Respect Magazine by Shannon Noy

Respect A Lottery Funded Project

Vol. 1 Issue 1

Putting Families First

Food on a Budget Tips on how to shop for your groceries on a tight budget.

Family Fun

Cheap or Free events in and around Ipswich for the family.

RESPECT

The progress of our first two years.

What’s Next

New Cooperatives and coming events and how to get involved.

respect, education, support, praise = community trust

contents Introduction 4 What is The RESPECT Project? What were our goals as we set out on this journey?

Health 6 The Power of Mediation. In this article we focus on the positive effects of mediation and what it can add to your life, from revealing stress to enriching creativity.

Budget 10 Living on a budget can be tough, especially with shopping for food. In Eating Well on a Budget offers ideas to save money as you shop!

Cooperatives 14 The RESPECT Project offers many ways to spread help to others in need. In Spreading the Respect, we highlight some of our most outstanding Co-operatives under The RESPECT Project umbrella! Flowers in bloom at Broomhill. Check out “Cheap Day out in Ipswich” for family fun!

Inspiration 16

Food 20

Moving to a new country can be a daunting, but an exciting moment in someone’s life. It can be quite life changing. In The Sun is in My Heart touches base with a personal journey.

In Reusable Food we highlight a recipe for Chicken Noodle Soup that can be easily reused for leftover dinners for the following few days.

Resolutions 18 Having trouble staying a diet? Made a New Year Resolution to stay fit and can’t seem to drop the bad habits? Could these issues be your source of trouble?

Volunteering 24 In Volunteering Matters the article touches on how volunteering isn’t just about just doing something with your time, but also how it feels to help others and helping yourself!

Vol. 1 Issue 1

Local 34 Cheap or Free events within and around the Ipswich area for families and children including parks and museums with a few ideas on how to spend your time out. Included are some helpful links for those with internet access.

Networking 38 Conquering issues on your own can be a lonely business. Why not connect to others that understand? That’s what this Sickle Cell mum did and the result is amazing! You can only gain Strength in Numbers!

What’s Next

A list of some of our upcoming events in The RESPECT Project.

Partners 42 We thank our partners to The RESPECT Project. For without you, we couldn’t provide the help that is so desperately needed. Photo Credit: Shannon Noy

Respect

Gallery 26 Four pages of photo collages that highlight our journey as a project with fun events, times of joy and even the launch of our co-ops!

respect, education, support, praise = community trust

The RESPECT Project Coordinator Tonia Wilson

Project Title Paula Fretwell

Case Studies

Our first two years in The RESPECT Project with our goals and what we were able to accomplish within that time frame.

Project Title

Claudia Parrino

Designer / Editor

Shannon Noy / SLW Design

A Lottery Funded Project

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

introduction

THE RESPECT PROJECT

The RESPECT Project was developed to provide vulnerable and disadvantaged families considered ‘at risk’ with support that has promoted positive relationships and stable family structure through learning together and regular and consistent mentoring by volunteers. The project has had particular emphasis on young mothers vulnerable to exploitation, fathers needing positive development to become good role models and assisting families to access services including migrant families and those who have language barriers. Beneficiaries are at risk families who are troubled for numerous reasons including children’s non-attendance at school and/or in pupil referrals units, generational unemployment, immigrant status, domestic abuse, sexual exploitation, criminal activity and being in social care. The project aims to prove that early intervention, reaching families with very young children and a whole family approach are the best methods for long term results building the resilience of these families in times of crisis. The RESPECT project provides dad’s groups, parent co-operatives, women’s empowerment training (Freedom and domestic abuse) and mentor support. Beneficiaries’ progress are tracked through individual development plans with personal and family goals agreed with Volunteering Matters staff and mentors. The project has been designed to appeal to those who do not access mainstream parenting provision and a three year funding period has been chosen as beneficiaries have multiple issues within the family and in order for these to be addressed it takes time to build confidence and regular, consistent contact with a matched volunteer family mentor. The RESPECT project has developed this magazine to showcase our work, give advice and ideas. We hope you find this information useful. Many Thanks, The RESPECT Project Team

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

THE POWER OF MEDITATION By Shannon Noy

For thousands of years, mediators have claimed many benefits of the practice of mediation. Through my own experience of regular practice of meditation, I have found it a very effective treatment for stress, worry and lack of focus. Meditation is also known to help others with addiction and many other ailments. Meditation can lead to peace of mind, well-being, and greater focus, along with creativity and better relationships. Scientists are now finding evidence supporting many of those claims. STRESS Mindfulness meditation activates the ‘REST AND DIGEST’ part of our nervous system HELPING with stress management.

