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Award-winning Suffolk firm seeks to expand life-changing home improvements across county

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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

A Bacton company that transforms homes for disabled and elderly residents is planning to expand its services to every town and village in Suffolk following major national award wins.

Why it matters: Suffolk Mobility Solutions hopes to help more residents with disabilities, trauma, or age-related illnesses maintain independence in their own homes through specialist home improvements – a mission deeply personal to its founder.

The big picture: The company, which has completed over 100 transformation projects in four years, was named Overall Winner at the UK Business Awards and secured gold for "Best Customer Service" in the Micro Business category.

Suffolk Mobility Solutions was the overall winner at the UK Business Awards
Suffolk Mobility Solutions was the overall winner at the UK Business AwardsSuffolk Mobility Solutions

A personal mission: Director Ian Bell's journey into mobility solutions began in 2012 when his wife Glynis suffered a stroke while they were visiting America. "From that day our lives changed, and I started to understand the difficulties faced by people who have had sudden trauma," said Bell.

The experience of adapting their own "forever home" for wheelchair accessibility gave Bell first-hand insight into the challenges many families face.

What they're saying: "The awards certainly move our business forward as we help more and more people in Suffolk to live their lives in safety, with independence and with dignity," said Bell.

"For a micro business Suffolk Mobility Solutions has done a fantastic job putting the needs of its customers at the forefront of its business," added Neil Skehel, CEO of Awards International, which organises the UK Business Awards.

Behind the scenes: The awards, also known as "The Dons", were established eight years ago to recognise business excellence. Over 300 companies from various sectors have participated since its inception.

The bottom line: With personal experience driving its mission, Suffolk Mobility Solutions' planned expansion could provide crucial support for residents needing home adaptations to maintain their independence.

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

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'Cash for jewellery' traders targeting Rushmere St Andrew residents

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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

Reports have emerged of doorstep traders approaching properties in Rushmere St Andrew, asking residents if they want to sell jewellery items.

Why it matters: Unsolicited doorstep buyers may not offer fair value for items and could potentially be "rogue" traders who disappear with valuables.

Jewellery scam
Reports have emerged of doorstep traders approaching properties in Rushmere St Andrew, asking residents if they want to sell jewellery itemsIpswich.co.uk

The details: Officials are advising residents to follow three key safety steps if considering selling jewellery:

  • Shop around: Start locally by contacting a reputable jeweller to estimate your item's value before soliciting online bids or other offers.

  • Beware 'rogue' buyers: Exercise caution about whom you sell to. If you must leave jewellery with someone for a quote, ensure they're trustworthy and will be available when you return.

  • Read the small print: Check terms and conditions carefully, paying attention to potential hidden charges such as refining fees, postage fees and appraisal fees.

What to do: Report any concerns with traders to Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

The bottom line: Getting multiple valuations from established local jewellers before considering doorstep offers helps ensure residents receive fair value for their items.

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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