Atn issue 79 apr may 2018

SPECIALIST SPECIALIST PUBLICATION PUBLICATION OF OF THE THE YEAR YEAR p16-17

FERRY ‘CROSS THE MERSEY?

– maybe not, but you won’t find a more accessible boat in Europe

WIN! WIN! WIN!

APRIL-MAY2018

STRESS-BUSTER BILLY

p18

LIVING IT TO THE FULL

A NIGHT WITH NILS LOFGREN

p14

p6

p27

50 SEED BOOKS UP FOR GRABS

‘Adrenaline-junkie’ Gordon celebrates his 96th birthday in grand style

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All Together NOW!

What’s inside NEWS

p2-6

STEVE MORGAN FOUNDATION

p7

MERSEYSIDE FIRE & RESCUE

p8

CAREZONE

p10

NORTH WEST ELECTRICITY

p9

MOTORZONE

p12

LORD MAYOR’S CHARITY APPEAL p15

TRAVEL

p16-17

CONTACT BOARD

p18-19

HEALTH

p20-21

SKILLZONE

FLASHBACK

THEATREZONE

BOOKS/HOROSCOPE

p22

p23

April/May 2018

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Stories of our lives NEWS

Schools mental health in crisis

THE everyday stories – and thoughts – of people with learning disabilities have been brought to life in a brand new book.

Our Life, Our Choice is a collection of writing and artwork about being listened to and respected, about rights and about achievements.

It includes drawings, poems, short stories and drama scripts, all based on real-life situations.

Helena Wallis, chief executive of Heart of England Mencap, the charity that launched the book, said: “We hope that this book will help to break down barriers and tackle stigma which sadly still exists in our society.” n Tel. 01789 298709.

PICTURED: Book illustrator Lucy Bergonzi with Emily, one of the contributors to the book

p24-35

GARDENING

PUZZLEZONE

SPORT

CAN YOU HELP US?

p26

p27

p28-29

p30-31 p32

Can YOU help? 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, long-term health condtions or age. n The charity – the only one of its kind in the UK – relies entirely on support from its sponsors, advertisers, subscriptions and donations.

0151 230 0307 See page 32

Editor: Tom Dowling

email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

Editorial Support: Gerry Corner

Advertising/sponsorship 0151 230 0307

email: sales@alltogethernow.org.uk IT Support: Ken Almond Website: Pharos Design www.alltogethernow.org.uk

NEXT EDITION

Tuesday 5 June 2018

All Together NOW! is published

by All Together Now! Ltd, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP Registered Charity No.1106387 Company No. 5096931

FREE breaks for young people

F

REE short breaks at youth hostels in England and Wales are being offered to disadvantaged young people.

The YHA Charity’s Challenging Lives programme is offering places to children living difficult lives in Salford and Manchester.

An adventure of a lifetime, it can include searching for dinosaur fossils, canoeing down a river, or a spot of weaseling.

The programme is aimed at eight to 18-yearolds who have recently experienced life threatening medical or mental health conditions, bereavement or homelessness.

Young people living with a disability or medical condition, or those taking on a caring role can also apply.

YHA Chief Executive James Blake said: “Giving a young person the opportunity to have

a break away from their challenging lives can have a long-lasting positive effect.

“Research shows it can increase resilience and ability to cope with future challenges, increase health and wellbeing, improve behaviour and school attendance, build life skills and improve future prospects.”

The programme has received support from the Mace Foundation, the charitable company set up to support the charitable endeavours of international consultancy and construction company Mace.

Groups of up to 12 young people have until June 1 to apply for the two-night breaks.

n YHA Breaks team: Tel. 01629 592 723, email breaks@yha.org.uk n www.yha.org.uk/apply-support

Young brains team up to help others A FREE handbook for teenagers – and family members – living with brain injury has been launched by The Children’s Trust.

Me and My Brain gives advice and guidance on topics such as independence, bullying, driving and education.

It includes real life experiences of young people who are living with the condition.

Alex, one of the young people

involved in developing the handbook, said: “I am so proud to have been involved with Me and My Brain, I can’t put it down!

“We all had such different experiences following our brain injuries but found common solutions. We hope this handbook will help others through what can be a very difficult and scary time.”

n Tel. 01737 365000. n www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

AN urgent increase in resources supporting the mental health of young people has been called for by experts at the University of Manchester.

Their demand comes after a study uncovered a “perfect storm” of increased need and decreased provision.

The results show young people are increasingly talking to school staff about mental health issues – with welfare reform and broader cuts to other services adding significantly to the pressures people face but there are fewer resources available, and staff feel under-equipped to deal with the increasing level of emotional concerns.

The researchers believe that this will potentially lead to an increase in the number of teachers leaving the profession.

They also found that the proposals in the new Green Paper do not satisfactorily address the major concern that more money and resources are required to provide a suitably skilled workforce.

Dr Terry Hanley said: “Schools are under pressure to ensure that young people succeed academically and their mental health needs are catered for.

“But staff are highlighting that they are at the limits of what they can do to support the emotional wellbeing of pupils, and that austerity is putting them under more pressure.

“The recent Green Paper does not, in our eyes, go anywhere near far enough.

“Without the addition of qualified professionals, schools are likely to end up dealing with increasingly complex issues without the resource of trained staff to deal with them.”

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2018

Farewell to two of our brightest stars ALL of us at All Together NOW! send our warmest thoughts to Lady Dodd and the family of the late and great Sir Ken Dodd.

Sir Ken, who died on 11 March, aged 90, was a huge fan of this paper.

Speaking on his 90th birthday, Sir Ken sent a New Year message to our readers: “Treasure your memories. Being alive is a wonderful experience.

Enjoy every second of it, or if you can’t enjoy it yourself, then help someone else to enjoy their life. To give happiness to others is a wonderful way to spend your time.”

WE WERE also saddened by the death of Stephen Hawking, the world-renowned physicist, who died on 14 March, aged 76.

At the age of 22 Prof Hawking was given only a few years to live after being diagnosed with a rare form of motor neurone disease.

The illness left him in a wheelchair and largely unable to speak except through a voice synthesiser.

Disability Rights UK marked his death by reposting the speech he gave as the fourth annual Jack Ashley Memorial Lecture last October.

– Page 14

SINGING OUR PRAISES SIR KEN DODD

PROF HAWKING

Theare group put on an ‘elektric’ show

W

Tap into our inclusive website, says Louise PEOPLE with learning difficulties, visual impairments or who speak a foreign language can now customise the water company’s website.

By clicking the ‘Accessibility Help’ button on the water company’s website, customers can choose a different font size or background colour, or get the content read out loud.

Information on the site can also be translated into one of more than 100 languages.

Louise Beardmore, pictured, United Utilities Customer and People Director, said: “It’s really important to us that we do our best to make our services and information as accessible as possible to everyone.”

DISABLED workers who need costly equipment and support to help them at work can now claim up to £57,200 annually (previously £42,100) from the Department of Works and Pensions’ Access to Work scheme.

The UK Council on Deafness said: “This will help deaf people whose first language is British Sign Language (BSL) to access the communication support so vital to enabling them to thrive and succeed in the workplace.”

WE’D LOVE to hear from any supermarkets or hospitals wanting to stock the paper.

Contact 0151 230 0307 – info@alltogethernow.org.uk

dancing and performing.

“While there they made sure they gave out and talked about the marvellous newspaper All Together NOW! ”

Asda Community Champion Lorraine Ambrose said: “This FREE charity newspaper paper is extremely popular with our customers. The paper is a

PROUD TO BE SUPPORTING THIS CHARITY NEWSPAPER

3

Boost for workers

E KNOW how helpful and popular All Together NOW! is to huge numbers of people across the region.

And it’s always good to hear your comments.

The team at the Elektric Apple Theatre Group have just sent us this picture taken during a visit to Asda Walton, where thousands of copies of All Together NOW! are regularly picked up.

Carol Darby, the group’s coordinator, said: “Asda invited us to provide some good old Irish singing to mark St Patrick’s day.

“All our group have learning disabilities or special needs but it doesn’t stop them from doing what they love best – singing,

All Together NOW!

Council Approved Contractor & Suppliers Covering The Northwest

This gets our vote

lifeline to many vulnerable people, providing them with information they can’t get elsewhere. We are proud to be involved with the charity.”

Free Home Demonstrations

SALES, REPAIR & SERVICING OF ALL MOBILITY & DISABILITY PRODUCTS

A NEW ‘easy read’ guide for voters with a learning disability has been launched to help increase understanding of how to register and vote in the upcoming elections.

Emma Hartley, at the Electoral Commission, said: “With many local authorities holding local elections in May, it’s vital that people with a learning disability are provided with accessible information to help them and to ensure they are registered to vote by the 17 April deadline so they can vote on 3 May.” n The new guide can be downloaded at www.electoralcommission.org.uk Tel, 0333 103 1928

Call Us On:

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All Together NOW!

NEWS

April/May 2018

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Help with employing personal assistants

What will happen to our loved ones . . ?

TWO out of three families caring for disabled adults with complex needs live in fear of what will happen when they can no longer provide support.

A new report – When I’m Gone, by national disability charity Sense – reveals: n Three in four families caring for a loved one with complex needs have no long-term plan in place for when they are no longer able to provide support. n Nine out of 10 family carers say they have little to no trust in local authorities being able to provide adequate care to their loved one.

The report also highlights new Freedom of Information data that reveals only one in four councils are able to support disabled people and their carers to make contingency plans for future care options.

And only one in three local authorities are aware of how many disabled adults are currently being cared for by family and friends at home, in their area.

There are 1.3 million carers in England and Wales aged over 60, and the research raises fears of a looming care crisis for disabled adults with complex needs, who risk being placed in unsuitable crisis care placements.

Richard Kramer, deputy CEO at Sense, said: “After a lifetime of caring, no parent or disabled adult should be left neglected and living in fear about the future.”

Rethinking old age

EXPERTS and inventors are to work on new ways to overcome the problems we all face as we grow older and more vulnerable.

Tackling the issues that come with vulnerability in later life are the subject of a major new initiative bringing together professionals, innovators and groups who work to support vulnerable consumers.

Innovating for Ageing is being led by the International Longevity Centre (ILC-UK), with the support of specialist financial services group Just.

David Sinclair, Director of ILC-UK, said: “Our ageing society is a driver for increasing levels of vulnerability – more people with dementia, with sight and hearing loss, and multiple longterm health conditions, for example.

“This project aims to seek out technological and policy innovations and solutions, with an aim to removing barriers and ultimately rethinking the products and services that are on the market.”

Among the initiative’s aims are to: n Identify solutions to specific problems facing vulnerable consumers. n Organise events and awards to recognise collaboration and new thinking. n Identify and highlight key lessons and good practice.

Charities unite to fight blindness

BLIND SPOT: What it is like for people living with age related macular degeneration

FOUR top sight loss charities are joining forces to find a treatment for a major cause of blindness.

In the UK, 600,000 people are living with an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration, or AMD. Despite this, only 0.2% of the public money spent on health research goes on AMD. Bosses at the four charities – Blind Veterans UK, Fight for Sight, the Macular Society, and Scottish War Blinded – hope their joint effort will “change the lives of millions of older people in the UK and around the world”.

In a joint statment they said: “We are delighted to be working together on this exciting campaign. Action Against AMD will change the face of biomedical research into this terrible disease.”

Blind Veterans UK and Scottish War Blinded both support ex-service men and women with sight loss.

They have not previously funded medical research but have decided to join the collaboration because most of their members are blind as a result of AMD. n AMD is a destructive, degenerative condition of the macula, the central and most sensitive area of the retina.

Although minute in diameter, the macula is responsible for all central vision and most colour vision.

People with advanced macular disease cannot drive, read or recognise faces. n AMD is associated with greatly increased risk of falls, social isolation and depression.

There are two main forms: Dry AMD is untreatable, wet AMD (so-called because of the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina) can be slowed with drugs regularly injected into the eyeball. n Helpline: Tel. 0300 3030 111.

SHOCK COST OF BEING DISABLED

D

ISABLED people spend £570 a month more on living costs than everyone else, according to a shock new study.

And one in five people with a disability pay an extra £1,000 per month, figures show.

The financial penalty of being disabled is revealed in new research by national charity Scope.

And the organisation found that for every £100 a disabled person earns, their spending power is just £67.

This is even accounting for the impact of Personal Independence Payment, the benefit designed to counteract these extra costs.

After housing costs, disabled people spend, on average, half of their remaining income (49%) on disability-related costs.

According to Scope, disabled people have to pay extra in three ways: n Having to spend more on everyday things like heating or taxis.

– £570 extra monthly costs

n Paying for specialist items such as a wheelchair or a hoist or other equipment. n Paying over the odds for everyday products and services.

Examples of higher daily living costs include: n A reclining chair that costs £1,200. £600 for a spare battery for an electric wheelchair. n Hand grips for wheelchairs and walkers that cost five times (£25) a grip for a bike.

Mark Atkinson, chief executive at disability charity Scope, said: “Life costs more if you are disabled.

“Disabled people often have to buy equipment that other people don’t.

“Sometimes their condition means disabled people have no choice but

to use more of something, like heating. In other cases, they are charged extortionate rates for things like insurance.

“Scope research shows that on average all these costs add up to a ‘disability price tag’ of an extra £570 per month.

“We need a complete rethink on how we tackle this issue and how Government, businesses, markets and the public work and interact with disabled people.”

To combat extra costs Scope is calling for: n Government to reform the assessment for Personal Independence Payment so that disabled people get the right level of support to help with extra costs. n Regulators like Ofgem and the FCA to improve how markets function for disabled people to help tackle extra costs. n Businesses to develop goods and services targeted at disabled people that help to reduce extra costs.

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

A NEW project aims to give more disabled people greater financial control of their lives.

The project, led by Cheshire Centre for Independent Living, is working with disabled people who receive personal care or personal health budgets and who want control over their support – but do not want to become a direct employer of their personal assistants.

It is one of 10 schemes across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland that have been handed funds in the latest tranche of awards from the fiveyear, £5 million Disability Research on Independent Living and Learning research programme.

Cheshire CIL and its partners are setting up two or three small usercontrolled cooperatives in the north-west, each of which would act as a PA agency, pooling the skills and experiences of a small number of disabled people, and spreading the costs of employing PAs between them.

The other four disabled people’s organisations (DPOs) involved in the project are Breakthrough UK, Disability Equality North West, Disability Association Carlisle and Eden, and Merseyside Disability Federation.

Tom Hendrie, head of policy and communications at Cheshire CIL, said the five DPOs, which cover Cumbria, Lancashire, Merseyside and Lancashire, had worked closely together for many years and were really excited about the new project.

He said: “The more control that is in the hands of disabled people the better.”

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2018

All Together NOW!

Hills are alive... with the sound of Matt’s guitar NEWS

W

E’VE heard of people raising money in all sorts of strange ways. But we reckon Matt Smith’s guitar-playing adventure up Mount Snowdon took things to the limit!

Matt ran – and strummed – his way to the snowy summit, all in preparation for a daredevil Sahara Marathon.

