Posability feb mar15 by 2A Publishing

ability Feb/Mar 2015

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Nothing is Impossible...

Entrepreneurship Starting your own business

Accessible Days Out What the UK has to offer

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ability

THE TEAM

Welcome February/March 2015

I feel it may be a bit late to utter the words ‘Happy New Year’ to you all as I am not sure when the cut off is for saying this, but I am sure it is before February. However this is the first opportunity we have had to say it to our lovely readers, so I hope 2015 has gotten off to a promising start for you all. This issue has been one of the most enjoyable to work on for me. I have had the pleasure of speaking to so many creative and amazing people, who have helped to create an issue packed with captivating stories, incredible creations and some excellent advice. You will hopefully have noticed the striking cover image of an elaborate prosthetic leg embellished with Swarovski crystals, jewels and lace. This was created by Sophie de Oliveira Barata, founder of The Alternative Limb Project, to be worn by Viktoria Modesta who performed as the Ice Queen at the London 2012 Paralympic Games Closing Ceremony. We spoke to Sophie about the inspiration behind the imaginative prosthetics she creates.

Goleniowska, mother of Natty who is 8 years old and has Down’s syndrome. Hayley speaks openly and honestly about handling her daughter’s diagnosis and the journey they have experienced as a family. Mik Scarlet has also been providing his thoughts on the recent blockbuster, The Theory of Everything and has looked at the wider picture of non-disabled actors playing disabled characters. Inside you will also find a guide to accessible sports to get involved in, a collection of ideas for days out for all the family and we also bring you valuable advice from two disabled entrepreneurs on starting your own business. We hope you enjoy this issue and as always, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your ideas, thoughts or comments.

With World Down Syndrome Day approaching on 21st March, I had the opportunity to speak with Hayley

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writer: Jen McLean Sub Editor: June Bunton Designer: Abbie Bunton Sales: Allan Fleming Andy Singh

CONTRIBUTORS Mik Scarlet Lisa Newton Jane Hatton Michael McEwan Dionne Kennedy Sophie Mead

Innovation not Imitation

PUBLISHING

Disclaimer

PosAbility Magazine is published by 2A Publishing Limited. The views expressed in PosAbility Magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. Reproduction in part or in whole is strictly prohibited without the explicit written consent of the publisher. Copyright 2015 © 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

Ros

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A WEEK’S HOLIDAY WITH BRICKHOUSE FARM COTTAGES

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ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2015 | ISSUE 23

WHAT'S INSIDE

ability Feb/Mar 2015

magazine

Nothing is Impossible...

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

STARTING YOUR OWN BUSINESS

ACCESSIBLE DAYSTHEOUT UK

WHAT HAS TO OFFER

WIN

A WEEK’S HOLIDAY WITH

Cover image: © Omkaar Kotedia

GES BRICKHOUSE FARM COTTA

Down's syndrome

Ben Wolfenden

The Theory of Everything © Razlan

07 FYI…

News, stories and quickly columns

14 TOP ONLINE STORIES

16 ALL TOMORROW’S PARTIES

32 THE THEORY OF THE

Popular stories from our website

A look at his past and the year ahead with Mik Scarlet

19 family fun this easter

The UK's best accessible days out

25 SPORTS CALENDAR

Para-sports rundown for the year

Products

Contents.indd 1

27 THE UP SIDE OF DOWN’S SYNDROME We talk to Hayley Goleniowska, mother of 8 year old Natty who has Down’s syndrome

THEORY OF EVERYTHING

Mik Scarlet explores the portrayal of disabled characters by nondisabled actors

40 HOT STUFF

Bringing you the best of the latest innovations on the market

47 COMPETITION

Win a week at Brickhouse Farm Cottages in Lancashire

48 HOLIDAYS

PosAbility presents more Access Awards

53 SPORTS FOCUS

We look at a range of accessible sports and how you can get involved

60 ALTERNATIVE Prosthetics

We speak to Sophie de Oliveira

30/01/2015 11:56

ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL

Prosthetics

WIN!

Check out p47

A week’s holiday with Brickhouse Farm Cottages Brickhouse Farm Cottages are very kindly offering PosAbility readers the chance to win a seven night stay for up to six people at one of their cottages in Lancashire.

Sports focus

Barata of The Alternative Limb Project about her bespoke prosthetics

64 MOTORING

A look at the Volvo V40 Cross Country

68 MICHAEL MCEWAN

73 GET THAT DREAM JOB

Jane Hatton discusses her own experience of starting a business

77 BRAIN TEASERS

Keep your mind sharp with our puzzles

Michael examines the lack of disabled employment opportunities

70 BEN WOLFENDEN

- ENTREPRENEUR

Winner of the Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs 2014 talks to us about working for himself

Accessible days out

Motoring

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get in. stay out. With an Advance Payment of just £299, the Volvo V40 Cross Country will get you from A to B with style, safety and efficiency that no other model can match. Just don’t be surprised if, when you get there, you’re tempted to keep going. “I SMILE WHEN I GET IN. IT’S THE ONLY CAR I WOULD NOT HESITATE TO HAVE THE SAME MAKE AND MODEL AGAIN, AND THAT HAS NEVER HAPPENED WITH ANY OTHER CAR I HAVE OWNED”. ALAN. V40 CROSS COUNTRY OWNER. 21/01/2014 13:35

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Official fuel consumption for the Volvo V40 Cross Country in MPG (l/100 km): Urban 24.4 (11.6) – 67.3 (4.2), Extra Urban 44.1 (6.4) – 80.7 (3.5), Combined 34.0 (8.3) – 74.3 (3.8). CO2 emissions 194 – 99g/km. MPG figures are obtained from laboratory testing intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect real driving results. Offer available on Contract Hire to Motability customers for personal use only. To be eligible to join the Motability Scheme, you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independence Payment. Ownership of the vehicle remains with Motability Operations at all times including following the end of the agreement. *Advance Payment of £299 is for the Volvo V40 Cross Country D2 SE Manual. Initial payment as displayed, followed by 35 monthly rentals. Vehicle returned at contract end must be within contracted mileage (60,000 miles / 3 years) to avoid further charges. Excess mileage charges 5p + VAT per mile. Offer available from 01/01/2015 to 31/03/2015 subject to availability at participating dealers. Finance available to 18s and over only. Offer not available with other promotions and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Terms and conditions apply. For full terms and conditions visit volvocars.co.uk/motability. Motability Contract Hire is provided by Motability Operations, City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HB.

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FYI...

FYI

News, stories and quirky columns.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

Music Made Easy Jameela Jamil is opening doors for people living with disabilities with the launch of the first live music and events members club. It has been recognised that one in two people living with disabilities have run into problems while trying to book tickets to see their favourite bands or attend events. Maybe it’s the struggle to confirm easy access or simply the complicated booking system that has left you frustrated and empty handed but that’s where Why Not People? comes in. This new and exciting events company will give people an equal platform to enjoy their chosen act, whatever their requirements. TV presenter, DJ, writer, model and BBC Radio DJ Jameela Jamil identifies with the

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challenges disabled people face when attending big events as she suffered hearing problems and a broken back when she was young, limiting her ability to fully participate in certain activities. The frustration born from this difficult time has inspired her to launch Why Not People?, because what’s more fun than a good night out with your friends? Grateful to now be in a position where she can make a difference, Jameela outlines her vision: “I one day decided I simply can’t continue living in a world that excludes such a large part of society. In this day and age, and with so many technological advances, I simply refuse to believe we can’t make more effort to create a more balanced society, one that accommodates those of us who already face so many daily struggles.”

Other notable support comes from Ade Adepitan, Alex Brooker, Martin Dougan, Jordanne Whiley, Sophie Morgan, Hannah Cockfroft and many more. Why Not People? will invite internationally acclaimed artists from all over the music industry to headline events across the UK, with a specific focus on providing the most comfortable and enjoyable experience for all ticket holders. The latest technologies will be available to enhance and reinvent the sensory experience such as SubPac, a new piece of wearable technology which transfers low audio frequency signals across the body. The audience are encouraged to get involved and stay connected as part of a growing community where they can access information about exclusive upcoming club nights and gigs with Time Out magazine and one of the UK’s largest fashion brands. www.whynotpeople.com

30/01/2015 14:11

FYI

WheelPower Wins

£29,000

In Funding

Alf Morris Lecture Comes To London WheelPower, the national charity for wheelchair sport has been awarded £29,184 so more disabled children and recently injured adults can get fit and try new sports. The funding from the Varrier-Jones Foundation will help around 400 disabled people to attend events including the National Junior Games, several Primary/Junior Sports Camps and the flagship event for newly injured patients – The Inter Spinal Unit Games. WheelPower offers disabled people the chance to try many sports ranging from swimming to wheelchair rugby and athletics at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the Paralympics. The funding means WheelPower can continue to offer the Junior Sports Programme and Inter Spinal Unit Games, as well as supporting member sports organisations throughout the year.

Martin McElhatton said: “We are very grateful for The Varrier-Jones Foundation supporting our work in transforming lives of disabled people through sport. WheelPower is always keen to work collaboratively with other organisations, so together we can make an even bigger difference.” Vicky McDermott, Chief Executive of leading disability charity Papworth Trust, presented the funding to WheelPower’s Chief Executive Martin McElhatton. Vicky said: “It was great to meet with WheelPower at Stoke Mandeville Stadium to see the fantastic range of accessible sports that they offer. At Papworth Trust we believe that disabled people should be seen for what they can do. As the success of our Paralympians shows, making sports accessible to everyone is a huge part of that.” www.wheelpower.org.uk

The inaugural Alf Morris Lecture will be delivered by renowned journalist, historian, writer and social commentator, Sir Harold Evans. Sir Harold is no stranger to controversy. His distinguished career includes a 14 year stint as editor of the Sunday Times where he uncovered the thalidomide disaster and exposed Kim Philby as a Soviet spy. A personal story as well as a lecture, Sir Harold will share experiences and memories of his friendship with Alf Morris, which began at Brookdale Park School in Manchester and was strengthened by their mutual quest to campaign for the victims of thalidomide. Alf Morris, who died in 2012, became MP for Wythenshawe, then the world’s first Minister for Disabled People and later Lord Morris of Manchester. A man of purpose and intent, Alf was a true social reformer who made a genuine and enduring difference to the world around him. His achievements included the passing of The Chronically Sick & Disabled Persons Act (1970), the first to recognise and give rights to disabled people. Adapted as a template by other nations, it transformed the lives of millions of disabled people in the UK and worldwide. And his legacy lives on. The eagerly awaited lecture takes place at the Shaw Theatre, Euston Road, London at 7pm on Tuesday 10 March 2015. To buy a ticket, please call 020 7432 8006, email lecture@dlf.org.uk or visit www.alf-morris-lecture.org.uk.

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29/01/2015 19:36

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FYI

Speed Queen Takes To The Slopes Always up for a challenge, multiple medal winner Heather Mills has announced that this year she will attempt to break the Guinness World record for speed skiing. Heather lost her leg in 1993 in a road accident but has since enjoyed great success as a professional slalom skier, winning a number of gold and silver medals with the British disability ski team. Currently ranked 28th in the world in slalom racing, she is now teaming up with the Austrian Speed Ski Team with the goal of reaching speeds of more than 200km/h. She has suffered five high-speed accidents resulting in severe injuries such as a smashed scalpula (shoulder blade) and snapped anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Heather knows the risks in this high octane sport all too well but for her the most frustrating thing was the limitation she confronted with her initial prosthesis which felt neither natural nor comfortable, hindering her overall performance. For her newest endeavour she will rely on the creative genius of Abdo Haidar of the London Prosthetic

CHANGES

DISABILITY COUNSELLING THERAPY

hanges is a counselling service for people with disabilities, their families and carers, set up by a counselling therapist. Here she explains the motivation behind her business. “When I was diagnosed with epilepsy I was handed a leaflet and told that the answers to any questions I might have would be found in it. Walking away I wondered how medical staff

Centre to design a prosthesis which is robust enough to withstand the harshest ski racing conditions. Heather credits Abdo and the team with playing an integral role in her sporting achievements, providing her with the tools to reach her peak performance. Heather’s confidence in her prosthesis allows her to keep pushing herself. “It feels like a part of me when I’m skiing and for that reason I have complete confidence when I’m on the slopes.” In order to claim the title of fastest disabled female skier in the world, Heather will perform a vertical drop of between 300 and 340 metres but through the combination of her unwavering willpower and innovative engineering, we have no doubt she will succeed. Abdo Haidar agrees, affirming, “Heather has an incredible drive and determination to succeed, I have no doubt that she will achieve what she has set out to do.” For further information, please visit: www.thelondonprosthetics.com

could be so cold-hearted. My lack of knowledge about my condition caused me so much stress that I fell into a world of depression and had seizures. I lost focus on my everyday life and for years I struggled to recover. My family and friends didn’t understand the emotional pain I was going through and would say things like “pull yourself together” or “stop feeling sorry for yourself.” I lost my

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30/01/2015 14:13

FYI

Nimbus Launches Access Card The new Access Card from Nimbus is designed to easily and discreetly make businesses aware of the specific needs of disabled visitors. One of the major issues facing disabled people is having to explain requirements. It is common to be asked to describe any conditions, sometimes in humiliating and unnecessary detail, to provide proof of disability. Several high-profile venues are now bringing the card into practice, including: Capital FM Arena, Barclay Card Arena and Genting Arena in Birmingham, The SSE Arena Wembley, Download Festival, IPRO Stadium, Nottingham Forest’s City Ground all O2 Academies and Glastonbury Festival. The individual needs of cardholders are

job because I had a seizure in a meeting. The manager sacked me because she was ignorant about epilepsy, only to call me to apologise years later when her husband was diagnosed with the condition. During the early stages I was told that I couldn’t pursue a career in teaching but I decided to prove everyone wrong. I started to see a counsellor and after a few months I felt really confident and focused. I finally started to learn how to live a new life with epilepsy, studying hard until I passed my teaching degree. Subsequently I became

assessed and entered into a secure database. The venue can access information on the barriers faced by the customer and can then anticipate how best to meet their needs. The creator of the Access Card is Nimbus, a social enterprise consultancy run by disabled people. The team has worked closely with disabled patrons and providers to establish exactly what the card needs to communicate to help improve diversity for suppliers.

have all kinds of different needs and abilities but the focus is sometimes more on what a disabled person can’t do than how to support them. Access isn’t simply about wheelchair bays and the card can help people communicate this without going into intrusive levels of detail.” Applications can be made online at www.credability.uk.com/access-card, by requesting/downloading a hard copy or over the phone via 01332 404040 (option 5).

Well-known actor Warwick Davis became aware of the card in the recent Reduced Height Theatre Company tour and sees the value in a scheme like this: “The Access Card has real potential as it recognises that accessing services is about what a provider needs to do to enable a visitor; that people

an assessor and internal and external verifier, going on to teach and inspect for over fifteen years. Seeing a counsellor helped me rebuild my life and I’ve not looked back since. I set up Changes Counselling Therapy for people with epilepsy and disabilities, developing my BACP counselling skills. I now provide person centred counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy and psychodynamic therapy. Changes Counselling Therapy will always

offer trust, respect, motivation and confidentiality, creating a safe and secure environment for you to share your problems.“ For more information contact Changes on: 07956 219 843 changes.counsellor@yahoo.com www.dchanges.co.uk.

