Small business owners in Lincolnshire speak to council decision-makers

Tess Egginton
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Small business owners in Lincolnshire speak to council decision-makers

Small business owners in Lincolnshire have been able to speak directly to council decision-makers on a range of issues that are affecting them.

Hosted by the Lincolnshire Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), representatives from businesses across the county took part in a round table discussion with county councillors and officers. The event was also attended by the National FSB chair, Martin McTague OBE, who provided context about issues affecting small businesses countywide. Cllr Colin Davie, executive councillor for economy at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Small businesses are the backbone of the Lincolnshire economy and we have been working with the FSB in Lincolnshire for some time now to make sure we create the right conditions for them to survive, thrive and grow. “Hearing first hand from small businesses on trading conditions, how the rurality of our county affects them and what further support they need is incredibly valuable to us as a council. “I know everyone who took part got a lot out of the session where we could talk honestly and openly about our shared ambitions. The views from the FSB members will also help to shape the future services delivered by our Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub.” Katrina Pierce, business development manager for the Lincolnshire FSB, said: “In a county that is home to over 40,000 small and medium sized businesses, it is critically important that the county council is open to listening to the challenges and opportunities the precious businesses face. “But listening is one thing; responding to the needs raised with targeted support, campaigns and events that directly benefit SMEs is what really shows the council cares, and I’m delighted that we have such a positive relationship with the authority that results in great outcomes for local firms. “Our members represented themselves, their locations and their sectors with care, passion and pride and I look forward to hosting more of these sessions in the future.” Cllr Ian Carrington was also in attendance at the meeting. Cllr Carrington chairs the county council’s Environment and Economy Scrutiny Committee, which recently endorsed Lincolnshire FSB’s ‘Future of the High Street’ report. He said: “The committee felt very strongly that given the challenges facing small businesses in Lincolnshire, liaising with organisations such as the FSB is absolutely crucial so that as a council, we can offer whatever support we can. “Hearing from small businesses at this event really helped bring to life the realities of the challenges they face, but also the excellent work being done across the county.”
  Image shows: Cllr Colin Davie, Katrina Pierce, Martin McTague and Cllr Ian Carrington. Credit: Lincolnshire County Council

Lincoln nurse named Haemophilia Society’s Nurse of the Year

Tess Egginton
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Lincoln nurse named Haemophilia Society’s Nurse of the Year
A Lincoln nurse has been crowned Nurse of the Year at The Haemophilia Society’s Recognition Awards. Alison Dawson-Meadows, Haemophilia Nurse Specialist at United Lincolnshire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, is part of the team which supports approximately 600 patients across the county who are living with a range of bleeding disorders, including haemophilia and von Willebrand disorder. The national Recognition Awards were introduced by The Haemophilia Society this year, as a result of a suggestion by their Youth Ambassadors. Nominations were received from both clinicians and society members in each of the categories. One patient who nominated Alison said: “I know from speaking with Alison that she often works longer hours than contracted and has given up annual leave to ensure patients are treated, including responding to enquires I have made while on her annual leave and day off. For me, Alison exemplified everything that is good about nursing.” Alison received her award at the Haemophilia Society’s Big Get-Together conference in Leicester. Alison, who has been a nurse for more than 20 years, said: “This award was so unexpected and I feel truly honoured to have been recognised by my patients and The Haemophilia Society. “The nature of our role and the long-term conditions our patients live with means that we have the privilege to get to know our patients and their whole family really well. I work closely with other services in Lincolnshire, and also specialist centres outside of the county, to make sure patients have everything they need to manage their care, no matter what their age or how long they have been diagnosed.” Alison added: “Being at the conference and listening to so many amazing and emotional stories really made me think about how vital our service is for our patients in Lincolnshire. It’s a vital component in the NHS.” Kate Burt, Chief Executive of The Haemophilia Society, said: “Alison’s patients clearly think the world of her. She cares deeply about the support they need and, despite facing testing circumstances, goes the extra mile to ensure her patients get the best care possible. Alison’s compassion and outstanding commitment to her patients make her a very worthy winner of our first Nurse of the Year award.”   Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/pauchi

