Feb/Mar13

Feb/March 2013

magazine

Nothing is Impossible...

THE KIDS’ ZONE Getting the best for your child

Spinal

Research

ADVANCING TIMES Developments in prosthetics and orthotics

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AN ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAY TO TENERIFE! 01/02/2013 16:10

Generation 2013

Innovation. Evolved.

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ability

magazine.

Nothing is Impossible...

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For more information, to request a demonstration or locate your nearest authorised dealer visit www.heliummobility.eu/posability Alternatively call Customer Services on 0845 605 66 88 quoting reference HG2013.

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31/01/2013 19:48 31/01/2013 14:03:03

ability

Welcome February/March 2013

Recently I have been becoming more and more aware of the incredible time we live in. Advancements in technology, design and medical research are being made everyday to help improve the quality of our lives and the world is evolving faster than we realise.

I spoke to Jonathan Miall, Chief Executive of Spinal Research, the charity leading the way in funding the most promising research into paralysis. Speaking to Jonathan, he made me realise that we will most likely see the cure for paralysis realised in our generation, a major medical breakthough that will change people’s lives forever. Our conversation also brought to my attention that the UK are leaders in this area of medical research and some of our institutions are producing some very exciting research. Turn to p47 to find out more about research in spinal injury.

We also spoke with The Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust to find out about the support and services they offer to people who are living with a brain injury and the emotional support that they provide for families. Turn to p23.

Staying with our theme of advancement we take a look at the vast array of prosthetics and orthotics (p53) available on the market today. Artificial limbs and forms of support for the body have been around since the dawn of time and it is amazing to consider how far the development of prosthetics and orthotics has come. In 2013 we have bionic limbs that carry onboard artificial intelligences, and learn as they are used.

When you consider these advancements in technology and design, it makes you realise the capacity of the human mind. However, if we can use our minds to create such wonderful, life-altering products and persevere with scientific research to reach a cure for paralysis or a cure for cancer, then why is it that the same human minds can struggle with something as simple as accepting disability?

Technology is changing but when will our attitudes?

Ros Editor

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01/02/2013 19:25

DON’T MISS!

THE TEAM

Win a week in Tenerife!

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Sub Editor: June Bunton Designer: Abbie Bunton Marketing Assistant: Caitlin Auld Sales: Allan Fleming Andy Singh

CONTRIBUTORS Mik Scarlet Heather McGarrigle Jane Hatton Lisa Newton Mark Griffin

59

Disclaimer

PosAbility Magazine is published by 2A Publishing Limited.

A

Innovation not Imitation

PUBLISHING

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 2013 © 2A Publishing Limited.

All Rights Reserved. ISSN 2049-2251

Contact Details: Caledonia House, Evanton Drive, Thornliebank Ind. Est., Glasgow, G46 8JT Tel: 0141 270 8085 Fax: 0141 270 8086 enquiries@2apublishing.co.uk www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk ABC Member February 2013 Feb/March 2013

magazine

Nothing is Impossible...

THE KIDS’ ZONE Getting the best for your child

SUBSCRIBE TODAY...

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0141 270 8085 today!

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Spinal

Research

ADVANCING TIMES Developments in prosthetics and orthotics

ABC Member February 2013 welcome_jb.indd 2

WIN

AN ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAY TO TENERIFE!

01/02/2013 20:51

FEB/MARCH 2013 | ISSUE 11 Kids' Focus

ability

50

29

Beauty Through Damage

Prosthetics & Orthotics

Money

53

70

Feb/March 2013

Contents THIS ISSUE

magazine

.

Nothing is Impossible..

09 FYI...

THE KIDS’ ZONE

al Spinea rch Res

Comments and questions from our lovely readers

We speak to the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust about the work they do

26 The Upstream Paddle

29 The Kids' Zone

TO TENERIFE!

23 Living With Brain Injury

16 To See Yourself As Mik Scarlet’s regular column

19 Special Olympics

Developments in prosthetics and orthotics

contents.indd 1

Others See You

ADVANCING TIMES

AN ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAY

News, stories and quirky columns.

14 READERS’ LETTERS

Getting the best for your child

WIN

Sporting opportunities for people with intellectual disability

Mark Griffin’s determined fight back to health following a traumatic brain injury

Toys, products, sports and support for you and your child

37 TravAbility

PosAbility awards more accessible holiday providers with Access Awards

01/02/2013 19:29

Spinal Injury We take a look at the latest products on the market

47 43 Hot Stuff

29

The latest innovations on the market today

47 Spinal Research

We find out just how close we are to treating spinal injury

50 Beauty Through Damage

Suzanna Haslam finds her confidence through a photo shoot

53 Advancing Times

A look at the prosthetics and orthotics available in today’s world

59 WIN A Week In Tenerife

Fully accessible hotel, Mar y Sol, offers PosAbility readers the chance to win a week in the sun

62 Motoring

We test drive the Volvo V40

64 The Road to freedom

Learning to drive

70 Save It

ability

Products

43

Turn to page 62 to find out more about the Volvo V40

Motoring

Tips for saving your cash and getting great deals

73 Go Further

What education can do for you

77 Get That Dream Job

Jane Hatton shares her expert employment advice

79 BRAIN TEASERS

contents.indd 2

Fill them in for the chance to win!

62

Motoring 01/02/2013 19:30

BMW on Motability

The Ultimate Driving Machine

BMW ON MOTABILITY. BIGGER CHOICE. SMALLER PAYMENT. A WIDE RANGE AVAILABLE FROM ONLY £1,199 ADVANCE PAYMENT.

Please contact the Motability Sales Specialist at any BMW Dealer, who will be delighted to help.

To find your nearest BMW Dealer and for more information visit www.bmw.co.uk/motability or call 0800 325 600.

Official fuel economy figures for the BMW range available on the Motability Car Scheme: Urban 30.1-64.2mpg (9.4-4.4l/100km). Extra Urban 50.4-83.1mpg (5.6-3.4l/100km). Combined 40.4-74.3mpg (7.0-3.8l/100km).

CO2 emissions 163-99g/km.

The BMW range available on the Motability Contract Hire Car Scheme starts from £1,199 Advance Payment for the BMW 114i/d ES 3-door Sports Hatch. Models featured for illustrative purposes only and represent all eight BMW model ranges on the Motability Car Scheme. Price is correct at time of going to press for orders placed and accepted between 02 January 2013 and 31 March 2013. The facilities offered are for the hire (bailment) of goods. The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered 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 the Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement, which will be taken in lieu of the four weekly rental. Terms and conditions apply and are available on request. BMW EfficientDynamics reduces emissions without compromising performance developments and is standard across the model range.

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01/02/2013 16:03 13:03 25/01/2013

FYI...

News, stories and quirky columns.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

FYI

Seable

Is it possible for a holiday to change your life?

Twelve years ago, Martino Florio and Carmelo La Rocca met in a hospital room, each recovering from a serious accident. While Carmelo, having been hit by a drunk driver, regained the use of his legs, Martino’s injuries confined him to a wheelchair.

Martino didn’t take it well; paranoia and depression came straight after. Carmelo on the other hand had been given a “gift” compared to the tragic situation of his roommate and decided then and there, that he should commit his life to help Martino get through.

As they talked Carmelo shared his passion for scuba diving and in the following months the two men worked together to start the charity “L.I.F.E.”, (Life Improvement For Everyone) focusing on rehabilitation and accessible sports, adopting the motto: “accept the challenge”.

Martino enjoyed scuba so much that he became the first paraplegic man to dive 59 meters, a Guinness World Record in 2007. L.I.F.E has since gone on to help many other disadvantaged people including young Benedetta Spampinato (blind) who now also holds a Guinness World Record (2009), for deep sea diving.

ASPIRING PARALYMPIANS

Sixteen young athletes from across the country were picked by their National Governing Body to attend the Youth Sport Trust’s National Talent Camp at Loughborough University at the start of the year. They were joined by Olympic gold medallist, Darren Campbell, and were put through their paces to learn what it takes to become Paralympic champions.

The four day event, run by the Youth Sport Trust, offered the UK’s most talented 13-18 year olds insight into the world of performance sport and the harsh reality of the demands and commitment required to be the best in their chosen sport.

Athletes were selected to attend from Rugby Union, Cycling, Canoeing, Volleyball, Netball, Hockey, Wheelchair Basketball and a number of athletes across different sports selected by the British Paralympic Association.

Now, new social enterprise Seable is connecting Brits with the opportunities of “ L.I.F.E. “ Damiano La Rocca , Director of Seable and also son of Carmelo La Rocca, wants every disabled person in the UK to enjoy a rewarding, exciting, and potentially life-changing holiday.

On a Seable trip visually and physically impaired people can enjoy activities such as scuba, olive oil making, 4x4 driving in Europe’s highest active volcano and jet skiing.

“Seable made it possible for disabled people like me to enjoy experiences we might have never otherwise had. It was a vacation worth every cent.”

02077494866 info@seable.co.uk / www.seable.co.uk

Six am starts, two intense training sessions a day, a series of challenging workshops by leading sports psychologists and athlete mentors and nutritious but basic meals from the camp’s country theme; Nanjing, China, where duck blood soup is the speciality of the region; the athletes were not in for an easy ride.

Fifteen year old, Nathan Maguire commented, ‘Unlike the wheelchair basketball camps that I’ve been to before, the National Talent Camp focuses on the psychological element of being an athlete, as well as the physical. It also provides an opportunity to meet new people and try different sports, so hopefully I’ll be able to learn from the experiences of others and take away some new skills too.’

Fourteen year old, Siobhan Fitzpatrick commented, ‘Many people think that a disability can limit you in what you can do, but the National Talent Camp has allowed us to try different sports. We’ve been able to interact with able-bodied athletes; they’ve tried our sport and we’ve learnt how to include them in our game too.’ www.youthsporttrust.org

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31/01/2013 18:17

FYI

A Gift Of Running Rio Woolf, aged 4, finished 2012 on a high. He received what his mother describes as the perfect gift - the ability to run.

Born without a tibia, knee or ankle joint, Rio had his lower right leg amputated at 14 months. Three years on, like many little boys, Rio dreams of following in the footsteps of his sporting idol, Jonnie Peacock. Now the British hero has improved Rio’s chances of following in his footsteps.

Rio first met the Gold medalist at a filming promo for Limb Powers Sport Fest - an open weekend event set up by the British Paralympic Association (BPA) to encourage disabled youngsters to take up sport.

Touched by the youngster’s enthusiasm for the Summer Paralympics, the blade runner put Rio’s parents in touch with Dorset Orthopaedic. This prompted Bob Watts, managing director at the Dorset based clinic to set about securing sponsorship for an Össur running blade. In fact, he decided to donate the prosthetic socket himself.

and he loved participating, even with his NHS leg. He showed he loved to run.

The delighted mother said: “My husband and I are incredibly thankful to Dorset Orthopaedic and we are hugely indebted to them for giving Rio this amazing opportunity. Now there is nothing stopping him.”

A wonderful Christmas present, Rio was soon bouncing for joy as he was being fitted with a lightweight carbon-fibre blade decorated with his favourite character Fireman Sam.

As a result Rio’s mother has started a fundraising campaign so Rio can continue wearing the blades as he grows and needs replacements.

Juliette Woolf, Rio’s mother said “London 2012 transformed Rio’s life - from being downhearted about not being able to run as fast as his friends earlier in the year, he was then inspired and motivated watching ‘people with special legs’ running.”

“Rio can now run, jump and play football and get involved with Paralympic sport that much earlier. He has a better quality of life and a new sense of freedom and movement.”

“We took Rio along to the Paralympic Primary Games for children

www.dorset-ortho.com www.ossur.co.uk

Sports Fest ParalympicsGB held the first ever Sports Fest in Surrey on December 3 and 4, 2012. It was a great success with over 1000 people attending.

The days allowed young disabled people to come and try out new sports and some of the Paralympians were also on hand, signing autographs, chatting with the attendees and having pictures taken.

Hailed a great success by everyone, Tim Holligsworth, Chief Executive of the BPA, commented, “I am delighted with how people have responded to the event over the past two days.

The festival has achieved our ambition to inspire people of all ages to try different sports. We have had lots of positive feedback and we are looking forward to hosting similar festivals in 2013.”

More Sports Fest events will be taking place throughout the year across the UK, to be kept up to date with when and where these events will be, visit www.paralympics.org.uk/ sportsfest.

10 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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01/02/2013 14:04

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FYI

Read All About It! The first ever newspaper designed specifically for people with learning disabilities – called Easy News – was launched on 23rd January at a high profile event at the House of Commons. The newspaper has been created by national disability charity United Response in an ‘easy read’ format, which uses simple words and visual cues to explain the news stories of the day. Currently, just 11% of people with learning disabilities read newspapers as a result of their complex language – Easy News is designed to change that.

As United Response’s research found, while developing the newspaper, a lack of accessible news makes it harder for people with learning disabilities to engage with politics. Just 16% of people with learning disabilities said they were interested in politics, and over half didn’t feel that politics actually had an impact on their daily lives.

Emma from West Sussex has been supported by United Response for the last eight years. She has never engaged in politics and does not read newspapers. “I cannot read them so I would not understand them” said Emma. Easy News aims to help people like Emma by delivering major news to those who struggle to understand the mainstream media.

Easy News will be produced every other month and will be available in paper, downloadable PDF and audio versions.

For further information on Easy News and to download a copy, go to www.unitedresponse.org.uk/easynews.

Fancy A Challenge?

Last issue we featured an article from Simon Lord on his marathon cycle around New York for the MS Society.

Simon is now getting ready for some new challenges and he is looking for more disabled riders to join him in various events this year and to take part in an exciting but strenuous ride in 2014 to celebrate the start of the Commonwealth Games.

They are looking for people of mixed ages and abilities who ride any cycle -2/3 and even 4 wheels, assisted by battery, if the rider requires - and would like to give the opportunity to ‘the average person who has empowered themselves through their disability and is looking for a challenge.’

If you are interested in getting involved in theses cycling challenges, contact Simon Lord, details below: 07702784916 kimcoconsultants@btconnect.com simonlord54@me.com

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31/01/2013 18:22

More Talk Less Touch RSLSteeper, the UK’s leading provider of assistive technology products and services, has launched ‘Pererro’, a unique product that utilises Apple VoiceOver to bring iPod touch, iPhone & iPad to those who were previously unable to use or had difficulty with touchscreen technology.

Top 10 Reasons to get Fit

There are an estimated 2.5 million people in the western world unable to use touchscreen technology due to conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Motor Neurone Disease or Duchennes Muscular Dystrophy. The creators of Pererro believe this is a new and unique device to make iOS technology easily and readily available to this audience. Dave Howson, Director of RSLSteeper’s Assistive Technology division, explains: “Pererro is a simple, compact and light, plug and play adapter that powers directly from the iOS device, providing access to iOS on iPod touch, iPhone & iPad via Apple VoiceOver.

It is designed to plug into the kind of switches that are widely available in the AT community and employed in many communication aids and environmental control devices.

This way, we have created an easy to use product that gives people the ability to connect with the world again. We know there is a huge demand for it and we’re very enthusiastic about the launch.”

The adapter, which weighs just 6.9g is controlled through a switch that is connected with a 3.5mm minijack plug. The iOS device can be charged without disconnecting, and works with almost any voiceover enabled ‘app’ available from the Apple App Store. As Pererro is connected directly there is no Bluetooth battery drain, which is common with other devices. The device will be available for purchase from RSLSteeper at the end of January for around £150. www.assistive-technology.co.uk

Getting fit and healthy gives you more energy, so even after a hard day’s work you will still be able to enjoy time with friends and family without falling asleep on the sofa.

3

4 5

Your clothes will begin to feel looser as you exercise more, which always makes you feel better.

You will tone up your muscles, giving you more definition in certain areas.

Joining a sports club or gym is a great way to make friends.

Taking part in competitive sport can bring a great sense of achievement and give you goals to focus on.

Being fit and healthy will help you live longer.

Eating the right foods and doing regular exercise also improves your mental well-being.

Exercise is a great stress reliever, so if you have any aggression to get out of your system this can be a great way of doing it.

Taking up a team sport can benefit other areas of your life, like work, as you learn to understand the importance of working together as a team and it can improve patience and accountability.

It can be great fun! www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 13

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31/01/2013 18:24

READERS’ LETTERS

YOU’VE GOT

MAIL

I was reading one of your magazines the other week and I came across an article on mental health and how people cope at work. I was glad to see it being talked about, I have had a mental health problem and lost my job a few years ago because of it. I was too scared to talk about it at work but am better now and realise that I should have. I hope there is more mainstream coverage of this problem because it is very hard to deal with and even worse when people are scared for their jobs.

Jeremy

Dear Team, I was recently given a copy of your magazine and noticed that you write about products for people who are disabled.

I have a disabled 10 year old son and communicating is difficult in our household, I was recommended to buy an iPad to help with this as I have been told that there are apps to help with this. However, iPads are extremely expensive and I was wondering if there is anyway of getting some sort of funding toward the cost of it, do you know of anywhere or can you help?

