All Together Now magazine - Issue 27 - October 2009

YOUR AWARD-WINNING CHARITY MAGAZINE THAT’S BREAKING DOWN THE BARRIERS UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE

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What’s inside NEWS:

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LEISUREZONE:

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THEATRE GUIDE:

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MERESEYTRAVEL:

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GARDENING: Competition

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HOLIDAYS

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SKILLZONE:

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PUZZLEZONE:

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Call us on: 0151 230 0307

Who to contact Editorial Editor: Tom Dowling email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

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

NEXT EDITION: Monday 30 November, 2009 All Together Now! is published by All Together Now! Ltd, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP Registered Charity No.1106387 Company No. 5096931

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October/November 2009

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NEWS

We can cando do We sillyand and silly dangerous things too

Hidden millions failing to act FOUR million people in the UK could benefit from hearing aids – but are not getting the help they need, say the Royal National Institute for Deaf people.

EPIC VOYAGE: Yachtswoman Hilary Lister aboard Me Too

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ACHTSWOMAN Hilary Lister has just become the first female quadriplegic to sail solo around Britain.

The Oxford biochemistry graduate, 37, who can only move her head, eyes and mouth, began her voyage in May. But a month later she had to be treated in hospital after being rescued from rough seas off Pembrokeshire.

During her teens, Hilary was diagnosed with the degenerative disease reflex sympathetic dystrophy which causes exaggerated and painful responses

The lads lads The all set to scale a musical mountain

from normal sensations.

Able to move only her head, eyes and mouth, Hilary took up sailing as a way to boost her selfconfidence.

She controls her speciallyadapted vessel, an Artemis 20 called Me Too, using a “sip-andpuff” system.

Hilary said she was “hugely proud” of the six strong team who provided back-up throughout her series of 40 day-long sails.

“They worked so hard for four months without a day off,” she said. “They were fantastic!”

The challenge has so far raised £30,000 for her charity, Hilary’s Dream Trust, which exists to provide assistance to disabled and disadvantaged adults who want to sail.

Two years ago Hilary sailed into the record books with her solo English Channel crossing.

“I want to get able-bodied people to rethink their views about the disabled,” she said.

“We do not need wrapping up in cotton wool and can go out and do silly or dangerous things if that’s what we want to do.”

Three Peaks Challenge on October 24 in 24 hours.

Sam Lawson, whose mum works at Leeds Society, said: “This is going to be one of the most challenging things any of us have ever done and performing at the top of each mountain will literally be breathtaking.

“Leeds Society is a fantastic charity and does a lot to help the thousands of people in the region with visual or hearing impairments and we just want to give something back.

“We’re taking a camera, our acoustic guitars and a few other

musical instruments to rock out at the top of each mountain, in addition to climbing each one.

We know it’ll be hard work, but so worth it.”

The indie-rock outfit has pledged to send a free copy of their album – due to be released at Christmas – to those who donate £10 or more.

The high-altitude gigs will be available to watch at www.myspace.com/codego once they have completed the challenge. n To sponsor CODEGO contact 0113 243 8328.

GOING UP IN THE WORLD: Rock band CODEGO are taking on a massive challenge for charity

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OCK band CODEGO are about to reach the peak of their careers – three peaks in fact!

The Halifax-based band will attempt to perform and record acoustic open-air gigs at the peaks of Ben Nevis, Scotland, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon in a bid to raise money for Leeds Society for Deaf and Blind People.

Lead guitarist Sam Lawson, vocalist Lee Bray, bass player Matt Horrocks, drummer Danny Chambers and Alex Jones, on keyboard, all aim to complete the

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The charity’s chief executive, Jackie Ballard, said: “People tell us they are worried to admit they have a hearing loss. It’s not seen as ‘normal’ – there’s a stigma around it.

“More must be done to highlight this hidden crisis and encourage people to value their hearing. We find it staggering that it still takes people around 10 to 15 years before they address their hearing loss, compared to around three years for sight problems.”

The charity is now calling for a national hearing screening programme and more joined-up health services to address the effects of hearing loss and reduce isolation and poor health for older people.

“A national hearing screening programme could tackle this stigma, make it easier for people to get their hearing checked and help the wearing of hearing aids to become more widespread and accepted,” said Ms Ballard.

“We’re calling on the Government to take immediate action, recognise the social and economic benefits of hearing screening and invest in a programme to support independence and improve the quality of life for millions.”

RNID’s Information Line: 0808 808 0123 (freephone) or 0808 808 9000 (textphone) www.rnid.org.uk TAKE ME HOME!

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NEWS

GO NATIONAL! — that’s what media judges have told us THE small editorial team at the All Together NOW! charity magazine has been highly commended at the O2 Media Awards – alongside the might of BBC North West!

Judges said they were hugely impressed with our high quality, bi-monthly publication.

They said: “The All Together NOW! team was literally at the opposite end of the spectrum to the BBC. “Here is a specialised newspaper with limited resources that consistently produces fabulous editions for its growing army of readers.

“From its Jack-of-all-trades editor through to the part time editorial supporters it is a fabulous example of how sheer willpower and a reluctance to give in can create and maintain a specialist publication.

“All Together NOW!’s success is remarkable and one judge even commented on how it should consider going national in its distribution.”

The O2 award comes hot on the heels of other exciting news . . . n The Morgan Foundation has again shortlisted us – for the second year running – in the ‘Against All Odds’ category of their 2009 entrepreneur awards. n UK property giants Redrow are now stocking All Together NOW! in all their 12 show homes across the North West; and n The National Information Forum have again written very glowingly about us – see their front page article on this page.

It’s all very encouraging – especially in these very, very tough times that the newspaper industry is facing.

We can’t thank enough our sponsors, advertisers and readers for the terrific ongoing support. Without it, we just would not be where we are today!

I hope you enjoy this colourful autumn edition. Next stop, Christmas . . .

See you soon. Tom Dowling, editor

Time to speak up!

LEADING disability network Equality 2025 is holding its first annual meeting in Manchester on October 15.

Equality 2025’s chair Rowen Jade said: “Equality 2025 is a groundbreaking organisation. For the first time, disabled people have an ‘open door’ into government. It’s up to us to use that opportunity as effectively as possible.

“Our annual meeting is a great opportunity for disabled people to find out more about what we do and how they can get involved. I would encourage anyone who is interested to register today.”

Places are limited - email eq2025.secretariat@dwp.gsi.gov.uk or

Garden book winners

TEAM-WORK: Tom Dowling, seated, with Ken Almond, left, Gemma Tasker and Chris Groves REDROW are now stocking All Together NOW!

THE three lucky winners of our Royal Horticultural Society Encyclopedia of Garden Design competition are: n Miss Barbara Siney, Mesnes Road, Wigan. She writes: “I am a subscriber and thoroughly enjoy reading the magazine. It’s full of interesting information!” n Mrs L Lenard, Park Close, Penwortham Park, Preston, who picked up her copy at Preston Library. n Angela James, Walleys Drive, Basford, Newcastle-under-Lyme (Bridgemere Garden Centre)

Phab times ahead ALL TOGETHER NOW!

We featured this newspaper for disabled people in News Briefing no.10, but feel compelled to praise it again. Unlike some magazines for disabled people, it adopts a positive tone, encouraging readers to push boundaries. The latest issue had Ann purring with pleasure, exclaiming out loud on its stunning presentation.

CHESTER Phab group is staging the Phab Northern Weekend Seminar, at Forest Hills Hotel, Frodsham (November 27-29).

More than 80 people from across the north are expected at the event.

Lynda Hesketh, who helped to set up the Chester group 21 years ago, said: “Our group meet on the second Monday of the month at the Oaklands Hotel, Hoole Road, Chester - and we welcome new members.”

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October/November 2009

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NEWS

Terry shares a special memory Let’s hear it NOW for the children THE NEEDS of children with disabilities in foster care are being ignored, according to leading charity the Fostering Network.

The charity’s report, Caring for children with disabilities, shows that disabled children who are fostered are at risk of not receiving the care they need due to serious gaps in training and support for foster carers.

Based on research funded by the Children’s Workforce Development Council, it says that nearly 80% of foster carers in England looking after disabled children were not recruited specifically to foster children with disabilities.

Half have not received the necessary specialist training.

The Fostering Network is now recommending that the Government gather statistics on the number of disabled children in care and the nature of their disabilities.

‘Clumsy child’ guide ONE in 10 children could have dyspraxia, says one of the UK’s foremost authorities. The condition is also known as “clumsy child syndrome”.

Dr Peter Gardner, co-founder of Appleford School in Wiltshire, a specialist school for children with dyslexia says: “A dyspraxic child will have difficulties with controlling their movements. Each child will have a unique combination of difficulties which can affect many aspects of their life.”

Dr Gardner has produced a fact sheet for parents who think their child may have the condition. n For a free copy, call: 01980 621020 www.applefordschool.org

MEMORIES mean so much. But for people with Alzheimer’s Disease memory loss is inevitable.

To raise awareness about the disease that affects 700,000 people – and their families – in the UK, the Alzheimer’s Research Trust has launched a website packed with memories of celebrities and politicians.

All Together NOW! readers are also being invited to contribute to the Memories Matter website.

Sir Terry Pratchett, patron of the Alzheimer’s Research Trust, lives with a rare form of Alzheimer’s disease, Posterior Cortical Atrophy.

Here is his special memory . . .

“The day my daughter was born. It was a dark and stormy night when she was in intensive care, but kind of OK. It was a long delivery. I thought that some celebration was in order. I found a piece of stewing steak in the fridge. It was the best damn steak I’d ever had. I cooked it with lots of onions. It was very tough, but it tasted absolutely beautiful. I went off into the driveway and I fell flat on my face. I didn’t hurt myself. And the elation - I mean, nothing could’ve gone wrong that night. I think I’d hate to lose that memory.” n www.memories-matter.org Alzheimer’s Research Trust helpline: 01223 843899.

Benefit fears

ELATION: Terry Pratchett

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HE Government has refused to rule out scrapping a key disability benefit as part of its proposed adult social care reforms.

Concerns over the future of disability living allowance (DLÅ), which is not meanstested and is intended to cover the extra costs of an impairment, were raised after the Government published its care and support green paper in July.

The green paper, currently out to consultation, stated: “We think we should consider integrating some elements of disability benefits, for example attendance allowance (AA), to create a new offer for individuals with care needs.”

by JOHN PRING

This could mean money currently allocated for AA being used instead by social services to help fund means-tested personal budgets.

But some campaigners raised concerns that DLA (or at least its care component) could also be “integrated” into council funds, with more than 13,000 people signing up within five days to a campaign to save AA and DLA launched by the Benefits and Work website.

Many disabled people have also expressed their concerns about DLA and AA on the Government’s Big Care Debate website.

But the Department for Work

and Pensions (DWP) have declined to rule out the possible scrapping of DLA. When asked if scrapping DLA was an option, a DWP spokesman said: “It depends on what people say in the consultation. We need to see what people say when they respond.

“We are consulting and we will be listening to what people have to say. It’s not an open consultation if you start closing down options.”

The comments came after a series of disability charities took steps to reassure their members that they will fight any plans to scrap DLA and AA. n The consultation ends on November 13.

Visit www.careandsupport.direct.gov.uk

Brainwave centre NATIONAL charity Brainwave, which provides home-based therapy programmes for children with cerebral palsy and other conditions such as development delay, has opened a new centre in Birchwood, Warrington, to cope with the increasing demand for its services.

Christine Cryne, Brainwave’s chief executive officer, said: “Our enquiries are growing at 30% year on year so the trustees decided that we needed to expand.

“The families on our programme have said how difficult it can be travelling long distances with children with disabilities so rather than expanding at our current centres in Essex and Somerset, we chose to set up a new centre in Warrington.”

Brainwave works with families to deliver individual home-based therapy and exercise programmes that help children with disabilities and developmental delay to achieve their potential. n Tel. 01925 825547, www.brainwave.org.uk

Work that brain!

EXERCISING the brain – through crosswords, playing cards or similar activities – may delay the start of memory decline in people who a new study has found.

Scientists found that irrespective of people’s education earlier in life, ‘cognitive reserve’ could be built up by taking part in intellectually stimulating leisure activities.

Rebecca Wood, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Research Trust, said: “This study shows that exercising the brain may delay the start of memory loss in people who develop dementia.

“This adds to the ‘use it or lose it’ hypothesis that we can reap the benefits of stimulating our minds regularly, perhaps by doing crosswords, playing chess or adding up the shopping before getting to the till.

“Dementia risk can be reduced by eating a healthy diet, whilst keeping an active body and mind. With more research we may be able to find ways of preventing dementia.

1.4m people in the UK will develop dementia within a generation, so we need to invest now.”

Nearly 500 New Yorkers took part in the study by US researchers.

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October/November 2009

NEWS

WIN a £500 hamper C

HRISTMAS is set to come early for one very lucky All Together NOW! reader.

We’ve teamed up with Park Group – who operate the UK’s biggest Christmas Savings Club – to give you the chance to win their top of the range Christmas hamper.

The Empire hamper is worth £495 – and it could be all yours if you win our super competition. It’s our biggest and best ever competition and we are certain it will whet your appetite!

This monster hamper contains a huge amount of Christmas food and drink goodies to keep even the biggest families fed over the festive period.

It’s filled with top brand confectionery,

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desserts, soft drinks, beers, wines, spirits, pasta, soups, vegetables, freezer foods and the finest quality meat.

You even get six crystal wine glasses so you and your loved ones can toast your finest Christmas dinner ever!

Park Group is based in Birkenhead, Merseyside.

Founder and Park Group chairman, Peter Johnson said: “It is pleasing and reassuring to note that over the years, irrespective of economic circumstances, our customer base has remained solid and loyal.”

All you have to do to stand a chance of winning your dream hamper is answer these two questions: 1) Who is the chairman of Park Group?

16:40

2) Where is Park Group’s headquarters?

The first correct entry drawn out on Friday, October 23, will win the hamper.

Send your answers on the back of a postcard – telling us where you picked up your copy of All Together NOW! AND what you like about it – to: Park Hamper Competition, All Together NOW!, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP. You can also enter online at www.alltogethernow.org.uk – and please tell us what you think of our website!

If you would like to join Park and save towards a debt free Christmas 2010, go to www.parkcatalogue.co.uk/atn1 and request a copy of their catalogue

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Scooter fire warning from health agency USERS of Days Healthcare’s ‘Strider’ mobility scooters are being warned that their vehicle could overheat and catch fire.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) say they have received a report of an electronic control unit on one of the scooters overheating, causing smoke to rise from under the rear bodywork.

No injuries were sustained, but overheating of the ECU could cause the insulation on the cables around it to melt.

Strider scooters are made in Taiwan

by Kymco and distributed through Europe by Days Healthcare UK Ltd. Strider Maxi mobility scooters with serial numbers EV10FZUK00318 to EV10FZUK00440 and Strider Midi 4 Plus mobility scooters with serial numbers EV10DZUK00472 to EV10DZUK00940 are affected. n Concerned readers can contact Days Healthcare UK Ltd on 01656 664700 to arrange for a free replacement ECU to be fitted, or alternatively speak to their supplier.

Save for a debt free Christmas 2010 G Spread the cost of Christmas G Buy vouchers with easy weekly instalments G Choose from Love2shop vouchers, M&S, Debenhams and more G Use them for your Christmas shopping or give as a gift G Top brand food, drinks and gifts for all the family G Avoid large credit card bills in the New Year Request your

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for DATA PROTECTION: By placing an order with us and/or giving data to us you confirm that you understand and agree that the information you provide will be held on a Park Group database and that it will be shared by all companies within the Park Group. A full list of those companies is savers available by writing to the Data Controller, Park Group Plc, Valley Road, Birkenhead, CH41 7ED. Park Group plc shall be the data controller for the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998. The information you provide will be used by us and any necessary third parties to provide you with the goods and services you request. Companies within the Park Group may wish to contact you for customer care purposes or to keep you informed about the latest offers, promotions, prize draws, and competitions, using post, telephone, e-mail, SMS and any other appropriate means, We are a founder member of the including new technology. If you wish to be contacted via email or SMS, please provide us with your e-mail address and/or your mobile telephone number as appropriate. If you do not wish to be contacted by any member of the Park Group for marketing purposes, please tick this box Christmas Prepayment Association.

