Bobath NEWS Issue Seventeen Spring 2009
THE
NEWSLETTER
OF
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BOBATH
CENTRE
The special one Jose Mourinho will be looking over his shoulder at eightyear old James Loosemore who is starting to build a successful football club on the Isle of Wight.
James receiving his award from Alan Titchmarsh
Just after Christmas, James started putting up posters around his area and soon had eight children interested. “All my emails are about football now,” he said on a recent visit to the Bobath Centre.
The Isle of Wight Inclusives is open to boys and girls up to 16 years. James has already appointed a coach, the council are interested in providing transport and a local businessman has
Australia honours Margaret
Margaret Mayston’s contribution to the Bobath approach has been recognised by her mother country, which has awarded her the Order of Australia.
Membership of the Order is the preeminent way Australians recognise the achievements and service of their fellow citizens. Nominations come directly from either individuals or groups within the community, which are then submitted to the Australian Honours Secretariat in Canberra for consideration.
donated £100 to get them started. The team played together for the first time in March where “there were lots of smiles and high fives all round,” reported Julie.
James has wasted no time putting the first piece of silverware in the trophy cabinet; he recently won the Isle of Wight’s junior disability achievement award, both for his footballing ambitions, and for his progress in the pool as part of the Isle of Wight Swim Team.
Margaret is honoured for “service to physiotherapy, particularly the treatment of people with cerebral palsy and other neurological conditions using the Bobath method, to research in the area of neurorehabilitation, and to education”. After training as a physiotherapist in Melbourne, she completed an MSc in Applied Physiology at King’s College, London followed by a PhD in neurophysiology at University College London and a post-doctoral fellowship funded by the Wellcome Trust. As a former director, she maintains a clinical role at the Bobath Centre
working as Margaret Mayston both a therapist adviser and as a senior Bobath paediatric tutor on the Bobath foundation course. She is also a senior lecturer at University College London where she is involved in investigating the developmental changes in movement quality in infants and those at risk of developmental problems.
Join the one 400 Challenge See page 6 for details ■
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James, a Portsmouth fan, decided to set up his own team for children with disabilities when he found that there was no provision locally. Armed with self-confidence and the gift of the gab, the island’s “special one” went about persuading the local council and businesses to support his idea. His passion for the beautiful game persuaded Pompey to have him as their guest at the FA Cup semi-final against West Bromwich Albion last May.
Image: Isle of Wight County Press
James and his sister, Christina have been regular visitors to the Bobath Centre since they were young and their parents, Glen and Julie say that both children have benefited enormously from treatment.
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Cerebra was set up to improve the lives of children with brain related conditions. It helps by funding research, education and offering direct support for children and their carers.
Grants available: Cerebra
Christine Barber, the director of therapy services recently returned from Poland where she and colleague, Jean-Pierre Maes met with European Bobath tutors.
Bobath on the road
Senior speech & language therapist, Yolly Broek travelled to Chicago in March to attend the NDTA specialty conference, Feeding Christine Barber and Swallowing Across the Lifespan. NDT or Neuro-Developmental Treatment is how Bobath therapy is known in the USA.
Yolly was looking to expand her knowledge and treatment skills from an NDT perspective and the conference offered a combination of both informational and hands-on lab sessions.
People visiting the Centre from April will get the chance to tell us what they think of our customer service and the premises generally. The survey will focus on how we do in terms of efficiency, effectiveness, cleanliness (premises not staff!) and the facilities provided.
Survey aims to improve customer service
In addition to funding treatment costs, they may pay for equipment or resources that are not available from statutory agencies like the NHS. Items funded in the past include touch screen computers, specialist car seats, power wheelchairs, trampolines, sensory toys, adapted cycles and digital drum kits. To qualify a child must be aged 16 or under and have a brain injury, neurological disorder, mental disability or developmental problem. For further information, please contact Debbie Godsave, Cerebra grants co-ordinator on 01267 244216 or debbieg@cerebra.org.uk.
The streets of London will again be filled with thousands of runners taking part in the Flora London Marathon on 26th April. We wish our 17 runners the best of luck and will be cheering them on along the route. If you are coming to this year’s marathon, we would like you to join us at our cheering point. Please contact Sarah on sarah@bobathlondon.co.uk for details of where we will be positioned.
Bobath on the run
Online auction site eBay now raises a staggering £11,000 a day for charity. In April, we are putting up for auction a Theraplay Terrier tricycle (which retails at around £500) donated by Ruyi Afolabi and her parents.
