Enable November / December 2017

enable Forget can’t - think can!

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November / December 2017

DON’T SCREEN US OUT

THE DOWN’S SYNDROME TEST THAT’S MAKING WAVES

PICTURESQUE POTSDAM

AN ACCESSIBLE TRIP TO THE GERMAN CITY

WIN

AN ACCESSIBLE BREAK AT BRICKHOUSE FARM COTTAGES

ACCESS CHRISTMAS

FROM PANTOS TO FESTIVE MARKETS, EVERYONE CAN GET INVOLVED

Disability Spotlight in the

How Paralympian Jonnie Peacock is blazing the trail for disabled people in the media

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enable Forget can’t - think can!

PUBLISHER Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITOR Lindsay Cochrane lindsay.cochrane@dcpublishing.co.uk STAFF WRITER Lorne Gillies lorne.gillies@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Tim Rushby-Smith Alisdair Suttie DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Lucy Baillie lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.uk PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lisa McCabe lisa.mccabe@dcpublishing.co.uk SALES Marian Mathieson marian.mathieson@dcpublishing.co.uk ENABLE MAGAZINE www.enablemagazine.co.uk

DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG Tel: 0844 249 9007

COVER PRICE £3.00

Welcome Hello, and welcome to the final issue of Enable for 2017!

And of course, we’re going out with a bang. This issue is jam-packed with interviews, features, news and inspiration – so pour yourself a cuppa and get stuck in.

Kicking things off on page 14, we’ve been taking a look at how Jonnie Peacock’s appearance on Strictly Come Dancing has signalled a huge change for disabled people – and how he’s not the only disabled person on our TV screens just now. What impact do you think Jonnie’s appearance will have on attitudes? Share your views using the contact details on the left!

Strictly being back on our TV screens means one thing – Christmas is on the horizon! So we’ve been getting a little bit festive this issue, with our guide to accessible panto performances, some tips to help you save cash on the run up to Christmas, and a rundown of accessible Christmastime activities across the UK. Of course, this time of year isn’t always associated with fun – for some, winter represents a massive struggle, as people scrimp and save in a bid to heat their homes. To help you make the season a little more affordable, and warmer, we’ve been taking a look at the different support that’s available.

Don’t miss this issue’s bumper product guide, and make sure you enter our fantastic competition too – you could be off to Brickhouse Farm Cottages for an accessible break!

It’s been a cracking year for us at Enable – and we’ve got you lot to thank for that! Thank you for sharing your stories, for giving us feedback, for following us on social media and for stopping by to visit us at exhibitions – the magazine would be nothing without our readers, so thank you for being a part of it!

We’ve got plenty planned for 2018, and we can’t wait for you to get involved.

So until then – enjoy what’s left of 2017, have a lovely time over the festive season, and we’ll see you next year!

© BBC/RAY BURMISTON

Until next time,

Enable Magazine

Lindsay Cochrane, Editor

EDITOR’S PICKS...

33 CARING FROM A DISTANCE We find out about the new face of caring.

53 SIBLINGS: A BOND LIKE NO OTHER What’s life like growing up with a disabled brother or sister?

78 WORK WITH US The new campaign urging employers to get inclusive.

DON’T MISS… This issue’s competition – you could be off to rickhouse Farm Cottages on page !

SUBSCRIBE TO ENABLE

You can get every issue of Enable delivered direct to your door, for £25 for two years or £15 for one. Head to www.enablemagazine.co.uk/ subscribe, or call us in the o ce on 0844 249 9007.

@enablemagazine

@enablemagazine

©DC Publishing Ltd 2017. 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 ublishing td The publisher takes no responsibility or claims made by advertisers within the publication very e ort 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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31 interviews LUCY MARTIN The BBC weather presenter shares her journey into the world of television.

BEHIND THE SCRIPT Sesame Street’s Christine Ferraro talks to Enable about her role in creating the show’s first autistic character.

life ACCESS CHRISTMAS How to make the most of the festive season when you have access needs.

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HE’S BEHIND YOU! We round up some of the best accessible panto performances taking place across the UK this Christmas.

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FESTIVE FINANCE Money got you in a spin? There are some easy ways to save cash over the holidays.

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AN AFFORDABLE, WARMER WINTER We take a look at some of the benefits and grants that are out there to make heating your home less damaging on your bank balance.

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PICTURESQUE POTSDAM We headed off to Germany to find out about access in the city of Potsdam.

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IT’S A DOG’S LIFE There’s more to canine companions than taking on the role of assistance dog – some pets have got therapeutic benefits.

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carers CARING AT A DISTANCE There’s a new type of carer in our midst – and it’s not an easy life. We take a look at the rise of the distance carer.

family

WIN

SIBLINGS: A BOND LIKE NO OTHER We find out what life’s like growing up with a break at Brickhouse a sibling who Farm Cottages with this has a disability.

issue’s competition on page 31.

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CONTENTS

DEATH BY A THOUSAND CUTS Cuts to disability benefits have had a huge impact to thousands – but what’s the reality? We found out.

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PUTTING DISABILITY IN THE SPOTLIGHT How Jonnie Peacock’s Strictly turn is just the beginning when it comes to TV challenging attitudes towards disability.

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FORGET ME NOT We take a look at the pioneering new research into dementia that’s got the potential to change thousands of lives.

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DON’T SCREEN US OUT We spoke to a campaigner and a parent to find out about their stance on the new prenatal screening test that’s got the potential to cause more harm than good.

56 63 36

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EPILEPSY WARRIORS One mum shares why she’s going the extra mile for Epilepsy Action.

GREEN MEDICINE We take a look at why it might be time for the UK to consider legalising medicinal cannabis.

care CARE AT HOME If you need extra support day-to-day but you’re not quite ready to leave the place you call home, we round up your options.

motors THE REVIEW This issue, we’ve taken the updated Volkswagen Golf out for a spin – and, as ever, it definitely doesn’t disappoint.

69 employment and education

WITH US We find out about a 78 WORK new campaign that’s highlighting the

difficulty disabled people face getting

into work – and what needs to change THE WAY IN INCLUSION 82 LEADING Pharmaceutical giants GSK are making waves in the world of employment – one employee tells us how.

WIN an Amplicomms PowerTel M6700 black big button mobile phone This issue, we’ve got a nifty mobile phone up for grabs for one lucky Enable reader!

The Amplicomms PowerTel M6700 big button mobile phone has lots of great features. It has a clear screen and large buttons, as well as various volume settings – the ringtone can be adjusted to 85dB, great for those with hearing impairments. It can store three speed-dial numbers of your choice too, good if you have memory problems.

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PICS: © XXXXX

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spotlight

HOW TO ENTER To be in with a chance of winning this handset, send us your name, address, daytime telephone number and email address to: Amplicomms Competition,

Enable Magazine, DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG. You can also email your details to amplicomms@ dcpublishing.co.uk, or fill in the form online at www.enablemagazine.co.uk/ amplicomms.

All entries must be received by 31 December 2017. Good luck!

For full terms and conditions, head to www.enablemagazine.co.uk/ amplicomms.

You can purchase the M6700 for £54.99 from www.healthandcare.co.uk

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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NEWS

The

LATEST A roundup of the disability news stories making the headlines

Reading Festival awarded Gold Status for access

MORE DISABLED CHILDREN VICTIMS OF HATE CRIME THE NUMBER OF REPORTED hate crimes against disabled children is on the rise, according to a BBC investigation.

Figures obtained from police forces UK-wide showed that 450 incidents of hate crime against disabled children were reported last year – up from 181 in 2014-2015.

The Home Office says that the rise was due to better reporting, and more victims being willing to come forward and report such abuse.

5 live Investigates sent Freedom of Information requests to all 45 police forces in the UK, and 29 provided full responses. Overall, the number of disability hate crimes increased by 101%, from 1,531 in 2014-15 to 3,079 in 20162017. Crimes against children rose at an even greater rate.

The incidents reported ranged from verbal and online abuse to arson and even violent, physical attacks.

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READING FESTIVAL has received Gold Status as part of Attitude is Everything’s Charter of Best Practice, marking the annual music festival as one of the most accessible in the business.

Festival organisers Festival Republic have been working with Attitude is Everything since 2005 to improve facilities for disabled audience members, reaching Silver Status in 2014, as well as receiving an Outstanding Attitude Award in 2016 for their BSL interpretation service.

Reading’s other facilities include a dedicated checkin for disabled customers, a fully-stewarded accessible campsite, viewing platforms at each major stage, an accessible backstage bar and press

area, detailed online access information and a dedicated access officer who oversees customer access bookings.

Suzanne Bull MBE, CEO of Attitude is Everything, said: “The festival could not be more welcoming or inclusive.

Working in partnership with Attitude is Everything, Melvin Benn and the Festival Republic team have consistently developed the festival to become more accessible and inclusive as the years have gone by. As a result, attendances from deaf and disabled customers, along with their friends and families, have never been higher. The impact is far-reaching, and a perfect embodiment of how live music can change lives when barriers to access are removed.”

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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ANSWER IT FOR JUST £195 ADVANCE PAYMENT Adventure. No one ever found it by following the crowd. That’s why the Jeep Renegade is designed with stand-out looks and go anywhere, do anything ability.

Add to that all-speed traction control, a spacious boot, 16” aluminium wheels and a 5” touchscreen DAB radio. So you can boldly go in style, whether you’re hitting the high street or the highlands. Which only leaves one question: Where will you find your next adventure?

MAGAZINE

OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR JEEP RENEGADE RANGE MPG (L/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 47.9 (5.9) – 70.6 (4.0), URBAN 32.5 (8.7) – 55.4 (5.1), COMBINED 40.9 (6.9) – 64.2 (4.4), CO2 EMISSIONS: 160 – 115 G/KM. Fuel consumption and CO figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real-life driving conditions.

2

Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a significant effect on fuel consumption. Vehicle shown is Jeep ® Renegade 1.6 E-Torq EVO Sport available with £195 Advance Payment with Omaha Orange paint included. Advance Payments are correct at time of going to press and subject to orders being placed by 31st December 2017. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Terms & Conditions apply. Offer may be varied and withdrawn at any time. Jeep ® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

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23/10/2017 12:01 11:53 13/10/2017

NEWS

Work placements available for disabled students LEONARD CHESHIRE DISABILITY’S Change100 programme is now open for applications for summer 2018.

The annual programme sees top businesses take on talented disabled students for work placements across a range of industries during the summer months. The award-winning Change100 internship scheme has seen students work in sectors including law and media, with previous employers including the BBC, Taylor Wimpey, Barclays, Skanska and Virgin Money.

Successful applicants get mentoring and guidance for the duration of their placement, which is also paid, to help them excel and thrive in the workplace.

Programme manager Victoria Passant said: “Change100 is crucial in breaking down barriers to employment for disabled graduates. Given that disabled people are nearly four times more likely to be unemployed by the time they’re 26 years old than their non-disabled peers, schemes like this could not be more important.

Employers need to realise that by not

RNIB CAMPAIGN SHOWS HOW BLIND PEOPLE SEE A NEW FILM RELEASED by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) demonstrates modern life through the eyes of blind and partially sighted people.

Six blind and partially sighted people share their experiences to dispel some of the misconceptions associated with sight loss, portrayed through lens filters simulating their conditions.

Of the people in the UK who are registered as blind or partially sighted, 93% can see something. However, people often assume that a person with a white cane or guide dog must not be able to see anything.

Chloë Tear, 19, features in the film he is partially sighted due to cerebral palsy, and is currently learning to use a white cane to help her get around.

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She said: “There’s a lack of understanding about what it means to be blind or partially sighted. I’m proud to be part of Bs ow ee film, which hope will help address this.”

To find out more, head to www.rnib.org.uk/howisee.

employing disabled graduates, they are missing out on the widest pool of talent.

We’re thrilled that 100% of our employer partners said they would recommend the programme to others.”

The scheme is open for applications until Wednesday 24 January 2018. Find out more about eligibility and how to apply at www.leonardcheshire.org/change100.

MOBILITY ROADSHOW TO CLOSE DOWN AFTER 34 YEARS ONE OF THE UK’S longest-running events providing opportunities or older and disabled people to find out about driving and other mobility options is set to close.

The decision to end the annual Mobility Roadshow, which has been running since 1983, has been taken by the board of the charity Mobility Choice, following a decline in visitor numbers in recent years.

The charity has cited the growth of Motability’s One Big Day and other similar events as one of the reasons behind the closure.

Ann Frye, chair of Mobility Choice, commented: “Over the years, many thousands of disabled and older people have benefitted rom the obility oadshow, in particular from the ability to test drive a wide range o adapted vehicles in a sa e o road environment or many, this has been the starting point on the road to independent mobility. We are immensely sad that we have to close the event.”

Mobility Choice are currently in talks with Driving Mobility, the charity representing the UK’s mobility centres, about opportunities for them to organise local events under the Get Going Live! banner, which focuses on driving opportunities for young and newly disabled people.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT

Death by a

Thousand Cuts As the impact of government cuts to the welfare system starts to set in, more and more people are suffering. We find out what’s going on in homes across the country, and what needs to change

O

n 23 April, one Staffordshire family’s world was turned upside down, when 73-year-old Valerie Grant stepped out in front of a fast-moving train.

Valerie’s suicide was tragic. Even more tragic when a coroner ruled that one of the reasons which contributed to Valerie’s death was the fact that her disabled son had lost access to a string of benefits and support that made their lives easier.

James, 37, who has severe autism, had lost his job placement and was told he no longer qualified for a number of benefits. He’d also been turned down for accommodation, and lost access to his

placement at a day centre.

His mother, who had a history of depression, reportedly said to mental health workers: “What have I got to do? Top myself to get help for my son?”

Valerie’s desperate situation is, sadly, not the first. In 2015, 67-year-old Peter Sherwood from Lowestoff set fire to himself outside his local Jobcentre Plus because he struggled with changes to his benefits. Last year, 68-year-old Susan Roberts took an overdose after learning her benefits appeal had been rejected. This year, Kim Burns, who had multiple sclerosis, committed suicide, leaving a note criticising the DWP.

LINK And this is just a handful of the people across the UK who have taken their own lives after losing support. A Staffordshire coroner has noted a link between suicides and perceived problems with benefits – saying it’s possible that the number of such cases is on the rise.

Because it’s a desperate time for thousands of people. Drastic changes to the welfare system mean that people up and down the country are worse off – people who were struggling to make ends meet before their income and support was slashed. Valerie, Peter, Susan and Kim are

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT not alone in the impact that the welfare system had on them, mentally, physically and emotionally. Families nationwide are really struggling with changes to the benefits system and support services.

“It’s having a devastating impact on far too many disabled people,” says Laura Wetherly of the Disability Benefits Consortium (DBC), a coalition of more than 80 disability charities and care organisations working towards a fairer benefits system. “The system is failing to accurately capture the reality of living with many severe, complex conditions and impairments.”

DIFFERENCE In September, DBC released a new report, Supporting Those Who Need It Most?, looking at the impact of the introduction of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).

The non-means-tested benefit, designed to cover the extra costs of disability, was introduced to replace Disability Living Allowance, and save the government money. The main difference between the two is that the assessment criteria is tougher, and fewer people qualify as a result – campaigners estimate that once PIP is fully rolled out, 600,000 people will have lost financial support.