Laura Appleby

Help! I am looking for some suitable accommodation in the UK, preferably down south to make the most of the summer weather (fingers crossed!). I have three children, one who has autism, and an elderly mother-in-law who needs somewhere without steps and a shower seat if possible. Just need a week away without paying over the odds in the summer, if you can help with any suggestions it would be much appreciated.

Sylvia Edmunds, Maidstone We understand how hard it can be to find suitable accommodation at a reasonable price Sylvia and we hope we can help. Every issue we feature accessible holiday providers in our TravAbility section (p37).

Thanks for your letter Laura, we are hearing more and more increasingly that iPads are a vital communication tool for many disabled children and there are so many apps available for communication, education and fun.

I would recommend you contact Family Fund, this organisation provides grants to families raising disabled children, for equipment, toys, computers and even family breaks. Please find their contact details below: 08449 744 099 info@familyfund.org.uk www.familyfund.org.uk

Our travel expert, Lisa Newton, runs Can Do Holidays, a company that finds you suitable holiday accommodation at no extra cost.

She is incredibly helpful and knowledgable about accessible holiday providers in the UK so she should be able to find you a great holiday.

0800 2983052 / 07969 853522 enquiries@candoholidays.com www.candoholidays.com

Can You Help?

If you can help with any of the queries here, would like to respond to any letters or share your own views, please don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing ros@2apublishing.co.uk or write to us at Caledonia House, Evanton Drive, Thornliebank Ind Est, Glasgow G46 8JT.

14 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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01/02/2013 13:21

Columnist Mik Scarlet

To See Yourself As Others See You I have been disabled since birth, but for the 47 years I have been on the planet the way the world thinks about me has overwhelmingly been coloured by emotions of pity. “It’s such a shame what happened to you” or “You poor thing” are the kind of comments that peppered my childhood, and shaped the way I wanted to be seen by the world. I fought against this impression that my existence was in some way tragic, and during my adult life I thought I had become someone that contradicted this attitude in such a dramatic way that just meeting me would make people question their beliefs around disability. I am a confident, happy, creative person who has a life that most people would be envious of, disabled or not. It’s not just me, I know loads of disabled people who live such lives, and I really thought that as these people grew in number society’s attitudes towards disability would change. Yet recently I found myself confronted by the fact that this might not be the case.

The first occurrence was at a friend’s birthday party. Someone had tried hitting on my wife while she waited to visit the bathroom. Obviously interested as to why she had rebutted him, the guy came in search of the husband he had been told so much about. Much to the surprise of this person, who obviously had good taste in women as my wife is definitely worth chatting up, he had been turned down in favour of someone in a wheelchair. The surprise was pretty obvious from his face.

His opening question to me revolved around the old “what happened?” line and was quickly followed by how sad it was that I was in a chair. I replied with my standard explanation of my journey to wheelidom, “blah, blah, cancer, blah, blah, spinal injury, blah, blah, best thing ever happened, blah,

blah, TV presenter and musician, blah, blah, happily married, living a life that most people could only dream of” as Diane and myself laughed with each other and cuddled to indicate just how happy we were, but we both could tell that whatever we said was not being believed. It was clearly beyond my wife’s potential suitor that anyone disabled could be happy with their lot. Now at this point I feel I should point out that this male person was dressed, rather unconvincingly, as a woman.

(Yes I do go to some strange parties!) So as he tottered away on his rather large high heels, I was left feeling very let down. Surely someone who felt the need to dress as the opposite sex should be able to understand that someone can be happy living outside of society’s norms? I would have thought that being a transvestite might have just as many drawbacks as using a wheelchair, even if you can take the dress off at the end of the night. At the very least, I would have imagined that living an alternative lifestyle gave you the ability to see that people don’t have to conform to society’s stereotypes. In this case it appears I am wrong.

Given the opportunity we can achieve anything and be whatever we dream of being Then, while recovering after a very riotous NYE party, I was chatting with one of my closest friends about politics. She’s always been a bit of a Tory girl, and as I am a rabid lefty we always enjoy our heated discussions. Lately she has moved slightly to the left, which just shows that this government is losing it’s core voters (tee hee - lefty laugh), so when we started

chatting about the current changes in disability welfare benefits I hoped she would agree with me that they are targeting those who the system was designed to help, but she was adamant that any changes were only aimed at those people committing fraud, and that no one would ever target people struck by the tragedy of real disability. Now I won’t bore you with the rest of the conversation as I horrified her with the truth behind how these changes are impacting the lives of disabled people, as I am sure you all have personal experiences of them, but it did shock me that even someone who has been one of my best mates for over ten years still thinks about disability as a tragedy.

Please don’t get me wrong, I understand that many of you might be in a place where your disability is affecting your life in a negative way. In fact, the way society still isn’t built to allow full access to equal opportunities for disabled people affects all of us to our detriment. It isn’t the disability itself that is the tragedy, it’s all the rubbish that goes with it. I regularly run teaching sessions with school kids where I explain the Social Model of Disability and to see the overjoyed reaction of disabled children to the idea that it’s the fault of the world around them that they have problems, and not their own disabilities, is a wonderful thing to behold.

Given the opportunity we can achieve anything and be whatever we dream of being, play a highly constructive role in society and live fulfilling happy lives.

Making society understand this won’t just help disabled people, but everyone.

So all together now... “Shout long, shout loud, we’re Disabled and Proud.... and very happy to be so!”

16 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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03/02/2013 16:06

Volvo with motability

the all-new volvo v40 with an advanced payment of £499

As a Motability user you can drive away in a perfect All-New Volvo V40 D2 SE manual with servicing, tyres, breakdown cover and insurance included. This practical 5-door, 5-seat premium hatchback boasts exceptional efficiency achieving up to 78.5 mpg. It also features a host of safety features as standard including the world’s first pedestrian airbag.

For more information, simply visit www.volvocars.co.uk/motability or contact your local dealer.

Fuel consumption for the All-New Volvo V40 range in mpg (l/100 km): Urban 25.0 (11.3) – 70.6 (4.0), Extra Urban 47.1 (6.0) – 83.1 (3.4), Combined 35.8 (7.9) – 78.5 (3.6). CO2 emissions 185 – 94g/km.

Offer available to Motability customers only. Offer valid from 01/01/2013 to 31/03/2013.

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01/02/2013 29/01/2013 13:22 14:44

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01/02/2013 13:22

SPECIAL OLYMPICS

special

Olympics www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 19

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SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Following the excitement of the Olympic and Paralympic Games last summer, many people rushed to the internet to check out their nearest accessible sports club. Good intentions were at an all time high as the nation realised what sport has to offer and dreams of becoming future Olympic and Paralympic champions seemed within reach.

However, it appears that the initial rush to get involved in disability sport has been short lived and figures show that there has only been a small rise in the number of people participating in disability sport.

That said, we hope that we can encourage some people with intellectual disabilities to get involved with a sport of their choice this

year. Because sport has so many benefits it is hard to understand why so many of us, both disabled and able-bodied, do not participate in it more, but it is PosAbility’s New Year’s resolution to change this and motivate as many people as possible to take up a new sport this year!

Special Olympics supports athletes of all ages and abilities and provides training throughout the year in 150 clubs in England, Scotland and Wales, run by over 3,000 volunteers, and involving 8,000 athletes who benefit from the sports programme.

Here we highlight the opportunities offered by the sporting organisation, Special Olympics Great Britain.

Special Olympics GB offers opportunities in 26 different individual and team sports, providing meaningful training and competitions. The participation and training, which athletes experience through Special Olympics GB, helps to enhance focus and helps athletes learn about perseverance and endurance in their sport, which in turn leads to a sense of achievement as they improve their skills and competence. Most importantly taking part in sport can be great fun and it is a great way to make friends too.

Special olympics gb Special Olympics Great Britain was formed in 1978 and is a recognised member of the Olympic family. While the Paralympic Games provide sporting competitions for elite athletes who have a physical, sensory or intellectual disability, Special Olympics is solely for people with intellectual disabilities.

The Sports With 26 disciplines to choose from, you are guaranteed to find a sport to suit your abilities and personality, whether that is individually or as part of a team. A great idea would be to try out a few sports and decide which ones you enjoy most and take it from there. Here are the sports you can choose from: Alpine Skiing Aquatics Athletics Badminton Basketball Bocce Boccia Bowls Cricket Cycling

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Equestrian Figure Skating Floorball Football Golf Gymnastics Artistic Gymnastics Rhythmic Judo Kayaking MATP

Motor Activities Training Programme Netball New-Age Kurling Powerlifting Sailing Speed Skating Table Tennis Ten-Pin Bowling Tennis

01/02/2013 14:33

SPECIAL OLYMPICS

Competitive Sport

Athletes can compete from a regional level right up to an international level at the Special Olympics World Games.

2014 will see the next Special Olympics European Summer Games held in Antwerp, Belgium. For more information visit www.so2014.com.

National Games

World Games

Special Olympics Great Britain’s National Games are held every two years, alternating between Summer and Winter Games.

This year will see the National Summer Games held in Bath on 28 August – 1 September. Last January saw the National Winter Games take place.

National competitions for individual sports are held in the years between the Summer or Winter Games.

European Games

The latest Special Olympics European Summer Games took place in September 2010 in Warsaw, Poland. 47 British athletes represented the country at these Games and returned home with a total of 88 medals.

Special Olympics World Summer and Winter Games are each held every four years. The World Games are organised every two years, alternating between Summer and Winter Games.

The last World Summer Games were held in Athens, Greece in 2011. 151 athletes represented the UK at these games and brought back 187 medals.

As this issue of PosAbility goes to print the World Winter Games are taking place in PyeongChang, South Korea, 29 January to 5 February 2013. Check out how the athletes got on representing Great Britain at www.specialolympics.org.

Find a club near you to get involved today, visit www.specialolympicsgb.org.uk. www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 21

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y Br jur rai r n i B • u j • n i n y i r a y Br inju rain • B n i y • a r r B ju rain n i • B njury • n y i r a Br ury inju j • n i n i y a n r i r inju • B Bra • y r y u j r inju n in i a n i r a B r • • B y r u j rain in

BRAIN INJURY

Living with Brain Injury

We talk to Lynn Turley, Director of the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust, to find out more about the support and services they offer individuals and their families who are living and coping with brain injury.

Brain injury can occur at any time

BIRT

to anyone for various and diverse reasons.

It is often known as ‘the hidden disability’ as individuals with a mild to moderate brain injury can sometimes have no outward and immediately obvious injuries.

The Brain Rehabilitation Trust (BIRT) is the charity leading brain injury across the UK. BIRT offers a wide range of services for those with both ABI and TBI.

A Brain injury can happen due to a number of different circumstances. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) describes a type of brain injury caused by a traffic accident, a fall or assault, for example. Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) is used to describe an injury caused by other means including stroke, encephalitis and aneurysm.

The way in which a brain injury presents in each individual can be very different as Lynn explains: ‘Cognitive deficits may vary enormously; there can be memory problems, functioning problems and communication is sometimes very difficult. Functioning appropriately in any given environment can also be a real struggle for some, so the social cues that you and I would understand may not be recognised at all by someone with a brain injury.’

BIRT owns and operates 14 main services offering assessments and rehabilitation, as well as 14 near reach houses that can be used as ‘transitional living units’, a stepping stone into living in the community, or as 24 hour supported houses for individuals who require that level of support.

Amongst BIRT’s 14 services are two independent hospitals (York and Glasgow) and a third, Chalkdown House, will be opening in April this year in Swindon.

BIRT also has a partnership service with the NHS in Goole, the Goole NeuroRehabilitation Centre. A number of BIRT services across the country also offer assessment, acute rehabilitation and continuing rehabilitation all under one roof.

CLINICAL LEAD All BIRT services are led by a consultant in neuropsychology and rehabilitation. This

group of professionals work collectively as a part of BIRT’s Clinical Executive to ensure best practice and maintain the Trust’s research profile.

A full clinical team is present in all the assessment and more immediate rehabilitation services. Continuing rehabilitation centres also have access to a full clinical team.

‘All BIRT assessment services have a full multi-disciplinary team of clinicians that includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists.’

Lynn explains that BIRT would like to ensure they are giving each person the best

The Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust encourages families to talk about their experiences in a support group or on a one to one basis

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ur y • j rai r n i B u j • n i n y • i r a y u r n i r j B a u n i j r in y • • B ain r r u y B j r n i • u j in ury rain j B n i • Brain n i ra ury BRAIN INJURY ain B j r n i • B • n y i Bra ury injur j n i n i a n i r • B Bra • y r y u j r n injubut at the same time offering can also help families and individuals part in these meetings depending on treatment n i a r the severity of the injury and the degree y • B value for money to those who commission find out what services are available.

BIRT’s services.

‘Some people might just need an assessment, which can be for a variable amount of time; we are flexible with that because everyone is different and has different needs. Others may have undergone a period of assessment elsewhere - we don’t want to repeat that process. We do aim to ensure that the best service, including clinical input, is provided to the individual to achieve the best outcomes for them and everyone concerned, including family and key professionals.’

REHABILITATION The amount of time that rehabilitation takes can vary greatly in each case and the treatment and therapies will be different for each person. Everyone undergoes a pre-screen assessment to ensure that BIRT is the right facility to help them and to determine which service would be best for them. BIRT actively encourages commissioners and families to find out about BIRT services.

BIRT has created an online tool called the service selector (www.birt.co.uk/ serviceselector) that enables those who commission BIRT’s services to choose which would be most suitable. The tool

Following a pre-screen assessment, if a person meets the criteria a full assessment will be carried out by the professionals involved. This assessment may test cognitive and functional skills, along with, for example, a review of the nature and frequency of any challenging behaviour.

The team will also look at how the person might be able to interact with the local community. An occupational therapist will examine the person’s ability to complete daily tasks, such as cooking or cleaning.

Lynn explains that each person is involved as much as possible in their own rehabilitation plan: ‘During the assessment we agree on the rehabilitation goals with the individual concerned. There may be specific things they want to achieve, so we try to make that part of the rehabilitation package.

Weekly meetings take place to review how the person is progressing with their agreed rehabilitation goals. If there is anything that someone wants discussed specifically or would like to take part in the clinical team meetings, they can ask their key worker to raise it with the team. In some of our services there is the opportunity to take

of awareness a person has of their condition.’

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT An important part of recovery and rehabilitation is emotional support. This is important primarily for the person who has a brain injury but crucially for their family and loved ones who form the support network around that person. The Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust encourages families to talk about their experiences in a support group or on a one to one basis with a brain injury professional.

‘Some find it quite painful to talk in a group situation so might prefer to have a one to one discussion, which we are happy to arrange. Family members can find it very hard because they are still going through the process of grieving, in effect, for the person they have lost.’

Everyone will deal with their circumstances differently and there is no right or wrong way to do this. It is important to remember however, that there is support out there to help you cope with these life-altering changes, whether they have happened to you or to someone close to you. BIRT offers a range of information leaflets to help families and individuals which can be found online www.birt.co.uk/publications. www.birt.co.uk

The BIRT Conference 2013 New Horizons in Brain Injury Rehabilitation: Research and Practice 25-26 September 2013, The Hilton Wembley A two day event for professionals working in brain injury rehabilitation, The BIRT conference 2013 is dedicated to exploring the latest developments and strategies for the treatment of people with acquired brain injury.

For more information please visit www.birt.co.uk/conference

24 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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ECB_Disability_poster_AW_2.pdf

2

27/05/2011

16:15

Disability

CRICKET Making the game accessible to all

From Playground to Test Arena

www.ecb.co.uk/disabilitycricket The ECB is supported in its delivery of disability cricket by, and wishes to thank, the following organisations: The British Association for Cricketers with Disabilities, The English Cricket Association for the Deaf, The Cricket Federation for People with Disabilities, Blind Cricket England and Wales, British Blind Sport and The Lord’s Taverners.

National Disability Cricket Manager Disability Cricket Support Officer Blind Cricket England and Wales England Cricket Association for the Deaf England Learning Disability Cricket England Physical Disability Cricket Cricket Federation for People with Disabilities National Table Cricket Development Officer

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Ian Martin Richard Hill Jon Garbett Peter Dixon Ian Leather Neil Bradshaw Geoff Phillips Mark Dowling

ian.martin@ecb.co.uk 07824 600325 richard.hill@ecb.co.uk 07818 431144 garbett.j@sky.com peterdixon1958@yahoo.co.uk eatheri@btinternet.com neilb2006@tiscali.co.uk geoff.phillips@blueyonder.co.uk mark.dowling@cpsport.org

01/02/2013 13:28

BRAIN INJURY

The Upstream Paddle Mark Griffin was involved in a car crash 13 years ago at the age of 33.

This accident resulted in a brain injury and drastically changed his life as he knew it. Mark has, through sheer determination and great support, rebuilt his life and here he shares his most recent achievement with us.