Council staff to raise money for homelessness charity in Great Grimsby Sleep Out

Tess Egginton
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Council staff to raise money for homelessness charity in Great Grimsby Sleep Out
The annual Great Grimsby Sleep Out is set to take place on 7 February 2025, to raise vital funds for homelessness charity, Harbour Place. Every year groups of volunteers gather across several levels of the West Wing car park at Freshney Place in Grimsby, and spend the night sleeping rough to raise money for the charity. Volunteers enter the Sleep Out in teams who will work together using cardboard to build themselves shelters to sleep in overnight. This year, North East Lincolnshire Council have a team of ten taking part in the sleep out. The team includes senior leaders Sharon Wroot, Executive Director of Place and Resources, Ann-Marie Matson, Director of Children’s Services, and Katie Brown, Director of Adult’s Services. Katie said: “At the recent Harbour Place fundraising dinner, we had the opportunity to sign up…so we did! Over the following week, more of our colleagues decided to join us. “We felt it was really important to raise awareness of homelessness and rough sleeping, and also to promote the role of the council in the delivery of housing in our community.” North East Lincolnshire Council works closely with Harbour Place to support people who are rough sleeping in the area. Harbour Place provides a day centre with short-stay rooms for people who have been rough sleeping in North East Lincolnshire. They also provide support for those rough sleeping and outreach support. Every person who attends Harbour Place is able to have a shower, a hot meal, and get clean clothes. Jessica Burnette, Harbour Place’s Community Engagement Officer, said: “We are thrilled to have members of North East Lincolnshire Council joining us in our Great Grimsby Sleep Out event on the 7th February 2025. This annual event aims to raise awareness and resources to support people who are experiencing homelessness in our community. “All the money raised will go directly towards Harbour Place services and will support us to accomplish our mission, which ultimately is to end homelessness. “Our event is hosted in the West wing car park located at Freshney Place, who have hosted this event for Harbour Place for many years. We are extremely grateful for all the support and hard work from Freshney Place and its employees. “We put on several activities throughout the evening, including our competition for the best shelter design. Teams will use cardboard to build their own shelters to sleep under for the evening. It is fantastic to see local businesses and members of our community getting involved in the activities, it gives a real sense of community. “The event starts at 7pm through to 6am the following morning. We have different activities and entertainment scheduled until later in the evening, then at approximately 10pm is when we usually start to see our fundraisers getting ready for some rest. “This year, we are set to have over 80 participants. It is great to see so many new and regular people getting involved in this significant event.” Councillor Stewart Swinburn, Portfolio Holder for Housing, Infrastructure, and Transport, added: “It’s great to see that senior leaders from the council are taking part in the sleep out, raising money and awareness for such a great cause! “Harbour Place do such great work supporting people who rough sleep in our area, but it is important that people who find themselves facing homelessness to seek support as early as possible. “As soon as you find out that you may be facing eviction or the loss of your home, contact the Council’s Home Options team. This will give them some time to start to consider your case and search for alternative accommodation or get in touch with your landlord to arrange an extension to your contract.” To donate to the council team for the Harbour Place Sleep Out, please visit Katie Brown is fundraising for Harbour Place Grimsby.
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/2B

North Lincolnshire Council looks to improve health and care through Community First transformation

Tess Egginton
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North Lincolnshire Council looks to improve health and care through Community First transformation
North Lincolnshire Council is set to establish a Joint Committee with Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB). By working together, the ICB and the council aim to make the most effective use of resources and design the future blueprint of health and care services across the county. Cllr Richard Hannigan, deputy leader and cabinet member for adults and health, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “North Lincolnshire Council and the Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board have a strong track record of working together to deliver health and care services and this is a perfect opportunity for change and to improve the health and care of people living in North Lincolnshire. “Through greater integration and transformation comes further local accountability, influence and decision-making powers over local health and care services. “This will create the ideal conditions to achieve the best outcomes with, and for, people and will enable the health and care system in North Lincolnshire to use resources more effectively.” The North Lincolnshire Health and Care Integration Plan 2021-2024 initially set the scene for Place based integration. In June 2023 this plan was superseded by the Community First Strategy, which is North Lincolnshire’s plan for health and social care integration and transformation and has all health and social care organisations in North Lincolnshire onboard and in agreement. Cllr Richard Hannigan added: “There is a strong appetite to further develop our integrated working arrangement. This includes working better together so that health and care interventions are more person centred, health inequalities are addressed, and more work is done to improve people’s health and wellbeing through the wider determinants of health. “Pooling functions and resources enables closer collaboration, reduces duplication, encourages innovation and faster decision-making. “All of this is driven by our long-term goal that people of all ages are empowered and facilitated to self-care and have control over their lives. People are safe and can access the right health and care at the right time and we can continue to prioritise those most in need.” Detailed work is ongoing between the ICB and North Lincolnshire Council to determine the scope, structure, and content of an s75 agreement, with the terms of reference for the Joint Committee coming into force on 1 April 2025.
  Image credit: Stock.adobe.com/Kzenon