health

CREATIVITY Research has found meditation to promote ‘DIVERGENT THINKING’ a type of thinking that allows many new ideas to be generated. FOCUS Researchers have found that, compared with the people who didn’t meditate, ‘those trained in meditation STAYED ON TASKS LONGER and made FEWER TASK SWITCHES’. ANXIETY Research from 163 DIFFERENT STUDIES suggested that mindfulness-meditation practice had an overall POSITIVE EFFECT on improving anxiety and stress. ALSO research in people with clinical levels of anxiety has found that 90% experienced SIGNIFICANT REDUCTIONS in anxiety. RELATIONSHIPS Research with MARRIED COUPLES has found that increased mindfulness through meditation IMPROVED marital quality and communication. Meditation can IMPROVE RELATIONSHIPS with everyone you meet. You become MORE COMFORTABLE WITH YOURSELF, which makes it easier for others to get on with you, and you find it easier to accept them as they are.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

If you are interested in starting a meditation routine but lack a budget, here is a free class in the area. Free Meditation & Yoga The Oddfellows Hall 37 High Street, Ipswich IP1 3QH Thursdays 7:30 PM If you are interested in starting a meditation routine, but rather stay in the comfort of your home, here are some tips to help you get started. Concentration meditation A concentrative meditation technique involves focusing on a single point. This could entail watching the breath, repeating a single word or mantra, staring at a candle flame, listening to a repetitive gong or counting beads on a rosary. Since focusing the mind is challenging, a beginner might meditate for only a few minutes and then work up to longer durations. In this form of meditation, you simply refocus your awareness on the chosen object of attention each time you notice your mind wandering. Rather than pursuing random thoughts, you simply let them go. Through this process, your ability to concentrate improves. Mindfulness meditation

health

Mindfulness meditation technique encourages the practitioner to observe wandering thoughts as they drift through the mind. The intention is not to get involved with the thoughts or to judge them, but simply to be aware of each mental note as it arises. Through mindfulness meditation, you can see how your thoughts and feelings tend to move in particular patterns. Over time, you can become more aware of the human tendency to quickly judge experience as “good” or “bad” (“pleasant” or “unpleasant”). With practice, an inner balance develops. In some schools of meditation, students practice a combination of concentration and mindfulness. Many disciplines call for stillness — to a greater or lesser degree, depending on the teacher. Other meditation techniques There are various other meditation techniques. For example, a daily meditation practice among Buddhist monks focuses directly on the cultivation of compassion. This involves envisioning negative events and recasting them in a positive light by transforming them through compassion. There are also moving meditations techniques, such as tai chi, chi kung and walking meditation.

How to meditate: Simple meditation for beginners This meditation exercise is an excellent introduction to meditation techniques. 1. Sit or lie comfortably. 2. Close your eyes. 3. Make no effort to control the breath; simply breathe naturally. 4. Focus your attention on the breath and on how the body moves with each inhalation and exhalation. Notice the movement of your body as you breathe. Observe your chest, shoulders, rib cage and belly. Make no effort to control your breath; simply focus your attention. If your mind wanders, simply return your focus back to your breath. Maintain this meditation practice for 2–3 minutes to start, and then try it for longer periods.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

EATING WELL ON A BUDGET

With the price of food on the increase eating well can be a challenge for many families. Can you eat healthily and save money? You bet your bottom dollar you can! Here are some tips to help you have your (low-fat) cake and eat it. 1. Write a shopping list Draw up a weekly meal plan, incorporating ingredients you already have, write a shopping list and stick to it. Don’t be swayed by impulse purchases or special offers, just buy what you need. Try not to shop when hungry. Studies show that people who shop when hungry are more likely to spend more, especially on less healthy foods, such as high-fat and sugary snacks.