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October/November 2009

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NEWS

Like father, like son!

Supermarkets facing compensation fight SUPERMARKETS are facing claims for compensation from disabled shoppers across the country because they have failed to protect their accessible parking bays from abuse.

A string of county court claims are being dealt with by a new legal firm led by disabled lawyer Carl Linden.

Mr Linden, who set up Disability Claims Management with support from the Prince’s Trust, said his firm had already secured out-of-court settlements for two disabled clients, with another case against a south London branch of Tesco due in county court this autumn.

DCM is also dealing with 14 other claims against supermarkets across England and Wales.

Helen Smith, director of policy and campaigns for the disabled motorists’ charity Mobilise, said the court cases were “good news” and could help in the battle to eliminate bay abuse.”

MOTORZONE: Pages 21-23

LIKE father like son . . . 40 years after David Ryder walked from John O’Groats to Land’s End on crutches, son Ashley is doing likewise – but running all the way in 40 days!

David’s marathon trek – which ended with an embrace from actress Elizabeth Taylor – raised the initial funds for the Riding for the Disabled Association.

Now Ashley aims to boost the charity’s coffers. He said: “My father, the trainee watchmaker from Battersea, never gave up hope that he could empower other disabled people to achieve their potential.

“Now, 40 years on, I hope to make my contribution by running the same distance and giving all proceeds to Riding for the Disabled Association.” n www.bestfootforward09.com CLASS ACT: David with Elizabeth Taylor

Carers’ nightmare Ashley, left, and David on his trek in 1969

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On the right road MORE tactile paving, more dropped kerbs and more raised pavements at bus stops . . . they are just some of the plans the Highways Agency has to make things easier for disabled road users.

The Agency has worked closely with a number of disability organisations including Assist UK, Motability, Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee, and the Royal National Institute of Blind People to produce a new publication ‘Disability: Accessibility of the Strategic Road Network’. www.highways.gov.uk/disability

We’re living longer THE likelihood of living until 75 continues to rise for people living in England and Wales.

Males in 2005-07 had a 70% chance of living until their mid-seventies while females had a 78% chance, according to new figures published by the Office for National Statistics.

Males the living in the North West and North East of England have a 63% chance of surviving until age 75, while those in the South East and South West of England had a 71% chance of living until age 75.

At local authority level in 2005-07 males in East Dorset and Suffolk Coastal had a 77% chance of living to age 75 compared with a 53% chance for males living in Manchester.

Females in all areas were more likely to live until age 75 than males.

And females living in East Dorset had an 86% chance of living until age 75 while those in Blaenau Gwent had a 68% chance.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Sefton, Councillor Alf Doran and Councillor Gill Cuthbertson, are pictured with (from left) local Councillor Anne Ibbs, Nigel Bellamy of Sefton CVS, volunteer Giorgio Sutherland, Waitrose duty manager Paul Antell, volunteer Amanda Lee and project co-ordinator Jan Hughes.

Shopping — the easier way . . .

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NEW shopping scheme has been launched to help older people.

The scheme will be available to residents in Formby who are unable to shop for themselves.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Sefton, Councillors Alf Doran and Gill Cuthbertson launched the service at Waitrose’s Three Tuns Lane store.

The project is being managed by the Volunteer Centre Sefton and funded by NHS Sefton and Sefton Council’s health and social care directorate.

Sefton CVS deputy chief executive, Nigel Bellamy, said: “We’re delighted that this service is now up and running and very grateful to our partners and funders for helping to make it happen.

“We already run a similar service in

Southport and this has made a big difference to the lives of the older people who use it.

“I’m sure the Formby service will prove to be equally successful.”

Project co-ordinator Jan Hughes said: “We’re expecting a lot of calls from people who need help with their shopping because they are unable to do it themselves.

So we are in real need of volunteer shoppers who can spare part of one morning each week to offer a helping hand.

“All expenses will be paid, and their support will mean so much to the residents who use our service.”

To register for help, or to become a volunteer, contact Jan Hughes on 01704 501024 ext 203.

EOPLE who care for loved ones and friends have to jump through hoops to get benefits, MPs say.

About £2bn a year is paid in benefits to 900,000 carers, but one-in-five who receive benefits say they experience difficulties claiming.

And millions of people do not realise carers have the right to ask for flexible working.

The Public Accounts Committee found that when carers apply for benefits they face a complicated and confusing system.

For example, carers who get a state pension are not eligible for Carers Allowance, but still have to apply for it, if they want other top-up benefits.

The report says they should be able to apply for those benefits directly.

It also says part-time work would be the best option for many carers, but job centres are not geared to advise them on this.

Missing milions The report noted that only £25m of £38m set aside last year for employment support for carers has so far been committed.

It warned the other £13m should not be diverted elsewhere in the JobCentre network as demand for help rises due to the recession.

The cross-party committee chairman Edward Leigh said: “The value of the service that these unpaid carers provide to society is not reflected in the quality of the DWP’s arrangements for providing them with financial and other support.

“Carers should not have to wade through official written guidance and communications which can range from the hard-to-understand to the downright incomprehensible.

“And they should not have to be TAKE ME HOME! jumping through unnecessary hoops to apply for benefits.”

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All Together NOW!

Art and soul

Your guide to the good things in life — the arts, the countryside, gardening, shopping, travel, and more . . .

K

EITH Jansz has proved himself to be a talented painter – despite being paralysed from the chest down.

Indeed mouth painter Keith, 37, believes he is a better artist now than he was before a horrific car accident in 1995 left him without the use of his limbs.

Keith, a former financial advisor and keen sportsman, took part in a recent Painting in the Park event organised by the global association of Mouth and Foot Painting Arrtists (MFPA).

During the event at Hyde Park in London, the MFPA – a self-help organisation of seriously disabled artists – met the public, provided demonstrations and exhibited their work.

Controversial artist Alison Lapper is one

of over 700 painters worldwide registered with the MFPÅ which helps its members to distribute and sell their work. Past members have included Christy Brown, author of My Left Foot.

Keith, from Steeple Claydon in Buckinghamshire, said: “I wake up every morning thinking about the day’s painting ahead.

“Painting has restored my self-worth which, in the difficult period following my accident, I didn’t think was possible.

“I like painting most subjects but particularly still life, figures and portraits, the emphasis being on creating warm, colourful and uplifting images that people will appreciate looking at. Best of all I get great pleasure from other people’s delight at what I have achieved.”

ART IN THE PARK: Keith Jansz during the Painting in the Park event

Curtain call for DaDaFest

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aDaFest returns to Liverpool for the ninth consecutive year on Tuesday November 17.

Organised by DaDa Disability and Deaf Arts, the only festival of its kind in Liverpool showcases 24 incredible exhibitions and performances that run until Saturday December 5.

This year’s festival includes a variety of events, from groundbreaking photographic exhibitions to the freshest comedic performances and a glorious burlesque show.

The festival celebrates the innovation and originality from deaf and disability artists and concludes with a glittering award ceremony at the Hilton Liverpool on Thursday December 3.

Ruth Gould, chief executive and founder of DaDa Disability and Deaf Arts, said: “DaDaFest 2009 is proud to showcase the work of deaf and disabled artists from around the globe in a number of fantastic venues around Liverpool City Centre.

“The exhibitions, seminars and performances will enlighten, engage and educate the public as well as raise awareness of some key issues that deaf and disabled communities face every day.

“There are some incredible artists sharing their work this year and we are looking forward to an even more successful festival than last year.”

This year’s DaDaFest will commence with an exciting array of launch events featuring three of the exhibitions being showcased throughout DaDaFest 2009.

Resistance, a moving and engaging exhibition from recent Plinth performer Liz Crow, will begin the launch celebrations at the Novas Contemporary Urban Centre followed by an evening launch at The Bluecoat featuring the photographic work of Sally Booth which was inspired by her residency in the arts building, as well as performances from various artists throughout the evening.

Liz Crow said: “DaDa is paving the way for deaf and

disabled artists from all over the country as well as working towards the development of a community that embraces the differences that can lead to social exclusion.

“I hope that this installation will work towards creating a society that not only recognises this inequality but will strive to remove the exclusion that exists and replace it with positive understanding and perceptions.”

Kevin Connolly’s ‘Rolling Exhibition’, a series of striking photographs documenting ‘the Universal stare’ will be available to a lucky few for a private viewing on Wednesday November 18 to honour the opening of DaDaFest 2009 at the Open Eye Gallery. The exhibition will then remain open to the public for duration of DaDaFest 2009.

The exhibition showcases Kevin’s internationally acclaimed photographic work.

Make sure you get there before the crowds rush in!

Contact Faye Christiansen, tel 0151 707 1733

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October/November 2009

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Your at-a-glance guide to theatreland

A BOX OFFICE SENSATION!

Oct 1-24: All My Sons, Octagon, Bolton Oct 2-31: The Caretaker, Everyman, Liverpool.

Oct 4-25: Ken Dodd: The Happiness Show, Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Sundays only.

Oct 5-10: Stepping Out, Opera House, Manchester.

Oct 5-12: Porridge, Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Oct 5-10: Cabaret, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Oct 6-18: Twopence to Cross the Mersey, Empire, Liverpool. BSL signed, Oct 15 Oct 6-10: Hot Mikado, The Watermill Theatre, The Lowry.

Signed, Oct 8, 8pm.

Oct 8: Billy & Wally’s Big Pop & Comedy Show, The Brindley, Runcorn Oct 8-31: Pygmalion, Theatr Clwyd, 7.30pm. Audio described, Oct 17 (2.30pm); Oct 29 (7.30pm).

Captioned, Oct 24 (2.30pm) Oct 10: Dennis Locarriere, The Brindley, Runcorn Oct 10-Nov 15: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Charter Theatre, Preston. Starring Craig Chalmers. BSL signed, Nov 12 Oct 11: St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra, Venue Cymru, 7.30pm Oct 12-24: Blood Brothers, Opera House, Manchester.

Oct 12-17: Absurd Person Singular, Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Audio Described, Oct 17.

Oct 12: Adrian Legg, The Brindley Oct 13: The Demon Barber Roadshow, The Brindley, Runcorn Oct 14-16: A Timeless Collection, The Brindley, Runcorn. A stunning musical journey from Music Hall through the 40’s, 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.

Oct 16: Audience with Jimmy Greaves, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Oct 16: Last Tram To Starr Gate, The Brindley, Runcorn Oct 16-31: Fireflies - A Love Story Waiting to Happen, The Lowry. No show Suns. Audio described, Oct 31, 3pm. Touch Tour 2pm.

Oct 17: Hitler Alone, Theatr Clwyd, 7.45pm Oct 17: Solid Gold Country Legends, The Brindley, Runcorn Oct 20-24: Spymonkey’s Moby Dick, Liverpool Playhouse.

Oct 20-24: Rent, Regent Theatre, Stoke Oct 20-25: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Palace, Manchester. Craig Chalmers Oct 20: The Marriage of Figaro, The Brindley, Runcorn Oct 21-23: La traviata - Welsh National Opera, Empire, Liverpool.

Audio Described, Oct 21.

Oct 22-24: Madam Butterfly Welsh National Opera, Empire, Liverpool.

Oct 22-Nov 14: Festen, Theatr

E

VER seen a disabled person on the panel or in the audience of Question Time?

Bargain Hunt?

Cash in the Attic?

Ever seen a deaf or disabled permanent TV presenter, newscaster, weather presenter, on the Beeb? (Ok, apart from occasionally John Gardner or Gary O’Donoghue) It seems deaf and disabled people have no views, don’t collect antiques, and aren’t interested in the weather because according to the BBC we don’t exist!

Since February this year I have been challenging Sir Michael Lyons, the head of the BBC, to do something about this pathetic representation of us

Fair play at the BBC . . .

You’ve got to be joking

SOAPBOX

Roger Cliffe-Thompson

on the Beeb.

But Sir Michael thinks deaf and disabled people are adequately represented on the Beeb - and no, he won’t undertake any disability equality training.

Last March I examined all the minutes provided by his board (The BBC Trust) for the past two

Clwyd, 7.45. Audio described, Nov 5 (7.45pm), Nov 14 (2.45pm).

Captioned, Nov 7 (2.45pm) Oct 22: Gotta Sing Gotta Dance, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Oct 23: La Traviata – Welsh National Opera, Empire, Liverpool.

Oct 23: The Hot Dots, The Brindley Oct 23: Rob Grant - Standing Up, The Brindley, Runcorn Oct 24: Gary Murphy & Friends, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Oct 25: Paul Potts, Empire, Liverpool.

Oct 25: Pinocchio, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Oct 26-31: Dinnerladies, Regent Theatre, Stoke Oct 26-31: Dreamboats and Petticoats, Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Oct 27-31: The Black Album, Liverpool Playhouse.

Oct 27-Nov 7: Chicago The Musical, Palace, Manchester.

Oct 27-31: Annie, Venue Cymru Oct 27-31: The Pitmen Painters, The Lowry. Audio described, Oct 28, 7.30pm. Touch Tour 6pm.

Stagetext Captioned, Oct 31, 2pm.

Oct 28-Nov 1: Giselle - English National Ballet, Empire, Liverpool.

Oct 29-30: Her Big Chance by Alan Bennett & Black Comedy by Peter Shaffer, The Brindley, Runcorn Oct 29-31: Desperate To be Doris, The Brindley, Runcorn. Audio described, Oct 30.

years. The word disability is not mentioned. Enough said!

I asked the question how many BBC staff have had disability training in the past ten years and was told 500.

Wait a minute! The BBC employ 20,000.

So they mean that only 2.5% of BBC staff has any inkling of the

Oct 29-31: My Fair Lady, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Oct 29-Nov 21: Ghosts, Octagon, Bolton Oct 30-Nov 28: Good Soul of Sezechuan, Library Theatre, Manchester. Signed, Nov 19 (7.30pm). Audio described, Nov 21 (2.30pm), Nov 26 (7.30pm).

Captioned, Nov 20 (7.30pm) Nov 1: Jive Talkin’ As The Beegees, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Nov 2: Rich Hall & Otis Lee Crenshaw, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 3-7: The Producers, Regent Theatre, Stoke Nov 3-7: Horrible Histories, Opera House, Manchester.

Nov 3-7: Mixed Up North, Everyman, Liverpool.

Nov 3-7: The BFG, Liverpool Playhouse Nov 3-8: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Venue Cymru Nov 6: The Nutcracker, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Nov 6-7: Bluegrass & Beyond Festival, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 8: Jimmy Tarbuck: This Is My Life, Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Nov 9- 14: Spike Milligan’s Adolph Hitler: My Part in his Downfall, Liverpool Playhouse Nov 9-14: The Rocky Horror Show, Empire, Liverpool. BSL signed, Nov 10; Audo Described, Nov 12

For the very best in the arts . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

October/November 2009

All Together NOW!

Another dream set to come true THE CURTAINS are ready to go up again for The Ormerod Group Players.

The St Annes-based actors with learning disabilities are putting the finishing touches to their unqiue version of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Linda Hampton, director and producer, said: “This is our second production. Our first was a show called ‘Dancing Queen’ featuring the music of ABBA. “A Kind Of Magic is a greater challenge for the

needs of disabled and deaf people!