Grantham family speaks up in new film to help others avoid suicide

Stuart Pearcey
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Grantham family speaks up in new film to help others avoid suicide

A Grantham family takes centre stage in a poignant new film called Evelyn, released today, which tells the story of their daughter’s suicide just before her sixteenth birthday.

Narrated by her mum Jenni, the film explores the devastating impact of youth suicide on families. The film, created by charity CALM (the Campaign Against Living Miserably) in partnership with ITV and the Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation.

Jack and Jenni Swift, Evelyn’s parents, said: “Our daughter Evelyn took her own life when she was just 15 years old. A month before her sixteenth birthday. We miss her so much.

“We hope this film encourages parents and carers, teachers, coaches, health professionals – anyone really – to understand the sheer scale of this issue and how anyone can be affected. And we hope it encourages people to arm themselves with the skills and tools they need to properly support a young person.

“Parents and carers especially need skills and knowledge to support their young people. It’s really important people don’t shy away from using the word suicide. It can be really scary – but we need to use the word suicide confidently to enable more open conversations.”

A Missed Birthdays campaign last September was made possible by funding from the Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation. Tarsem Dhaliwal, Group Chief Exec of Iceland Foods and Trustee of Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation said: “Youth suicide is an urgent crisis, and we’re proud to support CALM’s powerful campaign to raise awareness and provide practical tools that can save lives.

“At Iceland, we’re deeply committed to the communities we serve, and we believe it’s crucial to help trusted adults feel confident in having those vital conversations with young people. Talking about suicide can feel difficult, but it’s only by addressing it directly that we can start to make a difference. CALM’s C.A.R.E. Kit is an invaluable resource, and we encourage everyone to take the time to familiarise themselves with it. Together, we can help ensure young people feel supported and know they’re not alone​.”

The CALM C.A.R.E. Kit is available free at thecalmzone.net

Work starts on redevelopment in Boston town centre

Stuart Pearcey
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Work starts on redevelopment in Boston town centre
Demolition of the old B&M store and the Crown House building in Boston town centre marks a major milestone in the Rosegarth Square redevelopment project. The project, led by Boston Borough Council and funded by £14.8 million from the Government, aims to transform the area between the River Witham and the bus station. Demolition began with the safe removal of asbestos, which is expected to be completed this week. Contractors Lindum will then dismantle the B&M store, followed by Crown House. Planning permission was granted to replace Crown House with a mixed-use development featuring ground-floor retail units and upper-storey apartments. Lindum Group Co-chairman Freddie Chambers said the entire demolition process should be completed by the end of March. “Lindum has been working with the council for more than a year to help bring forward the Rosegarth Square scheme. “Initially, we were appointed to help with the public realm development,” he said. “But as the council’s masterplan progressed, and it purchased the B&M and Crown House buildings, our team assisted with the design and planning stages of the wider scheme.” “We’ve been on-site since January, carrying out preparatory work. It should take until the end of March to complete the demolition and then construction of the new building will begin.” The entire redevelopment is expected to take up to a 18 months to complete.