According to the report, the application

and assessment process is proving difficult for claimants – 70% found the application to be hard or very hard, while 11% were unable to complete it at all. The accompanying assessment has proven problematic too, with two-thirds saying they felt assessors didn’t understand their condition and 90% describing the assessment itself as stressful.

“What we’ve found is that the government’s move to Personal Independence Payment from Disability Living Allowance has meant that people are living with long-term conditions and going through stressful assessments, and that they’re often, wrongly, losing support that they rely on,” Laura explains. “Around half of people who’ve been reassessed from DLA to PIP are losing some or all of their award, which shows that many people are losing out. In many cases, that’s having a devastating impact on their health. It’s leaving them isolated, sometimes unable to pay bills or get to medical appointments.

“One woman with MS, Anastasia, told us that the assessment has made her anxiety worse and caused her to relapse. She couldn’t walk. She had severe weakness in her legs and was in immense pain after her assessment. That kind of physical impact is very concerning.”

OVER TO YOU

From reassessments under PIP to withdrawal of support, how have changes to the welfare system affected you? hare your experiences by emailing editor@enablemagazine.co.uk

– we’ll be printing what you have to say next issue.

PROBLEM And it’s not just PIP which is the problem.

Changes across the welfare system are leaving people worse off financially, and suffering physically and emotionally as a result. There’s been an £80-a-week cut to the work-related activity group (WRAG) of Employment and Support Allowance – a DBC survey found that 57% of people in WRAG said that the amount of money they received wasn’t enough to live on.

Over a quarter said they weren’t able to afford to eat. And that was before the reduction came into play. Cuts to services, like day centres and social care support, mean people are becoming trapped in their own homes and unable to socialise.

The introduction of PIP and changes to ESA were designed to save the government money, to ensure that the ‘right people’ were getting support, and to encourage more disabled people to get into work. But the withdrawal of funding and support means that, for many, this can’t happen.

“We obviously support the government’s ambition to get more disabled people into work,” Laura says.

“But we also know that work isn’t possible for all disabled people. The government needs to recognise the vital role of disability benefits and financial support in supporting people to maintain their independence, which might include work, but also to help them once work is no longer possible. For that reason, it’s really important that no further cuts are made to disability benefits and that further improvements are also made to make sure the system makes sense.”

The DBC is calling on the government to really look at the benefits system, and make positive changes which will give disabled people the support they need.

With PIP, they’ve made a number of recommendations, including a simplified application form, an independent review of evidence gathering and a review of the assessment criteria.

“At the DBC, we think that being disabled is hard enough,” Laura says. “It’s only being made harder by a system that doesn’t make sense.”

i

MORE INFORMATION

To find out more about the Disability Benefits Consortium, and to add your voice to their campaigning work, head to disa i it ene ts onsorti m ord ress om

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23/10/2017 11:36 20/10/2017 15:16:33

SPOTLIGHT

Putting

DISABILTY in the

SPOTLIGHT He made history this autumn when he sashayed onto the Strictly Come Dancing dance floor as the first disabled celebrity to participate in the main show – and Paralympian Jonnie Peacock is well and truly making disability a part of the conversation. We take a look at how TV has helped change disability’s place in society in recent years

W

hen Jonnie Peacock jived across the Strictly ballroom floor, dressed as a cowboy with his running blade proudly on display, it felt like a landmark moment for disabled people everywhere. Here was a visibly disabled person on one of the UK’s mostwatched TV shows of the autumn season, having the time of his life in front of millions of viewers. Disability had well and truly entered the mainstream.

When Strictly launched on the BBC in 2004, the idea of a disabled person taking part might have been almost inconceivable to the general public. But now, more and more disabled people are cropping up on our TV screens.

“I love reading that my prosthetic has got households across the UK talking about disability,” Jonnie wrote in a blog for the Huffington Post. “That is the reason I’m on the show – I want to show everyone that there is ability in disability

and that if you put your mind to it, and work hard, then anything is possible.”

CHALLENGE The 24-year-old, who’s originally from Cambridge, lost his right leg below the knee to meningitis at the age of five.

But he hasn’t let that hold him back. He scooped his first Paralympic medal at the London 2012 Games, and the T44 100m sprinter has gone on to win gold in every major championship since. For him, Strictly is just the next challenge – but his part in the show is doing so much more than giving the athlete a sense of achievement.

Jonnie’s appearance on Strictly is just a small part of a recent movement which has seen more disabled people on our screens. Across the TV channels, disability is becoming increasingly visible, from kids’ entertainment to news programming.

Whether it’s BBC weather presenter Lucy Martin with the latest forecast (see our interview on page 58) or the team on The Last Leg analysing the week’s news, disability is becoming inreasingly prominent across the different stations.

In many ways, it comes back to Jonnie – and his fellow ParalympicsGB athletes – back in 2012. As the general public screamed on the athletes in sold-out stadia across London, Channel 4 made a commitment to broadcasting more Paralympic sport than ever before.

BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS The channel also broke down barriers

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with their recruitment scheme to get more disabled people in front of and behind the camera for their coverage of the event, repeating the same initiative for Rio in 2016. This saw the likes of Sophie Morgan, JJ Chalmers and Alex Brooker welcomed into homes across the country – and exciting careers take off.

And Channel 4 haven’t stopped at their sporting coverage when it comes to disability – reality shows like First Dates and Gogglebox have included disabled participants, while The Undateables, which follows disabled people looking for love, has gone on to be a huge success, despite initial hesitation from the public.

It’s not just Channel 4. Other major broadcasters are making a commitment to include more disabled people in their programming. The nation’s favourite soaps, for instance, are presenting more disabled characters – and their disability often doesn’t factor into their storylines, unlike days of old. EastEnders’ Lisa Hammond, Hollyoaks’ Amy Conachan

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 15:37

FROM ATHLETE TO MEDIA STAR

What other famous faces from the world of parasport have made the leap to TV? Here are a few big-name stars who are now regular t res on o r s reens

HANNAH COCKROFT

Wheelchair racer Hannah maybe inspired Jonnie’s turn on Strictly, after taking part in the 2014 Sport Relief edition of the show, dancing with Pasha Kovalev.

ADE ADEPITAN

In 2004, Ade was part of the bronze-winning GB wheelchair basketball team in Athens – and these days, he’s regularly on our TV screens, presenting shows for the BBC and Channel 4.

STEF REID

POSITIVE CHANGE Kids’ TV too has seen huge positive change – showing how far we’ve come since the days of parents complaining about kids’ TV presenter Cerrie Burnell, who was born without her lower right arm. CBeebies is now showing RTÉJr series Pablo, an animated show with an all-autistic cast – to

huge praise from parents and children across the nation.

Disability becoming more visible means one major thing – increased acceptance.

With disabled people becoming a part of regular programming – and prime-time programming at that – it’s normalising something that was, until as recently as 50 years ago, completely shut away from public life. While not every disabled person will be mastering the foxtrot on a Saturday night, or presenting in-depth documentaries for major broadcasters, those who do are promoting a message of inclusion, of embracing diversity and accepting difference.

As Jonnie eyes up Strictly’s glitterball trophy, and we all cheer him on from our sofas, in some ways, it feels like a new era for disability, in the media, public life and beyond – and not before time.

Strictly Come Dancing is shown on BBC One on Saturday and Sunday nights

TANNI GREYTHOMPSON

Since retiring from wheelchair racing, Baroness GreyThompson has featured regularly on television in the role of sports correspondent.

KADEENA COX

Last year, sprinter and cyclist Kadeena Cox gave reality TV a go, participating in Channel 4’s The Jump.

ELLIE SIMMONDS

The swimmer, who’s got five Paralympic golds to her name, took part in 2013’s Great Comic Relief Bake Off, and was interviewed by comedian John Bishop for his In Conversation With series earlier this year.

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PIC: © BBC/KIERON MCCARRON; CHANNEL 4 TELEVISION/IAN DERRY

and Coronation Street newcomer Melissa Johns – disability is now on our screens on a daily basis.

Invisible disabilities too are being included. In October, the BBC’s documentary Asperger’s and Me saw wildlife presenter Chris Packham explore his diagnosis with the autism spectrum disorder later in life, and new treatments available in the US. Back in the summer, Netflix launched a new drama series Atypical, following an autistic teenager as he grapples with the idea of finding a girlfriend – which has won praise and criticism in equal measure for its portrayal of the condition.

This year, Paralympic longjumper Stef took on the role of correspondent for the BBC’s Invictus Games coverage in Toronto.

15

23/10/2017 15:37

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23/10/2017 11:54

LIFE

Accessible CHRISTMAS Dig out your favourite festive knitwear and don your woolly hats and gloves, because winter has arrived! Gather your festive cheer and get into the spirit of the season – this is set to be a cracker of a Christmas

W

ith the frosty weather comes carollers singing and sleigh bells ringing as we excitedly wait for Rudolph and Santa to pay us a visit. As nativity scenes are set up across the UK, party planning gets underway and days out organised, there’s so much happening it’s going to be hard to fit it all in. But how do you enjoy it when you have access needs?

CHRISTMAS MARKETS Don’t deny it – there is nothing better than a Christmas market, even for the biggest Scrooges among us. Bursting with carol singers and twinkling lights, mulled wine flowing and the smell of chestnuts roasting on an open fire (we went there), your senses will come to life at a Christmas market.

Despite the pleasantries, for some a Christmas market can be troublesome

due to the heavy footfall. For those with mobility issues or sensory problems, it can be considered an overload of information and an accessibility nightmare. Fortunately, more and more markets are upping their accessibility game to help everyone enjoy the festivities this year.

Edinburgh’s Christmas market (www.edinburghschristmas.com) has been running for 20 years, so they know how to do things properly. Throughout the market there are ramps to stalls, an even surface and wheelchair users are welcome to have a go on the ice rink. If you want to experience the bright lights of Edinburgh from up high, then there are also dedicated accessible pods in the Forth 1 Big Wheel. To guarantee your spot, visit the website for more information.

South of the border, London (www.xmas-markets.com) has a winter

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LIFE

wonderland featuring a Santa’s Grotto, top entertainment, a carousel and much more at the Christmas market at the Tate Modern (www.tate.org.uk). Another busy venture, but the market is completely inclusive to ensure everyone has the best market experience possible – that’s what it’s all about.

WINTER WONDERLAND Get into the Christmas spirit by immersing yourself in a Yultide experience like no other – after the markets of course. With bright lights, shows, ice skating and so much more, you can’t miss Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland (www. hydeparkwinterwonderland.com), running from 17 November to 1 January.

The biggest Christmas event in the UK has been running for over 10 years and is free and completely accessible.

Set in the heart of London, there’s no denying that the city comes to life during the festive season, and you could be a part of the magic. Picture yourself dancing in the snow like a character in Love Actually and get truly festive ice skating, drinking in an ice bar or watching a show before hopping on some fairground rides. Those with mobility issues, learning or physical disabilities don’t need to worry about

18

missing out, as this is a Christmas experience everyone can enjoy.

All attractions at Winter Wonderland are wheelchair accessible, from the ice rink to Zippos Christmas Circus and onto the giant wheel – you won’t feel left out of anything. For a day out to remember, make sure to book in advance for shows, the ice rink and ice bar, to ensure staff are aware of any additional needs. Some rides and attractions have a customer limit due to the number of wheelchair spaces available, so make sure you get in touch and don’t miss the opportunity to be truly festive.

GET READY TO PARTY After getting windswept on the big wheel, why not get ready to party and meet the stars? Christmas is the party season, and if you’re ready to mingle with famous faces then you don’t want to miss Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association’s (www.mudsa.org) Christmas party.

The iconic football club’s disabled supporters’ Christmas party has been bringing in the festive cheer since 1989 and now takes place in the International Lounge of Old Trafford.

For members of Manchester United Disabled Supporters’ Association, this is a chance to celebrate the festive season

in style with 110 guests. The party will include lunch, and meet and greets with some of the club’s top players.

Similarly, many other leading football teams are getting in on the party action with Blackburn Rovers hosting their own disabled supporters’ event every year, alongside Leicester City FC and more. Football fans get to experience a memorable Christmas party, and rub shoulders with the biggest names in the business. What’s not to love?

MEET SANTA The man of the moment – have a catch up with Santa and pass on your Christmas wish list at Center Parcs (www.centerparcs.co.uk). A perfect family getaway, get one last holiday under your belt before the new year. Committed to equal access for everyone, accessible holiday cabins are available to book if you have specific requirements, and many of the attractions have good access too.

Kids (and adults) can meet Santa at the parks until 24 December – he’s got some commitments to keep after that – and feel all warm and fuzzy inside with twinkling lights and festive cheer as the woodlands ooze an aura of magic during the festive period. Activities will be taking place from 6 November to 1 January 2018 to give you your fill of festive cheer.

Oh, it’s the most wonderful time of the year, so make sure to get the most out of it. From winter wonderlands to Christmas markets to spending time with Santa, there is something for everyone this festive period – all completely accessible. You can find us waiting under the mistletoe…

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23/10/2017 12:30

A great day out for all ages. Watch a show or take a behind-the-scenes tour.

Discover 100 years of theatremaking in the permanent exhibition, The Play’s The Thing. Take in views from the Tower or enjoy delicious food at the Rooftop Restaurant.

CAP

Photo by Sara Beaumont

Visit the Royal Shakespeare Company for Captioned, Audio Described, BSL and Relaxed performances

FIND OUT ABOUT FORTHCOMING PERFORMANCES AT RSC.ORG.UK/ACCESS

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23/10/2017 11:55

Over-the-top costumes, singalong performances and cheesy comedy – yes, it’s pantomime season! Accessibility is at the heart of panto season this year – oh, yes it is – and this little lot will have you rushing to the box office SLEEPING BEAUTY (2 December-7 January) The King’s Theatre, 297 Bath Street, Glasgow www.atgtickets.com/glasgow 08448 717 648 There are a number of signed, captioned and audio-described performances available for this year’s pantomime, Sleeping Beauty, starring Elaine C Smith. As well as this, the King’s are staging a relaxed performance, suitable for audiences with an autism spectrum condition or learning disability.

PETER PAN (2-31 December) Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon www.swindontheatres.co.uk 01793 524 481 Set sail with your shipmates and head for Neverland this Christmas, where you’ll be hooked on the Wyvern Theatre’s swashbuckling pantomime adventure – Peter Pan. Featuring magnificent scenery, beautiful costumes, an abundance of comedy and stunning flying sequences, it’s the perfect treat for the festive season – hook your tickets now! There will be a relaxed performance on 8 December, signed performances on the 16th and an audiodescribed show on the 30th.

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A CHRISTMAS CAROL (27 November-4 February) Royal Shakespeare Company, Waterside, Warwickshire, Stratford-upon-Avon www.rsc.org.uk/christmas 01789 403 493 Visit the Royal Shakespeare Company for BSL interpreted, audio-described and captioned performances of A Christmas Carol in Stratfordupon-Avon – a brand new adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic, one of the most loved short stories ever written. Find out more on their website.

SHREK THE MUSICAL (12 December-7 January) Edinburgh Playhouse, 8-22 Greenside Lane, Edinburgh www.atgtickets.com/edinburgh 08448 713 014 Everyone’s favourite fairytale characters are heading to the Scottish capital this Christmas. Featuring all new songs as well as cult Shrek anthem I’m a Believer, Shrek the Musical brings together over 100 much-loved fairytale characters, plus a 14-foot dragon, in an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza.

Shrek The Musical stars Scottish actress and Call The Midwife star Laura Main as Princess Fiona.

