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APRIL-MAY, 2013

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GETTING ON

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n All Together NOW! is a registered charity set up to provide a tip top news service for anyone whose life is affected by disability, longterm health condtions or age. n The charity relies entirely on support from its sponsors, advertisers and from general subscriptions and grants. n You can contact us on

0151 230 0307 Who to contact Editor: Tom Dowling email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

Advertising/sponsorship Chris Groves email: sales@alltogethernow.org.uk IT Support: Ken Almond Website: Pharos Design

NEXT EDITION: Tuesday 4 June 2013 All Together NOW! is published by All Together Now! Ltd, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP Registered Charity No.1106387

April/May 2013

NEWS

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£28 billion benefit cuts on way

EW research reveas that disabled people are set to lose more than £28 billion in benefits by 2018 as a result of Government cuts and reforms to the welfare system.

The findings – by the disability charity Scope and the thinktank Demos – calculates that 3.7 million disabled people will lose out as a result of the cuts. By 2018, some disabled people could be affected by at least six different cuts, through reforms to working-age disability living allowance (DLA), housing benefit, and employment and support allowance (ESA). Some could lose more than £23,000 by 2018. About 150,000 disabled people are set to lose more than £15,000 each by 2018, with the worst-hit likely to be those – in the work-related activity group – who are affected by the new 12-month time limit on the contributory form of ESA. The researchers found that the combined impact of

Charity chiefs take over No 10

other welfare cuts was too difficult to calculate, including the freezing of child benefit (affecting one million disabled parents), the closure of the Independent Living Fund (affecting 19,000 disabled people), and cuts to council tax credit (1.38 million disabled people) and local housing allowances for private tenants (827,000 disabled people). There are also continuing restrictions on social care, with local authorities tightening eligibility criteria, increasing charges, and cutting services. Richard Hawkes, Scope’s chief executive, said: “Disabled people are already struggling to pay the bills. Living costs are spiralling. Income is flat-lining. We know many are getting in debt, just to pay for essentials. “The same group of disabled people face not just one or two cuts to their support, but in some cases three, four, five or even six cuts. “It paints a frightening picture of the financial struggles affecting disabled people in 2013.”

DOWNING GREET: Mrs Cameron, centre, meets the Foundation team – Kevin Horkin, left, Dame Lorna Muirhead, Cathy, and Dennis Mendoros

THE Community Foundation for Merseyside took over No 10 Downing Street and showcased their work on behalf of local charities, community groups and philanthropists. Prime Minister’s wife Samantha Cameron and guests heard the charity’s chief executive Cathy Elliott and Chris Bliss, estate director for Liverpool ONE, talk

about the importance of giving. Guests also saw a selection of short films of recent community projects that have been supported. Cathy said: “The Community Foundation is dedicated to helping local people at a grassroots level. “Since we first launched in 1999, we have distributed over £45m in grants to around 9,500 community

groups and individuals. “Last year alone, we invested approximately £1.2m into Merseyside in projects which are transforming local communities and improving lives. “I feel incredibly proud of these achievements, which have only been made possible through the generosity of our donors, and are testament to the hard work and dedication of those in our sector.”

‘Disabled workers abused’

ORKERS with disabilities are twice as likely to be abused at wor, says a new study.

Researchers from Cardiff and Plymouth universities found that people with physical or psychological disabilities or long-term illness reported higher rates of 21 types of ill-treatment than other workers did – and often from their managers and colleagues. These included being given impossible deadlines and being ignored, gossiped about or teased. The research, which uses data from the British Workplace Behaviour Survey, found that those with disabilities or long-term illness said managers were responsible for 45% of the more serious ill-treatment they had suffered and that customers or clients were responsible for 28%, and colleagues for 18%. Professor Ralph Fevre, of Cardiff School of Social

Sciences, said: “Up to now, researchers have generally assumed that ill-treatment in the workplace was causing disabilities and health problems. Our work suggests ill-treatment happens to employees who already have disabilities or health problems.” In their paper ‘The Ill-treatment of Disabled Employees in British Workplaces’, researchers note that people with a disability or long-term illness reported higher levels in all the categories of illtreatment they looked at. Among workers with a disability, those with a psychological or learning disability usually fared wore than those with physical disabilities or longterm physical health problems. Among those with a psychological or learning disability, 21.2% said they were victims of physical violence, and 44.2% said they had been insulted.

Humiliated clubber wins £1,500 pay out A WHEELCHAIR user has won £1,500 in an out of court settlement after being refused entry to a nightclub and then taunted by staff. The case, supported by the Equality and Human Rights Commission, highlights the difficulties still faced by many disabled people in their everyday lives, including physical access problems and dealing with discriminatory attitudes. Mark Daniels, a medical student from Peckham, took action against the owner and the manager of the Mosquito bar in Clapham. Both people were accused of denying him access due to his disability, despite the fact that it is unlawful for a service provider to discriminate against a person because of disability. Mr Daniels claimed he was refused entry because he was a wheelchair user. He was also told the bar was too busy and there was no space for him – despite the fact that other people were being let in. He had been in the same bar before without any problems. Mr Daniels also said that he was subjected to humiliating harassment by the manager who took photographs of him and then laughed at him along with the doorman. Mr Daniels said: “It’s a shame some businesses still see disabled people as an inconvenience instead of as potential customers.” John Wadham, chief legal officer at the EHRC, said: “It does not make sense to exclude disabled people. “All that is needed is a little thought by a business and investment in some common sense facilities for disabled people – a small price to pay compared to the reputational benefits for a business that is seen to treat all its customers well.”

NOW! READERS DO NOT SEE ANY OTHER NEWSPAPER HALF OF All Together NOW! All Together — The Murray Consultancy

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April/May 2013

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Minister praises our sponsors

Farewell and thanks to a great pal . . .

ISABILITY minister Esther McVey popped in to the All Together NOW! offices – and praised the support the charity receives from the its sponsors and partners.

THANKS

“It is really excellent that these big organisations are supporting such a valuable charity newspaper - the only one of its kind in the country,” she said. The Wirral West MP is a big fan of the TOP PRAISE: Esther McVey, Minister for Disabled People, in the editor’s chair multi award-winning paper that has a readership of almost half a million across the North West. “All Together NOW! is a terrific newspaper that’s helping so many people,” she said. “It is a fantastic brand, Hello! trusted by its ever-growing After such a long, cold and army of readers, and apart especially tough winter, it’s from the all the help and inspiration it gives to families great to report that your We are very impressed with how affected by disability it is also FREE All Together NOW! All Together NOW! is getting paper continues to battle on raising significant general our health messages to people and impress people from awareness about the across the region.The paper is right across the region – and everyday issues that having a tremendously positive beyond! disabled people and those in impact on people’s wellbeing, Best news of all came just poor health face in the UK.” especially those affected by as we were going to press. Since taking up her position disability and age, and we are The Morgan Foundation, who as Minister for Disabled delighted to continue our have supported our work People last September, Ms partnership.” since 2006, have extended McVey has been embroiled James Brown, Head of their sponsorship for in rows over the Communications Liverpool another three years! Government’s welfare reform Community Health Steve Morgan, founder and programme and the closure chairman of the Morgan of Remploy factories that All Together NOW! is making a Foundation, said: “We want provided jobs for disabled hugely important social you to know how pleased we people. contribution to people affected are with the huge progress “We are facing very tough BIG FAN: STEVE MORGAN by health issues and deserves the paper has made. times,” she said, “but we to be supported. At Park we are know from the number of telephone calls we receive “We want to ensure that our committed to supporting our from people who have read the paper that distribution is on support targets the people community and this free charity the increase and is reaching the right audience. who are most in need.” newspaper is helping so many “We look forward to another exciting three years. Keep up people across the region. the good work!” All Together NOW! Thanks – we will, and we hope that, despite all the gloom We know how valuable it is for many of our customers. We are teams up with and doom, you will all find something to cheer about in this proud to be associated with the our spring issue. We’re back in June with our sizzling Access to Work paper.” summer edition. See you then! Chris Houghton, chief SKILLZONE – p19 — Tom Dowling, editor and coordinator executive officer at Park

WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT US

‘ ‘

AT EASE: Sgt Walter Huntley and his life-time pal, dummy Gunner Jimmy Turner All Together NOW! has lost one its staunchest supporters and writers. Walter Huntley, who worked tirelessly trying to encourage North West businesses and philanthropists to support the charity newspaper, died on March 15 aged 92. Walter spent his journalistic career at the Liverpool Daily Post and Echo, becoming associate editor of both papers, before retiring (from paid-for work) in 1983. But he was also known for his other “career” in showbusiness – thanks to his love of ventriloquism. With his life-time pal Gunner Jimmy Turner, he played to wartime audiences of troops and civilians. Walter’s book about his wartime experiences – Dummy Bullets – was published five years ago. He split the proceeds between All Together NOW! and the The Royal Artillery Charitable Fund. Walter’s final piece of work appeared in our Christmas issue. In the article he passed on wise words for older people who were trying to deal with the everincreasing ailments that life throws their way. Here’s his last paragraph . . . “Now Christmas is almost here and am I going to enjoy it? You bet your life I am! The family will be here – seven of us – and we’ll play the old games just like we used to do with me joining in from a chair and I’ll have a wee dram. Not as many as once happened and drunk more slowly, but each one enjoyed all the more for being so. Life can still be good at 92!” Walter leaves Wendy, his wife of over 60 years, their son Ian, daughter-in-law Anne-Marie and three grandchildren Alex, Julia and Felicity.

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April/May 2013

NEWS

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Medicash backs Roy’s vision No alliance with us, TUC tells Government THE TUC’s Disabled Workers’ Committee has rejected an invitation from the Government to join its new Disability Action Alliance (DAA). Disabled trade unionists feel strongly that joining the DAA – an organisation recently set up by the Office for Disability issues to encourage groups representing disabled people to work together – would restrict the TUC’s ability to campaign against Government policies that are affecting disabled people. Chair of the TUC Disabled Workers’ Committee Seán McGovern said: “The Government has been attacking the living standards of disabled people for almost three years now and things are getting worse. “The ATOS work capability assessments, the closure of the independent living fund, the switch from Disability Living Allowance to the Personal Independent Payment, and the bedroom tax – every single one of these changes is punishing and impoverishing disabled people and their families.”

Loto’s £10m boost CHILDREN with a severe stammer are to receive specialist support to reach their full potential following a Big Lottery Fund grant. Action for Stammering Children (ASC) is one of 48 projects across England to share in funding of £10m from BIG’s Reaching Communities programme which aims to help those most in need and build stronger communities. Based at the Michael Palin Centre for Stammering Children in London, ASC will use the funding of £385,200 to continue providing specialist help to children from across England who have a chronic and often acute stammer. ASC estimates that one in 20 children stammer and that it is three to four times more common in boys than in girls. n Tel: 020 3316 8100.

Bank’s helpful signs DEAF bank customers are to benefit from a sign language service for the first time in the UK. Called SignVideo, the service gives deaf Lloyds Bank users direct access to the customer service team via a British Sign Language interpreter using their computer and a webcam. Communications minister Ed Vaizey said: “It’s a great example of industry self-regulation at work, and proof that Video Relay Service schemes can be put in place easily, and at minimal cost. “The digital economy depends on making sure everyone can contribute and everyone can benefit, and I would now urge the rest of the banking industry to follow Lloyds’ lead.” Barclays Bank, meanwhile, has becoming the first major bank to introduce talking cash machines. Since signing up to the Royal National Institute of Blind People’s

HEALTH cash plan provider Medicash has donated £5,000 to the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation to support its Kings College London research project. The project aims to develop single molecule strategies to test blood samples, which it is hoped will help researchers to identify abnormalities in the blood that could be an early sign of lung cancer. The Medicash Charitable Trust has donated more than £1m to a variety MEDICASH BOSS SUE WEIR of causes during the past 10 years

and was formed through the merger of two separate trusts. Sue Weir, chief executive of Medicash, said: “As lung cancer is the most common cause of cancer death in the UK, for both men and women, we at Medicash wanted to make this donation to enable the Foundation to continue its important work on the prevention and treatment of lung cancer.” Medicash is one of the largest and most established healthcare cash plan providers in the UKK

New hopes on ‘bedroom tax’

ISABLED people who are set to be hit by the Government’s controversial “bedroom tax” have won the right to an urgent judicial review of the new rules. Lawyers acting for the 10 individuals and families taking the legal action say that the changes - which came into force on 1 April - will have a far greater impact on disabled people than nondisabled people. They say the regulations breach the Equality Act and the Human Rights Act, as well as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The judicial review of the decision to cut housing benefit for those judged to be “overoccupying” their social housing will be heard in early May. Sue McCafferty, a member of the We are Spartacus grassroots network of disabled campaigners, said: “The policy and the legislation underpinning the ‘bedroom tax’ are fundamentally flawed and it was evident from the Government’s own equality impact assessment that the regulations would have a disproportionate impact upon sick and disabled people. “We hope, that the profound distress caused to those affected will soon be over.” Ugo Hayter, from solicitors Leigh Day, who is representing two of the claimants, said: “This is an excellent result and the first step in over-ruling what we believe is an unfair piece of legislation which has disproportionate negative consequences for disabled people and is therefore

Mumbling their way for charity A GROUP of enthusiastic cyclists – including Southport’s former Parlympian Margaret Biggs and several other amputees – are saddling up for the Holyhead to Mumbles Challenge. The four-day, 200-miles trip, which takes place in April, will raise funds for the Douglas Bader Foundation. Margaret and Wyn Jenkins will be making the ride a little more

challenging by riding a tandem the whole way! Wyn said: “We will be supported by 20 members of my able-bodied cycling club together with others from Southport Cycling Club. It sends a powerful message to other amputees that this is an activity that is very inclusive.” n The Douglas Bader Foundation: 01442 826662. LimbPower: 07502 276859.

by JOHN PRING

showed that 230,000 disability living allowance (DLA) claimants would lose an average of £728 per year in housing benefit as a result of the new regulation. Even if all the extra £30 million funding allocated by the Government to help foster carers and disabled people in adapted properties was given to DLA claimants hit by the tax, they would each receive just £2.51 per week, compared with an average £14 a week loss.

discriminatory.” The new regulation will see a working-age single person or a couple with no children in social housing having their housing benefit reduced by 14 per cent if they occupy a two-bedroom home and by 25 per cent if they occupy a home with three or more bedrooms. National Housing Federation figures released earlier this month

New home plans for autistic society AMBITIOUS plans to provide more specialised accommodation for people with autism have been announced. Wirral Autistic Society says its residential home at Raby Hall is to undergo a complete £2.5m transformation over the next decade. Fundraiser Rick Myers said: “Our new plans are almost as ambitious and significant as the purchase of the original Raby Hall. “The first phase of this redevelopment, costing £755,000, will involve the construction of a brand new autism specific home for eight people. “The main features of the new home will be en-suite bedrooms, wide corridors to avoid overcrowding and reduce anxiety levels, easy access to the open air and surrounding grounds, and special lighting. “Good quality residential accommodation designed specifically for those with autism is in very short supply. There are only 3,000 places available throughout the UK to provide for half a million sufferers.” He added: “We want to build something that will not only improve the quality of life for those with autism - we want to build something that we can leave for future generations.” While the majority of people the society cares for come from the Merseyside area they also look after more than 300 people from all over the country. The Society was set up in 1977 and opened by Princess Anne. Its Lifetime Appeal was launched at Eaton Park, the home of WAS President, the Duke of Westminster. n Wirral Autistic Society: 0151 643 5540.

