Progress Transition Guide May 2013 by Care Choices Ltd

Progress MAY 13 FC_Layout 1 15/05/2013 15:03 Page 1

May 2013 edition

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Summer fun Ideas for the summer months

Be money savvy Be an entrepreneur You could have what it takes

Staying safe online SCAN OUR CODE

Positive transition planning for young adults with additional needs www.progressmagazine.co.uk

www.achuk.com

Care and support for Adults with Learning Disabilities ACH is a leading provider of residential care homes in the South and East of England offering person-centred support for adults with learning disabilities.

For more than a decade we have provided high quality care and support to enable adults with conditions including: • Autistic spectrum disorders • Epilepsy • Multiple disabilities • Sensory impairments • People who exhibit behaviour that challenges social boundries

Talk to us today! ACH has twenty five homes in the UK that may be of interest to you or a member of your family: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Newton House, Thatcham, Newbury, Berkshire Alderton House, Littleport, Ely, Cambridgeshire Ivers House, Marnhull, Dorset Bridgewater House, St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex Cloverdale House, Hove, East Sussex Maldon House, Seaford, East Sussex Arundel House, Frinton-on-Sea, Essex Cherrycroft, Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex Ashford Lodge, Chilham, Kent Bradwell House, Hythe, Kent Byfield Court, Sittingbourne, Kent Kingsdown House, Strood, Kent Sheringham House, Gravesend, Kent

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• Springfield House, Birchington, Kent • Winchester House, Minster-on-Sea, Kent • Woodbridge House, Gillingham, Kent • Rosebank Lodge, Mitcham, London • Ambleside Lodge, Redhill, Surrey • Beech Trees, Woking, Surrey • Combe House, Woking, Surrey • Whitehatch, Horley, Surrey • Coneyhurst Lodge, Worthing, West Sussex • Fleetwood House, Littlehampton, West Sussex • Harwich House, Littlehampton, West Sussex • Lambourne House, Selsey, West Sussex

For more details or to view any of the homes, please contact:

Theresa Hanson

Head of Referrals & Placements on 0208 502 8879 or Mobile: 07812 072043 email: info@achuk.com

May 2013

IN THIS ISSUE

Advice to help you prepare for upcoming exams or assessments.

Preparing for exams and assessments

WELCOME TO PROGRESS

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SUMMER FUN DOWNLOADtoOUR FREE APP TODAY Fun ideas fill the ths. mon summer OUR FREE APP TODAY DOWNLOAD

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assistive technology WIN A WEEKEND BREAK help? D AY

13 it’s what you CAN do that counts.

Matthew Smith shares his experience of becoming Director of Quality and Involvement at Thera.

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Health Action Plans to look Health Action Plans can help you ng. -bei well after your health and 46

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Assistive technology can enhance daily life if used in the right way with the right training.

Calvert Trust Exmoor enables people with physical, sensory and learning disabilities of all ages and levels of ability to achieve their potential through experiencing exciting, challenging and enjoyable outdoor activity adventures.

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A round up of the news since the last issue and details of upcoming events.

Join Calvert Trust Exmoor for an exciting weekend including accessible adventurous activities, all food and accommodation for up to 4 people.

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A TheDright to access information about yourself or your child in education or elsewhere is explained.

NEWS & WHAT’S ON?

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CONTRIBUTORS & ADVISERS

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APPS.

What’s inside the May 2013 issue of Progress?

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At Calvert Trust Exmoor,

Join Calvert Trust Exmoor for an exciting weekend including

At the fully accessible, fully catered residential centre all activities are accessible activities, all food and accommodation onsite and specifically designed and equipped toadventurous cater for everyone. The AHOEC gold standard and the CLOtC for quality up toaward-winning 4 people. centre is the only 5 star activity accommodation in the country. The range of exciting activities on offer includes climbing, kayaking, abseiling, horse riding, Calvert Trust Exmoor enables people with physical, sensory and archery and accessible cycling.

learning disabilities of all ages and levels of ability to achieve

Calvert Trust Exmoor’s personal development breaks build self-confidence their potential through experiencing exciting, challenging and and self-esteem, offering all ages the chance to overcome challenges, gain a sense of achievement and have aenjoyable lot of fun doing it! They also offer outdoor activity adventures. ‘I CAN do it’ life skills training for 16-25 year olds: an exciting mix of outdoor activities and basic life skills designed to help with the transition process.

Visit www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor for more information.

from Wales

Summary of proposed changes to social services, At Calvert Trust Exmoor, well-being and education in Wales.

Entrepreneursit’s what you CAN do that counts.

For your chance to win just answer this simple question:

Calvert Trust Exmoor is a short distance from which coast?

At the fully accessible, fully catered residential centre all activities are – have you got what it takes? onsite and specifically designed and equipped to cater for everyone. The

(hint: you can find the answer on www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor!)

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY Could you be an entrepreneur?

You can enter by sending your name and address and answer to Progress Magazine, 4 Valley Court Offices, Lower Road, Croydon, Near Royston, Herts SG8 0HF or email: editor@progressmagazine.co.uk.

AHOEC gold standard and the CLOtC quality award-winning centre is the only 5 star activity accommodation in the country. The range of exciting activities on offer includes climbing, kayaking, abseiling, horse riding, archery and accessible cycling.

Find out more.

Hints and tips to help you save money on everyday living.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY

The competition closes on Monday 30th September 2013. The first correct answer selected at random will win the break. Only one entry per household. The prize is non-transferrable. The weekend break must be taken anytime between October 2013 and March 2014. Alternative dates are not available. A cash alternative cannot be offered. Entrants’ details will be passed on to Calvert Trust Exmoor www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor. Please indicate in your entry if you would not like your details passed on. Name of the winner will be available on request.

Calvert FP Comp.indd 1

Calvert Trust Exmoor’s personal development breaks build self-confidence and self-esteem, offering all ages the chance to overcome challenges, gain a sense of achievement and have a lot of fun doing it! They also offer ‘I CAN do it’ life skills training for 16-25 year olds: an exciting mix of outdoor activities and basic life skills designed to help with the transition process.

49 52

A selection of innovative mobility products and aids.

STAYING SAFE

ONLINE

Guidance to help you ensure you’re safe whilst surfing the ‘net.

54 Transition pathway

09/05/2013 12:45

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY

Visit www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor for more information.

For your chance to win just answer this simple question:

Calvert Trust Exmoor is a short APP distance from which coast? DOWNLOAD OUR FREE TODAY (hint: you can find the answer on www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor!)

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY

You can enter by sending your name and address and answer to Progress Magazine, 4 Valley Court Offices, Lower Road, Croydon, Near Royston, Herts SG8 0HF or email: editor@progressmagazine.co.uk.

www.progressmagazine.co.uk

Welcome from the Editor Welcome to the May issue of Progress. As we all hope (or should I say wish) for a long, lovely summer, we here at Progress have put together some ideas for spending those summer days. The summer fun feature on page 22 is a great starting point for planning your summer and don’t forget to check out our What’s on column on page 10 for events too. For some of you, summer may not be able to start until you’ve finished your exams and assessments. If that’s you, take a look at our exam and assessment preparation tips on page 34. With suggestions for managing your time, looking after yourself and dealing with any nerves I hope it helps you get through your assessments. Good luck.

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If you’re looking for something new in mobility the innovative products on page 49 might be just what you’re after. From all-terrain wheelchairs to fashion walking sticks, take a look and see if anything takes your fancy.

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Did you know that assistive technology is all around us? From easy dialler phones to one-cup kettles it’s already part of everyday life for many people. Assistive technology can make everyday tasks easier; give you independence and confidence in life. The feature on page 25 explores assistive technology and how it may be able to help you.

For those of you reading in Wales, Marie Macey returns with another update on progress in proposed changes to health and well-being and education policy. You can find her View from Wales on page 30.

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If you haven’t already, please download Progress as an app. It’s free and available on Apple and Android platforms for tablets and smart phones. Just visit your device’s app store and search on ‘Progress Magazine’ with the most current issue and back issues at your fingertips, with click-through links to our advertisers and contributors you never need be without your issue again.

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Email: editor@progressmagazine.co.uk

Tel: 01223 207770

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Editor

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Emma Morriss

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For those of you reading Progress having received a copy at The Transition Event in Birmingham, thank you for attending. We hope you enjoyed the day and for you and all other readers, we’ll be back next year so watch this space for details!

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Twitter: @progress_mag

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Contributors & Advisers

henshaws DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY College

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• ACH

• Henshaws

• MyChoicePad

• Activate

• HFT

OUR FREE APP TODAY • Nabil Dance,DOWNLOAD Independent Legal Advocate

• Calvert Trust Exmoor • CareTech Community Services

• Marie Macey, Thrive Cardiff and Cardiff and the Vale National Autistic Society Branch

• Classic Canes

• Matthew Smith, Thera

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY • Time Out with Netbuddy

• Epilepsy Society

• Mybility

• United Response

• SNAP Cymru • TGA

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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. © 2013 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 978-1-909048-50-8. 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. Ref. No: 4001/SC20/0413. 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. Tel: 01223 207770. Fax: 01223 207108 E-mail: progress@carechoices.co.uk Web: www.progressmagazine.co.uk PUBLISHER: Matthew Tingey SALES: Sue Speaight BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER: Paul Leahy EDITOR: Emma Morriss PRODUCTION: Jamie Harvey, NIck Cade & Holly Cornell. Printed in England.

Photograph credits: Front Cover - Beard Brothers, part of the Millbrook Group, a Quickie Elite Dealer. Image courtesy of Sunrise Medical.

www.progressmagazine.co.uk

2012.2

Looking for support to live independently?

Mencap supports hundreds of young people to grow and develop each day. We provide reliable, high-quality support that meets individual needs. Working in partnership with specialist housing charity Golden Lane Housing, we can also help people to find quality homes they can build their lives around. Contact Mencap Direct to find out more about our support and other services: Freephone (even from a mobile) 0808 808 1111 Email help@mencap.org.uk Go to www.mencapdirect.org.uk Registered charity number 222377 (England, Northern Ireland and Wales); SC041079 (Scotland) 2012.286â&#x20AC;&#x201C;11.12

2012.286 Mencap Direct Progress magazine FINAL.indd 1

21/11/2012 10:01

8 in 10 people who care for loved ones with a learning disability have told Mencap that they are at breaking point.

progress news Short break crisis 8 in 10 people who care for loved ones with a learning disability have told Mencap that they are at breaking point. They feel they can no longer go on caring, because they are exhausted and don’t get the short breaks or respite support they need. While the Government has invested £1.2 billion in short breaks for carers, the use of this money was not ring-fenced. Mencap’s latest research shows that it was not spent on the services that families desperately need, in fact councils across England have cut short breaks services. The Short Breaks report, launched by Mencap, reveals the devastating impact that not having a short break can have on families.

FR EE respite holidays

Charity Papworth Trust is offering free respite (short break) holidays to disabled people and their families thanks to £2 million of Lottery cash. Typical respite is where the disabled person goes away while their family stays at hom e. The Trust’s respite holidays offer a chance for the whole family to go together and have a supported break, without the pressures of everyday life. Kerry Farm is set in the Welsh countryside is currently bein g renovated. You will be able to apply for one week resp ite breaks although applications for breaks in autumn 201 3 have closed. For more information, or to find out how to apply for a break, visit www.papworth.org.uk /kerryfarm.