“I played my guitar because it gave me something to do whilst crying out in agonising pain,” reflected Matt, who was raising cash for the Camden Society charity, which helps people with learning disabilities.

n Anyone fancy doing something to help the All Together NOW! charity newspaper? If so, we’ll help publicise your efforts. n Contact us on 0151 230 0307 or email news@alltogethernow.org.uk

Charities need more cash to plan future

NINE in 10 leaders of small and medium sized disability charities are spending little or no time on long-term planning and strategy.

The Weston Charity Awards found that the main factor holding disability charity leaders back is the pressure of tackling day to day operational matters.

Three quarters indicate that lack of money is preventing them from bringing in extra resources that could be devoted to planning for the future.

The research also highlighted the increasing demand most charities are attempting to address, very often without additional budget.

Nearly three in five small to medium sized disability charities expect to support more service users in 2018 despite the fact that most (64%) are not confident of income growth.

Gillian Murray, chief executive of Pilotlight, which manages the coaching and mentoring component of the Weston Charity Awards, said: “The benefits of focussing on leadership development and organisational strategy are overwhelming.” n westoncharityawards.org

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NEWS

April/May 2018

NHS organisations facing legal action

THIRTEEN NHS organisations – including four from the North West – face legal action over failing to pay the costs of continuing healthcare for people with complex needs.

The Equality and Human Rights Commission has warned them about “discriminatory” policies that could see patients forced into institutions.

The warning is the first step in a potential judicial review.

Concerns about the NHS CHC policies of more than 40 CCGs were first raised in January 2017 by disabled campaigner Fleur Perry, herself a recipient of NHS continuing healthcare, which provides long-term NHS funding for care outside hospital.

Perry’s research, using freedom of information requests, showed how many Clinical Commissioning Groups had drawn up policies that suggested they would move disabled people eligible for NHS CHC out of their homes and into institutions against their wishes, even if the cost of a homecare package was only slightly more expensive than residential care.

Rebecca Hilsenrath, EHRC’s chief executive, said: “It is utterly unacceptable that anyone should be forced into residential care when they are healthy enough to live independently and with their families.

“We will use our powers to ensure that the NHS thinks about this again.” n EHRC is writing to the following CCGs:

Brent, Eastern Cheshire, West Cheshire, South Cheshire, Vale Royal, Coventry and Rugby, Dudley, East and North Hertfordshire, Harrow, Hillingdon, Warwickshire North, Lincolnshire West, and Redditch and Bromsgrove

Alzheimer’s and women

WOMEN with Alzheimer’s lose their ability to talk faster than men do, a new study has found.

Academics say that the brain’s cognitive areas – where women usually have the upper hand over men – such as verbal communication, are those quickest to decline in women as the disease progresses.

“Men and women at high genetic risk of Alzheimer’s disease may share some resilience factors,” said professor of cognitive neuropsychology, Keith Laws, of the University of Hertfordshire.

“However, sex-specific resilience factors also exist and may have implications for different care strategies to ameliorate cognitive decline. Even small effects may have important consequences for how men and women might require more sex-specific approaches to their treatment and care.

“In terms of sex-specific resilience, women benefit from being married, living with a partner, lower BMI and alcohol use; while for men something as seemingly random as ‘pet ownership’ can aid resilience, presumably because it is also linked to exercise.”

Women are significantly more at risk of developing Alzheimer’s than men.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Gordon’s got the ski to a long life!

BLIND war veteran Gordon Mills has taken to the slopes for the first time – two days after his 96th birthday.

The great-grandfather of six said: “It was harder than I imagined, but extremely worthwhile. I enjoyed it very much.

“My lack of sight was a bit of a challenge, but the feeling was quite amazing.”

Gordon began to lose his sight around 20 years ago due to agerelated macular degeneration, or AMD, but it hasn’t stopped him living an adventure-packed life – trying hot air ballooning, paragliding and flying in a glider.

Lauren Henderson, instructor for Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK), said: “He was absolutely brilliant.

Gordon is the oldest person DSUK has ever instructed. I was so impressed. To try skiing for the first time at 96 is an incredible thing and he really rose to the challenge.”

Last year Gordon also took on a 70ft abseil. Now he is looking forward to trying off-road 4x4

driving and going up in a glider once again.

Gordon’s wife, Yvonne, 74, described her husband as an “adrenaline junkie”.

She said: “Nothing fazes him.

He’s more afraid of wasps than he is of extreme sports. I know I’m his wife but I think he is quite remarkable, you would never know how little sight he actually has.

“He says that when he’s up in the air he can make out more with his peripheral vision than he can when he’s on the ground.

“The doctors say that it’s activities like this that keep him young – I think it’s having a younger wife!”

Gordon added: “If you’re fit enough you’ve got to go after what you want to do – you can’t let age stop you. It’s like what George Mallory said when questioned why he wanted to climb Mount Everest – ‘because it’s there’.”

Gordon, who lives in Edinburgh, has been supported by Scottish War Blinded.

FASHION FOR EVERYONE

“ADRENALINE JUNKIE”: Gordon with wife Yvonne

J

ACK EYRES, the current Mr England, is one of the world’s greatest ambassadors for making the fashion industry more inclusive.

Despite having his right leg amputated at the age of 16, Jack has appeared on catwalks for New York, Milan and London Fashion Weeks.

Now disability minister Sarah Newton has joined forces to call on the industry to reflect wider society.

The Minister said: “With the spending power of disabled people totalling a whopping £249 billion, the industry is missing out on a huge opportunity.

“Whether it’s on the catwalk or the high street, we need a culture change in how fashion is represented and marketed so

everyone in our society feels included.”

Jack added: “Fashion can play an important role in changing the perception of disabled people so it’s important the industry does more to be inclusive.”

Many brands have already taken steps to be more inclusive, from designers using disabled models in PR campaigns to high street retailers designing products for their disabled customers.

Last year the Government appointed various sector champions including Helen Drury, who is one for retail.

She said: “With 20% of our population having some form of disability, there is a huge customer base waiting to see themselves in the clothes they want to buy.”

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2018

All Together NOW!

Changing lives for the better!

T

More than

£5m

handed out this year

HE Steve Morgan Foundation aims to make a real difference by changing the lives of thousands of people across the region.

Founded by Steve Morgan CBE in 2001, the Foundation supports projects that help children and families, people with physical or learning disabilities, the elderly, and the socially disadvantaged across North Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire and North Shropshire.

More than £300m has so far been committed to over 650 charities, and this number will increase dramatically over the coming years after Steve committed

over £200 million additional funding to the Foundation in 2017.

There are three types of funding available for organisations which fit the application criteria: n Major grants and one-off capital funding for large projects; n Regional grant funding; and n Enable funding for specialist equipment which includes the brand new Smiley Buses.

If you need help, contact us – details at the foot of the page.

Our Enable fund helps Clare to ‘read’ again

A

WOMAN whose sight has been failing for the past few years can “read” again, thanks to a revolutionary device that’s been funded by an Enable grant from the Steve Morgan Foundation.

Clare, 40, suffers from the rare and degenerative condition Wolfram Syndrome, which has left her with no central vision and only peripheral sight.

She also has diabetes, and has had to give up her job at Chester Zoo, but has always been keen to remain independent and active.

INDEPENDENT AGAIN: Clare with her Orcam device Jane Harris, administrator of the Steve Morgan Foundation, said: “To improve her independence and quality of life, Clare was in need of a sensory aid device which can read text to the person using it.

“We have been delighted to provide £2,000 via our Enable funding programme for the THE Open Door Centre in Wallasey, which new OrCam Sensory Aid, which can also takes an innovative approach to mental recognise people’s faces as well as help Clare health and young people, has received in so many different areas of her everyday another boost from the Steve Morgan life.”

Foundation.

Clare, who lives in Chester with her guide The charity has been granted three-year dog, Maggie, is looking forward to getting funding for a centre manager, following on plenty of use out of the new device. from previous support for core running She said: “I just want to thank the Steve costs.

Morgan Foundation, because the Orcam is Director Lee Pennington said: “We are already making a real difference for me, and going through a time of real change for the will do so even more as I become familiar with charity, with the Steve Morgan Foundation its capabilities. alongside every step of the way.

“It is enabling me to read things again, and, “Demand is going up and we are growing after feeling that I was rendered illiterate over to meet this. the last few years, I can once again look at “We have had a full centre refurb and we menus, labels, road signs and text on the TV!” are delighted that we are going to continue n The Enable programme provides our work with support from the specialist equipment to people of all Foundation.” ages. Check the Enable section on the WARM WELCOME: the Open Door team in Wallasey website (below) or call 01829 782808.

The door is opening even wider now!

www.stevemorganfoundation.org.uk Tel 01829 782808

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Steve Morgan Foundation

A TOTAL of £744, 254 of grants were awarded to charities and community organisations at the latest trustee meeting of the Steve Morgan Foundation.

That takes the overall figure during the financial year to £5.2 million!

The Foundation is now looking forward to working closely with: n Fforyd Community Hub, Rhyl n Cheshire Down’s Syndrome Support Group n Feeding Birkenhead n Newton-leWillows Boys and Girls Club n Orrell Park and District Community Centre.

It’s also a warm “welcome back” to organisations also previously supported by the Foundation – n Abergele Community Action n KIM Inspire n The Open Door Project n Merseyside Domestic Violence Services (MASC Project) n Netherley Youth & Community Initiative n Northwich MultiSports n The Port Grocery n Speke Baptist Church – Noah’s Ark Centre

@stevemorganfdn

All Together NOW!

8

April/May 2018

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ARSON: Don’t be a victim OUT IN FORCE: Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service and partners spreading the warnings about arson in the community

M

ERSEYSIDE Fire & Rescue Service joined forces with Merseyside Police, local authorities and housing providers to highlight the dangers of deliberate fires as part of Arson Awareness Week.

During the past five years, fire crews in Merseyside have had to tackle nearly 17,500 deliberate fires, including over 2,000 fires involving vehicles.

This figure also includes 894 fires in residential properties, 354 on business premises, and 1,500 fires started deliberately using ignitable liquids.

As part of the campaign to tackle this problem, fire service staff, advocates, PCSOs and volunteers visited homes and businesses in St Helens, Knowsley, Liverpool North, Liverpool South, Wirral and Sefton to carry out Home Fire Safety Checks, distribute information leaflets and identify residents who may be vulnerable to arson attacks.

In some areas MFRS and partners also helped to provide skips to remove fly-tipped rubbish from communities, assist with litter picks and give advice to business owners about waste management.

They also provided support to residents

Top tips to protect your property . . .

Ensure you have effective security – it is the best defence against arson.

Entry gates should be secured, unless in use, to prevent access by intruders.

Sheds and garages should be well secured as they often contain tools that can be used to force entry in to the home. They also often contain flammable liquids.

Look after your wheelie bin. If possible, put it out on the morning of collection and return to your property as soon as possible after collection.

Burning materials (including fireworks) can be pushed through

concerned about anti-social fire setting in their neighbourhoods.

Station Manager Paul Kay, Arson Reduction Co-ordinator for Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, said: “The figures from the last five years demonstrate that arson is a very serious issue for both local communities and our fire crews, with

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letter boxes. Consider fitting a metal container or lockable flap.

Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly.

If you see anyone setting fires report it to the police immediately or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Avoid placing bins, rubbish, or other combustible items against the walls of the home. These are a ready supply of fuel for arsonists.

Don’t leave flammable liquids in the open.

Never store your wheelie bin near windows or doors.

sometimes deadly consequences for those affected.

“During the campaign both ourselves and our partners were keen to raise awareness of the dangers of arson and the impact fires have on our communities.

“We were also keen to send a message to those thinking of deliberately setting fires in

the local community: Namely that if caught, those responsible may face legal action.

“Arson is a serious criminal offence which puts people’s lives at risk, causes damage to homes, businesses and community facilities and impacts on wildlife and the environment.

“It can range from mindless criminal damage to a deliberately-targeted attack but, either way, the potentially lethal results remain the same.

“If fire appliances are called out to deliberate fires this may delay the response to other emergencies, which could endanger lives elsewhere.

“Thanks to the support of the public and our partners the week was a great success and we are hopeful this will now have a positive impact in reducing the number of arson incidents in the future.” n If you live in Merseyside, you can request a free Home Fire Safety Check visit. Many residents will be eligible for the fitting of free smoke alarms, particularly those over the age of 65 and anyone who is referred to us by one of our partner agencies. n Call 0800 731 5958 for further information or to request a visit.

Staff learn how to help people with dementia

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MERSEYSIDE Fire & Rescue Service staff have gained valuable skills to help support people in the community with dementia as part of their daily work.

Around 40 fire prevention staff visited Liverpool Museum to take part in its award-winning House of Memories training programme, an initiative that is specifically designed to support people with dementia.

Their new skills will now be used during

Home Fire Safety Checks to vulnerable residents across Merseyside.

Phil Byrne, Station Manager for Community Risk Management from Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service, said: “This initiative provided an excellent opportunity for our prevention staff to receive some invaluable training for our work with more vulnerable members of the local community. There is no doubt that this training will now help with that work.

“It also complements both the Fire

Service’s strategic dementia pledge and Liverpool’s pledge for becoming a dementia-friendly city. It will also help with our work to support staff who may be caring for family members of their own with dementia.” n House of Memories is a dementia awareness training programme developed and delivered by National Museums Liverpool. The training centres on the objects, archives and life stories held within National Museums Liverpool.

April/May 2018

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

9

We’re Electricity North West and we own, operate and maintain the power network from rural Cumbria to urban Manchester.

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All Together NOW!

‘Social care near breaking point’

SOCIAL care could pass the point of no return unless the Government orders emergency action ahead of reforms coming out of its promised green paper.

Directors of adult social services are warning that tens of thousands more older and disabled people will go without the support they need this year.

And they say many working adults will have to give up jobs to help care for their parents – if urgent steps are not taken to back the sector with special interim funding and a new national strategy to recruit and retain care workers and nurses for nursing homes.

So many of the organisations that provide care are quitting the sector because of low returns and severe recruitment problems that directors fear the damage will become irreversible in 2018.

Margaret Willcox, president of the Association of Directors of Adult Social Services, said: “We eagerly await the green paper on support of older people and the extensive reforms that are needed to place social care on a sustainable longterm footing.

“But we must have action in the short term to ensure that the system can survive.”

April/May 2018

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Care home pole dance ‘fantastic’ A

CARE home that hired pole dancers to entertain residents has won backing from a national charity.

The head of national respite holiday provider Revitalise said it was a “fantastic” idea.

And if it’s what residents want, it should be welcomed, insisted Chris Simmonds.

Revitalise chief executive Mr Simmonds said: “It is fantastic to see other social care providers out there willing to push the boundaries and give their guests the chance to experience new, different things.

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Charity boss: If residents want, them, why not?

“When many of us go on holiday, we don’t just look forward to the chance to take a break, we also want to try new things, explore new places and come away having made memorable moments with those we hold close.

“Disabled people and older people

are no different in wanting to make the most of life’s experiences.

“That’s why it’s so important that as a society we do not allow ourselves to simply focus on the provision of social care, but to place the people for which we are providing care at the very centre of our work.”