340,000 people – two-thirds of All Together NOW! readers – DO NOT read any other disability or health publication — The Murray Consultancy

TAKE ME HOME!

NEW MENTAL HEALTH ZONE?

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OR the past eight years All Together NOW! has been providing a first class news and information service for readers affected by disability. By highlighting opportunities in employment, leisure and sport, your FREE charity paper has helped huge numbers of readers to lead more fulfilled lives. It has also led to the charity scooping a string of prestigious awards – from the media industry and from communities across the North

April/May 2013

All Together NOW!

We need YOUR views West. But we’ve only been able to achieve this success thanks to our sponsors, advertisers – and YOU, our readers, who are helping to guide the paper’s content. Now we want to make All Together NOW! even better – by adding new sections that would help greater numbers of readers. One of those new sections could be a comprehensive and positive Mental Health Zone.

Mental health/illness can, of course, be as disabling as physical disability – 1 in 4 people will experience some kind of mental health problem in the course of a year. We think there is a real need for such a section in All Together NOW! A Mental Health Zone that incorporates a mix of news, advice and opportunities could help tens of thousands of readers.

PLEASE TICK ALL RELEVANT BOXES – AND CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE . . . www.alltogethernow.org.uk 1. What are the main day to day 2. Do you think there is a need for 4. What do you think would be the problems faced by those with more news and information about benefit of this new Mental Health mental illness? mental health issues? Zone? Yes No Isolation Increase awareness 3. What kind of articles and features would you like to see in the new Discrimination Reduce stigma/discrimination section? Personal stories Stigma Reduced isolation Anxiety

News relating to mental health

Access to opportunities

Lack of public understanding

Work/training opportunities

Improved health/confidence/ quality of life

Lack of news/information

Research and treatments

Other

Help and advice available

It could also help raise awareness and combat stigma and discrimination. But before we start to put any plans into action – and explore the funding opportunities to cover the costs of the new section – we want to be absolutely certain that YOU feel the same way, too. We would be very grateful if you will complete the short questionnaire below. We want to know how useful you would find a Mental Health section in All Together NOW!

– Thank You!

We are also looking for readers (especially those who have had mental health issues) who might like to be considered for a small group that will give us views on the direction and content of a new Mental Health Zone. If you want to be part of the group please complete the coupon.

NAME ADDRESS

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Other PREP74C13-ATN-262x165-Jan_Layout 1 24/01/2013 10:56 Page 1

Please send to: MENTAL HEALTH ZONE, All Together NOW! The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP

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NEWS

Shock health report of the homeless THE homeless are a nation apart when it comes to rates of infectious diseases, heart disease, asthma, mental health, and mortality, shocking evidence shows. New research confirms that because the system allows homeless people to get so sick, they end up costing the NHS up to eight times more than people with a home. The stark facts about Britain’s homeless population were presented to members of the Faculty for Homeless and Inclusion Health at their first international conference. The Faculty called for all NHS organisations to adopt its core standards for health services for homeless people and for more integrated services for the most vulnerable. Stan Burridge, from homeless charity Pathway, and a former rough sleeper, said: “My own experience tells me that when the NHS lets homeless people down it just stores up more serious health problems for the future.”

Flats are a Grand idea A FORMER Wirral pub is giving homeless people a place to stay as they prepare to move back into independent living. The Victorian building, formerly the Grand Trunk pub in Duke Street, Birkenhead, had been closed for some years until being bought by The Wirral Churches’ Ark Project. WCAP chief executive Anne O’Marah said: “The six studio flats are for homeless people who may need longer term support. This new facility is the first of its kind for us.” n WCAP: 0151 650 6850.

April/May 2013

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Women’s Snowdon trek for Karen

PREPARED FOR ANYTHING: Luke Delahunty, one of the five handbikers who are taking part in the mountain challenge

EIGHTEEN months ago a tiny woman with a huge heart took a small step towards a big challenge. Despite having a collapsed lung and a terminal illness, Karen Goodwin was determined to walk up Snowdon to raise funds for Macmillian Cancer Support – and to show the world she could still live life to the full. And Karen would have reached the summit had the weather not turned foul just metres from the top. Now, a group of 50 women of varying health and abilities, most of whom have undergone treatment for breast cancer, are determined to get to the top in Karen’s honour. Diane Jones, diagnosed with breast cancer two years ago, said: will form a guard of honour for the “Karen was also very involved in rapid return down the mountain.” planning this new walk and Charities set to benefit from the hoped to be at the bottom of the challenge are: mountain making bacon butties n Challenge your Boundaries for us. adaptive MTB project (30%); “Unfortunately, the cancer n Aberdyfi Search and Rescue spread to her brain and Karen Team (30%); sadly passed away in January. n ‘Walking with the Wounded’, a “But we’re all now determined project assisting injured service that Life Climb will be just one of personnel (30%); the legacies she leaves and that n Mawddach Rotary Club (10%). it will become an annual event!” The ride takes place on The Life Climb takes place on Saturday, April 20. Saturday June 1 Contact: 01341 430628. n www.life-climb.co.uk

Hand bikes at dawn!

IVE disabled hand cyclists are gearing up to scale Cadair Idris, one of the tallest mountains in Snowdonia, using specially designed mountain bikes.

The bikes, pedalled by hand rather than foot, have especially low gears – essential on the steep and rocky upper slopes of the mountain. Project leader Graham O’Hanlon, who with wife Jacky run the Challenge Your Boundaries adventure centre at nearby Coed y

Brenin, said: “We want to raise the profile of adaptive mountain biking within the UK and to raise funds for a number of associated projects and local charities. “This epic 10-hour ride – which we’ve called ‘Hand Bikes at Dawn’ – is going to be really tough for all the riders, who have had plenty of training. “We have enlisted the support of mountain rescue specialists who will help the riders negotiate the difficult stone chutes approaching the summit, and a team of experts

Dave set to make waves for big day THE venue for Dave Thompson’s latest moneymaking effort was a real dive! Dave, founder and co-ordinartor of Britain’s biggest disabiltiy awareness event, is leading the gruelling Going the Extra Mile Scuba Challenge. The event involves a 64-length dive of the swimming pool at Great Sankey Leisure Centre in Warrington and will raise money needed to hold the North West Disability Awareness Day at the town’s Walton Hall Gardens on Sunday, July 14. Dave, who sustained a spinal cord injury 23 years ago, has been scuba diving for five years despite no functional use in three limbs and limited use in his left arm. Using adapted equipment, he has notched up over 70 deep dives, including one very memorable dive with the sharks at Cheshire’s Blue Planet Aquarium. Launched three years ago, the Going the Extra Mile Scuba Challenge takes place from 4pm-8pm on Sunday, April 27. Anyone interested in joining the challenge can contact dave.thompson@5bp.nhs.uk or call the DAD admin team on 01925 664064. If you can’t make it to the event but want to support Dave and his team you can donate online at www.justgiving.com/scuba2013

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April/May 2013

Supporting Supporting banking current and former families bank and workers retirees and their with families Supporting life’s with Supporting banking current life’s Challenges challenges and former My Wellbeing My Home families bank and workers retirees and their with families life’s with

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the experience to care, the knowledge to help

the experience to c the knowledge to

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We help with information, advice and financial support. Find out more, visit www.bwcharity.org.uk or call our FREE helpline: 0800 0234 834

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April/May 2013

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Blind children’s lives blighted SIGHT loss is having a massive impact on some young children’s lives, a new report warns. Research reveals worrying differences between children with sight loss and their sighted peers when it comes to happiness, success at school, financial hardship and social inclusion. The study, by RLSB (the Royal London Society for Blind People) and the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), comes as many local authorities are having to reduce specialist educational support in response to Government cuts. Key facts from the report, Sight

Impaired at Aged Seven, are: n Parents revealed that children with sight loss are twice as likely as fully sighted children to have emotional, concentration or behavioural difficulties. n Half live in households with a weekly income below £300. n They are three times more likely to be rated by their teachers as reading at “below” or “well below average” level. n Teachers said fewer than six in 10 children with vision impairment had at least one good friend, compared with eight in 10 children without vision impairment.

Both parents and teachers were more likely to report that children with vision impairment were bullied at school and twice as many children with vision impairment said they were bullied “all of the time” at school. RLSB chief Dr Tom Pey said: “This report will alarm many but it’s a story that has gone untold for too long. “We must put into sharp relief exactly how challenging the prospects are for so many young children living with sight loss. “Progress has been made in improving many young lives, but this report demonstrates that we still haven’t got it totally right.”

School shame D

ISABLED children are illegally excluded from school on a regular basis with huge consequences for their education and mental health, shock new research shows.

TOP CHAIR, SAYS TOP GEAR STAR THE award-winning MERU Bugzi powered indoor wheelchair is a huge hit with children aged one to six – and with Top Gear star Richard Hammond.

A survey of over 400 affected families by the Contact a Family charity found: n More than half (53%) of families have been asked to collect their child during the school day because there are not enough staff to support them. n More than half (56%) of families have been told by the school that their child can’t take part in a class activity or trip because it is unsuitable for them. n Almost a quarter (22%) are illegally excluded every week, and 15% every day. n More than half (53%) of affected disabled children are falling behind with school work. n 43% feel depressed because of illegal exclusions. n Half of parents (50%) are unable to work due to being called to school frequently. Contact a Family chief Srabani Sen said: “If nondisabled pupils were sent home because there were not enough school staff, there would be uproar. “Illegal exclusions undermine the government’s intentions set out in the Children and Families Bill of disabled children achieving their full potential. Maggie Atkinson, the Children’s Commissioner for England, said “We will be publishing a report with recommendations on how best to address

Stylish and easy to operate, the chairs are letting kids move around independently, often for the first time in their lives. “As a father of young children, I have seen how a child benefits from being able to interact with the world,” said Richard. “To see Bugzi making this a reality for children whose parents believed it was an impossible dream is very moving.” The Bugzi chairs were designed and made by children’s disability charity MERU, who want to raise £100,000 to expand their free loan service to families across the UK. They already have 10 chairs out on loan and are hoping to find the other £50,000 to build another 10. n Want to know more? Call MERU on 0208 770 1151. nwww.meru.org.uk/bugzi

Countess joins in the celebrations at Brainwave BRAINWAVE, the charity working with families to help children with disabilities reach their full potential, has celebrated its 10th anniversary – with a visit from its president, the Countess of Wexford. Children on Brainwave

programmes have a range of conditions such as cerebral palsy, genetic conditions including Downs syndrome, autism and General Development Delay. Chief executive Phil Edge said: “When The Countess agreed to become president of Brainwave we

had one centre in Bridgwater, but in the past 10 years Brainwave has reached out with centres in the North West, South East and satellite clinics in Ireland and Scotland. “That means families can access the Brainwave charity wherever

they are based in the United Kingdom.” The wife of Prince Edward opened the centres in Warrington and Witham and has made several visits to Bridgwater where she opened a therapy pool and accommodation. n Brainwave: 01925 825547.

450,000 people are reading this page – 0151 230 0307

Growing up isn’t easy . . . THE JOURNEY from childhood into the adult world can be difficult enough for any of us. But it is often especially stressful for young people with disabilities or special educational needs – and their parents. Now Cerebra, a national charity for children with neurological conditions, has produced a guide aimed at making the whole process easier for young people. The guide has been produced for professionals to help give them a clear understanding of where young disabled people aged between 16 and 25 - stand in terms of the law, education, social care, health, housing, employment and money. Cerebra will publish a similar “transitions guide” for parents in the summer and is planning a series of seminars for both parents and practitioners. Cerebra Helpline 0800 328 1159 www.cerebra.co.uk

TAKE ME HOME!

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2013

All Together NOW!

How we can help . . .

ERE at the Morgan Foundation we want to help organisations who share our philosophy – Making a

Difference.

businessman Steve Morgan OBE, founder and chairman of Redrow plc, chairman of the Bridgemere Group of Companies and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, the Morgan Foundation supports charities across North Wales, Merseyside, West Cheshire and North Shropshire. Our aim is to provide funding for small to medium-sized organisations who are addressing specific needs in these regions.

We are particularly keen to support those who have already begun to make an impact, but need a helping hand to expand their work and increase their effectiveness. We focus our help mainly on those who work directly with children and families but we recognise that many wider issues may also affect their welfare, so we are interested in any project which contributes to the quality of life in our region.

POWER YOUNG PEOPLE

Over the past decade we have helped hundreds of organisations across the region, committing over £10 million. This year we will be giving away a whopping £1.5 MILLION to good causes. Created in 2001 by

OWERED wheelchairs are the key to independence for so many people.

But they come at a cost – far more than what the cash-strapped NHS are prepared to pay out, and, in most cases, far more than the price of your average family car. But that’s no longer a problem for 19-year-old Connor Hill, who has just been given a state of the art Typhoon II Power Assisted Wheelchair. Connor, who lives in Runcorn, is among 120 severely disabled young people whose lives have been transformed by powered wheelchairs and other specialist mobility equipment – thanks to the region’s biggest funder, The Morgan Foundation, working in partnership with the Cheshire-based Children Today charity. Nearly £350,000 was raised at last year’s star-studded Morgan Foundation charity golf day and

auction, sponsored by housebuilder Redrow, to benefit local disabled children. “I can’t thank enough all those people who have helped to get me this chair,” said Connor, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, the most common form of the disease that mainly affects boys and prevents the body from producing dystrophin – a protein that helps protect muscles. “Having this chair is enabling me to do so much. I am now living independently in my own flat and with my Motability van and carer Alex I am able to live just like anyone else in the community. “There is no way I would have been able to pay to replace my old chair which I have now outgrown. Thank you!” Steve Morgan OBE, founder of The Morgan Foundation and chairman of Redrow and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC,

Helping families

HOT WHEELS: Connor with Steve Morgan, centre, and Alan Dodd, chief executive of the Children Today charity said: “Having a mobility aid means disabled children can feel a fraction of the sense of freedom most of us take for granted. “Each piece of equipment costs between £1,500 and £16,000 – and the cost is not covered by the NHS. “Everyone who took part in our golf day or attended the gala dinner has

helped to make a real difference.” Alan Dodd, chief executive of Children Today, said: “Without doubt, the unrivalled support from The Morgan Foundation has had a profound impact on many, many disabled children and young people. This specialised equipment is so vital to their on-going development.”

MANY people assume that a child or young person with a disability would automatically receive the equipment they need. Sadly, this is not the case. Many families are unable to get the help they need from local health authorities for major items such as specialised mobility equipment. This is where Children Today can help. Founded in 1994 the charity helps disabled children and young people up to the age of 25 enjoy a better quality of life by providing them with the specialised equipment they need. Children Today believes the provision of specialised equipment has a direct and immediate impact on a child’s quality of life and independence, and is vital in helping them to overcome obstacles and achieve their potential. The charity provides ongoing support and the children can come back for further funding as their needs develop or they outgrow their equipment. n If you think Children Today may be able to help you, call 01244 335622.

www.morganfoundation.co.uk Tel. 01829 782800

GETTING ON . . .

All Together NOW!

WISE WINNIE . . . helps to solve some of the problems faced by older people

For 35 years I have enjoyed living alone in my cottage in a rural area but over the winter I became quite depressed and felt very isolated. For the first time in my life I felt old, which is not surprising as I am in my late eighties. I no longer drive and friends say I need to act now about getting somewhere to live nearer the shops and transport services. They think if I leave it any longer I will not be able to cope with the move and they are probably right. They say that I should be thinking of sheltered accommodation where a warden would be on hand if I became ill and where I could meet up with other residents socially. But the thought of selling my home frightens me, and my two nearest neighbours, who have always been there to help me, say they don’t want me to go. I have no family members to talk things over with.

