditional Irish farming communities, a gathering such as this was known as a ‘meitheal’. Modern technology has enabled digital ‘meitheals’ to form and the sense of common good has never been as powerful as it is right now.

If you haven’t already signed up, you will probably find the following quite useful right now:

Of course, we’re also using the Mansion House Publishing Facebook Twitter and Instagram accounts to ensure information is shared quickly and widely. Do join or follow us if you can.

Instagram: mansionhousepublishing Twitter: @InTouchEast Facebook: Mansion House Publishing We’re also responding to increased demand for online advertising as companies seek out new ways to promote their business and to let customers know they are there for them now and always. If you want to know more about the advertising and e-marketing opportunities on offer, please contact our sales team on 01473 400380.

Published by: Mansion House Publishing (UK) Ltd, 20 Wharfedale Road, Ipswich IP1 4JP EDITOR: Sharon Jenkins T: 01473 400380 Send editorial copy to: sharon@intouchnews.co.uk Readers are invited to submit articles, illustrations and photographs for publication. The publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

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In Touch Titles • Stowmarket & Stowupland • Kesgrave & Rushmere St Andrew • Melton & Woodbridge • Manningtree, Brantham, Lawford & Mistley • Hadleigh, Chattisham, Hintlesham, Holton St Mary, Layham & Raydon • Ipswich East, Ravenswood, Broke Hall & Warren Heath • Elmswell, Beyton, Drinkstone, Haughley, Hessett, Norton, Tostock, Wetherden & Woolpit • Needham Market & The Creetings •S hotley, Chelmondiston, Erwarton, Harkstead, Holbrook, Pin Mill, Stutton & Woolverstone • Martlesham • Claydon, Barham, Henley & Whitton • East Bergholt, Dedham, Flatford & Stratford St Mary • Bramford, Offton, Somersham & Willisham • Capel St Mary (Capel Capers) • Copdock, Belstead, Bentley, Tattingstone & Washbrook • Gt & Lt Blakenham, Baylham & Nettlestead •W esterfield, Ashbocking, Tuddenham St Martin & Witnesham • Sproughton & Burstall We also publish Spotlight on Felixstowe

Wednesday 20 May is the advertising and editorial deadline for the June edition

www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

Hadleigh Cares Hadleigh Town Council Hadleigh Boxford Group Practice Suffolk County Council Babergh District Council COVID-19 Information Centre

@suffolkcc @BaberghDistrict @DHSCgovuk

They say participating in meaningful activities is a major contributor to our sense of wellbeing and Sew Scrubs must be the perfect example. Sewers, pattern printers, fabric cutters, fundraisers, sponsors, delivery volunteers and co-ordinators have come together to meet an indentified need and it looks like they are having a lot of fun in the process.

Others, including schools and businesses with the right skills and materials, have been making masks and face shields, sending food, posting messages and videos, helping with childcare and shopping, paying for parking... Even standing outside to applaud our key-workers at 8pm on Thursday evenings is a shared activity which certainly lifts the mood in our house, though I’m not sure Flip (our pet rabbit) would agree.

If you are looking for ways to help or donate, a quick visit to Facebook will provide plenty of opportunity but the one essential thing most of us must do is to stay at home and to maintain distance when you do go out. It’s not a lot to ask, particularly as we know it’s having the required effect.

Of course it’s also important to do some activity you enjoy and to keep life as normal as possible. I’ve been spending as much time as possible in the garden with Jack. It’s a small space but we’ve created a great number of, mostly football themed, challenges. Four weeks in and I still haven’t managed to get the ball in the bucket (‘top bins’) once. We also created our own crazy golf course using ‘stuff’ from the recycling bin and a chair leg as a putter.

We’ve only broken one window so far!

Staying informed is important too but I hope you’re not checking your phone every five minutes. I did this for the first two weeks or so and was so overwhelmed by anxiety and sadness I found myself crying uncontrollably (in a cupboard) at least once a day. Jack did wonder why my hay fever seemed to be worse than usual!

We must be hopeful. Knowledge of the virus and its effects improves day by day and the race is on to find a vaccine.

Stay strong. Take care of yourselves and of others.

Our very best wishes from everyone here at Mansion House Publishing

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

The Hadleigh Cares team wish to say another big thank you to all the volunteers involved in the scheme. Without their total commitment and tireless dedication, the idea could never have reached fruition or worked so successfully. Residents have also expressed their thanks, gratitude and appreciation for the willing, vital service they provide to those in total isolation and dependant on outside help.

It is incredible how speedily the community has pulled together to provide, in all areas of the town, a food and medicine delivery service, a chat line and meals on wheels. For a nominal charge, Mike Ager’s team at Battlebury’s, The Kings Head, has made a hot meal delivery service available to anyone who may need it on Wednesdays and Sundays. Mark David can provide fresh or frozen meals on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Several other caterers are offering a takeaway service.

Residents in self-isolation can order via Julie’s Deli website and for home delivery, fresh veggie boxes from Hadleigh Market.

The group are also helping Mill Pharmacy and Boots with prescription deliveries.

Sincere thanks to all who have generously responded to Stuart Service’s request for financial assistance to help keep the volunteers on the road.

These donations have made a huge difference to the smooth running of the scheme.

If you wish to access any of the above services please contact your area coordinator. If you don’t know who that is please contact Helen Allan: 07738 940054 / helenallan61@btinternet.com Want to join know more about the initiative or sign up to volunteer? https://hadleighassist.co.uk/volunteer www.facebook.com/hadleighcares

My income has dropped due to coronavirus and I am struggling to keep up with all my bills. I rent my house from a private landlord and pay all the usual bills – electricity, water, and Council Tax. How best can I juggle them, and is there any help I can get from the government?

If your income is reduced because of coronavirus, you should check whether you’re entitled to sick pay or to claim benefits. You can check your eligibility for both sick pay and benefits on the Citizens Advice website at www.citizensadvice.org.uk. If you’re already on existing benefits, these might also increase.

If you’re struggling to pay rent, talk to your landlord straight away.

You should explain the situation and could ask for more time to pay, a temporary reduction in rent, or ask to catch up any missed payments by instalments. If you contact your nearest Citizens Advice an adviser can help you explain things to your landlord. If you can’t come to an agreement with your landlord, it’s a good idea to pay what you can afford and keep a record of what you offered.

The government passed an emergency law which means landlords must give you three months’ notice to end certain tenancy types from 26 March. The court service has suspended all possession action for 90 days from 27 March. This means that even if you have been served a notice for eviction it is unlikely it can be enforced during this time.

You can find out more about what to do if you’re being evicted for rent arrears on the Citizens Advice website at www.citizensadvice.org.uk If you already claim Housing Benefit, you should tell the council your income has reduced. If you don’t claim it already, you might be entitled to help with housing costs from the government.

When it comes to your utilities, you should contact the provider as soon as possible. Depending on the type of bill, they may be able to arrange a payment plan, or have schemes in place for people in financial hardship. You should also talk to your local council, as your income has changed you might be entitled to a council tax reduction.

Hadleigh Foodbank has been especially busy over the last month helping those in need in Hadleigh and the surrounding villages. We are very aware that during the current crisis more and more people are finding themselves unable to afford or obtain the essentials in life. If you are reading this and you cannot afford food or essentials for whatever reason, please contact us on 07985 460158 or hadleighfoodbank@gmail.com and one of our lovely team of volunteers will help you out.

If you’re struggling to pay multiple bills, it’s important to sort out what’s known as ‘priority bills’ like energy bills or council tax over credit card bills. This is because the immediate consequences of not paying these things are much more serious. The Citizens Advice website www. citizensadvice.org.uk can help you with this.

Please note we are no longer seeing clients face to face until further notice.

Currently we have teamed up with three takeaways in Hadleigh (Dynasty Chinese, Jet Lounge and Tudor Fish and Chips) to offer a variety of delicious dishes that can be ordered and delivered to those in Hadleigh and the surrounding villages who are elderly, vulnerable or isolating to ensure they are getting a decent meal or if they cannot cook regularly. This offer is only available if ordered and paid for via Hadleigh Foodbank on 07985 460158.

If you need help or information about a problem, you can telephone Sudbury & District Citizens Advice on 01787 321400 (answerphone).

Leave a message and someone will call you back. Alternatively, telephone Suffolk Adviceline on 0300 330 1151 from Monday to Thursday between 10am and 3pm or the national Adviceline on 03444 111 444 from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.

For details of Hadleigh Foodbank and the takeaway delivery service on offer take a look at our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/groups/85134839526 4736/?ref=share

You can also contact us via email at advice@sudburycab.org.uk or have a look at our website for further information: www.sudburycab.org.uk

The menu is also reproduced on page 14.

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In Touch Online

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

HINTLESHAM REMEMBERS

By Gerald Main

EMERGENCY FUNDING POT AVAILABLE TO HELP LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS Community groups and organisations can now apply for immediate grants of up to £2,500 as part of Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils’ response to COVID-19.

Over £80,000 is being made available to both new and existing groups in Babergh and Mid Suffolk who are playing a key role in protecting vulnerable residents and helping our communities remain resilient during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Grants of up to £2,500 can be applied for to cover increased costs incurred by groups as a result of the Coronavirus (Covid-19), including general running costs, ongoing staff costs, volunteer expenses, utility bills and the purchasing of food or other consumables. Larger requests for funding will be considered under exceptional circumstances.

The Emerging Needs Grant has a straightforward application process, enabling our councils to respond quickly to help ease the challenges our residents are facing during the crisis. Community officers will continue to work closely with district councillors, towns and parishes and community groups to ensure financial support is available and directed to meet needs as they emerge within communities.

Cllr Derek Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities for Babergh District Council said: “We recognise that it’s more important than ever before to provide support to our residents who are experiencing difficulties. In response to this we have simplified our grants process, to make financial help available quickly and easily for those who need it most.”

Cllr Julie Flatman, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing for Mid Suffolk District Council said: “I am delighted that groups and organisations are pulling together to relieve the financial hardship of residents, or to assist the vulnerable who are self-isolating at home. This grant scheme will allow for their hard work to continue, providing comfort at this uncertain time.”

The Babergh and Mid Suffolk Communities Team, bolstered by the redeployment of other council officers, are currently identifying groups and organisations that could benefit from this funding.

For more information visit: https://tinyurl.com/taqacw7

Here’s a good one for the pub quiz. What’s the connection between the First World War nurse Edith Cavell, who was shot by a German firing squad for being a spy, and the Suffolk village of Hintlesham? The answer is the village war memorial. One hundred years ago, it was draped with the same Union Jack flag that two months earlier had covered the new statue of the famous nurse in St Martin’s Place, off Trafalgar Square In June 1920, the biggest gathering Hintlesham had ever seen crowded around the war memorial to see it being unveiled. The great and the good were all there, including the Bishop of St Edmundsbury and the High Sheriff. The villagers were lined up six deep on the road opposite the church, straining to see the event and discover what a war memorial looked like.

One hundred years on, Hintlesham will be commemorating the anniversary on Sunday 14 June (depending on coronavirus restrictions) with a short service at 11am followed by a re-dedication of the memorial. The 40 names on the memorial will be read out, including a new name which will be added to the memorial in time for the anniversary.

The new addition is the name of Pilot Officer Harold G Tipple. Harold died just before Christmas 1939 when the plane he was flying crashed at Vauxhall Farm near Chattisham. The 19-year-old RAF flyer had received no training in the aircraft before the fateful flight and, as smoke billowed from his engine, he attempted to bale out. Tragically, he left it too late and the plane hit a tree on the farm. Harold was buried at Hintlesham and by the end of the war, his immediate family had all died and his name was never added to the village memorial.

For many years, Harold’s grave was tended by a lady in the village and her granddaughter. There was no family connection; looking after “the pilot’s grave” was simply an act of kindness. Eighty years on, the pilot will be remembered for his service and his sacrifice.