budget

2. Waste nothing The average family with children throws away almost £60 of good food every month, according to Love Food Hate Waste (LFHW). Plan your meals so that all ingredients on your list get used and that includes fresh herbs like basil or parsley. If necessary, freeze any unused food. 3. Eat leftovers for lunch Cooking extra portions for your evening meal so that you can have the leftovers for lunch the next day saves time and money, and can be a healthier option than the traditional “mayo-laden sandwich, crisps and soft drink desk-lunch” option. Any extra portions can be frozen for another day. Eventually, you’ll have a freezer full of homemade ready meals on tap. 4. Buy frozen Frozen fruit and vegetables are underrated. They come pre-chopped and ready to use, are just as good for you just as long as you try to avoid those with added salt, sugar or fat. They are often cheaper than fresh varieties. Frozen vegetables are picked at the peak of freshness and then frozen to seal in their nutrients. 5. Trade down You could cut 30% off your shopping bill by buying cheaper brands than you normally do, according to Money Saving Expert – that’s a potential saving of over £1,500 a year on a family’s £100 weekly shop. Give it a go and let your taste buds be the judge, not the shiny label. 6. Meat Free Nights Have one or two meat-free days a week. Fish is very healthy and you can

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

poach, bake and steam it. A vegetable casserole is another good meal. You can always use leftovers from a previous night to make a casserole. 7.

Cook with pulses

Pulses, such as beans, lentils and peas, are some of the cheapest foods on the supermarket shelf. These pulses are low in calories and fat but packed with fiber, vitamins and minerals and also count towards your 5 A DAY. Use them in dishes to replace some of the chicken or meat, such as a chili con carne with kidney beans or a chicken curry with chickpeas. 8. Freeze leftover bread Bread is the most wasted household food according to LFHW. Reduce waste by freezing bread, preferably in portions (for convenience) and when it’s at its freshest (for taste). For best results, store bread in an airtight container (such as a freezer bag) and gently squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to avoid freezer burn.

budget

9. Know your kitchen Know what’s in your kitchen store cupboard, fridge and freezer. You may find you’ve got enough ingredients to make a meal! Plan your week’s meals to include ingredients you’ve already got in and avoid buying items you already have. Check use-by dates to make sure you use up ingredients before they go off. 10. Eat smaller portions Try eating smaller portions by saying no to a second helping or using smaller plates. You’ll have more left over for lunch the next day and your waistline may benefit, too! 11. Cook from scratch One in every six meals is eaten out of the home, according to a Public Health England study (PDF, 776kb). Of particular concern are hot food takeaways, which tend to be high in fat and salt, and low in fiber, fruit and vegetables. Cutting back on takeaways could save you up to £800 a year and inches off your waist! Preparing and cooking your own meals is generally cheaper than buying a takeaway or a ready meal, and because it’s easier to control what goes in to your dish, it can be healthier. 12. Price-check pre-packaged produce Fruit and vegetables sometimes cost more pre-packaged than loose. Check the price per weight (for example £/kg). Stores know that consumers want to buy in bulk, and so they mix it up: sometimes the packaged produce is cheaper, sometimes it’s more expensive. Also, pre-packaged isn’t always

the freshest and you may end up with more than you need. 13. Cut down on luxuries If your regular shopping basket tends to include fizzy drinks, crisps, snack bars, biscuits and cakes, try trimming down on these non-essential items. Many of these are high in sugar and fat so you’ll be doing your waistline as well as your bottom line a favour. They can also contain a lot of salt. Think about cheaper and healthier alternatives – such as sparkling water and fruit juice instead of cola, or fruit and plain yogurt. 14. Toddlers eat the same If you’ve got a toddler in tow, get him or her used to eating the same meals as you instead of relying on costly pre-prepared toddler food. Simply blend or chop up their portion to suit their age and freeze extra child-sized portions for later. Make sure not to add any salt to their portions and be careful with spicy food. 15. Shop online Price comparison websites, such as mysupermarket.com, let you select a basket of products and then choose the cheapest supplier. The price differences can be significant. Unlike going to the shops yourself, you’ll know how much you’ve spent before going to the till, which can make it easier to stay within budget. 16. Shop during the ‘happy hour’ Most supermarkets discount fresh items towards the end of the day. However, with longer opening hours it’s a case of finding out just the right time to grab those bargains. Time it right and the “reduced to clear shelves” can save you big money. Always check use-by dates.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

