Posability - June / July 2018

MAGAZINE

Nothing is Impossible...

June/July 2018

Sesame

PLACE

DESIGN FOR LIFE

Inclusivity is this season's

THE AMERICAN THEME PARK NOW CATERING

FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN

SSEEKERS un

Discover a new world of accessibility across the globe with our top holiday picks

ALSO FEATURED... Student Guide | Culture | Products | Kids' Section FC_POS_June_July_FINAL.indd 1

30/05/2018 12:13

If you’ve worked with children with additional needs, we need your help.

Manchester City Council is recruiting short-break foster carers – people with experience of working with children who have a physical or learning disability.

You’ll help to look after a child in your own home between one and four nights a month, helping to give their family a break.

Each child is matched with you, and there are plenty of visits and meetings for you to get to know each other before an overnight stay occurs, to make sure that the child is settled.

You can fit caring around your permanent job, and we’ll provide you with training and development to help you through your fostering career.

Interested?

If you live in the Greater Manchester area and want to offer a parent the time to relax a little, knowing that their child is being well cared for, then contact our friendly team on 0800 988 8931, or visit manchester.gov.uk/fostering to see if you’re eligible to foster.

ads_pos_jun-jul18.indd 2 93842 Fostering 2017 Posability Magazine Advert_v1.indd 1

15:26 30/05/2018 15:06

WELCOME June/July 2018

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writers: Colette Carr, Katie Campbell Designer: Abbie Bunton Marketing: Sophie Scott Sales: Val Speers, Julie Coleman

CONTRIBUTORS Have you noticed how much nicer people are when the sun is out? People seem to lose that hard edge they develop through the cold, dark winter months – which seem to have lasted through spring this year - but we are now in full swing of sunshine, thoughts of holidays, 99s from the ice cream truck (which are now ridiculously priced at £2.50) and G&Ts in the garden.

If you are dreaming of exploring far off lands that offer promise of adventure and beauty combined with accessibility and comfort then look no further.

Handiscover is a holiday website dedicated to showcasing accessible properties across the globe, you simply enter details of the accessible features you need and off you go. Turn to page 37 to explore just some of the options they have on their site for your next holiday.

Clothes not People’ to adaptive clothing being created and disabled people proudly documenting their lives through images and stories on Instagram tackling stigma and perceptions of disability. You will find this issue peppered with articles around this subject.

The kid’s section will bring you ideas to entertain the kids this summer and make the most of the British beaches and we take a look at the fantastic work that Sesame Place in Philadelphia, USA has done to ensure autistic children can enjoy the theme park to its full.

Amy Aed, Errol Kerr, Janet Myers, Sam Renke, Mik Scarlet, Dan White, Rio Woolf

DISCLAIMER

PosAbility Magazine is published by 2A Publishing Limited.

The views expressed in PosAbility Magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. Reproduction in part or in whole is strictly prohibited without the explicit written consent of the publisher.

Copyright 2018 ©2A Publishing Limited.

All Rights Reserved. ISSN 2049-2251

If you are starting uni, turn to page 75 for some great advice on pacing yourself in the student life.

Contact Details: Caledonia House, Evanton Drive, Thornliebank Ind. Est., Glasgow, G46 8JT

Enjoy the sunshine while it lasts!

Tel: 0141 465 2960 Fax: 0141 258 7783 enquiries@2apublishing.co.uk www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

There has been a real rise in the number of campaigns, adverts and social media movements around inclusivity and body positivity recently. From ASOS quietly using an amputee to model their sportswear and River Island promoting a clothing range named ‘Labels are for

MAGAZINE

Ros

Nothing is Impossible...

June/July 2018

Sesame

Editor

PLACE

DESIGN FOR LIFE

Inclusivity is this season's

THE AMERICAN THEME PARK NOW CATERING

FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN

Like us on Facebook Search for ‘PosAbility Magazine’

SUBSCRIBE TODAY...

For only £15 for 1 year or £25 for 2 years Call

03_welcome.indd 3

SSEEKERS un

Follow us on Twitter @ PosAbilityMag

0141 465 2960 today!

To find out more about subscribing to PosAbility Magazine turn to P82

Discover a new world of accessibility across the globe with our top holiday picks

ALSO FEATURED... Student Guide | Culture | Products | Kids Section FC_POS_June_July_FINAL.indd 1

29/05/2018 22:32

Cover image: Amalfi Coast, Italy

30/05/2018 12:05

JUNE/JULY 2018| ISSUE 43

CONTENTS FEATURES

07 FYI

News, stories and updates from around the world

13 MIK SMASH

Mik Scarlet on his annoyance at the expectations to not get annoyed

15 DESIGN FOR LIFE

Spring/Summer 2018 is all about inclusivity

20 DITCH THE LABEL

24

We look at what this international antibullying charity does

23 WOULD YOU WORK FOR FREE?

43 A CITY FOR ALL

Janet Myers lifts the lid on Swedish gem Gothenburg

49 WRITENOW

Creating a more diverse range of authors and illustrators on our bookshelves

51 FROM CROHN’S DISEASE TO TRAVEL BUG Amy Aed recounts her wonderful travels and experiences with Crohn’s

59 KIDS’ CORNER

We talk Sesame Palace, beach activities and discover some great kids’ products

Columnist Sam Renke questions the disability pay gap

75 STUDENT LIFE

24 BODY POSITIVITY

78 PUZZLES

What is the perfect summer body anyway?

Getting university ready with Errol Kerr Keeping the mind active

27 COMPETITION

Win a Scotch whisky tasting experience

28 THE GOLDEN GAMES Looking fondly back at the 2018 Commonwealth Games

2

33 HOT STUFF

A look at the most innovative, must-have products on the market

37 HANDISCOVER

Your one-stop shop for accessible travel accommodation

20

41 HOLIDAY PROFILE

Exploring Tyddyn Môn on the Isle of Anglesey

Check out

P27

4

WIN!

TICKETS AND LUNCH FOR TWO AT THE SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE AND AMBER RESTAURANT

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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43 26

37

59

75

51

60 71

33 04_Contents.indd 5

30/05/2018 11:41

£NIL THE C-MA X ZETEC

A DVA N C E

PAY M E N T

Ford C-MAX Zetec with rear parking sensors and SYNC 3 DAB Navigation System from only £Nil* Advance Payment.

To find out m ore, v isit ford.co.uk /m otabilit y or call 0345 60 40 019.

T O G E T H E R

W E

G O

F U R T H E R

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Ford C-MAX Zetec 1.0T EcoBoost 100PS: urban 43.5 (6.5), extra urban 56.5 (5.0), combined 50.4 (5.6). Official CO2 emissions 127g/km.

The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Regulations (EC) 715/2007 and (EC) 692/2008 as last amended), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. For more information and most up-to-date data, please see the price list at www.ford.co.uk/motability. Data correct as of 1st April 2018. *£Nil Advance Payment available only on Ford C-MAX Zetec 1.0T EcoBoost 100PS Petrol Manual. SYNC 3 DAB Navigation System is subject to availability. No cash alternatives are available. This programme is subject to the standard conditions of the Motability Scheme hire agreement. Full written details and quotations available on request from a Ford Authorised participating Dealer of Motability Operations Limited. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations Limited. Motability Operations Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under reference number 735390.

To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) and applications must be made with participating dealers between 1st April and 30th June 2018. Prices are correct at time of print, are subject to availability and may change.

ads_pos_jun-jul18.indd 6

30/05/2018 16:43

FYI

News and stories from around the world

FYI

CARING FOR CARERS

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

A quarter of UK parents of disabled children provide 100 plus hours of care every week. This is the equivalent of working three full-time jobs simultaneously and without any of the usual benefits like regular or sick pay, holidays or a pension.

DEDICATED MS BREAK RETURNS Calvert Trust Kielder’s popular Multiple Sclerosis (MS) break which gives people with MS the opportunity to try a variety of activities, relax and have fun in spectacular surroundings has returned.

Taking place from 11-18 June, the dedicated breaks offer those living with MS a chance to develop new skills and interests, increase their confidence and make new friends thanks to a special programme of activities including golf buggies, sailing and visits to local places of interest.

The week includes full board accommodation, professional instructor-led activities and full use of specialised facilities.

Family, friends and carers are welcome to head along and join in the fun and guests can choose from a range of accessible accommodation and care packages.

For further information visit calvert-trust.org.uk/kielder or call the centre on 01434 250232.

Contact, a charity that supports families with disabled children, conducted research with the University of Leeds and the report named Caring More Than Most, revealed some key issues about families with disabled children showing that they are at a significant disadvantage in many aspects of life. The key findings of the report are below.

When compared to other carers, parent carers are: • Twice as likely to care for 100+ hours a week (24% compared with 12%) • More likely to have financial difficulties (36% compared with 21%) • More likely to report problems with their own health.

In comparison to non-disabled children, disabled children are: • Twice as likely to live in a home where there is no parent in paid work (34% compared to 17%) • More likely to live in a lone parent household • More likely to live in a household without a car, in a home without central heating and in overcrowded accommodation.

Contact recognise the vital need for health and social care services, including short breaks, a range of therapies, personal care, home help and the provision of equipment and adaptations.  WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 12:26

PREORDER YOUR VERY OWN AT FINALSTRAW.COM

ALDI SHOW FIRST EVER SIGNED AD To mark Deaf Awareness Week in May, supermarket chain Aldi launched their first ever fully signed advert, starring Maisie Sly, star of the Oscarwinning film The Silent Child, and her mum.

The advert is completely silent and shows Maisie choosing between two fish finger brands in the well-known Aldi style.

Adam Zavalis, Marketing Director for Aldi UK said: “We are delighted to be supporting the UK Council on Deafness in their annual Deaf Awareness Week campaign.

“Our new advert is completely silent and signed – a first for Aldi, and demonstrates our wider commitment to inclusivity, all delivered in Aldi’s irreverent style.”

Craig Crowley MBE, Chair of UK Council on Deafness added: “On behalf of our member organisations we are indebted to Aldi for showcasing the importance of deaf awareness to the general audience/viewers via this fabulous advert.

“Accessibility, equality and inclusion are the cornerstones of our work with Deaf, hard of hearing, deafened and Deafblind people throughout the UK.”

8

LITTLE STRAW WITH A BIG MISSION

The FinalStraw is the world’s first foldable metal straw, created with the aim to end one-use plastic straws. A kickstarter fund was started with the aim to reach $12,500 (£9,359) but this nifty little straw has more than surpassed that reaching an incredible total of $1,894,878 (£1,418,818).

The collapsible straw is made of steel and features medical-grade TPE tips at each end, making it completely safe to be used by anyone, and comes with its own cool case (available in one of four hilarious colours, like Shark-Butt Grey) that can attach to your keyring, making the product truly portable.

Dishwasher safe, the case also features a so-called “squeegee,” a pipe cleaner-esque device that can be used to clean the FinalStraw while out and about, or if you don’t have a dishwasher, ensuring the straw is always clean. It also has a lifetime guarantee.

The team state their mission is: “to reduce plastic straw use by giving people a convenient, collapsible, reusable alternative.

“In doing so, we hope to make the public more aware of the devastating effects of plastic pollution and use that awareness to pressure restaurants to stop serving straws.”

While the FinalStraw’s aim is an environmental one, it’s also great for disabled people in light of the straw ban that has been recently introduced.

GETTY GET INCLUSIVE Media giant Getty, known worldwide for their photography which appears frequently in print and online, have announced that they have partnered with the National Disability Leadership Alliance (NDLA) and Oath, a global technology and media company, to ensure better representation of disabled people across their images.

“At a time when imagery is the most widely spoken global language, it has never been more important to produce and promote a visual language that is progressive and inclusive, and to support diverse voices in doing so,” said Rebecca Swift, Director of Visual Insights at Getty Images.

“While we cannot change what people publish or click on overnight, we can provide better alternatives for those looking to create more authentic stories.

The Disability Collection strives to be a collection of authentic and empowering images of people with disabilities in everyday life.”

The Disability Collective aims to see disabled people represented not as “inspirational,” as “heroes,” or as people who need to be “cured,” but as authentic and human. They see that photographs of disabled people, especially stock photographs, which Getty are known for, as an area of representation which could be improved, as many conventional images portray disabled people as tragic and having an issue that must be overcome, which is an outdated narrative.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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29/05/2018 19:24

FYI FYI

TOURISM AWARD FOR ECO BARN Luxury Pembrokeshire cottages, Asheston Eco Barns have recently scooped the Best Access for All Award at the Pembrokeshire Tourism Award 2018.

This accolade recognises the thoughtful design of the holiday cottages where all but one have accessible ground floor bedrooms and adapted bathrooms on both ground and first floor levels. The surrounding driveway and pathways leading to each barn are all smooth, level and lit up at night.

The owners are always continuing upgrades to the accessibility of each barn and improving their facilities and equipment for disabled people. They are also happy to arrange carers or assistants for your stay and can recommend accessible tourist attractions nearby to ensure you make the most of your stay. eco-barns.co.uk

“THIS ACCOLADE RECOGNISES THE THOUGHTFUL DESIGN OF THE HOLIDAY COTTAGES WHERE ALL BUT ONE HAVE ACCESSIBLE GROUND FLOOR BEDROOMS AND ADAPTED BATHROOMS ON BOTH GROUND AND FIRST FLOOR LEVELS”

GAME ON Gaming giants Microsoft have unveiled a new adaptive controller designed to work with both their Xbox One console and Windows 10.

The highly programmable controller can be further adapted in many ways: it can be used in combination with the standard Xbox gamepad, with a thumb joystick, or with pedals and buttons for those who may wish to use parts of their body other than their hands to game.

“We know from our own research that video games are important to many disabled people.

Despite this, more than one-in-three young, disabled gamers told us they feel excluded due to a lack of accessibility.

“By working in partnership with Microsoft, we hope that today marks the first step towards a more inclusive video gaming culture.”

Nic Bungay, Director of the Care, Campaigns and Information team at Muscular Dystrophy UK, who were one of the charities Microsoft worked with to create the adaptive controller, said:

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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29/05/2018 19:25

FYI

TRAINING LAUNCHED FOR DEAF ARTISTS

#PANTSDOWN4EQUALITY

Deafinitely Theatre has launched a training scheme for emerging Deaf artists. The creation of the Hub aims to help Deaf artists gain structured, accessible, professional theatre training with the aim of equipping attendees for mainstream employment.

The year-long programme will kick off in September and will include a variety of workshops in acting, writing and other areas of the theatre industry including stage management. Oneto-one mentorship programmes and networking opportunities will also be available.

Paula Garfield, Artistic Director of Deafinitely Theatre said: “For the last few years, it has been amazing to see more and more mainstream theatre companies hire Deaf actors, yet while it’s an exciting time for Deaf actors to work in high-profile companies – a vital opportunity for them to learn their craft from other trained actors and from mainstream directors and creative teams - we do need Deaf actors and theatre makers to have accessible opportunities to drama training.