The full story of Pilot Officer Tipple can be found on: www.HintleshamWarMemorial.com The website, run by former BBC Radio Suffolk Editor Gerald Main has details of all the men listed on the memorials in Hintlesham and Chattisham.

Gerald Main Gerald@geraldmain.com

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In Touch Online

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS PULLING TOGETHER TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITIES Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils remain committed to working with partners to support the volunteers assembling to help protect our communities.

Both councils have today pledged to support parish and town councils and voluntary groups who we acknowledge will play a key role in empowering our communities to remain resilient during the Covid-19 outbreak.

The councils have established a new light touch grant scheme, with over £80,000 available through grants of up to £2,500, to provide financial assistance to other local community organisations assisting with the response to the pandemic.

This is in conjunction with new financial help from both councils, which already been made available, for major food banks within the districts in Stowmarket, Sudbury and Hadleigh, to support their vital work during the Covid-19 outbreak. The councils will also be working with partners to address any logistic needs the food banks may face.

This partnership work also extends to collating and sharing local intelligence, identifying existing support networks, and where gaps lie, enabling us to help those who need it most. Our Communities Team has been bolstered by the redeployment of council officers from other duties to support this work and there is scope to increase this further if required.

The councils are also part of the Collaborative Communities Board which is behind the creation of the new Suffolk-focused community support service, Home But Not Alone. The service sees willing volunteers and charities logging their details and offers of support on a phone app, matching them to people who need their help. This ensures that help can be given where it’s most needed, and can be in line with safeguarding policies. The Tribe Volunteer app is free to download on both Apple and Android.

#SaveLives

PROPERTY RESTORED IN LESS THAN A WEEK TO HOUSE VULNERABLE RESIDENTS A property in Sudbury has been transformed in just five working days in order to provide urgent accommodation to people at risk during the coronavirus outbreak.

Babergh District Council’s teams joined local firms in working round the clock to transform the Lees, in Newton Road. They undertook the major task of getting the building – only recently returned to the council – repaired, decorated, fitted with essential appliances and furniture, and fully checked within days to allow the first seven households to move in.

The need for provision of housing for the district’s most vulnerable residents, including rough sleepers and those experiencing homelessness, has increased as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. The council brought forward plans to refurbish the building following the government’s offer of emergency funding to help provide accommodation and services to rough sleepers and those at risk of homelessness.

Contractors Whybrow Property Solutions even removed the kitchen units from their own premises to install at the property, while other firms agreed to make all-important deliveries of furniture before closing their doors on Friday.

Cllr Jan Osborne Babergh District Council cabinet member for housing, said: “This property has only recently been returned to the council and the housing and building services teams have done an amazing job. It is testimony to how council staff and local business have worked together during a time when we are facing so many challenges in being able to complete this project in just five days. It’s excellent to now be able to offer somewhere safe for people sleeping rough, staying in night shelters or assessment hubs, who didn’t have a secure home or somewhere safe to self-isolate if required.”

BEFORE

AFTER

Vulnerable residents who are without alternative support and need assistance with the delivery of groceries, medicines and other supplies should telephone freephone number 0800 876 6926. This is open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week, with staff from our two councils working through their weekends to support this service.

We have also put measures in place to help key workers. During the Covid-19 outbreak Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils are suspending restrictions in our car parks to permit critical key workers to use council parking bays without time restriction or charges.

In addition to this, we recognise that key workers may need to selfisolate, so have worked with Suffolk’s Public Sector Partnership to help find short term accommodation for key workers who are unable to return home. Any key workers with an urgent need for this service should email: accommodation@baberghmidsuffolk.gov.uk Cllr Julie Flatman, Cabinet Member for Communities and Housing for Mid Suffolk District Council said: “It is incredibly heartening that in these challenging times we can work with partners across Suffolk to respond to an increased demand for community support as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. I am also delighted that we’ve been able to provide support for our district’s key workers.”

Cllr Derek Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities for Babergh District Council said: “It’s wonderful to see Babergh’s communities rallying together to look after one another. Unfortunately, while many have a genuine desire to help, we must be mindful of unscrupulous criminals fraudulently posing as good Samaritans. I would encourage all those wishing to help to use the Tribe Volunteer app, which I have already downloaded myself.”

www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

BUSINESSES URGED TO ACCESS FINANCIAL SUPPORT AND GUIDANCE Businesses in Babergh and Mid Suffolk are being urged to find out what financial support is available to them as well as seeking advice and guidance in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis.

More information about the range of business support available can be found on the Coronavirus Business Advice website: www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirus-business-advice

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, the government has announced a package of measures to help small and large businesses as well as the selfemployed who have been impacted by COVID-19.

For businesses looking for opportunities to innovate within their business, the government has outlined the support and grants available to help businesses grow, strengthen leadership and talent and adopt new technologies. Find out more on the Wider Business Support website: www.businesssupport.gov.uk/wider-business-support-from-government

The full range of financial packages and support measures can be found on the government’s business support website which includes FAQs and links to wider business support. There are also specialist funding opportunities available for organisations and individuals including from the Arts Council and Sport England.

Coronavirus Financial Support Both large and small businesses and the self-employed can access a range of support measures to help them through these unprecedented times caused

by COVID-19. These schemes include: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme Self-employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) Business Rate Holiday for Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Cash Grant for Retail, Hospitality and Leisure Small Business Grant Funding Statutory Sick Pay Rebate Support for Businesses Paying Tax COVID-19 Corporate Financing Facility Business Rates Holiday for Nurseries VAT Deferral Deferral of Self-Assessment Payment

More information about who is eligible, how to apply and when the support schemes are open for applications is available at: www.businesssupport.gov. uk/coronavirus-business-support Business Advice and FAQs The government has created a series of FAQs for businesses impacted by COVID-19. These are broken down into three main areas: • General Business Issues • Business Closures and Stay at Home Guidance • Self-employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) There is also information on how to access support including: • • • • •

Business Support Helpline HMRC Helpline Find a Job service New Technology Challenge – funding available Directory of Business Representative Organisations

In Babergh and Mid Suffolk, there is help and guidance available from trained advisers at the New Anglia Growth Hub: www.newangliagrowthhub.co.uk

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Small Business Grant Funding This week many small business owners will be receiving letters from Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils about how to access the COVID-19 Business Grant Fund.

This is a cash grant of either £10,000 or £25,000 for businesses who are eligible for Small Business Rate Relief as well as businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors.

Eligible businesses will be asked to submit their details through an online form for the grant to be processed. More information can be found on our COVID-19 Business Grant Fund webpage: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/business/business-rates/grant-funding-schemes Arts Council: Emergency Response Package The Arts Council is making £160m of funding available for both organisations and individuals during the coronavirus crisis. This is available to organisations who already receive Arts Council funding as well as those who are outside the regular funding streams. Freelancers and individuals can also apply for financial support. More information is available on the Arts Council website: www.artscouncil.org.uk/covid19 Sport England: COVID-19 funding To help Sport England’s partners, clubs and community organisations cope with the short and long-term impact of the pandemic, an emergency fund of £195m has been made available to help organisations get through the crisis as well as for the recovery of sport and physical activity in the longer term.

More information is available on the Sport England website: www.sportengland.org/news/195-million-package-help-sport-and-physicalactivity-through-coronavirus Cllr Michael Holt, Babergh District Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Growth said: “These are incredibly difficult times for many businesses, and we urge large and small business owners as well as the self-employed to investigate and apply for the financial support available to them in order to see them through this challenging time caused by the coronavirus pandemic.”

Cllr Gerard Brewster, Mid Suffolk Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Growth said: “There is a host of support and guidance available for all businesses and I would ask businesses to seek advice either from general business specialists such as the New Anglia Growth Hub, but also their own professional bodies who may have specific advice for these unprecedented times.”

For more information about Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils’ response to COVID-19, please visit: www.babergh.gov.uk or www.midsuffolk.gov.uk

In Touch Online

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

MEET THE HEROES HELPING BABERGH THROUGH THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS Communities across Babergh have rallied together in response to Covid-19, and now we want to recognise and support their extraordinary work.

Babergh District Council is saluting the army of community champions that have stepped forward to help their neighbours in need.

Despite facing their own challenges our community champions have stepped up to run errands, provide meals, be a source of companionship, and more.

The Glemsford Angels ‘didn’t want any resident to feel alone’ so have been regularly checking in with vulnerable people already known to them. The group also arranged for a letter offering help to be hand delivered to 1,700 residents in the village, resulting in further requests for assistance, which they have been able to fulfil.

Chairman Fiona Dinning-Cole said: “Wonderful kindness is taking place in our village. Sarah Meston is producing meals from the Black Lion Pub with help from Landlord Steve and working with Rev Patrick Prigg to support the vulnerable in the village who wouldn’t otherwise be getting hot meals. Well done all concerned and in particular ‘hooray’ to you Sarah.”

Lavenham’s Good Neighbour Scheme is another group providing a lifeline to Babergh villages. More than 100 volunteers came forward to help villagers who are isolating or alone with shopping, prescription collections and other requests Chair Doreen Twitchett said: “I have been involved with Good Neighbours since it launched in March 2014, so it was a natural progression to get all those in the village who volunteered at the beginning of this crisis, to join a scheme already proven to work. I want to thank all our volunteers who regularly go the extra mile to help.”

Getting food to those who need it most has also been a priority for Bildeston Coronavirus Support Group, who have set up a foodbank, taking self-referrals from local people who find themselves in need.

Founder and co-ordinator Shaun Moffat said: “We wanted to create a non-judgemental and strictly confidential facility to lighten the burden on individuals and families who are feeling the financial effects of this crisis. The lockdown has left many communities such as Bildeston at risk of being cut off, but fortunately we are a creative and resilient village.”

These communities are not alone in their desire to help. More than 1,200 volunteers have already signed up to the Home, But Not Alone scheme, which was launched last month by the Suffolk Collaborative Communities Covid-19 Board. The initiative matches volunteers to callers of a helpline for our county’s most vulnerable, which is free to call on 0800 876 6926 and is staffed seven days a week, from 9am to 5pm. This hotline is for people without family or a friendship network to support them, and who require emergency assistance with care needs (including food), loneliness, or connecting with community volunteers. Although still in its early stages, the scheme has already proved to be a lifeline, with vulnerable residents receiving delivery of shopping and prescriptions from volunteers.

Babergh District Council is offering grants of up to £2,500 to support groups with increased costs incurred as a cost of coronavirus (COVID-19), including general running costs, ongoing staff costs, volunteer expenses, utility bills and purchasing of food or other consumables. Larger requests for funding will be considered under exceptional circumstances.

Now, in addition to offering financial support, and with so many different groups to recognise, the council is launching a #communitychampions social media campaign to encourage community groups to highlight what they are doing – making residents aware of what local help is available as well as generating further support and offers of volunteering. Taking part in the campaign couldn’t be easier, simply tag @BaberghDistrict in your social media posts so that these can be shared.

Cllr Derek Davis, Cabinet Member for Communities for Babergh District Council said: “During social distancing, we can remain united through kindness and looking out for one another. I’d like to thank communities in Babergh who have demonstrated immense strength and resilience at a time of national emergency. They are doing an amazing job and we want to recognise their efforts.

“We still need help to continue this invaluable support and I’d urge anyone wishing to volunteer, as well as any existing community groups, to register on the Tribe Volunteer app, which is available on both Apple and Android. This will enable our community team to identify where resource is and if there are any gaps in the system, ensuring we can help those who need it most.”

SMALL BUSINESSES IN SUFFOLK URGED TO ACCESS £200M POT OF COVID-19 AID Eligible businesses across Suffolk are being urged to access grants of £10,000 or £25,000 to help them through COVID-19 crisis.

The government has allocated over £213m to support qualifying businesses in Suffolk who are struggling because of restrictions in place to combat the Coronavirus.