Uprooting yourself is a very big step to take and can in itself bring on depression, so instead of wasting energy worrying why not do a bit of practical investigating? If you know someone who already lives in sheltered housing near to the shops, the local health centre, buses etc perhaps they would let you have a look round their place to get a feel of what you would be going into. It could be smaller than your cottage so you might have to get rid of some of your furniture and consider going for something like fitted units instead. And would you miss your garden? These are realities of the situation. At first, any move is bound to feel strange but as you get older and the less you feel like housework the more you could appreciate the compactness of your surroundings and hopefully well organised communal activities. While you are considering change why not take a look at local care homes as well, especially if your mobility is not good. It’s good to have friendly neighbours but they cannot be expected to have full responsibility for you and one day they may move. They might be prepared to help you take a look at places. n Age UK provides information about sheltered housing and care homes. Tel: 0800 1696565, www.ageuk.org.uk/home-and-care

April/May 2013

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Life is fragile, handle with care . . .

Don’t lose sleep over this brainteaser IF YOU believe everything that comes out of America then you may be worried about suggestions that the brains of older people with hearing loss may decline 40% faster than those with normal hearing. Worry not, says Deafness Research UK, who stress that the American research must be viewed with caution. Vivienne Michael, the charity’s chief executive, said: “This US research does not tell us if hearing loss causes this decline or if the conditions are simply linked by association, or more importantly, if hearing aids may help prevent it. “Proof that treating hearing loss slows brain decline and dementia would be a compelling reason for demanding greater investment into the causes and

treatments of deafness and an insight into the importance of hearing aids as an aid to cognition and mental health in the UK’s ageing population. “We know about two million people in the UK have hearing aids, but a further four million would benefit from using them too. This research, while in its preliminary stages, may provide another good reason to encourage them to do so. “The first step to healthier hearing and perhaps a healthier brain is to recognise the problem and do something about it.” Deafness Research UK’s free leaflet Just Diagnosed with Hearing Loss? explains your options. For a free copy call the charity’s helpline 0808 808 2222 n www.deafnessresearch.org.uk

Are happy days

really here again? D

ESPITE the seemingly endless economic gloom of the last few years, it seems we are having a lot more fun than a decade ago.

In its latest report, The Way We Pay, the Payments Council brings together all the big trends over that period for the first time . . . Entertainment spending has risen by over 60%, we have doubled what we spend in restaurants and cafés, and increased our outlay on cinema and shows by 63%. Pubs and bars have lost out in real terms, though. We are spending just 7% more on going out for a drink. In total, we spent £58bn having fun last year, almost one and a half times as much as we forked out for gas and electricity (£34bn). Supermarkets now get 58p in every retail pound, up from 46p 10 years ago, and spending at their petrol pumps has almost tripled, accounting for 12% of what we

It seems we’re spending more on having fun!

hand over to supermarkets. But spending in furniture and homeware shops is down by nearly half. Newsagents lost nearly a fifth of their trade, spending in DIY stores is also down by nearly half, but clothing shops bucked the retail trend and increased their share of our shopping spend by more than two thirds. The cost of housing has shot up, whether you own or rent. The amount we collectively spend on rent has risen 104% since 2001, while money going on mortgages has increased by 99%. Paying for our goods and services has changed dramatically, too. Cheque usage continues to fall, halving every five years, and

the rise of the debit card has been responsible for the decline of cash on the high street. We still make a lot of very small cash transactions (three out of five of our one-off payments) but since 91% are under £25, contactless payment technology, which has started to become a more familiar sight at shop tills and on our cards, could revolutionise how way we pay. Currently, most contactless payments are made using a debit or credit card upgraded with the new technology, but soon mobile phones could do the job instead. So stand by for another decade of big change. Adrian Kamellard, chief executive of the Payments Council, said: “Someone in their 30s today will see more change in their lifetime than in the entire history of money. It’s easy to imagine a future where we merely pat our pockets for our keys and phone. The wallet could become a historical curiosity.”

SENIOR MOMENTS . . . with FRANK HARRIS

MONEY MATTERS with GORDON VINER THE best bank account around at the moment is without a doubt SANTANDER 1 2 3 Account. n It gives interest on this current account and rebates on your Direct Debits. n 3% rebate on DDs for mobile phones, home phones, broadband and paid-for TV packages. n 2% on energy (gas and electric) n 1% on Water, Council Tax, and Santander mortgages (to £1000 p.m.) In addition you will receive interest (less tax) on your balance with them as follows: n Over £1,000 1% p.a. n Over £2,000 2% n Over £3,000 to £20,000 3%. Where else can you get 3% interest on instant access on £20,000? But you must not go overdrawn and you must pay in at least £500 p.m. and have at least 2 DDs. There is also a monthly fee of £2. Switching is very easy and well worthwhile. www.santander.co.uk FOR THOSE of you who took my advice last issue and now have a Sainsbury credit card, you will soon be coming to the end of the 5% rebate period. Do not despair, is there someone else in your household who could take out a card which, with their permission and armed with their pin you could use to everyone’s advantage? gordonviner@aol.com THE AVERAGE price of being a pensioner in the North West is £9,812 a year. The biggest cost comes from housing and heating at £1,580, narrowly ahead of spending on food and non-alcoholic drink. In total, pensioner spending contributes £103.9 billion to total spending across the UK with more than £16.4 billion going on housing and energy bills.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2013

All Together NOW!

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United Utilities is calling on all customers to protect themselves from doorstep criminals. Statistics show that around 20 bogus caller crimes are committed every day in the UK, but this might only be 10% of the total that actually take place as victims often feel too embarrassed to report it to the police. Bogus callers will often call at your door claiming there is an issue with the water and they need to check your taps; they will use this as an opportunity to trick themselves into your home claiming to be from United Utilities or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the water boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Once inside, they will distract you while they or an accomplice help themselves to money and valuables. Genuine United Utilitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; employees always carry an ID card and are happy to show this to you. They will never put pressure on you to enter your home and will be happy for you to phone United Utilities to check their identity. And our employees wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t refer to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the water boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as this hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t existed for more than 30 years! Bogus callers can be very persuasive, but our advice is to never feel under pressure to let someone into your home.

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To help you, we operate a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;password protectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; scheme. Joining our password scheme is easy. It takes just one call to 0845 746 1100. We simply need your details and your choice of password. Then, whenever someone claiming to be from United Utilities calls at your home, you can ask them for your password. Only a genuine visitor from United Utilities will know what it is. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a simple deterrent that really does work and will give you the confidence to turn people away from your door. Most gas, electricity and telephone companies will operate a similar scheme â&#x20AC;&#x201C; see a recent bill for further details and contact numbers.

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INDEPENDENT LIVING All Together NOW!

April/May 2013

New legs set to make life easier for amputees

Xbox of tricks to aid stroke recovery T

HE latest computer games technology could play a big part in the recovery of stroke victims.

Medics believe Microsoft Kinect – a device enabling computer gamers to control their Xbox with gestures and spoken commands – can help stroke patients who have suffered facial paralysis. Now, thanks to a £347,000 grant, researchers at Nottingham Trent University are building a prototype system which uses an avatar to provide instant feedback on a patient’s progress. The system will automatically detect how well both sides of a stroke victim’s face are lining up, using eyelids, cheeks and the corners of the mouth, while they carry

out routine facial exercises. This information will be displayed on a TV or computer screen to the patient and doctors. Project leader Dr Philip Breedon said: “This tool will recognise the differences between an undesirable one-sided unilateral movement and a desired symmetrical movement, across both sides of the face. “This information would then be conveyed via the TV using an animated representation, or avatar, of the patient. “Using the avatar as both a visual and oral communicator, the system will take the patient through a series of exercises and indicate the degree of success. “It is hoped that the information will also be sent electronically to a clinician to allow

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

NEW state of the art prosthetic legs could soon make walking a lot easier for above-knee amputees.

them to track the patient’s progress.” This is a considerable advancement on the traditional method currently used, where patients are provided with a series of exercises on a piece of paper, so they are unable to assess on a daily basis whether they are making improvements or performing the correct movements. The device will consist of an interface box which runs the software and is linked to the Windows Microsoft Kinect and the patient’s TV or PC monitor. Dr Breedon added: “We’re hoping that this technology will not only help to reduce the burden on the NHS but more importantly improve the quality of life of stroke survivors, providing them with encouragement and recognising the accomplishments during their recovery.”

Currently, when walking with a single prosthetic leg, above-knee amputees typically use up to 60% more energy than non-disabled people, causing fatigue and a 40% slower walking speed. Now research by the University of Salford, University of Manchester and prosthetics company Blatchford’s Endolite Technology Centre could revolutionise people’s lives. A crack team of engineers and prosthetists are set to explore the potential for using hydraulic technology to harvest and store energy from the parts of the prosthesis that absorb power, and then return that energy to the parts that do useful propulsive work. The results will be used to develop new prosthetic leg designs that have increased functionality and require less energy from the amputee. Professor David Howard at the University of Salford’s School of Computing, Science & Engineering, said: “This is an opportunity for truly transformative research, leading to more biomechanically efficient prosthetic legs, enabling amputees to walk faster for longer and therefore lead more active lives.”

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2013

All Together NOW!

Flu jab campaign wins top award

WINNERS: Proud staff with the award for their flu jab campaign

STAFF at LCH are celebrating after winning a national award for their successful marketing campaign that aimed to encourage staff to get a flu vaccination to protect themselves, their colleagues and patients from the flu. The Trust was awarded the ‘Most Innovative Campaign’ title at the NHS Confederation’s annual Flu Fighter Awards, which took place at

Leeds City Museum. The award-winning 1950’s style flu campaign was created by the Trust’s in house Communications Team, with support from Liverpool-based creative agencies, Splinter Design and Dupe Creative. It featured real Trust employees and Board members, accompanied by comic captions highlighting their ‘excuses’ for not having a flu jab. A coinciding viral film was also

launched, which depicted the chief executive, Bernie Cuthel, and medical director, Craig Gradden, in a ‘spoof’ old-fashioned Government health broadcast. The campaign successfully captured the imagination of staff and got people talking, resulting in 71.6% of Trust staff choosing to have the voluntary flu vaccination this year, up from just 47.7% the previous year.

Wheels of freedom! T

HE majority of disabled children in Liverpool who need a wheechair will now be assessed and be given a chair to fit their needs – all on the same day. Christine McGhee, service manager for Liverpool Wheelchair Service, which is run by Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust, said: “Historically speaking, lengthly waiting times between a child’s first assessment and the actual delivery of their wheelchair have meant that some children have been outgrowing their prescribed wheelchair before it could be delivered to them. “But now we can start to make changes that will really improve this service.” The new scheme, funded through a £15,000 bursary from the NHS Regional Innovation Fund, means that most children will be able to get their wheelchair almost immediately, though those with

FUN TIME at Lifehouse more complex needs may have still have to wait a little longer. Helen Lockett, director of operations and executive nurse at LCH, said: “Our aim is to implement this new service in April. “We are currently working with a

range of partners to explore ways to take this new initiative forwards, which will transform the way wheelchairs are provided to children and their families. “As a Trust, we are committed to developing new and innovative

ways to deliver services and improve patient experiences, and this scheme is a great example of that.” The improved service was highlighted at the recent Healthcare Innovation Expo in London.

WHEELCHAIR users across the world celebrated the positive impact that a wheelchair has had upon their lives and mobility. And the Liverpool Wheelchair Service, which is run by Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust, marked the occasion on March 1 with a fun-packed morning. Pupils from Sandfield Park and Springwood Heath schools attended the event at the Lifehouse centre in Summers Road, Brunswick Business Park. Bernie Cuthel, chief executive of LCH,said: “It was fantastic to be celebrating this occasion with local children and young people who are wheelchair users, to help us understand some of the challenges and barriers they face.” To find out more about Liverpool Wheelchair Service or to join a Wheelchair Participation Group, contact: 0151 296 7733.

Top employer LIVERPOOL Community Health is among the UK’s top 100 gay-friendly employers for the second year running. LCH was the only NHS Trust in the North West to make the Stonewall Top 100 Employer List, which assesses organisations’ equality practices and how they engage with their lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) staff and patients. Frank Davidson, equality and diversity advisor at LCH, who coordinated the submission for Stonewall, said: “For LCH to achieve this level of recognition for the work that it does to promote equality for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender staff is just fantastic.

‘Inclusive workplace’ “It reflects the excellent quality of the specialist health services we offer such as Armistead, which provides tailored advice and support to the LGBT community.” Bernie Cuthel, chief executive of Liverpool Community Health, added: “This demonstrates how our core values – which are care, courage, collaboration, commitment and community – really do influence our commitment to ensuring an inclusive, healthy and supportive workplace for everyone.”

To find out more, visit . . .

www.liverpoolcommunityhealth.nhs.uk

All Together NOW!

MERSEYTRAVEL

WE NEED YOUR HELP! M

ERSEYTRAVEL wants your help to improve the FREE Merseylink bus – the dial-a-ride service for people with mobility problems, or other difficulties, who cannot use ordinary public transport some or all of the time. They are reviewing the service and looking for ways to make it better for everyone who uses it.

Merseytravel bosses want to make the service available to more disabled people and create something that can really make a difference to people’s lives. The Merselink vehicles are designed for easy access and passenger comfort and they include wheelchair access, low steps, wide and comfortable seats, seatbelts for all passengers

April/May 2013

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Mencap needs support

How can we improve Merseylink bus service? and on-board communications. Merseylink drivers are caring, friendly and familiar with the needs of people with mobility problems. To be eligible for the Merseylink services you must live in Merseyside, receive the mobility or care element of Disability Living Allowance at the higher rate or receive Attendance Allowance at

the higher rate, or be registered blind, or have a serious illness. If you have a comment to make about the service, or an idea about improving the service, contact Paulette Lappin on 0151 330 1300. n The consultation runs until the end of April. More details are on the Merseytravel website www.merseytravel.gov.uk

MENCAP Liverpool is Merseytravel’s charity for 2013. And staff are doing their bit to boost funds by organising events such as cake days, and sponsored walks. It costs over £500 per day to keep the services running and all the money raised is used to benefit people with a learning disability living in Merseyside. There are lots of fun ways to get involved and make a difference to people with a learning disability and the local community. You could get together with a group of friends or colleagues and organise a cake sale to raise money, you could have a dress down day at school – or even a fancy dress day in your office! If you’re interested in fundraising for Mencap Liverpool, or just interested to see the work that they do, visit the website, www.men capliverpool. org.uk

All aboard We care about the accessibility of our buildings, vehicles and information. All of our staff are trained to be courteous and considerate, particularly when our customers have special requirements.