“Sadly, currently no drama school in London is fully accessible to Deaf BSL users. There is only one specific course at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

We need to see more like this all over the UK and so we are delighted to announce today our new project, the Hub.”

10

11 May saw the Bathstore on Baker Street, London transformed to raise awareness of the lack of Changing Place facilities in the UK. Spearheaded by campaigner Sarah Brisdion, she took to the streets dressed in a poo emoji fancy dress outfit and sat upon a toilet with her pants round her ankles, all in the name of equality!

The day attracted a lot of media attention and Sarah was joined by fellow campaigners and well-known faces from the disabled community to raise awareness of this great cause.

Sarah commented: “It was brilliant! I’ve never felt so supported. Campaigners joined me from all over the country to show solidarity and some even sat on the loo with their own knickers round their ankles - what a wonderful measure of their friendship and commitment to the cause. Together we made a really big impact and certainly turned some heads and got tongues wagging, which was of course the entire point.

“We had ITV there filming,

which made regional news across the country, had coverage on BBC online and social media went wild with lots of celebrity retweets too. All helping to spread the message further. It was such a success we will definitely be planning another Looathon... the question is just when and where.... watch this space.”

“BUT TOGETHER WE MADE A REALLY BIG IMPACT AND CERTAINLY TURNED SOME HEADS AND GOT TONGUES WAGGING, WHICH WAS OF COURSE THE ENTIRE POINT”

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

07_FYI_RT_AB.indd 10

30/05/2018 12:27

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05/02/2018 15:25 15:51 30/05/2018

Columnist Mik Scarlet

S

Follow Mik on Twitter

@MikScarlet

MIK SMASH!

omething that always

annoys me about being disabled is how we are always expected not to get annoyed. Throughout my entire life, especially after I became a wheelchair user at the age of 15, I’ve been expected to smile my way through experiences that any non-disabled person would go ballistic over. Whether it’s little things, like the constant “what happened to you mate?”, all the way to the massive acts of discrimination, it seems as soon as a disabled person gets angry they’ve lost the high ground. Well, I for one am really sick of it.

After seeing the latest Avengers movie, Infinity War, I got to thinking. While I’d love to be like Tony Stark, or Thor, I have to admit there’s a little too much of the Hulk about my personality. I’ve always found that I have to battle the urge to ‘smash’ when things go wrong, but following a recent incident I’ve realised that no matter how hard I fight to remain calm, non-disabled people just love to try to make me go green and lose it.

I had been hired to run some of my customer service training in Birmingham. I had booked Diane and I into a hotel, which wasn’t super upmarket but was one of a chain that I used to frequent in my rock and roll days touring with bands. I had checked online and made two phone calls to the company call centre to check that the hotel was accessible, but as soon as we arrived it became clear my idea of accessible was a little different from theirs.

The entrance was via a revolving door, not known for their wheelchair friendliness, and there was no other obvious door. There was a bell outside, so I rang it but to no avail. Diane went in and came out with a bemused look on

her face. I soon found out why as I entered via a fire door that was opened by what appeared to be a janitor. Fighting my way past a pile of boxes, and doing a sharp 90 degree turn in a very tight corridor, I found myself in a landing of a flight of steps. By this time I had realised that I had made a major mistake trusting the information I had been given. This hotel was not accessible. The silent staff member who let us in now pushed past me with a sheet of metal that transpired was the ramp I was expected to use to get down the steps into the hotel lobby. As he trunched past with his heavy load, I wheeled out his way. I had not noticed that in the small space of this landing, I had wheeled into the doorway and suddenly my chair was now being crushed by the revolving door as another guest tried to enter. I let out a cry, which I will not deny

“I WAS SHOCKED TO DISCOVER THAT THIS WAS NOT A RARE EVENT. WHICH MADE ME EVEN ANGRIER ” involved a swear word, to let the person fighting with the door know that it was not broken but if they did not stop pushing I would be. The ramp was down, I was out of the door, and as I trembled with a mixture of rage, confusion and disbelief another smarter man arrived. He lifted his arms and made a circular motion, which I eventually grasped to mean that he wanted me to reverse so he could assist me down the ramp.

I could go on, but to be honest I don’t have enough words to explain what happened next. Suffice to say, Diane and I then experienced the worst customer service we

have ever had the misfortune to witness.

Using the fact that I was obviously upset, and my swearing to prevent my chair and myself being crushed by the revolving door, this person, who it transpired was the manager, used every passive aggressive trick in the book to make us feel so unwelcome and with no chance of any willing assistance that we soon found ourselves chucked out of the hotel, stuck in a strange town with nowhere to stay.

Luckily we were saved by the amazing staff at the local Premier Inn, but otherwise we would have had to sleep rough on the streets of Birmingham.

I left the original hotel boiling with rage. If I had been the Hulk I would have pitied poor Birmingham, as there would have been little left of the city centre. Yet again, not only was I expected to just smile as I was made to feel less than a non-disabled person, but I was condemned for not smiling through.

Of course in our modern world, I turned to Twitter and told my story of woe in a series of tweets. I was shocked to discover that this was not a rare event. Which made me even angrier.

How much longer are disabled people going to be expected to let this stuff wash over us?

How can anyone be expected to put up with being made so unwelcome or unwanted by the service industry?

All I know is the next time someone says “there’s no need to shout” at me as I am facing discrimination and appalling customer service, I’m going to show them what shouting is. If you hear what sounds like a giant bear being blown up by an atomic bomb somewhere in the distance, that strangely sounds like someone screaming “No, this is shouting”, you can be rest assured it’s me, finally blowing my stack.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 12:39

FASHION

DESIGN for

Life

SS18 – the theme on the runway for this Spring/Summer collection is inclusivity Words by Colette Carr

KINTSUGI CLOTHING Emma McLelland is the designer behind Kintsugi Clothing, a 10-piece capsule collection that has been designed with inclusivity in mind. While still in the early stages of production, Emma hopes to offer disabled and non-disabled consumers a thoughtful brand that is easy to wear, useful and fashionable for everyone.

We spoke to Emma to find out more about the items she has designed for the capsule collection.

“We have a two-piece jumpsuit that has curved zips on the trousers – all our trousers have these curved zips down both sides because it makes it easier to zip down that front panel and makes them slightly easier to get into. It is hopefully going to be great for anyone who has been on a night out wearing a jumpsuit and needed a wee!

The sleeves are ruffled as well, so if you use a self-propel wheelchair you have the arm movement you need.

“Then we have a magnet wrap shirt that has hidden magnets and a small strip of Velcro, so you could probably

ASOS Online fashion outlet ASOS quietly included Tommy Hilfiger amputee model Mama Cax in their active wear range campaign without fanfare saying, “the campaign speaks for itself”.

While the move garnered brilliant online success and praise, ASOS’ quiet appreciation and refusal to comment on it too much for the sake of equality also helped drive the conversation.

The motion and still adverts embedded Cax doing yoga both with and without her silver prosthetic leg amongst other sports enthusiasts, capturing not only her incredible balance and ability well, but also the seamless integration into fashion ads disabled models can have.

On the clothing site’s Meet the Talent page for the campaign, Cax discussed why yoga is perfect for her and her favourite sportswear picks. put it on with one hand. We have some jersey material trousers, they are stretchy enough so they are super easy to put on but they are also flattering. These flare out from the thigh so there is room for a prosthesis.

“There is a wrap skirt that has a form of support belt inbuilt so if you have an ileostomy bag for example, it has a little bit of a pouch in there that you can tuck the bottom into for a little bit of support.

“We also have an A-line skirt that features the Kintsugi pattern on it, a gold crackle that is a very fashion forward piece. It has really deep pockets that you should be able to pop a catheter bag in and there is an opening in the pocket where you can pull the tube out and you can have it under the skirt but it’s in your pocket so there is no need to have anything wrapped around your leg or anything like that. We are hoping that will be quite useful.”

Find out more about the Kintsugi range at kintsugiclothing.com or follow @kintsugiclothes. 

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 12:58

sort of privilege, enjoy it. But there’s also a responsibility to pass on opportunities to others.

The inclusion of autistic people in roles that suit their strengths is something that’s integrated directly into our business model, not as an afterthought or separate social outreach and at the forefront of my team’s mind as we continue to grow.

ROSIE ON FIRE Rosie on Fire is a luxury kimonos, dresses, kaftans and accessories brand, run by Angeline Francis Khoo, who instead of inheriting her family’s Laura Ashley empire, created her own with the purpose of creating opportunities for autistic employees.

I read you have three siblings on the autistic spectrum, was that the motivation behind

Its not always just how clothes fit disabled people that can make the shopping experience difficult for disabled people as visually impaired shopper Chloe Tear recently highlighted.

But luckily for student Chloe, the issue came to the media fore for all the right reasons as she found herself being offered audio descriptions of clothes from a helpful staff member in Fat Face’s Leeds branch.

Chloe, who walks with a white cane was pleasantly surprised when she was offered the help and is now raising

16

Rosie on Fire?

It was one of the motivations for Fire and it’s why I advocate for inclusion of autistic people in businesses. My little brother and I are best friends and our lives have diverged because he didn’t have access to the same opportunities I did. We’re all born without control to what those opportunities are, so if you’ve been fortunate enough to have any

awareness and encouraging other stores to follow suit.

“One simple question can make such a big difference to the shopping experience for myself. If this was the new norm, how much of a difference could that make to so many other people?

“It gives, not only me, but anyone who was asked more independence and confidence to go out shopping, knowing that things wouldn’t be as hard as they currently are,” Chloe told BBC Radio Leeds.

What does Rosie on Fire offer workers with autism?

What is central to our business is to not only be bottom line focused but to be purpose driven.

We do this by focusing on creating long-term commercial partnerships with marginalised people who have skills, which we believe is the way to bring about real sustainable change. We are very clear this isn’t charity, it’s a fair commercial trade that’s beneficial to all parties involved. In addition to our artisan program where a number of our garments are stitched by marginalised communities, we run programs that allow autistic people to get involved in areas of business that suit their skills.

What do you hope other companies can learn from yours?

One of the goals of including a diverse workforce is not only the commercial benefit we achieve, but to showcase the commercial benefit that comes from hiring autistic people.

Our initiatives aren’t handouts - that’s not what people need, they need empowerment through opportunity.

FAT FACE

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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©Arun Sundar

FASHION TOMMY HILFIGER

REBECCA VIOLETTE Rebecca Morris has employed both her medical interest in the skin and passion for fashion to create her own empowering fashion brand backed by national disfigurement charity Changing Faces.

The Rebecca Violette collection launching on 18 June in London featuring active wear and a couture line is fronted by three models she met through Changing Faces, but she hopes its diversity reaches further than skin.

“I’m a doctor and my mum is a fashion designer, so I’ve always been interested in fashion and medicine,” she said.

“My original interest has always been in dermatology and the skin and the way people perceive others and themselves, but I am fascinated with fashion and express myself with what I wear, so I was trying to marry them and it evolved quite organically.

“Back in 2008 I did a project on art and anatomy and its always been there, but I never thought I would create a fashion brand.”

Rebecca’s brand surrounds the empowerment of words and colours in feeling beautiful in your skin.

“I love print because I feel like it tells a story and is powerful.

“I’ve used images of eyes and words like ‘look at me’ to tell people to look at people for who, not what they are. I did a focus group with Changing Faces to bring about some inspiration.

“Everything will be live on 18 June and things will be available for initial pre-order. I have had great support from a lot of charities including the British Skin Foundation and Coppa Feel so they are all invited to the launch to raise awareness for those who have been involved and I would love to do more work with them in the run up and beyond.” rebeccaviolette.com

Tommy Hilfiger hit the headlines back in 2016 when they worked with the Runway of Dreams Foundation, a non-profit organisation that pushes for inclusivity in fashion, on an adaptive children’s clothing line.

But they’re leading the pack again for high end designers by launching a stunning new campaign that doesn’t only showcase disabled modelling talent, but also features adapted clothes in line with the brand’s design and iconic look.

The label unveiled their Spring/Summer 2018 adaptive collection in the company of disabled model Mama Cax, US Paralympian Jeremy Campbell, internet cook Jeremiah Josey, dancer Chelsie Hill and two young models who introduced the line.

Design solutions such as adjustable hems, magnetic buttons, Velcro plackets in place of traditional zippers and buttons and easy to open necklines amongst others allows disabled people to fully access the major fashion label for the first time.

“Inclusivity and the democratisation of fashion have always been at the core of my brand’s DNA. “These collections continue to build on that vision, empowering differently abled adults to express themselves through fashion,” Hilfiger told American newsroom CNN.

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30/05/2018 12:55

Images © Celest Sloman

FASHION

IZZY WHEELS

When you think fashion, you think Vogue, darling.

PosAbility first met the masterminds behind the gorgeous spoke guard range Izzy Wheels back in February, and while the sister act of designer and creative director Ailbhe and brand ambassador Izzy Keane have already dominated (and still conquering) the spoke guard market, the dynamic duo are planning to become the go to fashion brand for wheelchair users.

And when they aren’t meeting with various fashion and print designers to collaborate with, they’ve been rubbing shoulders with fashion magazine giants like fashion bible Vogue.

“For anyone in design or fashion, the dream is to get in Vogue,” Ailbhe began.

“Last year we won The Leaders of Tomorrow Award with Accenture Ireland and we could choose where we wanted to go.

“We chose New York because a lot of our sales are from there but also because it was a fashion capital and to go to Vogue was our mission.

“One guy we met was Greg

18

Fishman, who builds brands around people working with Lady Gaga, Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama. He was fascinated by our story, was really well-connected and asked who he could introduce us to. So, we asked for someone in Vogue just chancing our arm and within half an hour we got a phone call from Conde Nast [Vogue’s publishers] inviting us into Teen Vogue the next day!

“We met with Teen Vogue’s creative director who was really interested in what we were doing and they’re really trying to shine a light on inclusive fashion there.

Then we were in British Vogue which was very cool!

“Doing a photoshoot in New York was another big dream of ours and we went to Williamsburg for it.

“We like creating photoshoots where our backdrops match the wheels and its normally me taking photos of Izzy but we were able to style a whole shoot and have a whole team working with us so I could be in them too. We had a team helping out and it was really special, it was lovely.”

RIVER ISLAND High street retailer River Island have built on their successful campaign last year where they included young disabled models in their TV and print adverts. The RI Kid Squad integrates young disabled models and non-disabled children in their bright, fun and smile-fest campaigns in their new SS18 campaign, again in line with their ‘Labels are for Clothes’ drive.

Some of the kids, who have ADHD, Asperger’s syndrome, Down’s syndrome and walking aids, are signed with Zebedee Management who represent models with disabilities.

Following the unveiling of the uplifting images, the parents began to raise awareness about the abilities of their children.

