Infinity Academies Trust
News
Connect to Support Lincolnshire
A fantastic site has been launched with a multitude of links and information
Click the picture below to link to the site.
Call for Concern – Pilgrim Hospital
A service which offers patients, their families and carers 24-hour access to a rapid review if they have concerns about a person’s deteriorating condition is launching in Lincolnshire. Call For Concern will give anyone worried about a loved one direct contact to a dedicated team who will give urgent help and advice.
The service has been developed as part of the implementation of ‘Martha’s Rule’.
Martha Mills died in 2021 after developing sepsis in hospital in London, where she had been admitted with a pancreatic injury after falling off her bike. Martha’s family’s concerns about her deteriorating condition were not responded to, and in 2023 a coroner ruled that Martha would probably have survived had she been moved to intensive care earlier. In response to this and other cases related to the management of deterioration, the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care and NHS England committed to implement ‘Martha’s Rule’ in the NHS nationally; to ensure the vitally important concerns of the patient and those who know the patient best are listened to and acted upon. Dr Colin Farquharson, Chief Medical Officer for Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group, said: “The Call For Concern service builds on the existing safeguards already in place in our hospitals to offer a clear and direct way for patients, families, carers and other advocates to further escalate their concerns and access a rapid review of their care.” Nerea Odongo, Group Chief Nurse for Lincolnshire Community and Hospitals NHS Group, also said: “I’m very proud of what the teams have accomplished in setting up this service. In Lincolnshire, the Critical Care Outreach Team will be responsible for these reviews. They have extensive experience in caring for patients whose conditions may be worsening. This team, made up of specialist doctors and nurses, collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals to ensure that appropriate care plans are in place. A special thank you to everyone involved for their dedication and hard work in making this possible."
The service will have a phased roll-out, with Call For Concern initially launching at Lincoln County Hospital for our adult inpatients from Monday 2 December 2024, and at Pilgrim Hospital Boston from February 2025. Call For Concern will include paediatrics inpatients at both the Lincoln and Boston sites from February 2025. The service can be accessed by using the dedicated Call For Concern telephone number for the relevant hospital site. Find out more on our website: https://www.ulh.nhs.uk/services/call-for-concern/
Covid/Flu Vaccinations
Don't delay to top up your winter protection! There are less than three weeks left to book your COVID and flu vaccinations online. Over 155,000 Covid-19 vaccinations have been given across Lincolnshire, by GP practices, community pharmacies and the NHS’s central vaccination team. In addition to Covid-19 vaccinations, over 263,000 flu vaccinations have been given. These vaccines provide protection for those people who need it most. Visit https://lincolnshire.icb.nhs.uk/grab-a-jab to find out more.
Domestic Abuse
The staff in your GP practice are trained to help anyone who may be experiencing domestic abuse; they can help get support for you, or someone close to you. #workingtogethertobringpositivechange
Free parent online Teams workshop
The Lincolnshire Domestic Abuse Partnership (LDAP) are running a Free parent online Teams workshop around navigating teen relationships. Teenagers aren't always open around their relationships and it can be difficult to know how best to support them. Within this workshop LDAP will discuss signs of unhealthy relationships, coercive control, love bombing and other red flags to look out for in your teens and where you can get support.
Sign up here: https://www.tickettailor.com/.../staysafepartnership/1428506
Hollie Guard
Have you heard of Hollie Guard? It is a personal safety app that could help protect you, your friends or a family member. It's an alarm, a deterrent, an evidence catcher and more. When an alarm is raised, it will record evidence, alert emergency contacts and track your location. Hollie Guard comes from the Hollie Gazzard Trust which was established following the murder of Hollie by an ex-partner. The charity helps reduce domestic violence through creating and delivering programmes on domestic abuse and promoting healthy relationships to schools and colleges. The standard version of Hollie Guard is free to download. Find out more or download here: https://hollieguard.com/
Roadhog Bus
The RoadHoG Bus continues this week with evening visits to Boston, Fishtoft and Swineshead! This week's timetable for our community visits is:
Tues 7pm @ High Street, Boston
Weds 7:30pm @Fishtoft Playing Field
Thurs 7:30pm @Swineshead
Have a go at the 'Spot the difference' or challenge a team member to a game of 'Guess Who'! Make a RoadHoG Cookie Bar! And join in in Kim's Game! The bus and activities are set up for those in School Year 6 and upwards. Younger children may be allowed on at the discretion of the team leader on the day but please be prepared that those below Year 6 may be refused entry. The prayer room is open to give young person a space to talk through their worries and situations with team members.
Digi Drop In – Boston Centenary Church – Wednesday 13th November – 10 – 12 noon
Christmas Tree
Our beautiful Boston Christmas Tree is on its way! This festive addition to the town is proudly sponsored this year by Metsä Wood. Get ready to feel the holiday spirit light up our community! Stay tuned for the big reveal and let the countdown to Christmas begin!
Continuing Healthcare Equity and Choice Policy Engagement
The NHS are engaging with the public and staff to understand your views on the new Continuing Healthcare Equity and Choice Policy and understand what impact the new arrangements might have.
