Enable July / August 2021

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An afternoon tea for two for an indulgent summer treat

ADE ADEPITAN Our columnist discusses the need for unity in the UK

The UK’s leading disability and lifestyle magazine

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July / August

CHANGING GEARS with

BILLY MONGER Go behind the starting line with Billy as he discovers new challenges

HIDDEN CARERS

How 13.6 million unpaid carers are being left behind

DON’T SCREEN US OUT

The campaign to amend abortion laws on disability

Get ready to enjoy another packed issue of Enable Magazine for July and August

COVER IMAGE: ©CHANNEL 4 ADE ADEPITAN PHOTO: © IAN WALLMAN

Welcome The UK’s leading disability and lifestyle magazine

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EDITOR’S PICKS...

25 INDEPENDENCE AFTER SERVICE For many coming out of the Armed Forces, the transition to civvy street is challenging – especially if you have acquired a disability.

Charities reveal how you can reach out for help.

31 DESTIGMATISE SCHIZOPHRENIA A person living with schizophrenia and a carer share the importance of education to end social isolation.

56 CELEBRATING MEDICAL ADVANCES pina bifida surgery conducted prior to birth and a drugs trial to slow or stop disability from MS: we look at how medicine is assisting the disabled community.

oing straight into the fast lane, we speak to double amputee and racing driver, Billy Monger on page 10.

Preparing to take part in yet another exhilarating challenge, Billy speaks to Enable about the importance of recognising the Olympics and Paralympics on the same level.

Following on from our investigation into the deterioration of dementia, two dementia carers involved in a film highlighting the determination of unpaid carers speak to us on page 36.

And on page 40, we spotlight the trailblazing court case, where Heidi Crowter and Máire Lea-Wilson are challenging the current abortion laws relating to a fetus with a disability.

Charitable groups also share different ways of communicating with our loved ones on page 44. From commemorating the life stories of someone with dementia, or providing a platform for expression with artists, you’ll be inspired by our interviewees. As the world re-opens, if you are preparing to venture on your first staycation since the pandemic, discover how to plan your next journey, all whilst staying safe, on page 50.

For me, I will also be going on a new adventure, as this is my last issue as editor. It has been a pleasure working on Enable, getting to speak with fantastic, engaging people making waves in the disabled community.

You can look forward to meeting your new editor in the September/October issue! Use the details in the box to get in touch if you have any feature ideas.

Get in touch

All the best,

editor@enablemagazine.co.uk facebook.com/enablemagazine twitter.com/enablemagazine

Lorne Gillies, Editor

instagram.com/enablemagazine

SUPERHEROES UNITE Clocking up an impressive 214 km, the Enable team channelled their favourite superhero to take part in this year’s virtual Superhero Series.

What was your superhero challenge?

PUBLISHER Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITOR Lorne Gillies lorne.gillies@dcpublishing.co.uk STAFF WRITER Emma Storr emma.storr@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Ade Adepitan Tim Rushby-Smith Alisdair Suttie DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Alice Winslow production@dcpublishing.co.uk SALES Marian Mathieson marian.mathieson@dcpublishing.co.uk ENABLE MAGAZINE www.enablemagazine.co.uk

Behind the scenes CHRISTINE MCGUINNESS Ahead of her BBC 1 documentary, Christine McGuinness spoke to Enable Magazine about the realities of raising autistic children. You can read what she had to say on page 47, with the extended interview on our website.

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ONLINE Exploring the identities and experiences of the deaf community, we speak to the writers behind the BBC Radio 3 series The Essay. My Deaf World looks to bridge the gap between the deaf and mainstream community. Read all the interviews over on the Enable website now.

©DC Publishing Ltd 2021. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of DC Publishing Ltd. The publisher takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers within the publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that information is accurate; while dates and prices are correct at time of going to print, DC Publishing Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors.

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What’s inside July / August 2021

INTERVIEW 10 CHANGING GEARS WITH BILLY MONGER Billy Monger takes a new direction in his upcoming documentary.

VOICES 20 THE NEED FOR UNITY Ade Adepitan shares his thoughts on becoming a more united UK. 47 FIVE MINUTES WITH: CHRISTINE MCGUINNESS Ahead of the release of her new BBC documentary, Christine McGuinness gives us an insight into raising autistic children.

48 INCLUSIVE STORYTELLING Shining a light on disability in children’s books, an author depicts his experiences.

53 A CALL TO VACCINATE fter receiving the first dose of his vaccine, Tim Rushby-Smith writes about the need to think of others.

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82 DISABILITY IN REAL LIFE Hollyoaks star Rhiannon Clements talks about disability representation in the media.

SPOTLIGHT 31 DESTIGMATISE SCHIZOPHRENIA What needs to be done to change attitudes to schizophrenia?

40 DOWN’S SYNDROME AND THE ABORTION ACT 1967 Three women discuss taking the UK Government to court to challenge current abortion laws relating to disability.

CARE 13 THE HIDDEN 13.6 MILLION How are unpaid carers being left behind?

16 A NEED FOR GOOD CARE This Good Care Month, we learn how to translate the skills of unpaid carers into the care workforce.

34 CARE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS The organisation revolutionising care advice, all under one umbrella.

36 DEMENTIA: CARE AS YOU ARE Ahead of the release of a new dementia specific documentary, two carers speak to Enable about their experiences.

LIFE 25 INDEPENDENCE AFTER SERVICE For veterans leaving the Armed Forces with an acquired disability, there are specialist charities available.

43 GUIDE DOGS PROVIDING TECH FOR ALL The charity’s new programme giving autonomy to children and young people with visual impairments through technology.

44 CREATIVE COMMUNICATION Music, story writing to painting: charities are embracing creative therapy.

50 SUMMER OF STAYCATIONS Make your staycation one to remember with our top accessibility hints and tips.

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SPORT

EDUCATION

22 CONFIDENCE IN THE GAMES Paralympian Will Bayley talks about staying positive ahead of the Tokyo 2020.

76 LEARNING AFTER AN ACQUIRED BRAIN INJURY A look at the new tool created to support pupils with an ABI.

FINANCE

EMPLOYMENT

74 THE DIARY As the world reopens, we spotlight the events to add to your diary from exhibitions to charitable events.

69 A LOOK AT BENEFITS IN REVIEW What does the pandemic mean for your benefits

72 LONG COVID AND YOUR WORKPLACE RIGHTS What rights do you have when living with long

HEALTH

HOUSING

18 PROCESSING SOCIAL ANXIETY Lockdown has changed how we interact, but moving at your own pace is imperative when dealing with your mental health .

28 ADAPTING YOUR ENVIRONMENT Making your home and surrounding area accessible for your needs.

79 THE WORLD OF WORK Prepare to clock into meaningful employment.

56 CELEBRATING MEDICAL ADVANCES We don our scrubs to spotlight the power of medicine to support the disabled community from spina bifida operations in the womb to stalling disability from MS.

POLITICS

54 THE LANGUAGE OF DISABILITY We look at the campaign changing mindsets and conversations around disability language.

63 PRODUCT ROUNDUP Don’t miss the best products on the market for you to use in the home and with personal care.

66 ACCESS TO ELECTED OFFICE What more needs to be done to recognise disability in politics

MOTORING 59 GOING ELECTRIC WITH LOOKERS Buckle in for the future of driving with funding available for disabled drivers.

60 REVIEW AUDI Q2 Alisdair Suttie takes the Audi Q2 for an accessible test drive.

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enable news

News CHARITIES CALL ON PRIME MINISTER TO FIX SOCIAL CARE A COHORT OF CHARITIES have published an open letter calling on Prime Minister Boris Johnson to keep his promise of fi ing social care. fter over days in office, the Prime Minister made the promise that we will fi the crisis in social care once and for all.”

CEO’s of 50 charities including M ociety, ementia to M ssociation, have written an open letter to the M, which states uring the pandemic tens of thousands died before their time in care homes from .

“The best possible legacy we can give all those who have lost loved ones would be to ensure that we fi the care system so that a similar tragedy cannot happen again.”

Since his original statement in uly of , two million care requests have been turned down leaving members of the disabled community – including unpaid carers – without the right support. eep our romise oris has been introduced, encouraging more people to come together and call for change. ou can read the full open letter by visiting, keepyourpromiseboris.com

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Remembering assisted dying campaigner Noel Conway THE CAMPAIGNER WHO BROUGHT a legal challenge against the ban on assisted dying in the , oel onway passed away in une aged .

Living with motor neurone disease, Mr onway only had movement in his right hand, head and neck. eciding with his family, Mr Conway made the choice to remove his ventilator. Charity ignity in ying, which supported Mr onway s case, released a statement from Mr Conway that he had written prior to his death.

Mr onway wrote ver the past two months it has become

increasingly evident to me that the balance of fulfilment in life, or if you like, my uality of life, has dipped into the negative… nder law it is perfectly legitimate to remove a ventilator from someone like me… This is not something I would have chosen but I feel that I have no alternative to ending my life without pain and suffering and without compromising others.” n , Mr onway had a landmark case in the Supreme Court to change the law on assisted dying, arguing for a person with a terminal illness right to die, but the appeal was lost.

FOR SOLDIERS FOR VETERANS FOR FAMILIES FOR LIFE As the Army’s national charity, we’re here for the Army family when you need us.

Last year, we helped 60,000 people by awarding grants to individuals and over 40 other charities and organisations that support the Army family.

Our support is here at the start of your career and continues for life - long after service has ended.

SUPPORTING

60,000 INDIVIDUALS &

43

ORGANISATIONS

SEARCH ABF THE SOLDIERS’ CHARITY TO FIND OUT MORE

All figures are taken from the 2020/21 financial year.

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is a registered charity in England and Wales (1146420) & Scotland (SC039189). Registered as a company limited by guarantee in England & Wales (07974609).

Registered Office: Mountbarrow House, 12 Elizabeth Street, London, SW1W 9RB.

SUPPORT US AND YOU SUPPORT THE WHOLE ARMY FAMILY

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News DECISION EXPECTED ON CAPACITY FOR TOKYO 2020 AHEAD OF THE TOKYO 2020 Summer Paralympic Games, a decision is set to be made on how many spectators will be able to attend the upcoming events.

Five parties, namely the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) and the Government of Japan (GoJ), met to decide how many spectators could attend the Olympic Games, with a decision

yet to be made for the Paralympic Games this summer.

In a bid to minimise the risk of more rising cases of COVID-19, Japanese governing parties have introduced guidelines for spectators to ensure safe and secure enjoyment of the Games.

At present, the Summer Olympic Games will only include 50 per cent capacity during matches and events, but the definitive answer for the Paralympic Games will be made a week prior to the opening ceremony for the Paralympics, which takes place on 24 August.

Disability hate crime on the increase FOR THE SECOND YEAR, disabled people in Scotland have experienced a rise in disability hate crime.

Disability-aggravated charges have increased by 14 per cent to 448 in 2020 - 21 following a 29 per cent increase in the previous year.

A controversial bill, the Hate Crime and Pubic Order (Scotland) Act 2021, approved in March 2021, is set to be tougher on hatred and prejudice in Scotland. Existing hate crime legislations will soon fall under one umbrella in the new bill, and include a new crime of “stirring up hatred” against protected groups.

Protected characteristics include age, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender, gender reassignment, race, marriage and civil partnership and pregnancy and maternity.

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The Motability Scheme enables disabled people to lease a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair without the worry of owning and running one. Parents and carers can drive on behalf of the customer.

The vehicle should be used by, or for the benefit of, the disabled person.

Making life easier for disabled people

“We went on our first family camping trip.

Something we couldn’t have done without the new car.”

Sam, Elisabeth’s mum

Who can join the Motability Scheme?

You may be able to join the Scheme if you receive one of the following: • Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

• Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

• War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS).

• Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP).

What’s included on the Motability Scheme?

Insurance Breakdown assistance Servicing and repairs

How Motability, the Charity can help We can provide charitable grants for: • Car adaptations to help make travelling as comfortable as possible.

• Vehicle Advance Payments for larger, more expensive vehicles.

• Up to 40 hours of driving lessons, to ensure disabled people have access to driving tuition in specially adapted cars as necessary.

To find out more visit motability.org.uk or call 0800 500 3186

Tyres and battery replacement

To find out more about the Motability Scheme visit motability.co.uk or call 0800 093 1000

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Motability is a Registered Charity in England and Wales (No.299745) and in Scotland (No.SC050642). Motability is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference No.736309). All cars, scooters and powered wheelchairs provided under the Motability Scheme are leased to customers by Motability Operations Ltd, who operate the Scheme on a contract basis for Motability. Motability Operations Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference No.735390).

19/01/2021 11:29

CHANGING GEARS with

BILLY MONGER

Taking the podium two years after becoming a double amputee, changing the rules of motorsport, completing a 140-mile triathlon for Red Nose Day: Billy Monger isn’t holding back. Now, the racing driver and presenter is taking on a new challenge focusing on disability sport

O

ne year after the success of the Rio de Janeiro 2016 Summer Paralympic Games in Brazil, one rising racing driver would be swept into a world of discovery and realisation after a breathstopping accident left him fighting for his life.

It was on 16 April 2017, during a British Formula 4 race at Donington Park circuit that Billy Monger – driving at a speed of over 120mph – crashed into an unsighted, stationary car. The head on collision was near fatal, with Billy, aged 17-years-old at the time, waking up in hospital three days later as a double amputee.

This will be my first aralympic Games as a viewer with a disability,” explains Billy. “I was very interested in the Olympics, but now it will be good to watch the Paralympics with a different mindset and see the athletes and how they perform.” And Billy is in a fortunate position as, ahead of the Games, Billy is set to release a new Channel 4 documentary, Billy Monger: Changing Gears, where he will meet and train alongside Paralympic stars from Team GB.

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OPPORTUNITY

REFLECTION

Remembering the call to train alongside Paralympians, Billy reveals the documentary came around after being asked to present the Paralympic Games in 2020; unfortunately, prior commitments lead to a schedule clash. So, the team decided on the next best thing.

Billy says fondly: “We decided to go for the challenge of me learning different sports from a selection of Paralympians and, potentially, making an idiot of myself in front of some of the greatest athletes in the world.” An engaging, humble and personable young man, Billy, now 22-years-old, hasn’t let his accident hold him back.

From challenging the motorsports governing body, the FIA, to allow disabled drivers to compete in single-seat cars, Billy adapted his Carlin car meaning he drove predominantly with his hands. It wasn’t long before Billy took second place on the podium – after dropping to last place – then raised millions for Red Nose during a gruelling 140-mile triathlon. ow, illy is testing his fitness levels with gold-medal winners.

Billy continues: “Before my accident, I was physically active and I knew during sports days that I could run 100 metres in 19 seconds and Usain Bolt could run it in nine seconds – you see the comparison. People might not realise this comparison with Paralympians.”

Going well out of his comfort zone, Billy will go swimming in open water with Alice Tai and canoeing with fellow double-leg amputee, Charlotte Henshaw, Billy’s adventures are set to make everyone excited and eager to learn more about disability sport.

And it will not just be viewers who are learning more about disability sport – the one-hour long documentary will see illy use running blades for the first time before heading out on a run with Johnnie eacock. This will be illy s first run since his accident in 2017. utting the blades on for the first time was interesting,” laughs Billy. “It’s not just as easy as putting them on and running.

There was a lot of preparation prior to meeting Johnnie as I had to get prosthetics fitted and it was learning to walk and run in them, as they are quite bouncy.”

enable

Interview

Billy with his adapted Toyota GR Supra 3.0 Pro

PHOTO: TOYOTA

Billy continues: “I know a bit about prosthetics because I have been with the mechanics and prosthetics team to create the prosthetics I use for walking or when I’m in a car, so it was interesting to see a different area of prosthetics.

“Now, running alongside Johnnie Peacock, I also got to assess the differences between us both. The Paralympians are just so inspirational,” Billy enthuses.

SPOTLIGHT As a successful sportsman in his own right, Billy knows the hard work, commitment and dedication that goes into performing sports at a professional level, acknowledging the discrepancy that stands between disabled and non-disabled athletes.

“You don’t think every non-disabled person in the street should be an Olympian, so why do we think that disabled people want to be Paralympians? After my accident people did ask me if I was going to try for the Paralympics, but it isn’t something I wanted to do,” Billy recalls.