The charity, which runs the Sandpipers respite holiday centre in Southport, believes entertainment and activities are an important part of the breaks offered to guests.

Activities inlcude indoor skydiving, performances from tribute acts, drag queens and belly dancers.

NEW DIRECTIONS

CARE THAT GOES ABOVE AND BEYOND

IN STEP: Staff at New Directions provide plenty of fun activities for people with wide-ranging disabilities

W

HEN a company is highly regarded by the Care Quality Commission you can be confident you are going to get the highest standard of care and attention.

The highly trained New Directions team provides a wide range of highquality services throughout Sefton for people with learning disabilities, autistic spectrum disorders, mental health support needs, physical disabilities and age-related conditions.

The team understand that people who

care for loved ones are doing an important, often stressful job and need support.

That’s the reason they go above and beyond to help carers so that those they care for get the best out of life.

A day service for older people is available at a number of New Directions locations across Sefton, including those with the early stages of dementia.

There is also a specialist day service for people with more advanced dementia.

In addition, New Directions provides more than 150,000 hours of care for people at home each year.

A key feature of this service is the emphasis on reablement and rehabilitation, which means that with the support of the New Directions team people are able to return home from hospital quickly, and avoid readmission to hospital or a long term residential or nursing facility.

n Visit www.ndirections.co.uk or for help and advice call 0151 705 0300.

Helpers in need of help

A NEW study reveals the on-going struggles informal – that’s UNPAID – carers face: n One in seven of UK adults consider themselves to be informal carers – equating to 7.85 million people. n On average, an informal carer spends 13 hours a week taking on duties such as cooking, cleaning and caring for someone close to them. n Half say the role has had a significant impact on their emotional state. n One third have fallen out with friends and family because of tensions around their responsibilities. n Two in five say the financial burden of being an informal carer has prevented them from leading the lifestyle they want. n One third would pay for professionals to take on the carer duties if they had the money. n Four out of five – 14.08 million people – think they ought to get more support from the Government.

Rohit Patni, CEO and cofounder of the online health appWeMa Life, said: “Whether for a close friend, elderly relative or long-time neighbour, many people at some stage in their life take on the responsibility of being an informal carer for someone close to them.

“However, in doing so they are clearly putting a massive financial and emotional strain on their day-to-day lives.

“More support is clearly needed.”

Find your local Carers Centre – p19

reaching half a million readers . . . tel 0151 230 0307

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2018

All Together NOW!

11

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and work and pensions select committees now asking the National Audit Office to investigate the scheme.

The committees also suggested they might call on the Government to allow rival organisations to set up as competitors to Motability, which they said might drive down the price paid by disabled people to lease vehicles through the scheme.

Sarah Newton, the minister for disabled people, suggested during one of the evidence sessions that letters she would release to the committee would show that Lord Sterling, the Tory peer who co-founded the scheme more than 40 years ago, was wrong to accuse work and pensions secretary Esther McVey of making a series of untrue and misleading statements about the scheme to MPs. The minister also said the level of pay and bonuses received by executives of Motability Operations, which runs the scheme on behalf of the Motability charity, was “quite shocking” and there were “serious questions” to be asked about its governance, including the level of its financial reserves, estimated to be £2.4 billion.

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. . . getting – and keeping – you mobile . . .

Tel 0151 548 1999

WE CAN HELP YOU!

L

OOKING for something to help you get in and out of your car more easily – or need some hand controls to help you get out and about?

Or what about a new wheelchair, a motorised scooter, or a powered handbike?

Well if you are yearning to get yourself active this year then Vin Ross and his team at DaVinci Mobility can help you.

“We can help with all kinds of problems, “ says Vin, who set up the Gillmoss-based company 17 years ago.

“There is nothing we can’t help with.

We are wheelchair-users ourselves so we know all about the problems and frustrations people have in getting and staying mobile.

“It can sometimes be challenging, but in most cases it’s not impossible.

It’s just a question of being creative

and adapting to new situations.

“Our team can offer expert advice – and can solve problems. That’s what we are here for.”

No task is too small, too big, or too challenging for the DaVinci team. Co partner Steve Curran says: “Lots of people may be recovering from an injury or a health issue and think they have lost their independence.

“We can show them that that’s not necessarily the case.”

HERE TO HELP: Vin Ross, left, and Steve Curran

13

14

All Together NOW!

NEWS

April/May 2018

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Billy, the perfect tonic for students

Stephen Hawking’s words of wisdom

DISABILITY Rights UK marked the death of Professor Stephen Hawking, who died on 14 March, aged 76, by reposting the speech he gave as the fourth annual Jack Ashley Memorial Lecture last October.

In the lecture, he spoke about his belief in the principles of the NHS, that good care should be provided “at the point of need, to everyone, without regard for personal circumstance, or ability to pay”.

He added: “My team and I have had experience of dealing with health insurance companies in the US, and that disappointing experience shows that a health insurance company will try its best not to pay.”

He added: “International comparisons indicate that the most efficient way to provide good health care is for services to be publicly funded, and publicly run.

“The more profit is extracted from the system, the more private monopolies grow, and the more expensive health care becomes.”

He also said in his lecture that disabled people “must find new ways of doing things”.

He said that he had travelled internationally, visited Antarctica, dived in a submarine, and experienced gravity-free space flight, as well as writing books, appearing in television programmes, and lecturing in the Royal Albert Hall.

He told the audience: “I am not showing off. I am explaining that disabled people can do anything if they have a fierce will to succeed.”

But he stressed that his international travel “involves an entourage of dedicated assistants and nurses, and my fame protects me against some of the types of indignity that we often suffer”.

New arm hope for children

A

NEW device being developed at Salford University could make a massive difference to the lives of children born without arms.

A special unit at the university is being created by researchers to help thousands of youngsters with congenital conditions.

These children have to use myoelectric prosthesis – artificial hands controlled by using the electronic signals generated by their own muscles.

But the prosthetics are only effective if an electrode is fixed in close contact with the skin.

But as artificial limbs for children are deliberately built with some growing room in them, the electrode is often too loose to work properly especially for the first few weeks after a new fitting.

John Head, lecturer in prosthetics and orthotics, who is leading the project, explained: “Prosthetics for children are like children’s clothes. Because they grow so quickly, their prosthetic sockets – the interfaces which house the electrodes – only last a few months before

they become too tight and new ones have to be made.

“Unfortunately, this means the child goes through a cycle in which the electrode is often too loose to work the hand effectively after a new socket fitting.”

John believes a crude prototype device he has built could be the answer.

It is curently too bulky to use but John has received a £43,810 grant from the Starworks Innovation Project, which works with the NHS National Institute for Health Research, to develop the device.

‘Incredibly simple idea’

His team will collaborate with the University of Southampton and engineers to create a much smaller working model.

John said: “It’s an incredibly simple idea, but it could make a huge difference to these children’s lives.

“We’re going to use 3D printing to create something that can be tested on patients, and hopefully this is something that can eventually be manufactured on a much larger scale.”

A CANINE visitor to The University of Manchester’s medical school is making medical students happy.

Billy, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – higher education’s first dogtor – is taking part in a scheme for medical students to ease their stresses and strains.

The idea compliments published University of Manchester research that finds that pets are good for your mental health.

Claire Mimnagh, communication skills administrator, said: “Medicine is an intensive course so we feel it’s important to make sure our students can find time to relax.

“Billy brings together our dog-loving students. They love his company and after spending a bit of time with him, feel great. You just have to see the smiles on their faces to realise what a hit Billy is.

“Our students love him – and he evidently loves them; his tail just doesn’t stop wagging.”

Billy’s owner is former Emmerdale and Heartbeat actor Sue Warhurst who helps students to practice their consultation skills.

Dr Kelly Rushton, one of the researchers on the pet study, said: “I would have loved this opportunity when I was a student.”

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

‘

April/May 2018

I want to raise lots of money for my charities – and raise the profile of the excellent work they do . . .

THE FINAL PUSH: CAN YOU HELP? A

BSEILING the giddy heights of Anglican Cathedral, sword fighting with pirates, striding out in the Santa dash, and getting stuck into in all sorts of functions across the city … it’s been an action-packed year for Liverpool’s Lord Mayor.

“And it’s all been for exceptionally good causes,” says Councillor Malcolm Kennedy, who is hoping to raise a whopping big figure for the four charities he is supporting in his year of office.

“People are being so kind and generous,” he says.

“My charities are doing some excellent work but they desperately need more funding. That’s why I am determined to do everything I can to support them.

“And that’s why I am

appealing to anyone who can make a donation to do so as soon as possible.”

Next on his agenda is something a bit more relaxing . . . an afternoon tea party at the Town Hall followed by the annual glitzy gala concert at St George’s Hall, being staged by the United Rotary Clubs of Merseyside.

Rotarian Sylvia Lewis says: “This is our ninth concert and it’s going to be sensational. We have some excellent performers that will appeal to all age groups. Demand for places is certain to be high, so, please, to avoid any disappointment make sure you book your tickets as soon as you can.”

All proceeds from the concert go to the Lord Mayor’s Charity Fund. n Tickets, £15. Contact Sylvia on 0151 426 1065 or 07999 952 628

IF YOUR organisation can help raise money for The Lord Mayor’s Charity Appeal please contact Liverpool Town Hall on 0151 233 4651 or email town.hall@liverpool.gov.uk

YOU CAN donate to the Lord Mayor’s Charity by texting LMAY17 £1, LMAY17 £5 or LMAY17 £10 depending on the amount you want to give

All Together NOW!

15

The Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Malcolm Kennedy

THE Lord Mayor’s charities are:

Lord Mayor’s Charity Gala concert

saturday 12th may 2018 Doors open 6.30pm • Tickets £15

Contact Sylvia Lewis for tickets 0151 426 1065, or mobile 07999 952 628

A STAR STUDDED PROGRAMME FEATURING Wales top harpist Dylan Cernyw, The Cheshire Chord Choir,

Manchester Police Band, the fantastic top violinist Adam Smith, singers Sarah Chidlow and Chris Simmons. Plus surprise artists and celebrity compère Registered Charity Number 223485

16

OVERCOMING LONELINESS All Together NOW!

TALKING POINTS

S

PRING has sprung – and love may well be in the air . . . but not for millions of people in the UK who are alone.

More than 3.6 million older people in the UK live alone, says Age UK, and almost two million feel ignored or invisible.

Now, a major investigation into how people cope with loneliness is under way to find ways to combat what has been called the new ‘silent killer’.

The Loneliness Experiment is an online survey that will explore the nation’s attitudes and personal experiences.

It aims to find out the factors that contribute to loneliness, the role of relationships, connection and social media, and what has aided recovery or improvements to wellbeing.

The survey has been developed by academics at The University of Manchester, Brunel University and the University of Exeter in the hope it will increase understanding of one of the major issues facing society today.

The survey will explore areas such as: n At which times of life are people most likely to feel lonely? n What is the role of friendship? n Do an individual’s personality and life circumstances affect their experience of loneliness? n How does new technology and social media affect loneliness? n How do we view people who are lonely? n What solutions have people found useful (or not) when it comes to tackling their loneliness?

April/May 2018

n What is the opposite of loneliness?

People are invited to take part, whether they have experienced loneliness or not. The aim of the project is to increase understanding around prevention, as well as examining the solutions people have found most useful.

The survey takes less than 40 minutes to complete, and those who participate will be able to see instant feedback online, tracking some of the results.

“We want to know about people’s experiences of loneliness – when does it happen, how intense is it when it happens, and what solutions do people use to overcome it?” said project leader Professor Pamela Qualter, at The University of Manchester.

“Also, is there stigma surrounding loneliness?

Data from the experiment will enable us to look at the most and the least lonely people in society, and in time may help us to develop robust ways of supporting people of different ages who feel lonely.”

Claudia Hammond, presenter of Radio 4’s All in the Mind, said: “We want as many people as possible to take part to help discover not only who is likely to feel lonely, but what it is that can propel people out of it and help them feel more connected to others.”

The results will be analysed and announced in the autumn at an event in the Reading Room at Wellcome Collection, and broadcast on All in the Mind on BBC Radio 4. There will also be a Radio 4 series Anatomy of Loneliness and a set of specially commissioned dramas. n www.thelonelinessexperiment.com

How Polio Fellowship is helping DAVID MITCHELL, chairman of the British Polio Fellowship, sends a message to all those who live with polio . . .

LOOKING back on almost eight decades of bringing people together, The British Polio Fellowship says no one who has had polio and now has post polio syndrome (PPS) needs to be lonely.

The national charity’s branch and regional network is flourishing and open to all – and while many a lifelong friendship has been rekindled, love has blossomed too.

Trustee Archie Leyden is one member who returned to active membership after a long absence, to become chair of the Scottish Region. He is a national board member, and met his wife Pat through the charity, too Former national treasurer Linda Evers met her husband through the charity, and others forged new relationships and friendships.

The work of The British Polio Fellowship as a means to meet people has never seemed more relevant. With three quarters of older people in the UK lonely (including an estimated eight million men, who

would rather not admit it), the charity is still here to help, no matter where in the country people are.

We have around 10,000 active members, but with 120,000 living with PPS, there are thousands more out there we can help.

From benefits advice and support, to a regular chat with a friendly voice, we are only a second away, if people will pick up the phone and let us help them.

Many are naturally reluctant to admit they have a problem. Men are far less likely to try and make new friends or join clubs, yet those that pluck up the courage and take the plunge rarely look back – discovering a world of friends, activities and even relationships.

Our approach is proving a success, but nonmembers must make the first move.

When people know the activities we are running locally, they often ask “can I come?”

We can’t promise romance, but there will be a warm welcome!

n If you would like to join The British Polio Fellowship you can either join at www.britishpolio.org.uk, or by calling 0800 043 1935. www.britishpolio.org.uk

www.alltogethe

RIVER QUEENS: Below and right – The step-free Vision o the Fjords that’’s causing a sensation in Norway.

LEFT: Mersey Ferries are looking to design a new vess for the 21st century

Ferry for th

M

ERSEY FERRIES are looking at designing a new vessel that’s fit for the 21st century . . . Well, what about taking inspiration from this one?

Now cruising through the Norwegian fjords, the stunning vessel had jaws dropping at the country’s Centre for Design and Architecture Universal Design Awards.

Vision of the Fjords, a hybrid electric vessel, was chosen unanimously as the Transport winner for its commitment to accessibility, experience and environmental sustainability.

And the ferry is as unique as the UNESCO World Heritage listed habitat it travels through.

Designed to mirror the mountain paths that zigzag alongside the fjords themselves, the 400-passenger ferry offers comfortable and accessible lounges, sweeping panoramic windows and low emission operations.

Its silent running electric motors carry its carbon fibre hull

Irton House Farm

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through the spectacular Næ functionality of the design, a “climb” over it, which really h Vision of the Fjords is own Norway by The Fjords DA. Chief executive Rolf San “path” passengers use to immerse themselves in the here, is as accessible to th mobility, as it is to all.

“There are no stairs, no ele gently sloping surface leadin views.”

The company is now plann Future of The Fjords.