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FYI

Autism Pioneer Proposes a New Centre for Excellence Hope shines in the face of frustration for the parents of autistic children as Staffordshire charity Cauldwell Children outline a remarkable new project to provide a national service for neurodevelopmental disorders, a UK first. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is the most prevalent children’s disability in the UK, affecting one in 68 children. There is no explanation for this life-long learning disability which impairs communication development and empathy but Cauldwell Children has been at the forefront of practical support for over a decade. The brains behind Autistic Children’s Therapies (ACT) programme and considered ‘Thought Leaders’ in the field, the charity is designing a state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence that will provide a novel and holistic approach to disability, primarily autism. A dynamic behavioural approach to medical management currently allows the charity to substantially improve the features of autism in the children it supports. Chief Executive Trudi Beswick explains that while there is no present cure for autism, regulation is needed in the field of treatment because in a world of cloudy research and assumptions, frustrated parents and carers often favour expensive quick fixes over respected practices, leading to feelings of

despondency and depression when they don’t work. In the absence of a blanket cure, Trudi maintains an honest relationship with carers, making it clear that the best is being done with the small amount of quality research available. Given that there are few recognisable and respected practices for therapies, reliable evaluation is vital for progress. Cauldwell Children improves the quality of life beyond imagination for all of their parents and children “but one can only begin to imagine the impact that we will make when our Centre of Excellence is open to the public,” explains Trudi. The charity wants to provide families with an oasis of help and support designed specifically for them; The Centre of Excellence will boast a variety of learning environments including an interactive sensory garden, residential family accommodation and a video conferencing and IT room. Community engagement projects will discover the potential of each child, allowing comprehensive observation opportunities to aid research. On-going support will also be provided with the ultimate goal of securing employment. Find out more at www.caudwellchildren.com.

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29/01/2015 19:42

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TBC

MOBILIT Y CO N VERSIO N S

IntellIgence • empathy • care

29/01/2015 22:52

ONLINE

TOP Online Stories We bring you a snapshot of the top stories you have been reading on www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk.

Hugh Grant, the unknown actor and an inspirational real-life drama One is a world-famous Hollywood actor; the other a man with a learning disability. They met by chance and formed a warm, supportive friendship. The film star even turned up unannounced at his friend’s 40th birthday party in a village hall and arranged for him to fly to New York to appear as an extra in one of his movies and now the two of them are set to act together on a London stage. It could be the storyline from a Hugh Grant movie: but it’s the actor’s real life. On 13 January, Grant will appear onstage at the Sadler’s Wells studio theatre alongside his friend Nigel Hollins and other members of the Baked Bean Theatre Company for actors with learning disabilities. The play tells a story loosely based on Hollins’s own, about a young man who isn’t sure whether he has the confidence to get into acting, but who eventually plucks up the courage to take a part. Grant plays the friendly enabler who tells the boy that you have to take a few risks in life and reassures him that no actor should ever be afraid of making a fool of himself. Joanna Moorhead for the Guardian

Disability – “there is still a long way to go”

Sex and the disabled: why are the able-bodied so coy?

In an age where first world problems – bad hair days and wardrobe malfunctions – are commonplace, more important concerns can get lost in the daily moans and groans. In the UK, around one in five of us is disabled, that’s 11 million nationwide, and over a quarter of those suffering from disabilities say they rarely have choice or control over their daily lives.

There is a telling scene in ‘The Theory Of Everything’, the Oscar-nominated biopic about Professor Stephen Hawking who was diagnosed with a form of motor neurone disease at the age of 21. The young Hawking, brilliantly played by Eddie Redmayne, is being carried up a flight of steps in Cambridge, by a friend who reacts with surprise when he learns that Hawking’s wife Jane is pregnant. He asks him if he is able to achieve an erection.

This reality may be inconceivable to the able-bodied but, given that the number of disabled people in Epsom and Ewell is now over 10,000, a large proportion of the community is affected. International Day for People with Disabilities last month was a chance to turn the spotlight on disability issues locally and those organisations working to resolve them.

I confess that until that point, I’d been wondering exactly this, too. I have no doubt that it was a deliberate strategy on the part of the director to include this scene. And as I left the cinema, I heard several people talking about it: they had also assumed Hawking was unable to have sex.

Dorothy Watson, chief executive of The Sunnybank Trust, an innovative Epsom charity working with people with learning disabilities, said: “The public’s understanding of issues of learning disabilities, in particular, has improved but there is still a long way to go as they are still extremely marginalised in our local community.”

Hearing other people verbalise my thoughts made me wince. Was that really the most startling thing about Hawking’s life? Of course not. But at the end of the film no one was discussing whether the laws governing quantum mechanics and relativity can ever be reconciled, or pondering the nature of the origin of the universe, or even how on earth his wife managed to bring up three small children...

Iona Napier for Your Local Guardian

Max Pemberton for the Telegraph

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Columnist Mik Scarlet

All Tomorrow’s Parties About this time 50 years ago, in a little house in Luton Bedfordshire, two people were overjoyed. They had just learned that after three years of trying, they were finally going to have a child. On August 18th they had a little baby boy they called Michael, after his father. Everyone said little Michael was healthy and they took him home. However, they were soon caught up in a nightmare of neverending crying and sleepless nights. Expert after expert put the unending crying down to the worry of these two sleep deprived parents. Then a family friend, who had been a nurse, noticed that something was very wrong as baby Michael had stopped crying and was gasping for breath. Within a day it was discovered that the reason behind the crying was a cancerous tumour the size of a tennis ball. The NHS kicked into action and in the blink of an eye some of the world’s experts were planning his treatment. They also told this very sick baby’s parents that he had only a few days left to live, and even if the treatment went to plan he would only survive to the age of five at the most. After many months of treatment, surgery to remove the tumour and rounds of experimental chemotherapy and radiotherapy, it was announced that baby Michael was cancer free. However his parents were told to go home and enjoy what little time they might have left, as most children with this type of cancer did not stay in remission for very long.

Now if you haven’t already guessed that baby was me and despite what my parents were told, this year I will celebrate my 50th birthday! I am still in shock that not only have I made it this far but I am just about as healthy as I was in my twenties. This is a major realisation to me and is making me re-evaluate how I live my life. Up until the last few years, I was sure that some unforeseen illness or incident would cut my life short, for no reason other than I “felt” it. My father died of a heart attack at 35, when I was seven and as I grew up I became sure that I would never live longer than him. With this belief in my heart, I lived my life with the goal to enjoy what time I had. I partied at a professional level and never let work get in the way of a good time. I mean who thinks “I wish I’d worked more” as they die?

This is a major realisation to me and is making me re-evaluate how I live my life Typically as my imaginary deadline approached, I started dating the woman who later became my wife and this caused me serious panic. I had witnessed what happened to the people left behind when someone dies, but I also knew I loved this person. She laughed off my doom filled fears and we gave it a go. Result! Just before I hit the age at which my father died I was involved in a major car accident that broke my back... again! It really made me think my time was up. However,

with some major surgery and the care of my wonderful wife, I made it through. At this point I saw how silly I had been and started to wonder if I might live forever. My story is not that rare for disabled people. I have met so many disabled people who have similar stories of outliving their early prognosis and of surpassing the expectations of what they might be physically and mentally capable of. It’s part of what it means to be disabled as far as I can tell, yet society still sees us as weak and broken. Surely one of the stereotypes of what it is to be disabled should be that we prove how amazing mankind really is, how strong and indomitable we truly are? I know I feel that way. No matter what your impairment, you are an example of what is possible. I say that all of us should see 2015 as a year to celebrate. It’s another year that we surpassed the expectations of our abilities and showed the non-disabled world that disabled people can do anything, if they are given the opportunity to do so. If we are this amazing in a world designed to block us at every turn, imagine what we could do if these barriers weren’t in our way! I am planning to spend 2015 doing all the things I have always wanted to do. If you know of an exciting activity that might get my attention please drop me a line via Twitter @mikscarlet.

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29/01/2015 22:54

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29/01/2015 04/12/2014 22:54 09:20

ACCESSIBLE DAYS OUT



Riverside Museum Glasgow

The multi-award winning Riverside Museum in Glasgow is the new home of Glasgow’s transport collection. Replacing the old Museum of Transport, the Riverside Museum houses over 3000 objects, telling the story of Glasgow’s history as a transport innovator.

Family fun this Easter

The school holidays provide a great opportunity to spend quality time with your family, so why not try one of these accessible family-friendly days out or short breaks for a funfilled time with your loved ones this Easter.

From vintage to modern, the museum’s collection includes trams, buses, locomotives, subway cars, train carriages, taxis, cars and motorbikes. Visitors can also walk down three interactive streets and access the ‘shops’ dating from 1895 to the 1980s. The exhibits not only reveal information about the objects but also let visitors gain a fascinating insight into Glasgow life in the early 20th century. In order to get the most out of your visit, a number of interactive displays and touch screen panels tell the stories behind the objects. The touch screens include photographs, films and images. Each electronic introduction has text in different languages and many include BSL. The museum is situated on the banks of the River Clyde. Numerous models of Clydebuilt ships can be seen around the museum or to experience the real thing, visitors can step outside and visit Glasgow’s Tall Ship, The Glenlee, which is moored right outside the Riverside Museum. The 19th century sailing ship is one of only five Clydebuilt sailing ships that remain afloat. The Riverside Museum is completely wheelchair accessible, with level access to the building, lifts to take visitors between the lower ground floor and first floor and accessible toilets. All displays and interactive exhibits are at an accessible height for wheelchair users. Guide and Assistance dogs are also welcome. www.glasgowlife.org.uk

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Center Parcs

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ACCESSIBLE DAYS OUT

Various locations, England

Situated in secluded woodlands around the country, Center Parcs offers the opportunity to enjoy a unique holiday or short break tailor-made to the interests and needs of you and your family and friends. You and your party can choose from more than 200 indoor and outdoor activities to take part in, from archery and paintballing to golf, cycling and swimming. Or why not just enjoy the beautiful scenery of these vast forest landscapes, complete with lakes and acres of woodland just waiting to be explored. More information about the accessibility of the facilities and activities can be found in the detailed guide on the Center Parcs website.

www.centerparcs.co.uk

Eureka! The National Children’s Museum Halifax 

There is a variety of accommodation available including adapted lodges for guests with disabilities. These lodges feature an open plan living and dining area and a fully equipped kitchen with lower worktops. The bedrooms are spacious and fitted with an electric bed, while the bathroom features a walk in/ wheel in shower. The adapted Exclusive and Executive Lodges have the addition of a hot tub which is fitted with a hoist, and the saunas and steam rooms all have wider access for wheelchair users.

Eureka! The National Children’s Museum is a playful, interactive family attraction. It’s not like traditional museums as it was designed especially for children aged 0 to 11 years where, rather than the traditional “do not touch” approach, children are invited to grab, touch, feel, experiment and play. Eureka! has six large galleries exploring different themes, such as Living and Working Together where children learn about the world of work and All About Me, where children explore how amazing our bodies are through hundreds of interactive exhibits. Eureka! is proud to be an inclusive venue, awarded Silver in the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2014 – Access for all category. Eureka! runs an innovative,

free Extra Pair of Hands service supporting families with disabled children by giving them their own, fully trained member of the Eureka! team to help them get the most out of their visit. All members of the Eureka! team are trained in disability awareness, many are learning BSL, and on Disability Access Day 2015 they launched Super Saturdays – free, regular clubs for disabled children and their families. Eureka! also provides The Eureka! Story – a downloadable introduction to the sights and sounds at Eureka! to help prepare visitors with autism and other conditions. For more information visit www.eureka.org. uk/access or call Eureka!’s Inclusion Manager Trizia Wells on 01422 330069.

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ACCESSIBLE DAYS OUT

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Holidaycottages.co.uk

Many of these offer increased accessibility features so whatever your requirements, they can find something to suit your whole family, from properties situated completely on ground level to those which have been specifically designed with wheelchair users in mind. Their dedicated Property Managers personally inspect every one of their cottages and an accessibility statement will have been signed by both them and the property owner. Their state-of-the-art website offers a special feature to search cottages by increased accessibility, or they have a dedicated accessibility section, to give information and advice on their accessible properties and locations across the UK. Their accessible features do vary but the team at holidaycottages.co.uk are on hand seven days a week should you need any help. Holidaycottages.co.uk were delighted to be named the ‘Winner of Best Medium Holiday Cottage Booking Company 2014’ at the highly respected British Travel Awards. As a result, we are confident that we can help plan the perfect holiday to suit your requirements. For more information call 01237 426273 or visit holidaycottages.co.uk

National Marine Aquarium

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Holidaycottages.co.uk is a leading selfcatering letting agency with cottages found in the most sought-after destinations in England, Scotland and Wales. With over 1800 properties in their collection, they have a wide variety of cottages and locations to choose from. Discover traditional chocolate box cottages found in quintessential villages, charming fisherman’s boltholes in seaside towns, rural lodges on the edge of woodlands and modern city-centre apartments.

Plymouth

The National Marine Aquarium is the UK’s largest aquarium and is home to over 4000 marine animals, as well as Britain’s deepest tank measuring 10.5m deep. Located in Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, visitors can learn about the world’s oceans and how we can all play our part in conserving them. Here you can meet some of the creatures that inhabit waters all around the world, from right outside the Aquarium’s doors in Plymouth Sound, all the way to The Great Barrier Reef. The Aquarium is divided into four different areas: Plymouth Sound, British Coasts, Atlantic Ocean and Blue Planet. See the Hermit Crabs and Lobsters in the shallow waters of Plymouth Sound, visit the Aquarium’s centrepiece exhibit, Eddystone Reef and find out about the diversity of life in the waters of the British Coasts, stand face to face with a Sand Tiger Shark, and enjoy the beautiful colours of over 70 species of fish in the stunning Great Barrier Reef exhibit. For those visitors who want to learn a little

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ACCESSIBLE DAYS OUT

Cutty Sark

bit more, the Aquarium also runs an action-packed talk schedule, including the interactive dive show at 2pm daily. The National Marine Aquarium is fully accessible to wheelchair users with ramps and lifts throughout. There is level access at the entrance and designated disabled parking spaces are also in place. Wheelchairs are available for hire. Carers for disabled visitors are admitted free of charge. Guide dogs are also welcome. For more information visit www.national-aquarium.co.uk.

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Greenwich, London

The famous Cutty Sark is the world’s last remaining tea clipper. Thanks to a fiftymillion-pound renovation visitors can explore much of the original three-masted sailing ship and get a feel for what life was like on-board through a number of innovative exhibits and interactive displays. Visitors can venture both aboard and underneath, as the ship has been raised over three metres to give people the unique opportunity to walk under the ship. The Cutty Sark’s original wooden planks and iron frames have been conserved and visitors can also view the fascinating collection of objects on display, ranging from figureheads to newspaper cuttings, which help tell the story of its 144-year history. Throughout the year, the Cutty Sark hosts a number of family-friendly events such as tours, tea tasting, arts and crafts, and the opportunity to meet the ‘Cutty Sark Characters’. BSL and interpreted tours are also available. For safety reasons, only three wheelchair users can visit the Cutty Sark at one time. Most areas of the ship are accessible, however unfortunately the Master’s Saloon, cabins and anchor deck are not accessible to wheelchairs, but virtual access

is provided to these spaces. Lifts offer access to all other areas of the ship, including the Main Deck and the Sammy Ofer Gallery beneath the ship. Mobility scooters cannot be accommodated on the Cutty Sark, however manual wheelchairs and most powered wheelchairs can access the ship. Manual wheelchairs can be pre-booked before your visit. Guide dogs, hearing dogs and assistance dogs are welcome across all sites. Hearing loop systems are in place at the Admissions and retail desks and at the retail point for the Even Keel café at Cutty Sark. Largeprint and braille guides to the ship can be borrowed from the Admissions Desk, which include information about tactile and audio exhibits on-board. www.rmg.co.uk/cuttysark

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Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Converters Association

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SPORTS CALENDAR

SPORTS CALENDAR 2015 We take a look at some of the sporting highlights not to miss in 2015.