Mencap found: • More than 8 in 10 families of adults with a learning disability did not receive any short breaks whatsoever this year. • Over 50% of councils have cut spending on short breaks for families. • 9 in 10 family carers reported high levels of stress. • Over half of family carers have given up, or are considering giving up, work. • 8 out of 10 family carers claim that a lack of short breaks has had a negative impact on their family life. • 9 in 10 families say it has left them isolated from friends and support networks. The findings outlined in Mencap’s report show that the availability of short breaks services has remained at a critically poor level over the past decade, with no improvement since Mencap launched its Breaking Point campaign in 2003. Mencap is urging the government to ring-fence the money intended for short breaks, so it is actually spent on these services. They are also calling on councils to intervene early to ensure that no family carer is left to reach breaking point due to a lack of short breaks. www.mencap.org.uk/breakingpoint

@progress_mag

Birmingham is leading the way in providing extra support to get disabled people into mainstream work. Disability Employment Support Birmingham is leading the way in providing extra support to get disabled people into mainstream work. Britain’s second largest city tops the list of where disabled entrepreneurs and businesses receive the most support under the Government’s specialist disability employment scheme. The scheme, Access to Work, pays for specialised equipment, support workers and travel costs. Last year 700 people from Birmingham received support to get or stay in work, with 550 from Leeds and 400 from Glasgow. Access to Work has previously been called ‘the Government’s best kept secret’, and the Government has expanded the marketing campaign to raise awareness of the changes and target young disabled people and people with mental health conditions. Anyone interested in applying for this support, can search ‘Access to Work’ at www.gov.uk to find out details of contact centres.

Summer Fun is on page 22 Ideas for the summer months.

Progress Transition Pathway is on page 54 The main transition stages.

also including:

Gig Buddies launches • 100 Voices on Transport • Wmff!

Lloyds TSB’s online BSL service

communication service FOR its customers with hearing impairments.

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introduced a sign language

Dimensions, a national not-for-profit support provider for people with autism and learning disabilities, is has announced that Vue Cinemas is pledging its TO T O VueYCinemas will launch its support to the Autism Y Friendly Films initiative. D DA A autism friendly screenings on 30th June, with subsequent monthly screenings happening on the last Sunday of each month. These screenings will be available at 78 Vue Cinemas nationwide. Vue is the third cinema chain to join the initiative, following ODEON and Cineworld, making it the biggest scheme to offer nationwide Autism Friendly Film showings, for which adjustments include eliminating adverts, lighting left on low and sound turned down.

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Lloyds Banking Group has

Vue joins Autism Friendly Films

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Lloyds Banking Group has introduced a sign language communication service for its customers with hearing impairments. Called SignVideo, the service enables customers to have direct access to the Lloyds TSB customer service team via a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter using their computer and a webcam. This will enable them to communicate in their first or preferred language of BSL. To access the service, customers simply click on the SignVideo BSL Live link on the LloydsTSB.com contact us page and follow the on-screen instructions. Once connected, customers talk to the SignVideo interpreter using sign language and the interpreter relays whatever is said to the Lloyds TSB customer service team and vice versa. Customers can use the service to handle everyday transactions on their Lloyds TSB personal current, savings and credit card accounts. This includes paying bills and transferring money to other UK accounts.

For more information on Autism Friendly Films visit www.dimensions-uk. org/autismfilms.

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progress news

@progress_mag

Transition to Adulthood - A Guide for Practitioners

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Homes for adults with a Learning Disability

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We believe that nothing should be a barrier to people in achieving their ambitions and realising their full potential. Decoy Farm Browston, Norfolk, 01502 730927 The Laurels Lowestoft, Suffolk, 01502 585459 Lynfield Ditchingham, Norfolk, 01986 897196 Wisteria House Ipswich, Suffolk, 01473 726326

For more information contact your local home or visit www.isiss.co.uk

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Birmingham is leading the way in providing extra support to get disabled people into mainstream work.

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Cerebra has recently published Transition to Adulthood â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Guide for Practitioners. This guide is for practitioners working with disabled young people and their families, focusing on those young people aged between 16 and 25. It explains the legal and policy frameworks, for England and Wales, that are relevant to areas in which these young people and their families are likely to need support and advice as the young person enters adulthood. Its purpose is to help practitioners understand the relevant law and policy so that they can guide young disabled people through this transition to adulthood. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available to download from the Cerebra website www.cerebra.org.uk.

New housing fund

Gig Buddies launches Gig Buddies, the scheme that supports people with learning disabilities to get out to more gigs and events has officially launched. Gig Buddies pairs up people with and without a learning disability to go to gigs and other events together. You will be sharing interests and passions for live music, nights out and other events with your buddy. It’s about everyone being able to live their lives the way they want. They are currently recruiting participants and volunteers for Gig Buddies so please get in touch if you know someone who may be interested, or you want to get involved yourself. (At the moment it’s funded to run in Brighton and Hove, and East Sussex.) Training courses and social events are already happening so get in touch. http://stayuplate.org/ gig-buddies-project/

Golden Lane Housing (GLH), the housing arm of Mencap, has launched a £10 million charity bond which will raise money to buy homes for people with a learning disability. It will be the UK’s largest ever charity bond issue of its kind. GLH views this bond issue as the first step in raising up to £30 million over the next few years, which will mean that in total, investors will give 250 people with a learning disability the chance to live independently in specially adapted homes. Just 1 in 3 people with a learning disability currently live independently, and many struggle to compete on the open market, making it virtually impossible to find housing in areas where there is no suitable social housing available. Recent Mencap research found that 8 in 10 councils in England and Wales report a housing shortage for adults with a learning disability in their areas, with nearly 7 in 10 (67%) stating this has worsened in the last 12 months. GLH and Mencap work with local authorities and NHS commissioners to find funding for suitable properties for people with a learning disability and then develop packages of support so that they are able to live independently.

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Gig Buddies pairs up people with and without a learning disability to go to gigs and other events together.

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19/03/2013 14:20

www.progressmagazine.co.uk

PROGRESS NEWS Accessible YouTube Progress Magazine’s Guide to What’s On The Transition Event 2013 23rd May 2013, National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham www.progressmagazine.co.uk/events Disability Rocks 8th June 2013, Ilkley http://disabilityrocks.org/ Kidz South 13th June 2013, Rivermead Leisure Complex, Reading www.disabledliving.co.uk/kidz Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy Open Day 20th June 2013, Fortune Centre of Riding Therapy, New Forest www.fortunecentre.org CalvertStock 2013 22nd June 2013, Beggars Roost Inn, Nr. Lynton, Devon www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor/calvertstock Wheelchair Dance Championship 30th June 2013, The Forum Hall, Wythenshawe www.strictlywheelchairdancing.co.uk/manchestergrandprix DaDaFest - The Festival of Disability and Deaf Arts 13th July – 2nd September, Liverpool www.dadafest.co.uk DNEX 2013 - The Annual Exhibition of Disability North 25th to 26th September, Newcastle Racecourse www.disabilitynorth.org.uk

Easy News will be published every two months and will be available in print and online.

@progress_mag www.progressmagazine.co.uk

Henshaws College has launched an accessible version of YouTube, which was funded by Jisc through Jisc Advance. It allows people with learning difficulties and disabilities to use this mainstream technology independently. ACCESS: YouTube (http://accessyoutube.org.uk) simplifies the standard YouTube site making it easier to search and play videos, and allows the use of assistive technologies. It is now publicly available so everyone can benefit from this accessible method. It has been created to allow those with learning difficulties and disabilities to access the mainstream website independently. The site also has safety filters so that there is no concern from teachers or parents that inappropriate content could be accessed. The designer has used large fonts, visual cues and a logical layout to improve access using assistive technologies. By simplifying the site and removing content such as adverts and comments, the website is more accessible to screen readers. Try it out and let us know what you think editor@progressmagazine.co.uk.

The site also has safety filters so that there is no concern from teachers or parents that inappropriate content could be accessed. Easy New s

Easy New s people wit , the first newspape r for h learning launched disabilities by United h a s been Response people wit . Created h learning to give disabilities format tha the news in t is design e a d with the News will m in mind be publish . Easy ed every tw will be ava o month ilable version will in print and online. A s and n audio also be av ailable on online. To C D and find out m www.unit ore visit edrespon se.org.uk easynew or email s@united response . org.uk.

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The Brandon Trust has launched a report called 100 Voices on Transport, written for and by people supported by the charity as a result of their annual conference; the report outlines public transportrelated issues and offers possible solutions along with case studies. Among the problems raised in the report is a continued lack of accessibility to public transport - from difficulty boarding a vehicle to issues using timetables and route signage. Common themes centre on cost and availability, while a clear lack of understanding of the needs of people with learning disabilities from other passengers and bus drivers was a big concern. The report highlights fear of mistreatment as another major factor pushing people away from using public transport regularly. Linked to this, a survey of 2,000 people conducted on behalf of Brandon Trust, shows 74 per cent of us think public transport providers do not do enough to make travelling accessible for people with disabilities, while one in three of those asked think the Government should be spending more time looking into public transport issues faced by people with disabilities. And 17 per cent questioned had witnessed bus drivers or transport staff being insensitive to the needs of others. The report looks at transport solutions including improved disability training for transport staff, introduction of easy read timetables and route planners, fewer travel pass restrictions and better accessibility for wheelchairs. The report also highlights the urgent need for more transport training for people with learning disabilities, like the Travel Buddy Scheme run by Brandon Trust in Bristol, which could help make a big contribution to better services. www.brandontrust.org

Choice Support’s Shared Lives Choice Support, one of the UK’s leading support providers for people with learning disabilities, has launched its new Shared Lives service. Initially focusing on London this service will offer people with learning disabilities the opportunity to live in an ordinary home with a carer and get support whilst sharing in that carer’s everyday family life. This service is ﬂexible, unique to the individual and can offer support on a long or short term basis.

This service is flexible, unique to the individual and can offer support on a long or short term basis.

@progress_mag www.progressmagazine.co.uk

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100 Voices on Transport

Wm ff!

progress news

Wmff! Wmff! is a new and unique bilingual mobile app for 14 to 25 year olds in Wales. It offers practical solutions via survival guides, live messaging and secure forums. The app aims to encourage young people to seek support and advice for themselves and can give users instant help on the issues identified as important factors to future prospects. The areas covered include bullying, exclusions, getting back into education, finding work and young people’s rights. The app gives users direct access to support and encourages users to contact agents at SNAP Cymru to seek further advice. www.wmff.co.uk

Wmff! is a new and unique bilingual mobile app for 14 to 25 year olds in Wales.

WIN A WEEKEND BREAK RTH UP TO O W

with Calvert Trust Exmoor

£1140

Join Calvert Trust Exmoor for an exciting weekend including accessible adventurous activities, all food and accommodation for up to 4 people. Calvert Trust Exmoor enables people with physical, sensory and learning disabilities of all ages and levels of ability to achieve their potential through experiencing exciting, challenging and enjoyable outdoor activity adventures.

