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FLOWER POWER

NORTH Wales town is blooming – thanks to the talents of adults with learning disabilities.

The hard-working group have created dozens of new hanging baskets now on display in Flint’s town centre. Tri Ffordd is a group of adults supported by national learning disability charity, Hft, as part of its supported employment initiative. The 44-strong team are behind the 53 hanging baskets recently put on display in Flint town centre and a further six at the

County Council’s offices. The group has been supplying handcrafted horticultural goods to people and businesses in Flintshire and beyond for over 25 years. And it has been supported by Hft since early 2018, when the charity opened its first service in Wales. Steven, one of Tri Ffordd’s green-fingered experts, said: “I feel valued for my hard work. The hanging baskets are brightening up the high street and giving people something beautiful and bright to look at.”

Mental health 20-year gap in life expectancy

EOPLE with mental illness have drastic physical health challenges that contribute towards a gap in life expectancy of around 20 years, according to a new international taskforce led by Manchester University.

Urgent changes to health policy and treatment innovations are being called for to tackle what they regard a “human rights scandal”. The ground-breaking report found that a broad range of mental illnesses are associated with obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which contribute towards the lower life expectancy of people with mental illness. Key risk factors include higher rates of smoking, sleep disturbance, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, the side effects of many psychiatric medications, and a lack of access to physical healthcare. Recommendations include adopting an ‘early intervention’ approach towards protecting physical health from initial stages of illness, and the provision of lifestyle treatments targeting a range of behaviours, such as physical activity and healthy eating.

Human rights scandal

The loneliness after the loss

interact with others. People THIRD of people who CAREZONE – page 14 can understandably find it have suffered a close difficult to talk about the loss of a loved one – and personal bereavement have lost friends sometimes struggle to know what touch with friends, with many becoming to say. socially isolated. A study by the Oddfellows – the UK’s largest and oldest friendly society – found that the bereaved are losing friends at a time when they need them the most. Social isolation is affecting bereaved women (42%) significantly more than men (26%), with half of women feeling that others didn’t know how to communicate with them. It is also prevalent for older generations, with almost one in three over 75s (30%) feeling isolated from society following the death of someone close to them. Jane Nelson, CEO of the Oddfellows, said: “A close personal bereavement can have a fundamental impact on how you think, feel and

“While we all deal with grief in our own way, we need to start to overcome the social sticking point, so people get the support they need to get through such a difficult, and usually life-changing situation. “Without this support, the loss of a partner could lead to greater instances of chronic loneliness.” The Oddfellows has been encouraging friendship since 1810 and runs thousands of social events across the UK every year. n For help about coping with bereavement, including guides on supporting a friend who has lost a partner, see www.oddfellows.co.uk/firststeps Tel. 0161 832 9361.

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

Dr Joseph Firth, honorary research fellow at The University of Manchester, said: “The disparities in physical health outcomes for people with mental illness are currently regarded as a human rights scandal. “Patients with serious mental illness are two to three times as likely to have obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases – which impact on quality of life and recovery, while contributing towards a 20-year gap in life expectancy. “Clearly, protecting the physical health of people with mental illness should be considered an international priority for reducing the personal, social and economic burden of these conditions.” Dr Simon Rosenbaum, an academic based in Sydney, Australia, said that lifestyle interventions to improve physical health must become a core component of mental healthcare, from the very initiation of treatment. “We must take ‘what works’ from effective interventions for improving physical activity, diet and cardiovascular health in the general population and find innovative and cost-effective ways for making these interventions a standard part of care for those treated for mental illness.”

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My ace pic was snow accident!

HEN it comes to nature, Oliver Hellowell certainly knows his stuff. The 22 year-old already has had his own book published (Oliver’s Birds), has appeared on BBC Countryfile and The One Show talking about his love of capturing the great outdoors, and wildlife in particular. Three years ago he also picked up a prize in the My Perspective

August/September 2019

Face it, emojis ought to be for everyone

international photographic competition, run by the Down’s Syndrome Association. And he’s now gone one better by scooping the top prize in this year’s competition with this stunning image of a blue tit in the snow. Oliver, from Somerset, said: “Me and dad go out and find interesting logs and things to put outside the hide in the garden for the birds to land on.

We got this really cool bit with fungus and moss and bits on it. “ We had some snow and my mum loves blue tits and they look so cute in the snow. I got this one for her.” Actor and Patron of the DSA Peter Davison presented the finalists and winners with their photographs and certificates at the awards ceremony at the DSA’s headquarters at the Langdon Down Centre in London.

THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT A

VERY warm welcome to this info-packed summer edition – and a very special thanks to P H Holt Foundation which has so generously agreed to pay the printing costs of this bumper issue.

Anne Edwards, the Foundation’s administrator, said: “PH Holt Foundation is delighted to fund this summer issue. “All Together NOW! is a great publication. Through its news and human interest stories, the FREE newspaper shows the positive contribution people with a long-term health problem or disability can make in society. “It’s essential that the voices of a million and a half people affected by health conditions in the region have a credible newspaper to access the latest information about opportunities and the resources available, so they can enjoy life to the full.” On behalf of all of us here at the newspaper, and all our readers, a heartfelt thanks. Over the past year we have received

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IF YOU are connected with any businesses who might want to help with our printing costs or supporting All Together NOW! in any way, please do contact us – tel 0151 230 0307 or email info@alltogethernow.org.uk donations towards our printing costs from Medicash, Persula Trust, W O Street Foundation, Eleanor Rathbone foundation and John Moores Foundation. We are back in the autumn. See you then – Tuesday 8 October to be precise.

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SALES, REPAIR & SERVICING OF ALL MOBILITY & DISABILITY PRODUCTS

A NEW set of emojis – images used in electronic messages and websites to convey emotion – are being created for blind and partially-sighted people. The new images will have more prominent expressions and greater attention will be given to colour. Martin Wingfield, head of brand at RNIB, said: “Emojis are a universal language but are often not accessible for blind and partially sighted people.” Alistair Campbell, executive creative director at We Are Social, added: “ It’s easy to overlook that, for many people living in the UK, this ‘inclusive’ language is actually the opposite.” n To track the progress of this ongoing project, visit: http://emoji.vision

Great day, DAD

HUGE crowds again flocked to the North West’s annual Disability Awareness Day, organised by Warrington Disability Partnership. And as all the tents were being dismantled at Walton Hall Gardens, plans were being made for next year’s event. Make a note of the date – Sunday 12 July. n WDP, tel 01925 240064

Don’t overdo it . . .

MELANOMA UK has hit back at claims that package holidays are to blame for soaring rates of skin cancer. Gill Nuttall, founder, of the Oldhambased charity, said: “Laying on a beach for hours at a time with the intention of getting the ‘golden tan’ – that is the problem.” Melanoma UK’s advice is to continue seeing the world, but ditch the tan and never use sunbeds. “Use high factor sunscreens, keep out of the midday sun, keep children protected, and make sure regular skin checks are carried out, every month is fine, and report any worries to a GP.” n Melanoma UK: Tel. 0808 171 2455.

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NEWS

August/September 2019

Disability archive set up in Manchester

THE largest single archive of material detailing the contribution the disabled people’s movement has made to UK society has been set up in Manchester. So far 160 boxes of documents, books, photographs, posters and other memorabilia have been collected by Greater Manchester Coalition of Disabled People Archive. Linda Marsh, GMCDP’s archive development worker, said: “It’s so important to preserve this for our own knowledge and our ability to see our own identity and where we have come from, particularly for disabled people in the future.” The project began 14 years ago when GMCDP conducted a feasibility study on setting up a national archive of documents and artefacts. This led to “spontaneous” donations of material, both by disabled people and disabled people’s organisations, a flow of items which continues today. That material has now found a home in Archives+, a purpose-built centre at Manchester Central Library, and most will gradually become publicly available.

A brief to the briefs

THE Bar Council, which represents all barristers in England and Wales, has launched an accessibility audit guide for chambers, where the majority of barristers work, to make sure they comply with disability access laws.

Buses back on track

BLACKPOOL Transport is changing the wording it uses about wheelchair access on its website after being accused of failing to comply with a Supreme Court ruling. Accessible transport activist Doug Paulley said the company’s wheelchair policy, as stated on its website, was “indefensible and shocking”. The company states on its website: “Some of our buses have space for only one wheelchair user or one pushchair. However, much of the new fleet is designed to have space for a wheelchair user and a pushchair. “Neither wheelchair users or pushchair users have priority over the other.” Jane Cole, managing director of Blackpool Transport, has now said the wording would be changed. But she claimed the current information was “misleading” rather than wrong and that the company’s policy had always been that wheelchair-users have priority use of the spaces. In January 2017, the Supreme Court ruled that another bus company had breached its duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people under the Equality Act through its “first come, first served” policy on the use of wheelchair spaces.

Motability finally agree to dip into their huge coffers to help more people

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Help for 1m young

MORE than a million young people in the UK will be taught in more inclusive and accessible classrooms as part of a new initiative from Microsoft. Around 30,000 teachers across the country will receive training on how to ensure every child they teach is engaged in lessons and understands the topic, by helping them learn in the best way for that individual. Chris Rothwell, director of education at Microsoft UK, said: “Technology can reduce isolation and help young people gain independence. “By listening to teachers and working with them, we can ensure children have access to a broad and balanced curriculum, and have the opportunity to reach full potential.”

£370m GIVEAWAY! D

ISABLED people will benefit from £370 million in funds being freed up by the company that runs Motability.

The move comes after repeated criticism by MPs about high levels of financial reserves held by Motability Operations – which had reached more than £2.6 billion by March 2018. Issues such as high rates of executive pay, lack of transparency, and a critical report from the National Audit Office have also put pressure on the company, which enables disabled people to lease a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair. Of the total, £100 million will go on supporting customers, while the other £270 million – plus all this year’s profits – will be handed to the Motability charity, which oversees its work, in the form of an endowment fund. One of the most eye-catching ways Motability plans to use the extra money is by expanding the number of grants made to disabled people with high support needs to allow them to lease adapted vehicles. That would be a success for campaigners who have long called for Motability to use more of its resources to fund expensive, heavily-adapted vehicles for disabled people who would otherwise be unable to engage with their community. The charity is also considering providing more cash to pay for driving lessons for disabled people,

NEW HORIZONS: adapted cars like this may soon be more widely available

and hopes to help more people with disabled children under three with high support needs. Some of the funds could also be used to help disabled people who are not Motability customers with their transport needs. In his written reason for setting up the endowment fund, Lord Sterling, the charity’s chair, said Motability was also in “very active discussions” with the Department for Work and Pensions about “where we can help disabled people with both expertise and money”. This will include extending the period in which customers can keep their Motability vehicle while waiting for their appeal to be heard, if they lose entitlement in the move from DLA to PIP, as has happened to tens of thousands of customers since the introduction of PIP by the coalition government in 2013. Motability Operations said the bulk of the £100 million it will be spending itself will go on direct payments to customers, most of it on the good condition bonus customers receive if they return their car in good shape at the end of their lease. Frank Field, chair of Parliament’s work and pensions committee, said: “At long last Motability Operations has begun to accept that it can’t just sit there on piles of reserves built up thanks to the taxpayer’s unique support.”

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

UN blast Tories for social care cuts

A HUMAN rights expert has condemned the UK Government for driving disabled people’s families “to breaking point” with cuts to social care. Disabled people were among the hardest hit by austerity, with many denied benefits and forced by the government into unsuitable work, says a hugely critical report by the United Nations’ special representative on extreme poverty and human rights. Professor Philip Alston said cuts to public spending, and “highly regressive” changes to taxes and benefits – combined with the Government’s “stubborn” refusal to assess the impact of its cuts and reforms – suggested it was breaching international law.

‘State of denial’

The report quotes Equality and Human Rights Commission research that found some disabled people may lose an average £11,000 by 2021–2022 – over 30% of their annual net income. Prof Alston said the Government had remained in a “state of denial” and suggests the Department of Work and Pensions has been “tasked with designing a digital and sanitised version of the 19th century workhouse, made infamous by Charles Dickens”. A DWP spokesperson insisted that UN data showed the UK was “one of the happiest places in the world to live” and the report was “a barely believable documentation of Britain, based on a tiny period of time spent here” that “paints a completely inaccurate picture”.

CHRISTMAS CRACKER!

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Park CEO Ian O’Doherty said: “We are delighted to be able to put up another top prize this year. The competition always attracts a huge entry and we are confident that this year’s will create even more excitement.” For more than 50 years Park have been helping people with their high street vouchers and Christmas Savings schemes. n You can enter the competition using the form on this page, or by visiting our website at:

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‘How you can help us see more of the world’

CAN YOU help people with sight loss to get out and about? The Guide Dogs new My Guide project was set up after a shock study found that partially sighted people feel shut out of society. Guide Dogs match trained sighted volunteers to those with sight loss who need support with their daily lives. Alex Pepper, 28, who has a visual impairment, said: “There are days when I’m really reminded I’m blind, and that’s because of a hundred small things which just make me feel like I’m on the outside. “I think the more people understand what it actually means to live a modern life with sight loss, the less often these small things will happen, and I’ll feel more included.” The charity’s study found that many blind people feel excluded from all aspects of life, including socialising, family life and work. However, most believe the rest of society could help end their isolation if they had a better idea of what it’s like to live with sight loss. Other findings include: n People with sight loss say travel is their biggest challenge. n Over a quarter (27%) feel left out from socialising with friends. This finding is particularly acute among women. n Over a fifth (23%) say they feel left out of work or education. n Guide Dogs: Tel. 0118 983 5555.

Deaf film’s top prize

A SHORT film that focuses on life as a deaf person scooped the top prize at the third annual Business Disability Forum’s Film Festival Challenge. Same Difference – co-produced by Wolverhampton university student Samuel Ash, and William Horsefield, who are also known as Wolfpack – was among the five winning entries to be premiered at a prestigious London event. Samuel said: “We wanted to convey that, and create a positive film showing that, deaf people can achieve anything they desire. Our biggest challenge was editing down the film!” n Watch the films at: www.businessdisabilityforum.org.uk/net working-and-events/tech-taskforce-filmfestival/winners2019/

Hearing loss warning

MORE than half of audiologists believe patients are unaware of the link between hearing loss and cognitive decline. Paul Surridge, chariman of the British Irish Hearing Instrument Manufacturers Association, said: “It is essential that we work together to educate patients about the link. “It is also a concern that private and NHS opinions on the frequency of hearing checks differ. BIHIMA’s view is tests for the over-55s should take place once a year.” NHS audiologists said that on average their patients come for a hearing test every three years.