“I think having Channel 4 shining a light on the Paralympics, it will show that Olympians and Paralympians are on the same level. Before, people thought Paralympians were under the Olympics when in fact they are all on the same level.”

POLE POSITION Campaigning to change the rules around disability in motorsport, Billy will also get behind a specially adapted Toyota GR Supra 3.0 Pro with Johnnie during the documentary.

“It was great,” enthuses Billy. “Johnnie was so accommodating and enthusiastic when I was learning how to run in the blades and it was fantastic to return the favour and get into the Toyota. I enjoyed showing Johnnie a taste of speed in motorsport.

“The experiences with the Paralympians and the technology we have used will help me feel free wherever I go. I think disability is a mindset,” Billy adds. “Yes, there are things I find difficult now that I didn’t have to think about before my accident, such as going up a couple of steps, or situations that will be harder if you’ve lost a couple of legs – or no matter your disability – mental attitudes can be more debilitating than the physical barriers.”

Ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Summer Paralympic Games, Billy’s new documentary will showcase the determination and passion athletes have towards their sport – at a professional level or hobby. Time will tell how successful the Games are on disability sport representation, but Billy is sure to be successful in whatever he puts his mind to next.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Watch Billy Monger: Changing Gears on Channel 4 (www.channel4.com). You can follow Billy Monger on Twitter (@BillyMonger) or visit, www.billymongerracing.co.uk

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23/06/2021 14:59

enable care

THE HIDDEN

MILLION With an exponential rise of unpaid carers during the pandemic and no increase in support provisions, the hidden workforce is at risk of being left behind

U

npaid carers provide a lifeline of support for millions across the UK, with people often not realising that they qualify as an unpaid carer and missing out on vital support. The community saw a dramatic increase during the pandemic as services were forced to close and loved ones took on new or additional responsibilities.

In June 2020, just months after the first nationwide lockdown began, the number of unpaid carers had already increased by 4.5 million people, leaving a total of 13.6 million unpaid carers isolated and at risk of being forgotten.

“Unpaid carers are the invisible keyworkers of the pandemic – we know they worked harder and longer

than ever throughout the COVID crisis due to being at home more and the withdrawal of some local caring support services,” stresses Trisha Thompson, head of grants and programmes at Carers Trust.

When the UK went into lockdown, the message to stay at home also meant millions becoming carers overnight, with many people caring for loved ones who experienced severe symptoms and long-lasting effects from contracting COVID-19.

CONCERN Sonia Benitez is the head of services at Carers Network, who support unpaid carers in three London boroughs and online. The charity found themselves

going above and beyond to ensure unpaid carers and their families were looked after during this time.

“At the beginning of the pandemic some of them were very basic needs types of calls, food for example,” explains Sonia. “As it progressed the type of queries progressed as well, we started to see more queries about mental health; carers were getting very stressed and exhausted, calls about how to manage the behaviour of loved ones if there was a mental health problem or [an] illness like dementia.”

The enquiries for support also turned to worries around benefit applications and finances as more people were furloughed or lost their jobs.

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reduced Wi-Fi costs for carers could aid the situation. “This would help carers on low incomes to register with pharmacies and access the medication delivery service, and also to book GP appointments and medical consultations online.”

RECOGNITION

ON HOLD Karen is an unpaid carer, supporting her nephew to manage his mental health condition. Her caring responsibilities include cooking, cleaning and buying food shopping, and liaising with his care coordinator, acting as an advocate on his behalf.

My first waking thoughts are thinking about what I can do to support him better which can be rather intense; I often forget my own needs to ensure that he has the support he needs,” admits Karen. “Carers are often placed in the position where they need to put their life on hold to ensure the cared for person has continued support, which many do not appreciate and is often overlooked.”

Conscious of the increase in the number of unpaid carers in the UK, Karen’s concerns also lie with the support that the group will receive moving forward, she says: “Carers, whether paid or unpaid, are human and take on the role as a carer due to their caring nature in addition to the decreasing support from government.”

EXCLUSION When most services were moved online overnight, it highlighted a new realm of barriers that unpaid carers face in

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day-to-day life, and ones that often stem from a lack of proper financial recognition and support.

“We were quite concerned about carers who were not accessing technology,” reveals Sonia. “We found that digital exclusion was a big challenge for carers, particularly in the beginning and mid phase of the pandemic where pretty much all information that organisations were disseminating was online.”

Digital exclusion is increasingly becoming an issue, and not just for unpaid carers in a survey by the ffice for National Statistics (ONS) in 2020, 78 per cent of respondents said that the pandemic has escalated the need for digital skills. The same research found that disabled people were less likely to use the internet daily or almost daily than non-disabled people.

An already widening gap in access to social care, support is now even greater because of barriers to digital inclusion.

“Unfortunately, there are now thousands of people living with long COVID and in need of a carer, and as most processes are now online, with many unpaid carers on low incomes or on benefits they cannot afford monthly Wi-Fi subscriptions,” emphasises Karen, who believes measures like

To implement measures that improve digital access, unpaid carers need to be recognised first.

“One of the challenges in carer representation is visibility, sometimes it’s because they aren’t recognised by the general public and sometimes it’s because they don’t recognise themselves as carers,” suggests Sonia.

“When you look after your mum who has dementia or your partner who uses a wheelchair, you do that because that’s what you do, you wouldn’t necessarily use the word carer or qualify yourself as such.

The pandemic has definitely helped with visibility and appreciation of how much relies on the shoulders of unpaid carers in terms of the practical, emotional, financial support they provide to their loved ones.”

Without better recognition, unpaid carers will remain without access to necessary tools and resources.

“There are obvious impacts on carers’ emotional wellbeing – stress, their physical health if they are having to lift a loved one with mobility issues for example, if their sleep is impacted due to caring through the night, that’s going to have an impact on their health, and actually, implications about loneliness and relationships – it’s come to light a lot more which can only be a positive thing,” enthuses Sonia.

The pandemic has highlighted the services unpaid carers provide each day, but now, the government needs to promise greater support to ensure they can look after their own health, too.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To get support or guidance as an unpaid carer, contact your GP or visit: Carers UK www.carersuk.org Carers Trust www.carers.org Carers Network www.carers-network.org.uk

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A need for GOOD CARE

Carers provide a lifeline for both the people they look after and unpaid carers. This Good Care Month we celebrate those continually giving back and call for more people in the profession

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ood care is continually people living with complex disabilities expected in our society, need to be continually supported. no matter the age you Experience as an unpaid carer could are when requiring care. hold you in a good position to become a And, for the carers working tirelessly full-time, paid carer. A Question of Care to support people in their own homes, (www.aquestionofcare.org.uk) is a free assisted living or on the ward, website and questionnaire service caring is one of the most that takes you through different rewarding career paths. care situations and questions, Good Care Every July, Hertfordshire similar to those that would arise Month takes in a real-life setting.

Care Providers Association (HCPA) celebrate the From working with babies place in July dedication of carers across and young children, adults with the UK during Good Care a learning disability and/or autism Month. Sharing stories and to the elderly, the site provides a experiences to challenge the stigma range of video situations where you that can arise in the care sector, can respond in the manner you think is celebrating fellow members of staff, accurate. At the end of the scenarios, Good Care Month looks to get even your responses will be collated to see if more people into the profession. a career in care is right for you.

At present, HCPA needs 4,000 paid carers annually. And, there are many NEW CHAPTER ways your skills can translate into a Skills for Care, an organisation working caring role. to support adult social care employers to deliver the care that is expected and required of care professionals, is on SOCIAL CARE hand to help people start or progress As unpaid carers rise, especially in the their care career. aftermath of the pandemic, so does the Becoming a carer is a career anyone need for those working in a professional can consider. As long as you are patient, capacity in social care, particularly as compassionate and want to help people the expanding ageing population and

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thrive, caring can be for you. Not to mention, there are many caring roles available from becoming a care worker or personal assistant, to cook or kitchen assistant, housekeeping to working in an office or administration. These are all vital, integral roles needed to help keep those reliant on support safe, healthy and living fulfilling lives.

Additionally, Skills for Care can assist paid carers looking to transition to higher roles or different sectors in care. This could include becoming more specialised, such as training to become an occupational therapist, or taking short courses to learn about management.

With unpaid carers rising, the need to recognise and celebrate our paid carers providing support to clients and their loved ones has never been more important. This ood are Month, will you look at changing career path?

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Find out all about Good Care Month on the Hertfordshire Care Providers Association website (www.hcpa.info). Advice on working in adult social care can be found at Skills for Care (www.skillsforcare.org.uk).

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Processing social anxiety The course of the coronavirus pandemic has undoubtedly caused stress and anxiety for millions of people, but as restrictions ease, a new wave of social anxiety is preventing some from returning to normal life

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ood mental wellbeing is essential to recover from the emotional trauma of the coronavirus pandemic. With restrictions reducing, organisations like Anxiety UK are experiencing increasing demand for support around social anxiety.

A recent survey by the organisation shows a split in views as restrictions ease. When asked about their feelings around the world opening up again, 37 per cent* of over 900 respondents said they are looking forward to returning to normal life. However, 36 per cent said they were happy to stay at home, with almost half of those respondents citing the pressures of socialising as their biggest concern.

ON THE RISE This fear is a relatable reminder of the impact restrictions have had on overall mental wellbeing since March 2020.

Anyone can experience anxiety, often manifesting in symptoms like a sense of dread, a faster heartbeat or feeling lightheaded. When these feelings start to interrupt your day-to-day life, it can be considered a mental health problem.

“If you notice changes to your thoughts, feelings and behaviours that last longer than two weeks, keep returning, and are affecting your daily life – such as work and relationships – speak to someone you trust,” advises

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Rosie Weatherley, information content manager at mental health charity, Mind. t could be the first time you have experienced anxiety around social situations, or it may be something you have felt in the past, and as the possibility of being in crowded public spaces rises, it is normal for these feelings to increase, too.

“This is the post-lockdown anxiety people have been talking about,” explains Dave Smithson, operations director at Anxiety UK. “It will take time to readjust back into the routine we used to take so much for normal.”

James can’t remember a year when he didn’t experience some form of anxiety, but over the last five years his feelings of social anxiety have increased. Just as the pandemic began, James, a videographer, was able to work remotely rather than in an office to aid his social an iety, but the coronavirus meant this was extended.

“Doing a so-called normal job would be very difficult, even though my ob did allow me to work from home it still involved a lot of meetings which the pandemic kind of saved me from,” reveals James.

Gaining the position through a traineeship for people who have disabilities or social anxiety, James’ workplace understood his needs, but as restrictions ease he worries about the pressure to return to normal working life.

If you notice changes to your thoughts, feelings and behaviours, speak to someone you trust

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RESPONSE

“That’s my big worry, there is a point where I’ve got to do my job and I can’t put things off or use the pandemic as an excuse, I’m not going to be able to keep on doing that,” expresses James.

SHIELDING

* STATISTICS FROM ANXIETY UK RESEARCH

James’ concerns around restrictions easing and the pressure to return to normal life aren’t isolated.

“Some people with mental health problems, especially those who have been shielding during the coronavirus pandemic, may be feeling lots of different emotions about lockdown easing,” empathises Rosie. “This might include anxiety around health, crowds and socialising, and changes to their daily routine.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing social anxiety, it is important to remember that it is

a natural response to the current situation.

“We’ve been told for 12 to 14 months to stay at home, to stay two metres from people, to wash our hands every time you touch something, and now it’s like well it’s OK to go out and hug people – that’s a confusing change of messaging and it creates some anxiety,” emphasises Dave who had to shield himself.

“If you’ve had a letter saying that you were advised to shield, you have hopefully followed that guidance and protected yourself, taking lots of precautions to minimise risk and eliminate any danger where possible.

“The element of risk is still there, that underlying health condition will not, and in many cases will never go away and you’ll be thinking how safe is it really.”

When these feelings arise, there are organisations, charities and individuals around you ready to offer a helping hand.

“Try to take things at your own pace, and give yourself time to adjust,” suggests Rosie. “It might help to talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling, such as a friend, family member or health professional. Having someone listen and show they care can help in itself.”

Even if you are no longer required to shield, or you are now fully vaccinated, feelings of social anxiety are valid in constantly changing and scary circumstances.

“If it’s feeling overwhelming just take it one step at a time, meet one friend at a time and see how you feel; just build up your natural resilience,” suggests Dave. “Operate around different solutions that work for you and that you feel comfortable with.”

The Anxiety UK website offers resources like phrases to explain how you’re feeling and how people can help support you until you feel more comfortable.

James feels there is now a greater understanding around anxiety, and specifically social an iety, because of the pandemic, but there is still a way to go in empathy and support around mental health.

“I think we’re all going through some level of anxiety so it does seem that across the whole there is more understanding,” acknowledges James. “If a person was to try and cancel or postpone something maybe even a couple times, it doesn’t mean they don’t want to meet with you it’s just that they maybe need a bit more time to build up to it.”

As rules become more lenient, it is normal to feel worried and anxious.

Being mindful of others and taking time to explain how you feel can be the first step to resuming, and enjoying, daily life.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Resources and support to help with social anxiety visit, www.mind.org.uk or www.anxietyuk.org.uk

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Ade Adepitan

THE NEED FOR UNITY Touching on the impact of Brexit and the one-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, our columnist Ade Adepitan discusses not feeling accepted

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UNSETTLED Brexit, the rise of Trump and the murder of George Floyd have had a huge impact all over the world.

I started to feel unsettled towards the latter stages of the EU referendum.

Watching the news, all I kept seeing were angry people talking about how they wanted to get their country back, or how the government needed to take control of our borders to prevent hordes of refugees from entering our country. imilar to what was happening with the MAGA (Make America Great Again) campaign in America, I wondered if we were entering that dangerous place where the lines between patriotism and racism become blurred. What saddens me the most about all this division is that it’s happening less than a decade after the ondon lympic and Paralympic Games, a time when the whole country had never felt more unified.

“

None of us are truly free until all of us are free

“

have a confession to make, the last few years have been difficult. ince , ve felt a real sense of unease, so much so I think it’s affected my mental health. ack then couldn t figure out what it was, but now after the dust has settled it seems so obvious.

The UK is going through an existential battle that over the next decade could potentially reshape how we see ourselves as a nation, watching the fall out has been traumatic, it’s also made me question whether as a black man I will ever be fully accepted in the UK.

There are many interesting paradoxes about humans, we need evolution to survive and adapt, by taking sometimes small but also big progressive steps.

INEQUALITY Watching English football fans boo their national team as the players literally take a stance against the social injustices that result from systemic racism, shows that even though most rational people know how important it is for the mental wellbeing and social cohesion of our society to rid ourselves of racial inequality, there will always be a vocal minority that will boo change and try to stop progress.

Read an extended version of Ade’s column on our website, www.enablemagazine.co.uk enablemagazine.co.uk

Even our government seem to show a lack of interest in levelling up the UK for ethnic minorities, my guess is they don’t see it as a vote winner.

Despite all of this I still feel optimistic about the future, mainly through my work in schools. I see a younger generation that doesn’t carry the same baggage as their parents when it comes to racial equality. Great moments of change like the one we’re going through right now always face resistance.

I’m sure there are people who are thinking I have enough problems of my own so, “why should I care about a few fans booing?”. The truth is, the struggle for racial equality is a struggle that belongs to all of us, because none of us are truly free until all of us are free.

Keep up to date with Ade by following his YouTube channel, Adepifam, www.youtube.com

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The road to Tokyo has been bumpy, with a global pandemic halting the Games in 2020 and concerns over safety gripping residents in Japan ahead of the rescheduled event. As Team GB prepare to represent, Paralympian Will Bayley talks about the importance of the Games

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wait unlike any other, the whistle for the Tokyo Summer 2020 Paralympic Games is set to blow.

Originally scheduled to take place in the Japanese capital from 25 August to 6 September in 2020, the impact of the coronavirus pandemic meant sporting events were cancelled or postponed.

Now, the rescheduled Games will see 539 events across 22 sports hosted in 21 venues, however, the pandemic has left lasting ripple effects for residents in Japan with a recent poll featured in Asahi Shimbun newspaper indicating 80 per cent of the population want the Games cancelled or postponed.