Kayaking was a sport in which I’d like to think I excelled. Training every

week in cold hostile conditions was vital to prepare our team for a punishing annual 24 hour race. In July 1999 however, I had no idea I wouldn’t step into a kayak again for many years to come.

A car crash occurred in which, as the driver, I suffered a fractured skull leaving me in a coma for two weeks with a severe brain injury. Sadly the motorcyclist who hit me was killed in the crash.

What followed was without doubt the most traumatic period of my life. Three months on a rehabilitation ward involved me relearning the most basic skills of life

including eating, sitting, standing and walking. All, whilst dealing with huge memory problems, problems which remain to this day.

I was paralysed down my left side and am still left with, amongst other things, weakness on that side, double vision and very poor balance. Before the accident I was a self styled ‘action man’ and was teased by friends for that. I still vividly remember my exploits as a climber, caver, windsurfer, mountain biker, horse rider, motorbike and trials bike rider.

The brain injury forced me to take early retirement. My promising career with a leading oil company was snatched from me

at the ripe old age of 33. I felt my life wasn’t worth living and my former active life was non-existent, and without the support of my future wife things might have been different. I desperately needed to try to rebuild the life I once had; or as much of it as possible.

I needed to become active again. To improve my poor balance and physical difficulties I began horse riding again, but this time with the RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association). Having been involved in martial arts in the past, TaiChi seemed like another good choice and Pilates lessons helped with my flexibility, co-ordination and balance. All of these proved hard work, but were definitely of huge benefit. In fact, I have managed to compete in the prestigious RDA National Dressage competition, achieving class champion several times and having persevered with TaiChi I have achieved another milestone by becoming a qualified instructor and regularly help other people with a variety of disabilities.

During my rehabilitation my Occupational Therapist, Jayne Brake, explained to me, ‘there are some things you could do but can’t do now, some things you could do and can still do now, albeit differently, and some things you never did but can do now’. I think this powerful statement promotes positive thinking and moving forward whilst not looking back in a negative way.

Before the crash one of my greatest achievements was taking part in a yearly marathon kayak race. It was a relay race of over 126 miles in a two man racing kayak

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with four crews, that’s about 30 miles per pair and it had to be completed in less than 24 hours. There are 105 locks in total involving taking the kayak out of the water to run around them. One notorious section, the Devizes, is famous for having 29 locks in the space of a little over two miles and the 1 in 44 gradient makes this sheer torture to run.

After watching the kayak racing in the Olympics, in which we won gold, I began to wonder if I would ever have the chance of competitive kayak racing again.

So, earlier this year I bought two fun kayaks and took them out with my support worker.

It was great fun having a splash around, but it just didn’t have the same thrill of serious racing. So, I went out and bought a cheap one man racer.

Racing kayaks are very unstable; sitting in one is similar to balancing on a knife-edge.

This was not the best starting point considering my poor balance and limb weakness.

Even with the help of my support worker I only had the chance to sit upright for a few seconds before it capsized and I was left swimming to the riverbank. After repeating the process countless times it was straight back home with the kayak, feeling totally deflated.

My dramatic recovery after the accident was down to my dogged determination and stubborn will power, so I wasn’t

All photographs © Brian Frith

I will never be as fast as I was, but my determination will still lead me to being The best I can be…. as a disabled kayaker

Headway

This organisation exists to promote understanding of all aspects of brain injury and to provide information, prepared to give up kayaking support and services to people with a brain injury, their yet. I needed to make the boat families and carers. www.headway.org.uk more stable and so I simply strapped foam pipe insulation Headway Grimsby to either side of the boat http://www.headwaygrimsby.btck.co.uk and it worked, allowing me to paddle the boat without Lincoln canoe club assistance for a reasonable http://www.lincolncanoeclub.co.uk amount of time. Success to some extent, but the boat was again and hopefully not come last. In fact, much slower, hard to paddle very recently this milestone actually took at speed and was still moderately unstable. place. I have just competed in my first three mile race since the crash 13 years ago.

I contacted the British Canoe Union to ask Surprisingly, I didn’t embarrass myself with about more stable racing kayaks and found my time and I didn’t ‘officially’ finish last. that the nearest club able to advise me was the Lincoln Canoe club, involving a two and And what’s more, my fellow competitors were totally unaware of my hidden a half hour, eighty mile round journey. difficulties. This was a good day for me!

I met up with the coach Gary Quittenton, who had experience working with disability in this field. On my first visit he showed me round the clubhouse and watched me on the club’s Kayak rowing machine which demonstrated to him my problems with balance and technique.

A few days later Gary put me on the water in a fairly stable racing/touring kayak, which showed me that I wouldn’t ‘always’ go for a swim. Whilst doing so, I asked for his honest opinion as to whether I should try to improve or just give up. Gary felt that after seeing me on the water that I should stick with it, which gave me the confidence I definitely needed to carry on kayaking.

I am now a member of the club. My hope was always to compete in a kayak race

My future goal may appear to be extremely optimistic. I am planning to recreate that memorable time in my life thirteen years ago by kayaking those gruelling 126 miles, which even then was a fantastic achievement.

I intend to do a sponsored paddle over the very same Bristol to Windsor stretch of canal I used to race, but this time for Headway Grimsby the Brain Injury Association support group of which I am the chairman; but this time I will be paddling alone.

I will never be as fast as I was, but my determination will still lead me to being the best I can be…. as a disabled kayaker.

‘I can still do it – albeit differently’. www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 27

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01/02/2013 14:50

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K i K Ki d i d ds Ki d s s s

KIDS FOCUS

the

Kids Zone

Getting the best for your child Caring for a child can be a demanding job at the best of times, caring for a child with a physical or intellectual disability can be even more challenging. Every child is unique and will have varying needs both physically and mentally and parents have the task of finding the best products, learning techniques, communication methods and opportunities available for their children.

Luckily we are living in a time where technology is advancing everyday, from the advancements in seating solutions and prosthetics to the efforts companies are now putting in to make video gaming accessible to children of all abilities. There is a very diverse range of products and services available on the market today to help parents and children with all aspects of life and those companies are here to help make your life better, more comfortable and to help open up opportunities that you may have previously thought impossible.

Here we look at some of the products and services available to families caring for a disabled child.

Playtime Bubble Dinosaur This little dino blows hundreds of bubbles out of his mouth by someone simply pressing a trigger to release them. He comes with bubble solution and you can see the solution in his clear belly so you know when you have run out. Requires 2 x AA batteries (not included).

Liberator 01733 370470 www.liberator.co.uk

Prices ÂŁ9.95

Sensory Hamper This hamper is packed with a multitude of sensory delights for your child, from slinkys and flashing lights to tamborines and kaleidoscopes. What’s more, the hamper is very affordable too.

Cheap Disability Aids 0843 289 0218 www.cheapdisabilityaids.co.uk

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KIDS FOCUS

Playtime contd.

Ki d

Mirror Ball

Transform your child’s room with a simple mirror ball, it reflects little stars of light all around the room, simply shine a lamp or spotlight on it and you will keep your little ones mesmerised by the relaxing visual effect.

Special Needs Toys 01299 827820 www.specialneedstoys.com

Prices from £12.95

TrackerPro

Prices from £21.99

SwimFin SwimFin is a fantastic teaching aid, flotation device and fun water toy all in one.

It is designed to help children learn to swim and is proving to be very popular with children who have disabilities, as not only does it assist with flotation, but it makes getting into the water fun! Worn high on the back, above the centre of gravity it will ‘suspend’ the child in the water and help learn to swim.

SwimFin 01604 416916 www.swimfin.co.uk

This is a computer input device that replaces the job of the mouse for people with little or no hand movement. It is a high-resolution intelligent camera which tracks a small dot that you can place on your forehead, glasses or the rim of a hat. Sitting anywhere in front of the computer with your tracking dot on you TrackerPro will find you automatically. It will also allow you to use this device for anything that requires fine cursor control and lets you scroll through pages by just moving your head up or down.

Liberator 01733 370470 www.liberator.co.uk

Ki ds s Ki ds Ki ds

Prices from £853.20

iPad The iPad is a fantastic tool for children with physical and intellectual disabilities. There is an abundance of apps available for educational purposes, communication methods or simply for fun. The touchscreen has opened up the use of technology to so many children and allows them to learn and communicate easily through an interactive and fun tool. If you are considering investing in an iPad, do your research into which model would suit your needs best, including the amount of memory you will require, buy a cover to avoid damage and we would recommend investing in insurance for the device. www.apple.com/uk

Prices from £329

(iPad 2 model)

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KIDS FOCUS

Ki d s Ki d ids s

Products Prices available on request

Prices available on request

TinyTRAX

This fun and stylish powerchair is designed for children as young as 18 months old who have mobility problems. It offers them freedom and independence to move around in an attractive chair and is designed to fit under school desks too. Your child will be the envy of all of their friends in this compact, cool powerchair.

TinyTRAX 01225 425 888 info@tinytrax.com www.tinytrax.com

DON’T MISS! Kidz in the Middle, Thursday 21st March 2013.

Jaguar Exhibition Hall, Ricoh Arena, Coventry Free Entry, Free Parking, Fully Accessible!

Chunc 45° The Chunc 45° children’s wheelchair makes a vital contribution to a 24 hour postural management programme.

It can be tailored to the individual’s needs with a wide range of adaptations and its versatility ensures that the most biomechanically efficient position of the pelvis and spine can be achieved as well as ensuring excellent support to the thighs, feet and head. It is designed to help the child achieve an improvement in the facilitation of cognitive, communicative and functional skills, providing a solid foundation for enhanced participation with friends, carers and parents.

Chunc Wheelchairs 01432 377 512 sales@chunc.co.uk www.chunc.com

This fantastic event provides information on funding, seating, beds, mobility, accessible vehicles, bathing, communication, sensory, sport and leisure and much more!

This free exhibition is for children and young adults with disabilities and special needs, their parents, carers and the professionals who support them.

With more than 120 exhibitors, Kidz in the Middle is a one stop shop offering the most up to date advice and information on equipment, products and services and much more. The advice and information you gather at the events can help improve independence and quality of life.

Funding Point - In view of the current economic climate the Kidz Team have introduced a Funding Point to all the Kidz events. Here you can access information on alternative funding streams for equipment and much more.

Voluntary and service organisations will also be on hand with information on services, support, holidays, publications and so on.

Free CPD seminar – with a full programme of free CPD seminars for professionals and parents running alongside the exhibition,

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Prices available on request

Safespace A Safespace provides an attractive and economical alternative to wall padding. The 8cm thick padding reduces the risk of someone harming themselves on walls, floors and furniture outside the Safespace. It can be described as a ‘room within a room’ and can fill the whole of a small room or fit in part of a larger room. Each Safespace is custom designed, with both the door and windows aligned with those in the room. Also available are zipped panels to access fitted wardrobes or alcoves and viewing panels (with or without zips) for use with televisions and sensory equipment positioned outside the Safespace. Designed for children with challenging or destructive behavior, the Safespace has reportedly had calming effects on children with autism and induced better sleeping patterns.

SafeSpaces 01706 816274 enquiries@safespaces.co.uk www.safespaces.co.uk

you will also have the opportunity to update your knowledge and understanding on particular topics. A full timetable will appear on the website and within the visitors free entry ticket plans progress.

Other dates for your diary: • Kidz South – 13th June 2013 – Rivermead Leisure Complex, Reading.

• Kidz up North – 21st November 2013 – Event City, Urmston (next to the Trafford Centre) • Kidz Scotland – 11th September 2014 – Royal Highland Exhibition Centre, Edinburgh.

For your visitors free entry tickets or information on any of our Kidz events contact the organisers: Disabled Living 0161 607 8200 info@disabledliving.co.uk www.kidzinthemiddle.co.uk

Prices from £1,065

Sunbeam For babies and children from 3 months to 3 years the Sunbeam offers an ideal introduction to supportive seating. This rocking infant chair can adjust between rocking and static and has an adjustable back angle and tilt in space. A large tray area creates a functional seating solution that can be used as a feeding chair as well as for comfort and postural management. It is available in a range of sizes with a height adjustable base and loose washable covers.

JCM Seating 01733 405830 sales@jcmfactory.co.uk www.jcmseating.co.uk

Sports Getting kids involved with sports from any age is important, on both a physical and social level. Joining a sports club or team is a great way to meet friends and socialise with others and it can open up many more opportunities for children, building confidence and giving them a sense of camaraderie by being part of a team.

There are so many sports available and some that only require limited movement or ability, so you really can find a sport for any child to get involved in. The Paralympics have opened many people’s eyes to the choice of sports out there that disabled people can participate in and sports clubs across the country are looking for new talent all the time.

To find a sports club near you visit the PosAbility website www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk and scroll down the homepage to use the Parasport Club Finder, this will locate your nearest sports club.

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Ki d s Ki d Ki s ds KIDS FOCUS

Support

Looking after a disabled child can be both physically and emotionally tough. A child with a disability will naturally demand more of your time, attention and often finances, as specialist equipment, games and even holidays can cost a lot more.

Parents can often find themselves overwhelmed, stressed and emotional. This is completely natural and something all parents go through at some point, which is why there are so many support services and charities out there for parents of disabled children.

Talking to other parents in a similar situation can make the world of difference, sharing your worries and concerns with someone who is experiencing the same feelings can be an excellent therapy for parents. Another great way to share first hand information on

Contact A Family The only national charity that exists to support the families of disabled children whatever their condition or disability. They have a national and local network of services supporting families, there are also many parent support groups set up by parents themselves throughout the UK and you can find out the nearest one to you by getting in touch with Contact A Family.

Free Helpline: 0808 808 3555 www.cafamily.org.uk

KIDS This charity works with and supports disabled children, young people and their families. This includes direct work with children and young people, including home learning services, specialist nurseries, short breaks and play schemes. They also offer support to parents and to siblings of disabled children. They have regional services throughout England that you can contact for support and advice. www.kids.org.uk

Sibs Sibs is the only UK charity representing the needs of siblings of disabled people. Sibs recognises that siblings have a lifelong need for information, they often experience social and emotional

products, schools, learning techniques and accessible places to visit is through specific forums for parents of disabled children.

Siblings of disabled children often need support too. As their disabled sister or brother may demand more attention from their parents, it is easy for a sibling to feel isolated and confused.

Most siblings want to have a positive relationship with their brother or sister and want to play a role in their care but perhaps don’t know how to do this. There is an excellent charity called Sibs in the UK that can help siblings of disabled children (details below).

Below are some of the charities and support groups that exist to help families with disabled children:

isolation, and have to cope with difficult situations, but still want to have positive relationships with their disabled brothers and sisters and to be able to choose the role they play in future care.

01535 645453 info@sibs.org.uk www.sibs.org.uk

Whizz-Kidz Whizz-Kidz provides disabled children and young people with vital mobility equipment, opportunities to meet and have fun, and training to help them gain skills and look forward to a bright future.

They provide services in communities across the UK and have mobility centres located in a number of areas through partnerships with the NHS. 020 7233 6600 www.whizz-kidz.org.uk

Parents Of Disabled Children This is a forum where parents can share information, ask advice and support each other. Created and run by parents of disabled children it has some great topics, including information on the benefits you may be entitled to, grants available, education services, schools available and much more. www.parentsofdisabledchildren.co.uk

34 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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tel: 01559 384097 sales@medimotion.co.uk www.medimotion.co.uk ad_pages_feb_13.indd 12

01/02/2013 13:30

ADD MEANING TO YOUR HOLIDAY Rewarding, exciting, life changing holidays perfect for physically or visually impaired individuals, couples, families and small groups.

Our best selling activities include: Scuba diving 4x4 on Europe's highest active volcano Mediterranean olive oil making Gastronomic and cultural excursions... and more..

BOOK NOW: CALL US: 02077494866 OR EMAIL: INFO@SEABLE.CO.UK

Accessible Active Holidays

Take an accessible break in 2013 Short Breaks from ÂŁ299 Breaks for adults with physical disabilities and carers 24-hour care on-call and personal support

Our UK based centres in Essex, Southampton and Southport

Quote: POSF1

Registered charity no. 295072

www.vitalise.org.uk To book your break call on 0303 303 0145

ad_pages_feb_13.indd 13

01/02/2013 13:31

ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL

Happy New Year everyone, I hope that you are all having a good start to 2013.

2012 was an exciting year for Can Do Holidays, we launched our website in January, after a lot of hard work and I found myself out on my own on a passionate mission to find accessible accommodation for UK holiday-makers.

Thankfully, I am now no longer on my own in my quest for accessible holidays.

PosAbility Magazine and their amazing team saw something special in Can Do Holidays and offered me their support, for which I am very grateful. I feel I have been surrounded by so many positive people this year and some of this is undoubtedly due to the legacy left by the Paralympics, something I sincerely hope continues.

By the end of last year I had reviewed over 70 holiday properties and we have big plans to review another 50 this year. We only work on recommendations, so if you have found a holiday venue that was accessible please share your experience and tell me all about your stay.

