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Ideas to uncover a brand new passion or something to fill your time.
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Progress News
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DECIDING YOUR FUTURE
A roundup of the latest news since our last issue.
- EDUCATION AND MENTAL CAPACITY In association with
Gurvinder Kaur looks at how EHCPs and mental capacity should sit side-by-side.
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Thursday 2016 The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham A summary of this 26th year’sMay conference and exhibition. Sponsorship Opportunities:
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Natspec
The Association of National Specialist Colleges
Basic Stand - £750 (non-care providers only) • 3m x 2m stand in the main exhibition area • 2 stand personnel for the exhibition including lunch • Logo & contact details in the event guide
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Standard Sponsorship - £1,750 • • • • •
Premium stand position in the main exhibition area Listing and link on event website 2 stand personnel for the exhibition including lunch Logo on the front cover of the delegate guide Logo & 75 words in event guide
BUILDING 12 CONFIDENCE
ROUTES TO SELF-EMPLOYMENT
Associate Sponsorship - £3,500 • • • • • •
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Building confidence in all areas of your life.
savvy 16 andBeing safe online Principal Sponsorship - £5,000 • • • • • •
Ideas to be your own boss.
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USING TECHNOLOGY TO AID INDEPENDENCE Technology can help people to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, Progress explores how.
Sex AND relationships
Prime stand in the main exhibition area Profile, listing and link on event website (100 words plus logo) 4 stand personnel for the exhibition including lunch Full page profile in the event guide Logo on the front cover of the delegate guide Workshop opportunity at the conference based upon pre-agreed subject matter fitting with the core themes of the day • E-profile - branded profile, designed and distributed to all delegates post event • E-shots - branded email flyer, designed and distributed to professionals/families pre-event
WE’RE TALKING ABOUT TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR CHOICES
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Welcome from the Editor
I just want to let you know that the date for next year’s Transition Event is the 26th May 2016.
Welcome to Progress. This issue of the magazine focuses on taking control of your life. Moving into adulthood is all about making choices about your life: what you want, where you want to live, what you want to do. This aspect of growing up brings with it many decisions and you need to have confidence in the decisions you are making. That is why we decided to dedicate this issue to taking control. We start with an article on building confidence on page 12. If you struggle to make your voice heard, or feel overwhelmed when surrounded by confident personalities, there are some great ideas to help you to build your confidence which you can apply to all areas of your life. With ideas we hope may inspire you, you could find yourself reaching for the internet, which is why we take a look at how to stay safe and protect yourself online, whichever device you like using. See the feature on page 16 to find out more. Thankfully, there’s still plenty of fun to be had in the sun before we head into autumn. As we
Contributors & Advisers
found ourselves dreaming about holidays here at Progress we also decided that the ultimate way to indulge in some ‘me time’ is to try a holiday alone. If you fancy flying solo, turn to page 20 for more information. Finally, I just want to let you know that the date for next year’s Transition Event is the 26th May 2016. The one-day conference will return to the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham and will once again be packed full of useful information for anyone on their transition journey. To read about this year’s fantastic event, turn to page 10. I hope you enjoy this issue and we look forward to seeing you again in the New Year.
Emma Morriss Editor
T: 01223 207770
E: editor@progressmagazine.co.uk Twitter: @progress_mag
• Anne Butler, The Hesley Group • Gill Leno, Queen Alexandra College • Gurvinder Kaur, Shoosmiths Legal • Helen Beer, Fairfield Farm College • Paul Carter, Little Man Media
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PROGRESS NEWS
Students at the protest spoke passionately about the progress they had made at their current colleges and their desire to fulfil their career ambitions but they don’t always have the right support.
Right Not a Fight campaign Students with additional needs at specialist colleges around the country joined forces outside Westminster to protest that their access to further education should be A Right Not a Fight. Both students and their families attended, all with the belief that the current system is failing them and the national ‘postcode lottery’ of funding and access is unfair. Students at the protest spoke passionately about the progress they had made at their current colleges and their desire to fulfil their career ambitions but said they don’t always have the right support. A spokesperson for the Association of National Specialist Colleges (NATSPEC) who attended the protest said, ‘We want to ensure that young people with additional needs are equipped with the right skills and confidence to lead positive, fulfilled adult lives and contribute to their communities leading to a reduced spend through the public purse.’ To read more about building your confidence have a look at page 12.
Need for out-of-hours volunteers
Be ‘bold and spending power
A leading UK charity has called for more out-of-hours volunteers to help disabled people to live full and positive lives.
In response to research conducted by the charity Scope, the Extra Costs Commission (ECC) has published a report revealing disabled people may pay a financial penalty on everyday living costs – on average £550 per month.
To mark Volunteers’ Week, which was in June, Leonard Cheshire Disability invited people to help out at one of its 200 services during the evenings and weekends. This enabled the disabled people they support to have as much involvement with any activities and interests they wanted. Begona Mendez, Leonard Cheshire Disability’s Volunteer Co-ordinator said, ‘We could not provide the dedicated level of care to disabled people without the help of our volunteers. Their contribution is invaluable – whether it’s reading to a resident or driving a group on a day out.’
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loud’ about
The ECC has explored how increased competition and better consumer information could drive down the costs of the goods and services that disabled people and their families need and reduce the impact of the extra costs of disability. One suggestion to prevent disabled people paying a financial penalty includes creating online communities for disabled people to share their good and bad shopping experiences with others. To see the full report visit www.scope.org.uk/getinvolved/campaigns/ extra-costs-commission
Being savvy and safe online - page 16 Tips to protect yourself online and staying safe.
Employing a PA - page 41 Personal and practical aspects of hiring a PA.
also including:
Disability Confident campaign • New radio station
‘Airbnb’ for the mobility sector An online service to help people with mobility difficulties or a disability find accessible holiday properties has been co-founded by Oxford MBA alumnus Srin Madipalli. With ambitions to be the next Expedia or Airbnb for the mobility sector, Accomable provides a platform to connect travellers with suitable properties worldwide. Inspired by his own personal experiences of travelling, Srin Madipalli, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, wants other people to experience adventure but knows that this is not always as easy as it sounds. Together with his friend and co-founder Martyn Sibley, who has the same condition, he has had many adventures including scuba diving, flying a plane, wheelchair trekking through mountains and a camping safari in Africa. In 2011, Srin travelled the world for 6 months but found it hard to organise suitable accessible accommodation, medical equipment, transportation and other things that he required. For this reason, he and Martyn created a one-stop-shop for travellers with mobility difficulties or a disability. You can also read about holidaying alone with a disability on page 20.
IN 2011, SRIN TRAVELLED THE WORLD FOR 6 MONTHS BUT FOUND IT HARD TO ORGANISE SUITABLE ACCESSIBLE ACCOMMODATION, MEDICAL EQUIPMENT, TRANSPORTATION AND OTHER THINGS THAT HE REQUIRED.
The National Theatre, situated at the South Bank in London has released its latest listings for assisted performances, running until January 2016. Assisted performances at National Theatre The National Theatre, situated at the South Bank in London, has released its latest listings for assisted performances, running until January 2016. Featuring productions which provide audio described and captioned performances, the theatre is now also showing two Relaxed Performances of The Comedy of Errors and I Want my Hat Back which are specifically designed to welcome people who may prefer a quieter setting to watch a performance. To view the performances visit www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/your-visit/access
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Can Do – volunteer opportunities Disability charity, Leonard Cheshire has recently expanded its Can Do project to seven new locations throughout the UK. The project offers exciting new opportunities for 16 to 35 year olds with a disability to volunteer in their community. Applications are welcome from people with any disability, including physical, visual or hearing impairments, mental health conditions and learning disabilities. The charity aims to provide volunteers with the skills and knowledge to enable those with additional needs to live more independent lives and be socially active in the community. It will also provide training, cover all expenses and offer any additional support that may be needed. To find out more visit www.leonardcheshire.org/cando
Easy read summary of Budget Easy News, the world’s first easy read magazine, has published a special edition focused on the Budget. The Chancellor’s Budget about the economy and spending policy is an important part of British politics, but most people can find it difficult to understand what it actually means for them. Launched over two years ago by disability charity United Response, Easy News aims to inform people with learning disabilities about what is happening in the world and how politics affects everybody’s lives. The publication offers easy read translations of a range of news stories using simpler language and accompanying images.
Launched over two years ago by disability charity United Response, Easy News aims to inform people with learning disabilities about what is happening in the world and how politics affects everybody’s lives.
Transition Event 2015 competition winner This year’s Transition Event, held in association with Progress magazine, was a huge success with a fantastic turnout. We are thrilled to see Arooj Jawad from Kings Norton Girls College enjoying her Kindle prize from the day. See page 10 for more information on the 2015 event.
Disability Confident campaign
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According to a recent report, the first two years of Disability Confident has seen 376 firms back the campaign and hundreds of thousands more disabled people find work. Through the Disability Confident campaign, the Government is working with employers to remove barriers, increase understanding and ensure that disabled people have the opportunities to fulfil their potential and realise their aspirations. To read more about fulfilling your career ambitions, see page 31.
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Herold argued that behavioural traits associated with ADHD, such as a tendency to see the whole picture rather than remember detail, should be encouraged and developed by schools because they are key entrepreneurial qualities. ADHD traits can be an ‘opportunity’ In an interview with the Guardian newspaper in July, TED speaker Cameron Herold, who has helped to grow three companies past the $100m mark, explains why, despite struggling to get through school, he thinks Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) gave him the edge over studious MBA-types. In his popular 2010 TED talk Let’s raise kids to be entrepreneurs, Herold argued that behavioural traits associated with ADHD, such as a tendency to see the whole picture rather than remember detail, should be encouraged and developed by schools because they are key entrepreneurial qualities. He hopes to spread the positive message that conditions such as ADHD should be seen as an opportunity. For more information on inspiring TED talks, see page 12.
New radio station A new radio station called Direction Radio has hit the airwaves with the intention of giving all listeners a chance to express themselves, regardless of their ability. The station has been launched, produced and run by Surrey Choices. With the hope of giving disabled people a stronger voice, the station features a wide variety of music, programmes and current affair chat shows. You can tune into the station at www.direction-radio.com
A congenital amputee from London has become the first person in the UK to be fitted with the most anatomically accurate prosthetic hand. World’s most life-like bionic hand A congenital amputee from London has become the first person in the UK to be fitted with the most anatomically accurate prosthetic hand. Nicky Ashwell, 29, who was born without a right hand, received Steeper’s latest innovation which was developed using F1 technology and fitted by The London Prosthetics Centre.
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PROGRESS NEWS
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Specialist colleges leading to work A recent report published by residential college, Foxes Academy shows that 79% of students with learning disabilities who studied there are now successfully placed within a work setting. The principal of the specialist college and training hotel for young adults, Tracey Clare-Gray said, ‘By training our students in a real hotel, youngsters gain skills which ensure they are able to get a meaningful job in the hospitality industry when they leave us. Vocational training in a real business, supported with a work experience placement, is a direct route to employment.’ According to the principal, an added bonus is that 68% of leavers also moved into supported or independent living when they had been living with parents or carers just a few years earlier.