No wonder we ain’t on the telly!

Now as a sop to our protests they say they are looking for deaf and disabled actors and performers - probably because it’s far better to employ us on a contract for the show and NOT permanently!

The sad fact is that the Beeb have made

members as they are performing Shakespeare in their own particular style.

“I have adapted the original ‘Dream’ to make the story not only accessible to the actors but also to the audience which is made up largely of other adults with learning disabilities.”

The show will be performed on Friday and Saturday October 23-24 at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Club, St Albans Road, St Annes, 7pm.

enormous strides in employing black and ethnic minorities and women.

Wonderful! But none of them are disabled and disability is common to all excluded groups so why ignore it?

Is it because it is too expensive to provide access or is it just down to good old-fashioned ignorance?

Do we really want to

Nov 9-14: Scrooge The Musical, Palace, Manchester Nov 10-14: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Opera House, Manchester.

Nov 11-14: Falstaff, Regent Theatre, Stoke Nov 11: Foster and Allen, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Nov 11-14: Werther, Jules Massenet, The Lowry. Tue & Fri 7pm, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm. Audio described, Nov 14, 7.30pm. Touch Tour 6.15pm.

Nov 12: Jenufa, Regent Theatre, Stoke Nov 12: Gery Marsden, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Nov 12: The Adventures of Mr Broucek, The Lowry, Tue & Fri 7pm, Wed, Thu & Sat 7.30pm. Signed Performance, Nov 12, 7.30pm.

Nov 13: Ralph McTell, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 13: Bill Wyman’s Rhythm Kings, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Nov 14: John Etheridge & John Williams, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 15: John Williams’ Solo, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 17-Dec 5: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Regent Theatre, Stoke Nov 17-21: West Side Story, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 18-21: Thoroughly Modern Millie, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton

SERIOUS FUN: Daniel White

have our own exclusive programmes like See Hear? Or do we want to be part of mainstream TV? Why not clip pieces of See Hear into mainstream programmes like Adrian Chiles’ programme or why not have a deaf news reporter sign the news with a voiceover?

I believe the BBC is disablist and they wave a few disabled presenters

Nov 20: Roger McGough: That Awkward Age, Liverpool Playhouse Nov 20: Steve Hackett, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 20-Jan 23: Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood, Theatr Clwyd, times vary. Captioned, Dec 9 (7.30pm), Jan 16 (2pm) Nov 20: Mitch Benn & The Distractions, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 21: Martin Taylor’s Freternity, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 21: Sausage & Samosa, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 22: James Burton, Floral Pavilion, New Brighton Nov 23-28: High School Musical 2, Opera House, Manchester.

Nov 23-28: Blood Brothers, Charter Theatre, Preston, BSL signed, Nov 26 Nov 23-28: Scrooge The Musical, Empire, Liverpool. Starring Tommy Steele. BSL signed, Nov 24; Audio Described, Nov 26 Nov 24: Blackberry Trout Face, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 24-28: Royal Shakespeare Company. Days of Significance by Roy Williams, The Lowry, 8pm, Wed & Sat mats 2pm, Captioned, Nov 26, 8pm. Audio described, Nov 28, 2pm.

Touch Tour 12.30pm.

Nov 25: Glenn Tilbrook, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 25: Al Murray, Venue Cymru, Nov 25-28: Cinderella, Floral

out of 20,000 staff as a token of their wonderful approach to us!

Sir Michael should be ashamed of himself.

How are we going to get jobs in broadcasting if it isn’t commonplace for deaf and disabled people to be represented on the BBC? Where are the role models? Sadly, I don’t think they exist.

Roger Cliffe-Thompson,

Pavilion, New Brighton Nov 26: The Dylan Project, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 26: Karine Polwart Trio, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 27: S4C Christmas Show, Venue Cymru Nov 27: Pirates of The Damned, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 27 - Sat Jan 9: White Christmas. The Musical You’ve Been Dreaming Of, The Lowry. Audio Described, Dec 16, 2.30pm. Touch Tour 1.30pm. Signed Performance, Dec 17, 7.30pm. Stagetext Captioned Performance, Jan 6, 7.30pm.

Nov 27-Jan 23: Oliver Twist, Octagon, Bolton Nov 27: Fron Male Voice Choir, Venue Cymru Nov 27: Nick Harper, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 28: Andy Fairweather Low, Pacific Road Arts Centre, Birkenhead Nov 28: Joe Bonamassa, Venue Cymru, 7.45pm Nov 28: Professor What, The Brindley, Runcorn Nov 29: That’ll Be The Day, Venue Cymru Nov 29: Voices of the Valley, Floral Pavilion, New TAKE ME HOME! Brighton

. . . www.alltogethernow.org.uk

www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk

FREE ENTRY Funded by: DCMS/Wolfson Museums and Galleries Improvement Fund and the Molly Tomlinson Bequests

9

All Together NOW!

10

October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Our superloo provides real access to all M

ERSEYTRAVEL’S new £10.5m Pier Head Ferry Terminal on Liverpool’s World Heritage waterfront is raising the bar through a ‘total’ approach to accessibility.

The new terminal is a landmark building with a new Beatles Story attraction including a Fab4-D, a fourdimension theatre experience, Imagine Liverpool store, Mersey Ferries ticket office and new Hamilton’s Café.

Merseytravel’s pioneering approach to accessibility in all its new buildings sees the terminal include a range of features including colour contrast

design features, automatic doors, wide internal doors, high visibility signage and cutting-edge technology in the building’s toilet facilities.

The ‘Changing Places Changing Lives’ toilets include a hoist, changing table, shower, a Clos-o-Mat ‘wash and dry’ toilet and Aerolet vertical toilet lift.

Councillor Mark Dowd, chair of Merseytravel, owners and operators of the Mersey Ferries, said: “We are committed to making sure we meet the needs of all our travellers. Fully accessible transport, something that everyone can use, enjoy and experience, is at the core of our

organisation. And we are backing that up with our investment and new buildings.”

Neil Scales, chief executive of Merseytravel, added: “I think that there are many people who will make a decision not to go somewhere if they feel it is difficult to access. We don’t want that to be a barrier.

“Our vision is clear: To create a single integrated transport network that is accessible to everyone – and our commitment to that remains undiminished.”

The ‘wash and dry’ toilet, in particular, is the only unit of its kind manufactured in the UK.

The unit, supplied by Total Hygiene, looks like a conventional WC, but includes an integral douche and drier, which eliminates the need to use toilet tissue to cleanse after toileting a major issue for people with issues affecting manual dexterity, balance and mobility.

The Aerolet vertical toilet lift replicates the natural motion of standing up and sitting down, gently raising and lowering the user to position them accurately over the toilet as required whilst enabling their feet to remain in contact with the floor and maintaining the centre of

gravity above the feet for balance.

NO BARRIERS: The ferry terminal’s new wash and dry loo

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

We care about the accessibility of our buildings, vehicles and information.

All of our staff are trained to be courteous and considerate, particularly when our customers have special requirements.

Whether it be automatic door-openers in our head office, availability of textphones for main points of contact, or producing timetables in large print, we want to make public transport easier for everyone to use.

Among our services and facilities are: UÊÊ Merseylink – a door to door fully accessible transport service for people who are mobility impaired.

UÊÊ ree concessionary travel for over 48,000 people with disabilities.

U Modern, low floor, fully accessible buses, which are developed in partnership with local authorities and bus companies.

UÊÊ Information in a variety of formats, including the Merseytravel Access Guide – containing access details for all bus and rail stations on Merseyside.

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

AD346A

Textphone users can dial 18001 then 0871 200 22 33 for a typetalk assisted call.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

October/November 2009

In the PINK! C

All Together NOW!

11

Spring through the gloom!

RISPER air, darker evenings and fading flowers are a signal to start preparing the garden for winter – and give yourself a real head start next spring.

Planting of every kind comes first . . . containers, bulbs, spring bedding, shrubs and trees.

Tubs and pots of plants that will give months of colour should be planted now - heather, pansies, ornamental cabbages, polyanthus and very early bulbs such as the narcissus Tete-a-Tete.

For spring, bulbs give the most spectacular shows. Daffodils and crocuses are eye-catching in clumps and drifts while tulips and hyacinths are more impressive in bedding arrangements, mixed with bedding like FORWARD PLANNING: For next spring - plant peonies now wallflowers or forget-me-nots.

Wallflowers are great on their own for colourful, scented bedding. They are best planted in October.

For later in spring, plant or PRUNING plants, whether Ergonomically designed and wide for cutting transplant perennial flowers in autumn or any other and easy to use, they have thicker stems, at the like delphiniums, peonies, and season, should be carried metal handles with switch of a convenientlyred hot pokers. out with a high-quality pair comfortable soft plastic placed lever. This also acts Plant shrubs and trees, too. of secateurs. as an adjustment to suit grips, precision-ground, Evergreens need to go in small or large hands.

We have FIVE of the best non-stick coated blades promptly but deciduous The Gardena Comfort from Gardena as prizes in and a single-handed safety shrubs and trees, including this competition – the toprange starts at £19.99 and lock. roses, hedges and fruit trees, of the-range by-pass includes anvil models.

A specially handy feature can be planted up the model from Gardena ‘s enables the user to change For information on all Christmas as long as it is not new selection of Comfort between two settings, Gardena products, go to frosty.

Secateurs worth £38. narrow for quick snipping www.gardena.co.uk or, for Pruning is also important as stockists, contact 0844 844 4558. winter approaches.

PLANT FOCUS: Hardy Cyclamen To enter, answer this Climbing roses, especially if question: What is specially they are overgrown, are best THE cyclamen is usually thought of as a tender, handy about Gardena ‘s pruned now. large-flowered houseplant with lovely marbled top-of-the-range Cut some of the oldest leaves. secateurs? stems right down to the There are, however, several hardy garden species, Send your entry with your ground, tie in the younger much smaller than their potted cousins but with flowers The long-lasting flowers appear before the leaves, then name and address on a branches, and shorten these and leaves that are just as attractive. the stalks coil on to the soil surface to release the ripe postcard or sealed by up to one third of their One of the best autumn types is Cyclamen seeds. These grow freely and seedlings are often found envelope, stating where length, depending on the hederifolium, nicknamed sowbread. a few feet from the parent plants. This coiling habit gives you picked up your copy space available. Then trim The blooms, in shades of pink or white have maroon the plant its name – from the Greek kyklos, a circle. of All Together NOW! (and markings by the mouth and swept-back petals on short sideshoots back to three or The ivy-shaped, marbled leaves appear while the what you think of the stems. Sometimes they are scented. four buds or leaf joints. flowers are at their best and remain attractive, after the publication) to Gardena The species originates from the Mediterranean but is Don’t prune early-blooming flowers have died.

Competition, All Together hardy in Britain as long as it is grown in well-drained The plants are normally pest and disease free, though shrubs such as forsythia and NOW! The Bradbury soil. mice and grey squirrels sometimes eat the tubers. winter jasmine now - you’ll be Centre, Youens Way, It prefers light shade – the roots of nearby shrubs or For a later flowering hardy cyclamen, grow Cyclamen cutting off the flowering buds.

Liverpool L14 2EP, to trees keep the soil fairly dry in summer, as the cyclamen coum, which produces blooms in similar colours in arrive by Friday November Houseplants need plenty of like it. winter or early spring.

20, or enter online at light as the days grow shorter, www.altogethernow.org.uk so – unless you have a heated conservatory – a good rule is to move them close to the pots in trays of moist gravel in a greenhouse or cold frame for ground is frosted and freezing oxygenating plants are starting to windows in the morning and helps to create the humidity they an early crop next year. temperatures are not expected. take over, thin them by pinching inside the curtains at night. like.

There is no need to cut lawns Ponds should be kept clear of off some branches.

But some plants such as Pot up parsley plants and put after early November but grass fallen leaves and the leaves of Fish no cyclamen and azaleas do not like them on a windowsill or in a will come to no harm if lightly water lilies removed as they die. longer need too dry or warm an atmosphere greenhouse to provide a supply trimmed for the sake of tidiness If blanketweed is a problem, feeding as TAKE ME HOME! and should be kept in a cool of fresh leaves into winter. Also until the end of the year, as long clear as much of it as possible December room or well-lit porch. Standing pot up mint roots and keep them as neither the grass nor the and treat with Tetra Algofin and, if approaches.

WIN! WIN! WIN! Secateurs at the cutting edge . . .

Ask your garden centre to stock our magazine . . .

12

All Together NOW!

Give us a break

October/November 2009

Thomson Airways ditch oxygen charges THOMSON Airways is removing all charges for supplementary therapeutic oxygen and relaxing its policy on customers bringing their own supplementary oxygen onboard its flights.

NATIONAL charity Vitalise is calling for greater recognition of the importance of regular respite breaks for the UK’s six million carers.

and disability groups who felt that the charges were unfair.

Unlike many other airlines, Thomson customers requiring supplementary oxygen can now either: n Pre-book the use of a nasal cannula therapeutic oxygen supply onboard all

T

he London Eye has been voted by far the most accessible tourist attraction in the capital.

More than half those taking part in a survey, commissioned by Mayor Boris Johnson, voted for the London Eye, with the two Tate art galleries also scoring well on access.

The survey also looked at hotels, restaurants and public transport, and will be used to improve access in the run-up to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Many of the 795 respondents to the survey called for more accessible toilets, particularly in restaurants.

Two in five people said buses

3GREATCHOICES!

Specialist holidays for carers & service users

120, Bond Street, Blackpool, FY4 1HG

EASY ACCESS FOR WHEELCHAIRS CAR PARK EN-SUITE ROOMS ADJOINING ROOMS ELECTRIC HOISTS OVERHEAD TRACKING HOIST ELECTRIC BEDS COT SIDES COMMODES MODERN SPACIOUS BAR & RESTAURANT SPECIAL DIETS CATERED FOR HYDROTHERAPY POOL CONFERENCE FACILITIES LIVE CABARET SHOW EVERY NIGHT PICK-UP AND RETURN SERVICE

PARTY at the Bond Hotel Blackpool, where the great fun atmosphere is a very popular choice for many of our guests. The hotel has 65 bedrooms, most of which are wheelchair-accessible, and all the extra facilities that you might require during your stay. With great food, and nightly entertainment, this hotel offers the perfect Blackpool holiday!

HOTEL St. Annes

The Beach, 69-71 South Promenade, St Annes on Sea, FY8 1LZ

RELAX in our sophisticated new hotel in St Annes.

Recently refurbished to the highest possible standard, this stylish 26-room hotel overlooks the sea, and offers a choice of luxurious wheelchair-accessible accommodation - from single rooms up to 3-room suites. The new Bond Hotel, St Annes is the ideal venue for those looking for the chance to unwind in style.

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Marton Mere Holiday Village

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IRTON HOUSE FARM

Holiday Breaks in the Lakes near Keswick Self catering apartments for 2-6 people.

Specially designed with the wheelchair in mind. No steps. Beautiful views in a superb location. Friendly owners in residence. Open all year.

sales@bondhotel.co.uk

Booking hotline 01253 341218

Self Catering Holiday Cottages

Treginegar, St Merryn, Padstow, North Cornwall PL28 8PT

Treginegar self catering cottages benefit from level access throughout, some have ’wet’ rooms, and all are ideal for wheelchair access or those with mobility difficulties. A shower chair is available for hire (£10 weekly) for disabled guests.

LUXURY travel wherever you choose to stay, you will have access to Bond Accessible Coaches Ltd who will pick you up and take you home at very reasonable prices So come and explore a whole world of special holidays for very special guests. Whether it's a week with the stars of “Coronation Street or Emmerdale”, a break on a nature reserve, or a luxury room with a great sea view, we can provide it - and at a great price too!