There are over 15,000 eligible businesses across the county who can access one of two grants of either £10,000 or £25,000 to help with their ongoing business costs.

The Small Business Grant Fund is available to businesses that pay little or no business rates and currently receive small business rate relief (SBRR) and/or rural rate relief (RRR). In addition, there is a cash grant available to retail, hospitality and leisure businesses that have a property with a rateable value up to £51,000.

Businesses who meet the eligibility criteria are being contacted by their local authority to confirm eligibility and payment details and staff are working to get this information out to firms as quickly as they can.

Businesses must follow the process outlined by their Local Authority for the payment to be made.

Business owners who have not yet been contacted and believe they are eligible for either of the grants should check their local council’s website for further details.

The grants will be administered by local authorities; Babergh District Council, East Suffolk Council, Ipswich Borough Council, Mid Suffolk

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District Council and West Suffolk Council.

Karen Chapman, from the Suffolk Growth Board representing all local authorities, commented; “The Small Business Grant Fund and Cash Grant for retail, leisure and hospitality businesses could provide an important lifeline during these unprecedented times. We urge all eligible businesses to take advantage of the financial support, advice and guidance that is available during this difficult period.”

Further information, on these two grants and all support available for businesses and the self-employed can be found on the Government business support website: www.businesssupport.gov.uk/coronavirusbusiness-support To contact your local council please visit: Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Councils: www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/business/business-rates/grant-funding-schemes East Suffolk Council: www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/business/covid-19-business-grant-funding Ipswich Borough Council: www.ipswich.gov.uk/businessratesgrant West Suffolk Council: www.westsuffolk.gov.uk/c19business Additional support is available at from trained advisers at the New Anglia Growth Hub: www.newangliagrowthhub.co.uk

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS A DISTANCED CATCH UP Hello, we hope you are all keeping well. We find that we miss our customers very much; we always feel that the interactions we have with everyone give to us, as much as we hope we give to you. But, isn’t it wonderful that there are so many ways in which we can still be in touch?

Here at Hadleigh Library, along with all of our sister libraries across Suffolk, we are working hard to still provide a service for everyone. We are always happy to hear from you via our social media platforms; we are on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and you can find us there along with updates on what we are doing and how you can join in.

There are also all of our digital products: you can still borrow books and audio books; you can stream music and films and there are a whole host of other services you may enjoy. If you visit the Suffolk Libraries website, there is so much to explore including a lot of new content; for instance, you can still sing along to our Baby Bounce and Tot Rock sessions and listen to stories being read. There are craft sessions and podcasts to listen to.

We continue to develop and broaden our range of services so it is well worth regularly checking in at: www.suffolk.libraries.co.uk If you don’t already have a library card, you can register online and start enjoying all the things it brings.

Of course, none of this will ever be the same as the face-to-face interaction we all benefit from but until we are able to open our doors again, we hope that you will virtually visit your library because we are all still working to support our communities, as we will always do.

Look after yourselves and stay in touch.

Facebook: HadleighLibrarySuffolk Twitter:HadleighLibrary Instagram: hadleigh.library

#SaveLives

HADLEIGH & BOXFORD PATIENT PARTICIPATION GROUP Self-Isolation and Loneliness As Coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads across the UK, it has become harder for people to maintain their social connections.

We can all help to combat social isolation and look out for each other during the spread of the virus by linking to the latest guidance and advice from government, charities and experts on how to stay safe and healthy during the outbreak.

For many people there will be a tough, but necessary period of social isolation and there has been a lot of focus on the impact this will have. It means an extended period at home without any face-to-face social contact. This could exacerbate the feelings of loneliness many will have been experiencing before self-isolation.

Many of us will miss seeing family and friends and taking part in our usual hobbies, interests and activities. It shows how important friendship and connection are in our lives, and how difficult it can be when they’re missing.

This reminds us that for too many people their lives are often quite a lot like this.

Research shows that half a million older people regularly experience these kinds of protracted periods of isolation, going at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone at all. However, it is heartening to note the outpouring of community support that has emerged during this crisis, and there’s no better time to find new ways to become connected to your neighbours.

During the Coronavirus outbreak it’s especially important we can stay in touch with people who are alone.

Staying in touch Making sure to stay in touch with friends, family and neighbours can help to ease any feelings of loneliness which may be experienced while in isolation.

Technology can help with this enormously.

• Call friends, colleagues and relatives regularly on the phone and see how they are.

• Create WhatsApp groups with neighbours, family or friends. Share how you’re getting on and ask other people how they are.

• Use Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date and keep in touch.

• Offer to help with shopping or running errands. Use an app like Nextdoor to see if neighbours need assistance •

For many, the telephone will be the easiest and most accessible way to keep in contact. Some of this technology might be new or difficult to use for some older friends and family. Offer help and support to install and use apps.

When using social media be mindful that this may be a frightening and isolating time for many. Be kind, offering help and advice where you can. Try not to spread unfounded rumours that may cause upset or panic. Technology can’t replace the feeling of communicating in person, but there are ways of staying connected in isolation that can help.

This will be a difficult time for all of us. Isolation measures are to protect as many people as possible from the worst effects of coronavirus and this will be temporary. Many community organisations are already playing a very effective role making sure that the most vulnerable are not missed out.

If we all make the effort to stay connected, we can make a big difference to people who are feeling alone at this time.

For information about the PPG, visit: www.hadleighhealth.co.uk/patientparticipation-group

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In Touch Online

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

In response to the ever-changing information we are receiving constantly, we thought it would be useful to keep an up to date frequently asked questions page on our website and social media platforms.

Please keep in mind that we cannot provide answers to all questions, and if you need further information please visit www.gov.uk. Can we also ask that you try to refrain from contacting the surgery to ask questions that can be answered by visiting www.gov.uk.

Additionally, we are aware that not all of our patients are able to get online to read this information, and so we would be grateful if you could please share this with friends, family, or neighbours who may benefit from this.

Thank you QUESTIONS & ANSWERS Q: I am over 70 years’ old, can I safely still look after my grandchild?

A: Anyone over 70 (or under 70 with certain health conditions) are in a more vulnerable group. The government recommend social distancing for these people. This is not the same as isolation, but still recommends avoiding family gatherings. Additionally, we know that child could potentially pass on the virus. As such the recommendation would be to distance yourself from people including your family for the time being.

Q: I am not asthmatic, but I sometimes need an inhaler, please may I have one issued?

A: We are seeing a growing number of patients requesting medication either earlier than normal, or as a “just in case” medication. To try to manage this surge in requests we would say that if you have a medication on repeat you can, of course, request this WHEN it is due (monthly prescriptions only please). If, however, you do not have a medication on repeat that you would now like then please consider if you have a GENUINE medical need for it. If so please ask to discuss with a clinician and we would be happy to help you out.

Q: I have asthma, and my son attends the local school. I have just found out his best friend has been taken home due to a suspicion of coronavirus. What should I do?

A: Unfortunately, there are currently no coronavirus tests being done by Public Health England (PHE) in the community setting. As such we just don’t know if this other child has coronavirus or not. However, as you have asthma you would be at an increased risk of the infection, and so in line with the guidelines from 16th March we would recommend social distancing for yourself. If your or a family member were to get symptoms suggestive of coronavirus then please follow the PHE guidelines (household isolation for 14 days). You can find more information on social distancing at: www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19guidance-on-social-distancing-and-for-vulnerable-people Q: Please can I have my medication delivered?

A: The free delivery service was set up to provide a solution for people who are house bound with no other way of obtaining prescribed medication. We simply do not have the capacity or man power to increase our delivery service any further to other patients of the practice nor customers of Mill Pharmacy. Please may we suggest that you contact friends or family for assistance or the newly set-up Facebook community groups in your area.

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#SaveLives

Q: I can’t buy paracetamol as there is shortage (also face masks and hand sanitisers). Please may I can a prescription for this?

A: There is a shortage on all these products. We will not be issuing any prescriptions for masks or hand sanitisers. If you have required a prescription for paracetamol in the past 2 years we are willing to issue a prescription for 30 tablets. We are having to limit this number as we are also experiencing a shortage. Thank you for your understanding.

Q: I am unsure what is happening about my hospital out-patient appointment. Please can you chase this up?

A: As you will be aware, hospitals have been instructed to cancel all nonurgent operations and move clinics to video or telephone appointments due to the concern of coronavirus. As such this is placing a huge strain on the hospitals and long waiting times are inevitable. We would ask that you give our secondary care colleges some time to sort things out. If you still wish to contact them, please do so by calling this number 0300 3034075.

Q: Can I have a sick note for self-isolation as my family member has symptoms?

A: In light of the current Coronavirus situation, it is inevitable that a number of employees may be required to self-isolate themselves at home even in the absence of any symptoms of an illness. In these cases, your Doctor will not be able to issue a sick note as the time off work is not due to an illness, and isn’t affecting your ability to work, but rather is a precaution to avoid transmission of any illness that is yet to produce symptoms.

We therefore expect your employer to be sympathetic if you are required to self-isolate for 14 days and to understand that the reason for this is to protect the welfare of your work colleagues and the wider community.

Q: I have heard drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen should be avoided as they may make coronavirus worse. Is this true?

A: The current advice says unpublished data from France, which the UK authorities have not seen, has led to the French Health minister advising against the use of ibuprofen or naproxen (NSAID drugs). There is no current published evidence that NSAIDs have an impact on COVID-19.

However, the NICE/Committee of Human Medicines (an advisory body of the MHRA) have been asked to review the evidence. In the meantime, those with suspected COVID-19 should use paracetamol in preference to NSAIDs. Those on NSAIDs for other medical reasons (e.g. arthritis) should not stop them.

Q: I hear that drugs like Ramipril are not safe A: Drugs like Ramipril and losartan belong to a family of medicines used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure and other heart conditions.

There is no published evidence to currently suggest they worsen COVID-19 infections and so the recommendation is to continue with these medicines. We know that controlling high blood pressure or other heart conditions is very important in reducing the risk of COVID-19 We will of course keep you updated as new information comes out.

Thank you all for your support Doctors at Hadleigh Boxford Group Practice

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

EAST SUFFOLK NATIONAL TRUST ASSOCIATION In common with most clubs and associations, we have been forced to cancel our activities for the foreseeable future.

Consequently there will be no further meetings of ESNTA until September at the earliest. Details of future meetings will be given as soon as we have a clearer idea of developments.

SUFFOLK BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Letting you know we are still here to help

VILLAGE LINK CLUB MEETINGS Due to the Coronavirus outbreak all meetings have been cancelled. We will keep you informed when they will restart.

Like many organisations, our activities have been curtailed now that life is dominated by Coronavirus. We are only too aware of the impact that isolation plays when bereaved and this is only exacerbated if support systems are not able to operate. This is why we are continuing to offer our support but in a different way.

We are currently keeping in touch with all our group members, inviting them to access support via email or telephone. In this way members are able to share how they are feeling and to pass on ways of coping that they are finding beneficial.

We are also happy to offer such support to other Suffolk residents who might wish to join one of groups once this crisis is over. Our website is also a source of lots of useful information for anyone who has lost a loved one. Amongst other things, it explains the importance of expressing feelings appropriately so that they are not suppressed in such a way that they lead to more deep seated physical and emotional difficulties. We are happy to hear from anyone who wants to know more about our support.

If this article is meaningful for you in connection with a bereavement, be it recent or further back in time, then why not find out more Suffolk Bereavement Support? When back to normal our afternoon group is held in central Hadleigh on the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 1.30-3pm and our Capel St Mary group meets in the early evening on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month from 6.308pm. Each meeting finishes with refreshments and informal chat.

We would love to hear from you. Please ring Margaret or Patrick on 07469 201337 or 01473 824066 or email: sbsg246@gmail.com www.suffolkbereavement.org.uk

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Come and meet us We are a family of ordinary people who love God and trust Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour. Please feel free to contact us on the church office number – 01473 829602 – if you need us to pray for you or help in some way during this time of difficulty and uncertainty for everyone.