I will be visiting Scotland, London, Cornwall, Derbyshire, Oxfordshire and the Lake District by the end of spring time this year, so if you have an accessible holiday property and would like to have it reviewed and join Can Do Holidays please give me a call or email me. The invitation is also open to special needs schools, care facilities or organisations/charities and I will be more than happy to come into your establishment and give a talk about accessible travel and holidays.

Can Do Holidays believes that everyone can holiday, no matter what their abilities, and we hope we can give people the capability to holiday with confidence.

Lisa Can Do Holidays 0800 2983052 / 07969 853522 enquiries@candoholidays.com www.candoholidays.com @CanDoHolidays

PosAbility

Access Award

Wall Eden Farm Near Weston-Super-Mare, Wall Eden Farm is a venue I feel very passionately about and would encourage everyone to take a look at this unique venue. Set in the Somerset countryside, close to Burnham on Sea, it has been run as a family farm since 1927.

The owner, Andrew, is working with the brain injury charity, Headway, and some of the workers on the site come from Headway. Andrew was awarded the Learning Skills Award for the South West of England 2010 for his work helping people with disabilities.

Wall Eden Farm used to be a dairy farm and he has turned it into a holiday venue with six high quality self-catering accessible lodges. Each lodge is slightly different accommodating many varying levels of disability.

All the cabins are on one level and are fully wheelchair accessible with three bedrooms sleeping up to six people in each or 36 people in total for a group booking.

The cabins have wheel-in shower rooms fully adapted with handrails and shower

chairs. There is an open-plan living room and fully fitted kitchen with all the amenities you could need. Furniture can be moved to make the lodge more accessible for you.

To keep you entertained there are activities that can be arranged on-site.

You can participate in archery, pottery, painting, educational sessions, wildlife/ pond dipping, cycle hire and eco kids craft activities/parties. Looking around the farm I also noticed that outside some of the lodges there were chickens in coops, looking very happy and well fed. Andrew explained that to give the children on site an extra experience they can look after two chickens for the week. They come with food and instructions and the children are responsible for them, getting to collect and keep the eggs every morning.

For adults there is the bonus of a hot tub and sauna available on request.

If you would like to know the particulars of each lodge to find out which one would suit your needs best, you are welcome to contact me on 0800 2983052.

Wall Eden Farm www.walledenfarm.co.uk

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PosAbility

Access Award

Pitlands Farm

Pitlands Farm is a family run farm in Clifton-Upon-Teme in the county of Worcestershire and is close to many popular attractions in its rural location in the heart of England.

Looking from the main road down the valley, you can see the whole farm and as you can see from the pictures, it is a impressive looking sight.

With its farmhouse, holiday homes, fishing lakes and farm animals, I was instantly impressed and excited to review it.

machine, dishwasher and microwave. It is wheelchair accessible across the ground floor and the downstairs bedroom is a twin bedded room with en-suite wheel-in shower (limited wheelchair turning space), toilet and wash-hand basin. There are French windows opening onto a veranda with barbecue and patio furniture.

Upstairs there is a large double bedroom with French windows, second twin-bedded room and a bathroom comprising bath with an in-built shower, toilet and wash-hand basin.

The farm consists of three single level bungalows and three lodges over two floors. The bungalows look over the rural countryside and two coarse fishing pools. All the bungalows have two bedrooms with an open-plan living/dinning area and kitchen. The bathrooms have a shower in a cubicle, which makes it inaccessible for wheelchair users but accessible for people who are able to step into a shower cubicle.

Within the grounds are two coarse fishing pools, stocked with carp, rudd and tench, a games room and hot tub. One of the fishing pools has wheelchair access.

Woodpecker Lodge is set next to the plum orchard and looks over the Teme Valley. The lodge is on two levels with an open-plan living space, fully-fitted kitchen with washing

Pitlands Farm www.pitlandsfarm.co.uk

You are welcome to speak to me about your requirements and talk through these properties to make sure they are suitable for your needs on 0800 2983052.

38 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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TRAVEL

PosAbility

Access Award

Sun Hill Farm This is a unique cottage situated in rural North Yorkshire situated on a professional horseracing yard.

The farm has two cottages, however, Sun Hill Cottage has not been adapted and is not appropriate for people with mobility issues as the two bedrooms and bathroom are up a flight of stairs.

Palin’s cottage is on one level with a small number of adaptations and can sleep up to two people. Palin’s cottage is not appropriate for wheelchair users but is ideal for someone with mobility issues who wants a self-catering cottage without steps.

This cottage has one double bedroom with limited space round the bed, the room has an en-suite shower room with a handrail and pull down shower chair in the shower cubicle. There is an

open-plan living/dining area and fully fitted kitchen and it is perfect as a cosy retreat for two. It can also be booked in conjunction with the larger cottage (Sun Hill Cottage) if more accommodation is required.

Sun Hill Farm is ideal for someone with a passion for horses or racing as you can look out of the living room window and watch the race horses being trained and raced. Ann, the owner, will also happily show you around the stables and tell you about the racehorses and business if you are interested.

If you would like to know more about this accommodation please contact me on 0800 2983052.

Sun Hill Farm www.annduffield.co.uk/sun-hill-cottages

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TRAVEL

The Mede

PosAbility

Access Award

The Mede is a little gem of a holiday property which, from the outside, looks like an ordinary bungalow, but once inside there are many subtle yet essential adaptations.

The owner Sallie is a nurse, looking after people who have dementia and other cognitive disabilities, she noticed a lack of holiday properties that were available for these people, so she bought The Mede and adapted it to suit the need of people mainly with dementia.

The Mede has three bedrooms, all are on one level and are wheelchair accessible. The living room has high backed armchairs and a rise and recline chair looking out over the garden and the scenic views.

The wheel-in shower has a pull down shower chair or there is a shower chair with arms on request. There are adapted aspects to the bungalow to enable people with dementia to make their stay safer. The bathroom lock can be opened on both sides of the door, the front door has an alarm if required and the internal doors have signs on them to say what rooms they are.

The garden is enclosed and safe, overlooking the Exe estuary and Haldon Hills, or you can sit in the sun room and enjoy the view of the harbour.

The Mede is in an ideal location near the vibrant town of Exmouth where there are shops, and I would recommend a visit to the harbour.

The owner would happily offer her services and support (although no personal care duties) such as a sit-in service, pick up from home service and she can take you on trips and provide meals. Nursing or personal care is available through local agencies on request. For more information about The Mede please call 0800 2983052.

The Mede www.themede.org

Felldyke Bunkhouse This has been a major project for the owners and I was lucky enough to see it just as it was completed. Felldyke Bunkhouse has been converted from an old pump house into practical group accommodation. It is an independent hostel set in the beautiful Western Lake District Fells in Cumbria.

The Bunkhouse can cater for groups up to 23 people over two floors. Downstairs they have adapted a bedroom to be wheelchair accessible, it has a single bed, bunk beds, ample turning space for a wheelchair and the room can be arranged to suit your needs.

Adjacent to this bedroom there is a large shower-room fully wheelchair accessible with wheel-in shower, a toilet with handrails to both sides and a large washbasin with handrails.

The bathroom also has a red emergency pull cord that sounds an alarm that can be heard throughout the bunkhouse.

Downstairs there is a large open-plan dining area, which, after the table and chairs are moved, can double up as a teaching room. The kitchen has a double oven and a great array of kitchen utensils, ideal when catering for a large hungry group.

Upstairs there is a large dormitory bedroom with ten sets of bunk beds and four shower rooms. There is a large outdoor area which is ideal for outdoor games and running off some energy and the adjacent field is filled with sheep.

Locally there are lots of activities to get involved in, walking, fell running, climbing, cycling, trekking and lots more. This property is ideal for clubs, large family groups and groups of friends.

If you would like to know more about the Bunkhouse and the local activities you are welcome to give me a call on 0800 2983052.

Felldyke Bunkhouse www.felldyke-bunkhouse.co.uk

PosAbility

Access Award

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31/01/2013 19:06

Enjoy Jersey with carefree holidays for disabled people and their carers at Maison des Landes Hotel Maison des Landes is a hotel catering exclusively for disabled guests and their families or carers in accommodation which has been specially designed to meet their needs. Set in glorious unspoiled countryside overlooking a major international heritage area  Heated indoor pool with ramps and hoists  En-suite facilities including walk-in showers  Extensive gardens with magnificent views  Licensed lounge  Pétanque (a version of bowls ideal for players in wheelchairs!)  Daily Island tours in specially adapted minibuses  The hotel is open from the beginning of April to the end of October

RATES per person per day include full board accommodation, daily excursions and transfers to harbour and airport and return.

NOW WITH A SELF CATERING OPTION. ASK FOR DETAILS CONTACT US NOW FOR A BROCHURE St Ouen, Jersey JE3 2AA Tel: 01534 481683 Fax 01534 485327 Email: contact@maisondeslandes.co.uk Website: www.maisondeslandes.co.uk



ad_pages_feb_13.indd 14

   

‘One of the UK’s finest attractions’ Daily Mail ssgreatbritain.org

Reg. charity no. 262158

*Excludes schools, groups and venue hire guests

FREE unlimited return visits for a year*

       

01/02/2013 18:44

Whatever your bathing difficulty... we have the solution Give us a call

0800 1 690 690

www.bath-knight.co.uk

BK6774

Ehm‘k @c-hmcc 0

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0.17.1/02 0/9/3942 @L

01/02/2013 13:32

HOT STUFF

PRODUCTS

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

THERA-Trainers

Prices available on request

The THERA-trainers are the most advanced range of active/passive therapy exercise bike for use at home and in the rehab setting. The THERA-trainers offers both passive (assisted) cycling and active exercise for arms and legs.

The full range is designed specifically for any user with limited mobility such as MS, MD, Spinal Injury, Stroke, Brain Injury or any neurological condition, giving benefits such as improving circulation, sustain and improve muscle power, improve stamina, decrease fluid retention and many more.

The THERA-vital and THERA-live offer the user the highest quality and technology available. There are 3 screen sizes offering choice for everyone.

With our new interactive gaming now available on the 10.4” monitor the user can challenge themselves in four multi-level games which target specific muscles and areas of weakness.

The range of accessories such as foot-fixings, hand attachments, anti-tip bar etc make the THERA-vital safe and easy to use for every level of ability.

Medicotech 01908 564100 info@medicotech.co.uk www.medicotech.co.uk

handSteady Cup Created by Chris Peacock and funded by Guys and St Thomas’ Charity this ingenious design has revolutionised steady drinking for so many people. The handSteady’s Rotatable Handle™ uses gravity to keep the cup upright, allowing you to hold the handle at the most comfortable angle for you, unlike rigid handles on standard cups. Even if your wrist accidentally moves forward the Rotatable Handle™ will correct the angle of the cup, preventing spillages and accidents with hot drinks. Another benefit of this clever device is that it makes drinking from a reclined position much easier, reducing the distance that you have to rise to take a drink. handSteady also offer a 30 day 100% guarantee to ensure you are happy with your purchase, a 12 month warranty and it includes an anti-slip base and hidden lid with the cup.

Prices from £39.99

handSteady info@handsteady.com www.handsteady.com www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 43

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31/01/2013 18:37

Prices from £2,550

Prices from £38

XTR This rigid frame wheelchair is sleek, modern and lightweight. ORacing’s lightest wheelchair is completely bespoke, ensuring it is designed to fit you precisely for comfort and style. The range of available colours, spoke colours, adaptations and the option of a titanium frame mean this wheelchair can be a complete representation of your personality.

Only weighing in at 4.5kg (without wheels) the XTR is still very durable, the standard aluminium frame is extremely strong and rigid giving more efficient pushing results. Overall, a strong choice for your everyday chair.

ORacing / Spokz (official UK distributor) 0845 25 77 496 info@spokz.co.uk www.oracing.co.uk

Rolser Shopping Trolley Shopping trolleys are no longer seen as an old-fashioned, practical device only used by the more elderly of our generation.

In fact, they are now seen as a fashion accessory. The array of colours, styles and patterns available is impressive to say the least, and the trolleys themselves are a very convenient way to carry heavy items and shopping around.

Rolser 020 8458 4387 sales@thetrolleyrevolution.com www.thetrolleyrevolution.com

RNIB PenFriend audio labeller This award-winning creation allows you to record your own self-adhesive voice label and attach to a wide range of items in and around the home, at school or at work.

This simple and easy-to-use labeling pen can be used to label food items and you can note use by dates and cooking instructions for each item.

You can label your DVDs, CDs, medicine, important paperwork and even clothes and footwear.

It features over 4GB of internal memory and 250 hours of recording time and comes with 127 adhesive labels to attach to your items.

RNIB shop@rnib.org.uk www.rnib.org.uk

Prices from £71.99

44 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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31/01/2013 18:37

PRODUCTS

EziMate Back Saving Accessory

Prices from £10,500

This award-winning product is designed to reduce back pain when tackling tasks, such as sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, painting or gardening. The handle attaches to any long-handled tool to give extra support and leverage for the job at hand. By attaching this handle with the provided Allen key, the EziMate will help reduce back, arm and hand pain and even helps reduce the chance of blisters by minimising unnecessary bending and straining.

NRS Healthcare 0845 805 2236 customerservice@nrs-uk.co.uk www.nrs-uk.co.uk

Prices from £17.99

Mybility Four X The Mybility Four X wheelchair is a top of the market electric wheelchair that, due to its high specification, can handle multiple terrains from challenging outdoor conditions to confined indoor spaces. In fact the wheelchair’s advanced technology means that it can securely tackle many difficult terrains including, mud, wet grass, snow, steps, kerbs , uneven rocky areas and steep Inclines.

This standing model wheelchair offers a remarkable range of movement, from the ability to replicate a standing position to a seat rise function to elevate you so that you can easily reach those shelves or get yourself served at the bar!

The Mybility All Terrain Four X wheelchair is four wheel drive and four wheel steer and has a unique full stand support system. It also enables you to tilt to virtually any position right down to a fully horizontal tilt so that you can lay down in a deck chair position to relax and enjoy the day.

As well as being fully adaptable to meet the specific needs of the user, the wheelchair has a realistic lifespan of ten years and includes a generous range of additional features as standard. These include LED lights, indicators and mirror, seat belt, adjustable foot, arm, head and backrest. Contact Mybility for a free at home consultation.

Mybility 0330 555 0545 (58) www.mybility.co.uk

Vita X The new Vita X scooter has been designed to deliver off-road capabilities to users who require independence in more challenging locations.

The engineering behind the Vita range of scooters utilises revolutionary innovations from the motorcycle industry to bring users a powerful motor and uses a battery that ensures increased range. It is a durable and robust scooter that tackles uneven terrain, like cross-country routes or high pavements with ease. Safety and stability both on and off road is provided by anti-tip wheels and an emergency braking system and comfort is provided by the fully adjustable leather racing seat.

Exclusively available in black with red flashes.

TGA Mobility 01787 882244 sales@tgamobility.co.uk www.tgamobility.co.uk

Prices from £4,995

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31/01/2013 18:38

VaPro Touch Free Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheter

Extra Protection You owe it to yourself to take the extra protection that the VaPro Hydrophilic Intermittent Catheter offers? VaPro is packed with sensible features all designed to minimise your exposure to potential infections.

Don’t take our word for it, visit cathetersample.co.uk or call 0800 521 377 to request FREE samples to evaluate for yourself.

• Protective tip helps shield the catheter from contact with bacteria in the distal urethra.

This reduces the risk of carrying bacteria further into the urinary tract—to help support well-being.

• Touch Free protective sleeve helps assure confident handling and helps reduce the risk of possible bacterial contamination during catheterisation. The sleeve also makes the catheter easy to grip and thereby easy-to-use.

• No additional water is necessary - Sterile water vapour molecules are already inside the foil packaging. They activate the catheter’s hydrophilic coating, making the catheter lubricated, smooth, and ready for use right out of the package.

VaPro delivers the features you deserve.

Hollister, logo and VaPro are trademarks of Hollister Incorporated. ©2013 Hollister Incorporated.

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01/02/2013 29/01/2013 13:32 10:30

SPINAL RESEARCH

Spinal Research Research into the treatment of paralysis has come incredibly far in the last 30 years. So far in fact, that our generation stands on the brink of some life-changing discoveries in this field. We spoke to Jonathan Miall, Chief Executive of the charity Spinal Research, to discuss the vital work they are funding throughout the world.

Spinal Research was established in 1980 when paralysis was thought of as incurable. Thirty years later we are closer than ever to making breakthroughs in the treatment of paralysis and Spinal Research is at the forefront of funding this pioneering research.

Jonathan explains that Spinal Research is the UK’s leading charity, funding the most promising medical research projects in this area and as a result they attract a lot of interest internationally.

‘We are the largest independent funder of research in this field, both in the UK and around the world, and we also lead research strategy internationally. The UK is one of the leaders in research in this area, as indeed it also leads in a number of other areas of medical research. So we have a lot of clout internationally, probably more than our size would suggest.’