At Calvert Trust Exmoor, it’s what you CAN do that counts. At the fully accessible, fully catered residential centre all activities are onsite and specifically designed and equipped to cater for everyone. The AHOEC gold standard and the CLOtC quality award-winning centre is the only 5 star activity accommodation in the country. The range of exciting activities on offer includes climbing, kayaking, abseiling, horse riding, archery and accessible cycling. Calvert Trust Exmoor’s personal development breaks build self-confidence and self-esteem, offering all ages the chance to overcome challenges, gain a sense of achievement and have a lot of fun doing it! They also offer ‘I CAN do it’ life skills training for 16-25 year olds: an exciting mix of outdoor activities and basic life skills designed to help with the transition process. Visit www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor for more information.

For your chance to win just answer this simple question:

Calvert Trust Exmoor is a short distance from which coast? (hint: you can find the answer on www.calvert-trust.org.uk/exmoor!) You can enter by sending your name and address and answer to Progress Magazine, 4 Valley Court Offices, Lower Road, Croydon, Near Royston, Herts SG8 0HF or email: editor@progressmagazine.co.uk.

Entrepreneurs –

have you got what it takes? Entrepreneurs are, apparently, made in a recession. With a tough job market, competition for limited roles, new graduates not being able to realise their potential, a recession makes perfect breeding ground for entrepreneurs.

What’s an entrepreneur? We hear lots about entrepreneurs, self-made business people such as Dragons Den’s Peter Jones and Deborah Meaden, but it can seem a world away from our lives. It doesn’t need to though; everyone has to start somewhere, with an idea, some drive and a faith in their abilities. An entrepreneur is someone who takes business into their own hands and develops their ideas to make a profit. They are usually their own boss. Being an entrepreneur is not without risk, you need to take a leap of faith in your ideas, your business and your abilities to make it a success. You need to consider the risks and be prepared to fail on your way to success. When times are tough, money and jobs are hard to come by, people may not think it’s the best time to set up on your own. However, tough times can focus minds; help generate ideas and the drive to make it.

How do I become an entrepreneur? First of all you need a viable business idea. What skills do you have? What’s your career or education background? What interests you? What are you good at? If you don’t already have an idea, thinking about all of these things will help you to begin piecing together what your business may be. It may not be obvious at first but look at everything you have to offer and also what interests you. There’s no point starting a business doing something you don’t like, work should be enjoyable and when things get tough, as they can in business, the enjoyment will help you through. Look for a gap in the market, is there something missing in your area, in business, in a particular sector? Try to identify what people need, what you have to offer and what you enjoy. Your idea can be anything as long as there is a need for it. Whether that’s dog walking or gardening, car-pooling, IT repairs, website design or personal training, as long as people need your services you have the basis of a business.

Wheels in motion

Once you have an idea you will need to set it in motion. Research the market, your competition, if any, and create a business plan. The Government website GOV.UK has lots of useful information to help you plan your business. The Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities has produced a Quick Guide to Self-Employment which can be downloaded from its website www.learningdisabilities.org.uk/inbusiness

It is important to get professional advice to make sure you set up the business in the right way, according to the law and with funding. Again, GOV.UK has a useful tool for finding support in your local area. www.gov.uk/business-ﬁnancesupport-ﬁnder asks some simple questions about the type of business you’re looking to start and the area you’re in and will give you a list of organisations that offer funding or support to help you along the way. The Business Link Helpline can also give you quick answers to simple questions around starting your own business. You can call them on 0845 600 9006, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm. If you need funding to start your business, you will need a good business plan to discuss with the bank or other funders. Although obtaining funding from banks is tricky, it is a good starting point. However, don’t get disheartened if they say no. There are many different organisations that may be able to support you with funding via grants, loans or charitable funds. There are also ‘in work’ benefits that you may be able to claim. Speak with your Jobcentre Plus and business adviser to find out more about funding for your new business.

££

£”

“

Everyone has to start somewhere, with an idea, some drive and a faith in their abilities.

Support If this all sounds a little daunting then having the right support to help you nurture your ideas and develop them into a business can make a difference. Organisations such as the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities’ In Business project may be of interest. The team can help you to develop your business idea, write a business plan, deal with tax and set up an appropriate circle of support offer you guidance along the way. In Business has assisted people to set up businesses including DJ services, ink recycling, disability awareness training, car wash, children’s t-shirts, licensed car hire, support for travel arrangements and horticulture amongst others.

www.progressmagazine.co.uk

Circles of support can be very useful in helping you to set up a network of people with the relevant skills to help you achieve your goals. Disabled Entrepreneurs is a specialist team of disabled professionals from a range of different backgrounds who offer support to disabled people through business advice and public speaking, PR, marketing and copywriting. www.disabledentrepreneurs.co.uk Disabled Entrepreneurs Network provides networking opportunities and information services for self-employed disabled people. It provides a variety of information for disabled entrepreneurs such as sign-posting to other support, finance and training. www.disabled-entrepreneurs.net Leonard Cheshire Disability has teamed up with the Federation of Small Businesses to celebrate and nurture entrepreneurs to help them become a success. Leonard Cheshire Disability also supports the Stelios Award for Disabled Entrepreneurs in the UK, sponsored by Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the serial entrepreneur best known for founding easyJet. The award has been developed to support disabled entrepreneurs and raise awareness of the skills and inventiveness of those with disabilities. www.lcdisability.org

To be eligible for support you must:  have a disability or health condition that stops you from being able to do parts of your job,  have work-related costs because of your disability or health condition,  Be 16 or over; and • in a paid job; or • unemployed and about to start a job; or • unemployed and about to start a Jobcentre Plus Work Trial; or • self-employed.

Government support Disability is no barrier to entrepreneurship. In fact, the Government has recently announced support for entrepreneurs with a disability to start their own business in 2013. The Government has agreed to support entrepreneurs through Access to Work to pay for specialised equipment, support staff and travel costs when setting up their business. It aims to boost the number of disabled people who are self-employed, which is half a million people or 15 per cent of disabled people in work. Access to Work is a disability employment programme delivered by Jobcentre Plus. To get support through Access to Work when setting up your own business you need to be enrolled on the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA). The NEA provides expert coaching and financial support for jobseekers with a business idea. To apply, search ‘Access to Work’ at www.gov.uk to find out details of contact centres. If eligible, Access to Work provides grants direct to you to reimburse you for approved costs, and is very flexible in order to meet your individual needs.

You may feel nervous about running your own business or being an entrepreneur, but it is possible with the right support to assist you in turning your ideas into a successful career.

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

APPS.

FR E

Progress has hunted out some apps to help those with additional needs or going through transition.

Do you have a Radar key? Want to find the nearest Radar toilet? Instantly locate your nearest toilet facility and get directions by road, bus or foot with the Radar National Key Scheme App. Previously charged at £4.99 it is now available for free download from the App Store.

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Are you heading into London for a day out? My DisabledGo London has detailed access information for venues and attractions across London. Every one of the 20,000+ venues has been assessed in person to give accurate information. Available for free download from the App Store.

Progress Magazine Your favourite transition guide – Progress has now launched an app. Access and read the most recent issue with all links activated as well as being able to download and browse through back issues to make sure you’re up to speed on all aspects of transition.

Available to download for free from the App Store and Google Play.

£7 4. 99

MyChoicePad MyChoicePad is the only iPad app that uses Makaton signs and symbols to help you develop your language and communication skills in a fun and engaging way. You can use it to interact with the world around you, create activities and schedules, help you make decisions and practise your signing with signing videos. MyChoicePad can be used at home, at school or when you are out and about.

There are 450 core concepts with up to 3,000 more available via in-app purchases. MyChoicePad comes with a few example grids to get you started and you can create your own using your own photos and voice too. MyChoicePad is available from the App Store for £74.99 and you can also download MyChoicePad Lite for free to try before you buy. There are two free games available from the App Store too. They are called Memory and Matching.

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Wmff! is a new and unique bilingual mobile app for 14 to 25 year olds in Wales. It offers practical solutions via survival guides, live messaging and secure forums. The app aims to encourage young people to seek support and advice for themselves and can give users instant help on the issues identified as important factors to future prospects. The areas covered include bullying, exclusions, getting back into education, finding work and young people’s rights. The app gives users direct access to support and encourages users to contact agents at SNAP Cymru to seek further advice. Wmff! is free to download from the App Store and Google Play.

Grace App The Grace App for Autism helps autistic and other children and young people with additional needs to communicate effectively, by building semantic sequences from relevant images to form sentences. The app can be easily customised by using picture and photo vocabulary of your choice. Grace App stores a basic picture vocabulary of Foods, Things I like, Places, Colours, Sizes and Shapes on an iPhone/iPad or iPod Touch and you can create a sentence that can be read. There is also a facility for finding and taking photographs of other things you may need. It is available to download for £17.49 from the App Store.

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FR EE

JABtalk

Georgie

FR EE

JABtalk is a free speech communication application designed to help non-verbal children and adults communicate. Speech therapists commonly refer to JABtalk as an easy and effective augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device. By combining personalised voice and images with an extremely simple user interface, JABtalk delivers a speech solution that is both fun to use and easy to learn. Available to download for free from Google Play.

N HE EE LP D ?

Georgie, a smartphone software application designed for blind people, by blind people includes apps to help navigate day-to-day obstacles. These include catching a bus, reading printed text or working out exactly where you are in unfamiliar areas. A number of different apps are coming soon but currently available is GeorgiePhone, a replacement home app for the blind and visually-impaired. GeorgiePhone is available for free on Android from Google Play.

BridgingApps BridgingApps is a website developed to bridge the gap between technology and people with disabilities. It is a US-based volunteer community of parents, therapists, doctors and teachers who share information on using iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch and Android devices with people who have additional needs. As well as being an online community it reviews and rates apps. Apps are also listed and categorised by different skills and traits.

Widgit Go

£5

www.bridgingapps.org

Widgit Go is an app for creating activities and grids to support communication, learning and language development. Widgit Go can be used as a voice output device or to write simple documents with symbols and text from grids. 12 example activities are included. With Widgit Go Full Version you can create and edit activities with access to the complete Widgit Symbol Set containing 11,000 symbols. No Internet connection is required either for creating or using activities. Widgit Go is available for £54.98 on Google Play and if you want to try before you buy, Widgit Go Lite gives you four example activities.

Download your copies from the App Store or Google Play, now!

THESE ARE JUST A SMALL SELECTION OF APPS AVAILABLE. WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING FOR COMMUNICATION APPS, APPS TO HELP YOU GET AROUND, OR JUST FUN AND GAMES, A GOOD SEARCH OF THE APP STORE AND GOOGLE PLAY CAN TURN UP SOME REAL GEMS.

www.progressmagazine.co.uk

We are Freedom Care... Freedom Care, Leicestershire, Established in 2002. We offer specialised & bespoke social care services, to help improve the lives of adults diagnosed with Autism, Personality disorders, Aspergers, ADHD and Learning disabilities with recognised Autistic traits.