But, for world number one Paralympic table tennis player, Will Bayley – who was born with arthrogryposis, a congenital joint contracture in two or more areas of the body – the postponement of the Games has been a positive.

INJURY Working to defend his 2016 Rio de Janeiro Individual Class Seven title, Will’s return to the Paralympics will come after recovering from a torn cruciate ligament which occurred whilst training for Strictly Come Dancing.

In February 2020, Will had to have a reconstructive operation, meaning training for the Games originally scheduled in 2020 was in great jeopardy. ill reveals t first, it was a long, long road back from a crucial ligament injury. I was a little worried about the injury to start off with, but the stronger get the more confident am. year since my injury, I feel comfortable when I bounce off my leg the way I did before, maybe even better.” This has also been

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The Tokyo 2020 Summer Paralympic Games will run from 24 August to 5 September 2021

CONFI D IN THE G For too long disabled people and disability sport has gone under the radar

assisted by the B-Cure Laser (www. bcurelaser.co.uk), which can help treat chronic pain at home.

Since using the B-Cure Laser, Will, who is an ambassador for the company, adds: “When I got my injury, it was excruciatingly painful. I had the operation and it was a tough recovery.

As I’m constantly twisting and turning that doesn’t help my knee, it creates a bit of pain. The B-Cure Laser helps me manage the pain. was sceptical at first, but it is managing my pain really well and I can do more sessions than I did before.”

And the additional training is certainly helping Will, at the time of writing he is nine-weeks ahead of his first match at the upcoming ames training 10 hours a day playing table tennis to work on defending his Rio title.

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Will at the 2016 Games in Rio

I DENCE E GAMES DEFENCE “It is a really exciting time,” enthuses Will. “I’m just working as hard as I can to put everything into it and be the best I can be. Hopefully if I do all these things and work as hard as possible I have a chance of winning again. But, I want to be the best version of myself and give it my best shot; I can’t do much more.”

Alongside Will, Team GB athletes are continually training to go above and beyond in Tokyo with one main goal: getting on a podium. However, there has been controversy around the Games due to the pandemic. Despite challenges, at the time of writing, Tokyo’s Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga revealed his intentions to not only hold both the lympic and aralympic Games, but have spectators in stadiums.

From an athletes perspective, Will can see both the pros and cons of the Games going ahead.

Will emphasises: “I hope it goes ahead from a selfish point of view because of all the work we’ve done, we want the ames to go ahead. bviously, it is a difficult time for the world at the moment so I understand that as well. It is difficult hope it happens, but know the challenges of hosting a massive event like this – it is really hard to do.”

HISTORIC Set to be the sixteenth Summer Paralympics, the Tokyo Paralympic Games will be the second time the Games have been hosted in Tokyo. Back in 1964, Tokyo welcomed the athletes from across the world. In 2021, two new adapted sports are set to take

centre stage including taekwondo and badminton.

Despite the uncertainty and hostility, in part, that surrounds the Games, Will also highlights the importance of the Paralympics for everyone – regardless of limitations.

“The Paralympics is massive,” emphasises Will. “For too long disabled people and disability sport has gone under the radar. There is a lot of people, a lot of disabled children who need to see the Paralympics; we should really show what is possible and give people inspiration.

“Also, it is elite sport, it is just as good as any other sport,” Will continues. “It is important to show Para sport, that despite the limitations someone might have, they are still able to do great sport and it is not just for inspiration and motivation for disabled people but non-disabled people, too.” s the ames of the lympic and Paralympic torches continue to icker, it is hoped that athletes who have worked so hard for the Games have their chance to shine. Even more importantly, it is essential to showcase disability sport.

For those thinking of getting active, Will concludes: “As humans we’re not very good at stepping outside our comfort zone. I know what it is like to feel like you are no good at something.

It is really important to give things a go – if you do, you might end up loving it.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION Get behind Team GB (paralympics.org.uk) and watch coverage of all Parasport events on Channel 4 (paralympics.channel4.com). You can follow Will’s journey at the Paralympic Games online, @WillBayleytt

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There’s so much more to SSAFA We are SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity. We have been supporting the Armed Forces family for more than 135 years and not just during times of conflict. We help those currently serving, veterans and their families to retain their independence and dignity. Our services are diverse, and so are the people we help. With your help, whether practical, emotional or financial, we can get them the support they need.

S UPPO RT U S N OW

ssafa.org.uk/more Registered as a charity in England and Wales Number 210760 in Scotland Number SC038056 and in Republic of Ireland Number 20202001. Established 1885.

Regulars | Reserves | Veterans | Families

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Neil Francis

INDEPENDENCE AFTER SERVICE Leaving the Armed Forces after acquiring a disability can make the transition back to civvy street seem more difficult, but the right support can lead to a happy life

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he transition from serving in the Armed Forces back to civvy street can often be challenging, but leaving your post due to acquiring a disability may make this time feel more difficult.

Organisations like SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, can help you to regain your independence and live a fulfilling life after service.

INJURY After an accident while on shore leave in the Gulf, Neil Francis was left tetraplegic, with his career cut short.

Neil had joined the Royal Navy as a radio operator just a year earlier at the

age of 16 and had dreams of a long career in the rmed orces.

When Neil knew that he would now use a wheelchair and couldn’t return to his post, his thoughts turned to his family. t the time, eil s mother had a younger daughter and was heavily pregnant with her third child, but he was his family s main financial support. llowing eil to focus on his recovery, stepped in.

“I had joined to see the world and to support my family. or me they were the two most important things,” remembers eil. were there before came out of hospital. They were there for my mum when she

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had my baby brother – it was the most important thing at the time to make sure they were taken care of.”

After Neil was discharged from hospital and started a college course in IT, SSAFA continued to assist him and his family.

FREEDOM Now 44, the support and encouragement SSAFA gave Neil didn’t stop after he returned home and completed his education. Recently, the charity helped Neil raise money for a new 4x4 wheelchair, furthering his independence.

Neil’s old chair left him in pain and his freedom was restricted; he had to stick to travelling on paths and lift his legs every 30 minutes due to discomfort. He found a chair that would help him live a better life, but it was £20,000.

After securing £4,000 from NHS wheelchair services, Neil’s local SSAFA branch helped him connect with other charities, he explains: “They helped me get in touch with Royal British Legion and other charities and they all gave small amounts.

“Then I was encouraged to work with my friends to raise the rest. Before I looked at it as a mountain to climb.

“My caseworker immediately understood me, I didn’t have to justify myself,” adds Neil. “I didn’t have to go through a check-list to explain I was in pain. It was like having a family member coming around and saying, yes, I can see you are in pain, I can see you aren’t happy, we’ll sort it out.”

TRUE SELF With a love for the outdoors, Neil is now able to use his new chair to explore.

“It has helped me to escape a lot of pain, and I can explore my childhood rambles, where I used to go with my bike or my horse as a child,” enthuses Neil. “Sometimes when you are restricted with pain, living arrangements or transportation, you can’t always be yourself. When you have the conditions to truly relax and do what you want, you can be your true self.”

Neil is now a SSAFA volunteer, helping his local branch in IT, and would encourage other veterans and their families to reach out.

“Anybody can help people through SSAFA,” emphasises Neil. “Those who have been in the service and know what it is like to come out or know what people in the military have been through are a real support.” provides practical, financial and emotional support to those currently serving, veterans, and their families, through a network of trained volunteers and employees, but also so much more: the charity has an adoption service which champions equality and diversity, and supports Forces families with a disability or additional need, providing them with the chance of valuable time together on holiday. Find out how SSAFA can support you today by visiting, www.ssafa.org.uk/more

A family supported

by SSAFA

SERVICES AND SUPPORT

Alongside SSAFA, a host of organisations and charities are there to offer aid if you acquired a disability during service or if a disability prevented you from returning to service.

ROYAL BRITISH LEGION www.britishlegion.co.uk The Royal British Legion (RBL) provide lifelong support to people serving, exservice personnel and their families. With wide-ranging support from advice and guidance to recovery and rehabilitation, RBL have a network of experts and volunteers to help. The Legion can also assist you in the transition to civilian life after serving, and offer services to help with disability benefit claims and getting support or funding for mobility aids and equipment.

RAF BENEVOLENT FUND www.rafbf.org The RAF’s leading welfare charity, the RAF Benevolent Fund (RAFBF) is there for all current and former members of the RAF along with their partners and dependent children. Charity services include financial assistance, help with living independently, and specialist advice on benefits and support with care needs. Working with the RAF Disabled Holiday Trust, RAFBF provide accessible holidays for disabled members of the Armed Forces and veterans and their dependents.

COMBAT STRESS www.combatstress.org.uk Supporting former servicemen and women with their mental health, support provided

by Combat Stress can be especially helpful if you have felt isolated or anxious because of the coronavirus pandemic. Providing specialist treatment and support for veterans, the charity often helps people deal with things like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression, with a range of community, outpatient and residential mental health services, as well as support over the phone and online.

HELP FOR HEROES www.helpforheroes.org.uk Help for Heroes exists to support veterans who had to leave their career in the Armed Forces as a result of physical or psychological wounds. The charity aids former servicemen and women to recover and continue in life through physical, psychological, financial and welfare support, also supporting families affected by their loved one’s injuries.

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T

he UK is in the midst of a housing crisis and disabled people are no exception in facing barriers to appropriate housing.

Research released by Shelter in May 2021 found that 54 per cent of people with a significant disability do not have a safe or secure home, in comparison to 30 per cent of nondisabled people.

The creation of more accessible homes doesn t ust benefit the disabled community, it benefits everyone: people who could become disabled in the future, the ageing population, and anyone with a disabled loved one who might visit them in their home. Better provision of accessible housing is key to building a better future, but the need for inclusivity stretches out into the community.

A home that meets your unique needs is key to a happy life, but without proper access in local communities it can still feel isolating despite adaptations in place

NEIGHBOURHOOD “Accessibility doesn’t begin and end on the front doorstep,” emphasises Natalie Turner, head of localities at the Centre for Ageing Better (www. ageing-better.org.uk). “It’s not just about whether you can get up your stairs, although of course that’s important. We know people choose

where they live, and often want to stay there long-term, because of the wider community.

“Neighbourhoods need to be easy to navigate, from the pavements to transport.”

Barriers in the home and in the community can exacerbate loneliness and isolation, or put the health of the public at risk.

“Too many people still live in places where it’s a struggle just to walk to the shops, or take a bus into town – and this leaves people isolated,” states Natalie. “We all know how important outside space has been in lockdown, parks and open spaces also need to be accessible.”

CHANGES Initiatives like the Lifetime Homes Standard, intended to make homes more easily adaptable for lifetime use at a minimal cost, are helping to create change in the housing sector, but more needs to be done at a national and local level.

“It will take more than one organisation: we as individuals, businesses, national and local government, all will need to play a role,” advises Natalie. “I think many people already understand this need

ADAPTING YOUR ENVIRONMENT

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enable housing but don t necessarily think of it in terms of accessibility. or e ample, a mother who has a child in a pushchair or a teenager who s twisted their ankle benefit from accessible spaces ust as much as an older person or someone using a wheelchair.

The inclusion of service users in planning is essential to tackling the housing crisis in the future, atalie says t s really important that spaces and services are designed with older and disabled people, not for them and that people with accessibility needs are involved at every step of the way, rather than being an afterthought.

INQUIRY ommissioned by the entre for geing etter, The ood ome n uiry is analysing ngland s housing policies to determine the causes of, and solutions to, the poor uality of so much housing. ction is needed if we are going to ensure that the homes we have now are fit for the future, e plains atalie. s part of the n uiry, we re looking at issues from health to energy efficiency, and working with policy makers and the public to come up with solutions to get our homes up to scratch. ur housing stock should be seen as the national asset it is, and it needs to be fit for generations to come, in better condition and more accessible and adaptable. teps like this in uiry are bringing housing standards and communities closer to being inclusive, creating better spaces for everyone.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Organisations like Habinteg Housing (www.habinteg.org.uk), Scope (www.scope.org.uk) and Disability Rights UK (www.disabilityrightsuk.org) can offer information on accessible housing and access in the community along with your local authority (www.gov.uk).

YOUR MOBILITY NEEDS long with finding the right home, products that fit your uni ue needs can help to make your environment more accessible. aving recently launched new head uarters and a showroom in urrey, mobility specialists heelfreedom offer a tailored service to meet your mobility product needs. pacious and welcoming, the new showroom in hessington has an e tensive collection of mobility products to try, and incorporates private assessment facilities and an onsite service centre. heelfreedom have long been known for their specialism in high end prescriptive mobility products that can aid you at home and outside. ith an e tensive selection of manual and active wheelchairs, power add ons, powerchairs, specialist seating and more, the company s product e perts and partnered occupational therapists are on hand to assess your needs and offer clinical input. stablished in , the company has been recognised with a number of industry awards for their outstanding customer service. The heelfreedom showroom is open si days a week but advance booking for appointments is recommended.

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spotlight

Destigmatise SCHIZOPHRENIA One of the most misunderstood mental health conditions, schizophrenia is continually vilified. As the conversations around mental health advance, schizophrenia should come to the forefront

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chizophrenia. It is a word and diagnosis that may illicit preconceived ideas of how you expect someone with the condition to act or behave.

However, it is likely that this understanding is shrouded in the stigma that, unfortunately, continues to plight schizophrenia as a mental health condition.

Affecting the manner in which a person

thinks, schizophrenia is a serious mental health condition that is experienced by one in 100 people across the UK. People can experience positive symptoms, which includes hallucinations or delusions, and negative symptoms, where a person can lose the ability to do certain tasks.

For Ashley, on the day of her university exams, she began to experience delusions, and was later diagnosed with psychosis.

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SYMPTOMS “It was quite a scary experience at the time,” recalls Ashley. “It was a shock because I was experiencing delusions and I didn’t know about delusions and I hadn’t experienced them before.” Like many young people, Ashley’s life was incredibly fast-paced with university, part-time work, socialising and learning how to drive, leading to Ashley experiencing a breakdown. But, receiving a diagnosis of schizophrenia was a blow. shley continues hen was first diagnosed, I was very distraught and I couldn’t believe I had this diagnosis. It was something I had misconceptions about. I thought schizophrenia was a diagnosis for people who were taking drugs or I thought that there was no possibility of recovery.”

And Ashley is not alone. Theresa is a carer for her brother, who started presenting symptoms of schizophrenia in his late teens. Despite being aware of his change in behaviour and the term schizophrenia, the diagnosis was never discussed.

STIGMA “Effectively, there is a stigma that surrounds schizophrenia as a diagnosis. I remember always knowing there was something going on, but never being told,” explains Theresa. “As an adult, I know that he was experiencing problems internally but externally it came across as someone really challenging with very upsetting behaviour.”

Theresa’s brother did manage to live independently, even obtaining two postgraduate degrees, but the need to keep his diagnosis secret was a large burden. In recent years, discussions around mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety have heightened – conversations now need to encompass other mental health conditions, too.

Ashley emphasises: “People need to understand that schizophrenia affects people in different ways. For me, it got to the stage where I wasn’t experiencing hallucinations but nightmares. That was something I didn’t know: that you could experience nightmares, especially if you have had traumatic experiences.

“It is all about showing schizophrenia

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more of a say in their treatment when they are feeling better,” explains Ashley.

“The times when I was in hospital, the voices said quite violent things to me.

The voices, in my case, made me feel vulnerable and I felt that I didn’t want to respond with violence, I wanted peace and I didn’t want to be in this situation.”

Theresa stresses: “Someone with schizophrenia should be protected because often their world is very scary, they are more likely to be the vulnerable person compared to you.”