Repairs to Lincoln Castle’s east gate move to second phase

Stuart Pearcey
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Repairs to Lincoln Castle’s east gate move to second phase
The first phase of repairs work to the east gate of Lincoln Castle is now complete, and specialists are now preparing for the second phase. Already undertaken are extensive surveying of the gate and  removal of loose stone,  which is why scaffolding has been in place for some time. Phase two of the works – currently being planned – calls for a different scaffolding setup so repairs to the stonework can take place. Cllr Lindsey Cawrey, executive councillor for culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “At first glance it may seem odd to take down scaffolding, just to put it back up again at a later date. But this would always be needed, as the initial set-up allowed for one type of work to take place, and the second set-up will allow for specialist repairs. “Thankfully, this second set of scaffolding will be in place for a much shorter period. But, if you’re a local photographer looking to capture a glimpse of the beautiful Eastgate entrance once again, make sure you come along with your camera over the next few months. “Lincoln Castle is one of the jewels in Lincolnshire’s crown, and we’re proud to be its current custodians and invest in protecting it for future generations. At almost 1,000 years old, some areas of the walls are starting to feel their age, so we’re giving it the care and attention it deserves to keep it looking splendid.”

Dementia Day Centre launches at Tallington Lodge Care Home

Tess Egginton
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Dementia Day Centre launches at Tallington Lodge Care Home
Award-winning Devika Care Company is launching a new Dementia Day Centre at Tallington Lodge Care Home in Tallington, near Stamford. The first session will be on Monday 17th February 2025 from 10am until 3pm. It will then be held weekly on every Monday thereafter. The Devika Dementia Day Centre, named after founder Caroline Ignatius’s mum, Devika, who has lived with dementia for several years, specialises in providing meaningful activities and opportunities for friendship and companionship for those living with dementia. Caroline, passionate about dementia care, is dedicated to supporting others who may also be caring for loved ones at home. These sessions, now held regularly across several Country Court group homes, have gone from strength to strength. The Day Centre offers weekly activity sessions for people living with mid to late-stage dementia, providing not only a way to form new friendships and enjoy a renewed sense of purpose but also much-needed respite for their carers. Violeta Latviene, the Home Manager, commented on the launch: “The Devika Care Company provide a much-needed service for those living with dementia in Tallington and the surrounding area. The Day Centre promotes inclusion and community engagement that is not only meaningful but important, to support wellbeing and dementia awareness in our local area. Tallington Lodge is delighted to host Caroline and her team.” Morgan Hicks, Senior Customer Relations Manager who helped to arrange the sessions, said: “We are really pleased to welcome Caroline and The Devika Day Centre to Tallington Lodge. It is a wonderful opportunity to support the local community and showcase our beautiful home and wonderful staff.” Caroline Ignatius commented on the new day centre at Tallington Lodge: “The sessions will be hosted on the first floor in the Railway Inn pub, where people have access to all the facilities they require with a light lunch and refreshments provided. Attendees can take part in crafts and activities or sit and chat and have their nails polished if they wish. “Our dementia day centre is here to provide support and care for those living in the community with mid-late stages of Dementia, who may have additional personal care and behavioural needs. We are so grateful to Tallington Lodge for allowing us to hold these sessions in a friendly and safe environment.” If you are interested in attending one of the sessions or would like more information about booking a place, please get in touch with Caroline Ignatius on carolineignatius@devikacarecompany.co.uk For more information about Tallington Lodge Care Home, please contact Morgan Hicks, Senior Customer Relations Manager on 01780 740 314 or email careenquiries@countrycourtcare.com

