Progress Transition Guide May 2014

May 2014

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What if I make the wrong choice?

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PAYMENTS

Talking about mental health problems should be as easy as talking about physical health problems – you wouldn’t be ashamed or scared to tell someone you were ill would you? Being open about mental health goes a long way to breaking down the stigma. It’s time to talk.

All you need to know when applying for Personal Independence Payments.

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Information on the new Children and Families Act and what it means for those in further education.

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SEASIDE SPECIAL

58 Transition pathway

What are the care OU options?E How will I know which to choose?

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A focus on body changes and why they happen.

a personal assistant Talking about mental health problems should be as easy as talking about physical health problems – you wouldn’t be ashamed or scared to tell someone you were ill would you? Being open about mental health goes a long way to breaking down the stigma. It’s time to talk.

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Employing

Progress looks at the responsibilities of becoming an employer.

What if I make the wrong choice?

TALKING ABOUT

Can we afford it?

Sex AND relationships

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Hints and tips around living independently.

What are the care options?

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What if mum doesn’t agree?

Can we afford it?

What if I make the wrong choice?

– making the most of it

Talking about mental health problems should be as easy as talking about physical health problems – you wouldn’t be ashamed or scared to tell someone you were ill would you? Being open about mental health goes a long way to breaking down the stigma. It’s time to talk.

living

A new campaign to tackle mental health head on.

What if I make the wrong choice?

Independent

Can we afford it?

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MENTAL HEALTH – IT’S TIME TO TALK

What are the care options?

How will I know which to choose?

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Can we afford it?

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What are the care options?

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FURTHER EDUCATION

A round up of the main news since our last issue plus details of forthcoming events.

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Make the most of our seaside special and make a beeline for the beach with these seaside ideas.

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INDEPENDENCE

Fun ideas to help you all stay active this summer – indoors and out.

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Welcome from the Editor Welcome to the May issue of Progress. This issue is a great one to work on as everyone knows summer is coming, there’s a sense of holidays, long evenings and fun to be had. As such, we decided to bring you some summer features to help you make the most of the longer days.

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On page 41, we have drawn together a selection of different beach and seaside activities for you to think about when OUR NEW planning your summer. There’s even a beach volleyball event in London that has a man-made beach. Who says you need to go to the coast to experience the beach!

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As well as getting to the seaside, we’ve put together details of differentOUR thingsNEW you can do to keep active over the summer.

If the weather is terrible, as we know if can be, try potato golf (yes, really!) which can be played inside or out. Turn to page 26 to find out more strange and slightly less strange things you can do to keep active.

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After all that fun, we thought we should look to the future and how you move on into adult life. On page 21, we’ve drawn together details of how you can start in the world of work. If you’re not sure what you want to do, or if you do but don’t know how to get that job of your dreams, I hope the feature will help you move forward in the world of work.

For those of you looking to move out and live independently, our feature on page 13 explores how you can get the most out of it, keep in touch with friends and ensure you enjoy the freedom living independently can bring.

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Emma Morriss

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There are many other fantastic features inside, so take your time, have a read and enjoy this issue of Progress.

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Care Choices Limited has taken every care to ensure that the information contained in this publication is accurate. The company cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions or if a service varies from the facilities listed either in an advertisement or the indices. Care Choices Limited does not endorse or support any particular institution included in this publication. © 2014 Care Choices Limited. Care Choices Limited reserves all rights in the title Progress and its design. Care Choices™ is a trademark of Care Choices Limited. ISBN 978-1-910362-01-3. Printed in England.

The information and opinions contained in this magazine and on our website are for general information purposes only. The information and materials do not constitute legal or other professional advice. They are not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice, and should not be relied on or treated as a substitute for specific advice relevant to particular circumstances. Care Choices Limited and its Contributors do not accept any responsibility for any loss which may arise from this information and opinions.

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Ref. No: 4001/SC21/0514. Reproduction of any part of this publication in any form without the written permission of Care Choices Limited is prohibited. Published by: Care Choices Limited, Valley Court, Lower Road, Croydon, Nr Royston, Hertfordshire SG8 0HF • Telephone: 01223 207770 • Fax: 01223 207108 • E-mail: progress@carechoices.co.uk • Web: www.progressmagazine.co.uk­­­­­

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SALES: Sue Speaight NATIONAL SALES MANAGER: Paul Leahy EDITOR: Emma Morriss DEPUTY EDITOR: Heather Day. PRODUCTION: Jamie Harvey, Gemma Cook & Holly Cornell.

Photograph credits: Active and fun - image courtesy of CP Sport. Seaside special - images courtesy of Paddle Round The Pier.

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The Children and Families Act 2014, as it is now known, brings together more than two years’ work with the views of parents and carers at its heart.

‘Specialist colleges are vital’

The Children and Families Bill has received Royal Assent, changing the law on how children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) in England will be supported in the future.

The Children and Families Act 2014, as it is now known, brings together more than two years’ work with the views of parents and carers at its heart.

The new law introduces a number of changes including a move away from Statements of SEN in favour of Education, Health and Care (EHC) plans.

It puts families and young people at the centre of decision-making.

Significant changes to the Act include: • Giving parents and young people control over the decisions about the support they receive.

• The introduction of Education, Health and Care plans to replace Statements.

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Despite the benefits of specialist colleges many students and their families are not told about this option, this is the view of Kathryn Rudd, Natspec’s Chair and Principal of National Star College. Speaking at Natspec’s recent annual conference in Birmingham, Kathryn reminded the delegates that specialist colleges need to be vocal about the fact that students achieve improved outcomes and a better quality of life, are empowered to take control over their own lives and become confident and resilient enough to move into adult life.

‘But it is not a level playing field,’ said Kathryn, ‘people with disabilities are still disadvantaged and specialist colleges can be part of the solution, not the problem; as centres of expertise, they are a vital component of the mixed economy of education provision’.

The new Children and Families Act and its implications for specialist colleges, was also a focus of discussion at the conference entitled New vision, new futures – specialism in a reformed system. Speaking at the event, the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Children OAD MP said specialist NLOAD and Families, Edward NLTimpson colleges lie at the heart of the vital reforms with young people now able to request a place at a specialist college on their Education, Health and Care plan.

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Specialist colleges need to be vocal about the fact that students The big test is going to be how the new system translates into schools, colleges and across local achieve improved outcomes authorities and whether it will make a difference to and a better quality of life, are families of children and young people with additional needs. empowered to take control over Implementation of the Act starts in September their own lives and become 2014 so until then all local authorities must keep DOWNLOAD confident OUR FREE APP their legal duties to identify and assess children’s andTODAY resilient enough to special educational needs and, where necessary, move into adult life. arrange educational provision through a Statement.

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Seaside Special - page 41 Beach-based holiday ideas.

Personal Independence Payments - page 49 What you need to know.

also including:

Good news for Easy News • Bedroom tax causes added stress

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young people with disabilities or special educational needs, manage their child’s transition into adulthood, has been published by Cerebra. It aims to help ensure the social care, education and health needs of every child A Pare met Dand maintained into P Tlife.

O the young person’s adult The guide gives an overview of responsibilities of various organisations from children’s services to adult services focusing on the responsibilities of D Obodies local authorities and A NHS UR in England and O Wales in the areas of education, social care, health and housing, identifying the action that should be taken by which organisation and when.

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SEND HAD EXPERIENCED CYBER-BULLYING, AND HAD NOT BEEN TAUGHT HOW TO USE THE INTERNET OR STAY SAFE ONLINE

Internet use amongst young people Guidance for teachers and professionals released by the Anti-Bullying Alliance, part of the children’s charity the National Children’s Bureau, provides a unique insight into the internet use of children with special educational needs and or disabilities (SEND) revealing cyber-bullying and experiences of discriminatory behaviour.

The findings revealed that many young people with SEND had experienced cyber-bullying, and had not been taught how to use the internet or stay safe online, they were using the internet to create an anonymous persona to mask their disability or were actively avoiding the internet.

Education, or a lack of, was shown to play a huge part in young people’s internet use and their ability to deal with difficult situations which might arise from being online; with many reporting a total absence of support to learn about cyber-bullying or internet safety. This meant they were unaware of how to stay safe online, how to understand when bullying behaviour was occurring and what to do about it. www.anti-bullyingalliance. org.uk/send-programme

www.progressmagazine.co.uk

7

PROGRESS NEWS Tourist attractions not up to scratch Many of the nation’s most popular tourist attractions are falling short when it comes to accessibility, according to a new league table of the UK’s top accessibility attractions, by the disability charity, Vitalise.

The report rated 85 of the top 100 attractions by factors including wheelchair access, numbers of disabled toilets, disabled parking spaces and disability concessions. Over half the attractions reviewed didn’t have full wheelchair access, while almost half have fewer than two disabled toilets per 100 visitors.

The report also revealed that 4 out of 10 said they had been physically unable to get into a venue they had previously been informed was accessible.

Not surprisingly, 70% of those polled said a lack of confidence in accessibility information sometimes held them back from visiting tourist attractions at all.

When asked to rate what they thought were the most urgent improvements that tourist attractions and venues needed to make, more accessible ramps, lifts between floors and easier access from outside came out on top, with over 80% of respondents rating these as ‘very important’.

In the light of the survey, Vitalise is calling for more effort on the part of the UK’s tourist attractions to become fully accessible and greater clarity in accessibility claims in order to ease the worries of people with disabilities. Commenting on the charity’s infographic and survey, Vitalise Chief Executive, Chris Simmonds said, ‘If our survey is anything to go by, clearly many venues are still only paying lip service to accessibility. Why else would so many people with disabilities have such little faith in what they’re being told?

‘Our report and survey clearly demonstrate that the UK’s tourist attractions need to work harder, not only to make their premises more accessible to prospective disabled visitors, but also to be much clearer in what they are saying about accessibility.’

But it seems museums are getting it right with three placed at the top of the league table as most accessible attractions. First place went to the National Railway Museum in Durham, in second place came the Imperial War Museum in Manchester and the World Museum in Liverpool was third. The full findings are available from Vitalise www.vitalise.org.uk.

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www.progressmagazine.co.uk

The survey shows that 90% of subscribers find Easy News easier to understand than traditional newspapers and television news programmes.

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Easy News, th e first ever ded icated news magazine for people with le arning disabili is celebrating ties its first birthday but more importantly, th e results of a readers’ survey which heralds it a huge succ ess.

The magazine was launched by the nationa disability char l ity, United Res p o ns e, and sets out to provide regular, easy re ad news to ke people up-to-d ep ate with curren t affairs and b issues. There ig have been se ven editions w readership of ith a over 3,000 an d it is created the UR Consul b y tants, a group of people with learning disab ilities.

The survey shows that 90 % of subscrib find it easier to ers understand th an traditional newspapers an d television ne ws programm While the maj es. ority still regar d television new as their primar s y source of ne ws, over half now rely on E asy News and only 40% follo news in newsp w apers. Easy N ews is availab in downloadab le le PDF, by post , via email and audio versions in . www.united response.org press/campa .uk/ igns/easy-ne ws/

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PROGRESS NEWS Bedroom tax causes added stress A House of Commons Work and Pensions Committee report reveals that the impact of the ‘bedroom tax’ is causing ‘financial hardship and distress’ for disabled people.

It found that the introduction of the ‘bedroom tax’ in April 2013 has hit vulnerable people who were not the intended targets of the reform. The new report recommends that people receiving higher level disability benefits such as disability living allowance, personal independence payments or have had their home specially adapted, should be exempt from the bedroom tax. The rules now allow for an extra bedroom where a child’s condition prevents them sharing with a sibling, but families needing an extra room for other reasons linked to their child’s disability are still losing out. Una Summerson, Head of Policy at Contact a Family of the ‘bedroom The introduction explained that families needing an extra room for has hit vulnerable equipment for their disabled child or for a care tax’ in April 2013 t the intended o n re e worker to stay overnight can face a shortfall in w o h w le p peo rm. housing benefit. ‘We hope that the Work and targets of the refo Pensions Committee’s report will encourage the Government to think again and recognise that thousands of disabled people are cutting back on food and heating or being forced into debt as a direct result of the bedroom tax and other welfare reforms.’

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Anxiety levels are monitored using a simple one-touch ‘traffic light’ system – green, amber and red. High anxiety responses trigger help from a mentor support team and the user can choose whether communication is by text, email or a phone call.