Please complete their survey by 19 November 2024:-
Public survey
Public survey - NHS Continuing Healthcare Equity and Access Policy
Current service
Currently individuals are given a choice to have care provided at home or in a care home. Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) only request costings from the preferred area of care. This does not guarantee a preferred provider as the ICB gains 3 quotes to ensure safety and most cost effective care is going to be commissioned.
Proposed future service
The proposed changes going forward are that:-
- Any new applications will receive 3 quotes from both care home and home care providers.
- Individual's views will be taken into account, however these will be taken into account with a risk assessment which will also include patient safety.
- Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board will ensure that patients receive the best package of care that meets their needs safely and is the most cost effective.
- This may mean that you, or the person you care for, may be placed in a care home rather than staying at home.
You can also find out further information via our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) - Help us to shape the new NHS Continuing Healthcare Equity and Choice Policy - Lincolnshire ICB
2024 Police and Crime Survey – now open
This annual survey is a vital tool in understanding your priorities for community safety and helps us secure essential funding to keep our neighbourhoods safe.
6 November - 15 December
Complete the survey online via the provided link.
The Safer Together Team will also be at @Boston Market UK 20th November and 4th December to assist you in person.
Your feedback is crucial in shaping the future of policing in Lincolnshire.
By participating, you help allocate resources effectively and improve services. Plus, your input on the policing element of your council tax bill (the ‘precept’) will guide decisions for 2025/26.
Let’s work together to make Lincolnshire a safer place for everyone.
Every voice matters!
Garden waste
A reminder to our garden waste customers who have their brown bin collected on a green bin week, this week is your last collection before collections then resume again on week commencing 17 February 2025. Last collection for brown bins emptied on blue week is next week.
MoneyHelper
Did you know that MoneyHelper can provide free and impartial money guidance, and have a whole range of guides and tools available to help you manage your money? #TalkMoney www.moneyhelper.org.uk
UK Shared Prosperity Fund
We are pleased to share that the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) has been renewed for an additional one-year extension. This very exciting announcement follows the Government’s Autumn Budget. You can read more here - https://www.boston.gov.uk/.../A-one-year-extension-of...
Keep your eyes peeled for more updates when we have them…
Boston Town Board
In the autumn budget, it was confirmed that Boston will benefit from further government funding after it was announced that 'the Long-Term Plan for Towns will be retained and reformed into a new regeneration programme’. Our Chair Jo Brigham said: "This funding represents a fantastic opportunity to continue to realise Boston’s potential by bringing meaningful improvements that reflect your views and complement the exciting projects which are already being delivered for the town." Leader of Boston Borough Council Councillor Anne Dorrian said: "We are committed to Boston, to working together with the community and with our partners, so that we can build on everything that the town has to offer." Find out more about this exciting news for Boston here: https://www.bostontownboard.co.uk/.../boston-town-board.../
Crown House
Boston Brough Council has taken another significant step forward in the revitalisation of Rosegarth Square with the recent acquisition of Crown House. By using government funding, we have been able to ensure that this purchase marks the next major milestone in our redevelopment plans for the area. These high-level, strategic plans, are aimed at enhancing community spaces and fostering local economic growth. With plans underway, a formal planning application for Crown House is expected to be submitted by mid-November, detailing the vision for transforming the area into a vibrant, welcoming space. You can read the full article here
Purchasing A Smart phone for a child?
Is it the right time to get my child a Smart phone? This is something we are asked a lot especially by Primary School Parents. A new film by the charity Nip in the Bud discusses the hidden dangers of social media and smartphone use among children. If you are considering getting your child a phone we would urge you to watch the film here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Zhfd0jW7iY&t=605s the film provides insights from children, headteachers and doctors, shedding light on the everyday harm caused by digital platforms.
Key facts:
- 90% of 11-year-olds own a smartphone, and most under 13 have a social media profile.
- 90% of girls and 50% of boys have received explicit pictures or videos they didn’t want to see.
- 80% of teenage girls are pressured to provide sexual images of themselves.
- 1 in 5 children have been bullied online. Among them, 24% self-harm and 22% change their appearance due to bullying. Only 13% delete the app where they are bullied.
- Boys as young as 13 have been targeted for sextortion scams.
- MRI scans show screen time reduces brain areas responsible for visual processing, empathy, attention, memory and early reading skills.
Psychologists, headteachers and GPs are advocating for stricter guidelines: no smartphones until age 14, no social media until age 16
You can read more information here which provides more options to consider around technology prior to purchasing smartphones for children. Smartphones and social media fact sheet | Nip in the Bud | Free Downloadable Fact Sheet
Vaccinations in under 5’s
Vaccines and your children - help them to understand your views. If you have chosen to decline any of your child’s age 0-5 vaccines, they would like to hear why. People choose not to vaccinate their children for all sorts of reasons. HWLincs is an independent charity researching these reasons and would like to speak to you in a safe, non-judgemental way so we can understand your thoughts and feelings around this important subject. To speak to us or find out more, visit https://hwlincs.co.uk/vaccines/
Falls Awareness Week
This week is Falls Awareness Week, and there are some handy tips attached to help prevent falls from happening in the home for you and your loved ones. For more information or would like to sign up for our Strength and Balance programme, please click the link: www.oneyoulincolnshire.org.uk/pathway/strength-and-balance
Pain Workshops
Are you living with chronic pain and looking for an alternative to high-dose medication? The NHS in Lincolnshire is hosting free pain workshops for people living in the county struggling with long-term chronic pain. Find out more at https://bit.ly/Empowered-Relief-Workshops
Chemotherapy Treatments
Fantastic news that many patients receiving chemotherapy at Lincoln, Boston and Grantham hospitals are now being offered scalp cooling treatment, thanks to generous donations to a United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity appeal!