The Transition Event 2015 In association with
Following on, Vicky McDermott from Papworth Trust delivered a passionate presentation focusing on how to get meaningful work. As challenging as it can be, she explained the importance of supporting Thursday 26th 2016 The National Motorcycle Birmingham Professionals and May parents supporting young peopleMuseum, employers to change attitudes. with additional needs arrived with a clear desire for Sponsorship There were also some great workshops, which inspiration and Opportunities: answers, something which can be saw the young people interact with presenters and easier said than done when each young person is Basic Stand £750 (non-care providers only) ask their own questions. BT discussed staying so unique. But with an impressive and thoughtful safe whilst on the internet and Shoosmiths Legal listxof experts andarea organisations offering • 3m 2mspeakers, stand in the main exhibition • 2as stand personnel for the exhibition including lunchwas a genuine delivered an interesting breakdown of Education much guidance as possible, there • Logo contact detailstoin help the event guide leave more informed Health and Care Plans and what should be unity& in the aim people expected in the future. about future choices than when they arrived. Standard Sponsorship - £1,750 And forstand the position first time, magazine decided Mind-blowing • Premium in theProgress main exhibition area to take its recording equipment so we could really A sentiment which seemed to echo around the • Listing and link on event website topersonnel peopleforwho attended. Informal room long after everybody had left was ‘I don’t know • 2talk stand the exhibition including lunch chats with • Logo on theand front short cover ofinterviews the delegate with guide professionals parents what I don’t know.’ And it’s true. But as the final • Logo & 75 words inaevent really formed solidguide understanding about what presentation given by Luke Joy-Smith of Dimensions attendees wanted to get from the event. Parents, closed with a summary of the day as giving ‘a mindAssociate Sponsorship £3,500 in particular, relished the opportunity to share their blowing amount of information’, Progress hopes that • Premium stand position in the main exhibition area thoughts and opinions about their experiences. this year’s Transition Event truly succeeded in what • Profile, listing and link on event website (50 words plus logo) it always sets out to achieve – helping young people • 3Speakers stand personnel for the exhibition including lunch have their best possible future. • Half page in the event guide After a profile rousing opener from Chair, Bill Mumford, • Logo on the front cover the delegate To find more information about the event or view which touched onofthe excitingguide opportunities for • E-shots branded email flyer, designed andfor distributed to choose professionals/families pre-eventrecorded on the day visit the content young people and the potential them to www.progressmagazine.co.uk and follow the their own future, inspirational speaker Laura Principal Sponsorship - £5,000 links to our social media pages. Broughton shared her journey of leaving the family • Prime stand in the main exhibition area home to live independently. Funny, warm and • Profile, listing Laura and link was on event website (100 words plus logo) her insightful, more than happy to share • 4 stand personnel for the exhibition including lunch first-hand experience with people who wanted to In association with • Full page profile in the event guide speak to her throughout the day. • Logo on the front cover of the delegate guide This year’s Transition Event returned to the National Motorcycle Museum on 4th June and we believe it may have been our best one yet.
• Workshop opportunity at the conference based upon pre-agreed subject matter fitting Thursday with 26th May 2016 The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham the core themes of the day Sponsorship Opportunities: • E-profile - branded profile, designed and distributed to all delegates post event Basic Stand - £750 (non-care providers only) • E-shots - branded email flyer, designed and distributed to professionals/families pre-event
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• 3m x 2m stand in the main exhibition area • 2 stand personnel for the exhibition including lunch • Logo & contact details in the event guide
Standard Sponsorship - £1,750
We are a national charity that supports and campaigns for children and adults who are deafblind or have sensory impairments. Sense Specialist College is an Independent Specialist College, operating in the East Midlands and East of England across 9 sites. It is part of the national “Sense” parent organisation, a registered charity and company limited by guarantee, for deafblind people. The College has its own deafblind specialist curriculum which identifies 4 phases of development across 5 domains; Communication, Conceptual & Sensory, Movement, Mobility & Orientation, Personal & Social Development and World of work. Individual pathways are followed depending on individual’s desired destination.
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Confidence and self-esteem are often the two most important words when it comes to feeling like a valued member of society, something everybody deserves. Self-esteem is what leaves us feeling happy with ourselves, helps us to like ourselves and our own company and take pride in who we are. It is also key to feeling valued and loved, something which helps us to have healthy relationships with people who appreciate us as much as we appreciate ourselves.
Think of your confidence as a muscle – it will only grow stronger if you work on it! Sometimes it can feel like you are surrounded by the most confident people on the planet; those who can walk into a room of strangers without a hint of a flushed cheek, wear the latest fashion trend without asking for anybody’s advice or come out of a job
interview feeling like they’ve aced it. But even these people will have times when their confidence abandons them, perhaps for no apparent reason at all. Confidence is never something that is set in stone, it is something that needs to be worked on, but it doesn’t always have to feel like work. There are lots of ways to increase your self-esteem through fun activities, gaining social and life skills, learning something new and even taking risks. This will also let you try your hand at new things and help you to learn new skills without being frightened of failing or looking silly if you don’t get things straight away. Remember that a lack of confidence doesn’t mean a lack of skills, and it is also OK to have weaknesses. Confidence should never be about being perfect, it should always be about working to what you’re good at and trusting your abilities so that others can follow your lead. Think of your confidence as a muscle – it will only grow stronger if you work on it!
BUILDING CONFIDENCE 12
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Confidence is never something that is set in stone, it is something that needs to be worked on, but it doesn’t always have to feel like work. Positive role models In the hope of creating a disability confident Britain, the Disability and Health Employment Strategy, launched by the Government’s Department of Work and Pensions, introduced a number of initiatives to help disabled people raise their aspirations and take control of their own lives. In 2012, the Role Model initiative was created. This involved filming over 50 role models from a wide range of backgrounds, telling their own personal stories, describing what they want from life and explaining how they have overcome barriers that they have faced. The films can be seen on YouTube at www.youtube.com/ user/rolemodelsinspire/videos If you find listening to other people’s stories inspiring then you may like TED Talks, which are really grabbing people’s attention on YouTube at the moment. These short, powerful talks, which are usually about 15 minutes long, have got people listening to them in the car, whilst cooking their dinner and on their way to work.
With the aim to spread messages and inspire ideas, these talks can be a really entertaining way to hear about every topic you could think of, from business to the arts. There are lots dedicated to boosting confidence which you may find useful. Just type the following titles into YouTube:
•
• How to build your creative confidence – With a focus on not getting too caught up on whether you are ‘creative’ or ‘practical’, David Kelley – a ‘design thinker’ – suggests that creativity is not just something a select few have. Telling personal stories from his own life and design career, Kelley offers ways to build the confidence to create what you’re passionate about.
• Do what you love – no excuses! – Here, entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk encourages those who doubt themselves on a daily basis and puts across the argument that there really should be no excuse not to do what makes you happy.
•
The skill of self-confidence – Dr. Ivan Joseph, Athletic Director and head coach of the Varsity Soccer Team at Ryerson University, talks about how, ahead of speed, skill and strength, selfconfidence is not just the most important skill in athletics, but also in life.
Meet yourself: A user’s guide to building self-esteem – As the founder of Girls for Change, Niko Everett demonstrates how anyone, from boys and girls to grown men and women can get a glimpse into who they really are by reflecting honestly on themselves as much as possible.
Top tips for improving your confidence Maximise the positive and minimise the negative. Focus on your abilities more than your limitations. Don’t compare yourself to anybody else. Set realistic goals. Everybody has limitations in many forms. It is a strength to recognise them.
Remember that a lack of confidence doesn’t mean a lack of skills, and it is also OK to have weaknesses.
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Self-advocacy Self-advocacy is basically speaking up for yourself. It sounds easy enough but sometimes it can feel like the hardest thing in the world. You need confidence and also certain skills which some people don’t always learn.
Advocacy Advocacy is where a person helps someone have the chance to be heard and have their views respected in all matters that affect their life. An advocate can support you if you find it difficult to get your views and opinions heard – especially if you lack confidence to speak up for yourself. They can help you to share your wishes and take greater control of your life. If an advocate supports you they should help you get your voice and opinions across until you feel ready to do it. Advocacy can be helpful at key times in a person’s life. This could be in review meetings, when meeting with professionals, dealing with concerns or complaints or other times where you feel you need someone to help you get your point across. Mencap’s Empower Me service provides personalised advocacy support, including one-to-one and group advocacy, for people with a learning disability.
Knowing what you want is different from telling people what you want. Self-advocacy can feel like a big step if, in the past, your parents or professionals have made decisions for you. If you are moving to a different school, college, university, house or workplace then it is really important to understand how to speak up for yourself and develop the right skills to feel able to do this. Try following these tips: •
Be self-aware – Knowing yourself, your abilities and disability, can really help you feel confident. This also means you should appreciate who you are, your disability and the strengths and weaknesses that you, like everybody else in the world, have.
•
Be clear about your needs – The better you know what specific needs you have that relate to the situation (ie employment support in the workplace), the more effective you can be in making sure you have the right support. This will also help you feel more comfortable telling other people what you need.
An advocate can support you if you find it difficult to get your views and opinions heard – especially if you lack confidence to speak up for yourself.
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•
Be assertive – Saying what you want or need doesn’t mean you are rude or demanding, it means you are confident. This should be seen as a really positive thing as it means you are relying on yourself, not other people, to solve problems and take responsibility for you.
•
Make the most of the support around you – Self-advocacy doesn’t mean taking on everything yourself, especially if you don’t feel able to manage it all. It means knowing when and how to ask for support and making the most of it to reach your true potential.
There are lots of self-advocacy groups which support you to gain the experience and skills you need to speak up for yourself. They are usually informal and you meet with other people like you to talk about things that are important to you. By supporting each other, these groups help everyone gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to have a voice and make it heard. There are many ways to build confidence and the more you practise being confident the more confident you become. And a good rule to remember is to ‘fake it until you make it’. In other words, if you act confidently, even if you don’t feel it, people will think you are confident. This then gives your confidence a boost, helping to build your self-esteem, situation by situation.
Building Damian’s confidence I found mainstream school very difficult – I left school and was not very confident and found it very difficult to speak to new people or to socialise. I visited Fairfield Farm College one day and thought I liked it, so my family supported me to apply for a place. I attended an assessment week, this was very difficult for me as I was not very confident and was worried it may be like school – it was not! I was lucky and got funding for a full time day placement. At first I was very anxious, I did not speak much, and walked around with my head down. I had very low self-esteem. When I started the course I tried everything, I soon found out my favourite subjects and the ones I was best at, and wanted to be able to find work in when I was older. I
started riding and looking after the college horses, doing engineering and catering and working in the college shop and café. When I was confident on the college site I started an off-site work experience. Once I was used to this I went without college staff. All of this increased my confidence and happiness hugely. I was able to lift my head, smile and made friends with students and staff – I began to feel really confident! I have completed my Duke of Edinburgh Bronze and am now doing my Silver Award. So much of what I am able to do now, and have achieved, I once never thought possible – I am very proud of what I have achieved at Fairfield Farm College and am
very grateful to the staff and students I have met and who have helped me. As I come to the end of my course I am hoping to achieve great things in the future using the qualifications and skills I have gained. I already have a paid job in the college café during the college holidays; I have a work experience placement during term time at a local riding stable. I have many qualifications in these areas and have now secured an apprenticeship at the Warminster Saddle Club. With thanks to Fairfield Farm College. www.fairfieldfarmcollege.ac.uk
Supporting you in your next move We know that leaving school or college and deciding what to do next can be a bit daunting. However with the right support in place it can also be an exciting time when you can meet new friends, try out new things and plan for your future. We have experience of supporting young people who have learning disabilities, autism and other needs to move into their first home, either alone or with housemates. This includes supporting you to:
Find suitable accommodation and understand your tenancy
Create a person centred support plan based around your interests and goals
Prepare for the move practically and emotionally
Take care of your new home and manage your money
We recently helped Andrew and Aaron to move from a large shared house into their own flat. Both young men felt they were ready to be more independent. Claire from Voyage Care looked at lots of flats and houses with them until they found the one that ticked all their boxes! Westmoreland Supported Housing Association then arranged accessible tenancy agreements and the excitement of getting ready to move started. Voyage Care supported them to set up bills, choose who would be supporting them and find out all about activities available in the local area.