‘Written off’ Joe has 10k readers NEWS

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August/September 2019

WHO wants to read a book about me? I’ve had a boring life . . .

That was the reaction of Northern Irish journalist Joe Boyd when asked to pen his autobiography. Joe, 41, worked as a reporter on his hometown newspaper, the Ballymena Times, for 18 years before moving to an online news service called www.thechurchpage.com in 2015. He’s been married to Rachael for the last five years and they are proud owners of a lovable terrier, Yogi. “Good for him,” I hear you say, “I’m sure he’s a nice guy but is his life story something I want to read?” Perhaps. Born prematurely on July 5, 1977, Joe’s brain was starved of oxygen for about a minute. Along with his twin brother, Mark, he was rushed to a special care baby unit 30 miles away. “It might be a good idea to name these kids”, said medics to their anxious parents, “we can’t tell you if they will make it.” Survive they did, but while Mark developed normally Joe was beginning to miss his milestones. Not sitting up, taking those first steps, swallowing baby food was a no-no. “Don’t worry”, the health visitor told his anxious mum. “You’ve got to do something about Mark, though, he’s too fat.” Then the bombshell. Still concerned by his lack of progress, the tot’s parents eventually went to see a paediatrician who delivered some shocking news: “I’m afraid Joseph is retarded,” was her assessment. Left to digest this shocking news, the young family headed home uncertain what would happen next. Remember, this was the late 1970s, support was limited, public buildings were inaccessible, public attitudes to “handicapped’” children ranged from pity to horror. Light in a very dark tunnel comes from a progressive young GP at the local surgery: “I

‘I hope others will see that ambitions can be realised’

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have seen youngsters like Joseph before; I don’t think he’s retarded. I reckon he’s got cerebral palsy,” he said. Further tests supported this diagnosis. More good news followed. A new special school for primary aged children with physical disabilities was set to open in his hometown. A 30-mile daily drive to secure his early education would not be necessary and the new school would be run by a teacher who had raised a disabled son of her own, a forward thinker who wanted to provide opportunities not just a baby-sitting service for “poor, handicapped kids”. Ethel Kenny was her name. Impressed by “chatterbox Joe”, she sat him down at a typewriter and noticed an ability to construct sentences that was beyond his years. Delighted by this, she got a local paper involved and they wrote a feature on a “very bright” eight-year who read the news every day to his classmates. The future looked bright as Joe transferred to a top special school in Belfast for his secondary education. It was a great looking building with an even bigger reputation. TV cameras visited regularly, and pupils talked excitedly about sitting exams, passing their driving test and other great achievements. “I was an ambitious starry-eyed kid. I wanted to do all the things that my brother and able-bodied friends were doing. I didn’t like the fact that I was ‘disabled’; I wanted to do ‘normal’ things and have a good future,” he remembers. Sadly, country-boy Joe failed to settle at his

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

large big city school. Determined to work hard, he found himself at odds with his classmates who were streetwise and preferred to mess around in class rather than to study. Many of them also had additional learning difficulties, which meant that every lesson was pitched at the lower end of the ability spectrum. Frustrated, bullied and alone, Joe left school at 17 with few of the qualifications he aspired to. He enrolled at a training centre for adults with physical disabilities run by The Cedar Foundation, a Northern Ireland-based charity. Staff saw his vulnerability but also came to see his raw talent as a writer. Eventually, he went on work experience to the Ballymena Times newspaper and remained there while studying for an Open University degree. After graduating, Joe became religious correspondent at the paper, a challenging task in a town with more churches per square mile than anywhere else in the world. “I had a great time throughout my two decades there,” says Joe. “I interviewed many well-known people about their Christian faith, including a world champion boxer and world and Olympic triple jump king, Jonathan Edwards. I even questioned David Cameron at a press conference, which was a great coup.” In 2015, Joe moved to be the lead writer on a Christian news website called www.thechurchpage.com, which is read by over 10,000 people each week. “I am loving life right now,” says Joe. “I have fulfilled most of my personal and professional dreams including getting married to the love of my life, Rachael. “My autobiography is the icing on the cake and I hope that young people with disabilities and their parents can read it and see that ambitions can be fulfilled, and dreams realised.” n Trading Places: From Hopelessness to Happiness, £9.99

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All Together NOW!

August/September 2019

Changing lives T 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 £38m has so far been awarded to over 650 charities and organisations, and this number will increase dramatically over the coming years after Steve committed £200 million additional funding

to the Foundation in 2017. Enable funding for individuals was also introduced to provide grants for adults and children with disabilities in financial hardship, who require specialised equipment. 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; n Enable funding for specialised equipment, which includes the brand new Smiley Buses. If you need help, contact us – details at the foot of the page.

Making a DIFFERENCE!

URSE Esther Bennington loves helping children with long-term and complex medical needs, and knows how much it means for them – and their families – to be cared for at home rather than in hospitals. Now she’s enjoying her dream job as Children’s Nurse at the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in Flintshire – and it’s all thanks to a link-up between the WellChild charity, a three-year grant of £75,000 from the Steve Morgan Foundation, and further contributions from The Moondance Foundation and The Waterloo Foundation.

The ‘Best’ of trips

FOOTBALL team for players of all ages with special needs or disabilities enjoyed an “amazing trip” to their first ever international tournament.

Esther says: “Being a WellChild nurse means the world to me. I enjoy the challenges that supporting children and young people with complex needs and their families brings – supporting them on their journey home, liaising with different teams or signposting them to agencies for support.” In her first six months in the role, Esther has been working with 30 children or young people and their ALL SMILES: Jane Harris, Director of Regional Funding of the Steve families, of whom 21 are now back home. Morgan Foundation, with Esther, far right, and Phoebe and mum Zoe Ashley Lewis, trustee with the Steve Morgan Foundation, said: “Since 2006 WellChild has built a network of 32 specialist paediatric nurses supporting children with long-term complex medical HE 72nd Smiley Bus of the Steve needs across the country. Morgan Foundation fleet is putting “Their aim is to help parents plenty of smiles on the faces of and family to care for their everyone at Ysgol Y Gogarth Special children at home using specialist School in Llandudno. equipment. The wheelchair-accessible 17-seater Smiley “This comes from the belief that Bus is now playing a major part in enabling children will enjoy life as much as severely disabled children from the school to get they can being cared for at home, to – and take part in – outdoor activities such as far better than if they were in animal care courses, childcare, construction and hospital where parents and family catering, shopping trips, horse riding, swimming, members would need to drive and wellbeing activities. long distances to visit.”

Keys to the outdoors!

www.stevemorganfoundation.org.uk Tel 01829 782808

Bootle Bucks Inclusion FC took part in the George Best Invitational Community Cup in Belfast, with thanks in part to a £5,000 donation from the Steve Morgan Foundation. The grant, and other funding, helped 70 players and coaches and 63 parents and siblings to make the trip for the annual five-a-side event. One of the club’s four over-15 teams finished third in their category, while the other three finished as runners-up in their group, just missing out on progressing to the semi finals. “An amazing trip was had by all,” said John Rice, chairman of Bootle Bucks Inclusion FC. “It was a brilliant few days of football. “The generous donation from the Steve Morgan Foundation was the catalyst we needed to raise the funds required.” John and other volunteers set up the team when they realised there was no football team available for people with special needs or disabilities. The club now has 80 regular players, with teams in different age groups.

Steve Morgan Foundation

@stevemorganfdn

NEWS

August/September 2019

£30K up for grabs in entrepreneur awards

DISABLED entrepreneurs and businesses run by disabled people are being urged to enter a competition that could win them £30,000. Run jointly by the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation and the charity Leonard Cheshire Disability, the awards are open to disabled indivduals and companies, charities and social enterprises that have been operating for less than eight years. Top prize is £30,000, with prizes of £10,000 for four finalists. Four prizes of £5,000 will also be available. The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London in October. Deadline is 5pm on September 10. n Tel. 07738 329 515 or email steliosaward@leonardcheshire.org www.leonardcheshire.org.uk

What do you think?

PEOPLE in Warrington are being urged to say what they think about the services they get from their GP practice. “I’d encourage as many people as possible to get involved, so that we can develop a sustainable Primary Care for the residents we serve,” said Dr Sangeetha Steevart, Governing Body Member and Clinical Lead for Primary Care at NHS Warrington CCG, The engagement closes on Friday, August 23. n To have your say, visit www.warringtonccg.nhs.uk/Images/ Page%20Images/about-us/primarycare-strategy.htm

Council backs down

MANCHESTER City Council has been forced into a significant climbdown over a tribute to those who died 200 years ago in a protest over inequality. Plans for the council-funded memorial to victims of the Peterloo massacre – by artist Jeremy Deller – was condemned as “discriminatory”. The artist wanted it to be used as a platform for speakers and demonstrators, mirroring those who spoke during the protest in 1819 that led to the massacre of 200 people. Brian Hilton, from the Greater Manchester Coalition of Disabled People, said of it: “Their chosen stepped design purposefully excludes disabled people.” However, following weeks of protests led by disabled activists, the council says it is consulting with Mr Deller to examine how the memorial can now be made “fully accessible”. Following the council’s change of heart, a spokesman for Greater Manchester Coalition of Disabled People added: “What is needed most at this stage is the commitment to find a genuine accessible long-term solution, properly considered, fully consulted on and backed up with some teeth and a budget.”

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Double celebrations for lifeguard Helen

HELEN Bull has become the UK’s first wheelchairuser to qualify as both a swimming teacher and lifeguard. “I don’t really see my disability as holding me back,” says Helen, “I’m just determined to keep doing the work I love the most. “Being a swimming teacher is the most rewarding job I have ever had, so qualifying as both a teacher and a lifeguard has been a huge boost.” Helen is employed by GLL, a community social enterprise, at the London Aquatics Centre, at the

AIRPORT BLAST

‘

OR the third year running, Manchester Airport ranks as one of the UK’s worst for disabled passengers.

The Civil Aviation Authority’s latest access report says there are continuing concerns over services and facilities provided by the airport – nearly two-thirds owned by Greater Manchester’s 10 local authorities. Although the airport improved on its rating of “poor” over the last two years, the CAA says it still needs to do better. The report says: “Data from April, May and June 2019 has shown performance was poor, with high numbers of passengers waiting for unacceptable lengths of time to receive assistance when arriving on inbound flights. “We have received assurances from the airport that it has plans in place to address this issue and we will be closely monitoring the implementation of these plans and their impact on performance.” Of the other 30 airports assessed by CAA, 14 were classed as “very good”; and 16 – including Liverpool Airport – were listed as “good”. Only two airports with more than nine million passengers a year – Glasgow and Edinburgh – have been rated as “very good” on access. The others – London Stansted, London Luton, London Heathrow and London Gatwick – are all rated as “good”. But the report warns that Heathrow could be at risk of losing its “good” rating, if it does not do more to increase staffing levels, particularly to assist passengers on incoming flights. The report also stresses the importance of ongoing consultation with local disabled people’s groups, and it warns that new CAA guidance will require airports to

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. She retrained through GLL College after a break of nearly 20 years and opted to further her training, by successfully passing Royal Life Saving Society’s National Pool Lifeguard Qualification with reasonable adjustments for her needs. Helen added: “The qualifications are tough though. Reasonable adjustments don’t mean I get let off with an easier course or assessments. “The whole process is as strict for me as for the other candidates.”

... but big hopes for railways

SWEEPING reforms on accessibility and compensation are being urged by the Office of Rail and Road. A call for a drastic reduction in the notice disabled passengers need to provide to book assistance for a rail journey is among the 17 recommendations made by the regulator, If the recommendations are accepted, the current maximum of 24 hours’ notice will be cut by April next year to 10pm the day before travel, with further reductions introduced until only two hours’ notice will be needed by April 2022. ORR also wants to see the Government review hold regular disability forums and airports that do not funding for accessibility have these in place may receive a poor rating in future improvements, currently reports. delivered through the In 2018-19, there were 3.7 million requests for Access for All fund. assistance at UK airports, a rise of over 80% since 2010. ORR made the The CAA’s latest aviation consumer survey found recommendations as part more than half of disabled people surveyed said they of its submission to the found travelling by air difficult, with concerns about poor Williams Rail Review, a customer service, long waiting times and a lack of root and branch awareness of disabled people’s needs. examination of Britain’s ‘Very Good’ status: Aberdeen, Belfast City, City of railway system. Derry, Cornwall Newquay, Doncaster Sheffield, The review’s findings Edinburgh, Exeter, Glasgow, Glasgow Prestwick, and recommendations Humberside, Kirkwall, Norwich, Southampton, will be published in a Sumburgh. Government white paper ‘Good’ status: Belfast International, Birmingham, in the autumn. Bournemouth, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Inverness, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, London City, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Luton, London Southend, London Stansted, Newcastle. ‘Needs Improvement’ status: Manchester

Disabled passengers face unacceptable lengthy waits

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August/September 2019

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‘Accentuate positives about mental health’

PEOPLE with mental health issues want the World Health Organisation to describe their diagnosis in a way that better reflects their conditions. Some want to be described in the WHO’s global manual of diagnoses – the International Classification of Diseases – more positively with easier to understand language. Dr Corinna Hackman, from University of East Anglia, said: “The ICD is the most widely used system to diagnose people with mental health conditions globally. “People with bipolar disorder thought that the WHO description only reflected negative aspects of the condition, and identified increased levels of creativity, associated with mania, as a positive aspect. “In some cases the wording was confusing or objectionable – for example the use of the word ‘retardation’ for depression. “This research offers a unique insight into the views of service users and it really represents an overdue watershed moment in mental health diagnosis.” n The paper is available at: www.dropbox.com/sh/sntf0vei3ti20xj/AACy L5nmxjIVbXEY5GyLBSqKa?dl=0

Steve in the hot seat

A LONG-SERVING Liverpool NHS leader has been appointed as boss of the city’s new “mega-trust” – one of the UK’s largest teaching trusts. Steve Warburton, currently chief executive of Aintree University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust will will take up the same role at Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The new trust, which will be operational in October, is being created by the merger of Aintree and the Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Youngsters star on film

AN ONLINE documentary mini-series highlights the challenges and stigmas young people with disabilities face globally, particularly in relation to health, education and employment. The videos are part of Leonard Cheshire’s 2030 and Counting project, which helped young disabled people in Kenya, the Philippines and Zambia to tell their own stories. Dr Ola Abu Alghaib, Director of Global Influencing and Research at Leonard Cheshire, said: “These films reflect the realities that people with disabilities experience on a daily basis. The ‘leave no one behind’ agenda can not be achieved unless we ensure that the voices of persons with disabilities are heard and considered in all future thinking.” n To watch the full videos visit: https://www.leonardcheshire.org/ourimpact/our-international-work/youth/2030and-counting

PROMISES, NEWS

August/September 2019

Actions will speak far louder than these words Mrs May . . .