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These schedules are then downloaded to the user’s smartphone, or other device, where they are constantly available to support the user’s decision making and problem solving.

 Try Goalball & Blind Football  Perform, dance & sing  Practise massage T O ideaYto  Offer a new business DA

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the Dragons’ Den

2014 places available

Some student places are still available for September 2014 starters.

You are welcome to visit the College and have a chat with teachers, tour the campus and ask any questions you may have. Contact us to arrange a tour.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY For more information call 01432 376 621, email info@rnc.ac.uk Tel: 01392 247 909 or visitAPP the website at www.rnc.ac.uk DOWNLOAD OUR FREE TODAY DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY

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Using a secure online system, users create personal schedules for any or all aspects of their lives, putting in their own solutions to activities, tasks and potential problems. It can cover anything – days at school or college, time with friends, work, travel, shopping or a trip to the cinema.

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With the weather warming up, now ’s the time to get with the fourth ed out into the coun ition of The Rough tryside Guide to Access Each review cont ible Britain. ains hints and tip s from the Rough reviewers who vis Guide’s team of di ited each venue, sabled looking for well th features and uniq ou ght-out accessib ue attractions. Th ilit y e on line guide has be association with M en developed in otability.

Some of the acce ssible attractions featured include Yo Park in south York rkshire Wildlife shire where most of the animals are wander around th allowed to e park freely. In Ea st Midlands, there of 38 small garden is a collection s set in eight acre s of land, once ho Gardener’s World me to BBC’s . For the more ad venturous, head Trail and Tunnel Be to Devon’s Tarka aches. The guide is free to view on www.accessibleg line at uide.co.uk.

Cerebra Children’s Awards 2014 Do you know a child who deserves an award? Cerebra wants to hear about them. Perhaps you think they deserve nominating for their courage or bravery, for something they have achieved at home, school or in daily life or for their sense of humour or simply for being who they are. The awards are open to children aged 0 to 16 who have been diagnosed with a neurological condition. The closing date for nominations is 1st July 2014.

The awards will be presented to eight lucky winners at an afternoon ceremony at the House of Lords on 23rd October 2014. For a nomination form, email: jessicab@cerebra.org.uk or telephone 01267 244221.

The group provides specialist, tailored support to individuals with a broad range of mental and physical needs, ranging from domiciliary care, supported living and even packages for the support of complex needs such as spinal cord injury, (including ventilator dependent) acquired brain injury and cerebral palsy that requires a 24-hour service including sleeping or waking nights.

The core feature of our care packages is the focus on the individual; planning their entire care/support plan around the client to ensure that they receive a service that suits them rather than requiring them to adjust to a new routine.

Our expertise and professionalism has been recognised through a number of accreditations from leading organisations including Maybo and the Investors in People Gold award which demonstrates our commitment to the continuous training and development of our workforce.

care homes We have access to a number of h were throughout the UK; many of whic the unique on d base ted adap and ced sour continue requirements of the clients. We ialists to work closely with Housing Spec ess, who assist us with the buying proc , orary temp for be whether this life. transitional periods or homes for

If you’d like to fi nd out more abou t our various support packages or any of our care homes please do n’t hesitate to co ntact us.

For further information call: John Irwin or Sue Strain on 01684 857520 – North West, Wales, West Midlands and Upper South Central Regions Samantha Paddon on 01392 314631 – South West and Lower South Central Regions

Find us on Facebook @InclusionCare

1-3 Welland Court, Brockeridge Park, Twyning, Tewkesbury, Gloucs GL20 6FD

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For more information and an easy read guide to voting,

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get-my-vote

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Look out for the revised Advocacy Quality Performance Mark (QPM) launched by the National Development Team for Inclusion. The QPM is for providers of independent advocacy to show their commitment and sets a standard for high quality advocacy services. It is available to organisations providing independent advocacy in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Details of QPM registered advocacy services are available at www.qualityadvocacy.org.uk.

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New advocacy mark

The Government has chosen Mencap to help boost voter registration for people with a learning disability.

Mencap, along with five other organisations, has been awarded funding by the Government to encourage voter registration amongst those who feel most distant from the political process.

The chosen organisations will deliver a range of innovative ideas and materials to improve engagement with the democratic process, and Mencap will aim to ensure people with a disability have their important voice heard in Government.

Funding of £4.2 million will be shared by the five organisations, which includes Mencap, the Hansard Society, UK Youth, Scottish Youth Parliament and Gingerbread. Mencap, with its Me and My Vote project will create resources for people with a learning disability and champion a one-to-one support model for people including families and carers, with the aim of helping people register to vote.

Ismail Kaji, one of Mencap’s spokespeople, wrote in his blog that people with a learning disability are not LOAD how the voting system being supported toNunderstand NLOAD works, and as a result are not having their voice heard.

The funding aims to help a greater number of people with a learning disability become more involved in politics.

Mencap has worked T O forYmany years to encourage T A people with a learningDdisability to vote as part of its O D AY Get My Vote campaign.

Jan Tregelles, Chief Executive of the Royal Mencap Society, said, ‘We are delighted to be awarded funding to help people with a learning disability become part of the democratic process. This funding is a truly positive step towards engagement and inclusion. This project will enable people with a learning disability to influence decisions which will have a real impact on their everyday lives.’

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Jessica-Jane Applegate MBE, is a paralympic gold medal winning athlete with a learning disability and hopes to use her status to raise awareness of learning disability issues in sport. She won Gold in the 200 metre freestyle event at the London 2012 Paralympics and competes in the S14 category for athletes with a learning disability.

Jessica, who also has Asperger’s syndrome, was amongst the first group of athletes who have a learning disability to compete in the Paralympic Games since 2000. Mencap campaigned to overturn the ban on athletes with a learning disability and were delighted to help people such as Jessica realise their dreams of being part of the London 2012 games.

Jessica said, ‘I am really happy to be joining Mencap. They have been so important in helping people with a learning disability become more involved in sport and I was so pleased they campaigned to allow people with a learning disability back in to the Paralympic Games. In this role I hope I can raise the profile of people with a learning disability who compete in sporting activities NLOAD and the opportunities available to them.’

Mencap has worked for many years to encourage people with a learning disability to vote as part of its Get My Vote campaign.

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Independent

living

– making the most of it

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If you think you would like to live What kind of future? independently it might be a good Research by The Foundation for idea to get used to living away People with Learning Disabilities from home first. Many young (FPLD) looked into what young people experience this by going to people with learning disabilities college or university. Residential want and need to help them schools and colleges also give an lead fuller, independent lives. opportunity to live away from home They followed the journeys of ten and learn independent living skills. different young adults and tracked Some people go on school trips or ways they managed to bring about other arranged holidays to spend positive AD AD change for their individual LO NLOtime some away from home. Your N circumstances. local authority may even be able The findings have been produced to arrange short breaks for you. in the form of a booklet called These used to be called respite and What Kind of a Future? It is aimed gives you the opportunity to meet at young adults as well as their TO Y T O people new and stay somewhereT O families, friends and supporters. It DA D AY Dcan AYbe read at different. www.learningdisabilities.org.uk.

Some of the ten people tracked, live independently, including 28-year-old Karen, who has been living in her own flat in London since 2004. It is just ten minutes away from her parents’ house and she does her own housework, DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY shopping and goes to college.

When Karen was younger, she went to a residential college to DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY learn to live independently.

Making the move away from home and living independently can be a nerve-wracking time for many young adults, parents and carers too. Whether it’s keeping in touch with your circle of friends, ideas for making new ones or finding different interests outside AD Progress has of the home, NLO got tips and advice to help you settle.

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Residential schools and colleges give an opportunity to live away from home and learn independent living skills.

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unique personalised support

ubu is a specialist Health and Social Care support provider. We offer help and support to people with learning or physical disabilities, as well as people who may have social and/or behavioural difficulties which make it hard for them to find their place in everyday life.

We believe that everyone, whatever their background and abilities can achieve great things. As such we work to ensure that vulnerable people are given the correct opportunities to enjoy a full and active lifestyle. ubu provide as much or as little specialised support as the people we serve need. This can encompass managing behaviour, gaining life skills, gaining qualifications and building relationships. We also work closely with family members and significant friends to assess and communicate all that we do.

Everyone deserves the chance to become what they should be.

For further details please visit our website:

www.ubu.me.uk unique personalised support

We will support you the way you want us to!

Our support is different for each person as we design it around their individual needs and wishes.

We will work with you, your family and other people important in your life, to make sure we get this right for you.

We can support you to live in your own home, with other people or when you are out and about. We can support you for a few hours a week to 24 hours each day.

We will help you build your skills to become more confident and independent so that you can make choices about everything that affects your life and puts you in control.

0800 0884 377 United Response is an award winning charity and has been supporting young people and adults with a wide range of needs and disabilities for 40 years.

get.support@unitedresponse.org.uk www.unitedresponse.org.uk/get-support Registered Charity No. 265249

Karen receives direct payments which pay for a team of four personal assistants, one of whom sleeps over and others support her for some hours a day. She also uses an agency.

available to you including housing benefit to help towards your rent and personal independence payments (PIPs), see page 49 for information on applying for PIPs.

Getting out

Getting direct payments

Many young people with support needs use direct payments to help them get the support they need to be more independent and do the things that are most important to them.

If you’ve been assessed as needing social care support, you may already receive a direct payment. If you don’t speak to your local authority about the options available to you as not everyone wants a direct payment.

You may want to ask a family member to manage the money for you.

Living on your own can give you great independence but if you live alone and like to fill your days with things to do but aren’t sure what, here are a few ideas.

•

Talk to family and friends about the things you are interested in, what you’d like to do and when. They might know of things you could do.

See if someone wants to come with you or help you get there if you need support.

• Go to the local library to find out about local clubs and activities.

•

Get your name added to mailing lists of places you like to go, whether that’s the cinema or bowling, fishing or dancing, it’s an easy way to keep up to date.

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Discuss with your friends, family and care manager what you’d like to do and what you think you’d get out of having a direct payment – in other words how you’d use it. Do • Make the most of discounts some research by speaking to any and passes. Support workers of your friends who already receive can often go free to events if them. What do they spend the they are supporting someone. money on and what difference does it makes ADThe internet is a fantastic LOAtoD their lives?

NLOAD N NLO• Your care manager may be able

source of local information on Chris, is 24 and shares a house to help you set up direct payments

what’s on in your area, if you with his friend in Norfolk. They or contact social services and ask don’t have a computer, your have help for thirty hours a week if you can talk to someone about library will. You could even and one day a week he has work them. If you are eligible to receive enroll on a computer course. experience, with cooking T O helping T T a direct payment, you will have a O D AY O D AY D AYcentre. Other days special in a community bank account and the care Of course, living independently he goes to a day centre and learns manager will tell you how much means there are plenty of jobs at skills such as gardening and you will receive and you will agree home to keep you occupied too. computers. how you will spend the money.

These include domestic activities Chris’ story features in the FPLD You may want to ask a family like your laundry and housework, What Kind of a Future? booklet. member to manage the money cooking, grocery shopping, for you. You would still be able to managing your money, paying choose your own staff. For more your bills and budgeting. Also, information on employing someone having regular commitments DOWNLOAD OUR FREEtoAPP TODAY support you, see page 35. such as doctors’ and hairdressers’ You may also be eligible for other appointments give you something so speak to your care DOWNLOAD OUR FREEbenefits APP TODAY to get out and do. manager about what else may be

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Staying in touch

Friends are important to us all but it’s sometimes difficult to stay in touch especially when we move away from school, college or home.

There are so many ways to keep in touch nowadays using technology or just the simple phone. As friends are a fantastic source of support and fun, make sure you keep in touch by arranging to meet them regularly to do something you all enjoy. Organising a lunch in with friends is a great way to keep in touch regularly and is less demanding than throwing a party. You could take it in turns to have your friends over so everyone has the opportunity to host and entertain.

If you’ve moved away from your friends and can’t see them as often as you’d like, try to make new friends. Some ideas for making and keeping friends: • Join a club, gym or take up a new activity. Friendships grow out of liking similar things.

• If you have a support worker, use some of your time with them to get out and see people, go to new places and have fun.

If you employ your own support, you should choose someone who you get along with and the relationship you share could grow into a friendship over time.

• Set up a circle of support.