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N U F R E M M U S m of long days of ea dr all we ilst wh d an y, wa its on is Summer air, the reality can warm sun, evenings outside and fresh ng and not allow be quite different. But let’s get planni er. the British weather to ruin our summ

Disability Rocks

comedy, Summer is festival season; music, ng. open-air theatre, it’s all for the taki sold are s ival Although most music fest still out months in advance, there are Rocks is opportunities available. Disability Interest a new, not-for-profit Community , father Company set up by Richard Sutton h the of a young boy with a disability, wit events aim of presenting music and arts for disabled people. ctic This ticket only event will be an ecle areas. mix of music, arts and interactive stage in ma There will be two stages, the be a and a second stage. There will also ops rksh dance area, a cinema tent and wo will, of in music and art. Food and drinks be course, be available and people will re mo encouraged to bring a picnic. For any information, and to see if there are ks.org tickets left, visit www.disabilityroc

event in aid of Calvert CalvertStock 2013 is a FREE music ’s Roost, North Devon on Trust Exmoor. Held at the Beggar will feature an exciting the 22nd of June 2013, the event fair rides, and food. Already line-up of bands, as well as stalls, nake Tribute), Hangfire, confirmed are Quitesnake (Whites Dave Sharp (Ex The This Devastated Fan, Falling Apart, ration, Chris Millington Alarm), Digital Natives, Ataraxis Vib re about CalvertStock and Despite Water. To find out mo rust.org.uk/calvertstock. 2013 please go to www.calvert-t

Oh, I do like to be beside the seaside

h sea air Heading to the coast for some fres a day, can be a wonderful way to spend ther is weekend or week’s break. If the wea d, you lovely, though that’s not guarantee the sea, can walk on the beach, paddle in eat ice go rock-pooling for marine life and mer cream. If, as is usual, the British sum ons isn’t kind, then the seafront attracti e som are a fantastic way to spend tres, time. Arcades, shows, sealife cen on gs there are so many different thin re offer. Apparently, you are never mo ain. than 72 miles from the sea in Brit

Harry Potter

fans

Turn to

PAGE 10 for

hugely successful Harry Potter If you’re a fan of the Tour should be right up films, then the Harry Potter Studio London, The Making of your street. 20 miles north-west of explore the magic of the Harry Potter gives you a chance to scenes tour including Harry Potter films with a behind the bledore’s oﬃce. exploring the Great Hall and Dum e and if you have any Tickets must be booked in advanc bility needs, the Studio specific needs including any accessi ure they are met. One Tour team can work with you to ens paying disabled visitor but carer is able to visit for free with a her details are available on will need proof of entitlement; furt tours can be arranged at the website. British Sign Language welcomed and wheelchairs no extra cost, assistance dogs are advance notice is can be accommodated too, though t may be diﬃcult to navigate needed. There are a few areas tha be found on the website. or inaccessible but again details can www.wbstudiotour.co.uk

Me setting up my guitar!

LEWIS LOVES TO

ROCK

and I moved into Alderton My name is Lewis Arnett, I am 20 ber 2011. In the time I House in Cambridgeshire in Decem up called Fenland Jam have been here I have joined a gro e. We practise at a local and formed a band called Ice Cag (Young People of Littleport) community centre called the YPL ning and we also have gig in Littleport every Wednesday eve nights. bands are Thin Lizzy, AC/ I love rock music and my favourite e my own guitar and amp DC, Bon Jovi and Green Day. I hav m that we have to learn for and practise my songs in my bedroo our next jam session. , who moved in recently, sings Another guy I live with, Jamie Harman is rock with rapping and we have and writes his own lyrics. His style r the Darkness and we hope to recorded a song together called Fea record another one next month.

PROGRESS MAG AZINEʼS GUIDE TO WHAT ʼS ON for more events hap pening over the coming months.

Cinema

lywood The summer usually sees a big Hol ased rele ng blockbuster movie or two bei s. If to coincide with the school holiday k at the you enjoy the cinema, have a loo se with listings for your local area. For tho fortable autism or who may not feel com ensions’ or able to go to the cinema, Dim picking Autism Friendly Films initiatives is joining up steam with Vue cinemas now autismg ODEON and Cineworld in offerin . friendly screenings of popular films have Autism Friendly Film Screenings ts left ligh sound levels turned down, the able up at a low level and film-goers are feel to make noise and sit where they ating comfortable. A full list of particip found at cinemas and other details can be lms. ﬁ www.dimensions-uk.org/autism

ly plays I play rhythm guitar, Jamie sings, Hol plays the the drums and our teacher Nathan are we and lead guitar. We love gig nights to see starting to get quite a crowd coming us! we do on You can find out more about what .uk/Events/ this website www.fenlandjam.co Events/ypl_sep_dec_2012.html om With thanks to ACH www.achuk.c services For more information on ACH’s ide Front please see the advert on the Ins Cover.

MORE SUMMER FUN IDEAS > 23 www.progressmagazine.co.uk

Find local events and activitiesvities

Time Out with Netbuddy

site of local acti www.wherecanwego.com is a web tcode. You can find out searchable by town, village or pos s, four weeks or in the what’s going on in the next few day what’s happening in next year. It’s great for finding out on holiday, what’s your local area or, if you’re going s out and won’t miss happening there. You can plan day have heard of. out on local events you might not w.visitengland.co.uk Similarly, VisitEngland’s website ww actions and things to do has details of different events, attr nts by location or by the around England. You can find eve h as seaside breaks, breaks type of thing you’d like to do suc ily or outdoor adventure. on a budget, ideas for all the fam ty section including The website a very useful accessibili go the extra mile to offer locations and organisations that rs. www.visitengland. great facilities for disabled travelle cessible-England com/ee/Practical-Information/Ac

for Netbuddy, the online community ds, anyone connected with special nee you’, offering hints and tips ‘by you, for ine. has joined up with Time Out magaz ionwide This link up draws together a nat for online listing of events and venues ngs are people with special needs. The listi also has on www.netbuddy.org.uk but it .com/ a Facebook page www.facebook find an TimeOutWithNetbuddy. You can details of event locally or nationally or add t. You something for other people to visi g win follo can find out about events by com/ them on Twitter too www.twitter. timeoutnetbuddy.

newsletters ers. Don’t forget your local papers, oth or s tion ges sug se the h wit s Make the most of the summer day l area that you might enjoy. of things happening in your loca and websites will also have details

Helsey House Holiday Cottages



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



Helsey House Cottages are situated within the private grounds of Helsey House in the hamlet of Helsey near Hogsthorpe on the North East Lincolnshire coast. They are single storey and on one level with no steps. Free wi-fi access. Each award winning cottage has been converted from original cattle stalls belonging to the dairy farm. They have been furnished to the highest standard whilst maintaining original features and character of the buildings. There is ample parking in the grounds. The owners live on site so are available for help and advice. AVAILABLE FACILITIES: • We can arrange for groceries to be available on arrival

     

• We have a wheelchair and a shower wheelchair available for guests' use. A toilet seat riser and bed risers are also available. • An Oxford midi 150 mobile hoist is available for guests' use. • Both cottages have laminated flooring for ease of mobility and are on one level.

The Cow Shed

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

   

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

The Dairy

www.helseycottages.co.uk

How can

assistive technology help?

"Although the phrase assistive technology or personalised technology can sound scary, like something from science ﬁction, it is already all around us."

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Technologies with a more specialist use include telecare, environmental controls, telehealth, ICT and other electronic assistive technologies. These pieces of technology are not designed to limit you and your life, they are there to help you to react to things in a positive way. Telehealth can help you to monitor any specific health conditions and send NLOtoAD information back your doctor so you don’t need to visit them as often. Specific communication devices can help you to communicate what you’d like, what you want to say and build up words and sentences if you aren’t able to speak. Assistive T O technology or personalised devices don’t know D AY whether you have a disability. Their job is to respond to the information they receive to help with a specific situation.

Assistive technology can help people with daily TO living tasks, their health orTcare O Dneeds Y D Amanaging AY and supporting them to live more independently. Simple devices can make profound changes to a person’s life. For example, the large buttons on an easy dialler phone are ideal for the visually impaired, allowing them to communicate independently and privately. Similarly, a one-cup hot water dispenser can help people to make their first ever cup of tea for visitors, a great leap OUR FREE APP towards independence and something thatTODAY creates great pride.

Technology solutions can support you in all aspects of your lives including daily living tasks but also in managing your health or care needs and supporting you to live more independently. It can also increase your safety, mobility, communication, employment and leisure.

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Although the phrase assistive technology or personalised technology can sound scary, like something from science fiction, it is already all around us. It isn’t just used by someone with a disability either. Anyone who has ever used a can opener has, essentially, used assistive technology. Other examples OAD of assistive technologies, Owhich AD L L N N can be bought on the high street, include easy dialler phones, quick cooling hobs, food choppers and one-cup hot water dispensers.

Specialist technologies

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Assistive technology is a broad term given to any device, hardware or software that supports you in your daily life and increases your independence. When used in the right way it may be able to help you live a more independent and fulfilling life, while also meaning you don’t need as much support from others.



"Assistive or personalised technology devices don’t know whether you have a disability. Their job is to respond to the information they receive to help with a speciﬁc situation."

www.progressmagazine.co.uk

 Practical examples Practical examples of more specialist technologies include: • A laser-beam that can identify if you leave a room and set off an alarm if you don’t return within a particular amount of time. This means people can know whether you’re ok without someone checking in on you. Giving you privacy and independence. • An epilepsy sensor that can alert someone if you have a seizure. • If you open a door a voice prompt could remind you to take your keys, if you’re prone to forgetting, or let someone know that you have gone out.

Using technology Assistive technology is not a quick fix solution and isn’t always easy to fit into everyday life and the way you are supported. You may need to learn a new set of skills and knowledge. You will probably need training, time and support to understand and use the different items properly. In some cases, assistive technology will need to be brought in bit by bit. Some people may feel distressed, frustrated or overwhelmed by the changes. If you do, this is completely natural. You are also likely to need help to set up and maintain the devices. For instance, what happens when a sensor is activated (do you want a light to come on or send an alert) or what happens when the device does not work, for instance if the batteries are low or a fault develops?



• A fingerprint lock can be used to open doors and you can decide who else you would like to enter your home. • When you get out of bed, a light can come on. • A ‘big picture’ phone can allow you to make calls by touching the picture of the person you want to speak to. • Skype allows you to see and hear your relatives and friends, without having to leave your home. • A ‘pivotel’ can remind you to take your medication and provide you with access to the medication you need at the time you need to take it. If you don’t take your medication, it can let someone know and they can help you if needed. • If you have trouble communicating you can use big buttons to deliver a short voice message, such as ‘can I have a cup of tea please?’ • Similar buttons can also be used if you have trouble with remote controls - they can switch your TV on and help you to change channels, without the need for support from others.

"Some people may feel distressed, frustrated or overwhelmed by the changes. If you do, this is completely natural."

Glen Care is a specialist provider of adul t care services for people with Learning Disabilities, Autism, Physical Disabilities ABI and Mental Health needs. At Glen Care all the tailored personcentred activities offered will promote social inclusion whilst accessing mainstream facilities, developing life skills and building skills for employment.

Live-in Care

Tel: 020 8768 8050

Bradley Phillips

www.glencare.com

Young Options College

“Outstanding” rated education & care in the West Midlands

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 Looking for a service with assistive technology If you’re looking for a care or support provider CareTech share their suggestions of how assistive technology should be integrated. The potential for the use of assistive technology when designing any service or support plan should be paramount in the minds of all providers when they are aiming to provide support and offer value for money for people with learning disabilities. They should work closely with the local authority in order to understand the wide range of technology which is now available in order to assist people in their daily lives. As mentioned in the article, these can include fall sensors, flood sensors, epilepsy mats, 'just checking' night devices, door alarms and panic alarms and various on call systems. The provider’s team should then work with you, your family and friends and the local authority, to reassure you all about the technology, its uses and any impact it may have. Initial assessments should identify areas where technology could be introduced to your life in order to help you develop your skills and enhancing your independence. If you receive direct payments, assistive technology can have an added benefit because it can give you the chance to use the money, which would have been spent on support, to access extra activities during the day. Your provider should be able to make you aware of this and any cost savings due to the use of assistive technology. The provider should work with you to help build your confidence to spend time in your own home, knowing that you can call upon support when needed. The varying types of sensors, alarms and alert sensors should give you and your family reassurance that you are safe to grow your independence at your own rate with the added security that assistance is available if problems arise. With thanks to CareTech. www.caretech-uk.com For more information on CareTech's services please see the advert on the outside back cover.