For more on River Island championing diversity, turn to page 20 for their involvement in international anti-bullying charity Ditch the Label.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 12:47

D

itch the Label, a leading international anti-bullying charity that believes in a world that is fair, equal and free from all types of bullying is one of the biggest international charities dedicated to ensuring diversity is celebrated and not neglected.

Renowned in the United Kingdom, the United States of America and Mexico, the digital charity has a brilliant online presence which they utilise first and foremostly to reach their intended target of people from the ages of 12 to 25. Their slogan, “Your world. Prejudice free.”

“WE ARE WORKING HARD TO TACKLE WIDER SOCIETAL ISSUES THAT STEM FROM DISCRIMINATION AND PREJUDICE” Words by Colette Carr

The charity stands for all minorities and bully victims with disability a main category they look at, with their website and social media channels featuring prominent interviews with disabled people from various walks of life, advice pieces on self-care and life advice, support pieces and reports aimed at disabled people themselves, charities and those in positions of power and influence for disabled people.

FOUR MAIN OBJECTIVES According to the Ditch the Label’s official website, the charity has four official objectives they stand by and work towards.

Ditch The Label

20

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30/05/2018 12:45

River Island has made huge strides towards inclusivity

DITCH THE LABEL

LABELS ARE FOR CLOTHES River Island has been working brilliantly to help integrate disability and diversity into their campaigns, but to celebrate their 30th birthday earlier this year, the high street retailer took their support to another level.

For their Spring/Summer collection, River Island did more than just use disabled models, selling a line titled ‘Labels are for Clothes’ with the aim of tackling discrimination in all walks of life, including disability.

TO PROVIDE INNOVATIVE SUPPORT “To provide evolving, innovative and comprehensive emotional, psychological and physical support to those who are impacted by bullying in offline and digital environments; such as through schools and colleges and in collaboration with online communities and social networks. Our focuses are on those who have experienced bullying, those who are bullying and stakeholders such as parents/ guardians and teaching professionals who are also impacted.”

TO PRODUCE WORLD CLASS, PIONEERING RESEARCH “To use our pioneering research to continuously measure, evaluate and predict changes in the landscape of bullying so that we can continue to improve and develop our services and share our findings with others. Research is the starting point for us in ensuring that we are able to provide the best possible support to as many people as possible.”

TO COLLABORATE

‘Labels are for Clothes not People’ combats prejudice

somebody they care about, which is why we have a huge emphasis on collaboration.

We work extensively with other organisations and people to help make real, positive change for thousands of young people each year.”

The ‘Labels are for Clothes not People’ collection worked in collaboration with Ditch the Label to design slogan tees and jumpers emblazoned with empowering sayings. Additionally, £3 from every purchase went to Ditch the Label while every tweet that included #Labelsareforclothes saw an extra £1 donated on your behalf. ditchthelabel.org

TO CHANGE THE WORLD “We are working hard to tackle wider societal issues that stem from discrimination and prejudice. From the ways in which we view our physical appearance to the normalisation of hate crimes, it is on our longterm agenda. We believe that bullying and related issues should never be seen as “growing up” and think that those who bully and discriminate need education and emotional support before punishment.”

“We believe that bullying is a societal issue and therefore has various different stakeholders. Pretty much everyone has either experienced bullying first hand or via WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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29/05/2018 19:16

MADE FOR PEACE OF MIND THE VOLVO V40 INSCRIPTION: FROM £99 ADVANCE PAYMENT*

Experience a car that’s designed to put you first – for less. With our Motability Scheme offers, you can drive away a V40 T3 Inscription Manual with an Advance Payment of £99* and enjoy a comprehensive range of features:

Alternatively, you can get behind the wheel of our V40 T3 Inscription Automatic with an Advance Payment of £199* or the V40 T3 Cross Country Pro Automatic with an Advance Payment of £299*.

VISIT VOLVOCARS.CO.UK /MOTABILIT Y

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Official fuel consumption for the Volvo V40 range in MPG (I/100km): Urban 34.0 (8.3) – 54.3 (5.2), Extra Urban 54.3 (5.2) – 70.6 (4.0), Combined 45.6 (6.2) – 62.8 (4.5). CO2 emissions 145 – 118g/km. MPG figures are obtained from laboratory testing intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect real driving results. *Advance Payment of £99 is for the Volvo V40 T3 Inscription Manual. Metallic Paint is included free of charge. Advance Payment of £199 is for the Volvo V40 T3 Inscription Automatic. Metallic Paint is included free of charge. Advance payment of £299 is for the Volvo V40 T3 Cross Country Pro Automatic. Metallic paint is included free of charge. Offer available on the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. To be eligible to join the Motability Scheme you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independence Payment, which will be taken in lieu of the four-weekly rental for 36 months’ duration. 60,000 mileage allowance over 3 years; excess mileage charges may apply. Offer available from 01/04/2018 to 30/06/2018 subject to availability at participating retailers. Offer not available with other promotions and may be subject to change. For full terms and conditions, visit www.motability.co.uk. Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HB.

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30/05/2018 13/04/2018 12:47 14:40

Columnist Sam Renke

Our favourite teacherturned-actress, Sam Renke, brings you her take on life and the colourful experiences it throws her way.

“IT SEEMS TO BE A COMMON THEME THAT BECAUSE I HAVE A DISABILITY I DON’T NEED TO BE PAID, OR THAT MY SKILLS, TIME AND ENERGY JUST AREN’T WORTH PAYING FOR”

You can follow Sam on @samrenke

WOULD YOU WORK FOR FREE?

W

e’ve all heard of the

expression ‘speculate to accumulate’ and for those working in the creative industry it’s an all too familiar story. All of my actor, musician and photographer friends have worked for free in some questionable bar or have taken on a role for a student film project without being paid. It’s the best way to build your portfolio, expand your brand and gain experience. Ultimately it’s expected at the beginning of your career and not necessarily seen as a form of exploitation.

I am no exception. I have given my skills for ‘free’ more times than I’ve had hot dinners over the years.

“Are you getting paid?” my mother would ask and I would always roll my eyes at her and defend my answer of “no I’m not getting paid”, by finishing my sentence with “but it’s great exposure!”

There does however come a time when your career really takes off and you become more aware of your self-worth. You come to realise that in fact people respect you more when you put a price tag on your head.

After six years of hard graft, I believe my days of doing everything for free are pretty much over, obviously there are many charities I am an ambassador for and all my work there is voluntary but for anything else my fantastic agent negotiates a fee on my behalf. However, more often than not I am confronted with almost shock or disbelief by my ‘demand’ for money.

It seems to be a common theme that because I have a disability I don’t need to be paid, or that my skills, time and energy just aren’t worth paying for. Do people simply assume that I already get my bills paid for by the government or that I don’t have a desire to go shopping or go on holiday or even that I most likely live at home with my parents so don’t need money?

Attitudes tend to be that those asking for my services are in fact doing me a favour, getting me out of the house to speak at an event or to do an interview or write a blog.

At times it almost feels like I should be grateful for simply being asked.

Most recently I was at an event where the organisers asked my agent if I would prefer my fee for speaking to go towards a charity rather than in my own pocket.

Does being a disability campaigner mean I want to give all my earnings to charity?

Hmmmm...

There has been a lot of talk and media coverage surrounding the gender pay gap however we never hear anything about the pay gap between disabled and non-disabled people which exists in a very real way.

The irony being that on average someone with a disability has an extra monthly cost of £570 (according to research conducted by the charity Scope), yet unemployment within the ‘D-Community’ is appalling with only 25% of disabled people in employment. But it appears once you enter the world of work you aren’t on an equal playing field to your non-disabled colleagues.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Kat Hawkins

@amputee_kat Kat shares images both with her bare prosthetics and without and how the shame she previously had was learnt. After hiding her legs, she tells how even though she’s still on her journey, she wishes the BoPo movement had been there years ago.

With constant reminders of an all too unattainable ‘perfect’ beach body surrounding us as the summer holiday season sets in, we point you in the direction of our favourite body positive (BoPo) accounts on Instagram to inspire you to love the skin you’re in. Words by Colette Carr

Body POSITIVITY Mesha Moinirad

Ashley Carter

@ashleycarter @ashleycarter102 After being approached by The Undateables, anti-bullying campaigner Ashley featured on Loose Women to share his experiences.

Born with Treacher Collins syndrome, Ashley is an online advocate for people with facial disfigurements and has featured on Changing Faces’ accounts.

@mrcolitiscrohns This PT has documented his journey from ileostomy fitting living by the motto ‘no colon, still rollin’.

Mesha posted this photo from Cyprus and his first time being semi-naked in public since his fitting to encourage ‘Ostomates’ to still enjoy sunbathing.

Jack Eyres

Ruby Allegra

@rvbyallegra Ruby is an Australian makeup artist and activist who pulls no punches. Living with arthrogryposis, a joint condition, the wheelchair user shares empowering photos encouraging disabled people to be comfortable in their own skin often with the hashtags #disbabeled and #disabledandcute.

24

@jack_mrengland A model, Paralympian, and reigning Mr England, Jack Eyres is repping his brand ‘One man, one leg, one mission’ in style. The PT, who had elective surgery at 16 uses his success to inspire other amputees to love their body.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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29/05/2018 18:51

BOPO

Mama Cax

@mamacaxx In this post from the Haitian-born New Yorker, the picture really does speak a thousand words, as the Tommy Hilfiger and ASOS model posted the swimsuit shot without her prosthetic leg simply with one hand on her head and the other on her waist.

Angel Giuffria

@aanggeellll This congenital amputee, actress and self-styled cyborg is no stranger to championing disability rights or raising awareness for bionic limb users.

Held aloft with her BeBionic arm, she proudly parades a ‘Proud Disabled Woman’ sign at a Women’s March.

Cailey Darling

@darlingiknow If bright hair, clothes, sequins and confidence are your bag, Cailey might just be your spirit animal.

While her disabilities aren’t visible, this legally blind beauty and fashion influencer breaks the rules of crop tops in cold weather with #fatpositive.

Luke Ericson

@luke_ericson7 Crossfit enthusiast Luke was born missing his left arm and with his left lung roughly half the size it should’ve been. With fitness, travel and creative Halloween posts, he never shies away, proudly displaying his body on his account.

Dru Presta

@g0lden.bebe Dru is an LA-based model using her platform to empower people with Dwarfism following childhood bullying. She unapologetically posted this photo saying, “I don’t care what anyone says, but my legs look sooo good here and I’m sooo HAPPY with this!”

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 13:09

MITSUBISHI MOTABILITY OFFERS OUTLANDER DIESEL 3

MIRAGE JURO CVT AUTO

ADVANCE PAYMENT

ADVANCE PAYMENT

£2,599

NIL

ECLIPSE CROSS 2

£999

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ASX 2

£99

ADVANCE PAYMENT

Reversing sensors

Reversing sensors

Touch-pad controller

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7 seats

Bluetooth

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Bluetooth1

Optional auto

Optional leather

Bluetooth1

Air conditioning

Intelligent 4WD

Heated front seats

Climate control air-con

Electric heated front mirrors

1

Pop in and see us | Visit mitsubishi-cars.co.uk to find your nearest dealer.

The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations PLC (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of the Personal Independence Payment, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independence Payment which will be taken in lieu of the four weekly rental. Models shown are the Outlander 3 2.2 diesel manual, Mirage Juro CVT petrol automatic, Eclipse Cross 2 1.5 petrol manual and ASX 2 1.6 petrol manual. Terms and Conditions apply. Please ask the dealer for full details. Rentals valid for applications placed between 1st April and 30th June 2018. 1. Please note that Mitsubishi cannot guarantee compatibility with all mobile phones and Bluetooth devices with the handsfree system fitted to this vehicle. Please check with the mobile phone manufacturer for further information on compatibility.

Fuel figures shown are official EU test figures, to be used as a guide for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.

Mirage CVT Auto fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Urban 57.6 (4.9), Extra Urban 72.4 (3.9), Combined 65.7 (4.3), CO2 emissions 99g/km. ASX 2 fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Urban 38.2 (7.4), Extra Urban 57.6 (4.9), Combined 48.7 (5.8), CO2 emissions 135g/km. Eclipse Cross 2 fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Urban 34.4 (8.2), Extra Urban 49.6 (5.7), Combined 42.8 (6.6), CO2 emissions 151g/km. Outlander Diesel 3 fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Urban 40.9 - 45.6 (6.9 - 6.2), Extra Urban 54.3 - 58.9 (5.2 - 4.8), Combined 48.7 - 53.3 (5.8 - 5.3), CO2 emissions 139g/km - 154g/km.

ads_pos_jun-jul18.indd 26 PosAbility MAG 297x210.indd 1 M44642 Q2 2018 Motability

30/05/2018 16/04/2018 12:47 09:33

COMPETITION

WIN!

TICKETS AND LUNCH FOR TWO AT THE SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE AND AMBER RESTAURANT

virtual distillery with a companion by their side.

For full information on accessibility at The Scotch Whisky Experience please visit the website where a downloadable access guide can be found, along with videos taking you on a walk-through of the attraction.

If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply answer the following question: How many bottles are on display within The World’s Largest Collection of Scotch Whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience?

3386

The Silver tour will give the perfect introduction to the world of Scotch whisky. Visitors can enjoy the barrel ride where they will learn about whisky production, discover the different aromas found in Scotch whisky and their regional differences, followed by a tutored tasting within The World’s Largest Collection of Scotch Whisky, marvelling at the amazing 3384 bottles on display.

Following the tour, dine in on-site Amber Restaurant. Amber provides sumptuous and modern Scottish cuisine in a stylish casual-dining environment.

The chefs create delicious locally sourced dishes which are sure to be enjoyed.

The Scotch Whisky Experience is a fully accessible attraction with hearing loops and lift access throughout. The whisky tour can be conducted in 20 languages including British Sign Language. Subtitles are also available and all assistance dogs are welcomed. The accessible barrel car ride enables visitors to travel through a

“I would be hard pushed to find many attractions of this calibre when it comes to being accessible and inclusive. Dare I say, one of Scotland’s top ten accessible attractions!”

EdinBlue, via access review site EuansGuide.

3384 3348 PLEASE TICK THE CORRECT ANSWER

Email your answer and your contact details to posabilitycompetitions@gmail.com or visit www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk to enter online.

The Scotch Whisky Experience Competition PosAbility Magazine Caledonia House Evanton Drive Thornliebank Ind. Est. Glasgow, G46 8JT

The Scotch Whisky Experience 354 Castlehill The Royal Mile Edinburgh EH1 2NE www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk

Name: Address: Postcode: Tel: Email:

Terms & Conditions Competition prize is for two people to experience The Scotch Whisky Experience Silver tour plus a two course lunch and soft drink in Amber Restaurant. Prize must be booked and redeemed by 30 November 2018.

Suitable accessibility must be checked by the winner prior to attending.