cooperatives

SPREADING THE RESPECT

The RESPECT Project is about helping others; ending the cycle of abuse and bringing families together. Through our cooperatives we continue this culture of helping others and bringing others together to educate this theory. Among some of those groups is the International Dads Football Group, Dads Reading Groups, but among them are these two groups that have gone leaps and bounds with their message. Escape the Crap WASSUP: Women Against Sexual Exploitation and Violence speak up! is a group of independent young women from all over the world that came to live in the UK and formed a group together to raise the awareness of domestic violence. We came up with this idea after completing a programme about domestic abuse called “Escape the Trap” and felt this was an opportunity to help other young women in the community who are affected by abusive relationships. We’re only young but we understand that women from all walks of life are in danger of domestic violence - some of us even experienced it from a young age. This group empowers us to stand up and say NO to abusive partners and their controlling behaviours such as telling you what to wear, who to talk to, sending pictures of where you are or who you are with. We are aiming to help as many young women as we possibly can to get out of these abusive relationships by raising awareness and educating them on how to spot dominator. We do this by organising events, taking part in conferences and producing films in different languages that would be taken to schools to educate children and young people of the dangers of getting involved in abusive relationships.

Breaking Barriers TSSS - Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Society in Ipswich, Suffolk. Anaemia is a group that gives support to families affected by Sickle Cell. Along with creating a stable and user-friendly environment, while being sensitive to families needs they highlight the social issues that affect them. With meetings, the group can get together and discuss general health issues regarding diet, supplements and exercises that can help Sickle Cell treatment to give sufferers a normal functional life. They also give support in time of crisis.

a true delight for my kids. The bureaucratic system was a big shock for me - everything seems to be extremely complex and for those newly arrived can be quiet challenge! In terms of skilled labour the market is extremely competitive but finding a job, even if it is to gain experience in England, is not as hard. The cost of living is compatible with the salaries and in the majority of the country payments are weekly, which seems to allow people to live with certain tranquillity. Despite the long winter nights and stormy clouds in the sky, I have hope that brighter days will come and remember the film Singing in the Rain, as Gene Kelly sings and dance under a huge storm with a contagious happiness, “... I’m laughing at clouds, so dark up above, The sun’s in my heart (...)” And that’s exactly the way one should embrace the challenges that change brings, with a Sun in our Hearts!

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

NEW YEAR, NEW RESOLUTIONS resolutions

What is Sabotaging Your Good Intentions? It is the start of the New Year, a blank book with 365 pages as some were saying in Facebook. So with a blank canvas in hand, we all make plans and promises to ourselves that this year will be different, we will change that something that has become the sore thumb in our lives. And we repeat to ourselves: It is the year to stick to our resolutions no matter what. We’ve made the decision and feel victorious; all set and ready to start on Monday of course, there is no other day of the week better than this. Apparently the majority of people are able to stick to their New Year’s resolution for a whole 4 weeks and 4 days. After that, we succumb to temptation and go back to old habits. But how can this happen when we start our journey for a healthier self with a bag full of good intentions? Resolutions that are not SMART. If we are aiming to lose a couple of stones and several pounds that we have accumulated over for months or even years, then it is an unrealistic expectation to lose them in a short period of time. Choosing a SMART goal (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time bound) is a good way to start. So let’s say that someone who has a sedentary lifestyle may say that in the New Year wants to join a gym. By simply joining the gym they are not going to achieve the expected results so the goal needs to be more specific and measurable such as: I would like to go to the gym twice a week. Achievable and realistic goal will be something that you know for sure you are going to stick to it. How long are you planning to stay at the gym? Time bound goal would be ‘I would like to go to the gym twice per week for 1 hour at a time’. And that simple is how to make a smart goal. Lifelong habits are hard to die…however, it takes only two weeks for a new behaviour to become a habit. Few months back I’ve made the decision to stop consuming sugar all together and stuck to it for a whole very painful month. I didn’t achieve my goal, as I encountered unexpected triggers, but somehow managed to keep some of the new habits that I’ve incorporated in my life such as having tea and coffee with no sugar. After all, there was a positive outcome and as a result I am eating less sugar which should have been the original goal in the first place. A diet plan that has an expiration date. The best diet plan is the one that lasts a lifetime. Anyone who is looking for a quick fix is more likely to end up

in a vicious cycle of losing weight and piling it back again. So choose a healthy eating plan that suits your needs and fits perfectly to your schedule and family life. Making small accumulative changes is more sustainable and long lasting. Not knowing what triggers unhealthy behaviours. Triggers are everywhere but if you are able to identify them you are a step closer to achieving your goal. Eating when bored or under stress or when tired or out of routine are all examples of triggers. So what can you do to avoid them? Distraction works wonders with this. Break the habit by doing something else that will take your mind out of the food you love such as taking up a new hobby, reading or chatting to a friend. Not rewarding yourself for all the hard work or choosing the wrong rewards. It is important that you reward yourself when you stick to your goals. However, having a takeaway or some pastries after a really good week might do a lot more harm than good and all the hard work is done for nothing. Find ways of rewarding yourself with items that are not food or beverages and that are within your budget. Finally, don’t beat yourself up if you find difficult to stick to the new routine. Changing bad habits is difficult and as long as we know it is okay to come off the wagon, we can keep trying for as long as it takes.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