Mr Sandvik said: “Vision of

Age isn’t slow

WE ARE living longer – and, d having to cope with some hea challenges, we are not slowin according to new research.

More than three in five peop between the ages of 44 and 6 pre-existing medical conditio travelling either the same am more, as they get older.

Tommy Lloyd, at Medical Tr Compared, the company who commissioned the study, said have found that people are be mindful of their pre-existing m condition when planning thei with over 56% feeling that the medical condition impacts on choice of how and where they “The main concerns were a

HOW YOU CAN PLAY A KEY ROLE IN THE FUTURE OF TH HOW YOU CAN PLAY A KEY ROLE IN THE FUTURE OF TH www.irtonhousefarm.com 017687 76380

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April/May 2018

Travel industry ‘still rips us off’

of

sel

he Mersey?

røyfjord. But it’s the unparalleled llowing all passengers to literally hit home with the awards jury. ed and operated in south-western

dvik said: “We ensured that the ascend the ship, and really e sensory delights of the nature hose in wheelchairs, or of limited

evators, no obstructions, just a ng everyone to unforgettable

ning to launch a new ship this year,

step forward. However, we have even greater ambitions. Our new ship, Future of The Fjords, replaces its sister ship’s dieselelectric hybrid solution with pure electric propulsion.

“This means absolutely zero emissions, zero noise pollution and the most immersive experience possible for passengers.

“Basically the ship will just ‘melt away’ as we pass through the fjord panorama, allowing those on-board to escape into the purity and magic of their surroundings.

“This is truly sustainable tourism, designed for everyone to delight in.”

n Vision of The Fjords sails between Flåm and Gudvangen, a 90-minute journey, and is the only tourist vessel in the region to operate year-round. The Fjords operates a fleet of seven tourism vessels in the area, with the Future of The Fjords due to set sail in May.

THE travel industry still failing to meet needs of disabled holidaymakers is unacceptable, says national respite holiday charity Revitalise.

Responding to BBC One’s ‘Rip Off Britain’ which highlighted the poor deal disabled travellers get, Revitalise say the industry needs to take people’s requirements more seriously.

By 2020 as much as 25% of tourism spending in Europe is expected to come from consumers with accessibility requirements, according to the European Commission.

With the so called “Purple Pound” estimated at a value of £249bn, there is not only a moral obligation for the travel industry to make itself more accessible to disabled people, but huge market potential.

Revitalise CEO Chris Simmonds said: “For many years mainstream holiday providers have pledged to do more to cater to the needs of disabled consumers and we were delighted to see companies like Airbnb committed to accommodating disabled holidaymakers with their acquisition of Accomable late last year.

“However, it is clear that some holiday providers are still falling short of being truly accessible and this is why it is essential that the travel industry take the requirements of disabled holidaymakers seriously.

“Imagine booking a holiday and turning up to the accommodation to find that you are unable to access the bathroom, or that the doors aren’t wide enough for you to fit through.

“While for many of us the concept is unimaginable, unfortunately it is very much a reality for disabled people. Not only does this lead to a complete lack of confidence in the eyes of disabled consumers, it also means that travel and tourism providers are seriously missing out.”

The charity’s own research found that 65% of disabled people had decided against visiting a tourist attraction due to accessibility concerns or a lack of information.

wing down travellers Travel Insurance

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their mobility and whether their accessibility needs would be adequately catered for, and whether they would be able to find adequate medical support should they need it.

“Travellers with pre-existing medical conditions are advised to research their chosen destination thoroughly before booking their trip and to secure adequate travel insurance well before they travel.”

MedicalTravelCompared.co.uk is a specialist travel insurance comparison website created specifically for the over 50s and those with pre-existing medical conditions to find appropriate and affordable travel insurance cover. n www.medicaltravelcompared.co.uk

n Tel. 0333 253 5319, www.revitalise.org.uk

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SHOPMOBILITY

n ALTRINCHAM. Tel 0161 929 1714 n ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE. Tel 0161 339 9500 n BARROW. Tel 01229 434039 n BIRKENHEAD. Tel 0151 647 6162 n BLACKBURN AND DARWEN. Tel 01254 690566 or 07757 502217 n BLACKPOOL. Tel 01253 349 427 n BOLTON. Tel 01204 392946 n CARLISLE. Tel 01228 631564 n CHESTER. Tel 01244 312626 n CHORLEY. Tel 01257 260 888 n COLWYN BAY. Tel 01492 533822 n CREWE. Tel 01270 580 031 n ELLESMERE PORT. Tel 0151 355 1420 n KENDAL. Tel 01539 740 933 n LEIGH, Wigan. Tel 01942 777 985 n LIVERPOOL. Tel 0151 707 0877 n MANCHESTER Trafford Centre. Tel 0161 747 2684 n MANCHESTER Arndale Centre. Tel 0161 839 4060 n NELSON. Tel 01282 692 502 n NORTHWICH, Vale Royal Tel 01606 288820 n OSWESTRY. Tel 01691 656882 n PENRITH. Tel 01768 895 438 n PRESTON. Tel 01772 204 667 n RHYL. Tel 01745 350665 n ROCHDALE. Tel 01706 865 986 n RUNCORN, Halton Lea Tel 01928 716971 n SHREWSBURY. Tel 01743 236900 SKELMERSDALE. Tel 01695 550066 n ST HELENS. Tel 01744 613 388 n STOCKPORT. Tel 0161 666 1100 n WARRINGTON. Tel 01925 240064 n WARRINGTON. Birchwood Tel 01925 822 411 n WIGAN. Tel 01942 776 070 n WINSFORD Tel 01606 557550 n WREXHAM. Tel 01978 312390 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM. Snow Hill Railway Station. Tel 0121 236 8980. Level 2, Centre Car Park, Bullring. Tel 0121 616 2942 n STAFFORD. Tel 01785 619456 n STOKE ON TRENT. Tel 01782 233333 n SUTTON COLDFIELD. Tel 0121 355 1112 n TAMWORTH. Tel, 01827 709392 n WALSALL. Tel 01922 650781 n WEST BROMWICH: Sandwell. Tel 0121 553 1943 n WOLVERHAMPTON. Tel 01902 556021

April/May 2018

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WIN TICKETS TO SEE NILS

LEGENDARY American songwriter, virtuoso guitarist and pianist Nils Lofgren returns to the UK in May for his 50th anniversary tour.

The American musician, a member of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band, will be performing at the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall and Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall.

We have THREE pairs of tickets to be won for the Liverpool (Thurs, May 17) and Manchester (Tues, May 22) gigs.

To stand a chance of winning a pair, all you have to do is tell us the name of the rock band that Nils is mostly remembered playing with.

Answers on a postcard, together with your name, address, daytime telephone number, and email address to: Nils Lofgren Comp, All Together NOW! The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP. You can also email your answers to competition@alltogethernow.org.uk.

Please insert LOFGREN in the subject line. n Deadlines: Liverpool (Fri, May 11); Manchester (Weds, May 16).

Can YOU help make life better for people with Alzheimer’s?

VOLUNTEERS are wanted to help form a new fundraising group in Liverpool to support Alzheimer’s Research UK. The UK’s leading dementia research charity is looking for people with a range of skills to help set up the group.

Members can get involved in a variety of ways, from getting stuck into fundraising challenges to raise money for pioneering research to representing Alzheimer’s

THE FIVE lucky winners of our Monty Don gardening competition are:

Miss Kathy Johnson, Cedar Street, Bootle, Merseyside “(I Picked up my copy of All Together NOW! at Aintree hospital) Miss Kathy Adams, Bankburn Road,Tuebrook, Liverpool (Royal hospital, Liverpool) Mr T Kelly, Borough Road, St Helens (Asda, St Helens) Cora Kelly, Oakhill Road, Old Swan, Liverpool (Broadgreen hospital) Stephen Purnell, Arnside Road, Hindley Green, Wigan

All winners will receive a copy of Monty’s latest book, Down to Earth, published by Dorling Kindersley

A FREE service has been launched to help children with brain injuries to enjoy everyday life.

Clinical screening and advice is carried out by specialists who visit the child and family in their home and at school – and make referrals to local statutory services if required.

Katy James, head of The Children’s Trust Brain Injury Community Service, said: “Our new service Research UK at events and will provide clinical support tailored to the child spreading the word about the charity and family’s needs when they need it, to help within their local communities. children with brain injury take as full a part in The charity is currently funding a everyday life as possible.” project at the University of Liverpool, led Even a minor head injury or brain-related

by Dr Jillian Madine, working to create a illness, such as stroke or encephalitis, can new way to track the spread of amyloid impact brain function, resulting in protein through the brain. problems with memory and n Contact Gillian on 07500 222863 or thinking, headaches, fatigue gillian.edwards@alzheimersresearchuk.org and depression. n Tel. 01737 365000.

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 331853 n CHESTER Dial House Tel 01244 345655 n DENBIGHSHIRE Tel 01745 354445 n ELLESMERE PORT

FULL MONTY

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. 0151 263 8366. Text 0151 260 4076 n THE BRAIN CHARITY 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.

Text 01772 204 787 n RHYL Tel 01745 350665

n STOCKPORT: Disability Stockport. 0161 480 7248 n WARRINGTON Disability Partnership. 01925 240064 n WIRRAL WIRED Tel 0151 670 1500 n WEST LANCS HELPLINE Freefone 0800 220676 n ST HELENS DASH Tel 01744 453053

MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM Disability Resource Centre Tel 0121 789 7365 n Disabled People’s Network Solihull Tel 0121 788 1544 n STOKE: Disability Solutions Tel 01782 683800 n WOLVERHAMPTON Elder and Disabled Group Tel 01902 448552

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All Together NOW!

April/May 2018

Hear, hear

Couldn’t you just KISS ’em?

Giants on the way

IT’S NOT just Liverpool that’s about be invaded by giants …

French puppeteers Royal De Luxe are poised to return to the city in summer as part of a series of events to mark 10 years since the city’s European Capital of Culture status.

But before then – on the evening of Saturday, April 14 (Grand National day) – the largest mechanical puppet ever constructed in Britain will rise again at Blists Hill Victorian Town, one of the 10 Ironbridge Gorge Museums in Shropshire.

The Man Engine crawls at four metres high (13 feet) and “transforms” to stand at 11.2m – or 37 feet! n Tel. 01952 433 424 or visit www.ironbridge.org.uk

VISUAL PROBLEMS n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 233332 n BARROW Tel 01229 820698 n BIRMINGHAM Action for Blind Tel 0121 665 4200 n BLACKBURN Tel 0125 554143 n BLACKPOOL: N-Vision Tel 01253 362696 n BURY Tel 0161 763 7014 n BURNLEY Tel 01282 438507

ROCK band KISS has joined the wave of support for Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital after they were moved by last year’s Arena terror attack.

The US band donated three of their personal guitars, a signed personal snare drum with signed drum sticks from Eric Singer, plus tickets for sellout KISS concerts.

Paul said: “We were devastated by the heinous attack in Manchester Arena and had to do something to support the city.”

The instruments were raffled off at the hospital’s charity ball in March.

Access a MUST!

NEW tests for a hearing disorder that affects one in 10 children could be widely available within five years, says the charity Action on Hearing Loss.

Auditory processing disorder stops the brain from processing sounds in the normal way and can affect people of all ages.

But it frequently starts in childhood, and children who haven’t been diagnosed with APD are often labelled as having “behavioural issues”.

Now, researchers at University College London are developing an alternative approach that could help many people.

Dr Ralph Holme, director of research at Action on Hearing Loss, said: “With early diagnosis, children can be given the tools needed to flourish and reduce the frustration that they experience, while giving relief to their

parents.”

ANY restoration of the Houses of Parliament must ensure it is fully accessible to disabled people, said Baroness Brinton, president of the Liberal Democrats and a wheelchair-user herself.

The House of Lords was discussing long-delayed plans to renovate the Palace of Westminster – probably soon after 2025.

POP idol Lady Gaga had to cancel her worldwide tour due to the debilitating condition fibromyalgia.

Well, there’s good news on the way for her and everyone else with the condition.

Researchers say they are delighted with the results of a study into the effectiveness of a new treatment.

The study compared Attachment-based CHEADLE-based The Together Compassion Therapy Trust has been chosen as (ABCT) with relaxation Charity of the Year by Insight, techniques. a global provider of hardware, Dr William Van Gordon, lecturer software, cloud and service in psychology at University of solutions.

Staff at Insight’s Salford office will be Derby Online Learning, said: “Most participants in the ABCT group showed significant collaborating with the charity to raise improvements and some no longer met money for vulnerable children, young the diagnostic criteria for people and adults they support across the fibromyalgia.”

North West region. n The Together Trust: Tel. 0161 283 4848.

Togetherness

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE

n CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121 n CHESHIRE & N WALES: Vision Support. Tel 01244 381515 n CUMBRIA (West) Tel 01946 592474 n CUMBRIA (Sth Lakeland) Tel 01539 726613 n GUIDE DOGS Tel 0118 983 5555 n HENSHAW’S 0161 872 234 or 0151 708 7055

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 HEARING ISSUES 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

Genie Networks.

Tel 0161 941 4549.

Text 18001 0161 941 4549 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

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 nCUMBRIA 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 & WARRINGTON Helpline:0300 102 0008 n KNOWSLEY Tel 0151 549 1412 n LANCASTER Tel 01524 66475 nLIVERPOOL 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 442 0442 n WARRINGTON (WIRED) Tel 01925 633 492 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 nDOLGELLAU Tel 01341 421167 n FLINTSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 01352 751436 n WREXHAM CARERS SERVICE

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MEDICAL NOTES

Good news for couch potatoes!

JUST one exercise workout may be enough to guard your heart against cardioavascular disease for days, according to a new study.

Most experts agree a physically active lifestyle can help fend off cardiovascular disease by reducing risk factors such as fat mass and cholesterol levels.

Usually, it will take weeks or even months for those benefits to show.

But now a team led by a professor at Liverpool John Moores University have shown that the gains from exercise seem to be present far sooner.

Their research shows that only one session of exercise may provide early protection of the heart for two to three hours – followed by a more robust and longer period of protection that emerges after 24 hours and remains for several days.

Researchers say medics could use their findings to help patients with “prehabilitation” – a few sessions of exercise planned for the days preceding planned cardiac intervention, and which could save lives.

Dick Thijssen, a professor of cardiovascular physiology and exercise at LJMU, said: “Protecting the heart through exercise is an easy, inexpensive, and powerful therapy that deserves greater recognition and further resources to establish the optimal dose.

“This is a key review summarising how a single bout of exercise can have a clear impact in keeping the heart adequately supplied with blood.

“Firstly, this means that one bout of exercise can cause clinically relevant protection against cardiovascular disease. Secondly, this means that benefits of exercise are present, even in the absence of changes in risk factors.

“These are both important and powerful messages for all who want to take up exercise.”

Healthy saunas

SAUNAS and good health go together, say scientists at the University of Eastern Finland, who have now shown that that taking a sauna for 30 minutes reduces blood pressure and increases vascular compliance, while also increasing heart rate similarly to medium-intensity exercise.

The findings were published in the Journal of Human Hypertension, and in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology.