No cash alternative. Subject to availability. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Scotch Whisky Experience would like to send you more information about their products. If you would like to receive this, please tick the box. By ticking the box you are consenting to us providing your details to The Scotch Whisky Experience.

Please tick box to accept the Terms & Conditions

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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29/05/2018 20:09

TEAM WALES’ HOLLIE ARNOLD CARRIED HER GREAT FORM INTO THE GAMES

GAMES

THE OUR ROLL OF HONOUR

The return of the Commonwealth Games after an exhilarating Glasgow 2014 that burst through barriers and broke boundaries in inclusivity brought an even more inclusive Games in Australia, with a host of winning moments to go with it.

300 para athletes and 38 medal events took place across 7 adapted sports with an unprecedented increase of 45% more

athletes and 73% more medals compared to the para sport programme staged at Glasgow in 2014.

28

Words by Colette Carr

Events in athletics, swimming, lawn bowls, powerlifting, track cycling, table tennis and triathlon grasped the nation’s attention as fans from all four home nations threw their support behind the athletes, both debutants and old-timers.

Here, following an exciting showcase of talent down under, we zoom through our heroic headlines and take off our hats to our Gold Coast Galácticos.

SCHOOLED IN THE POOL

With British Swimming enjoying a golden generation, its no wonder there were many familiar faces in the pool.

Team England put the disappointment of losing Ollie Hynd and Jonathan Fox behind them and galvanised their swimmers to pull off a five-star performance, sweeping up five medals in the para races.

Thomas Hamer touched in first in the S14 200m free, before Lewis White’s S9 100m 100 free effort won him a silver medal. Rio

“WITH BRITISH SWIMMING ENJOYING A GOLDEN GENERATION, ITS NO WONDER THERE WERE MANY FAMILIAR FACES IN THE POOL”

ENGLAND’S TOM HAMER STRUCK GOLD

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 13:14

COMMONWEALTH GAMES

TRYING TRIATHLON

2016 hero Ellie Robinson marked her Commonwealth debut with an S7 50m fly gold while Alice Tai left with two medals around her neck, sealing the S9 100m free silver and backstroke gold.

FLYING SCOTS

The Scots on the cycling and athletics track made their mark, most noticeably through visually impaired cycling legend Neil Fachie. The Aberdonian sealed Team Scotland’s first gold of the Games on the first day of action in the time trial before really stamping his dominance with a second gold in the sprint final. On the athletics track, Maria Lyle sped to silver in the T35 100m to commemorate her Scotland debut, and Sammi Kinghorn just missed out on podium finishes in the wheelchair marathon and T54 1500m.

Neil Fachie’s golden double set Scotland on their way

Sammi Kinghorn just missed out on a podium finish

Australia also held the first para triathlon event of the Commonwealth Games following the successful introduction of the non-disabled competition at Glasgow 2014. It was a golden couple for England who made history as Joseph Townsend took the title of first Commonwealth para triathlon male champion and fellow countrywoman Jade Jones won the female title on top of her marathon bronze.

SOPHIE HAHN

WELSH WIZARDRY

JUSTIFIED HER FAVOURITE TAG

James Ball entered the Games after flying in the World Championships in Rio shortly before, and while he was tipped to the titles by rival Fachie, he registered Wales’ first medals of the Games with his silver which he promptly made a double.

In the Carrara Stadium, two of Wales’ finest para athletes conquered seeing Land of my Fathers ring out in front of thousands. Olivia Breen fell short in the T38 100m as Sophie Hahn snatched the gold in her debut Commonwealths but nicked third, but it was in the long jump where she struck gold. Another moment of Welsh dragon Maria Lyle spirit came when javelin marked her Scottish debut thrower Hollie Arnold with silver smashed the world record in her final throw to forge her name in the history books once more.

SIMON LAWSON TOOK HOME A MARATHON BRONZE

MARATHON MEN

The Gold Coast Games introduced the wheelchair marathon event to proceedings in what turned out to be a welcome addition for Team England’s medal count. In the men’s event, the English scooped up two of the three medals on offer with John Smith enjoying a silver lining and Simon Lawson completing the top three with a bronze.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 13:19

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30/05/2018 12:48

ADVERTORIAL

New product helps people

walk more naturally D

eveloped and researched over the last

fifteen years to correct the effect of conditions such as drop foot, the DMO Medical Flexi-trode FES system allows users to walk more naturally by combining a specially made orthotic sock with neuromuscular electrical stimulation to help lift the foot.

The first seeds of the idea were sown during a conversation in 2003 between clinical engineer Dr Rod Lane and Martin Matthews, Managing Director of DM Orthotics and honorary professor at Plymouth University. Over intervening years, evolving technology meant the idea became reality and it has subsequently been successfully refined and perfected during patient trials.

“The effectiveness of Flexi-trode comes from the complimentary way in which the two parts of the system work together,” said Dr Lane who has given masterclasses on the subject at the Naidex exhibition.

“The DMO Dorsiflex Sock provides stability to the ankle joint at heel strike and the neuromuscular stimulation assists with

lifting the foot to make walking easier and more natural.”

DM Orthotics have been designing and manufacturing made-to-measure dynamic movement orthoses (DMOs) since Martin Matthews first launched the company in 2005. Made of elastomeric fabric, they are a non-rigid method of managing the physical effects of neurological and musculoskeletal conditions like multiple sclerosis, stroke, cerebral palsy and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

DM Orthotics, a company that has become a world leader in medical rehabilitation and sports performance innovations, has launched a revolutionary new product.

The company’s expert clinical and managerial team, together with its prescribing clinicians, distribute DMOs throughout the NHS in the UK privately and to over 25 countries worldwide.

For more information about DM Orthotics, visit dmorthotics.com.

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TAKING CHARITY TO THE NEXT LEVEL At Platinum Stairlifts we pride ourselves in ensuring the freedom to enjoy life. Our mission is to show that a stairlift is only a sitdown escalator: after all, getting a stairlift is only the beginning of a new and exciting life.

On this occasion, our stairlift enables women to receive vital support from Monklands Women’s Aid in North Lanarkshire.

We donated a Platinum Curve over two years ago and it has enabled the great people of Monklands to take their work to the next level.

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INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

HOT STUFF

CONTACTLESS PAYMENT BRACELET This contactless payment bracelet is created in partnership with bPay by Barclaycard and set up via a secure app.

Stylish and practical it can be especially useful for people with limited hand dexterity who struggle to retrieve cards from their wallets as you simply use your bracelet to pay. tovisorga.com

We bring you a mix of the most innovative and helpful products on the market today

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TGA WHILL Designed for the style conscious wheelchair user, the TGA Whill is sleek, comfortable and tackles both urban and rural landscapes with ease. It is easily transportable as it folds away to fit neatly into your car and weighs only 20kg.

01787 882244 tgamobility.co.uk

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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“THIS VERSATILE CUPHOLDER IS DESIGNED TO BE ATTACHED TO A WHEELCHAIR, BUGGY, DECK CHAIR OR CRUTCH” PRICES FROM

£29.99

VECTA SPORT The new Vecta Sport from Electric Mobility is an ultra-modern, compact yet powerful road scooter. With exceptional legroom, an adjustable tiller and straight forward waterproof dash panel and controls, it also boasts a waterproof USB port. It has a weight limit of 25 stone, revolutionary “RunOn” run flat pneumatic tyres.

0800 252 614 electricmobility.co.uk

PRICES

AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

DRINK This versatile cupholder is designed to be attached to a wheelchair, buggy, deck chair or crutch. The inclusive design has resulted in an attractive solution that allows people who may often have their hands full a simple way of carrying a drink. Designed to attach to nearly any surface it is available in a range of colours. additioncollection.com

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WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS

PRICES

AVAILABLE ON REQUEST

ROLLZ MOTION 2 This unique device turns from rollator to wheelchair in one simple move. Ideal for those who require both a wheelchair and a rollator, it provides independence to get out and about with just one piece of equipment. Available in a choice of colours.

0115 846 5406 topro.co.uk

PRICES FROM

£399.99

THE HITCH A brightly coloured lightweight seat that can be attached to the back of most 4mph mobility scooters. The Hitch is the ideal solution for anyone who uses a mobility scooter and has a young family as a child can sit safely on the back seat with a lap belt and older kids can even hitch a lift on the footplate behind. skoe.co.uk

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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TRAVEL

With over 23,000 certified properties online, Handiscover is the number one holiday accommodation booking website for disabled people or people with additional needs.

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With summer just around the corner, why wait to plan your next accessible summer getaway? On Handiscover’s easy to use website handiscover.com, you will find accessible accommodations in 83 countries that fit your needs.

Here are Handiscover’s top ten picks to help you discover accessible properties around the world for you to relax in and explore.

ACCESSIBLE SUMMER GETAWAYS TO

EL CAMPANARIO DEL PARAISO, ESTEPONA, SPAIN

BOOK NOW Just as the name suggests, take in stunning views of the Bali sunset from the comfort of this gorgeous contemporary villa. Enjoy the gorgeous infinity pool and make use of the villa’s complimentary buoyant wheelchair for easy entrance and exit. Request a chef to cook for you from the villa’s reasonably priced menu.

This stunning Spanish resort complex is designed to aid in rehabilitation and rest, which will be easy to find within its 22,000m2 gardens. The spa boasts a number of treatments and facilities all within its beautiful bounds, including craniosacral therapies, neuromuscular kinetic therapy, hydrotherapy, and dry needling.

ARRIVA L

VILLA SUNSET VIEW, BALI, INDONESIA

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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CAPE PILLARS BOUTIQUE HOTEL, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

The Cape Pillars Boutique Hotel mixes cool retro stylings with classic Victorian aesthetic in its rooms, with each individually themed and painstakingly detailed, adding a personal touch to every aspect of this stunning hotel. Recline in extra-long king-sized beds, cook up a storm on the BBQ facilities, or relax beside the pool.

Located close to the Scottish Borders, this stunning property can host three guests in its two bedrooms, making it ideal for a cozy couple’s getaway to the scenic lowlands surrounding the village of Swinton, not far from this cottage.

Spend the day frolicking in the stunning garden, and the evenings relaxing beside the coal fire.

THE COURTYARD, COLDSTREAM, SCOTLAND

CASA SORVILLO, CAMPANIA, ITALY

AUGUSTA SPA RESORT, GALICIA, SPAIN Sitting high in the village of Vietri Sul Mare, a jewel of the Amalfi Coast, this captivating villa overlooks the Salerno coastline, famed for its stunning ceramics and breathtaking views. With five beds on the property, the villa can comfortably host six guests, making it ideal for a relaxing family getaway.

A stone’s throw from Galicia’s famed Silgar Beach, a fully accessible Blue Flag beach with bright white sand and crystal clear blue sea, the Augusta Spa Resort is nestled inside one of Spain’s most exclusive beach resorts, Sanxenxo. The highly accessible Augusta Spa Resort is both extremely relaxing and highly accessible.

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WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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TRAVEL

VILLA IN BANDAMA, GRAN CANARIA, SPAIN

LE MESNIL GONFROY, NORMANDY, FRANCE Rent this stunning farmhouse for a relaxing holiday and bring the whole family – the rustic property sleeps up to 14 people. A mere 20 minutes from warm, sandy beaches, this sixbedroom farmhouse also has its own heated pool, sun terrace, and BBQ for the family holiday of a lifetime.

This gorgeous detached villa can house ten people, who can enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and mountains from its beautiful solarium.

The secluded position of the villa means there’s little bothersome noise or bustle, making it a perfect accessible getaway for those looking to escape the city for a while.

AL V I R AR

VISSERINGSTAETE, AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS

DAISY BANK CABIN, MATLOCK, ENGLAND Hoe Grange Holidays offer this cute and quaint cabin in the East Midlands. It sits in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside, and boasts a number of accessibility options, including ramp access and a fully accessible bathroom. On the site of a beef and sheep farm, take in views from the edge of the Peak District from the comfort of the private garden.

Relax in modern opulence in this stunning apartment, located between Jordaan and the historic centre of Amsterdam. With five bedrooms and Domotica home automation, the apartment is both spacious and accessible, making it a great place to relax in between trips to Amsterdam’s historic museums and wildly popular cafes.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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HOLIDAY PROFILE

To book or to find out more visit tyddynmonholdiays.co.uk. Find us on Facebook by searching ‘Tyddyn Môn Holidays’, email us at holidays@ tyddynmon.co.uk or call us on

01248 410580 Based on the Isle of Anglesey Tyddyn Môn is a charity which has been supporting adults with learning disabilities for 30 years. We offer unforgettable holidays and experiences for those with a disability and their families, friends and carers in a safe and comforting environment that isn’t overwhelming. Holidays with us are perfect for all ages, with a wide range of activities and options to suit everyone.

TYDDYN MÔN OUR HOLIDAY HOME

ON-SITE ACTIVITIES

Our holiday home is situated on a 35 acre farm, offering complete tranquillity in the heart of the Welsh countryside. Our property offers room for the whole family accommodating up to 15 people featuring eight bedrooms, six of which are en-suite and one which is fully accessible with a wet-room, lowered basin and grab handles. A mobile hoist is also available. For smaller groups our home can be separated into two apartments accommodating seven or eight. We are perfectly located, we’re just a couple of minutes away from an awardwinning beach and near to the host of restaurants and attractions that Anglesey has to offer. Or why not stay closer and take part in some of the range of on-site activities that we have to offer.

We have a range of on-site activities that have been designed for all ages and abilities. Try your hand at pottery and make your own pot on the wheel or give wood burning a go in our craft cabin. We also offer a range of sessions including music, crafts, animal care and gardening (booking required).

We’re also located on the Anglesey coastal path and have a number of nature and sculpture walks around our site, and when you’ve finished with the activities why not try one of our delicious pancake or crepes in our on-site pancake house.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 14:31

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30/05/2018 12:48

TRAVEL

Gothenburg in Sweden has become a popular destination for a long weekend break. Described as ‘a city for all’ it was awarded the annual prize in 2014 for the European city ‘that has done the most to improve its accessibility for less able residents.’ Surrounded by water and countless islands it is elegant and sophisticated with museums, boutique hotels and gourmet restaurants but for those who want to dig deeper it has plenty of humour and a quirky feel that makes you smile.

Words by Janet Myers

GOTHENBURG A CITY FOR ALL TOUCH DOWN The flight from London was no more than an hour and thirty five minutes to Gothenburg.

The air was pristine, the countryside a mass of rocky outcrops, pine trees and endless water. There was a feeling of space and the city’s half a million residents made the most of its parks, cafes, restaurants and open spaces. It had a warm welcoming feel and felt unhurried; no doubt because in Swedish culture, ‘fika’ is a must. It is simply part of everyday life and means a coffee and cake break with friends.

If you stay at the centrally located Avalon hotel it is sure to put a smile on your face. It may be quirky but it has every amenity you could wish for.