There will be audio-described, captioned and signed performances during the run.

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23/10/2017 15:32

LIFE

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS (8-31 December) Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury 08448 717 627 Hi ho, hi ho, it’s off to the pantomime we go!

Enjoy the classic tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in Aylesbury this year. Selected performances will feature audio description, sign language interpretation, captioning, and a relaxed performance will also be running. This is sure to be the fairest of them all in panto land.

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE (29 November-21 January) West Yorkshire Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Quarry Hill, Leeds www.wyp.org.uk 01132 137 700 Step into the wardrobe of adventure and transport yourself to the magical kingdom of Narnia. Join Mr Tumnus as he journeys through a land where it’s always winter but never Christmas – all thanks to the White Witch – in the iconic tale of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. Pioneering in dementiafriendly performances, West Yorkshire Playhouse will be staging the show in a variety of accessible ways, including signed, captioned and audiodescriped performances.

CHICK MCWHITTINGTON (24 November-31 December) Macrobert Arts Centre, University of Stirling, Stirling www.macrobertartscentre.org 01786 466 666 Bright orange hair, over-the-top makeup and a nod to Back to the Future, a performance of Chick McWhittington is not to be missed. Grab your treats and raise your voice, filled with boos, hisses and laughter for a pantomime like no other. During the festive period, captioned, signed, audio-described and relaxed performances will be available.

CINDERELLA (16 December-7 January) Liverpool Empire, Lime Street, Liverpool www.atgtickets.com/liverpool 08448 713 017 Be transformed from rags to riches and dance the night away in your glass slippers thanks to the fairy godmother. Cinderella and Prince Charming are coming to Liverpool with a host of audio-described, captioned, signed and relaxed performances. You shall go to the ball!

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK (15 December-7 January) Sunderland Empire, High Street West, Sunderland www.atgtickets.com/sunderland 08448 717 627 Fee, fi, fo, fum, we smell a whole lot of festive fun!

You guessed it, Jack is heading up that beanstalk again – those pesky beans – and bringing a whole lot of mischief and magic to the stage. Getting away from the cobbles and the farm, Emmerdale and Coronation Street star Bill Ward is getting evil as the giant’s henchman, Fleshcreep. Offering relaxed performances and sign language interpreted shows, everyone can follow Jack’s journey.

MAMMA MIA! (5-30 December) Theatre Royal Glasgow, 282 Hope Street, Glasgow www.atgtickets.com/glasgow 08448 717 647 Mamma Mia, here we go again – off to the Greek islands to get married and discover the father we never knew we had. It’s going to be an interesting weekend. If you’re after an alternative to panto, Mamma Mia! is the show for you. Filled with ABBA classics and a twist of comedy, this is a show for the grown-ups. With audio description, captioning and signed performances, everyone can try and find a man after midnight.

ALADDIN (8-31 December) Princess Theatre Torquay, Torbay Road, Torquay www.atgtickets.com/torquay 08448 713 023 What would your three wishes be this pantomime season? See some famous faces from The X Factor and The Chase on stage; sing classic Disney songs; watch the tale of Aladdin and Princess Jasmine?

Your wishes are about to be granted thanks to Princess Theatre Torquay and their showcasing of Aladdin. Everyone can enjoy a ride on the magic carpet with audio description and relaxed performances. Make sure to email leahmiller@theambassadors.com and arrange a visual guide before your visit to the theatre.

PIC: © PETE DEWHIRST

CINDERELLA (19 December-28 January) Birmingham Hippodrome, Hurst Street, Southside Birmingham www.birminghamhippodrome.com 08443 385 000 The most magical pantomime of them all, Cinderella, comes to Birmingham’s Hippodrome this Christmas. Beverley Knight makes her pantomime debut, alongside Danny Mac, Matt Slack, Suzanne Shaw, The Grumbleweeds, Ceri Dupree and Phil Randall. The clock is ticking…

Book your tickets today! There’s a raft of accessible performances to check out, including captioned, signed, audio-described (with touch tours), and a relaxed performance on 24 January.

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TUE 12 DEC 2017 - SUN 7 JAN 2018

0844 871 3014* atgtickets.com/Edinburgh Signed Perf 19 Dec 7PM Captioned Perf 20 Dec 7PM Audio Described Perf 21 Dec 7PM Images from original London company. Shrek the Musical © 2014 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved. *Calls cost 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.

Unforgettable performances, powered by you

0844 338 5000*birminghamhippodrome.com *Calls cost 4.5p per min plus access charge.Where applicable,a 5% transaction charge may apply l (excluding cash sales in person). ly

Relaxed Performances Wed 24 Jan, 12 noon & 6.15pm, Tickets £13 (not available online) Call Ticket Sales on 0844 338 5000* to book now!

Enjoy pantomime in a supportive and less formal atmosphere specially designed for audiences with an Autism Spectrum Condition, sensory and communication disorders, or a learning disability.

Assisted Performances Captioned Sun 7 Jan 1pm & Wed 10 Jan 7.15pm Signed Sun 14 Jan 1pm & 5.15pm Audio Described Wed 17 Jan 2pm & Sat 20 Jan 2.30pm Discover all our relaxed and assisted performances at birminghamhippodrome.com/relaxed

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23/10/2017 11:57

LIFE

SAVING

in the season of giving Can you hear that? The festive buzz is quickly coming our way and before we know it, we’ll be in a flurry to buy presents and wrap up warm. In the season of good will to all men, nights out and presents, we’re here to make sure you’re not left penniless come New Year

O

ne of the best ways to celebrate the festive season is by going to the panto. Gathering a crowd of your friends and shouting ‘he’s behind you’ at actors dressed in extravagant costumes is all kinds of fun. It can also be pretty cheap – hallelujah! Many theatres across the UK offer discounted tickets for disabled visitors, and some even have free tickets for carers.

When booking your panto experience, make sure to check with your local theatre to find out what they offer for disabled visitors. Larger theatres will also provide wheelchair accessible seats for visitors to ensure everyone can have an accessible and enjoyable experience.

WARMING UP After the theatre, pop home and get cosy under a blanket without worrying about expensive electricity bills. If you are receiving certain benefits including Jobseeker’s Allowance or ESA, then you could be eligible for Cold Weather Payments. If the temperature dips below zero, the payments will put some extra cash in your pocket to help heat your home in the colder months.

Similarly, make sure to look into the Priority Services Register (PSR), as the scheme offers some free services for disabled people. To be added to the PSR, simply contact your energy supplier and they will pass on your contact details to the register and in return you will gain support understanding bills, advice on topping up a pre-payment meter or priority emergency call outs. Never worry about a broken boiler again! Get more info on how to save money with your energy on page 24.

THINK AHEAD Don’t you just hate it when it’s the week before Christmas and you’ve not bought anything, just for someone to tell you how prepared they have been since July? We all know that person. Turns out they’re actually onto something.

Come 26 December, the sales will be filled with discounted Christmas cards, decorations, and potential gift ideas. Get yourself sorted, a year in advance, and get some jingling bargains, from crackers under a pound to luxury Christmas cards that won’t cost a tenner – unless the stress of late shopping is part of your festive thrill.

It’s hard to believe another year is nearly over, but with some savvy spending you’re sure to bounce into 2018 with a heavier bankbook. Indulge in the festivities, drink, dance and be merry in the knowledge that you haven’t emptied the bank. We’ll see you at the Christmas night out...

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23/10/2017 12:31

AN AFFORDABLE, WARMER WINTER When the temperature dips, we all do the same thing – reach for the thermostat. But with energy prices soaring, not everyone can afford to heat their home quite like they’d like to. We offer some tips to make sure you get through the months ahead comfortably – and affordably

I

n 2015, 11% of households in England were estimated to be in fuel poverty – that’s approximately 2.5 million homes who couldn’t afford to heat their homes adequately.

As energy suppliers hike up their prices, more and more of us are choosing to switch off our heating rather than suffer the expense – and cold homes come with lots of associated health problems, with some older people even dying from the cold in the winter months.

There is, thankfully, financial support out there to help you pay your energy bills. From welfare benefits to grants, you could be eligible for extra help.

If you're in debt to your energy supplier, you might be eligible for a grant 24

WINTER FUEL PAYMENT One of the best-known methods of support when it comes to energy costs is the Winter Fuel Payment. If you were born on or before 5 August 1953, you may qualify for this tax-free payment to go towards your energy bills. You can get between £100

COLD WEATHER PAYMENT Another benefit you could qualify for is the Cold Weather Payment. This is issued when temperatures go below zero degrees for seven consecutive days and you’re in receipt of certain benefits. You may get the payment if you’re currently getting Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseekers’ Allowance, income-based Employment and Support Allowance or Universal Credit. You’ll get £25 for each seven-day period of cold weather between 1 November and 31 March. Payments will go directly into your bank or building society account – and it won’t affect your other benefits.

You can find out more about the Cold Weather Payment and eligibility at www.gov.uk/cold-weather-payment.

and £300, and you’ll get it automatically if you’re eligible. Most payments are made in November and December. If you think you should qualify and don’t receive a payment, you’ll have to make a claim – find out more at www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment.

WARM HOME DISCOUNT SCHEME ou could get as much as off your electricity bill this winter under the arm ome iscount cheme. This isn’t a payment – it works as a one-off discount on your electricity bill between ctober and arch. ou’ll ualify if, on uly this year, your supplier was part of the scheme, you or your partner’s name was on the bill, and you’re getting the Guarantee Credit element of ension Credit. eople on a low income or certain means-tested benefits might also be eligible – speak with your supplier to find out more. If you have pre-pay or pay-as-you-go electricity meters at home and ualify for the discount, your supplier will be able to explain how to claim. To see if your supplier is a part of the scheme, head to www.gov.uk thewarm-home-discount-scheme.

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23/10/2017 14:19

LIFE EXTRA HELP When it comes to practical assistance, you might be eligible to be a part of the Priority Services Register. If you’re signed up, your energy supplier may be able to offer extra support with your supply. This is designed for pensioners, disabled people and people with long-term medical conditions, people with a visual or hearing impairment, and people with children under the age

of five. Once you’re on the register, your supplier will be able to help with things like reading your meter, they can send your bills to a relative or carer to check over, and you’ll get priority if your supply is interrupted.

This makes sure that your needs are noted, you’re fully informed and in control, that you won't be left out in the cold – and that bills don’t get missed either.

Energy Saving Tips If you want to reduce your energy costs, cutting your energy consumption is key. ere are a few easy steps you can take to make sure you’re using less gas and electricity 1 SWITCH OFF!

Turn off any appliances you aren’t using. o unplug your phone once it’s fully charged, turn off lights if you aren’t in the room, and take the T off standby. ou can save a year by taking appliances off standby mode.

ASK THE EXPERTS If you need advice on your energy use, or how to make your money go further, there are lots of different organisations you can contact.

The Money Advice Service (www.moneyadviceservice. org.uk, 0800 138 7777) and Energy Saving Trust (www. energysavingtrust.org.uk) are a great starting point.

While energy prices are going up, you shouldn’t be left out in the cold this winter.

Start making contact with the relevant bodies now to make sure your funds get you through the months ahead.

GRANTS If you’re in debt to your energy supplier, you might be eligible for a grant from a charitable trust to help pay it off. The likes of the ritish Gas nergy Trust www.britishgasenergytrust.org.uk , F nergy Trust www.edfenergytrust.org.uk and .on nergy Fund www.eonenergyfund.com can all help – and you don’t have to be a customer with the associated supplier to apply. ome suppliers also have grants for customers, including cottish ower, npower, and vo. ou can search for grants at www.turn us.org.uk. ou could also be eligible for a grant or low-interest loan to cover adaptations to your home to make it more energy e cient, such as loft insulation or draught-proofing – the nergy aving Trust will have all the information you need.

i

USEFUL CONTACTS

Energy Saving Trust www.energysavingtrust.org.uk Energy Saving Advice Line (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)

0300 123 1234

Home Energy Scotland 0808 808 2282

2 WASH AT 300

oing your washing at a lower temperature saves energy, and saves you a third in running costs – so play with your controls to wash at º rather than º.

3 TURN DOWN THE THERMOSTAT Reducing the temperature of your home by just one degree could save you as much as a year! emember – it’s recommended that you keep temperatures between º and º.

4 CHECK THE LABEL

If you’re buying a new electrical product, check the label to make sure it’s e cient. An energy-e cient fridge or free er could save you as much as a year in running costs.

5 LOOK INTO

INSULATION

oft insulation can save you a year, while cavity wall insulation can save in the region of .

6 SHOWER SMART pending just one minute less in the shower will shave about off your energy bills.

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23/10/2017 17:06

Priority Services Register Have you signed up yet?

Did you know that you could be eligible for additional help during a power cut?

Contact your local Distribution Network Operator to register yourself, a friend or family member today.

www.ssen.co.uk/PriorityServices 0800 294 3259

www.spenergynetworks.co.uk 0330 10 10 167

.

Inverness

.

Edinburgh

www.electricitynorthwest.co.uk/priority 0800 195 4141

.

Newcastle

.

York www.northernpowergrid.com/care 0800 169 2996

. . . . . . . .

Manchester

Liverpool

www.westernpower.co.uk/priority-service-register 0800 096 3080

Birmingham

Cambridge

Cardiff

www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk/priority 0800 169 9970

Plymouth

Southampton

London

* Image courtesy of ENA www.energynetworks.org

Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) work in different parts of the UK, each providing additional support inn the event of a power cut to customers on their Priority Services Register (PSR).

You, or someone you know could be eligible to register.

If, for example, you are: Medically dependent on electricity Of a pensionable age Disabled Chronically sick Living with young children Requiring support after leaving hospital

026_EN_ND17_ADV.indd 26

23/10/2017 11:57

VOICES

TIM RUSHBY-SMITH

The Nod

Author and journalist Tim Rushby-Smith shares his experience of some of the exclusive members’ clubs he’s been a part of over the years – and how his most recent is perhaps the best of all

T

here was a time when I cruised the streets on a Lambretta. When I was slightly older, I got myself a Type 3 Fastback (all you need to know is that this is an air-cooled VW, like a Beetle or a combi). Around that time I began surfing, and I would drive up and down from London to Devon and Cornwall with a surfboard strapped to the roof of my car.

All of these passions had one thing in common: THE NOD. If you ride an old scooter, or drive an old VW, you will most likely receive The Nod from similarly-equipped individuals. With surfers in the UK, you are likely to get a similar recognition (especially if you are a ridiculous distance from the coast).

UNDERSTANDING When I broke my spine and ended up in a spinal unit, I remember the first time that I saw someone else with a spinal cord injury. I remember The Nod. It may not have been a nod as such, more a look in the eye, a wry smile. But it conveyed something similar.

Here was someone who understood, it might be, “Bloody buses. They never someone who knew. It felt like I had stop.” Or even, “That pillock just dropped joined the best club in the world, but a coin in my coffee!” (This is not a rare it is a club that no-one ever wants to occurrence. Someone in a wheelchair join. holding a cup is assumed to be Once I was out of destitute.) Maybe I’m projecting hospital, I experienced more onto The Nod than is The Nod in the street really there, but to me it from other wheelchair It felt like I had says, “I understand.” users when I was joined the best club negotiating the SHARED EXPERIENCE in the world, but it far-from-friendly Defining those of us London landscape. who have a disability as is a club that no-one The Nod is a way of a ‘community’ is fraught ever wants to join saying, “Pain in the with complications. We arse sometimes, isn’t may have wildly different it?” or “Just look at the daily challenges to face, the size of that kerb.” Sometimes nature of our disability may not

be immediately apparent.