Sharon Wilkinson is currently receiving chemotherapy treatment to fight breast cancer. She believes it has helped to significantly reduce her hair loss during her treatment so far.
Sharon said: “Being able to walk down the street and feel confident and not feel like everyone is looking at you is so important and empowering at this time.” Read the full story at https://www.ulh.nhs.uk/.../patient-thanks-charity-for...
St. Barnabas – Knit & Natter Groups
Come join the Knit & Natter Groups—where yarn and chatter go hand in hand! Whether you're a seasoned knitter or just a beginner, they’ve got you covered. Bring your knitting, crocheting, or any crafty project, and enjoy a cosy session of creativity and conversation.
No need to book, just drop in and stitch some fun into your week - Boston: Fridays, 10am-12pm https://stbarnabashospice.co.uk/.../psychological-and.../
Lincolnshire Suicide Prevention Strategy Grant Fund
Shine are pleased to announce the launch of a new £75,000 fund dedicated to supporting countywide community led projects aimed at reducing suicide risk and enhancing mental health support across Lincolnshire.
The funding initiative is designed to empower local organisations and community groups to deliver innovative and impactful activities that address the critical issue of suicide prevention across Lincolnshire, with organisations able to request a maximum £25,000 to deliver a Countywide project that aligns with key objectives. Further information: Lincolnshire Suicide Prevention Strategy Grant Fund - Shine (shinelincolnshire.com)
To apply, register for the information session or to request a one-to-one support session, please contact: funding@shinelincolnshire.com
Butterfly Hospice
The Hospice is currently looking for volunteers who can support their group by walking with them, greeting attendees and helping everyone feel welcome. It’s a simple but rewarding role that could make a real difference in someone’s day. If you’re 18 or over, enjoy being outdoors, and have a friendly and approachable nature, they’d love to have you on board.
What you’ll do as a volunteer:
- Welcome participants
- Walk alongside others, being a point of contact and providing a friendly face and an open ear
- Help create a positive and supportive environment for everyone involved
Their first walk will be on Thursday, 10th October, at Dion's Wood Nature Reserve, and the commitment is flexible. Even giving just a small amount of your time can have a huge impact. For further details contact : enquiries@butterflyhospice.org.uk
Nip in the Bud Film
News of the upcoming launch of Nip in the Bud's new film, A Stolen Childhood, is vital watching for anyone passionate about protecting children’s mental health. The film highlights the dangers of smartphone and social media use with a worrying statistic that 90% of girls are affected. Launched on 16 September 2024, the film reveals that 90% of girls and 50% of boys have received unwanted explicit pictures or videos, 1 in 5 children have been bullied online, and boys as young as 13 have been targeted for sextortion scams.
Key facts:
- 90% of 11-year-olds own a smartphone, and most under 13 have a social media profile.
- 90% of girls and 50% of boys have received explicit pictures or videos they didn’t want to see.
- 80% of teenage girls are pressured to provide sexual images of themselves.
- 1 in 5 children have been bullied online. Among them, 24% self-harm and 22% change their appearance due to bullying. Only 13% delete the app where they are bullied.
- Boys as young as 13 have been targeted for sextortion scams.
- MRI scans show screen time reduces brain areas responsible for visual processing, empathy, attention, memory and early reading skills.
- Psychologists, headteachers and GPs are advocating for stricter guidelines: no smartphones until age 14, no social media until age 16
Experts are calling for much stricter guidelines on the age a child is given access to a smartphone and social media. Watch the film here: Smartphones: A Stolen Childhood | Nip in the Bud
Warm Spaces
Do you have a hall or space available to offer shelter for those sleeping rough during cold weather? We're preparing to activate the Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) and need local spaces to keep people safe and warm. If you can help by providing a venue, please email us at rsi@boston.gov.uk. Your generosity could make all the difference this winter!
Transported
We’re thrilled to announce that Transported has secured an additional year of funding, allowing us to continue our creative place-making and community-building projects through to March 2026! In September 2023, Arts Council England confirmed that organisations in the 2022-25 Creative People and Places (CPP) National Portfolio could apply for a further year of funding. This extension aims to provide stability for existing CPPs and additional time for those interested in applying to the 2026-29 portfolio to develop their plans. Funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, the Creative People and Places programme supports organisations like Transported in empowering communities to lead, create, and participate in local cultural experiences. This extended funding will help us reach even more people across Boston and South Holland, delivering projects that connect, inspire, and empower our local communities. Learn more about our journey and what’s next for Transported in the ‘News’ section of our website https://transportedart.com/news/ Without public funding through the National Lottery thanks to National Lottery players this simply wouldn’t be possible. Thank you!
HUG2
Don’t miss out on a place with our HUG2 scheme!