As a secondary carer for her brother, Theresa supports him with claiming benefits, thinking through large decisions to being his emotional support after treatment has left Ashley Theresa’s brother with no social network. Taking time to come to terms with the fact she is a carer, Theresa has in a positive and realistic way,” Ashley faced hurdles to ensuring her brother continues. “The media can also portray is cared for whilst protecting her own people with schizophrenia as violent mental health. or not in touch with reality, but if we “When you tie up caring and the debunk the misconceptions stigma of schizophrenia then I around schizophrenia people can become protective of the will become more educated, fact that I care for a brother One in aware, and learn that there with quite a serious mental 100 people in is more to schizophrenia. health condition,” reveals the UK live with People can have full, fun Theresa. “There are other lives.” challenges, including guilt. schizophrenia And Theresa fervently There is guilt I am not doing agrees: “The depiction in more. I feel guilt for living my popular culture is someone who life when he is lonely with very limited choice and autonomy. There is is very violent and scary, or someone a lot of guilt there. uilt that can t fi who has a multiple personality disorder. his condition.”

Even the language that is used is really Through discussions, improved unhelpful for people who have a condition awareness of schizophrenia and that is quite common. assistance from charities – such as “Schizophrenia is a silent shared Rethink Mental Illness which both experience,” adds Theresa. “It is not the Theresa and Ashley volunteer for diagnosis of schizophrenia that ruins lives, – or loved ones, people living with it is the stigma.” schizophrenia or carers can overcome stigma. Ashley enthuses: “You don’t PERSON CENTRED have to struggle alone. There is not Changing the conversation around shame in having schizophrenia, we schizophrenia to remove the thought need to have these conversations – of violence to others is vital for the there is nothing to be ashamed of.” improved awareness of the condition, and also the care people receive.

Having been admitted into medical care under the Mental Health Act 1983, Ashley emphasises the importance of personcentred care for those already going through a fearful experience.

“In terms of the mental health care when you are detained, especially with psychosis, the individual needs to have

FOR MORE INFORMATION Support on schizophrenia is available from Rethink Mental Illness (www.rethink.org), Mind (www.mind.org.uk) and the NHS (www.nhs.uk). If you, or someone you know, is in crisis call Samaritans (www.samaritans.org) on 116 123 or 999.

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CARE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Combining resources from across the UK, The Care Umbrella is set to revolutionise care information making it easier to access

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he founder of The Care Umbrella, Sarah Jones, agrees that establishing a new venture during such a globally challenging time is a risky undertaking. However, the pandemic has highlighted the current crisis being faced in the care industry, with a growing need for individuals to access care supplies, information and services online.

This information is regularly sought after when care users or family members are at their most distressed or vulnerable.

Despite the need for information, it can be Sarah Jones challenging to locate.

COMBINATION By bringing together each sector of the UK care industry and the trades and services that support them, The Care Umbrella solves these issues.

Enabling care businesses to promote their goods and services directly to the right individuals and families, at the right time, The Care Umbrella helps people to quickly identify and shortlist the right care to meet their needs.

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Additionally, relevant information, advice, events and insights can be highlighted that will best suit their circumstances. m so e cited to finally have launched – the site has been a year in the making, a challenging year for the world and possibly the worst time to start a new venture.

However, we’ve done it and The are mbrella has finally arrived,” enthuses Sarah.

“During the development process my amazing team have prepared, organised and implemented constant changes. Particularly as I began to discover so much essential information missing from other care sites and resources. I wanted to include all of this within The Care Umbrella.”

Already boasting an extensive library of useful information, The Care Umbrella’s online bookshelf is designed to save you time whilst pointing you in the right direction for support.

ADAPTING As a care company owner, Sarah felt there was a gap in the market for an all-encompassing

care website. An online care hub, The Care Umbrella is a space with information, detail and care user choices which have been missing from resources in the past.

Sarah continues: “I wanted to encourage positive and creative solutions to help meet needs. It was, and is, my ambition to improve access to more care information which increases choice and for it to be straightforward, affordable and ethical for those providing that information.”

An ongoing project, The Care Umbrella is continually changing and modifying. Further goals and ambitions for the site include providing an additional mini-site for industry professionals. For service users, The Care Umbrella also hopes to start its own forum for people to connect with each other, even expanding to hopes of providing friendship and dating opportunities.

Currently available on the hub, information can be found for those looking for care, professionals in the industry, alongside an option to share your story, hints and tips. Uniting under one umbrella, the hub is set to change the landscape of care information.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

With popular blogs, regularly shared across The Care Umbrella’s social media channels, if you have an experience you would like to share email sarah@thecareumbrella.co.uk or call 0330 223 6903.

“I would highly recommend the LIFT scheme if you are requiring more suitable accommodation for a disabled person.”

Francesca, LIFT scheme buyer For a

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If you have a disability and are in need of alternative housing, you could be eligible for up to 49% towards the cost of a home through the Scottish Government’s LIFT scheme*.

Find out more:

New Pull-Ons 10

Text LIFT to 66777 www.linkhousing.org.uk/ LIFT-disability *Eligibility criteria applies.

Bringing People Together

Your Opinion Matters Whether you have a disability, life-limiting condition, illness or you care for someone else, we give you the tools to quickly find what you need.

The Care Umbrella are appealing to everyone to get involved and join our online community.

We’re now seeking blog writers, opinions and real-life stories from every viewpoint.

From sourcing care providers, products, specialised services and tradespeople, to finding accessible local events and even jobs in care; The Care Umbrella represents an exchange of credible information with like-minded people.

Do you have a personal experience to share, a practical solution that will help others or an opinion on the issues surrounding care?

Visit our website today to create your free account. www. thecareumbrella.co.uk

Follow us on social media

hello@thecareumbrella.co.uk

A still from the CAYA film

Taking on a caring role for someone living with dementia can also mean a change in relationship as their condition deteriorates.

Adequate information and support for loved ones can relieve the emotional pressure that comes with the role

DEMENTIA: care as you are A

s people living with dementia in care settings and at home were left behind during the coronavirus pandemic, their carers – often loved ones dedicating their lives to the role – had the same fate. An under-recognised group of frontline workers, dementia carers have been alone with little support.

“Many carers have been isolated from their support networks, which includes family, friends, respite, and day services; these networks

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are crucial to give carers a break,” stresses Caroline Scates, Admiral Nurse and head of professional and practice development at Dementia UK. Having to bear witness to the steep decline that many people living with dementia experienced during this crisis, with no respite to process this, has affected carers’ mental health.

Without greater provision for this group, it will be hard to overcome the anguish experienced from the pandemic.

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LABEL lthough carers for loved ones living with dementia have not been prioritised for support, many people that fall into this category wouldn t label themselves in this way.

Mary was a carer for her father who had dementia, she says didn t know that had sort of inadvertently become a carer overnight. hen we went to the doctors, went in as his daughter, minutes later was his carer with absolutely no instructions.

Mary felt like she had been left alone, with her father s condition deteriorating uickly. er e perience of feeling shocked at her sudden change of relationship to her father isn t uni ue, it is something many carers feel after their loved one receives a diagnosis like dementia. r Michael taunton, who cares for his wife vril, doesn t see himself as a carer and feels there should be more empathy in this process, he e plains see the word all the time and don t think people realise unless they ve been on this ourney, they don t have a right to change someone s status.

These feelings are what encouraged Michael, Mary and other loved ones to create are as ou re a booklet and film taking people through the emotional ourney after a loved one receives a dementia diagnosis. othing prepares you for that and that s where the notion for the film came in, you realise that you have to do something, emphasises Mary. e had to say let s review this and see how we can turn this into something that can be done positively.

CAYA roken down into different scenes, are as ou re is intended to aid loved ones in the road after diagnosis, a time when it is easy to feel confused. veryone talks about the ourney, but this is a different sort of e perience. n most ourneys, you know you re going to end up somewhere nice or a place you wanted to get to. ith dementia, you get somewhere that you didn t want to and that s very different, admits Michael.

The film seeks to support carers and encourage them, alongside their friends and family, to navigate this new role while looking after their own emotional wellbeing.

I went in as his daughter, minutes later I was his carer with absolutely no instructions The process of creating the film brought Mary to the realisation that she has felt isolated as a carer, and has had to learn how to regulate different types of e periences, making a choice in how she allows feelings around them to manifest.

COLLABORATION sense of collaboration or companionship with those around you, and the person you are caring for, can make it easier to process the new feelings that come with the caring role. hen a member of your community or family gets dementia, it is the family that is impacted and the shared e perience of that is fundamental, e presses Mary. ntil found myself alone, sometimes longer than e pected, didn t really realise what social beings we are, a relationship with other people to talk about what you re going through can change it.

A sense of connectivity through speaking to other people can be reassuring and is often considered a form of respite. eading the descriptions of how people with dementia have suffered during this, the carers have been

Caroline

affected in the same way, reveals Mary. t s really important even to hear the sound of a voice my father ended up bed bound, but him being downstairs meant that everything that took place in the house became a shared e perience, all the sounds of social life were able to comfort him and it supported me.

Michael, who always tries to find the positive in difficult situations, previously dedicated any of his spare time to organising treks for him and vril abroad, something they would both en oy. ith organising our treks it s not ust for us, it s with groups of people and they ve all got to know us very well, so they ve been a great support even during the pandemic, shares Michael.

GUIDANCE lthough reassurance can come in the form of chats with friends, or a daily aunt with the dogs, formal support for dementia carers is imperative. are is based on giving, respect and relationships, all of those values should be enhanced by having a network that is immediately available, states Mary. think it s essential to the health of the carer, there s millions of people caring for someone at home right now and there has to be help, they have to be respected for the work that they re doing. rganisations like ementia are also demanding more, aroline says ocial care is in desperate need of a total reform. n the , we have a disconnected system with varying layers of bureaucracy to work through, leaving countless families living with dementia without the support they need. ervices are often inade uate, or simply not available, leaving families at crisis point. ntil the social care system ade uately supports all carers, those supporting people living with dementia will be unable to recover from the trauma of the coronavirus pandemic or move forward.

FOR MORE INFORMATION The Dementia UK (www.dementiauk.org) Admiral Nurse helpline is available seven days a week over the phone and via email: 0800 888 6678 helpline@dementiauk.org

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Smugglers tea. Basking in the great outdoors, or having a relaxing Sunday morning in bed, the hamper is sure to be a source of pleasure come rain or shine.

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Alternatively, enter online, www.enablemagazine.co.uk/ SummerHamper All entries must be received by Monday 16 August 2021. Good luck!

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: The prize is for one Ultimate Indulgence Hamper from The Cornish Company. Included in hamper: four freshly baked plain scones, 113g Rodda’s Cornish Clotted Cream, 228g Berries Strawberry Conserve, box of 40 Cornish Smugglers Brew black tea bag, Mr Filbert’s salted caramel nuts, box of Furniss clotted cream shortbread biscuits and clotted cream and chocolate shortbread biscuits, Buttermilk assorted fudge bag, double chocolate fudge bag and salted caramel fudge bag, Rodda’s clotted cream fudge only. Items subject to availability and may differ from image shown. Product contains nuts, please be aware of allergens. One Ultimate Indulgence Hamper will be sent to winner’s nominated address. Prize is non-transferable, non-refundable, there is no cash alternative and cannot be sold to another party. ne entry per household. ntries must be received by onday ugust . he publisher s decision is final.

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Aidan

DOWN’S SYNDROME AND THE ABORTION ACT 1967 Ninety per cent of women who learn their unborn baby has Down’s syndrome choose to terminate the pregnancy.

Termination for a pregnancy that detects Down’s syndrome is, by law, legal until the point of birth. In a landmark case, campaigners are calling on the law to change enablemagazine.co.uk

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spotlight

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edical termination of pregnancy is allowed under The Abortion Act 1967 for three factors.

One such factor states: “That there is a substantial risk that if the child were born it would suffer from such physical or mental abnormalities as to be seriously handicapped.”

Down’s syndrome constitutes as a reason for abortion under The Abortion Act 1967, and abortion is legal up to the point of birth. Two women, supported by charities and campaigners, are taking the UK Government to court in a bid to change an outdated and discriminatory law.

DISCRIMINATION “I believe that the current law is downright discrimination,” emphasises Heidi Crowter, who has Down’s syndrome. t doesn t really re ect .

The current law can protect an unborn baby after weeks, but it wouldn t protect me.”

The law states that termination of a pregnancy can be carried out before weeks of pregnancy. owever, for expectant parents who have had Down’s syndrome or another disability detected, termination can be advised up to birth. or M ire ea ilson, she was asked if she would like a termination three times; the first time M ire was asked about termination she was weeks pregnant. t weeks pregnant, it is a really shocking thing to get asked,” Máire says.

“I asked if this was legal, and the response was that most people would terminate the pregnancy but most people don’t find out as late as did. ou get asked a uestion like that at weeks pregnant, and it makes you think this is really bad and that our lives are over, or else, why would we be offered this?”

Mother to two boys, Tom and Aidan, who has Down’s syndrome, Máire was shocked at the differences surrounding her pregnancies. hen was pregnant with Tom, everyone was so happy for me. hen was pregnant with idan everyone was so sad for me. I have these two children and to me they are both equally valued and wonderful, bringing their own things to the table and I just cannot understand why we have this law that doesn’t give Aidan the same value and dignity as his big brother,” Máire emphasises.

VALUE And Heidi agrees: “The current law actually makes me feel that I don’t have the same value as anyone else and I am not accepted for who I am. I wish people would realise that people with Down’s syndrome, we are the same as any human being.”

The current law highlights the historical discrimination people with Down’s syndrome have faced in the past, and it is evident that more needs to be done to change the conversation. Lynn Murray, part of the organisation Don’t Screen Us Out, is working to change information provided at Down’s syndrome testing to ensure people with Down’s syndrome are not screened out.

“Some people think if you have Down’s syndrome then you cannot communicate, or do anything,” explains Lynn. “Historically, children with learning disabilities were placed in institutions, died young, were not allowed to thrive and were never understood. e didn t have them in a community to learn what made them tick and learn their superpowers.

“But sometimes it feels like you are being choked by the weeds of the past that you cannot shake off.” hen ynn learned that her daughter, Rachel, had Down’s syndrome the family took their time to adapt to the news and were, thankfully, directed to Down’s Syndrome Scotland (www.dsscotland.org. uk). However, other parents are not as fortunate.

“Honestly, I knew very little about Down’s syndrome; I was absolutely petrified, M ire shares. was getting negative medical messaging about Aidan’s quality of life. I now know about Down’s

Lynn and Rachel

syndrome, and it’s not the very dire picture that was painted.”

Involved with NHS Scotland as they roll out new screening tests, Lynn is advocating for more positive information to be made available to expectant parents rather than negative language currently surrounding Down’s syndrome, which includes the promotion of termination from medical professionals.

Lynn adds: “In the maternity waiting rooms, there should be pictures and videos of babies and people with Down’s syndrome so that expectant parents can start to formulate questions in their own head before any screening conversations.”

Alongside updated advice, the current campaign has highlighted the injustices faced by the disabled community that is written into law. fter learning that per cent of unborn babies with Down’s syndrome detected are aborted, Heidi, alongside her mother Liz Crowter, started their journey to changing the law.

REFLECTED “People don’t see the baby, they just see a problem,” Heidi adds passionately. “I want everyone to meet someone with Down’s syndrome so that people can see the person behind the extra chromosome.”

Taking the UK Government to the High Court at the start of July, Heidi and Máire will argue that the current law is unequal and that people with Down’s syndrome, and other disabilities, can have successful, happy lives. And Heidi is a shining example of this, with her own job and recently married to her husband James, who also has Down’s syndrome.

“I don’t view this as a case about abortion, it is a case of equality,” Máire adds. “I feel like the tide is turning and people are realising that this is not a choice aspect, it is equality and how people with disabilities are viewed. If we really do proclaim that as a society people are all equal regardless of background, our laws should re ect that.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Further advice is available from Don’t Screen Us Out (dontscreenusout.org), the Down’s Syndrome Association (www.downs-syndrome. org.uk), and Positive About Down Syndrome (positiveaboutdownsyndrome.co.uk). To learn more about positive language visit Language Creates Reality (www.languagecreatesreality.com).

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Do you know someone like Will?

Will is a keen learner, with a bright future. In school he uses assistive technology to ensure his vision impairment doesn’t hold him back. But technology often isn’t available for children like Will at home.

So, for a limited time only, we’re partnering with BT to provide free iPads or iPhones for children and young people in the UK with a vision impairment, aged 3-18.

Applications open soon at www.guidedogs.org.uk/techforall

Apply for a free iPad or iPhone!

A charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979).