Research Spinal cord research recently hit the headlines with a study undertaken by the Medical Research Council’s Regenerative Medicine Centre and Cambridge University’s Veterinary School to restore movement to dogs who had been paralysed in their hind legs. Using olfactory ensheathing cells from the dogs’ noses, some movement was regained, allowing many of the dogs to walk on a treadmill with the assistance of a harness.

Spinal Research is currently funding several projects focusing on different types of technology and therapies, including stem cell based research, gene therapy and a bacterial enzyme called chondroitinase.

‘We funded the early stages of research for the Cambridge University project. The Medical Research Council then took up funding, which is what should happen as they are able to fund at a higher level, allowing us to fund other areas of research.

‘We are very excited about the potential of chondroitinase as a treatment for spinal cord injury. Previous studies have already shown its ability to break down the scar tissue that forms around the spinal cord after injury – tissue that stops neurons re-joining and acts as a barrier to effective rehabilitation. If we can modify this enzyme so it can be used in a human to good effect, then I think we are very close to potential safety trials with paralysed volunteers, which will rapidly change this field of research.’

We see ourselves as a catalyst, to get the research to a point where we can really upscale it to major multi-site clinical trials.’

The discoveries being made in this area will undoubtedly be life-altering for many

Life-changing

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SPINAL RESEARCH

people and we can only imagine where this research will be in the next 5 or 10 years, but I can’t help but wonder how long it will take for this treatment to be readily available and affordable to the general public. As Jonathan explains, everyone with a spinal cord injury will require different treatment in accordance with their needs, which means that one pill or injection may not be suitable for all.

‘A spinal cord injury is unique to the individual. Some may need an operation, some might not. Others may get away with just an injection or taking a pill, but this is pure conjecture of course. I’m not sure where the costs for this will fall; undoubtedly it will be expensive because the technology and the expertise involved are so complex – we are effectively talking about brain repair. When you compare heart surgery and the first heart transplant in the 1960’s, that was enormously expensive. But now, 50 years later, heart transplant surgery is far more common – it’s taken half a century to get there though. So I think expectations have to be moderated and put into context, especially when you consider the spinal cord is a more complex challenge than the heart.’

Repairing a damaged spinal cord is one of the most complex challenges that medical science has ever faced That said, Jonathan also makes a very good point about the current cost of care of spinal cord injury to the nation – an area for which Spinal Research has recently commissioned a survey. Although treatment may be very expensive initially, when compared to the cost of keeping someone with a high-level spinal cord injury in 24-hour care, it should justify itself.

Most people perceive this research to be all about restoring function to walk again, however many people have higher priorities than that. By providing an injured person with the ability to turn themselves over at night, to visit the bathroom without assistance or to become sexually active again, you are giving them more independence that can change their quality of life in a dramatic way. www.spinal-research.org

Chondroitinase – a treatment with promise Chondroitinase is a bacterial enzyme which is able to digest the scar tissue that forms at the site of a spinal cord injury. This is important because scar tissue prevents nerves in the spinal cord from regenerating, stifling the changes needed for effective rehabilitation.

Numerous research studies have already demonstrated the effect of chondroitinase therapy on reduced scarring, preserved nerve function in the area around the injury and better recovery of normal movements.

Our focus now is to modify this enzyme into a form that is safe for use in clinical trials with paralysed volunteers.

A research project that has the potential to take us to clinical trials was given the

go-ahead by our Scientific Committee in December 2012. Dr Nicholas Jeffrey and Dr Ravi Bellamkonda at Iowa State University will test chondroitinase as a treatment in pet dogs who have sustained severe and chronic accidental spinal cord injury.

If the project is successful, it will give a green light for human clinical trials, thus accelerating the translation of the treatment from the laboratory to clinics treating patients.

To ensure that we can continue funding promising research projects such as this, we rely on donations from the public as we receive no government funding. A gift of: • £500 could pay towards a young scientist’s medical materials and

equipment over the course of a year’s study into chondroitinase.

• £1,000 could pay for a group of scientists to formulate a detailed development plan outlining the essential criteria and milestones this new treatment must achieve in order to enter a ‘first in man’ study.

• £2,000 could contribute towards the chondroitinase project seeking a repair for dogs with accidental spinal cord injury.

By texting CHON05 £5 to 70070, you can donate £5 towards these targets and contribute to our fight against paralysis. We believe that, with everyone’s help, paralysis can be beaten.

Thank you for your support.

48 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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03/02/2013 15:54

Beauty through

PHOTOGRAPHY

3

damage Suzanna Haslam was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour at the age of 15. Following two brain surgeries and treatment for cancer, Suzanna is still recovering from the major impact that this has had on her life, but everyday she is growing in confidence and determination.

and she openly admits that this has affected her life dramatically and severely knocked her confidence. The slight tremor in her voice tells me that this is still a very difficult topic for her to discuss, but she slowly opens up explaining how she felt at the time, ‘It was really difficult to deal with at that age, at the time I really didn’t want to socialise with anyone. I have always been quite a shy and quiet person and it kept me from going out with friends and things. It affected me a great deal.

I have gained a lot of confidence over the last few years, but I am still working on it as it has had a big impact on my life.’

Speaking with Suzanna, now 20 years old, I can hear a nervousness in her voice, an understandable trait for a young woman who is being interviewed about a traumatic experience that changed the course of her life at just 15 years old.

As the conversation continues I learn that prior to her diagnosis of cancer Suzanna was quite a quiet young girl studying for her GCSEs and leading the normal life of a 15 year old girl. She goes on to explain that her diagnosis took rather a long time as she visited her doctor with complaints of headaches and numbness on her left side, something that turned out to be far more serious than she expected.

The tumour left Suzanna with weakness down her left side through her arm and leg,

The Photo Shoot Suzanna was introduced to photographer, Rei Bennett, through a group forum at Disability Direct. Rei had attended one day to explain her ‘Beauty Through Damage’ project that helps people embrace and celebrate their differences through photography sessions. It instantly appealed to Suzanna, ‘It was something I was really interested in.

The first thing that came to my mind was that on my 18th birthday I was asked to have a photo shoot done and I wasn’t confident enough at the time to do it. I thought this was a great opportunity to do it.’

She goes on to describe the shoot as a ‘fantastic experience’ and explains that it helped develop her confidence on many different levels.

‘I had a brilliant time, I was very nervous to begin with but the outcome was just amazing. I had a look at all of the photos and they looked amazing and I think it just shows what an amazing technique she’s got.’

‘I would definitely recommend it to others, some of the responses I have had from the shoot have just been remarkable. Family and friends have told me that in some photos I look as though I don’t have a disability and I think that just goes to show that you don’t have to be able-bodied to look good.’

Suzanna is a self-conscious young woman who only two years ago did not have the confidence to participate in a photo shoot but, as you can see from the photographs, Rei Bennett has managed to not only capture her beauty through the lens but has also helped to build Suzanna’s s confidence.

Beauty Through Damage The Beauty Through Damage project helps individuals from all walks of life who have only one thing in common – the previous belief that they were no longer considered attractive because of their disability or illness. Through an in depth discussion about their personal body hangups, and a pampering session worthy of the A-Listers, Rei helps them to see how truly beautiful they are because of everything they’ve experienced. The photo shoot further enforces their inner and outer beauty by showing their disability or illness with pride.

For more information on the Beauty Through Damage project visit www.reibennett.co.uk.

50 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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01/02/2013 16:13

PHOTOGRAPHY

Family and friends have told me that in some photos I look as though I don’t have a disability and I think that just goes to show that you don’t have to be able-bodied to look good

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01/02/2013 18:22

06.06.2012

18:30

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PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS

Advancing Times The earliest form of an orthosis can be dated as far back as the fifth Egyptian Dynasty, between the years 2750-2625 B.C., as archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest splint. The earliest writing of prosthetics can also be dated all the way back to 500 B.C. Naturally the first artificial limbs of our time were very primitive, made of simple material like wood and simply created to replace the shape of the lost limb but not designed to perform any of the previous functions. The 1500’s saw amputation introduced in the medical profession as a life-saving procedure for patients and subsequently more thought began to go into the creation of prosthetics.

The late 1800’s saw the beginning of improvements to artificial limbs and in 1898, Dr Vanghetti invented an artificial limb that could move through muscle contraction.

Throughout the 20th century the science, technology and creativity behind the design of prosthetics and orthotics has come so far, and we now find ourselves in the year 2013 with some of the most exciting and life-changing technology and designs available.

Not only do we have artificial hands with fingers that can tie our shoelaces and amputees that can run 100m in 10.85seconds, but these advancements have provided millions of people all over the world with the confidence and independence to lead their lives the way they want to.

Here we take a look at some of the amazing prosthetics and orthotics available today.

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PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS

MichelangeloÂŽ Hand The recently launched Michelangelo Hand offers complex gripping kinematics, positioned using muscle signals. It boasts seven different hand positions that match the versatility and complexity of natural hand movement, with the thumb, index finger and middle finger actively driven and the ring finger and pinky passively following, as in real hand movements. A re-positionable wrist-joint offers a more natural shape and movement. This results in the ability to perform various gripping movements with a natural movement pattern.

True to its namesake, the Michelangelo Hand offers life-like, sculptural design, its fingers are made of both hard and soft materials mirroring bones, joints, muscles and tendons. PVC prosthetic gloves are available in six different skin tones to complete the realistic look, alternatively a translucent prosthetic glove is available to show off the Michelangelo Hand’s extraordinary technology, should the wearer prefer to show off its futuristic design.

Ottobock Healthcare PLC 01784 744 900 bockuk@ottobock.com www.ottobock.co.uk

Cosmetic Silicone The cosmetic silicone produced by Dorset Orthopaedic provides users with a realistic silicone skin to cover their prosthetic. It is designed to blend seamlessly with the users own skin, mirroring the same tone and colouring. They use gifted artists to create life-like skin that can include hairs, freckles, moles and even tattoos.

Many people can be self-conscious of their prosthetic, so having the ability to make this appear as natural as possible can provide a person with a new-found confidence.

myDesign

Dorset Orthopaedic also provide a service called myDesign that allows you to design your own silicone cosmesis. Allowing you to express yourself through your own design, whether that be using photographs, graphics or your own drawings.

Dorset Orthopaedic 01425 481 740 info@dorset-ortho.com www.dorset-ortho.com

SofTecÂŽ Coxa This multi-functional orthosis SofTec Coxa is designed to stabilise the hip joint after total hip replacement or to prevent hip dislocation. By restricting the radius of movement of the hip with a special monocentric joint, it ensures stability and comfort for the user. The special joint with just one pivot for extending the leg inwards and outwards, forwards and backwards can be worn on both sides and studies have shown that 95.8% of physicians confirmed its effectiveness.

Made with a skin-friendly, breathable fabric the Softec Coxa fits securely and easily with Velcro straps that can be adjusted as required throughout rehabilitation.

Bauerfeind UK 0121 446 5353 www.bauerfeind.co.uk

54 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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Duralite Foot

This prosthetic foot is extremely lightweight and designed for active users who want a high energy return.

The Duralite’s split heel conforms to the floor providing stability on uneven terrain and the foot itself is easily field-height adjustable. Economical and attractive, this foot also incorporates a urethane toe pad which enhances medial and lateral motion and there is a choice of pyramid adaptor or pyramid receiver offered for a proximal adaptor.

A unique and clever feature of this foot is a stair guard. Located just below the proximal adaptor, this stair guard helps to reduce the risk of the shin adaptor catching on a step when descending stairs, increasing confidence and independence for the user.

Ortho Europe 01235 552895 www.ortho-europe.com

RHEO KNEE The RHEO KNEE uses artificial intelligence to adapt automatically to a persons walking style in different situations, continuously learning and improving its response over time.

The knee tackles stairs and slopes easily and also has reaction times fast enough to prevent a fall, giving the user the confidence to tackle everyday life without worry. The design is reflective of the lower leg shape and there is also a soft pad integrated at the front to improve sensation when kneeling.

i-Limb Digits A solution for people with missing fingers or partial hands, the i-limb digits is a fully customised electronic prosthesis that works in conjunction with the remaining fingers to increase function.

As everyone with missing digits is different, the i-limb digits are customised for each individual to provide the best solution for the user, increasing function and independence.

These individually powered prosthetic digits can replace anything between one and five missing fingers, restoring a person’s independence and confidence in everyday activities.

TouchBionics 01506 438 556 www.touchbionics.com

Powered by a Li-ion battery, the RHEO KNEE offers 24-48 hours of continual use, depending on activities, and it can be fitted to a wide range of prosthetic feet.

Ossur UK 08450 065 065 ossuruk@ossur.com www.ossur.co.uk

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Living Independently

at Home

Footwear  Orthopaedic    

Footwear Stock/Modular/ Bespoke Adult/Paediatric Adaptions/ Alterations Great variety of styles/colours

Orthotics  Spinal/Cervical  Shoulder/Upper      

Website: www.chaneco.co.uk Email: info@chaneco.co.uk

Limb Wrist/Hand Hip/Knee Ankle/Foot Insoles/Podiatry Paediatric Body Socks & Liners

For ALL your Orthotic needs Visit our website and click on Special Offers for a great choice of discounted Orthotics www.chaneco.co.uk

Christies Care is one of the UK’s largest specialist providers of live-in care throughout the country. Our service introduces capable, trained care assistants who live with you in your own home.

Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to hear about new products and more special offers

You may just want to enjoy the companionship and reassurance of a care assistant who is there for you when you need support, or you may have more complex health and physical needs.

Our award winning training is extremely comprehensive. We have a purpose built training centre with six qualified trainers. All our care assistant complete a 5 day induction training course.

We offer a professional and dedicated service, which can be tailored to suit your individual requirements.

Twitter: @ChanecoFamily

0844 477 6458

care@christiescare.com www.christiescare.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/chaneco

Upper limb specialists providing solutions for full and partial hand loss

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on stand

www.touchbionics.com +44(0)1506 438 556

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Unit 3 Ashwood Court, Oakbank Park Way, Livingston, West Lothian EH30 9SL

01/02/2013 18:21

PROSTHETICS & ORTHOTICS

® CTM Unloader One®The Unloader One is a knee brace that is designed for the treatment of knee pain, in particular for those who have osteoarthritis.

Gentle force is applied lifting the affected bone away from the surface which is causing the discomfort, resulting in a reduction in pain and an increase in the wearer’s mobility.

It is lightweight and unobtrusive, offering an affordable and comfortable alternative to surgery. The Dual Dynamic Force Straps provide greater unloading leverage with a racheting Dynamic Force Control System enabling on-the-spot self-dosing.

The quick fit buckles allow for easy application and removal and the breathable liners featuring Össur Sensil® Silicone Technology on an Aerospace base material eliminates migration. The brace can also be worn comfortably under clothing and is suitable for all activity levels.

Ossur UK 08450 065 065 ossuruk@ossur.com www.ossur.co.uk

Ponseti AFO The ‘Mitchell’ Ponseti Ankle Foot Orthosis has been designed to help treat children with clubfoot. It has helped thousands of children across the globe prevent a relapse of clubfoot occurring following any correctional treatment.

Comprising a pair of sandals and a bar that is full adjustable to the needs of the child, when used on atypical/complex clubfoot, the brace aids further correction by gradually increasing flexibilty and dorsiflexion.

C-Pro Direct 01732 860158 enquiries@c-prodirect.co.uk www.c-prodirect.co.uk

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MOBILITY & TRANSPORT | BATHING & SHOWERING | DAILY LIVING AIDS CHILDREN’S EQUIPMENT | FURNITURE | ACCESS EQUIPMENT | ADAPTATION COMMUNICATION & TELECARE | LEISURE & SPORTS | CHARITIES & ADVICE

PaTHWaYS TO INDEPENDENcE

FREE

aT THE UK’S laRGEST EXHIBITION FOR INDEPENDENT lIVING

ENTRY!

Uncover 1000s of independent living products - Touch, test & compare the latest innovations from over 320 exhibitors

Preview cutting edge innovation in Tomorrow’s World - Glimpse the products of the future and meet the designers behind the ideas

Shop in the Market Place - Indulge in some retail therapy and take home lots of exciting, affordable products for you and your family

Discover the SensoryPlus Inspiration Zone in KideQuip - Attend free seminars on sensory learning, autism & play and get personalised advice in the Meet the Speaker Zones. Experience the Sensory Room or take some needed respite in the activity area

Benefit from independent advice in Meet the Expert - Book a one-to-one meeting with Contact a Family, People Hub, Pannone and leading OTs

See the latest Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles - Meet Mobility for advice on their scheme and discover the latest adapted vehicles.

Tour the Independent Living Show Home - Transform your home with the latest products and adaptations enabling you to live more independently

Free Blue Badge Parking BSL Interpreter Wheelchair/Scooter Hire

Register for free entry at www.naidex.co.uk/national* with priority code: EPOS call THE NaIDEX HOTlINE +44 (0) 844 588 8076 FOR ENQUIRIES

CHARITY OF THE YEAR

PARTNERS

FIND US ON

ORGANISED BY

Naidex_Public Advert_HalfPage_PosAbilityMag_2013_V2.indd 1

01/02/2013 2:14PM

One of 3 of the largest, FREE, UK exhibitions dedicated to children with disabilities and special needs, their families and the professionals who work with them.