Avalon Hotel - the quirky central Gothenburg hotel

It is filled with paintings by native born Ernst Billgren; some more bizarre than others.

Outside our bedroom the striking artwork showed a man with a bum instead of a hat and if you sat in the deep egg shaped chair to view it you disappeared almost from sight.

Balconies on the top floor sported life size stallions with lampshades. Quirky chairs and cushions popped up everywhere and breakfast even included vitamins for those who needed a pick me up. On the roof top, part of the pool jutted unsupported high above the cobblestone square and sent ribbons of rainbows over the guests sitting below.

VIEW BY BUS We used the bus to take a tour of the city as it included a good commentary and provided a great overview. On the top deck giant trees full of blossom leaned over the main boulevard and scented the clear air. We learnt that Gothenburg was originally built during the 1600s by the Dutch and they were responsible for the city centre’s famous canals.

The original city was built inside a large zigzag shaped city wall but little of it remains. Years

USEFUL INFORMATION

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Winters are cold and dark but they have a charm of their own especially at Christmas time.

Summers are warm and sunny with long hours of daylight. Spring and autumn are not as warm as the UK but on our visit in the springtime the weather was glorious.

WHERE TO STAY

There are many hotels with excellent facilities for disabled people. For details of The Avalon where we stayed visit avalonhotel.se.

GETTING ABOUT

Trams criss-cross the city and are easy to access. With the purchase of a city card they are free. So too is the hop on hop off bus and the Padden boat tour. Full details at goteborg.com. Example: three days cost £58. The trams take precedence so driving is not as easy as it is in the countryside.

Some of the old streets have cobblestones so if you are in a wheelchair they can be bumpy and uncomfortable.



WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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later, following a fire, King Gustavus Adolphus is said to have pointed to the ground and declared the current main square as the site of the new Gothenburg and a bronze statue commemorating the event has become an important landmark.

Statue of King Gustavus Adolphus - the bronze statue was erected to commemorate the declaration of the new Gothenburg

Setting sail - cruising round the archipelago

During the 1700s Gothenburg grew. The port became a major trading and shipping town and many new neighbourhoods were built. Today touches of modern art pop up all over town amongst the traditional buildings. These include three cream white figures crouched on three tall poles. Based on the three wise monkeys they illustrate ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil.’

At night they change colour, each alternating between blue, green, purple and red.

Another statue worth mentioning is by Carl Milles. It shows a naked Poseidon which caused quite a stir when it was unveiled in 1931.

The Greek god’s nether regions were determined too prominent and some reshaping ordered. When we visited he was enjoying a bubble bath, no doubt courtesy of a local who was perhaps still concerned about his ‘lunch box’!

SIGHTSEEING BY BOAT The sightseeing tour aboard the Padden boat gives a completely different overview of the city. It takes you through the old moat and canals, under countless bridges and into the very heart of the city. It continues into the harbour with glimpses of the shipyards, fishing harbour and the maritime museum. Our guide provided more historical information but peppered it with humour and more obscure facts such as ‘did you know the Swedes eat more bananas than any other nation’. Visible from the boat are more of those quirky statues like the one of Prometheus who features a triangular pyramid for a head. It is said to symbolise his enlightenment.

A MARITIME “TODAY TOUCHES OF TRADITION Gothenburg is a busy MODERN ART POP UP ALL port but it also has an OVER TOWN AMONGST THE archipelago which TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS. stretches out like a string of pearls along the THESE INCLUDE THREE shoreline. Here it is CREAM WHITE FIGURES anything but quirky. It CROUCHED ON THREE is nature at its best.

TALL POLES. BASED ON THE We were the guests of Stromma on an evening THREE WISE MONKEYS” cruise. As we set sail we drank champagne and as we made our way out of port the prow of the ship sent giant undulating ripples of deep blue and bright green towards rocky islets and reefs. Tiny fishing villages lined the rocky shore and lighthouses warned of unexpected dangers. Live music accompanied an awesome salmon and shrimp buffet and as the sun set we returned to a harbour of twinkling lights and the striking outline of an old sailing ship which is now a busy hotel.

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Modern art - displays are dotted throughout the city

Gothenburg docks - the picturesque sunset The Botanical Gardens - these beautiful gardens were opened in 1923 to celebrate Gothenburg’s 300th anniversary

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TRAVEL They say Gothenburg is a city for all which is very true. The evening cruise is excellent but it is possible to get the same enjoyment for a very small sum by taking one of the ferries which visit the islands in the archipelago. Many islands do not allow cars and for those who do not wish to go ashore staying on board is just like cruising. The ferries have comfortable seats, outside areas, food and even free books to read and toys for children to play with.

Science Museum and amusement park - from dinosaurs to rollercoasters

CULINARY DELIGHTS The city is full of gourmet Michelin starred restaurants and open air seating has overhead heating and blankets for when there is a chill in the air. Everything seems to come with style and elegance. Even traditional meatballs came served with mashed potato furled like a sail in a sea of gravy with lingonberries at the ‘shoreline.’

Gothenburg’s location means that fish dishes are abundant and the fish church is a striking

building and well worth a visit. Here fish and shellfish are ‘worshipped’ and can be both bought and eaten. It is not however the only place where fish is treated with reverence and praised for most restaurants feature it prominently.

With so many great places to sit and enjoy the scenery picnicking is popular. In town, Slottsskogen is a favourite place. Here there are children’s rides set amongst flower beds and walking trails. There are also zoo animals, penguins, seals, even moose, and this is all available for free.

Festivities include great spreads of traditional food.

Mid-Summer Eve is one of the country’s favourites and the day has become a national holiday. ‘Gobbling’ crayfish is another old Swedish tradition and August is a month when crayfish parties come to the fore. Mountains of crayfish are eaten accompanied by schnapps, party hats and traditional drinking songs.

If you want to put another smile on your face then a meal in the Moon Thai Kitchen is a must.

It plunges you into a world where you could be forgiven for thinking that you were taking a trip on LSD. It is a psychedelic wonderland of the weird and bizarre but full of good vibes and surprisingly authentic Thai cuisine. Around every corner another assault on the senses sets you reeling in amazement and disbelief.

Some of the city’s highlights

LISEBER

This is Scandinavia’s largest amusement park, but it also has another side. It is ideal for those who just want to enjoy the charming landscaped grounds studded with impressive sculptures - some of which have that oddness about them that make you smile again. There are carousels, fairy-tale castles, an outdoor dance floor, adventure playgrounds, and shows and concerts.

Here too you can enjoy good meals including a comprehensive vegetarian restaurant.

THE BOTANIC GARDENS

This is one of Europe’s leading botanical gardens and was opened in 1923 in celebration of Gothenburg’s 300 year anniversary.

We especially enjoyed the palm houses but there was plenty more to see as well - from American insect eaters to Himalayan plants. The symbol of the garden is a white wood anemone. These flowers we saw carpeting the green woodland spaces everywhere. The gardens have a packed itinerary of events throughout the year.

MUSEUMS CONCLUSION So whatever your inclination you will not be disappointed.

Gothenburg is truly a ‘city for all.’

Few cities can boast that they have an up-to-date accessibility inventory listing 3,000 public buildings which are up to scratch at all times. Even a visit to a public swimming area will have alterations made to improve accessibility with ramps, toilets and changing rooms. This is even true in some swimming areas on the rocky archipelago. Enjoy your stay.

Liseber - this amusement park offer fun for all the family

ATTRACTIONS

There are many excellent museums to visit in the city but on a weekend break there will only be enough time to visit one or two. Our choice was the Science Museum and the home of Volvo.

The latter traces the history of Volvo engines from 1927 and exhibits include early cars to ground breaking prototypes of electric selfdriving cars and buses. The Science Museum extends over seven floors which are connected by lifts and ramps. You begin your journey at the top of the building and slowly descend. There is something for everyone and much of it is hands on.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Guide Dogs provides advice and support to the families of children and young people When Aggie and Robert’s little boy Max was six weeks old, they were told by their health visitor to expect a smile soon. Weeks and weeks went by and still the smile did not materialise.

Aggie says: “I had that weird feeling that my child was in a world of his own, somehow behind glass and he was not ‘seeing’ me. I didn’t think he wasn’t actually able to see me, that didn’t cross my mind at this stage, but I did feel as though he was somehow unreachable.”

A few months full of uncertainty went by before Max could see a paediatrician.

On examining Max, the paediatrician noticed his involuntary horizontal eye movement and subsequently Max was referred to an ophthalmologist.

Aggie searched the symptoms online and the word ‘nystagmus’ kept appearing in nearly every result.

Aggie and her partner Robert felt

worried and anxious about what the future might hold for Max. Upon meeting with the ophthalmologist, Max was diagnosed with congenital idiopathic nystagmus.

It was as if I had entered another world and my child suddenly was labelled ‘disabled’. I felt overwhelmed, for two days afterwards I was not able to speak with anybody. I was still processing all the information and I suppose grieving for all my son’s future losses/challenges.

Aggie, Max’s mum After having their worst fears confirmed, Aggie and Robert sought out any information and support they could possibly find. Through networking at an event specific to Max’s condition, Aggie met with a Guide Dogs staff member and was given the number for Guide Dogs children and young people’s services.

Guide Dogs then put Aggie and Robert in contact with another parent of a child with the same type of nystagmus and invited them to various Guide Dogs Family Days Out events.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Guide Dogs Family Days Out events are a great way for parents to meet with others in a similar situation, while children and their siblings have fun and socialise.

There are trained members of Guide Dogs children and young people’s services at every event to give advice and support.

Aggie and Robert know there are a lot of unknown challenges that they could potentially face in future, but Aggie says: “We are determined to never let him feel different or in any way disadvantaged than any other child.”

On Max’s first birthday, his parents held Aggie says that the events have helped a fundraising event for Guide Dogs as her and her partner Robert to not feel a ‘thank you’, entitled Give your MAX so alone, she adds: “I soon realised there to the world. Aggie says: “It was a relief was so much support available to us. It talking to somebody who could fully was so uplifting and gave us hope. I met understand me, that could (and still can), many families with far more complex ADVERTISING guide me on this journey.

FEATURE needs then Max’s and found them absolutely inspirational.”

Right now, Max’s vision is gradually improving. Aggie and Robert work hard to give him as many opportunities to stimulate his sight as possible.

“Max has become more and more curious about the world around him. There is nothing stopping him now. He has the most precious smile.”

Has your child received a recent diagnosis of vision impairment?

Guide Dogs children and young people’s services are here to help.

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30/05/2018 12:49

WRITENOW

WRITENOW

Are you an aspiring writer or illustrator? If so, this could be the opportunity for you as Penguin Random House is looking for new writers and illustrators who are underrepresented on the nation’s bookshelves.

The application period is open until midnight on Monday 9 July for writers and midnight on Monday 23 July for illustrators, with further information about how to apply available at write-now.live.

I

n a bid to increase the diversity of

the nation’s published authors and illustrators the publishing house is running the WriteNow campaign, now in its third year, and accepting applications from people of all abilities and backgrounds.

A lucky 150 applicants will then be chosen and offered the opportunity to attend one of three free workshops in London (8 Sept), Liverpool (15 Sept) or Nottingham (29 Sept).

The workshops will focus on learning about how to get your book published, you will receive one-to-one feedback from an editor or designer and around 10 people will be invited to take part in the third WriteNow mentoring programme; being paired with

an editor or designer from Penguin Random House with experience and expertise in their genre to develop their manuscript or illustrations further.

The campaign is particularly targeting BAME (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic) or LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer) communities, those who have a disability, or come from a socio-economically marginalised background. Tom Weldon, CEO of Penguin Random House, said: “When launching WriteNow in 2016, our aim was to seek out talented new writers and different stories that represent everyone in our society. Two years on, the programme is already achieving real change: reaching

communities of writers we haven’t before and adding new and exciting voices to our lists. We hope that by also inviting illustrators of children’s picture books to apply we are further breaking down barriers to publication. Seeing yourself in books is important at any age, but especially for our youngest readers.”

Working in partnership with national charity Book Trust and with support from Spread the Word in London, New Writing North in Liverpool and Writing East Midlands and UNESCO City of Literature in Nottingham, this year’s WriteNow campaign aims to be give more people than ever a platform to embrace their talents and further their careers. Last year 98% of writers who attended a WriteNow event said that the experience made them feel more confident and positive about their future as a writer.

Since the inception of WriteNow, 23 aspiring writers have been invited to join the mentoring programme and five of those have already been offered publishing deals. Two of their current mentees include Christine, who is writing a memoir about growing up with cerebral palsy, and Polly, whose literary memoir, Being Mutant is a personal and cultural history of living with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and genetic haemochromatosis; the first memoir to deal with these widely misunderstood conditions.

If writing or illustrating is your passion why not consider submitting your work and see where it could take you?

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 14:37

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30/05/2018 12:49

Amy Aed is a young travel blogger living with Crohn’s disease. Here she tells PosAbility how a disease that could kill her taught her how to live.

CROHN’S DISEASE

FROM CROHN’S DISEASE

to Travel Bug “I

t’s not terminal, but…”, my mother swore under her breath as the doctor confirmed her worst fear - her youngest daughter had the famed and incurable Crohn’s disease. That was how I was presented the diagnosis of my malady, an auto-immune disease that attacks and collapses the digestive tract and whole immune system. It turned out that agonising pain and roundhouse symptoms such as blepharitis, scoliosis, psoriasis, hair loss, and tooth decay weren’t normal.

It took months to finally get admitted to a hospital, as GPs constantly pushed me away, labelling my exhaustion and agony as a mere side effect of starting a new school.

Despite begging for respite, no one was able to clock the fact that an active array of fevers, blooded stool, and skin scarring

could be symptoms of something heavier than a simple stomach ache. It was frustrating and detrimental, and I was incredibly relieved when one doctor called me back after reading my notes as I was sent home once again. Honestly, I’m pretty sure Dr. Lewis saved my life.

“NO ONE WAS ABLE TO CLOCK THE FACT THAT AN ACTIVE ARRAY OF FEVERS, BLOODED STOOL, AND SKIN SCARRING COULD BE SYMPTOMS OF SOMETHING HEAVIER THAN A SIMPLE STOMACH ACHE”

The doctors acted quickly upon my diagnosis, and soon I found myself mixing 16 tablets daily in with high-calorie shakes, prescribed with the hope that my malnutrition would subside. I found myself submerged in a world filled with cannulas, IV drips and despondency. Truthfully, I had known something bad was in the making for a long time coming, having lost several stone and half a head of hair. 

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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CROHN’S DISEASE My gastroenterologist predicted that depression was inevitable. Drugs causing depersonalisation mixed in with a dwindling social life meant that it was bound to happen at some point - similarly to my Crohn’s, it was just a matter of time before symptoms showed. Therapy was introduced, but with a diagnosis of a chronic and lifelong disease hanging over your shoulder, there’s only so much a therapist can do.