Benefits Everyday tasks might make you feel stressed or frustrated but introducing tools to make these tasks easier can reduce these feelings. Using technology that is aimed at your needs can improve your quality of life and for some people it could mean a chance to have ‘home alone time’– something which you may want to try. It could even give you the chance to spend the night in your own home, without the need for support staff either sleeping or being awake through the night.

"Using technology that is aimed at your needs can improve your quality of life and for some people it could mean a chance to have ‘home alone time." By bringing in technology that is aimed at you it encourages everyone to look at your abilities, instead of trying to alleviate any disabilities. It can encourage you to take more control of your life. However, it is also important that the use of technology is carefully thought through and that your wishes are taken into account. If relevant, the Mental Capacity Act (MCA) should be used to help you work through any specific issues and you should be supported to make any decisions, where you need that support. All of these benefits mean that assistive technology can help you to grow more confident, as you are able to do more for yourself without the need for paid staff to do things for you.

simple devices can make profound changes to a person's life

Balance of technology and support Although it can help to give you more independence, it is also important that assistive technology should not be seen as a way of taking away personal support, which still has a crucial role to play in helping you to develop your skills and achieve your goals. Instead, it should be seen as something that is extremely useful in your overall support, something that can guide you towards greater independence.

With thanks to Stephen Barnard, Director of Information Strategy, HFT www.hft.org.uk and Diane Lightfoot, Director of Communications and Fundraising, United Response www.unitedresponse.org.uk.

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United Response supports children, young people and adults with a wide range of disabilities and mental health needs to live the life they choose. If you would like to find out how we could support you or someone you know, you can contact us on: 0800 0884 377 get.support@unitedresponse.org.uk www.unitedresponse.org.uk/get-support

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from Wales

The various ‘welfare reforms’ affecting social security benefits, currently coming into force are not devolved issues and apply in Wales in just the same way as in England. However, decisions regarding education and social services are devolved to the Welsh Government. Here, as in England, major changes are coming. The Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Bill was introduced in the National Assembly for Wales on 28th January 2013. The Bill is one of the most far-reaching legislation to be considered by the National Assembly under its new lawmaking powers. Consultation ended in March 2013, however constituents can still lobby their Assembly Members as the Bill is now going through the first of four stages before becoming law.

National eligibility criteria The Bill includes new national eligibility criteria to access services, duties to provide information and advice, to provide support for carers, and to provide

Marie Macey summarises the developments in proposed changes to social services and well-being, and education in Wales. ‘preventative’ services. Local authorities and health authorities will now be required to work together. The intention behind the new national eligibility criteria is to reduce the current variability of services between local authorities. However, the details of the new criteria are not yet available and, as always, the devil is in the detail. Currently, because of financial pressures most local authorities are restricting adult services to those with substantial and critical need (those with moderate and low levels of need do not get services). The Bill’s provision for a preventative role, and consequently an extension of services will need financial provision to be meaningful. A further likely change is for young people with more severe disabilities not transferring to adult services until they are around 21 years.

Education The proposed changes in education are not as advanced as the Social Services and Well-Being Bill and the proposed Education (Wales) Bill has not yet been introduced in the Assembly. One issue the consultation document Forward in partnership for children and young people with additional needs attempted to address was the very late funding decisions regarding specialist college, an issue which must be close to the heart of some readers. The Welsh Government’s own statistics demonstrate that in the

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year 2011/12, for example, over 60% of young people in Wales did not get their decision regarding funding for college until July or later of the year of entry, i.e. largely after the end of the school term. Such statistics make a mockery of transitional planning starting at the age of 13/14 years. It is expected that the new legislation will propose that specialist further education provision, including residential accommodation will be fully-funded by the local authority (currently the Welsh Government and sometimes health authorities contribute). This should, in theory, make the application simpler but it is debateable whether it will substantially improve matters. I gave a presentation to the Cross Party Autism Group at the Welsh Assembly in January 2013, suggesting that an assumption that transferring funding would solve the issue is not enough. That what was needed was strong Welsh Government leadership on the timetabling of decisions. The young people affected by late decisions are the very ones who need timely and careful preparation, with the school very much involved. Any Welsh parent reading can add their voice on this issue to their Assembly Member. Marie Macey is a member of Thrive Cardiff and Cardiff and the Vale National Autistic Society Branch.

MoneySavingExpert

Grocery shopping

MoneySavingExpert.com is the UK's biggest consumer website with over 13 million users a month. The site's dedicated to cutting your bills and fighting your corner with journalistic research, cutting edge tools and a massive community – all focused on finding deals, saving cash and campaigning for financial justice. www.moneysavingexpert.com

If you have no loyalty to a particular supermarket, and given the recent food scandals you may not, then MySupermarket is a useful way to ensure you get your shopping at the cheapest price. All you need to do i log onto the website, shop online for your groceries and health and beauty products. The site will then compare prices and find the best offers in Sainsbury’s, Asda, Tesco, Boots, Superdrug, Waitrose, Ocado and Majestic telling you where you can get the items from for the biggest saving. It also has money off vouchers for online delivery and emails you with deals. www.mysupermarket.co.uk

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Although their popularity is waning, group deal sites LOAD use the benefitN of many people buying a particular deal to enable everyone to get it for a reduced price. You can sign up to deals in your local area or ones that run nationally. Offers can be on anything from holidays to clothing, household items, meals, gadgets T O can be or jewellery. They D AY great for things you need or for gifts. These sites can be enticing though and if you find yourself being bombarded by emails, you can easily unsubscribe by clicking on the link at the bottom of the email. Examples of deal sites include www.groupon.co.uk, www.livingsocial.com, www.kgbdeals.co.uk, www.wowcher.co.uk.

Calculating your benefit entitlement could uncover some extra funds that you didn’t know you could claim. The Government is currently reforming the welfare T O and system,Tso entitlements, changes Ounderstanding D AY D AY other sources of possible funding is important. Turn2us has a Benefits Calculator to identify if you may be missing out on financial help that you are entitled to through welfare benefits. However it is not applicable to those under 18 or students as special rules apply. www.turn2us.org

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 Loyalty cards

Voucher sites

If you use certain shops all the time, you may benefit from loyalty card schemes. These are set up, mainly to keep you coming back to the shop for new purchases. However if you shop there regularly it can make sense to sign up for a card. These cards enable you to collect points on a certain amount of money spent in the shop. These points are then converted and can be used as money off future purchases. Shops that offer loyalty cards include Tesco, Sainsbury s, Boots and Superdrug. Some cards can be used to collect and redeem points at a number of different places, including online shopping. For more information visit: www.tesco.com/clubcard, www.nectar.com, www.boots.com/en/AdvantageCard, www.superdrug.com/beautycard.

Going out for dinner can be a luxury that you can t aﬀord very often, but with a 2 for 1 voucher, it is much more aﬀordable. If you want to buy some new clothes but don t want to pay the delivery, a voucher may help cover the cost. Voucher code sites bring together all the valid vouchers for a wide variety of places including restaurants, clothes shops, department stores, holiday companies and high street stores as well as online shops. You can search for the company you re buying from to see if there is a valid voucher or voucher code to use when you make your purchase. Or you can decide where to buy something based on what vouchers or codes are available at the time. You can sign up for email alerts telling you the top vouchers for that week.

Comparison sites Comparison websites are a useful tool to enable you to compare what different companies will offer you for things like insurance, personal finance such as loans, credit cards, mortgages and holidays. You put in your information and they contact all of the different companies with your information and give you a list of offers and prices that you can look through. It takes a lot of the time and hassle out of making these purchases. The top comparison sites are www. moneysupermarket.com, www.comparethemarket. com, www.gocompare.com, www.confused.com and www.tescocompare.com.

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The top voucher code sites are www.vouchercodes.co.uk, www.myvouchercodes.co.uk and www.vouchercloud.com.

for people aged 7+ with ASD, learning difficulties and/or disabilities, mental health issues and challenging behaviour

“Four years ago I could never have imagined I would have changed so much!” Josh is now employed following his invaluable placement at Glasshouse College

How can we help you? Because our young people learn to achieve and communicate through practical, real-life activities and accredited courses in social and cultural settings, they are prepared to progress onto greater independence, further education and employment. For Open Days and how our Practical Skills Therapeutic Education curriculum in England and Wales can help you contact our Admissions Teams at: www.rmt.org A member of NATSPEC

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

Printing BTEC at Freeman College, Sheﬃeld

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All students are taught on a one to one basis and the team believe a child’s education should be driven by personal needs using motivators as a vehicle for development. Structured learning happens at every opportunity and will take place at the school or in the local community and children are supported to develop communication, selfmanagement and choice-making in a variety of settings.

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aged 6 to 18 with autism. As a brand new school it provides a caring and homely environment and a curriculum that meets the needs of the children that come to live and learn at the school.

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"Preparation is the key. Being as prepared as possible will calm any nerves you may have and mean youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re giving yourself a great chance of doing your best."

Preparing for exams and assessments As the summer draws near and exam time rolls around, study can become quite intense. Progress brings you some advice to help you prepare for exams and assessments as best you can.

Whether you are studying for academic qualifications like GCSEs or Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Levels, vocational qualifications or more practical assessments like achieving specific life skills you need to be as prepared as possible. Having a good understanding of the subject you are being assessed on will give you confidence when it comes to the exam or assessment. Preparation is the key. Being as prepared as possible will calm any nerves you may have and mean youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re giving yourself a great chance of doing your best.

✎ Timetable A revision timetable can be particularly useful if you are studying a number of different topics or have lots of exams or assessments coming up. They help you to plan out your time, what subjects you are going to study when, for how long and when you are going to have breaks. A timetable means that you and everyone around you, knows what needs to be done when. If the pressure begins to mount you can just look at your next scheduled free time and it’ll help you to focus. Also, by sharing your timetable with family, friends or housemates everyone can help you to keep on track.

At Moulton College we offer both residential and non-residential places to students on a variety of courses tailored to suit their needs. Set within beautiful rolling countryside, we provide quality education and training to prepare students with additional needs for independent living. Many will progress to further courses and preparation for employment. Experienced staff provide dedicated teaching using purpose built facilities to ensure each student’s potential is reached. Moulton College, West Street, Moulton, Northampton, NN3 7RR For further information on courses available please contact Student Services on 01604 491131, email: enquiries@moulton.ac.uk or visit www.moulton.ac.uk

✎ Balance

✎ Looking after yourself

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You may or may not be tempted to lock away, get your headT down T Oyourself O Y D A and study, study, study, but just like D AY finding the balance and taking breaks, eating well and looking after yourself is important too. Eating regularly will give you the energy and focus you need to study and retain the information you need for your assessments. Likewise, some exercise or fresh air can also reinvigorate you and helpFREE concentration. DOWNLOAD OUR APP TODAY Try to factor in some time every day to exercise or get outside.