REUSABLE MEALS By: Shannon Noy

When trying to save money on food, one of the best ways to save is leftovers. One meal I like to reuse is Chicken Noodle Soup. It can be cheap, easy and healthy to make and can be used for a variety of meals for the rest of the week. The great thing about Chicken Noodle Soup, you can use whatever vegetables you have in the house, best is frozen. It’s precut and you can get a nice variety in one pack! The following is my own recipe for Chicken Noodle Soup, all items are optional based on your tastes and what you have available in your kitchen cupboard. The chicken can even be replaced to any meant or even made with quorn chicken pieces for a nice vegetarian dish. Here is what can be used: Chicken pieces: cubed Frozen or fresh veggies such as peas, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower. Noodles, to save on money, you can either use leftover spaghetti, or I sometimes use oriental noodles.

food

1 Onion: diced 1 Leek: diced Salt: to taste Pepper: to taste Thyme: to taste 3 Glove of Garlic; chopped 1 Tablespoon bouillon or you can use homemade Chicken Stock

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

Cut your chicken into cubes.

Chop onions.

Crush and chop garlic.

Sauté chopped onions, garlic and leek in a light heated oil.

Then place your diced chicken pieces to sauté a bit, couple of minutes. Place your veggies into the pot, cover with water and your chicken stock. Add thyme, bouillon and oregano. Let it come to a boil.

food

After it comes to a boil, add any spices to taste.

Add noodles, let it come to a boil.

Enjoy!

Your soup is ready!

Tips for leftovers! You can do a few other recipes with your leftover Chicken Noodle Soup, such as Chicken Pot Pie and a Chicken Casserole.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

VOLUNTEERING MATTERS volunteering

By Angelica

I shall never forget my home; my mother’s sweetness and my father’s joy. The joy of being together wandering the woods and the landscapes surrounding our village, joys of telling stories and picking up organic fruit. I hold dearly the joy of a very happy childhood, full of laughter and love, in a very close-knit family. Every winter or summer joy would pour in my juvenile soul. But my home is the poorest country in Europe, that is what every article on Google says and it’s true. Daily life in my country is a confrontation with the usual sources of irritation for most Moldovans: our failed infrastructure, failed government, and a failed health system. Every day people show incredible strength and thrive despite the government or because of it. Every day is a fight for a normal life. When I came to the UK I started to see the world with new and different eyes. I saw that many things were truly possible. Before I decided to volunteer for the Respect Project, like many migrants new to the UK, I started working in a factory in order to sustain myself. I wanted to start on the profession ladder and saw volunteering as the first step. My brother was taking English classes at Volunteering Matters and I thought perhaps there were more classes in other languages that I could teach as a volunteer. I made an appointment to see what other opportunities were available. The Volunteering Coordinator, Siobhan Barrett, matched my knowledge, education and experience to the Respect Project. Volunteering on Respect offered me experience and training in areas of development. I was fortunate enough to access training in legislation, childcare law, parenting programmes which empowered me to apply for a teaching position and further interpreting courses. The Respect Project allowed me to explore my passion around linguistics and I was able to work with the Romanian community around health, wellbeing and domestic abuse. Understanding the barriers that face migrating communities I was perfectly placed to develop bespoke programmes around understanding assimilation. Further to this I supported with many aspects of the Project, reflecting on how I felt speaking in a different language and understanding British culture, I was able to understand how frightening new surroundings could be to families arriving.