As part of our Home Upgrade Grants scheme, eligible households could receive the following-
Solar panels
Low-energy lighting upgrades
A range of insulation methods, including external wall, cavity, underfloor, loft or internal
Smart heating controls
Low-carbon heating methods, such as air source heat pumps
These improvements will raise a home’s Energy Performance Certificate and reduce energy and carbon consumption over time. Want to know if you or someone you know is eligible for these exciting upgrades? Find out more here: https://www.boston.gov.uk/article/24077/HUG-2-Grant-Scheme *Measures available are subject to a technical survey and not guaranteed
Understanding Homeless Campaign
Thank You for your support! We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who engaged with our Understanding Homelessness campaign. We hope it shed light on the complex challenges local authorities face in tackling homelessness and the difficult circumstances some of our residents find themselves in, we acknowledge the concerns raised from those who commented and we will ensure they will be taken into account by the Council. As a follow-up, we are pleased to share our Rough Sleeping Annual Report 2023/24. This report provides an in-depth analysis of homelessness and rough sleeping within our community, highlighting key trends, challenges, and the impact of our initiatives, as featured in the campaign.
Together with our partners, we remain committed to finding sustainable solutions to reduce homelessness and provide essential support to those most in need - https://bit.ly/3z2ymx7
Boston Big Local
Local community benefits from 10 years of funding. Boston Borough Council extends a heartfelt thank you to Boston Big Local for their incredible support over the past 10 years. Cllr Dale Broughton, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Town Centre, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Boston Big Local for their unwavering support and commitment over the past 10 years. Their dedication to improving our town and enhancing the lives of residents through their generous funding has truly made a lasting impact. “The projects and events made possible by Boston Big Local have not only strengthened our community but have also created lasting memories for people of all ages. On behalf of Boston Borough Council, I extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved in this incredible initiative." Read full article at https://bit.ly/47GKu3L
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust - ULHT has been granted teaching hospital status. This prestigious status not only recognises all of the hard work that is taking place, but will help the NHS in Lincolnshire to attract top-tier talent to work in the county. Chief Executive Dr Karen Dunderdale is also a Visiting Professor of Nursing at the University of Lincoln. Karen said: “Achieving teaching hospital status is a real achievement for the Trust. It demonstrates the importance we place on the development of our workforce, providing training, learning and education opportunities for all our staff."
The National Arts Fundraising School
Are you an arts or heritage practitioner, or work for an arts, heritage or community organisation? If so, The National Arts Fundraising School is offering five FREE spaces on their training programme that can help you learn important skills, such as writing powerful proposals, setting up credible giving campaigns, asking high net worth individuals for support, or clinching sponsorship deals with companies, and much more. The sessions are open to all arts and heritage organisations and practitioners, no matter how big or small your projects are planned to be, and the only requirements are to be working within South Holland, East Lindsey, or Boston Borough. This opportunity is brought to you by the South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership’s Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation programme, in partnership with the National Arts Fundraising School. If you're interested in applying, please visit http://www.nationalartsfundraisingschool.com/south-and.../ for more information and to fill out the application form. If you have any questions regarding eligibility for the programme, please contact Sam Phillips at samantha.phillips@e-lindsey.gov.uk, or if you have questions about the programme itself, please speak to Bernard Ross at bernardross@mc.consulting.
Rosegarth Square
The regeneration of a public realm area in Boston is a step closer with the submission of a planning application. This marks the first phase of the Rosegarth Square regeneration project, which was awarded £14.8 million in government funding.
Councillor Anne Dorrian, Leader of Boston Borough Council, said: “The submission of the planning application is a major milestone in transforming this run-down part of town into an exciting new space for everyone.
“The aim of this first phase of the project is to enhance connectivity within the town centre. We aim to create a new high quality public realm which will improve the experience for residents, businesses and visitors to this part of Boston, and encourage further inward investment opportunities.” Read full article https://bit.ly/3ZoYyfR
Move To Universal Credit
Some benefits and tax credits are ending and being replaced by Universal Credit. People who are being ‘moved to Universal Credit’ will receive a letter from the Department of Work and Pensions - this is call a ‘Universal Credit Migration notice’.
People will not be moved automatically – the letter will tell people when they need to move to Universal Credit. They must make the new claim within 3 months of receiving this letter (a sample letter is available from the school office for reference).
More information can be found: https://ucmove.campaign.gov.uk/ A detailed guide on support available is attached and resources are available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/universal-credit-information-for-stakeholders-and-partners
Household Support Fund extension
Vulnerable households will receive support for the cost of essentials this winter, as DWP announced an extension to the Household Support Fund for the next six months.
The £421m extension gives certainty to Local Authorities across England over the winter months – up until April 2025 – as they work to help those struggling with the cost of energy, food, and water. An estimated £79 million will be given to devolved administrations. Pensioners and others struggling to heat their homes or afford other essential items over the colder months should contact their local council to see what support may be available to them. Details on the latest scheme for local authorities and councils will be communicated in the coming weeks.[http://Government%20support%20extended%20to%20help%20struggling%20households%20with%20bills%20and%20essential%20costs%20over%20winter%20-%20GOV.UK%20(www.gov.uk)]Government support extended to help struggling households with bills and essential costs over winter - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Operation Plotting – New Crime & Disorder Panel in Boston
At the Boston Community Leaders Engagement Briefing held in July, Dr. Carina O’Reilly from the University of Lincoln briefed those present on the Operation Plotting initiative. She is now recruiting for people to become members of a permanent panel to look at crime and disorder in Boston.