• See what social clubs and schemes are available in the area. Your local authority may be able to advise you, or the library.

• Find the best way to stay in touch with friends. Whether that’s video chat, texting, phone calls, ask someone to help you set up the best form of communication for you.

Living independently can be expensive. Think about how much money you have to do the things you want. Plan ahead for what you want to do and save up money if it costs more than you have.

For example, if you want to go to concert but the ticket is expensive and then you’ll need to pay for the night out, plan this so you can save for it. Also, plan low cost activities like visiting museums and indoor rock climbing.

As friends are a fantastic source of support and fun, make sure you keep in touch by arranging to meet them regularly to do something you all enjoy.

Getting around

Mencap has produced a series of transport factsheets explaining the Governments concessions and services that make it easier for disabled people, including people with a learning disability, to access transport. www. mencap.org.uk/campaigns/ what-we-campaign-about/ independent-living/transportfactsheets

Transport is very important for everyone and if you cannot drive you may rely on public transport or taxis. You may be confident travelling on your own or with family, friends or support. However, if you live in the countryside public transport isn’t as reliable. If you are travelling independently, let someone know where you are going and when you will return.

Some colleges, day centres and support organisations run travel courses which help you get used to going on trains, the underground, buses or by car. These can build your confidence and will enable

you to work up to travelling independently.

If you have a job, you may be able to get help to learn how to travel from a supported employment agency. If you’re not confident travelling on your own, ask someone to support you for the first few times until you know what you’re doing.

With thanks to Eden Futures, Freedom Care and Lighthouse Healthcare.

KIMARA

SUPPORT

• In house therapy • Domestic tasks

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Lark Care Services Terminus House, Level 9, Terminus Street, Harlow CM20 1XA

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• Personal Care • Social Inclusion

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• Food prep • Transport

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We employ specialist learning disability nurses and so are the ideal choice for people with learning disabilities.

We also employ experienced personal assistants who provide support to the elderly, frail, physically disabled, infirm or those with sensory disabilities.

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Our carers will provide assistance with the following:

We are committed to providing a service that is flexible and realistically tailored to your needs. Our staff are respectful, professional, flexible, resourceful, positive, problem solving and have a realistic view of life’s complications.

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Operating in Essex we provide a wide rangeT O of care Y D A and support services, tailored to each individual’s requirements.

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Lark Care Services (LCS) supports adults of all ages and ADthe benefits LO abilitiesNto enjoy of living independently in their own homes and communities.

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Our services include but are not limited to • • • • • • • •

Personal care Keeping safe at home and out in the community Developing independent living skills Activities of daily living (shopping, laundry, cleaning, gardening, filing and general organisation) Accessing social, religious or cultural activities including holidays Accessing employment, education or training Managing finances Social Companionship

KIMARA

SUPPORT Tel: 0203 291 3436 • Fax: 0203 727 0836 Email: info@kimara-support.com

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ies and a learning disabilit e at er od m s, si k about where der (ASD) diagno was time to thin Spectrum Disor it tic 18 is ut ed A rn tu an s n he needs.

Miles is 19, he ha eet his complex challenges. Whe l m na to io le ot ab em g d in be oural an was identified as range of behavi d living service te or pp su a d he would live an k review In his first 6-wee ting him the team suppor strengths asked about his passion for and talents. His in particular, animation and, e clearly superheroes wer e. He wanted central to his lif ore than to pursue this m s he took just the one clas n he quickly at college. Whe amentals grasped the fund imation at of stop-frame an d making college he starte his iPad short films using n of figures. and his collectio akes him This creativity m d his new really happy an him the living space gave is. freedom to do th

“His confidence in meeting new challenges has slowly but surely increased.”

M

oming s s lo B s e g n a h c e iv Posit ld refuse to Initially, he wou

events, ce of The independen with communal in in jo g in was mak ith other supported living didn’t interact w s hi s to ly accept positive change nts and would on na te me. His very small behaviour at ho support from a ed ov pr im r than his sleeping patterns ber of staff othe m nu e H . g better r time, Miles and he was eatin key-worker. Ove e ak m to ed ag rsonal had been encour worked on his pe s ha t no , despite g and is the flat ‘his own’ hygiene and eatin ith w d an , some really wanting to ming into a hand so os bl e paint on takes pride support chose to young man who ur lo co a e likes to of the walls red, s appearance. H hi in ite ur his favo and cares for connected with go to the barber . an m he joined superhero, Spider clothes. In April, s hi to orted stivities for Miles was supp the communal fe al on rs pe s hi Month and take control of ism Awareness ut A s hi ked on very smart suit finances. He wor turned out in a e th d an et e proud daily living budg ing every inch th ok lo y, bu to into. he had an he is growing types of things m g un yo al drink, person suit that including food, It was the same s ie tr ile to and accepted hygiene products he wore when he . ls ia er at m ng county’s as well as cleani award from the an was lity Service His daily routine Learning Disabi s hi ed re ag he bility established, and for Learning Disa king or w on so , es iv e Year - in daily object Personality of Th he so s al go tegory, to towards weekly e Health Living ca th t’ ea ‘tr y rdinary weekl ledge the extrao could spend his ow kn ac hed. This s made. money as he wis evements he ha hi ac of n io collect to live way built up his Being supported , es ur fig o er rh he can animation supe independently as as w ne , ad r his iP a world of bought Apps fo has opened up . es m ga r te pu iles. Life DVDs and com portunity for M op on k or w to t its steep Miles continued is still not withou ith w d an s, ill ough, his daily living sk arning curves th le , em st sy d rewar rstanding the an incremental y such as unde kl ee w d an ily aving the he chose his da nsequences of le co ds ar w re e hile you nip objectives and th bath running w k or w to d te snooze, that he wan ck to bed for a ba m hi ve an alarm. towards. This ga without setting d an t or pp su d structure an is confidence he flourished. H challenges has in meeting new increased. slowly but surely

s. mmunity Service o C h ec T re a C With thanks to

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TALKING ABOUT

HOW YOUR BODY CHANGES Welcome back to our new sex and relationships column! This will be a regular section in the coming issues of Progress, we are going to be answering some of your questions about sex and relationships, so please send them in. Please don’t feel embarrassed or too shy - there’s no such thing as a silly question as

Q: I know my body is changing, but why?

Gillian: Body changes can be unexpected and sometimes a bit scary! The thing to remember is that nobody is the same. Although everyone grows up sooner or later, we all change at different speeds, and in different ways. So, why does it happen? As you probably already know, adults can have sexual relationships (if they want to). In order to have a sexual relationship, your body needs to be mature. Some adults decide to have children and start families of their own, but again this can only happen when your body is mature. Although you might feel uncomfortable or awkward about some of the things Please do send in that are your questions to editor@ progressmagazine.co.uk – happening, nothing is off limits and there’s you are no need to be shy. We’ll choose growing one or two each time and into an they’ll be anonymous, so adult and you can ask whatever you like. it is quite an exciting time.

This time, the questions are all about your body and how it changes…

i

PARENTS

Do you have any questions about talkin g about puberty and body changes with your child? I’m here to help anyone.

far as sex or relationships are concerned, and if you’re wondering about it, someone else probably is too.

Q: Yikes! Is this normal?

Gillian: One of the questions that I get asked again and again by young people of all ages is, ‘Is this normal?’ As we said earlier, everyone’s body changes at different speeds and in different ways. Some people get lots of body hair and some get hardly any. Some people shoot up and get taller or bigger in general, and some hardly change at all. Some girls get big breasts, some don’t, some boys’ voices break and get deeper – but not everyone’s. Some girls get their periods really early. Some girls don’t get them at all. We are all different!

The most important thing really is that you have someone you can ask about things and talk to, who knows you well.

That might be your parents, or an older brother or sister, or another trusted adult. Because this can be a sensitive thing to discuss you should try to do it in a private place, but that is so you can ask your questions, not because you should feel embarrassed. Remember, we all have to go through this in our lives and there is nothing weird or to be ashamed about.

Something that you might notice is that your emotions are all over the place and you might feel moody. You might suddenly find that you fancy people and think sexy thoughts.

That is very common – it’s your hormones! Also, you might want to touch and explore your private parts. That is also completely normal and harmless BUT you must make sure you are in a private, safe place. It’s your body and nothing bad will come from finding out about it and what it does.

As you grow up, you might feel like you need more privacy – don’t feel shy, talk with your family and anyone who helps you with personal care.

A great website for looking at things in private is Brook www.brook.org.uk

If it’s urgent (or private) you can contact me at gleno@qac.ac.uk and I will email you back.

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IF YOU HAVE A SMART PHONE OR TABLET YOU’RE PROBABLY A FAN OF

APPS.

Progress Magazine is now digital!

Head over to the App Store or Google Play TM and search for Progress Magazine.

Download the app for free to your iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch or Android device.

View the latest issue plus back issues.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY Positive transition planning for young adults with additional needs

www.progressmagazine.co.uk

the future’s bright Deciding what job you’d like to do and then how to go about getting it can be confusing. Progress brings you some hints and tips to help you get moving in the world of work.

If you’re at the crossroads of deciding where you’d like to work and what career you want, it’s always a good idea to take the time to think about what really interests you. What do you love doing, feel passionate about, have a particular interest in? Not everyone secures the job of their dreams straightaway but start with something similar or that could lead to that dream job.

If you’re thinking about finding paid work, try to set some realistic goals, breaking them down into small achievable tasks. Ask family, friends and neighbours to find out if they know of any work placement opportunities.

Your local Jobcentre Plus may be able to point you in the right direction too. They should have a Disability Employment Adviser who could help you decide what you want to do and match that to available jobs.

When you’re looking for work, look for the ‘positive

about disabled people’ symbol on adverts and application forms. The symbol looks like two large ticks and means the employer is committed to employing disabled people.

If you’re not sure where to start, what to do, or even if you have some idea but don’t know how to make it work, the National Careers Advice website is a useful resource www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk.

It has career tools, careers advice and even a dedicated section for young people aged 13 to 18. This dedicated section has useful guides for young people when starting to think about career options. It includes advice on how to figure out the right job and then deciding if it is right, how to get paid to do something you love, finding part time work as well as practical guidance on CV writing and interview skills.

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Award Winning Care Homes Sussex Health Care is an award winning group of care homes providing 28 years of healthcare in Sussex. The Group operates 20 homes, predominantly in the West Sussex area, providing over 550 placements, incorporating specialist care provision as well as care for older people.

CARE HOMES FOR PEOPLE WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES/ PHYSICAL DISABILITIES/NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS Beechcroft Care Centre and Hazel Lodge Beech Lodge and Oak Lodge Horncastle Care Centre Kingsmead Care Centre Kingsmead Lodge Norfolk Lodge Orchard Lodge and Boldings Lodge

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STOP PRESS: Two brand new purpose-built units opening Spring 2014. 10 bed unit for younger adults with profound multiple learning disabilities plus an additional 10 bed unit specialising in acquired brain injury and neurological conditions.

To find out more about our homes and the services we offer, contact: Corrine Wallace Head of Operational Care Services

01403 217338

corrine.wallace@sussexhealthcare.co.uk

Sussex Health Care Care Centresin & care Support Services excellence www.sussexhealthcare.co.uk

Who can help?

There are many places you can turn to for help, whether you are looking for ideas yourself or encouraging someone you support in their future work plans. Here are just some of the places to start.

Moving on Up is a useful guide for young people with learning disabilities detailing post-16 options including staying on at school, going to college, working or volunteering. They also have a useful website for young people from 14 upwards with a learning disability and their supporters and families, especially for people from minority communities, although anyone going through transition will find it useful. www.movingonup.info/en/learning-working/ Remploy is one of the UK’s leading providers of employment services and employment to people with learning disabilities and complex barriers to work. It provides sustainable work opportunities. With a network of branches in towns and city centres throughout the UK, Remploy provides a professional and work-focused environment for candidates to improve their skills and search for the right job.

One-to-one support, as well as group activities are on offer which are all tailored towards meeting the individual’s needs. This increases the number of people Remploy are able to support, the range of services available and the speed, frequency and accessibility of contact. Employers are also using Remploy to gain direct access to jobseekers, offering them development activity such as mock interviews and use of their facilities for recruitment days and interviews. You don’t need an appointment to visit one of the Remploy branches. www.remploy.co.uk

Work Choice is a Government initiative set up to help people with disabilities get work and the right support while they are in work. It also gives employers the support to employ more people with disabilities. For more information go to the Gov.uk website and search for ‘Looking for work if you’re disabled’.