Merseytravel is making sure that Public Transport on Merseyside is easy for everyone to use

Whether it be automatic door openers in our head office, availability of textphones for main points of contact, or producing timetables in large print, we want to make public transport easier for everyone to use. Among our services and facilities are: U Àii V ViÃÃ >ÀÞ ÌÀ>Ûi v À ÛiÀ {n]äää «i « iÊ with disabilities U ìÀ ] Ü y À] >VViÃÃ L i LÕÃiÃ Ü V >ÀiÊ developed in partnership with our local authorities and bus companies U v À >Ì > Û>À iÌÞ v v À >ÌÃ V Õ` } Ì iÊ iÀÃiÞÌÀ>Ûi VViÃÃ Õ ì q V Ì> } >VViÃÃÊ ÊÊÊìÌ> ÃÊv ÀÊ> ÊLÕÃÊ> `ÊÀ> ÊÃÌ>Ì ÃÊ Ê iÀÃiÞÃ ì Textphone users can dial 18001 then 0871 200 22 33 for a text relay assisted call

0871 200 22 33 Calls costs 10p per minute from land lines, mobiles may vary

MERSEYTRAVEL is hosting the National Conference on Special Education Transport on April 25. The event will focus on the changing face of special education – including the introduction of Pathfinders, unified plans and personalised budgets. The challenges and opportunities that transport commissioners and providers face will be explored during the conference. Speakers will include Maria Eagle, the Shadow Transport Miniser, and Stephen Twigg, Shadow Education minister. The cost to attend the conference is £185 plus VAT. n For more information contact Sian Thornthwaite info@schooltransport.com

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2013

All Together NOW!

Motability axe adds to jobs’ nightmare

NE OF the Paralympian stars of London 2012 has warned that cuts to the Motability car scheme, coupled with an inaccessible public transport system, will make it even harder for disabled people to find work.

There are fears that 200,000 disabled people might lose their Motability cars due to cuts in disability living allowance (DLA). Sophie Christiansen, who won three equestrian gold medals, told MPs on Parliament’s transport select committee that she relied on her Motability vehicle. Llike hundreds of thousands of other disabled people, she pays for her car with the DLA mobility component. She told the committee, which is

Paralympian hits out at DLA cuts

by JOHN PRING looking into disabled people’s access to transport: “The message the Government is sending is for more disabled people to get into employment and get off benefits. “But how can they when they can’t get to work in the first place? “I rely on my Motability car for everything, to get out, and I use my car when I can’t access public transport.” She told MPs that the need to book rail assistance 24 hours in advance “takes away spontaneity and flexibility”. She added: “Many users have to sit

on the train and just wait and see whether they get help at their station. It’s really unreliable.” Christiansen said she was very disappointed that the Paralympics had not led to bigger improvements in the number of accessible London stations. She said: “I am very aware how expensive putting a lift in is, but other transport networks around the world are a million light years in front of us. “I went to Vienna last year and their underground is perfect. I came back absolutely disgusted by London underground.” Tanvi Vyas, campaigns officer for the Trailblazers network of young disabled campaigners, also said the DLA cuts could mean many more disabled people turning to public transport because they were no longer eligible for the Motability scheme.

New fears for car scheme users DISABLED people could soon find it almost impossible to use foreign personal assistants (PAs) to drive their Motability vehicles, because of strict new rules on driving licences. Motability says that foreign drivers without a UK driving licence can now only be named on a customer’s insurance policy if they provide written proof – in English – of their driving history, including details of endorsements and any disqualifications in their home country. But because this proof has to come from the organisation that issued their licence, most foreign PAs who want to drive a vehicle obtained through the disabled people’s car scheme will have to obtain a UK driving licence instead. And they can only apply to do this – for a £50 fee – after they have lived in the UK for at least six months, while those from many non-European Union countries would have to pass a UK driving test. Foreign drivers already named on insurance certificates will be able to continue to drive their employer’s vehicle until the Motability lease expires, but the new rules will apply if the disabled person recruits a new PA or once the lease expires and they decide to hire another Motability car.

All Together NOW!

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Get into gear for the Roadshow April/May 2013

HE annual Mobility Roadshow – the perfect place to try the latest vehicles and innovations to help you with your independence – takes place for the first time this summer at the Telford International Centre.

The Roadshow, now in its 30th year, is the original hands-on national consumer mobility event, showcasing the best products and services for disabled people of all ages, as well as those who with advancing years simply need a little help to get around. Whether you want to test drive, explore vehicle adaptations and conversions, review and compare wheelchairs and scooters, find a new gadget for use

www.alltogethe

at home, seek advice from charities, caring and support organisations, or try a new sport – it will be there. The Mobility Roadshow was the first event to o opportunities to test drive production model vehic with a variety of adaptations - enabling what for some disabled people is a rare opportunity to ‘try before you buy’. And this year, for the first time, test drives take place on public roads around the venue, offering more authentic driving experience. You can book a test drive as a disabled driver o passenger and will be accompanied by an experienced driver. If you are keen to be more active, you’ll find he

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April/May 2013

Our Vista’s just perfect! WITH the arrival of her second son, Jemma Cadman knew it was time to think about upsizing her wheelchair accessible vehicle. Jemma’s 11-year old son Alfie has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, so when Archie came along last year it meant the family’s Renault Kangoo was too small for their needs. Jemma’s problem was soon solved with Allied Mobility’s Volkswagen Vista, available on the Motability Nearly New WAVs Scheme. The scheme offers wheelchair accessible

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and fitness ideas from leading-edge equipment for use at home to the latest bionic walking systems. And if you want to try, or get back into, sport you can experience a variety of individual and team games, as well as gain advice on different sports wheelchairs and how to get involved in your area. Special-interest disability sports groups will be represented and there will be the chance to play alongside Paralympians from both men’s and women’s GB wheelchair basketball teams. If you have an idea for a new product or an adaptation of an existing one that could help people with limited mobility, the Design Zone is the place to be. Last year’s two most popular products – Safesip

vehicles that are no more than two and a half years old, at a lower Advance Payment than brand new WAVs. Jemma said: “Not only can the car comfortably cater for Alfie’s wheelchair and up to five passengers but there’s still bags of room for Archie’s buggy. It didn’t take me long to make up my mind.” n For more information on the Volkswagen Vista or any of Allied Mobility’s wheelchair accessible cars and MPVs, call FREE on 0800 916 3062, info@alliedmobility.com or visit www.alliedmobility.com

and Wheelchair Grippers – are now moving towards mass production, following feedback and professional advice gained at the event. This could be the year that your bright idea takes centre stage. To take part e-mail Hayley Philippault Hayley@suchandsuchdesign.co.uk with details. n The Roadshow runs from June 27-29 and entry is free. Register to keep abreast of news as it unfolds and to receive updates, or book a test drive at www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk Follow Facebook and Twitter @MobilityRdShow #mobilityroadshow Tel: 0845 241 0390.

All Together NOW!

HOROSCOPES

Do YOU want to meet our top politicians? DISABLED people with a passion for campaigning are being given the chance to meet politicians from the three largest political parties this autumn. Three disabled people will be supported via Leonard Cheshire Disability’s ‘Access All Areas’ programme to attend and campaign at the Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Labour Party Conferences. Successful campaigners will be expected to write a daily blog, take part in media work and participate in a short video diary. Deadline for applications is May 3. Contact, tel 020 3242 0269 or download a form at www.lcdisability.org/

Why I love this paper All Together NOW! carries lots of useful information and is particularly good for the adverts, which put useful organisations such as Motability at one’s fingertips. I have to say that it is refreshing to see a publication that aims to help the vulnerable rather than just make money. I get my copy from Tesco Extra who always have copies behind the checkouts. - Pat Darke, Woodstock Drive, Southport

Technology awards NOMINATIONS are wanted for the third annual UK Technology4Good Awards that recognise organisations and individuals who use digital technology to improve the lives of others. Nigel Lewis, chief executive of AbilityNet, the charity that organises the awards, said: “Whether at home, at work or in education, access to the digital world can be life changing – economically, socially and psychologically.” Professor Stephen Hawking was the toast of last year’s awards ceremony, winning the Special Award for Excellence in Accessibility. Entry is free. Closing date, May 3. www.Technology4Goodawards.org.uk

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April/May 2013

ARIES March 21st - April 20th Resist the urge to tear a strip off someone who thinks they are the ‘Be all and end all’ of the office, workplace or community, because things could backfire badly leaving you with egg on your face. You’re better off channelling all of that restless energy into a creative painting, musical or style project that allows you to show your true flare and individuality. One final note of warning, watch your spending at the end of the month. Be careful of overspending in early May; if you’ve not got enough ready cash then this would be a good time to negotiate a pay rise or find a better paid job. Pouring your energy into a project that is near and dear to your heart will have an unexpected payback for you. The end of May brings a slight setback but you will see this as just another great opportunity! TAURUS April 21st - May 21st You’ll have to hide your light under a bushel in the opening days of April, thanks to an insecure authority figure. Never fear; you’ll soon have an opportunity to capitalise on your expertise. Physical activity has a way of fuelling your creative side. Your good looks will turn heads in the middle of the month. A close relationship with a business or romantic partner will experience some bumps and bruises near the 25th. Showing off your artistic talent on or around the 8th will yield impressive results. There’s a good chance you will earn money from your creative endeavours. Repaying a debt will be difficult in the days surrounding the 25th. Take this opportunity to assess what you owe, and devise a plan for repaying your creditors. The sooner you face the truth of this situation, be easier you will sleep. GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st A friend will urge you to take a creative risk on or around the 10th; it would be wise to take their advice. By venturing into unknown territory, you’ll be able to develop a product or service that makes a huge profit. You’ve always had a knack for generating brilliant ideas. It’s about time you benefited from this ingenuity. You’ll be able to enjoy more private time over the coming weeks. Take this opportunity to catch up on your reading, enjoy some nature walks, and work on your favourite hobbies. You won’t get much cooperation from a bureaucratic institution in the opening days of May. A business or romantic partnership will undergo a critical change in the final days of May. You won’t be able to delude yourself about your partner’s shortcomings any longer. Facing the truth will be painful but therapeutic. CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd All eyes will be trained in you in early April. A career opportunity will arrive on or around the 10th; this is your big chance to break into an impressive industry. This would also be a good time to take the helm of a political organisation; people admire your ability to get things done. No matter which endeavour you pursue, it will thrust you into the spotlight. Fortunately, you’ll make a favourable impression and will be able to use this publicity to further your ambitions. More time for social pursuits makes early May one of the happiest times of 2013. Be sure to go out with friends as often as possible. You may even be inspired to throw a birthday party for your favourite Taurus. Breaking a bad habit will be difficult but rewarding in the final days of May.

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SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd April gets off to a busy start; you’ll have to pace yourself to avoid burnout. Take it easy at the gym, or you could pull a muscle or strain a ligament. Gentle exercise is good for you at this time. An intimate relationship heats up in April. Let your partner lavish you with tender loving care. Usually, you are the one who adopts the nurturing role. A role reversal will be a strange but pleasant sensation. Adopt a more open minded attitude toward a business or romantic partner’s plans in early May. You’re worried about making changes at this stage, but the real danger is standing still while everybody else is moving forward.

YOUR STARS with RUSSELL GRANT LEO July 24th - August 23rd Travel beckons in the opening days of April. This would be an ideal time to schedule an overseas trip to a country that’s off the beaten path. You love exploring places that very few people have visited before. It’s even possible you’ll write the definitive guidebook to your destination. Getting paid to stay in hotels, enjoy room service, and enjoy the local hotspots is your idea of heaven. Domestic matters become strained as April turns into May. Your star will be on the rise throughout early May. Your powerful sex appeal will open doors that were previously closed to you. VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd Finance and romance do not mix in the opening days of April. Don’t let a lover pressure you into buying something you can’t afford. If you’re single, it may be because you’ve been selling yourself short. Make more time for hobbies that boost your confidence. Money from an inheritance, insurance refund, or legal settlement will finally arrive during April. Don’t worry if you’re turned away from an educational or cultural organisation in the beginning of May. An influential friend will reverse the decision, helping you draw on its considerable resources. There’s no reason you should be held back by a set of stuffy, outdated rules. LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd Don’t give your family too much influence over your personal life in early April. Your first loyalty should be to your romantic partner. If you’re single, it may be because you let your relatives interfere with your personal life. Adopt a more independent stance now, while there are several admirers beating a path to your door. April warns against frivolous purchases. Resist the urge to go on a shopping spree, or it will take years to repay your debts. Early May is sure to be a very fulfilling time, especially in the area of sex. If you’re single, you’ll meet a masterful lover. The two of you will feel an instant connection. If you’re already in a relationship, you and your lover will be spending lots more quality time together. Distressing news about a relative’s TAKE ME HOME! health will arrive at the end of the month.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st Buy some new clothes this month, when the stores will be filled with fashions that accentuate your best features. An embarrassing secret will be revealed in the final days of April. Someone you loved will tumble off their pedestal, and you will feel disillusioned. Work will be scarce at the beginning of May. Instead of worrying about the situation, abandon yourself to fun. Take this opportunity to meet with friends, spend more time with family, and develop creative projects. Resist the urge to change your look toward the end of the month. Focus instead on developing a healthier self image. CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th Resist the urge to suppress a powerful upsurge of emotion at the beginning of April. You need to find an outlet for your anger, even at the risk of starting an argument. An old friendship will break apart quite suddenly around the 25th. You’ll have to choose between a lover and a friend in the earliest days of May. Don’t be so quick to cancel plans with an old chum for the sake of a hot date. Your friend has stood by you in good times and bad; it’s time to return their loyalty. An embarrassing secret could come to light in the days surrounding the 25th. AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th A power struggle erupts between you and a neighbour in the early days of April. You have to decide whether it would be better to move to a different place. You will find a perfect living situation while visiting a nearby community. Moving into a new housing development allows you to make a fresh start. Give the most creative member of your team free rein, as their imaginative contributions will be integral to your success. May gets off to an exciting start, when a vivid dream inspires a creative project. PISCES February 20th - March 20th Early April will trigger an argument about religion, politics, or morality. A mentor will fall off their pedestal as April draws to a close. This is a sign you need to be more lenient with the people you love and admire. Don’t contradict an expert at the beginning of May. Although their methods seem antiquated and silly, there is actually merit to these ways. Put your scepticism on hold and you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Going on a short trip for pleasure will be unexpectedly romantic around the 10th. The final days of the month will be stressful. Be ready to defend yourself. .

and GROWING FAST

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April/May 2013

Job help for YOU!

All Together NOW!

EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . . . EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . .

All Together NOW! is teaming up with Access to Work – the Government’s specialist disability employment scheme – to help more disabled people stay or get into mainstream work or set up their own businesses.

Lots of support is now available

Access to Work helps pay for specialised equipment, support workers and travel costs. Last year 700 people from Birmingham received support to get or stay in work, with 550 from Leeds, and 400 from Glasgow. Manchester (380) was fourth in the table, while Liverpool (370) took sixth place.

Esther McVey, Minister for Disabled People, said: “Although the disability employment rate has increased over recent years, there is still more we need to do to close the gap between disabled people and non-disabled people. “That is why we’ve opened up our flagship programme so that disabled people can have the same choice of

TAKE ME HOME!

jobs as everyone else - in every sector, from hairdressing to engineering and everything in between. “Last year, more than 30,000 disabled people took up our offer of extra support through Access to Work - but we know many more disabled people could benefit, so I’d urge them to see how the scheme might help them get or stay in work.” Recent changes to Access to Work mean: n Businesses with up to 49 employees will no longer pay a contribution towards their employee’s Access to Work award, saving them up to £2,300 per employee who uses the fund; Continued Page 20

TWO organisations focusing on helping disabled people scooped the main prizes of the inaugural North West Excellence In Social Enterprise awards at a glittering ceremony at the Blackpool Hilton. Judges voted Brighter Future Workshop, based in Skelmersdale, the Social Enterprise of the Year, while Lancaster-based Kidz and Co took the Small Social Enterprise award. All Together NOW! was also among the PROUD: Peter Cousins (Brighter Future shortlisted organisations. Workshop) receiving his award from Contimued Page 21

Val Jones (Social Enterprise NW)

All Together NOW!