Call us on 0800 328 6091 or visit www.voyagecare.com www.progressmagazine.co.uk
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Being savvy and safe online Progress looks at ways to make sure you look after yourself and your devices whilst on the internet. The internet is great for so many things – it’s a seemingly never-ending source of information and entertainment. This has never been more true than it is now, with access to the internet on most of our devices. These days, we can browse the web on our phones, tablets and laptops as well as our desktop computers; if we never want to be offline we don’t have to be. Not only this, but everything is linked together – we can take a picture and share it instantly, and everything can be saved to the Cloud (however that works). With all of that going on, we need to know how to protect ourselves, whatever we are looking at online and whichever device we are using to do it.
We need to know how to protect ourselves, whatever we are looking at online and whichever device we are using to do it.
Pop ups click here
Pop ups are screens that appear randomly while you are browsing the web. They usually contain downloads or viruses which can harm your computer, so it’s important never to click on them except to close them. They may have appealing offers like ‘click here to win a free iPad’ but they are usually just trying to redirect you to a website where you will need to spend money or download something that might break your computer or install a virus. If a pop up screen opens on your computer, just close it using the cross in the corner of the screen, the same as you would any other window. You can also get pop-up blockers. These are usually free, or come as part of an anti-virus package, but you’ll need to make sure that the one you get is reliable. Some browsers, like Google Chrome, block pop ups on their own so you may find that you don’t need a blocker at all.
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Hello?
Emails Emails are a great way of keeping in touch with your friends, getting good offers and vouchers, and keeping up-to-date with news. But hackers can get into people’s email accounts and send viruses to their contacts, and you might find that you get a lot of emails that you don’t want. Emails are one of the easiest ways for a person to get a virus onto your computer and they’re quite clever about how they do it. Sometimes, an email might look like it’s coming from your friend but actually it’s spam. It can be hard to tell whether an email has genuinely come from someone you know or whether opening it is going to harm your computer. It might be obvious because it has a strange subject line that you know your friend wouldn’t write, but often they will say something like ‘Hello?’. If you think you have been sent an email like this, the best thing to do is delete it without opening it. If you’re worried that it might really be from a friend, you can always contact them and ask if they sent it. You also need to be careful of emails that ask for any personal details. It might sound like an official email from your bank asking you to give them your account number or your PIN, but trustworthy emails will never ask for any personal details. This includes your address, date of birth, account details, passwords or passcodes, and log in details. If you have an email like this, you should ignore and delete it. Never give out this sort of information in an email – people can use it to steal your identity or access your bank accounts. As a general rule, it’s not a good idea to reply to spam messages – replying might help the people behind the emails to get access to your computer.
Meeting people online Everyone likes to socialise online. A lot of people use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media sites to talk to their friends and keep in touch. However, it can become dangerous if you start to become ‘friends’ with people you don’t know. Talking to people you already know and sharing things with them is usually OK, but if you have never met someone, you don’t know that you can trust them. The problem with getting to know someone online is that you can’t always be sure that they are who they say they are. You have no way of knowing whether the 18 year old blonde girl you’re talking to is actually a 40 year old bald man. This is part of the reason that you should never meet up with someone you’ve met online. You could end up in a dangerous situation, where someone tries to take advantage of you or forces you to do something that you don’t want to do. This can be the case even if you feel like you know the person well and have been talking to them for ages.
The problem with getting to know someone online is that you can’t always be sure that they are who they say they are. If you really do want to meet up with someone, and even if you think they are trustworthy, make sure you take a parent or friend with you, that lots of people know where you are going and who you are going to meet. Also, it is safer to always meet in a public place.
& e r o n Ig delete www.progressmagazine.co.uk
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Your online image
Cyberbullying
Your online image, or ‘online reputation’, is important. It is about how you are portrayed on the internet, and includes everything, from photos you’re tagged in on Facebook, to people you follow on Twitter. A lot of employers will check out your profiles if they are thinking of hiring you, so it’s worth being aware of what your online reputation looks like.
Cyberbullying is the term that is used to describe bullying happening online. With all of the social media platforms that are around, there are lots of ways that people can be bullied. Somebody might be commenting on photos or statuses and calling you names or saying rude things about you. They might be doing this publicly so that everyone can see, or they might be sending private messages to you.
You can also ask the person to take it down, and if they refuse and it’s about you, you can often report it to the people who manage the site. To make sure that you are coming across to people how you want to, always think about what you are posting before you post it. How will it look to other people? Does it paint you in a negative light? How are you going to feel about your post later? It is also useful to make sure that only your friends and family are able to view your social media pages. You can do this by adapting your privacy settings on your social media accounts. Remember that if someone tags you in something you can always un-tag yourself. You can also ask the person to take it down, and if they refuse and it’s about you, you can often report it to the people who manage the site.
If you think you might be being bullied online, or if someone has said or done something that has upset you, you need to tell someone you trust straight away. They will be able to help you and will hopefully resolve the problem so the bullying stops. There are also things that you can do to help control the bullying. It’s important not to reply. If you don’t rise to the bullying then the bully might get bored and leave you alone. Although the things that bullies say can make you angry, and you might want to say something horrible back to them, it’s best to keep quiet. This means that you can’t get in trouble or be blamed for provoking any responses from the bully. You can also block people on most social media sites. This means that the bully won’t be able to contact you in the same way anymore. It puts you back in control of your own social media. Delete any comments that you don’t want on your pages. The most important thing is not to let it stop you from being online. If you like chatting on social media, carry on. Ignore any nasty comments that other people are making and enjoy talking to your friends; take down anything that you don’t like and report anyone who is bullying you.
If you think you might be being bullied online, or if someone has said or done something that has upset you, you need to tell someone you trust straight away. The internet can be a fantastic tool. It can help you in all aspects of life. However it’s important to be aware of potential dangers online to ensure you are savvy and stay safe.
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in association with
Building the best future for young people with additional needs Supported by
SoLO Life Opportunities
SAVE THE DATE
Thursday 26th May 2016 National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham For more information, contact Cheryl Yardley on 01223 206953 or email cheryl.yardley@carechoices.co.uk www.progressmagazine.co.uk/events @progress_mag #ProgressTTE
Achieving learning potential We work to ensure that blind and partially sighted children and adults, including those with additional disabilities, maximise their learning potential. We provide support, advice and information for parents, carers and professionals.
RNIB Pears Centre for Specialist Learning, Coventry We offer personalised education, care and therapies to children and young people with multiple disabilities and complex needs who are blind or partially sighted, up to age 19. Our education and care are both graded “Outstanding”. To arrange a visit call 024 7636 9500 or visit rnib.org.uk/pearscentre RNIB College Loughborough Our small friendly college supports students with a wide range of disabilities to achieve their goals. Students will learn practical skills within our college enterprises such as our eBay shop. To arrange a visit call 024 7636 9500 or visit rnib.org.uk/pearscentre
© 2015 Royal National Institute of Blind People Registered Charity Numbers 226227 (England and Wales), SC039316 (Scotland) and 1173 (Isle of Man)
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TRAVELLING ON YOUR OWN
GIVES YOU THE FREEDOM TO DO WHAT YOU WANT, WHEN YOU WANT – WHICH SOUNDS LIKE MOST PEOPLE’S IDEA OF HEAVEN!
Gone are the days when going on holiday alone is seen as the last resort because nobody else wants to go to the same place as you. Travelling on your own gives you the freedom to do what you want, when you want – which sounds like most people’s idea of heaven!
g n i y a d e i l n o o l H a
As long as it is safe for you to travel alone, spending your leisure time solo can feel like the ultimate way of being independent and really indulging in some time for you. There are so many options to choose from depending on what you want to do. If getting away for some relaxation is what you’re looking for, a relaxing spa break could be a great option, or an exotic beach far away. However, if it’s action and adventure you’re after then an organised tour may be more up your street.
Where do I start?
Whoever you choose to go on holiday with, your friends, your partner or your family, there will usually come a point where you can’t agree on what to do. They want to go to the beach but you want to stay by the pool…they want to stay in to eat but you want to try that restaurant you saw earlier. Progress looks at different options for holidaying alone.
Wherever you choose to spend your holiday, there is no doubt that you need to be organised to make sure that any tour company or destination is aware of your specific needs. In preparation for travelling alone, it may be helpful to talk to others who have been in a similar situation and can offer friendly first-hand advice. The Lonely Planet has launched a Travel for All project with this goal in mind and aims to be the first port of call for all accessible travel needs, not only for those with a disability, but for anybody with access issues. It is designed for people to share their experiences and tips and act as a chat forum, so it may be a good place for you to start getting some ideas about where to go and what you need to take. It also has social media accounts where you can interact. www.lonelyplanet. com/thorntree/forums/travellers-withdisabilities Tourism for all is another organisation which provides information on accessible holidays. It has a wide selection of useful information and resources to help you plan your trip. www.tourismforall.org.uk
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Relax at a spa Well-being holidays can be great for the solo traveller, with or without additional needs, and luxury spas with accessible features seem to be popping up all over the country. You will also find plenty of others taking a break on their own. Spabreaks. com (0800 043 6600) books breaks to over 500 spas in the UK and abroad. It has also launched an Accessible Spas initiative so that all venues on their website with accessible features are marked with a symbol for ease of use. Cowshed Spa – Babington House, Frome, Somerset With no steps to be seen, this building is all on one level and easy to get around throughout. All treatment rooms feature wide frame doors to ensure wheelchairs can fit through and once you are in, the beds are easily adjustable to suit your comfort and needs. Coworth Park Spa – Ascot, Berkshire There are no steps leading into this spa and once inside there are two floors, with a lift to take you between them. They have a fully equipped disabled changing room with a basin and toilet, wet room and locker space, all featuring grab rails.
Best of the rest A selection of other spas that have wheelchair-accessible facilities and trained staff to support disabled guests include: • Bedruthan Hotel and Spa, Cornwall • The Celtic Manor Resort, Newport • Grayshott Spa, Surrey • The Spa at Pennyhill Park Hotel, Surrey • SenSpa at Careys Manor, Hampshire Don’t forget to ask before you book • Can they cater for your specific needs? • Will any parts of the building be difficult for you to access? • Will you be able to use the swimming pool/jacuzzi/other hydrotherapy treatments? •
Do they have a hoist for the swimming pool, if not, can you be assisted getting in and out of the pool?
• Do they offer specific treatments especially for disabled people?
IN PREPARATION FOR TRAVELLING ALONE, IT
MAY BE HELPFUL TO TALK TO OTHERS WHO HAVE
Battling with the beaches At first sight, beaches can seem like a bit of a nightmare if you have specific mobility needs. However, more and more seem to be improving their accessibility, whether abroad or closer to home. Perfect if you want to get away on your own for the day or spend longer soaking up some serious sun and relaxation. Summerleaze Beach, Cornwall, UK This beach can be easily accessed from the car park and also has a wheelchair-friendly route down to the seafront. For increased accessibility, sand chairs can also be hired from the beach office to make it easier for you to go wherever you want and catch a quiet spot. Cancun, Mexico There are lots of wheelchairfriendly boardwalks featured at most of the beaches to make getting around as easy as possible. If you’re going somewhere this exotic you won’t want to miss seeing a thing. A company called Cancun Accesible also operates to provide personal attention, fair prices and a wide range of equipment to people holidaying in Cancun. They can also organise transfers to and from the airport, car rentals and fully accessible tours. Visit www. cancunaccesible.com for more information.