NEW effort to tackle barriers faced by disabled people was promised by Theresa May, weeks before she stepped down as Prime Minister.

Higher accessibility standards for new housing, an overhaul of statutory sick pay, and greater workplace support were among measures she announced as she prepared to exit Number 10. New national outcomes data for disabled people will also be published, she pledged, shining a light on injustices and driving action to tackle barriers they face. With around a fifth of the working age population living with a disability, Mrs May said a new cross-government disability team would be formed. Incorporating the Office for Disability Issues, the new team would sit alongside the Government Equalities Office and Race Disparity Unit in a new Equalities Hub at the heart of government. Mrs May promised the team would work closely with disabled people, disabled people’s organisations and charities to develop a new approach to disability, with their views and experiences at the forefront of any new policy. Further measures would be set out later this year. Mrs May said: “We all have a crucial role – businesses, government and civil society – in working together to ensure that disabled people get the support they need, and go as far as their talents can take them. “Recognising too many disabled people are still living in unsuitable homes, the Government will consult on mandating

higher accessibility standards for new housing. This could help deliver up to 300,000 new accessible and adaptable homes every year. “Guidance will also be published to help councils meet current standards for accessible housing in England. “A consultation on new measures to help employers better support disabled people and those with long-term health conditions in work will also be published. “These include reforming Statutory Sick Pay so it is better enforced, more flexible to encourage a phased return to work, and covers the lowest paid. “The Government will also consult on offering small and medium employers a conditional rebate to support those who manage staff on sickness absence and help them get back to work.

‘Change the landscape’

“The Work and Pensions Secretary will also explore how to improve support for those on disability benefits through a Green Paper, for which her department will engage extensively with disabled people’s organisations and charities.” Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd said: “Disabled people encounter too many challenges in life and I want to see these end. “We want to change the landscape for disabled people and to make sure there is always a level playing field for them. “We intend to support disabled people in all phases of their life so that the pursuit of equality is a shared goal.” Richard Kramer, chief executive for the disability charity Sense, said: “This announcement is a significant one for disabled people. For too long now, disability policy has been focused on what benefits or services

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NEW DISABILITY CHAMPION? Former Prime Minister Theresa May

disabled people do or don’t access, rather than the lives they want, and have a right to lead. “We know that this is just the beginning of the journey, but we look forward to working with the government as this work takes shape, and ensuring it is led by and centres around disabled people to truly deliver meaningful change.” Mark Hodgkinson, chief executive at disability equality charity Scope, said: “We know that half of disabled people feel excluded from society, and are too often shut out of work. “Life also costs more if you are disabled, and Scope research shows that these costs add up to on average £583 a month. “We have long-called for a concerted effort from government to improve the lives of disabled people in this country. It is therefore positive to see recognition from Government that a joined up approach is needed and necessary.” David Isaac, chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, said: “The creation of a cross-government team to coordinate disability policy is a bold statement from the Government to tackle these problems and a very welcome move.” Communities Secretary James Brokenshire said: “Every person, whatever their ability or age, must have the opportunity to succeed in life – that means providing new homes that meet the everyday needs of whoever lives in them. “However, too many of the homes built in the past have not lived up to this basic promise, which is why we’re looking very closely at strengthening accessibility requirements, including making them mandatory for all new homes.”

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PROMISES

www.alltogethernow.org.uk NEWS

ISABLED people’s organisations have reacted with suspicion and some hostility to the departed Prime Minister’s attempt to shore up her “legacy” with a series of disability-related announcements, writes JOHN PRING

August/September 2019

Kamran Mallick, chief executive of Disability Rights UK, said while there was “much to be welcomed” in the statement, this “has to lead to real change in disabled people’s day to day experience”.

This is a huge insult to disabled people who are living in poverty due to this Government

Although some of the measures announced by Theresa May were welcomed, many user-led organisations questioned why she had left it until the last days of her time in office to launch what she said was a “new drive to tackle barriers faced by disabled people”. In last October’s speech of more than 7,000 words to her party’s annual conference, Mrs May failed to make a single mention of disability or disabled people. But as she prepared to be replaced as Prime Minister by Boris Johnson, she announced a “new approach to disability”. PAULA PETERS, a member of the PROFESSOR Peter Beresford, She failed to point out that the Government has national steering group of Disabled co-chair of Shaping Our Lives, issued no updates or progress reports on its People Against Cuts, said Mrs said Mrs May was trying to discredited Fulfilling Potential disability strategy since May’s announcement “smacks of invent a legacy when she November 2015 – eight months before she became PM. total hypocrisy”. had been a “massive failure” Her “new approach” includes a pledge to publish new “This Government are guilty of as Prime Minister. figures on “outcomes” for disabled people, but she violating our human rights under He said: “It’s good to see now failed to mention that the Government has not UNCRPD and causing a human that at her leaving, when she has published any updates to previous outcome figures catastrophe in disabled people’s no power, she has suddenly since 2015. lives. This announcement is a huge discovered a raft of policies that That report revealed that the proportion of disabled insult to disabled people who are could benefit disabled people and people who said they frequently had choice and control living in poverty due to this reduce the exclusions and over their lives plunged from 77% in 2010 to 66% in Government and have become discrimination we face, which her 2013. further marginalised in society.” Government helped make worse.” There was tentative approval from disabled people’s organisations to the announcement that the Office for Disability Issues would move in November from the Department for Work and Pensions to the Cabinet Office, as part of a new “equalities hub at the heart of government”. But there were still concerns that this could see the Government’s focus on disability equality further weakened. One widely welcomed BRIAN Hilton, digital campaigns officer for and experience we will insist on being reimbursed announcement was that the Greater Manchester Coalition of Disabled for our time.” Government could finally People, said: “We are yet to be convinced that tighten mandatory these announcements will amount to any real DISABILITY Labour said the announcement was accessibility standards on positive changes. “a cynical ploy pretending to improve disabled new housing, although this “The more cynical amongst us might argue that people’s lives without looking at the root causes will still be subject to a this is a desperate attempt by a Government in its for our exclusion and increased death rate”. consultation. final throes trying to paper over more than a Fran Springfield, Disability Labour’s coThis is likely to mean decade of harsh and vindictive cuts rained down chair, said: “What is needed is a reform of the changes to building upon disabled people.” benefits systems and the scrapping of universal regulations so that the He added: “GMCDP would be overjoyed if there credit so disabled people are not sanctioned or optional M4(2) accessibility was any real evidence of a commitment from denied the right to benefits while they challenge standard – a series of design central government to improving housing for the target driven refusal of their claim. criteria intended to make disabled people, but sadly there is not. “The new ‘equalities hub’ sounds good on homes more easily adaptable “The Government says it will consult on new paper, but will it have enforcement powers? for lifetime use – becomes “Will DPOs (disabled people’s organisations) measures, but the evidence is already available instead a mandatory and disabled people really be involved and have as to what is needed and that is action, not minimum standard for all new their expertise respected and included in all kicking the problem into the long grass of housing. consultation and industry prevarication and decision making? The former premier also “There needs to be disability impact extended implementation periods. ignored the issue during her assessments, with implementation criteria in “What we need are ambitious targets that own Conservative conference every government department for every redress the current imbalance and significant speech, making no mention government policy or initiative.” fines for developers that fail to deliver.” of the need to build homes to She added: “Will any of these policies actually Mr Hilton said GMCDP would engage with the inclusive design standards, be followed through by her successor or will they Government’s new equalities hub but, he added: despite her devoting a be quietly forgotten?” “If they want to draw upon our skills, knowledge significant chunk of the

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speech to housing.

‘We’re yet to be convinced’

‘Carers bankrupting their own futures ’

PEOPLE providing unpaid care for family and friends are “bankrupting their future to pay for the present”, says national charity Carers UK. A survey of over 7,500 people currently caring unpaid for family or friends reveals the huge personal and financial cost of caring for a loved one, with two in five carers saying they are struggling to make ends meet. Helen Walker, chief executive of Carers UK, said: “This is a classic case of robbing Peter to pay Paul, with carers already providing high levels of support left short-changed as they use money for their retirement trying to cover the care costs of their loved one today. “As it stands, providing unpaid care is pushing thousands of families into poverty and is having a lasting impact on their finances and quality of life. “Our current social care system is on the brink. Families urgently need affordable, high quality care services and carers need access to regular breaks and stronger workplace rights to ensure they can combine work and care if they wish to.” The survey also found that those who take on caring responsibilities often struggle to juggle a job as well, with many reducing hours, turning down promotions or leaving work altogether. As well as providing significant levels of care themselves, more than two thirds of unpaid carers are also using their own income or savings to cover the cost of care, equipment or products for the person they care for. As a result many are struggling financially and unable to save for their own retirement. For those on a low income or receiving Carer’s Allowance – the benefit for people caring for more than 35 hours a week and just £66.15 per week – it is a never ending struggle to make ends meet. Three quarters of this group are unable to save for retirement. On top of the huge personal cost of care, crucial support is being cut with one in eight carers reporting that they or their loved one received less care or support in the previous year, as a result of reduced support from social services.

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LUE badge holders could soon be clicking their mobile phones to find a free parking space if a new service being trialled is successful.

A free mobile app lets Blue Badge holders instantly see the availability of 188 accessible parking bays across the City of London. The technology will also let planners see exactly how the bays are being used – or abused! Dan Hubert, CEO and founder of AppyParking, said: “We’re committed to making parking accessible for absolutely

everyone. By adding into our app the locations and real-time availability of accessible bays across the Square Mile, Blue Badge holders can quickly and conveniently locate accessible parking bays.” And Helen Dolphin, director of People’s Parking and a campaigner for the improvement of parking experiences for motorists with disabilities, said: “This scheme should become the norm so that Blue Badge holders can visit city centres and local high streets filled with the confidence they’ll have a convenient place to park.”

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Shock figures reveal attacks on staff

ARE workers have suffered more than 6,000 violent attacks – resulting in serious injury – during the last five years, it has been revealed.

But the true number of attacks is likely to be much higher, warn the Health and Safety Executive, because “non-fatal injuries are substantially under-reported”. A total of 6,034 violent attacks on care workers resulting in serious injury were reported to the HSE from 2013 to 2018. Of those, 5,008 workers were so seriously injured they had to take at least seven days off work. Another 1,026 carers suffered a “specified” injury – which can include fractures, loss of sight, brain damage, loss of consciousness, asphyxia, or amputation. Rachel Harrison, a national officer for the GMB union, said: “These statistics are the tip of the iceberg – they only include the most serious injuries, and our members have to deal with violence on a daily basis.” Ms Harrison added: “Care is crucial. For each of us individually, our parents, grandparents, kids, friends and neighbours. “But too often the sector is overlooked and the people working in care treated less than the frontline professionals that they are.”

August/September 2019

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Loneliness . . . the hidden cost of caring

NPAID carers are SEVEN times more likely to be lonely than other people.

Despite their enormous contribution to society, those providing vital support for loved ones also feel what they do is significantly less worthwhile compared to the general public. The plight of unpaid carers who look after someone with an illness, disability, mental health condition, or as they grow older, is revealed by new research. Not having enough time, or money, to participate in leisure activities, as well as the stigma of being a carer, means one in three are always or often lonely, compared with just one in 20 of the general population. The study shows those struggling financially are over a third less likely to feel what they do is of value. New estimates suggest there could be far more people caring unpaid than

previously thought. There are a potential 8.8 million adult carers in the UK, up from 6.3 million estimated in the 2011 census – an increase of a third. In the North West, close to 860,000 people, or 15% of the population, are carers. With one in six adults now taking on a caring role and at a heightened risk of loneliness – referred to as one of the greatest public health challenges of our time – seven national charities have come together to highlight the urgent need for tackling loneliness and improving wellbeing among the UK’s carers. Helen Walker, chief executive of Carers UK said: “With as many as one in six adults in the UK now taking on an unpaid caring role it is high time our society recognises and values the crucial support they provide. “Many unpaid carers struggle alone

without support. If we are to combat the loneliness epidemic facing them it is imperative that everyone – Government, employers, health and care professionals, schools and universities, and each of us individually – plays a role putting carers in touch with practical and financial help. “Carers need to feel they are valued, understood and connected to their community.” The research found: n More than two thirds (69%) of carers said they’d felt lonely because of not having time to participate in social activities. n Almost half of carers (47%) said they’d felt lonely because of not being comfortable with talking to friends about caring. n Nearly half of carers (46%) said they’d felt lonely because they couldn’t afford to participate in social activities.

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WARM WELCOME: Cathrina Moore, left, Caroline Hutton and Paula Marsland at the GIFT CafĂŠ in Puddington

Cakes, cuppas and a friendly chat

DEMENTIA-friendly cafe celebrating its first birthday is going from strength to strength.

The GIFT CafĂŠ in Cheshire was set up on the site of two neighbouring care homes to provide a warm, friendly environment for visiting families to take loved ones to share homemade food, seven days a week. But the venue, in the picturesque village of Puddington, has also become popular with cyclists, walkers, dog owners and others from the across the region who come for its now famous soups, sandwiches and cakes. Cathrina Moore, who opened the cafe with

All Together NOW!

August/September 2019

her friend Caroline Hutton, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;All our staff are dementia friendly â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our youngest is 16 which means they know exactly how to make a person with dementia feel comfortable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This can mean making sure the right music is played at the right volume, as many people with dementia donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like loud noises, or being on hand to give reassurance when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needed. Caroline added: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have regular customers who see our cafĂŠ as one of the few places they can come where they are not judged. They love the idea of coming to a place in the community that welcomes them.â&#x20AC;? n Tel, 0151 336 8570

No spin, just facts

Q A

As a partially sighted or blind person, can I find an easy-to-use washing machine? Yes, you can now, thanks to unique research from the Research Institute for Disabled Consumers.

The research reveals the top ten washing machines which are the easiest for blind and partially sighted people to use. This washing machine information is available online and, on request, in Braille. It is also available over the phone as an interactive listing on the RiDC Infoline all for the cost of phoning a landline. Dial 0330 223 53 55 and follow the instructions. With funding from Thomas Pocklington Trust, RiDC ran a workshop with blind and partially sighted people to find what their ideal washer would be. RiDC researchers also spoke to washing machine manufacturers. The

research highlights the seven top features which make washing machines accessible for people with little or no vision. These include simplicity of use, audio output, tactile information, and good visual contrast on the controls. After analysing over 80 models which consumer tests show are the best performing, RiDC researchers shortlisted the top ten most accessible washing machines on the market. n RiDC is an independent, national research charity. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sell products â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.ridc.org.uk n The washing machine information is available as an audio recording over the phone. n Call the new RiDC InfoLine which costs the usual landline phone rate on 0330 223 53 55.