But there is often shared experience.

Although things have certainly improved over the last 20 years, we still have some way to go before we can say that society is fully inclusive of people with disabilities.

In the meantime, the mutual support symbolised by The Nod is an important way we can help each other to get through the day.

Looking Up

by Tim Rushby-Smith is published by Virgin Books

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 12:33

BARRIERFREE GERMANY

Picturesque Breaking down barriers in

Potsdam

The crown jewel of Brandenburg, there is much more to Potsdam than first meets the eye. Regal streets etched with history and artefacts, the Brandenburg capital is waiting to welcome you to a city like no other. Lorne Gillies took a trip to the German city to see what it has to offer disabled tourists

Y

ou would be forgiven for thinking Potsdam had appeared in a Sicilian novel thanks to the pearly white streets, majestic domes and bursts of colour filling the main square. The décor is down to the Prussian kings and the infamous King Frederick – also known as Frederick the Great – and adds an element of mystique to the city.

Quieter than the booming noises and smells of nearby Berlin, less than an hour on an S-Bahn and you will hear the chirps of birds, running lakes and a murmur of chatter from locals and fellow tourists. Don’t be fooled by the hushed atmosphere though – Potsdam isn’t lagging when it comes to attractions and events, many of which are completely accessible.

INCLUSIVE Filled with lakes, gardens and palaces, Potsdam is a city of mesmerising beauty with accessibility at its core. Speaking with Kerstin Lehmann from Barrierefreier Tourismus (www.barrierefrei-brandenburg. de), she detailed the time and effort put in by the state of Brandenburg to ensure inclusivity. “There is a wide range of needs and access is different to all, so we work to describe all the access information so people can decide on their own what is best for them. We take the time to visit all the hotels and attractions because everyone’s needs are different,” says Kerstin.

“For example, I will go into the toilet of the hotel bedroom with my measuring equipment and make sure the doors are the correct width. All the information on access is available on our website, so people can check in advance that their needs are met.”

The Barrierefreier Tourismus website is the first stop for tourists looking to discover the most accessible hotels, restaurants, attractions and more available in Potsdam.

Every January sees brochures updated with relevant information, which can also be downloaded in accessible PDF format, so blind readers can easily listen to and

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navigate the content. Once settled in our hotel, and appreciating the fully inclusive downstairs floor of Hotel am Großen Waisenhaus (www.hotelwaisenhaus.de/en/), it was time to discover Potsdam.

ON YOUR BIKE Arguably one of the best methods of transportation when it comes to experiencing a city, get on your bike – a tandem bike. Tandemtours Potsdam (www. tandemtours.de) is the first stop for visitors

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LIFE

Visit Potsdam

Does Potsdam sound like your ideal city break? Find out more information on accommodation and bookings by visiting www.brandenburgtourism.com or you can take a look at accessible tourism across Germany at www.germany. travel/barrierfree

©TMB-FOTOARCHIV / FRANK IHLOW / UWE SEIBT / MICHAEL LÜDER / ULF BOETTCHER / STEFFEN LEHMANN

My blind customers love it. We go through the park and they can smell all the different aromas around them Mathias Neubert, Tandemtours Potsdam

with mobility or visual needs interested in experiencing a round trip of the city’s top attractions. Founder Mathias Neubert, an endearing tour guide, makes you feel at ease on the tandem, whilst bringing a creative flare to the city.

Boasting a selection of 33 vintage tandems from various periods, the look of the tandem adds a sense of flare and adventure to the tour. Making his tours even more unique and thrilling, Mathias tailors each bike ride for visually impaired people. “At the beginning of the tour I will go through how the tandem works so people are comfortable on their journey.

If you are not blind, I think it’s a great idea to close your eyes so you can experience it the same way as a blind person – you even get something extra out of the tour,” says Mathias.

Steering me around Potsdam, it was thrilling to take in parts of the city that many tourists don’t get to experience.

Taking our tour on the ‘white wedding’ tandem, Mathias assured me that in all his time working with tandems he has never crashed – always a plus. Potsdam is already an extremely sensory place thanks to the quiet nature of the town so

it is no wonder Tandemtours Potsdam is so popular.

“My blind customers love it. We go through the park and they can smell all the different aromas around them – I also take them to visit the stone where you discover your ‘sound’,” enthuses Mathias.

“I let people listen to their own playlists.

It’s so funny to see people’s reactions to someone on the back having the best time, nodding away to the music. It’s funny to have Snoop Dogg blasting as we ride through the most beautiful, in my opinion, university in the world.”

STATELY SCENES The University of Potsdam is just one of the majestic sights on offer. Domes, spiralling stairways, bursts of peach and lime cover the building to mimic various locations throughout the city. Guiding us through the history and streets of Potsdam was Kevin Kennedy – a beacon of knowledge on the Prussian empire and King Frederick the Great.

Potsdam is not only accessible but also easy to navigate – all prime locations are situated relatively close to each other.

Explaining the history of the Dutch quarter to the regal sights of Schloss Sanssouci and the palace gardens, for those looking to make the most of their journey, a tour guide is greatly recommended. This is a city that has so much to offer, from history to beauty and accessibility. Boasting a new art gallery in Museum Barberini (www.museum-barberini.com), modern art will come to life with visual aids, audio aids and lifts throughout – this truly is a city of creativity.

Potsdam knows how to do parks, palaces, lakes and peace properly. A quaint city break like no other, forget the hustle and bustle and let your senses come to life in Potsdam. From accessible walking tours to letting loose on a tandem, there is no denying that Potsdam is a must-visit.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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Discover Germany BarrierFree. Many cities and regions in Germany are able to provide some outstanding facilities for visitors who may need assistance, leaving them to concentrate on all the beauty that Germany has to offer without having to worry about everyday obstacles.

To discover more about accessible Germany visit: www.germany.travel/barrierfree

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Frankfurt: RÜmerberg Š GNTO London

www.germany.travel

23/10/2017 11:58

COMPETITION

WIN A BREAK AT BRICKHOUSE FARM COTTAGES You could be off on an accessible holiday to remember with this issue’s competition

S

ituated just 10 miles from the bright lights of Blackpool and an hour from the Lake District, Brickhouse Farm is set in six rural acres of Lancashire countryside. The cottages provide a fun-filled break for family and friends, with fantastic, accessible accommodation and plenty to do in the surrounding area.

Each of the purpose-built cottages overlook the fully-stocked Brickhouse fishing lake – perfect for anglers. Inside the cottages, you’ll find stunning British-made oak furnishings, incredible wet rooms, under-floor heating and modern amenities – all with access at the forefront. All 12 cottages are kitted out with ceiling track hoists, and nine have hoists above the outdoor hot tubs. These home-from-home cottages all have a touch of luxury, and disability aids can be provided on request.

Since opening four years ago, Brickhouse Farm’s self-catering cottages have gone from strength to strength, with brand new accessible cottages opening in September of this year. The new properties are a great addition, plus there’s a private hydrotherapy pool which can be hired out for £35 for an hour-long session.

And this issue? One lucky Enable reader will be enjoying it all! i

FIND OUT MORE

To book your next break at Brickhouse Farm, head to www.brickhousecottages.co.uk, or call 01253 702 122.

THE PRIZE We’ve teamed up with Brickhouse Farm Cottages to offer one lucky reader a seven-night break in a self-catering cottage for up to six people. The cottage has level access throughout the ground floor and patio.

All bedrooms have stunning en suites and the accessible bedroom downstairs has an adjustable electric bed and ceiling track hoist leading through into a contemporary, spacious wet room – and there are even accessible fishing pegs around the fishing lake! It’s a fantastic escape for all the family – so what are you waiting for? Get entering…

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning, simply send us your name, address, email address, daytime telephone number and where you picked up your copy of Enable to: Brickhouse Farm Competition, Enable Magazine, DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG. You can also email your details to competitions@dcpublishing.co.uk, or enter online at www.enablemagazine.co.uk/ brickhousefarm.

All entries must be received by 14 December.

Good luck!

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Entries must be received by 14 December 2017. One entry per household. Prize includes a one-week holiday (Friday to Friday) at Brickhouse Farm Holiday Cottages. You can stay in one of the 3 bedroom cottages, which sleeps up to 6 people. Accommodation only. Food, drink and travel not included. The prize winner will be required to disclose any access requirements upon booking. In Pine and Willow Cottage, up to 2 dogs are allowed at an additional cost of £50 per pet. Registered service dogs are welcome in any of the cottages free of charge. You can upgrade to one of the cottages with a hot tub for an added cost of £100 for the week. The prize must be taken in January, February, November or December 2018 (9 to 16 February 2018 and 21 December 2018 to 3 January 2019 excluded). Dates may be subject to change and availability. For full details of access at Brickhouse Farm Cottages, please consult the website at www.brickhousecottages.co.uk. If you would NOT like to be contacted by Brickhouse Farm Cottages, please write ‘OPT OUT’ on your entry.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 12:36

Geberit AquaClean 8000plus Care The WC that cleans you with water

Well-being and independence

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Woods Road Se1 & Sylvan grove, Se14

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020 8297 7544 www.hyde-housing.co.uk

Warm air dryer

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The ultimate solution to independence in the bathroom, the Geberit AquaClean 8000plus Care is combining the convenience of a warm water wash and warm air drying alongside many other enhancing features. Please visit → www.geberit-aquaclean.co.uk/care or call 0800 032 9629

La

Clean with water

Making home ownership a reality

The LIFT Shared Equity Scheme can help disabled people with a housing need, fund up to 50% of a property on the open market!

Southern Home Ownership offers a variety of developments on a shared ownership basis. Find your new home with our home experts.

* Conditions and Eligibility Criteria apply

Recent first time buyer Gemma Napier, said, “I found the whole process so easy and quick, everyone I dealt with at Link was helpful. The LIFT scheme is fantastic - I wouldn’t have been able to buy my house without it.’

Take your first step to home ownership today, visit www.shosales.co.uk or call us 0300 555 2171 Southern Home Ownership Ltd is a housing association. Industrial & Provident Societies no: 1852R Registered Office: Fleet House 59-61 Clerkenwell Road London EC1M 5LA

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23/10/2017 11:58

Caring from a distance

It’s a small world, as they say, but when it comes to caring for family it can seem like you’re oceans apart. The face of caring has changed from the traditional term, with more distance carers looking after their loved ones from across the street to across the country. As distance caring becomes more common, it can feel like the challenges outweigh the benefits. We find out more about what life’s really like for those caring from a distance

CARERS

Y

ou’ve left home and you’re starting a family of your own next door to your mum and dad, in the next town, in the big city, or even a different country. No matter what your journey in life has been, there is a chance you’re living away from family members.

What happens if someone you love falls ill or acquires a disability and you have too many commitments to move beside them? Distance care is rapidly becoming the new face of caring.

CARING “For carers, distance can make it even harder to juggle competing responsibilities, often resulting in worsened mental and physical health,” explains Emily Holzhausen, director of policy and public affairs at Carers UK. From organising appointments to making the morning meeting or arranging electricity payments for yourself and the person you’re caring for, it can be a daunting task to care from a distance.

It is an almost inevitable fact that one day the tables will turn, either slowly or suddenly, and children will be faced with caring for their parents. Jude Robinson lives 420 miles away from her parents, who she helps to care for, her father in particular. After Jude’s mother developed Alzheimer’s in her late 70s, Jude found herself supporting her father, who was caring for his wife in the family home.

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CARERS “When I visited, I helped and found it incredibly difficult to take on personal care for someone who had been so self-reliant, always well turned-out and on the ball,” says Jude. “My main role was supporting Dad. He is a shipwright, used to hard manual work on the docks and being independent. It took him a long time to accept help from social services, which is where I came in – by talking to him about it.”

CHALLENGES Alongside caring for her father at a distance, Jude’s husband was diagnosed with fronto temporal dementia in 2010 and required his own level of care. Jude had the daunting task of caring for her husband and her father – something that would take its toll on anyone’s mental and physical energy.

“It was so full-on when I was [at my parents’]. Rather than being able to make regular visits and slip away, I was staying in the house for a week or so and taking it all on. As my husband got worse, it was harder to cope with travelling and looking after both but I managed it until the last year of his life. It was exhausting, a drive of at least eight hours and then a lot of work, little sleep and back again,” recalls Jude.

It is estimated that there are nearly seven million carers in the UK and this number is rising. As more people are expected to live longer, the changing face of caring means our everyday lives need to support the growing trend of distance caring. Emily explains: “Access to affordable, flexible and high-quality care and support services is vital in enabling people to combine work with caring for loved ones, whilst carerfriendly policies in the workplace, such

There are some people who walk away from their family responsibilities, but the majority are working above and beyond what is reasonable to keep it all going Jude Robinson, carer as remote or flexible working, can help balance work and caring.”

SUPPORT Working as a local councillor and juggling temporary placements, Jude, like many other carers, needed additional support to guide her in her role as a carer. “I didn’t get any particular support looking after my dad, but the Carers UK website is always a good source of information. I did have a session of counselling, which helped me to reconcile all the warring demands on me,” explains Jude.

Caring for a loved one at a distance can bring its own demands and challenges but there were some positives. “The benefits I suppose were that I had time away,” says Jude. “I think also it allowed others to help.

Perhaps if I had been there, they might not have stepped in.” And, sometimes, letting others lend a helping hand can be crucial to ensure the best care is provided.

Alongside Carers UK, friends and family supported Jude, and she says that this is vital to ensure distance caring works for everyone. “Let others help and don’t be afraid to ask. My dad has a wonderful neighbour who keeps an eye out for him and cooks a casserole for him once a week.

Actually, all his immediate neighbours look out for him – people are kind generally,” Jude says.

It is refreshing to know that, although not without its challenges, there are support systems in place for distance carers across the country. Ensuring more guidance and understanding of distance caring is in place is vital for more support for those who are caring.

“There are some people who walk away from their family responsibilities, but the majority are working above and beyond what is reasonable to keep it all going. I wish more people realised that and that our society would recognise that,” Jude adds.

In a fast-paced and ever-changing world, it’s no surprise that caring for loved ones no longer follows tradition. For some distance carers, caring can be pretty straightforward; for others, it comes with its own challenges, thanks to the mixture of benefits and demands. Some might call it a doubleedged sword – but with the right support, it’s entirely possible.

i

FIND OUT MORE

Distance carers looking for more support or advice can contact Carers UK on 0808 808 7777 or www.carersuk.org

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23/10/2017 14:25

Four ways to maintain your independence Trusted solutions for making life easier in and around the home from Stannah.

Quality homelifts, stairlifts and steplifts designed to meet your every need.

Straight & curved stairlifts

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We provide specialist services across England for people with physical and learning disabilities, acquired brain injuries, mental health needs and those who have experienced homelessness. We help people to live as independently as possible and lead fulfilling lives, whether through supported housing, residential care or floating support. Many services are registered with the CQC to provide personal care and support.

0330 1233 247 @SancSL www.sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk Sanctuary Supported Living is a trading name of Sanctuary Housing Association and Sanctuary Home Care Limited, both exempt charities.