BEEN IN A SIMILAR SITUATION AND CAN OFFER FRIENDLY FIRST-HAND ADVICE.
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A-One Pattaya Beach Resort, Thailand
All-out adventure
Built from scratch with accessibility in mind for every feature, this resort has a ramp from the car park leading straight into the main lobby for a seated check-in to make the process as comfortable as possible. With lifts everywhere, all of the menus are written in Braille and, for when you are not soaking up the sun on the beach, the resort rooms have plenty of space to move around comfortably and easily.
As long as it is safe for you to travel far from home and you are fit enough, there should be nothing to stop you satisfying even your wildest wanderlust. If you thought African safaris and Caribbean beaches were out of your reach, then think again. Epic Enabled runs safaris and tours catering for those who wish to push the boundaries and experience adventures and thrills. As well as accessible vehicles designed for safety and comfort, it is also possible to hire wheelchairs, scooters, walking aids and swivel seats whilst you are there. For an additional charge, care assistants and nurses can also be organised for the duration of your stay. Visit www.epic-enabled. com for more information. Virgin Holidays also offers free use of special beach wheelchairs in selected hotels in Antigua, Barbados and St Lucia. Email special.assistance@virginholidays.com for more information.
Connecting with the locals It is worth remembering that when you are on holiday, you are often only on your own as much or as little as you want to be. If you want to meet like-minded people or just chat with someone over lunch, carrying phrase books or guide books on the town you are visiting is often a great way to spark conversation. As long as you remember to stay safe, be aware of any risks and not give away too much information about yourself, meeting new people can feel a little easier on holiday than back at home.
Nurturing Independence
Helsey House Holiday Cottages Helsey House Helsey Nr Hogsthorpe, Skegness PE24 5PE Telephone: 01754 872 927 E-mail: info@HelseyCottages.co.uk
halow supports young people aged 16-35 with a learning disability in Surrey
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.
halow • • Building Futures • A Reason To Get Up
• Parent2Parent • Buddy Service • Supported Living
Please visit
www.halowproject.org.uk
01483 447960 Charity no.1116773
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• 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
sue.atprogress
Beating the single supplement Single traveller supplements can apply if you take a holiday alone. The majority of hotels price their rooms as doubles or family rooms, and don’t reduce their rates if they are occupied by a single person. Hoteliers justify this by saying that the cost of providing the room is the same regardless of how many people occupy it. The same rule can also apply to self-catering accommodation. There are ways to try to avoid paying the supplements. Firstly, if you’re booking through a travel agent, ask them if they have any leeway on the price or whether they’re able to waive the single supplement. Sometimes, if you ask, you may receive a discount which will help to cover any additional costs of the single supplement. Also, if booking a trip, look around at different companies that organise holidays, as some companies specifically cater for single travellers and may not charge the single supplement.
AS LONG AS IT IS SAFE FOR YOU
TO TRAVEL FAR FROM HOME AND YOU ARE FIT ENOUGH, THERE SHOULD BE NOTHING TO STOP YOU SATISFYING EVEN YOUR WILDEST WANDERLUST.
Here are a few more useful links to consider when booking your break. Endeavour Safaris – www.endeavour-safaris.com Special Needs at Sea – www.specialneedsatsea.com
SideStix – www.sidestix.com
Calvert Trust Exmoor enables people of any age and any disability to experience exciting, challenging, and enjoyable accessible activity holidays with family and friends.
At our five star, fully accessible residential centre on the edge of Exmoor National Park all activities and facilities are specifically designed and equipped to cater for everyone. Stay with us for a few days, a week, or just for the day; however long you’re here you’ll discover it's what you CAN do that Counts!
01598 763221 exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk
@ p r o g r e s s _ m a g
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DECIDING YOUR FUTURE
- EDUCATION AND MENTAL CAPACITY Under the new system for special educational needs, young people take control of what goes into their Education, Health and Care Plan when they reach 16. Here, Progress explores what that means when making post-16 education decisions and what to consider if a young person is unable to make the decision.
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An Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) is a legal document which should set out a clear description of the child or young person’s needs (what he or she is able to do) and what will be done by the local education authority to meet these needs to enable the young person to achieve their full potential throughout their education. When the Children and Families Act came into place, the reforms to special educational needs saw a new system introduced. It was designed around the needs of children and young people and, for the first time, created a streamlined system to support them all the way up to the age of 25. This new system also transferred the control of the EHCP to the young person when they reached the age of 16, meaning that they were then in control of their own education.
This new system also transferred the control of the EHCP to the young person when they reached the age of 16, meaning that they were then in control of their own education.
However, sometimes people aren’t able to make specific decisions about something. This is what the term mental capacity applies to and it is important that it always sits side-by-side with an EHCP so that everybody is supported to make decisions, or has someone to make decisions for them where they lack capacity to do so. Progress spoke to Gurvinder Kaur from Shoosmiths Legal regarding the extension of support to the age of 25, how this puts young people at the centre of their own decisions and what it really means for them and their families. ‘I’ve yet to come across any agency or professional that is involved in the field of special educational needs that hasn’t welcomed the availability of an EHCP up to the age of 25. A radical difference under the new regime is the automatic transfer of parental rights on the content of the plan to the young person once they reach the compulsory school age of 16. In fact, upon the young person reaching compulsory school age, all rights relating to the plan automatically pass to the young person. The previous statementing system only gave parents/guardians of the child/young person rights in respect of the content of a statement, even where the young person was 16 or even 18.’
What exactly does the new law say?
But what is mental capacity?
According to Gurvinder, under the new system, the automatic transfer of rights to the young person is subject to the young person having capacity. This means the ability to make the decisions about their education when they need to be made. It will be assumed that the young person has capacity and they should be included in correspondence concerning the EHCP in their own right.
The Mental Capacity Act 2005, supported by the Mental Capacity Code of Practice, explains the concept of capacity.
If a young person has capacity then they will have the right to: • Request an EHC needs assessment. • Make suggestions on EHCP content. • Request a particular educational institution is named in an EHCP.
A person does not have mental capacity if they are unable to do one or more of the following: 1. Understand information relevant to the decision they are taking, including understanding the consequences of making or not making the decision. 2. Retain information for long enough to make the decision. 3. Use/weigh the information to arrive at a decision. 4. Communicate their decision in any method (e.g. verbal, sign language).
• Request a personal budget relating to the provision in the EHCP.
The Mental Capacity Code of Practice advises against presuming someone does or does not have capacity on the basis of their:
• Appeal to the First Tier Tribunal: Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal.
• Age • Appearance • Any mental health diagnosis • Any disability or medical condition.
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The key issue with capacity is that it is not a static concept - whether or not a young person has the capacity to make a decision about a particular issue will depend upon the individual and the circumstances at that time. It’s possible to have capacity to make some decisions but not others. In the case of a young person with special educational needs in respect of their education, it may be appropriate for them to make their own decisions regarding their daily education. This could include things such as what subjects/areas they want to study or activities they would prefer to do, but it may not be appropriate to let them decide which educational placement they should attend. The Mental Capacity Act can’t protect a young person from making a bad decision.
How to understand if a young person has capacity If there is uncertainty over whether the young person has capacity, this could be uncertainty from the parent, the young person, their current educational placement and/or their local authority, it may be appropriate for a capacity assessment to be completed with the young person. The Code of Practice says that any such assessment should be undertaken by a GP or similar medical professional. Such assessments should not be undertaken by a psychologist or educational staff.
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If parents are concerned about their child having capacity, they should raise this with their local authority as it should be the local authority that, in the first instance, seeks a mental capacity assessment. Should the local authority refuse to secure a capacity assessment, the parents can appraise the young person
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directly or secure an independent capacity assessment. If, after the assessment, it’s agreed that the young person doesn’t have capacity, then it will be the parents that take on that decision on behalf of the young person. This is unless the Court of Protection has appointed someone other than the parent to act as a deputy for the young person.
What are the pros and cons for young people? Gurvinder believes that the introduction of the rights of a young person to take control of their education choices certainly empowers young people. It gives real weight to their voice in respect of their life choices. As long as the young person has capacity, their views, wishes and feelings in relation to their education will take precedence.
If, after the assessment, it’s agreed that the young person doesn’t have capacity, then it will be the parents that take on that decision on behalf of the young person. This means that where decisions are made about a young person’s provision or placement in a plan after the age of 16, and the young person has capacity, it will be up to them to challenge any decisions made by their local authority if they disagree with them. This can feel like a lot of pressure for one person. Challenges around the content of a plan are addressed in the forum of the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (or
the Special Educational Needs Tribunal for Wales). Any appeal would have to be made and pursued in the name of the young person. Increasingly, families are using legal representation for tribunal proceedings because of the complexity of issues. However, it would have to be the young person that instructs a solicitor to represent them in any appeal. Whilst the Code of Practice gives guidance on what to do when it is felt a young person does not have capacity, there are no timeframes on this. In most cases, the capacity of the young person is not considered until a decision regarding their post-16 placement needs to be made. If there is a dispute around capacity, it must first be resolved before the content of the plan can be challenged. The timeframes for first resolving a capacity dispute and then pursuing an appeal could delay the start of the young person’s education. As such, where capacity may be an issue, it’s crucial to be proactive. The earlier concerns around capacity are raised and investigated, the sooner they can be resolved.
Keep supporting It is hoped that families and parents continue to support their young person in making decisions and remain closely involved. The Code of Practice states they can always act on the young person’s behalf provided that the young person is happy for them to do so. Local authorities and associated agencies should continue to involve parents in discussions about the young person’s future. However, whilst the process can involve input from parents and family, the final decision has to be the young person’s. The young person can request support from a family member in any way, such as nominating them to
receive correspondence on their behalf or accompanying them to meetings. These requests should be accommodated by the local authority. How the changes to the Children and Families Act will impact on each individual and their family is likely to vary from person to person. As with most new legislation, it will largely depend on personal circumstances. The most important thing to remember is to keep communicating; young people, parents and the local authority need to keep talking to each other, not just at the beginning of an assessment, but all the way through.
If you are a young person, taking responsibility for your own education should feel empowering but at times it may also feel overwhelming. This is completely normal, so make the most of all the support available to you and never be afraid to ask for more help if you need it.
If you are a young person, taking responsibility for your own education should feel empowering but at times it may also feel overwhelming.
Useful websites Young Person’s Guide to the Children and Families Act www.gov.uk/government/publications/young-persons-guide-to-the-children-and-families-act-2014 Disability Rights UK www.disabilityrightsuk.org/links-key-documents-children-and-families-act-2014
With thanks to Gurvinder Kaur, Solicitor, Shoosmiths Legal.
sue.atprogress
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natspec
Natspec
1 Beaumont College
Natspec, the Association of National Specialist Colleges, is the membership organisation for specialist colleges that provide education for students with more complex learning difficulties or disabilities. Colleges offer personalised programmes and individual support to help young people prepare for adult life, including:
Henshaws College 7
• Skills to live more independently or to manage or direct care support.
Communication Specialist College – Doncaster 2 3 Derwen College
11 Parkanaur College
• Work experience and volunteering that increase employment options.
Hesley Group – Fullerton House College / Wilsic Hall College 8
• Getting involved in the community and travelling independently, where possible.