From volunteering I gained satisfaction achievement, friendships, knowledge and confidence. Volunteering matters because it empowers others and supported me emotionally to reach and aim high. I am passionate about volunteering because it supports people to see their real worth to their community. I have progressed and learnt new things resulting in finding a job where I can further my education and knowledge.

gallery

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

Our First Two Years 1st September 2013 to 31st August 2015

case studies

The RESPECT Project has three main outcomes to achieve: Outcome 1 Families will increase their parenting and their negotiating skills leading to improved quality of life for their children and better relationships with relevant statutory services Outcome 2 Fathers will increase their understanding of their roles and responsibilities through peer group support leading to an increase in positive relationships and greater well-being for the children and partners. Outcome 3 Young mothers vulnerable to exploitation and crime will report an increase in safety and a decrease in anxiety through gaining sensitive and practical support from mentors Statistics at the half way point: Over 3 years: The project will address the needs of parents, carers, children and grandparents. We will work with at least 120 families over three years, which will enable us to involve 150 children and young people up to age 18 and 140 adults. 2 Year Result: 125 families were fully signed up to the project with 82 families having regular support and engagement with the project over a number of months. The 125 families have the following ethnic backgrounds: 20% White British, Black Background,

47% Other White Background,

10% Mixed Ethnic background Other Ethnic Background.

2% Asian Background

14% 7%

Of the largest proportion ‘Other White Background’ 78% were from Eastern European Countries including Poland, Romania, Latvia and Lithuania, the remaining 18% were Portuguese. Of the 14% Black Background 67% of those are Portuguese.

TOTAL Family numbers: 442 people (adults and children) (Females 53%, Males 47%) AGES:

0 to 24 = 249 (56%)

25 to 64 = 193 (44%)

Date: 31st August 2015 Key Issues for our families. Nb. The figures below are for all the 125 families signed up over the first 2 years of the project so include 82 active regular contact families and those with sporadic/one off support/exited project to provide a complete picture of need. 125 Fully Signed Families Areas of need indicated

Domestic Abuse

33%

Benefits support

79%

Finance problems/debt

27%

Mental health

Unemployment support

63%

Disability/Ill health

27%

Crime

Carers

24%

Housing

58%

Parenting support

78%

Assimilation

59%

Schooling

54%

Language Issues

64%

Adult Education

68%

Programmes and Activities delivered since last report (last six months) •

Continued development of TSSS Cooperative.

•

Continued development of WASSUP Cooperative.

• Delivery of 5 domestic abuse programmes with trained volunteers via Safer Suffolk Project. 52 women supported via group work or one to one. •

Completion of training of 15 volunteers in 3 DA programmes (Freedom, WIC, ETT).

•

Development on International Dads Football Group.

•

Joint work with Migrant Help – pilot service for families drop in twice a week.

•

NHS England – Outreach for Romanian women around health.

•

Conversational Group for Romanian ladies delivered by volunteers.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

PROGRESSION Families are requested to complete the family star on enrollment and then at intervals throughout their support period. Average increase and decrease in scores for each scale This table shows the average first and last scores for clients included in this report. The difference between these two is the ‘change’, or outcome, shown in the column on the right. This is also displayed as a star below. Across the UK the average change per point on the star in 1. Scale Physical health Emotional well-being Keeping your children safe Social networks Education and learning Boundaries and behaviour Family routine Home and money Average

Initial Final Change 5.8 6.8 1 4.5 6.2 1.7 5.9 7 1.1 5.1 6.9 1.8 4.8 6.6 1.8 5.7 6.7 1 5.7 6.7 1 3.9 6.3 2.4 5.2 6.6 1.4

Those 52 women and young girls who took part in Freedom Programmes, Escape the Trap and Who’s in Charge also completed Star Outcomes to show progression taken. The women completed empowerment stars and the young girls completed My Star. The results of which are both shown below. Empowerment Star Results

My Star Results.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

CHEAP DAY OUT IN IPSWICH As Spring approaches, here are some things to do and places to check out in Ipswich that are either completely free or won’t cost too much. First off I would recommend going to the Ipswich Tourist Information Centre, purely for free leaflets and maps. They can let you know of any events coming up, and will be happy to suggest wheelchair-friendly activities, and also stuff for children and families. The Tourist Information Centre can be found in St. Stephen’s Church on St. Stephen’s Lane - on the high street opposite H&M and GAME, follow the little street “Dial Lane” between SoleTrader and the Norwich and Peterborough Building Society. You will go past the large glass entrance to the Buttermarket on your right and the back of BHS on your left - St. Stephen’s Church is just in front of you on the left, and the Tourist Information Centre is inside. You can ring them on 01473 258070.