Eleven thousand reasons to use eBay
The survey will run for six weeks and we hope to publish the results in the autumn edition of Bobath News. (from front page)
Other research interests include the use of neurophysiological techniques and motion analysis to understand the control of movement in healthy children and adults; changes in the control of movement in pathologies such as cerebral palsy and stroke; and possible effects of some therapeutic interventions.
Australia honours Margaret
Margaret is thrilled and honoured to receive the award, “It is an affirmation of the value of the Bobath Concept,” she said “and reflects the many interactions I have had with others, particularly the inspiration of the Bobaths and Jenny Bryce (the late director of the Bobath Centre) with whom I worked for many years.” Margaret reached another milestone in March when she celebrated 30 years working at the Bobath Centre.
If you are an eBayer already it is easy to donate all or part of your final sale price to the charity. Alternatively, we can sell an item for you.
For further information, visit www.ebay.co.uk/ebayforcharity or contact the Fundraising Team who will be happy to help.
Contact us
Editor - Kevin Gillespie 020 8442 2276 Assistant editor - Sarah Terrazas Editorial and advertising enquiries: 020 8442 2276 or email: kevin@bobathlondon.co.uk 250 East End Road, London N2 8AU 020 8444 3355 Bobath Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy, Registered charity 229663 Bobath Centre for Adults with Neurological Disability, Registered charity 2938539 ©The Bobath Centre 2009
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Can we fix it? Ask Dave
Image: Bobath Centre
Dave Hanson
Dave Hanson is a practical man, which is just as well since his role as premises manager means coming up with practical solutions to problems on a daily basis.
Dave has worked at the Bobath Centre for 16 years, living on-site in the old headmistress’ cottage with his wife Helen, who also works at the Centre on reception. His practical approach was evident even before he worked here. “I remember coming for my interview and noticed that the doors to the building had to be opened by hand,” he said. “That’s not good when you have a child, maybe in a wheelchair and parents laden with bags and other bits and pieces”. Not surprisingly, one of his first projects was to install automatic doors. This down-to-earth approach has served the Centre well and these days his role goes far beyond just opening and closing up. As premises manager, he is responsible for almost every aspect of the building - from project managing the replacement of tens
Wii were first! There was a distinct sense of déjà vu at the Bobath Centre over Christmas when we read Physiotherapy Frontline’s article on the benefits of the Nintendo Wii in treating children and adult clients.
Having been donated the games console we were initially going to sell it on eBay, but our therapists realised it could have a broader use than just recreational.
Occupational therapist, Clare Smith explained: “When a child with cerebral palsy uses their hands there is a tendency for their muscle tone to increase in their legs (which reduces their base of support and balance). By using the Wii as a standing activity, it keeps the tone lower. It is also useful for shifting weight side to side or forward and back, which is the key to walking and maintaining balance.” She went on to say “playing games such as Wii Tennis helps in the planning, sequencing and timing of movement for example, promoting hand/eye co-ordination and in disassociating arm movement from the trunk.”
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of thousands of pounds of audio-visual equipment in the lecture theatre to sorting out the plumbing in the staff toilets.
It is a role he takes seriously. “The Centre has a duty of care both to the visitors and staff who use the building and it is my job to make sure the building is a safe and healthy place to be in. I also make sure the building runs smoothly in the same way a car mechanic tweaks an engine to get the best out of it.” Dave is also responsible for the bulk of the purchasing from paper clips to therapy equipment, and for seeing through the schedule of planned maintenance. This has turned him into a master negotiator, and he admits that he enjoys haggling with suppliers to get the best deal for the charity, “If I can save a few bob without cutting corners then I’ll have a go – that way the money stays where it’s needed,” he said. His biggest headache at the moment is the leaking roof in the reception, which can no longer cope with heavy spells of rain.
“We’ve been advised to replace it,” he says “but it will cost £50,000. We’ll have to make do for now, but it doesn’t look good when visitors see buckets in reception.” But, if anyone can find a solution, Dave can.
The Centre is currently trying to raise £50,000 to replace the reception roof.
Are you regular?