RNIB College Loughborough 13
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Homefield College 9
We have a directory of colleges which can also be viewed online at www.natspec.org.uk
Queen Alexandra College (QAC) 12 Sense College 14
* Map is for illustrative purposes only.
Westgate College 16 10 National Star College 6 FOXES ACADEMY
Need help choosing the right specialist college for you?
4 FAIRFIELD FARM COLLEGE 5 The Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy
visit www.natspec.org.uk
Treloar College 15
Beaumont College offers day and residential programmes to young people aged between 18 and 25 with a broad range of physical and /or learning disabilities. 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: admissions@beaumontcollege.org Web: www.beaumontcollege.ac.uk
1
Our individualised learning environment offers a unique approach to learners who are deaf/hearing impaired and have specific communication and language needs.
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.
We cater for all abilities and learning styles, 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
To arrange a visit please contact us on: 01302 386 700
Communication Specialist College Doncaster
Email: or go to our website: Leger Way,marketing@ddt-deaf.org.uk Doncaster DN2 6AY Tel: 01302 386 700 E-mail: admissions@ddt-deaf.org.uk Web: www.deaf-college.co.uk
www.deaf-trust.co.uk
Communication Specialist College Doncaster
Leger Way, Doncaster DN2 6AY Tel: 01302 386 700 E-mail: admissions@ddt-deaf.org.uk • Web: www.deaf-college.co.uk
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Derwen College is one of the largest specialist further education colleges in the country. It has been graded “Outstanding” by Ofsted 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 with local or national employers or on campus in our own shops, eateries, gardens, studios, offices, kitchens, workshops, small animal units or recycling facilities. Learners are supported to lead the life they want and to be as independent as they can be.
Fairfield Farm College is a specialist college for students with learning disabilities; it is a registered Charity, with residential, day and weekend courses. You can join the Vocational and Independence Training course when you are between 16 and 19 years old, but can join when older providing you have completed your course before your 25th Birthday.
Derwen College
Fairfield Farm College
Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 3JA Tel: 01691 661234 E-mail: enquiries@derwen.ac.uk • Web: www.derwen.ac.uk
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The Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy is situated over 3 sites in the New Forest and runs a residential 3 year course for students between the ages of 16 and 25 who have a range of learning difficulties and/or disabilities. The course has been developed to encompass a range of essential life, basic & social skills, riding, vaulting & horse care. Each student has an individual programme which is personalised according to their needs, aspirations and expectations. Opportunities to learn & practise these skills are embedded in naturally occurring, practical activities using the motivating medium of the horse where possible.
The Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy
Avon Tyrrell, Bransgore, Christchurch BH23 8EE Tel: 01425 673 297 • Fax: 01425 674 320 E-mail: admissions@fcrt.ac.uk • Web: www.fortunecentre.org
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We are situated in the village of Dilton Marsh in Wiltshire. Our 26-acre farm site includes well-resourced teaching and vocational learning areas, a student common room, conference room, café and a farm shop. We offer a variety of residential programmes delivered in our houses in the village.
43 High Street, Dilton Marsh Westbury, Wiltshire BA13 4DL Tel: 01373 866066 • E-mail: admissions@ffc.ac.uk Web: www.ffc.ac.uk
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Foxes Academy is an Outstanding Specialist College (Ofsted 2013). We offer a unique learning experience, as training is delivered in our real hotel. Learners gain qualifications in Hospitality and Catering. Independent life skills are part of the programme and are taught in residential houses which are part of the local community and reflect real life. Our vision is to inspire our young people to go into the world with skills, confidence and passion to succeed. Please contact our admission team on: 01643 708529
Foxes Academy
Selbourne Place, Minehead, Somerset TA24 5TY Tel: 01643 708529 • E-mail: admissions@foxesacademy.ac.uk Web: www.foxesacademy.ac.uk
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Henshaws Specialist College is a national further education college in Harrogate for young people aged 16-25 with a wide range of disabilities and additional support needs. We offer every student an individually tailored curriculum focused on personal and social development, independence and employability. Our specialist staff support day and residential students to achieve their personal goals and aspirations for the future. Disability support services including therapies and assistive technologies, subject to funding, can be included as part of a wider package to maximise the progress each individual can achieve.
Wilsic Hall College and Fullerton House College are specialist residential services offering flexible education, care and enablement for young adults aged 18 to 25. All the young people using our colleges have complex needs including behaviour that may challenge and a learning disability, often in association with autism. The colleges’ mission is to support young adults with their transition into adult life by focusing on their specific needs, capabilities and aspirations.
“He is growing up, becoming much more confident and independent when he comes home.” - Parent
Henshaws Specialist College
Bogs Lane, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG1 4ED Tel: 01423 886451 E-mail: admissions@henshaws.ac.uk • Web: www.henshaws.ac.uk
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Homefield College is a relatively small Independent Specialist College (and a charity) that provides provision for individuals with a range of learning differences. The majority of students are on the autistic spectrum. The college is located within the village, between Leicester and Loughborough, and accessing the community and its facilities are key aspects of the students’ learning at Homefield. ‘Achievement through experience’
Homefield College
42 St Mary’s Road, Sileby, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE12 7TL Tel: 01509 814827 • E-mail: enquiries@homefieldcollege.ac.uk Web: www.homefieldcollege.ac.uk
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Hesley Group Independent Specialist Colleges
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Doncaster, South Yorkshire Tel: 0800 055 6789 • E-mail: referralenquiries@hesleygroup.co.uk Web: www.hesleygroup.co.uk
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 multidisciplinary team which focuses on achieving personal goals and transition after college. Specialist staff support learners to develop and practice skills which will increase their confidence and future independence.
National Star College
Ullenwood, Cheltenham, Glos, GL53 9QU Tel: 01242 527631 • Email: admissions@natstar.ac.uk Website: www.natstar.ac.uk
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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 variety of nationally recognised qualifications, vocational training and work experience. The College currently offers OCN qualification in General Administration, Horticulture, Catering and Hospitality and Assembled and Upholstered Furniture Production.
Queen Alexandra College (QAC) is a national college for people with disabilities situated in Birmingham. We welcome students from all over the country – as well as many who are local to us.
Parkanaur College
Queen Alexandra College
57 Parkanaur Road, Dungannon, Co Tyrone BT70 3AA Tel: 028 8776 1272 • E-mail: parkanaurcollege@btopenworld.com Web: www.parkanaurcollege.org.uk
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RNIB College Loughborough is part of RNIB, the largest sight loss charity in the UK. We support students with a wide range of disabilities to achieve their goals. We are a small, friendly college where each member of staff wants to support and empower each student to achieve their full potential.
At QAC we offer a wide range of programmes and your course will be tailored to suit your individual needs. Staff will help you to become more independent and confident during your time with us and will also prepare you for life after college.
Court Oak Road, Harborne, Birmingham B17 9TG Tel: 0121 428 5050 • E-mail: info@qac.ac.uk Web: www.qac.ac.uk
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Sense Specialist College is an Independent Specialist College, operating in the East Midlands and East of England across 9 sites. It is part of the national “Sense” parent organisation, a registered charity and company limited by guarantee, for deafblind people.
Join us and you will learn in enterprises such as our Cafeteria, eBay shop, Arts Centre, College Shop and Office.
The College has its own deafblind specialist curriculum which identifies 4 phases of development across 5 domains; Communication, Conceptual & Sensory, Movement, Mobility & Orientation, Personal & Social Development and World of Work. Individual pathways are followed depending on the individual’s desired destination.
RNIB College Loughborough
SENSE
Radmoor Road, Loughborough, Leicestershire LE11 3BS Tel: 01509 611077 E-mail: enquiries@rnibcollege.ac.uk • Web: www.rnibcollege.ac.uk
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50 Forder Way, Cygnet Park, Hampton PE7 8FD Tel: 01733 425053 • E-mail: jo.loubser@sense.org.uk Web: www.sense.org.uk
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Part of The John Townsend Trust
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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“We educate and care for d/Deaf children and young people or young people with
“We educate and care for d/Deaf children and young people or young people with communication difficulties, who may have additional needs, for a positive future within communication difficulties, who may have additional needs, for a positive future within workand andtheir theircommunities” communities” work
Westgate College is an independent specialist college offering day provision for
Westgate College independent specialist college offering residential and day or have learners aged from is19anyears old. Learners attending the college are d/Deaf provision for learners aged from many 19 years old. additional Learners attending theand college are d/Deaf communication difficulties, have learning physical disabilities, additional learning and physical or havehealth communication difficulties many have mental and associated challenging behaviours. Communication modes include disabilities, mental health andsymbols associated speech, BSL, SSE, PECS andchallenging objects of behaviours. reference. Communication modes include speech, BSL, SSE, PECS symbols and objects of reference.
Westgate College, College Westgate
Contracts&&MIS MISOfficer, Officer,Westgate Westgate College, Victoria Road, Margate, Contracts College, Victoria Road, Margate, KentKent CT9CT9 1NB1NB Tel: admissions@westgate-college.org.uk Tel: 01843 01843227561 227561E-mail: • E-mail: admissions@westgate-college.org.uk Web: Web:www.westgate-college.org.uk www.westgate-college.org.uk
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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. NEXT The Mount Camphill Community MOOPEN RNING Faircrouch Lane, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 6PT S Frida
01892 782 025 • office@mountcamphill.org We will support you www.mountcamphill.org the way you want
y th Friday 9 th Oct 27 N 2015 ov
United Response is an award-winning charity with over 40 years experience supporting people with disabilities and mental health needs. We’ve been cheering at the sidelines as they’ve celebrated passing exams, first jobs and moving into their own homes. We’ve even donned a hat for the odd wedding or two.
Find out what we could do for you!
We’ve witnessed the heart-stopping moment when someone who’s been voiceless for a decade is finally given the means to communicate and say ‘yes’ - or just as empowering, ‘no’. Let us help you reach your potential. Registered Charity No. 265249
phone: 0800 0884 377 / web: www.unitedresponse.org.uk/get-support
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sue.atprogress
ROUTES TO SELF-EMPLOYMENT Progress explores ways to take control of your working life and become your own boss.
Latest figures from the Office for National Statistics from the first quarter of 2015 show that just over four million people in the workforce are selfemployed. Out of this group, 14.1% have a disability.
Becoming self-employed may mean going it alone but the right support and advice should make you feel anything but lonely when making that leap.
For most people, setting up your own business can seem scary and uncertain - a leap into the unknown where not everything can be guaranteed. It’s a big decision and may not be the right choice for everybody. It also takes careful consideration of all the facts but venturing out on your own can be a really positive and empowering step in your career path. Becoming self-employed may mean going it alone but the right support and advice should make you feel anything but lonely when making that leap. Providing opportunities to match the potential of disabled entrepreneurs seems to be inspiring the business world to change its thinking. Kaleidoscope Investments was set up in 2014 by experienced investor Hardeep Rai. It aims to help people that have disabilities or special needs turn their ideas into real businesses. Kaleidoscope also supports existing businesses that need to raise more money and offers mentors to help them grow. For more information visit www.kaleidoscopeinvestments.com
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How do you know if it’s the right step for you? Disliking your current job or not having one at all are not necessarily the best reasons to go selfemployed. The more passionate you are about it and the surer you are that it is the right option for you, the smoother the transition to becoming your own boss is likely to be. Have a think about the following things:
Where do I start? If you’ve looked at your skills, your ideas and have weighed up the advantages and disadvantages for you and have decided you’d like to become your own boss there are plenty of schemes and initiatives designed to give information and support. Remember that some organisations may only work with you through a referral from places such as the Jobcentre Plus, not from you contacting them directly.
