< Previous© st ock. adobe .com/P ikselst ock Constant care 50 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY CARING Constant care 50-53.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:49 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 51 CARING There’s no single golden rule when it comes to caring for the elderly, but rather a variety of different advice and recommendations tessellating together. So much so that people might feel overwhelmed or at a lost when it comes to finding the best care and support for their older relatives. Courses of action will, of course, depend on how much independence an older person has, or whether they need 24/7 support. Yet however much care a person may need, there’s still plenty of ways that we can all support and show up for our elderly relatives. It might sound obvious but visiting often should be first and foremost in your list of how best to support an older relative. According to Age UK, 1.4 million older people in the UK are lonely, and studies have shown that loneliness can not only significantly reduce a person’s quality of life, but their lifespan too. Despite these startling statistics, many older people remain unvisited by their family. Now, we’re not here to judge you. It’s easy for life and other commitments to get in the way, but if you’re waiting for the right time, you’ll be waiting a long time. Instead, make time, carve out a regular slot every two weeks, or month if that’s all you can manage. Consistency is often more important than quantity. Better to spend an hour every two weeks than all day once a year. By visiting often, you will not only be able to assess how your older relative is doing in terms of mental, physical and emotional wellbeing, but also glean the state of their home or care home facility. That way, you can also do The levels of care and support needed by older relatives will change from person to person, but there’s plenty of ways to help and show you’re here for them. 52 Á routine checks of laundry, mail, food and so on, as well as seeing if their medications are all in order, they’re being supplied properly, and that they’re actually taking them. It’s also advised to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors whenever you visit. Regular visits will also reveal which areas an older person may be struggling, especially around the house. For example, they may still be mobile and have a good quality of life and high levels of independence but may struggle getting in and out of the bath. With that in mind, you’ll be able to install grab bars to help. The same is true for every area of the home. It might not be so dramatic as drilling into walls, but just buying easy-grip handles that can be used to make tasks such as opening jars and operating can openers more ergonomic and user-friendly (especially for hands that might be suffering with reduced muscle mass or arthritis). You might already know in advance, or it may become apparent during a visit, but oftentimes an older person will require help of one kind or another. There’s no shame in this, we all lose some independence and ability as we get older. It’s about ensuring the best quality of life for a person, so that might mean hiring a live-in carer, someone who takes care of shopping and prescription pick-ups, or someone who can assist or takeover daily errands and activities including shopping, cleaning, and showering etc. Unless they are a family member willing to help out of the kindness of their heart, any hired help 50-53.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:49 Page 252 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY CARING will need to be paid for. An older relative may have a good pension or ample savings that will allow for this, but you may need to cover the expense out of your own pocket. Depending on the severity of your relative’s needs, the best option may be to move them into a care facility. We’re blessed here in Lincolnshire with an abundance of exceptional care facilities that boast all the amenities and natural beauty that a person could want for. Best of all, they’ll be surrounded by people their own age, making new friends and even kindling new romances. As with all of us, keeping fit and active is the secret to longevity. Therefore, try to keep your elderly relative(s) active. We’re not about to suggest getting them to run a 10k or anything, but gentle regular exercise can be transformative, not only for physical health but mental. Best of all, exercise is something the whole family can enjoy together, whether that’s a walk at the park, swimming, or dance classes. Moreover, it’s a great way for families to bond together, especially if you’re trying to strengthen the bonds between young ones and their older relatives. One thing that’s important not to overlook is your own physical and mental wellbeing. If you’re tired, anxious, and eating poorly, you won’t be in the best position to help anyone. Therefore, ensure that you take care of your own health and wellbeing before helping others. Not only will you feel better for it, but your elderly relative will benefit. We all need support of one kind or another, but often older people need more. We’re all in a position to offer it. After all, isn’t that what we’d like when we reach retirement? © st ock. adobe .com/ chokniti Funeral Services Our funeral homes provide the best facilities including private arrangement rooms and peaceful chapels of rest. We also provide a funeral dividend during this difficult time of bereavement. A service from caring professionals To find out more contact your nearest funeral home: Lincolnshire.coop/storefinder 50-53.