Burghley Gardens and Hide & Secrets Adventure Play open for February Half Term

Tess Egginton
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Burghley Gardens and Hide & Secrets Adventure Play open for February Half Term
For the first time ever, Burghley Gardens and Hide & Secrets Adventure Play will open to visitors during February Half Term from Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 February. With something for all the family to enjoy, it’s the perfect opportunity to wrap up warm and enjoy days full of adventures at Burghley. Family fun at Hide & Secrets Adventure Play Exciting adventures await at Hide & Secrets Adventure Play as it reopens after the winter. Offering hours of outdoor family fun with giant mole hills to scramble over, sky-high bug towers to discover, a colourful sensory wall for interactive play plus a den-building zone. And that’s all before reaching the Hidden Towers with its two enormous slides, climbing walls, wobbly walkways and crawl tunnels. A free Spymaster’s Guide activity booklet sets adventurers on special spy missions with Cecil the Mole, scurrying through tunnels, cracking secret codes, finding hidden moles and following sneaky trails through the play area. Snowdrop season in the Gardens The early season opening offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Burghley’s Gardens as they awaken after the winter. The stunning snowdrop displays, showcasing a diverse array of varieties, are not to be missed. Visitors can also enjoy vibrant bursts of colour from emerging spring flowers and take in the wintry lakeside views. Seasonal activities taking place in the Gardens include Family Snowdrop Planting and Daily Garden Tours. Half Term Snowdrop Planting Visitors can take part in Snowdrop Planting during their visit with an opportunity to plant their very own snowdrop bulb in the Sculpture Garden. It’s a hands-on way to contribute to next year’s beautiful display and fun activity suitable for all ages. The drop-in Snowdrop Planting sessions run from 10.30am to 11.30am between 15 and 21 February and are included with Admission Tickets or Annual Passes. Daily Garden Tours Guided Garden Tours led by Burghley’s expert Gardens Team are available daily at 11.30am, between 15 and 21 February. These relaxed walks, focusing on seasonal highlights such as Burghley’s abundant snowdrop displays, offer the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the Gardens, while learning from those who care for them. Garden Tours are included with Admission Tickets or Annual Passes and last 30 minutes. Eat and Shop Burghley’s restaurants and cafes will be open daily offering warming hot drinks, lunches and light snacks. Whilst The Courtyard Shop and Garden Shop offer the opportunity to browse a wide range of gifts, souvenirs and homewares.   The Gardens and Adventure Play are open daily from 10am to 5pm (last admission 4.30pm) between Saturday 15 and Sunday 23 February 2025. Tickets booked online in advance cost £10 adult, £8 child (3-15 years) and £32 family (2 Adults, 3 Children) with under 3s free. Annual Passes offering unlimited visits through the open season are also available and cost from £26 for a Child Pass. The Gardens and Adventure Play will also open at the weekend on 1-2 and 8-9 March before returning to daily opening from Saturday 15 March. The House, which is currently closed for essential upkeep, maintenance and conservation work, opens for the season on Saturday 15 March. Additional details, including full opening times and ticket information can be found at www.burghley.co.uk

Dexter & Sharpe raise the roof with donation to Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance

Tess Egginton
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Dexter & Sharpe raise the roof with donation to Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance
In 2024, Dexter & Sharpe Chartered Accountants chose Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance (LNAA) as their Charity of the Year, with an aim to raise £4,000, the cost of one of their life-saving missions. Twelve months later and they smashed their target and raised an impressive £8,523 through a variety of engaging fundraising activities. LNAA Corporate Partnerships Officer, Vik Varney said: “It is wonderful to see this team fundraise with such passion for our work. It is fantastic achievement. Their efforts will help our critical care teams deliver the best pre-hospital treatments to some of the most seriously ill and injured people living in Lincs & Notts. From everyone at LNAA, we want to say a huge thank you.” Since the start of the year, staff from branches across Lincolnshire participated in the Lincoln Inflatable 5k, hosted a pancake breakfast and held Match the Pet Days. In July 2024, they also took on the gruelling 12-hour Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge showcasing remarkable endurance and teamwork. David Johnson, partner at Dexter & Sharpe, said: “This collaboration embodies our commitment to supporting crucial services in our community, ensuring swift and vital assistance in times of need. With Lincs & Notts Air Ambulance, we aim to contribute significantly to their life-saving missions and make a meaningful impact together.” Vik added: “Dexter & Sharpe have gone above and beyond to fundraise this remarkable amount for our work. And they also generously sponsored our Volunteer Recognition Event, where our incredible family of volunteers were treated to a delightful afternoon tea.” LNAA is one of the UK’s leading Helicopter Emergency Service charities, bringing the equivalent of a hospital emergency department to patients at the scene, giving those with the most severe injuries and medical conditions the very best chance of survival when minutes matter. It receives no direct government funding and relies on the generosity of its supporters to fund the £13 million needed annually to keep its helicopter in the sky and fleet of critical care cars on the road, 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week. They would love to talk with any business or organisation that would like to partner with them for 2025. Simply email partnership@ambucopter.org.uk
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