• Do you know exactly what you are going to do? • Does it use your strongest skills? • Is there a need or market for it? • Can you make enough money doing it? • Do you have a vision of where you want to be in 5 years’ time? • Will being self-employed help you get to where you eventually want to be? Self-employment also won’t suit everybody’s lifestyle, so have a think about the following to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Advantages • Flexibility and choice to work the way you want to. • Potential to earn more income in the future. • Independence and freedom. • Increased job satisfaction because you are doing something you are passionate about. • A better fit if you are unable to stick to a rigid routine.
Disadvantages • No-one to manage you or provide motivation or moral support unless you have a business mentor. • If you work alone it may be lonely at times. • It may be more stressful as you have more responsibility. • You will have to undertake all aspects of running a business including financial considerations such as cash flow, tax and pension arrangements.
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If you’ve looked at your skills, your ideas and have weighed up the advantages and disadvantages for you and have decided you’d like to become your own boss there are plenty of schemes and initiatives designed to give information and support.
New Enterprise Allowance New Enterprise Allowance is a Government scheme which could give you money and support to help you start your own business. You need to be receiving certain benefits and have a business idea that could work. A specialist will assess your business idea. If they believe it has potential you will be signed up to the scheme and receive a business mentor to help you on your journey. Your mentor will be a volunteer already working within a business that matches your skills and ideas and they will support you for, typically, eight weeks. You can claim financial support if: • Your business plan is approved. • You start working at your business for 16 hours or more per week. Your Jobcentre Plus work coach will play an important role in helping you understand the scheme and what you can get from it. They will explain who will be assessing your business idea, who will provide you with support, what the Jobcentre Plus expects from you throughout the process, how much the allowance is and how it will be paid and what will happen when the allowance ends. Speak to your local Jobcentre Plus or visit www.gov.uk/new-enterpriseallowance for more information.
Success story In 2012, Paul Carter launched his own TV production and media consultancy company, Little Man Media. Having been involved in the BAFTA-winning coverage of the 2012 Paralympic Games for Channel 4, Paul is as passionate about supporting disabled people in the world of work as the sporting environment. When Progress spoke to Paul about his experience of self-employment, he said, ‘While not an option for everyone, self-employment can provide a great sense of empowerment. Choosing your own working patterns and practices, and doing something you really love and believe in is a wonderful thing. Running your own business has lots of benefits for disabled people.’ With a determination that his disability was no reason to hold him back when it came to fulfilling his ambition, Paul says, ‘Leaving full-time employment was one of the best things I ever did and I wanted to show to other people – not just those with disabilities – that being your own boss needn’t be a pipedream and is something that can change your life for the better.’ For more information on Paul and his company, visit www.littlemanmedia.co.uk
Employment Minister, Priti Patel MP said of the New Enterprise Scheme, ‘Through this scheme, we’re helping to unlock the talent and entrepreneurialism… Starting up in business successfully needs so much more than just funding – it needs the right support and advice at the right time, and we’re doing just that through the New Enterprise Allowance scheme.
MiEnterprise MiEnterprise is a supported self-employment specialist that enables people with learning disabilities to set up their own businesses. It operates as a mutual marketing co-operative. The first micro-enterprise run by the project was set up in Herefordshire, with the aim of encouraging people to set up their own micro-enterprises across the country. www.mienterprise.org.uk
Livability Enterprise Agency This service from Livability supports disabled people into self-employment by providing one-off workshops as well as longer training courses, which cover core entrepreneurial skills such as business planning, bookkeeping and marketing. Once your business is launched, they can also provide up to 18 months of mentoring.
‘We will ensure that every part of Britain, including the northern powerhouse, benefits from a growing economy and that everyone who works hard gets the opportunities they need to succeed.’
Alice Morris, Head of the Enterprise Agency said about the initiative, ‘I have worked with disabled people for many years and have helped them to set up and develop extremely successful businesses. In a tough economic climate where jobs are hard to come by, being pro-active and starting your own business might be a real possibility for many.’
Disabled Entrepreneurs Website
They don’t take direct referrals; only referrals from a Jobcentre Plus work coach.
This website aims to inspire and support disabled people to start up a profitable business. The site features up-to-date news, networking opportunities, inspiring personal stories and discounts on certain business services. www. disabledentrepreneurs.co.uk
Your Jobcentre Plus work coach will play an important role in helping you understand the scheme and what you can get from it.
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Making contact Before you approach any of the schemes or organisations we’ve mentioned, it may help to do a little work or research at home so that you can feel prepared and ready to discuss your idea with somebody else. Try these things first, before you approach anybody for advice – • Have a good idea of what you want to do and exactly what your business will be. •
Research whether you need any qualifications or special licensing and wether you need to be registered with a company or official membership body before you set up your business.
•
Have an idea of what financing you need before you start, look at how much money you’ll need to start up and run for the first year, and how much you think you’ll make.
You can find more information about starting a business online. The Government website has a lot of information to help you, visit www. gov.uk/starting-up-a-business Most schemes and initiatives will have deadlines so it’s important to have given your idea serious thought. If being your own boss is what you want to do, it can help you to take control of your career and shape your future in the way you want it to.
Before you approach any of the schemes or organisations we’ve mentioned, it may help to do a little work or research at home so that you can feel prepared and ready to discuss your idea with somebody else.
PCS all services A5 landscape jun13_PCS advert A5 landscape jun13 28/06/2013 10:36 Page 1
Building a future for people with autism Specialist day and residential provision for young people from 5-25 with autism and learning difficulties. Additional complex needs and challenging behaviour supported. Prior’s Court School
Developing independence and life skills. Day, 38, 44 & 52 week specialist autism education 5-19 years.
Prior’s Court Young Adult Provision
A transitional step towards a more inclusive life. 52 week supportive living & learning 19-25 years.
Prior’s Court Training & Development
Autism training for practitioners and parents. Includes 5 day TEACCH and 3 day Structured Teaching. For further details, visits and training dates please visit www.priorscourt.org.uk or email: mail@priorscourt.org.uk Prior’s Court School, Hermitage, Thatcham, Berkshire, RG18 9NU Registered charity no 1070227
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i
i
THIS ISSUE,
we’re talking about taking control of your choices.
Welcome back to our sex and relationships column. In this regular column Gill Leno answers some of your questions about sex and relationships, so please send them in. Don’t feel embarrassed or shy – there’s no such thing as a silly question and if you’re wondering about it, someone else probably is too. have Do you a
q
Specifically, we’re talking about contraception choices, whatever your gender identity. Contraception allows people to enjoy having sex without getting pregnant. This may feel like something that might not apply to you just yet, but it’s always best to be prepared. It’s important that you know your sexual health rights so that you can exercise them. You’re entitled to free, confidential sexual health advice and services, whether that’s from your doctor, a sexual health organisation such as Brook, or a contraceptive and sexual health (CASH) clinic. This applies regardless of your age, disability or medical condition, religion or gender. Contraception comes in two main types. Hormonal contraception is for women and will stop her from getting pregnant. It’s a bit like taking medicine. It usually works by stopping the woman from releasing an egg, as well as making it very hard for any fertilised eggs to start to grow into a baby. There are lots of different ways of taking it (for example, you could take a daily pill or have an injection every 12 weeks) – but you’d need to discuss that with your doctor. Hormonal contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
uesti Pleas on? to ed e send in y co.uk itor@pro our ques g t there – nothing ressmaga ions ’s no i z need s off limit ine. choo s and to be se on e or t shy. W and t wo h e so yo ey’ll be an each tim ’ll u can e onym ask ous you l whatever , ike.
The other kind of contraception is a barrier method. A barrier method is a condom or a femidom (internal condom). It is safest to use a barrier method anyway, because it also helps prevent sexually transmitted infections by stopping any sexual bodily fluids being spread between two people.
To find out more, visit www.brook.org.uk where you can see pictures and read more about all the different contraceptive methods. Next issue, Gill will cover consent and the ‘are you ready?’ concept.
EPTION C A R T CON S CHOICE
If it’s urgent (or private) you can contact me at gleno@qac.ac.uk and I will email you back, or I can be contacted via the ‘Ask a Sex and Relationships Expert’ forum at www.scope.org.uk
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Time to try something new
Progress - Positive transition planning for young adults with additional needs.
Progress, now in its eleventh year, is published three times a year (January, May and September). Each issue looks closely at important aspects of transition planning and the move towards adult life. If you’ve always thought you’d like to try something new but something Topics are based around education, employment, housing, mobility, advocacy, enjoying a varied social life, held you back, there’smatters. no better time to try it than now. If you love it, legal and money
you’ve unlocked a passion you never knew you had and if you don’t like it, Topics covered: you’ll feel great that you tried something new for the first time. Really, it’s a win-win • Transition • Education opportunities Costs & allowances • Bullyingand advice • Work experience • Careers situation. Here are Progress’ top tips •for getting you creative confident in all aspects ofadvice • Employment schemes • Interview tips • Housing options • Residential homes • Adapting your home • Direct payments your life. • Holidays • Social life • Mobility • Legal advice • Money • Advocacy • Specific/general contacts • Counselling • Equipment
Whether it’s a passing interest, something to fill the time, a reason to get out of bed in the morning or just an impulsive fad, a hobby Progress is distributed through the following organisations who help individuals in their transition to adulthood: will mean different things to different people. Enjoying something is Connexions • Parent Partnership Services • Social Services Teams • Schools/Colleges • Support Organisations reason enough to do it, but if you’re also learning a new skill, gaining greater knowledge and increasing your self-esteem at the same time, there really is no excuse not to find time in your life for a new hobby.
Gardening First Name (s): ........................................................................... Last Name: .................................................
