Issue 08 Spring ‘12 newsletter

A few words from Charlotte It’s busy, busy, busy here in the Nottingham office. As well as the usual work of volunteering (read on for the latest news from Steve) welfare rights (Joseph’s diary is booking up fast so if you would like to have a one-to-one chat call 0115 9583 948 to book your appointment now) and general enquires (contact Claire on 0115 8523 033),

We are also full steam ahead for the next Do What You Want Directory event!

For those of you who attended last September’s event at The Forest Ground, either as a participant or as a delegate, you’ll know just what a successful day it was. But don’t take my word for it – here’s Amanda Harris, of ALH Legal, to tell you in her words…

“I’ve been here five minutes and it’s already been worth my time.”

So, make sure you’ve marked Saturday 21st April in your diaries. As the last event was such a success, we’re going bigger and better; we look forward to seeing you at the East Midlands Conference Centre, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RJ.

Whether you want to join us as a delegate or an attendee – Please call 0115 9583 948 to book your place now!

Here are just a few of the individuals and organisations which have signed-up already…Biped, Disability Direct Welfare Rights Advice Service, Draig Dog Training, the British Red Cross, Rosekel Resourcing, Space Inclusive, the Nottingham Disabled People’s Movement, the Derby Wheelblazers, Disability Direct Volunteers and Volunteer Service, Nottingham Mencap, Epilepsy Action (Nottingham branch), Kate Rush Brokerage and Consulting, Self Help Nottingham, Disability Direct Information Service, Phab (Nottingham)…

Important information! We're updating the way we handle our mailing lists and all subscribers, old and new, need to resubmit their details into our new online database. We will be mailing out existing subscribers but this is a great chance to sign up if you haven't already done so - and also to add yourself to receive updates from some of our sister organisations that also provide some great services to disabled people. There are also some social enterprises that provide fantastic services to other organisations so please feel free to pass it on. All you need to do is reply to the email you'll be receiving from info@disabilitysyndicate.com or you can go to www.disabilitysyndicate.com/subscribe.htm

Check out the Disability Direct website Did you know there are lots of resources on the Disability Direct website? Go to www.disabilitydirect.com/nottingham navigate to the NEWS section in the banner at the top of the page, then simply navigate to the section that interests you;

Local Issues

National Issues

News About Disability Direct

Help Needed

Upcoming Events

New Services

Offers

For example, did you know you can find job vacancies in the Help Needed section? Or money-saving offers in the Offers section?

In order to reduce our environment impact Disability Direct is pleased to distribute our quarterly newsletter in an electronic format. The benefit of this is that as well as reducing our environmental impact, people are able to change their screen to a size which best suits them. However, if you would prefer to receive the newsletter in an alternative format please contact info@disabilitydirectnottingam.co.uk or call: 0115 958 3948 to let us know of your preferences.

MESH

“It’s an isolating illness.”

MESH is a local support group, run by, and for, people who have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) or, Myalgic Encephalopathy(ME).They help people over eighteen, by organising events where people share information and give each other emotional support.

They may invite a speaker to the event to talk on a topic relevant to ME / CFS and sometimes it is a time for discussion and support.

The group can provide leaflets and can loan a number of books on ME/CFS. MESH also holds regular socials, at different times of day to suit different people’s needs, and produces a regular newsletter.

MESH organizes a yoga class on Wednesday mornings, specifically for adults with ME/CFS, at the Thomas Helwys Baptist Church, Church Street in Lenton. The class is at a ‘remedial’ level and the yoga teachers align the class to the needs of the students, so it is never too strenuous. It is free for members to attend, but non-members are also welcome to come along and give it a go. The only proviso is that MESH are unable to meet the needs of anyone who may need extra physical support. The yoga class costs £5 per session, on a pay-as-you-go basis – or membership is £10 per year to join MESH.

“It’s good to talk with people who have gone through the same thing.”

For more information visit: www.meshnottm.limewebs.com

Or call Richard on: 0115 925 2586

Or e-mail Richard at: riedd@btinternet.com

The MESH management committee

The latest ‘Do What You Want’ event is coming! 21st April 10am-4pm

At the East Midlands Conference Centre, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RJ

To find out more call: 0115 958 3948 TypeTalk: 18001 0115 958 3948

Or e-mail charlotte.throssel@disabilitydirectnottingham.co.uk

Get the latest information about services and activities for disabled and older people and carers in Nottingham. Come and meet with providers and brokers so that you can make an informed decision about the support you purchase.

There will be lots of things to see, do and try for yourself…

• Sample the good stuff

• Browse stalls

• Meet with providers

• Find what you need

And look out for the raffle; The Nottinghamshire Disability Football Association has donated the impressive prize of two tickets to see a Nottingham professional Football League team

– plus many more fantastic prizes.