April/May 2018

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Bed rest peril for older patients

TWO weeks confined to bed has a far greater impact on the legs of the elderly than younger people, a study found.

comparing their results with young subjects.

The elderly subjects taking part were all healthy.

The loss may be greater and the recovery more difficult in patients with diseases.

Lead investigator Carlo Reggiani said: “While clinical and epidemiological data on inactivity in the elderly are abundant, experiments on disuse and inactivity are seldom performed.

“The results are relevant not only to understand the inactivity-dependent enhancement of the decline but also to design new rehabilitation protocols.”

The results were published in the Journal of Physiology.

BE HAPPY The results will help in improving the rehabilitation of people who have been bed-bound.

Researchers found that in the elderly, there was a difference in single muscle fibre response, a more pronounced loss of muscle mass, and a change in how muscle contraction is controlled by the nervous system compared to young individuals.

Carried out at two Italian universities, the research involved studying the impact of complete inactivity in a group of elderly subjects who were bedridden in a hospital environment for two weeks, and

. . . and you could reduce risk of stroke

H

OW happy we are can have a long-term impact on our risk of suffering a stroke, says a top doctor.

Even mild stress or feelings of unhappiness can lead to major health incidents, says Andrew Russman, medical director of a US stroke centre.

“People will very often deal with emotional upset by making bad lifestyle choices, such as increased smoking or alcohol use, or eating junk food,” said Dr Russman of the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

“That leads to obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, all coming together as a significant increase in our risk of stroke.”

A number of factors increase the risk of stroke: Excess weight — Obesity can lead to heart disease and high cholesterol, which can lead to a stroke.

Heart problems — Strokes are six times more likely to occur in people with cardiovascular disease.

High blood pressure — Strokes are four to six times more likely in people with hypertension.

High cholesterol — People with high cholesterol are at double the risk of having a stroke.

Heavy drinking — This increases the risk for stroke and cardiovascular disease.

Smoking — If you smoke, you

Bid to cut deaths among the under-5s

THE deaths of many young children could be avoided by identifying illnesses earlier, experts say.

And work is getting under way to reduce the numbers of youngsters dying from treatable conditions.

A major study involving the University of Liverpool and Edge Hill University aims to pinpoint where crucial delays are occurring in diagnosing infections in the under-fives.

The 18-month project will examine in detail incidents of serious infection in children – from the moment a parent realises they are ill, through contact with frontline health services, to their admission to hospital.

One-year-old William Mead died from blood poisoning in 2014 after both the NHS 111 helpline and GPs failed to recognise his condition.

Sam Morrish was three years old when, in 2010, he died from sepsis in what the official report called “a and Nick Boyce Cam catalogue of errors” by the health services.

Professor Sarah Neil, who is leading the project, said: “Infection is a major cause with a specialist. of avoidable childhood Consultant trauma and deaths in the UK, orthopaedic surgeon Nick particularly in the underBoyce Cam, said: fives, yet we know little “This is hugely beneficial about the factors that for the patient and more influence when children are efficient as it frees up time for admitted to hospital. staff.

“These factors may range “The Virtual Fracture Clinic from aspects of individual also has the added benefit of children and their family cutting down on costs and so situations, through to the everyone is benefiting.” responses of GP surgeries, NHS helplines or A&E departments. and women aged between 40 and “Many of these deaths 59. could be avoided, as “The results showed a clear infections such as correlation between stress caused meningitis and pneumonia by job loss, and increased are potentially treatable if smoking, alcohol use, high blood caught early enough. pressure and diabetes, and “Parents often find it ultimately an increased proportion difficult to access relevant suffering a stroke,” added Dr health information or to Russman. interpret symptoms. It can “It didn’t only apply to those who even be difficult for GPs to experienced long-term or multiple determine how serious a periods of unemployment. One case is in the early stages,” incident of job loss increased risk.” she added.

Get virtually better

HUGE BENEFIT: David Miller PEOPLE with fractured limbs are to benefit from fewer hospital visits and shorter waiting times, following the arrival of a new virtual clinic.

The scheme, launched at Crewe’s Leighton Hospital, enables medics to assess patients’ x-rays on screen – with a follow-up phone call.

Where necessary, an appointment is also made

double your risk for stroke compared to non-smokers.

Dr Russman says that while data on the impact of mental or emotional health on the likelihood of stroke is limited, research is emerging that shows a link.

One Japanese study published earlier this year used unemployment as commonly identifiable sign that someone had experienced a period of high personal stress, and analysed the histories of around 40,000 men

The perfect tonic . . . for HALF A MILLION people . . .

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April/May 2018

All Together NOW!

MEDICAL NOTES

n CELEBRATIONS for 11 student nurses approaching the end of their three-year self-funded studies at the University of Bolton – and will soon be on the wards of North West hospitals. n The student nurses are the first to conclude their training since the Government-funded bursary scheme for undergraduate nurses was axed last year. n The university has pioneered the self-funded degree training course, with subsequent intakes of undergraduate nurses now studying at teaching hospitals in Manchester, Bolton and shortly, Wigan. n And nearly 300 more nursing undergraduates are being recruited in ALL SMILES: Students with Prof George Holmes, left, and Karen Partington, right, chief 2018. executive of the Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Heart risk linked to lack of vital mineral

A ‘MIRACLE’ DIET

Amazing results of diabetes trial

A

LANDMARK trial has shown it is possible to put Type 2 diabetes into remission using an intensive lowcalorie diet.

The results show almost half of all those taking part in the weight-management programme were in remission after 12 months.

Nine out of 10 participants who lost more than 15kg put their condition into remission, and over half (57%) of those who lost 10 to 15kg achieved remission, along with a third who lost 5 to 10kg.

First year findings of the study suggest that Type 2 diabetes remission is closely linked to significant weight loss.

Of the 298 people who took part in the trial, half received standard diabetes care from their GP, while the other half received Counterweight Plus structured weight management programme within primary care.

The programme included a low calorie, nutrient-complete formula diet supplied by Cambridge Weight Plan for three to five months.

Alyson Syms, from Fleetwood, Lancashire, was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2012.

After a four-year battle following her diagnosis and weighing over 23 stone, Alyson decided to lose weight for her wedding.

She chose a Cambridge Weight Plan consultant to help her achieve this. Just 12 months later she lost 10 stone which has helped to put her Type 2 Diabetes into remission.

Alyson said: “I’m now healthier than I’ve ever been in my adult life. I finally realised that I was in control of my health, it wasn’t controlling me.

“I achieved my dream of walking down the aisle this summer, in a size 12 dress feeling healthy and happy.”

Diabetes UK is funding the DiRECT (Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial) research programme.

LOW phosphate in the blood is linked to the risk of heart attack and coronary artery disease, a new study in the journal PLOS One reports.

Researchers from the University of Surrey found that insufficient levels of phosphate in the blood may pose a particular danger to cardiovascular health, contradicting previous research in this area, which suggested low volumes of the mineral was beneficial to the heart.

The study examined phosphate levels of more than 100,000 patients, over five and nine-year intervals, and the impact on their cardiac health.

Phosphate is an important mineral in the body and helps to regulate blood biochemistry, which can impact on the working of the heart. It plays a crucial role in enabling red blood cells to deliver oxygen to the body’s tissues, and can be found in protein rich foods such as meat, poultry and fish.

Lead author Dr Nick Hayward, who conducted the research, said: “The importance of phosphate in primary and secondary healthcare should be reviewed. It is often overlooked in blood tests yet phosphate may be a new risk factor for heart disease in adults.”

Dr Andy McGovern added: “We would suggest that clinicians consider people with low phosphate levels to be at higher cardiovascular risk and assess ways in which this can be reduced for each patient.”

Night eating warning

Maria’s ‘asbestos’ role

PLANNING AHEAD: Maria Guerin (left) with team leader Lorraine Creech

NURSE Maria Guerin is bringing decades of experience to bear in her new role supporting patients with a rare form of cancer.

As the first clinical nurse specialist for people with mesothelioma in Merseyside and Cheshire, she will ensure they have the best possible network of support and care.

Maria said: “While clinical support is my paramount role I will be working with other agencies, registered charities and care providers to ensure matters like welfare benefits that central government have specifically allocated for these diseases are accessed by patients.

“I will be also be working with the local Merseyside and Cheshire victim

news@alltogethernow.org.uk

support groups to ensure patients and families are provided with a true holistic support network.”

Mesothelioma is often linked to asbestos exposure, and the UK has the highest incidence of the disease in the world. There are around 90 new patients diagnosed in the Merseyside and Cheshire area each year.

Maria will be based at Aintree University Hospital in Liverpool, where she has been a lung cancer nurse for 20 years. She added: “There is significant ongoing burden of the disease in this area, partially due to employment in the docklands and the potential access to hazardous asbestos.” n Contact Maria: Tel. 0151 529 2494.

tel 0151 230 0307

EATING during the night is associated with higher risk of heart disease and diabetes, and the body’s 24-hour cycle is to blame, according to research published in Experimental Physiology.

The researchers at the National Autonomous University of Mexico found that after feeding rats fat at the beginning of their rest period, their blood fat levels spiked more drastically than when fed during the beginning of their active phase.

When they removed the part of the rat’s brain that controls the 24-hour cycle, there was no longer a change in fat levels.

High blood fat levels are associated with heart disease and diabetes.

The study’s author, Ruud Buijs, said: “The fact that we can ignore our biological clock is important for survival; we can decide to sleep during the day when we are extremely tired or we run away from danger at night.

“However, doing this frequently – with shift work, jet lag, or staying up late at night – will harm our health in the longterm especially when we eat at times when we should sleep.”

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Businesses not ready for Brexit

C

RUCIAL gains for the rights of disabled people in the workplace could be lost after Brexit, campaigners fear.

A new survey shows businesses are not prepared for the impact on disabled people of leaving the EU. Many business people and others believe Brexit will have no effect on either disability employment or the ability to cater for people with disabilites, the poll by the Business Disability Forum found.

Diane Lightfoot, head of the Business Disability Forum, said: “Numerous economic forecasts point to a considerable impact on the UK during the transition out of EU Membership.

“Any rise in unemployment is

likely to hit disabled people harder than it will the general population and risks growing the already huge disability employment gap.

“Likewise, a squeeze on budgets could slow progress in securing accessibility in our public places, transportation networks, and businesses.

“Business Disability Forum is urging businesses to prepare for changes to the economic landscape after Brexit so that they are ready not only to mitigate risks but also to seize opportunities.”

The Forum unveiled the results of their research to senior figures from the business world at an event aimed at ensuring vital gains made for disabled people in the last 25 years are not lost in a post-Brexit UK. Pete Holliday, boss of Sopra

Steria Recruitment, who sponsored the event, said: Many employers are simply unaware of the potential impact of Brexit, specifically with regards to demand for skills and access to talent.

“We would really like to see employers reaching out through recruitment channels to explore the benefits of tapping into disabled talent pools – and getting advice on how to remove barriers in the recruitment process to make this possible.

“This is a real opportunity, which is why events such as this are so important. They allow like-minded organisations throughout the recruitment supply chain to share experiences and pool resources to the benefit of disabled candidates and businesses alike.”

TV Chris in backing for Asperger’s

PERFECTION: Packham

TV wildlife expert Chris Packham is supporting a new bid to encourage the talents of people with Asperger Syndrome.

The aim is to bring talent and diversity into companies while helping people who don’t identify as “neurotypical” to achieve fulfilling work lives.

Business and HR figures met to discuss how organisations can better tap into talented professionals with Asperger’s.

BBC wildlife presenter Chris, who wasn’t diagnosed with the severe form of autism until his forties, provided a personal account.

Describing common traits in the workplace, he spoke of a “taskorientated” nature and drive for precision and perfection for those at the higher end of the autistic spectrum.

But far from these characteristics putting off organisations, the differences should be celebrated and embraced, he said.

Packham also described his ability to visually retain information coupled with a desire for knowledge, saying this enabled rather than disabled him.

Katrina HutchinsonO’Neill, of Nationwide Building Society, which hosted the event, said: “This event was about starting the conversation about the recruitment of neurodiverse workforces and the processes involved.”

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n OUR guest historian KEN PYE tells the story of the wonderful George’s and Prince’s Floating Landing Stages, now sadly longgone except in the happy memories of many people. n Ken is the managing director of Discover Liverpool, and is a popular and wellknown author and broadcaster. n He has also just completed his 13th book, ‘Liverpool at Work’. n Ken’s brand new DVD documentary series – Discover Liverpool – is also now available, consisting of eight, half-hour programmes about the history and heritage of Liverpool, all on one, single, ultra HD disc.

All Together NOW!

April/May 2018

FLASHBACK

Creaks and groans of a time lost forever . . .

PIER PLEASURE

B

EFORE the middle of the 18th century, people boarding or leaving ferries and sailing ships using the Port of Liverpool had to do so once the vessels had run up on to the ‘Strand’.

1790s: The original Pier Head

This was a stretch of open sand and shingle at the bottom of Water Street, which was then at the river’s edge, and from which the modern waterfront roadway of Liverpool takes its name.

In the 1760s though, a very narrow, fixed, boarding gangway was erected, jutting out into the river from the shoreline in front of St Nicholas’s Church, which also then stood directly on the riverbank.

This new jetty was known as the North Pier, and it gave this part of Liverpool’s waterfront its modern name – the Pier Head.

However, when George’s Dock was built, in 1771, the jetty was pulled down. Ferry passengers then had to get ashore via dangerous, narrow steps that had been cut into the riverside wall of the new dock.

The Three Graces – the Royal Liver, Cunard, and Port of Liverpool Buildings, now stand over the site of the former George’s Dock.

By the mid-19th century, ferry traffic was increasing substantially, and so, in 1847, the first, floating, wooden landing stage was built at the Pier Head, at a cost of £60,000.

This was over 500 feet long and 80 feet wide and was named George’s Landing Stage after the dock.

But this great quay was soon not long enough and, in 1873, the George’s Stage was extended with the addition of a new and even longer floating platform.

July 28, 1874: Landing Stage fire

Also largely constructed of timber this was named Princes Landing Stage, after the nearby Princes Dock, which had opened in 1821.

However, the opening ceremony had hardly been planned when, on 28th July 1874, the new wooden quay was swept by a catastrophic fire that completely destroyed it.

Remarkably, and after only two years, the great structure was completely re-built at a cost of £370,000, and “the like of which is not to be found at any other port in the world”.

The combined landing stages, known locally as The Pier Head Landing Stage, floated on the river on 200 huge pontoons. It was anchored to the land by a series of solid, metal connectors, great chains, and covered gangways, so allowing it to rise and fall with the tides.

The landing stages provided docking facilities for the large numbers of Mersey ferry boats that once sailed to 11 destinations on the Wirral; for passenger ships then regularly visiting the Isle of Man and Llandudno; for other passenger and goods vessels; and, eventually, for the great transatlantic liners.

At the time of its construction, and for many years afterwards, this was the world’s longest floating structure and it stretched for almost half a mile from Mann Island to Princes Dock.

A wonderful range of buildings, also mostly constructed from wood, included shops, covered waiting areas, lavatories, cafés, a post office, administration offices, and shelters for the dockhands and boatmen.