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ACCEPT YOURSELF AS YOU All Together NOW!

August/September 2019

www.alltogether

OLF has a great way of bringing people together of all ages and all abilities.

Now a new book, published by EDGA, formerly the European Disabled Golf Association, highlights 18 stories of players who have fought back from personal trauma and found that there is always a brighter day on life’s fairways. The players featured in Mulligan come from 16 countries, and all with different impairments. Here are players with leg amputation, singlearm players, wheelchair golfers, stroke survivors, PTSD sufferers and more, all ‘golfers first’ who refuse to be defined by disability. The stories of Caroline telling her

OR MORE than a decade pro golfer Caroline Mohr wowed Swedish crowds with her unique style and her sheer will to win. “Sport has always played a big part of my life,” says Caroline, who aged 20 had just gained professional status before tragedy struck.

“In 2011, I survived an earthquake in New Zealand but only weeks after I was diagnosed with cancer. “The only way to survive was to amputate my right leg above the knee. “My career and my life were put on hold for a while, but I didn’t give up on my dreams. Even though I was facing loss and had to

surgeon, “When you take my leg, you are going to give me life”; Stewart, battling back after serving in Afghanistan; Lucas loving what golf offers after being shot eight times in the back; and Monique fulfilling her ambition to win gold medals through talent and hard work. The book comes with a unique ‘Give and Gift’ option. For every 25€ or more, EDGA will also give a book to a hospital, rehabilitation / medical centre, or organisation concerned with golf for disabled players. n Mulligan, by Tony Bennett and Ben Evans, published by EDGA. www.edgagolf.com/book, email tb@edgaglf.com. Tel 0800 8611675

tackle challenges along the way, I was determined not to let my positive outlook on life disappear.” Just two months after her surgery, she was back playing in the Swedish Championship for pros – on one leg – and went on to become Paragolf’s World Champion. Caroline also found the strength to start

JUAN POSTIG featured in the are quite simi you are. If yo leg, you will o so be happy w had any issue different.”

giving lectures about her story inspire others – something sh full-time, in addition to fundrai disadvantaged pupils at a Sou school. Caroline adds: “My story is a strong. I believe there are no li we can achieve.”

U ARE

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New survey highlights the need for this paper

August/September 2019

‘

All Together NOW!

TOP MARKS! T

HANKS to the hundreds of people who took part in our Reader Survey.

We’re certain that your views will help potential funders to understand just how vital this FREE newspaper is to the community. Almost six out of ten readers said they cared for a family member, friend or neighbour, and half said they had a disability or mental health condition. Just over half of respondents were over 65 years of age. Other responses included: n Has All Together NOW! increased your awareness of local services? 99% n Does All Together NOW! help you feel more informed about issues relating to health and disabilities? 99% n Does All Together NOW! help you feel

It’s helping me make friends with others in the same situation as me. There’s such good information in the paper. I pick up copies from the supermarket and distribute them to neighbours who can’t get out as much as I can. It gets me out and about. I wouldn’t know of events, meetings etc that are important to me. As a councillor it keeps me informed about disability issues. By just being there as a resource for all the family. I now attend regular meetings of our carers group. It inspires and motivates me. It’s the catalyst that gets me up and moving. It’s like a Bible in the house. Raises awareness of all sorts of health issues. Great stuff about deafness and BSL. As a carer for an elderly parent, I find the news and information brilliant. I know I’m not alone. I volunteer at a dialysis department, and pass copies of ATN to patients. Information on so many things I wouldn’t have known about otherwise.

more informed about opportunities/ special offers/ways to engage? 98% n Has All Together NOW! given you the confidence/ knowledge to access services (e.g. joined groups, take up sports/ holidays/ funding opportunities etc)? 92% n Have you accessed services (e.g. joined groups, taken up sports/ holidays/applied for funding opportunities/ responded to adverts etc) as a result of All Together NOW! ? 81% n Has All Together NOW! helped you feel more confident/ more informed about accessing volunteering / employment / training opportunities? 89% n Have you taken up volunteering / employment / training opportunities as a result of All Together NOW! ? 45% n Has your physical health/wellbeing

..and here’s just a few of the things you say about us

An excellent resource for use with clients. As a keen theatregoer, I find the events guide invaluable. It is read by several members of my family. Provides awareness of issues relating to all kinds of disabilities. Apart from all the great information and advice, it’s a great read. The paper has helped my family in so many ways over the past 10 years. The paper has enabled our family to enjoy a special holiday. Great ideas for days out. Brilliant tips for disabled gardeners. Makes one feel better just reading the uplifting stories. The Notice Board page is a fantastic “disability” directory. Keeps us busy for hours doing the quizzes. The stories are so inspirational.

improved as a result of accessing services/activities highlighted in All Together NOW! ? 82% n Has your mental health/wellbeing improved as a result of accessing services/activities highlighted in All Together NOW! ? 83%

INTERNET n Are you a regular user of the Internet? 54% n Do you want All Together NOW! to improve its online/social media services? 96%

SERVICE PROVIDERS n How would you rate the response you get from readers to your services 62% Excellent / 34% Very Good

Never stuck for ideas on events or shows because of Theatrezone. We believe that the paper shows what disabled people can do. The paper always has amazing stories about amazing people. We keep the Notice Board page by the telephone for reference. There is so much information provided, and it’s FREE! I have discovered that I’m far from alone with my condition. All Together NOW is a mine of information on so many aspects of life. Just to know that every edition will have even more positive news is comforting. As a keen gardener, I get great tips at each season of the year. Just great positive stuff throughout. It’s easy to obtain copies so can pass onto family and friends to benefit. Articles contain accurate clear information. It’s a good mix of leisure features with pages with more informative content. It’s great that it’s available at the hospital. Excellent service – and it’s free! Great point of reference for all sorts of issues relating to health and disability. I use it in the classroom reading area. It’s great to have a real newspaper available.

All Together NOW!

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 349427 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 710144 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 WIDNES: 0151 511 8833 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

August/September 2019

You lucky people

Water butt winners

CONGRATULATIONS to the TEN winners of United Utilities competition to win a stylish water butt. Roy Skelhorn, Poplar Grove, Prescot, Merseyside Josephine Kilty, Belstone Close, Bramhall, Stockport F E Cullen, Marlborough Walk, Ellesmere Port T Taylor, Ruskin Road, Kirkholt, Rochdale Mrs Wendy Hughes, Meadow Lane, Moulton, Northwich Mrs Jean Preston, Ryburn Road, Maccesfield Mr Stuart Brown, Laneside, Blackpool Road, Preston Mr Ian Platt, Peel Green Road, Eccles, Manchester Mr Alan Storey, Bleakledge Grove, Hindley, Wigan Gladys Ellis, Abbeyvale Drive, Belle Vale, Liverpool

THE FIVE lucky winners of our competition to win a super watering kit, courtesy of Mr Fothergill’s, are:

Statue and road to be named after Sir Bert

STATUE and a new Liverpool road named after the late Sir Bert Massie will be the city’s way of remembering a man who spent his life campaigning for a better deal for disabled people.

Launching Sir Bert’s autobiography at the Town Hall, Radio Merseyside broadcaster Roger Phillips said renowned sculptor Tony Heaton was creating a new statue, to be sited on the campus of Liverpool John Moores University. And Cllr Pam Thomas, the council’s cabinet member for an inclusive and accessible city, added: “Bert has made a real difference to people in Liverpool and all around the country. “One of his priorities was to push for

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

new adaptable housing. His legacy lives on. A Liverpool road will be named Sir Bert Massie Way.” Liverpool deputy mayor Cllr Wendy Simon was also among those paying warm tributes. She said: “He was absolutely integral in the fight for fair treatment for disabled people which led to the ground-breaking Disability Discrimination Act. “The countless people living fuller, more diverse lives because of his work is the greatest tribute that could be made to him. “His life shows what we can achieve when we put our minds to something and refuse to give up. His work and his life reminds us all of the durability of the

Peter Smith, Worcester Avenue, Lancaster (“I picked up my copy of All Together NOW! from Dobbies Garden Centre, Clifton”) Miss Catherine Spencer, Carnaby Place, Great Sankey, Warrington (Warrington Hospital) G Hillman, Townsend Avenue, Norris Green, Liverpool (Mere Lane Health Centre) Mrs Elizabeth Bazley, Blinco Road, Urmston, Manchester (ASDA Trafford) Mrs Betty Bowers, Fleetwood Drive, Banks, Southport (Ormskirk Hospital)

human spirit and must be the light to drive us forward. “ Sir Bert knew the real value information was to disabled people and was the chief columnist for the All Together NOW! charity newspaper. “It’s all well and good creating new opportunities for disabled people, but if they don’t know about what’s out there to help them then it’s all a bit of a waste of time and energy.” Sir Bert died from bladder cancer on October 15, 2017. He was 67. n Sir Bert Massie: A Life without Limits, Mereo Books, £10. All profits go to Local Solutions, the Liverpool-based charity of which Sir Bert was a trustee.

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 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 ACSIL (Amputees and Carers), Tel, 0151 261 1166 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 n WEST MIDS Amputee

Group. 07891 794733; 07585 958322; 07557 228154

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

August/September 2019

Medicash’s healthy merger HEALTH insurer Medicash has acquired Health@Work Consultancy Services for an undisclosed sum. Health@Work was established over 25 years ago to help firms improve the health, safety and wellbeing of their employees. Sue Weir, chief executive of Medicash and Health@Work, said: “Health@Work is a well-established and highly regarded consultancy

CALLING all young singers and dancers. TeenStar, the UK’s only singing and dance competition for young people under 19, are staging two auditions in the North West. Age categories are Pre-Teens – 12 years old and under; and Late Teens – 13 years old and older! The competition regularly attracts more than 9,000 entries each year, with the final taking place at London’s O2 Arena. Audition dates: n Sun Sep 8: Media City UK, University of Salford n Sat Sep 21: The Liverpool Lighthouse, Oakfield Road, Anfield, Liverpool www.teenstarcomp etition.co.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

with an excellent reputation for its Workplace Wellbeing Charter. This merger presents significant advantages and opportunities for both firms, our people and our clients. “With a new board and new executive team, we look forward to exploring the opportunities that these organisations can offer and bringing new products and services to the market in the near future.” WELCOME: Sue Weir with Kevin Yip at Health@Work

Pony Express

VER the years All Together NOW! has reported on how more and more pets and animals are becoming regular visitors – and helping hands – at care homes and hospitals all over the country.

Now it’s the turn of Alfie the therapy pony and his pal, Isla the donkey, who are putting smiles on people’s faces at a specialist

brain injury centre in Northamptonshire. Jocelyn Plante-Bekenn, senior occupational therapist at The Priory’s Burton Park, said: “We found that Alfie and Isla had an immediate and significant positive impact on everyone. They have had a particularly profound impact on patients who are at risk of social isolation or who have limited communication and interpersonal skills.”

Are you up for this trip? IT’S a long way to go, but if you happen to be in or around Düsseldorf in September then it’s worth calling in at REHACARE 2019 – Germany’s superb independent living exhibition. Around 700 exhibitors from

The Priory, which has a unit in Bury, has a growing heritage of working with animals as part of its treatment services, including a therapy dog helping patients in Bristol; ‘pets and ponies in the playground’ at a Priory School in South Devon; and regular sessions for patients using Equine Therapy at the Roehampton Hospital, near Richmond Park, London.

over 40 countries will be exhibiting their new and innovative products and services. The exhibition runs from September 18-21 at the Düsseldorf Trade Fair Centre.

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 SOUTHPORT Centre for the Deaf Tel 01704 537001 n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887 n WOLVERHAMPTON Centre for Deaf Tel 01902

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 705959 / 486923 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

All Together NOW!

FLASHBACK n KEN PYE turns the clock back to the day when a certain statue brought lots of red faces – and lots of laughs – to the people of Liverpool. n Ken gives entertaining and informative local history talks to groups and organisations right across the North West. n He has also just completed his latest book, ‘Two Triangles: Liverpool, Slavery, and The Church’ n To find out more, visit his website at www.discoverliverpool.com. You can also call him on 0151 427 2717 or visit ken.pye@discover-liverpool.com

IVERPOOL has its fair share of must-see statues for first time visitors – and there’s one in the heart of the city that’s been turning heads for more than 60 years.

Directly facing the famous Adelphi Hotel, at the corner of Ranelagh Street, stands a gracious building that was originally built in 1923 as Lewis’s Department Store. The design incorporated a roof garden, with tame monkeys and parrots, for the exclusive use of Lewis’s wealthier patrons. This was the first shop in Liverpool to use full-size mannequins, or dummies, to display clothes in the shop windows. This gave rise to the local expression for a lazy or dilatory person, “You’re standin’ there like one of Lewis’s!” However, in the Second World War, during the May Blitz of 1941, the store became one of many architectural and commercial casualties. Nevertheless, it was completely re-built and re-opened in 1951. To appropriately mark the significance of the new store and the continuing resurrection of Liverpool after the war, the sculptor Jacob Epstein was commissioned to create a special statue for the front of the building. His instructions were to create something large and imposing that would represent the strength and resilience of the port and city of Liverpool. Shrouded in mystery as to the final form of Epstein’s work, it was mounted above the grand entrance doors, but remained hidden under massive tarpaulins so that his design would remain secret. Then, on the 20 November 1956, came the official unveiling. All the ‘great and good’ of Liverpool were assembled on Ranelagh Place, outside the front of the building, along with the staff and

August/September 2019

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

The man who’s been turning heads for more than 60 years

RESURGENT: Lewis’s after the Blitz. Right, the rebuilt store, ready to unveil the new statue. Inset, David Lewis

MUST-SEE: The well-known Liverpool statue and, inset left, its sculptor Jacob Epstein

management of Lewis’s Stores, and thousands of eager Liverpudlians. There was an expectant buzz amongst the crowds, because word had leaked out that the statue that Epstein had created would be very special indeed. And then the cord was pulled and the great shrouds fell away. Some loud cheers went up but also shouts of amazement.

www.discover-liverpool.com

Some of these were in shock and outrage, but others were exuberant shouts of delight! This was because what had been exposed – quite literally – was the much larger than life-size, blatantly full-frontal figure, of a great, naked, bronze man. There he still stands, with a determined expression and stance, on the prow of a great ship that seems to be surging out of the front of the building: he is piloting the vessel forward, going boldly into the future! The bronze ship’s prow weighs two and a half tons, and the figure itself weighs a

further two and three quarter tons. He stands at 18 feet 6 inches high overall, but I have no information about any other dimensions associated with the figure! Despite some complaints it was said that for weeks after the unveiling the front bedrooms of the Adelphi Hotel were all booked up, and mostly – though not exclusively – by women! While the official name of the statue is “Liverpool Resurgent”, it is known locally, and for obvious reasons, as “Dickie Lewis”!

