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A simple philosophy that makes a world of difference to the people CareTech support CareTech is responsible for the ongoing care, support and well being of many adults, young people and children across the UK. CareTech will achieve outstanding results, providing long-term support for each individual. • Day Opportunities • Residential Homes • Children Specialist Therapeutic Services • Nursing Homes • Transitional Services • Family Assessment • Independent/High Needs Services • Dementia Services Supported Living • Fostering • Mental Health • Young Adults • Acquired Brain Injury Leaving Care • Spinal Cord Injury Service • Community 1:1 Support • Adult Social Care
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Welcome from the Editor Welcome to Progress. We have a great selection of features for you this issue. If you’re looking to go on to further education this year you will want to know what mainstream and specialist colleges can offer you and how they can support you. Our feature on page 15 explores what to consider when looking for a college and gives some useful things to think about when making your choice.
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At the start of a new year we’re all drawn to thinking about the warmer summer months and the holidays. Our holiday article on page 20 has lots of ideas and advice for you when planning your break. If you’re not planning to get away this year, how about just getting outside and enjoying the great outdoors? On page 31 we’ve put together details of some organisations that can help you enjoy the countryside. OUR NEW
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Gill Leno returns on page 24 with her sex and relationships column. This time she talks about relationships, how to find one and what makes a good one. If you have any questions you’d like to ask Gill in confidence, her details are on the page, she’s always happy to help and guide. Choosing where to live and whether you need support to do so, can be tricky. We’ve put together a housing spectrum on page 40 to give you an overview of all the available options.
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• Mary Holt, Free Spirit Travel Inusrance
• Nabil Dance, Associate, School Appeals Services LLP
OUR FREE APP TDOWNLOAD T O TODAY O•DRichard D AY AY Tither, Coleg Elidyr DOWNLOAD FREEHolidays APP TODAY • Sarah Bull, LetsOUR Go Supported
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• Debbie Gordon, Bladder and Bowel Foundation
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• Angela Sandhal, Irwin Mitchell Solicitors
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• Gill Leno, Sex and Relationship Specialist
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Finally, it just leaves me to remind you about our forthcoming Transition Event. This annual conference and exhibition, held at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham is a great way to hear more about the move to adulthood and how to make it as easy and run as smoothly as possible. See the news on page 10 and the advert on page 13 for more details of this year’s event and how you can attend.
• Sue Carr, Finca Supported Holidays
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Care Choices Limited has taken every care to ensure that the information contained in this publication is accurate. The company cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions or if a service varies from the facilities listed either in an advertisement or the indices. Care Choices Limited does not endorse or support any particular institution included in this publication. © 2014 Care Choices Limited. Care Choices Limited reserves all rights in the title Progress and its design. Care Choices™ is a trademark of Care Choices Limited. ISBN 978-1-909048-85-0. Printed in England.
The information and opinions contained in this magazine and on our website are for general information purposes only. The information and materials do not constitute legal or other professional advice. They are not intended to constitute legal or other professional advice, and should not be relied on or treated as a substitute for specific advice relevant to particular circumstances. Care Choices Limited and its Contributors do not accept any responsibility for any loss which may arise from this information and opinions.
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Ref. No: 4001/SC20/0114. Reproduction of any part of this publication in any form without the written permission of Care Choices Limited is prohibited. Published by: Care Choices Limited, Valley Court, Lower Road, Croydon, Nr Royston, Hertfordshire SG8 0HF • Telephone: 01223 207770 • Fax: 01223 207108 • E-mail: progress@carechoices.co.uk • Web: www.progressmagazine.co.uk SALES: Sue Speaight BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: Paul Leahy EDITOR: Emma Morriss PRODUCTION: Jamie Harvey, NIck Cade & Holly Cornell. EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Rebecca Northfield.
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Photograph credits: Front Cover - © Richard Bailey – www.richardbaileyphotography.co.uk. Help to find a Job - images courtesy of Derwen College.
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Housing you can build your life around
Golden Lane Housing offers a range of quality housing options tailored to individual needs. We help people with a learning disabiilty to find homes they can build their lives around - giving them choice about where they want to live, with whom and with the right support to live the life they choose. Call Email Go to
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93% of young people are not getting the careers information they need according to a recent survey.
PROGRESS NEWS
ns Jorge io t la u t a r g n Co t Progress! a e n o ry e v e m fro
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The Council of Disabled Children (CDC) has published two guides on the draft CodeTof Practice, aimed Tat young people who TO Y O D AY Y Government’s DA D Athe would like to respondOto consultation. P
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SEN reforms The law on special educational needs (SEN) is changing, with the Government making it more focused on support and people working together. The Government is set to write the SEN Code of Practice, a guide for carers and people supporting children and young people with SEN. The Council of Disabled Children (CDC) has published two guides on the draft Code of Practice, aimed at young people who would like to respond to the Government’s consultation. OUR FREE The guides – one being suitable for people 15 years and under, the other for APP youngTODAY people aged between 16 to 25 – give more information on the key issues, including involving young people to plan services in local areas, and where to find information, advice and support. CDC is also running many focusAPP groups to speak with young people OUR FREE TODAY face to face. www.councilfordisabledchildren.org.uk
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on of rge Witheringt Jo to ns io at ul Fire at Congrat on the Kindle w ho w ge le ol Homefield C e is a second nt in May. Jorg ve E n tio si an Tr our as presented college and w e th at t en ud brations year st d of term cele en e th at e riz p ents. with his and fellow stud ts en ar p s hi in front of d uses it at with his prize an ed ht ig el d is e H me. Jorge n relaxing at ho he w d an ge colle t work mpling differen is currently sa pes ho ssions and experience se t ted employmen to find suppor orking in the future w with children.
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93% of young people are not getting the careers information they need according to a recent survey. With over one million young people not in employment, education or training this survey by the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and LifeSkills programme shows the growing gap between essential career guidance and what young people are actually receiving. The survey of 2000 14 to 25 year olds, conducted using the LifeSkills Youth Barometer created by Barclays, found that 93% felt they weren’t provided with all the information they need to make informed choices on their future career. Around two-thirds had received guidance on more traditional routes – A’ Level choices (62%) and University (65%) – but only 26% had information on starting an apprenticeship and even fewer (17%) on what vocational qualifications might be available.
The Great Outdoors is on page 31 Enjoy the world outside your door.
The Transition Event 2014 is on page 10
Thursday 22nd May 2014 - The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham.
also including:
Be Sure campaign • University access issues • Benefits shake up
ISSUES DISCUSSED INCLUDED ADAPTED GYM EQUIPMENT FOR
Independent Living Fund The Government’s decision to abolish the Independent Living Fund (ILF) was short-lived when five disabled people won their Court of Appeal challenge against the case. The judgement was unanimous, with the court holding that the then Minister for Disabled People, Esther McVey, had breached equality duties when making the decision to close the ILF.
The ILF was closed to new entrants in 2010 and was to be abolished by March 2015. Providing support to more than 19,000 severely disabled people, the ILF enables individuals to live as independently as possible, giving them fulfilling lives. The ILF was closed to new entrants in 2010 and was to be abolished by March 2015. The £320million funding from the ILF would have been transferred to local authorities, but it would not be ring-fenced, causing worry that the money would be used in other areas of social care. The five claimants said that their loss of ILF support would mean that their right to live with dignity would be threatened, and that they could be forced into residential care or lose their ability to work and not be on equal footing with others.
DISABLED PEOPLE, GYM ACCESS FOR CARERS AND DISABILITY AWARENESS TRAINING OF STAFF.
Access to exercise David Lloyd Leisure has taken part in a All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Young Disabled People at Westminster to discuss access to exercise for people with a disability. The company was among fitness industry representatives invited to the meeting, which also included representatives from the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign Trailblazers, a national network of 500 young disabled people who campaign on social issues that affect them. Issues discussed included adapted gym equipment for disabled people, gym access for carers and disability awareness training of staff. David Lloyd leisure clubs carry out regular access audits to ensure their facilities fully comply with the Equality Act 2010 and provide free gym access for personal assistants and carers of disabled members plus staff attend disability awareness courses as part of their basic training, to understand the challenges disabled members may face and ensure their needs are met.
@progress_mag
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PROGRESS NEWS Access to Work experience Hundreds are set to benefit as the Access to Work scheme, which provides financial support towards the extra costs faced by disabled people at work is rolled out to cover work experience placements. The roll out is designed to give disabled people the same opportunities as non-disabled people and £2 million has been set aside through Access to Work to help people take up placements as they prepare to start out on their chosen career path. Until now Access to Work has only offered this support to disabled people who engage in work experience placements that have been organised through Jobcentre Plus. It is expected that it will mainly benefit younger adults, but the latest development is open to everybody who has a disability and needs extra support in taking up a work experience placement. Access to Work provides financial help towards the extra costs faced by disabled people at work, such as support workers, specialist aids and equipment and travel to work support.
@progress_mag
New rights fo r young care rs Help and
support will b e given to youn after the Gove g carers rnment propo sed an amend to the Childre ment n and Families Bill. The amen means that al dment l young carers aged 18 and under will be en titled to an as sessment of th support need eir s alongside th e person they for, and the B care ill is simplified so young care professionals rs and are clear about their duties an responsibilitie d s. Parliamentary Under Secreta ry of State for Children and Fa milies Edward Timpson MP that young ca said rers can often overlook their needs. The N o wn ational Young Carers Coaliti said that the am on endment mea nt a ‘new era support’ for yo of ung people w ho care for th family member ei r s. In England, ar ound 160,000 young people care for relativ es, and the G o vernment said would improve they the rights of yo ung carers in last year. June
The Duke of Edinburgh Award
Be Sure campaign
Youth development charity, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE), recently appointed Paralympic Gold medallist and crossbench peer, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, as a trustee on its Board. She intends to encourage even more young disabled people to take part in the Award. Following huge success in her Paralympic career, Baroness Grey-Thompson has continued her hard work off the track as a Board member for both the London Marathon and the London Legacy Development Corporation. Becoming a DofE trustee, she hopes to increase the number of young disabled participants taking part in the Award, as well as educate the public on how the DofE programme prepares young people for life and work. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award works with young people aged 14 to 25 across the UK and there are currently over 300,000 young people taking part in a DofE programme. www.DofE.org
The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) has launched a Be Sure campaign to make people aware of HCPC’s role in regulating key health and care professionals, and how important it is to check that a professional is registered. The vast majority of professionals are practising safely and legally. However, you should take the time to check, just to Be Sure. Professionals registered with HCPC include speech and language therapists, social workers, occupational therapists, prosthetists and art therapists. Anyone can check whether their health and care professional is registered with the HCPC by visiting www.checktheregister.org.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award works with young people aged 14 to 25 across the UK and there are currently over 300,000 young people taking part in a DofE programme.