7th-14th February World Wheelchair Curling Championships Lohja, Finland

26th-29th March Para-cycling Track World Championships Apeldoorn, Netherlands

10th-12th July Wimbledon Wheelchair Tennis Tournament Wimbledon, England

The championships will feature 10 mixed gender teams; one from the host association, two from the qualification event and seven directly from the previous WWCC. Teams this year will include: Canada, China, Finland, Russia, Scotland, Slovakia, Sweden, USA, Norway and Germany. For more information visit www.worldcurling.org.

Apeldoorn also played host to the 2011 and 2013 UCI Track Cycling World Championships and UEC Track Cycling World Championships 2011. Events include; Tandem sprint, Tandem time trial and Tandem pursuit, Cycling time trial, Cycling pursuit, Cycling team-sprint and Cycling scratch. Visit www.uci.ch.

The most anticipated Championship on the tennis circuit. Jordanne Whiley made history last year by becoming the first British woman to lift a wheelchair tennis trophy at Wimbledon as she clinched the doubles title with Japanese partner Yui Kamiji. For more information visit www.lta.org.uk.

26th April Elite Wheelchair Virgin Money London Marathon London, England

13th-19th July IPC Swimming World Championships Glasgow, Scotland

In association with the International Paralympic Committee and Virgin Money, the event takes place on the same day as the London Marathon and sees athletes from all over the world compete in the marathon stage of the IPC’s Athletics World Championships. For more information visit www.virginmoneylondonmarathon.com.

After a £14m refurbishment for the Commonwealth Games, the state of the art Tollcross International Swimming Centre will play host to the IPC Swimming World Championships, after hosting the qualifiers early this year. The event schedule could see a possible five gold medals for British swimmers with favourite Ellie Simmonds looking to defend her 400m freestyle S6 title. For more information visit www.paralympic.org.swimming.

23rd-28th February IPC Para-snowboard World Championships La Molina, Spain La Molina is a ski resort in the Pyrenees, Girona, Catalonia. The Championships will be held under the governance of IPC. Around 80 athletes from 20 countries will participate. Para-snowboarding only debuted at the Sochi 2014 Paralympic games. For more information visit www.lamolina2015.com.

5th March ParalympicsGB Sports Fest Durham University, England The British Paralympic Association presents another Sports Fest event. It is a free multi-sport event for disabled sports fans. Guests are invited to come along, try out a host of different sports, and meet some of Britain’s best Paralympians, raise awareness and inspire! Visit www.sportsfest.uk.com for more information.

13th-28th June Cerebral Palsy Football World Cup Staffordshire, England 15 nations compete for seven places at Rio 2016. St. Georges Park (the National Football Centre) will play host to the prestigious event. Jack Rutter, team captain and player for Birmingham City, suffered a brain injury after an unprovoked attack during a night out. Three years later Rutter became captain of England’s CP team, which also welcomes those with brain injuries or trauma. For more information visit www.thefa.com.

28th August- 7th September European Wheelchair Basketball Championships Worcester, England 400 male and female athletes from across Europe will play at the games, hosted at the recently opened University of Worcester Arena. The arena will also be Team GB’s wheelchair basketball training venue in the lead up to the 2016 Paralympic Games. For more information visit www.gbwba.org.uk. www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 25

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DOWN’S SYNDROME

The Up Side

Down's Syndrome Hayley Goleniowska is a mother of two beautiful children, Mia is 10 and Natty is 8. Natty has Down’s syndrome and is the driving force behind Hayley’s passionate work to raise awareness and acceptance of Down’s syndrome. I had the pleasure of talking to Hayley about her journey as a mother and the recent book that she has produced with her eldest daughter Mia which provides an introduction to Down’s syndrome through the eyes of a sibling.

peaking with Hayley was a very humbling experience. As a fairly new mum myself I knew that asking her to share her thoughts and feelings from when her daughter Natty was born was something very personal. But Hayley warmly and enthusiastically let me into a very personal world of emotion for her and her family. Her story is one of self discovery and love and I hope that Hayley’s words will offer some comfort and reassurance to new parents who have had a diagnosis of any form for their new baby.

The Journey Begins Natty was born on the bathroom floor of the Goleniowska’s home, this was a planned home birth as Hayley had wanted little

intervention. She explains that they had screening for Down’s syndrome and were given a ‘1 in 300’ chance that their baby would have Down’s syndrome. The medical professionals urged them to consider an amniocentesis, however Hayley had previously gone through four miscarriages so they felt that was not an option for them. “I had had four miscarriages at that stage so we refused invasive testing, naively saying ‘because of the risk to a healthy baby’”. Hayley goes on to say she now would say “because of the risk to the baby, healthy or not.’” “So we didn’t know for certain that Natty had Down’s syndrome. We had lots of scans because Mia had been a breach baby but  www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 27

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DOWN’S SYNDROME nothing showed up, not even the hole in her heart. So we went ahead with the planned home birth.” The birth was a traumatic experience for Hayley and her husband Bob as Natty made no sound when she arrived into the world. “The midwife arrived about 10 minutes before and when she was born she was silent and blue and still. The midwife panicked a bit I think and gave her mouth to mouth, but she just wouldn’t pink up, but the paramedics were with us fairly quickly. “It was about five hours later that we were given the diagnosis in hospital.” During that five hours they had been working on Natty in the hospital and Hayley tells us that her husband Bob remained with their new daughter, but she confides that he has never spoken about what happened in those five hours: “My husband insisted on being in the room with her while I was in a ward somewhere else and he has never even spoken to me about that time, so I don’t really know what went on, what he saw or witnessed. I think it was too emotional and painful for him to talk about but he wanted to be with her.” They discovered that Natty had two holes in her heart and she had very low oxygen levels so she remained in hospital for three weeks. When asked about her initial feelings and reaction to the diagnosis that Natty had Down’s syndrome Hayley confided: “My world fell apart, I was too afraid to go and see her, I didn’t want to look at her, I was afraid of losing her so I was afraid of loving her in case she died. It’s a very strange emotional reaction to have but I think it’s quite a common one having spoken to others.

Natty has taught us to slow down and look at life from a different angle, to appreciate the little things in life, like friendship and dancing, a ladybird on a leaf or the sunrise

“There was an amazing community midwife who said “that baby needs your love, whether she lives or dies, so just get down to that hospital”, stop being so selfish basically, she didn’t say that but she was so right! I guess I was afraid that I wasn’t up to the job of being her mum, that I wasn’t good enough. “But everyone around us was wonderful and within hours that subsided and we

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DOWN’S SYNDROME were terrified of losing her and we dashed home to be with our eldest and we sat and hugged.”

Myth Buster

Bonding

Myth: People with Down’s syndrome don’t live very long.

Hayley admits that it took a while to bond with Natty. She had to be fed through a tube initially which meant that Hayley couldn’t breastfeed her. Breastfeeding can help to form a strong bond between mother and child in the early days as well as providing them with an unrivalled source of nourishment to help with their development. Hayley explains how expressing breastmilk for Natty helped:

Fact: Today, people with Down’s syndrome are living into their 50s and 60s with a small number living into their 70s and beyond.

Myth: Only older mothers have babies with Down’s syndrome.

Fact: Although older mothers have a higher individual chance of having a baby with Down’s syndrome, more are born to younger mothers, reflecting the higher birth rate in this group.

“It was important for me to breastfeed her the same as I did with her sister and expressing that milk while she was in neo-natal care gave me a focus because while they are in hospital they don’t feel like your baby, you go in and you ask if you can touch them and you are looking to those wonderful neo-natal nurses to give you the lead, but being able to express that milk you felt like you were doing something for that vulnerable baby and I think it was key to helping with the bonding process.” “We all, when we are pregnant, create an image of our baby in our head and of course that baby is healthy and they probably look like you and all those other things. So when they arrive and they are not quite what you expect, some people describe it as a period of mourning and I guess I did go through something like that. It did take quite a while, I think again that was mostly down to my lack of knowledge about Down’s syndrome which is why I plug away at the blog and I hope that through my words and what Natty does and through the media, that we are buying other parents time in the early days.”

Attitudes Hayley admits that in the early years she came across people who made insensitive comments, asked questions and offered advice that portrayed the negative way they viewed Down’s syndrome, but she generously acknowledges that they were never meant in a malicious manner. “There is that attitude that prevails out there that someone with a disability doesn’t count as much, that they don’t have the same right to life, that they are a mistake or a burden to be avoided. But people need educating. I too was once ignorant about learning disability. I now know that

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Myth: People with Down’s syndrome cannot achieve the same life goals.

Fact: With the right support, they can. Small but increasing numbers of people with Down’s syndrome are leaving home and living with support in their communities. They are gaining employment, meeting partners and getting the best out of life.

Myth: People with Down’s syndrome all look the same.

Fact: There are certain physical

everyone contributes in different ways, that you cannot measure a person’s worth in pound coins, or by the way you yourself experience life.”

characteristics that can occur. People with Down’s syndrome can have all of them or none. A person with Down’s syndrome will always look more like his or her close family than someone else with the condition.

Myth: People with Down’s syndrome Hayley has campaigned for inclusive advertising and Natty has appeared in campaigns for companies such as Sainsbury’s. “When Natty was born, the whole reason behind my fear was due to the lack of visibility of individuals with a learning disability in our society, which is why I have tried to bring it into the mainstream. The modelling might sound a bit ‘fru fru’ and fluffy and a superficial thing to do, but actually it’s about the fact that we need to see everyone represented in mainstream marketing and media. Our children also love funky clothes just like any other child. Natty loves showing off and views the photo shoots as mini play dates.”

A Sisters Love When asked about Mia’s relationship with Natty emotion fills Hayley’s voice. She chokes back tears as she describes the 

are always happy and affectionate.

Fact: We are all individuals and people with Down’s syndrome are no different to anyone else in their character traits and varying moods. www.downs-syndrome.org.uk

We have 2 copies of the book I Love You Natty to give away for free. If you would like a copy please email your name and address to ros@2apublishing.co.uk.

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Make the most of The Big Event and choose your ideal Motability car Disabled motorists and their families can find out more at Motability’s The Big Event this May. Returning to Manchester’s EventCity on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May, this two day flagship event is the UK’s largest display of vehicles available to lease through the Motability Scheme. Over 100 cars from 27 different manufacturers will be showcased at The Big Event where visitors can discuss their preferred options with the friendly Motability advisors. Test drives will be available to book on the day, to help ensure the vehicle is comfortable and suitable for both drivers or passengers. Free to attend, including free parking and held entirely indoors, visitors are also treated to a free cup of tea or coffee when they arrive.

A helpful checklist of things to consider when looking for a new car: • Is the car easy to get in and out of? Try this several times. • Are the doors wide enough for you and any equipment you need to carry? • Can you reach the door to comfortably shut it from the sitting position? • Can you turn and stretch for the seat belt? • If you are driving the car, are you able to see from every angle and can you reach all the controls easily? For more information on The Big Event on 8 and 9 May 2015 and other regional One Big Day events throughout the summer, visit motability.co.uk/thebigevent or facebook.com/ MotabilityEvents.

Don’t miss The Big Event Held entirely indoors and over two days at EventCity in Manchester, The Big Event hosts the UK’s largest display of vehicles available on the Motability Scheme. See over 100 cars from 27 manufacturers

Over 40 scooters and powered wheelchairs on display

Phoenix Way, off Barton Dock Road, Manchester, M17 8AS More than 35 adapted cars and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

Over 45 cars available to test drive including 15 fitted with adaptations

FREE entry, FREE parking and a FREE tea or coffee

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EE Y FR TR EN

EventCity, Manchester

Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May 2015 9am to 4pm

Find out more at motability.co.uk/thebigevent or call 0800 953 7000 Please quote MO709D * To test drive the cars you must bring your full UK driving licence including the paper part if you have a new style photocard licence. Full Terms and Conditions can be found at motability.co.uk/thebigevent.

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DOWN’S SYNDROME bond between her two girls. “Their relationship is incredible. I was a stay at home mum with Mia when I was pregnant with Natty so Mia’s voice was the voice that Natty heard most when she was in the womb. When Natty was in the neo-natal ward I would spend most of the day with her – about 10 hours a day – but Bob would bring Mia in to visit and we would be allowed to go into a little side room on our own. When Mia turned up and started talking to her it would be the only time that she would struggle to open her eyes and turn her head to look at her.” “They are very close and Natty wants to be like Mia and Mia gets a bit annoyed when she copies her but they are wonderful together, they are wonderful girls.”

I Love You Natty Mia, with the help of her mum, has produced an amazing book that introduces Down’s syndrome to families through her eyes, through the eyes of a sibling who loves her sister and knows that her life would not be the same without her. Hayley always knew she wanted to do a book that would help families and siblings as it was something that they struggled to find when Natty was born. Hayley’s blog, Downs Side Up, was a way to test the water and it has turned into a full time unpaid job, helping families by sharing personal real life stories that people can relate to. The book, named ‘I Love You Natty’, came about when Hayley and her husband Bob found some lovely notes in Natty’s room from Mia: “There was a little one that said ‘Natty you

WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY Taking place every year on 21st March, this year celebrates the 10th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD). Down Syndrome International invites everyone across the world to wear LOTS OF SOCKS on 21st March 2015 to raise awareness on WDSD. The idea behind wearing lots of socks is to attract questions from people which will allow you to spread the word about WDSD and Hayley believes it shows that we are all colourful and unique. The quirkier and more colourful the better or you can buy items with the Lots of Socks logo to help raise awareness. To help raise money for Down’s Syndrome organisations and charities you can donate as little as £1 or hold your own fundraising event. Find out more about WDSD at www.worlddownsyndromeday.org are the best sister in the world and if you weren’t in my life my life wouldn’t be the same’ and I thought that is the basis of the book. So we put the notes together and I asked Mia some questions to fill in the gaps and she sort of wrote a description of Down’s syndrome of what she thought it was. We ran it past lots of charities who loved it and they made suggestions and we tweaked it and then we added family photos and a friend put it all together for us and did the illustration. It’s going into lots of schools and it’s being used to teach medical professionals doing their training and teachers. It’s a nice little book on inclusion really and it is also going to families and helping siblings and cousins. The idea is to get them into hospitals and get them to portage workers and health visitors so they can be given to families when they are needed.”