April/May 2013

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . . .RIGHTS . . . EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . .

Jamie bursting with potential TAKE ME HOME!

We reach 450,000 readers across the North West CALL 0151 230 0307

JAMIE Baker is a young man with potential – and lots of it, say his tutors at Mid Cheshire College. The 18-year-old IT student, who has spent the last dozen years in care, is one of only 20 young people across the UK to be selected for the new Unlocking Potential Programme. The scheme, set up by the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust, highlights the positive impact young people can have on society. He’s already met the Athlete Mentor Team, which consists of Olympians, Paralympians and world champions who know what it takes to overcome adversity and have the will to succeed, not only in sport, but in life too.

“I was so excited,” said Jamie. “I met my hero, ex-Olympic swimmer, Ross Davenport. “I feel this programme is the start of a new journey to maturity and will give me self-belief and confidence to help me grow.” Sandra Thompson, marketing officer at the college, said: “Jamie’s commitment to his college courses, exceptional attendance record and hard work enabled his English tutor to promote his nomination.” Jamie, from Anderton, Cheshire is involved in the Cheshire Children in Care Council. “The disruption to his life certainly make his current achievements appear even SELF-BELIEF: Jamie greater,” Sandra added.

Bridging the gap!

ARALYMPIAN cyclist Dame Sarah Storey has given her glowing approval to a new college dedicated to giving its students the best possible chance in life.

Dame Sarah officially opened the purposedesigned Bridge College in Manchester for students with learning difficulties, disabilities, complex needs and autism. The college, in Openshaw, provides students. aged 16-25, with learning support, speech and language, physio, hydro and occupational therapies, enabling them to learn in the best possible environment. The site features a learning hub for the development of social skills and independence, and an area dedicated to horticulture in an urban setting. The Salford-born cycling star, who joined students and staff, as well as people who have supported the unique project, declared the facility was “like no other in the country”. And she added: “It’s fantastic to see that the money invested in this project will give students the best opportunities to live independently and meet their full potential.” A specialist further education college, it was developed through an innovative partnership between The Manchester College and Together Trust - the care and education provider that operates Bridge. David Marriott, chief executive of the Together Trust, said: “We have created a project that will give regional and local residents with complex needs access to the best, most innovative services in the UK.” ALL SMILES: Dame Sarah and ex-student Hannah

How Access to Work can help YOU! Contnued from Page 19 n Disabled jobseekers who want to set up their own business as part of the Government’s New Enterprise Allowance will now be eligible for Access to Work. n Access to Work advisers will have more flexibility in deciding which

equipment is funded through the scheme, offering more choice to disabled people in work. Half a million disabled people are self-employed, making up 15% of all employed disabled people, and around 100,000 of them provide jobs by employing at least one other person. This compares with the 3.2m non-

disabled people in self-employment. More than 300,000 disabled people hold management roles and around 480,000 disabled people run their own business. n If you want help from the Access to Work scheme find out more at www.gov.uk/access-to-work

Tell 450,000 readers about your college

April/May 2013

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

. . . EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS

Bosses’ attidudes must change EMPLOYERS’ attitudes are the biggest barrier in the workplace for disabled people, a new survey shows. Nearly two thirds of people hightlighted the attitudes of those in charge towards disability as their main issue, research by Christian

disability charity Livability shows. Only 1% thought that a disabled person’s ability to do a job could prove problematic. The charity’s Let Me Work work survey, in association

with nfpSynergy, also revealed that almost half of those asked had never worked with anyone with a disability. Dave Webber, interim chief executive, said: “Employment, work experience and volunteering opportunities are often key to a disabled person’s long-term independence. “Unfortunately, unemployment rates for people with disabilities, especially those with learning disabilities, remain high. “We want to encourage

employers to give disabled people a fair chance in the job market. Being inclusive and encouraging diversity can only be beneficial to employers and our survey shows that the general public would welcome a disabled person in their workplace.’’ Current employment statistics show that disabled people are far less likely to be in employment than non-disabled people. Only 7.5% of people with learning disability are in paid employment in England.

Mum’s plea to students T

HE MOTHER of murdered teenager Sophie Lancaster urged people to put a stop to discrimination, hate and intolerance towards being different. In an emotional address at Liverpool Community College’s fifth annual Diversity Day, Sylvia Lancaster told of the devastating effects of hate crime. Her daughter, Sophie, died in August 2007 after being attacked by a group of boys while walking with her boyfriend, Robert, in a park in Rossendale, Lancashire. The attack was motivated only by Sophie’s and Robert difference and alternative appearance. Sylvia said: “Everyone has the right to be different. We should celebrate it and stand together to make a difference. We need to continue to work hard towards changing the mindset of people who discriminate against others. “Minority groups suffer prejudice and intolerance on a daily basis and this is something the Sophie Lancaster Foundation wants to change as it is simply unacceptable. “It is great to see Liverpool Community College celebrating diversity and raising awareness of the key issues to students and staff in a fun and engaging way.”

College equality manager Kathy Lewis said: “Diversity and equality is at the heart of everything we do. We continually work with students, staff and the community to promote the positive effects of diversity. “Our annual Diversity Day event is always a popular event and is a great opportunity for the college to mark its achievements to date and explore new challenges. “I would like to thank everyone involved in this year’s event for their commitment and support.” Alongside Sylvia, Anthony Griffin from Navajo addressed the many issues that the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community face and the work that is taking place both nationally and internationally to tackle prejudice. Mobo award winner and former Liverpool Community College student Esco Williams treated the audience to a live acoustic set and Sheatal Maru, from RuShee, performed a spectacular Bollywood-themed dance routine. A selection of multi-cultural food was prepared by the college’s catering apprentices, and community stands included Voice for Change Domestic Violence Support, GYRO (Gay Youth Are Out), Liverpool Intergrated Youth and Play Service, Guide Dogs Association. n www.sophielancasterfoundation.com

Brighter future for everyone . . . Continued from Page 19 Brighter Futures Workshop repairs, recycles and redistributes wheelchairs and powered chairs -– and provides training for disadvantaged young people. Founder and chairman Peter Cousins said: “This is a fantastic honour and it is all down to the team we have around us.” Unique Kidz and Co provides specialist

services for disabled children, young people and their families. The charity was formed by friends Jane Halpin and Denise Armer, who both have children with special needs. It now provides TAKE ME HOME! services to over 130 children.

. . . call 0151 230 0307

All Together NOW!

April/May 2013

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

WIN! WIN! WIN! DAZZLING DISPLAYS: Your chance to win a collection of Chrysanths Early Yellow, Rosetta and White Gloss

E AMONG the first to grow six new kinds of dazzling chrysanthemum – produced by top specialists Woolmans and trialled by the Royal Horticultural Society for three years to test their hardiness in British winters. You can win one of 16 collections of these beauties – one young plant of each of the six, worth £8.95. The varieties are pink Rosetta, White Gloss, cerise Jessie

Cooper, orange Peggy, Early Yellow and scarlet Brennpunkt. They can transform any garden, flowering freely when most other plants are fading, from late August through to the first frosts. All six are ‘spray’ types, growing from 60cm-90cm (2-3ft) tall and with a well-branched habit which produces plenty of

blooms both for garden display and cutting. The long-established Lincolnshire firm of Woolmans is a leading chrysanth grower and supplies a wide range of other flowering plants. For a copy of the latest catalogues go to www.woolmans.com or ring 0845 658 9137. To enter our competition, answer this question: Which society has trialled the prizewinning chrysanths?

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Send your entry with your name and address on a postcard or sealed envelope, stating where you picked up your copy of All Together NOW! (and tell us what you think about the paper), to Chrysanths Competition, All Together NOW!, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP, to arrive by April 24. You can also enter online at: www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Piles of prizes

HREE of the latest Coronet patio apple trees are waiting to be won in this competition. They are of the delicious variety Red Windsor from Coronet’s Solo range of selffertile trees. These produce apples without the need for a partner tree to pollinate the flowers. Coronet trees are specially for growing in tubs on the patio or balcony, or in the ground in small gardens. They have been grown on M27 dwarfing rootstocks and reach only 1.5m tall x 90cm across (5ft x 3ft). When supplied, they are already five years old and have been expertly pruned to restrict their size. They need virtually no subsequent pruning and produce fruit from their first year after distribution. Each tree, delivered to your door, is worth £45. Red Windsor has Cox’s

Orange Pippin in its parentage and the fruit is similar to eat with a crisp, juicy texture and rich, aromatic flavour. Coronet trees are exclusive to Springfield Nurseries in Co Waterford, Ireland’s premier fruit nursery, where they were the brainchild of an expert horticulturalist. They are delivered throughout Britain. Red Windsor is one of three choice dessert varieties in Springfield Nurseries’ new Solo range - the others are Falstaff and Cox Self-fertile. When delivered, a Coronet tree needs to be planted in a pot or directly in the garden. A care sheet comes with each tree. Also available in the Coronet range is the Family, with two varieties on one tree, and the Companion, a collection of proven garden apple varieties. For more on availability at UK garden centres or to buy online check the website at www.coronet.ie

DELICIOUS: Red Windsor apples FOR a chance to win one an apple tree, answer this question: What kind of rootstock are Coronet trees grown on? Send your entry with your name and address and phone number (for delivery purposes) on a postcard or sealed envelope, stating where you picked up your copy of All Together NOW! (and please tell us what you think of the paper), to Coronet Competition, All Together NOW!, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP, to arrive by April 24. You can also enter online at www.alltogethernow.org.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2013

All Together NOW!

Epilepsy – support that can save a life W

OULD you know what to do if you came across someone having an epileptic seizure?

Chances are you wouldn’t – like the vast majority of people in the UK. Jade Dolby, 23, didn’t either. Until she was diagnosed with epilepsy two years ago. “Epilepsy has had a massive effect on my life,” said Jade. “I can no longer drive, which has stripped away my independence. “I had to drop out of my photography degree because it was too dangerous for me to work in a dark room; and I have to have someone with me a lot of the time so that they can help if I have a seizure.” “If more people knew what to do when someone has a seizure, it would give people like myself greater independence and no doubt save lives.” There are around 600,000 people in the UK living with the condition, including over 112,000 people aged 25 and under.

HOW YOU CAN HELP n Stay calm. Only move the person if they are in a dangerous place, like the road. Instead, move any objects, such as furniture, away from them so that they don’t hurt themselves. n Put something soft (such as a jumper) under their head, or cup their head in your hands, to stop it hitting the ground. n Do not restrain them or hold them down – allow the seizure to happen. n Do not put anything in their mouth – they will not swallow their tongue; and try to stop other people crowding around.

Getting the right support when a seizure occurs can mean the difference between life and death. Research by the Young Epiliepsy charity reveals: n 60% of people do not realise that you can die from epilepsy – despite 1,000 epilepsyrelated deaths per year in the UK. n Worryingly, one in eight people surveyed said they would place a spoon or ruler in the mouth to stop the person biting their tongue, even though this could risk injury or choking. n One in eight people say that if a relative or someone close to them was diagnosed with epilepsy they would be scared in case they had a seizure and had to look after them, while around 40% would be worried or nervous looking after a child with epilepsy. n The research also shows general awareness of the condition is low. One in 20 didn’t know what epilepsy was, one in 100 respondents thought it was a mental disorder. n Young Epilepsy Helpline 01342 831342.

ENTER NOW! NORTH West schools and colleges are being urged to enter this year’s Edwards Education Awards, organised by national charity Epilepsy Action. The Edwards aim to recognise educational establishments that provide outstanding support for students with epilepsy. Closing date: Friday 3 May. Contact 0113 210 8800 or visit www.epilepsy.org.uk/edwards EPILEPSY CAMPAIGNER: Jade Dolby

Do you have a view on how NHS services in Liverpool are developed?

Liverpool Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is the organisation responsible for planning hospital and community health services for the people of Liverpool.

Wednesday 24 April 2013 12.30–4pm Alex Young Suite Everton Football Club Goodison Park L4 4EL

We’re at an important stage in developing our plans to improve local health services, so we’ve organised three events to give members of the public a chance to have their say on our proposed priorities for the next five years.

Thursday 2 May 2013 12.30–4pm Morris Hall Bridge Chapel Centre Heath Road L19 4XR

A light lunch will be provided at each event.

Tuesday 7 May 2013 12.30–4pm Devonshire House Hotel 293–297 Edge Lane L7 9LD

The content of each event will be the same so you only need to attend one. The events are open to everyone living in Liverpool but you must register in advance by contacting: Kelly.Jones@liverpoolccg.nhs.uk 0151 295 8607 When registering, please indicate if you have any special requirements. We are also exploring dates for an evening event. If you are interested in this, please register your contact details and we will advise you once a date is set.

All Together NOW!

April/May 2013

New Behçets centre

E SOMETIMES joke about how it’s best to ask a young person to help us with a piece of electronic gadgetry.

Another shared experience is that unnerving feeling of going from one room to another and forgetting what we’ve gone for – sometimes known in a ‘senior moment’. But, in extreme cases, for some people symptoms such as these could be among the early signs of dementia – a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Dementia can affect anyone and is a severe and deteriorating condition which causes memory loss, confusion and problems with speech and understanding. It can be devastating for the person affected and their families. For me, it’s close to home as my sister has been diagnosed with dementia and the person who carries the burden is her husband. There are 800,000 people living with dementia in the UK and by 2021 this number is set to rise to over one million. And more than 60% of all care home residents, aged over 65, have a form of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, affecting 62% of those diagnosed. While there is as yet no cure for the condition there is much that we can do to alleviate the problem, highlighted by the launch of the Year of Dementia Awareness in Liverpool as part of the Decade of Health and Wellbeing.

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PEOPLE from all over the UK with Behçets Disease are now benefiting from a new £5m national Centre of Excellence at Aintree University Hospital.

Beatrice Fraenkel chair, Mersey Care NHS Mersey Care is doing all it can to make a difference to those who live locally with dementia, and importantly that includes their carers. We have just briefed Minister of State for Care and Support Norman Lamb MP about how we are working with Everton in the Community on a new programme for people with dementia and their carers called Pass on the Memories, a model that could be replicated at other sporting venues across the country. And on an international level the Trust is working with Liverpool John Moores University and European health partners on the Innovate Dementia project to develop high quality care programmes for people living with dementia. So it’s fair to say that dementia is very much in our thoughts now and into the future.

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Behçets Disease (pronounced ‘Betjets’) is an incurable chronic disease in which unexplained inflammation in different parts of the body causes a range of serious and painful problems. As a national centre, the

treatment services are open to those with the disease throughout the country. Professor Robert Moots, a consultant rheumatologist at Aintree University Hospital and Professor of Rheumatology at the University of Liverpool said:“Behcets disease can be difficult to diagnose and we hope to raise awareness and knowledge amongst medical professionals and help patients from all over the country.”

HELP: Prof Moots

Go to bed! Too many of us miss out on vital sleep

RE YOU getting enough sleep? Or are you one of the 40% of people in Britain who are getting less than six hours a night?