Sunday Services (live streaming) For the time being, we will be holding virtual worship services at 10.30am every Sunday. We would love you to join us online, worship with us, pray with us and hear from God’s word together.

More information about how you can join us can be found at: www. hadleighchurch.co.uk/teaching/live-stream For all the latest information from Hadleigh Baptist Church with regard to the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation please see: www.hadleighchurch.co.uk/ church-life/coronavirus-covid-19-updates Any questions or help needed please contact: Church Office: 01473 829602 and speak to either Greg or Chris, our Pastors Website: www.hadleighbaptist.org.uk Twitter: @HadleighBaptist Facebook: HadleighBaptistChurch YouTube: Hadleigh Baptist Church

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

LAYHAM PLAYGROUP & TODDLER GROUP We appreciate this has been a difficult couple of weeks for many of our families. Entertaining children, home schooling and trying to work from home or run a house is a huge effort for everyone involved. So, a big thumbs up from us… you’re doing a great job!

We have been fortunate to have a lot of warm and sunny days to help us through this isolation period so our advice is to make the most of it. Why not get those hands muddy and start a fruit and vegetable patch, teaching children the basics about where our food comes from plays a big part in their learning and development? They are ‘usually’ more likely to try new foods when they have played a part in making it.

Playing outside also gives children the chance to keep active which is great for their mental health. Activities you could try include making an obstacle course, exploring sand/water, looking out for signs of nature, going on a bug hunt and bird spotting. For those cold and rainy days, why not turn the living space into a cosy cinema? Grab those duvets and snacks and cuddle up.

Putting down technology and just cuddling up to your child creates a sense of security and is amazing for their wellbeing. Alternatively, hit the kitchen and bake to your hearts content! Biscuits, cakes, tray bakes are all easy to make and all delicious to eat! Baking is a good all-round skill developing activity plus it’s fun too!

Stay safe and have fun!

Email us at: admin@layhamplaygroup.co.uk Find us on Facebook

HADLEIGH & DISTRICT GARDEN CLUB I am writing this at the end of March after two weeks of blue skies and sunshine – very welcome in the present circumstances. It is beginning to feel as if spring really is on the way.

Going out into the garden there is something new appearing almost every day, like this ‘brunnera macrophylla’ that I took a photograph of earlier this week. A member of the forget-me-not family, it grows in a spot that gets no sun at all from the end of October to the end of the following March. The soil is wet in the winter and very dry in the summer, but it appears every spring and really shines a shady spot.

The situation at the moment means that the garden club is not having monthly meetings but you can find out all about our programme for this year by visiting the website. Just go to the ‘What’s On’ page where you will find month by month details of our talks. We usually meet on the second Monday of the month at 7.30pm at Hadleigh Town Hall and we are always happy to welcome visitors.

E: hadleighgardenclub@gmail.com www.visithadleighsuffolk.co.uk

SUFFOLK SCOUTS ANNOUNCE THEIR FIRST INTERNATIONAL MOOT FOR 2021

Suffolk Scouts have announced an exciting event taking place in Suffolk in August 2021. Their first Suffolk International Moot (SIM) is open to Scouts and Guides everywhere and will be taking place at Ipswich’s Trinity Park.

The theme of Go Higher, Faster, Further captures the essence of the event, which is to create opportunities for adventure, learning and gaining #skillsforlife, a fundamental principle of the Scouting movement.

Held over six days from August 26-31 2021, the event offers a range of exciting activities including many water activities on the beautiful River Deben. These include rafting, open canoes, kayaks and even stand-up paddleboards for the really adventurous. There will also be a range of vertigo inducing activities like abseiling, crate stacking and aerial runway.

Scouts and Guides attending can also choose from a number of creative activities including backwoods cooking, a craft tent and whittling. There will also be activities covering self-awareness and community, and a range of social activities to do during the evenings. A full list of activities can be found on the SIM website: www.suffolkmoot.com

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County Commissioner Mark Pearson commented: “We are delighted to announce our very first Suffolk International Moot (SIM). SIM will bring together up to 2,000 Scouts and Guides from all over the UK and the world to take part in our widest range of activities yet. Whilst this is our first international event, Suffolk Scouts have delivered a number of successful Moots in past years helped along by an army of volunteers providing support to our Scouts and Guides. We will also be holding a cub day for younger members. At the moment we have a number of vacancies for volunteers with details on our SIM website.”

Booking for the event has now opened with an early bird offer available.

Mark commented further: “In these uncertain times I think it’s important to have something to look forward to. SIM represents incredible value for money and this is a great opportunity for all those keen to get something in the diary for summer 2021 by taking advantage of these early offers.”

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#SaveLives

DEMENTIA TOGETHER FREE HELPLINE: 08081 688 000 The helpline will continue to be available seven days a week for continuous support throughout this difficult time.

Dementia Together Navigators will also be able to complete a detailed assessment over the phone offering support, education and a listening ear to you throughout this difficult time.

Dementia Together was commissioned in 2017 by both Suffolk County Council and the East and West Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Groups.

The service was set up as a single point of contact for people living with dementia and their families. The service aims to ensure that people receive the right information and support at the right time.

People do not need to have a diagnosis to access the service. Anyone concerned about their memory or their relatives, friends or neighbours can contact the Dementia Together helpline. The helpline operates Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm and also weekends and bank holidays from 10am to 4pm.

Dementia Together is continuing to offer as full a service as possible at this very difficult time. The helpline remains operational seven days a week from 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.

The service also consists of navigators who work in communities across Suffolk. During normal service navigators visit people in their own homes and help them to access support in their local communities. During the coronavirus crisis home visits are no longer taking place. Navigators are working from home and telephone and/or online video calls are offered instead.

Navigators continue to keep in contact with service users, providing information and offering extensive emotional support at this time.

Service users are being linked to local community networks which are offering help with shopping, collecting prescriptions and welfare calls. The current lockdown is having a huge impact on people living with dementia and their family carers. Community groups and day services which had provided an invaluable lifeline are now closed. The helpline is also receiving lots of calls from families who live far away and are concerned about elderly relatives.

Dementia Together will continue to deliver as much support as possible to people living with dementia and their families throughout this time of unprecedented crisis.

There are very particular difficulties that are being experienced by people living with dementia and their families at this time. For example, people living with dementia may not be able to retain new information and thus forget they have been told that we are in the midst of this crisis. Constantly trying to explain the current situation to someone living with dementia can cause stress not only for the person living with dementia, but also their family carers.

Service users are encouraged to take steps to look after their own health and well-being at this time. Keeping in contact with friends and families

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through telephone, FaceTime or Skype is important. Many calls into the Dementia Together helpline are for information on ways in which families can ensure that the person living with dementia is kept active mentally stimulated.

The Dementia Together helpline and navigators are giving lots of information on meaningful and creative activities such as reminiscence, music, dance, exercise, games, baking and many other activities that people can try. Watching films together can help too and trying to maintain a routine can be reassuring for someone living with dementia.

Current government guidelines are that people can go out for one walk a day as long as they keep a safe distance from others. Great for those fortunate to live in the countryside, however even in towns people can still get out into their gardens, perhaps for a walk around the garden, gardening, planting seeds, bird watching or simply enjoying the outdoors. We had a caller into the helpline who the navigator talked to as they were having a picnic in their garden summerhouse. The helpline have lots of information and ideas about activities that people can try at home.

Age is the biggest risk factor for dementia, however many younger people under 65 also develop dementia. In Suffolk we have a Younger Person’s Dementia Network specifically for people under 65 and their families.

This group normally meets around the county monthly on Sundays. Up until recently they have enjoyed taking part in various activities including foot golf, ceramic painting, visits to Museum of East Anglian Life and a visit from Bert’s Amazing Creatures. New and innovative and fun ways are being sought to continue with the network. Members will be taking part in a quiz through zoom.

For further information and support please contact the Dementia Together helpline on 08081 688 000 or email: SRYC.DementiaTogether@ nhs.net USEFUL LINKS Pathways Care Farm: https://tinyurl.com/rzcmsg3 BBC Reminiscence: https://tinyurl.com/s53xdgt Bird Watching: https://tinyurl.com/qr3bazv Exercises to do at home: https://tinyurl.com/vwqgf6x https://tinyurl.com/tmw87k8 Music in Our Bones: https://tinyurl.com/u3tj9kg Lead Navigator Judith Goldsmith

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

YOU CAN’T KEEP A GOOD THING DOWN! What do you do when the one thing you promote, the one thing you live for, disappears overnight?

between friends watching the performance and using messaging apps. I even had someone drink a virtual pint I’d left unattended.”

The team at Grapevine magazine live for live music, theatre and dance. When we all went into lockdown, not only did our raison d’être vanish, but along with it the livelihood of the musicians, lighting engineers, sound engineers, roadies, front of house staff, box office assistants and ushers, not to mention the future of the venues themselves.

More organised musicians have arranged regular slots to ensure a regular audience. Some are even doing online collaborations with their fellow band members. Some decide to go online when the mood takes them, which makes it a little difficult to add to a forward looking calendar. How these gigs make it to the internet varies depending on the tools available and the strength of the broadband link but some are available to watch afterwards so you can catch up.

Generally speaking musicians are tech savvy – you’d be surprised how many sound engineers moonlight as web designers. It wasn’t long before they invented the virtual gig, and Grapevine became the home of the Virtual Gig Guide.

In no way are these virtual gigs a substitute for the real thing but they help us keep in touch with the artists we would normally see each weekend. Such is the abundance of these live virtual gigs that choosing who to watch and when is bordering on an art form.

Grapevine’s Tony Bell says: “It became very obvious that everyone wanted to gig at 8pm on Saturday night so I’ve advised performers to spread their gigs out if they want to get seen. What I found particularly surreal at one gig, which was ‘attended’ by many friends, was the banter that took place

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Musicians all across the country have been spring cleaning their living rooms, kitchens and sheds so that their homes look neat and tidy when you tune in. Although one musician, who will remain nameless, broadcast from his loo… perhaps he was after the reverb effect from the tiling. Who knows!

Ingenious as we humans are, none of what we are doing in the virtual world can hold a candle to a live gig. We can’t do that so for now check out GrapevineLIVE, the home of The Virtual Gig Guide. www.grapevinelive.co.uk/virtual-gig-guide

In Touch Online

Rural Coffee Caravan is one of many charities which has transformed its service in response to current need. Their website is a great source of information and ideas and they have created this flyer which you can tape to a bin, pop in milk bottle, give to a supermarket worker or in fact any key worker. You can download it direct from: www.ruralcoffeecaravan.org.uk

Coronavirus in Suffolk Update

#Covid19Suffolk

For more information, visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

LOVE NHS INITIATIVE FROM BESTSELLING UNLIMITED TITLES AVAILABLE FOR ILLUSTRATOR MILLIE MAROTTA VIRTUAL BOOK GROUPS Suffolk Libraries is promoting its collections of unlimited use eBooks which would be ideal for anyone thinking of setting up virtual book groups.

Most library eBooks work like physical books in that individual copies can only be borrowed one at a time. Suffolk Libraries now has two new collections of 25 eBook titles with unlimited copies available for loan via the Overdrive service.

This means they can be borrowed by anyone with no waiting times and are ideal for book groups. There is a collection for adults and one for children and young adults.

Photo by Gareth Davies Photography

Bestselling colouring book illustrator Millie Marotta, author of Millie Marotta’s Animal Kingdom, has launched an initiative to get the nation colouring in to show appreciation for our NHS. Colouring has surged in popularity in recent years and many health professionals and organisations, including the NHS, have promoted colouring as a way to beat stress and anxiety.

In this time of crisis, many of us are feeling anxious. The Love NHS initiative offers a way to de-stress through the mindful activity of colouring in while celebrating our heroes working in the National Health Service.