You are Stronger Than You Know We asked Hayley what advice she would give to new mums who have just found out their child has Down’s syndrome: “I would want to say that it will be ok. If I had known a Natty back then, I wouldn’t have had all the fears and worries. There will be challenges, there will be days when

it’s hard and there will be worries, but you are stronger than you think you are and it will be ok. You will learn so much about yourself and your child will teach you so much as all children do and bring so much to your family. “Natty has taught us to slow down and look at life from a different angle, to appreciate the little things in life, like friendship and dancing, a ladybird on a leaf or the sunrise, “Wow Mummy, the day, it’s waking up” and to never be as arrogantly ignorant as we were before she arrived in our lives. “Without Natty we wouldn’t have met so many incredible people along the way, she has opened so many doors for our family and wherever we travel people are drawn to her to come and talk and maybe they are curious and some families might describe it as staring, but we always draw people in and end up talking to them and they leave a little bit wiser knowing a little bit more about what Down’s syndrome means having met Natty. She has taught us what life is really all about. We can’t decide everything in life, we can’t plan for everything and the strongest parents are the ones that can go with the flow.” www.downssideup.com www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 31

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DISABILITY IN FILM

The Theory of

The Theory of Everything Mik Scarlet gives his thoughts on the latest blockbuster, The Theory of Everything and further explores the controversial subject of disabled characters being portrayed by non-disabled actors.

cannot deny that I had no desire or intention to go and see the film ‘The Theory of Everything.’ As well as being unimpressed with yet another movie being made with a disabled character being played by a nondisabled actor, it’s not my kind of film. When PosAbility asked me to write this article I girded my loins and set out to book a couple of tickets. This was not an easy process as our local cinema had decided in its wisdom to put the film on in an inaccessible screen, which is worthy of being a line in Alanis Morrisette’s 1995 hit “Ironic”. So my wife and I had no other choice than to drive to another part of London to see the film. What is worse is that this has happened in other parts of the country as demonstrated by the story of

Joe France, a 12 year old boy who tried to see the movie at his local Odeon in Harrogate on January 17th (Disabled Access Day no less) only to find he too could not gain access to the screen showing the film. However I digress...

The Quantum Theory of Everything I tried to forget my preconceptions as the film started. I was desperate to give it a chance and I hoped I would come out liking it or at least not hating it. For the first half hour it was OK, being a Merchant Ivory style story of two privileged young people falling in love in the beautiful grounds of Cambridge University, then to have that love tested as one of the lovers faces the diagnosis of a life shortening condition. When this happens the film almost becomes empowering, as love blossoms leading to marriage and children.

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As Stephen Hawking’s Motor Neurone Disease (MND) gains impact on his physical abilities, the film switches from being about the two lead characters to exploring Jane Wilde Hawking’s “heroic” battle to care for her husband. There is very little mention of why Stephen Hawking is so important to the world of science and if it hadn’t been for the fact that my wife studied physics at university I would never have known which scene marked the moment when he changed our understanding of the universe forever. It passes by almost unmarked, swallowed up by the following scene of Hawking’s mate carrying him up some stairs, there to make sure the audience knows Hawking’s willy still works. Important stuff eh? In fact it seemed that every time Stephen and Jane Hawking kissed in the film, the next shot was of one of them holding a new baby. Not only is he a genius but rather fecund to boot, or is it just that nobody wants to think of pretty Jane getting sexy with disabled Stephen too often. Three kids, three sessions of sex will do thanks.

According to the film his greatest achievement was not his work but his inability to die when he was told

What really got to me was how much time was spent on biology compared to the tiny amount spent on physics. Hawking is one of the greatest mathematicians in history, yet a key scene showing him actually doing maths was really there to demonstrate his losing the ability to hold chalk. In movies with scientists as featured characters, such as ‘Life Story’ about the discovery of DNA, there is some effort made to explore the

Eddie Redmayne scientific elements of the story, but ‘The Theory of Everything’ almost forgets that Stephen Hawking is one of the superstars of 20th century science, up there with Einstein and Feynman. According to the film his greatest achievement was not his work but his inability to die when he was told. As the film continued it focused more and more on the personal toll of Jane looking after her husband, which leads to them splitting up towards the end. The blame for her getting little help was laid at Professor Hawking’s twisted feet and once they did finally get some help it was this that ended their relationship. It is also eluded to that Jane has an extra marital affair, that she gives up on to care for Hawking, but no one can stay faithful to someone so disabled can they? Of course all these events happened, but it is the motivation given by the film that bugged me. Many of the scenes of Stephen Hawking’s struggle as his MND progressed appeared to be vehicles to allow Eddie Redmayne to show off his acting skills. The scene where Hawking gained his doctorate was a major offender. We see around a minute of film focusing on Hawking struggling to walk on sticks, involving shots of his face, close ups on the twisted feet as they nearly trip on every step and wide shots of the battle to travel no more than a metre, while three professors chat amongst themselves trying not to notice the struggle before them. Finally he arrives and states he would rather stand after the offer of a chair, receives his 

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DISABILITY IN FILM

doctorate with a quip and then turns to leave, in an instant! Anyone who has ever walked with the aid of sticks or crutches will know that turning is far harder than walking in a straight line, but there was no drama in that. No awards in turning, but there are in making your feet look all weird.

Stephen Hawking © Razlan

Scene from ‘The Theory of Everything’

To say “only disabled people should play disabled parts” shows a lack of understanding of the industry and is not where we are at right now

The film makers saved the greatest insult for the last scene. As Hawking gives a speech to assembled science groupies at a large conference of academics and students, one young female who is gazing adoringly at Hawking drops her pen. The film then switches to fantasy mode and we see Hawking’s impairment drop away as he gains the ability to walk and then pick up the pen. Don’t forget film fans, no one can ever be happy being disabled, even someone like Stephen Hawking. Deep down all we really want is to be perfect! Would I advise anyone to see this film? I would wait until it comes out on DVD and then only buy it in the bargain bin. If you want to know about Stephen Hawking and how he changed our world forever, forget it. However, the film has sparked a huge debate about the issue of non-disabled actors playing disabled characters.

The Theory of Relatively Everything Else This subject is close to my heart. I have been working as a professional actor since 1990, when I was the first disabled actor to appear in a UK soap, on Channel 4’s Brookside. I went on to perform in The Bill and 2.4 Children, as well as having a stage career. I even played Prince Charming in panto one year. Throughout my career I have been campaigning both for more

disabled acting roles in drama and for those roles to be played by disabled actors. This campaigning led to me being elected as chair of actors’ union Equity’s Deaf and Disabled Members Committee some years back and I am proud of the work we have done in furthering the careers of many disabled actors. The debate about whether non-disabled actors are right to take the role of a disabled character or whether these roles should only ever be played by disabled actors has been on-going, but ‘The Theory of Everything’ has caused it to blaze anew. A key argument about why Eddie Redmayne had been cast to play Hawking was that the film charted the progression of his impairment starting before it made an appearance but after seeing the movie I do not think this is the case. After the opening shot of a bicycle race, Hawking is played as a disabled person who has not yet recognised its impact. Redmayne walks slowly and awkwardly, and holds his head and his right hand strangely from the second or third time you see him on screen. If anything he over emphasises this and the audience knows something is wrong long before his character does. Of course during the film his impairment has a greater impact on the character’s physicality, but to say that there is not a disabled actor who could portray this transition would be untrue. I might suggest Dan Edge would have nailed it. Non-disabled actors currently see playing disabled characters as a great challenge to their performing abilities and it seems that it is one sure-fire way to win those lovely awards. Disabled actress Freddie Stabb, 

34 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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DISABILITY IN FILM

‘disabled stars’ whose names will finance a £5million film. I’ve been acting for eight years and apparently I am worth nothing in box office draw which is all financiers want. When you are asking someone to put £1million hard cash into a film they don’t want risk. Investors want names. In TV, no doubt disabled talent should play disabled parts so let’s dominate TV and put pressure on film and build people’s careers”.

starring in new British film Dead and Awake to be released in April, who is co-chair on the Deaf and Disabled Members Committee, explains her feelings on the matter “’I have never understood how an able-bodied actor playing a disabled role is often seen as an Oscar-nominated performance, yet if a white actor was to play an ethnic role that would be considered discriminatory”. Many people feel the analogy between race and disability an uncomfortable fit, but let’s face it both minorities experience discrimination within the dramatic arts and the wider community. We want to see increased representation which is nearer to our experiences, and of course played by members of our own community. While ethnic minorities are now at a point where, as Freddie said, the film and drama industries would not be prepared to cast a white actor to play an ethnic role, or “blacking up”, they see little wrong with “cripping up”. Disabled actor and producer David Proud gave me his thoughts on why this might be: “To say “only disabled people should play disabled parts” shows a lack of understanding of the industry and is not where we are at right now. We need

This lack of disabled talent argument is one given by the industry at every turn. Back when I started out in the industry it might have been true. When I joined I was the only disabled member of Equity under the age of 30, but now more and more disabled people see the dramatic arts as a viable career. It is now possible to actually study at drama college too. I have watched the talent pool steadily grow and I now feel the ‘lack of available talent’ argument to be entirely false. It is more a lack of effort to seek them out by casting directors and producers. Even when disabled actors are seen for a part, there is no guarantee that they will get it. I have lost count of the times I have gone for auditions for the role of a disabled person only to find that it went to a non-disabled actor. How is it possible to increase the pool of well known disabled actors if we never get the chance to play the few roles perfect for us? It becomes a self fulfilling prophecy.

magazine that “I told the stylist that I really wanted to wear the thinnest, highest heels she could find, because I needed to feel how my character would feel walking on a very tiny surface” in her search to understand what it might feel like to walk using blades. To me this is so insulting and offensive that it makes ‘The Theory of Everything’ pale into insignificance. High heels do not equal the experience of walking on blades, no matter what Ms Boutella might think. To be honest I could write another 2000 words exploring this subject. I haven’t even touched on many of the arguments those who can see nothing wrong with nondisabled people playing disabled characters use, such as “should only gay men play gay men then?”, or the drive for more inclusive casting, where disabled people play characters that do not even mention disability as it is not important to the story. What I do think is that if you want to see more disabled acting talent at the cinema, maybe it’s time to vote with your wallet. My wife and I were really looking forward to Kingsman: The Secret Service but we shall not be going to see it now. If we all did the same, and made sure we explained why we were staying away, maybe an industry so driven by the bottom line might change its ways. Maybe.

I do wonder if ’The Theory of Everything’ is the right film to have picked to highlight this issue. No one batted an eyelid when Patrick Stewart played wheelchair user Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men franchise for example, yet that is a role where there is no transition argument. He uses a wheelchair throughout. The new movie Kingsman: The Secret Service has a main character who is a double amputee, yet she is played by a non-disabled actress and dancer Sofia Boutella. Boutella told VM Author: Mik Scarlet

www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 37

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29/01/2015 22:57

ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL

Holland by Accessible Coach Accessible Travel and Leisure are running a wonderful accessible coach trip from the UK to Holland. This trip departs the UK on 13th April – 18th April and promises to offer you an unforgettable experience in fully accessible comfort. Holland is at its dazzling best in Spring, you’ll see field after field of beautiful colourful bulbs. This truly spectacular sight is showcased nowhere better than the legendary Keukenhof Gardens, situated in the town of Lisse, with 7 million tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocuses and other spring-flowering bulbs. The overwhelming kaleidoscope of colour and intense scents cannot fail to impress. Amsterdam is a treasure trove of historical and cultural sights that demand to be explored. You’ll find a huge selection of fascinating museums to visit, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House. There are so many beautiful churches and architecture to be admired. The best way to take in the sights is to sit back on an accessible canal cruise through this beautiful city. Alkmaar, where you will be staying, is a cultural delight and offers the world famous cheese market, which sees a colourful array of cheese porters with straw hats displaying hundreds of cheeses. A tradition not to be missed!

With over 17 years experience of operating and providing accessible holidays around the world, Accessible Travel has the knowledge and expertise of getting holidays right, this is why our coach holidays have been designed and tailored to your individual needs. For your maximum comfort, this exclusive tour will pick up at various points in the UK, by a luxury accessible coach, equipped with side lift access, disabled toilet and a small kitchen offering complimentary hot beverages throughout the journey. Accommodation has been carefully selected in an accessible hotel in Alkmaar. Hotel de Palatijin Alkmaar is a four star hotel that offers spacious tastefully decorated rooms. Each room is wheelchair accessible and equipped with a widescreen TV, internet connection, air-conditioning, coffee/tea maker and a minibar. The bathrooms have roll-in showers, grab rails and shower seats and other equipment can be provided if required.

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The Trip

£875 per person

Day 1: UK to Alkmaar Depart the UK to Calais, then on to Holland for a late afternoon arrival at the hotel, in time to settle in and enjoy an evening meal. Day 2: Alkmaar to Amsterdam After a relaxing breakfast you will travel into Holland’s capital of Amsterdam. Highlights include a guided tour of the old town, museum visits and time to sit back on a glorious relaxing canal cruise. Day 3: Alkmaar to Keukenhoff Gardens A full day tour to Keukenhoff, a real highlight of this holiday. Day 4: Alkmaar to The Hague An exciting guided tour to one of the most extraordinary cities in Holland, located near the beautiful North Sea coastline. With the most historic sites per square metre in the Netherlands, The Hague oozes culture and history. Day 5: Alkmaar Free time to experience Alkmaar. The main tourist attraction of the legendary cheese market and bell ringing in the local square are not to be missed. Day 6: Alkmaar to UK After breakfast you will say goodbye to Alkmaar and travel back to the UK.

www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 39

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Squease Squease is an inflatable pressure vest designed for people with autism, ADHD, Down’s syndrome or learning disabilities, who often have problems processing the information they receive via their senses. When the vest is inflated it provides a hug-like pressure giving a pleasant, secure and safe feeling. It can help to cope with stress, anxiety and sensory overload, avoid meltdowns, improve concentration or help to fall asleep more quickly. Deep pressure helps process sensory information more easily and calms you when you feel upset. Available in sizes XXS-Large. Squease Ltd 0208 596 5461 www.squeasewear.com

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40 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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PRODUCTS

8 year old Isis (Isis’ parents) “Ever since she was born Isis couldn’t sleep through the night, apart from a 3-year period of swaddling. When we swaddled her, she slept fairly well but only if the swaddling cloths remained firmly on during the night. As she grew older, the problem increased. Sometimes she woke us up six times a night and that was a good night for us. More often, she woke us up 10 to 15 times every night. She regularly stayed awake for hours and sometimes even the whole night. Very exhausting for all of us, since we still had to manage school and work. “The first night that Isis used Squease, we inflated the vest when Isis went to bed and deflated it when we went to bed. She woke up only three times that night. We couldn’t imagine this was really happening. Night two she only woke up twice. During night three and four she also only woke up twice. We noticed that Isis woke up within 1 to 1.5 hours after deflating the vest, but at least she isn’t awake for hours and she can go back to sleep quite easily. Night five we kept the pressure vest inflated for the whole night and Isis did sleep through the whole night and the subsequent nights too.”

www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 41

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PRODUCTS

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The Luda® S Electric Care Shower features the Luda S Sensory Interface and IQsmart technology. The interface provides a simple control system with audible and visual recognition with marine blue illumination. The Luda S Protect features ensure that in any adverse circumstance the Luda will react to safeguard the user, whether this is shutting off instantly or stabilising adverse temperatures. Three different flow rate settings offer water and electricity saving benefits. An important design feature of the Luda for anyone with any degree of sensory impairment is the highly tactile shower control buttons, which offer easy navigation. Flow and temperature buttons are indicated by bright illumination and audio recognition gives the user individual control. The sleek and stylish design will complement most bathroom styles too. AKW Ltd 01905 823 299 www.akw-ltd.co.uk