Disability Direct has a strong team of volunteers who are able to help on the day. Would you like someone to help? Or would you like to support someone on the day?

Please call 0115 958 3948 to register for assistance, or to register your support.

We all look forward to seeing you on the day!

Positive Parkinson’s Support Group It has recently come to the attention of Disability Direct that there is a fantastic resource available to people with Parkinson’s Disease – an exercise group for those who live within Nottingham City boundaries. The group provides practical support and advice for people living with Parkinson’s, and importantly, provides support for their relatives and carers too. Disability Direct went along to find out what makes this group so special....

Rob

“I encourage anybody to come for the support.”

“We’re all in the same barrel.”

“The exercises make you feel better.”

Christine Huston (pronounced Houston), Senior Physiotherapist with Nottingham University Hospital NHS Trust, tells an interesting story of how the group came into being; she left the City Hospital - an hour after a meeting with patients and found the same patients in the car park chatting. It said a lot about the fact that they felt the need to talk to each other for so long, but it speaks volumes that they were there for an hour in the rain!

Recognising the need for a group which built on the client’s abilities, but also gave a forum for people to talk and discuss what mattered to them, Christine and a friend, Juliette Looker, made plans for the group.

Christine was keen that the group did not meet in a hospital setting, but somewhere more informal where people would be more at ease. There are about 60 people who attend and they are split into different groups, according to abilities. They meet every Wednesday at the Trent Vineyard Church, the first group meet at 3.30 pm and the second at 7 pm.

Barbara

“My mobility has improved since I’ve been coming; it’s given me back my independence.”

“Christine helps us to help ourselves.”

“The group are such wonderful people.”

The group provides practical help in the form of exercises, specifically designed to maximise each person’s potential, as well as information on how to deal with specific situations. Sometimes the group makes a request to have a speaker talk with them about a relevant topic.

However, some of the benefits come in more intangible forms, such as the peer support that people with Parkinson’s can offer each other. Wives, husbands, and assorted other relatives are able to provide peer support for each other too.

If you think you would benefit from attending the group then you will need to meet the following criteria;

To be able to arrive at the venue on your own To live within the City boundary, or if not, has a GP based there And has a clear diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease

Glenda

“There’s a lot of support between the carers.”

“It may look silly…but it works.”

“It’s very reassuring.”

“It’s a social thing.”

Presently they are only able to support clients who reside within the Nottingham City bounday; however, replicating this service to County residents is something which they would like to address in the future. The group meets every Wednesday at the Trent Vineyard Church, Unit 1, Easter Park, Lenton Lane, NG7 2PX. It is free to join and people are welcome to come along. Or, if you would like more information call, Christine Huston on: 0115 962 7618, or: 0777 522 6293

David demonstrates some of the hand exercises

Free first aid sessions from the British Red Cross (BRC) Everyday First Aid Sessions

The British Red Cross knows that everyone can learn a few simple skills that could help someone if things suddenly went wrong. It doesn’t matter how young or old, or how able the person thinks they are, everyone can learn to do something to help an ill or injured person.

Everyday First Aid sessions differ from more traditional first aid training. The sessions are a maximum of two hours long and focus on overcoming fears and concerns people may have about delivering first aid, as well as teaching them first aid skills which are easy to do, easy to learn and easy to remember. In just a couple of hours, learners can become life-savers.

The British Red Cross say “We try to work alongside other organisations, and tailor our first aid training sessions to your specific needs in an inclusive and flexible way.”

The topics covered in the sessions vary, depending on the needs of your group, but as an example; can include caring for an unconscious casualty who is breathing; caring for a casualty who is not breathing; choking; blood loss; seizures; burns and scalds etc. Sessions can be delivered to groups ranging in size from about 8 to 20 people.

Each participant receives an easy to follow workbook, with a detachable certificate of first aid learning. On the back of the certificate, learners can tick the skills they’ve completed during the session.

Sessions are free of charge, although, if groups wish to make a donation to support the work of the British Red Cross, that is most welcome. (When groups have asked for guidance on this, a donation of £5 to £15 per participant is suggested, however, it is neither mandatory nor expected.

Deborah Webster is the Community Based First Aid Coordinator for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire & Cheshire and says that “This first aid programme is an exciting way to learn first aid. It offers participants the opportunity to learn skills according to their ability and learning style. Everyone can learn something and be rewarded for it”.

If you would like to organise a first aid session for your group (at your own premises).Please call Deborah Webster on 01629 593 335 or email dwebster@redcross.org.uk

Volunteering with Disability Direct… …what we are up to – so far...

In January, the Dunkirk and Lenton Partnership Forum (DLPF) asked local organisations if they would like to nominate their volunteers for an award. The award

was in recognition of the voluntary work they do.

On the 22nd January, the DLPF held their Annual General Meeting and afterwards they asked the volunteer co-ordinator from the Evening Post to do the presentation. They also took a photograph of everyone and published a piece in the paper a week later.