Millie has kindly allowed us to provide the Love NHS illustration here but it’s also available as a download that can be printed at home: bit.ly/mmlovenhs Once coloured, the illustration can be posted on social media, put up in the window, used as a flag or be sent to a loved one.

Millie Marotta is a freelance illustrator working in her studio by the sea in a little corner of West Wales.

The adult collection includes a Tale for the Time being by Ruth Ozeki, How not to Be a Boy by Robert Webb and Life of Pi by Yann Martel. The collection for younger readers includes The House with Chicken Legs by Sophie Anderson, A Dog’s Life by Ann M Martin and It Only Happens in the Movies by Holly Bourne.

Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is also currently available as an unlimited eBook and eAudiobook and there is also a collection of eBook classics with multiple copies available.

There are also some unlimited use eAudiobooks available via the Borrowbox service. These include Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan, The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness, The Great Gatsby by Scott Fitzgerald and Wed Wabbit by Lissa Evans.

Some of our libraries are already setting up their own online book groups or discussions via their Facebook pages. The Reading Agency also provides lots of tips and information for anyone of thinking of setting up their own: www. readingagency.org.uk/resources/4327

A pioneer in the global colouring movement, Millie had been an illustrator long before she inked her first book. Millie’s intricate illustrations are inspired by a love of wildlife and fascination with the natural world. In 2015, Millie’s debut title Animal Kingdom (published by Batsford) spent a record 22 weeks as the official paperback non-fiction No.1. Since then she has published several colouring books and stationery products, which have been translated into over 30 languages. #LoveNHS

#ColourForOurCarers

@milliemarotta

IMAGINE THAT BOOK DROP Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity are thrilled to announce that Imagine That, a leading independent children’s publisher based in Woodbridge, have chosen us as their 2020 charity of the year. They are specifically fundraising for The Children’s Appeal at Ipswich Hospital.

Their programme of events for the year include book drops, wear yellow to work day and, when safe to do so, they will continue storytelling on the wards and have a bucket collection at Ipswich Town Football Club.

Recently the children’s department received many boxes of books for children of all ages who are isolating on the ward to read and enjoy.

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#LoveNHS #ColourForOurCarers @milliemarotta www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

Š Millie Marotta Ltd 19

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HOME, BUT NOT ALONE A new Suffolk-focused community service has been set up to support people who need help during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Called Home, But Not Alone, the service has been launched to help connect people who want to volunteer in their communities with neighbours who are most in need.

AN UPDATE FROM EAST ANGLIA’S CHILDREN’S HOSPICES (EACH) As of Tuesday 7 April What we are all facing is unprecedented. We know this is a very challenging and uncertain time for everyone. For EACH the financial impact is overwhelming.

With our shops closed and the vast majority of our supporters’ fundraising activities and our own events cancelled or postponed, our loss of income is expected to be around £1,800,000 in any 12-week block.

At the time of writing, we are hopeful there will be additional funding support from the government, but this alone will not be enough and we will still need help to bridge our income gap.

It is essential we all work together to slow down the spread of the coronavirus and shield the most vulnerable, which includes the children and young people who use our services. This has meant we have suspended our planned care activities in the hospices, such as short breaks and wellbeing therapies, wellbeing groups and events, face-to-face counselling, care of the child’s body after they have died as well as our Help at Home volunteering service.

At the moment our focus is on providing end-of-life care and bereavement support, working closely with the NHS to provide capacity to care for the sickest children and responding to urgent requests for care and support as best we can.

However, we need to be able to start offering our services in full as soon as it is safe to do so. We need the help of the public to make that happen.

We are not alone. Nearly every children’s hospice in the UK is in the same position. Unlike hospitals, we all rely on the generosity of our donors to fund our services. Last year just 13 percent of our income came from statutory sources.

Some good news we have had during this period is that all three of our hospices were rated ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission following inspections in January.

We are only able to provide outstanding care because of outstanding backing from the public and we are calling on our supporters to continue helping us where they can.

The service will mean willing volunteers, charities, town and parish councils, community and religious groups can all log their details and offers of support on an app, while people who need help can phone to request support.

As the number of offers and requests grows, they will be matched so that the right help can be given where it’s most needed. This support could include delivering groceries, medication or essential household goods, in line with government social distancing guidelines.

Download the free app, called Tribe Volunteer, from Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

The telephone number for those in genuine need of help is Freephone 0800 876 6926 and will be staffed from 9am to 5pm, seven days a week.

The Home, But Not Alone service was created by partners from Suffolk’s councils, police, health bodies and charitable organisations which come together as the Collaborative Communities Board.

Chrissie Geeson, the board chair, said: “In these challenging times, it has been incredibly heartening to have so many people volunteer to help others. In villages and towns across Suffolk, people have taken it upon themselves to mobilise a small army of volunteers to do what they can for people in need.

“The support service will encompass this work but will bring structure and routine to these offers of help. This is just the start of this new service, so we expect the number of offers and requests to grow.

People who want to help, or need help, should let us know and we will do the rest.

“It is testament to the hard work of all Suffolk organisations and sectors that we are able to offer this invaluable help.”

The telephone line is not a general information line for COVID-19 queries, but those in need can seek information on support with care needs, loneliness and to connect with community support.

This is a new service and will adapte to demand over the coming weeks. People are still being urged to check www.gov.uk for the latest guidance on a wide range of issues and changes caused by the COVID-19 outbreak.

We were delighted our emergency fundraising appeal received over £40,000 in the first six days. It has been heart-warming to see what people have been doing to help us at a time of such great challenge and difficulty for all, and we have been really impressed with people’s creativity to get fundraising activities done at home. Examples include a family riding from Land’s End to John o’ Groats on a cycling machine, a brother and sister running a marathon in their garden and a couple growing sunflowers for 12 weeks.

Together we can make sure that vital care and support is still available for the children, young people and their families who need us, during and beyond this challenging and uncertain time.

You can support us now by donating to our emergency appeal at: www. justgiving.com/campaign/each-covid19 Or visit www.each.org.uk/get-involved for more ideas about how to do your own fundraising. Our fundraising teams are working hard from home and would love to hear from you.

Thank you.

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In Touch Online

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

HELPFUL LINKS FOR FAMILIES AND VOLUNTEERS The team at Home-Start in Suffolk are dedicated to supporting the families and volunteers they work with and alongside other local charities working across the county they have been looking at a variety of ways to help us all navigate through this difficult and uncertain time following the outbreak of COVID-19.

This is just a small selection of their ideas, including ways to stay in touch and prevent loneliness, ideas to help you stay calm, educational links for children, creative ideas for keeping occupied, ways to keep fit whilst in isolation, simple recipes and much more.

You’ll find much at www.homestartinsuffolk.org/supportforfamilies which is updated daily.

COMMUNICATION Physical social distancing during COVID-19 is recommended but we all need human contact and here are some ways we can work together to support each other – preventing your family, friends, neighbours and communities feeling the effects of loneliness and total isolation from human interaction.

Whether you are tech savvy or not communication is key. From a simple telephone conversation to a video chat we can all stay in touch to avoid that feeling of being alone and isolated.

It’s Good To Talk You could post notes through to your neighbours. You may have spoken to each other over years or acknowledged each other in passing but telephone number exchange may not have been a priority at the time. Here’s a sample postcard you could use that several charities are sharing at the moment to exchange contact numbers.

Hello!

If you are self-isolating, I can help.

My name is I live locally at

Facebook Messenger also has the facility for you to video call your friends and family. You’ll even find instructional videos on YouTube.

Write a letter!

Try writing letters or sending handmade cards. Those family members you cannot see or visit will be delighted to receive a special note from you.

ACTIVITIES FOR YOU Look out for fun ways to get together with other people and do things, you could even start something yourself. It could be as simple as starting a book club with a handful of neighbours which meets online or over the phone (there are free online resources available: Project Gutenberg has a library of over 60,000 free eBooks, Kindle have an app you can use on any device and there are a few free titles available along with the option of Kindle Unlimited giving you access to 1000s of titles for a monthly fee. Audible offers a free 30-day trial for audio-books and have a variety of titles available for free including some children’s books too), join a singing group or take exercise classes online that are being organised for free.

Learn a new skill and complete an online course There are a huge number of free online courses that you could take on the Open University, a great way to broaden your horizons and keep busy during your time at home.

Why not take up a new hobby?

Try your hand at something new… knitting, art, photography, sign language, learn a new language… Search the internet if you have something in mind.

There are many options available.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Keep fit and active indoors even though the gym is closed or your walking or running group has had to suspend activities. If you have a Smart TV and Broadband you can access apps on there to practise a new daily exercise.

How about a form of yoga that suits you? Think about ways to keep fit during isolation.

Try the home fitness workout videos from NHS Fitness Studio: www.nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-fitness-studio

My phone number is If you are self-isolating due to COVID-19 I can help with: Picking up shopping

Posting mail

A friendly phone call

Urgent supplies

Just call or text me and I’ll do my best to help you (for free!)

Coronavirus is contagious. Please take every precaution to ensure you are spreading only kindness. Avoid physical contact (2m distance). Wash your hands regularly. Items should be left on your doorstep. # V i r a l K i n d n e s s

Sharing Information Consider setting up a community or friends phone tree to communicate via landline. Coordinate phone treeself-isolating, which includes a handful of your friends If ayou are I can help. and neighbours. These are a useful way of passing messages around small social networks but could be vital social contact for those stuck at home in My name is the weeks ahead.

Hello!

I live locally at A 10-minute check-in or friendly chat can make all the difference to help people feel less isolated. You’ll find a downloadable version here: My phone number is https://tinyurl.com/tqmh6fb If you are self-isolating due to COVID-19 I can help with: Virtual Visiting If you love the idea of video calls there are a number Picking up shopping Posting mail of options available to you for this, the easiest being WhatsApp. A free app you can use on your A friendly phone call to your Wi-FiUrgent supplies mobile phone which connects or mobile data to communicate.

Alternatively you could use ZOOM, there are a number offree!) options available Just call or text me and I’ll do my best to help you (for including FaceTime and Skype and a new app called HouseParty which allows you to group chat andPlease play games together too. to ensure you are Coronavirus is contagious. take every precaution spreading only kindness. Avoid physical contact (2m distance). Wash your

www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh hands regularly. Items should be left on your doorstep.

#ViralKindness

Take your pick from 24 instructor-led videos across aerobics exercise, strength and resistance, and Pilates and yoga categories.

The Body Coach Joe Wicks has been hosting daily PE classes for children but adults can join in too! Check out his YouTube channel. Alternatively there are number of fitness videos online that can accessed through social media, YouTube and other online services.

Tips on staying calm Stress and anxiety can stop the immune system from working so well, meaning we are more susceptible to catching any bugs or viruses, so it is essential now to be doing as much as possible to release stress. By remaining calm, we are more able to respond to developing situations more objectively rather than getting lost in a spiral of panic, fear and catastrophising thoughts.

Helen Wyre of Advance Hypnotherapy has uploaded some helpful videos to her Facebook page: Helen Wyer Advance Hypnotherapy The 30 day Coping Calendar on page 22 suggests 30 actions to look after ourselves as we face this global crisis together. Action for Happiness helps people take action for a happier and more caring world and their website offers ideas for taking care of ourselves and others: www.actionforhappiness.org Self-isolation posters could be useful to display to potential visitors and couriers of how exposure to Covid-19 could be detrimental to your health, and advising where to leave deliveries at your property. Chronically Awesome Tribe has produced a set of free downloads which you can access at: www.chronicallyawesome.org.uk

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In Touch Online

#StayAtHome DON'T QUIT

by John Greenleaf Whittier When things go wrong as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all up hill, When the funds are low and the debts are high And you want to smile, but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you down a bit, Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is strange with its twists and turns As every one of us sometimes learns And many a failure comes about When he might have won had he stuck it out; Don't give up though the pace seems slow You may succeed with another blow.