Scope supports people in gaining and sustaining employment in large corporations, public sector bodies and local employers. It also offers training and vocational training at its six regional centres in England and Wales. www.scope.org.uk/services/training/vocationaltraining-disabled-people Mencap has found that the best way to help people with a learning disability gain paid employment, is through practical employment and vocational support. Employ Me is Mencap’s specialist programme which offers individual packages tailored to each person’s plan and support needs. It locks into their skills and talents so that they can flourish while meeting the needs of employers and making a significant contribution in the workplace.

Mencap works with each person to find out what job they want to do and what support they need to do it. They then agree the steps that need to be taken to achieve this.

Having close links to local and national employers, Mencap can then concentrate on finding paid job opportunities, but for those who are not quite ready they will look at placements and training opportunities to develop their skills. Work skills training can include helping to build good relationships and communication techniques, dealing with problems in the workplace, working as part of a team, time management and keeping safe. Employ Me also supports companies and organisations to recruit people with a learning disability. www.mencapdirect.org.uk

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Papworth Trust helps almost 4,000 people every year to find and keep jobs. It offers job seekers free help including a confidential telephone discussion about your circumstances and whether they can help. A dedicated work adviser to help you identify what you want out of work and what skills you have. They can then help you create your individual job seeker’s plan, and can advise you on every step. The will also offer job search advice, including how to put together your CV, interview tips and benefits advice. They can arrange training courses, for example on interview techniques or communication skills and help you find work placements. They also offer support to help you stay in employment and advice on being your own boss. www.papworth.org.uk

With the right support and guidance you could have the career of your dreams.

Looking for the right job There are many online job boards, these enable you to search for jobs by title or keyword and geographical location. Type in the job you’d like to do and see if there are any vacancies. You can read the job descriptions to see if you can do what is involved and apply if you think you can. Your local paper will also have a lot of different vacancies and are more likely to be in the area in which you live, if you don’t want to travel too far to work.

Asking friends, family members and people in your circle or support or close network if they know of any job vacancies can also help you to find a job. If you’re not even sure what you want to do, ask people what they do, what they like about it, how they got the job, what their interests are that led them to that job. This will all help you to get an idea of what is out there and how others have linked their interests to their jobs. This may help you to think more about what you like to do and how this could become a career.

For parents and supporters Netbuddy is a useful website and online tips-sharing forum for parents and carers of young adults with learning disabilities. It has a dedicated info pack on Jobs and Training for People with Learning Disabilities. It is a valuable resource and can help you to help the young person you support to take their first steps into the world of work. www.netbuddy.org.uk

From bacon to baking

Thera Trust supported a young man with a love of cooking.

He was attending a day centre and initially came up with the idea of making and selling bacon sandwiches there.

Having spoken to his support worker he realised that perhaps the day centre wasn’t the right place to launch his entrepreneurial idea. However, it sparked his interest and entrepreneurial spirit and he has since enrolled on a health and food hygiene course with an established bakery. This will give him the scope to take his ideas forward and turn his love of cooking into a career.

Looking for a job takes a lot of thought, planning and work to decide what you want to do and then apply for and get the job. There are many organisations who can help and with the right support and guidance you could have the career of your dreams.

With thanks to Thera Trust.

“Learners make good progress in developing independent living skills and in the extent “

to which they can carry out personal care tasks for themselves Bogs Lane, Harrogate, HG1 4ED

2011 Ofsted Inspection

Henshaws College - a great place to learn Henshaws College provides a personalised education for young people with learning difficulties, sensory impairments and physical disabilities. We will empower you with the skills and independence you need to achieve the future you want.

• A curriculum rich in skills for Life, Learning and Work • Nationally recognised excellence in IT and Assistive Technology • Education, Care and Therapies working together to support learners • Expertise in visual impairment • First class Residential, Sports and Media facilities • Day and residential placements available

Henshaws College - part of your Local Offer For more information call 01423 886451 or email admissions@henshaws.ac.uk

www.henshaws.ac.uk Registered Charity No: 221888

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n u f d n a e v i Act folds As the summer un lighter with longer days, ibly evenings and poss ’s a even some sun, it troduce fantastic time to in your some exercise into ther daily routine. Whe ctive or you’re regularly a er, it a reluctant exercis boring. e b to e v a h ’t sn e o d u some Progress brings yo you to get lp e h to s e rc u so re er. moving this summ

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natspec

Natspec

The Association of National Specialist Colleges Members of NATSPEC work in partnership with others to offer the widest choice of innovative, high quality, cost-effective education, training and support to match the inclusive learning needs of young people and adults with learning difficulties and disabilities as they prepare for the next stage of their lives. Prospective learners and their supporters are advised to talk to their specialist careers adviser, Connexions Personal Adviser, disablement resettlement officer or social worker about funding.

By law, colleges must open admissions to all students, regardless of disability or impairment. Colleges listed here specialise in educating students with specific disabilities and/or difficulties but welcome applications from all students.

Coleg Elidyr is an independent specialist college set within 180 acres of farmland in West Wales. Founded in 1973, we provide further education and training for young people aged 18-25 with a wide range of learning difficulties and disabilities, behavioural and emotional difficulties and autistic spectrum conditions.

As well as learning crafts in our workshops and retail in our on-site shop, there are land-based opportunities on our working farm, garden and forestry. Our curriculum is inspired by the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner and designed to enable the learner to move from doing to understanding and from experience to knowing. Our aim is to foster the development of the whole human being-body, soul and spirit – in order that each individual will develop the self-confidence to cope with adult responsibility and be able to lead a richer, more independent life.

Our aim is to enable students to take responsibility for their lives in whichever form this takes and to realise their dreams in the safest way possible.

Beaumont College

Slyne Road, Lancaster LA2 6AP Tel: 01524 541400 E-mail: walsworths@beaumontcollege.org Web: www.beaumontcollege.ac.uk

Our individualised learning environment offers a unique approach to learners who are deaf/hearing impaired and have specific communication and language needs. We cater for all abilities and learning style, offering pathways to suit every ambition. Pathways include: Life, Work and Living and encompass a choice of day or residential provision.

To arrange a visit please contact us on: 01302 386 700 Email: marketing@ddt-deaf.org.uk or go to our website: www.deaf-trust.co.uk

Communication Specialist College Doncaster

Coleg Elidyr

Rhandirmwyn, Nr Llandovery, Carmarthenshire SA20 0NL Tel: 01550 760400 E-mail: admissions@colegelidyr.ac.uk Web: www.colegelidyr.ac.uk

Derwen College is one of the largest specialist further education colleges in the country. It has been graded “Outstanding” at its last two consecutive inspections.

The college provides supported living and day provision to over 230 students and trainees with a wide range of learning difficulties and disabilities, including autistic spectrum conditions.

The college’s specialism is personalised learning in real work environments. These could be in the wider community or on campus in our own shops, eateries, gardens, studios, offices, kitchens, workshops, small animal units or car valeting and recycling facilities.

Learners are supported to lead the life they want and to be as independent as they can be.

Leger Way, Doncaster DN2 6AY Tel: 01302 386 700 E-mail: admissions@ddt-deaf.org.uk Web: www.deaf-college.co.uk

Parkanaur College is a residential college committed to promoting equally the vocational education and personal development of people with a range of learning difficulties and disabilities.

The College aims within a residential setting to provide the opportunity for people with disabilities to bridge the gap and facilitate the transition between school or the sheltered home environment, to employment and independent living accommodation.

Students are offered a range of courses aimed at providing access to a range of nationally recognised qualifications, vocational training and work experience. The College currently offers OCN qualification in General Administration, Horticulture, Catering and Hospitality, Assembled and Upholstered Furniture Production.

Parkanaur College

Derwen College

Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 3JA Tel: 01691 661234 E-mail: : enquiries@derwen.ac.uk

Beaumont College offers day & residential programmes to young people aged between 18 & 25 with a broad range of physical and /or learning disabilities.

Web: www.derwen.ac.uk

57 Parkanaur Road, Dungannon, Co Tyrone BT70 3AA Tel: 028 8776 1272 E-mail: parkanaurcollege@btopenworld.com Web: www.parkanaurcollege.org.uk

@CollegePengwern /Pengwernc

Pengwern College is an independent specialist College for young people aged 16 -25 with moderate to severe learning difficulties who are learning new skills for the next stage of their life. Set in the beautiful North Wales country side, Pengwern provides high quality education, care and specialist support.

Courses focus on practical independence based subjects such as Daily Living Skills and vocational subjects such as Horticulture, Animal Care, Forest School, Catering and Retail within a café environment.

Get in touch to book a space at one of our monthly open days.

Pengwern College

Sarn Lane, Rhuddlan, Denbighshire LL18 5UH Tel: 01745 592 300 E-mail: pengwern.college@mencap.org.uk Web: www.pengwerncollege.ac.uk

Treloar College offers education and care to students with complex physical disabilities from 16 to 25 years of age. Education ranges from interactive and sensory classes, creative and enterprise courses to vocational studies. Our unique partnership with Alton College enables students to access a full range of A Level and BTEC courses at a mainstream provision. We combine health, care and education to enable students to realise their full potential and long term goals whilst getting the most out of life.

Treloar College

Holybourne, Alton, Hampshire GU34 4GL Tel: 01420 547425 E-mail: admissions@treloar.org.uk Web: www.treloar.org.uk

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29

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WHAT THE CHILDREN AND FAMILIES ACT MEANS FOR FURTHER EDUCATION A new law has been passed since the last issue of Progress. The Children and Families Act sets out the law for children and young people from birth up to 25 with special educational needs (SEN). It will be implemented from 1st September 2014.

There are many parts to the law and we’ve covered an overview in past issues, however this time we are specifically focusing on how it will affect further education. The Department of Education has released information to help further education colleges to prepare for the changes.

NEW RESPONSIBILITIES FOR FURTHER EDUCATION General further education (FE) and sixth form colleges must do their best to deliver the special education that a young person needs.

• Mainstream education should give the right support to all young people with SEN up to age 25, with and without an Education Health and Care (EHC) plans (see box).

• General FE and sixth form colleges, and approved special post-16 institutions must take on students if it is named in his or her EHC plan. The decision to name a college is following consultation and there are some conditions, more information on this is in the box on page 33.

• General FE and sixth form colleges, and approved special post-16 institutions must work with local authorities to identify and meet the needs of young people with SEN. The local authority must also cooperate with colleges to ensure young people’s needs are met.

• General FE and sixth form colleges, and approved special post-16 institutions must ‘have regard to’ the new SEND Code of Practice. This means they must consider it.

• Young people aged 16 to 25 will have the right to appeal to the First-Tier SEN Tribunal if they disagree with a local authority’s decision on assessments, the content of an EHC plan that relates to their SEN and provision (including the educational institution or type of institution), reviews and reassessments, and stopping a plan. All young people will also have the right to mediation – independent support and guidance to help resolve any issues.

LOCAL OFFER From September 2014, each local authority must publish a local offer. This offer must set out what’s available for children and young people with SEN or disabilities in their area.

NEW RIGHTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE The Act also gives new rights and protections to young people aged 16 to 25 with SEN: • Local authorities must take account of young people’s views, wishes and feelings, they must be aware of the importance of young people participating in decision-making about their future and being supported to the best possible outcomes.

• Young people (or their parents, family or a professional working with them, including college staff) have the right to request an assessment of their education, health and care needs up to age 25.

• Local authorities must consult with young people and all post-16 institutions in their area when reviewing their special educational provision.

YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE A RIGHT TO REQUEST AN ASSESSMENT OF THEIR SEN AT ANY POINT BEFORE THEIR 25TH BIRTHDAY. Amongst other things, the local offer must include: • The education and training opportunities available in FE and sixth form colleges, special post-16 institutions and other post-16 providers; and

• Local authorities must provide young people with advice and information about matters relating to SEN.

• Services available to support young people in preparing for adulthood and independent living, including finding employment, obtaining accommodation and participating in society.

• Local authorities must provide colleges with a copy of an EHC plan for a young person, where the college is named as the educational provider in their plan.

Local authorities must involve FE and sixth form colleges, special post-16 institutions and other post-16 providers in developing their local offer of services.