Karma Flexx HD The Flexx HD is the latest wheelchair from Karma Mobility and has been designed with adjustability in mind. It features stylish flip back height adjustable armrests and swing in/out footrest hangers, all of which are easy to use. The Flexx HD can cater for users weighing up to 170kg (26st 7lbs) and is available in 20”, 22” and 24” seat widths. The lightweight aluminium frame allows numerous adjustments to enable the user to configure the wheelchair to meet his or her specific requirements. Further levels of user comfort are provided by backrest height and angle adjustment. Additional features include: multiple rear wheel positions, adjustable castor angle, seat depth adjustment and a double cross brace for increased durability. Karma Mobility 0845 630 3436 info@karmamobility.co.uk www.karmamobility.co.uk

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Amplicomms SA-40 Amplified Bluetooth Handset The SA-40 Amplified Bluetooth Handset can assist those who struggle to hear conversations on their mobile phones. Amplifying every word so it’s loud and clear, calls can be up to 100 times louder than regular phone calls. Using Bluetooth, the SA-40 will pair to almost any device including mobile phones, Smartphones, iPads and iPhones. It can be used as a handset or a very loud hands free speaker-phone and for calls in the car it has a handy sun visor clip. Designed especially for hearing aid users, it features a T-Coil mode. In this mode sound is transmitted direct to hearing aids, clearly and easily cutting out surrounding noise. For added clarity of sound, frequency is adjustable with Tone control. The SA-40 is completely wireless and rechargeable with a range of up to 33 feet away from the device of origin, depending on the area. Connevans Limited 01737 247 571 www.deafequipment. co.uk

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42 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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30/01/2015 14:37

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Rollerscoot The Rollerscoot is the world’s first upright personal mobility vehicle with a 360 degree turning circle that enables the user to remain standing. There is even a built-in seat should the user wish to have a rest. Thanks to its compact size and small turning circle, the RollerScoot can be used in areas where scooters and wheelchairs are often prohibited. A joystick controls the speed and direction, and the RollerScoot’s twin motors are powered by the latest lithium-ion battery pack and capable of travelling up to 12 miles at a top speed of 4mph. The maximum user weight capacity is 114kg (18 stone). Unlike bulky or cumbersome alternatives, thanks to its lightweight aluminium frame, the RollerScoot is easy to take apart and dismantles into three lightweight parts – it will fit into a small car boot as well as being suitable for taking on public transport. RollerScoot Ltd 0800 389 0347/ 07753 826 807 www.rollerscoot.com

Designed with the assistance of the National Health and Safety Laboratory, the Wheelchair Liberator from RGL Innovations aims to provide wheelchair users and their carers with an improvement in day to day access of a variety of terrains. Designed to easily attach to the handles of a manual wheelchair, the Wheelchair Liberator is a revolutionary piece of equipment that enables wheelchair users to be taken up and down steps, across gravel, cobbles and rough terrain, smoothly and easily. The ergonomic design of the Wheelchair Liberator also greatly reduces the stress on the back, wrists and shoulders of the wheelchair pusher making everyday tasks, and even adventurous days out, much more comfortable and safer for all. RGL Innovations 0113 209 3299 info@wheelchair-liberator.com www.wheelchair-liberator.com

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N O - O B L I G AT I O N

I N I T I A L

C O N S U LTAT I O N 29/01/2015 23:11

COMPETITION

WIN!

a week’s holiday with Brickhouse Farm Cottages

Brickhouse Farm Cottages are very kindly offering PosAbility readers the chance to win a seven night stay for up to six people at one of their cottages in Lancashire. Here, owners Ian and Sue Rainford share their story. A number of years ago we moved to Brickhouse Farm with our two daughters. Our youngest daughter was later involved in a road traffic accident, which left her with disabilities. When she eventually came out of hospital we had to adapt our house to cater for her needs; ramps, level floor access and a large wetroom to make things easier for all of us. We received such amazing support from our community that we felt we wanted to give something back and since speaking with so many families in similar situations to ourselves, all of whom struggled to find holiday accommodation with adequate adaptations, we decided to try to make a difference. We purpose-built five holiday cottages, in front of a stunning fishing lake, on our

In which county would you find Brickhouse Farm Cottages?

a) Cheshire b) Lancashire c) Cumbria

If you would like to be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize simply answer the question correctly and return your details to the following address, email 28 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

Competition_Brickhouse_farm_rt.indd 1

Brickhouse Farm in Lancashire. Great consideration was given for wheelchair users and our Brickhouse Farm Cottages are a ‘home from home’ rather than clinical. Situated just 10 miles from the bright lights of Blackpool yet only an hour from the Lake District, each of the cottages are finished to the highest of standards alongside stunning British-made oak furnishings, incredible views and underfloor heating. We are proud to say that four of the five cottages are fitted with ceiling track hoists and two have hoists above the outdoor hot tubs. We would like to offer one lucky PosAbility reader the chance to win a seven night break at our self-catering Brickhouse Farm Cottages for up to six people from 17th24th April or 9th-16th October 2015. The cottage has level access throughout the

posabilitycompetitions@gmail.com or visit www.posabilitymagazine. co.uk to enter online. Brickhouse Farm Competition PosAbility Magazine Caledonia House Evanton Drive Thornliebank Ind. Est. Glasgow G46 8JT

ground floor including the patio and fishing jetty. All bedrooms are co-ordinated with stunning en-suites and the accessible bedroom downstairs has an adjustable electric bed and a ceiling track hoist leading through into a contemporary, spacious wetroom. Additional disability aids are optional and are available without charge. We look forward to meeting you, with kind regards Ian & Sue Rainford For more information visit www.brickhousecottages.co.uk. Terms & Conditions The prize consists of 7 nights’ accommodation for up to six people on a self-catering basis from 17th-24th April or 9th-16th October 2015. Travel to and from the accommodation is the responsibility of the winner. Pets are not permitted (apart from registered service dogs). The prize is non transferable and no cash alternative can be offered. Closing date for all entries is 31st March 2015.

Name: Address: Postcode: Tel: Email: ü

Brickhouse Farm Cottages would like to send you more information about their services. If you would prefer not to receive this, please tick the box.

www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 47

29/01/2015 21:08

Holidays HOLIDAYS

Lisa Newton is the founder of Can Do Holidays, supporting people of all

abilities to plan accessible holidays at locations across England and Wales. She has visited many self-catering cottages, hotels, activity centres and B&Bs, most of which cater for wheelchair users and other special requirements. Call: 0800 298 3052 Email: lisa@candoholidays.com Website: www.candoholidays.com

Paul Fogarty is the founder of Holidays for the Disabled specialising in accessible holidays abroad. For more information regarding holidays abroad contact Paul on 0800 622 6772 or visit www.holidaysforthedisabled.com.

Lopesan Villa del Conde Resort and Spa 5*Gran Canaria The charming five-star hotel Lopesan Villa del Conde Resort & Corallium Thalasso is an exclusive oasis located in the south of Gran Canaria, especially catering for luxury holidays and the guests’ maximum wellbeing. The hotel offers several garden areas and a large outdoor swimming pool; its main area is the central square, surrounded by stately villas where the spacious hotel rooms are situated. The resort was built following the patterns of the island’s traditional architecture; its facilities are distributed resembling a hospitable Canarian village. It includes five restaurants, offering Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, two buffet restaurants and a poolside restaurant (salads & grill), as well as five bars. The hotel puts at its guests’ disposal a direct transfer service to the sports facilities of Lopesan Meloneras Golf and Maspalomas Golf, as well as a wide range of activities and a fully equipped up-to-date gym. This beautiful hotel has 5 spacious rooms decorated in a modern style, fully adapted for disabled people. These rooms have wheel-in showers with wall mounted shower chairs. They are located on the ground floor near reception with easy access to public areas of the hotel overlooking the garden. Access around the hotel is very good, there are a number of ramps and disabled toilets in the public areas. Contact Holidays for the Disabled for more information, call 0800 6226772 or visit www.holidaysforthedisabled.com

PosAbility

Access Award

48 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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The cottage has been converted from a traditional farm barn and finished to a very high standard. It has all the amenities you would expect from an accessible holiday cottage

Accessibility and comfort

It has been thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind. Inside you will find one twin bedroom with Tempur electronic beds, a ceiling hoist, open-plan living and kitchen area with fully electronic adjustable kitchen worktops for easy access to cooking and dish handling and a wheel-in shower room that has an electronically height adjustable sink, an array of handrails and a second ceiling hoist.

The cottage has been converted from a traditional farm barn and finished to a very high standard. It has all the amenities you would expect from an accessible holiday cottage, making the cottage ideal for disabled people.

A separate barn has been converted to an indoor project area with pool table and a dart board, also there is room to store any specialised equipment that visitors may bring.

Bert's Rest Overview

Bertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rest Cottage is situated on Manelly Fleming Farm, on 43 acres of rural working farmland in a quaint village in Cornwall. The cottage is a short drive from Lerryn and very near the ancient stannary town of Lostwithiel.

Bertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rest Cottage is on the ground floor and has accessible level parking next to the unit.

Local attractions

Looe is a short drive in the other direction. With all of the fine restaurants and accessible attractions like aquariums or the Eden project, you will never be stuck for things to do even in bad weather.

Overall This is an ideal location for couples who are seeking a holiday in a beautiful, peaceful location in Cornwall. For more details or to book please ring 0800 2983052 or email enquiries@candoholidays.com. www.alittlebitofheaven.co.uk

PosAbility

Access Award

The cottage is just down the estuary with a car ferry to take you across the river and

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HOLIDAYS

This stylish bed and breakfast accommodation is located in Snowdonia National Park ensuring you wake up to stunning views

The Slate Shed Overview

The Slate Shed B&B is a luxury, friendly property renovated to a very high standard. It has been converted from a Victorian slate cutting mill and offers breathtaking views over the Mawddach Estuary and hills of Southern Snowdonia. This stylish bed and breakfast accommodation is located in Snowdonia National Park ensuring you wake up to stunning views all around. They also run self-catering cottages and a campsite (not wheelchair accessible).

Accessibility and comfort The Slate Shed has adapted one of their bedrooms, Seren, to be accessible for wheelchair users. It is close to the ground floor entrance and to the dining area which are all on one level. Seren is a ground floor accessible double room, suitable for someone with limited mobility or a wheelchair user. It includes an en-suite which is a stylish wheel-in wet-room with handrails and a plastic chair that can be used in the shower.

business and recreational visitors looking for quality B&B accommodation. The Slate Shed also offer a pick up service from the local train station and are dog friendly, as the owners have two friendly dogs themselves.

Local attractions You can walk directly through 45 acres of wild woodland and meadows to the edge of the Mawddach Estuary and Mawddach Trail. There is an opportunity for horse-riding on sandy beaches nearby, mountain biking at Coed-y-Brenin, kayaking and white-water rafting. Harlech Castle is also close by.

Overall The Slate Shed B&B provides pet friendly, accessible accommodation, ideal for couples, families and groups to stay that would like a holiday in a beautiful, peaceful location. For more details or to book please ring 0800 2983052 or email enquiries@candoholidays.com. www.slateshed.co.uk

There is a pull down handrail next to the toilet and a wall attached handrail next to the wash basin and shower. The Slate Shed is an ideal base for both

PosAbility

Access Award

50 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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SPORT FOCUS

FOCUS

SUMMER 2014 saw Glasgow play host to the 2014 Commonwealth Games. The Games featured the biggest number of para-sport medal events in the history of the Games, with a total of 22 spanning five different sports.

ince the London Paralympics in 2012 the country has seen a surge in interest and support for para-sports, with IPC President Philip Craven declaring them the “greatest Paralympic Games ever”. With the aid of Channel 4’s campaign Meet the Superhumans, which aimed to change public perceptions of the Paralympic Games, the Paralympians saw heightened support and interest in the journey they took to the Games. The campaign, which encouraged the public to see the Games as an event in their own right as opposed to an after-thought to the Olympics, was met with praise as it focused on the competitive aspect of Paralympic Sport, whilst reflecting on the path which took them to the Games. 2014 also saw the birth of the Invictus Games, an international multi-sport event designed for wounded, injured or sick armed services personnel and veterans to partake in. Championed by Prince Harry, the Games celebrated the resilience and passion of those involved and helped  www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 53

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SPORT FOCUS

One of the most important things to have arisen from these high profile sporting events, taking place on our doorstep, is the increase in disabled people taking up a sport and the increased awareness of the sporting activities available.



Anna Tipton playing goalball for GB

Sport is not only an excellent way to keep fit, with an array of health benefits both physically and mentally, it also has huge social benefits too, making it an easy way to get involved, boost confidence and meet friends. With a whole host of sports open to those with disabilities it’s easy to find one that suits you.

Parasport

Parasport.org is a website run by the British Paralympic Association (BPA) and designed to encourage more disabled people to get involved in sport by providing clear and easily accessible information about sports and sporting opportunities in their local area, be that competitively or just for fun. For anyone who is unsure about which sport they want to get involved in there is a Sport Finder tool, which helps find a sport

which can suit you and your abilities, giving you clear but detailed information on how the sport works, videos and even case studies from athletes or others who have taken up the sport. The Sport Finder tool is also available on the PosAbility website at www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk.



Boccia

generate a wider understanding and respect for those who served their country. The Games were met with huge public support.

BOCCIA

Boccia was first introduced as a competitive sport at the 1984 New York Paralympic Games. There is a major international Boccia event each year, in a four year cycle, the European Championships, the World Championships, the World Cup and then finally the Paralympics. The game however is played leisurely for fun in more than 50 countries by those with cerebral palsy or severe disabilities affecting their motor skills. All events are mixed gender and feature individual, pair and team competitions. Players are sorted into four categories dependent on their functional ability. Because the game has been designed specifically for athletes with disabilities affecting their motor skills, it is entirely unique.

Goalball in action

Adam Knott

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SPORT FOCUS GB’s Judo champion, Ben Quilter



The Boccia International Sports Federation (BISFed) launched a programme last year vowing to “Make Boccia Accessible”. As part of the scheme they’ve even sent Boccia equipment to countries like Uganda and El Salvador. You can visit their website on www.bisfed.com for more information on the sport and how you can get involved.

GOALBALL

Goalball is another sport unique to athletes with a disability. It is designed for people with visual impairments and is the only Paralympic team sport open to women with

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a visual impairment. The game was originally devised in 1946 as a means of helping to rehabilitate visually impaired World War 2 veterans. It was first introduced as a competitive sport at the 1980 Paralympic Games in Arnhem, Netherlands. Goalball is a 3-a-side team sport, played by males and females on a court, with a ball about the size of a basketball but double the weight and travelling up to 60mph. Players wear eye shades so rely on orientation by using the tactile court markings to ‘feel’ where they are on the court. The aim for each team is to score as many goals as possible, whilst using their bodies to block and save any shots against them. Teams alternate throwing or rolling the ball from one end of the playing area to the other and players remain in the area of their own goal in both defence and attack. Players must use the sound of the bell inside the ball to judge the position and movement of the ball. Goalball UK is an organisation dedicated to developing and promoting

the sport throughout the country, encouraging fans to start their own club, with as little as a basketball, some tape and a volleyball court. For full details on how to start your own club or join an existing one visit www.goalballuk.com



The game consists of four rounds in individuals and pairs competitions and of six rounds in the team competition. It is played on a hard surface, and the goal is to throw the game balls so that they land as close as possible to a special target ball, which is called the “jack.” Athletes can throw, kick or even use a ramp to propel the ball towards the jack.