local

Go for a stroll and get into nature There are some great parks around Ipswich. Christchurch Park is very central behind Crown Pools, Chantry Park and Gippeswyk Park are both near the train station, Bourne Park and Bobbits Meadows are south of Ipswich near Wherstead, and Holywells Park and Alexandra Park are very close to each other near the college and University. Whilst in the parks, why not try out “50 Things to do before you’re 11 & 3/4”, a handy free guide from the National Trust of all kinds of stuff to do for free. You can search ‘50 Things to do’ online and see all the activities for free, or visit Sutton Hoo near Woodbridge to get hold of a “50 Things” flyer there. There are also plenty of green groups in Ipswich if you wanted to see a bit more of the natural world, and many of them hold open days and events for all the family in the holidays; there’s the Spring Wood Day on 2nd May 2016 at Bobbits

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

Meadows, a free day full of events, woodcraft, music and nature facts for kids and parents. The People’s Community Garden located on Halifax Road just off of Wherstead Road and very close to Stoke High School, & the Chantry Walled Garden on Hadleigh Road, part of Chantry Park, hold events for children during the holidays and can give you a tour and show you their beehives, plants and projects they have going on. You can pop in to have a look at what’s going on, and arrange a visit by phoning 01473 261112. Also, not too far away are the Alton Water Lakes, situated south of Ipswich just below Wherstead about 7 miles outside of town. You can get the no. 92 bus from the bus station across from the Ipswich Tourist Information Centre every 2 hours, and get off the bus at Stutton. There is a wheelchair accessible trail, cafe and toilets, and relaxing walks round the lake. Star gazing You could always give stargazing a go in one of the parks mentioned above. Be sure to stay safe, and take a red torch with you so you don’t ruin your night-vision - stay off your phone! To start, you want to find the North Star, which is not the brightest star in the sky or the first star out! The best way to find the North Star is to find the “Big Dipper” which is a very bright collection of stars that look like a saucepan. Follow the right hand side of the ‘pan’ upwards and you will see the North Star - it is a bit bigger than the other stars around it. You can check that it is the North Star as it should be the end of the ‘handle’ on another ‘saucepan’ - the Little Dipper. See if you can find the “W” shape of Cassiopeia from the North Star, too!

local

Top up your history and culture at Ipswich Museum and Ipswich Art School Gallery The Ipswich Museum is located on High Street, located off Crown Street, further along to the left of Crown Pools swimming pool and then on the right where the roads cross. The museum is free to enter and has a lot going on for children, including “Mini Mammoth” sessions for under 5’s on the first Tuesday of every month between 10.15 - 11.15am. The cost for the is £2 per child and you can get more information at the museum or on 01473 433551. Ipswich Art School Gallery can be found just next door to the Ipswich Museum, a couple of doors up the road. Entry is free and it is a space for modern and local artists to display their work next to more traditional pieces. - Try out the Skate park - micro scooters and bikes allowed too! Now in it’s 14th year, the Skate Park has always been open, free and friendly,

and a great place even if you want to just watch or try it out for the first time. You can find it on Bridge Street, next to the river. From the Ipswich Tourist Information Centre, carry on down Silent Street past Ray’s nightclub and the Job Centre, and take a left on to St. Peter’s Street. You will then have to cross the road in front of you, and cross it again until you can see the docks and the river. The Skate Park is on your right, next to the river. On a weekend you will be able to follow the skate boarders! Get into cycling and explore Ipswich and the countryside If you don’t have a bike, you can get a cheap second hand one at the Green Bike Project in Holywells Park, where a local initiative of bike mechanics and volunteers repair old bicycles to a very high standard. The Green Bike Project is located at the Stable Block in Holywells park, and are open Tuesday to Saturday 9.30 - 3.30, or you can ring them on 07905336111. There are many cycle routes around Ipswich and heading out into the countryside that are suitable for beginners, children and experienced riders alike. The Ipswich Tourist Information Centre has a free cycle leaflet of bike routes around Ipswich, and if you can get on a computer, head to www.cycle-route.com and search ‘Suffolk’ when looking at route by region, there are some great short bike rides to start you off and take you into the countryside. - Cheap cinema at Ipswich Film Theatre Ipswich Film Theatre, located in the downstairs of the Corn Exchange behind the town square, puts on kids’ films during holidays and half terms, where all tickets, including for parents, are £3. Pop in any day apart from Sundays and Mondays to grab a leaflet or ask what children’s films are coming up.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