Call Gemma Tasker NOW! 0151 230 0307

ENJOY our de-luxe holiday homes at scenic Marton Mere. If you would prefer a self-catering break, these superbly appointed holiday homes could be just the thing. They sleep up to six, have central heating and all mod cons, are fully accessible, and overlook the beautiful lake and wildlife area at this popular resort.

HOLIDAY HOMES

charged £75 one-way or £150 round-trip for short and mid-haul flights for supplementary oxygen, and £125 one-way or £250 round-trip for long haul.

Customers must pre-book supplementary oxygen services by calling the Special Assistance Team on 0871 230 0204.

Improving public transport was seen as the most important step towards better access in London.

Mayor Johnson said: “It is imperative that every industry and business in London works towards making their venues as accessible as possible as we prepare for triumphant 2012 Games.”

The Mayor’s equality targets include more accessible and adaptable “lifetime homes”; more affordable, accessible childcare places; and an increase in the number of accessible Tube and rail stations and bus stops.

The Mayor also aims to make London 2012 “the most accessible and inclusive Olympic and Paralympic Games ever” .

were the most accessible form of transport in London, more than the number who voted for cars. The Tube was found to be the most inaccessible form of transport.

ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAYS HOTEL Blackpool

flights free of charge; or n Bring their own oxygen supplies for use during the flight, subject to meeting certain conditions and gaining prior approval; or n Bring their own portable oxygen concentrators, provided it meets certain safety requirements.

Thomson previously

EYE, EYE!

The airline has listened to feedback from customers

The charity’s recent holiday survey found that 62% of carers had not had a break for over a year and one-third had never had a break since starting caring.

The survey also revealed that almost three-quarters of carers had reached breaking point due to the pressures of their caring role, leading some to breakdown and even attempted suicide.

Vitalise’s chief executive Jonathan Powell said: “The lack of recognition and reward for the unsung work carers do is frankly shameful.

“Carers save the economy £87 billion a year, yet Carer’s Allowance is just £53.10 a week – the lowest benefit of its kind.”

www.bondhotel.co.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPECIAL OFFER FOR 2009

Book your 2009 holidays with us before the end of September 2008 and we’ll give them to you at 2008 prices

For a colour brochure

Tel: 01768 776380 www.disabled-holiday.net email: joan@irtonhousefarm.co.uk

Book now!

For details on bookings and availabilities Rob and Tracey Cleary on: 01841 521920 (Int: +44 1841 521920)

WHAT’S ON Oct 8: Dobbies Garden World, Preston, Southport. Charity evening and Christmas range launch.

Oct 9 - Oct 11: Trearddur Bay Hotel, Holyhead. Oyster and Shellfish Welsh Produce Festival.

Oct 10 - Oct 11: Gordale Garden Centre, Wirral. Fruit festival.

Oct 10 - Oct 11: Stapeley Water Gardens, Nantwich. Craft fair.

Oct 10 - Oct 11: Cheshire Showground, Tabley. Cheshire Game and Country Fair.

Oct 15 - Oct 19: Chorley Cake Street Fair, Chorley.

Oct 15-18: Chester Antiques and Fine Art Show, Chester Racecourse (10.30am-6pm) Oct 17-31: Scarecrow Trail, Blakemere Craft Centre, Sandiway.

Bring the family along and enjoy a day searching for all the different scarecrows (10am-5pm) Oct 17: Ness Botanic Gardens, Wirral. RHS lecture, “Vegetable Growing Then and Now”. £6.50 (members £5) includes admission to gardens.

Oct 17 - Oct 31: Gordale Garden Centre, Wirral. Halloween - The Lost World. £3.50 per child Oct 18: Granny’s Bay Bird Walk, Ansdell, Lytham St Annes Oct 23: Stapeley Water Gardens, Nantwich. Fireworks display and fairground rides. £3 per car.

Oct 27: Robots in the Home, The Trafford Centre (11am-6pm). Free.

Oct 27-Nov 1: Halloweeen Hauntings at the Old Hall, Tatton Park, Knutsford.

Oct 28-Nov 1: Explore Traditional Chinese Medicine, Manchester Science Festival, Museum of Science and Industry (10.30am-4pm). Free.

Oct 29 -Oct 31: Parr Hall Warrington. Oktoberfest - Annual Beer Festival.

Nov 1: Dobbies Garden World, Preston, Southport. Little Seedlings Club. Kids have fun and learn.

Nov 4: Gordale Garden Centre, Wirral. Talk - Houseplants For All. Free.

Nov 14: Ness Botanic Gardens, Wirral. Feed the birds day.

Admission prices.

Nov 14: Stapeley Water Gardens, Nantwich. Ride in Santa’s helicopter. £27 per person.

Nov 14 -Dec 24: Towneley Hall, Burnley. Great British Watercolours, including Turner and Girtin.

Nov 18 - Nov 22: Llandudno.

Celtic Winter Fair.

Nov 18 -Dec 21: Manchester Christmas Markets Nov 21: Gordale Garden Centre, Wirral. Christmas grotto launch.

Nov 28: Ness Botanic Gardens, Wirral. Kids’ breakfast with Santa.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

Jobs boost

13

EMPLOYMENT . . . TRAINING . . . EDUCATION . . . BUSINESS . . . RIGHTS

Countdown

THE Equality and Human Rights Commission has released its New Disability General Guidance which helps public authorities revise their Disability Equality Schemes.

All listed public authorities who are required to publish their Disability Equality Schemes need to review and publish a revised scheme once every three years.

New Disability Equality Schemes should bring measurable improvements to disabled people working in public authorities.

For the majority of public authorities, the date to publish a revised scheme will be December 4. n www.equalityhumanrights.com

T

HOUSANDS of people with mental health problems will get extra support managing their condition so that they can stay in work.

Pilots run in conjunction with the mental health charity Mind have so far shown to be 90% successful in helping people with fluctuating mental health conditions retain their jobs.

The Government is now looking to extend the support and roll it out nationally through a range of providers.

Jim Knight, Minister for Employment and Welfare Reform, said: “I know disabled people

Thousands to get extra help

dearly want to stay in work and their employers want to do everything they can to keep good staff.

“Our plans to offer the right help early on can end the downward spiral of people falling out of work into sick leave, and onto benefits.

“We are all agreed that helping people stay in work is good news for them, their bosses and for the taxpayer.”

Further radical measures

introduced by the Government include: n The first ever National Strategy for Mental Health and Employment/ The strategy will allow for the expectations of employers, healthcare professionals, organisations and individuals in improving well-being in the workplace.

Ministers have also asked mental health expert Dr Rachel Perkins and Paul Farmer (Mind chief executive) how people with mental health problems can be better helped to get back to work.

Continued on Page 17

Sweet sixteen

BREAKTHROUGH UK, the not-for-profit organisation that helps disabled people gain work, surpassed its first quarter targets and placed 16 clients into paid employment.

In the period April to June 2009, 10 disabled people found employment in Manchester with employers including Manchester City Council, Stockport Council and the Child Support Agency, while six have gained roles in Liverpool with companies including National Museum and Unilever.

Breakthrough UK has offices in Manchester and Liverpool.

equality2025 National Public Meeting If you are disabled or have a long-term health condition come along and…

• Air your views • Share your experiences • Tell us your ideas

Be there!

15 October 2009 from 10am, Manchester City Football Club To find out more, go to: www.odi.gov.uk/equality2025 or phone 020 8481 3375.

Please quote ‘Together’ when contacting us equality2025 is an independent body of disabled people that advises Government on disability equality issues.

B2',B$71B [ B$: LQGG

14

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . .

City College Manchester and MANCAT have come together to form The Manchester College

Better for school leavers Better for employment skills Better for career development Better for businesses Better for higher education Better for you, better for Manchester For more information about courses call: 0800 068 8585 or visit: www.themanchestercollege.ac.uk

Dream job for ‘ Jennifer J TOP MAN: Chris Smith with the John Carson Award. Also pictured (left to right) are: Shelagh Ryan, associate director of finance; Gideon Ben-Tovim, chair, Liverpool PCT; Dr John Hussey, chair of the professional executive committee; Derek Campbell, chief executive; and Phil Wadeson, director of finance

I never thought I’d get this far . . .

ENNIFER Spencer has just secured her dream job.

High flying Jennifer, who is deaf, dyslexic and suffers from clinical depression, graduated from the University of Salford with a BSc in Social Policy - despite leaving school without any qualifications.

Beating off competition from thousands of applicants, she then completed a prestigious Fast Stream internship within the Department for Children, Schools and Families, where she made such an impression that the Secretary of State, Ed Balls included

her ideas in his report on equality.

She now works as a personal adviser for new jobseeker claims with Job Centre Plus, in south London, where she will shortly be starting disability adviser training.

Jennifer, 29, said she felt let down by the school education system, because of her disabilities and adoptive background.

“I never thought I’d get this far,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to be a civil servant and to be involved in front line policy, especially in education and disability.”

Through her new role

Jennifer hopes to use her experience living with disabilities to champion the rights of disabled people.

“The situation has improved but discrimination still very much exists. It can be very disheartening and make you wonder why you keep trying.”

After school, Jennifer took shop jobs before deciding to begin an Access to Higher Education course, at 23.

She passed with flying colours, despite then living in a women’s refuge for domestic violence .

“I wanted to prove to myself that I could achieve something,” said Jennifer.

A degree in Social Policy

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . .

Health Trust singles out Chris for a top award YEARS of hard work have earned Liverpool Primary Care Trust’s Chris Smith a top award.

Chris was singled out for the John Carson award, given to an employee who has achieved excellence in their work.

Gideon Ben-Tovim, chair of Liverpool PCT, said: “His attendance, level of accomplishment as a management accountant, standard of work, motivation, drive and interpersonal skills are exemplary.

“He shows a tremendous ability to not only continuously improve on his own personal best but by sharing his own experience and knowledge, he encourages and facilitates others to be the best they can be.”

Chris, who has muscular dystrophy,

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

started his career with the NHS in 1997 when he joined the former Sefton Health Authority.

Throughout the next four years he mastered the intricacies of GP fund holding and played a key role in the transition to and form Primary Care Groups and ultimately into Primary Care Trusts.

Chris’ first promotion took him into the complex arena of the North West Secure Commissioning Team and for the next three years worked directly along side the Director of Finance covering all financial aspects. n The award is in memory of the late John Carson, who was well respected throughout the city for his outstanding voluntary work.

15

‘This is an

Liverpool Community College

g n i d n a t s out ’ e g e l l o c

Summary of Ofsted inspection report, March, 2009

‘ The college has woven an intricate web of learning opportunities and support ’ Ofsted, March 2009 The report highlights the following key strengths:

high pass rates on most courses

outstanding teaching and learning

innovative and high quality partnership working exemplary responsiveness to the needs of the local community

outstanding support for learners

outstanding management of change by the principal and senior leaders

outstanding curriculum management outstanding approach to equality of JUST THE JOB: Jennifer with her study skills teacher Pat Walkington, left, and her scribe, Kate Ridings was the natural next step.

“Salford was outstanding in terms of the support, confidence and opportunities it gave me,” she said.

“It was the first time I wasn’t ashamed of my disabilities.”

Senior lecturer Bernard Melling said: Jennifer is an example to all of us of how to achieve through determination and commitment.”

Due to start an MRes in education and social sciences next year, Jennifer hopes to complete a PhD. “I’m happy with what I’ve achieved, but I’ve so much more to accomplish.”

Schools crackdown SCHOOLS supporting disabled children and those with special educational needs will face tougher new inspections by Ofsted.

The pledge was made by Ed Balls, the children, schools and families secretary.

His move followed the publication of two interim reports – on SEN statements and Ofsted inspections – by Brian Lamb, chair of an inquiry set up to improve confidence in England’s

SEN system. One report reveals that a sample of 35 Ofsted reports found 29 contained no references to SEN or disability.

Mr Lamb says all Ofsted inspectors should receive training on SEN and disability and calls for “significant improvements” in SEN statements.

Mr Balls said: “By making the achievements of children with SEN a top priority for Ofsted inspectors . . . we will help ensure these children make good progress.”

opportunity and inclusion.

Course information:

0151 252 3000 www.liv-coll.ac.uk

16

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

RIGHTS . . . BUSINESS . . . TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . . .R

Undercover team slams universities DISABLED students from across the country are being penalised when choosing a university, according to an undercover investigation One in four universities do not have rooms for hired carers, forcing disabled students to live at home rather than with their fellow students, says the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign’s Trailblazers group in their new report, University Challenge.

Their investigation revealed that 30% of university inter-campus transport is inaccessible to disabled students and, despite having disability advisors, one in 10 universities do not have good links with local care agencies and support services.

As well as providing top tips for future disabled students applying for higher education, the report exposes a series of alarming revelations about the provision of disabled support within the UK ‘s universities, including: n The Clearing System disadvantages disabled students as it leaves less than a month to choose a preferred course and university as well as look at access, accommodation and care packages. n One in 10 students will not have accessible accommodation, cooking and dining facilities, which are fully integrated into mainstream university life.

Only just over half of all UK university teaching rooms, study rooms and libraries are fully accessible to students with a disability.

Nearly 40% of universities do not provide a freshers’ guide to the university for disabled students.

The results come eight years after the Special Educational Needs and Disability Act came into force, suggesting that despite higher education institutions providing lifts and ramps where the architecture allows, they are still failing to provide an inclusive environment for disabled students.

Trailblazer’s Ambassador Kimberley Randle, 22, from Swindon, who studied at the University of Gloucestershire, said:

TAKE ME HOME!

n www.muscular-dystrophy.org/trailblazers

The report’s findings in full . . . n One in 10 disabled students will not have accessible accommodation, and cooking and dining facilities that are fully integrated into mainstream university life. n Nearly four out of ten universities do not provide a freshers’ guide to the university for disabled students. n One in four universities does not have rooms available for personal assistants, which could force disabled students to live at home

— a big THANKS to all our supporters . . .

My business has mark of egg-cellence

GG delivery man Joe Brown has been named as one of the UK’s top 10 business heroes in the 2009 Barclays Trading Places Awards.

Judges of the national award scheme honouring people who are turning their lives around by choosing to start up a business, have shortlisted Joe’s unique egg delivery service in Preston.

Despite being diagnosed with autism when he was three, Joe attended mainstream school.

A victim of bullying, he left school aged 16, with only two GCSEs. But he was determined to make a better life for himself and for the next four years continued his studies at college.

Last summer, after struggling to find full-time employment, Joe decided to become his own boss and started Joe Brown’s Egg Round, a door-to-

I AM THE EGG MAN: Joe Brown is one of the UK’s business heroes

rather than with their fellow students. n 30% of inter-campus transport is not accessible to disabled students. n One in 10 universities admits they do not have good links with local care agencies and support services. n The Clearing System disadvantages disabled students as it leaves them less than a month to choose their preferred course and university and investigate access, accommodation and arrange care.

n Almost a third of university websites do not have a direct point of contact for disabled students. n Only 12% of the top 100 university websites could provide all the information that was requested of them. n Nearly 10% of the websites did not provide any of the information searched for. n Half of websites lacked information on accessible leisure facilities.

17

RIGHTS . . . BUSINESS . . . TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . . .R

E

“Universities need to understand how to make it easier for disabled students to have the same great experience as any other student.

Attending university is one of the biggest decisions anyone makes.

“I knew that because of my disability I would have less choice and it would take longer and a lot more planning for me to decide on the right university. I became disability officer at my university so that I could use my experiences to try to improve university life for other students in the same situation.

“We hope that University Challenge helps other disabled students to make easier, more informed decisions about the university that best suits their needs.”

More than 60,000 people in the UK have muscular dystrophy or a related condition.

A further 300,000 people are affected indirectly as family, friends or carers.