I stopped taking photographs and telling stories - the only two things that really made sense to me. I spent months swathed in self-pity and self-doubt, with my fluctuating weight demoralising me further. Considering I was only newly a teenager, a skewed body image only made my attitude towards the situation worse.

My blog, the little corner of the internet of which I had written on for years, became a shell of the excitable stories and anecdotes that it used to feature. I lost contact with the community I once loved so dearly, and instead spent my time browsing popular travel blogs with a deep envy.

Having wanted to be a travel writer for as long as I could remember, coming to terms with my diagnosis felt almost impossible when it limited me from doing just that. How could I travel when my whole digestive system was in havoc? I thought that my dream had been severed the second I walked out of that doctor’s office.

Thankfully, I was wrong.

I knew that I wanted to live a life that I truly loved, country-hopping in the morning and writing stories in the evening - and I also knew that feeling sorry for myself really wasn’t going to cut it. My attendance at school plummeted and I was introduced to the concept of homeschooling, where I would spend several hours studying before having the rest of the day free. With Brighton and London just a short train ride away, I began to venture out by myself to explore the cities.

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Progress was slow at first, as I fought with my disease both physically and mentally. I travelled locally, gradually pushing myself further and further still, until I eventually found myself on weekends away in Falmouth and Hastings.

As a spur of the moment, I found myself applying to university. As another spur of the moment, I found myself flying to Hungary with a guy I’d known for two days (spoiler: we’re still going strong). I applied to months away working in Spain, and semesters studying in Canada. Sure, I’d always have to have a handy box of pills on me, but I could still do it.

“AS A SPUR OF THE MOMENT, I FOUND MYSELF APPLYING TO UNIVERSITY. AS ANOTHER SPUR OF THE MOMENT, I FOUND MYSELF FLYING TO HUNGARY WITH A GUY I’D KNOWN FOR TWO DAYS” It was a long journey to get to where I am now, but I believe that I’ve finally come to terms with my diagnosis. After years of

learning and coping, I’ve found that I can still do everything I’ve ever wanted.

Nowadays, you can find me either exploring my university town, or setting off on last-minute flights to who-knows-where.

I’ve found myself in situations I would never have had the guts to try years ago, and have felt better for it.

Of course, it’s not all perfect. There are still hard days. There are days where I’m rushed to hospital in a fit of pain and blood. There are days where I hate how my digestive system functions, and days where I can’t leave the bed due to agony, exhaustion, and joints suggesting the onset of arthritis. But there are

also days where I board a new flight, or meet someone suffering with another form of IBD. Today I will find myself looking at the same travel blogs I used to years ago, but this time without feeling bitter and envious. Instead, I feel inspired and excited for what’s to come. If being diagnosed with Crohn’s has taught me one thing, it’s how to live a life without fear or hesitation. And perhaps my life could be better for it.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 14:40

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30/05/2018 15:03

WHAT’S NEW

at The Big Event 2018?

The Big Event, Birmingham is the Motability Scheme’s flagship show in the season of its popular events taking place throughout the summer. Free to attend, it arrives at the NEC, Birmingham on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 July, with a host of new additions to its line-up this year. So, what’s new…?

THE VENUE: For the first time The Big Event will he hosted at the NEC in Birmingham. The largest event of the summer, The Big Event Birmingham will showcase the widest display of vehicles available to lease through the Motability Scheme. Plus, the fully accessible venue will also offer free parking, vehicle test drives and a fun play area for younger guests, complete with bouncy castle.

WAV ‘TASTER EXPERIENCES’: Exclusive to The Big Event Birmingham, passenger Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) taster experiences will be available to visitors wishing to trial the specially adapted vehicles on-the-road as a passenger.

54

ADAPTATIONS: This year there will be an even wider range of cars and adaptations for customers to try during a test drive, including 17 adapted test drive cars available on the day, all accompanied by a professional driving instructor to assist and advise.

GUEST SPEAKERS: For the first time ever, The Big Event welcomes a range of expert guest speakers to its event line-up. Between 10am and 3.30pm guests will be able to attend several talks to find out more about the Motability Scheme including top tips for visiting a dealer, more information on WAVs and adaptations and guest speakers from Driving Mobility, DMUK and Transport

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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For more information on leasing a car, scooter or powered wheelchair through the Motability Scheme, visit motability.co.uk or call

MOTABILITY

0800 953 7000

Focus. More information about the speakers and their topics will be available at motability.co.uk/thebigevent closer to the event.

The Big Event takes place at the NEC Birmingham on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 July. You can find full details of all of this summer’s One Big Day events at motability.co.uk/thebigevent.

For the latest announcements, pictures and videos, visit the ‘Motability Scheme’ Facebook page (facebook.com/motability).

t Join us a

The Big Event 2018 Experience the UK’s largest display of vehicles available on the Motability Scheme at the NEC, Birmingham.

Over 100 cars from many different manufacturers

Over 40 scooters and powered wheelchairs

NEC, Birmingham Over 35 adapted cars and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Over 45 cars available to test drive including 17 fitted with adaptations FREE entry, FREE parking and a FREE tea or coffee in a fully accessible indoor venue

National Exhibition Centre, Hall 17, Birmingham B40 1NT

Friday 6 and Saturday 7 July 2018 9am to 4pm Find out more at motability.co.uk/thebigevent or call 0800 953 7000 Please quote MO715D * To test drive the cars you must bring your full UK driving licence and sign our test drive declaration on the day. Full Terms and Conditions can be found at motability.co.uk/thebigevent. The Big Event is organised and hosted by Motability Operations Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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29/05/2018 19:58

ADVERTORIAL

CIRCUS STREET BRIGHTON

*Library images for illustrative purposes only

Brighton beach on your doorstep – a new home on the south coast.

Circus Street is an exciting new development of apartments with a range of wheelchair accessible homes that will be available on a shared ownership basis.

Developed within Brighton’s exciting new residential, social, cultural and economic quarter these new homes are situated at the junction of Morley Street and Circus Street, near the centre of Brighton. The development will create a new streetscape along Circus Street – a bright and light-filled modern building with varied scales and styles that pays homage to Brighton’s architectural heritage.

Centrally located in the beautiful town of Brighton, Circus Street is the ideal opportunity to buy a specially designed new home on England’s south coast.

56

Clarion homes have been created with practicality and functionality in mind from the beginning. Living spaces, kitchens and bedrooms are designed with plenty of space and all apartments meet the London GLA’s Wheelchair Accessible Housing Standards. In addition, all our homes feature tasteful modern exteriors, contemporary interiors and energyefficient design.

When it comes to entertainment, Brighton has a huge variety of opportunities for fun, leisure and relaxation. Head down to the beach and the Palace Pier for some sun; restore your energy with great food at Franco Manca or Bill’s; check out pubs like The Craft Beer Co. and the Pitcher & Piano; catch a show at Komedia or the Theatre Royal; or see a new blockbuster at the Odeon. Attractions

nearby include Stanmer Park, Sea Life, the i360 and Brighton’s many museums and art galleries – so you’ll never run out of things to do here.

With journey times on regular train services to central London taking just over one hour, it is the ideal location for access to both the seaside and the big city – perfect for first-time buyers, singles, couples or young families. myclarionhousing.com/sharedownership

For further information please call John Wade on

020 8315 3810 or email John.Wade@clarionhg.com

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 14:43

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#GoAnywhere 30/05/2018 13:45:45

30/05/2018 15:04

Kids’

KIDS

CORNER

Summer is just around the corner, school holidays are looming and the sun is even threatening to make an appearance, so how do you amuse the kids?

Although our weather can be temperamental, there is nothing better than being outside in the summer months (just be sure to pack a raincoat just in case), and where better to be than making the most of Britain’s beautiful beaches and trying out some adventurous water activities. Take

a look at page 66 for some ideas to keep the kids entertained.

All hail Sesame Street, the childrens programme that we all know and love, not only did they introduce the character Julia last year, a little girl with autism, but the theme park they run, Sesame Place, has just become the first in the world to be recognised as a Certified Autism Centre. The park, which is based in Philadelphia, USA, opened its doors for the 2018 season with some amazing

new aspects, all designed to ensure autistic children can enjoy Sesame Place to its full and have as much fun as possible. You can read all about this on page 60.

You will also find a plethora of products for your little ones on page 71, find out what Rio - the busiest boy in the UK – has been up to on page 69 and Dan White delivers his column this issue in his best detective guise on page 65!

PRODUCTS

71

PAGE

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Sesame Place has become the first theme park in the world to become a Certified Autism Centre, meaning it has taken steps to ensure all children can thrive and enjoy its park. Words by Katie Campbell

W

hen Sesame Place

re-opened for its 2018 season on 28 April, something was different. The park partnered with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, and became the first theme park in the world to be designated as a Certified Autism Centre.

Sesame Street has long been at the forefront of teaching children about disability, and the Sesame Workshop’s commitment to increasing understanding and awareness of autism has culminated in both the changes to Sesame Place and the introduction of Julia to the regular cast of colourful characters last year, two years after their Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children workshop.

ALL-INCLUSIVE

FUN

Julia made her debut in Sesame Place and on the Sesame Street TV show in 2017.

Public reaction to her was hugely positive: in her introduction on the show, Big Bird could not understand why Julia would not stop painting to speak and play with him, until Elmo explained that she has autism, and sometimes it takes her a little longer to do things. The normalisation of autism and autistic children was praised, as was the teachable moment the show created, which helps non-disabled children understand how autistic children may not react in a way they expect, but it’s ok, and doesn’t mean they dislike the child.

Senior vice present and general manager of the Sesame workshop Scott Chambers said: “Since her debut, Sesame Street’s Julia has touched the lives of millions of children and families around the world and we’re proud that partners like Sesame Place are committed to providing autism-friendly experiences.”

The reopening of the Philadelphia park saw the introduction of many new aspects to ensure autistic children can have as much fun as possible in the park. All members of staff have received training in sensory awareness, motor skills, social skills, communication, environment and emotional 60

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SESAME PLACE

awareness, giving them the skills to identify children who may have additional needs which they can help cater for.

Sesame Place now also has an IBCCES Sensory Guide, meaning parents can check beforehand how each ride or attraction may affect a child who has sensory processing issues before entering the park. They have introduced a Ride Accessibility Programme, which guests can enrol for, after which they will be given a personalised list of rides and attractions which will be suitable to the family’s sensory needs.

The park also provides quiet rooms, which feature seating and adjustable lighting, noise cancelling headphones for guests, low sensory areas and low sensory parade viewing options, where guests who may not enjoy physical contact from the parade’s characters can sit to still enjoy the event.

They also provide the option for guests who would like to dine with one of the characters but sit in quieter, less socially stimulating seating, to have the option to do so by pre-arranging it with the park.

“IBCCES works with leading travel destinations to create safe, sensory-compatible travel options for parents and individuals on the spectrum. Our Certified Autism Centre designation is awarded to premier organisations around the globe that have completed rigorous training and meet the highest industry standards,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman.

“Sesame Place is ideal because of its accessibility to families and convenient location, as well as everything the organisation has done to be inclusive for all. The CAC certification helps give parents and other guests on the spectrum peace of mind when visiting a new destination or attraction.”

“Sesame Place is honoured to be leading the theme park industry through our commitment to making our facility friendly for families with children on the spectrum,” added park president Cathy Valeriano. “We’re dedicated to providing all of our guests with an exceptional and memorable experience.

We look forward to applying this training and expanding our commitment to help spread awareness about autism.”

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 14:45

National Helpline 0800 917 7650 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk

Alcoholics Anonymous has over 4, groups throughout Great Britain dedicated to helping those with a serious alcohol problem learn how to stay sober. Groups are made up of people from all walks of life and all age groups. Through friendship and mutual support, members assist each other in coping which is made easier by meeting others with the same problem. There are no dues or fees for membership and anonymity is carefully preserved.

Anyone who believes they have a drink problem can contact Alcoholics Anonymous by using the helpline number above or email; help@aamail.org Further information may be obtained from the web site above or from the General Service ffice at the address below.

For information: P.O. Box 1, 10 Toft Green, York. YO1 7NJ Tel: 01904 644 026

FIVE WHEELCHAIR ADAPTABLE APARTMENTS AVAILABLE TO RENT* COMING IN 2018 TO CANADA WATER

Email us at hello@foliolondon.co.uk or call 020 3815 0484 to find out more.

The smart way to rent foliolondon.co.uk *Eligibility criteria may apply, please speak to a member of our lettings team for more information.

Details correct at time of going to press. Computer generated images shown.

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30/05/2018 16:21

FRIEND FINDER “but from that point onwards we made changes and improvements to make it easier and simpler for those children to approach each other and make friends.

Lessons learned, they held the first Friend Finder Prom at the Portsmouth Guildhall last year, which everyone enjoyed tremendously, including Lewis. They plan to hold the event again and expand the number and types of events that the now-charity holds.

For his amazing work on Friend Finder, Lewis was recently awarded an NHS Award, much to his surprise. A massive Liverpool FC fan, his mum arranged for him to have a

Forming friendships can be a difficult thing when you’re in and out of hospital. That’s where Lewis Hines’ website Friend Finder comes in, to help establish vital connections for young people.

Words by Katie Campbell

MAKING FRIENDS

W

hen Lewis Hines

was 17 months old, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

He has been living with the effects of this for 17 years, having had over 13 brain surgeries, dealing with hydrocephalus (water on the brain), and drug-resistant epilepsy. Last year, he was diagnosed with end stage kidney failure, from which he is now in recovery.

Through all this, he has been in and out of hospital for the myriad treatments and checkups. Broken-up periods of attendance at school made it difficult for him to form permanent and stable friendships. Not many 14 year olds would view this as an opportunity to help others, but not many 14 year olds are like Lewis.

He was inspired to

start Friend Finder, a project to help children and young people in similar situations to him find friends. “I went to O2 and I told them about my idea, and what I wanted my project to be,” said Lewis. “After I told them a lot about the plan, they gave me my first bit of funding to start the new project.”

O2 gave Friend Finder £300, and with that they held their first event. Lewis and his family didn’t know what to expect, but it was a tremendous learning experience for both himself and the project: in an attempt to get the attendees to swap details, they were given a pen and paper.

Lewis quickly realised, when he noticed everyone standing quietly in the corners that much like him, reading and writing was hard for them.

“It didn’t go as planned,” Lewis said,

tour of Anfield, while being followed around by a camera crew. Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson appeared in the dressing rooms to explain why he was there and that he’d won the award, surprising him further.

“I was so confused throughout the whole day,” said Lewis, “it just felt so surreal and I was quite confused throughout the whole day, and I didn’t know how to take it all in. It was funny, because there were cameras about, I don’t know how I didn’t realise there was something going on! I was just having a bad day!”

He’s recently released his book, Looking at the Stars, which details both his life and experiences with illness, and Friend Finder.