The first panel meeting will be face-to-face, held in central Boston in October or November - date and time to be confirmed but most likely early evenings on a weekday. If you are unable to attend the initial date, you can still take part in the panel and join later meetings. At the initial panel meeting, they will discuss how the panel should work, who should be chair, and what the panel should discuss. The meeting should take no longer than an hour and a half. If you’d like to take part, please click on the following link -https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspxid=xEculd4FgkKDr19LRrFij9nCNM2OjlhHskmycY6nXe9UNUtCUkhUMEVaREVEVDJSOFQ2NEI2MUtXVi4u and fill in the short form, which will also ask what times and dates would be most convenient to you for the initial panel to be held.
NHS 111 Mental Health Option
The NHS ‘111 press option 2’ for mental health is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all ages. People can use this number if they have an urgent mental health concern themselves or about someone they know. By providing access to a mental health professional, without the need for a GP referral, it can help support people to manage a mental health crisis and in many cases be an alternative to attending emergency departments or calling the police.
The service can be accessed by calling NHS 111 and selecting ‘option 2’. Callers will be transferred to a dedicated member of a mental health team in their local health board area. It includes an assessment of needs and telephoned based intervention to reduce distress. Where appropriate individuals can be referred to mental health services, given self-care advice or signposted to other support.
The service has been rolled out across the UK and has so far received more than 15,000 calls. Most callers have had their problems resolved through advice on self-management or been referred to local third sector groups, with a minority of callers referred to urgent mental health care services. You can also access the service by completing the 111 online form, at: Get mental health help - NHS 111.
Suicide Prevention
Yesterday was World Suicide Prevention Day, a communication based event aimed at reaching national organisations, governments and the general public, giving a singular message that suicide can be prevented. Find out more about projects to support health and wellbeing and book onto one of our Suicide First Aid courses here www.shinelincolnshire.com. Lincolnshire has a mental health helpline that is available 24/7 on 0800 001 4331, or you can find out more about the support available at www.lpft.nhs.uk/contact-us.
Beam Café
This is an excellent facility providing a safe space located at Boston Centenary Methodist Church.
Get Tested – Get Treated
Regular testing can help manage #STIs, but if left untreated, they can make you seriously ill. Taking responsibility for your sexual health is important – for yourself and past, present & future partners. Find your nearest sexual health service: https://www.nhs.uk/.../sexua.../find-a-sexual-health-clinic/ #SHW24
High Blood Pressure
It’s Know Your Numbers Week. Whether you have registered for the event or not, checking for high blood pressure can prevent a stroke or heart disease. Let’s keep the power in our hands this #KnowYourNumbers Week and beyond
Find out more https://www.bloodpressureuk.org/.../know-your-numbers-week/
Asthma Friendly Schools
Helping children and young people to live their best lives. This year the NHS Integrated Care Board has launched their Asthma Friendly Schools guidance to all schools in Lincolnshire. By becoming an asthma-friendly school you will be able to support pupils with asthma specifically, provide better support and lessen the impact on the education of these children and young people. Find out more at: https://lincolnshire.icb.nhs.uk/nhs-lincolnshire-icb..
There are some free spaces for the friendship group at the free range farm sanctuary and wellbeing hub. Wednesdays 10am until 12 noon. See attached for more information. They are an alternative provision for education as well as continuing their delivery of their adult and young people mentoring.
Plus they are also delivering short courses in: Animal Care, Life skills, Moving towards independence, History and Horticulture. They also have functional skills in English and Mathematics. As always they are looking for volunteers with lived experience of social anxieties, neurodiversity, learning challenges or mental health.
Therapy Farm and Free Range Sanctuary
Boston Christmas Festival 2024
After the amazing success of last year, we're thrilled to announce that Hollands are returning with the ever-popular Cakewalk Fair Ride and so much more! Get ready for festive fun with:
Hook-a-duck, darts, and rifle range
Coconut shy & strikers
Octopus rides & Disneyland train
Plus, lots of sweet treats for everyone to enjoy!
Don’t miss out on all the excitement—join us for festive fun and games the whole family will love!
Empowering tenants: Support for a sustainable future
Are you wondering how we prepare and support individuals to successfully manage and sustain a tenancy? Here's how we do it:
Personalised assessments: Every individual is assessed based on their unique support needs. Our approach is thorough and tailored to provide the most effective assistance.
Life skills support: Our dedicated life skills support officer plays a key role. They:
• Visit clients in temporary accommodation regularly.
• Maintain contact via phone or community meet-ups.
• Discuss and develop essential life skills.
Key areas of focus:
• Confidence & communication
• Budgeting skills
• Wellbeing
• Home safety & DIY
• Income & education opportunities
• Community engagement
• Understanding tenancy rights
• Cooking and nutrition
Our goal is to empower our clients, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in their new homes. Let’s build a future where everyone has the opportunity to maintain a stable and safe home!