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Using a secure online system, users create personal schedules for any or all aspects of their lives, putting in their own solutions to activities, tasks and potential problems. It can cover anything – days at school or college, time with friends, work,Ttravel, shopping or a trip to the cinema. T T
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These schedules are then downloaded to the user’s smartphone, or other device, where they are constantly available to support the users decision making and problem solving. Anxiety levels are monitored using a simple one-touch ‘traffic light’ system – green, amber and red. High anxiety responses trigger help from a mentor support team and the user can choose whether communication is by text, email or a phone call. Users develop their own solutions and can access them wherever they are, and continue to learn over time what helps them to become more confident, independent and fulfilled.
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9
PROGRESS NEWS
The Transition Event is returning to the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham to explore Becoming an adult.
More disabled people supported at work
The Transition Event 2014 – 22nd May, National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham The Transition Event is returning to the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham to explore Becoming an adult – building the best future for young people with additional needs. This important national conference and accompanying workshops are accompanied by an exhibition of around 50 different national and local organisations. The event is open to professionals, parents, carers and young people. The Transition Event is sponsored by CareTech Community Services, Hesley Group, Inclusion Care and Epilepsy Society and supported by SoLO Life Opportunities. For more information call 01223 207770, email info@progressmagazine.co.uk or visit www.progressmagazine.co.uk/events.html
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Calvert Trust Exm oor has won its Pe ople’s Millions cam children and their paign to help disa families. The Peop bled le’s Millions, which the Big Lottery Fu is a partnership be nd and ITV, awarde tween d the £50,000 prize Exmoor in Novem to Calvert Trust ber and it is set to benefit many Sout disabled child. h West families w ith a The money will be used by Calvert Tr ust Exmoor to prov assist families from ide bursary funds Cornwall, Devon, to Somerset and Do have fun outdoors rs et to take a break an . Calvert TrOUR FREE APP TODAY us t Ex d m oo r w jetty facilities to m ill also use the prize ake its watersports to upgrade its ac tivities more acce double hoist system ssible by installing . See page 23 for a more inAPP OUR FREE formatTODAY ion on Calvert Trus t Exmoor.
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Over 2,000 more disabled people got the support they needed to get or keep their job, compared with 2012, official figures show. 22,760 people were being supported through Access to Work between April and June 2013 – an increase of 10% on the same period in 2012. Access to Work provides financial help towards the extra costs faced by disabled people at work, such as support workers, specialist aids and equipment and travel to work support. More people with mental health conditions have been supported at or into work through the Access to Work scheme. Young disabled people can now get support through Access to Work whilst undertaking Youth Contract Work Experience or participating in a Supported Internship or Traineeship. Disabled people can get support through Access to Work when setting up their own business if they are enrolled on the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA). Anyone interested in applying for this support, can search ‘Access to Work’ at www.gov.uk to find out details of their contact centres.
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PROGRESS NEWS University access issues According to a study by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign’s Trailblazers, many disabled students are unable to access areas in their university such as lecture theatres and libraries. Although the Equality Challenge Unit said that many institutions were trying their best to be as accessible as possible, many universities are failing to signpost key information, such as accessibility to the library. Trailblazers discovered that only 50 out of the 100 institutions surveyed had all teaching rooms, study rooms and libraries that were fully accessible for disabled students. According to Trailblazers, disabled students should make contact with the disability support advisers as soon as possible, take plenty of guided tours of the institution and do not be afraid to ask questions.
95% did not know what a mate crime was. Safety for people with learning disabilities.
www.progressmagazine.co.uk
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Brandon Trust has urged the Government and local communities to do more to tackle the issue of hate and mate crime.The organisation, which operates services across the South West and London, has published 100 Voices on Personal Safety a report written for and by people supported by the organisation, as a result of what was discussed at its 2013 100 Voices conference. Reports of mistreatment included discrimination, bullying, anti-social behaviour and the growing issue of mate crime, where someone pretends to be a friend in order to exploit the person financially or physically. The report was released alongside a UK-wide survey of 2,000 adults which reveals that 72% did not know what es. benefit chang f o p -u d un ro disability hate crime was and only 23% ed a ily has produc Contact A Fam admitted they would report such crime to the police if they witnessed it. 95% did not know what a mate crime was. The report considers lessons to be learnt and how people can deal with such crimes in the future. The report also looks at why personal safety is so O A L D important, N NLOADwith ideas on how thingsNLOAD can be improved in the UK through schemes such as Safe Places.
Following the success of 2013 ’s event where over 600 people attended and benefited from the conference we’re once again bringing you… Thursday 22nd May 2014
at the National Motorcycle Museum in Birmingham. (Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ)
In association with
Becoming an adult - building the best future for young people with additional needs The Transition Event is the one-day forum for young people with additional needs, their parents and professionals to explore the move to adulthood. Incorporating a series of main presentations, workshops, interactive sessions and an exhibition of service providers. To register your interest in attending, book your place or sponsoring this event please contact Cheryl Yardley on 01223 207 770 or email info@progressmagazine.co.uk.
www.progressmagazine.co.uk/events.html
SoLO Life Opportunities Principal sponsor
11419-Carer-Ad-OL.indd 1
Associate sponsors
Sponsor
19/03/2013 14:20
@progress_mag
Expertise in special educational needs
St Piers School and College provide specialist education services for children and young people with learning disabilities. We are experts in working with individuals that have autism, severe learning difficulties, challenging behaviours and epilepsy. The services offered include: • A multi-disciplinary approach from education, medical, therapy and care specialists • Education for children and young people from five to 25 years of age • Expansive rural location that gives students access to various outdoor pursuits • Tailored, individual learning programmes • Residential opportunites for weekly, termly and yearly boarding for students across the UK • A ‘waking day’ curriculum that develops the individual’s social skills and independence • Access to a world-class medical centre and wide variety of therapies. We’ll be at The Transition Event at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham, 22 May 2014.
Come and see us! For more information about St Piers School and College please call us on 01342 831348 or email education@youngepilepsy.org.uk
school.stpiers.org.uk college.stpiers.org.uk
youngepilepsy.org.uk
Young Epilepsy is the operating name of The National Centre for Young People with Epilepsy. Registered Charity No: 311877 (England and Wales). © Young Epilepsy 2014
Moulton College Northamptonshire Moulton College provides quality education and training to prepare students with individual needs for independent living. Many will progress to more advanced courses and preparation for employment. Set within beautiful rolling countryside, the College offers residential and non-residential places to students on a variety of courses, tailored to suit their requirements. Supported accommodation is part of a purpose-built unit in which students can reside for 36 weeks of the year. There are 24 hour support staff to help the students participate in a wide range of
activities during evenings and weekends, both on and off the college campus. Experienced staff provide dedicated teaching in a range of subjects including Animal Care, Horse Care, Countryside, Horticulture, Cookery, Independent living skills, Maths, English and IT, to ensure that each student’s potential is reached.
For further information on courses available please contact the Registry on: Tel: 01604 491131 Email: enquiries@moulton.ac.uk Moulton College, West Street, Moulton, Northampton, NN3 7RR www.moulton.ac.uk M6370 Progress Magazine Advert 184mm (w) x 130mm (h).indd 1
@progress_mag
26/11/2013 17:04:17
Finding the right college When it comes to finding a college, there is a lot to consider. Progress brings you some pointers from those involved in delivering further education.
• How well will the curriculum meet your needs and interests? • Does it have the specialist facilities and staff to ensure you can access the curriculum and make the most of this stage of your education? • Are the resources, including the environment genuine and real life? Is vocational learning carried out in a real work setting, are independent living skills learnt in the community and in a setting similar to your home? • What do Ofsted and CQC (if appropriate) say about the provider? • How does the organisation plan for transition in and out of college?
OADa good network of partners? NLOA•DDoes the college seemNtoLhave • What provision is available outside of the college e.g. clubs, lunchtime support/activities?
• Does the college have a clear understanding of national T O Yeducation policy changes? TO Y DA DA
• Specialist computer software including voice recognition and ‘reading’ software.’
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• Materials in alternative formats.
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• What is the ethos of the college?
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• An interpreter for deaf students. T
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• Additional teaching for dyslexic students and those with other learning needs.
• Who will your classmates/peers be? Do you have anything in common? For example, in mainstream education if you’re going to do an engineering course there’s a good chance you’ll have something in common with your peers.
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• What are your aspirations and (assuming they are realistic) will the chosen college help you reach them?
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When choosing a college consider these points.
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‘Disability L support OA includes:
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When choosing a college, research all the available options. Mainstream further education colleges can be closer to home and offer academic and vocational courses at differing levels. If a local college isn’t able to meet your education or support needs, specialist colleges are an option. Specialist colleges cater for a broad range of learners, and they all have different specialisms. According to the Good Schools Guide, ‘Colleges in England and Wales receive money to pay for additional support needed by disabled students so disabled students can generally expect their disability-related needs to be met by the institution.
Questions to consider
• After visiting the college, what were your feelings? Did the students seem to be happy and purposeful? Is the college happy for you to visit a few more times leading up to admission?
Don’t rely solely on the advice you are given by the school or by local professionals (social services/careers) – take "Specialist colleges time to consider suitable colleges. The Natspec website is a DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY great source of information and provides details about 70 cater for a broad range of specialist colleges for those looking for a personalised, highly learners, and they all have specialised provision for their child. www.natspec.org.uk DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY
different specialisms ."