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PATHWAYS TO

INDEPENDENCE

23/10/2017 11:58

Care If you need a bit of extra help, but you’re keen to stay in your own home, there are different ways of making sure your needs are met. We take a look at what your options are

W

hen you have a disability, you might find yourself in a position where you need some extra help with the day-to-day. That can range from things like making a cup of tea or getting in and out of bed, through to tasks such as washing and dressing or getting to and from appointments.

For some, supported living or care homes are the obvious choice when it comes to support – but what if you don’t want to move out of your home?

Home care, or domiciliary care, involves care workers coming into your house to help you with any of the daily tasks you might find difficult. It comes in a few different forms too, to suit your needs and preferences.

If you’d like to get support at home, your first point of contact should be your local authority social services department.

They’ll assess your needs, decide what sort of support you need and how much, and assign a budget if you’re eligible. They can either arrange your care for you, or you’ll be given a personal budget or direct payment, where you’re able to decide who supports you and how. This means you get to select your care provider to suit your needs.

AGENCY STAFF Arranging support through a care provider is the most straightforward choice. If you decide to take a direct payment, you can choose your own provider through a selection of charity or private care agencies. Agencies will supply you with approved care workers who will come into your home to help you with whatever you need. It might be that you only need help for a set time, while your condition is flaring up or while you’re recovering from an illness, for instance, or it could be a more regular arrangement. It may even be the case that you need 24-hour support – there are agencies to cover all bases.

Using an agency takes a lot of the stress

36

out of hiring care staff. You don’t have to worry about things like paying workers directly, dealing with pensions, health and safety regulations – that’s all in the hands of the agency. You also know that all of the people who come to your home are background checked, and if you have any problems along the way, you simply need to speak with the agency about it.

PERSONALISED If you want a more personalised service, you could opt to become an individual employer and use your budget, or personal funds, to hire your own personal assistants. To do this, you have to take on a lot of responsibility, like arranging payment, looking into pensions, and ensuring you’re a fit and proper employer operating within the law. Many individual employers choose to use third-party organisations, like payroll companies, to take some of the hassle out of the role.

The upside is that you get total control over who works with you. You’ll interview for staff, select people you think you’ll get along with and who have relevant experience and training. You can be a bit more flexible with their shifts and hours, arranging cover if you have an appointment at a certain time or if there’s an event you’d like to go to.

AT A DISTANCE If you’re not quite at the stage of needing hands-on support, but you’d like some reassurance at home, investigate telecare services. From home monitoring systems to personal alarms, these clever devices can monitor your movement or let you raise the alarm if something’s wrong, and they’re connected to an external contact centre who will either send staff if something goes wrong or notify a member of your family. Lots of telecare solutions are available through your local authority, so make enquiries.

As more and more people choose to

stay in their own homes, the services on offer to make this a reality are only improving, offering lots of flexibility to let you live the life you choose. Whatever your age, your needs or your preferences, there will be something out there for you. To find out more about home care options, contact your local social services department today. i

FIND OUT MORE Home Care

www.homecare.co.uk Search for home care and nursing agencies in your area.

Skills for Care

www.skillsforcare.org.uk For advice and information on becoming an individual employer.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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CARE

“Hiring my own PAs has made me feel as if I’m involved – it means I can get out” Colin Parker, 38, has been hiring personal assistants to help him dayto-day for over a decade now.

“I have two main PAs, plus my family,” he explains. “I have a manual chair and an electric chair to manoeuvre round the at, and need care hours a day. I pay for the care that I need.”

When Colin, who has cerebral palsy, found out that he could take his care budget as a direct payment to choose his own support sta , he got involved straight away.

Once his budget was in place, he started looking for the right people to help him out.

“We did it by word of mouth, through

friends and family,” he explains. “I’m now working with my mother’s cousin’s husband. He’s been with me for three or four years. He took retirement a few years ago and found he didn’t have much to do! He works with me about two days a week. The other PA lives around the corner from my parents, and he s been with me about five or six years.”

When it came to hiring a PA, it was important to Colin that he got the right kind of person to work alongside him with similar interests.“I was looking for somebody who I can get on with,” he says. “The same sort of interests – I watch quite a bit of sport.”

Colin’s PAs recently helped him undertake a sporting challenge – a self-styled triathlon to raise funds for Our Independence, a support group for disabled people near his home in Stretford, to mark its 15th anniversary.

He raised a fantastic £1,300.

“Hiring my own PAs has made me feel as if I’m involved,” Colin says. “It means that I can get out.”

For more information on becoming an individual employer and how to go about hiring your own PAs, head to the Skills for Care website at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/infohub

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 14:26

Attention anyone who has served in the Armed Forces...

Blesma is the leading charity for limbless veterans AND those veterans who have lost the use of a limb or limbs.

Many of our Members have lost limbs since leaving military service, but Blesma is also there for all ex-Service men and women who have lost the use of limbs in a traumatic incident after serving.

Our Blesma Support Officers are available to offer advice and answer your questions about mobility or living with the loss of use of limb.

Call: 020 8548 7080 email: membersupport@blesma.org or get in touch via the ‘Contact Us’ page at www.blesma.org

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23/10/2017 11:59

PRODUCT ROUNDUP Boost your independence with these handy aids

KIDS’ CORNER Looking after the little ones in your life

MOBILITY AIDS The items helping you overcome barriers to mobility

enable

product

The very best gadgets, gizmos and aids on the market to make life that little bit easier www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 15:51

EXPLORE OUR RANGE Simple things are often the best.

So we’ve hand picked a huge range of products designed to help you out around the home and when you are out and about. Whether you need a wheelchair or mobility scooter to keep you mobile, or some extra support doing jobs about the house, we got the products, advice and inspiration to make day-to-day life easier and more comfortable.

Go in-store and pick up or you can buy online at argos.co.uk and we’ll drop them to your door.

It’s that simple.

Scout 4 Wheel

Mobility Scooter

6407 – Class 2. 173/

Search us using ‘Independent Living‘

Independent living

Deluxe Overbed Table. 865

/0971

Stand Alone Ad justable Toilet Ra il Frame. 865/ Ease of Living 1004 Raise Bath Step - Stac d Toilet Seat with Lid. 865/ 0641 kable. 865/1255

Home delivery: We can deliver anywhere in the UK and Northern Ireland (unless otherwise stated) as well as Channel Islands via our partner Ship2me. We are unable to deliver to the Isle of Man, Isles of Scilly, Orkney. Western Scottish Islands and Shetland Islands. For full details of out deliver services and lead times see page 6 of the main catalogue or visit www.argos.co.uk and click on home delivery.

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23/10/2017 11:59

enable

product

Mobility If you have difficulty with your mobility, these are the products worth checking out

WHILL POWERCHAIR

TGA Mobility, from £11,995 (www.tgamobility.co.uk, 01787 882 244) The world’s first all-directional drive powerchair, the WHILL is a whole new generation of mobility kit. Known as a ‘personal electric vehicle’ (PEV), the sleek, compact, high-tech design delivers levels of manoeuvrability never seen before in the UK. It was developed in Japan by former Nissan and Toyota engineers – so you know this is something special.

DRIVE VOYAGER

Mobility Solutions, £1,295 exc VAT (www.mobilitysolutions.co.uk, 0141 336 1111) The Drive Voyager has fantastic suspension and a slick splitting mechanism for quick and easy storage or transportation. It offers a smooth, comfortable ride and excellent handling – and it’s pretty eye-catching in orange too! Perfect for use in smaller spaces, with a tight turning circle that makes it easy to control.

COMPATTA FOLDING WHEELCHAIR Da Vinci Mobility, POA (www.davincimobility.com, 0151 548 1999) The Compatta wheelchair from Da Vinci has a smart folding mechanism that enables the chair to fold flat in just three stages and less than 30 seconds. It’s been designed to be lifted into a car by the driver, and stowed either in the boot, behind the passenger seat or on the front passenger seat.

SABI WALKING CANES

Designed2Enable, £47 (www.designed2enable.co.uk, 0800 772 3771) These walking canes aren’t just super stylish, but practical too! Available in a range of colours, the Sabi walking canes are made from high-strength bicycle-grade aluminium that’ll support up to 300lbs.

TRIONIC VELOPED SPORT WALKER

Complete Care Shop, RRP £829.94 exc VAT (www.completecareshop.co.uk, 03330 160 000) These Swedish-made walkers are ideal for the outdoors. With pneumatic tyres and a clever climbing wheel, this is great for people keen to enjoy outdoor exploration safely and securely.

The Sport model comes with a hand-operated hub brake system, parking brake, dual action option to cope in urban areas or off-road, reflective markers and a handy zip-up bag.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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Product From keys for accessible loos to a hoist for your car, there’s a myriad of useful products on the market making life easier for disabled people

PANOVA WHEELCHAIR LIFT

Panova, POA (www.panova.biz, 01482 480 710) The Panova Wheelchair Lift is proving popular with homeowners, OTs and architects alike. Discreetly concealed in the floor when not being used, the lift will safely and quickly carry a wheelchair user over a set of steps. It can be installed indoors or outdoors, and is available in a wide range of sizes and finishes to suit.

BOOT HOIST

Able to Enable, POA (www.ableto.co.uk, 01904 690 666) Let this boot hoist take the weight off your shoulders – literally! Hoist your mobility equipment in and out of your car with ease. No heavy lifting, simple operation and, in many cases, transferable between vehicles, this boot hoist is designed to lift wheelchairs, powerchairs and mobility scooters. It’s also available on the Motability scheme at significantly reduced prices.

DUO CUP AND MUG HANDLE

NRS Healthcare, £8.99 (www.nrshealthcare.co.uk, 0345 121 8111) Turn your mug into a two-handled, more stable receptacle with the addition of the Duo. The pioneering design also attaches to glasses to give a bit more stability and improved grip.

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BLUE BADGE CO BLACKWATCH PERMIT HOLDER

Argos, £11.99 (www.argos.co.uk) Protect, store and display your disabled parking permit in a stylish tartan holder. The exclusive Hologram Safe© design ensures that the permit is protected from damage while complying with Department for Transport guidelines. It also makes an excellent gift!

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 14:36

enable

product

RADAR TOILET KEY AMPLICOMMS BIGTEL 50

Health and Care, £84.99 (www.healthandcare.co.uk, 020 7720 2266) The Amplicomms BigTel 50 is an affordable telecare solution. The big-button phone comes with a water-resistant SOS transmitter, that can be worn around the neck or around the wrist. The alarm is remotely connected to the phone, which operates like a normal handset, and when pushed, sends a notification to three pre-programmed numbers of your choice.

Argos, £7.99 (www.argos.co.uk) Head to Argos to purchase your easy-turn, genuine RADAR key. Opens over 10,000 locked public accessible toilets nationwide.

Be confident that these toilets will be available to meet your needs. The key is made from durable stainless steel with an ergonomic plastic heart handle, and comes with a free Blue Badge Co keyring.

ABLEBELT

TALKING RADIOCONTROLLED WATCH RNIB Shop, £93.54 inc VAT (shop.rnib.org.uk, 0303 123 9999) This dual-voice talking radiocontrolled watch has a black leather strap with white stitch detail. It features automatic time updates, clear voices and optional alarm and hourly announcements. Perfect for people with visual impairments.

Complete Care Shop, £19.95 exc VAT (www. completecareshop.co.uk, 03330 160 000) The Ablebelt, available in a range of sizes, is designed for those with visual impairments or limited dexterity who might struggle with a traditional belt fastening. The Ablebelt is secured using Velcro, making it simple to fasten and remove – helping individuals maintain a bit of independence.

STAYBOWLIZER

Doability, £15.90 exc VAT (www.doability.co.uk, 01423 740 450) If you’re after a new method of steadying bowls that doesn’t involve a wet towel, the Stabowlizer is a great invention. It prevents bowls of all shapes and sizes from slipping with a clever suction-lock design.

BRUSH-UP IN-SINK BRUSH

Ability Superstore, £7.99 (www.abilitysuperstore.com, 0800 255 0498) The suction cup on the bottom of this brush lets you stick it to the bottom of your sink. Just pop glasses and cups on top and twist to wash – ideal for one-handed, fast, effective washing.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 17:08

Tel: 01482 480710 www.panova.biz mail@panova.biz Wheelchair Lift Manufacturer

FEEL SAFER AND CONFIDENT WITH YOUR FASHIONABLE SOFT PROTECTION HELMET

Introducing the latest Wheelchair Lift concept:

the Panova

Gain the independence you need with our unique lifts

Hidden within a pit at the foot of the steps when not in use Suitable for any set of steps, up to 1m rise Discreet and unobtrusive, it is finished to suit your décor Available for use outdoors or indoors We also supply all other types of Platform Lift Contact us for more information

044_EN_ND17_ADV.indd 44

Introducing

RIBCAP HEALTHCARE FALL INJURY PREVENTION WWW.GELOVATIONSEUROPE.COM

23/10/2017 11:46

enable

product

Kids’ There’s so much out there for children and young people with additional support needs, from toys to mobility aids and beyond.

Here’s our pick of some of the best

CHILDREN’S SENSORY BALL HOUSE

JIRAFFE SEATING SOLUTIONS

Jiraffe, POA (www.jiraffe.org.uk, 0114 285 6135) Jiraffe have introduced two great new products – the Kid by Tarta is an innovative seating solution, designed to correct and maintain postural alignment for young children from eight months, and the new, improved Junior+ by Jenx, an improved version of the wellknown seating system with enhanced features and accessories.

Complete Care Shop, £46.45 inc VAT (www.completecareshop.co.uk, 03330 160 000) This tent helps children stay safe while having a relaxing, sensory play experience. The ball house comes in a handy carry bag, and it quickly pops up, meaning it’s easy to store away and put up as required. The plain white surfaces also mean it works well with projectors. Glow-in-the-dark balls are sold separately.

PLAYPAK

Firefly, £269 exc VAT (www.fireflyfriends.com, 028 9267 8879) This lightweight bag contains an entire activity centre, comprising of rolls, wedges and supports that stick together in dozens of different ways to let you and your child practice the early positions that go on to form later abilities. This is a great tool to enable you to play a bigger part in your child’s therapy.

WALKING WINGS

Toys R Us, £25.99 (www.toysrus.co.uk, 0345 786 9778) If you’re fed up with back pain from bending over to help your child walk, this could be the answer. Help your child feel stable and confident, without straining your back or tugging on their arms! Suitable for six months and up.

EMOTI DOLLS

Special Needs Toys, £27.50 each (www.specialneedstoys.com, 01299 827 035) These clever dolls have moveable mouths and eyebrows, meaning you can change their facial expressions – great for children with autism spectrum conditions or learning disabilities learning to read emotions and expressions. You can show at least 15 different expressions, without the need for batteries.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 17:16

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@jiraffe.org.uk 23/10/2017 11:39

SPOTLIGHT

D

ementia still has a lot of unchartered territory when it comes to early detection or a possible cure. All this could change during the Deep and Frequent Phenotyping study, set to be the most intense and rigorous investigation into detecting early onset dementia.

A MATTER OF TIME Oxford University’s multimillion-pound study is being funded by the Medical Research Council, and will follow 250 participants through a series of tests over a period of six months.

Researcher Dr Clare Walton from Alzheimer’s Society says: “This will be a longitudinal study and there will be tests which participants will get more than once. This looks at the changes in the test results to see which participants are declining over time so we will know who will go on to develop Alzheimer’s disease. We can go back on their pattern in their test results and see which result was the best predictor.”