Ken Pye – 0151 427 2717

‘ TAKE A BREATH TEST www.alltogethernow.org.uk

August/September 2019

PUTTING ON A BRAVE FACE – but life is a constant struggle for Jay Dowie

. . . It’s debilitating, exhausting, humiliating, he says

ETTING breathless during your usual everyday activities isn’t a normal part of ageing – so if this sounds like you then get checked out!

That’s the message from the British Lung Foundation who say two million Britons may have undiagnosed chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – a group of lung conditions, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, which make it difficult to empty air out of the lungs. Severe breathlessness has radically affected every part of Jay Dowle’s life. Jay, 68, has the lung age of someone more than 20 years older. He hopes his story will convince people not to ignore being breathless or write it off as a normal part of getting older. Fourteen years ago he experienced an attack of breathlessness while painting his sitting room. He consulted a doctor, was given a spirometry test to measure his lung function, and was diagnosed with COPD. He was given an inhaler and warned about continuing to smoke. However, crucially Jay says, he didn’t receive the full respiratory testing he might have received in a hospital. This meant he had no idea of the severity of his disease at the time. The father of three says he didn’t take his diagnosis very seriously at first. He was working for the United Nations at the time and had just left a post in New York and was at the family home in London preparing to move back to Geneva. And the former journalist was also still

by JAN FOSTER

reasonably fit and regularly going to the gym. It wasn’t until 2008 that his local health centre persuaded Jay he should be under the care of a respiratory specialist. The specialist found Jay’s FEV1 – a measure of a person’s airflow obstruction was 26%, but 80-120% would be considered normal. This put him in the “very severe” category for airflow obstruction. By the time Jay succeeded in quitting smoking a few years later, his score had already fallen to 18%. He says he’s had to incorporate special measures such as pursed lip breathing exhaling through tightly pressed lips and inhaling through the nose with the mouth closed – to carry out his daily life. “Around a dozen times a day I get a feeling of intense suffocation, which ‘freezes’ me to the spot and I have to stop all activity until it passes. “The only times that I feel truly free of breathlessness, or fear of breathlessness, are in bed. Jay believes earlier access to spirometry and having the results better explained would have resulted in better health. “Get

yourself checked and demand spirometry, especially if you are, or have been, a smoker.” He added: “Living with COPD is a constant struggle. It’s a debilitating, exhausting, and sometimes humiliating disease. Even the smallest things can make you feel out of breath. “Every task – whether it’s getting dressed, having a bath, emptying the dishwasher, cooking a meal or supermarket shopping takes roughly three times longer than it used to, because of the need to go slowly and take constant breaks to recover my breath. “Any journey has to be meticulously planned – how far will I have to walk? Is there an incline? Will there be a lift? Is there an accessible lavatory that doesn’t involve stairs? An out-of-order lift on the underground, a closed lavatory or a taxi that’s recently been sprayed with some foul air-freshener can be a disaster. It’s no wonder many people living with COPD are isolated and stay at home. “I’m very reliant on other people, particularly my wife who is my informal caregiver. I’m a cause of concern to my children, and I can’t properly enjoy being a grandparent.”

Try to help yourself . . .

Dr NICK HOPKINSON, the BLF’s Medical Director, says: “Even if breathlessness is not due to a medical condition, action to increase fitness, eat a healthy diet and stop smoking can all improve symptoms and will also reduce the risk

news@alltogethernow.org.uk

of developing health problems in the future.”

n You can take the BLF’s Breath Test at blf.org.uk/breathtest BLF Helpline: 03000 030 555.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

MEDICAL NOTES

Phone game to help diagnose Alzheimer’s

A MOBILE phone game could lead to faster diagnosis and a breakthrough in treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. UK experts say people playing the Sea Hero Quest app who are genetically at risk of developing Alzheimer’s can be told apart from those who are not. Created by Deutsche Telekom, the game was designed to help researchers better understand dementia by seeing how the brain works in relation to spatial navigation – players make their way through mazes of islands and icebergs. Subtle changes in spatial awareness can show up long before Alzheimer’s sufferers start to display memory problems, said lead researcher Prof Michael Hornberger, from the University of East Anglia’s Norwich Medical School. He said: “We need to identify people earlier to reduce their risk of developing dementia in the future. “Current diagnosis of dementia is strongly based on memory symptoms, which we know now are occurring when the disease is quite advanced. “”Emerging evidence shows subtle spatial navigation and awareness deficits can precede memory symptoms by many years. “Our findings will inform future diagnostic recommendations and disease treatments.” The game was developed in partnership with Alzheimer’s Research UK, University College London, the University of East Anglia and game developers. n www.seaheroquest.com

Open extra wide

PEOPLE are being urged to ask their dentists to conduct mouth cancer screens at their next appointment. The test, which should be routinely included in the price of a check-up, takes no more than a minute. New research by the Head and Neck Cancer Foundation shows we could all do more to help early diagnosis of mouth cancers. Professor Mark McGurk, founder of HNCF, said: “By bringing routine mouth checks front-of-mind and putting it on the agenda, we will raise awareness, raise the number of early detections and reduce the number of people facing stage two and three mouth cancers.” For patients who do detect mouth cancer early, technological and medical innovation means treatment can now be offered in a much less invasive way, by using the Sentinel Node Biopsy technique. n To find out how to check: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=tGeHCIL7-A

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MEDICAL NOTES

Your instant guide to longer, healthier life

WE SHOULDN’T need telling that if we want to lead a longer, healthier life, we need to look after our hearts. Yet too many of us develop habits that in the long term damage that most vital or organs – whether related to lack of exercise, drinking, smoking or poor diet. Nutritionist LILY SOUTTER shows how you can make changes to your food intake straight away that your heart will definitely thank you for…

POLYPHENOLS: All fruit and veg contains polyphenols, but berries are unique in having a high content of the polyphenol, anthocyanin, thought to have heart-protective effects. TOP SOURCES: blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries. VITAMIN E A fat-soluble antioxidant, Vitamin E may help prevent narrowing of arteries and may help maintain healthy blood pressure. TOP SOURCES: nuts, seeds, olive oil, and avocado. HIGH FIBRE FOODS This special fibre binds to “bad” LDL cholesterol and bile acids in the digestive tract. This means cholesterol is eliminated rather than absorbed. Berries like raspberries come with 7g of fibre per 100g. TOP SOURCES: oats, oat bran, beans, lentils, psyllium, flax seeds, all berries – raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries. VITAMIN C Vitamin C contributes to a reduction in the oxidation of harmful cholesterol. It may also help maintain healthy blood pressure. Strawberries actually have a higher concentration of Vitamin C than oranges. TOP SOURCES: Berries – especially strawberries. OILY FISH All fish is shown to support heart health. However, oily fish is special as it’s a potent source of omega 3 fats. TOP SOURCES: salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, herrings. POLY AND MONOUNSATURATED FATS A diet high in saturated and trans fats can elevate our “bad” LDL cholesterol, which can increase risk of heart disease. Replacing with unsaturated fats can help maintain levels of “good” HDL cholesterol and decrease “bad” LDL-cholesterol. TOP SOURCES: olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocado. HERBS AND SPICES Excess salt in the diet can cause high blood pressure, increasing stroke risk. Ditch the table salt and get experimenting with flavoursome herbs and spices. TOP HERBS & SPICES TO TRY Turmeric, oregano, chilli flakes, cumin, ginger, cardamom, rosemary, thyme, parsley, dill.

WINNERS!

PARTY TIME: staff from the Cheshire and Merseyside Major Trauma Centre Collaborative

BRILLIANT: From left, Lauren Johnston, Miguel Alegre, Serena Jones, Shaun Lever, Ged Jennings, Susan Youds and TV and radio presenter Kate Garraway URSES don’t seem to get enough praise. So it’s great to report that this brilliant team has picked up a top award for transforming the care of people with learning disabilities.

Lauren Johnson, Shaun Lever, Serena Jones, Ged Jennings and Susan Youds won the Learning Disability Nursing category of the RCNi Nurse Awards 2019. The team, from Royal Liverpool and Broadgreen University Hospitals NHS Trust, has halved patient stays through what the Care Quality Commission and NHS England recently acknowledged as a standout service. It’s also set up steering groups with service users as core members, as well as a champion network that provides a forum to address educational, environmental and clinical needs. Training has been given to more than 3,400

staff, resulting in fundamental cultural change in the trust, and information packs are now also used by 12 trusts and primary care services in Cheshire and Merseyside. Ged Jennings said: “The role of learning disability nursing has changed so much. It’s becoming more diverse and moving into places learning disability nurses have never been before.” One of the judges, Margaret Sneddon, an honorary senior research fellow at the University of Glasgow, said: “The team at Royal Liverpool has not only introduced a service that has transformed care, reduced hospital stays and prevented complications and readmissions. “But it has also integrated the service and educated all staff, not just the health professionals, to change the culture and ensure its sustainability.”

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Perfect boost for trauma team

HEALTH professionals caring for some of the most seriously injured patients in their region have been celebrating their seventh birthday. And they immediately announced that their specialist life-saving service across Cheshire and Merseyside is going to get even better. Since its creation in 2012, the Major Trauma Centre Collaborative between Aintree hospital and The Walton Centre has been called upon more than 7,800 times to treat severely injured patients. Now they are teaming up with the Day One charity to provide patients with extra support, including access to counselling, peer support, funding and extensive advice. Sharon Scott, divisional medical director for surgery and anaesthesia at Aintree, said: “The additional support our patients will soon be receiving from Day One will be invaluable and will really improve their experience and transition once they are discharged from hospital.” Over the last seven years there have been significant investments to improve the service, including the construction in 2012 of a £2m link-bridge between the Aintree and Walton hospitals, allowing seamless transfer of patients requiring neurological care. This was followed in 2017 with the completion of a £1m helipad in front Aintree’s A&E department, supported by the County Air Ambulance Appeal, allowing much quicker transfer for patients arriving by air ambulance, which previously had to land at playing fields off Lower Lane, a short ambulance ride away from the hospital. The same year saw the official opening of the £35m Urgent Care and Trauma Centre at Aintree.

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Mind games could help to ease suffering EXPERTS are working on ways to use virtual reality to help people with persistent pain. Apart from games and entertainment, virtual reality is used for such things as training airline pilots and surgeons. Now pain management experts and digital designers from the UK, Holland and Germany are developing a range of products that might just assist people struggling with persistent pain. Dutch company Get Out have created a game to help people with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, in which the nervous system makes an area, like the arm or hand, painful all the time. Patients are then reluctant to move that area at all – making it

immobile and adding to pain. The new game provides a distraction for people to move their arms and hands without thinking about it – ultimately helping them become more active and aiding recovery. Meanwhile, SyncVR, from Rotterdam, are developing a virtual reality platform for the Pain Toolkit, a world-leading website providing advice and support. The platform will allow people around the world to meet in a “virtual support group”. Professor Denis Martin, from Teesside University, said: “Virtual reality technology is developing rapidly and certainly has the potential to help people manage and overcome persistent pain.”

PAIN BUSTERS

PAINLESS: Prof Martin trying out the new game

New device is set to transform the lives of amputees

MPUTEES who suffer from phantom limb pain could have their agony eased thanks to a new device that avoids the often unaffordable cost of treatment.

A pioneering team from the north of England is working towards the launch of an appliance that could make a huge improvement to their quality of life. Phantom limb pain is where people who have undergone amputation go on to experience sensations that seem to be coming from the lost limb. TEAM WORK: From left, Professor Denis Martin, Jason Timms, Dr Alasdair MacSween, It is a relatively common condition and Stuart Mead, Sarah Oatway, Geoff Archer, Dr Cormac Ryan and Eddie Dandy while symptoms can vary, in some cases it can be severely debilitating for the patient. administered by medical or rehabilitation said: “Sensory discrimination training can be One treatment is sensory discrimination professionals. very effective at realigning the brain’s training whereby patients receive stimulus to But researchers at Teesside University are blueprint of the body. various parts of their body from electrodes working with start-up Teesside healthcare “However, the amount of clinical time that it and have to discriminate where the innovation company 2PD Ltd, to develop a takes up makes it a huge barrier to sensations are coming from. sensory discrimination training device which treatment. By developing something that can This has been shown to help the brain can be self-administered by patients. be self-administered we can make it a much rewire its mental map, or blueprint, of the The university team and inventors more feasible proposition.” amputated limb, which is associated with a Professor Denis Martin and Dr Cormac Ryan He said the device “has the potential to reduction in pain. will carry out clinical evaluations and trials on make a real impact on the quality of life for However, it can be a lengthy and costly the device, designed to automate the people who have undergone amputation process involving several sessions sensory discrimination process. Dr Ryan surgery”.

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MEDICAL NOTES

Bedrest study to help astronauts and patients IT MIGHT just be the dream job for a teenager – volunteers are wanted to spend two months in bed! Twenty four people will take part in the so-called “bedrest study” which could ultimately help send astronauts to Mars, But the research could also have more down to earth benefits for people with low back pain or postural instability. A team at Northumbria University want 24 participants to spend 60 days in bed, where they will continuously lie in a head down tilt position. The aim is to identify how astronauts’ bodies decondition while they explore outer space. Astronauts experience significant deconditioning due to the reduced gravity environment. Their muscles become smaller and weaker, and their bones lose density. The volunteers, whose bodies will decondition, will be exposed to artificial gravity for 30 minutes each day to simulate the gravitational loading experienced when standing up against Earth’s gravity. The study will test the effectiveness both of daily exposure to artificial gravity in preventing spinal problems from developing, and of a special rehabilitation device. Science Minister Chris Skidmore said: “By learning about how to tackle muscle wasting in astronauts who experience zero gravity, this pioneering research hopes to lessen the impact on future spaceflights, something particularly important if we ever send humans on the long journey to Mars. “It has benefits on Earth too, helping thousands of patients who develop muscle weakness from lengthy stays in a hospital bed.”