Volunteers, Susan Jarvis and Robert Johnson attended the presentation to receive their awards in person and two other Disability Direct volunteers, Neana Lawson and Theresa East, also received an award for their work with us too.

Susan (pictured above) said she was shocked to find her name in the Nottingham Evening Post, but said “it was very nice, and I enjoy doing voluntary work very much - and it is a way of keeping up to date whilst looking for work”. Sue went on to say “in respect of us all in doing voluntary work, it is nice to be appreciated, but we do it because there are benefits and rewards, such as personal satisfaction too.”

Volunteers Sue and Bob with Steve (VC)

We Need You! Volunteering opportunities..................... We have regular volunteer meetings and are always happy to have new volunteers come and join us. So whether you have a particular skill or talent that you would like to share or develop; are you creative, or a computer genius; good at organising or admin work? Or, maybe you are interested in photography or gardening? Are you able to support at events, or help others in a variety of tasks, or maybe you know of someone who fits this description? If so, please give Steve Boseley, our Volunteer Coordinator, a call on 0115 9583 948.

Read on for a few specific examples of how you can get involved…

Opportunities with Disability Direct.......... Befrienders – Are you a good listener? Can you spare some time to meet a disabled or older person, or a younger person or carer for a chat? Drivers – Would you be able to take someone to an appointment or meeting? Gardening – Can you help an older or disabled person with some work in their garden? Mowing a lawn? Trimming a hedge? General support – We are looking for a pool of volunteers with a range of skills to respond to member’s needs, such as help with setting up an email account, or collecting a bit of shopping. If you are looking for help from a volunteer, is there something you can give back? Do What You Want Event Volunteers – we would like to be able to support our members and the general public at our event on 21st April. We need people who are able to do the following:

Sign language communication support Greeters Assist wheelchair users Obtain feedback from the public Escorts Help people with teas / coffees General support staff

Opportunities with external organisations............

Allsorts A club for disabled people aged 18-40. Meet twice per month, for social activities across the city. Looking for volunteers to support members at activities. Volunteers to coordinate and organise activities, find suitable venues / activities. Action for Blind People BME (black, minority ethnic) eye-care volunteers - Volunteers aged 18+ are required for this opportunity. You will be part of a team of volunteers from your area and will work in partnership with grass roots community organisations, health professionals and our BME Volunteer and Self – Help Officer. You will be provided with relevant training and be highly appreciated by Action for Blind People. You do not need to have knowledge of eye conditions or about the registration process, as this will all be given to you through formal training and supervision. There will also be opportunities for informal learning, as you will network and socialise with other volunteers from your area. Nottingham Powerchair Football Club Are looking for – a Football Coach! Training provided in Mansfield. Rutland School for Parents Are looking for – people to support parents with children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities who are going through the Assessment and Statementing process. Peer to Peer Network – Mental health support Want people to support their members with ‘daily living tasks’ such as accompanying someone to the shops or attending meetings – (not personal care), more supporting someone to achieve their own potential.

For Further information on these opportunities - please contact Steve on 0115 9583948

Nottinghamshire Miners Welfare Ladies Sections

For over 60 years there has been a Miners’ Welfare Ladies Section in many parts of Nottinghamshire. In the late Forties and early Fifties the newly formed Sections provided a much needed outlet for miners’ wives who, once a week or in some cases fortnightly, were able to meet for social and cultural activities—which, at the time, was almost unheard of.

Members met in Miners Welfares or Village Halls and remarkably, in spite of colliery closures and the massive effect on colliery villages and the county as a whole, there are still 14 Ladies’ Sections, all of whom will extend a warm welcome to new members.

Many of the Sections offer a varied programme at their meetings and, in addition, there is the opportunity to join in Group and County activities. Each year the respective groups take part in a quiz competition which is played in friendly rivalry and offers the chance for Sections to visit each other’s venues. Parties are held regularly, both in the Sections and Groups and outings to places of interest and to shopping outlets usually attract good support.

A weekend in London at a 4 star hotel is a popular fixture on the calendar, as are the summer holiday and annual weekend break. Of great importance is County Ladies’ Day when members from all Sections get together to hear a renowned speaker and to renew friendships established over so many years. During the year, fund raising is undertaken by the members and donations are made to Notts. Miners Sick and Disabled Fund and other worthy charities.

Fellowship is the essential ingredient which has brought friendship, fun and comfort to so many ladies over so many decades - and is still continuing to do so.

If you would like to join, please contact Margaret Holmes at CISWO on: 01623 625767

Sections are located in the following places:

Bentinck (Kirkby in Ashfield), Bestwood, Calverton, Cotgrave, Greasley, Harworth, Hucknall, Jacksdale, Ollerton, Pinxton, Rainworth, Selston, Sherwood (Mansfield Woodhouse) and Underwood.