Success is failure turned inside out The silver tint of the clouds of doubt, And you never can tell just how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far; So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit It's when things seem worst that you must not quit.

LASTING POWER OF ATTORNEY In these difficult times in which we find ourselves, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) are a useful legal document which enables a person (called the Donor) to choose a person or people (called the Attorney(s)) who they would like to make decisions on their behalf. Below are some frequently asked questions relating to Powers of Attorney: What is Lasting Power of Attorney?

A LPA is the legal document which gives authority to the Attorney to make decisions on behalf of the Donor. The Attorney(s) must be trustworthy and have the ability to make property & financial and/or health & care decisions in the best interests of the Donor.

When would a LPA be used?

LPAs are equally as important as making a Will as they relate to decisions which need to be made during your lifetime.

Types of Lasting Power of Attorney There are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney: • Property & Financial Affairs: This allows the Attorney(s) to make decisions about and help the Donor in matters relating to their finances and property. Decisions covered could include selling the Donor’s home; operating and managing bank accounts; dealing with the Donor’s incomeand tax affairs. This type of LPA can be used before and after the onset of mental incapacity.

• Health & Welfare: This allows the Attorney(s) to make decisions about the Donor in matters relating to their health and care.

Decisions covered could include medical and healthcare treatments; where the Donor lives and day to day living such as the Donor’s diet and daily routine. This type of LPA can only be used if the Donor lacks mental capacity to make a decision.

Lasting Powers of Attorney must be registered at the Office of the Public Guardian before they can be used. This process takes a few weeks.

As the OPG processes take a few weeks, during these difficult times, I offer clients a General Power of Attorney (which can be used immediately after signing) and not need to wait for the registration process to be completed before they can be used.

What will happen if I don’t have an LPA and I am unable to manage my own affairs?

A person can only make an LPA if they understand the legal process.

If someone is unable to make their own decisions, their family or friends will need to make an application to the Court of Protection for a Deputyship Order. This process is more complicated; time consuming and expensive than making a Lasting Power of Attorney.

If you have any questions relating to Lasting Powers of Attorney or Wills, please get in touch.

Helen Algar

helen@suffolkwillservices.co.uk 07415 135449 / 01473 808499

WWW.SUFFOLKWILLSERVICES.CO.UK www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

RADIO TIMES

A short story by Derek Curry “Fantastic,” Ginger said, staring enviously at my radio, “can I hold it?”

I held it tighter against my chest. “No you can’t,” I said, “you’ll only drop it, or move the dial and lose the station.”

“No I won’t,” he insisted. “Go on, I just want a closer look. Is it brand new?”

“Of course it’s new.” I sighed and handed my beloved radio over as if it were a precious jewel - which of course it was, to me.

Prostate Cancer Awareness & Screening With Coronavirus swirling about us, all of a sudden there is an opportunity forced upon us to stop and think about what CHAPS has been doing and what the charity should be doing when this crisis abates.

Over the last few years CHAPS has continued to stage men’s health events across Essex and Suffolk, screening particularly for undiagnosed heart disease, diabetes, aortic aneurysms, skin cancer and prostate cancer (PCa).

We always detect unsuspected disease and our efforts are much appreciated by our attendees. CHAPS could of course carry on exactly the same once things return to normal but would this still represent the best use of our resources? We think not.

The area of clinical activity that has increased most for the charity has been screening for prostate cancer. This increase has been seen by other charities working in the same field and most likely reflects publicity given to stars such as Messrs Fry, Turnbull, and Stewart reporting their personal experiences, together with reports on the increasing prevalence of the disease – over 12,000 UK PCa deaths per year which now exceeds deaths from breast cancer.

Consequently we are running bespoke PCa screening events for an increasing number of organisations such as the Freemasons, Rotary and the Lions as well as major commercial infrastructure companies right across the UK. Whilst increased publicity is certainly helpful, there remains an alarming lack of knowledge amongst many, if not most, UK men about their prostate gland in general and awareness of PCa in particular. This is compounded by lack of a medical consensus on screening and only patchy provision of the simple PSA screening blood test by GPs. In many other western counties evidence built up over the last 30 years is now clearly demonstrating the benefit of properly organised PCa screening programmes that can halve a man’s risk of dying from this most unpleasant cancer. A consensus of international experts recommends that all men should start screening with PSA in their 40s especially men at high risk. These are: Men in their 40s with an initial PSA >1.0ng/ml or in their 50’s with a PSA > 2.0ng/ml.

Black men or mixed race men of African or Caribbean descent who carry a one in four lifetime risk of developing PCa. Men with a family history of PCa or breast cancer on the mother’s side where the risk rises rapidly with every affected family member.

Ginger slipped it into his shirt pocket, trying it for size. “So how do you turn it on then?” he asked, pulling it back out and fiddling with the dial.

“That’s it,” I said furiously, “now you’ve lost the station.” I snatched it back. “It took me nearly two months to save up for it and you treat it like a toy! It’s a Dansette RT66 for goodness sake, not some Hong Kong rubbish.”

We glared at each other but I couldn’t stay angry with Ginger for long. We’d been friends since our secondary school days and now, in 1962, we were teenagers and, at sixteen, we’d been holding down jobs for nearly a year.

“Look,” I said, “this is the on/off switch and volume, and this,” I turned the larger dial carefully until a voice sounded from the little speaker, “is where you tune it in.”

But something wasn’t quite right. It was only four o’clock and Alan Freeman should have been introducing Pick of the Pops after Movie Go-Round had ended, like on every Sunday. I was looking forward to listening to Ray Charles singing I Can’t Stop Loving You again.

What was coming out of the radio was some sort of news, which shouldn’t have been on until ten thirty. And the news didn’t sound right either; it was normally read by some posh man, but the voice was a woman’s and she didn’t sound particularly posh, just sort of normal.

Ginger and I glanced at each other in puzzlement and concentrated on what was being said: “Here is a summary of the news on Sunday June the 14th 2020. The Health Secretary announced earlier today that there would be a further easing of the self-isolating restrictions next week. In his statement he thanked the public for following government guidelines and staying at least two metres from other people for the last several weeks, saying that the self-discipline exhibited by U.K. citizens was what was defeating Covid-19, but that the discipline must continue.

“With the end of panic buying, retail outlets are now able to open at preCoronavirus times, with the usual restrictions on supermarkets’ Sunday opening. It is anticipated that there will continue to be a high demand for ‘click and collect’ in the future.

“The government expects continuing flare ups of the epidemic in some regions of the U.K., but the Health Secretary has assured the public that the NHS is ready and able to cope with any further emergencies while work on a vaccine continues.”

Remember, the NHS’s Prostate Cancer Risk Management Programme entitles men over 50 to a PSA test. All GPs have been sent the programme so don’t be put off; it is your entitlement. Early detection of PCa leads almost always to cure whereas late detection once the cancer has spread ends eventually in death. Currently 51 percent of UK men diagnosed with PCa are diagnosed with advanced disease and in nearly one in five it has already spread widely to other parts of the body.

The radio reception was fading so I turned the Dansette in various directions to try to improve it. As the volume dropped I turned it up and made tiny changes to the tuning but eventually the woman’s voice evaporated completely into the rushing sound of static.

The future role of CHAPS Charity will be determined by where we judge the greatest need to be. At present it is to achieve a substantial reduction in our unacceptable death rate from prostate cancer.

“I dunno,” I said. “Perhaps it was some sort of radio play. Anyway, it didn’t make any sense. What’s ‘self-isolating’ and who is Covid-19 when he’s at home? Perhaps it’s science fiction like in The Eagle or a Captain Marvel film.”

Whilst future screening events are postponed due to Coronavirus, keep in touch via our website or contact us directly by email to info@chaps.uk.com or phone 07873 541505, particularly if you would like more information on prostate cancer.

“Nah,” Ginger said, “I reckon there’s something wrong with that cheap old radio you bought.”

www.chaps.uk.com

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One more small adjustment and suddenly there was Alan Freeman introducing Pick of the Pops.

“What was that all about?” Ginger demanded.

I punched him playfully on the arm. “Jealously will get you no-where,” I said.

“Come on, never mind Coronavirus, let’s go and see if my mum’s got any Corona Dandelion and Burdock pop in the cupboard.”

In Touch Online

www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

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People in every community will face the challenges of Covid-19 in some way – from needing basic provisions to help while they are unwell.

Think of others, consider your actions & be kind

As self-isolation sel increases, we need to ďŹ nd new ways to stay connected and check in on one another for our physical and mental wellbeing.

Sha phone numbers Share and stay in touch.

Connect and reach out to your neighbours

Keep up to date, share information and be a positive part of your local community conversations.

Make the most of local online groups

Diierent groups in our communities are at increased risk and isol social isolation and loneliness are key concerns for all ages.

There are things you can do like volunteering for local support services or donating to ban to help. food banks

Support vulnerable or isolated people

Support anyone a who may be anxious about Covid-19. Sign post them to the correct advice from Public Health England and encourage people to foll follow the correct hygiene practices.

Share accurate information and advice

5 things you can do to make a positive diierence in your community

Community Action Response: Covid-19

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

KEEPING PEOPLE CONNECTED ActivLives is a small, grassroots charity which has been working in Ipswich and across Suffolk for 13 years, supporting and motivating people to improve their own health and well-being; keeping people connected with their communities to reduce social isolation and loneliness and providing access to learning, training and volunteering opportunities to enable people to gain skills and employment.

ActivLives normally provides a wide range of face to face activities and support including, community gardening, Men in Shed projects, singing and physical / sport activities such as walking football, Boccia, New Age Kurling, seated and standing OTAGO exercise, health walks and social activity. We also have specialist hubs for people living with dementia and their carers and for carers and former carers. These activities bring people together to enable them to meet and make new friends, build support networks in the community, volunteer and learn and share skills.

Unfortunately, we have had to close all our activities because of Coronavirus which has had a great impact on the organisation. However, we are a very flexible and resilient organisation with very passionate and dedicated staff and key volunteers who are currently keeping an eye on our gardens and exploring different ways so that we can keep in touch and support our members and volunteers while they are self-isolating at home.

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For those who have access to the internet we will, over the coming weeks, be posting a variety of videos that might interest not only our members, but also the general public who may not know about our organisation. We will have general information to support people through the lock down.

There are videos showing how to keep moving with seated and standing exercise for people to do safely at home with our lovely Step by Step instructor Jo. There are singing videos on our Facebook page with Gina, our amazing music facilitator who leads our community singing groups.

There are two quizzes each week, gardening videos will be coming from the ActivGardens team and a reminiscence arts project is being planned.

For those members and volunteers who cannot access the internet we are keeping in touch by phone and helping in whatever way we can.

That may be doing some shopping, collecting prescriptions, just having a weekly chat on the phone or setting up WhatsApp groups so members from our different groups can keep connected while the sessions are closed.

We hope that people who haven’t heard of us or don’t currently use our services across Suffolk will enjoy following our home page, joining in with our videos or finding the information we post useful during these unprecedented times. www.activlives.org.uk Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

In Touch Online

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

DON’T BECOME A VICTIM CRIMINALS ARE USING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC TO SCAM THE PUBLIC Law enforcement, government and private sectors partners are working together to encourage members of the public to be more vigilant against fraud, particularly about sharing their financial and personal information, as criminals seek to capitalise on the Covid-19 pandemic.

Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment.

Stop: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.

Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud*.

Your bank or the police will NEVER ask you to transfer money or move it to a safe account.

Criminals are targeting people looking to buy medical supplies online, sending emails offering fake medical support and scamming people who may be vulnerable or increasingly isolated at home. These frauds try to lure you in with offers that look too good to be true, such as high return investments and ‘healthcare opportunities’, or make appeals for you to support bogus charities or those who are ill.

Reports from the public have already included online shopping scams where people have ordered protective face masks, hand sanitiser, and other products, which have never arrived and a number of cases have been identified where fake testing kits have been offered for sale.