The first ever Great British Bedtime Report reveals that one-third of the population now get by on five to six hours’ sleep a night compared to 27% in 2010. And the majority of people (70%) sleep for seven hours or less. Almost half say that stress or worry keeps them awake at night, and as many as 7.9 million have used alcohol to help them get to sleep. Another 6.8 million self-medicate with over-the-counter tonics. High earners (over £65,000) get the best sleep of all. The report also found the average Briton goes to bed at 11.15pm and gets just six hours and 35 minutes sleep per night. Jessica Alexander, at The Sleep Council, said: “Sleeping well is as crucial to our health and wellbeing as eating a healthy diet or exercising regularly. “But while we’re frequently exposed to government campaigns that encourage us to eat ‘Five a Day’, ‘Live Well’ or ‘Change4Life’, the nation’s sleeping habits are largely ignored.” Although current NHS guidelines indicate that we don’t necessarily need eight hours’ sleep, experts believe that most adults require somewhere between six and nine hours in order to feel refreshed and to function well both mentally and physically. “The rise in the number of people getting less than six hours sleep is certainly a concern research would suggest that mental and

physical problems become more pronounced in those sleeping for less than six hours,” said Jessica. “Just one bad night’s sleep affects our mood, concentration and alertness while long-term sleep deprivation has far more serious consequences: it’s been linked to a number of serious health problems such as heart disease, diabetes and stroke.” The Sleep Council’s research found that many of us are too anxious to sleep: almost half of us now say that stress or worry keeps us awake at night (47%) rising to 54% of women (compared to 40% of men) and 57% of singles.

The perfect tonic - these pages

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April/May 2013

All Together NOW!

Rovers’ new goal PROMOTION pushing League One football club Tranmere Rovers are hoping to persuade their fans to give up the match – the one that lights their cigarettes, that is! The club have formed their own Smokefree Squad to support fans and members of their local Merseyside community who want to quit smoking. The project was developed in partnership with the European Healthy Stadia Network and health promotion charity Heart of Mersey, and is funded by Wirral Council and the Public Health team at NHS Wirral. Tranmere chief executive Mick Horton said: “This project gives us a unique opportunity to positively influence the lives of our fans, employees and those living in communities local to the club.”

Mum’s life saver TEAM EFFORT: Tranmere Rovers and health workers at Prenton Park

N NHS boss who saved her mother’s life by donating part of her liver is calling for more people to become organ donors.

Jeanette Pilsbury’s mum, Carole, was 68 when she was given just 12 months to live. “She desperately needed a liver transplant. Her health was rapidly deteriorating and she was fully dependent on oxygen,” said Jeanette, head of Adult Services for Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust. “My mum was on the waiting list for a liver transplant for over six months, but sadly no suitable donor was found. “The consultant then suggested an alternative option which was to identify a family relative who could be a suitable match as part of the Living Donor Programme.” Without hesitation, Jeanette. of Fazakerley, Liverpool, put herself forward and underwent a series of tests to check her suitability. The lifesaving operation took place eight weeks later in Leeds Teaching Hospital, which specialises in pioneering liver transplants. Jeanette added: “I had the operation on November 4, and gave my mum 60% of my liver. Within a week, I was back at home and recovering, feeling fit and well. “But what I find really amazing is that PICTURE OF HEALTH: Jeanette and mum Carole within just three months of donating part of my liver, it had regenerated to person in the UK to undergo the 90% of its original size. life-saving liver transplant “My mum has also made a full operation, and the first from recovery, and her quality of life Liverpool. has significantly improved since Every year around 1,000 people having the transplant. die of a treatable condition in the “It was the best Chrtistmas gift UK, because they are waiting for we could ever have.” a transplant from an organ donor. Jeanette added: “It’s an Jeanette and her mum’s story, incredible thing to give the gift of n If you would like more has now inspired their family and life back to someone who has information about becoming an friends to all become registered been told they have months left organ donor or would like to donors and to help raise to live. I would definitely register now, call the NHS awareness of the fact that you encourage others to consider Donor Line on 0300 123 23 23. donate bone marrow, kidneys, becoming Living Donors too.” Alternatively, you can visit and segments of lungs while Jeanette is only the 22nd www.organdonation.nhs.uk living.

It was the best Christmas gift we could have

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are read by 450,000 readers . . .

How’s YOUR heart? HEART disease is the UK’s biggest killer yet most people do nothing to avoid it, a worrying new survey shows. Only one in 10 of us fear developing heart disease more than other health conditions. Even having a heart attack or stroke would only prompt half of Brits (51%) to start looking after that most vital of organs. Findings from a nationwide study show many people are failing to take some of the biggest heart disease risk factors seriously – with 38% admitting they never check their blood pressure and 59% never checking their cholesterol levels. Heart disease is now by far the biggest cause of death among women in the UK – claiming three times as many deaths as breast cancer – yet the research showed just 15% of women check their blood pressure regularly. Almost two thirds (59%) admitted that they don’t do anything to look after the health of their heart. The findings were reported by Lloydspharmacy at the launch of its Heart Health Pledge, which aims to get all of us checking our blood pressure and cholesterol levels on a regular basis. Their online heart health calculator shows your potential risk of developing cardiovascular disease over the next 10 years, and then offers simple steps to reduce it. To use the calculator, go to www.lloydspharmacy.com/en /info/heart-check

MEDICAL NOTES Going to work on painkillers . . . shock new report MORE than one in three of all people living with pain in the North West need drugs just to be able to work. And a third of the region’s pain sufferers are worried about their dependency on drugs in order to manage their daily lives. The figures, from charity Nuffield Health, are a snapshot of painkiller use across the UK, and show long-term, daily use of potentially addictive drugs to be commonplace Painkillers are often seen as an easy or cost-effective alternative to treating the underlying causes problem, according to clinicians at Nuffield Health, the UK’s largest healthcare charity. Experts say patients need to aware of the repercussions of long and short-term use of painkilling drugs, which can cause sickness, stomach problems, including bleeding or ulcers, constipation, drowsiness or serious medical conditions like liver disease. Some drugs can also lead to anxiety and depression and lead to dependency.

Tomato magic EATING a lovely ripe tomato is not only a pleasure. If you’re a man, it can also reduce the risk of you having a stroke. The skins of tomatoes contain lycopene – a powerful antioxidant that can help protect against degenerative diseases. A new study of over 1,000 men has revealed that those with higher blood levels of lycopene were 55% less likely to suffer a stroke than males with the lowest amounts. But men wanting to take serious steps to look after their heart health should not rely on eating tomatoes alone. The fabulous fruits have many health benefits but lycopene, which is found in their skin, is not easily used and processed by the body in its natural food form. Supplements are available, like Ateronon, whose makers say contain the equivalent of one kilogram of Mediterranean tomatoes in a capsule.

Relief on the way! A NEW daily pill is now available for the seven million people in the UK with an overactive blader. The pill – mirabegron, the first new treatment in more than 30 years – improves the storage capacity of the bladder and reduces the number of trips to the toilet. Specialist nurse Suzanne Ryder, from Manchester Royal Infirmary, said: “Mirabegron offers an effective treatment option without some of the more TAKE ME HOME! bothersome side effects.”

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One advert goes a long, long way

Tel: 0151 230 0307

E! E HO M TAKE M

BOX OFFICE SENSATION!

April/May 2013

Until Apr 20: The Lion King. Manchester Palace Theatre. Disney’s classic animal musical. Until Apr20: Cats! The Musical. Manchester Opera House. Andrew Lloyd Webber musical. Until Apr 27: A Day in the Death of Joe Egg. Liverpool Playhouse. One of the great plays in British history. AUDIO DESCRIBED, APR 18. CAPTIONED, APR 27. Until Apr 20: The Glass Menagerie. Bolton Octagon. Play by Tennessee Williams. Apr 9-13: Driving Miss Daisy. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Record-breaking show. Apr 10: Hormonal Housewives. Liverpool Empire. All-new sketches. Apr 11-17: Leverhulme Drama Festival. Gladstone Theatre, Port Sunlight. (No performances Mon, April 15). Apr 11-12: The Thing About Psychopaths. Bolton Octagon. Thought-provoking new satire. Apr 11: Back in the Habit. Liverpool Empire. Hilarious Sister Act tribute. Apr 11: Hormonal Housewives. Rhyl Pavilion. Comedy. Apr 11: The Elvis Years. Llandudno Venue Cymru. The UK’s number one Elvis production. Apr 11: Bobby. Salford Lowry. Acclaimed new dark tragic-comedy. Apr 12-13: 140 Characters. Manchester Library Theatre. New show about surviving in a world dominated by social media. Apr 12- 27: Down Our Street. Liverpool Royal Court. Musical based on the pride of the Mersey. Apr 13: Moon & Genie. St Helens Citadel. A new play for young children. Apr 13: The Chuckle Brothers. Stoke Regent Theatre. Kids’ comedians with a brand new show. Apr 13: The Hollies. Southport Floral Hall. One of pre-eminent pop groups of the 60s. Apr 13: Moonlight Ceilidh Band. Theatr Clwyd. North Wales’s most popular Ceilidh band. Apr 14: Ken Dodd. Blackpool Grand Theatre. Stand-up comedy. Apr 15: Mess. Bolton Octagon. Award-nominated new play. Apr 15-20: Save the Last Dance for Me. Southport Floral Hall. From the team that brought Dreamboats and Petticoats. Journey back to the 60s, where every week brought another rock and roll classic. Apr 15-20: The Full Monty. Salford Lowry. Adaptation of the film. Apr 16-20: James & the Giant Peach. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Roald Dahl’s classic. Apr 16: Northern Chamber Orchestra. The Brindley. Internationally renowned orchestra. Apr 17: Taking Charlie. Salford Lowry. Show based on the real life abduction of Charlie Chaplin’s corpse. Apr 17-18: Footloose. Liverpool Empire. The classic hit musical. Apr 18-19: The Thing About

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BOX OFFICE NUMBERS BLACKPOOL Grand Theatre: 01253 290190. BOLTON Octagon: 01204 520661. LIVERPOOL Empire: 08444 999 999. Everyman & Playhouse: 0151 709 4776. Royal Court: 0870 787 1866. LLANDUDNO Venue Cymru: 01492 872000. MOLD: Theatr Clwyd: 0845 3303565.

MANCHESTER Library Theatre: The Lowry: 0843 208 6000. Opera House: 0870 401 9000. Palace Theatre: 0870 401 3000. NEW BRIGHTON Floral Pavillion: 0151 666 0000. PORT SUNLIGHT: Gladstone Theatre: 0151 643 8757. PRESTON: Charter Theatre: 0845 344 2012. RHYL: Pavilion Theatre: 01745 330 000.

RUNCORN The Brindley: 0151 907 8360. SALE: Waterside Arts Centre: 0161 912 5616. STOKE: Regent Theatre: 0844 871 7627. SOUTHPORT: Floral Hall: 0844 847 2380. ST HELENS: Theatre Royal: 01744 756000. Citadel: 01744 735436. WOLVERHAMPTON Grand Theatre: 01902 429212.

Go on . . . make a night of it

Psychopaths. Salford Lowry. New play. Apr 18-May 4: Salt, Root and Roe. Theatr Clwyd. New play. Apr 19: Michael Ball. Liverpool Empire. The entertainer’s new show. Apr 19: Colin Vearncombe aka BLACK. St Helens Citadel. Singersongwriter. Apr 20: Simple Minds. Liverpool Empire. Their greatest hits show. Apr 20: The Damsel in Shining Armour. Salford Lowry. Awardwinning show. Apr 20: Showaddywaddy. The Brindley. Rock and roll legends. Apr 21: Joan Collins. Salford Lowry. Legendary actress’s one-woman show. Apr 22-27: Hairspray! The Musical. Liverpool Empire. Apr 22-Apr 27: Carnaby Street. Rhyl Pavilion. The real musical story of a generation, featuring hits of the 60s. Apr 22-27: Save The Last Dance For Me. Stoke Regent Theatre. Apr 23-27: Crazy For You. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. All-

singing, all-dancing musical. Apr 23-27: The Tailor of Inverness. Theatr Clwyd. Wartime play. Apr 24: Sally Morgan: Psychic Sally on the Road. Manchester Opera House. Apr 24: Hormonal Housewives. Manchester Palace Theatre. Apr 24: The Illegal Eagles. Salford Lowry. Top Eagles tribute band. Apr 25-28: Can’t Pay? Won’t Pay! Bolton Octagon. Comedy. Apr 25: Halfway to Paradise The Billy Fury Story. Manchester Palace Theatre. Bioplay featuring Billy Fury’s music. Apr 25: An Evening with Noddy Holder in Conversation with Mark Radcliffe. St Helens Citadel. The godfather of glam rock. Apr 25: Rent! Manchester Opera House. Musical based loosely on La Boheme. Apr 26: Mercury. Gladstone Theatre, Port Sunlight. Queen tribute band. Apr 26: Two. The Brindley. Thoughprovoking play. Apr 26: Ellen Kent’s Tosca. Manchester Opera House.

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April/May 2013

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Get your overalls ready and WIN! MANCHESTERFORD High Street is changing and Acorn Antiques is under threat from a new wave of coffee shops, nail booths and tanning salons. Based on Victoria Wood’s cult 1980s TV sketch, Acorn Antiques The Musical comes to The Garrick Playhouse, Altrincham for a week at the end of May. And on the opening night – Monday May 27 – there’s a competition to find the best Mrs Overall in the audience. The winner will take home £50 plus a voucher meal for two at Coco’s Italian Restaurant in Altrincham. n Tickets £12.50-£14.50, Tel 0161 928 1677 or via altrinchamgarrick.co.uk

Magnificent Seven . . .

I want to break free . . . from carers!

HAT does the word “care” mean to people with disabilities? What happens if they want to break free from the protection of their carers?

We’re about to find out in a new comic drama by award winning North West writer Cathy Crabb

Apr 27: Aynsley Lister. St Helens Citadel. Blues-rock guitarist. Apr 27: The Chuckle Brothers. Southport Floral Hall. Kids’ comedians in a brand new show. Apr 28: Rumpelstiltskin. Salford Lowry. Live music, storytelling and puppetry. Apr 29-May 4: Blood Brothers. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Classic musical from Willy Russell. Apr 29-May 1: New Jersey Nights. Stoke Regent Theatre. Tribute show to Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Apr 29-May 4: The Rise and Fall of Little Voice. Manchester Opera House. Olivier award-winning comedy. Apr 30: Tom Paxton. Salford Lowry. US folk music legend. Apr 30-May 4: Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty. Liverpool Empire. Re-imagination of a ballet classic. Apr 30-May 4: Birdsong. Llandudno Venue Cymru. New wartime play.

and performed by actors from Proud and Loud Arts. Beyond the 4th Wall begins in a perfect paradise called Cul De Sac where people with disabilities are being cared for. The problem is, the people being cared for know there is another world outside and want to leave.

May 2: 1984. St Helens Citadel. Faithful adaptation of Orwell’s dystopian novel. May 2: Johnny Cash Roadshow. Southport Floral Hall. Ultimate tribute to the man in black. May 2-4: That is All You Need to Know. Salford Lowry. Drama about Bletchley Park in the 40s. May 2-Jun 1: The Winslow Boy. Theatr Clwyd. Based on a true story, discussing the rights of the individual versus the might of the establishment. May 3: In Other Words. Liverpool Playhouse. Janet Street Porter’s one-woman show. May 4: Mostly Autumn. St Helens Citadel. Classic rock group. May 4: Ken Dodd. Southport Floral Hall. Stand-up comedy. May 5: Cloud Child. Salford Lowry. Beautiful play for children. May 6-11: The Woman in Black. Salford Lowry. Spine-tingling horror from Susan Hill. AUDIO DESCRIBED, May 11 – MATINEE.