Mental Health Support
If you need support or advice, please contact the free 24/7 mental health helplines on:
• Adult Mental Health Helpline - 0800 001 4331
• Here4You support line for children, young people & their families - 0800 234 6342
Should you have any other health concerns, you should visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111, and in emergencies, please call 999. Struggling with feelings of depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress or obsessions and compulsions? NHS Talking Therapies can help. The service is effective, confidential and free. Your GP can refer you or refer yourself at https://www.lincolnshiretalkingtherapies.nhs.uk
Pharmacies
For seven common conditions - your pharmacist can now provide some prescription medicine, if needed, without seeing a GP. Think pharmacy first. nhs.uk/thinkpharmacyfirst
NHS App
View your test results, order repeat prescriptions and much more. Manage your health the easy way with the NHS App. Start using the NHS App today nhs.uk/app
Boston Borough Council – Call Back
We know that no-one likes waiting on hold and now you don’t have to! Why not take advantage of the option for our team to call you back? You won't lose your place in the queue and one of our team will call you back when you reach the front of the queue. You will be told how many people are in the queue, as well as your estimated wait time. This is based on our current wait times, average call durations and how many customers are making contact at any one time.
Street Tag
Something new is coming to #Boston! Street Tag is a free app that makes getting active fun, transforming your surroundings into a virtual world of challenges. Explore your local area, find virtual tags, and collect points to climb up the leader board. It’s a great way to play, explore and stay fit with your family and friends. All you need is the free Street Tag app. Walking or cycling around your area, you can find and collect virtual tags. The more tags you collect, the higher you climb on the School or Community Leader board. More info - https://loom.ly/35EOMaA
Age Without Limits
Age Without Limits aims to inspire and inform us all to recognise and challenge ageism when we see it, hear it or experience it ourselves. You can get involved today and be part of the solution! Visit the link to find out how - AgeWithoutLimits.org
Measles
Measles is highly infectious and can be passed on even before a rash appears. Measles cases are rising in England. Be measles aware. Measles is highly contagious, but knowing the symptoms is the first step to protection. Visit nhs.uk/measles.
Make sure your child is up to date with their MMR vaccination to give them the best protection against becoming seriously unwell. Visit nhs.uk/MMR If you think your child has measles, contact NHS 111 or your GP practice by telephone or online, but to help prevent the virus spreading please do not attend in person any kind of healthcare setting including your GP practice unless requested to by a healthcare professional.
Cancer – How Are you Feeling?
Are you supporting someone close to you who has a cancer diagnosis? The #LincsRecoveryCollege course ‘Cancer – How are you feeling?’ is back this Thursday 1 February from 1pm-3pm! This course has been created with people who have their own experiences of supporting someone with a diagnosis and United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust’s Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service. Explore helpful tools and support with them. Book your place for this online session at www.lpft.nhs.uk/recovery-college
Memory Support Service
Lincolnshire's Dementia Support Service has changed its name to the Memory Support Service to reflect that the service supports people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) as well as those living with dementia. Find out more https://www.lpft.nhs.uk/news.../news/memory-support-service The service works alongside community mental health teams, memory clinics and partner organisations across the county. Service users have access to a Support Advisor who will provide guidance and advice, including signposting to partner organisations that can provide a range of further support such as financial support, advice for carers, and local activity groups. To find out more or make a referral, please visit www.lpft.nhs.uk/memory-support or email lpft.memorysupportservice@nhs.net
Foodbanks Online Map
Click on the following link to access the Lincolnshire foodbanks online map https://lincolnshirefoodpartnership.org/foodbanks/ . If you know of anything which needs updating or any changes to be made please visit - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeh52IgmxT7deUNnrfxqSFVHYq6TlQzNP1DPtWKG4b2FrolRw/viewform?usp=sf_link .
Cervical Screening
Cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer. It's not a test for cancer, it's a test to help prevent cancer. Protect yourself — attend your cervical screening when invited. nhs.uk/cervicalscreening
NHS Talking Therapies
Struggling with feelings of depression, excessive worry, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress or obsessions and compulsions? NHS Talking Therapies can help. The service is effective, confidential and free. Your GP can refer you or refer yourself at https://www.lincolnshiretalkingtherapies.nhs.uk
Air Pollution
Did you know that lighting fires in our homes is the largest source of harmful small particle air pollution in the UK? If you didn’t, you’re not alone! Wood burning harms our health and the environment – but most people in the UK are unaware that it is a major source of air pollution. Here in Boston Borough our air pollution levels are generally low in most areas of the borough – which is great! But its important we all take steps to keep things that way. Find out the truth about wood burning www.cleanairhub.org.uk Surprised by what you’ve learned? Share it with your friends and family to help start a national conversation about the harms of wood burning
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK, so there’s more we can do to make sure we’re aware of the potential warning signs. Men are advised to see their doctor if they have any of these symptoms https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer Check your risk at https://prostatecanceruk.org/risk-checker
Heart Attacks
Nearly 1 in 2 adults in England do not feel confident in spotting signs of a heart attack. Click on the following link for the symptoms to look out for. http://nhs.uk/heartattack
Mild Feverish Illness In Children
Mild feverish illness is a normal part of childhood and, generally, a harmless response to help the body fight infection. Learn what's normal and where and when to seek help or advice - nhs.uk/conditions/fever-in-children
Vitamin D
It’s difficult in the winter to get enough Vitamin D. It’s advisable everyone takes a supplement, especially if you are pregnant, young or have darker skin. More info - nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-d
Night Light Cafes
CONNECT with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours. Building these connections will support you every day. Night Light Cafés are a great way to reach out in a non-clinical setting. Visit https://haylincolnshire.co.uk/night-light-cafe to find out more.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
For some people, a change in season can trigger seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Read more about the symptoms of SAD and treatment options here: http://nhs.uk/.../seasonal-affective-disorder-sad/overview
Medical Help
If you need medical help, it’s important to know where to go to get the help you need. Use NHS 111 online - 111.nhs.uk as the first port of call for urgent health needs and only use 999 for life-threatening emergencies. Visit https://bit.ly/ChooseWellLincolnshire for more info.