Next Events •Kidz South 13/06/2013 •Rivermead Leisure Centre , Reading

• Over a 120 exhibitors offering advice and information on funding, mobility, seating, beds, communication, access, education, toys, transport, style, sensory, sports and leisure.

•Kidz in up North 21/11/13 Event City, Manchester

•Kidz Scotland –11th September 2014 Royal Highland Exhibition Centre

• Running alongside the event are FREE seminars for parents and professionals.

• Come and see our Inclusive Sport zone, with a host of sports on show; demonstrated by RGK Wheelchairs , CP Sports , Go Kids Go, Volleyball England and Disability Tennis foundation.

ad_pages_feb_13.indd 20

For Visitors free entry tickets or more information contact organisers Disabled Living on 0161 607 8200 / info@disabledliving.co.uk

01/02/2013 18:23

WIN!

The Mar y Sol Hotel is located in Los Cristianos in the south west corner of Tenerife and benefits from warm weather all year round, making it the ideal break at any time of year.

The hotel is fully accessible throughout and has two pools, one of which is heated to 32ºC all year round. Both pools have hoists to allow access and even the sun loungers have been specially made to allow easy transfer for wheelchair users.

The hotel is situated just 400m from the 8km sea promenade and is in easy reach of the beach and the town centre and the hotel also offers a shuttle service for these short trips.

A Week In Tenerife PosAbility Magazine has teamed up with Tenerife’s most accessible Spa & Sport Hotel, Mar y Sol to offer you the chance to win a relaxing getaway for a family of four for a week in the sunshine!

The additional facilities on offer are second to none, the TeraLava Therapy Centre offers a wide range of therapies from physiotherapy to water gymnastics and the Diving Centre offers a truly unique experience for all to enjoy the wonders of the deep blue sea. The newest addition to the hotel is a state of the art 530 sqm sports hall that offers wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, boccia and table tennis among other sports to keep all the family amused!

The hotel is designed to ensure there is something for everyone to enjoy and this includes dining in the spacious restaurant, as it offers varied cuisine with ‘gastronomic theme evenings’ where guests are treated to tastes from all over the world!

Contact: info@marysol.org www.marysol.org Terms & Conditions

Q

The prize consists of accommodation for seven nights on a Half Board basis for up to two adults with two children in a Mar y Sol Standard Apartment.

The reservation of the hotel is subject to availability and no changes can be made to the booking once it has been made. Flights and transfers are not included. All other expenses including food, drinks, spending money, travel expenses to/from the Tenerife South airport and travel insurance are not included in the prize, and will be the responsibility of the winner. The prize is not transferable and no alternatives will be offered. You must be at least 18 years old to enter the competition. The prize must be taken by 31st December 2013.

What temperature is the heated pool?

a) 32°C b) 70°F c) There is no heated pool

If you would like to be in with the chance of winning this fantastic prize simply answer the question

competition_marysol_rt.indd 1

correctly and return your details to the following address, email ros@2apublishing.co.uk or visit www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk to enter online.

Name:

Tenerife Competition PosAbility Magazine Caledonia House Evanton Drive Thornliebank Ind. Est. Glasgow G46 8JT

Postcode:

Address:

Tel: Email: ü

Please tick to indicate you would not like to receive marketing from the providers of this competition.

01/02/2013 15:57

d p o e e o l G ts S A gh SLEEP PROBLEMS

Ni

Cyclo-Therapy bed

The top culprits for keeping the UK population awake at night have been identified as: 1. Stress and tension 2. Unable to get comfortable 3. Restless and achy legs 4. Back pain 5. Coughing or breathing difficulties

Cyclo-pad

We all know how important a good night’s sleep can be, it recharges our batteries and relaxes our minds, however, if we don’t get enough of it, it can severely affect many aspects of our life.

Research undertaken in 2012 by

Cyclo-Therapy

the bed expert, Adjustamatic, highlighted just how poorly the people of Britain are sleeping. The nationwide survey found 4 in 5 Brits wake up feeling less than refreshed, and a staggering 1 in 3 wake up experiencing pain. It is no surprise then that the survey also revealed that a fifth of the nation sleeps with painkillers and sleeping tablets on their bedside table.

If it is pain that is causing sleep problems you may want to look into some alternative methods to help ease this.

Improving Sleep

Cyclo-Therapy is a special vibration that comes built into a range of specially designed products from Adjustamatic; a back pad, a hand-held massager and a bed.

Unlike other forms of therapy that work on a single-plane vibration, Cyclo-Therapy has a 3-way vibration that rotates and gently pulsates out from the centre in a whirlpool motion giving the body a massage that stimulates blood flow, eases pain and helps the body to rest and relax.

There are many different things you can try to help aid sleep and improve your sleep pattern, ensuring you have a mattress and pillow that are comfortable to you should be top of your list, you should also be wary of eating or drinking too late, you do not want to go to bed on a full stomach and you don’t want to be interrupted throughout the night for bathroom trips.

Avoid caffeine and nicotine before bedtime as the stimulating effects of these can last for hours. Too much alcohol should also be avoided as, although it may make you sleepy initially, it can interrupt later sleep.

Try taking a hot bath/shower or reading a book or magazine to relax you and create a bedtime routine to do every night, this will familiarise your body and mind with this process letting it know that it is time to wind down and get ready for sleep.

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Adjustamatic are experts in therapeutic beds and have produced a range of beds with inbuilt Cyclo-Therapy, a clinically proven massage that relieves pressure and pain in the muscles and joints.

Tried and Tested Dr Lin Berwick MBE 62, spent the first 3 months of her life in an oxygen tent.

This caused damage to the brain causing Cerebral Palsy Quadriplegia. Damage to the eyes subsequently caused her to become totally blind. Lin is now a permanent wheelchair

user. Since 2001, she has suffered constant chronic pain from sciatica and severe pain down the back of her legs. Lin explains that her sleep pattern has been ‘almost non-existent’ and goes on to describe her experience of Cyclo-Therapy: “Adjustamatic’s cycloidal massager is very helpful, and I’ve found using it, in conjunction with acupuncture and homeopathic pain relief, very effective.

I also often use Adjustamatic’s portable cycloidal massager behind me when sitting in my wheelchair, and whilst their back massager is helping to relax my back muscles, I use the hand held massager on the front of my legs and arms. It helps me to nod off and, if it aids relaxation to that extent, then it is well worth doing!

Their beds are very helpful, particularly if you have to spend a long period of time in bed, and due to illness cannot get out of bed. The bed will sit you almost upright.

It is also great for elevation of the legs, to help with oedema, and for changing the angle of the spine through the night, when trying to sleep. Having my back fully supported when in bed and reading Braille is a Godsend. Plus, being able to sit up when eating is important, so that food doesn’t go down the wrong way”. www.sleepyourbest.co.uk Dr Lin Berwick MBE has published a book called God’s Rich Pattern. It is published by SPCK and available to purchase for £9.99.

It is also available on Amazon and their is a Kindle version too.

31/01/2013 18:58

A step-change in equipment provision that reduces costs and improves service...

APPROVE by Jenx provides, services and stores equipment on a subscription basis. It is easy to switch products as needs change, saving you time and money.

www.jenx.com/approve ad_pages_feb_13.indd 21

01/02/2013 18:36

| MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING

We recently had the pleasure of test driving the Volvo V40 1.6L diesel and we were suitably impressed with this stylish, economical and deceptively spacious hatchback.

VolvoV40 On first settling into the V40

THE INTERIOR

I immediately noticed the comfortable and attractive interior, a car that I could see myself settling into for long journeys quite comfortably.

The interior is a major attraction of this car, it is sleek and modern, the controls are easy to use and it has a few unique luxury touches.

THE DRIVE

One of these is the mood lighting that comes with the car, at night LED lights placed throughout the interior and in the foot wells will illuminate your car gently in a colour of your choice and the brightness can be adjusted accordingly.

Taking it for a spin, it purred to life with a simple touch of the Stop/Start button, a nice touch to the class of this car. Pulling away the drive felt smooth and well balanced, cruising through the city streets with ease and performing well on the motorway, building up pace quickly and evenly.

The only complaint I have, which I have found in other Volvos too, is that the position of the central column interferes a little with gear changes as its height is perfect for elbow bumps. Apart from this and a little road noise, the overall drive is very comfortable and the spacious interior would easily accommodate small families.

The attractive, trademark slim panel for the stereo and dials remains and the interactive dashboard offers three different driving options – eco, performance and elegance – a digital array for all your driving moods.

The seats are available in three varieties of leather; blond (cream), charcoal or espresso, I would personally go

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01/02/2013 16:56

MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING | MOTORING |

for the blond leather for a bit of style.

The spaciousness inside the V40 was sursprising for a hatchback, from outside it doesn’t appear to be a very big car but once inside you could adequately fit three adults in the back seat. There is plenty of leg room for both front and back passengers and the boot space is generous too.

FUEL CONSUMPTION The fuel consumption for the 1.6L diesel is excellent at 78.5mpg and ensures this car is incredibly affordable for any potential driver.

A great appeal considering the ever climbing fuel prices.

GADGETS The car is operated by a Start/Stop button, there are heated front seats, a heated front windscreen, Bluetooth and steering wheel-mounted audio buttons. Dual-zone climate control is also standard.

Park Assist is a fantastic feature, especially for those who hate parallel parking! Simply control the speed and direction of the car, and Park Assist will take care of the rest.

The Park Assist Sensors will guide you

safely into a spot just 1.2 times the car length.

SAFETY Safety is key, as with all Volvo models Standard driver aids include blind-spot detection, City Safety technology, as well as Dynamic Stability Control, and the V40 has been awarded Euro NCAP’s best ever crash test score.

Volvo have also introduced knee air bags and a pedestrian airbag. The pedestrian airbag is released on impact from the bonnet and reaches up across the windscreen, this addition is designed for city traffic and will work at speeds between

20km and 50km per hour. It could be the difference between life and death for a pedestrian in an accident.

OVERALL The affordability and generous interior space make this an excellent choice as a small family car and the chic exterior is sure to appeal to the style-conscious among us.

Volvo take their safety responsibilities very seriously, an area that is probably not championed enough, but should definitely put a big tick in your ‘Pro’ list when choosing a car. www.volvocars.com www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 63

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31/01/2013 18:33

DRIVING

the Road to

Freedom

Learning to drive is like a rite of passage for everyone, no matter what your abilities. It brings independence and freedom for people with disabilities and it can open up a world of opportunities that were previously inaccessible.

Learning to drive can be a daunting prospect initially, but it is predominantly the same for everyone getting into a car for the first time, it is new and unfamiliar and you may feel nervous at the beginning, but as soon as you get the hang of it you will never look back.

All you have to do is take that first step, apply for your licence, book your lessons and hit the open road, so what are you waiting for?

Applying For Your Licence First things first, you will need to apply for your provisional licence before you start lessons. If you receive the higher rate of Disability Living Allowance you can start driving at the age of 16 and you can apply for your provisional licence up to 3 months before your 16th birthday.

You can apply for your provisional driving licence at www.gov.uk or you can pick up a D1 application form at your nearest Post Office.

Lessons If you have a physical disability, you may need to learn in an adapted car. Many driving instructors now have cars with

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some of the simpler modifications, however, if you need very substantial or unusual modifications, you may have to buy a car first before you can start your lessons. The Motability Scheme (www.motability.co.uk) will allow you to purchase a car and, providing you are insured, you can learn to drive in it. You must always be accompanied by a driver who is 21 years or older and has held their driving licence for at least three years.

Finding an instructor in your area is the next challenge, contact any local driving schools to ask for advice or have a look on the internet. The Forum of Mobility Centres is a group of 17 independent organisations throughout the UK that provide assessments and advice for drivers with disabilities, they may be able to help you locate a suitable driving instructor in your area, www.mobility-centres.org.uk.

The number of lessons you will need can vary greatly, it is always beneficial to get a family member or friend to take you out between your lessons for extra practice.

Tests The first test you have to undertake is the Theory Test, this consists of 50 multiple

choice questions and a hazard perception test where you watch scenarios unfold on a screen and have to identify potential hazards as quickly as possible.

When booking your test be sure to make the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) aware of your requirements to ensure the building is accessible and any necessary adjustments are made for your test.

Providing you pass the theory test you can then go on to apply for your practical test. You will be taking the same test as everyone else, again make sure you have informed the DSA of your requirements.

Driving examiners have been given some training into various disabilities, but it is advisable to make your examiner aware of the things you can and can’t do.

Your practical test can be very nervewracking, but just remember that your instructor would not have asked you to book your test unless he/she was confident that you were capable of passing.

Insurance Below are a list of companies who will insure 16 year old provisional licence holders: Chartwell Insurance 0845 2607051/ 7052 www.chartwellinsurance.co.uk Fish Insurance 0500 432141 www.fishinsurance.co.uk Tesco Motor Insurance 0845 3004400 (must call for accurate quote) www.tesco.com

31/01/2013 18:26

Wheelchaircars.co.uk

Wholesale Car Company The Home of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles At Sensible Prices

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Tel: 0161 793 5934 Full details on our website, www.wheelchaircars.co.uk

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www.wholesalecarcompany.co.uk

Wholesale Car Company Ltd 0115 9440333

Unit T, Digby Street, Ilkeston, Derbyshire DE7 5TG

01/02/2013 13:34

C&S seating

19 Stirling Road Castleham Industrial Estate St Leonard’s on Sea East Sussex TN38 9NP 01424 853331 info@cands-seating.co.uk www.cands-seating.co.uk

Products designed and developed to aid basic postural management.

T Rolls T Rolls are used to control position of the body in supine lying.

We also make various other rolls, see our website for more details.

Alternative Positioning Roll The APR is designed for use where more control of the abducted lower limbs is required.

Your independence, our motivation The Mobility Roadshow

30th anniversary event

27th, 28th & 29th June 2013 Telford International Centre Free admission & parking

test-drives r conversions r adaptations r scooters r wheelchairs r sport r cycling r innovation

www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk 0845 241 0390 ad_pages_feb_13.indd 23

01/02/2013 18:26

mobility roadshow

2013

Mobility Roadshow Celebrating 30 years of mobility advancement.

This year’s Mobility Roadshow celebrates 30 years of leading-edge technology designed to help disabled people of all ages lead more independent lives.

The 2013 event, held for the first time at the Telford International Centre, on 27, 28 and 29 June, will celebrate the incredible advancements made in the last 30 years. “The innovation behind some of the robotic products at recent events is light years away from what was available in 1983,” says Jacqui Jones, Chief Executive of Mobility Choice, the charity that organises the Mobility Roadshow. “We have much to celebrate and have big plans for this exciting landmark event.”

Share your favourite memories Did you attend the very first Mobility Roadshow in 1983 at the Crowthorne Transport Research Laboratory site or any others over the years? If so what are your memories of your visit? Have you found a product or advice at a past Roadshow visit that has made a significant difference to your life? Have you taken up a new interest, hobby or sport that you tried here for the first time? Perhaps you made new friends.

Regular visitors will know that this popular event has consistently offered visitors early previews and opportunities to be among the first to try out new products.

Many of you have found your visit inspirational, for some it has opened up a new world of possibility. Many have found a solution to a long-term problem, others a simple gadget that has made daily life more manageable. A lot of newly disabled people have felt less isolated, gaining confidence from knowing the level of help that is available from exhibitors.

Some of the most notable of these have included the world’s first inclusive drive from wheelchair standard car, the first public showing of the Toyota Prius hybrid, robotic vehicle storage systems, the stair-climbing i-BOT™, the Trekinetic All Terrain Wheelchair, the ReWalk™ robotic walking system and FES fitness and rehabilitation equipment.

The organisers are seeking your favourite stories – and pictures – for a special Roadshow Memories Album to be published on the Roadshow website. Be anonymous if you wish, but do please include your contact details when submitting your entry to memories@ mobilityroadshow.co.uk, they would love to hear from you.

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Test drives on the open road For the first time in the show’s history, test drives will take place on public roads around the venue, offering visitors a more authentic driving experience.

A carefully planned route, which will set off from and return to the Telford International Centre, has been designed in consultation with experienced instructors, who as always will accompany each driver.

You may book a test drive as a disabled driver or passenger, for whom a safe comfortable ride is equally important.

The Mobility Roadshow was the first event to offer opportunities to test drive production model vehicles with a variety of adaptations, enabling people with disabilities the rare opportunity to ‘try before you buy’.

Find out more and keep abreast of news as it unfolds by registering at www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk to receive updates and follow Facebook and Twitter @MobilityRdShow #mobilityroadshow.

0845 241 0390 info@mobilityroadshow.co.uk www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk

31/01/2013 18:30

CHARITY

Ricability Ricability is a national research charity that provides independent information to disabled and older consumers. We work in partnership with relevant organisations and consult widely with users and experts. Our information, available free as printed reports and online at www.ricability.org.uk is completely unbiased, based on rigorous research and aims to provide practical and useful information relevant to helping people stay independent.