Allsorts… …is a social group for young people (aged 18 to 40) with a physical, sensory, or mild learning disability. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month between 7.30 and 9.30 pm.

The group meets at a variety of locations around the city, such as restaurants, theatres, cinemas and ten pin bowling. We arrange walks and picnics in the summer and trips, such as on the Nottingham Princess boat. They also have some evenings in, when a quiz is enjoyed by members. Card or jewellery making events are also held - and they hold their AGM in October each year.

Allsorts has a transport scheme which can get members to events. This is run via Rushcliffe CVS, but transport cannot be guaranteed.

The group is member-led and although there is a group of volunteers to support members, they do not have any decision making powers. The management committee and volunteers meet up around every two months to discuss matters of the group.

Allsorts is looking to recruit new members who are keen to take a lead. This means looking into new venues, marketing the group and for volunteers to work with the members to encourage member’s skills in setting up events for themselves.

Travelling expenses can be paid for volunteers to attend events.

Please phone Jane Hawthorn on: 0115 9146696 or, send an

e-mail to: jhawthorn@toucansurf.com

To discuss these, or any other volunteering opportunities, call Steve Boseley on 0115 8523 035.

Do you want to promote healthy eating in your local community?

Free training available to community workers and volunteers

If you are a community worker or volunteer and are based in the Nottingham City area you could receive free training, which is delivered by the Nutrition Team - to promote healthy eating in the community.

The training covers the nutrition related health issues in Nottingham City, up to date healthy eating messages and how you can incorporate them into your work. It will inspire you to promote healthy eating using a range of resources and activities.

We also offer specific training for people working with the Asian/African Caribbean communities. Alternatively, training could be provided to your organisation, if there are sufficient numbers and if a suitable venue is provided.

Tuesday 27th March 9.30 am – 4.00 pm Aspect House

Tuesday 1st May 9.30 am – 4.00 pm Aspect House

Thursday 21st June 9.30 pm – 4.00 pm

Aspect House

Tuesday 4th September 9.30 am – 4.00 pm

Aspect House

Monday 24th September 9.30 am – 4.00 pm

Aspect House

Tuesday 16th October 9.30 am – 4.00 pm

Aspect House

Thursday 29th November 9.30 am – 4.00 pm Aspect House

To reserve your place, or to find out more information,

Please contact the Nutrition Team on:0115 883 4291.

Personal Independence Payments (PIP)

Read on to find out how PIPs may affect you… My name is Joseph Throssel and I’m the benefits advisor for Disability Direct in Nottingham. We’re getting a few queries in about Personal Independence Payments (PIP) and how they will affect people, so I thought I’d write up a short article in an attempt to clarify the information currently available. PIP is still under consultation, so details may be subject to change. I will update this article if and when any changes are announced.

What PIP is

PIP will be replacing Disability Living Allowance (DLA) as of April 2013. New applications, or re-applications, for individuals between 16 and 65 from then on will be for PIP instead of DLA.

If you currently receive DLA, then you will be assessed for PIP sometime between August 2013 and the end of 2016. You will be informed by the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) in plenty of time before your assessment date.

The assessment will be by an independent healthcare professional. Most people will have a face-to-face meeting, but it is not entirely clear at the moment if you will be required to fill in any forms beforehand. Those individuals diagnosed with a terminal illness will usually not need to go for a face-to-face assessment.

PIP will have awards for Daily Living and Mobility, which are divided into Standard and Enhanced rates, roughly equivalent to the Low and High bands of DLA.

Mobility is fairly similar to the current criteria, whereas Daily Living is more concerned with day-to-day life and independence, rather than care needs, though there will be some overlap. The rates have not yet been decided, but are likely to be similar to those currently used for DLA.

At this point in time, it is intended that access to “passported” benefits such as the Blue Badge Scheme and Motability will remain the same.

What PIP is not

PIP is not a direct replacement for DLA. If you currently receive DLA, you are not guaranteed to receive PIP at the same level, or even at all. By looking at Daily Living instead of Care, the criteria to qualify will be different.

PIP is not work-based. PIP will be there to cover the additional costs a disabled person incurs because of their impairment, just as DLA currently is, regardless of whether or not you work or are able to work. You will not be required to work as an outcome of a PIP assessment.

PIP is not replacing DLA or Attendance Allowance for young people or older people. The changeover to PIP will only affect people between 16 and 65. It is likely that in the future these will also change, depending on the success of PIP, but at this point in time no change is planned.

Universal Credit

Universal Credit (UC) is a government scheme that is also currently in the planning stages and is likely to include PIP. Simply speaking, UC means that any benefits you receive will be paid together each month as a lump sum, with no limitations on spending. What this means is that you will not be limited to spending your benefit in particular ways, but you will be required to manage your income and ensure everything is paid. Development of UC is not as far along as PIP at the moment, but it is extremely likely that PIP will become part of UC when and if it goes through.