a source of frustration with a If you didn’t manage to catch any of the popular Channel 4 series, satisfaction.’ You can become a The Autistic Gardener back in County: ............................................ Postcode: ..........................Telephone: ................................................. member of their Garden Club July, you may still be able to see for free, whether you want to it on More4 or Channel 4’s All 4 Email: .......................................................................................... Mobile: ....................................................... apply for a grant or not, and service. It starred Alan Gardner, you will receive advice on a successful landscaper who has Quantity: May 2015 ................................ Sept 2015 ............................... January 2016to ................................ garden design, answers your Asperger’s syndrome. (Please note that our minimum order is 50 copies) gardening questions and a useful Promoting the idea that seeing newsletter. Payment Details the world differently can Thrive is another charity which be a positive and really fee I would like to pay the guaranteed copy distribution of £14.95 per 50 copies. celebrates the positive effects creative opportunity, I would like to opt out of the guaranteed payment option. gardening can have. Thrive’s the programme has activities focus on promoting inspired lots of amateur the benefits of gardening to gardeners. Signature: individuals and organisations The Gardening for Disabled .......................................................................................................................................................................... as well as teaching techniques Trust is a voluntary organisation and practical applications so Please indicate how you wouldwhich like to pay: based in Kent, gives grants that anyone can take part in and to people all over the UK so that benefit (pleasefrom make gardening. cheques payable to Care Choices Ltd) I enclose a cheque for £ .................................................... they can continue to garden, TheyMastercard have around 900 garden Please charge my credit their / debitage cardor disability. Visa Maestro despite projects that you can volunteer According to its website, money with, offering horticultural given to successful grant Name of cardholder:is.............................................................................................. support in the UK. Or, you can applicants and often ‘transforms become a member for £25 and the recipient as well as the Card Number: receive additional benefits. garden, replacing Address: .......................................................................................................................................................... valuable therapy and sense of
Expiry date: ................... / ................... / .................... Signature Code (last 3 digits on back of card)
@ p r o g r e s s _ m a g
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Arts and crafts Arts and crafts are a fantastic way to express your creativity, spend some time relaxing and producing something to be proud of. There are so many arts and crafts, from sewing and knitting, to drawing and painting, pottery, woodwork, even flower arranging or jewellery making, the list is endless. If you have a craft shop near you, take a visit and have a look at what they have there. Some craft shops are run by people who have a real interest in crafting, so they may be able to give you advice. They may have people who come in and show you how to do a certain craft, or they may have starter kits to help you. You will also find lots of information on the internet about different crafts, and YouTube videos to show you how to do things. This can be really helpful when just starting out. You may even find your local community college has classes too. Henshaws Arts and Crafts Centre in Knaresborough supports people to feel confident and creative and reach their true potential by giving them real work experience and access to resources. Each week, over 150 Art Makers take part in a wide range of workshops, with one-to-one support available for anybody who wants to become an Art Maker – something which any adult with a visual impairment or learning disability can become. If you attend the centre, you have access to a flexible programme, varied workshops and can be involved with any events and activities put on by the centre. If you want to see your bunting flying high at your local fete or your pottery taking centre stage in a weekly showcase you can get in touch to find out how you may be able to join them. www.henshaws.org.uk
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Yoga Yoga is a very positive way to relax and switch off from the world and adaptive yoga classes are becoming more common. Designed for people who have mobility needs, these classes have accessible facilities. Carers or family members are also welcome to either assist, free of charge, or take part themselves. Most classes will take traditional poses and adapt them with the use of props or assistants so that you achieve body-mind awareness, something which can be particularly important to those living with a disability. It can create a greater sense of freedom and empowerment and a great sense of confidence in your own body and its capabilities, not its limitations. If you want to watch a video of what to expect from an adaptive yoga class search YouTube for ‘adaptive yoga class’.
Rambling During 1999 the National Trust, The Exmoor National Park Authority and other countryside organisations developed three ‘easy access’ sites in the park. These are properly constructed, level footpaths for use by disabled people and wheelchairs with the exclusion of horses and bikes. And all are set within the stunning landscape. The sites are at Bossington Hill, Webbers Post, Weir Water and Tall Trees Trail. If you want to print off a map before you go, visit www. exmoornationalpark.gov.uk/disabled_walks.pdf or you can print off the ‘Accessible Exmoor’ guidebook which details the routes, street maps, accessible accommodation close by and villages with disabled toilets at www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/ sotp-chapter_13_access.pdf
The Exmoor National Park Authority and other countryside organisations developed three ‘easy access’ sites in the park. These are properly constructed, level footpaths for use by disabled people and wheelchairs with the exclusion of horses and bikes.
sue.atprogress
Boccia is a sport which you may not have heard of yet, but we don’t think it will be long before everybody knows about it.
Boccia
Scrapbooking
Boccia is a sport which you may not have heard of yet, but we don’t think it will be long before everybody knows about it. A target sport, which aims to propel balls close to a jack ball, the game was originally designed to be played by people with cerebral palsy but has now been developed to include people with a wide range of disabilities.
Scrapbooking involves putting together your own record of what interests and inspires you; cutting out anything that grabs your interest and sticking it in your own scrap book. It is a great way of being creative at home and keeping track of all the things you think you may like to try.
Those who really enjoy playing the game seem to love the opportunity boccia gives them to be competitive in a way that they can’t be in any other sport – and the chance to win at something which involves a lot of precision, tactic and skill. Find out more at www.bocciaengland.org.uk
Photography The Disabled Photographer’s Society is a national charity promoting photography for people with disabilities, or their carers. The charity aims to help people pursuing the hobby overcome any difficulties they may have in taking as good a photograph as possible. As well as offering advice ranging from technical modifications to physical support, the charity also modifies photographic equipment, which can be loaned to members for a small annual subscription of £10 a year.
Taking scrapbooking into the digital age, people are pinning everything at the moment, from their favourite hairstyle to the latest craft craze. Pinterest, www.pinterest.com is a virtual pin board where you can ‘pin’ something which takes your fancy or search other people’s pages for inspiration. It is a creative place to express yourself and create your very own mood board.
Taking up a new hobby or pastime can help you build your confidence. Some people try lots of different hobbies before finding the right one for them, whereas others enjoy lots of different activities. Taking up a new hobby or pastime can help you build your confidence. Some people try lots of different hobbies before finding the right one for them, whereas others enjoy lots of different activities. Seeing what you’ve made or achieved can help you to grow in confidence. Some people even turn them into jobs and careers - becoming fitness instructors, photographers, florists or selling their crafts at fairs. You won’t know what you can do unless you try.
@ p r o g r e s s _ m a g
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you be yourself We’re here to help you do just that. ubu provide high-quality support to people with learning disabilities, challenging behaviour and complex needs. We put you at the centre of everything we do by listening and acting to help you achieve what you want for yourself. ubu believe that everyone can do great things. We work to ensure that you have the right opportunities to enjoy a full, independent and active lifestyle.
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PAs
– Support to fly solo Research conducted by Skills for Care has shown that the relationship between a personal assistant (PA) and their employer really is a unique one. In the May 2014 issue of Progress, we touched on the legal and financial considerations of employing a PA, so this time we are talking about the personal and practical aspects of hiring support.
If you need support on a daily basis then a PA may give you the freedom to take control over your life. Though a PA needs the skills to help you with practical roles like washing and dressing, housework and cooking, you also need someone with the right people skills, life experience and personality. Whatever your needs and however much, or little, you need a PA to be involved in your life, you should always feel confident about attracting a like-minded person and making sure the relationship is the right fit for you. You will become an employer when you take on the services of a PA, but you will also want to think about the qualities you would look for in a friend – after all, you could be hanging out with them a lot.
What do you want from a PA? The role of a PA is to support you so that you can lead as independent a life as possible. But not everyone who can be a PA will be the right PA for you.
The role of a PA is to support you so that you can lead as independent a life as possible.
Just as there are a lot of chefs out there whose food you may not like, there will be a lot of PAs out there whose personality and way of supporting won’t be how you want it. This means you won’t want to hire their services. It’s important to look at what they are like as a person as well as the practical side of the support you need. It may also help to ask yourself if you would prefer more of a friendship or an employer/employee style of working.
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To think about the more personal qualities of a PA, write down what you would like your PA to be like. These qualities could include: • A good sense of humour. • The ability to show initiative. • Being able to drive. • Being sensitive to your own cultural or religious needs. • Having a patient and calm temperament. • Being quiet or more outgoing.
You can advertise in a number of places including word of mouth - asking people if they know of someone who may be right, your local newspaper, the JobCentre Plus, online - on a trusted website, or through a direct payment support organisation or support broker.
Shortlisting and interviewing If you have received a number of enquiries to your advert you will need to decide who you’d like to interview. You may not be able to interview everybody, so ask for a copy of their CV and the name and phone number of someone who they may have supported or worked for in the past. These are called references and they will be able to tell you more about the person who has applied for the job. You may want to speak to potential candidates over the phone too; this helps to get a feel for the sort of person they are. Though remember that they, and you, may be nervous so you may not get a good idea of their personality.
How do I find a PA? Skills for Care has a very useful site covering everything you need to know about finding and employing a PA, visit www. employingpersonalassistants.co.uk It also has details of how to find PAs and services in a specific area at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/iepahub The information will help you with the practicalities of advertising for a PA, interviewing, offering a job and other important employment considerations. There will also be local organisations who can support you to find and employ a PA. If you want to advertise for a PA, there are a number of ways you can do it. You’ll need to start with a job description and advertisement. Don’t put in too much information but be clear about exactly what you are looking for from a PA. Put your first name and phone number or email address on the advertisement, but don’t include your home address. Ask a friend, family member, supporter or a local support broker to help you with the advert if you are not sure where to start.
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If you want to advertise for a PA, there are a number of ways you can do it. You’ll need to start with a job description and advertisement. www.progressmagazine.co.uk
You can ask a trusted friend or relative to support you. Sometimes it’s good to have someone else’s opinion too, however the decision is ultimately yours. Once you’ve decided who you’d like to interview, arrange for them to come for an interview. You may be able to do this somewhere like a library or public place if you don’t want them coming to your home just yet. Don’t plan too many interviews for one day, they can be tiring, you don’t want to rush and also, if you see too many people, you may forget which one was which when it comes to making your decision. Have a list of questions you’d like to ask the person, based on their CV and the practicalities of what you’d like them to support you with, but also consider the personal qualities set out above. This will help you make sure the person can do the job you want them to, whilst also being someone you can get along with. Make sure you take some time to talk to the person as well as asking questions, this will help you to get a feel for who they are as a person and whether you’re going to want to spend a lot of time with them. Don’t feel like you can’t ask the questions that you want to ask. This person will be supporting you to live your life so it’s important that you know all about them, how they will support you and how you will
get along. This part of the process can make you feel great as you are taking control of your life. However, make sure you feel comfortable and in control of the process. You can ask a trusted friend or relative to support you. Sometimes it’s good to have someone else’s opinion too. However the decision is ultimately yours. Once you have seen everyone you want to see, take some time to make your decision. If you’re not sure who to offer the job to, sleep on it, ask your friends and family what they think and don’t be afraid to reinterview. If you haven’t met anybody who is the right fit for you, don’t feel rushed into hiring somebody for the sake of it. Letting somebody into your home, and into your life, is a big decision. There will be somebody out there who will meet all your requirements, it may just take a little while so re-advertise and interview a different set of people. Once you’re happy with your choice, you can offer the job and let the unsuccessful candidates know they haven’t got the job.
Important There are legal practicalities with employing a PA, which we covered in the May 2014 issue of Progress, but you can also look at them online. These are important and you must be aware of them. You can also find out more about the legal aspects of becoming an employer at www.gov.uk/browse/employing-people
Starting off on the right foot Once you feel you have chosen the right person, have an induction before they start so that they are clear about what you expect from them in their new role. This will also help them to settle in quickly.
Letting somebody into your home, and into your life, is a big decision. There will be somebody out there who will meet all your requirements, it may just take a little while so re-advertise and interview a different set of people. You may want to discuss any training you feel your PA may need to be able to support you as you wish.
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• Do not ask your PA to use their own money to shop for you. • Do not reveal your PIN for your bank account to anybody. • Do not allow your PA to become a signatory on your bank or building society account or an appointee.
• Make a list – write down all the things you need to tell your PA. Include what they need to know about the job, how they need to carry out their tasks and how you like certain things to be. • Set aside time on their first day – Making time for a chat over a cup of tea before your PA starts will help raise questions that may not have occurred to either of you before. You can discuss things like tea breaks, the use of your home phone, finances and shift patterns if you haven’t done so before. • Take time to think about how you can keep control of the situation – it’s important to remember that you are in charge. You may want to have a scheduled monthly catch up where you discuss anything that may have come up. This also gives your PA the chance to ask any questions they may have.
There are some things that a PA will not feel comfortable doing and there are also things which you should not ask of your PA. Where possible, try to ensure that any little issues that crop up are dealt with as quickly as possible. This should stop them becoming bigger. It’s not always easy to start difficult conversations but you are in control of the situation and should feel able to discuss any concerns you have. Remember to give good feedback as well, so your PA knows that you’re happy with what they’re doing too. There are some things that a PA will not feel comfortable doing and there are also things which you should not ask of your PA. These include: • Never lend money to your PA, however small an amount.