JUDO

Judo is another sport open to all visually impaired athletes and is one of the most popular for them. It has been played competitively at the Paralympics since the Seoul Games in 1988. It is one of only two combative sports at the Games. Just like non-disabled Judo, athletes, otherwise known as ‘Judokas’ are classified by their weight, seven categories for men and six for women. Each contest lasts a maximum of five minutes and to win a judoka must score using a successful technique, such as a throw or a hold, also called an ‘Ippon’. By 

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SPORT FOCUS

the end of the match, if nobody has scored an Ippon then whoever has the most points wins. The only difference between visually impaired and non-disabled Judo is that athletes are allowed to be in contact at the beginning of a bout, all others rules are exactly the same and the two GB teams even train together at the British Judo Performance Institute in Dartford.



For more information on how to get involved in para-Judo the International Blind Sports Federation have information on joining a club on their website at www.ibsasport.org/sports/judo

SWIMMING

2015 is set to be a brilliant year for para-swimming with the IPC World Championships being held this summer in Glasgow’s recently refurbished Tollcross International Swimming Centre, with a possible five gold medals up for grabs for British favourite Ellie Simmonds defending her 400m freestyle S6 title. The event will see 650 swimmers from 50 different countries competing for a place in the Rio 2016 Games. Swimming has been a Paralympic Sport since the first Games in 1960 in Rome. It is open to men and women of all ages, with all types and levels of impairments, making it one of the most inclusive sports for those with disabilities. It is also one of the best activities for total body fitness whether you compete at an elite competitive level or just for fun. If you cannot already swim, it’s easy to get involved. Everyone takes part in the same lessons as there is no specific qualification a swimming coach can hold for those with disabilities. However the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) regularly holds information seminars to help coaches learn more about how to help those with impairments learn to swim, as well as providing facilities with information on making accessibility easier. For those who already can swim (15m or more) it’s also really easy to get involved competitively with your disability, with regular “talent spotting” open-swim dates held throughout the year.



Keep an eye on www.swimming.org for an event near you, or to find a local pool.

SNOWSPORTS

There is a wide variety of winter sports also available for those with disabilities with a horde of ski resorts throughout Europe being accessible for those with disabilities. Charities Disability Snowsport UK and Ski 2

© Peter Rimmer Freedom help individuals, families and groups access information and opportunities for those who require additional help to undertake snowsports. You can visit their websites www.ski2freedom.com and www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk for more information. Both Alpine and Nordic Skiing are easily adapted to those with disabilities as well as the rapidly growing parasnowboarding. The Sochi 2014 Winter Games were the first to feature para-snowboarding as a medal event. There’s also ice-sledge hockey, played by athletes with lower-body impairments. Paralympic athletes come into six groups: amputees, people with cerebral palsy, people with a visual impairment,

56 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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SPORT FOCUS

GYM

In the wake of the para-sport surge following London 2012, a lot of gyms are becoming aware that their facilities are lacking. Although not every gym is entirely accessible to those with disabilities they are in the process of becoming more so. The Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI) has been running for over 10 years now. They aim to encourage a change within fitness facilities such as local gyms, making equipment, staff training and sports development and engagement more accessible for people with disabilities. Through their website at www.efds.co.uk you can access information on local facilities that are accessible in order to keep you active and with over 400 currently accredited gyms throughout the country it shouldn’t be difficult to find one near you.

If there isn’t an IFI accredited gym nearby, all is not lost. Innovative company Active Hands have designed a product which helps adapt your local gym equipment to suit your needs. Paralympian Rob Smith champions their gripping aids, which allow you to firmly hold equipment you may not have been able to previously use, such as weights, and even partakes in videos available on the Active Hands website that show you how to turn non-specialist gym equipment into equipment suitable for your impairment using their various products. Visit www.activehands.com. It is also important to check that any local facilities have accessible parking, level access, accessible toilets and changing facilities. Most local council run gyms will have these as a minimum standard but it is important to check privately owned gyms.



people who have had a spinal cord injury, people with a learning disability and Les Autres, which means other people who don’t quite fit any of these groups, which makes it another sport that is easily accessible to all.

Football

One of Britain’s most popular sports is not limited to those who are able-bodied. The Football Association (FA) have a programme dedicated to identifying players who possess high levels of ability and help them build upon those skills in a special development programme that they run all over the country. These programmes focus on identifying players and sorting them into squads dependent on their impairment. Squads include amputees, cerebral palsy, deaf, partially sighted and learning difficulties. The programme has seen huge success in the past few years, both within the grassroots local movements and at higher competitive levels. Most recently, their success saw 24 year old Jack Rutter become captain of the English Cerebral Palsy football team. After being involved in the Birmingham City Academy youth squad from age 10, Jack suffered brain damage and became deaf in one ear after an unprovoked attack on a 

Active Hands Gripping Aid

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SPORT FOCUS Wheelchair Rugby in action



Wheelchair Basketball

Wheelchair basketball is one of the largest and probably most well known accessible sports. Initially developed as a rehabilitation activity for patients with spinal cord injuries and veterans, it has quickly developed into a highly popular recreational and competitive sport. Today the National Wheelchair Basketball League consists of 65 teams with around 1500 regular participants. Athlete and TV presenter Ade Adepitan is one of several athletes who has helped to raise the profile of the sport over the past 10 years. The sport embraces a whole range of disabilities including paraplegia, spina bifida, amputation, brittle bones, cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis. It is open to all athletes with an impairment as its classification system categorises athletes from 1 to 4.5 according to their functional ability (one being the highest level of impairment). A teams points combined must never exceed 14 at any one time. Wheelchair basketball rules do not stray far from the non-disabled sport. The court, hoops and ball are all the same size. You must take a shot within three seconds of being in the opposition’s key (the area surrounding the hoop). You also cannot take any more than two pushes or touches of the wheels without bouncing or passing the ball (known as travelling).

Beginners or those who want to just give it a go can use a manual wheelchair to begin with, but more serious participants should invest in a lightweight chair. You can find your local wheelchair basketball club on the British Wheelchair Basketball site at www.gbwba.org.uk.



night out. Through the scheme he found his feet again and was happy to participate in a sport he never thought he could once more. You too can get involved by visiting www.thefa.com/my-football/ player/disability-football to find your local club or league or www.scottishfa.co.uk if you’re based in Scotland.

Blind Football

Wheelchair Rugby

Wheelchair rugby is one of the only full-contact disability sports. It is open to both men and women and is one of the only games which allow them to compete in the same team. The sport became a full Paralympic event at Sydney 2000. It was invented in 1977 by a group of Canadian tetraplegics. They had previously been involved in wheelchair basketball but found they were often losing out on court time to their more functional team-mates. Clearly many others felt the same as there is now more than 10 teams in the UK.

Wheelchair Basketball

Games are played on a basketball court, with cones marking the goals. They are played in four eight-minute quarters and each team has 40 seconds to score before the ball is passed over to the other team. A goal is scored when a player carries the ball across the goal line. Teams comprise up to 12 players, with four on the court at any time. Each player is given a key role and a classification based on their muscle function and strength. Classes range from 0.5 to 3.5 and similarly to basketball, the team of four must total eight points or less during play. Chair to chair contact is allowed but person to chair and person to person contact is not. With close contact and speed, wheelchair rugby is thrilling to watch and if you decide to take part you can find local taster sessions on the GB Wheelchair Rugby site at www.gbwr.org.uk.

58 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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PROSTHETICS

Alternative Prosthetics Sophie de Oliveira Barata is the creative genius behind The Alternative Limb Project, a company that creates unique prosthetics to reflect the wearer’s personality, interests and imagination. Whether you are looking for a unique piece of art that will stand out and catch people’s eyes or a beautiful piece that will blend seamlessly with your body, Sophie can create it. We caught up with Sophie to find out more about the creative process that goes into making these imaginative prosthetics.

ophie studied Art at the London Arts University and went on to specialise in special effects and prosthetics with the aim of going into the film industry. However, shortly after she finished her degree she secured a work placement with RSL Steeper, a leading manufacturer of prosthetics, orthotics and assistive technology products. Here Sophie gained valuable experience and learned to make liners and high definition realistic looking limb covers for prosthetic limbs and tells us that in her spare time she started creating more interesting pieces. “In my spare time I was experimenting with materials and making more imaginative artwork. I started to think, if I were an amputee what would I want and that perhaps I would have something totally different, rather than going to the obvious replacement, why not turn it on its head and express the person from the inside. “I was also working with this little girl who had a realistic looking leg made every year and she wanted something a little bit different every time, just a little something, and I would always encourage her! I was quite limited really there, in terms of what I could do, because of things like time pressures and all sorts. But I could see from the rehabilitation perspective that she was getting a lot out of having something a little bit different and she’d be excited about the next time she’d come and what she’d have and it would be a way of having

a chat with all her friends and family about what she was going to have. She was that bit more interactive about her limb.” Following on from this Sophie started making some really unusual pieces but admitted they were nothing without the person wearing them. She wanted to see her artwork come to life and so started a rudimental search for models who had an amputation. That is when she came across model and pop artist, Viktoria Modesta. “I found Viktoria Modesta on the front cover of Bizarre Magazine. I got in touch with her, but I wasn’t really expecting to hear anything back, but she said “well actually I’ve only modelled a few times showing that I’m an amputee and I kind of see my limb this way anyway, it’s kind of an accessory to me.” She said she would really be up for the idea of exploring, and celebrating it (her prosthetic limb), treating it like something of an art piece really. So then it went from there. “Viktoria was the first client I had to design for in that way, there were a few other clients I was able to then do other bits for, tattoos and things like that, but in terms of proper alternative pieces Viktoria was the first. I couldn’t actually work on her NHS prosthetic limb for various reasons, so I had to seek a way of getting a limb structure made privately. I contacted Richard at Proactive Prosthetics who kindly made one for us for free. That’s when I thought it made sense to set up on my own.”

The Creative Process We asked Sophie about the creative process when she is working with a client and how 

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PROSTHETICS

ÂŠ Charlotte Epstein www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 61

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PROSTHETICS

much input they have in the design, she said:

“There’s a couple of people that have just said “I’ll completely leave it up to you”, but that’s after going through this process of collecting images.” When asked about her favorite piece of work: “I really enjoyed making, although it was really challenging, the light leg for Viktoria. There were so many restrictions in terms of the size of the bone, and we had to get the lighting right, and they wanted it really bright, so we had to work out the voltage for that. There was quite a lot to consider in terms of how she was going to wear it and operate it. It was a challenge, so I guess I kind of both hated it and enjoyed it. The ones that I love the most are the ones where I can look back and see myself pulling my heart out over. The one with the muscle plates too, I really enjoyed making that.”

Embracing Sophie believes the amputee community and professionals in the industry are embracing the creative opportunities that are arising for prosthetic limbs. “I think there’s a bit of a trend, maybe sparked from the Paralympics, but also I guess from people like Viktoria, who are in the limelight. People see that and then think “Oh I could do something cool with my leg”.

“I definitely see it, even in some of the NHS centres I’ve been to, they’re making a lot more different patterned sockets. People come in with their favorite football teams t-shirt and they’ll get that laminated onto the socket. I saw a little girl with a full lamination of a jelly bean print. They’re recognising I think, that it’s definitely something that people want. “There is also the novelty of looking at something different and unexpected, instead of trying to hide it kids can show their friends. I think everyone customises nowadays, there is so much customisation on at the moment, all sorts of things, your phone, everything. It brings a sense of personal connection to the items because you’re making them more unique to you. I think it makes complete sense then to do that to something that you might find is alien to you, or something that you might find difficult. If you can create a sort of rapport with it you will find it easier and accept it as part of you.”

It brings a sense of personal connection to the items because you’re making them more unique to you

An excellent example of Sophie’s work can be seen in music video ‘Prototype’ featuring Viktoria Modesta, an amputee pop artist, wearing three alternative limbs created by Sophie. This video is part of Channel 4’s Born Risky collection and you can watch behind the scenes footage of the making of the video at www.channel4.com/ programmes/bornrisky.

For more information on The Alternative Limb Project contact Sophie de Oliveira Barata on: 07876 222 088 info@altlimbpro.com www.thealternativelimbproject.com

“It’s really down to the client. It completely depends, sometimes people have very definite ideas of what they want, and I’ll just kind of expand on those. What I ask of someone that really doesn’t know what they want is to collect around 30-50 images that somehow speak to them, this could be anything from a close up of a fish to a box of old tools, if it excites them visually its worth saving. The internet is the best place to start, the more random the image the better, that sort of gets you away from “what’s your favorite colour”, it gets more abstract. When you’ve got about 50 images you can start to pick out patterns that are emerging, whether that is certain textures or a mood, or a certain style of materials and colours as well. Or it could be something simple and stylised or rich with texture, but you start getting an idea.

62 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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Volvo V40 Cross Country D4 This issue we had the chance to test drive the Volvo V40 Cross Country D4 and it did not disappoint.

he V40 Cross Country is basically a rugged version of the V40 hatchback, with all the same drive quality but with greater ground clearance and an off-road appearance. We thoroughly enjoyed every journey in this car. In terms of comfort, drive quality, aesthetics and overall appeal it has won our approval as the best Volvo we have driven so far.

The Drive

Comfort

Driving the V40 Cross Country I felt safe and secure on the motorway and in the city. The extra 40mm suspension height definitely makes a difference as it smoothly coasts over bumps and potholes, it tackles country roads as well as city traffic, but only the 250bhp 2.5l gets four-wheel drive. It is a powerful car and is comfortable to drive at both high and low speeds, making for an enjoyable driving experience on most journeys.

Fairly spacious inside, your passengers are not going to want for space in the front or the rear, although the headroom in the back could afford to be a little more generous for those who are particularly tall. The seats are comfortable and would make a long journey easy to tackle, however the boot space is a little surprising at only 335 litres. Perhaps being a bulkier car you just expect more boot space, but it would accept a reasonable amount of luggage or a pram or wheelchair quite comfortably.

64 www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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Engine: 2.0-litre 5cyl turbodiesel 0-60mph: 8.6 seconds Top speed: 130mph Economy: 64.2mpg CO2: 117g/km

Affordability The running costs are reasonable across all engines, in particular the diesel engines, with the 113bhp 1.6 litre D2 delivering an impressive 74mpg and only 99g/km of CO2 emissions.

Style Attractive and stylish both inside and out, it offers a practical choice for those who need a bit more space without compromising on the look. The interior showcases Volvoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s trademark slim, elegant control panel with

easy to use dials and a user-friendly layout. Volvo donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t scrimp on the quality of the interior of their cars and the V40 Cross Country is no different with luxurious leather and high quality interior trim.

Safety and Support The Volvo V40 was rated as the safest car Euro NCAP has ever tested (this applies to the Cross Country too). So you can rest assured that this is a very safe option. Some of the more advanced safety features include enhanced Blind Spot Information

System (BLIS) to give you better visibility, Lane Keeping Aid to keep you from drifting out of lane, new Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection Technology with full auto brake, adaptive cruise control and distance alert, Active High Beam technology that offers automatic switching between high and low beam at the right moment and many more. To find out more about the Volvo V40 Cross Country visit www.volvocars.com/uk.

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29/01/2015 21:41

R24 - Wheelchair Cars_Layout 1 10/12/2014 12:33 Page 3

WIN an 16gb ipad FREE TO ENTER

ÂŁ50 M&S v ou runner-upcher prize

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To enter all you need to simply do is visit

www.wheelchaircars.co.uk

and just e-mail us your story via one of our contact us pages

A01.15/R24/p

If you're a Disabled person or people, own a adapted vehicle or a dealer, own a Mobility scooter or wheelchair, have an illness or have had an accident, or anything disabled related, send us a true story. The story can be a rant, rave, moan, a thank you, a warning, a plea for help or just something you want to share with other people who may be in the same situation, the story can be sad, Humerus informative or whatever you want.