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:49 Page 301775 711 959 www.countrycourtcare.com Spalding Common, Spalding, Lincolnshire, PE11 3AS Fenchurch House Care Home Fenchurch House provides the kind of care we’d want all of our loved ones to receive. Our brand new home is beautifully furnished, whilst retaining a warm family atmosphere that makes Fenchurch House feel extra special. If you’re concerned about how your relative is coping and would like them to have more support, Fenchurch House provides family-led care in a luxurious and homely environment. • Bistro Café • Fisherman’s Arms Pub • Hair and pamper salon For more information about life at Fenchurch House Care Home contact Customer Relations Advisor Morgan Hicks on 07834 790 400 or email morgan.hicks@countrycourtcare.com. • Tailored meaningful activities • Daily Fine Dining • Luxury en-suite bedrooms LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 53 Proudly serving the families of Gainsborough and the surrounding areas for over 5 years With sincere empathy and understanding, your loved ones as if they were our own. As your local family run and owned funeral directors, we have dedicated our lives to guiding those in our community through the difficult times of bereavement. 41 Heaton Street, Gainsborough DN21 2EA39 High Street, Saxilby, LN1 2HA www.cliffbradley.co.uk info@cliffbradley.co.uk Funeral Plans from £2,785 Private Chapel of Rest Day and Night Service Pre-paid funeral plans 01427 81061901522 708888 Winter Storage Only £75 include a Service for only £25 extra Scooters kept securely and charged weekly Service & Repairs We have an up to date fully equipped Service Centre to help with any breakdowns or repairs 207 Roman Bank, Skegness, Lincolnshire Tel: 01754 768006 Hire WheelchairWheelchair £5.00 per day £25.00 per week £25 r efundable Deposit Scooter Scooter £12.00 per day £65.00 per week £50 r efundable Deposit LEAKE'S MASONRY Ltd Eve Street, Louth, Lincs LN11 0JJ Phone: 01507 604 828 leakesmasonry.co.uk • leakesmasonry@aol.com A Third Century of Stonemasonry Craftsmanship From Leake's Masonry A professional family-run business having been established in Louth for over 100 years. We were very proud to have been entrusted with the repairs and renovation to the damaged Louth War Memorial. 50-53.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:49 Page 454 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY Farm&Country Farm&Country Link Revesby Country Fair returns Revesby Country Fair is a great day out for the whole family. Visitors can try their hand at archery, clay pigeon shooting, flower arranging, fly fishing, simulated rock climbing and more! This year sees Revesby Country Fair bringing its best ever line up of entertainment, activities, and country pursuits. There will be dozens of judged produce, cooking and flower competitions, plus live music will entertain visitors as they enjoy the food and trade stands. Traditional equine favourites such as show jumping, shire horses and mounted fancy dress will be returning, plus this year you can see the JCB Dancing Diggers in all their glory. Dogs are welcome, so dog- lovers can bring their four-legged friends and get them involved in dog agility events and dog shows. And of course, the day wouldn’t be complete without the traditional ‘Revesby style’ terrier racing! Enjoy the event on Sunday 7th August. Early bird tickets available before March 31st. COVID tip of iceberg for farmers’ mental health Farmers’ mental health is at a tipping point, despite already being critical prior to COVID-19, which widened existing cracks in support according to new research. Researchers from the Landscapes of Support for Farming Mental Health project have found that while COVID-19 led to worsening mental health among farmers, those surveyed said that they were already struggling prior to the pandemic. Incoming changes to the basic payment system to support farmers following Brexit were a major factor for worsening mental health, alongside heightening issues such as isolation, bureaucracy, and climatic conditions. Charities, trade, and governmental bodies normally play an important role in supporting agricultural communities, but the research highlights how usual touch points for those services and informal help were unavailable in lockdowns. Due to particular demands that rural agricultural communities face, the researchers recommend that mental health first aiders are urgently trained to provide signposting and support for farmers. Furthermore, the shift to online provision for many support services and charities makes the digital divide on broadband access more urgent to ensure that provision can reach farmers, their families, and supporters. © st ock. adobe .com/tr av elwitness Partnership launched to tackle agricultural challenges The UK Government has launched the UK Agriculture Partnership (UKAP), a new forum which will bring together stakeholders from across the UK to identify and improve collaborative working on shared issues facing the agricultural sector. Discussions