The full landing stage was also wide enough to

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take cars, lorries, and heavy goods wagons, which would drive onto the stage down a remarkable floating, iron roadway. This formed a fixed link between the stage and the land and was composed of a series of great metal plates, hinged together horizontally.

This design allowed the roadway to respond to the movement of the waves, and to rise and fall with the landing stage at the ebb and flow of the tides.

The floating roadway was demolished in the 1980s. But, in 2007, it was re-designed and reconstructed as a single-span road bridge, to service the new Cruise Liner Terminal.

The Pier Head Landing Stage was always a bustle of thriving activity and commerce.

Sadly, this wonderful, exciting, evocative example of Victorian engineering ingenuity was demolished in the early 1970s.

The great, wooden, floating landing stage was replaced by a much shorter, and staggeringly arid, concrete and steel structure. This has now been replaced with a structure that is only marginally better!

Even so, and despite this small flaw, the excitement and glamour of the Pier Head has now returned to Liverpool, and the full length of the central waterfront has seen major investment over the last couple of decades.

In this year of 2018 – the 10th anniversary of Liverpool becoming a European Capital of Culture – the restoration and redevelopment of the entire Pier Head area is adding to the city’s growing reputation as a world class tourist destination.

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AS A child, I was fascinated by the way the whole structure undulated with the movement of the river waves, and by how the buildings all along its length, which were connected to each other with overlaps and flexible joints, would move with it.

All this accompanied by the creaks and groans of the old woodwork!

Whenever the weather was especially rough, the ferry boats could come in with a great, hard thump against the great rubber-tyre and woven-rope buffers.

This would then drive the whole landing stage sharply backwards; occasionally knocking people off their feet as a result. This was great fun all round – at least for us kids!

I recall the sound of the waves, the creaking of the landing stage, the roaring of the great diesel engines of the boats, the jostling of the crowds of passengers, the shouts of the men as they caught the ropes to tie up the vessels, the cries of the seagulls wheeling overhead, and the salty smell of the great river.

I remember, too, the thrill of watching the ferry boats coming and going, and admiring the skill with which their captains guided them safely into dock against the jetty, whatever the weather conditions.

And I miss it!

n Contact Ken on: 0151 427 2717 or 07808 870 614 or at ken.pye@discoverliverpool.com

Tel 0151 230 0307

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Until July 14: Paint Your Wagon.

Everyman Theatre, Liverpool. In California, the glint of gold sets pulses racing. Audio described, Thurs Mar 29, 7.30pm.

Captioned, Sat Mar 31, 2pm.

Until May 12: Miss Saigon. Palace Theatre, Manchester. Mindblowingly brilliant. Audio Described, Thurs Apr 12, 7.30pm. BSL, Tue April 10, 7.30pm. Captioned, Mon Apr 23, 7.30pm Until Apr 14: All I See is You. Octagon, Bolton. A brand new play about forbidden love in the Sixties.

Apr 9-14: The Play That Goes Wrong. Theatr Clwyd. Fawlty Towers meets Noises Off in this multi award-winning smash hit comedy, now playing on Broadway and enjoying its 4th year in the West End. Apr 9-14: Legally Blonde, the Musical.

Grand Theatre, Blackpool. This brilliantly pink, feel-good show will have you wishing you were Legally Blonde too.

Apr 9-14: The Last Ship. Playhouse, Liverpool. Inspired by Sting’s 1991 album The Soul Cages and his own childhood experiences amid the demise of the shipbuilding industry in Tyne and Wear.

Apr 9-14: Of Mice and Men. Opera House, Manchester. A powerful story about friendship and holding on to your dreams.

Apr 9-11: The Wizard of Oz. The Brindley, Runcorn. We’re off to see… A wizardly wonderful pantomime adventure. whole family.

Apr 10-14: Matthew Bourne’s Cinderella.

Empire, Liverpool. A thrilling and evocative love story set in London during the Second World War. Apr 11: That’ll Be The Day. Lyceum, Crewe. Musical.

Apr 13-May 12: Liver Birds Flying Home. Royal Court, Liverpool. A brand new musical based on The Liver Birds. BSL, Tues Apr 24. Audio described, Wed Apr 25.

Apr 13-14: Siren. Unity Theatre, Liverpool.

A dark musical comedy inspired by the mythology of the mermaid.

Apr 14-July 12: A Clockwork Orange.

Everyman Theatre, Liverpool. A thrilling, scalpel-sharp tale. Audio described, Thurs May 10, 7.30pm. BSL, Wed May 16, 7.30pm. Captioned, Sat May 26, 2pm Apr 15: The Magic of Hollywood. The Brindley, Runcorn. Lights, Camera Ballroom. Pasha Kovalev, from BBC TV’s Strictly Come Dancing returns with his brand new show.

Apr 16-21: Hairspray. Empire, Liverpool. A production guaranteed to have you dancing the night away!

Apr 17-19: Don Giovanni – Welsh National Opera. Venue Cymru.

Apr 17-21: 20th Century Boy. Opera House, Manchester.

Apr 17-18: Macbeth. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. The multi-award-winning Mark Bruce Company present a striking dance theatre adaptation of Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

Apr 17-21: Roald Dahl’s George’s Marvellous Medicine.

April/May 2018

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BOX OFFICE CONTACTS

BLACKPOOL Grand Theatre: 01253 290190 BOLTON Octagon: 01204 520661 CREWE Lyceum: 01270 368 242 LIVERPOOL Empire: 08444 999 999 Everyman & Playhouse: 0151 709 4776 Royal Court: 0870 787 1866 Unity 0151 709 4988 LLANDUDNO Venue Cymru: 01492 872000 MOLD: Theatr Clwyd: 0845 3303565 MANCHESTER Opera House: 0870 401 9000

Palace: 0870 401 3000 SALFORD The Lowry: 0843 208 6000 NEW BRIGHTON Floral Pavillion: 0151 666 0000 PRESTON: Charter Theatre: 0845 344 2012 RHYL: Pavilion: 01745 330 000 RUNCORN The Brindley: 0151 907 8360 SOUTHPORT: Floral Hall: 0844 847 2380 ST HELENS: Theatre Royal: 01744 756000 STOKE: Regent Theatre: 0844 871 7627

Easy does it

TAKE YOUR SEATS!

Playhouse, Liverpool. Most grandmothers are lovely, kind, helpful old ladies. Not George’s Grandmother.

Apr 17-18: Private Lives. Lyceum, Crewe. London Classic Theatre present Noël Coward’s sparkling comedy.

Apr 19: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Lyceum, Crewe. The world’s finest tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Apr 19-May 5: The Big Corner. Octagon, Bolton. Two young Bolton lads hungry for adventure, discover the mystery and the delights of girls. Captioned, Tues May 1, 7.30pm. Audio described, Wed May 2, 7.30pm. BSL, Thurs May 3, 7.30pm.

Apr 20: Hello Again. Theatre Royal St Helens. The story of Neil Diamond.

Apr 20-21: Rumpelstiltskin. The Lowry.

Apr 20-May 12: The Assassination of Katie Hopkins. Theatr Clwyd. A smart, witty new musical by Chris Bush and Matt Winkworth.

THANKS to a generous donation from two of Birmingham Hippodrome’s regular supporters, the theatre now has a compact folding mobile hoist, allowing it to welcome even more visitors with accessibility needs.

Rachael Magson, the theatre’s head of fundraising, said: “It is important to us that everyone has access to the great facilities, workshops and theatre performances we have on offer here.”

Compiled by CHRIS GROVES

Apr 21-22: Dear Zoo. Lyceum, Crewe. The classic and timeless children’s book Dear Zoo is making its stage premiere!

Apr 22: Gilbert O’Sullivan. Opera House, Manchester.

Apr 20-21: Treasure Island. Unity Theatre, Liverpool. Come dressed in your finest pirate regalia.

Apr 23-28: This Is Elvis. Empire, Liverpool.

Internationally renowned, award winning Steve Michaels stars as Elvis.

Apr 24-28: A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Theatr Clwyd. Classic tale of young lovers and warring fairies is given a unique and irreverent twist, with original live music.

Apr 24-28: Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. Regent Theatre, Stoke.

Apr 24-28: This House. The Lowry. The National Theatre and Chichester Festival Theatre production.

Apr 24-28: Legally Blonde, the Musical.

The Brindley, Runcorn. This brilliantly pink, feel-good show will have you wishing you were Legally Blonde too.

Apr 24-28: Agatha Christie’s Love from a Stranger. Playhouse, Liverpool. A whirlwind romance with a handsome and charming stranger sweeps Cecily Harrington off her feet.

Apr 24-28: A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Theatr Clwyd. This classic tale of young lovers and warring fairies is given a unique and irreverent twist.

Apr 26: Robert Temple: The Hypnotist – Live & Outrageous. Theatre Royal St Helens.

Apr 26-28: The Rat Pack. Live from Las Vegas. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Go you back in time to the glamorous, golden era of 1950s Las Vegas, Apr 26-28: Black Men Walking. Unity Theatre, Liverpool.

Apr 27-28: Bill Bailey - Larks In Transit.

Southport Theatre.

Apr 28-29: My First Ballet: Swan Lake.

Opera House, Manchester.

HOW YOU CAN PLAY A STARRING ROLE IN THE FUTURE OF THIS

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April/May 2018

Jamie: I laugh off disability

J

AMIE McDonald is a stand-up performer who just happens to be blind – and determined to reach the top in comedy..

The 37-year-old, who is also a writer and voiceover artist, said: “I’m getting slots on BBC radio and TV and made it on to their Hot Talent list for 2017.”

He began losing his sight in his early teens when he was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a progressive degenerative retinal disease that will eventually leave him totally blind.

On how his disability affects his comedy, Jamie says, “It’s easy to find the misery in disability; it’s much more interesting to find the fun in it.”

His blindness flavours his comedy but doesn’t define it.

That said, he has found that being blind allows him to extract comedy from lesser-explored areas; like the jealousy he feels towards laboratory mice with 20/20 vision and the “humiliating” range of clothing and accessories sold by the Royal National Institute of Blind People!

Apr 28-Jul 10: Othello. Everyman Theatre, Liverpool. Captioned, Sat May 12, 2pm, BSL Wed May 23 7.30pm, audio described, Thurs May 24, 7.30.

Apr 29: Someone Like You. Preston Guildhall. The Adele Songbook Back on the road by popular demand.

Apr 30-May 5: Hairspray. Venue Cymru. It’s Baltimore, 1962 where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. May 1: Manic Street Preachers. Venue Cymru.

May 1-5: Turn of the Screw. Theatr Clwyd.

The original inspiration for Susan Hill’s The Woman in Black and numerous films, don’t miss this thought-provoking, stylish, edgeof-your-seat show!

May 1-5: Kindertransport. Opera House, Manchester. A deeply moving and timely modern classic.

May 1-5: Beautiful – The Carole King Musical. Empire, Liverpool. The inspiring

Jamie is nothing if not a believer in diversity, meaning Designated Driver can be enjoyed by ‘Blinkies’ (blind people), ‘Wheelies’ (people in wheel chairs) and ‘Normos’ (people with no disability) alike.

Despite his prognosis, Jamie, from Glasgow, completed an Ancient History degree at St Andrews University and a law degree at Aberdeen University and became a corporate banker for Bank of Scotland in London.

While there he succumbed to the pull of the stage and gave his first

true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom.

May 2-5: Gangsta Granny. Charter Theatre, Preston.

May 2-6: Jungle Book. The Lowry.

An exciting new adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s family classic.

Captioned performance: Sat May 5, 2pm.

May 2-13: Shrek the Musical. Regent Theatre, Stoke.

May 5-6: My First Ballet: Swan Lake.

Grand Theatre, Blackpool. A beautifully adapted version for children aged three upwards.

May 6: That’ll Be The Day. Venue Cymru.

Smash hits spanning the 50s, 60s & 70s.

May 7-12: Titanic the Musical. The Lowry.

The five-time Tony award-winning musical.

May 11: Daliso Chaponda – What Africa Said. Theatre Royal, St. Helens.

May 8-12: Summer Holiday.

Empire, Liverpool. The 1963 Cliff Richard film is now an iconic stage musical.

UNIQUE CHARITY NEWSPAPER

performance at an open mic night at the Comedy Café in Shoreditch, London.

He says: “After playing a small role in bringing down the Bank of Scotland, I took up comedy full-time.”

He debuted his first one-man show That Funny Blind Guy at the Laughing Horse at the 2013 Edinburgh Fringe, and he’s been performing ever since.

Jamie is now popping up on radio and TV, with his proudest credit being playing a blind shoplifter in the award-winning BBC comedy Scot Squad.

May 8-12: The Jungle Book. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. A heart-warming comingof-age story about a boy raised by wolves in the jungle.

May 8-12: Brighton Rock. Theatr Clwyd. An unmissable new version of this gripping noir thriller by Graham Greene.

May 9: The Little Mermaid: Ballet Theatre UK. Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl.

May 9: The Magic of Hollywood. The Brindley, Runcorn. Lights, Camera Ballroom. Pasha Kovalev, from BBC TV’s Strictly Come Dancing returns with his brand new show.

May 9-12: Spamalot. Charter Theatre, Preston. Preston Musical Comedy Society.

May 11: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Venue Cymru.

May 11: Absolute Bowie. Preston Guildhall.

A musical journey through the iconic singer’s ever changing personas.

May 15-26: Blood Brothers. Palace Theatre, Manchester. One of the best musicals ever written. Audio Described,

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and BSL, Tue, May 22, 7.30.

May 15-19: Belonging. Theatr Clwyd. Two families discover that love and laughter don’t have to stop because of dementia.

May 15-Jun 2: A Streetcar Named Desire.

Theatr Clwyd. Tennessee Williams’ timeless classic is a raging portrayal of what it means to be an outsider in a society where we’re all desperate to belong.

May 15-19: Oklahoma. The Brindley, Runcorn. Presented by Centenary Theatre Company May 16: The Good Old Days of Variety Starring Duggie Brown. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 17-19: The Crucible. The Brindley, Runcorn. VML Drama presents the multiaward winning Arthur Miller classic.

May 18-19: Dara O Briain – Voice of Reason. Empire, Liverpool.

May 21-26: An Officer and a Gentleman.

Empire, Liverpool. The world premiere of a new musical that will simply sweep you off your feet!

May 22-23: The Damned United. Unity Theatre, Liverpool. 1974. Brian Clough, the enfant terrible of British football, tries to redeem his managerial career and reputation by winning the European Cup with his new team. Leeds United. The team he has openly despised for years, the team he hates and which hates him. Don Revie’s Leeds.

May 22-26: Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Regent Theatre, Stoke. Winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical.

May 22-26: The Kite Runner. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Based on Khaled Hosseini’s international bestselling novel.

May 23: Swan Lake. Venue Cymru. Vienna Festival Ballet May 25-26: The Maids. Theatr Clwyd.

Loosely based on the infamous sisters Christine and Lea Papin, who brutally murdered their employer and her daughter in Le Mans, France, in 1933.

May 25-27: 44th Annual Barbershop Convention – SING 2018. Venue Cymru.