Did you know that making regular donations through your bank or building society is the most cost effective way of giving to the Bobath Centre? By giving as little as £5.00 a month you will be supporting the ongoing work of the charity - that’s less than the cost of a bottle of wine. Here is how your gift could help: £5.00 a day keeps a therapy hoist maintained £10.00 will buy toys for use in therapy £25.00 will buy speech & language software £60.00 pays to heat a therapy room for one day £115.00 will pay for one hour of treatment
Having a regular source of donations means that we can plan ahead and it’s also environmentally friendly because it requires no paperwork once set up. Setting up a direct debit couldn’t be simpler. Just complete the regular giving form you will find in this newsletter and return it to the Bobath Centre. We will do the rest and you don’t even need a stamp! See enclosed leaflet.
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Christmas brings comfort and joy
Martine dressed as an angel for the album cover
Christmas starts early at the Bobath Centre. During the summer we were thinking about what we could do for the festive season when we hit upon the idea of producing a CD of Christmas songs.
2009
The gift of a lifetime
We are indebted to the late Mrs Doris Carr who has left the charity over £80,000 in her will.
Legacies are important to a small charity like the Bobath Centre. By their very nature, they are unexpected and allow us to develop and improve in areas that are beyond our resources.
Having no experience of the music business we turned to Bobath supporter, Jennie Cassidy for help. Jennie is no stranger to the recording studio having sung on over 30 professional recordings including CDs for the BBC Music Magazine and BBC Radio 3. Jennie’s daughter, Martine is treated at the Centre and we were delighted when she agreed to help.
Our new legacy leaflet explains things in more detail, but if you are planning to make a will, please think about leaving a gift to the Bobath Centre.
By September she had chosen her favourite songs gleaned from her extensive back catalogue. In amongst her selection were old chestnuts such as Ding Dong Merrily on High and Away in a Manger, but there were also less obvious songs from Ireland and Wales, USA, Poland and the Czech Republic.
For further information, please contact Kevin Gillespie.
While the recording process began in Jennie’s home town of Ipswich, the fundraising team in London got to grips with the minutiae of copyright law, production licences, artwork and finding a pressing plant. It all came together and in November we took delivery of Comfort & Joy. Although we didn’t make the Christmas number one slot, Comfort & Joy raised over £3,500 and we would like to thank Jennie all those who gave their time and talents free of charge. Comfort & Joy and Jennie’s first recording for the Bobath Centre, I Dream About You are both available for purchase.
Bobath T-shirts for sale
Tell us your story
When we apply for funding it is important that we can give examples of how Bobath therapy has made a difference to children’s lives and to those of their families. In amongst the corporate documents and the accounts our donors like to read about real people in their own words.
Image: Bobath Centre
So, we would like to hear your story – how cerebral palsy has affected your family, how you discovered the Bobath Centre; your experience of Bobath therapy and the service you received during your stay. Finally, how treatment has made a difference to your life.
Black 100% cotton and carry the Children’s Centre logo Exclusive design by Storm Available in Medium, Large & XL £10.00 plus p&p To order visit www.bobath.org.uk to buy online or call 020 8442 2275.
We use these case studies to explain our work in language that “non-clinical” people will understand. We never identify individuals; all names are changed before publication. If you just want to write notes we will be happy to draft something and show it to you for approval.
If you are visiting the Bobath Centre in the near future, please ask at reception and one of our fundraising team will be happy to chat with you. If you aren’t planning a visit but would still like to help, please contact Kevin Gillespie on 020 8442 2276 or at kevin@bobathlondon.co.uk
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James on top of the world
One in 400 children born in the UK is affected by cerebral palsy. That’s one in 400 children who may struggle through life or one in 400 children who, with the right support, could grow up to reach their full potential. We would like our supporters to join us in a new fundraising initiative – the Bobath Centre’s one ■ 400 challenge.
We leave at midnight or go without you After visiting the Bobath Centre in the summer, Tawa plc employee, James Thompson took on the mammoth challenge of climbing 5,895 metres to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This is his story… The sun rose at six in the Barranco Valley to what was to be the hardest 36 hours of my life. We had already spent three days trekking and scrambling through rainforest and moonlike rocky terrain by the time we left for our base camp. An hour later, we were scrambling up the near vertical Great Barranco Wall. We descended and climbed again until by late afternoon we had arrived at Barafu camp. We were already 4,600 metres above sea level. After some well-earned soup and pasta, we received a military style briefing about what happens next – the push for the top. “We leave at midnight or go without you” was the last thing I heard as I climbed into my tent at 8pm. Altitude sickness and exhaustion meant that only 23 out of the original party of 28 were fit enough to make the final ascent. We started scrambling up a never-ending rocky trail, but lack of oxygen meant we moved at a snail’s pace. As the sun rose though our spirits lifted as the summit came into sight. The task, however, was far from over. The terrain was changing - rocks now turned into scree and we slipped and slid with each tiny step slowing our progress even further. But we were all determined to finish. At eight o’clock on the morning of the 23 October I, along with thirteen of my, by now, very good friends, reached Uhuru Peak. I had made it to the top of the highest freestanding mountain in the world.