will explore topics such as on-farm water usage optimisation, the role of science and agri-tech in supporting food production, and solutions to reduce pollution and carbon emissions in the sector. Sustainable agriculture has a vital role to play in helping to solve many of the most pressing issues the world faces such as biodiversity decline, meeting net zero targets and growing the food needed to feed an increasing population. Universities, agricultural colleges, research institutes and agri-tech centres from across the UK are playing a central role in pioneering world-leading new approaches, and the UKAP will provide a platform for academics, experts, industry players and farming stakeholders to share scientific knowledge and best practice to learn from each other to identify innovative solutions to common problems. © st ock. adobe .com/Dusan K ostic 54-59.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:51 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 55 Supporting the rural community News News Heckington Show: the ultimate family day out returns Keep your diary free for Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st July 2022 because the Heckington Show is back! Set in the heart of this Lincolnshire village it is the place to take your children, and your parents - the true family day out. This year the show returns to its two-day format; with so much to see you will need both days to cover it all! The main ring attractions include Knights of Nottingham Jousting, Bolddog Lings FMX Motorcycles, Ridgeside Falconry, and the Royal British Legion Band. There will also be the spectacular Firework Concert with headline act Rule the World, the amazing Take That tribute band. Expect Heckington Show to be outstanding in 2022. To find out more about the show visit www.heckingtonshow.org.uk Government commits to support farmers leaving the industry Farmers who wish to leave the industry will be supported by a new Government scheme which provides a lump sum payment, allowing them to exit the sector in a managed way. The scheme follows a public consultation carried out last year where the majority of respondents supported the initiative. It builds on evidence that some farmers would like to retire or leave the industry but have found it difficult to do so for financial reasons. The scheme is part of reforms set out in the Agricultural Transition Plan which outlines plans for a new system of farming now we are outside the Common Agricultural Policy, representing the biggest changes to farming and land management in 50 years. In return for their payment, farmers will surrender their entitlements and be expected to either rent or sell their land or surrender their tenancy, in order to create opportunities for new entrants and farmers wishing to expand their businesses. The Lump Sum Exit Scheme is due to open in April and the application period will run until the end of September. Lincoln project aims to save fertile soil and food supplies from rising sea levels Studies show that climate change conditions are affecting the functionality of agricultural soils, which are essential for providing a sufficient and stable supply of food. A research project, led by the University of Lincoln, is seeking solutions to this issue. Researchers are exploring how the microbes in soils can ‘learn’ to adapt to climate changes to prevent future food shortages and preserve the agricultural industry. Coastal areas are highly productive agriculturally – where some of the UK’s most valuable crops, such as potatoes, grow. Rising sea-levels and increased droughts due to climate change will increase the salinity (levels of salt) of soils in these areas – potentially damaging the crops that grow there. Increases is soil salinity stresses soil microbes and harms the overall health of the soil. This will ultimately result in decreased food outputs – meaning food could become scarcer, prices could rise, and that there could be an increased reliance on importing food. The project will involve the Lincolnshire community by working with local agricultural companies. The region will act as a testbed to answer global challenge questions around sustainable agriculture, climate change and food security. © st ock. adobe .com/ maxbelchenk o © st ock. adobe .com/ ar ts 54-59.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:51 Page 256 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FARM & COUNTRY LINK There is no doubt farming represents an incredible resource for the United Kingdom and Lincolnshire in particular, whose economy is heavily reliant on farming. Lincolnshire is considered to be England’s heart of agriculture and farming, due to its beautiful, flat landscapes and incredibly rich soils that make it perfect for agriculture, horticulture and livestock farming. The farming sector in the UK has been going through some tough times in the recent years; Brexit first and COVID-19 later have brought some radical changes and difficult challenges to farmers across the UK, resulting in significant loss of capital and profits and uncertainty of the future of their businesses. Surprisingly, despite the unfortunate combination of Brexit and COVID-19, 2021 has been a fairly successful year for farming, bringing great weather and even greater profits to the farming industry. However, despite the initial enthusiasm