May 30-June 2: Me and My Girl. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Blackpool & Fylde Light Opera Company present a musical set in the 1930s.

May 29: Son Of A Preacherman. Venue Cymru. Featuring the music of Dusty Springfield.

May 30-June 3: The Snail and the Whale.

The Lowry. Faultless family fare. One of the best examples of children’s theatre May 31- June 2: Cirque Berserk! Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Real Circus Made for Theatre.

May 31: The Woman who Cooked her Husband. Theatre Royal St Helens. A high energy, dark comedy by Debbie Issi.

Jun 3: Ballet Cymru: Cinderella. Charter Theatre, Preston.

Jun 6: CALLAS – The Life & Music of Maria Callas. Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl. The life of legendary opera star Maria Callas.

. . . SEE BACK PAGE FOR DETAILS

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All Together NOW!

Books

Pay attention to the tap on the shoulder The Intelligent Body: Reversing Chronic Fatigue & Pain from the Inside Out, by Kyle Davie, pub W W Norton & Co. £19.95

KYLE Davies has spent the last 15 years successfully helping thousands of sufferers of chronic health challenges such as chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, migraine, depression and anxiety.

He was one of the first people in his field to realise that unconscious emotional stress is a major cause of physical illness.

Kyle said: “Physical symptoms are simply a sign of disharmony and energetic imbalance, a ‘tap on the shoulder’ from our intelligent body that is trying to get our attention. This ‘tap’ on the shoulder can become debilitating symptoms over time.

When we pay attention and understand this communication, we can take the steps to facilitate our own self-healing.”

Supernatural tale

Robert Inferno and the Sacred Stones of Ayers Rock, by Jamie Armstrong, Book Guild, £6.99 AS a small child, Jamie Armstrong was diagnosed as being on the autistic spectrum. He found it difficult to communicate with anyone or join in with normal activities.

He says “a turning point came in my life when I was fortunate enough to become a pupil at Chellaston Academy... the staff were so supportive and encouraged me to join in with many activities, and I soon had a group of friends with whom I could socialise a little.”

But when his friends went off to university he started to feel lonely again.

“I read a lot of books to while away the time and began to want to invent characters and write stories myself... my uncle lives in Australia and sent me magazines and books on the continent.

The country, with its legends and myths, appealed to me so I based my story there, and Robert Inferno was born.”

Robert Inferno and his three new friends form Brisbane University discover that they possess elemental powers. They must come together to try to save the world from an evil tyrant bent on seizing power and destroying anyone who stands in her way.

Jamie’s debut novel is an exciting, supernatural tale of the struggle between good and evil.

April/May 2018

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

ARIES (March 21st-April 20th)

a restful sleeping routine will pave the way for radiant health. Late April is ideal for expanding your horizons; go ahead and venture into unfamiliar territory. May’s New Moon on the 15th will cause you to see your business or romantic partner in an entirely different light. On the 29th, the Full Moon will put a little extra cash your way.

A brilliant idea at Easter is worth developing.

If you’ve been thinking of changing your luck, the New Moon on the 16th is an ideal time to do so. On the 30th, the Full Moon is great for making a long term investment. Use the final days of April to create a stronger financial foundation for you and your family. Accepting a new role is a strong possibility at the middle of May. The New Moon on the 15th will give you a chance to gain hands on experience. On the 29th, you might be coming home from a long trip. Visiting a friend who lives far away will open your eyes to different ways of living. If you’ve found a particular routine oppressive, take this opportunity to change.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st)

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

Easter will be a relaxing time. On the 16th, the New Moon allows you to let go of a period of struggle. Instead of dwelling on the past, you’ll make a fresh start. The Full Moon on the 30th could mark an engagement or marriage. If you’ve been longing to make a romance official, do it at the end of April, when your prospects for creating a lifetime of happiness are strong. May’s New Moon on the 15th will attract an appreciative audience.. On the 29th, the Full Moon will prompt you to make a merger official or break things off with an oppressive partner.

Give careful thought to your financial situation.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

Attending an Easter party will be lots more fun than you expect. You’ll meet an interesting person who excites your interest in a hobby or sport. The New Moon on the 16th is perfect for joining a humanitarian organisation or club. Working with a team will greatly increase your chances for success.

On the 30th, the Full Moon will bring relief from a persistent health problem. Keep the positive energy flowing as April turns to May. The days surrounding the 15th urge you to take time off work and recharge your batteries. The Full Moon on the 29th marks an exciting turning point in a relationship.

Getting engaged or married is a strong possibility.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

You’ll attract wonderful attention on or around Easter. You will be offered an impressive opportunity on the 16th. That’s when an energising New Moon will enhance your prospects. Don’t be afraid to enter an unfamiliar field. A romantic relationship will burst into flower on the 30th, thanks to a passionate Full Moon. Joining a group will be lots more fun than expected. On the 15th, you’ll be inspired to work with a group that shares your beliefs or ambitions. A big job will come to a successful conclusion on the 29th, filling you with pride. Put any extra earnings into a savings, retirement or college fund. Having a financial cushion will leave you free to pursue the relationships and work you want.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

Easter ushers in an opportunity to travel, study or write. The energising New Moon will help you. Don’t be afraid to break away from traditional methods. The Full Moon on the 30th is good for wrapping up a property matter. You’ll be able to make fresh inroads, thanks to May’s New Moon on the 15th. The Full Moon on the 29th causes you to reveal a

RUSSELL GRANT CALLING . . .

crush or make a serious romantic commitment. If you already have a partner, take this opportunity to do something special for your amour. A gift that reflects their taste will be greatly appreciated. If you’re not sure what to buy, ask their best friend for suggestions.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd)

News of an inheritance, legal settlement or insurance refund will reach your ears on or around Easter. On the 30th, the Full Moon finds you passing a test or getting a certificate. May invites you to go after a cherished dream. You’re tired of resting on your laurels; it has dulled your intellect and made you complacent. By the 29th the Full Moon will find you wrapping up a household matter. Relocating to a different area, finding care for an elderly relative or tending to a youngster’s needs will give you a sense of accomplishment. Once this matter is concluded, you’ll have more time for yourself.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd)

Working with a partner will be productive in the days surrounding Easter. Be open to trying cutting edge techniques, even if you’ve been steeped in an old tradition. A handsome bonus could come your way on the 30th, thanks to an enriching Full Moon. If you’ve been longing to buy your own place, this would be a good time to do so. On the 15th, the New Moon will urge you to merge with someone who has earned your trust.

The Full Moon on the 29th could find you commanding the spotlight. Promoting a good cause will work wonders.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd)

An unusual work opportunity will be made on or around Easter. Take this opportunity to gain some experience in an entirely different field. The New Moon on the 16th is ideal for launching a fitness regime. Taking up a sport, overhauling your diet and establishing

Pour your energy into creative projects on Easter. The New Moon on the 16th is ideal for going on a first date or going on a second honeymoon. Whether you are single or attached, mid-April will be one of those most romantic times of the entire year. Letting go of a grudge will be easier than expected on the 30th, when the Full Moon urges you to get rid of excess emotional baggage. If you’ve been looking for work, you’ll be offered a steady position. On the 29th, the Full Moon will prompt you to put the finishing touches on a personal project. People are charmed by your friendly, all inclusive attitude.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th)

The days surrounding Easter find you more ambitious than ever. A collaboration comes to a successful conclusion on the 30th, when the Full Moon cultivates a celebratory atmosphere. Make sure to attend a big wrap party. It’s important to keep in touch with the people who have challenged your ideas, encouraged your ability and improved your skills. May’s New Moon puts an interesting person or opportunity in your path. The Full Moon on the 29th marks the end of a period of seclusion. Leave the darkness and step into the spotlight. Recently, you’ve been gathering your energy together for a bold project.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th)

This Easter, you’ll be able to break away from a confining routine and enjoy a greater measure of freedom, either in a relationship or in your neighbourhood. On the 16th, the New Moon urges you to speak up for your beliefs. Defending the underdog will cause your popularity to soar. The Full Moon on the 30th will bring a promotion or award for a job well done. Spending time with your nearest and dearest is important at mid-May. On the 29th, the Full Moon will prompt you to wrap up a group project. If you’ve been trying to move forward with a personal plan, ask an influential friend for a letter of recommendation.

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th)

April begins on an upbeat note. The New Moon on the 16th will give you a chance to do work that is personally meaningful. A bold risk will pay off on or around the 30th, when the Full Moon brings a successful resolution of a legal matter. The end of the month finds you gaining impressive forward momentum.

Starting a fitness regime will pay off handsomely. The Full Moon on the 29th will bring an exciting opportunity.

Playing a greater part charitable venture will give you a wonderful opportunity.

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All Together NOW!

April/May 2018

CAN YOU NAME THAT PE-TUNE-IA?

I

HAVE a curious musical talent, if talent is an accurate term. When tunes spring to my

mind, there is generally a reason – the words apply to whatever I am doing or seeing at the time.

For instance, when fixing up my greenhouse irrigation system, I managed to pierce water pipes twice within an hour.

Despite the distraction of a second flood and the embarrassment of another call to the plumber, I found myself humming the words of a Sade song that had nothing to do with plumbing but contained the pertinent line, “I’ve done it again.”

I certainly had.

Over the years, this eccentricity became a habit when gardening.

Now I invite All Together NOW! readers to join in – it’s a great way to liven up cultivation at this busiest time of the year.

Make allowances for my age – I can remember songs from the 1940s. Younger readers will have their own ideas.

Meanwhile, while harvesting salads, those of us who recall World War II can reprise ‘Run Radish Run’ while Beatles lovers enjoy ‘Lettuce Be’ – or, if there are pollination problems in the garden, ‘Let It Bee.’ Elvis fans can tie in cucumbers and melons while whispering ‘Love Me Tendril’, or hoe root crops rhythmically to ‘Blue Swede Shoes’.

Strep to it!

PRIZE SPECIMENS: Super streptocarpus Minnie, Sadie and Gold Rose

B

E AMONG the first to grow three new streptocarpus houseplants by winning this competition.

We are offering six £25 prize packages, each containing the three new varieties – launched this year – plus three beautiful well established kinds.

The plants come from Dibleys Nurseries, the leading breeder and grower of streptocarpus and other indoor plants, based at Llanelidan, Ruthin, North Wales, who have won gold medals at the worldfamous Chelsea Flower Show for nearly 30 years.

Streptocarpus – streps for short – are among the most spectacular houseplants in recent years, flowering for up to 10 months in a wide range of shades and colours.

The three new streps are Minnie, a compact plant bearing vivid purple blooms with deeper veining; Sadie, which has delicate shell-pink flowers with a cream throat lined with red; and Gold Rose, with

smaller but exceptionally prolific flowers in a breath-taking combination of colours – deep rose-pink and gold, with delicate flecks and veins.

The prize packs are completed with Albatross, which has pure white blooms with a yellow eye; Rose Halo, producing masses of striking white flowers, each with a deep pink rim; and Charlotte, pale blue with a large golden eye.

The prize streps are sent as young plants with full cultural directions.

To enter the competition, answer this question: How long can streptocarpus flower?

Send your entry with your name and address on a postcard or sealed envelope, stating where you picked up your copy ofAll Together NOW! , to Dibleys Streps Competition,All Together NOW! , The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP, to arrive by Friday May 25, or email your answer to: competition@alltogethernow.org.uk n For the full range of Dibleys’ superb houseplants, go to www.dibleys.com

Romantic souls will tend celery to the strains of ‘Blanching in the Dark’ while Ian Dury fans will demand, ‘Hit me with your Rhubarb Stick.’

The evocative music of ‘Zorba the Leek’ will bring tears to many eyes, as will the 1970s hit, ‘It’s my Onion and ‘I’ll Cry if I Want To.’ And who could forget the Everly Brothers’ number ‘Pretty Little Pet Courgette’?

I hope you’ve caught the spirit of ‘musical vegetables’ – it is less energetic than musical chairs and could develop into an after-dinner game.

One side names a vegetable, fruit or herb then the other retaliates with a suitably edited song title.

To a challenge of “Sweetcorn!” you could respond, “There’s a Bright Golden Maize on the Meadow.”

No need to keep the score.

FIFTY SEED BOOKS UP FOR GRABS

LEADING seed firm Mr Fothergill’s has produced an excellent 24-page booklet, ‘Success with Seeds’ – and we have 50 copies for All Together NOW! readers.

The booklet, in A5 format and illustrated in colour, will be useful to experienced gardeners as well as beginners.

It explains the needs of different types of seeds, such as temperature, moisture, light and compost, and covers sowing times, planting out and after-care.

There are sections on different categories of seed – salads, vegetables, annual, biennial and perennial flowers – and on pests and other problems.

The first 50 readers to request a booklet will receive one direct from Mr Fothergill’s Seeds. Either: Email your application to pr@mr-fothergills.co.uk with the subject line ‘Success ATN’ Send a postcard to Success with Seeds, Mr Fothergill’s Seeds Ltd, Gazeley Road, Kentford, Suffolk CB8 7QB. In both cases, include a message referring to this All Together NOW! offer and be sure to add your name and address.

Sign up for your FREE e-newsletter . . . www.alltogethernow.org.uk

27

CHECKLIST

FLOWERS: Trim lightly over aubrieta after flowering and give a generous liquid feed of high-potash fertiliser. Plant autumn flowering bulbs such as colchicum. In late April, sow lupin seeds in a nursery bed, 1.5cm (0.5in) deep and 15cm (6in) apart, for planting out in October and flowering next year.

SHRUBS AND TREES: Overgrown forsythia shrubs can be cut back hard as soon as they have finished flowering. Remove the oldest stems to the ground to encourage new shoots. Trim winter-flowering heathers lightly when blooming ends.

Do not prune shrubs and trees that have still to flower this year.

LAWNS: If the lawn is in poor condition, April is the best time to apply a spring lawn feed, mosskiller or selective lawn weedkiller.

PONDS: Reduce blanketweed by removing as much as possible and applying a proprietary treatment.

FRUIT: Watch for the welldisguised green caterpillars of sawflies on gooseberries and for aphids on currants. Squash them or spray with a contact insecticide. Keep the soil round fruit plants free from grass and weeds.

VEGETABLES: In April, sow easy veg like lettuce, radish, beetroot and carrot and, if you are more ambitious, cabbages, cauliflowers, sprouting broccoli, leeks, parsnips, spinach and peas and, in May, French and runner beans.

HERBS: Take cuttings of shrubby herbs such as sage, rosemary, thyme and cotton lavender. Take cuttings under a leaf joint, strip off all but two or three topmost leaves and set them in pots in cutting compost in a shady position.

GREENHOUSE: As tomatoes ripen, keep feeding and watering regularly. Pinch out the sideshoots from cordon tomatoes and tie in the main stem as it continues to grow, and pinch out the growing tip once five or six trusses of flowers have set fruit. Cherry tomato types can be allowed to grow taller.

HOUSEPLANTS: Take cuttings of many houseplants – cacti, succulents and plants with soft growth. Leave cuttings of woody house plants until June.

All Together NOW!