Don’t worry!

We at Disability Direct know that it can be a worrying time when things, such as benefits you know and are used to, change. That’s why we’re happy to help work with you to make the transition as smooth as possible. If you’re worried about your benefits, or those of someone you care for, then give me, Joseph, a call to book an appointment. Call:0115 9583 948 to book your free, confidential appointment.

Great news… …Joseph won his first tribunal Disability Direct’s new Welfare Rights Advisor, Joseph, won his first Employment Support Allowance Tribunal for his client.

The client was originally awarded ZERO points when she attended a medical, but that was changed for the better once Joseph became involved....Well done Joseph!

Capital One Disabled Inclusion Ice Skating The National Ice Centre offers skating opportunities for disabled people and their families. Sessions are open for all to try out the ultimate experience of Ice Skating regardless of your age or disability.

Disabled people can access the ice in many ways, depending on individual requirements. Options available include; on ice skates; in your own wheelchair; or in one of the purpose built sledges.

Coaches and stewards are on hand throughout to provide advice and assistance. (Please note that this is for general coaching advice, structured lessons and one-on-one coaching are available separately, please contact the Ice Sports Reception for further information).

Where a sledge is required, we have a booking procedure in place in all sessions which allows persons to assess the use of a sledge for 15 minute slots; this will help to accommodate the specialist needs of the skater and a fairer system for allocating the equipment needed for some of the skaters. Bookings are again required in advance at the time of booking on to the session and on a first come first served basis.

Next sessions… Sunday 18th March, 10.00-10.45am

Sunday 1st April, 10.00-10.45am

All dates and times are subject to change.

The NIC (National Ice Centre) is an accessible venue with disabled access and disabled parking bays. The National Ice Centre is easily accessible for visitors with accessibility needs and mobility difficulties. If you have any queries or questions please call our Box Office on 0843 373 3000 Option 1, Option 2, Option 3 (Mon-Sun, 9am-9pm) and we will be happy to help.

Changing Places Toilet at the National Ice Centre

The National Ice Centre and Capital FM Arena Nottingham is the first Arena in the UK to benefit from new facilities to ensure the venue is more accessible for all!

Our Changing Places toilet includes the following facilities:

A mobile height adjustable changing bench A ceiling track hoist system to lift people between wheelchairs and the toilet/changing

bench Enough space to ensure the bench and toilet can be approached from either side

For Health and Safety reasons we do not provide slings. Customers are asked to bring their own which should be compatible with the loop system.

This facility is located on Level 3 and is available from 9.00am to 11.00pm. During the hours of 9.00am to 9.00pm please contact the Box Office located on Level 2 before using this facility. During the hours of 9.00pm to 11.00pm please contact the nearest member of staff before using this facility. A RADAR key is available upon request.

Wheelchair Access Wheelchair access to the National Ice Centre is either via the entrance doors on Bolero Square or via the lift from Lower Parliament Street. Once inside the venue there are lifts to all floors, disabled toilet facilities and wide walkways for wheelchair users.

National Ice Centre Bolero Square The Lace Market Nottingham NG1 1LA

Changing Places Toilets The following information is kindly reproduced from the Changing Places Consortium leaflet titled “Changes Places, Changing Lives”…

“Most of us don’t give visiting public buildings a second thought. But many disabled people are unable to take part in activities we may take for granted because standard accessible toilets do

not meet their needs — or the needs of their carers.”

Changing Places toilets provide:

The right equipment A height adjustable changing bench A tracking hoist system, (or mobile hoist if there is not enough space) Adequate space in the changing area for the disabled person and up to two carers A centrally placed toilet with room either side for the carers A screen or curtain, to allow the disabled person and carer some privacy A safe and clean environment Wide tear off paper roll to cover the bench A large waste bin for disposal of pads

Our local Changes Places toilets are listed here… Greyhound Street City Centre toilets Greyhound Street Market Square Nottingham, NG1 2DP Tel: 0115 915 2000 Nottingham Contemporary Arts Centre Weekday Cross Lace Market Nottingham, NG1 2GB Tel: Tel 01159242421 Djanogly Community Leisure Centre Gregory Boulevard Forest Fields Nottingham, NG7 6ND Tel: 0115 8762170 Email: dclc@nottinghamcity.gov.uk Mary Potter Centre 76 Boulevard Hyson Green Nottingham, NG7 6BE Tel: 0115 8838070 Wollaton Hall and Park Wollaton Hall and Park Wollaton Nottingham, NG8 2AE Tel: 0115 9153900 Ken Martin Leisure Centre Hucknall Lane Bulwell Nottingham, NG6 8AP Tel: 0115 9151555

Radar Keys Anyone can order a key on line at: www.radar-shop.org.uk Or write to: RADAR at 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF Anyone writing in should enclose proof of disability e.g. blue badge serial number, information about a benefit they receive, or a brief description of their condition. People who are recognised as disabled are not required to pay VAT. If you have any questions regarding the above call the RADAR reception on 020 7250 3222.