Networking and Sickle Cell Anaemia

networking

By Jemima Either living with or caring for a person with Sickle Cell Anaemia is a pretty tough road particularly when you are riding it alone. It is a glorious thing to find that you are not alone. A lot of mystery still surround this condition and there is a tendency to keep it to ourselves. This is understandable, even justifiable. A loving friend asked me recently whether Sickle Cell Anaemia is contagious and whether she should be worried about exposing her children to mine. She meant well and is always ready to lend a helping hand when I need it but she quite honestly had no understanding of the condition. Faced with the shocked, even frightened, expression we receive from friends and family, we are inclined to keep this matter to ourselves. However the shroud of mystery is, thankfully, slowly lifting and we can share our burdens and concerns without fear. There is a lot to be gained from networking with patients and parents alike. There are various ways we can reach out and be reached by others. There is power in networking with others living with or caring for persons living with Sickle Cell Anaemia. One of the best ways to do this is through a support group like the Sickle Cell Support group. You may not have the opportunity to attend every meeting but once in while you can come along and share your experience with others and lend some tried and tested ideas that have worked in making life much more comfortable and ordinary. We do live a special kind of life that can only be totally understood by those who feel it. Although it is not considered a disability, SS can be debilitating to sufferers and all consuming for carers and parents. So every idea helps. If like me you have little time between crisis episodes, work and other children to thoroughly research every issue that comes up, the shared information and ideas would be very useful. I have learnt a lot about nutrition and use and effect of medication from others in the same boat as I am which have proved invaluable. I have learnt what items offer the best nutritional value, which ones are not particularly helpful to the overall well being. I have learnt that certain items which seem to work well for other without SS would not do the same for my child. I have also learnt what herbal and vitamin supplements have been tired and tested, how they work and whether they are helpful.

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

Another reservoir of information I found useful is from online support groups. Real life sufferers know exactly what they are talking about and have proved tremendously helpful. They may not be there to hold my hands but they are there to share information and offer useful tips during and outside of crisis. They say what and how certain medication, exercise or activity has affected or helped with them. I find the Sickle Cell Warriors on Facebook really informative.

networking

Although what works for one person may not necessarily work for another but it clears up a lot of confusion around several issues. The other day the discussion was about the size of our tummies and whether having Sickle Cell Anaemia necessarily comes with a bigger tummy. Network groups also provide opportunity for entertainment and exercise activities which we can all participate in having taking careful consideration of our specific needs. It means we can still socialize and have fun freely without much worry about the weather, food, or even having to disclose our special conditions. I have attended the annual day-long seminar and dinner organize by the Sickle Cell Society London and the Art Festival (Snape) in company of fellow families curtsey of the Sickle Cell Support group Ipswich and they were both lots of fun. I would encourage anyone to join in and have some fun. Networking also presents an opportunity for a helping hand. If like me you don’t have family close by to call on in times of crisis, our support group could be a very helpful source of support. It is usual to find that families and individuals soldier on without any help at all. That situation can be alleviated if you reach out and give others the opportunity to assist in any way they can. If you are a young adult living alone you may find that having someone to call when you need help makes life more bearable. When my child is on admission at the hospital which has been nine times this year alone, I have relied on friends to house and take care of my son. Without that support I don’t think I could have been there round the clock at the hospital. We all need help sometime, for baby sitting, cooking, cleaning, shopping, nothing is too small. I am sure there will be someone within the support group eager to help. It would be most gratifying to be able to offer help and support just by visiting in times of crisis or hospitalization or even just to support at times of scheduled hospital check-up. Isolation is one of the nagging pains of living with Sickle Cell Anaemia and networking with other is a sure of tackling thing sometimes debilitating ache. It is comforting to know help is only a phone call away to make life so much more comfortable.

RESPECT NEWS FEED Activities & Programmes for Families or Young People

Bilingual Freedom Programme Starting 1st March, 2016 Every Tuesday and Friday by Appointment only - 11 - 1 pm Migrant help advice service

what’s next

Bilingual Who’s in Charge Starting 5th February, 2016 Time: 2 - 3 pm

WASSUP Programme Young Women Campaign Against Sexual Exploitation and Violence are looking for young women to come and get involved Calling all Families Interested in starting new Cooperative for cooking Can you bake a cake? Learning Hub Learning Conversational English and fathers reading to their children will be launched in March

For further information contact: Claudia or Angelica on

01473 418035

Claudia.Parrino@volunteeringmatters.org.uk Angela.Bitca@volunteeringmatters.org.uk

The RESPECT Project Vol. 1 Issue 1

partnerships

THANK YOU, PARTNERS!

Domestic Abuse Partnership Family Centres Family Focus

migrant help

Respect A Lottery Funded Project

The Old Crown Court Civic Drive Ipswich IP1 2DX 01473 418035