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Guide Dogs providing Tech for All Technology has never been more essential for education, professional and personal development. Working to eradicate barriers to technology children and young people with visual impairments face, Guide Dogs is set to release a pioneering pilot

T

hrough responses from families, children and young people across the UK and Northern Ireland, charity Guide Dogs discovered the different barriers and needs faced by those growing up with a visual impairment.

The overarching feedback was the need for assistive technology.

Emma Foulds, director of strategy at Guide Dogs, explains: “People spoke about how life changing assistive technology is, not just from an educational point of view, but also in terms of independence and confidence.

In a bid to provide accessible and assistive technology to all children and young people, Guide Dogs is set to pilot a new scheme, Tech for All.

PRODUCTS Set to run initially for six months, Tech for All will provide a free iPad or iPhone for any child living in the UK or Northern Ireland with a visual impairment. The pilot is set to open doors to autonomy for future generations.

“Alongside technology, children and young people will get a full digital learning programme to make sure users get the most out of the device,

enthuses Emma. Pre-primary and primary school aged children will be offered an iPad, with secondary aged young people and older having the option of an iPad or iPhone.

With those aged three to 18-yearsold eligible for the pilot, safeguarding has been a cornerstone in Tech for All, which is why the digital learning programme is vital.

“The digital learning programme will look at everything from start to finish from the basics of taking the device out of the box, switching it on, getting all the accessible features working and ensuring people can stay safe online, continues Emma. “Plus, the programme will show how to get voice-over technology, before going into some of the apps we recommend people download such as eeing .

Most importantly, Tech for All is set to revolutionise how children and young people act in their daily lives.

CONFIDENCE One user of Tech for All, Will has already reaped the rewards of getting his own iPad. Emma enthuses: “Will has told us about how the iPad has been great for his independence. What

Will loves the most is being able to connect with friends and family using aceTime.

Getting involved with Tech for All is easy, with application forms taking less than 10-minutes to complete. Guide Dogs knows the importance of assistive technology and working to ensure all children, young people and adults have access to their wide range of services for an independent life.

“I really encourage anyone who has a visual impairment or anyone with a family member or friend with a visual impairment to check out the range of services from uide ogs, advises Emma fervently. “We do a lot more than dogs – not that the dogs aren’t wonderful, life changing and fantastic – we have a range of services.

In particular, Guide Dogs is the largest provider of services for children and young people with a visual impairment.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Learn more about Tech for All by visiting the Guide Dogs website (www.guidedogs.org. uk/techforall). Guide Dogs also has a Guide Line you can call on 0800 781 1444 or email information@guidedogs.org.uk

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creative Claire’s artwork

COMMUNICATION

Everyone can be creative – it’s true. No matter if you are a budding novelist or artist, or you look to the arts for relaxation and wellbeing, there is no denying that being creative is an excellent tool to open the door to different methods of communication

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ommunication is vital for all of us in society, and creativity has long been a tool to express feelings, emotions, thoughts and conversations we don’t feel able to vocalise. Providing an outlet for the disabled community and carers to unite, charities are embracing the importance of creativity for reconnection.

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MEMORY LANE In a bid to recall the interesting and filled life of his wife heila, Tony ard began writing down heila s stories once it became apparent that she could no longer remember certain events. howing gradually worsening memory problems for nearly two decades, heila was diagnosed with l heimer s disease in 2017.

riting down heila s stories and memories as Tony remembers them at times, heila responds to the stories and even reads them out loud.

The impact for both heila s recollection and my wellbeing has been well worth the effort,” enthuses Tony. ollowing heila s reading of the stories we looked at the connected photos. ith the stories now fresh in

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her mind, Sheila was quite animated which made for precious moments. I went home on a high.”

Although in no way a cure for dementia, writing down your own memories or the memories of a loved one is another way to help a person recall significant times in their life.

Tony adds: “Remembering moments in our life together, and shared with our families, is priceless. She had been in danger of becoming a different person, lost to me, but although she now looks and behaves differently, I know that underneath she is still as she always was. I live with the memory of Sheila, still my lovely wife.

“In caring for a loved one who is forgetting their memories or stories, it can be comforting to remember that they are still the same person,” adds Tony. “Their memories are still there but what has happened is that the plaques and tangles in the brain have just blocked the transmission.”

For others, Tony advises: “I would encourage anyone to have a go at writing stories and memories for loved ones with dementia.”

MUSIC MATTERS Alongside writing down stories and shared experiences, music is a wonderful tool to help loved ones recall key moments in their lifetime – especially for those living with dementia, like Sheila.

The power of music is not lost on many of us, we all have a favourite song we turn to, and music can release powerful endorphins. Music for

Claire

Dementia is one charity with the belief that everyone living with dementia should have access to music as part of their care.

Highlighting the importance of music in care, in October 2020 former music teacher, Paul Harvey, went viral online after a video of him improvising whilst composing melodies with just the suggestion of four chords was posted.

Shared by his son, Nick, the video depicted the power of music as, despite living with advanced dementia, Paul was able to recall his former days as a composer.

Providing music workshops for people across the UK, through Music for Dementia people can sing in community groups, discover music therapy, make music interactively to listening to live music performances.

ARTS AND CRAFTS From writing to music, creativity can be expressed through artwork, too. One collective of neurodiverse artists and makers, Project Art Works, celebrates different forms of art through collaborative practice with, for and by neurominorities. A member of the collective for seven years, Claire, has always been involved in arts, creating striking pieces inspired by nature.

Annis, a facilitating artist at Project Art Works who helps communicate for Claire, enthuses: “I enjoy the experience of creating art, using different materials, sounds and textures in my work. I can have a conversation with the materials that I use.” rom creating paintings using owers as a replacement for paintbrushes, creating objects to make music, and utilising bright purples and pink acrylic paints in her work, Claire – and the artwork of other members of the collective – is regularly shown in exhibitions, giving the artists further recognition.

And art is a creative tool that everyone can participate in.

Living with Pitt Hopkins syndrome, which is a rare chromosome disorder, Phoebe also enjoys making art utilising sensory materials, including herbs to paint. “We started by exploring the different herbs, feeling them, smelling

Phoebe

them, listening to them as we stroked them across the paper and up and down our hands and arms,” enthuses Phoebe’s mother, Sarah. “Then we looked at the different ways we could use the herbs, including using the herbs like a brush, pushing them through the paint, pressing, rolling.”

A member of Sense Arts, from charity Sense, the group works to be an interface between arts and social care. Sarah and Phoebe are reaping the rewards, Sarah adds: “In the same way that all of us need to connect and be with others I think it is really important Phoebe has this opportunity. She needs to experience lots of different activities to keep her active and engaged.”

No matter a person’s disability, the arts can help people to connect.

“Art is unique to each person’s expression,” Annis explains. “Everyone is creative, the mark of an individual is made through art. There is no right way to be creative or an artist, if you just start there will be a domino effect.”

Supporting a disabled loved one to paint, recording memories or making and listening to music, with help from organisations and charities, you can e plore the world of creativity to find a new method of communication, expression and connection.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Discover more activities from Sense (www.sense.org.uk), Alzheimer’s Society (www.alzheimers.org.uk), Project Art Works (projectartworks.org), and Music for Dementia (musicfordementia.org.uk).

Read extended, individual experiences from Tony, Phoebe and Claire on our website www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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Fashion for every body.

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FIVE MINUTES WITH:

CHRISTINE M GUINNESS C

The pandemic has meant constant changes to routine, a situation that can be distressing for autistic children and adults. Mother to three autistic children, Christine McGuinness, opens up to Enable about parenting through a pandemic and the family’s upcoming BBC One documentary How has your time at home been during the pandemic?

The children were getting a lot of support at school before the lockdown but then, like the rest of the country, that all stopped. For most parents that was hard anyway; when your children have additional needs such as autism it made things regress quickly. We found ourselves not only being their parents, but also becoming therapists and carers for them, too.

The children have struggled with the changes around them, and regressed with speech and comments. The kids have also managed to surprise us.

Seeing the three of them do anything new makes us feel like we’ve won the lottery.

Your documentary, Autism and Our Family, will air on BBC1 later this year, why was it so important for you and Paddy to create this?

This is something we have been talking about doing for years; we always wondered if it was the right time or right for our family. We’ve decided to go for it because we want to help people understand autism. It’s becoming easier

Christine, Paddy and their three children

“

to talk about mental health and personal issues, and I want an open discussion for people to be able to understand that there are all levels on the spectrum and it’s not something to be scared of.

We were in a soft play centre a few years ago, when I overheard someone complaining about the noises that my children were making. By the time my children are teenagers, I would like everyone to understand that is perfectly normal behaviour for autistic children and adults, and not to stare or make comments.

“

Do you have any advice for parents who are at the beginning of the autism assessment process? tay strong. t first, believed the children’s sensitivity to noise and tip-toe walking were just cute little quirks and I did not realise they were signs of autism.

That was a huge shock for both of us

Seeing the three of them do anything new makes us feel like we’ve won the lottery

because we didn’t have a clue.

We have researched and also talked about autism together. Leo and Penelope were diagnosed aged threeand-a-half, and by the time my youngest daughter Felicity was six months old, she started tensing her body when she got excited about something – which is also known as stimming and I predicted her diagnosis years before it was given because of what we had gone through with the twins.

Christine McGuinness is an ambassador for Caudwell Children, who can provide COVID-secure autism assessments in as little as six-weeks, with charity funding available for any families that meet standard eligibility criteria. The charity’s autism service is regulated by the Care Quality Commission, for more details visit, www.caudwellchildren.com/autism

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James and his family

INCLUSIVE

storytelling

The literature we consume as children can have a lifelong impact on the way we think, feel and process the world, that’s why more inclusion in children’s books is essential. We speak to the author writing for every child

C

oming from a literarycentred family, it’s no surprise that author James Catchpole followed the career path, and the content of his book shouldn’t be surprising either. As a literary agent for children’s books, James understands the market and knew there was something missing: accurate disability representation in children’s literature.

Motivated by his own experiences and the lack of fitting works on the market, James wrote What Happened to You? The book follows protagonist Joe in the playground, playing his favourite game. Joe isn’t afraid of sharks or crocodiles, but is continually interrogated by other children shouting ‘you’ve only got one leg’ and asking ‘what happened to you?’.

Joe and can be his friend anyway.

The book re ects ames own experiences and has an important message that should resonate with anyone.

“As a disabled person, I’ve long been aware both of the dearth of children’s books featuring disabled characters, and the poverty of representation in the few that do,” explains James. “I realised I had a useful story to tell which might resonate beyond my own experience – one which I could write from the inside, looking out – in contrast to all the books by non-disabled authors who look at disabled characters from the outside.

“It’s high time for a reckoning on disability representation in our industry, in the same way as there has been with race. As the saying goes: nothing about us without us.”

RESONATE

VALIDATE

Bored of having to tell his story to people who don’t even know his name, Joe snaps. The other kids then recognise his discomfort and understand they don’t need to know what happened to

Books like this one are key to showing young disabled people that they fit in to society, James says: “Kids need to see themselves in books. They need to feel they matter enough that someone has

Read our extended interview with James online, www.enablemagazine.co.uk 8 enablemagazine.co.uk

written a story that re ects their experience.

“This doesn’t mean there needs to be, or can be, a book that re ects every single disabled experience. But there are some experiences of disability and difference that are close to universal, and those we can surely try to re ect.

Along with validating the experiences of disabled readers, inclusive books written from personal experience can give non-disabled readers a realistic view, helping to remove any stigma or unwarranted questions.

“Non-disabled children do seem to get the message, that they don’t have a right to know what happened to Joe – and that it’s OK not to know. That disability is normal, and also: personal,” enthuses James.

Now, with more stories written by disabled authors, their experiences can be re ected in books, teaching all children to be accepting and inclusive.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

o find out more about ames wor , follow him and his wife ucy, who is a wheelchair user, on nstagram @thecatchpoles

We all welcome a little extra assistance now and again, particularly when travelling alone. Thistle Assistance is an initiative to help you feel safer and more comfortable when using public transport.

thistleassistance.com

Seaside getaways and weeks in the sun might seem like just a dream this year, but a staycation could fulfil your holiday needs

W

ithout the need to quarantine or take multiple coronavirus tests, it’s no wonder staycations are popular this year – having no bags to check in at the airport is a bonus. The UK has its fair share of beaches and beauty spots to visit this summer, and we’re spotlighting how to get away whilst staying COVID safe.

POPULARITY “This year there are more advantages to staying at home,” reveals Adam Raphael, publisher of the Good Hotel Guide (www.goodhotelguide.com). “I think certainly this year people who go abroad are very brave because they don’t know what the reception will be where they’re going or when coming back.”

The possibility of restrictions changing at the last minute is definitely a draw to staying in the UK for your annual getaway, but it also comes with e tra benefits that a holiday abroad couldn’t provide at this time.

“You don’t have to do virus testing either going there or coming back, you’re in a sort of secure and relatively safe environment, you could also argue you would be saving money,” adds Adam.

Based on submissions to the guide in recent months, Adam expects to see seaside and country escapes fully booked this season, he says: “I think people need to get out, they’ve been in the house for a year and they want to get out into the country.”

Adam’s expectations are echoed by Claire D’All, reviewer engagement and outreach coordinator at Euan’s Guide (www.euansguide.com).

“I do think the situation over the past year has made people appreciate what is on their own doorstep so people may be booking more staycations for at least the rest of this year,” admits Claire.

“With people shielding or being in lockdown for so long they are feeling more confident visiting

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Summer of places in the UK, and with staycations there are great accessible options.”

HESITATION While some people are rushing to get the last room with a sea view, others are more hesitant to commit to a break away from home.

“I think people are worried about the travel bans that can suddenly be added to any country at any time and also the new variants of this virus that continuously appear,” explains Claire.

These worries are especially prevalent in the disabled community with thousands of people having not left their local area during the pandemic.

“I can understand with disabled people in particular, if they haven’t got great health they may feel hesitant about going, people who have been shielding for months, if not more than a

year now, have hardly gone out of their own houses, let alone gone on holiday, so there are going to be varying degrees of reluctance,” empathises Adam.

As a wheelchair user and someone who has been shielding since March 2020, Claire still feels wary to visit a restaurant, with holidays being a distant thought.

“I’ve been protected in my own bubble for so long, it’ll take time to trust the public to keep everything safe,” explains Claire. “Plus, there are still the possibility of local lockdowns, so it’s hard to plan much right now.”

SAFE AND SECURE eeling safe, secure and confident in where you are visiting and staying can help to ease these worries. This is something sites like Euan’s Guide have in mind when considering reviews.

S

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DESTINATIONS

DEVON erfect for food lovers and surfing enthusiasts, evon has long been a popular staycation spot in the . ith walking trails and beaches that could be mistaken for the coasts of pain or reece, a getaway here will leave you rela ed and refreshed. or things to do and tourist information, visit www.englishriviera.co.uk

STAYCATIONS great feature we have added to our reviews is our onfident badge, reveals laire.

This allows our reviewers to let people know that they felt safe whilst visiting a venue during related times, and they can also leave information about what precautions were in place during their visit.

The pandemic has made preparation before visiting somewhere even more important. eople want to ensure they feel safe and can rela . think you need to talk to the place you re going to see what safeguards are in place, particularly if you are a disabled person, to see whether they can meet your re uirements, advises dam. They need to have that conversation with

the hotel or to make sure it is going to be comfortable for them.

This is something that the hospitality and hotel industry can assist with at every turn. think that sense of feeling comfortable comes from the amount of information that has been provided for guests. iving as much information about both your disabled access, plus safety precautions, is very important as it allows people to make a more informed decision as to whether or not they d like to visit, stresses laire. f you have decided to get away for a staycation this summer, you can help other people to feel confident by reviewing your e perience on a platform like uan s uide.

SCOTTISH ISLANDS ecently ranked as the top recommended road trip for e ploring reat ritain by onely lanet, the trip from lasgow to some of cotland s islands will make you fall in love with staycations. ead from the city life of lasgow to the seaside town of ban before getting ferries to the islands of rran, slay and the sle of Mull. isit cotland www.visitscotland.com provide suggested routes for island hopping trips around the country.