SEVEN mobility scooter users are needed to take part in a new dance performance about loan sharks! The project at The Brindley Arts Centre, Runcorn, aims to highlight illegal money lending practices – and the help that is available for people in debt. An estimated 310,000 households across the country are in debt to a loan shark. Anyone who has been the victim of a loan shark call in confidence on 0300 555 2222 for help. n IF YOU are interested in taking part in the performance and becoming a synchronised mobility scooter performer contact Martin Cox on 01519078360 or email him, martin.cox@halton.gov.uk

A team of actors, who are living with disabilities themselves, bring the dilemmas to life in the play, which opens at Knowsley Leisure and Culture Park on April 26. Other performances are at The Brindley, Runcorn, on May 16 and at The Pyramid, Warrington on May 18. n Contact: 0151 443 5749.

May 7-11: The Blues Brothers. Approved. Manchester Opera House. The number one Blues Brothers tribute act. May 7-11: Blood Brothers. Stoke Regent Theatre. Classic Willy Russell musical. May 7-11: Birds of a Feather. Liverpool Empire. The girls are back! Featuring the original BBC cast. May 7-11: I was a Rat! Salford Lowry. Phillip Pullman’s magical tale. May 7-11: Yes, Prime Minister. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Direct from the West End, the hit comedy. May 8: Daniel Kitson. Liverpool Playhouse. “Something like” stand-up comedy. May 9-11: Spot’s Birthday Party. Liverpool Playhouse. Everybody’s favourite puppy, live in his own stage show. May 10-11: Firebird. Theatr Clwyd. Children’s show.

readers – Call us NOW! . . .

May 11: Ian McNabb. St Helens Citadel. Singer-songwriter. May 11: Me and Mr. Bublé. Rhyl Pavilion. Tribute to Michael Bublé. May 12: That’ll Be the Day. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Rock and roll variety show. May 13-18: 9 to 5 - The Dolly Parton Musical. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. New musical comedy. May 13: Noah and the Whale. Manchester Opera House. An evening of music from the indie folk stars. May 13: Psychic Sally on the Road. Stoke Regent Theatre. May 14: Shaolin Warriors: Return of the Master. Manchester Opera House. Kung Fu extravaganza. May 14: OMD. Liverpool Empire. May 14-18: The Land of Buccas, Mermaids, Giants and Piskies. Theatr Clwyd. Celebration of Cornish literature. May 14-18: Sweeney Todd. Salford Lowry. Stephen Sondheim’s musical about the

Demon Barber of Fleet Street. May 14-18: Blue Remembered Hills. Liverpool Playhouse. Wartime play. May 15-18: The Full Monty. Liverpool Royal Court. The Broadway smash hit. May 15: Progijig present Footstorm. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Seven of the best Irish dancers. May 16: ABBA Forever. Manchester Opera House. Tribute act. May 16: Pete Kennedy. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Irish singer-songwriter. May 16: Ricky Tomlinson’s Royle Variety. Liverpool Empire. Variety show from the star of The Royle Family. May 16-17: Bill Bailey. Salford Lowry. Stand-up comedy. May 16-18: Mugabeland! Salford Lowry. Darkly comical musical journey into a heart of darkness. May 17: Marty Wilde and the Wildcats. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Evening of rock and roll hits. May 18-19: English National Ballet’s My First Cinderella. Manchester Opera House. Introduce your little ones to ballet. May 20: The Zombies. Salford Lowry. Band back with their new tour. May 20-25: Priscilla: Queen of the Desert. Liverpool Empire. West End musical about Australian drag queens. May 20-25: Carnaby Street. Manchester Opera House. The real musical story of a generation, featuring hits of the Sixties. May 20-25: The Rocky Horror Show. Stoke Regent Theatre. Richard O’Brien’s cult classic. May 21-25: Rutherford & Son. Liverpool Playhouse. Ranked one of top plays of 20th century. May 21-25: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. The Brindley. All time classic musical. May 21-25: Dirty Dancing. Manchester Palace Theatre. The stage version of the hit film. May 22: The Trench. Salford Lowry. New play inspired by a true story of a miner in World War One. May 27-Jun 1: Acorn Antiques The Musical, The Garrick Playhouse, Altrincham May 27-Jun 1: The Mousetrap. Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Murder mystery. May 28-Jun 1: Beautiful Thing. Liverpool Playhouse. Love story. May 30: Gin & Tonic & Passing Trains. St Helens Citadel. One man who has too much time on his hands. May 31: Steve Gibbons Band. St Helens Citadel. TAKE ME HOME! Unique music from the Seventies.

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All Together NOW!

Can you find the celebrity name hidden in this Starspot Crossword? Complete the crossword in the normal way then make a note of the letters contained in all the squares which are marked with shaded stars. These letters will make an anagram of the name you are looking for.

★

8 9

★

16 19

★

★ 28

28 27

★

★ 30

★

ACROSS

DOWN

1. 5. 9. 10. 11. 13. 15. 17. 19. 20. 21.

1. 2. 3. 4. 6. 7. 8. 12. 13. 14. 16. 18. 21. 22. 25. 26. 27.

23. 24. 28. 29. 30. 31.

Heaven (8) Feeble person (4) Alike (7) Waxed spill (5) Reef material (5) Long-winded (6) Team race (5) Select (4) Favourite (3) Join metal (4) Fodder plant of the pea family (5) Forest officer (6) Convenient (5) Weary (5) Clearly (7) Plaything (4) Outlook (8)

Each question has four possible answers and is worth from one to 15 points. Circle your chosen answers and keep a record of your points total. Maximum total points 120. QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: Which products are made by the Dr Martens company? A Animal wormers B Jeans C Boots and shoes D Liver pills

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: With which industry is the Nottingham area traditionally associated?

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: To which tune did the Wurzels record their song I Am A Cider Drinker? A Agadoo B Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep C Paloma Blanca D The Birdie Song

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: What was the name of the first US space shuttle?

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: Which of these dishes originates from Hungary? A Goulash B Smorgasbord C Borscht D Moussaka QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: Which genus of flowering plants has the Latin name Erica? A Honeysuckle B Heather C Clematis D Rhododendron

SUDOKU

DIFFICULT

4 7 3 6 8 2 6 9 5 2 7 5 7 5 8 5 1 7 4 9 6 8 2 9 3 1 7 2 6 1 9 7 4 6 5

Hats Cutlery Pottery Lace

Columbia Challenger Explorer Discovery

A B C D

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: In which country is the pilgrimage centre of Fátima? A B C D

Singer and actor Adam Faith. See Question 7.

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: What was the name of the TV series in which pop singer Adam Faith appeared in 1971? A B C D

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: The state of Brunei is on which island?

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Which chemical is the active ingredient of anti-freeze?

Heat Fat Carbohydrate Sugar

A B C D

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: Who starred in the films To Have And Have Not in 1944 and The Mirror Has Two Faces in 1996? A B C D

Borneo Sumatra New Guinea Sulawesi

A B C D

Brass Bronco Boon Budgie

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: A calorie is a unit of what? A B C D

Italy France Portugal Spain

Ethylene glycol Carbon tetrachloride Sodium hydroxide Hydrogen peroxide

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: In which of Shakespeare’s plays does Polixenes, King of Bohemia, appear? A B C D

Ingrid Bergman Lauren Bacall Joan Crawford Bette Davis

The Two Gentlemen of Verona As You Like It The Winter’s Tale The Tempest

KAKURO

THERE is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, and you should not have to guess.

EASY

A B C D

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: Who are the readers of the newspaper Penguin News? A Staff of McVitie’s B Visitors to London Zoo C Falkland Islanders D Members of the RSPB QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: In which sport was TV sports presenter Sue Barker a professional player? A Tennis B Swimming C Athletics D Showjumping

Nuisance (4) Lover (5) Unit of US currency (6) Kind (4) Sudden inclination (7) Bleach (colloq.) (8) Tale (5) Social outcast (5) Plot of ground (5) Animated (8) Allow (3) Manipulate (7) South African plain (5) Worry (6) Move to music (5) Practise boxing (4) Bladder (4)

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The Accumulator Quiz

STARSPOT CROSSWORD

April/May 2013

4 8 7 6 4

3 1 3 5

5 2 1 5 3 2 9 9 7 6 6 8 2 1 9

FILL in the blank squares in the grid with numbers so that each horizontal or vertical line adds up to the total given in the box either to the left or above it. Horizontal totals are given in the top right corners of the shaded boxes; vertical totals in the bottom left corners. You can use the numbers 1 to 9, but may not use the same number more than once in any run. The number may be used again, however, in the same row or column but as part of another run.

MEDIUM 20

7 17

35 10

11 20

8 21

11 4

28 4

SAY THAT AGAIN . . .

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NOT all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love. — Mother Teresa

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I’M a success today because I had a friend who believed in me and I didn’t have the heart to let him down. — Abraham Lincoln

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SUCCESS is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. — Winston Churchill

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April/May 2013

1 11

7 4

21 21

1 12

26 3

4 4

6 2

4 5

21 12

19 9

19 18

23 12

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ EACH number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

MISSING LINK Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (e.g. FRONT – DOOR – MAT). The initial letters of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out an element.

2 ABC

3 DEF

4 GHI

5 JKL

6 MNO

7 PQRS

8 TUV

9 WXYZ

Spaces and any punctuation marks are represented by 1.

E M N

W O O

A M U MAKE A DATE

M R

K M O

E N

P H Y T O TRANSFORMER

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NECK

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CLASS UP SHOE

317 417 547 174 255

716 255 381 692 271 772 432 771 536 517 322 838 736 241 244 174 683 5

P W G

MODERN

6. Items of stationery 368 356 731 668 372 822 371 465 317 862 247 767 717 273 712 178 275 371 736 245 277 363 717 853 712 764 681 736

M C

OVER

5. Tools 772 663 637 127 239 317 272 329 942 319

426 331 691 771 735

N M

WORD WIZARD

––––

713 167 174 186 437

Can you place the six dominoes (right) into the grid below in such a way that the number of spots in all four rows across and all four rows down totals 14?

MIXING

343 873 695 735 531

Starting from the central shaded letter, move one letter at a time (up, down, right or left, but not diagonally) to find 14 artistic styles, forms and techniques.

DAY

3. British fauna 727 874 343 122 691 624 743 166 773 917 222 481 327 268 177 847 231 476 873 166 661 228

SPOT CHECK

KNIFE

––––

642 712 945 158 421

2. Female singers 264 763 917 732 771 254 242 153 971 744 266 216 279 151 254 431 269 194 634 687 314 227 435 531 623 666 212 354 631 346 617 426 421 892 46

PATHWORDS

WIDE

746 837 172 722 531

4. Herbaceous flowers 762 737 246 612 346 172 679 178 634 693 276 284 661 793 381 542 616 278 878 486 746 127 837 173 886 259 778 6

O W G

––––––

1 []’–

1. Cheeses 669 927 355 212 687 136 825 314 568 237 127 431 945 874 473 763 726 133 261 627 776 631 936 753 932 767 833 678

CREAM

SHORT

Telephone dialling pads combine several letters on one key. Here we have encoded several sets of words or items by using numbers rather than letters. Then we have divided them into groups of three characters and run all the names one after another to make your task a little more difficult. Can you crack the codes?

DIALLING CODES

CROSS CODE 8

All Together NOW!

Here is an unusual word with three definitions, only one of which is correct. Can you identify the right definition?

E D

MARKHOR 1) The basic monetary unit of Lichtenstein;

2) A Danish pudding consisting of summer berries flavoured with kirsch, served with semolina;

In which year did all three of these significant historical events take place?

1. The last US troops leave Hanoi by helicopter, effectively bringing an end to the Vietnam War. 2. The first sex discrimination and equal pay acts are passed by Parliament.

3) A large wild goat with very long twisted horns, native to central Asia.

3. A tube train ploughs through the buffers at the end of a line in London’s Moorgate station, killing 41 people.

Add the given letter to the first word to make a new word. Clue: Foreign woman can become a cheat.

WAS IT? a) 1969; b) 1971; c) 1973; d) 1975; e) 1977.

____ +D=____D

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords: engraving; watercolour; ceramics; sculpture; marbling; woodcut; sketching; collage; mosaic; marquetry; calligraphy; metalwork; montage; photography.

4 6 8 9 5 1 3 7 2

7 9 1 2 3 4 6 8 5

3 5 7 6 1 8 4 2 9

1 8 6 4 9 2 5 3 7

9 2 4 5 7 3 1 6 8

6 4 5 8 2 9 7 1 3

8 7 3 1 6 5 2 9 4

2 1 9 3 4 7 8 5 6

2 4 5 7 1 3 9 6 8

1 8 7 9 6 5 4 3 2

3 9 6 4 8 2 1 7 5

4 6 9 2 7 1 5 8 3

15 2

16 3

17 4

18 5

N O R D U H M Q

19 6

20 7

21 8

SUDOKU EASY

24 11

C W P

CROSS CODE

8 2 1 3 5 9 6 4 7

5 7 3 6 4 8 2 9 1

9 1 2 8 3 4 7 5 6

6 3 4 5 2 7 8 1 9

7 5 8 1 9 6 3 2 4

35 7

SUDOKU DIFFICULT

3 4 11

17 7

4 20

ADVERTISE HERE 0151 230 0307

5 3 2 7 8 6 9 4 1

KAKURO MEDIUM

1 3 5 2 11

9 7 4 6 8 34

5 4 2 11

Star Name: ALAN TITCHMARSH Down – 1 Pest; 2 Romeo; 3 Dollar; 4 Sort; 6 Impulse; 7 Peroxide; 8 Story; 12 Leper; 13 Patch; 14 Spirited; 16 Let; 18 Control; 21 Veldt; 22 Harass; 25 Dance; 26 Spar; 27 Cyst. Across – 1 Paradise; 5 Wimp; 9 Similar; 10 Taper; 11 Coral; 13 Prolix; 15 Relay; 17 Pick; 19 Pet; 20 Weld; 21 Vetch; 23 Ranger; 24 Handy; 28 Tired; 29 Plainly; 30 Doll; 31 Prospect. Starspot Crossword 1 – C; 2 – C; 3 – C; 4 – A; 5 – A; 6 – B; 7 – D; 8 – A; 9 – B; 10 – D; 11 – A; 12 – C; 13 – A; 14 – A; 15 – C. Accumulator Quiz

Word Wizard No 3 is correct. A markhor is an Asiatic goat. Dialling Codes 1. Mozzarella; Boursin; Double Gloucester; Brie; Wiltshire; Parmesan; Edam; Marscarpone; Wensleydale; Roquefort. 2. Britney Spears; Alicia Keys; Rihanna; Mary J Blige; Amy Winehouse; Gabrielle; Madonna; Celine Dion; Shania Twain. 3. partridge; badger; fox; magpie; mouse; osprey; rabbit; owl; pheasant; squirrel; toad; grouse; mole; heron; bat. 4. snapdragon; begonia; pansy; sunflower; carnation; sweet william;

nasturtium; lupin; aster; petunia; alyssum. 5. spanner; mallet; hammer; crowbar; spade; adze; shears; jemmy; bradawl; secateurs; vice; wrench; chisel; shovel. 6. envelope; notepad; rubber; hole punch; scissors; paper clip; stapler; pencil-sharpener; ruler; ballpoint pen. Spot Check A = 6; B = 5; C = 2; D = 3; E = 4; F = 1. Missing Link cheese; open; bowl; art; lace; tennis. Element: cobalt. Make a Date The year was 1975. Transformer Frau + D = Fraud.