During the Deep and Frequent Phenotyping study, led by Professor Simon Lovestone, researchers will conduct up to 50 tests on participants – who are all being selected from Dementias Platform UK cohorts. This is an exciting time for dementia research; recently a preliminary study in New Mexico and Croatia discovered noninvasive brain scanning could detect differences in a healthy brain and a brain with damaged cells. Known as magnetoencephalography, or an MEG, the scan will also be used during the study carried out by Oxford University.

MARKERS It is hoped that the study will reveal a clearer way to distinguish individuals who are more susceptible to dementia.

“What we hope the study will deliver is something called a biomarker – a test or a marker for Alzheimer’s disease that we can use reliably to understand that someone will go on to get the disease,” explains Dr Walton.

At present, treatment is available for those diagnosed with the condition, which does not cure or rather slow down degeneration, but provides some relief from the symptoms of dementia.

Long-term success for dementia research means a treatment is found to slow down degeneration that can be distributed early.

Forget me not Research is crucial to finding cures for any illness. The UK is now leading the way in dementia research, with the most in-depth study into early detection of Alzheimer’s disease set to start next year – and its findings could change the face of dementia diagnosis. We found out more Dr Walton says: “It means we’d be going from testing drugs as a treatment, when someone already has dementia, to trying to test drugs that might be preventative. If you talk to people they would much rather never develop the disease than to develop dementia and use a treatment to slow it down.

“For research, it would be really useful because lots of drugs for Alzheimer’s have failed in the past and most researchers think they’ve failed because we’re giving the drugs too late.”

Studies take time to perfect but it is clear there is great progress being made in research to develop tests for early detection. Providing all goes well, there could be a reduction in the number of cases in years to come.

i

We’d be going from testing drugs as a treatment, when someone already has dementia, to trying to test drugs that might be preventative

FIND OUT MORE

Those looking for more information and advice on dementia can visit the Alzheimer’s Society website at www.alzheimers.org.uk, or call 0300 222 1122

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 12:40

Days out for all with National Museums Liverpool

Open daily 10am to 5pm FREE ENTRY liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/whatson 048_EN_ND17_ADV.indd 48

23/10/2017 11:40

LIFE

IN ASSOCIATION WITH NATIONAL MUSEUMS LIVERPOOL

NATIONAL MUSEUMS LIVERPOOL:

AUTISM CHAMPION National Museums Liverpool share what they’re doing to make their attractions more inclusive

PIC: © DAVE JONES

M

ore than three million vistors enjoy National Museums Liverpool’s museums and galleries every year. Ensuring everyone has a positive visitor experience is important, and in 2015, National Museums Liverpool signed up to be an Autism Champion under a new scheme called Connect to Autism.

The scheme, being piloted in eight areas around the UK, aims to tackle social isolation by spreading awareness and understanding. National Museums Liverpool has joined six other organisations around the North West, including Chester Zoo, Liverpool John Lennon Airport and Cheshire Oaks, to sign up as champions.

SUPPORTIVE National Museums Liverpool is working with Wirral-based charity Autism Together, which is co-ordinating the Connect to Autism scheme in the North West, to provide staff training in autism awareness, and ensuring there is a supportive work environment to staff members living with autism.

There are around 700,000 people in the UK living with autism, many of whom struggle to be part of community life.

Recent statistics from a survey by the National Autistic Society found that, compared with 11% of the UK population who reported feeling lonely, 41% of adults living with autism felt lonely and left out.

COMMITMENT National Museums Liverpool is continuing in its commitment to be autism-friendly and has developed an autism strategy working with colleagues at Autism Together.

National Museums Liverpool is running a series of quiet mornings aimed at supporting the needs of people with autism, welcoming children and adults with autism in its museum and galleries.

Through its work with Autism Together it has been developing skills to make their venues more autism-friendly.

Find out more at liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/autismfriendly

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23/10/2017 15:18

DON’T SCREEN US OUT A new test for expectant mums is making waves within the Down’s syndrome community – and not in a good way. Enable editor Lindsay Cochrane spoke with a campaigner and a mum to find out why they believe NIPT could cause more harm than good

W

hen Hayley Balozi’s son River was six months old, she was told that her beautiful, bright, funny little boy had Down’s syndrome. The Welsh-born mother of two, who now lives in Tanzania, had suspected that this was the case for months – and after the initial fear, she went about making sure that her little boy would live the best life possible.

“River is amazing,” Hayley says proudly.

“He’s feisty and funny and mischievous.

He’s incredibly smart too. Everything they told us he wouldn’t be, he is.”

Hayley and her husband, like so many parents receiving a Down’s syndrome diagnosis, were presented with a list of negatives. Challenges River would face, health problems he’d suffer, the things he’d never learn or do.

CONCERN Hayley’s gone from knowing very little about Down’s syndrome to being a proud advocate for her son. She even writes about their life on her blog, I Am River (www.iamriver.net). River is now two, and she’s seeing every day just how much a child with Down’s syndrome can achieve – which is why she’s concerned about new tests being introduced to screen for the genetic condition.

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a blood test which will give a 99% accurate diagnosis of Down’s syndrome during pregnancy. It’ll be offered to women whose unborn babies are at ‘risk’ of having Down’s syndrome – at present, the follow-up test is amniocentesis, where a small amount of fluid is removed from the womb. This test, however, carries a risk of miscarriage. Currently, 7,900 women a year have the test – and 46 miscarry. NIPT eliminates this risk.

“The prediction in the consultation document for NIPT was that 102 new cases of Down’s syndrome would be found per annum,” explains Lynn Murray of Don’t Screen Us Out, a campaign backed by the international charity Saving

50

Down’s Syndrome. “If you look at the rate of abortion that we have, which is 90% for people who test, that would mean that 90% of these would result in abortion.”

And this would far outweigh the number of prevented miscarriages.

FEAR In Iceland, where NIPT is offered, almost all expectant mums choose to screen for Down’s syndrome – and subsequently, almost 100% choose to terminate. As a result, just one or two babies are born each year with the condition. And this is a fear which campaigners and families have here in the UK – that Down’s syndrome could be on its way out entirely.

They argue that families aren’t presented with the whole picture following a Down’s syndrome diagnosis – like Hayley, mums and dads are given a list of potential problems, such as heart defects, hearing loss, visual impairment and poor muscle tone. It can be really daunting for parents-to-be.

“I think knowledge and information for parents can never be a bad thing – it can help prepare you,” Hayley says of the

I know of someone with Down’s syndrome who has a degree, someone with an honorary doctorate, a girl who’s very educated – but with screening and low expectations and negativity, it’s creating a stigma, and that stigma leads to discrimination Lynn Murray, Don’t Screen Us Out

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 14:29

SPOTLIGHT

new tests. “But I have a massive problem with it being used as a tool to eradicate our children – at the moment, it’s being hailed as this wonderful test because it can ‘stop Down’s syndrome’. It’s very much expected that if you get a Down’s syndrome diagnosis, you will terminate.”

“I’ve met so many mothers with so many bad experiences,” adds Lynn, whose 17-year-old daughter Rachel has Down’s syndrome. “One mother went in at 38, 39 weeks to be induced, and they said to her, on that day, ‘You can still have an abortion.’ As much as they say you should respect the mother’s decision, they don’t.”

Here in the UK, around 750 babies are born with Down’s syndrome each year. With NIPT, this number would dip dramatically.

“People with Down’s syndrome are only 50 years out of institutions. We haven’t tapped into their potential,” Lynn says. “I know of someone with Down’s syndrome who has a degree, someone with an honorary doctorate, I know a girl who’s very educated – but as you can imagine, with screening and low expectations and negativity, it’s creating a stigma and that stigma leads to discrimination.”

SUPPORT The Don’t Screen Us Out campaign is asking for better training and guidance for medical professionals, who can in turn give parents a more balanced presentation of Down’s syndrome. They

also want better support for parents continuing their pregnancy.

Lynn and Hayley can both testify that a Down’s syndrome diagnosis isn’t the end of the world. While every woman has the right to choose, and no one should be forced to continue with a pregnancy they don’t want, it’s time for more informed choices – and more respect for people with Down’s syndrome and their families.

“There are so many misconceptions around Down’s syndrome,” Hayley adds.

“They can’t learn, they can’t have any independence. That they’re always happy – River’s not! That they all like the same things, they all look the same – they’re not true. Every day, we read stories of things that people with Down’s syndrome have accomplished. They’re working, they’re creating, they’re doing things that anybody else does. It might just take them a bit longer to get there.”

Because that’s one of the greatest things about us humans – we’re all different. And diversity needs to be embraced – not screened out. It’ll only make for a more tolerant, inclusive and welcoming world – and that’s never going to be a bad thing.

i

FIND OUT MORE

Add your voice to the Don’t Screen Us Out campaign at www.dontscreenusout.org

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 14:29

Healthcare

Products that help to make life more accessible Flexzi – a strong, adaptable gadget and tablet support system. Available with stands or clamps, tablet cases and switch or gadget mounts Our switch-adapted toys help children’s development through play – we sell a great range of toys modified to work with accessible buttons or switches 01372 725203 info@meru.org.uk

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23/10/2017 15:41

FAMILY

SIBLINGS The relationship between brothers and sisters has always been a rollercoaster – even for the closest of siblings. But how does this bond differ when you have a disabled sibling? We discovered how disability can alter the family dynamic

M

artha Noble is a charismatic and enthusiastic woman who has fond memories of growing up with her brother, Harry, who is autistic. Now working with disabled people and their families, Martha has first-hand experience of a relationship with a disabled sibling and understands the necessity of more support.

MEMORIES “We did different things to other families, like taking the tap handles off the bath so [Harry] didn’t flood the bathroom. Things like that where it was really normal, and then you would have friends come over and ask where our taps were – complete normality for us but complete madness for other people,” she says. “It was more fun than difficult, and the difficult parts don’t really stand out to us as siblings.” The second youngest of five, Martha recalls that growing up with an older brother with a disability was difficult at times but the good memories still shine through.

Martha and Harry

As a parent, when your child is diagnosed with any form of disability there is a grieving process before family life adapts to the changes. There may be family days out that you can no longer attend or relationships may become strained when more attention is paid to a disabled child compared to their siblings. Supporting siblings is just as important, explains Rosie Noble, London’s project manager for Contact, the charity

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 14:30

FAMILY

for families with disabled children.

“It is important for people to recognise that they have more than one child,” says Rosie – who is also Martha and Harry’s mother. “[Contact] have in the past run workshops where we offer parents tips and advice about how best to make sure they are supporting brothers and sisters… I’m the parent of five children, one of whom has a disability. I hear from the siblings directly what it was like. It’s quite interesting having the benefit of hindsight.”

BALANCE Through happy memories or difficulties, Rosie and Martha both highlight the ability to accept others comes from having a disabled sibling. During her time in education, Martha focused on investigating the relationship between non-disabled and disabled siblings; her findings saw that siblings become much more mature and tolerant, but there are also feelings of missing out.

“When people talk to me, I say it was fine, but for others it can really upset people’s lives and cause real anxiety for them, like feeling left out, not getting enough attention. I think that’s where support groups work perfectly but they need a go-to support worker,” says Martha. Organisations like Contact work to support the whole

A family photo of Rosie with her five children

When people talk to me, I say it was ne t or ot ers it an rea set people’s lives and a se rea an iet or t em

art a o e

family, from parents and grandparents to siblings – but more can be, and needs to be, done to accommodate siblings.

The personal experiences that workers like Rosie can bring to the table encourages a better understanding of the potential difficulties siblings may have. Rosie explains: “We talk to parents about making time for the non-disabled sibling. Talk to them and actually have a set time in your head to have an hour with him or her and make sure you do get out together. You have to strike a balance.”

FUTURE It’s easy to remember happy memories of growing up, but what about the future?

Support whilst growing up is essential and

so is advice and knowledge on how to care for siblings in later life – this is where guidance falters.

Unless you have a disabled sibling, the future is something that won’t necessarily come to mind. “Something that has definitely hit us a lot harder in adulthood is talking about the future. We will be Harry’s support network once mum and dad die, and that’s something children without disabled siblings never have to think about,” explains Martha. “It is a difficult thing to talk about because you don’t want to talk about when your mum or dad dies. It’s a really hard subject and with all the legalities, I think that is a huge area that needs looking into.”

In this instance, dedicated support groups for siblings is a must for a better understanding of the best course of action available. What will happen to your brother or sister if you decide to move away or live in a different country?

How can you be supported if you are just one sibling and don’t have any other siblings going through the same experience? “I don’t think there is nearly enough support for siblings, but there is a lot for parents. I have never heard of any support groups or presentations about [future planning for siblings],” adds Martha.

From growing up to thinking about the future, all families with disabled children will have a different experience. What is certain is that more support networks need to be put in place to care for nondisabled siblings and their own needs.

“I don’t think anyone would never not love their sibling. For people in the depths of it at the moment, that’s where sibling support groups would be beneficial… I would say not to feel guilty about your feelings – you’re allowed to feel angry, sad, like it’s unfair – and not to worry about comparing your relationship or sibling to other people. Just remember to keep an open line of communication, and your feelings are valid whatever they are,” concludes Martha.

At the end of the day, there is no bond like the one between siblings – disability or not. i

FIND OUT MORE

Parents caring for a disabled child and looking for advice about supporting siblings can get in touch with Contact on 0808 808 3555 or onta t or

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www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 14:30

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02/03/2017 09:21

23/10/2017 11:49

SPOTLIGHT

Epilepsy is a condition that affects around 600,000 people in the UK. Dedicated to raising awareness of epilepsy, Rachael King is breaking down barriers one fundraising event at a time – all whilst caring for her three children, who all have the condition

EPILEPSY

WARRIORS H

ow did you get involved with You’re on target to raise £10,000 – how Epilepsy Action? have you been fundraising?

I first got involved when my oldest I organised a balloon race and I sold son Jenson was diagnosed with epilepsy. I hundreds of tickets. In about six weeks, had a cake sale when Jenson was younger from start to finish, we raised about £7,000. and I raised £50, just with family and It was unbelievable the amount of support friends, and that’s how I first got to know we had.

Epilepsy Action. I was just looking for some The money has gone between Leighton extra support, because at that time I didn’t Hospital Outpatients, Alder Hay Hospital really know a lot about epilepsy. and Epilepsy Action. It will also go towards When William was born, he had buying epilepsy passports – this is the 113 seizures in ten days. He was only newest thing that’s come in. Children seven weeks old when he was with epilepsy are going to be given diagnosed, and that’s when a passport that they can carry I thought I needed to do around with them, giving something. I thought, if a really brief summary of Just because you I’m fundraising, it gives the types of seizures they can’t necessarily me something really have. see their epilepsy, positive to do and people need that’s why I do it. It’s What do you wish more to realise they really positive and I people understood feel like I’m helping about epilepsy? are constantly others and spreading Epilepsy is an invisible tin a att e awareness. disability and because you can’t see it, people don’t understand it. If you see someone with a broken arm, it is visible, but you can’t see the struggle the children go through on a daily basis. They all have to have their medicine every morning, medicine every night, they get tired if they have a seizure and then you’ve got the triggers.

Just because you can’t necessarily see their epilepsy, people need to realise they are constantly fighting a battle. Every single day, they are getting up and fighting another battle – I think that’s the message I’m trying to spread.

56

What future plans do you have when it comes to fundraising?

Fundraising-wise, I want to aim for £10,000 but I might aim higher and just keep fundraising every year if I can. Keep doing the media work alongside Epilepsy Action to raise awareness and I’m hoping one day to either work with children with additional needs and volunteer my time a bit more.