It’s just one more way Lewis is trying to get his story out there, and help people who may be experiencing something similar to him. Having never written a book before, the process was confusing, but with some perseverance and the help of a ghost writer, the book came together.

Lewis groans and laughs at the prospect of writing a sequel, saying he’s not done anything worth writing about since its publication, but “you never know,” he says.

He’s not the type to sit around and stagnate; there’s bound to be something just around the corner.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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GLASGOW MUSEUMS AUTISM FRIENDLY Selected early opening dates for people who prefer a calmer, less crowded environment.

Visitors of all ages can explore the galleries, shops, and cafés.

Three of our museums have the following: Trained Autism Champions to raise staff awareness Visual storyboards Sensory kits for you to borrow from reception Quiet safe spaces will be available.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Pre-visit information to help you plan your visit at

glasgowmuseums.com

ads_pos_jun-jul18.indd 64

30/05/2018 15:22

Columnist Dan White

You can follow Dan on @DeptOfAbility

THE CASE OF THE CHANGING PLACE Dan White, creator of the amazing Department of Ability superheroes and dad to Emily, who is 10-years-old and has spina bifida, is a regular face in PosAbility as he shares his experiences of life as a family with a disabled child.

“SHE WAS A HUMAN, DESERVING OF EQUAL TREATMENT AND CONTAINING SUCH SPIRIT THAT WERE IT TO BE BOTTLED, IT WOULD MAKE FOR THE FINEST REFRESHMENT EVER RAISED TO CELEBRATE THE HUMAN SPIRIT”

T

he detective swept open the curtains and gazed up and down his beloved Baker Street. Suddenly, a sight unlike any other captured his attention.

Casting aside the drapes, he watched the most unusual collection of citizens he had in all his years ever seen begin to assemble.

Rousing his companion from a hearty breakfast-induced slumber, the duo flew down the cobbled streets, determined to investigate the bizarre gathering that was by now becoming greater in number.

As the detective approached, his finely tuned senses noticed that the majority of these people were in unusual fancy dress.

Weaving amongst them like a stealthy fox, the detective and his compatriot were drawn to a child, not an urchin of the alleyways, but a child manoeuvring on wheels! In all his years investigating deeds of darkness and sights unimaginable, the detective found that this particular sight was hypnotic, proud, moving independently and the voice was growing in fearsome volume.

The child spun around on her contraption and handed the detective a circular object with a pin secured on the back. Upon it was a picture of a similarly attired child, in blue, with what looked like a bed of sorts beside her. Brushing his cape aside, he crouched beside the child, who introduced herself with vigour and confidence. She called it a ‘Changing Places Badge’. Emily was her name, she projected, and the people

gathering around her were campaigners.

The companion looked about, noticing the odd attire of several young ladies, noting that one was resplendent in what looked like a brown smock and another in what appeared to be a fabricated latrine.

Emily guided the investigative duo to the front of a bathing shop. Gazing around the shopkeeper was discovered, however they were residing on a china privy on the streets of London! Reeling in indignation, the investigator and his stalwart colleague stood firm and demanded to know why this act of personal hygiene was being played out upon the heart of the capital.

Emily calmed their fears like a mother to a terrified infant. Her confident voice calming nerves that would otherwise only be soothed by a hearty brandy. Oozing power and grace of movement she explained that this was a community who were trying to educate the masses on better facilities for herself and her fellow wheeled confidants.

‘Changing Places’ was the name.

Upon seeing and hearing all, the detective smiled, shook hands with every soul, praised them for their endeavour and wished them well. Emily offered her hand and the detective received it warmly and knew instantly that he was in the presence of his very equal, on every level imaginable. It mattered not to him that wheels were her motive power, she was a human, deserving of equal treatment and containing such spirit that were it to be bottled, it would make for the finest refreshment ever raised to celebrate the human spirit.

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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beast at the best of times, with the summer sun disappearing behind clouds without a moment’s notice, not to be seen again until next year. Make sure you’re prepared to take advantage of the glorious sunshine while it exists. We’ve put together a list of fun beach activities to help you make the most of that fleeting summer sunshine on great British beaches this year.

©Kyle Monahan/Flickr

T

he British summertime is a temperamental

SURFABILITY UK Ever wanted to take to the waves and feel the surf wash over you? Surfability UK is for you. The organisation caters for individual’s needs, and also have access to the UK’s first seated tandem surfboard, as well as surfboards for wheelchair users and people with visual impairments.

Wheelchair users can use the tandem body board to allow them to take to the waves, too.

Surfability are based at Caswell Bay on the Gower, with access to some of the UK’s finest waves, and can cater to any level of ability. If the open water freaks you out a little, the LC Leisure Centre in Swansea can be used as a teaching pool to get surfers ready to ride the waves. The team are happy to help anyone of any level of ability, with any level of needs, so there’s no reason not to take up surfing this summer. surfabilityukcic.org

LIFE’S A BEACH

Make sure you’re taking full advantage of the temperamental British summertime this year with these fun-filled activities for you and the kids.

Words by Katie Campbell 66

Take in a sunset on some of the UK’s best accessible beaches

PONY AXE S Pony and donkey rides have long been a British seaside tradition, where children load themselves on to the back of ponies and trot over the sand from point to point, marvelling in the joy of having fun with animals in the beautiful summer weather.

For disabled people, especially those who have mobility issues or use wheelchairs, it’s a difficult tradition to take part in. Pony Axe S changes that. Started by Simon Mulholland, its aim is to help people enjoy the outdoors.

Simon and his trusty steed Obama help people of all abilities experience the outdoors using the iBex, a kind of wheelchair-accessible chariot of Simon’s own design, which allows a wheelchair to be safely loaded in, but also has a folding seat for those who may not use a wheelchair.

Don’t just stop at the beach: if you fancy a trip into the woods or hills, Simon and Obama can help there, too. ponyaxes.com

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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©Thor/Flickr

BEACH LIFE FUN IN THE SUN If travelling all the way down to some of these beaches to kite surf or coasteer seems like a long way to go for some beach fun, don’t worry, there’s always an alternative! Classic beachside activities like building sandcastles and taking a dip in the ocean are always fun, but there’s even more to beaches than just sand and sea. If you and your children are confident on your feet, you might like to try rockpooling, which is as informative as it is fun – there’s nothing cooler than lifting up a stone in a rockpool and finding a crab, starfish or anemone which you can both learn about and enjoy together. If you’re happy to haul some equipment with you, there’s always the prospect of some beach sports: sit down volleyball is great for kids who may have mobility issues. If the beach is experiencing a bit of an ocean breeze, you can get the kite out of the shed and fly it as a family – it’s loads of fun to see who can keep it in the air for the longest.

RELAX! Boscombe Pier is a beautiful place to spend a summer’s day

“IF YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN ARE CONFIDENT ON YOUR FEET, YOU MIGHT LIKE TO TRY ROCKPOOLING, WHICH IS AS INFORMATIVE AS IT IS FUN”

CELTIC QUEST COASTEERING

Not one for sitting on the beach and being fried in the sun? Fancy yourself as a bit of a coastal explorer? Get yourself down to the beach in Abereiddy in Pembrokeshire, where Celtic Quest Coasteering will guide you around the caves and caverns of the coastline. The team will tailor your ocean adventure to your needs and abilities, taking you around the flooded slate quarry of the

Blue Lagoon, where the sea has broken in and created a 25m deep blue-green lagoon, which was used in the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series in 2012, 2013 and 2016, where some of the world’s greatest divers jumped from a manmade platform over 20 metres from the water.

Celtic Quest Coasteering will take you on an adventure with scramble climbing, water features, and big or small cliffs, giving you up to 2.5 hours in the water, culminating in a trip to the Blue Lagoon. celticquestcoasteering.com

There are loads of highly accessible beaches in the UK that are perfect for relaxing. Just hanging out and enjoying what the beach has to offer is certainly the easiest (and cheapest) option. Boscombe Pier Beach has disabled access beach huts located right on the sand for you to get beach ready, and also has special charging points for electric scooters. In Northern Ireland, Portstewart Strand is unique in that you can drive straight onto the sand on this great beach only an hour from Belfast. If you’re in Scotland, visit the stunning sands of North Berwick Beach, not far from Edinburgh, it was the first Scottish beach to offer wheelchairs for rent. Emailing ahead, you can reserve a wheelchair and stroll the beach until your heart is content. Whitmore Bay in Barry Island in the Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales also sports the same rentable wheelchairs, and you can watch the second highest tidal range in the world rise and fall on its golden sands. If the kids get too bored, well, there’s always Barry Island Pleasure Park!

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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Kidz to Adultz Wales & West Thursday 5th July 2018 9am - 4.30pm Thornbury Leisure Centre, Bristol, BS35 3JB

One of the largest FREE UK events supporting children & young adults up to 25 years with disabilities and additional needs, their families, carers and the professionals who support them.

FREE Entry FREE Parking 100+ Exhibitors FREE CPD Seminars Equipment

Products

Services Funding

A chance to win a £200 voucher and many other prizes!

Register online for your FREE entry ticket and to be kept informed of future Disabled Living events and services.

Visitors are also welcome to register at the event. www.kidzexhibitions.co.uk Organised by Disabled Living: Email: info@disabledliving.co.uk or Tel: 0161 607 8200

Bed seizure alarm MP5-UT £170.00 ex VAT

Medpage Limited T/A Easylink UK is a family ran business, established in 1984. Our company designs and manufactures most of our products in our UK based factory.

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30/05/2018 12:50

Rio's

KIDS

COLUMN

NO STRANGER TO TV CAMERAS, RIO SHOWS ITV HIS TEKKERS!

Words by Rio Woolf

T

a-da! Do you like my new legs? I grew out of my old sockets for my Ottobock day leg with 3R67 knee and my 1E93 Runner Junior blade so my prosthetist Matt Hughes at Dorset Orthopaedic has made me these amazing new legs!

I chose the socket designs from Funkifabrics, with a green and white tribal/graffiti pattern for my day leg (which goes with my Arsenal goalkeeper kit!) and a flame design for my blade because when I'm running I'm on fire! I couldn't wait to show my class and try out my blade at Harrow Athletics Club - I told the other children not to touch it as they'd get burned!

In March, Paralympian Stef Reid invited us to a screening of her new short film The Energy Within. She plays an amputee sprinter who wants to train and compete with non-disabled athletes. There was a Q&A after with the director Samuel de Ceccatty, Stef and Ellie Simmonds, and I was asked to give my own review on camera - you can watch the film on YouTube.

It's great news that the government will keep funding NHS children's sports and activity prosthetics - I'm so happy that all children in England can get a blade like mine for free! I was very excited when ITV London News came to interview me about what it's like to have a blade but as mine was still being finished at Dorset Orthopaedic, I showed off my football skills with my day leg!

The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital in Stanmore invited me back to this year's Open Day (I was a special guest last year talking about my prosthetic leg with Maggie Philbin) and it was great to see Deborah Eastwood again - the orthopaedic surgeon who did my operation when I was a baby.

WITH DEBORAH EASTWOOD WHO OPERATED ON RIO AS A BABY

MAKING SURE HIS LEG MATCHED HIS KIT WAS A TOP PRIORITY

Finally, three months after I went to Lisbon to film a top-secret advert for Germany's most well-known disability charity, they released the video for Our Mission Future: Inclusion from the Start!

I play an amputee astronaut landing on Mars - it was so much fun, and it gives a very important message about inclusion and integration with the hope that in the future, differences will be seen as normal. Check it out on the Aktion Mensch YouTube channel.

When Prince Harry and Meghan got engaged I made a photo card for them so I was really excited to see a special envelope on our doormat with Kensington Palace on the back and a Buckingham Palace postmark on the front! Inside was a really nice thank you letter from their private secretary - she said they were very impressed by my incredible outlook on life, my work for raising awareness and funds for charities, and how they’re looking forward to seeing me in the Paralympics in the future!

We loved watching the Royal Wedding on TV - we had a party at my cousins' house - it was such a fantastic day! Now I'm hoping to see Prince Harry again and meet Meghan at the Sydney Invictus Games in October!

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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We can help you

find and employ your own care and support If you access care and support, employing your own personal assistants (PAs) gives you the choice and freedom to choose how you are supported.

If you want to use your social care or health budget to employ PAs, our practical guidance and advice can help.

Employing my own PAs has enabled me to be more independent and get involved in every aspect of my care and support.

Christina, Individual Employer

Download our free guidance to get started Information hub for individual employers and PAs Find out more about becoming an employer with online guides, case studies and videos.

Employing personal assistants toolkit Step by step advice to help you employ your own PAs. Available online and in hard copy.

Visit www.skillsforcare.org.uk/iepahub Skills for Care advert June July ads_pos_jun-jul18.indd 70 2018.indd 1

5/25/2018 1:16:25 PM 30/05/2018 12:50

Kids’

KIDS

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A set of three brightly coloured soft cotton towels designed to encourage washing and help develop cognitive development and fine motor skills for children who may have a range of developmental delays. The towels are designed to be played with, featuring smiley faces and lines to encourage play with the product. specialneedstoys.com/uk 01299 827820

PRICES

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BEARHUGZZZ BED The Bearhugzzz Bed provides a soft, yet strong and safe environment for sleep, play and relaxation. Suitable for vulnerable children and adults, it is designed to accommodate the needs of people with autism, Angelman syndrome, epilepsy, challenging behaviour and multiple learning difficulties. It is height adjustable and has the option of four part profiling.

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KIDS

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SIMPLE LACES PRICE

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Designed for kids and adults who struggle to tie laces. Ideal for those who need to tie their laces with one hand or who have dexterity problems. These Velcro straps can be used in any shoes that have eyelets and are tightened by simply pulling the strap over and securing the Velcro. simple-laces.com

An ideal alternative to now-banned plastic straws, these are made from 100% silicone. Non-toxic and free from bisphenol-A, PVC and phthalates, they’re completely safe to be used by anyone regardless of age and dishwasher safe. The straws come in packs of six, and are available in three sizes, making them perfect for any cup. gosili.co.uk 0203 137 6668

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This fun body sock is made of soft, stretchy Lycra and provides a highly tactile deep pressure experience for children to play in. It is ideal as part of a sensory diet to reinforce resistive awareness and to promote creative movement. It is available in a range of colours and sizes.

These soft silicone grips can be added to cutlery, toothbrushes, pencils, pens and other household items, offering little hands a more secure grip on objects. Available in blue, red and grey, they come in a pack of two and can help improve independence.

01564 702255 activehands.com

0289 031 9360 learningspaceuk.co.uk 72

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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29/05/2018 19:46

RISE 4 Disability 2018

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30/05/2018 12:51

EDUCATION

A Disabled Student’s Guide to Higher Education Words by Errol Kerr

BIO: Errol Kerr is 23, an English Literature graduate and International Politics postgraduate at Newcastle University. He is autistic, has hypermobility syndrome and he runs his own blog which can be found at criptacular.wordpress.com.