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY
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for people with ASD, learning difficulties and/or disabilities, mental health issues and challenging behaviour
“Ruskin Mill College has helped me so much with my confidence and my future” Cliff, in his final year, has achieved Level 3 Food and Hygiene and is completing an NVQ in Hospitality for a career in catering.
Practical Skills Therapeutic Education allows our young people to learn and achieve through hands-on, real-life activities and accredited courses to progress onto greater independence, further education and employment. To find out more about our innovative, holistic and personalised curriculum at our FE colleges and school, delivered by trained and expert staff, visit our website:
www.rmt.org
A member of NATSPEC
Cliff preparing passata in the Smokery with tomatoes grown and harvested by students on the Ruskin Mill College’s farm
Inspected
Ruskin Mill Trust is an educational charity and draws its inspiration from the insights of Rudolf Steiner, John Ruskin and William Morris. Charity No: 1137167 Progress half page Dec 13.indd 1
09/12/2013 13:45
“ Learners make good progress indeveloping independent living skills and in the extent “
to which they can carry out personal care tasks for themselves Bogs Lane, Harrogate, HG1 4ED
2011 Ofsted Inspection
Henshaws College - a great place to learn Henshaws College provides a personalised education for young people with learning difficulties, sensory impairments and physical disabilities. We will empower you with the skills and independence you need to achieve the future you want. A curriculum rich in skills for Life, Learning and Work • Nationally recognised excellence in IT and Assistive Technology • Education, Care and Therapies working together to support learners • Expertise in visual impairment • First class Residential, Sports and Media facilities • Day and residential placements available
Henshaws College, part of your Local Offer For more information call 01423 886451 or email admissions@henshaws.ac.uk
www.henshaws.ac.uk Registered Charity No: 221888
@progress_mag
What should I be looking for? The key question is whether the curriculum and facilities offered by the college will allow you to grow and develop your independence, while gaining confidence, selfesteem and skills. You need to know that the programme is truly person-centred and whether it starts from an accurate understanding of you, your abilities and talents. The college’s pre-entry assessment process will be the key in this respect. You should check that the college has a focus on transition and it is really geared towards
maximising your independence and options in the next stage of life. Talk to the college staff about its students’ destinations and how they plan to achieve these together with parents and other professionals who support you. For some students, it will be about work experience opportunities and routes into employment; for others, it will be about the range of therapies needed or of benefit. It all depends on whether the college in question can effectively meet your needs and abilities.
"For some students, it will be about work experience opportunities and routes into employment."
What’s on offer?
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You may benefit from education farm, forestry, market garden, shop that is delivered in an environment and range of craft workshops, the that is genuine and real life. For residential houses offer realistic example, vocational learning contexts for learning an extensive carried out in a real work setting range of independent living skills. and independent living skills learnt Derwen College in Shropshire in the community and in a setting teaches through vocational similar to your home. Staff must be programmes and students don’t well-qualified and have skills not just train to work, they learn in a only in the subject area but also in real work situation. For example, providing support to you. they have several commercial Coleg Elidyr is a Camphill outlets on site with a weekly Community set in farmland in mid- average footfall of 1000 visitors; ADcurriculum is designed NLO AD include a restaurant, NLOAD NLOThe Wales. these to enable the learner to move from two cafés, a garden centre, a doing to understanding and from commercial catering department, experience to knowing. Learners a food production centre, a gallery, follow individual person-centred costume hire and a land-based TO Y T O Y of study designed T O visitor programmes DA DA D AY centre. to develop skills for life and work. The college offers residential and Working in small groups of three day placements. Its personal and or four, the curriculum offers a social development programme practical and holistic approach to includes independent living skills. learning and utilises a wide range This is formally built into the "The curriculum is of opportunities both on and off programme but also continues designed to enable the site, including therapeutic craft outside of the timetabled college learner to move from activities, land-based studies, day i.e. care and education DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY literacy, numeracy and ICT, support staff take all opportunities doing to understanding music and drama, external work to maximise the benefits of and from experience to DOWNLOAD OUR FREEexperience APP TODAY and vocational training. daily experiential activities that knowing." In addition to the on-site working naturally occur in daily life.
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Woodstock House Part of Kisimul Group Ltd
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.
For more information please contact: • T: 0208 335 2570 • F: 0208 335 2571 • E: kisimulreferrals@kisimul.co.uk
• 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.
Our postal address is Woodstock House, Woodstock Lane North, Long Ditton, Surrey KT6 5HN. Please visit our website at www.kisimul.co.uk.
• Home to 65 people, including senior & volunteer co-workers, children & 35 students with special needs. Faircrouch Lane, Wadhurst, East Sussex TN5 6PT 01892 782 025 • office@mountcamphill.org www.mountcamphill.org
natspec
We offer personalised curriculum programmes inclusive of a wide range of therapeutic input, such as Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Sensory Integration, Aromatherapy, Music Therapy and Educational Psychology. Support and care is continued into adulthood with our adult homes further enabling our residents’ independence and integration within their community.
Camphill Communities are based on mutual care, respect and the spiritual integrity of every individual.
The Mount Camphill Community
Woodstock House is an independent specialist school providing exceptional residential care and award-winning education for children and young people aged 8 to 19 with severe and complex learning disabilities, autism, global developmental delay and associated challenging behaviour. Placements vary from day care to termly through to 52 weeks per year.
OPEN DAY 16th M
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Natspec
The Association of National Specialist Colleges
Coleg Elidyr is an independent specialist college set within 180 acres of farmland in West Wales. Founded in 1973, we provide further education and training for young people aged 18-25 with a wide range of learning difficulties and disabilities, behavioural and emotional difficulties and autistic spectrum conditions. As well as learning crafts in our workshops and retail in our on-site shop, there are landbased opportunities on our working farm, garden and forestry. Our curriculum is based on the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner and designed to enable the learner to move from doing to understanding and from experience to knowing. Our aim is to foster the development of the whole human being-body, soul and spirit – in order that each individual will develop the self-confidence to cope with adult responsibility and be able to lead a richer, more independent life.
Coleg Elidyr,
Rhandirmwyn, Nr Llandovery, Carmarthenshire SA20 0NL Tel: 01550 760400 E-mail: admissions@colegelidyr.ac.uk Web: www.colegelidyr.ac.uk
www.natspec.org.uk
Derwen College is committed to promoting through personalised learning the vocational, educational, personal and social development of young people with a wide range of learning difficulties and disabilities. We have considerable expertise in working with young people with autistic spectrum conditions, severe learning difficulties, communication difficulties, physical disabilities, epilepsy and other health needs. Providing specialist further education for over 250 students in residential and day placements, our aim is to nurture and challenge the young people who come to us and equip them with the skills they need for employment and to live as independently as possible. Our high standards have helped to establish Derwen College as one of the leading specialist colleges in the country. Recognised as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and awarded ‘Beacon Status.’
Derwen College
Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 3JA Tel: 01691 661234 E-mail: : info@derwen.ac.uk Web: www.derwen.ac.uk
Part of The John Townsend Trust
We currently have places available for students who have specialist communication needs including those who are deaf, hard of hearing, specific learning difficulties or Autism. We specialise in highquality, innovative Learning and Training programmes, designed to provide students with exactly what they need at the time they need it. Using Total Communication we offer an extended curriculum which is highly supportive and person-centred. To arrange a visit please contact us on: 01302 386 700 Email: marketing@ddt-deaf.org.uk or go to our website: www.deaf-trust.co.uk
Communication Specialist College Doncaster
Leger Way, Doncaster DN2 6AY Tel: 01302 386 700 E-mail: marketing@ddt-deaf.org.uk Web: www.deaf-college.co.uk
“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 work and their communities” Westgate College is an independent specialist college offering residential and day provision for learners aged from 19 years old. Learners attending the college are d/Deaf or have communication difficulties many have additional learning and physical disabilities, mental health and associated challenging behaviours. Communication modes include speech, BSL, SSE, PECS symbols and objects of reference.
Westgate College, Contracts & MIS Officer, Westgate College, Victoria Road, Margate, Kent CT9 1NB
Tel: 01843 227561 E-mail: admissions@westgate-college.org.uk Web: www.westgate-college.org.uk
Specialist or mainstream staff and parents of other college students before making up your mind. The key question is whether the college you have chosen can do the best by you and can offer you with the best chances for the future. A place in a residential college is only available if your local mainstream college is unable to offer a suitable course. If you disagree with the mainstream college’s decision, work with your careers officer and school to evidence why the course is or is not suitable. If you don’t feel it’s right, seek support from the residential college you consider to be most suitable to meet your needs. They can provide details of the programme they could offer and the potential outcomes of their programme.
Whether you will be better off in mainstream or specialist college depends on your future plans. If you need a higher degree of specialist intervention to achieve your full potential than is offered by local mainstream providers, then the clue really is in the title. Specialist providers offer a higher level of specialist expertise than many mainstream colleges and because this is usually their core focus. As such they may be more geared up to understanding your needs now and in the future. Staff will be multi-skilled and residential specialist colleges provide a holistic programme whereby learning continues outside of the timetabled day. However, it is important to consider all options and to talk to
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With thanks to Louise Keevil, Transition and Partnerships Manager Derwen College DOWNLOAD OUR at FREE APP TODAY www.derwen.ac.uk and Richard Tither, Vice Principal Education Training DOWNLOAD OUR FREEandAPP TODAY at Coleg Elidyr. www.colegelidyr.com.
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be something quite simple that If you start at college but don’t settle in well and you’re not sure can be sorted out directly with the college. However, if there really if it’s the right decision, talk to are fundamental problems with college staff first to get their the placement, then you would perspective on the situation and whether there is anything that can need to involve your social worker ADcareers officer to get their beN done and LOAtoDresolve the situation. NLO The first port of call should be your perspective on the issue. Choosing a college is the next personal tutor, after that you could step towards adulthood, make sure go to more senior staff. It may be teething problems, a you weigh up all the options and lack or just that T Oof communication T O visitYthe colleges before making a Y D A A you need reassurance, particularly Ddecision. if it is a residential college and this For more information on the legal is the first time you’ve been rights around post-16 education and away from home. Often, it can funding see page 45.