The conditions can be inherited or acquired and can affect people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities.

There is currently no cure.

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

‘

Success despite having odds against them

door egg delivery service.

Barclays marketing director for local business, John Davis, a judge on the panel, said: “Trading Places celebrates inspirational people who have struggled through adversity to get their businesses up and running.

“Even with the odds against them they’ve made a success of their business and their lives, and I congratulate all the finalists on their hard work.”

Other North West business heroes hoping for national glory in the award finals to be held on October 13 are:

Deborah Stone (Gigglebucket – gift shop, Liverpool): Aged 16, Deborah was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis and advised to abandon her education and “concentrate on getting better”. But Deborah went on to gain a degree.

However, her health deteriorated after the birth of her daughter and she had to give up her job in the NHS. In December 2006 she opened her first card and gift shop, followed two months later by a second shop, and a hair and beauty salon in 2008.

Virginia Valentine (Angel Cakes, Altrincham): Virginia had a traumatic childhood involving serious physical and sexual abuse, which led to a number of major health issues in her adult life.

However, inspired by her grandmother and her love of baking, she has gone on to set up her own cake shop.

LTF advert - all together now:Layout 1

WANTED

25/9/09

14:27

Disabled adults interested in learning new things

Thousands helped to stay in their jobs Continued from Page 13 n A new network of dedicated mental health experts across Jobcentre Plus which will work together with colleagues in the health system to coordinate support for people who have mental health conditions. n A consultation on Right to Control, which will give disabled people, including those with mental health problems, greater choice and control over how public money is spent to

meet their individual needs and ambitions. n Doubling the Access to Work fund, from £69m to £138m over the next five years – providing practical advice and financial support to disabled people and their employers to help them overcome any work-related obstacles which result from their disability.

Sophie Corlett at Mind said: “If employers put their mind to it and provide the right support they can

keep their staff mentally well and fit for the workplace.

“People with mental health problems want to work but are often failed by employers who lack the understanding or the skills to provide the necessary support.

“We welcome the Government’s increased investment in mental health, particularly in difficult economic times, when now more than ever people need the support and understanding of their employers.”

Tel 0151 733 7255 greenbankiag@greenbank-project.org.uk

Operated by:

Funded by:

Page 1

All Together NOW!

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October/November 2009

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RIGHTS . . . BUSINESS . . .TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . . .R

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

2

3

★

4

5

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8 7

★

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★ 19

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DOWN

1.

5.

7.

9.

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17.

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22.

24.

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27.

28.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

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13.

14.

20.

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24.

25.

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

QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: What are baby rabbits called?

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: What is the capital of the republic of Georgia?

A Pups B Kits C Fawns D Kids QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: What does the German word tannenbaum mean?

A B C D

A White beard B Roast goose C Christmas tree D Christmas cake QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: In which fictional county is the BBC radio series The Archers set?

A B C D

A Ambridgeshire B Muddlesex C Borsetshire D Westmireland QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: What nickname was given to Anne Robinson after she hosted the game show The Weakest Link?

★

ACROSS Scorn (8) Indonesian island (4) Testing (9) Subsequent (4) Medical photograph (1-3) Was in continued pain (5) Loathe (5) Consumed (5) Progressive person (5) Equip (anag.) (5) Take a dip (5) Condemn (5) Was dishonest (4) Dutch cheese (4) Logical basis (9) Twilight (4) Gifted (8)

28

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

Grain (4) Written material (4) Imitate (5) Metric weight (5) Unlucky influence (4) Temporary suspension (8) National treasury (9) Thanks (9) Having weapons (5) Chaos (5) Midlands city (5) Dismayed (8) Throw out of house (5) Of the kidneys (5) Dismal (4) Flair (4) Female servant (4)

A Dame Dread B The Queen Of Mean C The Deadly Duchess D Lady Lucifer QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: Which of these instruments can produce the deepest note?

Chopin’s Minute Waltz Bach’s Air on the G String Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D Minor Handel’s Sarabande

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: In which year was George Orwell’s novel Nineteen Eighty-Four published?

A B C D

Broadcaster Anne Robinson. See Question 4

1945 1947 1949 1951

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: Which group had a UK No 1 hit in 1965 with Go Now?

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: Which jockey won the 1981 Derby on Shergar?

A B C D

A B C D

The Moody Blues The Kinks The Four Pennies The Hollies

Lester Piggott Willie Carson Walter Swinburn Pat Eddery

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: Who played Michelangelo in the 1965 film The Agony And The Ecstasy?

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Which tourist resort is served by Arrecife Airport?

A B C D

A B C D

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: In which county is Althorp, the stately home of the Spencer family?

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: Who wrote the poem Flannan Isle?

A B C D

A B C D

A B C D

China Vietnam Thailand Japan

Kirk Douglas Charlton Heston Orson Welles Spencer Tracy

Northamptonshire Buckinghamshire Bedfordshire Oxfordshire

Lanzarote Dubrovnik Malaga Alicante

Gerard Manley Hopkins Wilfrid Wilson Gibson Samuel Taylor Coleridge Robert Bridges

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 need to have to guess.

EASY

DIFFICULT

1

5

TAKE ME HOME!

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: What was the theme music to the famous Hamlet cigar advertisements?

A Contrabassoon B Double bass C Concert organ D Tuba QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: Which country has the chrysanthemum as its national flower?

SUDOKU

4 2 5 6 5 1 9 8 2 1 5

Kiev Minsk Tblisi Vilnius

8

4 2 9 7

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

8

3

1

4

5 6

5 2 3

5 9

9 7 4 2 8 6 7 6 5 2 9

IT’S the first time I've seen All Together NOW! I picked it up in Manchester Town Hall and subsequently visited the website. I've been really impressed – it is really good! Keep on with the gardening tips — Dawn Warriner, Manchester

4 8

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 22

15

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13 17

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18 22 14 16

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I COULDN’T believe so much could be packed into a magazine. There’s something for everyone.

I picked up my copy from the White Rose Centre, Rhyl — Sandy Burton, Bryn Golau, Llandulas

TAKE ME HOME!

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All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

19

RIGHTS . . . BUSINESS . . . TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . . .R DIALLING CODES

CROSS CODE 10 10

17

3 15

7 4

3

2

20

2

21

17

15

7

13

21 7

26

21 9

2

23

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10 8

23

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2 3

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23 17

13

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3

3

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.

2

14

15

N

3

4

5

6

7

16

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18

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L

2 ABC

3 DEF

4 GHI

5 JKL

6 MNO

7 PQRS

8 TUV

9 WXYZ

4. stock market terms 285 514 683 786 368 682 846 613 323 688 232 712 431 742 731 537 134 843 363 173 489 167 846 617 736 126 666 348 9

Spaces and any punctuation marks are represented by 1.

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

1

1 []’–

1. indoor games 366 466 371 944 781 482 473 137 284 487 377 127 434 317 668 162 415 664 122 254 661 226 278 218 748 178 778 48

3 6

3 6

6

6

7

16 16

3

21 10

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?

26

3 13

1

3

2

18

10

2

8

24 1

11

22

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13 11

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

2. battles 225 225 282 135 461 825 691 267 343 531 623 354 626 878 172 772 531 872 325 427 63

135 731 276 287 486

5. vehicles 347 313 644 631 855 369 371 387 766 975 684 418 437 628 813 675 878 251 432 773 128 449

125 967 641 436 158

829 822 261 154 123

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 the surnames of 18 radio broadcasters past and present.

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 8?

263 841 244 323 852

3. operas 227 636 132 878 368 168 355 618 446 538 861 622 228 226 143 663 358 721 245 591 433 546

188 672 238 636 283

726 217 416 135 313

413 781 584 381 224

6. colours 252 251 722 753 431 787 753 193 733 612 583 127 522 127 467 661 147 391 846 538 154 254

816 556 696 745 142

726 914 154 837 935

E

E

R

F

E

E

L

E

L

L

Y

M A

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C

A

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P M E

G

I

WORD WIZARD

2

1

3

4

5

6

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

C

PIUPIU

E

E

G

B

A

H

G

I

R

K

I

P

R

G

E

K

E

N

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S

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W O

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P M U

A MAKE A DATE

L

P

O

N

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G

A

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R

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U

N W E

S

G

N

M Y

B

C

K

R

Y M A

J

U

U

L

Y

O

DOOR

–––––

WORK

ROTTEN

–––––

CART

AFTER

––––

FIRST

–––––

WAR

L E L A B TRANSFORMER

PALM

–––

SKIN

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

BRAND

––––

SAKE

CYCLE

765 124 666 266 425

I

E

D

1) An Australian shrub whose leaves provide a narcotic substance;

F

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

2) A small but very troublesome Brazilian biting fly;

1. Cambodia is renamed Democratic Kampuchea by Pol Pot, leader of the communist Khmer Rouge.

3) A ceremonial skirt traditionally made from strips of flax worn by Maori men and women.

2. Greek singer Demis Roussos goes to No 1 in the UK pop charts with his EP The Roussos Phenomenon.

3. Constitutional government is restored in Portugal.

Clue: Social insect has posh relative.

WAS IT? a) 1972; b) 1974; c) 1976; d) 1978; e) 1980.

___ +U=_U__

ALL THE ANSWERS

8 4 5 1 6 2 3 7 9

6 2 9 8 3 7 1 5 4

7 9 1 6 4 8 5 3 2

SUDOKU EASY

3 6 4 2 5 9 7 8 1

2 5 8 7 1 3 9 4 6

4 8 7 3 2 1 6 9 5

5 3 2 9 8 6 4 1 7

9 1 6 4 7 5 8 2 3

8 5 6 3 2 9 4 7 1

9 4 1 5 8 7 2 6 3

3 2 7 1 6 4 9 5 8

4 8 9 7 3 6 1 2 5

1

N

H

15 2

V

16 3

E

Z

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G R

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17 4

18 5

X

J

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B

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L W K 8

I

S

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10

T

24

Q D

25

26

A M Y

11

12

13

CROSS CODE

6 7 5 9 1 2 8 3 4

1 3 2 4 5 8 6 9 7

SUDOKU DIFFICULT

7 6 3 8 9 1 5 4 2

2 1 4 6 7 5 3 8 9

5 9 8 2 4 3 7 1 6

11 16

6

5

7

9 14 22

5 18 10

12 29

5

4

8

9 13 14

9 22

11 4

1

4

2 3 15

7

5 7

7

4

1 8

1 3

1

5

4 2 17 13 17

7 3 9 19

1 6 8 15

KAKURO MEDIUM

I THINK All Together NOW! I is very informative.

Makes you feel you are part of a big family — Mrs B Kerr, Bowring Park Road, Liverpool (I got my copy on the bus!)

1 7 3 5 9 4 2 6 8

F

C

14

4 7 9 20

Accumulator Quiz 1 – B; 2 – C; 3 – C; 4 – B; 5 – C; 6 – D; 7 – A; 8 – B; 9 – A; 10 – C; 11 – B; 12 – C; 13 – C; 14 – A; 15 – B. Starspot Crossword Across – 1 Contempt; 5 Java; 7 Examining; 9 Next; 10 X-ray; 11 Ached; 14 Abhor; 15 Eaten; 16 Mover; 17 Pique; 18 Bathe; 19 Decry; 22 Lied; 24 Edam; 26 Rationale; 27 Dusk; 28 Talented.

Down – 1 Corn; 2 Text; 3 Mimic; 4 Tonne; 5 Jinx; 6 Abeyance; 7 Exchequer; 8 Gratitude; 11 Armed; 12 Havoc; 13 Derby; 14 Appalled; 20 Evict; 21 Renal; 23 Dark; 24 Elan; 25 Maid.

Star Name: PHIL JUPITUS

Word Wizard No 3 is correct. A piupiu is a Maori skirt.

Dialling Codes 1. dominoes; whist; solitaire; draughts; chess; bridge; pontoon; mah-jong; backgammon; canasta; Trivial Pursuit.

2. Balaclava; El Alamein; Valmy; Bosworth Field; Mafeking; Agincourt; Passchendaele; Trafalgar; Jutland.

3. Carmen; Faust; Turandot; Otello; Tosca; Rigoletto; Macbeth; Nabucco; Idomeneo; Elektra; Billy Budd; Fidelio.

4. bull; investment; flotation; debenture; bear; bid; share; broker; dividend; security; option; premium; commodity.

SO MANY interesting and helpful articles. The best thing about All Together NOW! I is that it is not patronising in any way to those with a disability — Gina Abram, Merlewood Avenue, Southport (My copy from Southport Hospital)

Pathwords: Wogan; Nightingale; Cooke; Freeman; Lawley; Muggeridge; Baker; Hunniford; Plomley; Blackburn; Wylie; Young; Jameson; Perkins; Murray; Peel; Humphrys; Kelly.

5. fire engine; taxi; bulldozer; dustcart; snowplough; van; juggernaut; fork-lift truck; hearse; beach buggy.

6. black; scarlet; orange; purple; yellow; green; blue; brown; lilac; crimson; silver; grey; violet; hazel; khaki.

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

Missing Link frame; apple; life; class; oil; name.

Bird: falcon.

Make a Date The year was 1976.

Transformer Ant + U = Aunt.

TAKE ME HOME!

TAKE ME HOME!

20

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

Family wins fight over mum’s care

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A

FAMILY has won a six-year fight to recover more than £165,000 in wrongly paid nursing home fees.

Eleven years ago Marjorie EytonJones broke a leg and was admitted to Ysbyty Gwynedd Hospital, North Wales.

A former secretary to the commissioner of police in Hong Kong, Mrs Eyton-Jones also suffered with dementia.

The family was told that as she needed 24-hour nursing care, she could not return home.

They were also informed that, due to her capital and income, she had to pay for her own nursing care which totalled over £165,000.

Mrs Eyton-Jones was then admitted to the Manor House

Nursing Home in Wirral to be near her family.

But in November 1999, the home could no longer cope with her needs so she was transferred to Brimstage Manor Nursing Home where she remained until she died in May 2007.

As her health deteriorated, Mrs Eyton-Jones became immobile, could not communicate and ultimately lost her ability to swallow.

Her family, helped by law firm Hugh James, had to prove that she had ‘health needs’ which meant she was entitled to NHS Continuing Healthcare and did not have to pay £1,900 per month needed for her long term nursing care.

With Continuing Healthcare, the NHS is responsible for, and fully

What it costs . . .

HAPPIER TIMES: Evelyn, centre, who had to pay care fees

funds, care. It mainly affects very ill patients, often elderly, in nursing homes. It can also apply if a person is in hospital long term or needs nursing care at home.

Despite Wirral Primary Care Trust describing Mrs Eyton-Jones as grossly cognitively impaired and having multiple and high level needs reflecting an unpredictable/ unstable condition, they would not award NHS Continuing Healthcare.

Gordon Line, Mrs Eyton-Jones’ son, said: “The only reason my mother was in a nursing home is because she was very ill and required 24-hour nursing care.

“I was simply told that as she had capital, she had to pay for her nursing home fees. No other option was given.

“When I became aware of NHS Continuing Healthcare, I immediately took steps and asked that my mother be assessed.

“I felt it was clear that my mother should have had her fees paid by the NHS. “The current system we have is complex and unfair. It is a labyrinth and anyone trying to navigate through it needs assistance.

“It has been a hard and long sixyear fight, but I am happy that the NHS have finally admitted that they should have been responsible for my mum’s nursing home fees and will be reimbursing all the money.”

