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

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Suffolk Chamber welcomes new patrons Scrutton Bland and Halo Service Solutions

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

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

Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has announced the addition of Halo Service Solutions and Scrutton Bland as new patrons, expanding its network of influential local businesses.

The big picture: Halo Service Solutions brings expertise in IT service management solutions, while Scrutton Bland, established over 105 years ago, provides accountancy and tax advice. The new patrons will work closely with the Chamber to champion local business interests, provide insights, and support initiatives that benefit the wider community.

Emma Clifton, John Dugmore and Steven Burgess
Emma Clifton, John Dugmore and Steven BurgessScrutton Bland

What they're saying: Paul Hamilton, CEO of Halo Service Solutions: "We are thrilled to join the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce as patrons. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do, and this partnership gives us the opportunity to connect with and support the vibrant business community in Suffolk."

Emma Clifton, Business Advisory Partner at Scrutton Bland: "Becoming a patron of the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce is an exciting step for us. We share a common goal of championing local businesses."

HALO's Paul Hamilton and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce CEO John Dugmore
HALO's Paul Hamilton and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce CEO John DugmoreSuffolk Chamber of Commerce

John Dugmore, Chief Executive of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, described both organisations as "leaders in their fields" and said their expertise would strengthen the Chamber's support for local businesses.

The bottom line: The addition of these two established firms as patrons signals a strong start to the year for Suffolk Chamber and provides members with access to additional expertise in technology and finance.

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

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

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Free checklist helps Ipswich families navigate elderly care decisions

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

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Home Instead's new resource offers practical guidance on spotting signs that older loved ones might need additional support at home.

Why it matters: With an ageing population and most elderly people preferring to remain in their own homes, families need to be vigilant about noticing when relatives require extra help.

The free checklist was developed by Home Instead Ipswich, Woodbridge & Felixstowe based on thousands of care enquiries received nationwide.

The Home Instead Ipswich, Felixstowe & Woodbridge team holding the Spot the Signs checklist
The Home Instead Ipswich, Felixstowe & Woodbridge team holding the Spot the Signs checklistHome Instead

By the numbers: When asking about care services, families most commonly mention:

  • Memory loss (70%)

  • Personal hygiene (48%)

  • Medication management (44%)

  • Nutrition or weight loss/gain (31%)

  • Safety concerns (31%)

The bigger picture: Many families miss warning signs entirely due to busy lives or because changes in their loved ones happen gradually, making them harder to notice.

What they're saying: "It's so common to see Mum or Dad change as they get older. We want to encourage families in the area to look out for these signs," said Joanna McCall, General Manager of Home Instead Ipswich, Woodbridge & Felixstowe.

"Having the care conversation with your older loved one doesn't have to be upsetting; the trick is to do it early on. Families should simply float it in as a casual topic when they're still reasonably independent and keep it as a regular conversation."

The bottom line: Families can obtain the Spot the Signs checklist and discuss any concerns by calling 01473 272301 or emailing ipswich@homeinstead.co.uk.

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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