CallConnect
CallConnect, a flexible bus service by Lincolnshire County Council, is an on-demand bus service offering passengers the flexibility to connect to their local communities and other transport options. A fantastic service for those residents who struggle with personal or public transport, a flexible, bookable services and timetabled services. Find out more at https://lincsbus.info/callconnect/
Cost of Living
Increased interest rates are having an impact on mortgage and rent payments. If you are an homeowner and worried about falling behind there is help available. If you’re worried about rising mortgages | MoneyHelper
Quite often, it’s just saying the words out loud that’s the hardest part . So, we're asking you to Do One Thing to help take the first step… Check the cost of living guides available on the MoneyHelper website - https://loom.ly/xC9vaJ8
Avian Influenza
An outbreak of #AvianInfluenza has been confirmed at a premises near Donington, South Holland, #Lincolnshire. Foot Patrols begin today within the 3km Protection Zone, meaning you may receive a visit from one of our team. All officers will carry proof of identity. We are there to gather information about birds and livestock in the area. We will never ask for money or bank details. For more information: https://bit.ly/47AmBcN
County Lines
Help keep #Lincolnshire safe from County Lines. Drug dealing funds local organised crime, like theft and violence trapping young people into a life of exploitation. Find out more on Crimestoppers website here https://bit.ly/3Q0XfPp
Housing Hub
Have you been asked to leave your home? Finding somewhere else to live can be difficult and take quite some time. If you need advice, please contact the Housing Hub as soon as possible. If you leave it until close to the date you must leave your home, your prospects of finding somewhere to live are significantly reduced. Email HomelessTeamBBC@boston.gov.uk ‐ Telephone 01205 314200 ‐ Self‐Referral - https://oneteamlincs.housingjigsaw.co.uk/
Safer Streets Project
The Safer Streets Project work with local people to find out about the impact of anti-social behaviour in Boston, Skegness, and Spalding, and to find ways to share information and make our towns safer. As part of this project, they wanted to know what the local issues are, what the impact is for local people, and what we can all do to make our towns safer. They worked with local people and groups in March and April 2023 to come up with the findings - Interested? Find out more at https://loom.ly/XVfF70Q
Community Ownership Fund
Heart of Newhaven a community hub that is now run from the Heart offers spaces for theatre and dance groups, choir and music groups, sport and performances of all kinds, artists’ studios, community meeting rooms for rent, and a Victorian School Room in Edinburgh. Heart of Newhaven in Edinburgh received £300,000 from the UK Government’s Community Ownership Fund (COF). Do you also have a community project in Boston Borough that could benefit from COF funding? Round 3 Window 2 is now open – read the prospectus and find out how to apply to save your community asset here: https://tinyurl.com/2skzc8bx Full story available online - https://mycommunity.org.uk/protecting-the-heart-of-newhaven
Changing Places Toilet
A ‘Changing Places Toilet’ in Cattle Market car park on Wide Bargate, next to the main public toilets – which has special features for people with disabilities - has officially opened. Standard accessible toilets meet the needs of some disabled people – but not all. Changing Places Toilets have larger facilities that have the right equipment, including a changing bench and a hoist, designed to support disabled people who need assistance. This was made possible by funding from central government as part of the Changing Places Fund. It’s the third Changing Places UK to be opened in Boston with the first at Central Park, and second in Lincoln Lane car park, Boston. To ensure the facilities are always available and remain free from vandalism, bespoke access control measures have been installed. Further information and registration information can be found https://www.changing-places.org/fin
St Nicholas CE Primary Academy is proud to have received a defibrillator under the Government scheme. This is kept inside the school building and is accessible to anyone who needs it.
Lincolnshire Parent Carer Forum
UKSPF GRASSroots Grant
Groups in search of cash for community projects are being urged to make use of the UKSPF/RPF funded Lincolnshire Community Foundation's GRASSroots Community Grants Programme, which provides grants to a maximum of £25,000 in support of parishes, village halls, community spaces and community projects.
The LCF Levelling UP Community Grants Programme (GRASSroots) is a scheme which focuses on supporting projects from parishes, village halls and community organisations to achieve 'match funding' from other third-party organisations, central government and private investment. To find out more about how to apply for LCF funding visit Lincolnshire Community Foundation - Simplifying grants, funding & giving so people in Lincolnshire can thrive. (lincolnshirecf.co.uk)
Alternatively, Grants4Growth offers businesses the opportunity to invest in their future by awarding both capital and revenue grants to Small & Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs) which are looking to grow. Visit Grants4Growth Home Page - Grants 4 Growth (sholland.gov.uk) to find out more and to see if your business would be eligible for a grant.