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"A place in a residential college is only available if your local mainstream college is unable to offer a suitable course."
"Specialist providers offer a higher level of specialist expertise than many mainstream colleges."
"Choosing a college is the next step towards adulthood, make sure you weigh up all the options and visit the colleges before making a decision."
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king about Is it time to start thin ay the a holiday to chase aw winter blues?
oking a holiday
The ins and outs of bo
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s. Spur re are no nasty surprise the d an nt wa u yo at is will ensure you get wh ssle-free. Always book ahead. Th esn’t mean they’ll be ha do t tha t bu r pe ea ch t s could work ou ed or feel you’re of the moment booking ed. Don’t be embarrass olv inv e on ery ev to s ed e rather your ne It’s better to exaggerat Make sure you explain u. yo lp he to is job ir putting people out – the have your y you’re more likely to wa at Th . ility ab dis ur yo than downplay ssibility needs may not nsider mobility or acce co t gh mi u yo at Wh t. to the site needs me u need step-free access yo if ar cle be so ers be the same to oth handrails. a low bed, wet room or es and accommodation, or on for you. Try Disabiliti t the best accommodati ge to rch ea res yur da yo Do m/disabled-holi abilityholidaysguide.co Holidays Guide www.dis . have specific accommodation.aspx airline, especially if you nt ce de a se oo ch d If travelling abroa get a good seat nce to ensure you can va ad in ll we m the ct needs. Conta are up-to-date. Pack rt and travel documents po ss pa ur yo re su ke s. Ma g abroad, keep within depending on your need ur holiday and, if travellin yo on ing do be l u’l yo what is suitable to what th plenty not choose a holiday wi y wh baggage limits. s, nd frie w ne ke , or would like to ma If you’re travelling alone ing loads of activities? ng new people and do eti me for Be adventurous, you ies nit rtu po of op not try something new? y wh r, oe -g ay lid ho r If you’re a regula y enjoy. never know what you ma u is ne who may be with yo If you’re driving or anyo e Badge sure you take your Blu ke ma , ve dri to ing nn pla if you have one. y you book with is Make sure the compan they are registered with reputable, ask whether ence Air Travel Organizer’s Lic organisations such as TA) British Travel Agents (AB (ATOL), Association of d what ger Protection (IPP) an and International Passen this means for you.
www.progressmagazine.co.uk
Travel insurance
vel insurance It is important to buy tra . This will cover when booking a holiday travel delay, loss you for things such as cy medical of luggage and emergen you look into assistance. Make sure in full and the details of any policy uirements discuss your exact req letely to ensure you’re comp l insurance covered as some trave r precompanies will not cove ere are existing conditions. Th l insurers disability specific trave such as Fish Insurance .uk) (www.fishinsurance.co urance (Family Fund Travel Ins nsurance.co.uk) (www.familyfundtraveli urance or Free Spirit Travel Ins surance.com). (www.freespirittravelin Discrimination Part 3 of the Disability customers with Act 1995 ensures that with the same disabilities are treated rs, this applies favour as other custome luding booking a to all aspects of life inc nce. Tourism for holiday and travel insura isations that are All’s website lists organ e for people with happy to quote insuranc nditions pre-existing medical co g.uk/travelwww.tourismforall.or insurance.html. l with your If you would like to trave that has ‘Carer carer, consider a policy
Medication
dication, make sure to If you require regular me cover your time away take enough with you to , just in case there and a few extra days too back. If you’re are any delays getting doctor’s travelling abroad, get a ation letter stating what medic need to you have and that you them take it. Also check with ve a copy whether you need to ha member of your prescription. Re ls of your to take the contact detai t in case. doctor or specialist jus dication Pack some of your me case your hold in your hand luggage in h be aware of the rules luggage gets lost; thoug lanes. Liquid medication around liquids on aerop insulated so it doesn’t should be secure and de. According to NHS get frozen at high altitu s and liquid diets that Inform, ‘liquid medicine flight can be taken on a are needed during the t n…you will need to ge plane without restrictio line and the departure agreement from the air ed to bring a letter from airport. You will also ne s pared to verify the liquid your doctor and be pre by tasting them.’ me of your If you use needles for so to pack them in the medication and will need line first. It is a good hold, check with the air ur airline aware of any idea to always make yo . medication you’re taking u need – with Cover’. dic wn what me ation yo do rd ite Ca Wr e nc ura Ins h alt A European He you lose it or need n ir proper names – so if ea the rop Eu all in lid va e, But if you (EHIC) is fre it’s easy to remember. , re, ed ed mo ne me if so d, an s trie Economic Area coun overseas – it ed ver try to buy medication uc ne n, red ca a at are hc alt he gets you state ficult to get hold of. k/Internet/ can be expensive or dif g.u or ic. eh w. ww e. fre cost or startApplication.do
oer, why not try -g ay lid ho ar ul g re a re u’ If yo , you never know us o ur nt ve ad e B ? w ne something what you may enjoy.
contact your e, m co in w lo a n o e ar If you and your family ort breaks sh y an ut o ab t en tm ar local social services dep they may offer. eak
Ideas for your next br ct your on a low income, conta If you and your family are ort breaks partment about any sh local social services de me y be able to find you so they may offer. They ma : ch with charities like funding or put you in tou
olidays
3H Helping Hands for H
trusts, businesses and 3H receives help from them to give people a people, which enables fulfilling holiday. www.3hfund.org.uk
The Farrell Trust
s, ibution towards day trip This Trust makes a contr ysical or aks for people with a ph holidays and short bre ability. a complex multiple dis . www.farrelltrust.org.uk
s to everyone when it come There is something for you stination. What would picking your perfect de like to do?
Activity holidays
-filled and give you These holidays are fun to try out new things. loads of opportunities adventure holidays Disabled activities and road - get a little can be in the UK or ab more adventurous.
Calvert Trust Exmoor
lidays for all abilities. Offers great activity ho k/exmoor www.calvert-trust.org.u
Cruises
boat’! Cruises are This may well ‘float your y and everything is allbrilliant value for mone , with great accessible inclusive, including flights lidays, make sure the features. As with all ho eds. ship is right for your ne
s
Helsey House Cottage
te grounds of Helsey Situated within the priva st Lincolnshire coast, House on the North Ea s are furnished to the Helsey House Cottage r modifications for easie highest standard, with o cater for children access. The cottages als tic spectrum. There is and adults on the autis unds and the owners ample parking in the gro ble for help and advice. live on-site so are availa .co.uk www.helseycottages
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Safehands at The New
Mayfair Hotel
air accessible holidays in specialist and wheelch rt pe ex an is ds an feh Sa ible rooms hotel has 44 fully access e ibl ss ce ac ly ful e Th in Blackpool. ished to the highest d its facilities are refurb an ms roo t we ite -su en with istered with sea views. It is also reg ing nn stu ve ha ms roo standard. Many tes care services. who inspects and regula ion iss mm Co y alit Qu on the Care ge of specialist services tel there are a wide ran Ho ir yfa Ma w Ne d e an Th e At free equipment hir ensive care packages, offer, including compreh ements. ter to your dietary requir ca l wil o wh efs ch ed nc experie o.uk http://thenewmayfair.c it a of a great holiday, vis If these don’t fit your ide ideas. guide.com to see more you have www.disabilityholidays nning ahead will ensure pla l; sfu es str be ’t ldn A holiday shou rld is there to be ur destination. The wo yo r ve ate wh , ak bre a relaxing d get travelling! explored, so have fun an
Specialist Blackpool Hotel for Disabled People and their Carers 673 – 677 New South Promenade, Blackpool FY4 1RN at
• CQC Registered Hotel • Interconnecting Suites • Panoramic Sea Views • Overhead Tracking • Electric Profile Beds • 24hr Call System • Fine Dining • Large Shower Rooms
ca Supported ible New Zealand, Fin ss ce Ac to s nk tha ith W , Helsey Spirit Travel Insurance ee Fr , ce an ur Ins h Holidays, Fis lidays. Lets Go Supported Ho House Cottages and
• Personal Care Services • Pick Up & Return Transport Call: 01253
347543
Email: sales@thenewmayfair.co.uk
www.thenewmayfair.co.uk
Helsey House Holiday Cottages Helsey House Helsey Nr Hogsthorpe, Skegness PE24 5PE Telephone: 01754 872 927 E-mail: info@HelseyCottages.co.uk
Helsey House Cottages are situated within the private grounds
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• We have a wheelchair and a shower wheelchair available for guests’ use. A toilet seat riser and bed risers are also available. • An Oxford midi 150 mobile hoist is available for guests’ use. • Both cottages have laminated flooring for ease of mobility and are on one level.
The Cow Shed
• A laundry room with a washer, sink with hot and cold water, tumble dryer and an iron and ironing board are all available.
• Pets are welcome. have ourAPP own free range DOWNLOAD OUR We FREE TODAY chickens with fresh eggs for you to purchase.
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY www.helseycottages.co.uk
The Dairy
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• We can arrange for groceries to be available on arrival
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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.
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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.
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Calvert Trust Exmoor enables people with all types of disabilities to experience exciting, challenging and enjoyable outdoor activity holidays. At our award winning accessible centre all activities are specifically designed and equipped to cater for everyone.
it's what you CAN do that Counts! Contact us quoting ‘Progress’ to find out more; 01598 763221 exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk
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TALKING ABOUT
SeX AnD rELaTIoNShIPs far as sex or relationships are concerned, and if you’re wondering about it, someone else probably is too. This time, the questions are all about relationships.
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Welcome back to our new sex and relationships column. This will be a regular section in the coming issues of Progress, we are going to be answering some of your questions about sex and relationships, so please send them in. Don’t feel embarrassed or too shy – there’s no such thing as a silly question as
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PARENTS Do you have any questions around talkin g about sex with your child? I’m here to help everyone.