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As the proverb goes ‘All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy’. It also means that too much studying, practising and revision without any breaks can actually make it more difficult to learn. Everyone needs to find the balance and take breaks, set up some downtime, arrange to do something completely different for a while to clear your head. You’ll feel much better and it’ll be easier to concentrate when you return to it.

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✎ Be ﬂexible It’s tempting to be hard on yourself, but if you really can’t concentrate and your timetable says 45 minutes of intense study, swap subjects or sessions. But make sure you do swap them not drop them altogether.

✎ Know yourself Are you an early bird? If you find you concentrate better in the morning then start your revision early. That way you can get it done and out of the way before getting on with the rest of the day. However, if you’re a night owl then schedule to revise then, although by pushing things later in the day there is a risk that you can run out of time.

✎ Avoid distractions Whether that’s housemates, family, your phone, laptop, tablet or the TV, try to distance yourself from anything that can distract you from your study. It’s easy to lose half an hour or more without even realising it.

✎ Vary techniques There are lots of different ways to learn. For some it may be reading and rereading information. For others it could be making up mnemonics which means Make Names Easily Memorable by Organising Nominated Initial Characters such as ‘Never Eat Cake Eat Salad Sandwiches And Remain Young’ as spelling for ‘necessary’. Other people find bringing subjects to life, such as going to watch a theatre product of a play they are studying, helps to commit things to memory. Find what works for you and mix up your studies to help yourself.

✎ Past tests If taking formal exams, studying and practising previous tests gives you an idea of how your test may be structured. You will be able to see the types of questions that are asked, how they are expected to be answered such as with a single answer, multiple choice, essay answers or discussion. Although your test will be different to the previous ones, it should help to build your confidence and understanding of the exam process when the day arrives.

✎ Speak to your tutor Tutors will have an idea of what you will be assessed on. They may not know exact information but will be able to point you in the right direction of what is important to know and prepare and what may not be as essential. Also ask them for any advice, guidance, hints or tips for revisions, exam or assessment preparation. They prepare people all the time and will have many years of experience to share. Also, remember that they are/were assessed as well so they know what you’re going through.

✎ Practise, practise, practise The more you practise something, whether that’s a specific skill or subject, the more familiar you will become and the easier it will be to recall and prove your ability in an assessment. If you’re learning a practical skill or life skill, practising is the most important thing you can do. By repeating things they become easier to recall and do again. For example, if preparing for a practical driving test, the best thing you can do is practise driving. The more you do, the more natural and familiar it becomes and easier for you to master. This also helps to build your confidence so you have the belief that you can do it when it comes to the assessment.

✎ Believe in yourself If you have put in the work, revised, practised, learnt and done your best, believe in yourself to be able to pass the assessment. Nerves are normal and natural but don’t let them take over. See the panel on overcoming nerves.

Nathan’s Assessment Preparation

It is natural to feel nervous about exams or assessments. You may feel increased pressure, anxiety or uncertainty. These feelings are all common but can be managed. Firstly, don’t panic. As mentioned elsewhere, believe in yourself. If you’ve done the revision and preparation you are as prepared as you can be. Try to relax and trust yourself to be able to do it. Think positively. Think that you can pass, that you know your stuff and you’ll be able to master the exam or assessment. Positive thinking breeds confidence.

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Visualisation. Visualise yourself taking, finishing and passing the exam. This positive DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY visualisation can help make it a reality and will reduce the fear of the unknown which DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY can arise from assessments.

With thanks to Henshaws College www.henshaws.ac.uk

OD O D AY AY A few long, deep breaths Breathe deeply. can help to calm those ﬂutters in your tummy or shaking hands. Nerves mean that our breathing becomes shallow and faster, by slowing this down and consciously taking deep breaths you can help to calm yourself.

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Try to relax. Make sure you’ve set aside time to L OADoff from the work or NLOAD Nswitch assessment preparation. You may find it hard but it will help to break the cycle of nerves if you give yourself chance to relax and switch off.

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Overcoming nerves

My name is Nathan and I’m 22 years old. I’m in my third year at Henshaws College in Harrogate. I’ve had cerebral palsy since I was born which makes it difficult for me to control my hand movements and I use a wheelchair to get around. I also use a Liberator communication aid so I can communicate using eye gaze movements. Henshaws speech and language therapist and assistive technology team set this up for me and they’ve supported me to get quicker at using it. Last year, I studied communication on my Liberator to get a City and Guilds Award in Augmentative and Alternative Communication. To get this award, I had to ask other people questions and put together sentences. When I started I could only use single words, but now I’ve learnt different greetings and how to change the subject in conversations. Henshaws also organised a trip to York for us to meet people who were promoting different technologies like my Liberator. In the evening we went to see Lee Ridley, a comedian who uses a communication aid in his shows. He was very funny. This was all used as evidence to show the assessor how I have improved my communication and language skills since I started working for the award. Doing the award has taught me lots of new things and I feel more confident talking to people now. I leave college this year and I would really like to teach. I want to help people and their families who are using communication aids. The eye gaze technology I use is still quite new and I’d really like to show other people how to use it.

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For more information on Henshaws College’s services please see the advert on the Inside Back Cover.

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The Association of National Specialist Colleges

Natspec

www.natspec.org.uk

Coleg Elidyr is an independent specialist college that provides a range of services for young people who experience moderate to severe learning disabilities. Our unique rural setting offers an exceptional learning environment in which to challenge our learners. The focus is on assisting the development of confidence and skills needed for greater independence. Our enriched curriculum offers a wide range of courses and activities. We aim to inspire our learners to be the very best they can be.

Communication Specialist College Doncaster currently have places available for learners who are deaf, hearing-impaired or those who have specific communication and language needs. We specialise in high-quality, innovative Learning & Training programmes, designed to provide Learners 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.

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Communication Specialist College Doncaster

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FREE FREE APP Hinwick Hall College is an exciting and innovative college where we work with you to APP The Orpheus Centre provides unique opportunities for young disabled students reach your goals. We help you gain the skills and confidence to decide what you want (18-25) with a passion for performing arts. We promote transition and personal to do after college, and to take control of your future choices. development through performing arts so students gain the skills to live

DOWNLOAD OUR DOWNLOAD OUR We are a day and residential college that welcomes people with a wide range of independently in the community and enable them to make informed choices about disabilities and learning needs. We have a wide range of flexible learning environments their futures. The Orpheus curriculum covers theFREE arts, independence, employment NEW APP NOW NEW FREE APP NOW WWW.APAZINE.CO.UK and excellent facilities to assist you to access your personalised learning package. WWW.APAZINE.CO.UK Our and functional skills. We also offer Arts Award and City and Guilds qualification curriculum provides opportunities for you to develop functional, vocational and personal courses as well as a range of short courses. Supported housing at Orpheus skills and supports you to gain qualifications in communication, work and life skills. provides students with a chance to experience independent living with access to Why not come and visit to see for yourself what we have to offer?

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The Association of National Specialist Colleges

Members of NATSPEC work in partnership with others to offer the widest choice of innovative, high quality, cost-effective education, training and support to match the inclusive learning needs of young people and adults with learning difficulties and disabilities as they prepare for the next stage of their lives. Prospective learners and their supporters are advised to talk to their specialist careers adviser, Connexions Personal Adviser, disablement resettlement officer or social worker about funding. By law, colleges must open admissions to all students, regardless of disability or impairment. Colleges listed here specialise in educating students with specific disabilities and/or difficulties but welcome applications from all students.

The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) is the UK’s leading specialist residential college for people aged 16+ who are blind or partially sighted. With over 140 years’ experience, the College stands firm in its original aim to enable each and every student to achieve their potential and engage fully in their community. The RNC has superb facilities, skilled staff and ‘outstanding’ residential provision (Ofsted 2011). Contact the Enquiries Line for more information, email us or visit the website. Company Registered by Guarantee No. 2367626 Registered Charity No. 1000388

The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC) Venns Lane, Hereford HR1 1DT Tel: 01432 376621 E-mail: info@rnc.ac.uk Web: www.rnc.ac.uk

Treloar College in Alton, Hampshire, is a life-changing place where young people aged 16-25, with physical disabilities, come to live and learn. Day and residential students have access to a wide range of courses, from pre-entry to level 3, in a curriculum which embodies independent living skills, a diverse enrichment programme, community and residential-based learning and sporting activities at all levels.

Treloar College

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

Part of The John Townsend Trust

“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

WESC Foundation - The Specialist Centre for Visual Impairment is a day and residential centre of excellence for learners with sight loss and additional needs. The college provides further education and independence training for young people preparing them for the transition into living in the community. We offer a personalised programme of academic and vocational learning on our All-year-round (52 weeks) programme which is supported by a wide range of work experience opportunities.

“WESC is outstanding” Ofsted care inspection March 2013 WESC Foundation Countess Wear, Exeter, Devon, EX2 6HA Tel: 01392 454235 Email: kgaulton@wescfoundation.ac.uk Web: www.wescfoundation.ac.uk

Treloar College in Alton, Hampshire, is a life-changing place where young people aged 16-25, with physical disabilities, come to live and learn. Day and residential students have access to a wide range of courses, from preentry to level 3, in a curriculum which embodies independent living skills, a diverse enrichment programme, community and residential-based learning and sporting activities at all levels. Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) ensure that each student’s needs are met and targets are set that are achievable.

Treloar College also offers: ◆

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“

Coming to Treloar’s was a life changing decision for me. I feel happy and contented here. My confidence is now much better in dealing with life and the staff are the people that have made it happen. Ryan, Treloar College student, 2013

A World of Work team, who arrange internal and external work placements for students, equipping them with skills for future employment Dedicated Transition workers to prepare students for life beyond Treloar’s A multi-disciplinary team with expertise in speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and physiotherapy, who work together with tutors to meet student needs Assistive technologists who adapt wheelchairs, equipment and technology to promote independence

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24-hour health centre

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Independent living flats

For more information about joining Treloar’s, visit www.treloar.org.uk/open-days to register for our Open Days, contact our admissions team on 01420 547 425 or email admissions@treloar.org.uk

A different class Education at Livability prepares students for the transition to adult life. Our two colleges in Bedfordshire and Bromley, Kent, help each and every student achieve their potential. We support young people aged 16+ with a wide range of physical and learning disabilities. See our website at: www.livability.org.uk/education

Registered charity number: 1116530

Accessing personal information Many parents and carers are unaware of their rights to access information about their child in school. Likewise, many parents, carers, young people and adults are not familiar with their rights to access information about themselves from other organisations. Nabil Dance summarises some of the legal rights. Accessing this information can be particularly important especially when perhaps a dispute arises between you and your school, college, employer, or any other organisation responsible for keeping private information about you. Parents, carers, and adults are also entitled to, in theory, and often in practice, access any information held about themselves, or their child under the Data Protection Act 1998.

Information retained by schools The Education (Pupil Information) (England) Regulations 2005 (as amended by the Education (Pupil Information) Regulations 2008) requires the governing body of a school to: • keep curricular and educational records for each pupil, • disclose these records to parents and pupils, • report at least annually to all parents on their child’s progress and attainment,

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School records can include a range of information including documents you may already have such as endof-year school reports; however there may be documents you have not seen including notes by teachers, assessment scores, correspondence with experts, or accident records. The same law requires the governing body of a school to ensure that a pupil’s records are made available to T O to view T free of charge, T O daysYof receipt of the parent’s their parents and within 15 school D AY on school premises, O D AY DA written request. Likewise, the family may also request that a hard copy of the same file be sent to them. However, governing bodies can charge a fee for providing a physical copy but, if they do, this must not be more than the actual cost of supplying it. Although it is unlikely to be a concern for you, the Information Commissioner provides guidance on costs to organisations.