and successes, the end of 2021 started bringing some changes and challenges that have caused farmers to lose not only profits but hope for the new year and the future too. We are only three months in 2022, and the world of farming has already seen an increase of costs of many products and capitals fundamental for them, like feed for livestock, fuel and fertiliser, but also of machinery, equipment and buildings, which makes it extremely difficult to invest in farming at the moment, both for the farmers, farm managers and owners themselves, and any other third investor too. But it is not just the rise of costs alone that is causing problems to farming in the UK, the deadly combination of Brexit and COVID-19 and their long term effects on our communities are starting to come up creating notable damage to the farming sector. Brexit has caused a significant labour crisis, as many potential and regular employees preferred to leave the country, and, hence, a rise in labour costs, as the workers have been demanding an increase in wages. And while farm owners and managers have been trying to manage these problems, COVID-19 has been causing other significant issues, like increase in demand of many products, the implementation of new regulations like social distancing and lockdown, and the rise of mental health issues. The dairy industry has registered a significant increase in demand for dairy products during the pandemic years, but unfortunately dairy farms have not been able to keep up with the demand, as the costs of essential items like feed and fuel went up and so did the costs of labour, resulting in an inability to increase production and meet the market demands. Not being able to meet the market demands has been an unfortunate trend that has been increasing over the past couple of years, resulting in farms losing investments and capital that led to a loss of 40% of staff and a 25% loss of stock and livestock. Another issue that has been causing a lot of damage and loss to farmers is new government policy. First, Brexit has resulted in several changes in policy for farming; domestic support policy have changed following United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union and several rules, laws and guidelines had to be reformed. Additionally, variations in import and export rules have been the cause of several changes not only in the market, but in farming practices too, forcing farmers to adapt their business to the new regulations. challenges Rising Farming is one of the main pillars of the British economy, and yet it is currently going through some tough times, having to deal with rising costs and new policies that are affecting the industry significantly. But while farmers are increasingly worried, it is fundamental to keep hope in the future. 54-59.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:51 Page 3www.mjp.supplies • Tel: 01406 362325 • Mobile 07702293727 MJPSupplies mjpsupplies For the purpose of importing and selling Algifol™ biostimulant products to farmers and growers of specialist crops Watch your profits grow Small quantities Amazing results Special offer on 1 litre bottles bought direct from our website Suppliers of a range of liquid storage tanks for: • Oil • adblue • Water • Fertiliser LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 57 FARM & COUNTRY LINK KEVIN JOHNSON - AGRICULTURAL CONTRACTORS “For those times when you need a helping hand on farm or on land” 4 Church Road | Wittering | Peterborough | PE8 6AG Tel: 01780 782924 | Mobile: 07860 608825 enquiries@kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk www.kevinjohnsoncontracting.co.uk • Fertiliser Spreading 12m to 36m • Lime Spreading • Maize Drilling • Grass Mowing with Triple Mowers The introduction of new sustainable farming regulations and COP26 agreements on land use and farming practices have been imposing notable pressure on farms. Following the conference, UK committed to engage 75% of farmers in low carbon practices by 2030, and although in the long run lower carbon emission will be good for the planet, the transition to more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices is a lengthy one. Farmers are afraid that the new sustainable policies and the imposition of new changes in the industry and in the market will cause further damage to their businesses and, even if they do understand the importance of more sustainable farming, they fear the timeline the government has imposed on them will not give them enough time to adapt to the new practices successfully; sustainable farming requires large investments in new machinery, equipment and expertise, investments that farmers cannot afford at the moment due to the rising costs. And while sustainable farming becomes another nightmare hanging on farming, farmers are scared things will not get better; 57% of farmers expect costs to rise even further across 2022 and their conditions will get worse. There is sadly no way to predict how things will unravel in the future. Last year was surprisingly successful and 2022 has just started and is already causing significant damage to the farming industry and market. However, farmers should not lose hope and should stay positive this wave of crisis will leave soon enough. Farming is still one of the main sources of income in the UK and Lincolnshire, and it is not just an economic resource, but a cultural one too. Farming is part of UK’s history and British products and farming are famous for their quality and integrity all over the world. Times might be tough at the moment, but Lincolnshire farmers need to have faith the industry will soon go back to its former glory. © st ock. adobe .com/ Budimir Je v tic 54-59.