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Woodstock House Part of Kisimul Group Ltd

Woodstock House is an independent specialist school providing exceptional residential care and award-winning education for children and young people aged 8 to 19 with severe and complex learning disabilities, autism, global developmental delay and associated challenging behaviour. Placements vary from day care to termly through to 52 weeks per year.

We offer personalised curriculum programmes inclusive of a wide range of therapeutic input, such as Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Sensory Integration, Aromatherapy, Music Therapy and Educational Psychology.

Support and care is continued into adulthood with our adult homes further enabling our residents’ independence and integration within their community.

For more information please contact: • T: 0208 335 2570 • F: 0208 335 2571 • E: kisimulreferrals@kisimul.co.uk Our postal address is Woodstock House, Woodstock Lane North, Long Ditton, Surrey KT6 5HN. Please visit our website at www.kisimul.co.uk.

The Mount Camphill Community is an independent specialist residential college for students aged 16 - 24 with a range of learning and social difficulties.

The aim of the College is to develop new capabilities in each student through a practical path of learning and work that activates students’ own motivation and supports their evolving potential and independence.

Camphill Communities are based on mutual care, respect and the spiritual integrity of every individual.

• Set in 20-acre grounds of a former Victorian monastery.

• Well equipped craft workshops including a weavery, a forge, a woodwork shop, a bakery, a pottery, a training kitchen and gymnasium.

• Home to 65 people, including senior & volunteer co-workers, children & 35 students with special needs.

The Mount Camphill Community Faircrouch Lane, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 6PT 01892 782 025 • office@mountcamphill.org www.mountcamphill.org

O

PEN 10th O DAY ctober

2014

10:00-1

:00pm

Expertise in special educational needs

St Piers School and College provide specialist education services for children and young people with learning disabilities. We are experts in working with individuals that have autism, severe learning difficulties, challenging behaviours and epilepsy.

The services offered include: • A multi-disciplinary approach from education, medical, therapy and care specialists • Education for children and young people from five to 25 years of age • Expansive rural location that gives students access to various outdoor pursuits • Tailored, individual learning programmes • Residential opportunites for weekly, termly and yearly boarding for students across the UK • A ‘waking day’ curriculum that develops the individual’s social skills and independence • Access to a world-class medical centre and wide variety of therapies.

We’ll be at The Transition Event at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham, 22 May 2014.

Come and see us!

For more information about St Piers School and College please call us on 01342 831348 or email education@youngepilepsy.org.uk

school.stpiers.org.uk college.stpiers.org.uk

youngepilepsy.org.uk

Young Epilepsy is the operating name of The National Centre for Young People with Epilepsy. Registered Charity No: 311877 (England and Wales). © Young Epilepsy 2014

WHAT ARE EDUCATION, HEALTH AND CARE PLANS? FE and sixth form colleges, and special post-16 institutions, will be able to request an assessment of education, health and care needs by bringing a young person to the attention of their local authority.

Learning Difficulty Assessments (LDAs) (and Statements in schools) will be replaced by education, health and care (EHC) assessments and plans. EHC plans can be put in place from birth, and up to 25 where it is agreed that a young person requires more time to complete their education, and has not yet met the outcomes agreed as part of their plan. In the case of a young person who reaches their 25th birthday before their course has ended, the EHC plan can be maintained until the end of the academic year in which they turn 25.

Young people will be able to express a preference for a particular FE college, sixth form college or approved special post-16 institution. The local authority will be under a conditional duty to name that provider in the EHC plan, and the institution named will be under a duty to admit a young person. Young people will have right to appeal decisions of the local authority to the SEN First-tier Tribunal.

FE and sixth form colleges and approved special post-16 institutions will need to work with the local authority and carry out annual reviews for students with EHC plans. Annual reviews will need to focus on next steps for students and the support they need to prepare for adulthood including securing paid employment, independent living, and participating in society.

YOUNG PEOPLE AGED 19 TO 25 There is no entitlement to continued support or an expectation that those with an EHC plan at age 18 must be allowed to remain in education or training from age 19 to 25.

The local authority, working with the young person, their parent and relevant professionals should consider whether there is clear evidence that special educational provision provided through an EHC plan will continue to enable young people to progress towards agreed outcomes that will prepare them for adulthood.

The new SEN Code of Practice will make it clear that a local authority should continue to maintain an EHC plan for a 19 to 25 year old where all of the following apply: • The education and training outcomes set out in their plan have not yet been achieved.

• The young person wants to remain in education or training so they can complete or consolidate their learning, including accessing provision that will help them prepare for adulthood.

• Special educational provision is still needed.

• Remaining in education or training would enable the young person to progress and achieve those outcomes.

Support should continue to be reviewed at least annually. When reviewing an EHC plan or deciding whether support should end for young people aged over 18, the local authority must consider whether the educational or training outcomes specified in the EHC plan have been achieved.

Young people have the right to request an assessment of their SEN at any point before their 25th birthday.

Where a young person is 19 or older, the local authority must consider whether the young person requires more time to complete his or her education or training when compared to the majority of others of the same age who do not have SEN. For more information on the Children and Families Act and what it means for you, the Council for Disabled Children has a lot of useful resources www.councilfordisabledchildren.org.uk.

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Coleg Elidyr is a specialist college of further education for young people aged 18-25 with learning difficulties and disabilities.

We provide a safe learning environment set within 180 acres of farmland in the secluded Towy Valley in rural Carmarthenshire.

Founded in 1973, we have many years’ experience of working with young people with a wide range of learning difficulties and disabilities, behavioural and emotional difficulties and autistic spectrum conditions.

We provide full-time programmes of education for both residential and day placements. Our person-centred programmes develop skills for life and work by taking a practical and holistic approach to learning. Each student follows his or her own unique timetable, choosing from a wide range of options, including land-based opportunities on our working farm, in our gardens and on our estate, as well as learning crafts in workshops and retail in our on-site shop. Students are also able to access a wide range of opportunities for work experience, both on and off site, while living together in the residential settings offers students the chance to learn social and independent living skills in context.

For more information please visit our website www.colegelidyr.ac.uk or call 01550 760400.

National Star is an outstanding specialist college (Ofsted 2012). We provide personalised learning and transition services for people with complex physical, learning, sensory, communication and acquired disabilities. We also have a specialist curriculum for learners with ASD. All learners have an Individualised Programme delivered by their own specialist multi-disciplinary team which focuses on achieving personal goals and transition after college.

Personal development for people with disabilities

Specialist staff support learners to develop and practice skills which will increase their confidence and future independence.

The college is a vibrant and active environment and supports learners with a wide range of abilities and health needs.

We hold term time visits where you can see the college in action and speak to learners and staff.

Come and see what college life is like at National Star.

Now I know not to let my disabilities stop me from doing exactly what I want to achieve throughout my life.

• Day and residential courses • Creative and performing arts • IT • Sport and recreation • Work Skills • Multi-disciplinary therapy and health team

National Star College Ullenwood, Cheltenham, Glos, GL53 9QU Tel: 01242 527631 • Email: admissions@natstar.ac.uk • Website: www.natstar.ac.uk

Employing

a personal assistant Employing a personal assistant (PA) to support you in daily life can be liberating.

However, it means that you will become an employer and there’s a whole raft of responsibilities and legal issues you need to consider.

The aim of a good PA is to support you to lead the life you want. They should help you with any aspects of life. This might involve domestic and personal care or supporting you to get out and about.

A PA can be employed via a care agency or directly by you. More than 160,000 people across England receive direct payments, it is estimated that roughly two-thirds of these use their direct payment to employ PAs, the remaining third use their direct payment to pay a care agency or purchase other services.

Whether you receive a direct payment or not there is a lot of advice available online to help steer you through the process of employing someone, from how to go about advertising and finding the right PA, interviewing them and running Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks (used to be called CRB checks); to writing contracts of employment, methods for paying your PA, providing a pension, health and safety and insurance.

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The detail

you to check the person’s background and any There are many ways to recruit a PA, you convictions should you Skills for Care could advertise locally, online or via the wish. This is not a legal has a range of resources to help you jobcentre. Before looking for a PA requirement, unless support your personal assistant (PA) with you need to write a job description working with children, learning and development. Their Employing of the type of person you’d like and although it is good Personal Assistants Toolkit, guides you through the to employ, the skills they’d need practice you may whole process and explains your responsibilities as an and the jobs you would like them choose not to check employer and your legal obligations. to do. The Employing Personal your employees.

Assistants Toolkit mentioned in the More information on There are some useful templates for all the crucial box talks you through the process the DBS is available documentation including job descriptions, from writing job descriptions to on the Government application forms and contracts of employment. advertising, interviewing and offering website www.gov. www.employingpersonalassistants.co.uk the job. uk/disclosure-barring Within eight weeks of the start date service-check/overview. (but sooner the better) you should provide Ask for references a written statement to your new PA detailing from previous employers and a the terms and conditions of their employment. character reference too, which will For more information on what goes into a contract, look give you an idea of what the person is like from at the sample contract of employment in the Employing someone who knows them, not a relative, and who has a Personal Assistants Toolkit. The Gov.UK website also has a lot reputation in the community, ie a doctor or solicitor. Once of useful information, just search for employment contracts. you are happy that you’d like to employ the person, you Before employing a PA, consider whether you would like should send two signed copies of the contract to your new to have them checked with the PA, asking them to sign both, keep one copy and return DBS, this costs money the other to you. The job offer can be subject to receiving and will take a suitable references and DBS checks if relevant. few weeks but Other things to consider include the amount you are enables going to pay your PA. Speak with a direct payments adviser to discuss your direct payment (if you receive one), your support needs and the amount of money you have available to pay a PA, this will help you decide how much you can pay and how much support that will pay for. There is a minimum amount you can pay someone, this is the National Minimum Wage (NMW), for more information on this call the NMW Helpline on 0845 6000 678 or go to www.hmrc.gov.uk/ nmw.

Once you know how much you are going to pay you need to think about how you are going to pay your PA – yourself or through a payroll provider. If you are doing it yourself you will need to contact HMRC to register as an employer www. hmrc.gov.uk or telephone 0845 607 0143.

Payroll schemes make sure your PA’s Tax and National Insurance contributions are deducted correctly, plus how much Employer’s National Insurance you will need to pay. They will handle your paperwork and deal with the HMRC, there will be a charge for this. Alternatively a local accountant might be able to do this for you.

Your PA will also be entitled to annual leave (holiday) and sick leave. The contract of employment should cover all of these things and more. It is recommended you get advice when looking to employ a PA as issues around employment law are very important.

You also have a legal responsibility to make sure that your PA is safe and healthy at work so you’ll need to consider any risks your PAs are likely to be exposed to while working for you and minimise them wherever possible. Also, think about any training your PA might need; tell your PA about health and safety especially fire safety; record any accidents and take out employers’ liability insurance.

Employment law As an employee, your PA is entitled to maternity, paternity or adoption leave and pay. Employers can get back most or all of these payments from the Income Tax and National Insurance contributions they pay. The Government website www.gov.uk has lots of useful information as does the ACAS website www.acas.org.uk.

Insurance You are required by law to purchase employers’ liability cover which enables you to compensate your employees should they be injured while working for you. There are several policies on the market, most of which include some public liability cover. Although not a legal requirement, public liability insurance is a very good idea if your staff are likely to be out and about while working for you. If

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somebody is injured or property is damaged as a result of the work your staff are doing and you are held liable, the public liability cover provides some protection.

If you receive direct payments, the local authority will, in most cases, fund Employer’s Liability Insurance for you.

There are a number of insurance companies who provide employment/ HR advice services specifically designed for people employing PAs. Fish Insurance provides an employment advice service operated by Peninsula Business Services. The employment advice service provides fully indemnified advice and guidance which means that if you follow their advice you will be covered for any eventuality. For example, if you sack your PA and they claim unfair dismissal via an employment tribunal (as is their right) you will be supported, represented and covered for any award against you.

It is vitally important that people with this kind of insurance policy remember to inform their employment advice service of any issues arising at the earliest opportunity and subsequently follows the advice provided.

Keeping records As an employer, you must, by law, keep the following records: > Tax and national insurance information. > Records of individual hours your employees have worked. > Holidays for the Working Time Regulations. > Pay. > Paid sickness of more than four days. > Accidents and injuries.