Hugh James currently represents over 750 people claiming they have been wrongly charged nursing care fees in Wales.

n If you are eligible for NHS Continuing Healthcare, you do not make any contribution towards the long term care fees. n The NHS pays the whole cost and it applies if a person is in hospital, care home or in their own home. n If a person is not assessed as eligible for NHS Continuing Health care and has capital over £23,000 (£22,000 in Wales), they have to pay for all the care fees. n If you have capital between £14,000 and £23,000 (£20,075 and £22,000 in Wales) you will have to contribute towards the cost of care. n When you fall below £14,000 (£20,075 in Wales) you do not have to pay fees from your assets, but income from pensions and benefits must be paid towards the care fees. n The average weekly cost for care, per person, is £600.

Rooting for community Helping to build a stronger future for the local community With a proud heritage which includes the development of the world's first commercial nuclear power station, Sellafield Ltd has emerged from the groundbreaking reorganisation of the country's nuclear assets and liabilities as the team responsible for the safe delivery of multi-million pound contracts at Sellafield and Capenhurst on behalf of site owners the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.

The challenge of managing the UK's nuclear legacy comes with the responsibility to ensure that our operations and activities leave the lightest environmental footprint. To that end the company, in discussion with the Environment Agency, undertakes an embedded programme of monitoring of our environments.

We have a long history of supporting our local communities. Working with the NDA our socioeconomic plans encourage employee involvement in local activities, charitable donation schemes and inward investment.

Our endeavours in this area are born from a wish to protect the current skills base, encourage new businesses and, wherever we can, help the overall socio-economic well being of our local communities.

We take great pride in being able to make a positive impact on people's lives.

We have invested over £2million through our economic development programme.

Sustainability and enhanced prosperity in our local regions is the focal point of our economic regeneration policy. We encourage skills development for both businesses and individuals enabling them to take control of their own future.

Our support builds upon the efforts and enthusiasm of our partners in the community, and our own employees, where we are all striving to achieve a vibrant and healthy community.

For more information, please visit www.sellafieldsites.com

STAFF at Sellafield Ltd’s Warrington site are to support Warrington Grassroots for a year.

They have already made a £500 donation to the Endowment Challenge that provides grants to local voluntary, community and faith groups.

Pauline Deans, Sellafield Ltd’s Corporate Responsibility Officer, said: “We selected Grassroots as it benefits many community groups rather than just one.

“We know the work of these groups impacts on the lives of our staff, family and friends.

“We are also excited to be getting involved and helping the community groups too via our staff volunteering programme which has many benefits, from boosting staff morale through to developing leadership and team-building.”

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

E7 taxi ruling: ‘victory for all’

October/November 2009

Benefits set to be felt across the UK Story continues on Page 22

A

HIGH Court victory for wheelchair users in Liverpool is set to have wideranging benefits for people with all types of disabilities throughout the country.

Roll up and take a front seat!

L

OOKING for a vehicle that you can drive from your wheelchair – or remain in your wheelchair in the passenger space?

Then take a closer look at the latest model from Sirus Automotive.

The Sirus ‘Switch’ is based on the Fiat Qubo M-Jet Dynamic and even allows for two wheelchairusers to sit side by side up front!

A six speed automatic gearbox, and a 1.3 Litre Turbo Diesel engine, gives around 62.8 mpg.

Key features include: n Both front seats have a quick-release system so the chair user can choose whether to travel as a driver or passenger – ideal if you are out and about and decide you want your partner to drive home. n Quick and easy entry from the rear. n Fully automated push button gear selector for simple operation and increased interior space.

n For further

information or to book a demonstration at your home, call 0121 505 7777, or e-mail info@sirusauto motive.co.uk or visit www.sirusauto motive.co.uk n Electronic handbrake. n Fully automated tailgate and ramp. n Optional folding rear seat. n No parcel shelf, giving you extra space. n Full stainless steel conversion on under body including exhaust system. n Excellent service backed up by three years’ warranty.

As standard the vehicle provides power steering, air conditioning, electronically controlled front windows, body coloured bumpers, and electronically adjustable

All Together NOW!

heated door mirrors.

There are also ‘follow me home’ headlights, tip computer, height adjustable headlamps, remote central locking, and 16” alloy wheels.

And you will find a great 40W hi-fi sound system, too, with radio, CD and MP3 player, and four speakers.

Bluetooth technology provides a hands-free system with steering wheel mounted controls.

The ‘Switch’ is available on the Motability scheme – advance payment £6,295.

Purchase price: £21,995.

The first case of its kind in the UK found Liverpool City Council acted illegally by refusing to license the accessible E7 taxi.

Campaigners had argued that the city’s existing cabs were potentially dangerous

for wheelchair users.

Mr Justice Blake said the council was guilty of discrimination, a decision that sent a clear message to all public bodies that they must take their disability obligations seriously.

The judge found that the council’s ban on the new taxis amounted to a failure to “make reasonable adjustments” for wheelchair users.

It was the first time the Disability Discrimination

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All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

VICTORY: Alma Lunt, centre, with Jean Price, left, and Kim Rawlinson outside the High Court in London

Liverpool city council blasted in landmark High Court ruling . . .

All aboard the E7

Contunued from Page 21

Act’s prohibition against any bias in the exercise of public functions had been tested in court.

It also significantly clarifies public bodies’ obligations under the ‘positive duty’ laws.

The case was brought by wheelchair user Alma Lunt, who claimed she and many other users of larger wheelchairs could not travel safely in the city’s current public-hire taxi fleet.

Backed by local disability associations, Mrs Lunt asked Liverpool City Council to license an alternative, more wheelchairfriendly cab so that she could travel safely.

Mrs Lunt and others repeatedly explained to the council’s licensing officer and licensing committee that

vehicle constraints prevented her being properly positioned and safely secured in the existing London-style taxis.

The council also heard survey evidence that 96% of wheelchair users travel unsafely in Londonstyle cabs, facing sideways, with their chair unsecured and with no seat belt. The council had unlawfully ignored this evidence, Mr Justice Blake said.

Stressing that a ‘one-size fits all’ approach would not meet the needs of all travellers, campaigners had pointed to a ready-made solution, in the form of the more accessible E7 taxi, manufactured jointly by Peugeot and accessible vehicle specialist Allied Vehicles.

Despite the wishes expressed by Mrs Lunt and the powerful evidence put forward to support a

change in licensing policy, Liverpool City Council kept the status quo.

The licensing committee refused to license the new-style taxi, because it has sliding doors and does not meet a 28-feet turning circle requirement, originating in the days of the horse-drawn hackney carriage in London.

At the High Court, the council’s barrister argued that the licensing policy should not be subject to judicial review on disability discrimination grounds, that they hadn’t properly understood Mrs Lunt’s difficulty, and that they were justified in rejecting the E7 on the basis of councillors’ ‘local knowledge’ of Liverpool’s streets.

But Mr Justice Blake ruled emphatically that the council’s policies and practices do fall within the Disability Discrimination Act,

that they had received plentiful evidence of the problems faced by wheelchair users, and that there was no meaningful evidence to justify their refusal to undertake a ‘reasonable adjustment’ to their policy, by licensing the E7 taxi.

The judge also noted that the average size of wheelchairs is increasing and that the E7 already operates across 95% of the UK’s 400 licensing authorities without any significant safety concerns.

Mrs Lunt said: “We’re used to facing many barriers and challenges in daily life so we were determined to press on.”

The case was supported by the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

Liverpool city council is presently reconsidering its position on the E7 in the light of the judgement.

Car park campaign hots up DISABLED motorists have completed a national survey of supermarket car parks, as part of efforts to stamp out misuse of accessible parking bays.

Members of the Baywatch campaign – the disabled motorists’ charity Mobilise, Disability Now magazine and the British Polio Fellowship – have been calling on supermarkets to deal with the problem since 2001.

This summer, Sainsbury’s became the second of the “big four” supermarket chains to introduce widespread fining for bay abusers, following the lead of Asda in January, 2008.

Tesco uses fining “as a last resort” in some stores, but Morrisons has so far refused to introduce fining.

A small survey by Disability Now in April 2008 suggested that abuse dropped from 23 per cent to about three per cent in Asda’s carparks after the fines were introduced.

Helen Smith, director of policy and campaigns for Mobilise, said she hoped the new survey would prove that fining those who use accessible bays without a blue badge was effective. www.baywatchcampaign.org

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n Wrightington Mobility Centre, Hall Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9EP. Tel. 01257 256409 www.mobility-centre.org.uk n The North Wales Driving Assessment Centre, Disability Resources Centre, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire.

Tel. 01745 584858 n Regional Driving Assessment Centre, Unit 11, Network Park, Duddeston Mill Road, Birmingham.

Tel. 0845 3371540 n Motability, Goodman

House, Station Approach, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2ET. Helpline 0845 456 4566 (voice), 01279 632273 (text). www.motability.co.uk n National Association of Bikers with a Disability, Unit 20, The Bridgewater Centre, Robson Avenue, Urmston, Manchester, Tel. 0870 759 0603. www.nabd.org.uk n Disabled Motorcyclists Association, Ada House, 77 Thompson Street, Manchester, M4 5FY. Tel. 0161 214 8314, 07947 138303. www.thedma.org.uk

Roadshow moving on NEXT year’s Mobility Roadshow – the annual ‘disabled drivers motorshow’ – will take place next summer at the East of England Showground, Peterborough, Jacqui Jones, executive director of Mobility Choice, who organise the show, said: “The move to Peterborough fulfils our mission to move the Roadshow around the UK, making it accessible to as many visitors as possible.” n Tel 0845 241 0390.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

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All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TREATMENT FOR SWINE FLU A new strain of Influenza A (H1N1), also known as swine flu, was confirmed in the UK in April and has spread to more than 100 countries around the world prompting the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a global flu pandemic.

The National Pandemic Flu Service In order to deal with the increasing number of cases of swine flu in England, the NHS has launched the National Pandemic Flu Service. This is a new self-care service with online and phone access which allows you to check your symptoms and access antivirals if required, or receive advice on symptom-relief. This service is only intended for people who are ill with swine flu. It still allows you to go to your doctor if necessary.

Staying at home and accessing antivirals via the National Pandemic Flu Service will reduce pressure on your GP surgery and local NHS services and prevent you spreading the virus within your community.

How to use the National Pandemic Flu Service 1. Go online at www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu or call 0800 1 513 100.

Textphone is available on 0800 1 513 200.

2. You’ll be taken through a list of simple questions about your symptoms and medical history, and asked to confirm your date of birth, name and address including your postcode.

3. If you are confirmed as having swine flu, you may be given an authorisation number which will allow your ‘flu friend’ (a family member, friend or neighbour) to collect a course of antivirals on your behalf from a local collection point in your area. You will also be given advice on how to treat your symptoms at home.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

October/November 2009

All Together NOW!

What are the symptoms of swine flu?

If you have a fever or a high temperature (over 38°C / 100.4°F) and have two of the following symptoms: unusual tiredness, headache, runny nose, sore throat, shortness of breath or cough, loss of appetite, aching muscles, diarrhoea or vomiting, you may have swine flu.

What are antivirals and how can they help?

Antivirals can’t cure swine flu but they can help you to recover more quickly and they can relieve some of your symptoms.

When is it better to contact your doctor?

You should contact your doctor direct rather than using the National Pandemic Flu Service if: • You have a serious underlying illness.

• You are pregnant.

• You have a sick child under one year old.

• You or your child’s condition suddenly gets much worse.

• Your condition is still getting worse after 7 days (5 days for a child).

What are flu friends and how can they help?

Flu friends are family members, friends or neighbours who can help you if you get ill. They can contact the National Pandemic Flu Service on your behalf to assist with the assessment, and if required they can collect antivirals as well as help with food and over-the-counter medicines.

This will avoid you having to leave your home and prevent you spreading the virus within your community, so it’s advised that you nominate at least one friend now.

To use the National Pandemic Flu Service and to collect antivirals, your flu friend will need their own and the patient’s ID (a list of IDs will be available from the online service or the call centre).

If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s important your flu friend knows about them when using the service on your behalf.

Where can I go for more general information?

For more information on swine flu visit www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu or call the Information Line on 0800 1 513 513.

Flu. Protect yourself and others.

Calls to these numbers are free from landlines. Calls from mobiles may vary, please check with your provider.

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All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Got Flu? Stay at home‌ If you experience a sudden fever, cough or shortness of breath or have a headache, sore throat, tiredness, aching muscles, chills, sneezing, runny nose or loss of appetite you may have swine flu.

For most people this is a mild illness and you should start to feel better after a few days without needing to go to your GP, Walk-in Centre or Accident and Emergency (A&E).

Help yourself and others by not spreading the virus.

The best thing you can do is stay at home, rest, drink plenty of fluids and take over-the-counter flu remedies to help relieve the symptoms.

Flu-friends Flu-friends are neighbours, friends and relatives who can help you if you get ill.

For example, they could collect medicines, food and other supplies for you, so you don’t have to leave your home if you are ill.

It is particularly important that you talk to your doctor if you think you have swine flu and are pregnant, very young, over 65, or have long-term conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

1 If you feel very unwell Check your symptoms online at www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu Call 0800 1 513 513 for general advice Call 0800 1 513 100 for treatment 2 Still concerned?

If you have taken these steps and are still concerned call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or your GP for more advice.

3 Please do not go to A&E unless you are seriously ill.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

October/November 2009

Hospital in line for top awards

Pill could save 1000s of lives

MARR-VELLOUS: Ann Marr, chief executive (centre) with Mike Lynch, medical director (centre) and members of the Trust’s nursing staff

New films are set to provoke CAMPAIGNERS have released two provocative online films to challenge perceptions that people with mental health problems are prone to violence.

Sue Baker, director of Time to Change, said: “Evidence shows that provocative films make a big difference to attitudes and both films will go a long way to reducing the stigma associated with mental health problems.”

The two films were launched as a YouGov poll found that 34 per cent of adults believe people diagnosed with schizophrenia are likely to be violent.

Time to Change, which is led by the mental health charities Rethink and Mind, is backed by £16 million from the Big Lottery Fund and £4m from Comic Relief. n To view the films, visit www.time-to-change.org.uk

Help on CD A RANGE of cancer information booklets are now available in CD format to help people who have difficulty reading - or who simply prefer information in audio format.

The CDs, produced by Macmillan Cancer Support, give information and advice about specific types of cancer, different types of treatment and possible sideeffects, and the emotional effects of cancer. n To order from Macmillan’s range of 37 audio CDs, call 0800 500 800 or visit www.macmillan.org.uk

St HELENS & Knowsley Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, along with its chief executive Ann Marr and clinical director Dr Laweh Amegavie, have been shortlisted for top healthcare awards.

The Trust has been short-listed for Acute Healthcare Organisation of the Year in the Health Service Journal Awards for its long list of outstanding achievements over the last six years.

Ms Marr and Dr Amegavie, who is a consultant paediatrician, have been named among the finalists in the esteemed NHS Leadership Awards.

Ann has been short listed as NHS Leader of the Year for her exemplary record of achievements and for steering the Trust towards becoming one of the country’s top performers and Laweh as NHS Mentor of the Year for his support and inspiration to colleagues.

The winners will be announced on November 25.

A

NEW daily tablet could improve or save the lives of many people who suffer from chronic lung disease after it proved successful on patients.

Professor Peter Calverley revealed details of the breakthrough research at the European Respiratory Society’s annual congress in Vienna.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the world’s biggest killers, accounting for around 30,000 deaths in the UK every year - many as a result of flare-ups triggered by air pollution or infections.

It causes severe inflammation of the lungs, similar to asthma attacks, leaving sufferers gasping for breath and in need of emergency treatment.

Around 900,000 (or 1 in 40) people in the UK have been diagnosed with COPD but an estimated further 450,000 people may have it without realising. Many cases are linked to smoking and nonacute attacks are usually eased by nebulisers or inhalers (bronchodilators).