Scots huge heart issue

ALMOST three quarters of Scots have been personally affected, or had someone they know affected, by heart disease. But despite being Scotland’s biggest killer, with 41 people a day dying from cardiovascular disease, 50% of Scots said they were not concerned about the condition. The YouGov study produced for the charity’s Heart of Scotland Appeal asked 1,000 Scots questions relating to lifestyle choices and personal experiences of cardiovascular disease. Cardiac surgeon Professor Nawwar Al-Attar, from Golden Jubilee National Hospital, Clydebank, said: “With an aging population and rising levels of obesity and diabetes, this process could be reversed.”

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Until Aug 10: Scouse Pacific. Royal Court, Liverpool. Comedy play. Aug 3-Sep 1: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. The Lowry. This mischievous celebration of play is the perfect treat for families with children aged 3 and up. Relaxed performance Aug 14, 2pm. Audio described Aug 15, 2pm. BSL Aug 22 2pm. ‘till Aug 31: Around The World in 80s Days. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. One of the greatest adventure stories ever with an exciting 80s musical twist. ‘till Aug 17: War Horse. Liverpool Empire. A record breaking production about a boy and his beloved horse Joey. ‘till Aug 24: The Book of Mormon. Palace, Manchester. The New York Times called it “The best musical of this century” Aug 6-10: Amélie. Opera House, Manchester. The perfect production of a delicious Musical. Aug 6-11: Magic Goes Wrong. The Lowry. An evening of grand illusion. Aug 6-28: Steve Royle’s Comedy Chaos for Kids. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Comedy, magic, puppets and some very special surprises. Aug 8-10: The Greatest Showman BARNUM. Pavilion, Rhyl. A spectacular, colourful, family musical. Aug 9: Buddy Holly Lives. Southport Theatre. Enjoy all the hits performed by Asa Murphy as Buddy, Aug 10: Joe Longthorne. Venue Cymru. A special - greatest hits performance. Aug 10: Pink Floyd’s The Wall. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Celebrating the 40th anniversary of this incredible concept album masterpiece. Aug 10: The Dreamboys. Regent, Stoke. The biggest and most successful male glamour show in the UK. Aug 11: Showstoppers. Lyceum, Crewe. An evening of show-stopping and iconic song and dance numbers from stage and screen. Aug 12-17: The Mousetrap. Venue Cymru. Discover why Agatha Christie’s play has kept people guessing for so long. BSL Aug 15 7.30pm. Aug 13: Tabby McCat. Lyceum, Crewe. Suitable for children and families of all ages. Aug 13-17: Avenue Q. Southport Theatre. The laugh out loud show that’s had sell out runs on Broadway, and the West End. Age Restriction: 14+ Aug 16: The Drifters. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. A brand-new show featuring all their classic hits. Aug 17: The Who’s Tommy. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Includes multimedia, projections and an amazing light show. Aug 22: Luther – Luther Vandross Celebration. Venue Cymru. The World’s premier show in celebration of The Velvet Voice.

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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:

CHRISTMAS BELLES

REBECCA LAKE, left, and LYNNE FRANCIS

H NO it isn’t . . . oh yes, it is!

December 11 to January 12. Michael Starke plays the Huntsman and his actress wife Lynne Francis as the Wicked Queen. Other roles include Andrew Curphey as Muddles, Charlie Griffiths as Fairy, and Chris Pym as the Prince. There’s a signed performance on Sunday December 29 and a relaxed performance on Sunday January 5.

SUMMERTIME Compiled by CHRIS GROVES

Aug 22-24: The Sound of Music. Theatre Royal, St Helens. The Theatre Royal Youth Section present their annual musical. Aug 23: Frankly Sinatra. Venue Cymru. Aug 23: The Drifters. Lyceum, Crewe. Back on tour in the UK with a brand-new show performing all their classic hits from the last six decades. Aug 23: The Illegal Eagles. Southport Theatre. Featuring all of the Eagles’ classic hits. Aug 23: Dancing Queen. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Featuring the greatest hits from Abba, Grease and the biggest hits from the 70s. Aug 24: Best of That’ll be the Day! Southport Theatre. A nostalgia extravaganza. The UK’s No.1 Rock & Roll variety production. Aug 25: That’ll be the Day. Venue Cymru. Aug 25: From the Jam. Charter Theatre, Preston. Featuring Bruce Foxton from the original Jam line up. Aug 26: King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. More than just the

We might still be basking in the summer sunshine but the panto season is on the way, and word reaches us that The Brindley is already planning some festive surprises with its Snow White production. Rebecca Lake takes the leading role in the Runcorn show that runs from

world’s greatest jump, jive and swing band – they’re an institution. Aug 28-29: In the Night Garden Live. Palace, Manchester. Now in its 10th year, one of the UK’s favourite family events. Aug 29-Sep 1: Down our Street. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. A musical play celebrating the life and times of Cammell Laird Aug 29: Steve Steinman’s - Anything for Love. Venue Cymru. The closest you are ever going to get to Meat Loaf performing on stage. Aug 30: Nick Offerman: All Rise. Palace, Manchester. Sold out the Albert Hall in a matter of days. Aug 30: The Sound of Springsteen. Lyceum, Crewe. The band has made it clear that their passion for Springsteen outweighs all others. Aug 31: Roy Chubby Brown. Lyceum, Crewe. Aug 31-Sep 1: In the Night Garden Live. Venue Cymru. The Bafta awardwinning CBeebies children’s TV show. Aug 31: Paul Smith. Palace Manchester. One of the biggest selling names in UK stand up. Aug 31: Don McLean. Southport Theatre. One of America’s most beloved country artists. Sep 1: The Beach Boys Tribute Show. The

Brindley, Runcorn. If you like the Beach Boys’ songs, you will love this band. Sep 1-2: An Evening of Eric and Ern. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Memories of times when whole families would huddle around the telly on Sunday evenings. Sep 1: Bianca Del Rio’s it’s Jester Joke. Liverpool Empire. The most ambitious solo drag show tour in history. Sep 2: Blake – Movies and Musicals. The Brindley, Runcorn. Britain’s number one harmony group. Sep 3: The Music of John Denver. The Brindley, Runcorn. The spirit of his music of is captured by Chris Bannister. Sep 3-14: Blood Brothers. Liverpool Empire. Inevitably brings the audience cheering to its feet roaring approval. Captioned Sep 11, 2.30 pm. Sep 5: The Bon Jovi Experience. Lyceum, Crewe. The world’s first and finest tribute to the great Bon Jovi. Sep 5: The Dreamboys. Venue Cymru. The UK’s most famous girl’s night out, are back and hotter than ever. Sep 5: The Illegal Eagles. The Lowry. The

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Musical treat for everyone

Sep 19: An Evening with Sir Michael Parkinson. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Sep 19: Frankly Sinatra. Regent, Stoke. David Alacey as old Blue Eyes. Sep 20: Patsy Cline & Friends. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Tribute Concert. Sep 21: Let’s Hang On. Theatre Royal, St Helens. The music of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons. Sep 21: Thank ABBA For The Music. Venue Cymru. Sep 22: The Golden Age of Swing. The Brindley, Runcorn. Sep 22: Islands in the Stream. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Celebrating the music of the King and Queen of Country, Dolly Parton & Kenny Rogers. Sep 23: Lulu ‘On Fire’ Tour. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Lulu still has plenty to shout about as she embarks on another mammoth tour of the UK. OTHING beats the euphoria at a Sep 23-28: Friendsical. Grand gig when an entire audience Theatre, Blackpool. Musical inspired by sings along as one, and rock the gang in Friends, the iconic TV legends Massaoke have gained a show. global reputation for doing just that! Sep 23-28: Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical. Pavilion, Rhyl. Each of their shows is like karaoke but on The iconic hit musical has more glitter an epic scale, where lyrics are displayed on Exchange so that people of all ages and n A Massaoke Night at the Musicals than ever before. huge screens to enable everyone to let takes place at the Edinburgh Corn abilities can see them in action. Sep 24: Respect - The Aretha loose and sing their hearts out. Exchange on Friday and Saturday August The theme of the show is sure to appeal to Franklin Songbook. Lyceum, Crewe. However, the band members are aware 16/17. everyone – a musicals special featuring Paying tribute to the Queen of Soul. that some people are indeed missing out on Tickets start at £16 (plus fees) and are showtunes from the likes of Mamma Mia!, Sep 25: Some Guys have all the their shows because of a lack of accessibility available to purchase online at The Greatest Showman, Grease, Frozen, Luck. Theatre Royal, St Helens. The at venues. www.edfringe.com and Dirty Dancing, Evita, Wicked, Les Mis, Rod Stewart Story. So, determined to tackle the issue and put www.edinburghcornexchange.com. Jungle Book, We Will Rock You, The Sep 25: Respect – The Aretha their ‘music for the masses’ mantra into Franklin Songbook. Floral Pavilion, Phantom of the Opera, Mary Poppins and action, Massaoke are putting on a special New Brighton. more. seated matinee show at the Edinburgh Corn Sep 25-27: Blithe Spirit. The Brindley (Studio), Runcorn. A must see for all fans of great comedy drama. Sep 25-28: Summer Holiday. The Brindley, Runcorn. A real taste of British nostalgia. Sep 25-29: Madagascar the Musical. Regent, Stoke. Sep 27: That’ll be the Day. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Musical. Sep 27: The Best of Queen 2019. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Sep 28: The Houghton Weavers. Theatr Colwyn. Eagles’ famous harmonies sublimely replicated. Sep 11-14: The Woman in Black. Grand Sep 15: Tommy - The Album Live. Lyceum, Sep 29: Halfway to Paradise. The Brindley, Sep 5: Elton and the Rocket Band. Pavilion, Theatre, Blackpool. The West End smash hit. Crewe. The Goldhawks. Runcorn. Rock ‘n’ Roll Heaven - A great 60’s Rhyl. The number one Elton tribute on the One not to miss! Audio described, Sep 14, Sep 16-17: Circa – Humans. The Lowry. Ten night out. circuit today. 2.30pm acrobats take us on a stirring journey of what it Sep 29: One night in Dublin. Floral Pavilion, Sep 11-14: Bugsy Malone. The Brindley, Sep 6: The Roy Orbison Story. Venue Cymru. means to be human. New Brighton. The Wild Murphys, performing Runcorn. Musical based on the 1976 film Barry Steele with his uncanny ability to recreate Sep 17: Aled Jones and Russell Watson in great Irish songs. starring Jodie Foster. the vocal talents of this Harmony Tour. Venue Cymru. Sep 29: A Vision of Elvis. Theatre Royal, St Sep 12: Only Fools & Boycey. Lyceum Crewe. legendary entertainer. Sep 17-28: Motown the Musical. Liverpool Helens. An intimate evening with Only Fools and Horses Sep 6: A Tribute to Cliff Richard. Lyceum, Empire. Oct 1-5: The Exorcist. Regent Stoke. actor John Challis. Crewe. Simon Goodall stars. Sep 17-21: Witness for the Prosecution. The Featuring the voice of Ian McKellen as the Sep 13: Boyzlife. Charter Theatre, Preston. Sep 6: The Who’s Tommy. The Brindley, Brindley, Runcorn. Generally regarded as one Demon in this spine-tingling production. Brian McFadden and Keith Duffy, from Westlife Runcorn. Full live band with enhanced film of Agatha Christie’s most accomplished plays. Oct 1-5: 9 to 5 – The Musical. Liverpool and Boyzone, have joined forces. projections and light show. Sep 17-21: Joseph and the Amazing Empire. Dolly Parton’s smash-hit Sep 13: The Ariana Experience. Theatre Sep 7: Roy Orbison and the Travelling Technicolor Dreamcoat. Lyceum, Crewe. musical . Royal, St Helens. Wilburys Experience. The Brindley, Runcorn. Sep 17-21: 9 to 5 – The Musical. Palace, Oct 2: Right Place Wrong Time. Sep 13-21: A Taste of Honey. The Lowry. One Sep 7: A Country Night in Nashville. Venue Manchester. Dolly Parton’s rip-roaring musical Theatre Royal, St Helens. A comedy of the great defining and taboo-breaking plays Cymru. starring Louise Redknapp and Amber Davies. which is seriously “dead” funny. of the 1950s Sep 7-8: In the Night Garden Live. Grand Sep 18: The King is Back. Venue Cymru. Ben Oct 3: Dolly and the Moonshine Runners. Sep 14: Basil Brush’s Family Fun Theatre, Blackpool. Join Igglepiggle, Upsy Portsmouth looks like Elvis, and sounds just The Brindley, Runcorn. Show. The Lowry. Family show Daisy, Makka Pakka and friends for a brand Elvis. Oct 4: The ELO Experience. Theatre Royal, specially written for the stage. new show. Sep 18-21: The Addams Family. St Helens. Sep 14: LOL Comedy Club. Palace, Sep 8: Christina Bianco. The Lowry. The girl Grand Theatre, Blackpool. This Oct 4: Absolute Bowie. Charter Theatre, Manchester. The best live stand-up with thousand voices returns to the UK. Broadway musical is a monster family hit. Preston. across the UK: 4 comics. Sep 10-Oct 12: & Juliet. Opera House, Sep 18-22: Tom Gates - Live on Stage. Floral Oct 5: The Roy Sep 15: Griff Rhys Jones. Manchester. Irreverent and fun-loving new West Pavilion, New Brighton. Based on the bestOrbison Story. Floral selling books by Liz Pichon. The Lowry. End musical that asks: what if Juliet’s famous Pavilion, New Brighton. ending was really just her beginning? With Barry Steele

SPECIALS!

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Books

The easy way to control asthma

The Essential Guide to Asthma, by Catherine Short, Need2Knowbooks IF YOU have ever witnessed someone in the midst of an asthma attack it can be scary and overwhelming. Understanding the symptoms and triggers are vitally important. According to Asthma UK there are 5.4 million people with the condition in the UK – one in every 11 people and one in five households. For a quarter of a million people with severe asthma, even climbing the stairs can feel like a marathon, never mind going outside their home. Asthma is mostly considered a childhood complaint, although there are some people who develop symptoms later in life. In adults, symptoms are often triggered by flu and oral viral infections, exercise, anxiety, medicines such as aspirins, ibuprofen, or the inhalation of cigarette smoke, aerosols and perfumes. The good news is that pioneering research at the University of Manchester suggests that allergic conditions such as asthma or hay fever could be a thing of the past! This easy-to-read book, written especially for those who are affected by asthma, is full of practical information and advice. n Athma UK Helpline, 0300 222 5800

My wobbly eyes ... Can I Tell You About...Nystagmus? A child-friendly introductory guide, by Nadine Neckles, £8.99

IN THIS ‘friendly’ guide, a girl called Amber explains all about her ‘dancing eyes,’ or nystagmus. Amber explains how children with nystagmus might need to read, learn or play differently, and what their families, school and friends can do to help. She invites readers to learn the causes and symptoms, to help others understand the condition and help increase the self-esteem and confidence of those who have it. This guide for children aged 7+ is an excellent starting point for parents, teachers and other professionals working with children with nystagmus. Included is a practical checklist of easy adaptations to make school or home environments easier and more enjoyable, as well as a helpful list of recommended resources for additional support. n RNIB Helpline, 0303 123 9999

August/September 2019

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ARIES (March 21st-April 20th)

boundaries between you and your loved ones. The New Moon on the 28th warns against repeating secrets. You’ll make a powerful enemy after revealing privileged information. If someone is probing you for answers, block their calls and ignore their emails. You’re under no obligation to shed light on this situation. The truth will be revealed in the right time. Maintain your vow of silence; you’ll be rewarded for your discretion.