You may need a

Radar Key

to access the

Changing Places

toilets.

Nottingham Circle The latest news from the latest social enterprise…

A new type of organisation has launched in Nottingham for the over 50s. Launching on the leap year, Nottingham Circle asked people in Victoria Centre Market what they would do with an extra 24 hours.

At only 60p a week members can access a calendar packed full of events, with discounts across the city, the aim to get people to enjoy what the city has to offer at affordable prices and meet new friends. New member, Kim Nowak told us “I love it, I live on my own and it’s great to find people to talk to and discover new places with.”

As a social enterprise, Nottingham Circle is working towards being self-sustaining over the next 3 years. Through paying a membership fee, members are encouraged to play an active part in the organisation, empowering them to be their own solution. Developed through talking to people to find out what they wanted, Nottingham Circle wants to work with people’s capabilities, to build on these and ultimately encourage members to help each other. It aims to connect members to each other and to their local community.

As a community organisation, Nottingham Circle aims to bridge the gap between ages and social and postcode barriers. By aiming to break traditional concepts of age, Nottingham Circle looks at people as individuals with different tastes, who can learn and swap skills with each other. The calendar wants to break the ‘one size fits all’ approach of services in the past. By joining Nottingham Circle, people are bound to find something to suit their tastes, meeting people with similar interests.

Brenda Thorpe said “There’s not a lot available for over 50s at the moment. I’m so happy to have found Nottingham Circle. It’s a struggle to think of things to do for myself, Nottingham Circle comes up with lots of good ideas and I just have to turn up.” Ultimately Nottingham Circle is about improving people’s lives and keeping people active and engaged in their community.

Some of the Nottingham Circle members

Alongside their calendar, Nottingham Circle also offers its members a Helper Service. It’s all about using the skills already available in the local community, connecting people of different ages to help each other. At £6.50 for half an hour members can access a range of CRB checked local people, who can help with anything from painting a wall, to teaching how to use Skype. “The helper service is a brilliant idea” said Brenda Thorpe. By encouraging members to also become helpers, Nottingham Circle hopes to tap into the reserves of talent and skills available in the over 50s.

Nottingham Circle is also keen to work in partnership with other agencies involved in working with the over 50s, to offer the best service to the people living in Nottingham.

If you’re interested in becoming a member, a helper or working in partnership with Nottingham Circle, please call: 0800 112 3449 visit www.notttinghamcircle.org.uk

or, email:hello@nottinghamcircle.org.uk

Alternatively, phone our volunteer Co-ordinator, Steve on: 0115 953 8948

Learning Disabilities Health Facilitation Team For those of you who we haven’t met yet, we are the new Learning Disabilities Health Facilitators employed by Nottingham City Care Partnership CIC. We are 3 learning disability nurses who have lots of experience between us of working in many different NHS and private sector services over the years. We cover the whole of Nottingham City between us and we are based at Aspect House in Bulwell.

Our role primarily is to support people with learning disabilities to understand, maintain and improve their physical and mental health needs - as well as making sure that they get equal access to health services just like everyone else within all primary health care settings. We also work alongside specialist learning disability community teams in social care, Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS trust and with the private sector.

A big part of our role is to educate and promote understanding with other healthcare professionals to the specific health needs of people with learning disabilities and the barriers they face in accessing all primary healthcare services. We can provide training as well as specialist advice and support to improve the quality of care and access to health services for people with learning disabilities.

We also implement and promote the introduction of the Personal Health File and Health Action Plan (HAPs). The HAPs are designed for everyone over the age of 18 who has a learning disability whether the level is mild, moderate or severe. A plan can be started at any time, but are particularly helpful if the individual, for example, needs a lot of support to be healthy, or if they have a lot of health needs. It can also be very useful if things are changing in their life, or the individual, or their carers, are becoming elderly.

For example:

A health facilitator supported a 56 year old man to have a think about his health. The man was very frightened of health workers and had neglected his health over the years. In completing the Health Action Plan together they identified several unmet health needs and he agreed to be accompanied to a number of health appointments, after a lot of preparatory work.

As a result of the support he received:

He was prescribed glasses He saw a smoking cessation worker from Primary Care Services He had an annual health check and had an ear infection treated

Health Action Plan

We are currently introducing the HAPs to students in special schools during transition in year 13 when they are getting ready to leave school at age 18/19. The HAPs help people to make sure that they have thought about their health and that their health needs are being met. The HAPs should be taken to all healthcare appointments so that the professional involved can share information and coordinate services easily.

We also work closely with GP practices to support them to deliver annual health checks to all adults with moderate to severe learning disabilities.

