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Home-Start launches Christmas Jumper Day fundraiser

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Local charity Home-Start in Suffolk is calling on businesses and schools to don festive knitwear this Christmas to support vulnerable families. The fundraising initiative aims to help provide vital support services across Suffolk.

Why it matters: The Christmas and New Year period can be particularly challenging for vulnerable families. This initiative provides a way for local organisations to help support those in need through a simple but effective fundraising activity.

A green Christmas jumper with tinsel and baubles on it
Local charity Home-Start in Suffolk is calling on businesses and schools to don festive knitwear this Christmas to support vulnerable familiesZoltan TarlaczGetty Images

About Home-Start Suffolk:

  • A network of more than 280 fully trained volunteers providing practical and emotional support to families

  • Supports parents and carers with at least one child under 12 in the home

  • Helped more than 1,300 families in 2024 so far

  • Services are provided at no cost to families

  • Support includes weekly home visits, telephone and virtual calls, and regular groups

The details:

  • Participants can choose their own date to hold their Christmas Jumper Day

  • All funds raised will help support local Suffolk families

  • The charity will promote participating organisations through their social media campaigns

  • Fundraising packs will be provided with everything needed to organise the event, including posters and logos

By the numbers:

  • £25 funds a visit for a week

  • £50 funds a telephone supporter for a month

  • £100 funds a visit for a month

  • £250 can recruit and train a new volunteer

How it works: Companies and schools can sign up through a simple online form. After registering, organisations will receive guidance on running their event and collecting donations.

The bottom line: Local businesses and schools interested in participating can find the sign-up form on Home-Start Suffolk's website. The charity emphasises that even small contributions can make a significant difference to families in need.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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