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I was delighted to help the BREAK charity celebrate getting a grant of more than £55,000 from BBC Children in Need to transform the grounds of Nelson and Trafalgar Lodges, its respite and residential centres in Long Stratton. Pathways, raised vegetable and sensory plant beds as well as a go-kart circuit and outdoor play equipment will soon be enjoyed by children with severe learning difficulties. |
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TESTING DRIVE: Richard Bacon MP
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Nelson Lodge's partner, the Norfolk Autistic Society, gave £5,300 towards the cost while the Ipswich and Norwich Co-operative Society's community dividend fund made up the £3,772 shortfall.
Although up to 40 families a year now benefit from the purpose-built Nelson and Trafalgar Lodges, much more needs to be done for children with conditions such as autism and Aspergers Syndrome. Current proposals from Norfolk Children's Services still do not go far enough. I and my fellow Norfolk MPs will continue to support Norfolk Autistic Society's efforts to get true recognition and help for their children's needs.
On the up
Since a management buyout four years ago it has seen its turnover increase more than threefold.
What is the secret of the company's success? Offering outstanding service in a competitive market is the key, managing director, Nick Culley told me.
Staff turnover is low and Midwich provides a friendly, continuous working relationship which customers appreciate, while excellent incentives and recruiting senior appointments from within the company help maintain employee loyalty.
The company is entering the 2006 National Customer Service Awards. I am sure it will do well.
Smart moves
Available to Council tenants as well as the private sector, various electronic aids work through a Life Line unit linked to a 24-hour emergency service and connected to the telephone. The gadgets include a fall detector, 'wandering client' detector, flood alert and smoke alarm.
I saw this amazing system in action
at Clare House in Diss. Given the thumbs up by Council
carers, the system gives peace of mind to users and their
families and saves on home and residential care. For more
information call 0800 917 4680.
▪ Need to see your MP? You can
make an appointment to see Richard by calling 01379
642769.
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