Furthermore, a new People and Skills discretionary grant scheme will be launched in Boston later this year. The scheme will aim to support businesses to access the skills training they need and for our residents to access higher paid, higher skilled work in our area.
Boston College – Adult Courses
Applications are now open for Boston College’s new Adult part-time courses (adults aged 19+), with course start dates from September to April. There are many great reasons to discover Adult Learning opportunities with Boston College - you can develop skills for your career, grow your business, or focus on your wellbeing. Explore a variety of courses at our campuses in Boston, Spalding and Horncastle. Fit learning around your life with courses starting from as little as one day, and sessions available in the daytime and evening. Courses include:
- Beginners’ Dressmaking
- Basic ICT
- Photography
- English and Maths (GCSE or Functional Skills)
- Catering Food Safety
- Skin Cancer Awareness
- Nail Technology
- Gym Instruction and Personal Training
- Access to Higher Education
- Creativity for Wellbeing
…and many more.
Find a full list of courses and apply online here https://bit.ly/3PiY9oT
How Are You Lincolnshire (H.A.Y)
Follow How Are You Lincolnshire to get all the latest information on activities and support in your area to improve your mental health and wellbeing -
Five Steps to Mental Health
Trying these tips could help you feel more positive and able to get the most out of life. For more advice, visit:
https://www.nhs.uk/.../five-steps-to-mental-wellbeing/...
Also see attached for handy numbers and online resources.
High Blood Pressure
Around 1 in 4 adults in the UK have high blood pressure, but many don’t know it. It can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Find out how to get checked, understand what your numbers mean and how to manage your risk -
Stay Alive App
Have you heard of the #StayAlive app? It is NHS recommended and is packed full of information for those at risk of suicide or for people who are worried about others. Find out more at https://bit.ly/3qSDa3X
GP Appointments
13,632 missed GP appointments across Lincolnshire in July 2023! It is really important that you attend your GP appointment. If, for any reason, you no longer need the appointment or cannot attend, please remember to cancel it so that it can be given to someone else and help us to reduce appointment waiting times.
Boston Leisure Centre
Boston Borough Council has appointed Parkwood Leisure as our new leisure management partner responsible for operating our leisure centre, currently known as Geoff Moulder Leisure Complex, to support our ongoing investment in leisure facilities.
Find out more - https://loom.ly/6zcfQtk
Scam Call Blocker
Criminals won't stand a chance with a call blocker by your side. These amazing units have a track record of blocking 91% of scam and nuisance calls! Protect yourself and your loved ones - apply for a FREE call blocker at www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/callblocker
Active Lincolnshire – Let’s Move Lincolnshire
Active Lincolnshire, the local Active Partnership funded by Sport England, welcomes the Government’s new national strategy to help get more people active by 2030; ‘Get Active: A strategy for the future of sport and physical activity’.
This new national strategy details how the Government plan to tackle 1 in 4 adults being currently inactive, with 11 million adults doing less than 30 minutes of exercise a week, and half of the nation’s children doing less than the recommended 60 minutes of exercise per day. They aim to increase national participation levels with a new National Physical Activity Taskforce from both government and the sector to drive it forward and track progress of the goals to get 2.5 million more adults and over 1 million more children active by 2030.
Locally, Active Lincolnshire spearhead the local strategy for physical activity – Let's Move Lincolnshire. Organisations and stakeholders across Lincolnshire from local authorities, planning to health and care, National Governing Bodies and physical activity providers all have a role to play in enabling more people in Lincolnshire to be more active, more often. ‘Let's Move Lincolnshire’ advocates for a ‘whole system approach’ to tackling the challenge of inactivity and increasing accessible and inclusive, relevant options to be active, recognising together we need to create the conditions for change.
Responding to the opportunity to better use technology to support people to be more active, Active Lincolnshire recently launched Street Tag in the county; the app is a digital platform to get people moving through virtual challenges. Over £300,00 has been invested through Opening School Facilities, with Active Lincolnshire working with schools to enable them to open their facilities (such as swimming pools, sports halls and pitches) for community use outside of school hours. Wheels for Life, is a bike donation and refurbishment scheme that has been established by the charity which supports people in transport poverty with refurbished bikes and cycling accessories while also supporting the development of community hubs and upskilling local residents by training bike mechanics for the programme. All of these programmes respond to the challenges of living in a rural county like Lincolnshire and are designed and developed with an understanding of the needs of local people, bringing options to be active into daily lives.
Active Lincolnshire recently supported the set-up of Yarborough Park Run, a free way to encourage people walking or running 5k on a Saturday morning and funded the Good Boost programme at multiple locations, delivering personalised care for people with musculoskeletal conditions. Equivalent programmes have been highlighted in the new strategy highlighting the governments ambitions.
Currently 58.7% of Lincolnshire adults (Active Lives Survey 2021-22) do not meet the Chief Medical Officer Guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate intensity minutes of activity a week. 30% of those people are inactive (that is doing less than 30 minutes activity a week). Active Lincolnshire address the disparity in activity levels across places and demographics in their current strategies and are working on creating more equality of opportunity for people across the districts.
https://www.activelincolnshire.com/news/government-releases-new-new-national-strategy-get-active
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