Parents, carers, and adults are also entitled to, in DOWNLOAD APP theory,OUR andFREE often inTODAY practice, access any information held about themselves, or their child under the Data DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY Protection Act 1998. DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY

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Data protection Parents, carers and adults are also entitled to, in theory, and often in practice, access any information held about themselves, or their child, under the Data Protection Act 1998. A request in writing for information will suffice, and is a requirement. This arguably applies to, for instance, information maintained by colleges, universities, employers, offices and factions of the local and national government, and any other organisation that is legally responsible for the retention of private information. A request for information under the Data Protection Act is known in law as a ‘subject access request’. The relevant organisation must provide the information which you have requested within 40 calendar days of the date of your written request. There are some exceptions when an organisation can refuse to comply with a request for information but the circumstances which are acceptable in law are quite extreme. For instance, where disclosing such information would threaten national security or the economic stability of the United Kingdom, an organisation could be legally entitled to turn down the request.

A request for information under the Data Protection Act is known in law as a ‘subject access request’. Who can help? Law firms and consultancies may be able to assist you in making a request for information or in scenarios where the organisation in question is refusing to provide the relevant information. In instances involving a dispute with an employer, the legal representative of your trade union may be able to assist you in getting the relevant information from your current or former employer. The Information Commissioner monitors and considers the compliance of such organisations with the retaining, transfer and disclosure of information about individuals: www.ico.gov.uk/ Nabil Dance is a specialist Independent Legal Advocate and Certified Paralegal with experience in equality, discrimination, and education law (n.dance@mail.com)

ansition

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ch could cater for ’t many places whi en er w e er th 18 at hool ng transition ed when, after a lo When Jamie left sc ht lig de as w I so y, and epileps his complex needs ty’s Micholls House. e at Epilepsy Socie ac pl s and hi up ok to quickly got to know period, he ff sta g rin ca e th t an anyone, ays easy bu d achieving more th Transition isn’t alw an ed ttl se d an y He’s now so happ ght possible. understand Jamie. wants d Eddie, ever thou an sb hu y m d ooses what food he an ch elf He ys . m life s ng hi di of clu s in all aspect s movement, fully as possible in lines to help with hi po m tra g in Jamie is involved as us y, ap skills. d ther s communication hi ities such as reboun tiv ith w ac s ys lp jo he en d t, an ea to o relaxes him is the best ne and fitness, it als that residential care pt ce ac to rd balance, muscle to ha it’s s s le staff care for all hi with complex need me from home whi As parents of a child ho a s ha oice ie ch m n Ja . s ow or daughter to be ft furnishings and hi so of ce oi ch s place for your son hi by lax ded a switch, he can re m, Jamie is surroun here, at the flick of w e needs. In his bedroo ac pl a o eals ns is se alls. Jamie’s room possible thanks to of posters on the w ent. This was made em ov ace for m d an d un ct and individual sp of light, so rfe n pe ve a ha is y It . or ills ns sk se Y a in d’s handy DI ent and Jamie’s Da stimulating equipm sion shared with lax and chill. derfully happy occa on w him in which to re a y, da rth bi st eat happiness ted Jamie’s 21 r. It was a time of gr te gh lau h We recently celebra uc m d ride, but is involve a smooth and easy his carers. The day s d ay an alw ds ’t en isn fri , el, ily m lev r fa at whateve ow that transition, and just goes to sh t to be. t to where you wan great when you ge psysociety.org.uk Society. www.epile y ps ile Ep to ks an With th advert on page 9. ices please see the rv se ’s ty cie So y ps ion on Epile For more informat

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2012

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Profiles -

d r a o b n o s ’ w e h t t a M y and Involvement at Thera, Matthew Smith is Director of Qualit le with a learning disability an organisation that supports peop short breaks. Here he at home, in the community and for top. shares his experience of rising to the people with a learning who started his career supporting y bilit disa g nin lear a with n ma a Matthew Smith is through his employment with the ent, both in setting up groups and vem mo cy oca adv the ugh thro y disabilit e of Advocacy Groups. y (BILD), monitored the performanc British Institute of Learning Disabilit ctor of Quality and ional experience to the role of Dire fess pro and al son per his h bot gs ny Garrigan. Matthew brin years and shares this job with Jen five for e tim t par r cto dire a n bee Involvement in Thera. He has t people are fully ra provides is peer reviewed and tha The t por sup of lity qua the t tha Together they ensure currently working through a ir support. Matthew and Jenny are the of very deli and g nin plan the ple supported and involved in across Thera Group enabling peo ip ersh mb Me y pan Com of n atio programme of implement r the Thera company. employed to have real control ove

y ensure that the ‘ Together the port Thera provides is

Matthew in his own words. 1 Who are you?

r of Quality and Involvement My name is Matthew Smith, Directo lts with a learning disability at for Thera Trust. Thera support adu local community home and out and about in their

quality of sup peer reviewed and that people are fully involved in the planning and delivery of their support.

’

2 What do you do?

that the quality of ent with Jenny Garrigan, ensuring lvem Invo and lity Qua of r cto Dire I share my job of y and that people are fully d by people with a learning disabilit ewe revi r pee is s vide pro ra The t suppor vide a mentor role to the of their support. Jenny and I also pro involved in the planning and delivery Executive Director, I work h have a learning disability. I am an eac o wh rs cto Dire lity Qua ice subsidiary Serv ing a learning disability. I am also job role I bring my experience of hav my To ple. peo r fou of team a in with rd a Trustee on the Thera Trust’s Boa

r job? How long have you been doing you

I have been working for Thera for

4 How did you get the job?

6 years.

cutive Director, I work within a ‘ I am an Exe I bring my team of four people. To my job role bility.’ experience of having a learning disa

role of Director of e showed me a flier advertising the eon som BILD for g rkin wo was I When worker for it with the help of my support Quality and Involvement. I applied

work? 5 What do you do on a typical day at

ich include mentor session time I attend various meetings, wh this ing dur and k wee a s day 2 rk I wo etings, all at different venues. Committee meetings and Board me r job? What do you enjoy most about you ing my own money. support to people. I also enjoy earn I like to have a say in how we offer

past? 7 What jobs have you had in the ps of Age Concern I have volunteered in the charity sho worked voluntary at and the British Heart Foundation and started my paid working a Leisure Centre and the Co-op. I ning disability through career supporting people with a lear setting up groups and the advocacy movement, both in British Institute of through my employment with the nitored the performance Learning Disability (BILD), who mo of the advocacy groups. 8

nteered in the charity ‘ I have volu of Age Concern and the shops British Heart Foundation and worked voluntary at a Leisure Centre and the Co-op.

’

How did you get them?

ry work. The BILD job es and asked if they had any volunta plac the into t wen I s, job ry nta For all of my volu the help of my support worker. Care magazine. I applied for this with nity mu Com the in sed erti adv was se jobs? 9 What did you enjoy about tho understand advocacy. I felt it was important that people

voluntary jobs, I went ‘ For all of my into the places and asked if they had any voluntary work.’

10 What hobbies do you have? and watching the horse racing. I like most sports in particular golf you have the 11 How was your transition? Did od? right support to move into adultho d. I had good My transition to adulthood was goo circle of support. support workers and have a good

goal is to work with ‘ Eventually tomysha re my experiences

children and with them of having a learning disability.

’

tell us about yourself? • 12 What else would you like to ing a learning my experiences with them of hav re sha to and n dre chil with rk wo Eventually my goal is to you can still achieve what just because you have a disability t tha and erst und to n dre chil t disability. I wan you want in life.

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s n la P n io t c A h lt a e H Action Plan. have the chance to have a Health uld sho y bilit disa g nin lear a h wit Everyone your health and need to be healthy and makes sure It helps you think about what you se who support you too. well-being is thought about by tho

nding simple, isn’t as a healthy lifestyle, although sou Being healthy is important and underlying health w where to start. If you have an straightforward if you don’t kno t your doctor knows know how to manage it and tha you t tha nt orta imp it’s on, diti con rmation about your is great for drawing together info about it too. A Health Action Plan you need to y support you, pointers on where ma o wh se tho and , you ng givi health and you stay healthy. well-being and how to make sure and lth hea eral gen r you ut abo k thin

What is a Health Action Plan? A Health Action Plan is a document that sets out important information l about you and your health as wel as ways to ensure you are healthy and remain so. It is unique to you and should be written with input from you, your parents or carers and anyone involved in your health and s well-being. It includes suggestion lthy of things you can do to be hea as well as help and support. It is important because people with learning disabilities don’t always receive equal rights when it comes to health care. The Government wants to change this and as part of that, a Health Action Plan will help everyone involved, including you and those who support you, to give your health and well-being the importance it deserves. By having this information

set out in a formal document, everyone is aware of it and how to make sure you stay healthy.

make a start, including Easy Read guidance from PMLD Network es/ www.pmldnetwork.org/resourc mencap_hap.pdf.

Getting a Health Action Plan

Why do I need one?

ne The Government says that everyo uld with a learning disability sho have a Health Action Plan so speak to your doctor, or another health professional that you see, about r how you get one. Speak with you you ts family or anyone who suppor t about how you would like to star one. There are lots of questions and things to think about so you may ’ll need support to complete it. You ut need to start off by thinking abo your day to day life, how much you ly, exercise, whether you eat healthi y any health concerns you ma have or conditions you manage. There are leaflets and examples of plans on the internet to help you

A Health Action Plan will get you d wellthinking about your general health an being and what you can do about it.

A Health Action Plan will get you thinking about your general health and well-being and what you can do about it. It will also give those who support you an idea of your wishes and needs around your health. By setting out what will help you to stay healthy, it gives r you control and responsibility ove these parts of your life. A Health Action Plan will ensure at those who support you know wh they can do to help you remain healthy. It can help to ensure you have all the health checks you may be due and keeps a focus

eyesight, hearing, teeth and well-being doesn’t fit into specific sexual health. There should be boxes. enough information to ensure To put together your plan you that all your health and welllth will need to think about your hea being needs are considered in general including how tall you and monitored. er are, how much you weigh, wheth you smoke or drink alcohol and er how much. Ask your family wheth What happens next? ons diti con lth hea there are any Once completed, there t run in your family. These are all tha check-up. should be two versions of important to your general health your Health Action Plan. and wellbeing as you get older. One will be kept by your What does a Health Action Your Health Action Plan will also doctor and one for you in a , Plan say? include any medicine you may take format that is easy for you to any help you need to look after A Health Action Plan helps you to read. It’s important that you your health including looking at think about what you can do to follow what is in it to keep whether you can and eat how you and at er wh lthi hea f rsel you make your health and well-being eat more healthily, what exercise you can look after your general on track. If you complete you do and what you would like to well-being. This could include a plan and keep it in the ular fit. p reg kee ng to taki do ly, lthi hea eat to how drawer not following what’s As it is all about you, it should exercise or managing any health recommended then it won’t municate com h you s oug way Alth e. out hav set y ma you conditions help you improve your health. r and any equipment you may it needs to cover all aspects of you use regularly. You should be able life it should be flexible as well. to include information on your Every person is different, health and

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nurse, Action Plans, speak to your doctor, For more information on Health ion Plan collection of different Health Act health worker or support staff. A leaflets are available from alth-action-plans-(leaflets). www.easyhealth.org.uk/listing/he

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on your health and well-being. If you are known to your local authority, receive services or support from them, you should be offered an annual health check with a doctor or nurse. Your Health Action Plan can be used as part of this check and it can be updated with any new information from the

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Specially designed standard & bespoke furniture for your living environment.