The health check is quite comprehensive and is designed to monitor and detect any current health conditions or concerns, to recognise future health needs, and identify future plans. It is also hoped that it may help reduce fears about visiting GPs, and promote understanding and good relationships.

We accept referrals from people with learning disabilities, their carers, and all professional groups via our referral form, or via a letter (highlighting what support is being requested.)

We are at: Learning Disabilities Health Facilitation Team, Nottingham CityCare Partnership CIC Aspect House, Suite 6, 2nd Floor, Aspect Business Park, Bennerley Road, Bulwell, Nottingham NG6 8WR, Telephone:0115 883 4859

Please feel free to contact us on any of the numbers here if you would like any further information. We look forward to hearing from you.

Jackie Williamson Tel: 07766 474 690 jacqueline.williamson@nottinghamcitycare.nhs.uk

Sally Henderson Tel: 07500 095 398 sally.henderson@nottinghamcitycare.nhs.uk

Katie Meah Tel: 07827 979 387 katie.meah@nottinghamcitycare.nhs.uk

British Red Cross, Hospital to Home Service A service designed to support people in their transition from hospital to home

Disability Direct recently met with Sarah Wallace, Services Coordinator, British Red Cross ‘Hospital to Home’ Service, who is based at the QMC.

Normally, when people go into hospital they do not have a problem on their return home. However, for some people this can be an issue; perhaps they are frail and unable to get their own shopping; they may be unable to prepare food or wash the pots.

People are identified as needing the service by ward staff, and are then referred to the service.

The service is available seven days a week between 9.00 – 5.00pm on weekdays and from 9.30 – 2.30pm at weekends. A weekly visit can be arranged to those aged over 18 who live in Nottinghamshire and they can be supported in getting back into their routine of shopping and preparing meals.

Hopefully, people will never need to use the services of Sarah and her team of dedicated professionals, but for those patients who are either too frail or anxious to support themselves and have no friends or family locally to help them, it is reassuring to know that they are there – just in case…

Local interest.....

2012...promises to be a busy year in Nottingham, with lots of events and activities being planned, including Nottingham Splendour on July 21st, offering reduced entrance for city residents and of course, the forthcoming visit of the Queen in her Golden Jubilee year. With a visit to

Nottingham planned for 31st of July. Her Majesty’s trip will include a stop off at the National Ice Arena for an International Skating Gala.

The Olympic torch relay arrives in Nottingham on June 28th with celebrations planned for the evening. To find out more, visit: http://www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=14834

Look out for more information about the 2012 Paralympics in the Summer edition of Distinction, with news of local athletes and volunteers.

Member Profile Amanda Gale Disability Direct is always pleased to hear about services and people who are a positive help. Amanda Gale is one such person – and a member of Disability Direct.

Amanda is a solicitor with Langley’s in Lincoln. She used to work in Nottingham and continues to provide a service for her vulnerable clients in Nottingham.

She specialises in areas of the law which are meant to help the most vulnerable members of society. This means that Amanda works closely with people regarding things such as Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) and Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) and may manage funds for clients who lack the capacity, or desire, to do so.

Here’s Amanda to say a few words about her work… “A Lasting Power of Attorney can assist a client if they are struggling physically, for example, with their eyesight, arthritis or deafness. The common misconception is that such documents are only useful if the Donor has lost capacity, but this is not the case. I have reviewed wills drafted by non-professionals and discovered unsuitable provisions - and at worst, invalid wills. Fortunately problems have been identified and I have been able to put them right. However, it is not always possible, particularly if a testator has died or has lost mental capacity, so it is not possible to put a new will in place or revoke an existing will.”

If you would like to talk to Amanda, call on: 01522 888 555or, email: amanda.gale@langleys.com

Amanda is also the founder and Chair of the Mental Capacity Act Forum (MCAF). The MCAF was created to help professionals to share best practice and work together regarding the Mental Capacity Act. If you would like to attend the forum, or receive the minutes, contact Lauren at: lauren.patrick@langleys.com

All of the above is impressive, but it’s amazing that she also finds time to be on the board of the Radford Care Group. The Radford Care Group is a local charity that has been providing innovative and invaluable support services to older people since 1968.If you would like to know more call 0115 9786133 or e-mail:info@radfordcaregroup.org.uk

We are fortunate that Amanda is holding a free legal surgery at the Disability Direct offices on 28th of March, from 1pm till 4pm. There are still a few places left, call 0115 9583 948 reserve your place now.

Rainbow Parent Carer’s Forum More Rainbow – Less Tears

The Rainbow Parent Carers Forum is a voluntary community group, historically based at Nottingham City Hospital, and running for over 25 years.

Under the Aiming High Initiative launched in 2007, the group was adapted and is now working toward independently filling a gap in much needed respite opportunities for parents all over the City. Securing bids for independent funding, the independent group launched officially to much acclaim, at a well-attended event on January 26th.