August gets off to a romantic start when the New Moon puts you on the path to love. On the 15th, the Full Moon will put strain on your social circle. Someone who has been taking advantage of your generosity will reveal their true colours. Parting ways will come as a profound relief. Another New Moon falls on the 30th, resulting in an exciting opportunity. An embarrassing secret will come to light during mid September, due to a troubling Full Moon. A jealous colleague will shed light on a deception, putting you in an awkward position. Instead of getting defensive, admit your mistake. Ask forgiveness. Change your behaviour. People will forgive you when they realise you have genuinely turned over a new leaf.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st)

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

The New Moon invites you to improve your domestic situation and there will be plenty going on that will require your attention on the 15th, due to an anxious Full Moon. It’s possible there will be more responsibilities heaped onto your plate. The second New Moon on the 30th invites you to relax and enjoy sensual pleasures. September’s tense Full Moon on the 14th will create a stir in your social circle. Lately, the people you’ve known for years have been upset by your absence at various functions. Think carefully before making any rash decisions. On the 28th, the New Moon brings with it an offer that might not be worth your time pursuing. You have too many family responsibilities.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

The opening days of August promise to be very busy. Take this opportunity to run errands, catch up on correspondence and reconnect with friends. The Full Moon on the 15th will bring a disappointing legal decision. Although you’ll be angered by this verdict, it’s important to pick yourself up and dust yourself off. Your relatives will be jealous of your career success in midSeptember. The Full Moon on the 14th finds you being celebrated by your work peers. Although you’re thrilled to be recognised in such a public manner, your family is less excited. They’re resentful of how much time you spend on your job. Unless you shift focus, you’ll drive a permanent wedge between you and your kin.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

A very attractive position could come your way during the opening days of August but think very carefully before taking the plunge. A stressful Full Moon on the 15th will make you vulnerable. Someone will take advantage of you when your guard is down. On the 30th a second New Moon will inspire you to pursue a childhood dream. A legal matter will be decided during mid September, due to a tense Full Moon. You’ll be disappointed by the results. The New Moon on the 28th could cause concern on the family front. You’re tired of being pushed around by condescending people; use the final days of September to assert your independence.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

On the 15th, the Full Moon will put great strain on a close relationship. You won’t be able to coax the people you love and like most into doing things your way. As a result, it may feel like you’re undermining each other’s dreams. Think carefully whether you want to continue this alliance. A second New Moon on the 30th attracts a fantastic opportunity. Arguments over an insurance refund, legal settlement or inheritance could erupt on

RUSSELL GRANT CALLING . . .

September 14th, due to a contentious Full Moon. Be prepared for certain relationships to fall apart at the seams. You’re about to learn how money can cause people to behave in hurtful ways.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd)

The opening days of August invite you to kick back and relax. The Full Moon on the 15th will force you to take better care of your health. Sugar, fat and alcohol can put a terrible strain on your system. Choose fresh produce, lean proteins and whole grains instead. By the time the second New Moon rises on the 30th, you’ll be in top form. A close relationship will show signs of strain in mid-September. The Full Moon on the 14th will fill you with a sense of urgency. Try as you might, you won’t be able to force people down a path they do not want to travel. Instead of putting more pressure on them, make a strategic retreat. The New Moon on the 28th will attract a moneymaking opportunity.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd)

Joining a club, team or organisation is strongly advised at the beginning of August. That’s when the New Moon will put you in contact with some creative people. Working alongside fellow artists will fuel your own imagination. The New Moon on the 30th will enhance your intuition. By listening to your instincts, you’ll be able to become emotionally and financially independent. Embrace your freedom. If you keep pushing yourself too hard, you’ll suffer health problems in mid-September. The Full Moon on the 14th invites you to take an extended break. Resist the temptation to alter your appearance on the 28th.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd)

August’s Full Moon on the 15th will force you to come to terms with a painful family situation. Be ready to turn your back on a relative whose inconsiderate behaviour makes you feel used and abused. Another New Moon on the 30th marks a festive party. Be sure to attend this gathering, even if you’re tired and irritable. Friends will conspire against you September 14th, when the Full Moon invites you to enjoy private pleasures. It’s time to set healthier

The sky is the limit during the opening days of August. Working towards lofty goals will be rewarding on all levels: emotionally, financially and spiritually. On the 15th, a stressful Full Moon will bring a painful secret to light. Instead of denying a mistake, own up to it. Make a sincere apology and then do everything in your power to make amends. September’s Full Moon on the 14th will shift your focus to family matters. It will be necessary to spend more time at home. As September draws to a close, you’ll be meeting lots of people. The New Moon on the 28th could find you rubbing elbows with prominent executives at a party. Be wary about striking deals at such gatherings.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th)

A passionate romance will make the opening days of August a time to remember. On the 15th, the Full Moon will force you to make an ethical decision. It may be necessary to take drastic action. Sitting idly while others are being abused is not an option. Speak truth to power. Surprising news will arrive in mid-September. The Full Moon on the 14th will shed light on a deception. Your outlook will change considerably after you learn the truth. Putting some distance between you and a manipulative relative will be necessary. An interesting opportunity will be made on or around the 28th, courtesy of the New Moon. Don’t be quick to accept a job offer that involves tremendous responsibility for very little compensation.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th)

The opening days of August are ideal for cementing a relationship, thanks to the loving New Moon on the 1st. On the 15th, the Full Moon will shed light on some embarrassing shortcomings. If someone challenges your bad behaviour, don’t be defensive. Listen carefully to the criticism and let it enlighten you. A second New Moon will rise on the 30th, suggesting you may receive a financial windfall. September’s Full Moon on the 14th puts stress on your bank account. On the 28th, the anxious New Moon will make you feel like fish out of water. It will be necessary to take a crash course in a specialised subject. At times, you’ll wonder if you can do a good job with so little training. Be patient and keep asking questions.

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th)

If you want to improve your health, now’s the time. Your energy will soar after making a few simple adjustments to your diet and exercise routine. The Full Moon on the 15th forces you to confront a persistent fear. The sooner you forgive yourself for past mistakes, the easier it will be to realise your heart’s desire. On the 30th, another New Moon will mark a turning point in a close relationship. You’re tired of being pushed around. September’s Full Moon on the 14th demands you confront this bully. The next time you are commanded to do something unpleasant, put your foot down. If this alliance falls apart at the seams, so be it. The New Moon on the 28th puts a crimp in your finances.

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August/September 2019

Six Six of of the the best best begonias begonias to to be be won won

IZARRE but beautiful – that’s the collection of begonias with amazing foliage to be won in this competition.

We have six sets of six varieties, worth £15 each, to give away. The plants come as vigorous plugs from Dibleys Nurseries, the leading breeder and grower of many houseplants, based at Llanelidan, Ruthin, North Wales, who have won gold medals at the world-famous Chelsea Flower Show for 30 years. The six begonias are Casey Corwin, which has large leaves with

a plum-coloured centre and broad green border, covered in silver freckles; Escargot, an astonishing plant with swirled leaves of olive green and silver; Connie Boswell, tall-growing with large, maple-shaped, silver leaves tinted with lilac; Listada, which has long, oval, dark green foliage with a striking yellow central vein; Masoniana, the “iron cross” begonia with green leaves marked with a distinctive, purple-grey ‘iron cross’ in the centre; and Red Robin, a compact plant with small, heartshaped, rich red leaves with black centre and border.

n To enter the competition, answer this question: Which variety is known as the “iron cross” begonia? n Send your entry with your name and address on a postcard or sealed envelope, stating where you picked up your copy of All Together NOW!, to Dibleys Competition, All Together NOW!, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP, to arrive by Friday, July 26, or enter online at www.alltogethernow.org.uk n For Dibleys’ full range of nearly 50 bizarre begonias and many lovely flowering houseplants, go to www.dibleys.com

CHECKLIST

Begonias Casey Corwin and Escargot

TAKE IT EASY! STUNNING COLOURS: Long-flowering potentilla

ASY-CARE gardens are always in demand but the simplest of all to maintain are often overlooked. And I don’t mean fence-to-fence concrete – that’s a car park.

Just concentrate on shrubs, preferably a blend of long-flowering types. There are plenty of them providing a range from scented winter beauty to graceful summer splendour. When planted, they should be allowed space for growth and the gaps will need occasional hoeing or weeding for the first two or three years. After that the shrubs will swamp any weeds impertinent enough to intrude. There is no need to grow bulbs, heathers or even annual bedding plants in the gaps. Bulbs, in particular, should be avoided because they will soon be poking shoots awkwardly through the canopy of leaves and it is never possible to find and relocate every bulb in a clump. Plan the borders according to the shrubs’ height as well as spread and mix evergreen and deciduous types. Plant your chosen specimens in October, ideally with some organic material – wellrotted manure or garden compost – beneath and round the roots. Start to feed them after two years, using a

BRILLIANT BLUE: Ceanothus variety Concha

general fertiliser initially, then a potassium-rich preparation such as rose or tomato fertiliser. Here are some that will spread to smother weeds and need little pruning. If they start to grow too large, the best general rule is to prune those that flower before September as soon as the blooms have faded and prune later flowering types in early spring. Potentilla fruticosa is hardier than most shrubs and its varieties have some stunning colours – including bright bronze-red Red Ace and rich yellow Katherine Dykes. They grow to 1m x 1.3m (3ft x 4ft) and flower from early summer until September. Ceanothus includes both evergreen and deciduous shrubs, some up to 2.5m (8ft) and all with a fine display of blue flowers – from sky to royal blue – from June onwards. Abelia x grandiflora has pink and white tubular flowers from July into October. It is semievergreen but is best grown against a wall in

exposed areas. It will reach 2m (7ft) in height and 1.7m (5ft) in spread. Buddleia davidii, the well-known butterfly bush, has great spikes of honey-scented flowers, purple, mauve or white from July to September. It is reliably hardy, deciduous, and is best hard pruned to 30cm (12in) from the ground in March. Some varieties reach 3m x 3m (10ft x 10ft). Ceratostigma willmottianum, the Chinese plumbago, is a small shrub but with equally striking pale blue, phlox-like flowers from July until November. These contrast with the bronze stems and bright green leaves, which turn red in autumn. Chimomanthus praecox or winter-sweet is a deciduous shrub that produces yellow flowers with a purple eye on the leafless stems, filling the chilly air with its fragrance from December to March. It is hardy but likes a sunny spot. It grows tall – up to 3m (10ft) – and a little wider than that. Hebes, the shrubby veronicas, also offer a range of small shrubs for long summer performance with flowers from deep blue-purple to pale blue, pink and white. They are evergreen except in severe winters and generally reach 1m (3ft). Apart from the buddleia, none of these needs pruning except for size or to remove dead wood after a hard winter. Who said there was no such thing as easy gardening?

FLOWERS: In August, take cuttings of pelargoniums (bedding geraniums) from shoots that have not flowered, cutting beneath a leaf node and removing all but the top two or three leaves. Pot them in gritty compost in a shady, protected place such as a north-facing windowsill indoors. Plant autumn flowering bulbs such as colchicum and autumn crocus. SHRUBS AND TREES: Clip hedges and topiary, removing all new growth unless it is needed to fill gaps or add height. Take 15cm (6in) cuttings of lavender in August from stems that have not flowered. Trim them below a leaf-joint, strip off all leaves except four to six at the top. Insert them in deep pots or the ground in gritty soil or compost in a shady place. PATIOS: Remove the dead heads of container flowers every day. Make sure the compost does not dry out and give a liquid feed regularly. LAWNS: Raise the mower blades – grass can take weeks to recover if sheared too short in hot weather. PONDS: When the water level falls in dry weather, provide fish with oxygen by trickling water on to the surface, but not near water lilies that dislike disturbed water. VEGETABLES: Keep picking courgettes and beans as soon as they are big enough. The more you pick, the more the plants will produce. By mid-August, sow spring cabbages for cropping early next year. FRUIT: Peg down strawberry runners to produce new plants. Fix them into small pots of compost buried up to their rims in the ground. This makes the young plants easy to plant out with little disturbance to their roots. HERBS: Take cuttings of shrubby herbs like sage, rosemary and thyme. GREENHOUSE: Water and feed tomatoes and other crops regularly. Plants in growing bags or pots may need watering twice a day. HOUSEPLANTS: Plant hyacinth bulbs in pots to bloom indoors in winter.

All Together NOW!

August/September 2019

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. 1

★

★ 8

★ 10

★

★ 28

★

★ 30

ACROSS

DOWN

1. 4. 8. 9. 10. 13.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 11. 12. 14. 15. 16. 17. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27.

17. 18. 19. 20. 22. 25. 28. 29. 30. 31.

Striped mammal (5) Planet (7) Back door (7) Rot (5) Pleasure-boat (5) Complete set of baby’s clothing (7) Irk (3) Savage (6) Non-professional person (6) Cereal (3) Farewell (4-3) Iron alloy (5) Destitute (5) Freedom (7) Finch-like bird (7) Horseman (5)

★

Each question has four possible answers and is worth from one to 15 points. Circle your chosen answers and keep a record of your points total. Maximum total points 120.

QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: The cartoon character Mr Magoo had which medical condition?

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: Income tax was first introduced in Britain to fund which war?

A B C D

A bad stammer Constant sneezing Short-sightedness A very bad memory

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: Which plant represents Wales on pound coins? A B C D

A B C D

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: Which mammal species has males and females known as jills and hobs? A B C D

Otter Badger Hedgehog Ferret

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: How many stars make up the constellation of the Plough? A B C D

Five Six Seven Eight

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: Which Gilbert and Sullivan comic opera features the character Little Buttercup? A B C D

A B C D

Helen Shapiro Sandie Shaw Britney Spears Kylie Minogue

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: What in medieval military architecture was a barbican?