Inclusive Design Our wider aim is to improve products and services by working with manufacturers, service providers, regulators and policy makers to increase their awareness of the needs of disabled and older consumers.

We are involved in standards and other committees to champion inclusive design.

Inclusive design means designing products which as many people as possible can use.

This seems a simple and commonsense idea. It has been estimated that about a fifth of adults in Europe have difficulty in carrying out everyday tasks.

Research We use a range of research methods including user testing, product evaluation, performance/safety tests, in-depth research, focus groups, and service evaluations by older and disabled people with specific impairments.

User testing of products We have a consumer testing panel of 250 older and disabled people who live within easy reach of the Intertek lab in Milton

Keynes. Panel members either test products in their homes, in the laboratory or in the wider environment. All tests are designed to reflect real-life use of the product or service. Recent user testing has included the new smart displays for monitoring energy usage, grocery packaging and plastic milk bottles design.

Mystery Shopping For our mystery shopping research, we use members of our trained panel of over 80 older and disabled consumers. We have carried out research for British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) to check sales practice of their members and for Age UK.

WE NEED YOU! We need more mystery shoppers who live in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the South West of England. Please get in touch if you have a disability and live in these areas.

Motoring

Car measurements Our ‘Find a Car’ database has key measurements on car models so you can make a short-list of cars that have, for example, the right height seat, door opening to get in or out, and/or a large boot. Each car model is featured on a factsheet which has the key measurements and detailed photos. The factsheets can be downloaded or printed. We now have over 950 cars on our database and new models are being added all the time.

Chris Lofthouse Outreach Manager, Ricability For more information contact Ricability, Unit G03, The Wenlock, 50 - 52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU.

Telephone: 020 7427 2460 Textphone: 020 7427 2469 Fax: 020 7427 2468 E-mail: mail@ricability.org.uk Web: www.ricability.org.uk

We publish a series of 13 motoring guides – all freely available in print and online: Choosing a car, Car controls, Getting a wheelchair into a car, Getting in and out of a car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) plus a Mobility address list which lists all the car adaptation companies and what services they provide. There are specific guides as well: Motoring after amputation, Motoring after brain injury, Motoring after a stroke, Motoring with arthritis, Motoring with cerebral palsy, Motoring with multiple sclerosis and Motoring with restricted growth.

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the Together Trust

Feeling like a fish out of water?

Join us and we will support you all the way.

At the Together Trust we nurture and encourage children, young people and adults with complex needs to break through barriers and take control of their lives. And we’ve been doing it since 1870.

We’re looking for people with different skills, backgrounds and experiences to join our team. From direct work with service users to administration or foster care there are many opportunities available. We also have a number of volunteering and membership opportunities available. Why not join us to gain experience and learn new skills.

You can help ensure that everyone at the Together Trust gets the best chance in life.

Registered charity number 209782

/SupportTogetherTrust

@TogetherTrust

091208

www.togethertrust.org.uk/vacancies jobs@togethertrust.org.uk 0161 283 4828

The Together Trust is committed to equality and diversity. The Together Trust is committed to safeguarding.

care • education • support • since 1870 ad_pages_feb_13.indd 24 091208_Ad-PosAbilityMag-297x210.indd 1

01/02/2013 09:56 18:27 14/09/2012

By Heather McGarrigle

SAVE IT

FINANCE

As the economic downturn continues and headlines scream every day about benefit cuts, it is more important than ever to make sure we’re not only managing our budgets, but hanging on to as much of our cash as possible. This is PosAbility’s guide to keeping an eye on the pennies and stashing as many of them away for a rainy day, or a few treats!

GETTING A GOOD DEAL The first step to making sure you have a bit of cash to stash is by paying as little as possible for the things you have to budget – your heating, gas, power, credit cards. These days it’s easier than ever if you have access to the internet.

Our top five money saving sites: 1. Money Saving Expert www.moneysavingexpert.com Most of you will recognise TV’s Martin Lewis, the energetic money saving expert who lives and breathes consumer rights.

That’s why he’s top of our list – because we, ordinary UK people, are top of his.

This enormous site is updated daily and whether its bills, bank accounts, insurance, mortgages or shopping deals, he and his team want to help you claw back every penny you can.

MSE is best known for its long-running work on reclaiming money owed to you – in particular it’s been fighting the consumer corner on bank charges for a long time and this campaign is still ongoing and regularly updated. There are step by step guides to claiming back bank charges, missold PPI, forgotten cash and council tax. Sign up to the weekly newsletter, it’s never ‘spammy’ and always packed with hints, tips and money-off deals.

2. Money Advice Service www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk The Money Advice Service (or ‘Ma’ as it’s dubbed on TV) provides an independent service, set up by government to provide

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FINANCE

free, unbiased money advice to people across the UK. It’s also possible to phone (0300 500 5000) or to speak to someone in person (regional numbers below).

It may sound terribly dry, but it’s actually a really lovely site, nicely laid out and easy to navigate with straightforward menus, making it easy to find what you are looking for. Its ‘Money Topics’ include saving and investing, borrowing, managing debt, insurance and homes and mortgages.

The Tools and Resources section is great too – budget calculators, printable guides and letter templates make it a practical, user-friendly experience.

Book face to face sessions on the following numbers or visit the website’s Contact Us page.

England: 0333 321 3434 Wales: 0300 330 0520 Scotland: 0808 800 0118 Northern Ireland: 0333 321 2424

3. Money Supermarket www.moneysupermarket.com You’ll have had a giggle at the ‘epic’ TV and radio ads but this site is pretty serious about getting you a good deal. It’s not as jammed-to-the-rafters full of stuff as MSE, but that helps make it a little cleaner and easier to navigate, with a fairly comprehensive selection of articles and advice and online forums, along with the insurance, credit card, energy, loans and holiday comparisons.

but I liked the added extras you get when you search for car insurance quotes – a drop down menu allows you to quickly compare price change if you select third party rather than comprehensive insurance and any extras or special offers are clear to see, so you can compare the deals at a glance.

United Response have set aside 100 USB sticks especially for PosAbility readers, which you can claim for free by emailing lu.large@unitedresponse.org.uk. Support workers can apply on behalf of people they work with. www.unitedresponse.org.uk

NOW

5. Go Compare www.gocompare.com Instantly recognisable thanks to the annoying opera singer on these adverts, but the latest addition of Stephen Hawking has added a little credibility and humour.

There is not an awful lot in it between Confused.com and Go Compare – again, I tried a car insurance comparison and it returned the same top results as the other sites, with similar ease and speed. It wasn’t as easy to adjust the variables and see how it affected the quote and the quote breakdown isn’t as easy on the eye as the others, which is why it’s last, but it does email the best two quotes to you for your reference which is handy. A great comparison site covering all the usual areas.

HELP AT HAND

Having never used the site before, I did a search for car insurance and it took about 30 seconds to find nearly 60 quotes, the first five or so did indeed beat my current premium by about £50.

United Response Disability group United Response has worked with partners in the financial services sector to deliver a set of free and accessible guides to money and banking. Designed with people with learning disabilities in mind, they have proven equally useful to people with English as a second language, low literacy or anyone who finds themselves lost in banking jargon and small print.

4. Confused.com The TV ads are particularly annoying, but as a comparison site, I actually rate this above Money Supermarket – MS just pips it as they have a bit more content in terms of advice and guides, but Confused.com doesn’t do badly here either. The site is very basic-looking,

Their latest product is a Money Toolkit, a programme on a USB stick which allows a person to see their incomings and outgoings in a simple visual format, and adjust their budgeting if necessary. It includes visual elements such as personalised pie charts which show you how your money is being spent. These sticks have proven massively popular with disabled people, particularly people on the autistic spectrum.

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EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAY FOR POSABILITY READERS!

The Belfastbased NOW Project delivers training and employment support to people with learning difficulties and is currently delivering the MoneyPlus course to help trainees manage their own finances.

Students and trainers can access all course materials on a bright, user-friendly website and a combination of interactive exercises and paper assignments is used to equip NOW users with the knowledge they need to look after their own money on a daily basis.

One trainee on completing the course said: “I just used to spend all my money as soon as I got it – after the course I think about all the things I need to keep my money for, like my bus fare to work and now I plan how I spend it.” www.nowproject.co.uk

TREAT YOURSELF The latest big thing in bargain hunting is daily discount sites – websites which offer massive savings off consumer products, beauty treatments and holidays, to name a few. The companies taking part offer huge savings and money-off deals – hopefully in return for your repeat custom, which is what they hope to gain.

In no particular order, here are the five biggest sites offering cheap deals. Happy shopping! www.groupon.co.uk www.treatticket.com www.wowcher.co.uk www.livingsocial.co.uk www.hotukdeals.com

31/01/2013 18:28

Providing quality affordable housing in the North West since 1965 symphonyhousing.org.uk

Valu Differeing nc

e

@symphonyhousing

Sometimes we do treat people with disabilities differently.

What does equality mean to you? That individuals are treated the same? Or treated as individuals? That people receive the same support? Or the tailored support they need? At The University of Manchester, we recognise that everyone’s different. Because we’re different too. With a Disability Support Office that’s highly regarded by staff and students alike, we offer the same opportunities to everyone – as well as the support individuals

need to maximise them. We don’t tick boxes. We live and breathe our commitment through research and study programmes, supportive disabled staff and student networks and a dedication from our President to meet people’s needs, not just our legal obligations. This isn’t the same old statement you’ve heard before.

Discover a different approach to equality and visit www.manchester.ac.uk

The University actively fosters a culture of inclusion and diversity and will seek to achieve true equality of opportunity for all members of its community.

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01/02/2013 18:29

FURTHER EDUCATION

Go Further The most recent figures show that nearly 13% of the 4.3m students in further education in the UK have a disability, compared to population statistics that show people aged 16 and over make up just over 10% of the UK’s population.

This is good news, indicating that equal opportunity is becoming a reality for disabled people keen to gain qualifications and improve their careers and employment prospects.

will be very academic, similar to school, others will be more practical and hands on.

The main qualifications offered are • GCSE • A Level • National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) • Higher National Diploma (HND) •Diploma • Foundation degree

Why college?

Education and training

You’ll probably find a little more freedom to ‘be yourself’ in college, usually a little less regimented than school and your programme of study is determined entirely by you. It can be a wonderful social experience, often with a varied mix of cultures, ages, backgrounds and abilities.

It’s a nice way to become more independent before you enter the big, bad world of work. If you are a mature student, it is sometimes difficult to adjust to socialising with people who may be younger than you, but the number of students aged 25+ is growing, so you’re unlikely to be the only ‘oldie’ and it is a great chance to be part of a more diverse mix of people than you may be used to.

Probably the most popular form of FE, this usually involves enrolling in your local college and choosing a subject area and qualification. The types of qualification and the choice of study topics are vast, some

An apprenticeship is basically ‘on-the-job’ training but unlike a work placement or experience, you get paid while you learn.

PosAbility’s guide to further education in the UK is here to help you through the maze of choices and find the path that is right for you.

What is further education?

Further education, often referred to as FE, is the education that is available to you once compulsory schooling ends at the age of 16. Once 16 in the UK, you can choose to look for a job or enter a new course of education.

The main forms of further education are:

Apprenticeships

Most of your training will be done in the workplace but may be supplemented by a local college or training provider. If you are under 16, the National Apprenticeship Service will pay for 100% of your apprenticeship, for those aged between 19 and 25, you will receive half of your fees paid for you and for the over 25s, a contribution will be provided by the NAS. Following a review, the government have published an action plan aimed at creating apprenticeships that work for people with disabilities and/or learning difficulties. You can find the full report at www.apprenticeships.org.uk.

Industries which commonly offer apprenticeships include engineering, mechanics and plumbing, however it is possible to gain an apprenticeship now in virtually any field, including digital media and business administration.

Why apprenticeships?

The obvious reason is the chance to start earning your own money straight away!

Not only can this be more tempting than a Saturday job and a student loan hanging over your head, it means from day one, you become more financially independent. You may not be on big bucks, but it is likely you will bring in enough cash to start www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 73

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FURTHER EDUCATION

living more independently. If you are an older apprentice and were previously working, it’s probably less of a shock to the system to move from a job to an apprenticeship rather than into full-time studying and exams.

Workplace learning As well as unpaid internships, workplace learning can also include courses of education related to the job you already have or the industry or company you already work in. The Open University is well known for working with employers to offer this type of study.

Some people will pursue workplace learning in order to gain new skills for the job they already do, or to work towards a promotion or new role within the company.

Why community learning?

A brilliant first step for anyone who perhaps has had little formal education, has suffered financial or social setbacks or for whatever reason, needs a bit of help getting started in the world of education and work. You’re likely to meet a variety of people, but each one is looking to improve their lives, enhance their skill set and live an independent life – just like you.

The best way to find out about this type of learning is to speak to your line manager.

If they don’t have workplace learning in place, do some research to find out the type of study you would like to undertake and ask if and how they might be willing to support you in this. Some firms have been known to help financially with course costs and expenses, others may facilitate flexible working if you need to study or attend classes and exams.

Your local newspaper, library or church are usually great places to start finding out about community education and the last two are highly likely to run or host such courses.

Why workplace learning?

“Leaving home at 16 to become a residential student at Hereward College seemed daunting at first, but with the support and enthusiasm of staff at Hereward, I quickly realised that this was going to be an exciting new chapter in my life.

Maintaining the security of the job and the colleagues you know, but adding to your knowledge and skills allows you to have the best of both worlds. It will be hard work and you will be expected to carry out the job you’re paid to do while you undertake your chosen mode of study.

However, it can only improve your job prospects, be it in this company or another, so it’s worth the effort, especially if your boss is supportive.

Community Learning Community groups and organisations across the UK offer a huge range of adult learning classes, ranging from arts and crafts skills to numeracy, literacy and IT classes. These are often offered free or at discounted fees to people who are unemployed and/or disadvantaged, aiming to have a knock-on effect of enriching the wider community long term.

Success Story Russell Smith, ex-Hereward College student, shares his success story with us.

I was born with Muscular Dystrophy and required support from the staff to carry out many activities of daily living; the residential curriculum at Hereward helped me develop my skills in order for me to take control of my life. I learnt how to become more assertive and direct staff, instructing them how to carry out tasks for me that I am unable to do for myself. This improved my communication and organisational skills, as well as increasing my confidence.

Specialist support from physiotherapy and nursing staff, along with assistive technology, also contributed to my being able to successfully access my learning programme.

On an academic level, I completed courses in Photography, TV & Video Production and a HND in Media. This led to employment at the college as a Media Lecturer, followed by product specialist roles with Widgit and my current employer, Therapy Box. I have recently developed a new mobile app and website – CarePair (www.carepair. co.uk) -which matches users and carers according to their care requirements, and also by their interests and location. I have worked in partnership with HDTI at Coventry University who have guided me, as a first-time entrepreneur, to develop my first product. It’s strange to think of myself as an entrepreneur and not something I envisaged when embarking on my Hereward College experience. However, the skills and qualifications I developed at Hereward helped to make this possible.”

Useful links Apprenticeships www.apprenticeships.org.uk Dept for Business Innovation and Skills www.bis.gov.uk Dept Employment and Learning – N. I. www.delni.gov.uk National Institute of Adult Continuing Education www.niace.org.uk National Union of Students www.nus.org.uk Universities and Colleges Admissions Service www.ucas.com

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Pengwern College is an independent specialist college providing education and care for students aged 16-25. The college grounds extend 23 acres with its own farm, forest area, horticulture area with poly tunnels and vegetable gardens, IT suites, High Tech Sensory Rooms, café, art studio and football pitch. We support students with moderate to severe learning disabilities. The college also offer places to students with a broad range of complex needs, including challenging behaviour and additional health needs, within our Care Standards Registration.

Specialist support is provided to students throughout the curriculum. The therapy team works to maximise opportunities for each student, helping them learn and develop in ways that suit them best. Our specialist support services include: § § § § §

Speech and language therapy Occupational therapy Hydrotherapy Audiology Educational psychologist

Prospective students, families, connexions advisers, Careers Wales and social workers are all welcome. Learn more about life in the vibrant college. Tour the college, see the students at work and have your questions answered at one of our college open days.

College Open Days · Thursday 28th February 2013 · Thursday 14th March 2013 · Thursday 25th April 2013 · Thursday 16th May 2013 · Thursday 19th September 2013 · Thursday 17th October 2013 · Thursday 21st November 2013

Come and see how we’re giving young people skills for life.

Mencap College, Sarn lane, Rhuddlan // Tel: 01745 592300 // www.mencap.org.uk

Looking for specialist education and care?

RNIB Pears Centre for Specialist Learning in Coventry offers a stimulating and supportive place for young people with complex needs who are blind and partially sighted to live, learn and grow.