Rainbow runs monthly support sessions for parents, coupled with a play session for all disabled children, regardless of their level of need. Regular inclusion skating sessions at Nottingham’s Ice Arena are well attended, as are monthly swimming for all the children.

For our parents, empowerment training can be a revelation. Unemployment, fatigue and low self-esteem are rampant in people who have to care 24/7. The uplifting style of the training aims to overcome this. Having fun and making new friends, people will find their first-hand experience gives them the authority to demand the right services for their loved ones and themselves. For those hoping to take it further, a course on Inclusive Leadership is open to all, starting March 26th.

Raising a disabled child can at times seem a little crowded. The Disabled Children’s Team, a Family Support Worker, a multiplicity of NHS clinics, Local Authority outreach workers; the charitable sector...the list goes on. But mostly, it takes the parents and this is where the twin responsibilities can be exhausting.

It can cost up to three times as much to raise a disabled child. With only 16% of mothers with disabled children working - compared to 61% of other mothers - it doesn’t take much to calculate that around 52% will experience poverty. The tax and benefit changes from 2010-15 look to be resulting in a real term drop of 6% in net income for households where someone claims carer's allowance, compared with a 4% fall for other households.

All the more reason for Rainbow.................... The parents at Rainbow share similar stories, and in sharing there is strength. Experience, even bad experience, ensures a more informed approach next time. Together we are stronger, but also happier. Rainbow is not just tea and sympathy, it is active participation. Watch this space.

Rainbow Parent Carer’s Forum

The group meet on: The 2nd Saturday of each month 2.00pm – 3.55pm at

The Jigsaw Centre, Glenbrook Primary School, Wigman Road, Bilborough, Nottingham NG8 4PD PLEASE NOTE: Booking must be made before attending....

Email: RainbowParentsCarersForum@live.co.uk

Phone Beverley Denby on: 078372 78981

Or visit our website: www.parentscarersforum.org.uk

CredAbility Latest Providers accredited!

Congratulations to the following newly accredited providers; Inspirative Arts; working with clients through Creative Expressive Therapy across Derby and Nottingham Ageing In Great Britain; working with older people in their homes in Derby and Nottingham Derby Wheelblazers; a wheelchair basketball club based in Derby Inclusive Solutions; educational psychologists based in Nottingham

To find out more about how to get your organisation accredited navigate to www.credability.uk.com

Accessible Zumba Classes! Pulp Friction recently joined up with Broxtowe Borough Council’s Inclusive Sports Officer to run accessible Zumba Classes.

The 8 week course is aimed at people who are looking for a gentle introduction to Zumba.

Originally the course was targeted at young people and adults with Learning Difficulties and Disabilities, but has grown into a family-friendly mixed ability group where Zumba can be learned in a safe, supportive environment at the individual’s own pace.

The course has proved to be successful and popular, that Broxtowe Sports Development Team are going to continue to run the classes when the original funding ends.

If you want to know more, please contact: Melissa Jennings on: 0115 917 3572 or e-mail: sport@broxtowe.gov.uk

Weekly Zumba sessions take place at

The John Clifford School, Nether Street, Beeston, NG9 2AT

Tuesday from 6pm till 6.45pm

Cost: £3.00 per session – pay as you go

Pulp Friction Smoothy Bar is a Social Enterprise which works with young people aged 16 to 25 who have a Learning Disability. We support young people to develop their social independence and work readiness skills.

E-mail: pulpfrictionsmoothiebarproject@yahoo.co.uk

Phone: 07794 676 398

Website: www.pulpfrictonsmoothies.org.uk

Distinction is your newsletter Distinction has a circulation of nearly 3,000 and is distributed to individuals and healthcare and social care professionals right across the city. If you would like to promote your service then please get in touch by calling: 01158 523 033.

Perhaps you are involved with, aware of, or have benefitted from a service, and think other people would benefit from it too. If so, please let us know by giving us a call on: 01158 523 033.

Distinction is your newsletter, call: 01158 523 033 if you would like to submit an article about services in your area, tell us about your experiences, or to find out how you can be involved. If you are aware of or are planning an event or providing a service please let us know - we’d love to spread the word!

These are your Disability Direct team members…

Charlotte Throssel Service Manager 0115 8523 037

Steve Boseley

Volunteer

Co-ordinator 0115 8523 035

Jules Sebelin CredAbility Manager 0115 8523 034

Joseph Throssel Welfare Rights

Advisor 0115 8523 036

Luke Cutts Administration 0115 8523 031

Shebano Hussain Administration 0115 8523 031

Our great team of volunteers

Administration, coffee mornings,

gardening, befriending, odd-

jobs, reading clubs..

0115 8523 031

Claire Maskery Information Officer 0115 8523 033

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