The opportunities are endless.

To support Rachael and get her top tips to be epilepsy-prepared, visit www.facebook.com/3littleepilepsywarriors

For more information on epilepsy, you can contact Epilepsy Action on 0808 800 5050 or e i e s or

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 12:39

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23/10/2017 15:42

LUCY MARTIN

“I would like to be known as a good WEATHER PRESENTER first, and the fact that I have a DISABILITY second” I

n 2015, the BBC launched an initiative offering men and women with a disability the opportunity to learn about working in the media – all they needed was a passion for the environment and weather. It was a first, and major, step for the publicly-funded corporation to become more inclusive and show increased diversity on screen.

Out of thousands of applications, Lucy Martin was one of ten applicants to get a place on the scheme. Her success to date has been down to her dedication and hard work – not because of her disability.

The media has been making refreshing progress in terms of diversity in recent years. From Channel 4’s popular relationship show The Undateables to crime drama Silent Witness, disabled people are becoming more visible than ever before. As weather presenter Lucy Martin makes waves in her career, she told us what it takes to make it in the media 58

BBC INITIATIVE “We spent three days learning how weather presenting comes together, which is not as straightforward as you might imagine. There’s quite a lot of parts to that. It was great – we got to practice in the studio, spend time with a meteorologist, learn about telling the story, and that was really great. I had a really good time, and I enjoyed the opportunity,” explains Lucy.

Having obtained a degree in geography from Durham University, taking her career into the spotlight was not the direct route for Lucy, due to the competitive nature of the media. “I had always loved the idea of being a presenter but it was one of those jobs I thought quite a lot of people would like to have a go at,” says Lucy, who was born without her right hand and forearm.

“I hadn’t been going really hard for it and doing the best that I could before. There

was an element when I saw [the advert] of just giving it a go, and since then I have been incredibly lucky.”

From the three-day course held in July 2015, it was only a matter of months before Lucy was offered training at the BBC’s Weather Centre. Lucy went on to learn about meteorology and presenting as the original advert did not require previous qualifications – and it was a fantastic opportunity to learn about life in the media directly from the professionals. There is no denying that Lucy’s introduction into weather presenting has been a whirlwind.

SUCCESS She says: “I did some training in the Weather Centre in meteorology, and I spent three or four months in the East Midlands practising, getting up to speed, and shadowing, until I felt up to [presenting] myself. I started off doing radio, then pre-recorded TV and then live TV… It has been a real learning curve – lots of practise from the beginning, lots of hard work but then it has all built up from there.”

In just under a year, Lucy has been nominated for an Icon Award, appeared on the News at One and presented on national channels including Radio 5 live.

Getting recognition from the Icon Award nomination left her amazed, and happy with the progress she has made. Lucy says: “You can very much get wrapped up in learning and getting everything done

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 15:21

INTERVIEW

to the best of your ability – to actually see it having an impact and people think I’m doing well is really lovely. I was really honoured.”

Not letting her disability hold her back, Lucy is a rising star in the BBC, and is leading the way in showcasing that someone with a disability can achieve just as much as anyone else. When it comes to the response to her broadcasts, it has been overwhelmingly positive.

RESPONSE “I have received loads of lovely messages and letters from people directly, with kids, or family, with the same disability as me and that’s made a great impact [on them], seeing someone in the media who looks just like them. Also people who haven’t got the same disability or aren’t disabled at all have said lovely things and been really supportive,” says Lucy. “I have had one or two not very nice comments, but I could probably count them on one hand. A few people have said not very nice things, but even then the response from people being outraged by that, not wanting to hear that, standing up for me,

has overshadowed that. For me, I would say it has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Receiving positive feedback showcases that public attitudes towards disability are changing, even if there is still work that needs to be done. Speaking about others looking to get into the media, but who feel their disability could be holding them back, Lucy encourages that this should not be the case as there are people out there who want to help.

Seeing Lucy as a successful weather presenter and looking beyond her disability is the start of improved acceptance and understanding of disability. “I would really like to be known as a good weather presenter first, and then the fact that I have a disability being second. I think that’s what we need to achieve – that we see past that disability.

I’m open to helping any way I can,” concludes Lucy.

Having a natural talent for presenting, professional training from the BBC and enthusiasm to do well is why Lucy is so successful within her career. And it’s clear that attitudes to disability are changing, one show at a time.

i

FIND OUT MORE

For more information on careers with the BBC, head to www.bbc.co.uk/careers

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 15:22

LIFE

THE

DIARY 16 NOVEMBER

10 NOVEMBER

KIDZ TO ADULTZ NORTH

FINOLA AND ORBIT’S CEILIDH NIGHT

Dunblane Hydro Hotel www.finolatrust.co.uk Get ready for an evening of glad rags and dancing shoes to raise funds for a good cause at Finola and Orbit’s Ceilidh Night. Tickets cost £45 and include a three-course meal by the awardwinning Michelin Star team behind Nick Nairn, magic, music, and a ceilidh. Proceeds made from the night will be donated to Canine Partners and the Finola Trust for an electric wheelchair.

For more information on the event or to book tickets, contact henri@finolatrust.co.uk

22-23 NOVEMBER

25 NOVEMBE R

THE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SHOW

WHEELPOWER’S JUNIOR SPORTS CAMP

NEC, Birmingham www.theotshow.com A must-visit for all health professionals is the Occupational Therapy Show – the UK’s largest free-to-attend education and trade event. Discover more about occupational therapy with big-name speakers, including Dr Michael Iwama and Dr Jenny Preston MBE, 300 trade exhibitors and suppliers. To register for the event, simply visit the website.

Stoke Mandeville Stadium www.wheelpower .org.uk WheelPower’s Junio r Sports Camp is ide al for sporty, or not-s o-sporty, kids lookin g to get involved in som ething new. Young people aged 12 to 18 with a disability can try out sport in a safe and exciting environmen t.

Entry for the camp is £9 per participan t and £5 for parents or gu ardians – visit the we bsite to find out more ab out purchasing tic kets.

Can’t make it along to this camp? Sign up for WheelPower’s free newsletters and rec eive updates straight to your inbox.

THROUGHOUT DECEMBER

ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS

Westonbirt Arboretum, Tetbury www.forestry.gov.uk Jingle bells, jingle all the way – ’tis the season for snow and festivities! Get merry at Westonbirt Arboretum’s Enchanted Christmas event and be left in awe during the illuminations. The events, being held across weekends in December, are fully accessible with tickets costing between £14 and £7, with free admission for a carer.

Welcome the season of joy and goodwill, all-singing and all-dancing. For more information or to book, contact westonbirt@forestry.gsi.gov.uk.

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EventCity, Manchester www.kidzexhibitions.co.uk The country’s leading exhibition for children and young adults with disabilities, Kidz to Adultz is doing its northern stop-off this November in Manchester. Meet with organisations and experts in funding, mobility, communication, legal matters, products and beyond. Register for your free tickets online today.

5 DECEMBER 2017

AUTISM AND SENSORY ISSUES CONFERENCE

Leicester www.autism.org.uk A one-day event focusing on the latest practices best used to support autistic people with sensory processing issues. Organised by the National Autistic Society, this is a fantastic opportunity to listen to the UK’s leading experts and discover more causes of sensory processing issues, learn practical strategies and network. Ensure you register your interest in the event on the NAS website.

Email us

If you have any events coming up in January and February, email us at

diary@enablemagazine.co.uk with the details for inclusion in next issue’s diary.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 12:38

FOR

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C O N S E RVAT I O N , N OT

PROFIT

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SPOTLIGHT

Green medicine

The road to legalising medicinal cannabis The evidence to support the benefits of medical cannabis is hard to ignore – and UK charity the MS Society is calling on the government to legalise cannabis to treat specific symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) when other treatments have failed. We investigate why legalising cannabis for medicinal reasons is so important www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT

SYMPTOM RELIEF In the UK, it’s estimated that 100,000 people have multiple sclerosis, a neurological condition that can cause muscle spasms and pain – and cannabis has shown to help manage these symptoms. The MS Society has recently changed their stance on medicinal cannabis, now calling on the government to change its legal status.

“Firstly, we reviewed the evidence and it shows that for specific symptoms, which are muscle spasms and pain in MS, cannabis can help for some people.

We consulted our medical advisors and they agreed that cannabis ought to be available as a third-line treatment. It was also really important to hear from people with MS on the issue, so we surveyed over 11,000 people with MS and asked what they thought. Overwhelmingly, they felt [cannabis] should be legalised for medicinal purposes,” explains Genevieve Edwards, director of external affairs at the MS Society.

Mark Smith* was diagnosed with MS in 2001, having experienced symptoms for several years before being diagnosed.

Understanding that this is a lifelong condition, Mark has found different ways to help ease his symptoms – including pilates and experimenting with cannabis.

“I think cannabis should be legalised because effectively it is a herbal medicine and it offers a different treatment option,” says Mark. Due to the classification of cannabis, Mark, like many others, believes more needs to be done to change people’s perceptions.

ATTITUDES “I think people are used to the stigma in the UK, which means a lot of people’s opinions regarding cannabis overshadow the medicinal uses,” adds Mark. “I do know for myself and others who have used it, the benefits of cannabis are very well received.” From the research

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conducted by the MS Society, it is clear be put in that position.” people experiencing symptoms of MS are Mark says: “I don’t use it regularly but more open to using cannabis as a form of a big thing is the relief aspect of [using medical relief. cannabis]. Second to that, there is no At present, the only licenced cannabisguarantee of what you’re taking, but if based product in the UK is Sativex cannabis was legal and had been – a mouth spray treating tested, you would know what muscle spasms and you’re using.” stiffness. Wales is the Parliament is getting I think cannabis only country currently ready for a second should be legalised offering Sativex on the reading of the e a se effe ti e it NHS, but it has been Elizabeth Brice Bill, is a herbal medicine difficult for people and if it were to pass, to obtain. Looking the use of cannabis and it offers a at Germany, Canada as a medicine could different treatment and certain sates in become a reality. option the US where medical During his first reading, cannabis is available, the MP Paul Flynn said: Mark Smith UK may need to take the “If we legalise drugs, we research on board. reduce side effects by taking Genevieve explains: “[Germany the market out of the hands of and Canada] are doing it, for example, criminals and the scammers, and putting through pharmacies and if we went down those drugs in a legal market that can be that route, the great benefit for people run by doctors using medical priorities. with MS would be that you’re perfectly These are the lessons from all the states in sure of the safe quantity you were taking.

America that have taken this step.”

This isn’t the case now as people can’t Cannabis contains two key active guarantee what they’re taking because, of ingredients: THC and CBD. Recreationally, course, it is illegal and unregulated.”

TCH has psychoactive properties but research shows that CBD has antiSAFETY inflammatory, anti-tremor and antiGetting access to the drug can be spasmodic properties, which would be problematic and lead people to interact beneficial for those living with MS. with illegal dealers, in the knowledge Attitudes to medicinal cannabis are that they could be prosecuted if caught. changing and with several countries Cannabis retaining its Class B status is already utilising the benefits of the drug, leaving thousands of people across the is it not time the UK followed suit? Taking UK in a difficult position. the control from the criminals and into “When we asked people with MS what the hands of medical professionals could they thought about cannabis, 72% felt alleviate daily struggles for those living it should be legalised. A substantial with a debilitating illness – that is one number of people felt they are affected step in the right direction. by the symptoms and would like to take cannabis but don’t because it is i FIND OUT MORE illegal and they are worried about the Find out more about medicinal implications of that,” adds Genevieve. cannabis from the MS Society, “Being forced to break the law in order to www.mssociety.org.uk or get relief from very difficult symptoms – 0808 800 8000 we think that it is wrong that they should

*NAMES HAVE BEEN CHANGED TO PROTECT IDENTITIES

C

annabis as a recreational drug has been illegal in the UK since the 1970s. Medicinal cannabis is licenced to treat symptoms related to an illness but is still difficult to obtain on our shores – but a change in the law would mean people could confidently obtain cannabis and treat their symptoms safely.

With Labour MP Paul Flynn speaking in parliament about the benefits of cannabis as a medicine in October this year, and a second reading of the proposed Elizabeth Brice Bill is scheduled for 23 February next year, it seems attitudes are changing.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 12:01

The review

VOLKSWAGEN ‘New’ is a relative term for the latest Golf. It’s more of a comprehensive update, which is no bad thing when the car is such a complete all-rounder. Alisdair Suttie took the new version out for a spin

Inside

The Golf’s cabin has always been a great place to be, whether you’re in the driver’s seat or a passenger. Now it’s even better, thanks to small but important changes. Notable among these is an eight-inch colour touchscreen for the infotainment display in the centre of the dash. It’s standard on every model and is very simple to use.

Also, you can now pair two mobile phones with this at the same time, so no need to disconnect one to use the other.

As the body’s overall size

66

and shape remains the same as before, there’s no change in the amount of head, leg and shoulder space. This means that the VW is one of the best in class for front and rear seat space, and there’s lots of storage points for smaller items like glasses and water bottles.

The only area where the Golf has slipped a little behind the best in class is in terms of boot capacity. Even so, with a volume of 380 litres that can be extended to 1,270 litres by dropping the 60-40 split and fold rear seats, you can still easily fit in plenty of gear.

Driving It’s a Golf. Now, that may sound dismissive, but in reality, it’s shorthand for a car that’s hugely competent.

It’s quiet at all speeds, deals with bumps and potholes with composed ease and it’s fun when you get to corners. o or the sportier models and you also benefit rom rapid performance.

At the other end of the scale, Volkswagen has introduced new, more e cient engines to the ol The big news is the 1.5-litre turbo petrol that delivers 55.4mpg and g km o carbon dio ide emissions, so it s a fine alternative for those not keen on a diesel. There’s also a new 1.0-litre turbo petrol in 85 and 110bhp forms, though we’d avoid the less potent one unless you only drive in town. There’s a choice of six-speed manual or sevenspeed auto gearboxes with most engine options.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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MOTORS

It’s quiet at all speeds, deals with bumps and potholes with composed ease and it’s fun when you get to corners Find your ideal car Rica, a consumer research charity working with older and disabled people, has a unique online car search with key measurements and fact sheets. Check it out online at www.rica.org.uk/content/ car-search.

Equipment The S has plain steel wheels, cloth upholstery and the eight-inch colour infotainment touchscreen.

This includes DAB radio, USB point and Bluetooth connection.

The S also has City Emergency Braking and Driver Alert to let you know if you need a break. Head for the SE and you get 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome interior detailing, automatic wipers, cruise control, parking sensors and Driving Mode Selection to pick from five set-ups.

You also have Car-Net to access

Summary

apps from your smartphone. The SE Navigation comes with VW’s latest sat-nav, while the GT enjoys larger 17-inch alloy wheels, lowered sports suspension and more hugging front seats. The R-Line has a unique exterior body kit. The GTE comes in standard and Advance models, with the latter fitted with sat-nav, while the GTD and GTI share similar equipment levels that includes a 12.3-inch digital dash in place of the usual dials so the driver can choose the style of display.

Volkswagen has polished the Golf to the point where it’s near-impossible to fault. As such, anyone looking for a small hatch must consider its charms.