Professor Calverley led research trials into the use of the drug roflumilast on around 3,000 patients internationally

HOPE: Prof Calverley including 30 at University Hospital Aintree in Liverpool, where he is honorary consultant physician in respiratory medicine Results showed that the incidence of life-threatening lung attacks were reduced in around 20% of patients.

Experts believe the antiinflammatory drug could help save thousands of lives in the UK every year and millions worldwide by reducing the risk of acute exacerbations which can last several days and usually require stabilising through hospital treatment.

Professor Calverley said: “COPD can devastate people’s lives and flare-ups or attacks can be extremely

frightening, so a novel tablet like roflumilast is really exciting for those of us treating patients.

“Roflumilast acts differently to bronchodilators as it acts on the underlying condition, not primarily impacting on everyday symptoms. It acts slowly and the effects, as we saw in our studies, are gradual and sustained.

“It offers significant hope for some patients with chronic respiratory problems, although we found that around one-inseven weren’t suited because they showed adverse symptoms such as feeling queasy.

“Overall, there is no doubt that the results of the trials involving patients at Aintree and elsewhere are very exciting and it will create significant interest at the conference in Vienna. I am very grateful to those patients at Aintree who agreed to support the trials.”

University Hospital Aintree is recognised as a world leader in the treatment of respiratory diseases.

Professor Calverley is also professor of respiratory medicine at the University of Liverpool and chairs the Department of Health group which formulated the National Service Framework for COPD.

All Together NOW!

by Beatrice Fraenkel chair, Mersey Care NHS

O

UR LIVES lives can sometimes get overtaken by busy schedules and commitments, with so much to do and so little time to do it.

Peeling another sheet off the calendar reminds us it is World Mental Health Day on October 10.

Inevitably there is national and international activity around this awareness-raising date but I hope you can take a quiet moment to reflect that mental health problems affect one in four of the population, while one in 50 people will suffer from a more severe mental illness.

A mental health anti-stigma campaign I mentioned earlier in the year called ‘Time To Change’ is touring the country before, during and after World Mental Health Day. It is making three appearances in the North West, so go to its website for more about the roadshows on www.time-to-change.org.uk Another recent date fixed firmly in my mind was one when the different strands of my professional life coincided.

Sharing views I attended a round-table discussion in my role as a member of the editorial board for the North West architectural magazine supported by the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Designers and architects met with health professionals and service user representatives from one of Mersey Care’s new generation of mental health units to share their respective views about providing a therapeutic environment.

I mention this because it coincides with the gathering pace of Mersey Care’s own ‘time’ initiative - the To Improve Mental health Environments (TIME) Project.

This will provide five new purposebuilt mental health facilities stretching from South Liverpool to North Sefton so they can be accessible to the communities they serve, with construction due to start in 2011.

I hope this puts some local context for us all around the relevance of World Mental Health Day.

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All Together NOW!

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October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

. . . with JAN LOCKYER

The straws that clutch

Q

HAVE to use a straw when drinking but I can’t hold it in position and spend a lot of time chasing it around the glass. Any help?

THE Strawberi Straw Holder is an ingenious little device that holds straws up to 6mm diameter securely against the side of a glass or cup or bottle.

Strawberis are dishwasher safe and available in packs of 10 for less than £5.

Pat Saunders reuseable straws also have a built in clip that holds them to the side of the glass. These straws have a valve to stop the liquid going back down when you have sucked it up.

This is helpful for people who cannot suck strongly.

20,000 ways to help you remain independent

DID YOU know there are over 20,000 products designed to assist older and disabled people on the market?

If you need equipment to help you stay independent how do you make the right choice?

Disabled Living Centres provide independent information and advice and the opportunity to see and try a

A

vast range of products with the aid of expert advisors From beds to bath aids, showers to stair lifts, local Disabled Living Centres provide equipment info helplines.

So for information on equipment and how to get it contact your local Disabled Living Centre. Many

The kitchen that talks

Q

I LOVE baking but I can no longer see the dial on my kitchen scales. I have looked at ones with digital displays but even these are not clear enough for me.

Guessing the measurements has resulted in flat flans and soggy scones! Any ideas?

GOOD news! Talking kitchen scales that speak the weight in grammes or ounces are available.

There are mains or battery powered models. Some have the bowl included and with others you use your own bowl and reset the scales to zero before adding the ingredients.

You might also be interested in a talking kitchen timer.

A

Do yourself a good turn

Q Lifehouse is a new approach to providing services for disabled and older people in Liverpool.

InAll the summer of 2007 the under following moved together to Lifehouse: these teams are now oneservices roof, working to provide the information and advice people need toDock. be as safe and an accessible, newly renovated building at Brunswick independent as possible .

Wheelchair Service 0151 296 7765 Fax:0151 0151296 296 7764 Wheelchair Service Tel: 7765 Assessment for and provision of wheelchairs for people who live in Liverpool.

Disabled Living Centre 0151 296 7742 Fax: 0151 296 7743 7748 Disabled Living Centre 0151 296 7742 Minicom: 0151 296 7744 Moving and Handling Team Tel: 0151 296 7750 Fax: 0151 296 7749 Independent information, assessment and advice on choosing daily living equipment and how to get it.

Communication Aids 0151 296 7408 Fax: 0151 296 7764 Moving and Handling Team Tel: 0151 296 7750 Practical advice for disabled people and their carers on moving and handling people.

Adaptations Team 0151 296 7757 Fax: 0151 296 7758 Communication Aids Falls Team

0151 296 7769

Tel: 0151 296 7408

Assessment and provision of communication aids for people who live in Liverpool.

Lifehouse is a newTeam approach to providing services for disabled Adaptations Tel: and 0151older 296 7757 Installation of adaptations to safely people in managing in their ownroof home.will improve people in Liverpool.

Having allassist these services under one accessibility.

Falls Team Tel: 0151 296 7769 A multidisciplinary team providing practical advice and assessment for people who have fallen.

Services will be able to work together to provide the independent information, advice and practical assessment people need to make the rightTel: choices 0151 about 296 7782 Telecare service 7733 Advice, assessment and installation of Telecare equipment. equipment.

The existing services will be joined by others which will greatly increase theinformation range of information and available. call thethe service youadvice require or contact main reception forDay a For further further information call service you require or visitour a Lifehouse Open list ofifehouse Lifehouse Open Days.

Lifehouse Lifehouse Lifehouse ifehouse Units 4–5 Dempster Building Units 4–5 Dempster Building Summers Road, Brunswick Business Park Summers Road, Brunswick Business Park Liverpool 4BL Liverpool L3L3 4BL Main Reception: 0151 296 7733 Main Reception: 0151 296 7733 www.liverpoollifehouse.org www.liverpoollifehouse.org

products can be provided free on loan through local Community Equipment Services.

All Together Now! has teamed up with Liverpool Disabled Living Centre to help readers of all ages and abilities stay independent. If you have a question contact the team on 0151 296 7742. Minicom: 0151 296 7748.

I HAVE difficulty gripping my keys to turn them.

The occupational therapist gave me a key turner – a large plastic handle that my key fits into. It works really well but I have three keys and not enough room in my pocket for three key turners!

THERE are some new key turners that take two or three keys at once. The keys fold away into the handle when not in use.

Contact your local disabled living centre for more details.

A

Top for toys ADVICE and info about wheelchairs and other equipment to help children with disabilities is available online.

The Disabled Living Foundation’s website now includes details on manual and powered wheelchairs, along with details of related mobility accessories such as cushions, clothing and gloves.

A number of other smaller sections have also gone live, including one on buggies and another on toys that have switches and adaptors that help children with limited movements to operate them and disability awareness toys.

Christine Shaw, DLF’s chief executive, said: “This will help parents, carers and healthcare professionals to easily compare products and make informed choices about items that can help children.” n www.livingmadeeasy.org.uk/children

Q

I USE my long handled reacher all the time because I drop things on the floor a lot and can’t bend down to pick them up. It would be really useful to take it out with me but I find it a bit cumbersome to carry.

YES! You can get folding long handled reachers in different lengths. Some include a clip that connnects the reacher to a wheelchair or walking aid. Contact your local disabled living centre for stockists.

A

Help on the line n BLACKBURN Independent Living Centre, Mill Hill St, Mill Hill, Blackburn.

Tel. 01254 269 220 n ELLESMERE PORT Pool Independent Living Centre, New Grosvenor Road.

Tel. 0151 337 6399 n HALTON Collier Street, Runcorn.

Tel. 01928 582 920 n HANDFORTH East Cheshire Independent Living Centre, Redsmere Road, Handforth Tel. 01625 374080 n HARTFORD Hartford Independent Living Centre, Hartford Business Park, Chester Road, Hartford, Nantwich Tel. 01605 881980 n LIVERPOOL Disabled Living Centre, Lifehouse, Summers Road, Brunswick Business Park, Liverpool.

Tel. 0151 296 7742 Minicom 0151 296 7748 n MANCHESTER Assist UK, 4 St Chads Street, Manchester.

Tel. 0161 834 1044 n STOCKPORT St Thomas’s Hospital, Shawheath, Stockport.

Tel. 0161 419 4476 n WARRINGTON Beaufort Street, Warrington.

Tel. 01925 240064 n WILMSLOW Redesmere Road.

Tel. 01625 374080 n WIRRAL St Catherine’s Hospital, Birkenhead.

Tel. 0151 678 7272

MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM St Marks Street, Springhill.

Tel. 0121 464 4942/9525 n DUDLEY St Giles Street, Netherley.

Tel. 01384 813 695 n SHREWSBURY The Lantern, Meadow Farm Drive.

Tel. 01743 210820 n WOLVERHAMPTON Bell Street.

Tel. 01902 553 648

Registered Charity No. 224742

• One of the largest displays of equipment in the UK. • “Real life”areas designed to look and feel like locations within a home.

• Independent professional information and advice.

Anyone is welcome.

• Located in St Chad’s Street, M8 8QA only 5 mins north of Victoria Station.

Tel: 0161 214 5953 www.disabledliving.co.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

29

Help is at hand to pay your water bill Don’t suffer in silence - that’s the message from United Utilities to customers who may be struggling to pay their water bill.

“Sometimes your financial situation may change, which puts pressure on meeting your regular bill payments. But our advice to customers is to telephone us straight away if you are having trouble paying your bill so that we can discuss a suitable solution,” says income manager Iain Pilling.

For customers in receipt of Income Support, Job Seekers Allowance or Pension Credit, the Department for Work and Pensions manages a scheme to enable customers who have arrears on their water bill to pay direct from their benefits.

“The Water Direct scheme helps to ensure that part of your regular payment to us reduces your arrears, so you can be confident that you will pay off your debt,” said Iain.

“The issue for many customers in financial difficulty is budgeting to pay off their arrears, and the Water Direct scheme ensures this is included in the regular payment.”

If you wish to discuss Water Direct, please contact us on 0845 746 2034.

For customers in severe financial difficulties, United Utilities offers a scheme whereby it will support customers to help pay off their debt if they commit to regular payments.

Says Iain: “Our Arrears Allowance scheme is aimed at customers who are really struggling to pay off their debt. If the customer commits to a regular payment plan covering their current water charges and a contribution to their previous arrears, for every pound they pay, we will match this – helping to clear the debt much more quickly.”

To discuss our Arrears Allowance further, please call us on 0845 746 2034.

Customers should also consider applying for a water meter as this may help to reduce their water bill.

“If you live on your own, have a small family, or live in a house with a high rateable value, it is worth considering a water meter.

“Water meters work in a similar way to your gas and electric meters in that you are only charged for what you use.

“We fit our water meters for free and, if you’re not happy with your metered charges, you have up to 13 months to switch back to your current arrangements. So you really have nothing to lose.”

For an application pack, telephone our automated leaflet line on 0845 303 7711 or visit our website.

If you have access to the internet, we also have an on-line calculator on our website that will show instantly if you would be better off on a meter. Visit www.unitedutilities.com/meters to try it out.

Financial support is also available to those customers who have a water meter installed but face particular hardship because they use a lot of water for essential purposes.

“Our WaterSure scheme helps customers who are in receipt of certain benefits and need to use a lot of water because they have a large family or specific medical condition.

“Customers who are accepted onto our WaterSure scheme have their water charges capped at the same amount as the average

household bill, which is currently £378. So even if you have to use a lot of water, the customer can be sure that they won’t have to pay more than this each year.”

For a WaterSure application pack, telephone our automated leaflet request line on 0845 303 7711 or visit our website: www.unitedutilities.com/ watersure.

United Utilities can also set

up a flexible Direct Debit arrangement so that customers can pay their bills quarterly, monthly or even weekly.

“Direct Debit can help customers to budget their repayments and you also get a £5 reduction on your annual water bill so it is really worth considering,” said Iain.

Switching to Direct Debit is easy – phone us on 0845 746 2211 and we’ll do the rest.

Need a little ExtraCare?

We offer a range of free services to help customers who: • are older • have a disability • have a serious illness • have sight, hearing or learning difficulties Our services include: • password scheme • personal notification of water shut-offs • large print, Braille and talking bills

To find out more call 0845 746 1100 or textphone 0808 143 1195 or visit our website www.unitedutilities.com/extracare 07/09/SD/3770

30

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

CARERS’ CENTRES

SHOPMOBILITY n ALTRINCHAM. Tel 0161 929 1714 n ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE. Tel 0161 339 9500 n BARROW. Tel 01229 434039 n BIRKENHEAD. Tel 0151 647 6162 n BLACKBURN AND DARWEN. Tel 01254 690566 or 07757 502217 n BLACKPOOL. Tel 01253 349 427 n BOLTON. Tel 01204 392946 n BURY. Tel 0161 764 9966 n CARLISLE. Tel 01228 625950 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 8046 n MANCHESTER Arndale Centre. Tel 0161 839 4060 n NELSON. Tel 01282 692 502 n NORTHWICH, Vale Royal Tel 01606 353525 n ORMSKIRK, West Lancashire Tel 01695 570055 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 717445 n SHREWSBURY. Tel 01743 236900 n SOUTHPORT. Tel 01704 546 654 n ST HELENS. Tel 01744 613 388 n STOCKPORT. Tel 0161 666 1100 n WARRINGTON. Tel 01925 231941 n WARRINGTON. Birchwood Tel 01925 822 411 n WIGAN. Tel 01942 776 070 n WINSFORD. Tel 01606 557550 n WREXHAM. Tel 01978 312390 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM. Snow Hill Railway Station. Tel 0121 236 8980. Level 2, Centre Car Park, Bullring. Tel 0121 616 2942 n STAFFORD. Tel 01785 619456 n STOKE ON TRENT. Tel 01782 233333 n SUTTON COLDFIELD. Tel 0121 355 1112 n TAMWORTH. Tel, 01827 709392 n WALSALL. Tel 01922 650781 n WEST BROMWICH: Sandwell. Tel 0121 553 1943 n WOLVERHAMPTON. Tel 01902 556021

Mrs Marilyn Williams unveilling the plaque to rename the Anglesey centre as Canolfan

Centre renamed in honour of Byron

A

NGLESEY’S independent living resource centre Canolfan Adnoddau Mona has been renamed Canolfan Byron in honour of the late Byron Williams, the island’s former Corporate Director of Housing and Social Services.

Mr Williams was instrumental in developing and supporting local services for older adults

and people with disabilities.

His commitment to continual improvement led to the creation of Canolfan Adnoddau Mona, near Gwalchmai, which opened in April 2008.

Anglesey County Council leader, Councillor Clive McGregor, said: “Byron made a huge contribution to the development of social services on the Island and his input at a

national level was also widely recognised.”

The following key services are currently based at Canolfan Byron:Reablement Support Services; Telecare; Age Well Programme and Strategy for Older People; Community Equipment and Adaptation Service; Services to improve access to Training and Employment and Taran User Forum.