Q: How can I meet a boyfriend or girlfriend? Gillian: It’s usually a good idea, if you’re hoping to meet a boyfriend or girlfriend, to start out the same way you would if you were looking to make a new friend. Think about what’s important to you? Would you like to spend your time with someone who likes the same things as you? What are you hoping for? Maybe join a new club to meet people. Sometimes it can help to sit down and talk about it with an adult that you trust so they can support you. A good start for any friendship or relationship is to get to know someone a bit so you can see if you like each other, and meeting up doing something you both like or are interested in can get the conversation going. It can help if you have shared interests so you have something to talk about. The important thing to remember is that even if you really like someone because of how they look, you won’t know if they are a good match unless you find out a bit about them. I often get asked about meeting people online, so perhaps we can look at this in more detail next time.
Q: How will I know if a relationship is a good one? Gillian: Being in a relationship should be a positive and enjoyable experience for both of you and although everyone has their own set of rules, there are some good starting points for any relationship. You need to treat the other person with respect, kindness and interest – however you like to be treated. So if they need to talk, you need to be there to listen and the other way round. You should take turns, if possible, in deciding what you do together, and you should feel able to tell them yes or no. They should feel the same way. You should both feel equal – it isn’t okay if one person always chooses what you are doing, or one of you always has to pay, or if you feel that you can’t say what you need to say. It’s really important that there is more to the relationship than just fancying someone for how they look, so being able to Please do send in talk to each other and your questions to editor@ trust each other is progressmagazine.co.uk – nothing is off limits and there’s very important. This no need to be shy. We’ll choose is why it’s a good idea one or two each time and to build a friendship they’ll be anonymous, so as a starting point you can ask whatever you like. because you need to be able to support and encourage each other.
If it’s urgent (or private) you can contact me at gleno@qac.ac.uk and I will email you back.
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The teenage and young adult years can be difficult for any parent without any added influence of additional needs.
Parents –
where to turn for help?
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Don’t be afraid to look for and ask for support if you feel you need it. There are many organisations that can help, and they are often started by individuals in a similar situation themselves. It’s also good to share your The teenage and young adult experiences with other parents years can be difficult for any of disabled children to help parent without any added gain a sense of belonging and influence of additional needs. realise that you are not alone. If you’re struggling with your As well as emotionally, situation or your child feels families can have trouble unsettled, their behaviour with their finances too, as changes or they are finding it it costs more on average to tough to manage their hormonal raise a disabled child because or body changes, there are a O O A AD L L D N N of additional items, such as number of organisations you equipment or clothing. Visit can talk to for support. See the www.gov.uk/benefits-adviser panel for details. or www.turn2us.org, as you and your family could be TO Y T O entitled DA D AY to extra financial help through welfare benefits. Apply through Department for Work and Pensions (0800 882 200), or HM Revenue & Customs (0345 300 3900).
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Being a parent is a tough job with the added pressure of your child’s additional needs it can, at times, seem overwhelming. If you need some support, advice or just someone to talk to, Progress guides you through some of the places to go when you, as a parent, need a helping hand.
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Who can help?
Family Fund
KIDS
Parents 4 Parents
Family Fund is the UKs biggest provider of grants to low-income families who raise disabled and seriously ill young adults and children. Family Fund helps provide the essentials, such as washing machines, fridges and clothing. They also provide grants for family breaks, electronics and sensory toys.
KIDS is a national charity who specialise in working with families of disabled children and young people in England, as well as the individuals themselves. They run specialist youth groups, short breaks, transition support, as well as Parent Partnership Services and training for parents.
Parents 4 Parents exists to give you peace of mind and support. They are a befriending service for when you are going through a difficult time at any stage in your child’s development. They offer free emotional and practical support, whenever you need it.
www.familyfund.org.uk
www.kids.org.uk
Contact a Family
Parents of Disabled Children Forum
National charity Contact a Family support the families of disabled children in the UK, regardless of their condition or disability. They are committed to ending poverty, disadvantage and isolation - things that often strike families of those with a disability. Offering support to over 34,000 families, Contact a Family offer a range of support and services to those in need. www.cafamily.org.uk
www.parents-and-carers. org.uk/support-for-parents/ parents4parents
Scope
Scope is a one of the UKs leading disability charities that Sometimes you can get the supports a quarter of a million best advice from the people disabled individuals and their who experience it directly. families. You can call their Parents of Disabled Children helpline, Scope Response Forum is an online place you on 0808 800 3333 or email can go to share your journey response@scope.org.uk. with other parents who wish As well as this, they run Face to share and listen too. All 2 Face, a befriending service members of the forum have that is designed for parents of concerns regarding their disabled children. Parents can child’s upbringing in society, talk to one another, offering from education to services, the right kinds of support, both respite and other issues. The emotionally and practically and forum is designed to bring families together for friendship, the schemes run all over the UK. information and support. www.scope.org.uk/helpand-information/familieswww.parentsofdisabled and-parenting/parentchildren.co.uk befriending-1
Sometimes you can get the best advice from the people who experience it directly.
Half an hour’s break can make all the difference. Don’t forget your own needs and wants.
Special Kids in the UK Special Kids in the UK is a member-based charity that brings people together by offering contact, friendship, information and support for families of young people and children with physical, learning and behavioural difficulties. www.specialkidsintheuk.org
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It is important to take care of yourself, so that you can support your child. You need to be healthy emotionally, physically and mentally. Plan some time into each day that is just for you, whether that’s watching your favourite TV show, reading a book or going for a walk. Half an hour’s break can make all AD AD needs and wants. the Don’t forget your LOdifference. LOown
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DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY
OUR FREE APP– TODAY YouDOWNLOAD can find help wherever you are remember
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that you are not alone.
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Work out what your essential outgoings are every month and make sure you have enough money for them.
“Fishing has helped me improve and grow in lots of ways” happy and relaxed, I I found that while I was fishing I was good relationships with up interacted with the staff and built it they fully support me like I them. Because they see how much es for me, so if I’m ntiv ince to keep fishing. They’ve also set up the community I’m in ut abo well-behaved at home and out and able to go fishing. wellthe last year I’ve not been Isaf in 2011, I was This has really helped me because in Hi, I’m Andrew, when I joined Branas e. Polic only tried to run away involved with the violent, not damaged anything and I’ve known to the authorities and had been ral gene of this. inal damage and once and that was at the beginning I was violent, I’d been charged with crim in lots of ways, I anti-social behaviour. Fishing has helped me improve and grow se r fishermen and one athi othe emp the to of e able started hanging out with som When I came to Branas Isaf I wasn’t at a fishery. Now I call with a real lack of selfof them offered me a work placement with others, I had poor self-esteem and elf mys an from Scotland. I’m put erm fish and y myself Andrew, the 16 year old regulation. I regularly tried to run awa better with the staff and happy and settled at home, I get on others at risk. h so far is a 19lb feel much calmer. Oh, and my best catc of staff introduced me As part of my programme, a member e! Carp...watch this space for mor soon my interest and to fishing. It took me a little while but and n to keep attentio passion for fishing grew. I struggled I’m happy to sit for ing fish n whe but focus when at home inst the elusive recordbetween 6 to 10 hours in a battle aga breaking fish.
h Commun With thanks to CareTec
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www.rnc.ac.uk The Royal National College for the Blind, Venns Lane, Hereford, HR1 1DT
Your Futures Fair - 12 March 2014 More than just a careers fair, with key exhibitors, advice and information on options for the future, tailored for people who are blind or visually impaired.
Have A Go - 29/30 March 2014 FREE to all young people with a visual impairment aged 14-16. Join us for a weekend of fun activities. En-suite accommodation, food, refreshments, 24 hour support - all provided.
Professional Development Day - 5 February 2014 Are you a professional who helps young people with sight loss? Learn how we empower students to achieve their life goals. Meet staff and students and take a tour of the College campus.
Summer Sports Camp In association with British Blind Sports 11-15 August 2014
To register for any of the above events, please call 01432 376 621 or email info@rnc.ac.uk Company limited by guarantee number 2367626 Registered Charity number 1000388
@progress_mag
h-uk.com
OUTDOORS
The great outdoors is something that should be enjoyed by everyone, and you shouldn’t feel restricted when it comes to exploring what it has to offer.
Explore. Experience. Enjoy!
If you want to try some horseback riding, abseiling, skiing or just rambling through the countryside, Progress details days out and activities that you and your family can enjoy. Go on, get stuck in!
OUTDOORS Absolute Adventure (Wales) – The Outdoor Adventure Group
British Disabled Waterski and Wakeboard Association
The Outdoor Adventure Group (OAG) provides a wide range of outdoor activities for people with disabilities to enjoy the outdoors. The activities are suitable for all levels of ability; it’s a fantastic way to meet new people and enjoy the fresh air. They are licensed to provide activities like rock climbing and sailing. www.absoluteadventure. co.uk/disability.aspx
thought about actually going for it because of your disability? Well, the British Disabled Waterski and Wakeboard Association’s aim is to make you forget the restrictions and embrace the possibility. With three centres located around the UK, their specialist assistive equipment and expert guidance will ensure that you learn to water ski and have a great time. http://bdwsa.org
Explore. Experience. Enjoy! Wanted to try a watersport, but never
OUTDOORS
Bendrigg Trust Experience. Enjoy! Explore. If you enjoy the outdoors and want to see more of what it has to offer, why not try a day or weekend away at one of Bendrigg’s organised activities in Cumbria? From caving to camping, kayaking and canoeing, they have plenty to offer, with lots of fun and fresh air for you and your family, no matter the weather. Courses are safely designed to build confidence and independence, and experienced tutors lead the activities. www.bendrigg.org.uk
OUTDOORS
Explore. Experience. Enjoy!