28

April/May 2018

The Accumulator Quiz

STARSPOT CROSSWORD 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.

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QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: Which is the largest state by area in Australia?

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Julie Joanne Jenny Judy

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: In which sport is number 1 red and number 5 black?

A B C D

Snooker Tenpin bowling Greyhound racing Ocean yacht racing

John Motson David Coleman Jimmy Hill Harry Carpenter

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: In which country is Cape Finisterre?

Dino Bronco Trex Clawed

A B C D

Author J.K. Rowling. See Question 4

France Portugal Spain Scotland

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: What nickname was given to the nuclear bomb which was dropped on Hiroshima?

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: What is used to measure the spicy heat of chili peppers?

A B C D

A B C D

Fat Boy Little Boy Big Boy Tomboy

Richter scale Beaufort scale Litmus test Scoville scale

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: In which country is the Atacama Desert?

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Who wrote the oratorio Belshazzar’s Feast?

A B C D

A B C D

Chile Peru Paraguay Argentina

Edward Elgar William Walton Arthur Sullivan Ralph Vaughan Williams

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: Which substance can be ejected by an octopus when it is disturbed?

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: The toy Lego takes its name from the Danish term ‘leg godt’. What is its English meaning?

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: In which constellation is the Horsehead Nebula?

A B C D

A B C D

A B C D

Acid Ink Bile Slime

SUDOKU

Build high Collect all Play well Good times

Orion Taurus Pegasus Andromeda

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

DIFFICULT

7 8 5 3 2 4 6 5 9 3

A B C D

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: What is the name of Fred Flintstone’s pet?

A B C D

Northern Territory New South Wales Western Australia Queensland

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: Which TV sports commentator famously said: “For those of you watching in black and white, Spurs are in the all-yellow strip.”?

Turkeys Chickens Peacocks Geese

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: What is the first name of Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling?

★

ACROSS Artistic patent (9) Worthless dog (3) Rich mass of gold (7) Boundary (5) Choose (4) Garden plot (3) Land measure (4) Low basin (5) Escape (3,3) Worked hard (6) Twist (5) Swedish pop group (4) Ben --- (3) Fanciful notion (4) Deal with, handle (5) Pamphlet (7) Second person (3) First meal of the day (9)

chosen answers and keep a record of your points total. Maximum total points 120.

QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: A marriage of 25 years is traditionally celebrated with which type of gift?

A B C D

18 19

Each question has four possible answers and is worth from one to 15 points. Circle your

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: Which birds form a group known as a gaggle?

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REACH 500,000 READERS

1 3 8 9 8 9 7 2 1

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 3

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ADVERTISE HERE 0151 230 0307

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Spaces and any punctuation marks are represented by 1.

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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.

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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?

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

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PATHWORDS

SPOT CHECK

Starting from the central shaded letter, move one letter at a time (up, down, right or left, but not diagonally) to find seven popular wartime songs.

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 6?

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All Together NOW!

April/May 2018

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

A

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E M L R L TRANSFORMER

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MULLEIN 1) The upright

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division between the casements of

MAKE A DATE

a window;

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

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1. Rupert Murdochâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company, News International, acquires The Times and The Sunday Times after a bitter struggle.

marsupial with a crested tail;

2. President Reagan is shot and wounded outside Washingtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hilton Hotel.

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Add the given letter to the first word to make a new word.

Clue: Blunder by adding tail to seabird.

____ +Y=____Y

3) A plant with

3. Making Your Mind Up, by Bucks Fizz, tops the UK charts for three consecutive weeks.

woolly leaves

WAS IT? a) 1981; b) 1983; c) 1985; d) 1987; e) 1989.

flowers.

and tall spikes of yellow

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords Run Rabbit Run; Lili Marlene; The White Cliffs Of Dover; Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Always Be An England; Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Meet Again; Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s A Long Way To Tipperary; Pack Up Your Troubles.

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Accumulator Quiz 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; D; 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 7 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; D; 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A. Starspot Crossword Across â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Copyright; 6 Cur; 8 Bonanza; 9 Limit; 10 Pick; 11 Bed; 13 Acre; 14 Bidet; 16 Get out; 18 Toiled; 19 Screw; 21 Abba; 22 Hur; 23 Whim; 27 Treat; 28 Booklet; 30 You; 31 Breakfast.

Down â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Cub; 2 Panic; 3 Rand; 4 Grazed; 5 Tilt; 6 Comical; 7 Rotterdam; 10 Pageantry; 11 Bitch; 12 Deter; 14 Bus; 15 Tow; 17 Tableau; 20 Rubble; 24 Halma; 25 Stab; 26 Look; 29 Tit. Star Name: KATHY BURKE

Word Wizard No 3 is correct. A mullein is a plant.

Dialling Codes 1. Consuela; Lois; Bruce; Meg; Evil Monkey; Seamus; Joe; Quagmire; Loretta; Stewie; Peter; Mort; Herbert; Brian; Cleveland.

2. anchor; harbour; knot; marine; overboard; cog; capsize; boom; fetch; quay; aboard; dock; cabin; admiral; crew; deck; mast.

3. BassLab; Gretsch; Fender; Dunlop; Bose; Yamaha; Gibson; Baldwin; Sony; Roland; Jackson; Epiphone; Pioneer; Casio; Pearl.

4. McCoy; Who; Jones; No; Zaius; Hartman; Jekyll; Doolittle; Quinn; Lecter; Nick; Evil; Brown; Hibbert; Seuss; Ross; Zhivago.

5. Chuck Berry; Eddie Van Halen; Les Paul; Jimi Hendrix; Prince; Jimmy Page; David Gilmour; Jeff Beck; Eric Clapton.

6. Cleo; Teacher; Loving; Cowboy; Columbus; Cabby; Camping; Matron; Nurse; Spying; Doctor; Screaming; Jack; England; Girls.

Spot Check A = 3; B = 6; C = 5; D = 4; E = 1; F = 2.

Missing Link moon; opera; news; dance; exit; orange. Car: Mondeo.

Make a Date The year was 1981.

Transformer Boob + Y = Booby.

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All Together NOW!

April/May 2018

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Snooker stars in action

SUBSCRIBE!

TOKYO CALLING RIGHT ON CUE: William Thomson makes it a double in the Group 3 tournament

All Together NOW! is helping and inspiring tens of thousands of people whose lives are affected by disability.

But the charity needs to find ways to balance the books.

You can help in a big way by becoming one of our loyal subscribers. For a suggested £15 donation (more, if you can afford it!) we will send you the next SIX editions.

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Please send this coupon and a cheque payable to All Together NOW! to: Subscriptions Dept., All Together NOW! The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP — THANKS!

Charity puts women on Olympic path

M

ORE disabled women athletes will get the financial support they need to compete with the world’s best, thanks to a new scheme set up by disability charity Path to Success.

The charity, founded by philanthropist Anita Choudhrie, will support women competing in four major sports – paraequestrian dressage, para powerlifting, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis, with further sponsorship announcements to follow later this year.

The first athletes to benefit are parapowerlifter Louise Sugden, 33, and DREAM IS ON: Louise, left, with Anita Choudhrie London Titans wheelchair basketball means I will not have to cut corners to make ends player Sophie Patterson, 19. meet and I can access everything I need to Both will receive funding towards coaching, become the player that I am capable of being. training, travel costs and specialised sports Next stop Tokyo!” wheelchairs as they pursue their goal of Despite the success of the London 2012 representing Team GB in 2020.

Paralympics in raising the profile of disability sport Louise is already experienced at international in the UK, and team GB’s second-placed finish in level, winning five European Championship Rio 2016, many para athletes remain seriously bronze medals and representing GB at the 2008 underfunded.

Beijing Paralympics and London 2012 as part of Anita Choudhrie said: “Our mission is to secure the GB wheelchair basketball side. the legacy of disability sport in the UK, and to She recently changed discipline to move into inspire a new generation of British female para-powerlifting and representing GB at the Paralympic stars. If we can change the world of World Championships in Mexico. one person, then this campaign will be a success” Sophie Patterson said: “The n Contact sponsorship is a life-changing chance Nasim.Malhotra@pathtosuccess.org.uk which will give me the opportunity to nwww.pathtosuccess.org.uk take my game to the next level. It

DANIEL Lee made it back-toback titles in the Group 2 wheelchair competition with a 3-1 victory against Tony Southern at the World Disability Billiards and Snooker three-day event in Preston.

Lee, who was born with spina bifida, previously won the Open Disability Snooker Championship in Wolverhampton and avenged defeat against Southern in the round robin stage at the Elite Snooker Club to take the gold medal home to Buckinghamshire.

In Group 3 there was also a second title for Scotland’s William Thomson, who edged out four-time winner Daniel Blunn 3-2 following a dramatic final.

Thomson, who previously won the 2016 Manchester Classic, was in fine form all weekend and sealed the title with a break of 41 (his seventh over 40 during the weekend), in the deciding frame.

Coached by former world champion Graeme Dott, Thomson was also nominated by his national federation to compete in the EBSA European Championships in Bulgaria.

There was another new winner in the Group 4-5 tournament as local debutant Michael “Mickey” Chambers defeated another former WDBS champion Andy Johnson 3-0 to claim the title.

Chambers, whose left foot was amputated following treatment for meningitis, dropped just one frame throughout the competition and impressed with a break of 51 during his semi-final victory against Gareth Ward.

The Group 6 competition saw Leroy Jay Williams claim his first WDBS title with a 2-0 win against Ryan Riding.

Williams, who was previously runner-up at events in Wolverhampton and Hull, ensured that it would be third time lucky by coming through the field to take victory.

The Challenge Cup event was won by WDBS stalwart Kal Mattu, who edged out Craig Welsh in a best of three frames final.

stay ahead of the game . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2018

All Together NOW!

Our best ever Paralympics

BRITAIN’S Paralympic team recorded their best ever Winter Games, returning home with seven medals – one more than in Sochi.

All of the medals went to Menna Fitzpatrick and Millie Knight across a range of alpine skiing disciplines, with Fitzpatrick and her guide Jen Kehoe winning Britain’s gold on the final morning of the Games.

By taking four medals in total, 19 year-old Fitzpatrick became the most decorated British Winter Paralympian of all-time.

JOIN THE MAYHEM! PICTURES: 98 Yetis Photography

PARA HOCKEY – formerly known as “sled hockey” in the USA – is a fastpaced, highly physical sport played by male and female athletes with a physical impairment in the lower part of the body.

It’s rough, tough – and is one of the fastest growing sports. PETER BRADBURY looks forward to the new season, which gets under way in April.

I

T’S all systems go for Manchester Mayhem’s second season with plenty of hope of more success – and hopes of attracting more fresh blood and more funding!

Last year’s debut season was a real rollercoaster, but despite having a small squad the team managed to end the season with some silverware.

Back to back wins over Peterborough,

including an incredible overtime win against the Phantoms in Widnes, clinched a play off place.

A stunning weekend of hockey saw the team knock out league runners-up Cardiff before going on to beat league champions Kingston Kestrels 3-2 in the play off final.

This year’s schedule opens with a rematch with Manchester hosting the Kingston Kestrels at Altrincham.

Next, it’s Peterborough in mid-May, followed by Cardiff at the start of June, with a return visit to South Wales later in the month.

A short trip to Sheffield at the end of July is followed by two home games against Sheffield and Peterborough, with a final clash against Kingston in Hull to wind up the season!

The team are in for another exciting season. But they need help, so there’s an open invitation for anyone to come and give

. . . www.alltogethernow.org.uk

it the sport a try or watch the games – FREE admission). The club also need sponsors to help fund new equipment.

The team play at Oakfield Road, Altrincham and The Hive, Earle Road, Widnes.

The next training sessions is Tuesday April 17 and alternate Tuesdays at Widnes (8.45-9.45pm) n email: manchestermayhempihc@gmail.com n Peter Hagan, head coach, tel: 07709 086586 HOME GAMES: Sun Apr 22, 4.30pm: Kingston Kestrels (Widnes) Sat June 9, 4.15pm: Cardiff Huskies (Altrincham) Sun Aug 5, 4.30pm: Sheffield Steelkings (Widnes) Sat Aug 11, 4.15pm: Peterborough Phantoms (Altrincham)

Tel 0151 230 0307

Get in the swim

BRITISH Blind Sport is staging a National Youth Swimming Gala on Saturday, May 5, at Tudor Grange Leisure Centre, Solihull.

The gala is free to attend and suitable for all blind and partially sighted children agedfrom eight to 17 years old.

In addition to the main competition, there is the chance for small group lessons for five to seven year olds delivered by qualified and experienced coaches. n Contact Alex Pitts on 01926 424 247

Gyms for blind?

PEOPLE who are visually impaired want to be more physically active but say inaccessible fitness equipment stops them from going to gyms.

A study, carried out by the disability consumer charity Rica, with the support of Thomas Pocklington Trust and Metro Blind Sport, recommends: n Much wider use of audio output and voice-over technology in fitness equipment. n The use of wireless technology. n The ability to increase font size on the screens. n Tactile buttons and high-contrast colours on LED consoles. n Lever controls and/or control buttons on handlebars.

Improved layout, colour use, signage and lighting in leisure centres. n Trained staff to assist VI people in.using equipment.

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THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! All Together NOW!

April/May 2018

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Rotary Club and rock band give us their backing

THE BULL’S HEAD, GREAT SUTTON, ELLESMERE PORT DOORS OPEN 7.30pm

Y

OUR FREE All Together NOW! charity newspaper is helping hundreds of thousands of people.

But we could do with a bit of help, too . . .

If you are taking part in a fun run – or ANY fundraiser – please consider doing it for us and we’ll feature your efforts.

You can also help by making a donation to the charity.

You can either send us a cheque, text a donation on your mobile phone (88802 and insert the message DONATE ATNOW), or commit to a regular monthly donation via the Charity Checkout link on our website www.alltogethernow.org.uk All Together NOW! is the only paper of its kind in the UK. Together we can secure the newspaper’s future – and make it even bigger and better for EVERYONE! TOM DOWLING, EDITOR All Together NOW! The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP Registered Charity No: 1106387

A HUGE thanks to everyone who is helping us to keep this FREE charity newspaper alive and kicking!

West Derby Rotary Club invited us to their annual charity luncheon at Liverpool’s Devonshire House Hotel, and handed over a £400 cheque to help offset the costs of a new piece of lifting equipment that will make things a bit easier for our delivery drivers.

Sylvia Lewis, who nominated us for Rotary support, said: “All Together NOW! is doing a terrific job in the community. Without this free charity newspaper so many people affected by disability and ill health would simply not find out what’s going on out there to help them.”

Ellesmere Port band Same Old Story are also coming to our aid.

Guitarist Matt Gadsby said: “We know how much people value the paper and just want to do our bit to help.”

The band are staging a fundraising gig at The Bull’s Head, Great Sutton, Ellesmere Port on Saturday April 14.

“It’s Grand National day,” said Matt, “so we will also be having a few little flutters to see if we can raise a bit more for the paper’s coffers!” n Tickets for the evening gig cost £4.

Rotarians Sylvia Lewis, Lynne Duffy and All Together NOW! editor Tom Dowling