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:51 Page 458 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY FARM & COUNTRY LINK Over 65 years supporting local farmers A Spalding & Son Limited was founded in September 1956 by Ernest and Godfrey Spalding and named after Ernest’s father Albert, a local blacksmith who had previously sold his wares to local Lincolnshire farmers, travelling the county by motorcycle. Focusing initially on wood turning items such as brushes, scythes and hoes, these products were produced at the premises on Portland Street, Lincoln. As the business has continued to grow over the last 65 years its roots have remained in Lincoln. Taking great pride in supporting local farmers, the business has a strong reputation for quality, service and value, and is constantly striving to help customers save time and money, providing durable, high-performance parts and machinery, and always looking to develop and source products that will meet the demands of customers. Dedicated and experienced staff understand the demands farmers face which allows them to develop new items that are customer led. Being close to its customers allows Spaldings to develop products and services that are designed for farmers and to a high-quality standard. The business offers a comprehensive range of products and services to over 30,000 customers in the UK and Ireland as a leading aftermarket solutions provider and delivers direct to your farm. All products are available to order online (www.spaldings.co.uk), through the knowledgeable telesales staff, or face-to- face with a nationwide network of sales representatives. Products are backed by a return-to-base or on-site maintenance and repairs service provided by Spaldings and independent technicians. To find out more about Spaldings visit www.spaldings.co.uk © st ock. adobe .com/bugarskipavle3 for Longer Working Life With SPL® Ultra parts you can take advantage of enhanced performance in the field; meaning cultivation operations can be carried out more cost effectively with the benefit of efficient tillage and reduced downtime. Call: 01522 507600 • Email: agsales@spaldings.co.uk facebook.com/spaldings.ltd | twitter.com/Spaldings Spaldings par ts are designed and manufactured for Spaldings to exacting quality standards and are supplied to fit machines indicated and are not sold as genuine par ts. LEADING PARTS SPECIALIST Scan the QR code with your smart phone – to access the full SPL® Ultra range online SUBSOIL POINT to fit SUBSOIL POINT to fit SCAN ME CULTIVATION POINT to fit VÄ INNOVATION BY DESIGN HIGH PERFORMANCE WEARING PARTS 54-59.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:51 Page 5LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 59 FARM & COUNTRY LINK 14 MAY 2022 Nottinghamshire County Show Join us at Newark Showground showcasing the best of farming, countryside & rural life Book tickets now nottinghamshirecountyshow.com Advanc ed tickets £10** (Gate £14) *16 & under free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult. **Advanced tickets are available until 23:59pm 6/5/2022. Thereafter, gate prices will apply. Newark Showground, NG24 2NY Nottinghamshire County Show goes back to its roots as it returns in May After a gap of two years, the popular Nottinghamshire County Show is set for a triumphant return in May, bringing a host of prime livestock, hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of people back together once again. Taking place at the Newark Showground on May 14, the show will feature equine events, traditional countryside fun and games, trade stands, local food producers and shopping and craft stalls. It is the 137th time that the show has been held and, as well as having switched to one day instead of its traditional two, it is returning with an added emphasis on the animals, produce and outdoor pursuits that makes Nottinghamshire so unique. There will also be a family- friendly dog show for canine all- comers, a food festival and the return of the traditional Grand Parade of livestock. The Nottinghamshire County Show is organised by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society, which is hoping that the experience of lockdown, when more people explored their local countryside, and the runaway success of reality TV farming shows such as Amazon Prime’s Clarkson’s Farm, will inspire members of the public to come along. Richard Sheldon, chairman of the show committee, said: “It’s wonderful to be able to look forward to the Nottinghamshire County Show again and we can’t wait for May 14. “So much has changed in the world and the rural environment since our last show, but what hasn’t changed is the pride we have in our way of life and our determination to showcase the very best that our county has to offer.” Advanced tickets are now available online at www.nottinghamshirecountysho w.com. Admission is free for children aged 16 and under, for more information please visit the Nottinghamshire County Show website. 54-59.qxp_Layout 1 22/02/2022 09:51 Page 6Next >