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It is also a good idea to make back-up plans. Whether it’s a car breakdown, a sudden sick day or last-minute holiday, things happen that will be out of your control when your PA can’t support you. Make arrangements with a least one other person who can be called on at short notice. This could be through a formal care and support agency.
It is also a good idea to make back-up plans. Whether it’s a car breakdown, a sudden sick day or lastminute holiday, things happen that will be out of your control when your PA can’t support you.
Remember that once you have hired a PA: • They work for you. • You decide what you want them to do for you. • You decide when you want them to work. To get an idea of the type of things other people ask their PAs to do, check out www.beingtheboss.co.uk.
A PA can help you to take control of your life and independence, however you need to be comfortable that the right person for the job is someone who has all the skills you need, whilst also being someone you want to have in your life.
Being the Boss is a website that shares information based on the experiences of disabled people who employ personal assistants.
A PA can help you to take control of your life and independence, however you need to be comfortable that the right person for the job is someone who has all the skills you need, whilst also being someone you want to have in your life.
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Providing Specialist support and long-term solutions
Providing high quality and long-term solutions for adults with severe learning disabilities, autism and challenging behaviour. We provide 24 hour care and housing with a 2:1 staff ratio where needed, for individuals with complex needs, severe autism and challenging behaviour.
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We assist service users with all aspects of personal, medical and daily care.
Based in Dorset, we provide a whole host of services from dedicated Respite and Day Care, through to Residential Care and Support in Your Own Home. We are here to support you through any part of your care programme,
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Scenario Management 01253 869317 - Contact us for information Barbara O’Donnell
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Caroline O’Donnell
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Next open day: Wednesday 30th September 2015
Henshaws Specialist College is a transformational place. Through our personalised approach to education, learning and care we empower children and young people living with a disability to progress and live life the way they want. Whether preparing for employment, making friends or learning to live more independently, we enable our students to make their aspirations possible and goals a reality.
Please contact us or book a visit. Call 01423 886451 Email admissions@henshaws.ac.uk henshaws.ac.uk Henshaws Specialist College, Harrogate, HG1 4ED Registered Charity No: 221888
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USING TECHNOLOGY TO AID INDEPENDENCE
Did you know that technology can help you in daily life, giving you independence and reducing the need for support from other people? Progress looks at the types of technology available to help you to live independently.
There are so many different types of technology to help you on a daily basis with all aspects of your life. They may be assistive technology, telecare or even just everyday technology that has become so commonplace in our lives.
What is assistive technology?
support you bring into your life, it should always help you take control of your day-to-day living and make it as easy as possible for you to live your life how you want to.
Traditional technological solutions
Assistive technology can offer assistance in all aspects of life including care and support, work, education, accessing information through computers and reading, enjoying hobbies, participating in community life and living independently.
If you live alone but want the support of knowing there is someone there in an emergency, you may want to install an alarm system. This can give you the reassurance that help will be on hand if needed. Most people will be familiar with the big red pendants or pull cords that are part of this form of technology. When pressed, these systems can dial directly into a telephone line and alert someone that you need help. This person could be in a call monitoring centre, they may be able to talk to you through a base unit and then contact someone for you, such as a friend, family member or the emergency services. Alternatively, you can have the call go straight through to a nominated person, such as a close friend or family member who can get to you quickly.
Assistive technology can range from large equipment, such as stair lifts or mobility scooters, to smaller, less noticeable gadgets designed to aid with specific aspects of daily life. Whatever
These are designed to be functional and save your life in an emergency but there has been some innovation in the design of personal alarm triggers to look less obvious.
The Foundation for Assistive Technology suggests that the standard definition of assistive technology should be, ‘any product or service designed to enable independence for disabled and older people.’ It can also be ‘any device or system that allows individuals to perform tasks that they would otherwise be unable to do, or increases the ease and safety with which tasks can be performed.’
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Others have been developed to be worn on the wrist.
The technology world moves fast, which is great for people relying on its products to live independently.
Telecare usually involves sensors to monitor your home and can make sure you are safe at home. There is a vast range of equipment but the most common can sense risks such as smoke or carbon monoxide, and whether you’ve left the tap or hob on; they can even remind you to take your medication. Some telecare can also act as a warning system by sounding an alarm, flashing lights or vibrating a box. As well as technology, think about whether there are other ways of doing things in your home that you may not have already thought about. Speak to an occupational therapist about the best way to meet your specific needs and if there are different ways of doing things that you may not have considered. Alternatively, visit your local independent living centre to see what advice they can give you. You can also try different devices that are available too. The Disability Living Foundation provide factsheets on their website with general advice about things to consider when choosing from a wide range of daily living equipment including technology. They are currently re-writing some of them to keep them as up-to-date as possible, so keep checking back for the information that you want to see. You can see a full list of factsheets at www.dlf.org.uk/content/fulllist-factsheets
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The latest technology The technology world moves fast, which is great for people relying on its products to live independently. Things are constantly being developed, tried and tested but this also means it can be difficult keeping track of the latest trends. Scope’s Disability Innovations blog series is a great place to find up-to-date information about the latest technology. One of its latest blog posts, from July 2015, talks about a new service called Alcove. It’s an all-in-one technology service launched in summer 2015. It is designed to help people live independently at home. Alcove brings together existing technology into one easy-touse system. It monitors things like heat, light and movement in specific places in the home to collect information on the common movements you make every day. This information is sent to family members or supporters via an app that tells them if something unusual happens. It can tell if you have been unable to sleep and up in the night, if you haven’t been to the medicine cabinet today or if there is an emergency. It is hoped that Alcove will also help people to be more independent by giving them the confidence they need, knowing that somebody else is on the other end of a phone (or easy to wear watch). It may also help to reduce the need for formal support, giving you more independence. It’s still being developed and tested; one residential centre is trying Alcove to support sleepin night workers so that they
are only woken up if sensors detect a person leaving their room or moving around. With a suggested price of around £13 per week, when it does become available, it could be easily accessible to almost everybody who needs it.
Other innovation The Inclusive Technology Prize looks for innovation in assistive technology and then gives winners grants to help make their idea a reality. Run by Nesta, with support from the Office for Disability Issues, Innovate UK, The Department for Business Innovation and Skills and Irwin Mitchell, and in partnership with Leonard Cheshire Disability, the Inclusive Technology Prize is designed to inspire technological innovations in assistive products, systems and aids and encourage them to be created with disabled people. It received over 200 great ideas in 2015 and the 10 finalists have developed: • Active Hands - A gripping device to enable those with limb difference to hold many objects or small items. • Affordable bionic hands. • AzuleJoe - The first open source communication aid that can run on any platform, from iPad to laptop to Kindle, without installation or complex setup. • Evolvable Walking Aid - a modular range of components that can be assembled to form different walking aids. • HandyClix - A one handed lap belt designed to allow the user to attach and tighten the belt using only one hand.
• PlanHub - a new, customisable platform designed to link emergency information, support plans, administration and services into a single, online location. Users can decide what information the system holds about them, and who they want to be able to see it. • Supportspace - a multi-platform application that connects personal budget recipients with support workers and the local authority service that administers funding. A winner will be announced in March 2016 so you may see their product on the market. It’s good to see that innovation is coming to the market and these ideas could really help people to live more independent lives. But developing technology takes time. For those of you with smartphones and tablets, don’t forget that there are new apps to aid daily life coming out regularly. Take some time to look through the apps that are available and you might be surprised by what’s on offer. With traditional and new technology, it’s becoming easier to gain independence and reduce the need or formal support. Look around to see what might meet your specific needs, you might be surprised by what new and existing technology can do.
It’s good to see that innovation is coming to the market and these ideas could really help people to live more independent lives.
• Hearing Loop Listening App - Allowing people without hearing aids, who have mild to moderate hearing loss, to hear speech and music more clearly via headphones connected to a smartphone or tablet. • How do I? Using Near Field Communication technology to teach life skills to people with learning disabilities. An application links instructional videos to NFC stickers attached to household objects. • Nimble - a one-finger package opener.
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JARGON
BUSTER Advocacy – A process of supporting and enabling people to express their own views or concerns, access information and services and understand their rights and responsibilities. Asperger’s Syndrome – An autism spectrum disorder (ASD) considered to be on the ‘high functioning’ end of the spectrum. Assistive technology – An umbrella term that is applied to equipment or devices that people with disabilities use. The term can include assistive, adaptive and rehabilitative devices. Cloud – A virtual storage solution that helps users store and synchronise digital content across various devices, including computers, phones or iPads.
Mencap – UK charity for children and adults with a learning disability and their families and carers. Occupational therapist – Someone who assesses and treats people to help them function as well as possible in daily life. Office for National Statistics – The UK’s largest independent producer of official statistics related to the economy, the population and society. Online reputation – How other people see you when they look for you online. This can include anything you upload or write about on the internet. Pinterest – A virtual pin board on the internet where people can ‘pin’ almost anything they like to create mood boards or inspiration. Pop-ups – Or ‘pop-up ads’ are forms of online advertising on the internet intended to attract web traffic or capture people’s email addresses. Pop-up blockers – Refers to any software or application that stops pop-ups on your computer.
CV – A curriculum vitae is a summary of your experience, skills and education, usually used during the application process of getting a job.
Self-advocacy – Representing yourself and your own views and interests and being able to speak up for yourself.
Cyberbullying – Bullying that takes place using electronic technology. It can be done through any site, such as email, Twitter, Facebook, chat rooms or instant messenger and usually contains intimidating or threatening use of language.
Self-esteem – Confidence in your own worth and abilities.
Disability and Health Employment Strategy – A Government proposal published in 2013 to improve employment support for disabled people and those with health conditions.
Single traveller supplement – An extra charge for people travelling alone when they book a room. The amount can range from 10% to 100% of the standard accommodation rate. Spam – Unwanted or unrequested emails which may contain viruses.
Department for Work and Pensions – The UK’s biggest public service department, which is responsible for welfare, pensions and child maintenance policy.
TED Talk – A video created from a presentation at a TED (technology, entertainment, design) conference or one of its many satellite events around the world.
Entrepreneur – Someone who develops and grows their own business ideas to be successful.
Telecare – Technology combining equipment in the home with a monitoring service, which is used to help people with disabilities to live independently at home for as long as possible.
Google Chrome – A web browser which allows you to surf the internet.
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JobCentre Plus – A Government-funded employment agency and social security office that can be found in most cities.
Hacker – Somebody who uses computers to gain unauthorised access to data.
The Lonely Planet – Publication providing upto-date information and maps for travellers from a first-hand and impartial approach.
Innovation – A new idea, method or device which comes up with a better way of doing something.
YouTube – A website designed to share video content.
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“When I lived at home, we all struggled to cope. Now I love spending time with my family” At Hesley Group we know being a parent of a child with autism and complex needs can be challenging. We also know the decision to entrust their care to someone else can be one of the hardest a family will ever make. That’s why when children come to live with us, nurturing the family bonds is all part of the plan – regular, high quality contact supported by a team of professionals who know, understand and value the need for a family to be together. And, over time, the story gets better and better settled, happy and able to enjoy being with their family, children we have the privilege of looking after can start to reach their full potential. To find out more about how we make a big deal about quality family time visit www.hesleygroup.co.uk or call 0800 0556789.
Enquiries freephone 0800 055 6789 www.hesleygroup.co.uk Established in 1975, the Hesley Group provides specialist support through its schools, colleges and adult residential services with a highly experienced and expert multidisciplinary educational, care and therapeutic staff resource, in high quality purpose built settings. We’re focused on positive outcomes and progress towards sustainable independence.
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