NORTH WALES ith castles, heritage railways, valleys and seaside resorts, there s something for everyone with this staycation. ou can even get a taste of going abroad on the island of nglesey, visiting the village of ortmeirion, which was inspired by taly. isit ales www.visitwales.com can provide information and advice on accessible attractions in the country.

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Tim Rushby-Smith

A CALL TO VACCINATE After receiving the first dose of his COVID-19 vaccine, our columnist Tim Rushby-Smith discusses the consideration of others when getting vaccinated

I

UNCERTAIN It’s more of a vague uncertainty coupled with the complacency that comes from living in a country that has largely been spared the worst impact of the pandemic. It can all feel a bit abstract when it’s not part of your personal experience, which is frustrating for those of us with loved ones in the UK who understand a little more.

People are not actively avoiding the vaccine. In fact, there is increasing frustration about the government’s lack of urgency in getting the jab out to the people who need it most, especially those with a disability living in residential care, where so far only five per cent have actually been vaccinated.

Compare the situation to entering a building as a wheelchair user (bear with me on this one): The owner of the building (government) knows there should be a ramp, but… well… the walls needed painting, and new signage had to go up… so access is now part of phase two.

“

And if you do manage to make it up the step, then there’s inevitably someone in front of you who lets the door go so it hits you as you try to enter. Not deliberately. Just inconsiderately (the general public).

RISK Perhaps the analogy is a bit unwieldy, but the point remains: Many of us with disability are at greater risk when it comes to complications associated with illness. We may also be more likely to come into contact with viruses, whether through using a wheelchair, or needing assistance with personal care. We could receive more home visits for essential services, for example.

In other words, we are often at the sharp end of the consequences of social behaviour. With the pandemic, thoughtless behaviour now has profound consequences on everyone, not just a few. I hope this vulnerability will make us all appreciate each other a little more in the future.

That would be a great legacy to emerge from a terrible time.

I hope this vulnerability will make us all appreciate each other a little more

“

mmuno-compromised people have always been dependent upon the rest of us getting vaccinated to afford them protection from disease.

This was a strong motivation for me to get vaccinated in the past, as herd immunity protects us all. But it is true now more than ever: COVID-19 does not discriminate, and vaccination is vital.

We are all now dependent on it. hile recently had my first dose of the AstraZeneca COVID vaccine, many people here in Australia have been hesitant. Not ‘major concern about vaccine safety’ hesitancy, as such.

Beyond The Break, by Darren Longbottom and Tim Rushby-Smith is published

by Ebury Press in Australia and is available internationally as an eBook

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3

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Mark. e ust want to be seen for who we are and spoken to like people.

While Mark wants to see change, he also understands that hurtful language isn’t always purposeful and acknowledges the role that education plays in creating a more welcoming society.

“People can feel quite awkward sometimes approaching someone with a disability and I think it’s trying to get rid of that barrier and bring people together, e plains Mark. think communication is key, everyone wants to be spoken to like a human being at the end of the day and we all need that social interaction.

WORDS HURT Mark Humphries

The language of disability As the world reopens, new research shows that language is a barrier in the connection between disabled and non-disabled people. It’s time to talk about the language of disability hile people have remained cocooned by their own communities over the last 18 months, effective communication may have become more difficult for some. ut, one social barrier existed pre-pandemic and remains: the language used when discussing disability.

Recent research by Leonard Cheshire featured disabled and non-disabled respondents and highlighted that three in four disabled people say that more needs to be done for non-disabled people to understand that their words cause offence.

It also showed that 40 per cent of non-disabled people would be more

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likely to interact with disabled people if they knew the correct language to use.

The shocking figures prompted the launch of the Words Hurt campaign, fronted by rap artist Kray-Z Legz, aka Mark umphries.

PERSONAL EXPERIENCE iving with spina bifida, Mark has e perienced first hand the use of incorrect language and is a passionate advocate for raising awareness of musicians with disabilities.

“I think the main purpose of this whole thing is to get rid of that barrier between people’s disabilities and [non-disabled] people, I mean, I’ve experienced it quite a few times,” reveals

To launch the campaign, Mark penned a rap titled The Language of Disability, which was then released in a video, quickly grabbing attention and support online. The lyrics touch on the research, the importance of effective communication and some of the language that should be avoided, along with good alternatives.

For Mark, the most effective way to remove this barrier is to have open conversations where people aren’t scared to make mistakes.

“Everyone is so scared to offend each other nowadays and that’s not how you learn, you should be able to speak and help educate each other,” emphasises Mark. believe as a person you can tell when there are words being used in context against you or if it’s a misunderstanding.

“If someone was to approach me and say their kid doesn’t understand why I use a wheelchair, I would happily talk to someone. think that would actually make me feel better as a person as well, d feel happier ust knowing that kid is going to grow up understanding that now.

With greater focus on growth when it comes to language and disability, social situations won t ust improve for disabled people, but future generations will know disability doesn t mean bad.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Watch The Language of Disability video and find out more about the campaign by visiting eonard Cheshire, www.leonardcheshire.org

Are you or someone you know feeling overwhelmed by asks for donations?

Stop unwanted contact from charities today. Use the FPS.

CELEBRATING MEDICAL ADVANCES From in-utero surgeries to the race for new treatments through ground-breaking trials, the world of medicine is bursting with exciting developments that could transform lives – Emma Storr learns about the world of medical advancements

COVID-19 AND STROKE AROUND FOUR MONTHS into the pandemic, initial reports from China and the United States highlighted the prevalence of stroke in people who had COVID-19, but were otherwise healthy.

The Stroke Association knew this needed to be e plored, launching the first study into the long term impact of COVID-19 on stroke.

“As we learnt more about COVID it also became clear that the illness can make people’s blood sticky and increases their clotting,” explains Rubina Ahmed, research director at Stroke Association.

Now, the study is looking for more underlying reasons that COVID is linked to stroke by looking at 4,000 people who experienced stroke during the pandemic, some who had COVID-19 at the same time and some who did not.

COVID could increase clotting enablemagazine.co.uk

Rubina continues: “The study looks to understand: does having COVID and then having a stroke impact on how you recover, is there further or different rehabilitation you need, or different ways we should be treating these patients.”

The research team behind the study will look at a collection of clinical and lab information from patients, following up for 18 months to monitor the longer-term impact on recovery.

“Towards the end of next year, we hope to start having results for patients,” reveals Rubina.

“It will be then when we will really have more definitive answers.

“What we don’t yet understand is what overall, long-term impact this has on our health so this study is really the first part of that puzzle,” stresses Rubina. “We’re just starting to look at that now as a research community because it’s a really important question.”

To learn more about the research visit, www.stroke.org.uk

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MS SOCIETY OCTUPUS BY 2025, THE MS Society want to be in the final stages of testing treatments that slow or stop disability progression for everyone with M . fter years of planning, the charity is ready to launch ctopus a mega trial for progressive M . ur vision is a world free from the effects of M , and m completely inspired by the current potential of M research, enthuses r mma ray, assistant director of research for the M ociety.

The trial gets its name from being multi arm and multi stage M M , where it is possible to test new treatments up to three times faster by trialling multiple drugs at once in comparison to a single control group. t will use M to see whether a drug has potential earlier than before, adding e ibility to drop drugs that don t look promising to be replaced by new ones. t s a smarter way of testing potential M drugs and could deliver life changing new treatments up to three times faster, reveals mma. world first for M , it will speed up development of new treatments by bringing together lots of trials into one. This will also merge what would normally be two consecutive trials into one this is what makes it multi stage. round people will be involved in each arm of the trial in stage one, totalling around people, with the second phase having people in each arm, including the initial groups. t s incredibly e citing. fter years of planning, our ambition to speed up clinical trials for progressive M is ready to become a reality, says mma. n innovative trial of this kind has never been seen before in M and it ll be one of the first for a neurological condition.

The Octopus trial will begin later in 2021, learn more about MAMS trials and the pioneering approach, www.mssociety.org.uk

GROUND-BREAKING FETAL SURGERY AROUND 700 BABIES are born with a diagnosis of spina bifida in the each year, with many going on to live full and happy lives. The combined teams of niversity ollege ondon ospital , reat rmond treet ospital and the niversity ospitals euven elgium perform fetal surgery to improve independence and mobility for babies born with the condition.

“People care enough to be developing these treatments” urgery to treat spina bifida is already commonplace after birth, but as babies move in the womb, irreparable damage to the delicate e posed spinal cord from the amniotic uid can happen before they are born. The service was commissioned by ngland in , and enabled the first ground breaking fetal surgery to prevent further damage to the spinal cord before birth here in the in anuary .

This surgery means babies are twice as likely to walk at months of age, have a lesser need for a shunt to treat hydrocephaly, and better bladder function, highlights nna avid, professor and consultant in obstetrics and maternal fetal medicine at and s

nstitute for omen s ealth. n order to get optimal results from the surgery, it has to take place between and weeks, soon after diagnosis, re uiring parents and medical professionals to work fast. losing the skin and muscle over the spinal cord during pregnancy prevents ongoing damage, it doesn t completely cure it, it doesn t remove any damage that s already been done, but it increases the chance that the baby will be able to walk and improves motor outcomes, e plains dalina acco, clinical lecturer at .

The surgery provides a third option for parents when receiving a diagnosis alongside waiting until after birth to carry out the surgery or termination of pregnancy. ven if in the end the woman doesn t want to have surgery, whether she isn t suitable or the baby isn t suitable, parents still appreciate having a detailed assessment and the option and that people care enough to be developing these treatments it means there is something worthwhile, emphasises dalina. ow, teams from euven and have begun e ploring using fetoscopic surgery for spina bifida that would be less invasive for the mother and could reduce prematurity risk. owever, more research will be needed to understand the benefits to both mother and baby.

Learn more about the surgery at, www.uclh.nhs.uk

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Motoring Freedom WITH Lookers Motability

Sheridan and her Skoda Superb Sheridan and her husband run a free B&B for travelling punk rock bands. Her husband, Jed, is the registered driver of her Motability car as Sheridan is partially sighted. Their Skoda Superb with Lookers Motability allows Jed to take her to and from work as well as take them to see all the bands they put up. The Skoda Superb is spacious and comfortable and its tinted windows are ideal for Sheridan as she has light sensitivity so is always protected when in the car.

Choosing

Lookers for your

Motability vehicle

As one of the LARGEST Motability suppliers in the UK, with over 30,000 customers on the Motability scheme and 700 trained Motability specialists nationwide, here at Lookers we are dedicated to helping you find the right car for your needs.

We strive to tailor your experience to your specific needs. If you would like to call ahead, we can plan your visit together.

FIND OUT MORE AT

Lookers.co.uk/motability LOOKERS MOTABILITY Advert for Enable Mag MAY-JUN 2021.indd 1

31/03/2021 12:15

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GOING ELECTRIC WITH LOOKERS The future of driving is electric. Discover the joys of the open road in a fully adapted electric car, available from Lookers with a range of funding and leasing options for disabled clients In under 10 years, the road will be a greener place. Working completely with battery power, electric vehicles (EVs) are set to be a staple on the road as the government plans to ban the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030, and hybrid vehicles from 2035.

And going green has just as many advantages for drivers as it does for the environment.

ADVANTAGES Petrol and diesel are a thing of the past thanks to EVs. As EVs don’t use a combustion engine, CO2 emissions are eradicated and they are the most environmentally-friendly choice on the Motability Scheme.

There are many benefits to an EV, but there are some important aspects to consider. Most importantly: how you will charge your vehicle. You will require access to a charging point to recharge your car battery, alongside paying for any electricity that is used.

Through the Motability Scheme you can have a charge point fitted at your home; alternatively, you can access a network of public charging points.

Growing in popularity, getting behind the wheel of an EV is the future of driving. And there is one company on hand to ensure you get the right EV for you.

EXPERTS

FINANCIAL ADVICE

As one of the most modern retail Working in partnership with the experiences for new and approved Motability Scheme, if you are the used cars working in the motoring recipient of a qualifying mobility field since 1908, Lookers Group are allowance, you can use this allowance experts in getting you on the road. to lease a car, scooter, powered Working with brands including wheelchair or Wheelchair BMW, Volkswagen, Jaguar Accessible Vehicle (WAV). to Kia and Nissan, you can “As one of the largest be confident you’ll find Motability car suppliers EV’s are available the best car to meet your in the UK, we are already from nil advance needs. seeing a large number of payment on the Committed to customer our Motability customers Motability Scheme care, from your initial changing to electric enquiry to getting the vehicles,” enthuses Karen keys to your car, Lookers’ Prince, Lookers customers sales specialists are helpful, engagement director. “The range knowledgeable and always happy and choice throughout the Lookers to assist with any queries you might Group is fantastic with many models have. Buying a car doesn’t have to be a available from nil advance payment, stressful experience. With an ethos of from the well-established Nissan Leaf “for you, for life” your new car will slot through to the Brand-New to market perfectly into your way of living.

Vauxhall Mokka e.”

Plus, the team at Lookers will also The road to green, eco-friendly support you with free, impartial advice driving that meets your adaptation on financial options that are available requirements and doesn’t break the to you. bank is closer than you think. Get in gear today and contact your nearest Lookers team and prepare to hit the open road.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To learn more about Lookers and electric vehicles visit, lookers.co.uk/motability

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REVIEW

A

I

The updated Audi Q2 remains a great compact SUV choice, but just be careful which model you choose to get the best comfort and value, writes our columnist Alisdair Suttie

INSIDE Improving on the earlier Q2’s interior was a big ask and one that Audi has answered by largely leaving well alone. It’s a wise move as it means the driving position is easily adjusted to suit all shapes and sizes, while getting in and out is as simple as any car in this sector.

Vision from the driver’s pew is among the best in this class of car, with only a little interruption from the pillars between the back of the rear doors and tailgate.

However, rear parking sensors are standard on even the entry-point Technik models to make life easier.

Looking at the dash, Audi has continued

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with its theme of minimising the number of buttons for most functions.

Instead of multiple buttons, you use the infotainment touchscreen, which is quickly paired with a smartphone using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. There are separate buttons for the air conditioning, though these look a little low-rent in the otherwise very classy cabin, so you may want to pay the extra to upgrade to climate control that brings better looking controls.

Rear seat space is surprisingly good in the Q2 and the boot, accessed by an electrically powered tailgate in all models, is decent by class standards but will struggle to fit a wheelchair.

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The driving position is easily adjusted to suit all shapes and sizes

The Audi Q2 is available through Motability starting from £349 dvance ayment. o find out more and see further pricing visit, www.motability.co.uk

EQUIPMENT There are five trim levels, but we d sidestep the entry point Technik that feels a little too basic, even if it does come with alloy wheels, air conditioning, luetooth, digital radio, . inch infotainment touchscreen, and cruise control. The port is the pick of the bunch with its larger inch alloys, sports front seats with more support, satellite navigation, and onboard i i. The ine gains inch alloy wheels, lights front and rear, and part leather upholstery, while the lack dition sits on inch wheels. t also has rear privacy glass and a sporty at bottomed steering wheel. t the top of the range sits the orsprung model with panoramic sunroof, full leather trim, adaptive suspension with different driving modes, and a host of safety e uipment. ll of the safety kit can be added to other s with an optional pack.

DRIVING udi offers three petrol engines and two turbodiesels with the , though the lower trim models are limited to the less powerful of both types. . litre hp is the starting point in the T , but we d look to the T versions with the stronger, more versatile . litre with hp with si speed manual or seven speed automatic gearbo , the latter making the a cinch to use around town. The T s hp . litre motor makes the uick, but it s not as much fun as a ord uma T. ou can choose between two power versions of the . litre turbodiesel and both are refined and frugal.

The feels very stable on the motorway, agile in town and is always hushed. owever, the larger wheels of the upper trim, from the three trim levels, make the ride much too firm and crashy over bumpy roads, so we d opt for the port s supple comfort.

SUMMARY No other small SUV feels as classy inside and out as the Audi Q2. Updates make it even more appealing, but beware the over-firm ride of top-spec models.

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MAINS WATER CONTROL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

Mains water control at your• Suitable fingertips for any one with reduced dexterity,

This off road mobility scooter is rugged built quality, constructed from high quality steel tubing, phosphated and epoxy coated to give longer life and all weather protection.