There are a number of insurance companies who provide employment/HR advice services specifically designed for people employing PAs.

Useful information The Personal Assistants’ Network provides information and guidance for PAs, people who already employ a PA and people who would like to become a PA. It has checklists and sample downloadable templates covering the whole process. The site explains more about direct payments, employing a PA or using an agency plus up–to-date information on leave entitlement, pension schemes, Tax and National Insurance. www.panet.org.uk Being the Boss was set up to address the lack of peer support available to disabled people who employ their own PAs. Disabled people share information based on their experiences of employing their own PAs and the site provides a safe forum for people to discuss and share ideas. In co-production with Change, Being the Boss has produced a toolkit called Personalisation/Direct Payments Made Easy. The toolkit is in an easy read format. www.beingtheboss.co.uk Getting Started Together is a specialist induction pack, published by the Association for Real Change (ARC). The pack is designed and written for employers of PAs and their new PA, and meets the Common Induction Standards (CIS), basic training standards set by Skills for Care. You and your PA work through this together. There are questions to check your PA’s knowledge and understanding of the CIS plus a certificate. www.arcuk.org.uk/publications/gettingstarted-together-induction-pack

With thanks to Fish Insurance.

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ADVERTORIAL

Marcus Ballard Marcus is a bright, lively young man living in North Solihull with his mum and 3 sisters. He has the same aspirations as any other young person, but unlike many of his peers, he needs support due to his cerebral palsy. His return from residential college in 2009 was a very difficult time for him and his mum as they faced an uncertain future and Marcus became very depressed.

The light at the end of the tunnel was provided by personalisation and a partnership with SoLO Life Opportunities. Here is Marcus’ story:

“When I returned from college, I got very depressed and just wanted to die.

I love my mum and my family but I wanted a life of my own as well. With my individual budget, I was able to work with SoLO to choose my own personal assistant. I am able to take part in a community activity programme, but because I have my own PA, I am able to choose what I want to take part in. When it is something that doesn’t interest me I decide to do something else. Just because I can’t speak doesn’t mean I don’t have a voice, and just because I need support to get out and about, doesn’t mean I don’t have an opinion. I love my life now!”

Mum’s comment: “Marcus is so much happier now. He can tailor the support he gets to suit his own individuality and seeing him take control of his life shows me how successful he will be when he eventually decides to leave home”.

Solihull Life Opportunities @Solihull_SoLO

/SolihullSoLO

T: 0121 788 3469

E: info@solihullsolo.org W: www.solihullsolo.org

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Calvert Trust Exmoor enables people with all types of disabilities to experience exciting, challenging and enjoyable outdoor activity holidays.

At our award winning accessible centre all activities are specifically designed and equipped to cater for everyone.

it's what you CAN do that Counts!

Contact us quoting ‘Progress’ to find out more; 01598 763221 exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk

Helsey House Holiday Cottages Helsey House Helsey Nr Hogsthorpe, Skegness PE24 5PE Telephone: 01754 872 927 E-mail: info@HelseyCottages.co.uk

Helsey House Cottages are situated within the private grounds

of Helsey House in the hamlet of Helsey near Hogsthorpe on the North East Lincolnshire coast. They are single storey and on one level with no steps. Free wi-fi access.

Each award winning cottage has been converted from original cattle stalls belonging to the dairy farm. They have been furnished to the highest standard whilst maintaining original features and character of the buildings. There is ample parking in the grounds. The owners live on site so are available for help and advice.

AVAILABLE FACILITIES: • We can arrange for groceries to be available on arrival • We have a wheelchair and a shower wheelchair available for guests’ use. A toilet seat riser and bed risers are also available.

• An Oxford midi 150 mobile hoist is available for guests’ use.

• Both cottages have laminated flooring for ease of mobility and are on one level.

The Cow Shed

• A laundry room with a washer, sink with hot and cold water, tumble dryer and an iron and ironing board are all available.

• Pets are welcome. We have our own free range chickens with fresh eggs for you to purchase.

The Dairy

www.helseycottages.co.uk @HelseyCottages

We are Pedalabikeaway, the leading leisure cycling provider in the Forest of Dean. Our aim is to ensure you have a great day out whatever kind of riding you choose. That's why we provide: • Tandems • Trikes • Wheelchair Bikes • Mountain Trikes • Tagalongs

• Accessible café • and toilets • Wide, safe traffic• free tracks

Visit our website or call us to find out more

Hundreds also take to the water in a mass sponsored paddle, while the keenest of paddlers test their stamina in a maritime marathon.

SEASIDE SPECIAL You can’t go wrong with a trip to the seaside for a fun day out with activities and places to visit on and off the beach. Our seaside special gives a glimpse of just a few of the sandy goings-on in store this summer.

Paddle Round the Pier Beach Festival Head down to Brighton on July 5th and 6th for two days of seaside madness in and out of the water which includes the weirdest looking raft race ever. It’s as fun to watch as it is to take part in, as competitors turn out in the most ludicrous man-made waterbound crafts, from floating cars and planes to desert islands and tennis courts.

Hundreds also take to the water in a mass sponsored paddle, while the keenest of paddlers test their stamina in a maritime marathon. There’s plenty of entertainment on dry land too with a dedicated children’s stage, performances from the best local bands and a ukulele stage.

Brighton wouldn’t be Brighton without shining a spotlight during the festival on the high octane antics of skateboarders and BMX fanatics with a healthy supply of

daredevil demos.

Working in conjunction with Surf Life Saving GB, the event makes the day accessible for disability groups too allowing children, who often have not even been on the beach before, the chance to get into the sea. The ‘Paddle’ staff work to a ratio of three to one to give a child the support they need, borrowing balloon-wheeled wheelchairs specifically designed for beaches and for going into the sea. Groups can experience surfing, kayaking, dingy sailing and yacht sailing.

If you are an individual carer, or represent a group, contact: access@paddleroundthepier. com for more information.

For general information on the festival: www.paddleroundthepier.com

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Beach Volleyball in London Action for Kids are going to be bringing the beach to London in July with their annual fundraising Beach Volleyball Championships at Canary Wharf.

Anyone can enter a team even if you are a complete novice.

Everyone who signs up and enters gets two hours training with a qualified Volleyball England Coach.

You just need to sign up a team of 5 to 10 people of mixed gender and you’ll get the chance of at least four matches – whatever the weather. Entry into the Beach Volleyball Championships will also grant everyone entry into the Sitting Volleyball Tournament running alongside the main event.

Of course, it’s also a great event to just go along and watch, with all funds going to Action for Kids, the national charity helping disabled children, young people and their families.

The fun and games run from Friday 30th June to 19th July, at Wood Wharf, Canary Wharf E14 9SB. The courts are available for private hire at £10 per person / per hour (or £5 for 30 minutes) and can be booked by contacting Action for Kids.

Spectators are welcome at any time, free of charge. The best time to watch some live action, will probably be lunchtime 12pm to 2pm and the evenings from 5pm to 9pm and at weekends but the schedule will be confirmed nearer the time.

For more information telephone: 020 8347 8111 or email: beach@actionforkids.org Web: www.actionforkids.org

Cliff Railway Take a unique cliffside rail journey in Devon on the water powered Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway. It’s an ingenious design which works by the release of water. The car perched at the top of the cliff in Lynton has its tank filled with water and the car at the bottom in Lynmouth, lets water out as the brakes are released and off it goes, gliding down the 500 feet length of track from Lynton to Lynmouth.

There’s a café overlooking the top rail station at Lynton, with stunning coastal views as you wait for a ride down. The beach at Lynmouth isn’t the reason you’d automatically make the trip for as it’s covered in slate-grey rubble - but the little town of Lynmouth is pretty and packed with a cluster of gift shops, with a bustling market to browse around during the summer months.

On August 9th, a unique flotilla of

fancy dress rafts, take to the water at Lynmouth with the Raft Race kicking off at 5pm. Disabled access is available but because of the size and layout of the Victorian carriages it is advisable to phone in advance.

Most wheelchairs will not pass through the carriages unfolded and there are three steps between the carriages, there is availability on the open platform. Groups of visitors with additional needs can also be catered for but it’s advised to call in advance 01598 753 486. www.cliffrailwaylynton.co.uk

Take a unique cliffside rail journey in Devon on the water powered Lynton and Lynmouth Cliff Railway.

All Terrain Wheelchairs A wonderful safe beach at Broad Haven near Haverfordwest is one of several in Pembrokeshire where all-terrain wheelchairs are available to rent. They’re comfortable with extra wide wheels that can cope with sand and shallow water without sinking. To reserve one in advance, contact Haven Sports Surf Shop on Marine Road 01437 781 354, info@havensports.co.uk.

Best Beaches Just a stone’s throw from the beach there, you can step into the historic depths of Kents Cavern.

Going underground There’s a great underground experience awaiting any day-trippers to Torquay. Just a stone’s throw from the beach there, you can step into the historic depths of Kents Cavern, home to stoneage man and now home to a well-honed tourist attraction. Guides take you through the cavern’s two million year history and some of the oldest human fossils discovered in Britain.

The international prehistoric show cave is carefully protected by entertaining and knowledgeable guides who take the parties of visitors round. Although Kents Cavern is described as probably Britain’s easiest cave to visit, access for wheelchair users is restricted to the first chamber. No charge is made in such a case and a DVD of the tour is available to watch by the entrance for people who cannot accompany the guide. All paths are concrete with nine shallow steps halfway round and there are some steep slopes but handrails are provided. The caves are easily accessible for most visitors although assistance may be required by some as there are natural slopes and steps.

On hot summer days, the caves are the perfect place to cool off and in the winter, the caves are the warmest outdoor place to be.

There has to be a minimum of two people for a tour to operate, so if you are visiting on your own at quiet times, to avoid disappointment telephone 01803 215136 to check whether a tour will be available when you are planning to go or email: caves@kents-cavern.co.uk.

Head to any one of these beaches and you’re guaranteed a great day out at the seaside as according to Time Out magazine, they are the top ten in the UK. 1. Barafundle Bay beach, on the Pembrokeshire coast is described as spellbinding with a cliff path from nearby Stackpole Quay. It is a 20 minute drive from Pembroke Station.

2.

Bamburgh beach with the towering presence of Bamburgh Castle looming above the Northumberland coast. It lies close to Holy Island which can be accessed by a low-tide causeway to Lindisfarne Priory and more golden beaches.

3. Camber Sands beach in East Sussex stretching for seven miles behind a mountain of golden dunes.

4.

Cley-next-the-Sea beach on the Norfolk coast, a few miles east of Holkham. This beach is connected to Blakeney by a three mile sandy and shingle spit with seal-spotting at Blakeney Point.

5.

Littlehampton Beach on the south coast with two beach cafés designed by leading British architects, which has made this beach an attraction for foodie fans. Fill yourselves up with mouth-watering fish and chips then explore the quiet haven of the beach.

6.

Lundy Island beach, owned by the Landmark Trust is a three-mile slab of granite in the middle of the Bristol Channel. There are miles of coastal walks and wildlife galore both on- and off-shore ranging from Lundy ponies, dolphins, seals and silka deer.

7. Luskentyre beach on the Isle of Harris framed by the Outer Hebrides is a unique beach with stunning white sand.

8. Priory Bay beach, the secluded Isle of Wight beach near Seaview on the eastern side of the island is accessed via the Priory Bay Hotel which backs onto it.

9.

St Ives beach in western Cornwall gives the basis for a great seaside day out. After you’ve spent time on the sand, take a saunter up the picturesque cobbled streets, home to craft and art shops galore.

10. Slapton Sands beach on the Devon coast. Its name is deceiving as it’s actually not sandy. It is caught between the sea on one side and a freshwater lake on the other, making it a three-mile-long shingle bar.

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www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/care

Residential care Nursing care Respite care Domiciliary care Supported living Day sessions

You’re invited to our open day Friday 27 June or Saturday 28 June 2014, 11am - 3pm Join us at one of our open days to experience first-hand our unique combination of flexible care services and medical expertise. You will have the opportunity to: • Talk to our experts, service users and their families • Participate in practical activity sessions • Tour our site and see our range of facilities We understand that the transition from child to adult services can be a big step for young people and their families. We aim to make the process as easy as possible.