Courses are safely designed to build confidence and independence, and experienced tutors lead the activities. www.progressmagazine.co.uk
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Calvert Trust Exmoor Calvert Trust Exmoor is based on the edge of Exmoor National Park, a natural beauty spot, where disabled people and their families and friends can experience the outdoors through enjoyable and challenging activities. It welcomes anyone, no matter your age or ability. With highly experienced instructors and staff, you can have a truly memorable experience. www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor
Regardless of your disability, you will be able to enjoy the excitement of snowsport and life-enhancing activities, whether individually or in a group. Ski and Snowboard lessons are available. Disability Snowsport UK This organisation welcomes anyone of any ability, holding beginner classes for novices to experienced sessions. Regardless of your disability, you will be able to enjoy the excitement of snowsport and life-enhancing activities, whether individually or in a group. Ski and Snowboard lessons are available. www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk
DisabledGo DisabledGo, one of the biggest disability organisations in Europe, is the website to go to when you want to search for the suitability of a destination or day out. The informative online access guides that they specialise in enable you to make your own decisions in the accessibility and usability of a place based on your requirements. It has lots of information, including leisure days out and activities. www.disabledgo.com
National Parks The National Parks website contains guides to accessible activities for people with wheelchairs, pushchairs or limited mobility. There are 15 National Parks in the UK, with stunning areas, like mountains or wetlands. Each park has a webpage full of information, with guides available to purchase for specific parks that have details regarding access at attractions, wheelchair hire and other tips for convenient and easy visiting. www.nationalparks.gov.uk/visiting/ outdooractivities/accessforall
Outdoor Sport & Leisure Outdoor Sport & Leisure is a website dedicated to finding the best activities for people to enjoy. With almost 50 choices in their disability section, like horse riding and flying, you never know what you might find. Listings are available for many categories, so get searching on what you want to try. www.outdoor-sport-leisure.net/ information/-uk-activities.html
The Disabled Ramblers The Disabled Ramblers embrace all weathers and all countryside, helping mobility-challenged people enjoy the fresh air. Rambling all over the country, certain rambling terrain is suited to certain equipment (power chairs, large scooters capable of travelling over rough ground). There are about 30 rambles that run every year across England and Wales. http://disabledramblers.co.uk If you’re looking for something to do locally, check out Accessible Countryside for Everyone (ACE). The online database is packed with activities and ideas for days out that are easy to find through region and county. You may find something that looks like fun! Visit www.accessiblecountryside.org.uk
Whatever adventure you decide to go on, there is plenty of help out there to get you on your way to having a fun day out. Getting lots of fresh air and getting active is fantastic for your health and confidence, so never be afraid to try new things. You never know what you may enjoy.
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Help to find a Recently, the Government has advised employers to recruit more disabled people and people with health conditions. But what should you look for when seeking employment?
job
The Government is now working with employers to remove the barriers that previously stopped a lot of disabled people from getting a job in certain industries. They plan to raise awareness amongst employers of the benefits of employing disabled people and guarantee that disabled people have the opportunity for a fulfilling employment. There are lots of ways that employers are attracting disabled people to potential positions and now there are guidelines they’re following in order to make it the best working environment possible for you.
There are lots of ways that employers are attracting disabled people to potential positions.
Job adverts Employers should take positive action in job adverts to encourage applications for candidates with a disability. The ‘Two Ticks’ symbol is a way of employers displaying that they encourage applications from disabled people. There are five commitments that must be made by employers in order to receive the ‘Two Ticks’, which means it will be a good place to work for: -
Employers must interview all disabled applicants that meet the minimum requirements for a job vacancy, considering them on their abilities, not disabilities;
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They have discussions with disabled employees at least once a year, regarding what both parties can do to ensure that the employee develops and uses their abilities;
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Employers must make every effort to ensure that when employees become disabled, they stay in employment;
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They take action to make sure that all employees are developed to the suitable level of disability awareness to make the commitments work;
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Employers must review the commitments every year, assess what has been achieved, plan on how to improve and let employees know about progress and the future.
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Applying for a job If you have applied for a job and are asked to interview, your potential employer should make reasonable adjustments for you. If required, they should provide wheelchair access, changes to lighting and room layout; add extra time to the interview, anything you need in order to be considered for the job on an equal footing as someone who doesn’t have a disability. If you are successful, after they have offered you a job, they’ll ask you what adjustments you may need to become part of their company. They shouldn’t ask you about your health until you’ve been offered the job. If you are not offered the job, it must be based on your performance at the interview, not because they would have to make reasonable adjustments. Make sure they stick to the rules. If they don’t hire you and use your disability (in any format) as the reason, it’s discrimination and it’s illegal. It is also illegal for employers to discriminate indirectly during your employment, like giving more benefits to one group of people than another. Take action if this is done. The following organisations may be able to help:
Schemes to help employers Employers may be able to get help with any extra costs needed to support you, so there’s no excuse. They can use the Access to Work programme, which provides funding for a lot of things, like equipment, travel costs, or if you need a support worker; the funding is a grant to employers to reimburse costs of supporting you. Work Choice is a programme provider that offers tailormade support packages that are designed for the disabled and businesses. Their goal is to develop skills of an employee who is disabled and needs specialist support. For example, Work Choice trains you, giving you basic ICT skills, literacy and numeracy skills. They help with confidence building, weekly job clubs and great things to increase your skills. Work Choice help you become employed, make a support plan with your employer, and provide on-going support and regular contact.
Support at work Employers must not discriminate against you during your employment for example, if they fail to make the reasonable adjustments you had specified before you were employed, they are discriminating. Under the Equality Act 2010, employers shouldn’t place you at a substantial disadvantage compared to non-disabled employees when you’re doing your job, unless doing so would be a ‘disproportionate burden’. A disproportionate burden is determined by the costs, the scale and the financial resources made by the employer, and the possibility of getting public funding or other assistance.
• Acas (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) – 08457 474747, • Citizens Advice – 08444 111 444 (England), 08444 77 20 20 (Wales), • Equality Advisory Support Service – 0808 800 0082. Or contact a local trade union representative.
If you have applied for a job and are asked to interview, your potential employer should make reasonable adjustments for you.
Support to get a job
Residential Training
If you need support to get a job, some of these may suit you.
Residential training colleges are a great form of aid and can support you into employment through vocational training and independent living. Find out more from the Residential Training College’s website, visit: http://www.stpuk.org.uk
Disability Employment Advisers A Disability Employment Adviser (DEA) at your local Jobcentre can help you find a job or gain new skills and tell you about disability friendly employers in your area. They can also refer you to a specialist work psychologist, if appropriate, or carry out an ‘employment assessment’, asking you about: • your skills and experience; • what kind of roles you’re interested in. Visit your local Jobcentre and ask to speak to a DEA.
Now that employers are taking action, there is nothing stopping you from making a step in the right direction toward employment.
British Association of Supported Employment The British Association for Supported Employment (BASE) has lots of information to help you in your search for the right job, whatever your disability. Supported Employment is a way of providing assistance to people with a disability who need extra support to move towards and into work. BASE member organisations can give you advice and help all through the process of looking for and gaining a job. www.base-uk.org For more information, advice and job vacancies you can also check out www.remploy.co.uk, http://jobseeker.direct.gov. uk, www.disabledworkers. org.uk or http://powered. jobsgopublic.com/disabledgo Now that employers are taking action, there is nothing stopping you from making a step in the right direction toward employment. With so many companies and organisations following the correct procedures, it’s a fantastic time to develop your skills in the workplace, build confidence, earn some money and achieve great things.
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Managing continence
Being incontinent can affect your quality of life but it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Progress looks at continence and available support.
Stress incontinence Well over half of the population who have incontinence suffer from stress incontinence; it is the most common form. You may leak urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh or exercise. It’s caused by a weak pelvic floor.
Managing your stress incontinence
• Pelvic floor exercises – both men and women can do these exercises to strengthen the muscles that wrap underneath the bladder. For more information on pelvic floor exercises visit: http://bit.ly/1fY0XzL After a few months you should see an improvement. • Medication and surgery are options if the exercises don’t work. Be sure to visit your doctor to talk through your condition and any solutions.
Overactive bladder An overactive bladder is a common continence issue. The symptoms involve a repetitive urge to go to the toilet – often with little warning – frequently going to the toilet, and occasionally leaking urine. This happens because of the bladder muscle squeezing when you don’t want it to, often when the bladder is not full enough.
Managing your overactive bladder • Bladder training – In time, your bladder will be able to hold larger amounts of urine, so it will become less overactive and you can regain more control over the need to go to the toilet. See your doctor to get advice. • Pelvic floor exercises – It’s not certain whether these exercises help overactive bladders without you having stress incontinence at the same time. The exercises can help if you’re doing bladder training. • Medication and surgery are options if the overactive bladder is severe, or the above activities don’t work. Visit your doctor to talk through your options.
Nocturnal enuresis (or bedwetting) About two in every 100 young adults wet the bed. Some people have never had help for bedwetting, simply because they think it will get better with time.
It can be made worse by stress, caffeine (in tea, Coca-Cola etc) and alcohol.
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Managing your nocturnal enuresis
Managing Urge Bowel Incontinence
• Talk to a health professional that has special training in bedwetting, like a physiotherapist or continence nurse. They can help to determine what exactly is causing it.
• Keep a bowel diary to identify trigger foods. An example can be found here: www.bladderandbowelfoundation.org/uploads/ pages/file/Bowel%20Diarynew.pdf
• Get a bedwetting alarm which wakes you as soon as you start to get wet so you can get up and go to the toilet.
• To treat bowel incontinence, go to the doctor, who will probably be able to treat it effectively. There are products that can help you to get better control of your incontinence. Surgery and medication is also an option if these don’t work.
• Drugs and sprays to enhance how much urine your bladder can hold, or reduce the urine made during the night. • A combination of the above. These have proven to reduce instances of bedwetting but if it doesn’t improve, ask to speak to a specialist.
Functional Incontinence This type of incontinence is caused by your mobility preventing you from going to the toilet or removing clothing quick enough when you need to go to the toilet.
Managing your functional incontinence • Follow a time schedule to make trips to the toilet. • Make the pathway to the toilet as clear as possible. • Use pants with an elastic waistband. • Try incontinence products, like pads.