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29/01/2015 23:02

WAVS

SEAT Alhambra The award winning SEAT Alhambra MPV wheelchair accessible vehicle is a vehicle with some truly surprising features. It is a superb combination of sportiness yet with an environmental conscience. It’s practical and good value for money.

amed Best MPV by Diesel car, voted Best MPV in WhatCar? 2011 and 2012 and named Car of the year 2011, coupled with Lewis Reed’s excellent achievement of winning Best Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle Supplier for 2011 by Motability, the SEAT Alhambra really is a quality conversion. The Alhambra is finished off beautifully through Lewis Reed’s innovative unique seal and suspension technologies. Their designs offer conversion benefits such as an integrated rattle free TorSpring ramp complimented by smooth exterior lines where the ramp is hidden within the bumper. As well as rear entry, the Alhambra comes equipped with two wide side sliding doors as standard.

further forward, thus facilitating maximum inclusion for the journey. The Alhambra is available in the generously equipped S, SE, and the high spec SE Lux. It is an exceptional car with sleek, aerodynamic design. Its suspension gives a quiet and smooth drive plus has a wealth of innovative safety features as standard. Revolutionary Ecomotive engines incorporate a Start & Stop function and an innovative Brake Energy Recovery System helping to reduce fuel consumption and emissions whilst offering enhanced comfort and a smoother dynamic performance.

Headroom for rear seat passengers is exceptional and there are large tinted windows which offer a fantastic eye line with the option of an integral blind giving extra privacy to the rear passengers.

Every Alhambra comes with stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system and seven airbags, including a driver’s knee bag and curtain airbags that run the full length of the cabin. For your peace of mind, the Alhambra is equipped with an integrated child seat with iSOFIX/Top Tether anchoring system. Also standard in the Alhambra are the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP).

Lewis Reed’s conversion has two fixed SEAT passenger seats in the rear with a removable middle third SEAT passenger seat allowing the wheelchair user to sit

For baseline engine specifications and vehicle colour options, please call or visit the official SEAT website at www.seat.co.uk.

WAVs_rt.indd 1

Lewis Reed 0800 247 1001/0151 343 5360 www.lewisreedgroup.co.uk

30/01/2015 14:51

Columnist Michael McEwan

Breaking through the employment barriers Michael McEwan is a disability activist from Glasgow who lives with cerebral palsy. He has worked on a number of radio stations over the past 14 years and with various Scottish charities.

One of the biggest barriers disabled people face today is getting into employment. I’m sure you probably know a lot of people with disabilities who would love to get a job but feel they have not been given a chance. Perhaps you are even in this situation yourself. I know from personal experience how frustrating this can be. If we look at Scotland as an example the latest figures from Inclusion Scotland show that there are only 44% of disabled people in work compared to 79% of non-disabled people. This is a massive gap and similar situations can be seen across the UK and around the world. My journey into employment began over a decade ago but it was not an easy one. I would apply for jobs and get no response and I had to deal with lots of rejections. I felt like I wasn’t being given a fair chance by potential employers because of my disability. But I didn’t give up. I worked with my disability advisor at my local job centre and eventually made the breakthrough. My first paid job was at Scottish Consortium for Learning Disabilities (SCLD). I travelled around Scotland to do presentations to different organisations; schools, the Scottish Government, the National Autistic Society and more. I spoke about the challenges and stigma that I had experienced in my journey into

employment and how I overcame these. I enjoyed meeting new people and telling them about my journey. Having a job can have such a huge impact on your life. Before I had a job, I was not a confident person. I had no friends to go out with. But when you get a job there’s a kind of snowball effect. You gain confidence from being employed, learn new skills and meet new people but you also make friends and you get invited to different events. It feels good when you work hard and get paid for it. It really made me more confident in myself. As an ambassador with SCLD, it was my goal to raise awareness and break down barriers in employment and to show that there are possibilities out there by using myself as an example. I think this is a very important role and we need more ambassadors to give presentations to employers. I think many disabled people are not given a chance, as potential employers don’t view them as being as capable as able-bodied candidates and rule them out before interview stage. We need to put an end to this stigma and ensure all candidates are given an equal chance. We need to help people see past the disability and see the person and their capabilities. Changing attitudes takes time. In the ten years since I was first looking for a job I have seen some developments towards equalities in the workplace but there’s still

a long way to go. However, there are many support services out there to help people with disabilities get into work and it’s important that we utilise these to their full advantage. One of these is Access to Work, which can provide assistance with transport and adaptations to make your working environment suitable for your needs. This is a very good resource as these are two of the biggest obstacles people face. Another is Self Directed Support. This gives someone with a disability as much ongoing control over the individual budget spent on their support. Of course, there is also the help of the disability advisor at your local job centre. These support services are in place so why not use them? I hope over the course of the next ten years we will continue to see more people with disabilities break through into employment. If I could offer some advice, it would be to make best use of the employment services available, keep in regular contact with job advisers and believe that anything is possible. But most importantly, never give up.

Useful websites www.gov.uk/access-to-work www.selfdirectedsupportscotland.org.uk www.gov.uk/looking-for-work-ifdisabled/looking-for-a-job

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29/01/2015 21:44

Chartwell Insurance Because things don't always go according to plan... After his infamous false start at London 2012, Paralympic cyclist Jody Cundy supports Chartwell because he knows more than most that disaster can strike at any minute. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s backing the disabled motoring specialists with a range of policies for almost any car from a panel of more than 200 insurance schemes.

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ad_pages_feb_mar_15.indd 23

29/01/2015 23:02

ENTREPRENEUR

Ben Wolfenden Entrepreneur

Ben Wolfenden is the most recent winner of the prestigious Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs. He is the founder of digital marketing agency, Visibilis, a successful company that caught the eye of Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou (founder of EasyJet) who runs the award alongside Leonard Cheshire Disability.

Ben is 31 years old and is married with an eight month old son. He was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth and later in life developed diabetes. Managing his disability takes a substantial amount of time as he has physiotherapy to do every day and from a young age he knew that he would have to consider working for himself in order to achieve a work/life balance that suited him. Here Ben shares the journey of starting his own business, offers advice to potential entrepreneurs and tells us what the £50,000 prize that accompanies the Stelios Award means to him.

Where did the idea for Visibilis come from? I think it stems back to when you start thinking about what you want to do and I started thinking “well is it going to be feasible that once I get on the career path am I going to be able to manage to work 5 days a week or 3 days a week in a certain environment?” In reality, I knew I already kind of had this control over my cystic fibrosis and how I needed to manage it and I thought there was no way that I could be in a career and in a position where I didn’t feel like I would have full control. So it was quite early on that I thought I needed to be sure that I do something for myself. While I was at university I was working

at a marketing agency in Bath, just to get some experience and when I left uni I came home and set up an ecommerce business that was in the equestrian world. It went well, but I was doing so much work on the business in reality I wasn’t getting much from it. So I was thinking my time would probably be better spent elsewhere and it wasn’t a case that I went looking elsewhere, I was just quite happily building it up and that’s when I learnt a lot more about the digital side and people started asking me almost to consult for them; asking how you would get a website built, how to get google set up – all the various questions people had no idea about, they started asking me. I thought my time may be better spent educating people in how to get this set up rather than actually manning an already set up business. So that’s where the consultancy started and then I started doing freelance work in agencies and it stemmed from there that I managed to win some clients and they grew and off the back of those clients growing, I grew.

Was it easy setting up your own business? No. There is a lot of hard work that people don’t see and if you have never run your own business before you forget that it’s not just the bits where you do your particular skillset. For example, your

skillset might be managing Google Adwords but people forget that it’s not just the managing of the ad that you do, you have to win the client first, then manage the ad, then you have finance that you have to do at the end of the month and then look at how you can sustain yourself financially while you look to grow, it’s really difficult. You have to manage it yourself until every stage grows and you can say “right, now I can afford an accountant to run my books” but before you get to that you have to think about what finance package you are going to try and learn to make it all make sense. So there is a lot of learning but I think if you are the kind of person who likes new challenges, then setting up your own business is ideal. Behind the scenes you become a jack of all trades and you can still specialise in your area but I think that is a really difficult part.

What would you say the hardest thing is? I would say winning clients. It’s like selling products. The hardest thing is getting your

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ENTREPRENEUR

name out there to be able to find clients. You might be sat in your office working away on a client, but thinking in reality I need another three or four more clients to sustain this and it’s how you go about finding those clients without having to spend too much of your marketing budget. I would go to networking events, I never really got much work from them but at least you start developing the skills of how to chat to people about what you do. That’s a really good tip actually, if you can find a networking event in your area and not necessarily go with the hope of finding new business or selling your product, it’s just a case of developing those skills and being able to chat about what you do.

Would you recommend starting your own business? The freedom that you get, particularly if you have a disability, far outweighs being an employee. With a disability, whether it is a seen or unseen disability, people will not understand. I know there are plenty of unseen disabilities that are not cystic fibrosis, but I can’t relate to that because I don’t really know what goes on behind

Ben_wolfenden_entrepreneur_rt.indd 2

the scenes. I think, particularly if you have those constraints and you have issues that people don’t necessarily see first-hand, running your own business gives you that element of control. You can then manage your life around work, obviously the initial set up and getting to a stage where you can financially sustain yourself is really hard work, but when you get to that stage you can then decide actually financially now I can manage my life.

Everyone comments on the money and I suppose it is about the money because it helps the business stabilise and you don’t have a problem with cash flow for at least 18 months, but it’s more the recognition. I do work exceedingly hard so to get that recognition from someone like Stelios, because he sat down and went through the business and has obviously seen something in me, everyone then suddenly gives you that level of credibility.

How did it feel to win the Stelios Award?

www.visibilis.co.uk

It was a surprise, I had gone in for it previously with Equestrian Outfitters and didn’t win, which at the time was really tough, I thought we were in with a really good chance and not only didn’t we win but that year out of the three finalists the other two won and he split the award. I was dead last! When we applied this year and we got through the first round I thought we might be in with a chance but it came as a complete surprise because you don’t get to hear who has won before the event.

29/01/2015 22:00

DO YOU HAVE SPEECH OR MOVEMENT PROBLEMS? WOULD YOUR LIFE BE IMPROVED BY THE PROVISION OF A COMMUNICATION AID TO HELP YOU LEAD A MORE INDEPENDENT LIFE? Then perhaps The Sequal Trust can help

We operate throughout the UK, fundraising to provide speech aids for disabled people of all ages.

Make a difference by contributing to our work Citizens Advice is the UK’s largest advice charity. We help people resolve their problems and are equipped to deal with any issue, from anyone. Last year we helped over two million people. The diversity of our staff, volunteers and clients help shape who we are and the services we provide. That’s why we welcome applications from everyone. Whether you are looking to develop your professional career, or just starting out – there are opportunities for you.

3 Ploughman’s Corner, Wharf Road, Ellesmere, Shropshire, Sy12 0EJ Tel: 01691 624222

For job vacancies and volunteering information visit www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Sequal aims to provide speech aids to those people who cannot afford to purchase such very vital equipment, to allow them to lead more independent lives and especially when statutory bodies are unable to help. PosAbility Magazine jan 2014_Layout 1 30/01/2014 12:04 Page 1

CARETAKER, ACCOUNTANT, IS TECHNICIAN, CLEANER, GAS ENGINEER, ELECTRICIAN, CONSTRUCTION MANAGER, CATERING ASSISTANT, NURSE, RECEPTIONIST, SURVEYOR, CARE ASSISTANT, CHEF, PROJECT MANAGER, HOUSING MANAGER, PR OFFICER, HR ADVISOR, ADMINISTRATOR, HEALTH AND SAFETY OFFICER, FINANCE OFFICER, CUSTOMER SERVICE ADVISOR, DIRECTOR, SUPPORT WORKER, TEAM LEADER, ACTIVITIES ASSISTANT, HOUSING OFFICER FACILITIES MANAGER, EVENTS ORGANISER, BUSINESS ANALYST

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ad_pages_feb_mar_15.indd 24

INVESTING IN PEOPLE We strive to be one of the most inclusive, inspiring employers in the country, and believe our strength as an organisation lies in the quality of our people. We recognise that every individual has their own unique talents they can bring to us, and we welcome people who share our values. If you would like to work with a thriving organisation which focuses on your ability contact us at:

Sanctuary Group is a trading name of Sanctuary Housing Association, an exempt charity

30/01/2015 16:48

CAREERS

Get that Dream Job

Being a Disabled Entrepreneur By Jane Hatton

Many disabled people choose the route of self-employment rather than finding a job. There are many reasons for this and for some of us it can be a great way of working around our impairments. Having started my own social enterprise four years ago, I thought it might be helpful to share the story of my journey to becoming a disabled entrepreneur. Most entrepreneurs, particularly social entrepreneurs, don’t set out to be entrepreneurs. They see a gap, or an unmet need, or something that could be done better. And then, instead of complaining about it, they do something to change it. In my case, it was a number of experiences that together identified a need. As a Diversity Trainer I knew that disabled people are twice as likely to be unemployed as non-disabled people. Some employers told me they wanted to employ disabled people but couldn’t attract them.

Other employers said that they were wary of employing disabled people because of the perceived cost and potential loss of productivity. However, having employed a number of disabled people myself, I had experienced first-hand all the benefits they bring to a business. Finally, as a disabled person myself, I knew how important it was for disabled people who can and want to work to have the same opportunities as everyone else.

limitations on the activities I could undertake, so I started a specialist online job board (www.evenbreak.co.uk) which is run as a not-for-profit social enterprise with three social aims: 1. To help inclusive employers attract more talented disabled candidates; 2. To help disabled jobseekers find work with employers who would value their skills; 3. To promote the business benefits of employing disabled people.

There seemed to be three main problems. Inclusive employers found it hard to attract disabled candidates, disabled candidates found it hard to find genuinely inclusive employers, and many employers had a negative perception of disabled candidates.

As it is an online business, I can run it from home. In fact, as I need to lie down with a laptop suspended above me, I run it from my bed! I now employ other disabled people in the business who also work flexibly from their own home, but I’m running ahead of myself.

My own disability (a degenerative spinal condition entailing numerous spinal surgeries and leaving me with severe chronic pain, almost unable to sit and with limited ability to stand or walk) put

Starting any new business requires resources – mainly money. The Evenbreak website had to be extremely accessible and so was more expensive than most websites www.posabilitymagazine.co.uk 73

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Graduate careers Creating opportunity worldwide Every year the British Council gives thousands of people the opportunity to experience life in a completely different culture. Working in over 100 countries we help connect millions of people with the United Kingdom through programmes and services in the English language, the arts, education and society. None of that would be possible without our network of global offices, and we’re always looking out for fresh talent to bring new ideas to the team.

Shape the future of London – become a TfL apprentice We want to be as diverse as the city we represent and welcome applications from everyone regardless of disability, faith, sexual orientation, ethnicity, age or gender. Take a wider look at tfl.gov.uk/apprenticeships

Our entry-level roles and graduate schemes help us recruit the best and most ambitious people, through a variety of opportunities. Take a look around – there’s a whole world to explore. www.britishcouncil.org/study-work-create/opportunity/ work-volunteer/graduate-opportunities-work-british-council © British Council 2015/ E583 The British Council is the United Kingdom’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities.