For information, or to book your free place, please contact: 01494 601 374 | care.services@epilepsysociety.org.uk | Chesham Lane, Chalfont St. Peter, Buckinghamshire, SL9 0RL Epilepsy Society is the working name for The National Society for Epilepsy Registered charity no: 206186

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Protectin g yo iPad aga ur inst • Drops • Falls • Bump All of life s ’s little accidents

www.bethphage.co.uk Since 1994 Bethphage has been supporting adults with learning and physical disabilities to get the most out of life.

We are a Shrewsbury based charity that really believes in putting our values into action through person centred approaches that give control and choice to people who use our services.

If you are looking for support for yourself or you are a family carer looking for extra help give Bethphage a call on: 01743 272 880 - Shrewsbury 01952 457 382 - Telford 01948 804 901 - North Shropshire

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AN INTRODUCTION TO SCHOOL TRANSPORT LAW The Education Act 1996 and Education and Inspections Act 2006 compel local authorities to provide full and free home-to-school transport to pupils who are eligible for this type of support. Nabil Dance looks at eligibility for this kind of transport.

The basics Eligibility This article focuses on the provision of full and free home-to-school transport for eligible children who have special educational needs (SEN), and in this specific context alone.

The legal guidance issued by the Department for Education confirms that such travel arrangements must be suitable for your child, and this takes into account such factors as the duration of the journey from home to school.

In order to receive such transport, your child must be legally eligible, or be offered it by the local authority on a discretionary basis, and these concepts are outlined in more depth below.

In order to receive such transport, your child must be legally eligible, or be offered it by the local authority on a discretionary basis...

The statutory walking distance between the family home (i.e. where your child officially lives) and the school in question is a big part of the criteria. The distance itself must be beyond two miles for children aged under eight years, and three miles for children aged eight and above. The legal guidance explains that measurement of the ‘statutory walking distance’ is not necessarily the shortest distance by road.

In order to receive free transport of this nature your child must fall within one of the following categories: 1) If your child has a Statement of Special Educational Needs then the local authority must by default provide such transport to the school named in Part 4 (unless you have voluntarily agreed to be responsible for travel arrangements).

2) If he or she has medical needs and/or mobility concerns, where appropriate. If your child attends a school, which is within ‘statutory walking distance’, and no suitable arrangements have been made by the local authority for enabling them to become a registered pupil at a school nearer to your home, he or she should be considered an ‘eligible child’.

3) The practical safety of the proposed travel route – if this is a concern to you, the local authority should carry out a comprehensive risk assessment of the travel route in question.

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Transport provision for pupils over 16 is complex because of the age factor i.e. they are beyond statutory school age, and, therefore, not eligible...

If relevant, this risk assessment should take a range of factors into account including your child’s age; whether any potential risks might be mitigated if he/she were accompanied by an adult; the width of any roads travelled along and the existence of pavements; and the volume and speed of traffic travelling along any roads.

4) Whether you receive certain welfare benefits, including Free School Meals, and maximum Working Tax Credit. The age of your child, and proximity of the relevant school (i.e. the same statutory walking distance requirement) are taken into account together with your religion and beliefs.

Your child’s age is also part of the criteria - he or she needs to be of statutory school age i.e. up to 16. This can potentially stretch to 18 years of age because of government changes to the participation age of young people in education.

The legal guidance lists examples of where a family would be eligible for free transport; however, you should always seek independent specialist advice rather than relying on these hypothetical scenarios, as the latter approach is risky.

Discretionary transport If your child does not meet any the criteria listed above, it is also open to you to apply for transport to be provided by your local authority on a discretionary basis.

The law makes it clear that local authorities must have a consistent policy here but says very little else on the topic.

Your options If your local authority refuses to provide home-to-school transport this decision can potentially be challenged through the council’s internal complaints process; submitting a complaint to the national Government (Department for Education); the Local Government Ombudsman, and/or taking further legal action in the High Court.

Post-16 transport provision Transport provision for pupils over 16s is complex because of the age factor i.e. they are beyond statutory school age, and, therefore, not eligible from a legal point of view. However, the best way forward would be to try to secure discretionary transport. In its legal guidance the Department for Education stresses that: ‘The Secretary of State expects that local authorities may wish to exercise this discretionary power to ensure that pupils whose parents had expressed a preference for a vocational education at a 14-19 vocational academy were not denied the opportunity to do so by the lack of, or the cost of transport arrangements to such a school.’

Who can help?

Further information The Department for Education produced its guidelines (referred to above) on home-to-school transport in March 2013, which is called ‘guidance on home to school travel and transport’: http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov. uk/20130401151715/https://www.education.gov.uk/ publications/standard/AllPublications/Page1/DFE00023-2013

It is important to bear in mind that this article merely summarises the basic principles of home-to-school transport law, which remains one of the most complex areas in the field of education law.

We would urge you to seek specialist professional legal advice if eligibility is ever a concern. Independent legal consultants and law firms who specialise in this niche field are able to assist, and many home-toschool transport concerns can be resolved through submitting a thorough application, which takes into account all of the key legal points. In short, don’t ‘wing’ it.

Nabil Dance is a specialist Independent Legal Advocate and Certified Paralegal with experience and expertise in education law (n.dance@mail.com)

However, this guidance was due to be revised by the Government in autumn 2013. As of yet this guidance hasn’t officially been replaced, as can be seen from the Department’s announcements: http://www.education.gov.uk/aboutdfe/statutory/ g00224737/home-school-travel-transport Post-16 guidance has also been published by the Department for Education, which local authorities must take into account: http://media.education.gov.uk/assets/files/2010%20 post%2016%20transport%20guidance.pdf

We would urge you to seek specialist professional legal advice if eligibility is ever a concern.

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Housing you can build your life around

Golden Lane Housing offers a range of quality housing options tailored to individual needs.

We help people with a learning disabiilty to find homes they can build their lives around - giving them choice about where they want to live, with whom and with the right support to live the life they choose.

Call Email Go to

0845 604 0046 enquiries@glh.org.uk www.glh.org.uk

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Registered charity number 1071097

300.12/2013

PERSONAL INDEPENDENCE PAYMENTS - WHAT YOU REALLY NEED TO KNOW

The Welfare Reform Act made major changes to Disability Living Allowance (DLA). Instead of being available to those who qualify, for their whole life, it is now only available up to the age of 16 years for new applicants. If you were already on DLA before the Welfare Reform Act was introduced, and you are over 16, you may still receive DLA. But at some point you will receive a letter from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) informing you that you may be eligible to switch benefits sometime in the future.

The new benefit which will replace DLA, is Personal Independence Payments (PIP).

In April 2012 the Welfare Reform Act was introduced which changed the benefits system.

Part of it introduced a new benefit called Personal Independence Payments (PIP). Ruth Moore explores the best way to apply for PIPs.

They will then send you an application form, the PIP2.

Look at the PIP qualifying criteria while you are waiting for the application form to arrive. This will help you to understand the questions you are being asked and understand how to answer them. You can find this information online.

The application form will ask for information about your ability to perform everyday tasks and your mobility.

You’ll be asked about:

Activities of Daily Living 1. Preparing food.

When you are 15 years and 6 months, you should receive an invitation to switch your benefit from DLA to PIP. If you are under 16, injured, long-term sick or disabled, you can still apply for DLA. When you are 15 years and 6 months, you should receive an invitation to switch your benefit from DLA to PIP. This won’t happen automatically so you’ll have to follow the instructions in your letter.

If, when you first apply, you are over 16, you will be invited to apply for PIP not DLA. Eventually you will be able to apply for this benefit online, but for now call 0845 850 3322. The call operator will take details like your name, address and national insurance number.

2. Taking nutrition.

3. Managing therapy or monitoring a health condition.

4. Washing and bathing.

5. Managing toilet needs or continence.

6. Dressing and undressing.

7. Communicating verbally.

8. Reading and understanding signs, symbols and words.

9. Engaging with other people face-to-face.

10. Making budgeting decisions.

Mobility 1. Planning and following a journey.

2. Moving around.

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Each category will be assessed and receive a score of between 0 (no needs) and 12 (completely unable). You’ll receive one score per category and these will be added up to decide which level of PIP you will receive (if you qualify). Like DLA, there are only two categories, one for Activities of Daily Living (in DLA this was called Care) and one for Mobility. If you receive eight points you will be awarded the standard rate and if you receive 12 points, you will receive the enhanced rate. You will get one score for Activities of Daily Living and one score for Mobility.

Like DLA, there are only two categories, one for Activities of Daily Living (in DLA this was called Care) and one for Mobility.

Understanding the questions and answers The questions on the form are really straight-forward, here’s an example: Q3 Preparing Food Please tell us about your ability to prepare a simple one course meal for one from fresh ingredients. This includes things like: • Food preparation such as peeling, chopping or opening a can, and • Safely cooking or heating food on a cooker hob or in a microwave oven We want to know if you can do this safely, to an acceptable standard, as often as you need to and in a reasonable time.

Looking at the criteria and glossary of terms, the regulation which governs this benefit it says 1 Food Preparation

If you receive the enhanced rate, you may be entitled to other so called ’passported benefits’ like a Motability vehicle or exemption from the benefits cap.

Send a copy (not originals) of any medical reports or letters about your condition with your application.

Don’t send appointment letters as these don’t contain the right information.

The layout and questions asked on the PIP2 application form are quite different from the DLA application – it’s simpler and easier to use.

a Can prepare and cook a simple meal unaided

0

b Needs to use an aid or appliance to either prepare or cook a simple meal

2

c Cannot cook a simple meal using a conventional cooker, but is able to do so using a microwave

2

d Needs prompting to be able to cook a simple meal

2

e Needs supervision or assistance to either prepare or cook a simple meal

4

f

8

Cannot prepare and cook food

There is also a glossary which in this case says • ‘Preparing food’ in the context of food, means make food ready for cooking or eating.

• ‘Simple meal’ means a cooked one course meal for one using fresh ingredients.

• ‘Cook’ means to heat food at or above waist height.

• ‘Prompting’ means reminding, encouraging or explain by another person.

• ’Supervision’ means the continuous presence of another person for purpose of ensuring their safety.

• ’Assistance’ means physical intervention by another person and does not include speech.

Knowing these definitions and using them in your application form might help you to word your answers clearly, in a way which cannot be mis-interpreted.

If the question asks if you require assistance or supervision with the task, be very clear in the answer you give. Use the wording supplied in the glossary of terms, so for example if you require assistance your answer might be ‘I require physical intervention from another person in order to complete this task’ or if you require supervision you could reply, ‘In order to successfully complete this task I need another person to be with me until the task is completed to ensure my safety’. In this way your answer is clear.

Assessment process Once you have returned your form, you’ll be asked to meet a healthcare professional who will conduct an assessment to see if they agree with what you have put.

Assessments take place in an office, local healthcare centre or hospital. If you are unable to get to the venue and have medical evidence of this, you can request that the assessment takes place at your home. The DWP advises you to take an advocate or someone else with you when you are assessed. Sometimes it is helpful to have someone who knows you well for emotional support and to remind you of things which may help the assessor understand your abilities.

The DWP advises you to take an advocate or someone else with you when you are assessed.

After the assessment you should receive a letter saying whether or not your application has been successful. It will tell you which rate you have been awarded and how long your award is for. If you don’t agree with the decision, you can appeal. I would recommend that you read the criteria for PIP before you appeal and use the criteria to make your case.

Your award may be backdated to the date you stated your intention to claim and not to the date that you were eligible, so make your application as soon as you think you might be eligible, even if it is within the three month qualifying period.

Remember •

In order to qualify for PIP you must be between 16 and 64. You must have had your condition, illness or disability for three months and be expected to have it for a further nine months.

• The application process starts with a phone call to 0845 850 33 22.

• Use the glossary of terms to make clear how your difficulties affected your functional ability.

• Photocopy your form before sending it in.

• Take someone with you to the assessment.

•

Your award will be for two, five or ten years. Make a note in your diary or calendar to remind yourself to reapply before your award runs out.

• You may be reassessed mid-award.

Top tips • Apply for PIP as soon as you think you are eligible, even if this is within the three month qualifying period.

• Use the glossary of terms when filling out the form.

• Ask someone who knows you to help fill out the form.

They may remember something you have forgotten.

• Send any ‘evidence’ with your application. This might be a report or letter from a doctor, physiotherapist or psychologist. Do not send appointment letters.

• Take a photocopy of your completed form before you send it in. This will help you to remember what you put next time you apply.