Eight hours later, we were back in Millennium camp, where the most welcome site of the week awaited us - one of our party standing with an outstretched arm holding a bottle of beer. Had it been the hardest 36 hours of my life? Definitely. Would I do it again? Certainly!
We would like to thank James Thompson and Tawa plc for raising over £6,000 for the Bobath Centre. For further information on climbing Kilimanjaro and other challenge events, please contact the Fundraising office.
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We want you to raise £1,400 for the charity. This may seem a lot, but there’s no time limit – you can just do at the pace that suits you. So, if you are a runner you could run a marathon and do it in one go or you can take it slowly and do smaller activities over a longer period. The point is that you will be actively supporting children who have cerebral palsy offering them the best opportunity to lead independent and fulfilling lives. In return can give you all the support and encouragement you need to succeed. We won’t pester to raise the money; just help you on your way with things like:
• Publicity materials: Logos, photos, case studies, facts and figures etc. Everything you need to back up your fundraising. • Fundraising goods: T-shirts, collection tins, badges, balloons etc. • Ideas: Stuck for an idea? – We have hundreds.
Golf day delights
The 11th Videx charity golf day took place on 15th August at Old Ford Manor golf club in Hertfordshire.
After a hearty breakfast, the 60 players got the tournament underway, dividing into four teams for 10 holes in the morning, followed by a singles competition of 18 holes in the afternoon. Once the winners were announced and the trophies presented, the tournament was capped off with a dinner in the evening followed by a charity auction.
Bobath volunteer, Danial Rickard who also works part time at Videx was delighted with the outcome. “I always enjoy the golf day and after 11 years it is a testament to the organisers that it is as popular as ever. It’s an enjoyable day for all concerned and I am always touched by the generosity the players.” Thank you to Videx Security for their support. The golf day raised £9,294 and in January, the company donated an additional £250 in lieu of Christmas cards.
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Team Bobath 2009 We have guaranteed places for:
British 10k London Run Sunday 12th July Minimum sponsorship: £100
adidas Women’s 5k Challenge Sunday 6th September Minimum sponsorship £50
• Guaranteed places: We have guaranteed places in many of running events around the country, including the Virgin London Marathon 2010. • Advice: Want to know the best way to get free publicity your event? We can point you in the right direction. • Legal: It can be a minefield – but we’ve got the map. • You’re not alone: a forum to talk to other fundraisers and share ideas. • We will keep records of all the money you raise and make the gift aid claim, which we will add to your total. Once we receive your one ■ 400 challenge registration form* we will send you a one ■ 400 fundraising pack. This contains some great ideas to get started as well as tips on how to publicise your fundraising and essentials like a sponsorship form. *available to download from the Bobath website or by contacting the Fundraising office.
Morocco 2010 - Sahara Trek
Thank you to Yin Wu for raising over £600 by taking part in 10,000ft tandem skydive. Medical student Yin visited the Centre in the summer as part of his training at the Institute of Child Health in London. After seeing our work, he took time off his studies to make the jump at Hinton Skydiving Centre, Brackley, Northants.
Atlantic crossing
In November, Jonathan Paull will set sail across the Atlantic to raise funds for the Bobath Centre.
He plans to sail the 2,700 miles from the Canary Islands to St Lucia in a 40-foot yacht. “My daughter is treated at the Centre” he said, “and I am aiming to raise £10,000 so that children like her can benefit from the kind of support we received.” To support Jonathan, go to www.justgiving.com/sailatlantic.
Image: Grahame Meggison
Skydive Yin
13-21st March 2010 Minimum sponsorship £2,500 Contact the Bobath Centre for details Derby
8 August
Liverpool
9 August
Leicester
22 August
Coventry
23 August
Sheffield 12 September Leeds
13 September
Milton Keynes
27 September
Enter online at www.bigfunrun.com or contact sarah@bobathlondon.co.uk 7
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