Adjustable steering column adjusts for comfort and easy, step-on access, with comfortable steel backed, foam filled and weatherproof bucket style seat as standard. With 2 x braked motors for safety.

ck

s o f a wit c h

Fl

HEAVY DUTY RANGER • with a lithium battery £3,400•

• •

STABILITY GUARANTEED • – EVEN ON THE TOUGHEST TERRAIN, YOU STAY STEADY AS A ROCK.

4 5 mi n.

No other buggy folds away to be as Standard neat and compact as the Ranger. It dismantles simply, in no time at all, to fit neatly into the boot of most saloons and all hatchbacks.

mobility balance and strength Approx • Gives control of mains water 30 llation sta mins n i to install via a mobile app or switch • Switch can be located up to six metres away • Discreet installation p ap n in around 45 minutes by a plumber C l i c k of a

The real beauty of the Electrokart Ranger is the ease with which you can take it apart.

RANGER with Lithium battery £3,000

i

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The Big Event is organised and hosted by Motability Operations Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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Product Roundup A range of products available on the market for independent living HOME

HYGIENE

MERA CARE SHOWER TOILET

BODY WIPES

pecifically designed to put the user in control, the toilet is smart, stylish and easy to use. ts advanced technology enables users with increased bathroom independence. ith adaptations available, it can accommodate individual needs to leave users feeling cleaner and fresher with a comfortable, convenient and hygienic bathroom e perience.

resh ipes ody ipes are the ideal solution if you re struggling to shower. imply take one e tra large, antibacterial and biodegradable wipe and use it to clean your body there is no need to rinse. The Enter code body wipes come in a ENABLE20 si e of by for 20% off your eight inches, first order complete with a light coconut scent.

Geberit, POA www.geberit-aquaclean.co.uk/care, 01926 516800

FreshWipes, £4.99 www.freshwipes.co.uk, 01323 724258

HEALTH

ATTENDS PULL-ONS

Attends, POA www.attendslifestyles.co.uk, 0845 6013272

ttends ull ns are a range of disposable underwear designed to manage light to severe urinary and or bowel incontinence. esigned with an elasticated, e ible shape for a close fit and with odour protection. ew ttends ull ns introduce absorbency level to the popular range of incontinence pants.

POSTURE

FASHION

RECLINER CUSHION WITH PUMP

DOUBLE LAYER DRESS

Unhidden Clothing, £90 unhiddenclothing.com, 077291 85412 nhidden is a socially responsible adaptive fashion brand for people with disabilities. Tailored designs allow for dignified and discreet access for a number of conditions and each design can be customised for your specific needs whether that s magnetic fastenings or different leg and arm lengths nhidden can make it all happen.

Ehob Riser, £83.33 exc VAT www.abilitysuperstore. com, 0800 255 0498

MOBILITY

ROGUE

Ki Mobility, POA www.kimobility.com, 08001 017004

trategically designed, the ogue is lighter, stronger, and stiffer with the most responsive rigid frame on the market. vailable in a range of colours, the wheelchair is e tremely lightweight with a new ergonomic backrest mechanism and ad ustable fender side guards. t . kg, ogue moves with you with minimal effort.

reventing and treating pressure ulcers, the recliner cushion can facilitate comfort alongside avoidance in areas when sitting. ith an easy to clean surface and available in two si es short and long the recliner cushion lifts users and cradles bony areas. elcro straps are provided to ensure secure seating for a comfortable rest.

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he most trusted and respected disability title in the UK, each issue of nable Maga ine is filled with interesting content, interviews and discussions pertinent to the disabled community.

Covering a range of topics in every issue, you can expect to see information on the latest benefits, ob opportunities, to interviews with disability campaigners, politicians, Paralympians and more. Plus, in nable Maga ine we are committed to speaking to you – our dedicated readers – to share your stories and experiences. ast issue we spoke to carers about their experiences of caring for a loved one with dementia in lockdown, and travelled all the way to emen virtually, of course) to share the inspiring story of nine-year-old Ahmed who volunteers as a substitute

teacher. ou can e pect all this, and more, in each issue of Enable Magazine.

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July/August 2021

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ACCESS TO

ELECTED OFFICE Currently, just five members of UK parliament have declared a disability, totalling 0.8 per cent of the commons, leaving 22 per cent of the UK population without a strong political voice. Emma Storr investigates what more needs to be done

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ositions of power in politics are key to democracy and ensuring fair, inclusive policy and legislation.

With little disability representation in politics across the UK, disabled voices aren t ade uately amplified to insight change.

PARTICIPATE “We are beginning to make progress with an increase in female and Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) politicians, however, disabled people are still under-represented,” emphasises Dr Lisa Cameron MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Disability. “It’s important for disabled people to pursue careers as politicians to ensure policy meets disabled people’s needs and help break the stigma surrounding disability.”

This is something Labour MSP for Glasgow, Pam Duncan-Glancy feels passionate about as the first wheelchair

user elected to Scottish parliament.

“For a long time, I’ve thought that if you’re not round the table you’re probably on the menu,” admits Pam. “It’s no surprise that half of families living in poverty have a disabled person in them, that not many are in work compared to non-disabled people, and to me that suggests policy and practice isn’t working for us.

“You can see in all legislation from housing to health that we’ve not been served well so for that to change, we really do have to start putting different people in the room.”

Until then, disability won’t be on the agenda in the way that it should be.

“It’s really important to me to have different people in parliament so that it looks like the country it’s supposed to be there to represent,” stresses Pam.

OVERCOME There has previously been schemes to combat the under-representation

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I would like to see positive steps being taken to change the narrative surrounding disability ACTION

of disabled people in the political space – notably the EnAble Fund for lected ffice which ran from ecember to March in an effort to cover the additional financial costs associated with disability that could prevent someone from seeking elected office but these haven t gone far enough to combat barriers. art of the on isability s work is investigating these barriers and what needs to be done to overcome them, isa e plains This year, we have launched an in uiry into access to elected office.

This in uiry will be looking at the barriers disabled people face being selected and standing for parliament. believe many factors are contributing to this including financial costs, access to parliamentary buildings, travel supports across constituency and tailored mentoring supports to name ust a few.

s a recently elected official, am is ready to act and utilise her position. do see myself as not only representing the people of lasgow, but disabled people as well because we are under represented at all levels, states am. ven ust being there think makes a difference but m not complacent, it s not good enough to ust be in the room, you then have to use that for the good of people s e uality and human rights. s politicians like am raise their voices from the inside, they highlight the societal ine ualities preventing other minorities from getting access to the same rooms. arties have a big role, parliament has a big role, but the other thing is if you can t get out of bed in the morning because you don t have enough social care then you re not likely to start thinking about how you re going to staff the barricades, emphasises am. There are structural and systemic ine ualities in society that oppress disabled people to the point that they cannot engage in very basic things like going to see family and friends, or holding down a ob, or getting public transport, all of that also acts as a barrier to people putting themselves forward for elected office. m keen to bring any e perience can, be that lived or otherwise use social care, employ staff as a disabled person.

The general public s perception of disability is a key barrier that needs to be removed in order to create change at a policy level and open access to elected office. would like to see positive steps being taken to change the narrative

surrounding disability, enthuses isa. e need to move away from ableist and benefits based narratives that have unfortunately become synonymous with disability and fully recognise the value and added potential of people s contribution.

INCREASE or people with political ambitions and the drive to land a position like am s, there has to be a greater provision of support in order for the disabled community to pursue careers in politics. e need long term ringfenced funding to assist candidates with disabilities standing for election to cover additional costs, alongside a push for equal opportunities in career progression in political offices and party structures, advises isa. ntil more disabled people are given political opportunities and motivate parliament to implement inclusive policy and legislation, other areas of society, like workplaces and high streets, will also remain closed off. fter the pandemic think that there is an opportunity for us to say we don t need certain things, going back to normal isn t an option, normal was rubbish, stresses am. or too many people normal was living in poverty, doing insecure work, it was e ploitation, a lack of social care and a lack of accessible housing, we can t go back to normal now and think the public are ready to hear that.

“Feel that sense of solidarity and those connections and use organisations to effect change at a political level, if anyone wants to get involved in politics at a party level then do it, all of the political parties are too pale, stale, male, they all need different people involved, concludes am. reater access to elected office will be a pathway to inclusive policy and legislation, but without more schemes and funding to allow this, disabled people won t be fairly represented.

FOR MORE INFORMATION nformation on access to elected office can be found on Disability Rights UK (www.disabilityrightsuk.org) or the overnment ualities ffice (www.gov.uk).

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15-16 September 2021 | NEC Birmingham |

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benefits A LOOK AT

IN REVIEW

Knowing the benefits and support you are entitled to is pertinent to ensure you are living a successful, independent life all whilst staying financially stable.

With conversations underway looking at re-designing the benefits system, what do you need to know?

I

n a landmark overhaul of their benefits system, the Scottish Government is set to amend and update benefits for disabled claimants. Set to replace the, at times controversial, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the new Adult Disability Payment is currently in consultation – marking a significant change for the disabled community.

Originally pencilled in for a spring 2022 start, the new benefits are now expected in 2024. Despite the change in schedule, it is believed this overhaul in benefits will be a milestone in the Scottish social security system, putting disabled people at the heart of benefits support.

CONSULTATION Listening to disabled people during the consultation process, those with lived experience of the current social security system were allowed to participate and respond. The responses, it is believed, will be taken into consideration when making amendments and delivering three new formats of disability assistance.

Alongside Adult Disability Payment – set to replace PIP – Child Disability

Payments (CDP) will replace Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and Pension Age Disability Payment will replace Attendance Allowance (AA).

FUNDING Members of the disabled community aged 16 to state pension age experiencing challenges and difficulties with daily living and/or getting around,

may be entitled to the new Adult Disability Payment. In a continued overhaul and update to the application system, people applying for Adult Disability Payment will experience reduced face-to-face assessments, however, the rate of all forms of disability assistance is expected to remain the same.

Where eligible, the standard rate for daily living will stand at £59.70 with an enhanced rate of £89.15. The mobility component will be £23.60 and £62.25 respectively.

When caring for a disabled child the CDP will be available to children and young people aged three months to 18 years. Children and young people who have lived with a disability for at least three months, have a disability expected to last longer than three months, or are terminally ill, will be eligible for CDP.

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There are three payment brackets available for successful applicants ranging from £23.60 per week on the lowest bracket, to £89.15 in the highest. The CDP is available to support families and carers with the right care a child or young person requires.

Further information for both CDP and Adult Disability Payment in relation to the Mobility Scheme can be found by visiting, motability.co.uk Finally, the Scottish Government looks to alter their current Attendance Allowance, to Pension Age Disability Payment for those who are state pension age and over, require additional care, and have had a condition for at least six months.

Applicants will require to have an occupational therapy assessment, report from a district nurse or information provided by an unpaid carer. People eligible in this category will fall into two payment brackets including £59.70 or £89.15 per week.

CARERS Alongside the changes expected from the Scottish Government, the UK Government has amended or altered some benefits due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. As the world begins to slowly re-open, there are many people that will feel more comfortable continuing to shield or are still adjusting to new caring responsibilities.

Rules for Carer’s Allowance have been eased at present to support the rising number of people who have found themselves in a caring role for the first time, or their caring responsibilities have extended.

Adjustments to the Carer’s Allowance rules were expected to end in May of 2021, but these have been extended to the end of August 2021.

If the person you look after is already receiving a qualifying disability benefit, then you can claim Carer’s Allowance.

The amendments to the benefit include continuing to receive Carer’s Allowance if you have to take a temporary break from caring due to contracting coronavirus or you start to develop symptoms and have to self-isolate.

Furthermore, providing significant emotional support to a loved one will count towards the 35 hours required to claim Carer’s Allowance, even if you

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live in different households. Additional information on the benefits you can apply for, or support to claim benefits as an unpaid carer, is available from Carers UK (www.carersuk.org) and Carers Trust (carers.org).

Further advice on staying on top of your finances can be found at Turn2Us (www.turn2us.org.uk), Money Saving Expert (www.moneysavingexpert. com), National Debtline (www. nationaldebtline.co.uk) and The Money Charity (themoneycharity.org.uk), with all advice free and impartial.

ASSESSMENTS It is important to know that although some services will continue reducing the number of face-to-face assessments in place, as guidelines change and restrictions ease the UK Government is

looking to slowly re-introduce face-to-face assessments for health and disability benefits.

In line with local restrictions in England, Scotland and Wales, in-person assessments have started for Work Capability Assessments (WCAs) and Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

Reviews will continually be in place to ensure you are kept safe when attending an assessment, with information on coronavirus measurements and guidelines available from, www.gov.uk The benefits system is continually changing, so it can be hard to know what you are entitled to. However, as amendments are made to factor in the challenges experienced due to the coronavirus pandemic or reassessment of current benefits in place, in consultation with those with direct experience of applying and receiving disability specific benefits: you are not alone.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Get money secure with advice from Citizens Advice (www.citizensadvice.org.uk), Age UK (www.ageuk.org.uk), the Money Advice Service (www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk) and your local government website.

Affecting an estimated one million people in the UK, the long-term detriments of postCOVID syndrome are not yet known, causing uncertainty around your rights in the workplace

Long COVID

and your workplace rights enablemagazine.co.uk

M

anifesting in symptoms like fatigue, muscle pain and so-called brain fog, postCOVID syndrome, more commonly referred to as long COVID, is the invisible illness preventing thousands of people from returning to normal life. Categorised by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as experiencing new or ongoing symptoms for four weeks or more after contracting COVID-19, much is still unknown about the diagnosis.

As the world re-opens, long COVID could prevent some people from returning to work and social settings. esearch by the ffice for ational Statistics (ONS) found that an estimated one million people in private households in the UK were experiencing symptoms of long COVID in the four weeks to 2 May 2021. Around 650,000 people in this group said it had affected their dayto-day activities.

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The fallout from this figure was further emphasised by almost 400,000 people having experienced symptoms of long COVID for at least 12 months.

The post-COVID illness can strike anyone, with medical professionals still trying to understand why some groups are more affected than others: in self-reported long COVID, people aged 35-69; females; people living in the most deprived areas; people working in health or social care; people with another activity-limiting health condition or disability most commonly experienced symptoms.

Now, there is growing concern about the return to work for people with long COVID. “We are getting enquires about employee’s taking time off work due to having COVID and pay entitlement, health and safety when returning to work and concerns about facing dismissal as a result of long-term absence,” reveals Rubel Bashir, associate solicitor at Slater Gordon (www.slatergordon.co.uk).

The concerns voiced to the company are reflected in enquiries to independent public body Acas, which provides free and impartial advice to employers, employees and their representatives on employment rights, best practice and resolving workplace conflict.

“Acas has been contacted by workers suffering from long COVID symptoms who are unsure of their rights and from employers who want advice on how to best support their staff,” explains Gary Wedderburn from Acas.

SUBSTANTIAL With a higher number of people reporting long COVID symptoms lasting for 12 months or longer, the conversation around the illness being classed as a disability is open.

“It’s likely this will need to be considered on an individual basis.

Under the law, a disability is a physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial and long-term’ negative effect on a person’s ability to do normal day-to-day activities,” emphasises Gary.

“Long COVID is still a new illness and it may take time to understand it fully. It can affect a person’s day-

to-day activities and it’s currently understood that it can last or come and go for several months. The effects of long COVID could also cause other impairments.”

Currently, not enough is known about the condition to automatically categorise it as a disability under the Equality Act 2010.

It could be possible to make physical changes to the workplace to help overcome barriers. This could be adapting policy or procedures, considering flexible working or a phased return to full working hours.

“Depending on the symptoms, an employee may not be able to work as productively as they normally would,” adds Rubel. “Even if long COVID is not a disability, an employer may still have a duty of care towards you and should act reasonably in its conduct.”

COMMUNICATION

“This is ultimately a matter for a tribunal to decide and it will differ from individual to individual depending on the symptoms and impact it has on them,” sympathises Rubel. “For an employee’s condition to fall within the scope of a disability it will need to be long term. This generally means it has or is likely to last for at least 12 months. If the symptoms only last for 12 weeks, it will not be a disability.