Bowel Incontinence Bowel incontinence is an inability to control your bowel movements. The incontinence sometimes occurs when you need to go to the toilet suddenly and you can’t get there in time, this is called urge bowel incontinence. Passive incontinence or passive soiling occurs when people have no sensation before they poo, or they pass a small piece of poo when passing wind. 1 in 10 people will be affected by bowel incontinence at least once in their life and it’s caused by an underlying problem, like diarrhoea or constipation (where watery faeces can leak around the hard poo).
Constipation Constipation means that you’re not passing poo regularly, or you can’t empty your bowels properly. Constipation causes poo to be large, hard, lumpy, or small. The amount of time someone suffers with constipation can vary but those who have it chronically are often in severe pain. Constipation can be caused by: • A lack of fibre in your diet (like fruit, cereals, vegetables), • Changes in your lifestyle (like eating habits), • Ignoring the need to have a poo, • Not drinking enough fluids (like water).
Managing your constipation • Eat high-fibre foods. • Drink plenty of fluids. • Do exercise. If these don’t help your constipation, see your doctor. If you suffer from some form of incontinence and home solutions don’t work, it is always best to see a doctor so they can help you, or make an appointment at your local NHS Continence Advisory Service. Don’t be embarrassed; incontinence is more common than you think.
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With thanks to Debbie Gordon, Clinical Manager of the Bladder and Bowel Foundation.
Inclusion Care provides specialist, tailored support to individuals with a broad range of mental and physical needs, ranging from domiciliary care, supported living and even packages for the support of complex needs such as spinal cord injury, (including ventilator dependent) acquired brain injury and cerebral palsy that requires a 24-hour service including sleeping or waking nights. The core feature of our care packages is the focus on the individual; planning their entire care/support plan around the client to care homes We have access to a number of ensure that they receive a service that suits them rather than h were whic of many UK; the t throughou the unique requiring them to adjust to a new routine. sourced and adapted based on Our expertise and professionalism has been recognised through a number of accreditations from leading organisations including Maybo and the Investors in People Gold award which demonstrates our commitment to the continuous training and development of our workforce.
continue requirements of the clients. We ialists Spec ing Hous with ly close to work ess, proc g buyin the who assist us with whether this be for temporary, life. transitional periods or homes for
If you’d like to find out more abou t our various support packages or any of our care homes please don’t hesitate to cont act John Irwin or Sue Strain today on 0168 4 857520.
Find us on Facebook @InclusionCare
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the
Housing
SPECTRUM Progress looks at housing options depending on your individual needs and wants.
1 RESIDENTIAL CARE
5
SHARED LIVES
2 4
SUPPORTED LIVING
RESIDENTIAL COLLEGES LIVING AT HOME
6 SPECIALIST SUPPORTED HOUSING
3
PRIVATELY RENTED
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8 SOCIAL HOUSING
9 HOME OWNERSHIP (FAMILY FUNDED)
10 Useful information • It is important to seek independent legal and financial advice where necessary. Committing to a contract for your housing is a big decision and it’s important to be fully informed. • Care and support is regulated by the Care Quality Commission www.cqc.org.uk. • For further information call the Mencap helpline on 0808 808 1111.
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HOME OWNERSHIP (JOINT INVESTMENT WITH FAMILY)
11 HOME OWNERSHIP (ETHICAL INVESTORS)
12 HOME OWNERSHIP (MORTGAGE)
Residential Care
Residential Colleges
Living at home Shared Lives
Supported Living
Specialist Supported Housing
Social Housing
Residential care is a form of regulated group living where all accommodation, meals, personal care and social needs are catered for. A good care home should provide you with personalised, professional care and support whilst giving you a chance to live as independently as possible and have a fulfilling and rewarding life.
Residential colleges offer you a taste of independence through personalised learning and support. They can support young people with a wide range of conditions or disabilities and offer an all-round package of education, regulated support, development and life experiences whilst living and learning on-site.
Living at home, as the name suggests, is remaining in the family home with your parents or carers. It suits some people but not everybody.
Shared lives is for adults over the age of 18 who require care, support and accommodation. It is regulated. You learn new skills and become as independent as possible by living with a carer (who has been trained and approved by the organisation providing the arrangement) within their family home.
Supported living gives you choice and control over your life whilst being able to access regulated care and support. You have your own space and a legally binding tenancy agreement. You have responsibility as a tenant and you can receive care and support separately to your tenancy.
Specialist supported housing are adapted houses or blocks of flats specifically for people with learning disabilities. They are usually owned by housing associations, charities and private organisations. Large providers such as Mencap can alert people to the nearest vacancy through an enquiry system. Rent is paid to the landlord and regulated support is given separately.
Housing associations and councils provide social housing to people with learning disabilities. Local authority housing departments should help complete the form and subsequently to bid for accommodation if there is a realistic chance the young person can secure a property. Regulated support is arranged and provided separately.
A different class Education at Livability prepares students for the transition to adult life. Nash College in Bromley and Victoria Education Centre and Sports College in Poole help each and every student achieve their potential. We support young people with a wide range of physical and learning disabilities. See our website at www.livability.org.uk/ education
Registered charity number: 1116530
unique personalised support
ubu is a specialist Health and Social Care support provider. We offer help and support to people with learning or physical disabilities, as well as people who may have social and/or behavioural difficulties which make it hard for them to find their place in everyday life. We believe that everyone, whatever their background and abilities can achieve great things. As such we work to ensure that vulnerable people are given the correct opportunities to enjoy a full and active lifestyle. ubu provide as much or as little specialised support as the people we serve need. This can encompass managing behaviour, gaining life skills, gaining qualifications and building relationships. We also work closely with family members and significant friends to assess and communicate all that we do. Everyone deserves the chance to become what they should be. For further details please visit our website:
www.ubu.me.uk unique personalised support
Privately Rented Private renting involves renting from an independent landlord. Your tenancy agreement will be with them, and you as a tenant have many rights, like living in the property undisturbed. Private landlords charge market rents that can be difficult for people on low wages. You may be eligible for housing benefit, look at https://www.gov.uk/housing-benefit/what-youll-get for more information.
Family-funded housing
Home Ownership
This can come in many guises; families are approaching landlords directly to rent a house on behalf of their child, and sometimes the landlords are friends or relatives. Alternatively, family carers can purchase a property for their child. However, there are things to consider around rent and it is important to seek advice. Family members must be careful on how they rent a property to their child.
(joint investment with family) Families can jointly invest in a property with a housing association if they can’t afford to buy a property outright or don’t wish to have additional responsibilities of buy to let mortgages. The family’s investment is usually secured and repaid if the property is sold. (Subject to market movement)
Ethical Investment
Home Ownership
Ethical investing is where someone invests in an ethical investment bond for financial return as well as social good. For example, Golden Lane Housing bought many permanent homes for people with learning disabilities, helping to make a real difference to the housing shortage by offering an ethical investment bond paying 4% interest.
(mortgage)
Families are increasingly purchasing properties for their adult son or daughter. Those who can put down 25 per cent or more may be able to get a mortgage. The mortgage is in the name of the person with a learning disability who is responsible for meeting repayments from their income. For those on low earnings this can be difficult. Purchasing a property with a mortgage is a big commitment and independent financial and legal advice must be taken. The mortgage market is constantly changing. Subject to conditions, some owners with disabilities can claim an additional benefit called ‘support for mortgage interest’ which may meet interest costs up to 3.6%. With thanks to Mark McGoogan MRICS at Mencap. www.mencap.org.uk
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Jessica’s story At the age of 19 I had the experience of attending my first interview. I had always had very low self esteem and very little confidence. I had to think about the whole experience from start to finish, including picking the right clothes, having the right attitude and because the interview was in a library, knowing how I should behave there. I was nervous on the morning of the interview and needed reassurance. I was interviewed by two librarians who I had never met before but I managed to answer all their questions without help. When I got back to college I was really keen and anxious to know if I had been successful.
When they phoned to say I had, I was very proud of myself; and the staff and my family were proud of me too. I have now had my first day at work. I had to dress appropriately, arrive on time, speak with the public and all with only a little bit of support from staff. I feel really positive about the job and I’m sure I will continue to. A lot of planning went into me getting into the world of work. I had to practice skills in role play, where staff at college helped me rehearse what I should do in certain situations that we thought I might find difficult, to give me
We will support you the way you want us to!
A lot of planning went into me getting into the world of work.
the best chance to do well in the interview and at work, if I got the job. The planning and practice really did help and I have worked very hard, too.
With thanks to Hesley Group. www.hesleygroup.co.uk
Our support is different for each person as we design it around their individual needs and wishes. We will work with you, your family and other people important in your life, to make sure we get this right for you. We can support you to live in your own home, with other people or when you are out and about. We can support you for a few hours a week to 24 hours each day. We will help you build your skills to become more confident and independent so that you can make choices about everything that affects your life and puts you in control.
0800 0884 377 United Response is an award winning charity and has been supporting young people and adults with a wide range of needs and disabilities for 40 years.
get.support@unitedresponse.org.uk www.unitedresponse.org.uk/get-support Registered Charity No. 265249
PLANNING
FOR POST-16 EDUCATION
Angela Sandhal guide parents and young learners through the process of finding and funding suitable post-16 education.
Young Learners with a Statement In some cases, a child with a Statement of Special Educational Needs (Statement) will be registered at a school which provides education and training up to the age of 19 and therefore should be able to continue there until the end of the academic year in which they turn 19. Their Statement will continue. The school place will be fully-funded and the Statement should be reviewed annually to ensure that the learning objectives and provision are suitable. If the school doesn’t offer suitable education post-16, it’s worth considering whether there’s a suitable school nearby so they can transfer. If the young person remains at school they will continue to benefit from their Statement, which would otherwise stop.
Young Learners with a Learning Difficulty Assessment
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The duty to provide further education and training doesn’t stop when a child leaves school at 16 or 19. Any young person with a learning difficulty who is expected to benefit from further education and training should continue to receive education for as long as necessary up to 25. In these cases, they will have a Learning Difficulty Assessment (LDA) (see below) which replaces the Statement. It’s the responsibility of local authority that maintains the Statement to prepare an LDA and so it’s important to ensure that the local AD LOAD starts the assessmentNand LOpreparation LOAD of authority process well inNadvance N the new academic year starting.