The Pirates of Penzance The Mikado The Gondoliers HMS Pinafore

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: Which Dutch football club plays at a stadium called the Amsterdam ArenA? Ajax Feyenoord Sparta Rotterdam PSV Eindhoven

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: Which fictional TV ranch was the home of the Ewing family? A B C D

Shiloh Southfork High Chaparral Ponderosa

A B C D

A moat A projecting tower over a castle gate A system of earthworks A drawbridge

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Which planet has the longest day? A B C D

Jupiter Saturn Mars Venus

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: What in Scotland is called a partan bree? A B C D

Crab soup The feather on a cap A lament played on bagpipes A tweed suit

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.

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

A B C D

Actress Felicity Jones. See Question 4

Stephen Hawking Albert Einstein Thomas Edison Alan Turing

West Side Story Guys and Dolls On the Town Mame

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: Who of the following singers was the youngest to have had a UK No 1 hit?

Aloysius Algernon Alfredo Alphonse

SUDOKU

EASY

A B C D

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: What was the first name of the Chicago gangster Al Capone? A B C D

The Crimean War The American War of Independence The Napoleonic Wars The Boer War

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: The song I Feel Pretty was first featured in which musical?

Daffodil Shamrock Leek Thistle

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: In 2014, Felicity Jones played the on-screen wife of which famous scientist?

Lively (inf.) (5) Fundamental (5) Ward off (5) Tropical forest (6) Field of rice (5) Implied (5) Verse (5) Spanish friend (5) Biblical king (5) Wheel shaft (4) Arab republic (5) Detect (5) Extremely (4) Sulphur colour (6) Biological group (5) Greek letter (5) Purchaser (5) Not drunk (5) Sinned (5) Single thickness (5)

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DIFFICULT

2 5 1 4

7 4 6

8 3 9

4 5

2 1

3 1 6 2

6 5 3 7

8 9

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

MEDIUM 33

9 20

19 15

15 20 29 15

4 7 22 5

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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?

DIALLING CODES

CROSS CODE

All Together NOW!

August/September 2019

2 ABC

3 DEF

4 GHI

5 JKL

6 MNO

7 PQRS

8 TUV

9 WXYZ

â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

TIME

THIN

â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

PICK

FINGER

â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

PUNCH

GOOD

â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

PAPER

BLOOD

â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

EGG

â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

American words which

5. Italian cities 723 821 265 646 217 472 176 631 836 423 172 617 366 188 746 135 673 623 143 662 127 463 474 183 766 217 253 766 187 437 831 645 261 627 537

6. venues 745 837 786 631 377 661 567 371 781 263 739 712 797 825 172 522 314 365 391 246 873 314 267 336 172 751 946 253 366 193 625 391 223 646 866

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 ten films featuring Johnny Depp.

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 00?

E W D

C O N

H W

D O

F M H O

HALL

3. comedy actors 728 633 771 947 313 791 373 624 173 553 771 267 238 812 533 731 285 467 661 966 318 283 135 254 541 436 791 645 544 261 648 243 551 227 537

MISSING LINK Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (e.g. FRONT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DOOR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MAT). The initial letters of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out a freshwater fish.

2. sea and water birds 426 638 138 251 786 751 473 231 485 517 833 461 736 484 614 376 617 582 146 673 173 542 261 424 712 522 876 771 792 617 546 637 135 264 646

4. have English alternatives 353 828 671 243 253 771 336 337 172 687 125 673 814 663 174 339 255 124 325 173 258 671 767 742 531 373 392 918 893 361 328 238 128 867 639

Spaces and any punctuation marks are represented by 1.

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

1 []â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;&#x201C;

1. foreign novelists 226 871 787 546 315 664 189 246 172 546 437 162 661 546 413 862 717 869 317 278 731 624 537 174 636 661 627 741 367 869 387 591 237 826 837

G M

C O O C

T M E R

L A

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

C B E D

CAPILLAIRE 1) A cyst-like swelling on a horseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elbow or on the back part of the hock;

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

E W D

O N

W O L D N S TRANSFORMER

WASH

SQUASH

major British sporting

2) A fringed border made from very fine silken threads;

1. British troops are sent to join American forces fighting in the Korean War. 2. The first Volkswagen Type 2 (also known as the Camper van) rolls off the assembly line in Wolfsburg, Germany.

3) A syrup made from an infusion of maidenhair fern flavoured with orangeflower water.

3. Walt Disney releases his full-length cartoon feature film Cinderella.

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

Clue: Insect not starting to get into womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clothing.

WAS IT? a) 1947; b) 1950; c) 1953; d) 1956; e) 1959.

_____ +B=B_____

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords A Nightmare On Elm Street; Edward Scissorhands; Sleepy Hollow; Chocolat; From Hell; Corpse Bride; Rango; Alice In Wonderland; Dark Shadows; The Tourist.

8 4 1 6 3 9 5 7 2

9 7 3 4 5 2 1 8 6

6 5 2 1 8 7 3 9 4

5 2 8 3 1 4 9 6 7

SUDOKU EASY

4 6 9 5 7 8 2 3 1

1 3 7 9 2 6 4 5 8

2 1 6 8 9 5 7 4 3

7 8 5 2 4 3 6 1 9

3 9 4 7 6 1 8 2 5

9 3 1 5 6 7 2 8 4

5 8 2 1 4 9 3 7 6

7 4 6 2 8 3 9 1 5

3 1 8 6 7 2 4 5 9

0 =

7 2

1 : &

+ 6

' 9

8 ( * ;

)

5 3 4

CROSS CODE

6 2 9 8 5 4 7 3 1

4 5 7 9 3 1 6 2 8

SUDOKU DIFFICULT

2 9 4 3 1 8 5 6 7

1 7 5 4 2 6 8 9 3

8 6 3 7 9 5 1 4 2

22 15 29 9 20

9 6

4 8

15 19

KAKURO MEDIUM

7 2 20

3 12

8 9

3 20

1 4

Accumulator Quiz 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; D; 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; D; 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 7 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; D; 8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; D; 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A. Starspot Crossword Across â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Zebra; 4 Jupiter; 8 Postern; 9 Decay; 10 Yacht; 13 Layette; 17 Vex; 18 Fierce; 19 Layman; 20 Rye; 22 Good-bye; 25 Steel; 28 Needy; 29 Liberty; 30 Sparrow; 31 Rider. Down â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Zippy; 2 Basic; 3 Avert; 4 Jungle; 5 Paddy; 6 Tacit; 7 Rhyme; 11 Amigo; 12 Herod; 14 Axle; 15 Egypt; 16 Trace; 17 Very; 21 Yellow; 22 Genus; 23 Omega; 24 Buyer; 25 Sober; 26 Erred; 27 Layer. Star Name: JUDY FINNIGAN

Word Wizard No 3 is correct. Capillaire is a syrup. Dialling Codes 1. Camus; SÃ¼skind; Jong; Twain; Salinger; Mann; King; Dumas; Stowe; Sartre; Mailer; Simenon; Marsh; Dostoyevsky; Cervantes. 2. gannet; duck; stork; grebe; gull; puï¬&#x192;n; penguin; heron; skua; goose; pelican; ibis; albatross; swan; skimmer; ï¬&#x201A;amingo. 3. Saunders; Wise; Fry; French; Sellers; Corbett; Cleese; Atkinson; Wood; Tate; Djalili; Henry; Milligan; Mitchell; Barker. 4. elevator; checkers; fender; pants; closet; hood; sidewalk; check; realtor; popsicle; freeway; tuxedo; faucet; attorney.

5. Padua; Bologna; Pisa; Rome; Venice; San Remo; Turin; Florence; Genoa; Brindisi; Verona; Salerno; Trieste; Milan; Naples. 6. Silverstone; Epsom; Lords; St Andrews; Crystal Palace; Henley; Aintree; Hampden Park; Wimbledon; Wembley; Badminton. Spot Check A = 1; B = 3; C = 2; D = 6; E = 4; F = 5. Missing Link mark; ice; nail; news; orange; white. Fish: minnow. Make a Date The year was 1950. Transformer Louse + B = Blouse.

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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. NAME

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LIFE IN THE FAST LANE

RACE ACE: Opportunities are opening up for disabled motorsport enthusiasts, thanks to the efforts of Nathalie McGloin

HE only professional female tetraplegic racing driver in the world is campaigning to get more disabled people competing on the top circuits. Nathalie McGloin is also determined to improve facilities for spectators in her role as president of the International FIA Disability and Accessibility Commission. The 35-year-old, who competes against able-bodied drivers in the Porsche Club Championship, is calling for major, widespread changes to make the sport more inclusive and accessible. They include her wish to see more competition licences for drivers with disabilities. Nathalie has launched an Accessible Podiums campaign, which asks venues to invest in infrastructure and services to allow competitors, spectators and support staff who have physical impairments or mobility limitations to attend

Nathalie’s driving ambition to open her sport up to all

events and navigate venues safely. She also wants big improvements in seating and parking facilities, plus online information resources. Her aim is to make all Formula 1, GP and Formula E circuits certified with FIA Disabled Access Status by the end of the year. Nathalie said: “I look forward to seeing significant progress in accessibility over the coming months, and thank the entire FIA organisation for its support in helping to shape the future of motorsport.” Nathalie broke her neck in a car crash at the age of 16, leaving her completely paralysed from the chest. She graduated in 2007 from

Nottingham University with a degree in English Studies, then proceeded to pursue a career in wheelchair rugby. In May 2015, she was the first female with a spinal cord injury to be awarded a race licence in the UK, and, a few days later, became the only female tetraplegic in the world to complete a race. The following year, Nathalie and her partner, Andrew Bayliss, founded Spinal Track, a charity that gives people the opportunity to take part in track driving experiences in specially modified cars. Nathalie hopes to include rally car driving over the year. Nathalie races a Porsche Cayman S PDK in the Porsche Club Championship, competing against able-bodied drivers. As well as her FIA Commission responsibilities, Nathalie is an ambassador for the charity Dare To Be Different. n www.nathaliemcgloinracing.com n www.fia.com

HALF A MILLION readers across the North West . . .

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August/September 2019

All Together NOW!

Broken promises BRIEFLY

ON THE BALL: Che Gray takes centre stage . . . Insets, clockwise from top left: Bradley Newton, Darren Harris, Rosie Hodgson and Cameron Osburn

S THE football season swings into action, the Football Association is urging anyone dreaming of playing the game to take a look at their new online film.

The film shines a spotlight on five grassroots disability footballers, telling the story of their own individual journey into the game, from those seeking a competitive environment in which to play the game to others simply finding fun, sociable ways of keeping active. Paul Elliott, Chair of The FA’s Inclusion Advisory Board, said: “This film is a great way of celebrating disability football by demonstrating the impact the game is having on the lives of those people who already play. “By telling these stories, we hope to raise awareness of the opportunities that exist for all within grassroots disability football.”

MEET THE PLAYERS

BRADLEY NEWTON Bradley had a stroke at the age of 16 after an accident in a school PE lesson ruptured a blood vessel in his neck, which travelled to his brain. As a result, he lost his left sided peripheral vision. The Macclesfield Eye Society introduced Bradley to the National Partially Sighted Football League which led to him joining the North West Scorpions. Since then, Bradley has won two National Player of the Year Awards and two National cups while his confidence has grown as he’s become more comfortable with his impairment.

SO IS FOOTIE YOUR GOAL? n VIEW the film at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVhz beIkr-M&feature=youtu.be To find out how to get involved in disability football, visit: www.thefa.com/disability

CAMERON OSBURN Cameron is in his second full season with the senior North East & Yorkshire Disability squad since moving up from the junior team. Cameron’s performances have seen him called up to the England U21 Cerebral Palsy Squad. Outside of playing, he has set up a youth team in Harrogate to provide playing opportunities for young players with a disability.

CHE GRAY Having lost his leg a week from birth from a blood clot, Che originally started playing at the age of four with the Southampton Pan Disability team. At 14, he started playing for Portsmouth Amputees and training with the England Amputee youth team. He was recently called up to the England Amputees u23s squad, and has ambitions to play on the international stage and win trophies with England.

DARREN HARRIS Wolverhampton-born Darren has had an extraordinary career in disability sport, going to two different Paralympic Games where he competed in judo and football. Darren is England’s most capped male footballer, having played 150 times and scoring 34 goals.

ROSIE HODGSON Rosie, who is currently studying for a degree in photography, began playing in 2010. She initially played for Norwich City PFC and won promotion to the Premiership. She went on to play for Muscle Warriors (Watford) where she won the championship before joining Aspire PFC where she has now played for four seasons, successfully winning the FA Disability Cup twice. Rosie has represented Aspire in European competition at the 2016 and 2018 EPFA Nations Cup and has travelled worldwide to watch powerchair football, including Ireland, France and America.

PARALYMPIC stars are backing an inquiry into why disabled children continue to be the victims of broken promises made at the 2012 Games. Leading figures in education say there has been a trend of broken vows and inactivity since the 2012 London Paralympics, which was supposed to be a springboard for improving the daily lives and physical activity of disabled people. Instead of a new lease of life for disabled children, researchers Tom Gibbons and Stuart Braye claim they are still treated as outsiders and not given opportunities to partake in sport at school. Stuart Braye, a medallist at the 1992 Paralympics in Barcelona, said: “The 2012 Paralympics were supposed to kick-start a revolution for disabled people, but we are yet to witness any significant changes.” Britain’s most decorated ever Paralympian Baroness Tanni GreyThompson hopes a major study headed by Gibbons and Braye will help finally break down those barriers. Their research – at Teesside University – is shining the spotlight on initial teacher training and whether PE teachers feel adequately trained to include disabled children in lessons.

Saddle up

THANKS to a £4,000 injection of funds, the Penrith-based Happy Hooves Accessibility Mark Centre has been able to increase the number of people who can benefit from its equine therapy course. Happy Hooves owner Alison Noble was awarded £2,000 from the Holehird Trust and a further £2,000 from the Tesco ‘Bags for Help’ scheme. n To find your nearest RDA Group or Accessibility Mark centre call 01926 492915 or email info@rda.org.uk www.rda.org.uk

Records smashed

NEW world records were set at the Cerebral Palsy Sport Athletics Series in York. Rafik Solaiman, 19, from City of Sheffield and Dearn AC, powered home in the Senior RR3 Male 200m in a time of 35.99 seconds – knocking almost three seconds off the previous record of 38.15. And Thomas Talbot, 15, from Lincoln Wellington AC, set up his new record of 7.15.35 minutes in the Under 16 Male RR2 1500m. Rafi said: “Race running has filled in the empty space in my life. It has made me new friends and got me to places and milestones that were once unthinkable”

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