“Importantly, the tribunal will consider the impact on activities without the aid of medication.”

ADJUSTMENTS If long COVID is affecting day-today life, the return to workplaces, or continuing to work from home, can be extremely difficult. But, without clarification on whether it is considered a disability, it also leaves question marks around entitlement to support and adjustments.

“For some people it can be debilitating. For others, its effects are variable and a worker could be fine one day but need to be off work if their symptoms worsen,” says Gary.

“Reasonable adjustments are likely to be different based on the impact long COVID has had on an individual, what type of work they do and what it is reasonable for the employer to implement.”

To get the best possible support from an employer, they need to know how they can best help you, Gary explains: “Employers and employees should talk to each other about any support that may be needed and to address any concerns either party has.”

You should discuss what adjustments are needed and why with your employer, and if they are not implemented, raise the issue with human resources.

“If these steps do not work, you should take legal advice,” offers Rubel. “It may be possible to negotiate an exit package or reach an agreement with the employer for you to stay in employment.

“There are strict time limits to take legal action. These are usually three months from the date of the incident and will run regardless of internal processes being pursued.”

To ensure action is taken and you are able to return to work in the safest way possible, communicating with your employer is essential.

Until more is understood about long COVID, uncertainty will remain around your rights, but with research underway in the UK and COVID recovery clinics being implemented, answers are one step closer.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Acas has up to date guidance for workers and employers who need advice on long COVID, www.acas.org.uk

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life

thediary SIBLING SELF-CARE AND MINDFULNESS

Online www.sibs.org.uk As part of the charity’s online support sessions for adult siblings of people with learning disabilities, Sibs are hosting a 90-minute Zoom call touching on self-care and mindfulness. During the mid-week wind down, the session will talk about the importance of self-care for siblings while offering useful tips and advice. This will be followed up with a practical 40-minute mindfulness session with expert Claire Garthwaite, who has a range of ualifications in the area.

AUGUST

Our top pick of events this July, August and into September

JULY MENCAP SW COAST 2 COAST CHALLENGE

Minehead www.mencap.org.uk If you have a love for the outdoors, this could be the summer challenge for you. Join team Mencap as they take on the SW Coast 2 Coast Challenge, starting at Minehead in Somerset on the south bank of the Bristol Channel. The event offers three distances to choose from: 25km, 50km or 100km. Taking participants from Minehead down to the seaside town of Dawlish on Devon’s south coast, you’ll get to experience sea views and valleys, all while raising money for the charity.

THE BIG EVENT

NATIONAL AUTISTIC SOCIETY SPECTRUM NIGHT WALKS

Cardiff, London, Manchester www.autism.org.uk hoose from five, or kilometres in one of three cities throughout the UK to challenge yourself and raise vital funds for the National Autistic Society. Complete your challenge alongside like-minded people who want to help create a society that works for autistic people. Those taking part can register as individuals or teams and will each receive a free T-shirt to wear on the night.

Online thebigevent.motability.co.uk At this year’s free, virtual The Big Event, over 25 leading manufacturers will showcase a range of vehicles, helping visitors to discover what best suits their needs. There will also be a wide range of WAVs, adaptations, scooters and powered wheelchairs on display. Scheme partners will be on hand to answer your questions alongside representatives from leading companies, all available via live chat. In addition, expert Speaker Sessions will be available on both days in the virtual auditorium, providing helpful information about the Scheme and other motoring related topics.

SEPTEMBER NAIDEX

NEC, Birmingham www.naidex.co.uk Europe’s most established event for supporting independent living, Naidex showcases wide-ranging solutions to improve mobility and accessibility, the latest innovations and technology, and the future of digital and physical accessibility. This year, Naidex is back at the NEC and the exhibition is packed with exciting features. Welcoming anyone who is living with a health condition or impairment, as well as caring for or supplying to this community, this year’s event features over 200 suppliers, 100 seminars and panels and a host of interactive features.

If you have any events coming up in September and October 2021 email us at editor@dcpublishing.co.uk with the details for inclusion in next issue’s diary enablemagazine.co.uk

Community neurorehabilitation The Children’s Trust Brain Injury Community Service Specialist goal-orientated community-based neurorehabilitation for children and young people, up to 18 years old with a confirmed or suspected acquired brain injury.

Bespoke assessment and therapy packages delivered in the child’s environment – at home, in school or a combination of both, including: •

Specialist interdisciplinary needs-led assessment with recommendations

•

Tailored community therapy including occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and education psychology

•

Skills packages also available including developing independence, memory management, social interaction, and school transition.

Get in touch to find out more: 01737 365 864 www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/bics

Charity registration number: 288018.

Registered address: Tadworth Court, Tadworth, Surrey KT22 5RU TCT_1039 04/21

LEARNING AFTER AN AQUIRED BRAIN INJURY The classroom and education are critical for all developing young people. When a pupil is returning to the classroom after an acquired brain injury, knowing how to best support their needs is imperative. A new resource is here to help

A

n acquired brain injury (ABI) can affect people in different ways. For this reason, it is important to tailor support and assistance to each individual. In a bid to guide education professionals teaching a child or young person returning to the classroom after an ABI, a revolutionary new educational resource has been established from leaders working in brain injury for children and young people.

Launched by the National Acquired Brain Injury in Learning and Education Syndicate (N-ABLES) at The Children’s Trust National Paediatric Brain Injury virtual conference in May, a new booklet has been created which is set to remove barriers pupils may face.

UNDERSTANDING Entitled ABI Return – Children and Young People with Acquired Brain Injury – guiding their return to education, the resource is tailored to ensure the return to school is successful.

“Outside of the family home, school is the place that young people spend the majority of their time,” explains Dr Gemma Costello, head of psychosocial

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services at The Children’s Trust. “When staff have an understanding of ABI and promote consistency of interventions it enables the young person to access the educational setting in a manner that demonstrates an understanding and commitment to their ongoing recovery.”

For some children and young people, an ABI can result in minor problems with memory to more long-lasting changes such as physical and/or learning disabilities. Additionally, some children and young people also experience changes in personality and behaviour. The booklet is designed to help minimise any avoidable issues that pupils may experience in the classroom to ensure every child gets the education they deserve.

CHILD CENTRED Targeted towards those aged four to 18-years-old and highlighting the impact of ABI on education, it is hoped the resource will ensure pupils are adequately supported and not left behind. Dr Costello continues: “Returning to an education setting is frequently cited as one of the most difficult aspects, with many children and young people finding school both familiar, yet completely different.

“The nature of ABI means there is the potential for difficulties to be hidden, cumulative and evolving. The return to school can often bring new insight into challenges that young people experience whilst also being protective as they return to an environment they

enable education

know, with people with whom they are familiar.”

Ensuring pupils are at the centre of planning and preparation will better assist education professionals to allow pupils with an ABI to participate in learning and feel included in the classroom. Dr Emily Benett, consultant clinical psychologist at Nottingham Children’s Hospital, explains: “We hope that ABI Return can be a stepping stone towards a national approach to co-ordinating the return to school for children and young people post ABI.” And getting the right assistance is key.

“With an estimated one child in every classroom being affected by brain injury, and teachers playing an important role in a child’s development, it is crucial

This targeted knowledge will soon be available from The Children’s Trust’s new free fast-track session. Alongside providing rehabilitation, education and community services, The Children’s Trust will be collating information that will better improve the experiences of pupils with ABI in the classroom.

Katie explains: “We bring together information that gives professionals a good, basic understanding of ABI. In the session we define , we detail possible symptoms and how they may manifest in a school day and affect learning, and we share ways teaching professionals can support children with ABI. We’ve worked closely with teachers too, so it is set in the context of a school.”

Complete with fact-based evidence, diagrams and scenarios explaining brain injury further Every with recap quizzes, the initial 30 minutes, session will provide a base understanding of ABI. Further a child in-depth training is in the sustains a works for teachers who want brain injury to advance their learning on the topic. With some brain injuries not presenting or evident, the more focused training for professionals to support pupils who are likely to encounter with a brain injury has never been more important.

When welcoming a pupil back into the classroom, Dr Bennett advises: “Listen to the child and their family, ask one another what works and don’t expect every day to be the same. Plan for the highest level of support and be prepared to monitor and change according to the young person’s needs which will likely change over time.”

Dr Costello also highlights the importance of recognising a pupil’s strengths and skills, alongside new hurdles that may arise. She explains: teachers and school staff know where “Young people need school to be paced to turn for support should the need according to their needs with regular rest arise,” emphasises Katie Roberts, head of breaks; and review your pupils’ needs voluntary fundraising at The Children’s over time.”

Trust.

With tailored support available from the new booklet and training session, TRAINING plus the expertise of charities such as The Furthering awareness for education staff, Children’s Trust, pupils with ABI will have after a recent All-Party Parliamentary the best chances to thrive.

Group report entitled Time for Change, it was highlighted that teachers should have a basic understanding of ABI. From better equipping teaching professionals with improved information to understand ABI, or raising awareness of the educational requirements for children and young people with an ABI: improved knowledge will better support young learners.

FOR MORE INFORMATION A copy of the education resource is available from www.ukabif.org.uk/ABIReturn, with further information on acquired brain injury in the classroom available from The Children’s Trust (www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/ teachers) on 01737 365000.

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THE WORLD OF WORK The route into your dream field is never linear, there are a range of pathways to best meet your needs. From accessible apprenticeships to disability focused employment services, you’re sure to be clocking in to a new career in no time

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o matter if you are looking to get into higher education, go straight into the world of work, or still unsure of the right career for you: more services and opportunities are becoming available to help get disabled people into paid employment.

CHANCES Dedicated to getting young disabled people into work experience to help build on their CV and vital skills, such as communication and team work, or finding paid roles, Talkback know that people with a learning disability and/or autism should have the same opportunities as non-disabled job seekers.

From being unable to complete application forms or barriers to getting an interview, Talkback provide skills-based training, and work

experience to prepare members for the world of work. Additionally, the organisation is connected with a range of leading businesses, meaning Talkback members will be paid for their work.

Career guidance, CV writing, support with the job hunt or interview training and mock interviews, Talkback is just one organisation committed to getting disabled jobs seekers into the world of work.

DISCLOSURE Change 100, from leading disability charity Leonard Cheshire, supports talented students and recent graduates with disabilities or long-term conditions to receive vital and much sought-after professional learning that is sure to make a person’s CV stand out from the crowd.

More than allowing the chance to learn and develop from industry

leaders, Change 100 is a platform to help young disabled people starting off in their careers to comfortably disclose disability.

In some cases, disclosing your disability when going into the workplace especially for the first time can be daunting. There might be doubts that you are being hired simply because of your disability, but one scheme is working to provide aspiring young people to get their foot in the door with paid summer work placements, professional development and mentoring.

Working for Greenpeace (www.greenpeace.org.uk) as part of her placement with Change 100, alila, who has dysle ia, was able to effectively ask for the reasonable adjustments she required to complete her tasks to the best of her ability.

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* DISABLED PEOPLE IN EMPLOYMENT, HOUSE OF COMMONS LIBRARY, ANDREW POWELL

“Being on the Change 100 scheme, I felt that gave me permission to talk about my disability in a way I haven’t done before,” enthuses Kalila. “Like a lot of people, I compensate. For example, I have poor working memory and can’t spell very well but I have a high verbal reasoning and I’m very eloquent so that doesn’t highlight my disability. With Change 100, it felt like a really good opportunity to talk about dyslexia and how I got on the scheme and this is what I can do.”

The interview process was also designed in such a way that it could highlight Kalila’s strengths. Split into three categories including a presentation and group work prior to a one-to-one interview, Kalila had the chance to showcase her skills during the presentation as she feels uncomfortable in one-to-one situations.

After getting a work place needs assessment, used to determine the reasonable adjustments required for a person with dyslexia (www. bdadyslexia.org.uk), Kalila received speech to text software and feels comfortable asking for alternative technology or aids when starting a new project.

Kalila continues: “I was able to talk about dyslexia to the whole team and disclose what I felt comfortable with.

This gave everyone I worked with a little bit more context about how I work and why I might ask questions about something written down or

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needing information delivered in a different way. I also had the insurance of Change 100 to support me.”

EARN AND LEARN Apprenticeships have the opportunity to open doors to a career in a way that higher education cannot. Focusing on tangible learning, there are several apprenticeship pathways available – it is important to pick the option that will be most beneficial for your career progression.

Across Scotland and England there are different forms of apprenticeships on offer, and each level has their own entry requirements. Additionally, an apprenticeship can vary in length and will, in some cases, be specifically tailored to the needs and requirements of the employer.

There are four different apprenticeships on offer in England including: intermediate, advanced, higher and degree (www. apprenticeships.gov.uk). In Scotland, apprentice opportunities are available for foundation, modern and graduate (www.apprenticeships.scot). The level of apprenticeship will depend on whether you are still in secondary education, or looking to complete a university or college course at the same time as working on your apprenticeship. Newer apprenticeships also allow people to achieve a full bachelor’s or master’s degree.

From banking to law, beauty or social care, working with the

Metropolitan Police Force in London or learning to become a software developer, there is an apprenticeship option for all career goals.

Discover more about apprenticeships in your area by visiting the UCAS website (www.ucas.com).

CLOCK IN If a graduate scheme or apprenticeship doesn’t seem right for you, there are disability tailored employment services available.

Remploy, experts in disability and sustainable employment, work to help people to find and stay in meaningful employment, creating inclusive workplaces. Unfortunately, recent figures show that , disabled people are unemployed; 76,000 more than those unemployed in 2019*.

There can be barriers to getting into employment, but with the support of apprenticeships or intern and employment support more disabled people will be part of the workforce.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Find your career opportunities with Talkback UK (talkback-uk.com), Mencap (www.mencap.org.uk), Skills Development Scotland (www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk), Leonard Cheshire (www.leonardcheshire.org) and Remploy (www.remploy.co.uk).

BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE ONLINE COURSE

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Rhiannon (R) and Monique (L)

DISABILITY IN REAL LIFE

Going behind the lens of disability representation, Hollyoaks actor Rhiannon Clements speaks to Lorne Gillies about taking part in the new spin off documentary, Hollyoaks: IRL helping to show society what disabled people can do, not what they can’t Hollyoaks: In Real Life is a fantastic series, why was it important for you to get involved with the Disability and Representation episode?

When I was growing up I didn’t have any role models to see that I could do something in the industry I am in. I knew what I wanted to do, but I didn’t know how to get into the industry and didn’t see anything that made me feel like I could do it. With the opportunity to participate in the In Real Life episodes, I thought it was a brilliant way to put something back out there.

Having the chat with Monique (Jarett) in a different field under the same umbrella, it shows that people can do this. We both had the chance to discuss the experiences that have prevented us, and how we broke through the barriers to ensure people don’t face the same hurdles.

It was great to also speak with a disabled person – it’s not often that you have those shared experiences, for example in your friendship group

or in family. To have that space to chat with Monique, it is two people having a frank chat about how their disability has shaped part of their lives.

What do you hope people learn about disability after watching the episode?

It is OK to ask questions. As a species, we are intrigued by what is different and that is completely normal, so just ask questions. Be polite and respectful, but learn that we are all the same, we just have different life experiences based on our characteristics.

Disability, in my experience, is something that is put on me as a task I cannot complete. It is not about me being unable to do something, it is needing society to give me the space to find a different way to do it. e need to focus on what people can do, not what they cannot do.

You’ve got a great following on social media (@rhiannonclem), how does it feel to use your platform to represent

Read our extended interview with Rhiannon on our website, www.enablemagazine.co.uk 8

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people with upper limb differences?

My favourite part is when I get messages from people who have seen me on Hollyoaks and they have an upper limb difference or a member in their family does and seeing me has made them more confident. ven showing the representation has been important. What is brilliant about being in Hollyoaks and playing Summer, she is a villain and that is part of the character and she’s not someone to look after. Just because of your physical attributes, that doesn’t dictate the type of person you are.

What do you have to say to people looking to get into acting?

The only person that can make it happen is yourself, just be true to yourself. You are powerful with your own uniqueness, nobody else can be you.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

You can watch all episodes of Hollyoaks: IRL, including the Disability and Representation episode, on Channel 4’s free streaming service All 4 (www.channel4.com).

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