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 Dis Federation Tel 01606 888400 n CHESTER Dial House Tel 01244 345655 n DENBIGHSHIRE Tel 01745 354445 n ELLESMERE PORT DICE Tel 0151 355 1420 n HALTON Disability Service Tel 01928 717222 n KNOWSLEY DISABILITY CONCERN. 0151 480 4090 n LANCASTER DISC Tel 01524 34411 n LIVERPOOL Association of Disabled People. Tel 0151 263 8366. Text 0151 260 4076 n MERSEYSIDE Inform.

Tel 0151 260 4076. n NEUROSUPPORT Centre Tel 0151 298 2999 n MANCHESTER (GTR) Coalition of Disabled People Tel 0161-273 5154 n MOLD Flintshire Disability Tel 01352 755546 n NELSON: Pendle Pakistan Welfare Association.

Tel 01282 603 616 n PRESTON DISC: Tel 01772 558 863.

Textphone 01772 204 787 n RHYL Tel 01745 350665 n 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 n WREXHAM Tel 01978 262955 MIDLANDS BIRMINGHAM Disability Resource Centre Tel 0121 789 7365 Disabled People’s Network Solihull Tel 0121 788 1544 STOKE: Disability Solutions Tel 01782 683800 WOLVERHAMPTON Elder and Disabled Group Tel 01902 448552 ORGANISATIONS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND 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 Tel 01253 792600 n BURY Tel 0161 763 7014 n BURNLEY Tel 01282 438507 n CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121 CHESHIRE & N WALES: Vision Support. Tel 01244 381515 n CUMBRIA (West) Tel 01946 592474 n CUMBRIA (Sth Lakeland) Tel 01539 726613

n HENSHAW’S

Tel 0161 872 1234 n HENSHAW’S

Tel 0151 227 1226 Bradbury Fields.Tel 0151 221 0888: Action for Bind Tel 0151 708 9008 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 WIGAN Tel 01942 242891 n WIRRAL Tel 0151 652 8877 ORGANISATIONS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE DEAF n BIRMINGHAM Institute for Deaf Tel 0121 246 6101 n CHESHIRE Deaf Society Tel 01606 47831 n CUMBRIA Deaf Society Tel 01228 606434 n LANCASHIRE (EAST) Deaf Society Tel 01282 839180 n MANCHESTER Deaf Centre Tel 0161 273 3415 n MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888 n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887 n WOLVERHAMPTON Centre for Deaf Tel 01902 420904 n LIVERPOOL:

n NORTH

WALES Deaf Association, Tel 01492 542235

n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 387 444 n BLACKBURN with DARWEN Tel 01254 688 www.bwdcarers.org n BLACKPOOL Blackpool Borough Council, Tel 01253 477 716 n CUMBRIA Carlisle.

Tel 01228 542 156 Penrith.

Tel 01768 890 280 Barrow-in-Furness.

Tel 01229 822 822 Kendal.

Tel 01539 732 927 Whitehaven, Tel 01946 592 223 n CHESHIRE Helpline: 0800 085 0307 n KNOWSLEY Tel 0151 549 1412 n LANCASTER Tel 01524 66475 n LIVERPOOL Tel 0151 705 2307 n MANCHESTER Tel 0161 835 2995 n MORECAMBE Tel 01524 833456 n PRESTON Tel 01772 200173 n RUNCORN Tel 01928 580182 n WIDNES Tel 0151 257 7767 n SALFORD Tel 0161 833 0217 n SEFTON Tel 0151 288 6060 n ST HELENS Tel 01744 675 615 n WARRINGTON Tel 01925 644 212 n WEST LANCS Tel 01695 733737 n WIGAN & LEIGH Tel 01942 683711 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM Tel 0121 675 8000 n SOLIHULL Tel 0121 788 1143 n WALSALL Tel 01922 610 810 NORTH WALES n ANGLESEY Tel 01248 722828 n BANGOR Tel 01248 370 797 n CONWY Tel 01492 533714 n DENBIGHSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 0845 603 3187 n DOLGELLAU Tel 01341 421167 n FLINTSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 01352 751436 n WREXHAM: NEWCIS, Tel: 01978 310414.

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

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

October/November 2009

SPORT PROFILE:

31

Lee Pearson

Riding high in the saddle

L

EE Pearson is the undisputed world number one in Paralympic equestrian sport.

The 35 year-old British champion is not only a remarkably inspiring sportsman but he also represents the tenacious spirit of a true Paralympian.

Across three Paralympic Games, spanning 12 years and three continents, Lee has amassed an impressive nine gold medals – a 100% Paralympic success rate!

Together with his record-breaking horses Blue Circle Boy, affectionately known as Gus, and Gentleman, he has also achieved five world and three European titles.

His success is all the more stunning as he has also competed against able-bodied riders and was victorious at the 2003 British National Championships.

A true story of triumph over adversity, Lee – who received a CBE earlier this year in recognition of his contribution to sport – was born with the rare condition Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita that affects just one in 3,000 people.

By the age of six, he had undergone 15 operations and already established himself in the public eye when he was presented with the Child Courage Award (1980)

by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who carried Lee up the stairs to receive his award.

Lee, from Cheddleton, Staffordshire, believes his love for horses is inherited through the generations from his great grandfather who was the neighbourhood horse whisperer.

As a child, Lee was unable to play with his brothers on their BMX bikes so his parents bought him a donkey.

He was also fascinated with horses

when watching cowboy films, but it was not until he saw the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games that he considered combining his love of horses with a sporting career.

Outside of sport Lee supports several organisations.

He is an ambassador for Caudwell Children, a charity that helps families with disabled children, as well as a BT Paralympic Ambassador, supporting BT’s role as a partner of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

He is also patron for the Elizabeth Svendsen Trust - a donkey sanctuary that works with disabled children.

Lee thrives on extreme sports and has a fine collection of vehicles, quad bikes, tractors, a 7-ton lorry and horsebox and sports cars.

He is now looking forward to training for World Equestrian Games held in Kentucky next year.

Great Britain Britain Wheelchair Wheelchair Basketball Basketball Association Association Great SUPER LEAGUE Sun Oct 18: Outlaws v Raiders (Riverside Ice & Leisure, Chelmseford) 2.20 Sat Oct 24: RGK TCAT Rhinos v Eagles (St Peter’s, Telford) 3.00 Sun Oct 25: Aces v Eagles (Stoke Manderville Stadium) 12.30 Sun Oct 25: RGK TCAT Rhinos v Steelers (St Peter’s, Telford) 2.00 Sat Nov 7: Owls v Outlaws (West Hill Sports Centre, Stalybridge) 1.00 Sat Nov 7: RGK TCAT Rhinos v Knights (St Peter’s, Telford) 1.30 Sun Nov 8: Aces v Knights (Stoke Manderville Stadium) 1.30 Sat Nov 14: Knights v Owls (Jordanstown Uni SH, Antrim) 2.00 Sat Nov 14: Aces v Raiders (Aylesbury High School) 4.30 Sat Nov 14: Eagles v RGK TCAT Rhinos (Percy Hedley School, Killingworth) 1.00 Sun Nov 15: Outlaws v Steelers (Riverside Ice & Leisure, Chelmsford) 12.30 Sun Nov 22: Eagles v Knights (Percy Hedley School, Killingworth) 3.00 Sun Nov 22: Rhinos v Raiders (TCAT, Telford) 1.30

1st DIVISION NORTH Sat Oct 17: Jaguars v Owls 2 (Magnus Sports Centre, Newark) 12.20

Sat Oct 17: Greenbank v RGK TCAT Rhinos 2 (Greenbank Sports Academy, Liverpool) 11.00 Sat Oct 24: Greenbank v Lothian (Greenbank Sports Academy, Liverpool) 7.30 Sun Oct 25: Owls 2 v Lothian (Failsworth Sports Centre, Tameside) 12.45 Sun Oct 25: RGK TCAT Rhinos 2 v Steelers 2 (St Peters) 12.00 Sun Nov 8: Cobras v RGK TCAT Rhinos 2 (Leicester Leys Leisure Club) 3.30 Sun Nov 13: Cobras v Owls 2 (Leicester Leys Leisure Club) 3.30

2nd DIVISION NORTH Sat Oct 10: Mavericks v Spitfires (Y Club/Castlefield Hotel, Manchester) 6.00 Sat Oct 17: Furness Falcons v Wheelblazers (Hoops Basketball Centre) 2.00 Sat Oct 17: Mavericks v Bolton Bulls (Y Club/Castlefield Hotel, Manchester) 6.00 Sun Nov 8: Bolton Bulls v Furness Falcons (Smithills Sports Centre) 11.30 Sun Nov 8: Wheelblazers v Warriors (Derby College Sports Hall) 3.00 Sat Nov 14: Furness Falcons v Mavericks (Hoops Basketball Centre) 2.00

3rd DIVISION NORTH Sat Oct 10: Eagles 2 v Leeds Spiders (Percy Hedley Schoo, Killingworth) 1.00

www.gbwba.org.uk .. .. .. www.gbwba.org.uk

Sun Oct 11: West of Scotland v Leeds Spiders (Playdrome, Glasgow) 11.25 Sat Oct 17: Jaguars 2 v West of Scotland (Magnus Sports Centre, Newark) 2.15 Sun Oct 18: Bury Blue Devils v Eagles 2 (Castle Leisure Centre, Bury) 3.30 Sun Oct 18: Cardinals v Vikings 2009 (Whitcliffe Mount Sports Centre, Cleckheaton) 1.30 Sun Oct 18: Steelers 4 v West of Scotland (Northern GenHospital, Sheffield) 11.00 Sat Oct 24: Bury Blue Devils v Vikings 2009 (Castle Leisure Centre, Bury) 6.00 Sun Oct 25: West of Scotland v Steelers 4 (Playdrome, Glasgow) 11.25 Sat Nov 7: Bury Blue Devils v Leeds Spiders (Castle Centre, Bury) 6.00 Sat Nov 14: Eagles 2 v West of Scotland (Percy Hedley School, Killingworth) 3.00 Sat Nov 14: Steelers 4 v Bury Blue Devils (Northern Gen Hospital, Sheffield) 3.00 Sun Nov 15: Cardinals v Steelers 4 (Whitcliffe Mount Sports Centre, Cleckheaton) 1.30 Sun Nov 15: Vikings 2009 v Jaguars 2 (Lansbury Bridge School, St Helens) tbc

3rd DIVISION CENTRAL

(Oak Tree Leisure Centre, Mansfield) 1.00 Sun Oct 11: Phoenix Flyers v Crusaders WBA (Weavers Sport Centre) 2.30 Sun Oct 18: Bury Bombers v Mansfield Maulers (County Upper School, Bury St Edmunds) 1.00 Sun Oct 18: Phoenix Flyers v Sporting Club Albion (Weavers Sport Centre) 2.30 Sat Oct 24: RGK TCAT Rhinos 3 v Mansfield Maulers (St Peter’s, Telford) 1.00 Sun Oct 25: Bury Bombers v Cobras 2 (County Upper School, Bury St Edmunds) 1.00 Sun Nov 8: Cobras 2 v RGK TCAT Rhinos 3 (Leicester Leys Leisure Club) 1.30 Sun Nov 8: Sporting Club Albion v Bury Bombers (George Salter Collegiate Academy, west Bromwich) 2.30 Sun Nov 15: Bury Bombers v Phoenix Flyers (County Upper School, Bury St Edmunds) 1.00 Sun Nov 15: Cobras 2 v Crusaders WBA (Leicester Leys Leisure Club) 1.30 Sun Nov 29: Sporting Club Albion v Cobras 2 (George Salter Collegiate Academy) 2.30

Sun Oct 4: Crusaders WBA v Sporting Club Albion (The Woodlands School & Sports College, Coventry) 11.00 Sat Oct 10: Mansfield Maulers v Cobras 2

Stay ahead of the game – www.alltogethernow.org.uk

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32

All Together NOW!

Euro goal A NEW charity has been set up to encourage better access for disabled football fans at football clubs across Europe.

The UK-based National Association of Disabled Supporters received £600,000 funding from UEFA to start ‘CAFÉ’ - Centre for Access to Football in Europe.

Joyce Cook, chair of NADS, said: “Using the special influence of football within Europe, CAFE will raise disability awareness and improve the lives of disabled people.”

The new organisation will help disabled supporters to set up their own groups across Europe. www.cafefootball.eu

Aussie glory THE 120-strong Team UK returned home triumphant from the 2009 World Transplant Games held in Brisbane, Australia, winning a total of 216 medals in the adult category.

The 20-strong junior team, aged 12-17 years, topped their medal table, winning an astounding 35 gold, 17 silver and 11 bronze medals.

Health Secretary Andy Burnham said: “Their success shows how organ donation can transform lives. ” www.uktransplant.org.uk

October/November 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

‘Channel’ challenge

TRIUMPHANT: Great Britain’s quad wheelchair tennis team (left to right): Andrew Lapthorne, Peter Norfolk, and Jamie Burdekin with their coach Steph Trill and their Invacare World Team Cup trophies

Top of the world

G

REAT Britain’s wheelchair tennis team sensationally won a third Invacare World Team Cup title.

Jamie Burdekin (Liverpool) and Peter Norfolk (Alton, Hants) clinched a 2-0 win over the United States in the final – the Beijing Paralympic medallists winning both of their singles rubbers against Americans Nick Taylor and David Wagner to add to back-to-back quad titles that Great Britain claimed in 2001 and 2002.

Great Britain’s women also secured a personal best, reaching the final of the women’s event and finishing as runners-up.

by MARSHALL THOMAS

And to make it a tournament to remember the men’s team clinched fifth place in World Group 1 – just 12 months on from earning promotion by winning World Group 2.

Peter Norfolk said: “It’s such a great feeling to get the World Team Cup trophy back after seven years and to do it on home soil and with that kind of support from the crowd is awesome, “It’s been a great experience and a great performance and one we can build on ahead of 2012.”

After reaching the women’s final for the first time, second seeds Great Britain were always going to be up against it when they met top seeds The Netherlands in the title decider, but 17-year-old British No 2 and world junior No 1 Jordanne Whiley put up a promising performance before eventually succumbing to world No 2 Korie Homan 6-3, 6-2.

British No 1 Lucy Shuker faced an even tougher task against world No 1 Esther Vergeer.

Vergeer, 28, is unbeaten since January 2003, wrapped up a 6-0, 6-0 victory to give The Netherlands their 22nd title.

Help us us to to keep keep spreading spreading the the news news –– subscribe subscribe Help 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 £10 donation (or more, if you can afford it!) we will send you the next SIX editions.

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SWIMMERS are wanted for the 10th anniversary Aspire Channel Swim – the country’s biggest annual sponsored swimming event.

But don’t panic about the thought of splashing out in cold, stormy seas – you actually take part in your local pool!

Last year, almost 7,000 people took part in the 22mile challenge, raising a whopping £482,285 for Aspire, the charity that helps people with spinal cord injuries.

This year the charity hopes to top £500,000.

To take part contact Rosie Cotton, Aspire Channel Swim, Freepost NW4845, Stanmore, HA7 4BR, FREEPHONE 08000 370 880

Celeb soccer DISABILITY Sports Events are on the look out for football teams to play against guest stars from the world of television and sport.

The event is due to take place on Sunday November 5 at the Soccerdome in Trafford, Manchester and registration will commence at 10am, followed by kick off at 11am.

Contact Lucy Lloyd-Ruck, tel 0161 953 2430 or e-mail lucy@dse-org.uk

Talent day THE Football Association is planning a talent day as part of a scheme to identify the most talented disabled students in the country.

Coaches at colleges and universities are being asked to select players who they consider have the potential to progress onto the national level.

The event takes place on November 5 at the Nicholls Football Centre, Ardwick, Manchester.

Contact James Watkins, tel 07507427965

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