• Take someone with you or have someone present when you are assessed.

• Keep a note of how long your award is so you don’t forget to reapply.

With thanks to Ruth Moore, Client Liaison Manager, Irwin Mitchell LLP.

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Talking about mental h should be as easy as tal

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MENTAL HEALTH – IT’S TIME TO TALK How will I know which to choose?

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What if I make the wrong

It is quite likely that at some time, most people will know a friend, colleague or family member who is experiencing a mental health problem, yet people still think of mental illness in a bad way, as something to fear. The Time to Change campaign has been working hard to break down the way people think about mental health and take the stigma out of something that potentially affects us all.

Nine out of ten people experiencing mental health issues such as depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, say they also have to face stigma and discrimination. Sadly, it’s often the attitudes people have towards those with mental health issues that makes it harder for them to work, make friends and get on with a normal life.

Time to Change was set up by mental health charities, Mind and Rethink Mental Illness.

High profile celebrities including Stephen Fry, Davina McCall, Frank Bruno and Ruby Wax, have been adding their voices to the cause and encouraging people with mental health issues to have the confidence to talk about it without worrying that people will treat them differently.

How will I know which to choose?

What if mum doesn’t agree?

How will I know which to choos What if mum doesn’t agree?

What are the care options?

How will I know which to choose?

What if mum doesn’t agree?

Can we afford it?

What if I make the wrong choice?

Gary Lineker

What if mum doesn’t agree?

Talking about mental health problems should be as easy as talking about physical health problems – you wouldn’t be ashamed or scared to tell someone you were ill would you? Being open about mental health goes a long way to breaking down the stigma. It’s time to talk.

‘We all have moments when life can feel like a struggle. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do, a mental problem can affect just about anyone.

It’s something we shouldn’t be ashamed of and it’s something we all need to be open about.’

What are the care options?

How will I know which to choose?

What if mum doesn’t agree?

Can we afford it?

What if I make the wrong choice?

What are the care options?

How will I know which to choose?

What if mum doesn’t agree?

Can we afford it?

What if I make the wrong choice?

What if I make the wrong choice?

Can we afford it?

Statistics show that one in four of us experience a mental health problem each year, so why if it’s such a common problem, do most of us find it so difficult to talk about or know how to offer help?

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Transition opportunities Are you looking for young people’s services in the Bristol area? As one of the largest charitable providers, Milestones Trust offers Day Opportunities, Short Breaks/Respite, Supported Accommodation and full Residential or Nursing Care. You can start off with daytime activities, and gradually move to a more independent setting.

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Our high quality support services are developed around each individual at all stages of their care pathway; from supported living and outreach, through to support under the Mental Health Act and Community Treatment Orders.

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What are the How will I know What are the care options?

What if mum How will I know which to choose?

What if mum doesn’tCan agree?we affor Can we afford it?

What if I mak What if I make the wrong choice?

How can someone learn to talk more openly about their mental health? You should never feel pressurised into talking about your own mental health issue if you don’t want to, but a lot of people have found that being brave enough to share it with others, can make them feel better. This might initially get a negative response but the mere fact of not keeping things hidden can be a huge relief.

If you have a mental health condition and want to tell people about it, is there a best way to approach this?

The Time to Change campaign has devised a list of tips for starting such a conversation.

What are the care options?

How will I know which to choose?

What if mum doesn’t agree?

Can we afford it?

What if I make the wrong choice?

Stephen Fry, is one of their most out spoken supporters. He was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder at the age of 37, which finally gave an explanation for the massive highs and lows he had experienced all his life. During research for his television documentary The Secret Life of a Manic Depressive he discovered that the illness affects hundreds of thousands of people in the UK and urges that better public awareness is essential to help people break their silence. ‘Once the understanding is there, we can all stand up and not be ashamed of ourselves, then it makes the rest of the population realise that we are just like them but with something extra,’ he said.

What are the c How will I kn How will I know which to choose?

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FAMOUS SUPPORTER

TALKING HELPS

1. Be prepared for all eventualities including negative responses from the person you are going to tell. They will possibly have preconceived ideas about mental illness and you as a person, and will need time to piece the two together.

2. Choose the right time and place for you to feel comfortable talking about it.

3. You may receive a lot of questions, or perhaps none at all from the person you talk to. They might feel uncomfortable and try to move the conversation on but at least you’ve broached the subject with someone else which is the first step.

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4. Their first reaction might not be their long term view. Someone might be dismissive of what you’ve just told them or reply with unhelpful clichés but they might just need time to digest the information.

5. Have some information with you. Some people like to read up on a subject in their own time, so you might want to offer them a leaflet giving them more information to take away with them.

7. Don’t avoid talking about it. If somebody asks you about your mental health, be honest with them and don’t shy away from telling the truth.

How will I know which to choose?

What if mum doesn’t agree?

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Stephen Fry, is one of their most out spoken supporters. He was diagnosed as having bipolar disorder at the age of 37.

6. Try to keep the conversation light as many people don’t know what to say or how to help when told about mental health.

8. Courageous is contagious – don’t be surprised if your own honesty encourages others to speak about their mental health.

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Wha Ho

How will I know which to choos What if mum doesn’t agree?

Asking them how they are, or Can we afford it? sending a text to just say hello, if I make shows What them you care. the wrong choice

What are the care options?

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What if mum doesn’t agree?

Can we afford it?

What if I make the wrong choice?

HOW CAN I HELP SOMEONE WITH MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES? If a friend broke their wrist you wouldn’t have any problem contacting them and asking them how they were feeling. It shouldn’t be any different if someone is experiencing mental health issues.

Firstly, you don’t have to be an expert to talk about mental health and sometimes it’s the tiny things that make a huge difference to people.

Asking them how they are, or sending a text to just say hello, shows them you care.

y

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Ma

rk’

Due to complications following a premature birth, I sustained total sight loss in my left eye retaining a small field of vision in the right. I went to mainstream school in Cardiff before attending The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) in Hereford to study Maths, History and French A’ Levels. I then went to the University of Glamorgan gaining a BSc Honours in Maths and History and a Master’s Degree in Business Management.

All of this should have signalled the high point of my life, but it turned to breaking down the stigma.

Reggie Yates. out to be the lowest; I learned that qualifications without accompanying to talk. practical skills meant nothing. I have an anxiety disorder which, at this time, was left unchecked. I withdrew from life in many respects, was unable to leave the house, and was taking anti-depressants. The pills were like a safety harness, but they weren’t going to sort out my problems.

After two years in the wilderness, and having finally come off the if I make the wrong choice?

What medication, I was ready to get on with my life. As I was going through the worst of it I had time to reflect and consider how to move forward. I spent a few years in and out of employment, acquiring skills for work.

CanDespite we afford it? this, I felt that my life was passing me by, and chose a career in massage.

I started a Massage and Complementary Therapies course at RNC in September 2011 and was initially lacking confidence, disbelieving of my ability to succeed in a practical discipline. My confidence grew; I started to believe that I could make a living out of massage. It was really hard work but extremely rewarding. I can’t describe the buzz you feel when your client leaves with a smile on their face because you’ve helped take away their pain.

for C e Tim

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‘One in four people experience a mental health problem at some Talkingpoint about mental in their lives.health prob shouldIt’sbesomething as easy we as all talking abo physical health need to be problems aware of. – you w You don’torneed to beto tell som be ashamed scared an expert to make you were ill would you?a Being op difference, just be about mental here tohealth listen.’goes a long

With thanks to The Royal National College for the Blind. www.rncb.ac.uk

Mark Lawrence in Hereford providing on-site chair treatments for the general public.

‘The way I was six years earlier, unable to leave the house and in constant fear, then working in the town centre parading my skills, I think what a transformation!’

It’s

Keep in touch. Meet up, email, phone or text.

Don’t just talk about mental health. Keep it real and talk normally about everyday things as well.

‘Talking about mental health problems should be as easy as talking about physical health problems – you wouldn’t be ashamed or scared to tell someone you were ill would you? Being open about mental health goes a long way to breaking down the stigma.

It’s time to talk.’

Davina McCall

Remind them you care. Small things can make a big difference.

Be patient. Ups and downs can happen.

Time to Change tackles discrimination in society but cannot provide individual or emergency support for people in crisis, however there are many organisations that can. www.time-to-change.org.uk

Don’t just talk about mental health. Keep it real and talk normally about everyday things as well.

Samaritans – confidential, non-judgmental emotional support.

Tel: 08457 90 90 90 (24 hours a day) Email: jo@samaritans.org Web: www.samaritans.org

NHS Choices – Information and advice on any health condition including mental health.

Web: www.nhs.uk

Mind Infoline – confidential mental health information services.

Tel: 0300 123 3393 (9am to 5pm Monday to Friday).

Email: info@mind.org.uk Web www.mind.org.uk/help/advice_lines

Saneline – a national mental health helpline for people with mental health issues and those supporting them.

Tel: 0845 767 8000 (6pm-11pm) Web: www.sane.org.uk/what_we_do/ support/helpline

ChildLine – private and confidential service for children and young people up to the age of nineteen.

Tel: 0800 1111 Web: www.childline.org.uk

Elefriends – a supportive online community run

by Mind.

Web: http://elefriends.org.uk

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The Time to Change campaign has printed a business card sized list of tips that fit in a purse or wallet to act as a reminder. The five key tips are:

TRANSITIONS WORK BEGINS

Year 10 (age 14-15) TRANSITIONS REVIEWS to be attended by childcare worker, adult worker, post-16 providers and other appropriate support services.

Ensure that: • Transition plan agreed.

• Actions for individual workers/ services.

• Timescales documented.

• Carers’ assessment offered.

Year 12 (age 16-17) TRANSFER TO ADULT SERVICES If the person meets the eligibility criteria for the local authority. Transitions reviews to continue especially if the young person is still in school.

• Community Care assessments and care planning to be arranged as appropriate.

Ages 19-25 © Swindon Parents and Carers Advisory Group

Young Person and Parents at heart of the process.

• Statutory SEN statement review.

• Person-centred approach introduced.

• Help given to set up a circle of support.

Family should be invited to all reviews and young people must be involved in all meetings.

Year 8 (age 12-13)

Key areas covered: Pathway to employment; Housing; Planning for good health; Developing friendships, relationships and community.

Meaning of transition and its impact reinforced to young people and parents. Person-centred approach developed and ongoing.

Transition Pathway

PREPARATION FOR TRANSITIONS • Young people with additional needs identified.

• Parents and young people informed of processes.

• Child and adult services informed.

• Person-centred approach introduced.

Year 9 (age 13-14) TRANSITIONS REVIEWS FOR ALL YOUNG PEOPLE WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS Consider: • Access to work experience.

• Eligibility for Fair Access to Care.

• Existing service provision and cost.

• Appropriate post-16 provision.

• Future provision as an adult.

• Referral to appropriate adult services.

Year 11 (age 15-16) TRANSITIONS REVIEWS To continue especially if the young person is still in school.

Ensure that: • Community Care assessments and care planning to be arranged as appropriate.

• Personal budgets are discussed.

• Gaps are identified and appropriate actions are planned.

Year 13 (age 17-18) Year 14 (age 18-19) PLANNED CONTINUATION OF ADULT SERVICES • By all services already involved.

• Any additional services alerted.

The Key to your new life Thanks to help from Mencap

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Freephone 0808 808 1111 Visit mencap.org.uk/thekeytoyournewlife Email mencapdirect@mencap.org.uk

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From a stable platform you can reach for the stars

S The ee us a t Tra Even nsition Thu t on r 22 Msday ay

• Hesley Group enable people to achieve stability, often after years of disturbance, distress and “revolving door” admissions to services • Our aim is to provide the firmest foundations for sustainable future progress • We believe this is the most cost effective approach in financial and particularly in human terms Hesley Group has been an independent provider of specialist support for people with autism and other complex needs since 1975, with an enduring commitment to all those who live and work in its services. Long-term investment, low staff turnover and a strong emphasis on workforce development, together with a core, ethically sound and researched approach, have underpinned our stability. Adult residential services are provided at Hesley Village, Low Laithes Village and 49 King Street, Thorne plus our two new 19-25 year olds Independent Specialist Colleges. More information on all our services can be found on our website at www.hesleygroup.co.uk.

Enquiries freephone 0800 055 6789 www.hesleygroup.co.uk