Criminals are also using government branding to try to trick people, including reports of using HMRC branding to make spurious offers of financial support through unsolicited emails, phone calls and text messages.

This situation is likely to continue, with criminals looking to exploit further consequences of the pandemic, such as exploiting financial concerns to ask for upfront fees for bogus loans, offering high-return investment scams, or targeting pensions.

Huge increases in the number of people working remotely mean that significantly more people will be vulnerable to computer service fraud where criminals will try and convince you to provide access to your computer or divulge your logon details and passwords. It is also anticipated that there will be a surge in phishing scams or calls claiming to be from government departments offering grants, tax rebates, or compensation.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

Please see below for more information on the most common COVID-19 frauds and the steps you can take to keep yourself safe.

Online Shopping and Auction Fraud More people may fall victim to #onlineshopping fraud as they self-isolate due to #COVID19. You are a victim of online shopping fraud if you buy goods from an online seller that never arrive.

Computer Software Service Fraud As more people work from home due to #COVID19, fraudsters may capitalise on slow networks and IT problems, to commit computer software service fraud. Be wary of cold calls or unsolicited emails offering you help with your device or to fix a problem Lender Loan Fraud People may be worrying about their finances during the #COVID19 outbreak. Lender loan fraudsters will use the opportunity to: • approve your application for a fast loan regardless of your credit history • ask you to pay an upfront fee • take your payment and never provide the loan Pension Liberation Fraud and Investment Fraud Fraudsters could try to take advantage of the financial uncertainty surrounding #COVID19 by offering people sham investment opportunities.

If you get a cold call or unsolicited email offering you a deal that sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Mandate Fraud As more people work from home due to #COVID19, fraudsters may try to get you to change a direct debit, standing order or bank transfer mandate, to divert funds to their bank account, by purporting to be an organisation you make regular payments to.

Phishing A number of #COVID19 related phishing emails have been reported to Action Fraud. These emails attempt to trick you into opening malicious attachments which could lead to fraudsters stealing your personal information, logins, passwords, or banking details.

As of March 26, the government has only sent one text message to the public regarding new rules about staying at home to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Any others claiming to be from UK Government are false.

“Criminals are able to use spoofing technology to send texts and emails impersonating organisations that you know and trust. We would remind anyone who receives an unexpected text or email asking for personal or financial details not click on the links or attachments, and don’t respond to any messages that ask for your personal or financial details.”

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Use your calendar to record your daily kindness acts.

month Monday

year Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Congratulations

Saturday

Being kind sends a powerful message about our connections to each other and the world around us.

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Sunday

The British Red Cross Society, incorporated by Royal Charter 1908, is a charity registered in England and Wales (220949), Scotland (SC037738) and Isle of Man (0752). Illustrations: Š Sara Chew/BRC. BRC18-303

The power of kindness calendar

In Touch Online

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

BRAIN TEASERS FOR CHILDREN (AND ADULTS) RIDDLES It’s time to get your thinking caps on. You’ll find the answers on page 41 but no peeking!

1: What’s bright orange with green on top and sounds like a parrot?

2: What’s really easy to get into, and hard to get out of?

FIND THE WORDS Including two letter words, there are 250 words hidden in ‘Chocolate Ice Cream’.

‘Ceramic’ is one to get you started but you may want to get the entire family involved!

3: What word contains 26 letters, but only has three syllables?

4: A girl fell off a 20-foot ladder. She wasn’t hurt. Why? 5: What has lots of eyes, but can’t see?

Say the colour of each word!

6: I am often following you and copying your every move.

Yet you can never touch me or catch me. What am I? 7: Grandpa went out for a walk and it started to rain. He didn’t

bring an umbrella or a hat. His clothes got soaked, but not a hair

on his head was wet. How is this possible?

8: I add lots of flavour and have many layers, but if you get to

close I’ll make you cry. What am I? 9: What has legs, but doesn’t walk?

10: You see me once in June, twice in November, but not at all

in May. What am I? Use the Egyptian alphabet to write your name or share it with your best friend and use it to write coded messages!

Parents you could use this to create clues for a treasure hunt.

www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

SARABAND SNAPS UP IAN MAITLAND THRILLER spine 22 mm

IAIN MAITLAND

Indie publisher Saraband has signed Felixstowe-based mental health author Iain Maitland for a thriller about unsolved murders of LGBTQ+ victims.

MURDERS 1981-

The Scribbler will be published under Saraband’s crime, mystery and noir fiction imprint Contraband on 12 May.

They thought the killer was long gone...

IAIN

MAITLAND “Brilliantly creepy.”

BARBARA NADEL

In The Scribbler, newly qualified DC Carrie and her much more experienced colleague DI Gayther are the unlikely pairing tasked with investigating a series of cold cases, specifically unsolved murders of LGBTQ+ victims. “Back in the Eighties, these had not been considered a priority for police resources,” Saraband said.

“But times have changed and so has the whole matter of how policing is done.

Gayther may trust his old-style hunches, but DC Carrie favours technologydriven, algorithm-based methods.”

Hunt said: “Iain Maitland has a dark, original and chilling imagination and an uncanny ability to write disturbed characters whilst wrong-footing the reader along the way. He finds brilliant stories in the neglected corners of crime and punishment and keeps us uncomfortably glued to the pages as the tension escalates.”

Maitland is the author of the thriller Sweet William (2017) and Mr Todd’s Reckoning (2019), both published by Saraband, as well as two non-fiction books on mental health: Dear Michael, Love Dad (2016, Hodder & Stoughton) and Out of the Madhouse (2018, Jessica Kingsley Publishers).

An ambassador for Stem4, the teenage mental health charity, he also speaks on mental health issues in the workplace.

AN EXCLUSIVE EXTRACT FROM THE SCRIBBLER Newly qualified Detective Constable Georgia Carrie walked slowly up the steps of the temporary portacabin office to the side of the main police station building, balancing two full mugs of tea, one in each hand. She stopped to read the sign, ‘DI Gayther, Cold Cases’ and the handwritten scrawl above it, ‘LGBTQ+’. She put the mugs down on the top step to open the door and then paused for a moment, thinking what she might say.

“When was this…?

She opened the door. Picked up the mugs. Stepped inside. The older man, in his battered grey suit and brown loafers, looked up as the young woman put the mugs of tea on the desk. One on his side, the other on hers. He smiled briefly and nodded his thanks. She went to say her opening words, “Good to see you again, sir”, but as she did so, he turned the papers he was reading round so they were facing her on the desk. Old man in a hurry, she thought.

“He is described as white British and would now be in his fifties.”

“Read this, Carrie,” he said abruptly, pushing two sheets of A4 paper across towards her.

She took the sheets and sat down at the desk and began reading the first one. He picked up his mug of tea and swung round on his chair, his back to her, looking out of the window towards the back of the main building and what looked like a building site. The police station was being renovated. Ladders, pots and paints and stacked-up scaffolding seemed to fill the whole space. It was a mess. He hated mess.

“Still At Large,” she read the front page headline of the local newspaper out loud, “The Scribbler.”

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“Two years ago. Thirtieth anniversary of the first killing,” he replied. He gestured towards the two sheets and she carried on reading without speaking.

“Police are still searching for The Scribbler, the serial killer who murdered six people in Norfolk between 1988 and 1990.”

“The first victim was Donald Worthington, a 53-year-old abattoir supervisor.”

“The second victim was 42-year-old office clerk Andrew Marven.”

“The other four victims, middle-aged men from the Norwich area, were found dead in the summer and autumn of 1990.”

“Police believe The Scribbler may have killed twelve men in total.”

She wasn’t sure who to ask about first, but this was one of an endless stream of cold cases they’d be looking at over the coming days, so she decided to come straight to the point.

“And so … ” she said, “why are we looking at this case again now? First of all?”

“Because he’s back, Carrie. The Scribbler is back.”

Iain Maitland

In Touch Online

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

HERE TOGETHER: TODAY & TOMORROW St Elizabeth Hospice launches urgent appeal for support While preparing to cope with the impact of Coronavirus on its end of life care and bereavement services over the coming weeks, St Elizabeth Hospice has launched an urgent appeal to the public to support their local hospice in light of all fundraising events being postponed and all 31 retail shops closing.

The clinical staff at St Elizabeth are working in partnership with the NHS and partners at speed to significantly expand our services both in the community and at the hospice in response to Coronavirus, whilst continuing to care for patients with non-Covid end of life and palliative care needs.

A new rapid response co-ordination centre has been created in the past week to cope with the expected increase in demand for clinical advice and end of life care in the community, doubling the capacity of the hospice’s existing OneCall telephone advice helpline.

Last year, the hospice cared for over 3,000 Suffolk patients and their families at a cost of £10.5m, of which 75% was raised by the community through the shops and local fundraising – income-generating activities which are now impossible due to social distancing and self-isolation.

Chief Executive Ru Watkins has called on the local community to support the hospice’s new Here Together appeal to highlight the role of St Elizabeth at the clinical frontline of the current pandemic and to make sure that its end of life care can continue unaffected when the crisis is over: “Every family who has come into contact with our consultants, doctors, nurses, carers and volunteers over the years knows how dedicated they are to our local community. We are still here with our patients delivering the care they need today so ask everyone to support our efforts together.”

With all fundraising events postponed or cancelled, many supporters are looking for alternative ways to support the hospice. As local supporter Wendy Goddard says: “St Elizabeth Hospice was there for me and my family when my daughter Zoe sadly passed away and their support was outstanding. Last month I was due to hold a charity night for 300 people to raise funds to support the hospice but sadly this has had to be postponed. I would ask you to do what you can in this time of need to support our local hospice together.”

The Here Together appeal is being launched across the hospice’s social media platforms to raise awareness of St Elizabeth’s frontline role in continuing to care for some of Suffolk’s most vulnerable patients throughout the pandemic and our shared commitment as a community to protecting its vital services today and tomorrow.

#SaveLives

COMMUNITY ACTION SUFFOLK SUPPORTING VOLUNTEERS, COMMUNITIES & ORGANISATIONS DURING COVID-19 As we all make our way through these uncertain times, Community Action Suffolk (CAS) is continuing to support organisations and volunteers to deliver vital services in communities. Not only are organisations across Suffolk continuing their usual services wherever possible, but there is also an incredible rise in activity with many organisations changing and adding to their offer to meet the huge rise in demand. Alongside this, the surge in people wanting to do whatever they can, however big or small, to care for others is truly heart-warming.

CAS has been involved in supporting a whole range of groups and ‘movements’ to promote themselves and encourage others to follow suit in recent weeks.

Many of these spring from individuals who simply want to show they care to those in close proximity to them, from ‘Backyard Buddies’ and ‘Tear down the Fence’ initiatives, to groups of residents setting up ‘Emergency Response’ schemes akin to Good Neighbour Schemes. It is important to ensure that this is done in a supported and safe manner so CAS has produced a suite of new resources and guides to help with this which can be found on the website (details below).

In addition to work with local groups and organisations, CAS is also supporting various campaigns to recruit and support volunteers. The Suffolk Collaborative Communities Board, made up of key strategic partners from across the county including CAS, has recently launched the Tribe Volunteer app specifically to recruit volunteers during the pandemic in Suffolk alongside an accompanying telephone helpline for those in need of support. Volunteer Suffolk, the county’s volunteer brokerage portal for organisations that need volunteers is also still going strong.

If you would like to volunteer during Covid-19, or need to recruit volunteers for your organisation, click ‘I want to Volunteer’ on the homepage of the CAS website for more information on both these portals.