Follow Errol @criptacular

I

won’t beat about the bush –

being in education is hard. Studying whilst disabled is so much harder. It’s not entirely because we’re disabled, either – although that in itself can play a part – but because in most universities, the environment isn’t best equipped for disabled people.

I should know – coming out of my fifth year of study at Newcastle University, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of studying whilst autistic and disabled. I’ve had an amazing time studying at undergraduate and postgraduate level, but it’s been more difficult than I tend to let on.

There are some things you can do to mitigate these struggles on your side and I’m here to talk about all the top tips I can provide disabled students either starting, or currently studying at university.

STARTER TIPS: • Sort your accommodation out as soon as possible.

• Register with a local GP and get any and all injections as soon as you can.

• Visit your university in advance – check if there’s early events before Fresher’s Week.

• Register with your student wellbeing services and bring copies of all of your medical documents with you.

This isn’t just a guide to starting off, though: if you’re reading this, you’re in it for the long haul. Whether you’re studying for three years or there for longer, you’re going to have your hands full – and I’m here to help.

PACE YOURSELF Whether this is in making friends, getting involved in extra-curricular student activities or just going out until ungodly hours in the morning, the most important thing is to pace yourself.

The first thing I want to note is that it’s very important to at least be doing something – it’s so very easy to find yourself isolated 

Student Life WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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EDUCATION

which is the first thing you can’t allow for your health’s sake. My first year and a half at university was like this – but in contrast, my last year has been far too busy. I’ve been involved almost everywhere and it’s burned me out – so don’t overdo it. Which takes me onto our next point.

WORK WITH YOUR DISABILITY You want to almost always be working in parallel with your disabilities, not pushing against them. There’s always an urge to push yourself – to go on another night out, to join another society, to attend another guest lecture. If you can’t make it, that’s totally okay. If you can, that’s amazing – but keep in mind what you’re capable of. It’s all about pushing your limits without damaging yourself – and both peer pressure and a fear of missing out is very real at university. If all you can do is watch a recording of a lecture or email asking for notes, that’s fine.

“IT’S ALL ABOUT PUSHING YOUR LIMITS WITHOUT DAMAGING YOURSELF – AND BOTH PEER PRESSURE AND A FEAR OF MISSING OUT IS VERY REAL AT UNIVERSITY”

ACCEPT YOUR PERSONAL FIGHTS Your disabilities are going to kick back at some point during your studies, especially if – like me – you decide to do things to spite the fact you’re disabled. Don’t do this. You might miss a week, a month, maybe even a full semester’s worth of lectures.

You might take on roles that you find you can’t carry through. Don’t blame yourself for this and make sure you communicate with whoever you can to help you. If it’s student led activities, there’s always someone there to help. If it’s academic, try to muster the energy to contact your student services or your lecturers.

yourself a support network, either through the university or with friends. Look for societies focusing on disability or mental health, should you find talking to people with similar or shared experiences comforting.

I’ve had incredibly poor mental health over the past few years at university. Due to many personal reasons as well as several flare-ups and regressions in my own disabilities I’ve had to let go of a few of my responsibilities and take care of myself. What I learned all too late is that it’s okay to take care of yourself.

DON’T BE SCARED TO ASK. DON’T BE SCARED TO DEMAND. If you’ve registered with your student wellbeing services, which I thoroughly encourage, you’ll likely have support recommendations – the kind of provisions that will help you succeed. If they aren’t in place in your lectures, ask for them.

Chances are, if you ask, the provisions for your needs should be put in place. If they don’t, ask for an alternative. It shouldn’t be on you to ask, but unfortunately it is. Contact your lecturers making your needs clear if you feel they aren’t being met, and don’t be afraid to kick up a fuss about it.

COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR PEERS Over five years, the most important lesson I learned was to talk about my struggles, however I faced them. Don’t allow yourself to be isolated – people are accepting and want to look out for you. Most people won’t judge you at all. If people think you’re working too hard or are scared you may burn yourself out, chances are they might be right. If you reach out, you can get vital support if you need it.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH Looking after your mental health is key, most importantly at university. It’s an incredibly stressful environment and you’re most likely taking on more struggles than you expected. Ensure that you create

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No matter what age you are, beginning university or college can be daunting.

And if you have a disability, you may be more apprehensive still.

Nerves are natural, but more disabled people than ever are entering higher education.

University of Liverpool Widening Participation and Outreach Manager Deonne Devers tells PosAbility about the support networks available to current students and those looking to apply.

While Widening Participation is a

national agenda, Liverpool offer bespoke and supportive techniques, beginning at ‘pre-16’ level in underrepresented groups.

She said: “We look at students with potential and desire to progress but are facing barriers such as disability. One programme that specifically supports disabled students is a direct contact in our team who is available for bespoke visits.

“These one on ones recognise students that are disabled will have specific concerns; whether access, progression or their

individual needs. They’ll want to see additional things around campus, so we find something bespoke is a great way to do that.

“It can have a personal touch rather than a generic open day. It might include looking at accessible accommodation or meeting disability and dyslexia contacts from a range of different subjects.

“Our Disability Advice and Guidance team allows candidates to talk about their needs before applying to see what it’ll be like at Liverpool, find out what they are entitled to and after application the team will then work with students.

“Parents can come and if there is a subject that the student is interested in we’ll try and get a current student or tutor to meet them as well and introduce them to a contact who can help with their application and if they do apply and enter the university, the support continues,” Deonne added.

To find out more about the University of Liverpool and the Widening Participation and Outreach programme, visit liverpool. ac.uk/widening-participation.

Saturday 22 September 2018 Saturday 20 October 2018 Friday 21 June 2019 Saturday 22 June 2019

University of Liverpool Open Days

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Book your place

www.liverpool.ac.uk/openday T: +44 (0)151 794 5832 #LivUniFoundMyPlace /UniversityofLiverpool @comingtolivuni @livuni UofLTube

30/05/2018 15:46

PUZZLES Puzzles are a great way to pass the time and keep your mind sharp. Why not take a break, make a cup of tea and give these puzzles a go? If you correctly complete the crossword and post it to us with your details, you could be in with the chance of winning £25. Good luck!

BRAIN TEASERS

CROSSWORD

WORD SEARCH

Test your eyes and find the words below from this issue of PosAbility Magazine

T V E R N I E P B G A U H Q B E R T I P Q I E T N U O C C A Z R Y O L F Z G Z B F A I L U J B N I X G R O V E R Z G J O O E Z O Z Z B K Z S Copyright © 2011 Peter G Sharp

O L E S E I K O O C

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Head armour (6) 5 Missing (6) 8 Retaliation (8) 9 Exclamations of surprise (4) 10 Island in central Hawaii (4) 11 Immense (8) 13 Stylist (11) 18 Plan of attack (8) 22 Bedouin (4) 23 Angry (4) 24 Cosy (8) 25 Artificial limb (3,3) 26 Mistakes (6)

2 Nonsense (7) 3 Cocktail (7) 4 Flavour (5) 5 Exhausted (3,4) 6 Body of honeybees (5) 7 First prime minister of India (5) 12 Metal-bearing mineral (3) 14 European mountain (3) 15 Pencil sketch (7) 16 Prison (7) 17 Installation for nuclear fission (7) 19 Stage (5) 20 Saudi Arabian currency (5) 21 Kent coastal town (5)

£25 PRIZE! Complete the crossword correctly and send to PosAbility Magazine, Caledonia House, Evanton Drive, Thornliebank Ind Est, Glasgow, G46 8JT to be in with a chance of winning £25. Closing date for entries is 31 July 2018.

78

Z M F B R J F B E A W O G D G A P X I R

BIG BIRD

COUNT

BERT

COOKIE

ERNIE

OSCAR

JULIA

ZOE

ELMO

GROVER

DID YOU KNOW...

SESAME STREET

The show was almost all about Bert and Ernie

Solutions to April/May crossword

Big Bird’s height is 8’2” Mr Snuffleupagus’ first name is Aloysius

WWW.POSABILITYMAGAZINE.CO.UK

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30/05/2018 14:53

Newton Meadows Holidays

ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAY COTTAGES IN THE HEART OF SHROPSHIRE

Large car park, level access, wide doorways, ground floor bedrooms, wheel in shower room, selection of mobility equipment, complimentary Wi-Fi, large lawn with fishing pond

Is this how you would like to spend time on your accessible holiday?

You can. If you book an accessible holiday at

MAISON DES LANDES HOTEL in sunny Jersey

Open from May to September

Maison des Landes Hotel caters principally for guests with disabilities and their families or carers.

RATES per person per day for bed & breakfast or full board.

Rates include free daily excursions and tours , nightly entertainments and transfers from airport or port and return.

6 miles from Shrewsbury

Newton Meadows, Wem Rd, Shrewsbury SY4 3EA

Like the picture? Ask us about our themed holidays!

CONTACT US NOW FOR DETAILS

St Ouen, Jersey JE3 2AA Tel: 01534 481683 Email: contact@maisondeslandes.co.uk Website: www.maisondeslandes.co.uk

Visit www.newtonmeadows.co.uk

Call 07969465740 or email: newtonmeadows@hotmail.com

SUNDAY 15th JULY 2018 Walton Gardens, Warrington

10am - 5pm

l Support Groups & Services l Equipment Suppliers, Holidays & Transport l Sports Zone, Arts Marquee, Live Bands, Dance & Drama Organised by

Principal Sponsors

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Tel: 01925 240064 www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk

Promoting Independence Through Life and Work

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31/05/2018 15:41

CLASSIFIED Luxury sustainable

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SELF CATERING APARTMENT

Visit the Moray Firth Dolphins

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Near to Loch Lomond Sleeps up to 6 people Ensuite wetroom with shower chairs provided

On the RIB, for a fast, adrenaline fuelled trip along the Moray coast or on the fully accessible Cruiser, for a calmer, family friendly experience.

Sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Hoist and profiling bed with airflow mattress Accessible landscaped garden Pets welcome Open all year

To book your stay call

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Wi-Fi

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Self Service Cafe Take a picnic on board the cruiser

Dolphin Spirit, Inverness Marina, Stadium Road, Inverness IV1 1FF

30/05/2018 15:03

CLASSIFIED Treworgans

ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAY COTTAGES

IN CORNWALL

Norfolk Disabled Friendly Cottages

Two specially converted wheelchair accessible detached cottages.

• Ensuite wetrooms • Shower chairs • Air or pressure • Electric profiling mattress beds • Local care available • Hoists • Riser/recline chairs • Adapted kitchens We are only 15 mins from Truro and 30 mins from the Eden Project, making Treworgans the ideal place to explore this beautiful county.

We are a family run business providing 8 self catering cottages designed to suit both disabled and able-bodied guests.

Situated on a converted farmyard on the outskirts of the quiet village of Bircham, about 5 miles from the Royal Estate at Sandringham and 7 miles from the North Norfolk Coast. There are many nearby attractions, pubs and family activities to ensure there is something for everyone.

For more information or to book call 01485 578 354 or email lavinia@nd-fc.co.uk.

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TO BOOK YOUR STAY CALL 01208 862242 OR VISIT WWW.STMORITZHOTEL.CO.UK

The classified section is a great way to advertise your business to over 156,000 people within the disability marketplace.

GET IN TOUCH NOW 0141 465 2960

30/05/2018 16:30

ability MAGAZINE

Nothing is Impossible...

TRAVEL REVIEWS

Expert travel reviews to help you make the best choice when booking your holiday.

PRODUCTS

An innovative mix of products to support you in everyday living.

EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION

Regular columns and features on getting your dream job. Providing advice on CVs, interview tips and much more.

PERSONAL STORIES

Inspiring tales from our readers.

COMPETITIONS

Exclusive competitions that give you the chance to win dream holidays, amazing products and once in a lifetime experiences.

HEALTH AND FITNESS

We look at sports and activities available for you to get involved in to help you lead a healthy lifestyle.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! Every issue is packed with information designed to help you live life to the full, from products and sports to holiday ideas and employment advice, so make sure you don’t miss out on any future issues and subscribe today!

Like us on Facebook Search for ‘PosAbility Magazine’ Follow us on Twitter @ PosAbilityMag

DAYS OUT

Great ideas for the whole family to enjoy.

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DESIGN FOR LIFE

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Inclusivity is this season's

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THE AMERICAN THEME ING PARK NOW CATER

FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN

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d Discover a new worl of accessibility across the globe with our top holiday picks

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29/05/2018 22:32

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JUNE/JULY 2018

INAL.indd 1

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29/05/2018 22:52

ads_pos_jun-jul18.indd 83

31/05/2018 09:51

The Ultimate Driving Machine

SMART, SPACIOUS OR SPORTY? FIND A BMW THAT FITS YOUR LIFE. THE NEW BMW 2 SERIES GRAN TOURER AND ACTIVE TOURER.

THE BMW RANGE. AVAILABLE FROM £249 ADVANCE PAYMENT.* • The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is available from £249 Advance Payment and the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer from £399 Advance Payment.

• Range also includes the BMW 1 Series Sports Hatch (3-door and 5-door), BMW 2 Series Coupe, BMW 2 Series Convertible, BMW 3 Series Saloon and Touring and BMW X1.

• Selected models are accessible to drivers under 25 years old.

• Choose from manual or automatic transmission.

• BMW Navigation and BMW Emergency Call come as standard, with metallic paint at no extra cost.

• Get a brand new BMW every three years with insurance, service and maintenance all covered.

Let’s find the right BMW for you. Contact a Motability Scheme Specialist at your local BMW Centre.

Alternatively, call 0800 325 600 or visit www.bmw.co.uk/motability.

Official fuel economy figures for the BMW range available on the Motability Car Scheme: Urban 30.7-57.6mpg (9.2-4.9 l/100km).

Extra Urban 49.6-70.6mpg (5.7-4 l/100km). Combined 40.4-65.7 (7.0-4.3 l/100km). CO2 emissions 164-114g/km.

Figures are obtained in a standardised test cycle. They are intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not be representative of what a user achieved under usual driving conditions.

*The BMW range available on the Motability Scheme starts from £249 Advance Payment for the BMW 218i SE Active Tourer. Models shown are the BMW 218i SE Active Tourer from £249 Advance Payment, the BMW 218i SE Gran Tourer from £399 Advance Payment, the BMW 118i SE from £299 Advance Payment, the BMW 320i Sport Saloon from £1,999 and the BMW X1 sDrive 18i SE from £899 Advance Payment.

All models on the Motability Scheme offer optional metallic paint at no extra cost. Models featured may include options at an additional cost. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) and applications must be made with participating Retailers between 1 April- 30 June 2018. Prices are correct at time of publication and subject to availability and may change.

ads_pos_jun-jul18.indd 84 355037_Q4_Motability_Able_210x297mm.indd 1

30/05/2018 27/03/2018 16:35 13:52