Innovation in mobility Want to know what’s new or innovative in the world of mobility and aids? Progress brings you some products you may find interesting. Mybility All Terrain Wheelchairs The New Mybility range of all-terrain wheelchairs gives unprecedented independence to enjoy your life the way you want. Ideal if you want to get out and about with or without your friends. The wheelchair is suitable for use indoors and out and is great for tackling even the most difficult terrains including: rocks, grass, mud, steep inclines, steps, high kerbs, cobbles and beaches. Fully adaptable to meet your disability needs the wheelchair comes with full training and a wide range of accessories as standard. Safe and comfortable whether you are out rambling in the countryside or shopping on cobbled streets, you can also take part in sports such as golf or fishing with our stand up model. When you want to chill out it is also equally happy at home on your carpet. Our range includes a compact City model, as well as our standard sized models and comes in a range of cool colours. Furthermore the Stand Up model can adjust your body posture from lying down to standing up and anywhere in between. Engineered in Scandinavia to a very high standard the wheelchair will ‘grow’ with you because, with a realistic 10 year life expectancy, it is fully adaptable to meet you changing needs. Comes with a range of extras and a 5 year warranty as standard. See it for yourself - Take a look at our videos at www.mybility.co.uk or call for a home demo 0330 555 0545.

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Walking sticks as fashion statements An important consideration for all walking stick users is how their walking stick makes them feel. It is not enough for it simply to provide balance and support; it should reflect your personality too. Walking stick specialists Classic Canes recognise that walking sticks need to suit many different individuals, so have developed a range of over 650 models, available from retailers worldwide. Fashions are followed closely: this spring sees the family firm launch chic new models in snow leopard and cheetah print, an eye-catching, multi-coloured cane printed with tropical angel fish and coral, and a new ‘Opulent Collection’ of glittering black, silver and gold designs, perfect for evening use and special occasions. Managing Partner, Charlotte Gillan, says, ‘The right walking stick will always add to its user’s appearance, never detract from it. For a young person who needs to use a cane, there is now a huge range of bright, cheerful, modern designs that give their user’s presence and style. Even if the stick has to fold or have an orthopaedic handle, this should be no impediment to having a fun and fashionable walking stick.’

Opulent Collection

World’s lightest wheelchair and hand-cycle from Beard Brothers…innovation reinvented Quickie Shark 2 hand-cycle is a lightweight fast bike that has innovation dripping from every pore. The redesigned frame allows for the best individual positioning, enclosing the rider in the best possible propulsion position, force is converted directly into motion. Superb low centre of gravity and wide wheelbase makes cornering easy even at high speed. A new lighter frame has been designed to be firmer and minimise flex, and the ergonomic contoured rear frame provides enhanced stability. The new, innovative backrest offers maximum performance thanks to its ergonomic shape and adjustability. Quickie Shark 2 is available in a wide range of adjustable sizes and 30 different colours. Strong, rigid, performance from the world’s lightest production wheelchair, the Quickie Helium Generation 13 uses completely new materials and bespoke

manufacturing technologies to introduce innovation into the design. Helium Generation 2013 offers a wider range of options enabling you to personalise it to fit your body and lifestyle. Options include different coloured upholsteries plus the new hand-cycle axle, ‘frog leg’ suspension castors or sport flip away anti-tipper. Helium Generation 2013 not enough for you? Quickie Helium Pro is the new, fully-welded, ultra-light and bespoke frame version of the new Helium generation. The fixed welded backrest and axle plate provide the highest level of rigidity and the most efficient performance of any production wheelchair. Starting at just 6kg, your Helium Pro is your design from the start. Purist looks – the minimalistic design means that the wheelchair becomes part of you - see the person. Available from Quickie Elite dealers, Beard Brothers, www.beardbrothers.co.uk or call 01442 248516.

New Super-Flexible, Folding Minimo Mobility ‘Car Boot’ Scooter Responding to a market trend towards smaller, more compact models, TGA is introducing the new Minimo. The Minimo is a revolution in compact, collapsible scooter design. It represents one of the most advanced designs that folds and fits into the boot of a car and requires no parts to be dismantled for stowage, with an overall weight of 24kg (53lbs). This revolutionary and straightforward folding mechanism is simply activated by a one-handed operation with minimum effort and is completed in seconds. The Minimo only requires a small amount of storage space when not in use. Radically lightweight, yet robust it combines the benefits of strain-free lifting whilst providing impressive drivability and rider comfort. Redefining the foldable scooter, it has an extremely spacious chassis with a floor well that provides levels of legroom never previously seen in the car boot class. It has a top speed of 6km (4mph) and an impressive range of up 20km (12 miles).

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The popular Solo Table, available from Activate, now comes with a new simple folding mechanism. Releasing the locking wheel means the leg frame now folds in to make it simple to store and stow. The Solo Table has a generous work surface of 900mm (36”) wide by 700mm (28”) deep, making this a table for one person, giving scope for a wide range of activities from eating through to painting pictures. The height variation is from 710mm (28”) in its lowest setting to 1070mm (42”) when fully raised allowing activities in both seated and standing position. The Tilt feature is secured by the same mechanism, giving great flexibility at any height.

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Folding Solo Table

Staying safe

online Parental locks The internet can be a useful tool, a way to make friends and communicate with people, educational and fun, but are you safe online? The internet is a whole new world, it breaks down barriers, creates opportunities, connections and offers varied learning. However, for all its opportunities, you need to be vigilant online, protect yourself and your computer.

Anti-virus It is important that you have the right level of internet safety for your needs, depending on who is using the internet. You should look at anti-virus software to identify any potential viruses that can cause harm to your computer. These viruses may also be able to track the websites you use and any personal information you put in, such as passwords, internet banking and log-ins. Having the right level of anti-virus will protect you from this. There are free anti-virus programmes available online such as AVG but it is important to do some research and ask advice.

Filters and locks can be set up on computers and internet browsers to limit the types of websites that can be accessed or for how long the computer can be used. They can also let you know the websites that are being accessed including blocked websites. The BBC’s WebWise site has a lot of useful information about surfing the internet safely www.bbc.co.uk/webwise/topics/safety-andprivacy.

Passwords Passwords are a great way of protecting your information. Most websites that store any of your personal information will need a password. This includes your email, your Facebook account or your online banking. Although it can be difficult to remember a number of different passwords, it’s important that you don’t always use the same one and that they aren’t straightforward. Common passwords that are not very secure include ‘abcdef’, ‘123456’ and ‘password’. These are easy to figure out and give someone access to your private information. Some websites will tell you how ‘strong’ your password is when you set it for the first time. If you use a shared computer, never save your passwords and log in details as you don’t know who else may be able to access them from that computer.

SMART rules

Childnet International has developed five key SMART rules to staying safe online. Although aimed at children everyone can learn something from being SMART online. Safe – Keep safe by being careful not to give out personal information when you’re chatting or posting online. Personal information includes your email address, phone number and password.

Don’t share too much

Meeting – Meeting someone you have only been in touch with online can be dangerous. Only do so with your parents’ or carers’ permission and even then only when they can be present. Remember online friends are still strangers even if you have been talking to them for a long time.

It is important to protect your computer when you are online, but protecting yourself is equally as important. You may communicate with new people, talk and share ideas but never give out too much personal information. Although you may be getting to know people, the internet is a way of hiding who you are or being someone else. That’s not to say that everyone is pretending to be someone else, but it’s important to keep that in mind.

Accepting – Accepting emails, IM messages, or opening files, pictures or texts from people you don’t know or trust can lead to problems – they may contain viruses or nasty messages. Reliable – Someone online might lie about who they are and information on the internet may not be true. Always check information with other websites, books or someone who knows. If you like chatting online it’s best to only chat to your real world friends and family.

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Internet chatO ADsocial networking can be L and N NLOAD useful ways to make friends but always be aware not to share too much.

Tell – Tell your parent, carer or a trusted adult if someone or something makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, or if you or someone you know is being bullied online.

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Don’t ever give out personal information such as where you live, your phone number, your personal email address. Certainly don’t share bank information, personal photographs or anything else you wouldn’t want to share with a stranger you’ve met in the street.

D A and keeping protected D A many resources on safety, awareness A Specialist information for The internetD has online. young people with SEN can be found at www.netsmartz.org/SpecialNeeds. Learning Disabilities, Autism and Internet Safety is a new guide produced by Cerebra, Mencap and Ambitious about Autism. It aims to help parents limit the risk of their child having negative experiences online and understand what action can be taken if they do. Although it is aimed at parents, it contains a lot of useful information and suggests resources that will help young people to get the most out of the internet at home and in the community. The comprehensive guide gives advice on how to make both home and mobile internet safe and how to prepare your child to use the internet. It identifies a range of potential risks and gives advice on how DOWNLOAD OUR FREE APP TODAY to prevent/deal with them as well as suggesting how to safely explore the many benefits using the internet can give. www.cerebra.org.uk

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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.

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.

Henshaws F/P_Layout 1 08/05/2012 16:15 Page 1

they can carry out personal care tasks for themselves

“

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

2011 Ofsted Inspection

High Quality Specialist Further Education Henshaws College in Harrogate is a residential and day Further Education college providing training towards independence and employability for young people with a range of learning difficulties and disabilities, specialising in visual impairment. • Effectiveness of care, guidance and support awarded Grade 1 Outstanding by Ofsted.

• Personalised Learning Programmes for every student.

• Physiotherapy, Hydrotherapy, Occupational • 5 vocational pathways – Arts & Crafts, Media, Therapy and Speech & Language Therapy Horticulture, Hospitality and Retail & Office Skills. delivered on site by our own staff. • Work experience and vocational training for all • Fully accessible leisure complex on campus, students, both on and off campus. including swimming & hydrotherapy pools • Handmade at Henshaws, our social enterprise, provides vocational training in a real work environment at our shop and cafe.

and multi-gym. • Excellent programme of after college clubs and activities.

For more information call 01423 886451 or email admissions@henshaws.ac.uk Bogs Lane, Harrogate, HG1 4ED

www.henshaws.ac.uk

Registered Charity No: 221888

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. • Community 1:1 Support • Day Opportunities • Children Specialist Therapeutic Services • Residential Homes • Transitional Services • Nursing Homes • Independent/High Needs • Family Assessment Supported Living Services • Dementia Services • Mental Health • Fostering • Acquired Brain Injury • Adult Social Care

• Spinal Cord Injury

In an emergency, you can reach our team of experts across the UK, ready to support you. With a solution tailored for each person, 24 hours a day. across Christmas and the New Year.

Supporting you

NOW 0800 999 8247 FREEPHONE

CareTech Community Services Metropolitan House 3 Darkes Lane Potters Bar Hertfordshire EN6 1AG

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01707 601 800 now@caretech-uk.com

05/12/2011 12:32