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The purpose of an LDA is to determine the young person’s support and education needs within further education. The assessment must be followed by a written report identifying any educational or training needs and the TO Y T O Y provision required toT O meet Y DA DA D Athem.
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If the school doesn’t offer suitable education post-16, it’s worth considering whether there’s a suitable school nearby so they can transfer. DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY
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LDA Guidance
How is further education funded?
The Department for Education has issued statutory guidance, which sets out clearly how local authorities prepare LDAs. The guidance must be followed by local authorities unless there is good reason not to. The guidance includes:
Education provision is provided free of charge for all individuals up to 19 (whether they have a learning difficulty or not), or up until the age of 25 if they have an LDA, depending on factors such as whether the chosen course meets the recommendations in the LDA. Funding comes from the Education Funding Agency (EFA). The EFA provides additional funding for High Needs Students amounting to £6,000 per student for a specified number of places. Local authorities are also given a top-up fund to meet any additional costs of students with high needs. This means that local authorities have a specific budget to spend on the further education of young people in their areas.
• Local authorities are responsible for ensuring that high quality and timely LDAs take place. This is essential to allow time for the commissioning of any necessary support and provision prior to the young person leaving school; • Having determined that a young person requires an LDA, local authorities must continue to support them up to 25 if they stay in further education or training (provided they still have learning difficulties); • LDAs must be specific about the level of need required and the support and learning provision required to meet those needs; • LDAs must have a specific focus on the learning programme that is required to enable the young person to progress towards greater independence and, where appropriate, employment;
AVOIDING PR OB To avoid prob
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lems follow th ese useful tips. • E nsure that wh • The LDA should take account of the young en the young person is getti ready to leave person’s aspirations and views; ng school, the loca l authority is aware and taki ng steps to pre • The LDA should build on the views and, where pare an LDA ; • E n su re that the LDA appropriate, expertise of other people who have is clear about objectives and the learning already supported the young person; provision, and complies with guidance; the • The LDA should name a specific placement to • Ensure that meet the learner’s educational needs. the specified co llege can mee targets and p t the rovision in the LDA ; The full guidance can be found at: • EFA fundin g is with local http://www.education.gov.uk/aboutdfe/statutory/ authorities to commission a place at colleg g00203393/lda. e for the youn learner. If a lo g cal authority is not (for whatev reason) comm It’s important for young learners, their parents or er issioning the ed ucation in a young person guardians and other professionals who know them ’s LDA , a form al complaint sh be made or ta well to play an active role in the assessment and ould ke legal advice . preparation process. They should provide whatever Young people and their paren information they can to help the local authority ts can make a complaint to th e Local Govern come to a clear and fair opinion about continuing ment Ombud EFA and/or se sman, ek a judicial re education and training needs, including the view if they bel that the local ieve authority has suitability of placements. not met its du and responsib ty ilities as set o ut above. How judicial review ever, a Remember: Local authorities have a power to of any decisio n needs to be p ro mptly and wit brought carry out an LDA for any young person with a hin three mon th ab s. o u If t in w d h oubt at to do first, learning difficulty even though they may not have it’s always bes legal advice. t to take had a Statement.
Angela Sandhal is a solicitor at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors angela.sandhal@irwinmitchell.com Disclaimer: This article is a guide and is not intended to constitute legal advice on a specific matter. If you require specific legal advice on any matter, you should contact a solicitor.
Developments in home-to-school transport law Under the law, local authorities are obliged to provide full and free home-to-school transport to those who are eligible legally. Nabil Dance looks at this and a recent case which could have an impact on your child’s travel arrangements. THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF SCHOOL TRANSPORT Here I am covering full and free home-to-school transport for eligible children, and only in this specific context. Many parents and local authorities assume that such transport is only provided to children with Statements of Special Educational Needs - this is legally wrong and far from correct on a practical level. Eligibility for such support is very complex and relates to a wide range of factors in an individual case including: • Whether the child has a Statement of Special Educational Needs;
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• The distance between the family home and the school in question;
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• The age of the child concerned i.e. whether he/she is of statutory school age;
• Whether the family receive certain welfare benefits. The legal guidance issued by the Department for Education says that such travel arrangements must be suitable for the eligible child concerned.
DOWNLOADThe OURlegal FREE guidance APP TODAY issued by the Department for
Education says that such travel arrangements must be DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP suitable for TODAY the eligible child concerned. DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY
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AN IMPORTANT LEGAL DEVELOPMENT FOR PARENTS AND CARERS In Spring 2013, the families of two children with SEN took the London Borough of Hounslow to court over the children’s home-to-school transport after the council changed its school transport policy to state that ‘a seat on a vehicle suitably adapted as necessary to transport the pupil to the appropriate education provision from home or where appropriate and suitable in the context of the child’s needs an agreed meeting point.’ The council told the court that it was within its rights to arrange suitable transport for eligible children from a pick up point that was a reasonable distance from the child’s home (even if the family didn’t agree). This included where a free public bus service was available.
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principles will remain in place.
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In Spring The challenge by these two families ultimately failed. The High Court ruled that: 2013, T O theY families TO Y T Dphrase DA A ‘home-to-school travelO D AY 1) The of two children arrangements’ does not require transport to with SEN took the be provided between the child’s home and school in every case. London Borough 2) A local authority, in an appropriate case, of Hounslow is allowed to impose on the parents of a to court over child a designated pick up point (other than the children’s the child’s home). DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY home-to-school This means that unless another court it in the future, these two legal transport. OUR FREEcontradicts DOWNLOAD APP TODAY
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In response to this, the two families’ representative argued that the law says home-to-school travel arrangements should be suitable and that this could be determined by the exact mode of transport itself. He argued that the whole AD be covered in order for NtheLOAD NLOmust journey arrangements to be deemed ‘suitable’ in the legal sense.
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The council also argued, that the law on home-to-school travel arrangements covers travel in both directions between the child’s home and school, but doesn’t say it has to cover the whole entire journey.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN? In my experience, the vast majority of eligible children are transported from home to door, or a very similar arrangement is provided with a very nearby pickup point. The exact issues that arose in the Hounslow case aren’t that common and, in most cases, the family and local authority reach a compromise. However, this case is a classic example of families rightfully pushing their case as far as they can but it ultimately resulting in ‘bad law’ for other parents. It is likely that many local authorities across England will quickly jump on the bandwagon and revise their school transport policies, which could potentially result in many families being placed in the same boat as the families in this case. Families could indeed be better, or worse off, in reality.
If you are ever unsure of your rights, or need any assistance, always seek specialist professional advice as soon as possible. WHO CAN HELP? Home-to-school transport law is one of the most complex areas of education law. If you are ever unsure of your rights, or need any assistance, always seek specialist professional advice as soon as possible. Independent legal consultants and law firms who specialise in this niche field are able to assist, and most transport disputes can be resolved with an effective legal case being presented in the first instance. Nabil Dance is a specialist Independent Legal Advocate and Certified Paralegal with experience and expertise in education law (n.dance@mail.com).
Overall, the result of this case makes it more difficult for parents, carers and, crucially, their advocates, to challenge similar travel arrangements on the grounds of their being unsuitable in law. If you find that your local authority has changed its policy on travel arrangements and you don’t agree with the decision, it can potentially be challenged through the local authority’s internal complaints process, submitting a complaint to the national Government and/or the Local Government Ombudsman, or taking further legal action.
FURTHER INFORMATION The formal title of the Hounslow case described above is R (M and another) v London Borough of Hounslow [2013] EWHC 579 (Admin) (15 March 2013.) The Department for Education produced its guidelines on home-to-school transport in March 2013 entitled Guidance on home to school travel and transport: http://bit.ly/1joP6KY
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TRANSITIONS WORK BEGINS
Year 10 (age 14-15) TRANSITIONS REVIEWS to be attended by childcare worker, adult worker, post-16 providers and other appropriate support services. Ensure that: • Transition plan agreed. • Actions for individual workers/ services. • Timescales documented. • Carers’ assessment offered.
Year 12 (age 16-17) TRANSFER TO ADULT SERVICES If the person meets the eligibility criteria for the local authority. Transitions reviews to continue especially if the young person is still in school. • Community Care assessments and care planning to be arranged as appropriate.
Ages 19-25 © Swindon Parents and Carers Advisory Group
Young Person and Parents at heart of the process.
• Statutory SEN statement review. • Person-centred approach introduced. • Help given to set up a circle of support.
Family should be invited to all reviews and young people must be involved in all meetings.
Year 8 (age 12-13)
Key areas covered: Pathway to employment; Housing; Planning for good health; Developing friendships, relationships and community. Meaning of transition and its impact reinforced to young people and parents. Person-centred approach developed and ongoing.
Transition Pathway
PREPARATION FOR TRANSITIONS • Young people with additional needs identified. • Parents and young people informed of processes. • Child and adult services informed. • Person-centred approach introduced.
Year 9 (age 13-14) TRANSITIONS REVIEWS FOR ALL YOUNG PEOPLE WITH ADDITIONAL NEEDS Consider: • Access to work experience. • Eligibility for Fair Access to Care. • Existing service provision and cost. • Appropriate post-16 provision. • Future provision as an adult. • Referral to appropriate adult services.
Year 11 (age 15-16) TRANSITIONS REVIEWS To continue especially if the young person is still in school. Ensure that: • Community Care assessments and care planning to be arranged as appropriate. • Personal budgets are discussed. • Gaps are identified and appropriate actions are planned.
Year 13 (age 17-18) Year 14 (age 18-19) PLANNED CONTINUATION OF ADULT SERVICES • By all services already involved. • Any additional services alerted.
The Key to your new life Thanks to help from Mencap
Mencap provides quality housing and flexible support so you can live the life you choose. Freephone 0808 808 1111 Visit mencap.org.uk/thekeytoyournewlife Email mencapdirect@mencap.org.uk
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