Suffolk’s business and voluntary sector community are also being encouraged to come together as part of a county-wide campaign to help more organisations deliver their important work throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. Volunteering Matters and Community Action Suffolk are collectively calling for charities, groups and social enterprises to let them know of their specific ‘need’ at this critical time, and for business leaders to step forward with help in areas such as planning, IT, legal advice, logistics and media relations. Businesses are encouraged to list how they would like to help. They can do so by completing the survey at: www.volunteeringmatters. org.uk/what-we-do/support-us/working-together While all this is going on, CAS still has another ‘day job’ to do – to continue supporting the already established voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations in Suffolk to stay operational, safe, well governed and as financially resilient as they can. We are continuously lobbying national government with the support of national partners to make provision for those on the ground carrying out activities. We cannot emphasise enough how important these groups and organisations are at this time and you too can help by showing your support on social media using #EveryDayCounts.

Or call the hospice on: 01473 723600

This is a challenging time for every Suffolk resident, but at CAS we never cease to be amazed by the dedication, commitment and kindness that Suffolk residents show on a daily basis, and we are so proud to be able to help our voluntary, community and social enterprise sector play their part. Stay safe, support each other, and keep going Suffolk, you are all incredible!

To find out how to get involved or fundraise for us, please contact your hospice community fundraiser, Fiona Gin: fiona.ginn@stelizabethhospice.org.uk / 07740 405764

For more information on anything Community Action Suffolk is doing, or to contact us, visit www.communityactionsuffolk.org.uk or follow @CASuffolk on Twitter.

To donate to the appeal, visit the hospice Just Giving appeal page: www.justgiving.com/campaign/SEHCoronavirusAppeal

Hannah Reid, Director of Innovation & Business Development

www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

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Photo courtesy: www.suffolkyoga.com

We all know physical activity is essential for both our physical and mental wellbeing and never has this been more important than during these difficult times of social distancing and isolation.

Here at In Touch, we are delighted to have joined forces with Public Health Suffolk and the Most Active County Partnership as a partner for the recently launched, Keep Moving Suffolk campaign.

Over the coming weeks and months there will be information, advice and useful links on the Keep Moving Suffolk website www.keepmovingsuffolk.com to help you, your family and local community to get active and stay active during these challenging times.

The website, has a range of resources, tips, tutorials and information to support you to exercise outside and inside the home, as well as resources specifically for older people and for children. It also includes information on taking care of mental health and where to get advice if people have long-term health conditions.

We would love to hear how you’re keeping active so why not film and post a 10-15 second clip of you and/or your family being active with the message – “Keep Moving Suffolk” on social media and use the hashtags #keepmovingsuffolk and #StayInWorkOut.

Dr Craig Sheridan, a practising doctor and sport and exercise medicine specialist working on the frontline at Ipswich Hospital in the fight against the pandemic, has been involved in helping to get the Keep Moving Suffolk resource off the ground: “During this difficult time it is important for us all to stay mentally and physically healthy.

“Exercise is an important way to improve mental wellbeing and is recognised to be positive in managing depression in older adults as well as improving sleep, feelings of fatigue and quality of life. Improvements in our cardiorespiratory health can happen within a few weeks of commencing regular, moderate intensity exercise and regular physical activity reduces the risks and complications of many diseases and infection.”

Dr Sheridan added: “for those who are currently free from Covid-19 symptoms, there are clear benefits to starting or continuing to exercise whilst in social isolation.

“It is important to note that strenuous exercise is not advisable for those with symptoms of infection, particularly with a fever.”

www.keepmovingsuffolk.com @keepmovingsuffolk 32

@keepmovingsuffolk

@Most_Active In Touch Online

#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

SUFFOLK LIBRARIES GOES ONLINE AND INTERACTIVE TO KEEP PEOPLE STIMULATED AND ENTERTAINED

Although library buildings across the country are currently closed, Suffolk Libraries is making sure that people stuck at home can still get access to books, music, films as well as new interactive streamed sessions.

Several libraries have already been recording and streaming live singing and rhyme sessions for young children, as well as running craft and Lego activities to enjoy at home. These videos have already been enjoyed and shared thousands of times. Quizzes and virtual book groups are also being introduced as Suffolk Libraries explores different ways to keep people entertained. Full details of these new sessions can be found at: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk (go to ‘online and streamed events’) Suffolk Libraries is also promoting its extensive eLibrary which provides free access to around 60,000 titles including eBooks, eAudiobooks, online newspapers, magazines, music, films and educational courses. There is plenty of content for families too with books on how to make crafts, eAudiobooks for children and Kanopy Kids which offers free streaming of programmes and movies.

Extra content is being added to cope with the significant increase in demand with around a 200 percent increase in people using the eLibrary and streaming services over the past week. Visits to the Suffolk Libraries eLibrary webpages increased from nearly 2,000 to over 9,000 in just one week at the end of March.

If you’ve not already signed up to use this service you can do so online at: suffolklibraries.co.uk/elibrary Bruce Leeke, Chief Executive of Suffolk Libraries, said: “It’s a very challenging time for everyone at the moment and with library buildings closed we’re doing everything we can to provide content, information and entertainment. We’re working on plans to keep in contact with regular customers who might be isolated but we’re delighted that so many of our wonderful staff have risen to the challenge to run online activities which will hopefully make a difference to people across the county.”

Home Library Service volunteers have also been encouraged to stay in touch with their customers too.

Suffolk Libraries is also helping to promote Suffolk’s new Home, but not alone scheme. People can call 0800 876 6926 for information or support during the current crisis.

Wash your hands of coronavirus scams!

Friends Against Scams aims to protect and prevent people from becoming victims of scams.

Be aware of people offering or selling:

Protect yourself and others:

Virus testing kits - these are only offered by NHS.

Don’t be rushed into making a decision. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.

Vaccines or miracle cures – there is currently no vaccine or cure.

Only purchase goods from legitimate retailers and take a moment to think before parting with money or personal information.

Overpriced or fake goods to protect yourself from coronavirus such as anti-bacterial products.

Shopping or medication collection services.

Home cleaning services.

Don’t assume everyone is genuine. It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

If someone claims to represent a charity, ask them for ID. Be suspicious of requests for money up front. If someone attempts to pressurise you into accepting a service they are unlikely to be genuine. Check with family and friends before accepting offers of help if you are unsure.

Be a good friend, help to protect your family, friends and neighbours from scams.

Read it.

Share it.

Prevent it. #Coronavirus #ScamAware

Contact For advice on scams call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 223 11 33 To report a scam call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 Contact your bank if you think you have been scammed.

To learn more about the different types of scams visit www.FriendsAgainstScams.org.uk www.keepingintouchwith.com/hadleigh

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#StayAtHome #ProtectTheNHS

#SaveLives

ALMOST LOST IN TRANSLATION A short story by Beryl P. Brown The flea market was rammed. Mid-morning sun blazed on the hordes of people forging paths to the stalls and traders. Some attempted to worm deeper into the market, certain that better bargains were to be had in the further reaches. Tourists, too hot, too overcome by the tide of humanity that, good-natured though it was, seemed a threat, pushed their way to the exit and their tour buses.

lucky rabbit bag would be lost forever.

This was my favourite place; I made sure I was here every Sunday morning. I loved the crush, the noise, the smell – not, as someone who had never been to a Parisian flea market would assume, predominantly garlic, but a mixture of perfume, exotic oils, street food and coffee.

My words seemed to flow through the crowd like a Mexican Wave as the message was passed on. I held my breath and squinted into the sunlight, but the white hair reached the place where the road dipped again and the man disappeared.

There has to be an exception to every rule and, as I was soaking up the ambience, a man caught my elbow and breathed the reek of garlic into my face. I swung away, ducking behind a large German tourist shouting into his phone and smelling of suntan oil. The German apologised as his shoulder knocked into my bag. I lifted a hand in response and pushed on towards the stall that sold the best coffee in Paris.

I was swept along, tears stinging, I didn’t care where I ended up.

I was sipping my espresso when I noticed a man hovering at the edge of the crowd letting people flow past him. This was odd; no one gave way here. It was the garlic breath man, I remembered him not just for his breath, but because of the white hair that hung down to his shoulders.

I drained the little cup, thanked the stallholder in my appalling French – I really should take lessons – and slipped into the crowd. Glancing behind me, I saw the white haired man scanning around. I slid quickly in front of a pair of tall teenage boys before dodging around an elegant French woman enveloped in a cloud of Chanel.

I walked on for several minutes, weaving my way through until the sound of a tolling church bell let me know that I was about halfway along the road that was completely taken over by the market every Sunday.

The crowd had thinned for a second and, relaxing, I was enjoying the space when something thudded into my back. I was thrust forward and felt my bag being ripped from my hand.

‘NO,’ I yelled, staggering to keep my balance. I raised my head in time to see the white haired man elbowing through the crowd, the straps of my rabbit bag clutched in his fist.

I couldn’t lose that bag; it was my most important possession. The red rabbit appliqued to the flap was my good luck charm and it went everywhere with me.

‘Thief,’ I yelled.

Stupid, I told myself, as a few people looked at me curiously.

‘Voleur.’ I screamed.

People turned, I could see the man’s head above the crowd but he was disappearing fast.

To my eternal embarrassment, I then shouted. ‘Le homme avec le cheveaux blanc est un voleur.’

I’d got attention. People scanned around but then shrugged and stared at me.

What was the matter with them?

The man was vanishing into the crowd when it struck me that I’d said the thief was a man with white horses! Why hadn’t I learned French properly? My

The crowd ahead was thick now but, beyond the church, the road rose slightly and I could just spot the white hair in the far distance.

That subway scene in Crocodile Dundee came back to me, and I screamed, ‘Le sac avec le lapin rouge.’

Someone tapped me on the shoulder and pointed. Miraculously, my bag was being passed back through the people.

When it reached me, I hugged it to my chest and shouted, ‘Merci mes amis.’

As soon as I could, I fought my way aside and found an alleyway where I could escape and have privacy to check my bag.

I unzipped it. It was packed with wallets, purses and mobile phones. I lifted out a wallet and opened it. Stuffed with Euros. The picture of the big German tourist grinned at me from its plastic window.

A leather purse wafted expensive perfume as I flipped through the plastic cards.

Two of the mobiles had macho cases – the type teenage lads carried. They’d have learnt a hard lesson about hanging on to their belongings in a crowd.

At the end of the alleyway I threw the empty wallets, purses and phone cases into a waste bin and swung the bag over my shoulder. The lucky rabbit had done its job, but I’d need to think hard about next Sunday. The robber nearly robbed; I could be losing my touch. passed on. I held my breath and squinted into the sunlight, but the white hair reached the place where the road dipped again and the man disappeared.

I was swept along, tears stinging, I didn’t care where I ended up.

Someone tapped me on the shoulder and pointed. Miraculously, my bag was being passed back through the people.

When it reached me, I hugged it to my chest and shouted, ‘Merci mes amis.’

As soon as I could, I fought my way aside and found an alleyway where I could escape and have privacy to check my bag.

I unzipped it. It was packed with wallets, purses and mobile phones. I lifted out a wallet and opened it. Stuffed with Euros. The picture of the big German tourist grinned at me from its plastic window.

A leather purse wafted expensive perfume as I flipped through the plastic cards. Two of the mobiles had macho cases – the type teenage lads carried.

They’d have learnt a hard lesson about hanging on to their belongings in a crowd.

At the end of the alleyway I threw the empty wallets, purses and phone cases into a waste bin and swung the bag over my shoulder. The lucky rabbit had done its job, but I’d need to think hard about next Sunday. The robber nearly robbed; I could be losing my touch.

Beryl P. Brown lives in Manningtree. Many of her short stories have been published and frequently enjoy competition success.

Her debut novel, May’s Boys: a boy wants a mother, a woman wants a son… was published in February and is available in print and e-format from booksellers and online suppliers.

For further details detrails visit: www.berylpbrown.uk

Answers to the riddles on page 29 1: Carrot; 2: Trouble; 3: Alphabet; 4: She fell off the bottom step; 5: A potato; 6: My shadow; 7: Grandpa was bald; 8: An onion; 9: A table; 10: The letter ‘e’

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