Specialist education Up to 52-week residential care Therapies and healthcare Short breaks and respite care Outreach and training “Young people make significant progress and some outcomes are exceptional.” Ofsted, 2012

• • • • •

Visit us! Call 024 7636 9500

• Email pearscentre@rnib.org.uk ©RNIB 2013 Reg charity no. 226227

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To find out more scan this code or visit rnib.org.uk/pearscentre

28/01/2013 14:31

01/02/2013 13:35

Sanctuary Disability Ad-2011_Layout 9 16/05/2011 15:21 Page 1

Administrator Housing Officer Housing Manager Maintenance Surveyor Development Manager Project Manager Tenant Participation Officer Rent Arrears Officer Property Services Manager Housing Warden Land Buyer Shared Ownership Officer Graduate Trainee Surveyor Housing Advisor Customer Services Officer Neighbourhood Officer Enabling Officer Decorator Accountant Resident Advisor Receptionist Security Officer Communications Officer Legal Front of House Marketing Administrator Housing Officer Housing Manager Maintenance Surveyor Development Manager Project Manager Tenant Participation Officer Rent Arrears Officer Property Services Manager Housing Warden Land Buyer Shared Ownership Officer Graduate Trainee Surveyor Housing Advisor Customer Services Officer Neighbourhood Officer Enabling Officer Decorator Accountant Resident Advisor Receptionist Security Officer Communications Officer Legal Front of House Marketing Administrator Housing Officer Housing Manager Maintenance Surveyor Development Manager Project Manager Tenant Participation Officer Rent Arrears Officer Property Services Manager Housing Warden Land Buyer Shared Ownership Officer Graduate Trainee Surveyor Housing Advisor Customer Services Officer Neighbourhood Officer Enabling Officer Decorator COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE Accountant Resident Advisor Receptionist Security Officer

What’s your ability? (not your disability)

We are committed to recruiting and retaining the very best skills available. As leaders in our field, at Sanctuary Group we recognise that to exclude people on the basis of disability would be to deny ourselves a huge pool of talent.

It’s our intention to be one of the most inclusive, inspiring employers in the UK. This can only happen if everyone is equally valued in the workplace.

To find out more about our many opportunities and how you can contribute to our organisation, please get in touch with us.

HR Direct team 0845 543 6377 vacancies@sanctuary-housing.co.uk www.sanctuary-group.co.uk

SanctuaryGroup Groupisisaa trading trading name name of of Sanctuary Sanctuary Housingg Housing Association, Sanctuary Association,an anexempt exemptcharity charity

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01/02/2013 13:35

CAREERS

Get that Dream Job Preparing for Interviews

By Jane Hatton

Jane provides another column in a series of articles aimed at disabled people who are looking for a new or better job. This time she focuses on preparing for an interview, and next time she will be looking at the interview itself.

So, your CV has done its job, and impressed the employer enough for them to invite you to interview. There is a period of time between receiving the invitation to interview and the interview itself, and how this time is spent can make all the difference.

Research The more knowledge you have about the role, the company and the sector, the better you will perform in the interview. If you haven’t been sent a job description or person specification there is no harm in asking for these. This will give you a much better idea about the role, and what sort of qualities the panel will be looking for. If they don’t let you have them, don’t worry – the other candidates won’t have them either.

Research the organisation – its company website is a good place to start. This will give you some clues about the context the company works in – maybe its vision and values, who its customers are, how many sites there are etc. It’s also a good idea to “google” the company. If there have been negative news items about it, they are unlikely to announce it on their website. Also see what you can find out about the industry sector the company works in. Is new legislation imminent? Are there any changes in the marketplace which might impact on your new employer?

The more you know about the company and the sector it’s in, the more knowledgeable you will seem at the interview, so it’s impossible to do too much research.

Prepare You may need to let the employer know about any reasonable adjustments you require for the interview – maybe an accessible building, a signer, or additional time to answer questions. If so, let them have plenty of notice. If you don’t need any adjustments you may decide not to mention your disability at this stage. If it will be obvious at interview (maybe it is a visible disability, or it will show in your demeanour – e.g. Tourette’s) it may be a good idea to let them know before so they can focus on you rather than being distracted by realising you have a disability.

In the next edition we will talk about how to discuss your disability, if at all, during the interview.

Other things to prepare, although they sound obvious, are things like what you will wear to the interview. There is nothing worse than being fully prepared, and then getting up on the morning of the interview to find your suit is at the cleaners, or a heel has come off the shoes you were intending to wear. Decide what you are going to wear the

day before, and lay it out, ready. Similarly, give some thought to the journey to the interview venue. If you are going by train, where is the nearest station, and how long will it take to get from there to the venue?

If by bus, how close is the nearest bus stop, and how often do the buses run? If by car, is there a car park, and if not how much time will you need to walk from the nearest parking space? The last thing you want to do is arrive late, sweating and panting, rather than cool, calm and collected!

Re-visit your CV The employer obviously liked whatever you wrote on your CV, which is why they invited you for an interview. It’s a good idea to read it again and remind yourself of the skills you talked about. These are the skills to emphasise in the interview.

Prepare answers to questions Think about the questions you might be asked, and prepare some really good answers. If you were interviewing someone for this job, what questions would you ask?

Spend some time thinking about examples of achievements you can use to prove you have the skills they are looking for – the examples don’t have to be within paid employment, just evidence that you can do the tasks they will want you to do. We will look at this in more detail in the next article.

Remember – the more research and preparation you do, the better your chances of success! www.evenbreak.co.uk www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 77

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Networking Opportunities In 2012, Turner Broadcasting (the company behind TV channels including CNN, Cartoon Network and TCM) sponsored two delegate places on The Network, the Edinburgh International Television Festival’s entry level scheme, designed to help people from a diverse range of backgrounds get in and get on in the TV industry.

The Edinburgh International Television Festival is a charitable organisation, established in 1976. The festival attracts thousands of delegates looking to get ahead in the TV industry and provides opportunities to mingle with the great, the good and the emerging in TV and beyond in a series of exciting sessions, events, workshops and networking receptions.

Claire-May Minett graduated last year with a BA Hons in Media Studies and in her spare time she makes films for local charities. Claire has Mosaic Down’s Syndrome and her application to The

Network included a well thought out idea for a comedy series for children.

Here Claire shares her experience of The Network scheme, ‘I found out about “The Network” scheme through University. I applied for it the first year but I didn’t get through. I applied the year after and got through, so I was happy and I got to go to Edinburgh for the scheme. Whilst I was there for four intense days of training, we were involved in workshops, Q&A’s, seminars, CV clinics, training and working on two live productions. We were all put in groups. I was in production so our team had to put everything together and put it on live. I worked on both live productions, on one as Vision Mixer and the other as Stage Manager and Producer’s Assistant. It went really well, we got on together and had a marvellous time. My confidence soared whilst performing as part of a production crew, I learned how to manage the set with some help, how to aid the producer, to

work together as part of a production team and to keep everything on schedule to make sure the production ran smoothly. This has definitely kick started my career to get myself active within a production crew. I would recommend this to others as it is a fantastic opportunity to be involved in. I would love to be involved again as after the scheme you can apply for “The Network at work” which is a follow up to get a paid placement at a media company.’

Applications for The Network 2013 are open until 21st April 2013. Apply at www.thenetwork-tv.co.uk. www.turnerjobs.tv

Equal = Opportunity Whatever your origin, gender, sexual orientation or disability you can rest assured; it’s the person we see.

If you would like to pursue a career with one of the leading housing providers for older people we’d love to hear from you!

DIVERSITY CHAMPION

Visit the careers section of our website to find out more:

www.hanover.org.uk

We see equal opportunity just one way.

ad_pages_feb_13.indd 28

01/02/2013 18:30

Brain Teasers 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!

Sudoku To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Medium

Hard

Copyright © 2011 Peter G Sharp

Across 1. Lacking teeth (9) 8. Representative (5) 9. ----- Bridge, W. Scottish town (5) 10. Simpler (6) 12. Run away (4) 14. Ray of light (4) 15. Cylindrical wooden container (6) 17. Managed (5) 18. Eating utensil (5) 20. Child (9)

7. Underscore (9) 11. Cleansing preparation (7) 13. Hesitates (6) 16. Paradise (4) 19. Single unit (3)

Solutions to Dec/Jan crossword.

A big congratulations to Miss J A Pogue, London.

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

ability

Crossword

PUZZLES

Solutions The solutions to these puzzles will be printed in the next issue of PosAbility Magazine.

Sudoku Solutions from Dec/Jan issue 2012

Down 2. Be in debt (3) 3. Shred (6) 4. Catalogue (4) 5. Pertaining to the stars (7) 6. Softback (9)

£25 PRIZE! Puzzles_rt_jb.indd 1

Hard

Easy

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. www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 77 Closing date 31 March 2013.

01/02/2013 12:14

HOLIDAYS | PRODUCTS | MOTORING

Manaros • Luxury accessible house in a beautiful Welsh fishing village. Sleeps 8 • Private Patio overlooking fields • Local carers available By combining superior engineering with simplicity of design, it allows for all ages to bathe in privacy, with comfort, safety and dignity. It also has the added advantage of assisted bathing where required

• Close to accessible beach and restaurants.

• Free use of “Tramper” mobility buggy • Special Winter rates

The hydraulic system, gives years of smooth, gentle power, simply operated by remote control.

Designed to fit into confined spaces Smooth working load upto 22 stone Smooth efficient high power lift with manual traverse, and the added benefit of 180˚ rotation.

Manaros, 1 Dolfor, Aberdaron, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, LL53 8BP www.aberdaroncottage.co.uk enquiries@aberdaroncottage.co.uk Tel: 01758 760 652

Holiday Villa To Let Tenerife – Los Cristianos

Dingleton Mains, Melrose, Scotland, TD6 9HS

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• •

;B;9JH?9 7:@KIJ78B; 8;: M?J> 9EJ I?:;I$ >;7J;: FEEB M?J> >E?IJ$ H7CF;: 799;II$ CE8?B; >E?IJ <EH JH7DI<;HI JE 8;:$ J>H;; 8;:HEECI" IB;;FI KF JE I?N F;EFB;$ M>;;B9>7?H 7:7FJ;: L;>?9B; 7D: JM;DJO C?DKJ; JH7DI<;H <HEC 7?HFEHJ 7L7?B78B;$ 7BIE 7?H 9ED:?J?ED?D=" M7I>HEEC 7D: ;D=B?I> J;HH;IJH?7B J;B;L?I?ED$

• • •

Five of our holiday cottages are graded Category 1 (the best for unassisted wheelchair access) and have very special facilities and equipment All cottages have specially adapted kitchens and bathrooms designed for accessibility Two cottages have overhead tracking hoists Magnificent views over the Tweed Valley Stunning rural location yet only 2 mins drive from Melrose town centre

BE97B M;8 7:L?IEH IF;7AI ;D=B?I>

Tel: Pat 01670 761 242 or 07960 416 820 Email: dazsmi2k@yahoo.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL 0141 270 8085 ad_pages_feb_13.indd 29

01/02/2013 18:31

0RODUCTS TO HELP YOU EVERYDAY

Need Incontinence Products?

Order Online for big discounts and fast delivery Big savings on bulk orders!

Our product range includes:

Call: 01636 30 20 50

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Manage At Home Ltd is part of The Siddall & Hilton Group.

Sidhil Business Park, Holmfield, Halifax HX2 9TN. Co Registration No. 7203501 Vat Reg No. 990 2276 08

31914 M@H 60x100mm ad.indd 1

Finca Supported Holidays Ltd provide holidays all year round for adults who have learning disabilities.

Our Spanish Villa is situated in the small village of Perleta, near Elche Alicante on the beautiful Costa Blanca.

Tel: 01257 422667 www.fincasupportedholidays.co.uk

08/03/2012 12:25

Hunstanton Cottages SUNNY is a luxury fully equipped two bedded wheelchair friendly cottage in Hunstanton Norfolk. It has been completed to a very high standard including ceiling hoist, wet room, profiling bed and lots more. All facilities are on the ground floor with level access throughout. The adjoining cottage is: HUNNY it is a luxury holiday home that has been designed to sleep 6 people with two upstairs bedrooms and a ground floor sofa bed. The ground floor is wheelchair accessible, allowing residents of SUNNY full access to the ground floor of HUNNY. Call: 01733 841170 or 07740055063 martin.bennett@hunstantoncottages.com

www.hunstantoncottages.com

ad_pages_feb_13.indd 30

01/02/2013 18:32

magazine

Nothing is Impossible...

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

Jubilee Sailing Trust 12 Hazel Road Woolston Southampton SO19 7GA

Tel: 023 8044 9108 Email: info@jst.org.uk

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!

Travel Reviews

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

Dearyour Member,

Competitions

Exclusive competitions that give you the chance to win dream holidays, amazing products and once in a We have teamed up with brand new magazine, PosAbility, to send you a complimentary copy of the first issue. The lifetime experiences.

Products magazine is filled with useful articles, enjoyable stories and lots of competitions, including, the chance to win a Antrip innovative of products sailing with us! Turnmix to page 26 for detailsto on how to enter, good luck! support you in everyday living.

Health and Fitness PosAbility is all about living independently and actively, something you will read a lot about in PosAbility. This We look and issue looks into the Paralympic hopefuls for 2012 and gives some tipsat tosports those who areactivities keen to take a sport up on available for you to get involved in Wheelchair to Employment Education a serious level. There is alsoand an article on Extreme Sports for the more adventurous reader, a look at the Like us on Facebook Challenge taking place nextand month and an overview of the Mobility Roadshow. help you lead a healthy lifestyle.

Regular columns features on Search for ‘PosAbility Magazine’ getting yourreading dream job. Providing We hope you enjoy PosAbility, if you would like to subscribe at only £10 for 1 year or £18 for 2 years, please advice on CV’s, interview and or callDays use the form below to post back with tips your payment 0141 582 1475 and quote ‘Jubilee’.

Out Follow us on Twitter much more.

Great ideas for the whole family to Many Thanks @ PosAbilityMag enjoy.

Personal Stories

John Patten Jubilee Sailing Trust Inspiring tales from our readers.

Feb/March 2013

magazine

Nothing is Impossible...

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Contact Details Address: PosAbility PosAbilityMagazine, Magazine,Woodside CaledoniaHouse, Address: House,Woodside Evanton Drive, 20-23 Place, Thornliebank Ind. Est., Glasgow, Glasgow, G3 G467QF 8JT Tel: 0141 582 270 1475 8085

0141 1476 Fax:Fax: 0141 270582 8086

Code: JST 1

Feb/March 2013

01/02/2013 19:34

A RANGE OF REASONS TO GET INTO A MINI WITH MOTABILITY.

£0 FROM

ADVANCE PAYMENT*.

Visit www.mini.co.uk/motability or call 0800 083 6464 for more information and to find your local mini dealer.

Official Fuel Economy Figures for the MINI Range: Urban 26.4-67.3 mpg (10.7-4.2 l/100km). Extra Urban 44.8-80.7 mpg (6.3-3.5 l/100km).

Combined 35.8-74.3 mpg (7.9-3.8 l/100km). CO2 Emissions 184-99 g/km. *The MINI One Clubman is available from £99 Advance Payment under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Model featured is a MINI Cooper Clubman with optional Metallic Paint, Black Bonnet Stripes, Alloy Wheels, White Indicators and Chrome Line exterior for £1,175 under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. The MINI One Convertible is available from £99 Advance Payment under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Model featured is a MINI Cooper Convertible with optional 17" Wheels, Black Bonnet Stripes, Lounge Leather, White Indicators, Chrome Line Exterior and Xenon Headlights for £3,145 under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. The MINI Cooper Hatch is available from Nil (£0) Advance Payment under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Model featured is a MINI Cooper Hatch with optional Metallic Paint, Black Bonnet Stripes, 16" Wheels, White Indicators, Chrome Line Exterior for £1,285 under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. The MINI Cooper Countryman is available from £99 Advance Payment under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Model featured is a MINI Cooper SD Countryman with optional 18" Wheels and Xenon Headlights for £1,720 under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. The MINI Cooper Roadster is available from £999 Advance Payment under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Model featured is a MINI Cooper S Roadster with optional Metallic Paint, Xenon Headlights, 17" Alloy Wheels, Lounge Leather and Chrome Line Exterior for £2,590 under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. The MINI Cooper Coupé is available from £999 Advance Payment under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Model featured is a MINI Cooper SD Coupé with optional Metallic Paint, Xenon Headlights and 17" Alloy Wheels for £1,620 under the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. All prices are correct at time of going to press for orders placed and accepted between 1 January 2013 and 31 March 2013. The facilities offered are for the hire (bailment) of goods. The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered 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 the Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement, which will be taken in lieu of the four weekly rental. Terms and conditions apply and are available on request.

ad_pages_feb_13.indd 31 27729-Motability-PressAd-ABLE-_210x297mm.indd 1

01/02/2013 13:36 23/01/2013 14:46

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Individually built to suit you…clearly priced to suit everyone

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01/02/2013 00:01 13:36 29/01/2013