MAYOR OF LONDON

Join us for limitless potential We believe our sustained success is because of our people. Santander is an award winning top UK employer with a healthy balance sheet. We have an unrivalled global branch network and a brand that continues to build recognition with consumers and businesses right around the world. If you’re looking for a career where you can achieve your personal best, we offer excellent benefits and exciting career opportunities. You’ll be part of a global family that aspires to be the best bank for our people, customers, shareholders and communities. Working for Santander means you’ll have access to a supportive and inclusive environment where you can be exactly who you are.

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Santander and the flame logo are registered trademarks

ad_pages_feb_mar_15.indd 25

29/01/2015 23:03

CAREERS

Four years on from just being an idea Evenbreak has grown into a thriving, productive, successful, financially sustainable and award-winning business

to develop, and then there were the costs of marketing. I initially put my own money in and borrowed money from a colleague (long since repaid) and was lucky to get one or two small grants. As we had no premises or stock, it was a relatively cheap start-up, but the main issue is that very few new businesses bring in profit from day one and so whilst I could afford to start Evenbreak, I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to pay myself a salary for the first year. I did some other paid work which brought in a bit of income, and relied on savings for the rest. After the first year I was able to draw a modest salary. My disability definitely gave me some challenges. The practical challenges were largely overcome with the help of Access to Work. They paid for an electronically adjustable bed for me to work from, a laptop stand so that it could be suspended above me and some dictation software (Dragon Naturally Speaking). They also pay for a driver to drive me lying down to any work-related appointments such as

meetings or conferences, where I either stand (with a back-brace and neck collar) or lie down on a chair I take with me. Other challenges are fluctuations in my condition. Sometimes I can function quite well, other days I struggle with the pain, and then with the side effects of the extra morphine I need to take. I am learning to pace myself, for example, if I have a trip out to a conference, I know I will suffer the following day, so I ensure my diary is clear for that day. I worked hard to build Evenbreak, and considered myself lucky that I had found a business I could run largely from my bed (you can imagine the comments that sometimes arise from that statement!). We gained some very talented candidates, and some great employers such as BBC, Network Rail, John Lewis, E.ON and many more. As Evenbreak grew I realised I would need more people to help me and as Evenbreak is all about helping disabled people find work, I decided to only employ disabled people. In the second year I took on a young person

with severe ME/CFS as a Data Entry Clerk. In the third year I took on an Admin Assistant who is Deaf from birth (and is very patiently teaching me sign language) and a Marketing Manager who has had a stroke. This year I took on an Employer Engagement Consultant who had to give up her role as a nurse because of Rheumatoid Arthritis. All five of us work from home and work flexibly to accommodate our impairments. I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wish for a better team of people to work with, further proving the benefits of employing disabled people. All are paid above the Living Wage (and are worth every penny!) With their help, Evenbreak is growing from strength to strength. Four years on from just being an idea, Evenbreak has grown into a thriving, productive, successful, financially sustainable and award-winning business, directly employing five disabled people and indirectly finding employment for many, many more. We really are making a difference.

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ad_pages_feb_mar_15.indd 26

29/01/2015 23:03

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!

1. Ate 6. Easy stride 8. Filter 9. Jail 10. Shifted 11. Charged with a crime 13. Pungent condiment 15. Shove 17. Pilot 19. Third letter of the Greek alphabet 22. Welsh valley town 23. Calculate 24. Let it stand 25. 13 through 19 years of age

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. www. .net For many strategies, hints and tips, Sudoku, Kakuro & Futoshiki Puzzles visit www.sudokuwiki.org

Medium

Sudoku 9x9 - Medium (139229858)

4 2 1

7 8

2 4

5 www.

Sudoku-Puzzles .net 6 8 Sudoku, Kakuro & Futoshiki Puzzles

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Hard

Sudoku 9x9 - Hard (132324127)

5. Fragile 6. Varnish 7. Dried plum 12. Imperious 14. Person who plays the piano 16. Somebody 18. Male servant 20. Capital of Ghana 21. Gratis Solutions to Dec/Jan crossword.

Solution:

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

4 1

9 2

8 3

www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Across

Sudoku Sudoku-Puzzles

ability

Crossword

PUZZLES

5 www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Solutions The solutions to these puzzles will be printed in Solution: Magazine. the next issue of PosAbility www.sudoku-puzzles.net

Sudoku Solutions from Oct/Nov issue 2014

Down 2. End result 3. Phase 4. Religious recluse

£25 PRIZE! Puzzles_rt.indd 1

Easy

Medium

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 2015.

29/01/2015 22:07

CLASSIFIEDS Dingleton Mains, Melrose, Scotland, TD6 9HS

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Luxury holiday accommodation for people of all abilities Set in the beautiful Shropshire countryside at Astbury Falls, Bridgnorth. The fully centrally heated pine lodge has a very wide accessible ramp leading to the front door and large terrace. The lodge has two bedrooms, the second bedroom has a single electric profiling bed with a large, fully-adapted shower area. This bedroom also has a Molift overhead hoist to facilitate transfers between wheelchairs, shower chair, bed and toilet. There is a large, open-plan, comfortable living area and kitchen. See more at www.luxurypinelodge.vpweb.co.uk Contact the Smiths by e-mail: the-smiths-lodge@hotmail.co.uk or phone 0161 443 1085

Free meal for two with Nov/Dec bookings 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

TRENONA FARM HOLIDAYS High quality converted barns on a working farm in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, close to the South Coast of Cornwall. Free wifi. Fully accessible for wheelchair users with private parking and gardens. Children and pets welcome. Two or three bedroom cottages available. All inclusive price with short breaks October to March. Contact: Mrs Pamela Carbis - 01872 501339 Trenona Farm, Ruan High Lanes, Truro, Cornwall

www.trenonafarmholidays.co.uk

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In our specially converted and detached barns, we can provide free use of electric beds, air mattresses, hoists, shower chairs, riser recliner chairs plus a wide range of extra equipment to make your stay easier and more comfortable. Care is also available locally. We are only 15 mins from Truro and 30 mins from the Eden Project, making Treworgans the ideal place to explore this beautiful county. 01726 883240 / 07762 173860 www.treworgans.co.uk

Stay somewhere special.. Award winning, self-catering log cabins with stunning views of the Derbyshire countryside

Las Piedras Hotel Disabled Holidays in Spain

Stay in Beautiful Rural Andalucia Stylish Accessible Accommodation Heated Swimming Pool with Hoist Mobility Aids, Accessible Transport & Excursions

• M2 & M3a - stress free, easy level access for wheelchairs • No extras - mobile hoist, profile beds and equipment included • Explore local trails - hire the Boma 7 off-road buggy • Additional care support tailored to your needs • Relax and unwind on our working farm • We welcome children and pets

www.disabledholidaysinspain.com

• Help at hand from friendly on site owners

Contact David and Felicity on 01629 540262 www.hoegrangeholidays.co.uk

Tel 029 212 54321 Email info@disabledholidaysinspain.com

Farm HolidayCottages Cottages Vose Vose Farm Holiday 01872 530520 01872 530 520

Two luxury purpose built wheelchair accessible stone cottage, set in 85 acres of Cornish woodland and pasture. Hazel and Willow Cottage are superbly equipped and offer level access throughout Two luxury purpose built wheelchair accessible with master bedroom and en-suite wet-room and toilet. Two twin stone cottages, set in 85 acres of Cornish bedrooms with family bathroom. Underfloor heating. Free wifi with woodland and pasture. Hazel and Willow Cottage television in all bedrooms. Private patio BBQ and garden. Donkey are superbly equipped and offer level access paddock, wildlife pond.

throughout with master bedroom and en-suite wet-room and toilet. Two twin bedrooms with 01872 530520 // enquiries@vosefarmcottages.co.uk family bathroom. Underfloor heating. Free wifi www.vosefarmcottages.co.uk with television in all bedrooms. Private patio BBQ and garden. Donkey paddock, wildlife pond. classifieds_feb_mar_15.indd 2

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Accessible self-catering cottages for a holiday â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Short Breakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Special Offer from ONLY ÂŁ295 Accessible self-catering cottages Opened SeptBreakâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2014: for a holiday or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Short

4 spacious, accessible

Newly opened: 4 spacious, accessible which cater forwith cottages cottages which cater for individuals individuals range a range of disabilities, with as wella as their of families. Each cottage as haswell a wet-floor disabilities, as their shower and ceiling tracking hoists. Each cottage has a Situated families. in the seaside village of Lundin wet-floor ceiling Links, Fife they haveshower beautifuland views over the Forthtracking Estuary. The on-site Paxton in hoists. Situated (drop-in) Centre offers therapies and the seaside village of Lundin activities.

Links, Fife they have beautiful views over the Easy access garden patio and garden areas ForthtoEstuary. The on-site Other specialist equipment supplied and Paxton (drop-in) Centre offers Clos-o-Mat toilet in two cottages and activities. Minutestherapies from the Largo Bay award-winning

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ beach and Fife Coastal Path & adapted bicycles available via â&#x20AC;˘ Sailability Fife Outdoor Education Centre 01333 329 to039 enjoy the sea breeze â&#x20AC;˘ Velux balcony upstairs

info@homelands-fife.co.uk www.homelands-fife.co.uk Tel: 01333 329 039 E-Mail: info@homelands-fife.co.uk Registered Charity number SC027281

Pembrokeshire Coast

We offer a warm welcome to guests who need a little extra help to make their holiday perfect. The cottages have been designed to the highest specification around the accessibility needs and comfort of the wheelchair user and their carers. We are a well established friendly team and have been welcoming visitors since 1997. Equipment and support provided: . Profile beds . Hoist . Air mattress . Wheel-in shower chairs . Monkey pole . A carer is available if required . and lots more. To find out more contact us at the details below:

01834 831 765 // enquiries@homeleigh.org // www.homeleigh.org

Web: www.homelands-fife.co.uk

Registered Charity number SC027281

Norfolk Disabled Friendly Cottages

Accessible self-catering cottages Royal Deeside

Alba Highland Cottages t BDDFTTJCMF BEKBDFOU DPUUBHFT OFXMZ CVJMU BOE GVSOJTIFE UP B IJHI TUBOEBSE t 4JUVBUFE JO B RVJFU IBNMFU B NJMF GSPN #PBU PG (BSUFO NJMFT GSPN "WJFNPSF t #PUI IBWF CFFO CVJMU XJUI EPXOTUBJST XFU SPPNT BEKPJOJOH QBSLJOH BOE SBNQT "MM SPPNT BSF BDDFTTJCMF UP XIFFMDIBJST t CFESPPNT TMFFQ QFPQMF t 4VSSPVOEFE CZ XPPEMBOE BOE XJMEMJGF t 'SFF 8*'* BOE 1FUT XFMDPNF t 'SFF VTF PG B XIFFMDIBJS DBO CF PSHBOJTFE

01505 842062 / 07748 432648 www.albahighlandcottages.co.uk

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In the heart of the Cairngorms National Park

We are a family run business providing 8 self catering cottages designed to suit both disabled and able-bodied guests. Situated on a converted farmyard on the outskirts of the quiet village of Bircham, about 5 miles from the Royal Estate at Sandringham and 7 miles from the North Norfolk Coast. There are many nearby attractions, pubs and family activities to ensure there is something for everyone. For more information or to book call 01485 578 354 or email lavinia@nd-fc.co.uk.

www.nd-fc.co.uk

Beautifully designed and equipped with a wide range of mobility equipment available: overhead hoists, mobile hoist/stand-aid, shower chairs, riser beds, pressure mattress & lots more........

No charge for use of mobility aids.

Book your holiday before 31st March 2015 and quote â&#x20AC;&#x153;Posabilityâ&#x20AC;? for a ÂŁ25 discount. Crathie Opportunity Holidays 013397 42100 info@crathieholidays.org.uk www.crathieholidays.org.uk Scottish Charity No: SC027590

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KerryFarm

Tel: 01798 342222 info@wheelyboats.org

the place where you can...

Prices start from

£270pppw

...enjoy a stress free break and be yourself. A unique holiday for families affected by disability, illness, injury or mental ill health.

Includes care and support *

Wheelyboats provide disabled people with hassle-free and independent access to waterborne activities such as nature watching, pleasure boating and angling. 160 have now been supplied by the Trust to venues open to the public all over the UK.

For more details or a brochure, contact us on:

0800 952 5000 www.papworthtrust.org.uk/kerryfarm

Contact our Director or visit our website to find out about Wheelyboats operating near you.

www.wheelyboats.org

* Extra charge for personal care. Registered charity number 211234

Clober Farm, Milngavie, Glasgow

Lower Cottage Flat • Level access throughout • Combined kitchen living area • 3 bedrooms 2 of which are wheelchair accessible • One of the bedrooms hosts a tracking hoist, height adjustable profiling bed with air mattress, shower chairs and an ensuite wet room. • Fully accessible kitchen with fridge/freezer, microwave, induction hob and oven. For more information on this property: web: www.sisonline.org email: clober.farm@sisonline.org tel: 0141 427 7686

ENJOY Relax and enjoy the indoor heated 12m swimming pool with hoist access. Sample delicious dishes made with the finest locally sourced ingredients in our level access restaurant. Visit the many local attractions, Norwich for shopping or the Norfolk Broads for an adventure.

RELAX

SLEEP

SWIM

Explore the incredible ‘EAST, NORTH AND WEST’ coasts of Norfolk with many accessible beaches and nature reserves. Booking is advisable for the pool and restaurant. Visit www.accessiblecounrtyside.org.uk/east/norfolk

‘THERE’S NOWHERE LIKE NORFOLK’

Tel: 01362 687742 // Email: info@greenbankshotel.co.uk // Web: www.greenbankshotel.co.uk

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magazine

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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!

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the best choice when booking Dearmake Member,

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Exclusive competitions that give you the chance to win dream We have teamed up with brand new magazine, PosAbility, to send you a complimentary copy of the first issue. The holidays, amazingincluding, products magazine is filled with useful articles, enjoyable stories and lots of competitions, theand chance to win a sailing trip with us! Turn to page 26 for details on how to enter, oncegood in aluck! lifetime experiences. Products An innovative mix of products to PosAbility is all about living independently and actively, something you will read a lot about in PosAbility. This in everyday living. Health Fitness issuesupport looks into you the Paralympic hopefuls for 2012 and gives some tipsand to those who are keen to take a sport up on a serious level. There is also an article on Extreme Sports for the moreat adventurous reader, a look at the Wheelchair We look sports and activities Like us on Facebook Challenge taking place next month and an overview of the Mobility Roadshow. available for you to get involved in Employment and Education Search for ‘PosAbility Magazine’ help you lead healthy Regular columns and features on We hope you enjoy reading PosAbility, if you would like toto subscribe at only £10afor 1 year orlifestyle. £18 for 2 years, please use the form below post back withProviding your payment or call 0141 582 1475 and quote ‘Jubilee’. getting yourtodream job. Follow us on Twitter advice on CV’s, interview tips and Days Out Many Thanks @ PosAbilityMag much more. Great ideas for the whole family to John Patten enjoy. your holiday.

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The London Prosthetic Centre is proud to support Heather Mills in her Guinness World Record attempt to be the fastest disabled speed skier. For your Ski / Sports prosthesis contact the Centre today!

Unit 20, Kingsmill Business Park, Chapel Mill Road, Kingston-upon-Thames KT1 3GZ Tel: 0208 789 6565 Email: enquiries@thelondonprosthetics.com

Call now for a free Consultation.

For further information visit: www.thelondonprosthetics.com

Photo by Damjan Zibert

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