REACH 450,000 READERS . . .

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April/May 2013

WINNERS!

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Oh la la . . .

THE EIGHT lucky winners of our recent gardening competition are: Peter Stead, Dickson Road, Blackpool (“I got my All Together NOW! at Wilkinson’s Blackpool. It is one of the best reads – very informative with interesting articles on a variety of subjects.”) Brian Knowles, Wallasey Village, Wallasey, Merseyside (ASDA Birkenhead – “Excellent publication! Keep up the good work”) Mr Graham Warren, Park Road, Formby, Merseyside (All Together NOW! picked up at Ormskirk Hospital) Mr Graham Holroyd, Mythop Road, Lytham St Annes (Booths, Lytham) Mr G Creighton, Southbank Road, Liverpool (Garston NHS Treatment Centre) Ms Forster, Wilton Road, Crumpsall, Manchester (ASDA Harpurhey) Mrs A Byrne, Cornflower Close, Hesketh Bank, Preston (Subscriber) Mr S J Purnell, Arnside Road, Hindley Green, Wigan (Wigan Library) All winners will receive a prize collection of vegetable seeds courtesy of D.T. Brown of Chorley, Lancs.

WINNER of our fantastic Paris competition is Carolyn Jassi, who lives in The Paddock, Rufford, Ormskirk. Carolyn wins a two night trip to Paris for two people, courtesy of Eurostar. “I’m always singing the praises of All Together NOW! ” said a jubilant Carolyn, “then wishing I hadn’t because it’s a pleasure I’d rather keep all to myself! “Although aimed at people with disabilities, it’s packed with information and articles for everyone. And it’s completely FREE! Your sponsors are terrific! I’ll be taking a copies with me to leave on the train. “I bet the French don’t have anything anywhere near as good as All Together NOW! ” THE next meetings of SAFE (Southport Access For Everyone) will be held at the Victoria Methodist Church, Sussex Road, at 7 pm. on Monday April 22 and Monday June 24. Contact, 07866 531036

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE n ANGLESEY:

TARAN Tel 01407 721933 n BLACKPOOL Disability Information and Support. Tel 01253 472 202. Textphone 01253 476 450 n CHESHIRE CIL Tel 01606 782760 n CHESTER Dial House Tel 01244 345655 n DENBIGHSHIRE Tel 01745 354445 n ELLESMERE PORT DICE Tel 0151 355 1420 n HALTON Disability Service Tel 01928 717222 n KNOWSLEY DISABILITY CONCERN. 0151 480 4090 n LANCASTER DISC Tel 01524 34411 n LIVERPOOL Association of Disabled People. Tel 0151 263 8366. Text 0151 260 4076 n MERSEYSIDE Coalition of Inclusive Living. Tel 0151 260 4001 n NEUROSUPPORT Centre Tel 0151 298 2999 n MANCHESTER (GTR) Coalition of Disabled People Tel 0161-273 5154 n MOLD Flintshire Disability Tel 01352 755546 n NELSON: Pendle Pakistan Welfare Association. Tel 01282 603 616 n PRESTON DISC: Tel 01772 558 863. Textphone 01772 204 787 n RHYL Tel 01745 350665 n STOCKPORT: Disability Stockport. 0161 480 7248

n WARRINGTON

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Tel 01539 726613 DOGS Tel 0118 983 5555 n HENSHAW’S 0161 872 1234 Tel 0151 227 1226 n LIVERPOOL: Bradbury Fields.Tel 0151 221 0888: Action for Bind Tel 0151 298 3222 n MANCHESTER: Action for Blind Tel 0161 787 9252 n PRESTON: Action for Blind People Tel 01772 320550 n OLDHAM Tel 0161 682 8019 n ROSSENDALE Tel 01706 873256 n SIGHTLINE (North West) Tel 0800 587 2252 n WIGAN Tel 01942 242891 n WIRRAL Tel 0151 652 8877 n GUIDE

ORGANISATIONS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE DEAF n BIRMINGHAM Institute for Deaf Tel 0121 246 6101 n CHESHIRE Deaf Society Tel 01606 47831 n CUMBRIA Deaf Society Tel 01228 606434 n LANCASHIRE (EAST) Deaf Society Tel 01282 839180 n MANCHESTER Deaf Centre Tel 0161 273 3415 n MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888 n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887 n WOLVERHAMPTON Centre for Deaf Tel 01902 420904 n N WALES Deaf Association, Tel 01492 542235

CARERS’ CENTRES 0

n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 387 444 n BLACKBURN with DARWEN Tel 01254 688 www.bwdcarers.org n BLACKPOOL Blackpool Borough Council, Tel 01253 477 716 n CUMBRIA Carlisle. Tel 01228 542 156 Penrith. Tel 01768 890 280 Barrow-in-Furness. Tel 01229 822 822 Kendal. Tel 01539 732 927 Whitehaven, Tel 01946 592 223 n CHESHIRE Helpline: 0800 085 0307 n KNOWSLEY Tel 0151 549 1412 n LANCASTER Tel 01524 66475 n LIVERPOOL Tel 0151 705 2307 n MANCHESTER Tel 0161 835 2995 n MORECAMBE Tel 01524 833456 n PRESTON Tel 01772 200173 n RUNCORN Tel 01928 580182 n WIDNES Tel 0151 257 9673 n SALFORD Tel 0161 833 0217 n SEFTON Tel 0151 288 6060 n ST HELENS Tel 01744 675 615 n STOCKPORT Tel 0161 456 2808 n WARRINGTON Tel 01925 644 212 n WEST LANCS Tel 01695 711243 n WIGAN & LEIGH Tel 01942 683711 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM Tel 0121 675 8000 n SOLIHULL Tel 0121 788 1143 n WALSALL Tel 01922 610 810 NORTH WALES n ANGLESEY Tel 01248 722828 n BANGOR Tel 01248 370 797 n CONWY Tel 01492 533714 n DENBIGHSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 0845 603 3187 n DOLGELLAU Tel 01341 421167 n FLINTSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 01352 751436 n WREXHAM: NEWCIS, Tel: 01978 310414.

Email your news to us at news@allltogethernow.org .uk

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April/May 2013

All Together NOW!

Up for it? ARE YOU ready for the Knowsley Active Challenge? Entry forms are now available for the event which takes place in the grounds of Knowsley Hall on Wednesday, June 12, from 6pm. The Challenge includes a 5k run for adults, starting at 7.15pm; a 3 and 8 kilometre walk; and a 2 kilometre run for children aged 8-16. The 3k walk is suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. Contact Peter Green on 0151 443 5648. n www.knowsley.gov.uk

Pure gold BUSINESS advisory firm Deloitte have renewed their partnership with the British Paralympic Association through to the end of 2016. In addition to ongoing financial support, they will sponsor the ParalympicsGB Team Launch events for 2014 and 2016. The Deloitte Ride Across Britain event will also extend to 2017 – with proceeds going to the BPA. Heather Hancock, managing partner for talent and brand at Deloitte, said: “Our relationship with the BPA has seen Deloitte make a genuine difference to people who wanted to play a sport that suited their disability, but didn’t know what to choose or where to play it. “London 2012 led to unprecedented levels of activity on the Deloitte Parasport website, and we are delighted to be investing in the Games legacy at the grass roots level, as well as ensuring ParalympicsGB can recreate last summer’s success at the upcoming Sochi and Rio Games. Both elements will, we hope, inspire even more people to get into sport.”

Anyone for tennis? ON YOUR MARKS . . . for the annual Knowsley Active Challenge

IGHT wheelchair tennis tournaments are to take place from April to August in an attempt to get more people playing the sport. The Tennis Foundation’s Wheelchair Tennis Development Series, now in its third year, is aimed at players who want to start playing competitive wheelchair tennis before stepping up to the ITF’s NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour. Players will be awarded points according to their results at each event and the Series will culminate in a national final at the end of the year at the National Tennis Centre in Roehampton. Merseyside’s Paralympic bronze medallist Jamie Burdekin believes development events are key to producing the next generation of world class wheelchair tennis players. He said: “When I first started in the sport there weren’t so many opportunities to compete on a

regular basis so it’s great to see the Tennis Foundation supporting events right across the country to get more British players competing. “Hopefully, we’ll find a future Paralympic star who can join our current crop on the international NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour.” Summer Series 2013 April 13-14: Taunton Wheelchair Tournament, Taunton Tennis Centre. May 4-5: The JCCS Wheelchair Tennis Tournament, Leeds. May 25-26: The Oxstalls Wheelchair Tennis Tournament, Gloucester. June 22-23: The Shrewsbury Summer Open July 13-14: Gosling Wheelchair Tennis Tournament, Welwyn Garden City. Aug 10-11: The Kent Wheelchair Tennis Tournament. Aug 17-19: Dublin Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships, David Lloyd Riverview Health & Fitness Centre, Dublin. nwww.tennisfoundation.org.uk

ROLE MODEL: Paralympian Jamie Burdekin

Peter to take life easier AFTER 12 years of international competition, Peter Norfolk has announced he will no longer be competing full-time on the NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour. The double Paralympic quad singles champion will concentrate on growing his business, Equipment for the Physically Challenged (EPC), as well as spending more time with his wife, Linda, and two young children. Peter has enjoyed an extremely successful career to date and may still compete at some international tournaments, including the British Open in Nottingham in July. “It is time to dedicate some of my time to other areas of my life,” said Peter.

British players clean up at top tournaments

Stay tuned

CHANNEL 4 is to cover the 2014 and 2016 Paralympic Games. The station will screen over 45 hours of action from the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games, the most ever by a British broadcaster. For Rio 2016, Channel 4 is planning to screen a minimum of 200 broadcast hours.

Alfie Hewett, Jordanne Whiley and Jamie Burdekin all came away with singles titles at South Ribble Tennis Centre near Preston. Fifteen-year-old Hewett claimed his first senior ITF 3 Series singles title as he upset British No. 3 and top seed Marc McCarroll to clinch a 6-3, 6-4 victory in the men’s singles final. In the women’s singles, British No. 2 Whiley claimed her fourth North West Challenge title after beating second seed Christine Schoenn, of France, 6-1, 6-3. Merseyside’s Burdekin secured a local victory in the quad singles final, the world No. 6 and top seed

RITISH players secured a clean sweep of all six titles in the North West Wheelchair Tennis Challenge and at the North East Wheelchair Tennis Tournament.

coming from 3-0 down in the second set to defeat world No. 7 South African and second seed Lucas Sithole 6-2, 7-6(2). In the doubles , Hewett and McCarroll paired up to justify top seeing in the men’s competition, beating Britain’s Dermot Bailey and Leonid Shevchik, of Russia, 6-2, 6-3 in the final. Meanwhile, Whiley also followed up her singles victory with the women’s doubles title. Second seeds Whiley and Evgeniya Korotkina, of Russia, beat top seeds Lauren Jones and Schoenn 6-4, 7-5. To cap a great tournament for players on the Tennis Foundation’s Wheelchair Tennis Performance Programme, Antony Cotterill and Adam Field justified top seeding to retain the quad doubles title after beating South African second

seeds Bongani Dhlamini and Sithole 6-1, 6-3. There was more to cheer about at the North East tournament in Sunderland. British No. 1 Gordon Reid retained his men’s singles title before pairing up with his final opponent Alfie Hewett to win the men’s doubles title. Reid’s success came after Jordanne Whiley and Jamie Burdekin won their second titles. Hewett won his first career ITF 2 Series doubles title when he and Reid beat fellow Brits McCarroll and Kevin Simpson 6-0, 6-1. Meanwhile, there was also a first ITF 2 Series doubles title for Lauren Jones after she partnered Whiley to beat French second seeds Emilie Chene and Schoenn 6-1, 6-2. And Cotterill and Field defeated South Africa’s Bongani Dhlamini and Sithole 6-2, 6-2.

All Together NOW!

April/May 2013

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Lions on the prowl for new blood LIVERPOOL Lions wheelchair rugby club is looking for new blood! Player-manager Martin Beddis, who has just been named manager of the new England Wheelchair 7 team, said: “We’ve got a great set of players together but we want more people to come along and try their hand. “It’s a great sport and gets people of all abilities mixing together. Both disabled and non-disabled people can play, train and compete together in the same team. “And there are a lot of father and son combinations in the league.” Martin took up the sport four years ago, playing with Wigan, Mersey and Bury. Last year he ROARING TO GO: Wheelchair rugby club Liverpool Lions want new players represented Scotland in the Four Nations tournament. The Lions are currently in the Development League but have ambitions of stepping up to Division 1 in 2014. n Want to give it a go? Contact Martin on 07961 186856. Meanwhile, the British Paralympic They can then move to Pond’s Forge OUR days of sport in Sheffield to cheer on British Paralympians in the Association host the latest Sports Fest, provide the perfect chance to n WHEELCHAIR 7s is a a free two-day multi-sport event offering swimming finals from 5pm. to try out out different new sport based on disabled people the chance to “Try the Josef Craig said: “I think the Paralympic sports, watch Rugby Union – Sports, Meet the Medallists, Get ParalympicsGB Sports Fest is fantastic world-class disability swimming, complete with a scrum Inspired”, on Friday, April 26, and as it is a great opportunity for disabled and meet Paralympians. and lineouts. England Saturday, April 27, people who have been inspired by Disabled people and fans of disability will be playing in the London to find out more about all the The two events have been scheduled first ever Wheelchair 7s sport can see London 2012 Paralympic to ensure that fans can attend the different sports that they might be gold medallists including Ellie SIX Nations in Vichy, Sports Fest at the English Institute of interested in, and hopefully those who Simmonds, Josef Craig and JessicaFrance, from June 17between 10am and Sport in Sheffield attend the Sports Fest can also come Jane Applegate in action at the British 23. 4pm on Friday or Saturday, where they along to support me and other International Disability Swimming “We’re very hopeful will have the opportunity to meet swimmers in the evening. Championships, one of the premier that a few of the Paralympic athletes, have their photos n Interested in attending? Register disability swimming events in the UK, Liverpool players will be taken or ask for autographs, and try out for Sports Fest by going to which gets under way on Thursday, April in the team,” said Paralympic sports. www.paralympics.org.uk/sportsfest 25, and runs until Sunday, April 28. Martin.

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Stay ahead of the game

Swansea celebrate athletics success SWANSEA is to stage the IPC Athletics European Championships in 2014 – the first time the event has been held in Britain. Around 600 athletes from 40 countries will compete in the event which will be staged at Swansea University from August 1823, the International

Paralympic Committee (IPC) has announced. IPC chief Xavier Gonzalez said: “We are delighted and excited that Swansea will host some of the world’s leading and emerging paraathletes. “This is another major event to add to the rapidly growing IPC Athletics calendar and will help build on the momentum of the London 2012 Paralympic Games, the most successful ever. “After successfully hosting training camps for the Mexican and New Zealand Paralympic teams ahead of London 2012, we are confident that Swansea can host a hugely successful European Championships as well in 2014.” Jon Morgan, executive director at Disability Sport Wales, said: “We believe that Wales and Swansea is the perfect stage to host international events with high quality facilities to ensure that athletes can deliver their very best possible performances.” The 2012 European Championships were held in Stadskanaal, the Netherlands, and featured 520 athletes from 38 countries. In five days of competition, Russia topped the medals table and athletes broke 14 world records. This year’s World Championships take place in Lyon, France in July. n www.paralympic.org/ athletics.

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