Motability Customers The Volkswagen Golf is available through the Motability Scheme, starting from your total weekly allowance, plus zero Advance Payment. To find out more about the otability cheme, head to www.motability.co.uk or call 0300 456 4566.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 12:01

LIFE

T

herapy dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and can lend a helping paw in various situations. From hospitals to hospices, schools to care homes, and everything in between, therapy dogs are on hand to provide additional support.

For people with a learning or physical disability or with mental health problems, therapy dogs can bring out something special in those who may need a little extra assistance.

COMFORT One of the best-known therapy dogs at present comes in the form of a friendly, good-natured little pug who goes by the name of Doug. Having gained the affection of those he supports and tens of thousands of people across the world through social media, Doug is a prime example of how dogs can help others.

“Doug came into our lives as an unofficial therapy dog. A very much loved family member was chronically ill for many years and it was thought that a small dog might be of comfort to this dear person and help reduce the feelings of loneliness and isolation that often come with a long-term illness. After recovery, we were so grateful to Doug for the comfort and companionship that he had brought. He was perfect at reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, particularly at times when no conversation was needed or wanted, but being alone wasn’t wanted either,” explains Doug’s owner, Cate Archer.

Cate could see the love Doug had to share and took him down the road of becoming an official therapy dog with Pets As Therapy (PAT). The charity was formed 34 years ago by Lesley ScottOrdish and has since evolved into an organisation boasting over 6,000 therapy dogs. Going to care homes, hospitals, schools and much more, therapy animals provide comfort and support nationwide.

WORKING DOGS PAT chairperson Anne Clilverd has been volunteering with the charity for nearly nine years and takes her whippet Cesc to schools as part of the Read2Dogs programme. “I was a bit sceptical at first as to how dogs could help but you wouldn’t believe the improvement I’ve seen in reading,” explains Anne. “The pupils get 10 minutes to read to Cesc and there’s no criticism, no movement, so the children get a great deal of confidence.

There is no correcting during reading, it is just pure reading in the way they want to read. You can see how it works.”

IT’S A DOG’S LIFE There is no denying the healing power of animals – the purr of a kitten or cuddles from a puppy can be magical. We all know about guide dogs returning a sense of independence – but what about a pup relieving anxiety in an autistic child? We discover why therapy dogs are so important www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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LIFE

Doug never shows any judgement or holds any stigma – he’s a really great listener, forever trusted in his discretion with his kind, sympathetic ears, and has a very warm and comforting nature

Having taken Cesc into special education schools, Anne has seen first-hand the noticeable, positive changes in participants interacting with the animals. PAT takes on dogs aged over nine months who are goodnatured, happy, healthy and sociable.

It is fascinating to think that many of our own beloved pets could fit into the category of therapy animal.

In a similar role to Cesc and Anne, Doug and Cate have spent many years working with children and adults with learning or physical disabilities.

Cate says: “For those with learning differences, Doug works as a great supporter and incentivises. He encourages positivity just by being there, without creating a feeling of pressure and expectation. Doug never interrupts or corrects his learners – and this means that friends feel both listened to and heard. This encourages great feelings of selfconfidence and self-worth, allowing people to feel they are accessing the world of those around them.”

SUPPORT NETWORK Alongside the role of educational aid for those with additional needs, a therapy dog is also there as a support network. Everyone has moments where they spend too much time in their own head and can become clouded – time spent with a therapy dog is a relaxing opportunity to gain clarity and take a break from regular life.

“Doug never shows any judgement or holds any stigma – he’s a really great listener, forever trusted in his discretion with his kind, sympathetic ears, and has a very warm and comforting nature,” explains Cate. “Doug wouldn’t notice or care if someone was scarred, disfigured or without limbs. It clearly doesn’t matter, and we wish all people could ‘think like a dog’. Those whose lives have taken an unfortunate path find that being with Doug gives them some sense of peace. Even if this is only for a short while.”

Through the success of Anne, Cate and other volunteers from PAT, work is underway to try and get more establishments welcoming therapy dogs. Anne hopes that one day PAT teams will be offered everywhere – particularly in school environments.

Cate has similar goals, as she understands the power dogs can have in terms of reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

“We still have a long way to go in

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Cate Archer, PAT

terms of the stigma associated with animals being managed honestly. The Royal College of Nursing is working hard to dispel the ‘myths and dangers’ of allowing animals on wards and feel strongly that allowing companion animal therapy into hospitals has been making a ‘remarkable difference’,” adds Cate.

Nurturing, friendly and well-trained dogs can only be beneficial for those in hospitals or hospices, living with mental health problems or with a disability. It is time therapy dog sessions were more widely available.

As the age-old saying goes, ‘dogs are a man’s best friend’ – and for those looking for a break from normality, time spent with a therapy dog is a great experience. i

FIND OUT MORE

Request a visit from the Pets As Therapy team or get involved with the charity by visiting www.petsastherapy.org or call 01494 569 130 You can follow Doug’s therapy journey at www.dougthepugtherapydog.com

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2016

PATHFINDER 17

HAVE YOU GOT A PROBLEM WITH ALCOHOL? ONLY YOU CAN DECIDE!

To answer this question ask yourself the following questions and answer them as honestly as you can 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

Is drinking making your home life unhappy?

Does your drinking make you careless of your families welfare?

Do you drink because you are shy with other people?

Is drinking affecting your reputation?

Do you drink to escape from worries or trouble?

Do you drink alone?

Have you lost time from work due to drinking?

Has your ambition decreased since drinking?

Has you efficiency decreased since drinking?

Is drinking jeopardising your job or business?

11. Have you ever felt remorse after drinking?

12. Are you in financial difficulties as a result of drinking?

13. Do you turn to or seek an inferior environment when drinking?

14. Do you crave a drink at a definite time daily?

15. Does drinking cause you to have difficulty in sleeping?

16. Do you want a drink the next morning?

17. Do you drink to build up your confidence?

18. Have you ever had a complete loss of memory as a result of drinking?

19. Has your Dr ever treated you for drinking?

If you have answered “YES” to any one of the questions, there is a definite warning…

If you have answered “YES” to any two, the chances are that you have a problem…

If you have answered “YES” to three or more, you most certainly have a problem…

“THE ONLY REQUIREMENT IS A DESIRE TO STOP DRINKING” Take action now and give us a call on 0800 917 7650… We are here to help!

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23/10/2017 11:51

W

Disaster relief goes digital

here did CBM get the idea for The Humanitarian Hands-on Tool (HHoT)?

In the last few years, there have been some international frameworks created at UN and government level which basically oblige governments and humanitarian agencies to ensure that their work is inclusive of everybody.

It is well proven that people with disabilities are among the most affected in any disaster. We want to give people the tools to ensure the work they have been doing is inclusive. Field workers need to know how to do exactly the same job but to do it in a slightly different way that makes it more inclusive and accessible. That is what HHoT does.

How can aid workers use the app?

The tool is an application that can be downloaded from app stores (the App Store or Google Play) and once workers have it on their smartphone or their tablet, they don’t need internet access because all the resources are there to be used. What it does is take a big task such as building a toilet facility and breaks it down into small tasks.

Once the user has identified the type of information they need for their job, they can save the cards suitable to them.

They can then share the cards with their colleagues and once they’re back online, the app automatically updates if there is any new information added.

What kind of feedback have you had?

We launched the app on World Humanitarian Day (19 August) and during the development process we did some initial testing with people we know in the field of humanitarian work. In general, feedback was very positive. Everybody said the app was extremely user-friendly.

In fact, the app has been designed to be fully accessible to follow WCAG accessibility guidelines to level double-A. It is useable not just by family members of disabled people but also by disabled people. Someone who is blind, deaf or

SPOTLIGHT

Disaster situations have been dominating the media, with hurricanes and earthquakes devastating thousands of lives. For aid workers supporting people on the ground, how do you go about supporting disabled people affected? We spoke with Gordon Rattray of CBM, the overseas disability charity, about their new app, Humanitarian Hands-on Tool, which offers support for aid workers in disaster areas worldwide at the touch of a button

Read more

Read the full interview with Gordon and discover future plans for HHoT over on the website, www.enable magazine.co.uk

The aim is simply that the app becomes the go-to tool for inclusive emergency response

with physical disabilities can use the app in the same way as anybody else can.

What are your hopes for the future of the app?

We need to find ways of disseminating the app so that people who are in emergency-prone situations have it in advance, and then when they have no wifi they can go in to the app and pick the resources that are of use to them.

The aim is simply that the app becomes the go-to tool for inclusive emergency response. We’re really trying to make sure the app isn’t seen just as an extra to include people with a disability.

i

FIND OUT MORE

Find out how you can support CBM by visiting www.cbmuk.org.uk

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES 2017 To tie in with International Day of Persons with Disabilities on 3 December, we dish up some facts and stats on what disability looks like around the world – and it’s not the most encouraging picture

80%

of the world’s disabled people live in developing countries

people worldwide have a disability

9/10

Fewer than of disabled children in Africa attend school

10%

disabled children in developing countries do not attend school

Disabled women are disadvantaged – in India, for instance, 25% of women with intellectual disabilities have been raped

Disabled children are four times more likely to experience violence than non-disabled children

HALF

of disabled people cannot afford healthcare – compared to a

THIRD

of non-disabled

people

of the world’s disabled people are children

172 of the world’s

195 countries have signed up to the UN’s Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

80%

of the world’s visual impairment could be prevented or cured

Albinism is more common in Tanzania than any other country in the world 74

2.64%

of schoolage children in South Korea have autism, compared to 1.1% of children in the UK

The number of babies born with Down’s syndrome in Dubai is much higher than the average births compared to one in 800 More than 300 MILLION people

The Orkney Islands in Scotland have the HIGHEST prevalence of multiple sclerosis in the world

world’s leading cause of disability

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 12:02

INTERVIEW

Sesame Street is known and loved around the world, and it’s making massive waves in terms of equality. Having introduced autistic Muppet Julia earlier this year, we spoke with Sesame Street writer Christine Ferraro to discover why Julia is so important

BEHIND THE LINES:

Christine Ferraro

How long did it take to perfect the episode?

I would say it took longer than usual because we were trying to be careful, deliberate and very thoughtful about what we were representing. There was a lot of discussion about what characteristics I should be

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adding to Julia. We were trying process that went into it. to represent some in the autism community but What has been the We were trying you cannot possibly feedback for Julia? to represent some represent all in the Incredible feedback. It autism community in the autism has been really positive, because there is positive feedback. community but you such a wide variety of Even the people who cannot possibly experiences. say this does not

represent all in the community

What advice did you autism receive to ensure the portrayal of autism was accurate?

As writers, we’ve got an incredible team of researchers who won’t let anything go through that isn’t appropriate. The fact that we have access to such incredible advisors, especially for this initiative, has been really wonderful.

There were so many of us on the team who had direct connections to autism.

Still we don’t have the full picture – I can’t claim I have the full picture because of my first-hand experience with autism. It was great that we were able to collaborate in a lot of ways on the thought

accurately represent [their] experience with autism, even though it is not the same as [their family member], it is greatly appreciated that Sesame Street is putting it out there to raise awareness and acceptance.

That has been very rewarding.

Where do you see Julia in the future?

In the coming seasons – that we’re already in the process of writing – she is in there even more. It has been really fun and interesting writing for her and finding stories for her that are not just about autism. The whole goal here is that she is just going to be one of the crew, one of the gang.

Don’t miss our full interview with Christine on our website, www.enablemagazine.co.uk

PIC: © ZACH HYMAN SESAME STREET

W

here did you get the inspiration from for the ‘Meet Julia’ episode?

The character of Julia was introduced in a book; she wasn’t meant to be a main character on our show at that point, she was just introduced. The response was just incredible from the autism community.

I took what already existed from the book about her character. There were certain characteristics in the book – she had verbal skills but she was minimally verbal, she was overwhelmed by noises. There were certain things that were already there in the book so I just expanded on that and tried to bring her to life a little bit more.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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23/10/2017 15:14

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is the largest health board and provider of healthcare in Scotland and one of the largest within the UK. Alongside career opportunities in the nursing and medical professions, we offer roles within administration, facilities, estates, allied health professions, IT and healthcare sciences.

These positions are located in hospitals, health centre clinics, pharmacies, as well as dental, GP and optical practices throughout Glasgow and Clyde.

Hundreds of outstanding opportunities within our Board are advertised each month. As a Disability Confident Employer we operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum selection criteria. Over the past few years, we have successfully recruited over 100 Modern Apprentices, enabling us to continue to deliver high quality healthcare.

Information about working with us can be found at: www.nhsggc.org.uk

Nurturing Independence

The halow project supports young adults with a learning disability to live the life they choose as independently as possible.

We believe that the young people we support have a right to the same life choices and chances as any other young person.

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In the Driving Seat... halow aims to put young people with a learning disability in the driving seat and help them take control of their own lives by providing opportunities and support to: • make and meet friends through social activities • build confidence and life skills • access meaningful work and homes of their own halow currently supports over 170 young people (aged 16-35) throughout Surrey and the surrounding area.

Kyle “halow has been a big part of my life and has helped me a lot”

halow offers a range of activities including: • Social Activities • Parent2Parent • Building Futures • Buddy Service • A Reason To Get Up • Supported Living Please visit

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Work With disabled people applying for 60% more jobs than their nondisabled counterparts, and a third of disabled people admitting to applying for work that they’re overqualified for in an attempt to get an interview, the path to employment is far from smooth for disabled jobseekers. We find out about the new campaign hoping to change all that

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earching for work can, at times, be far from straightforward. Looking for something that’s relevant, poring over job descriptions, answering complicated questions, trying to shoehorn in any experience you have and making it relevant, submitting your very best work and then – waiting. And waiting.

And, sometimes, disappointment.

It gets more complicated when you have a disability, as new research from Scope has revealed. The disability charity’s latest report, Work With Me, has unveiled the fact that disabled people have to apply for more jobs than nondisabled people – an average of eight compared to five – and that more than a third (37%) of disabled people who don’t feel confident about getting a job believe that employers won’t hire them because of their impairment.

The research was undertaken after government figures revealed that the UK is home to 1 million disabled people who can work – and want to work – but are currently unemployed.

MISSING PIECE “Over the last few years, Scope and others have done a lot of work on disability employment and disability unemployment, and we know a fair amount about attitudes in the workplace and what employers need to be doing,”

It’s a great shame that not all companies give people like me the opportunity to show what we can do Matt Carson

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explains James Taylor, head of policy, campaigns and public affairs at Scope.

“What we didn’t know so much about was how disabled people felt when applying for jobs, which was the missing piece.

When the government figures on disability employment and unemployment came out in August, showing that there are a million disabled people out of work who want to work and don’t have jobs, we wanted to look a little bit closer at that issue.”

Scope surveyed 2,000 disabled people about their experiences looking for work – and the results were shocking. They found that only half of applications made by disabled people result in an interview, compared to 69% of applications from non-disabled people. It also revealed that two out of five disabled people don’t feel confident about their chances of finding a job in the next six months.

“Disabled people are being shut out of the job market,” James says. “Some

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION

Some disabled people had applied for 250 jobs, 150 jobs, and they weren’t getting any interviews James Taylor, Scope

disabled people had applied for 250 jobs, 150 jobs, and they weren’t getting any interviews. It’s heart breaking. And that’s why we launched Work With Me, to put those issues to the front and say, there are millions of disabled people who can work and want to work – we need to tackle some of the issues and really raise awareness of what they’re saying and what they want employers to be doing.”

NOT EASY Matt Carson, 28 from Manchester, was made redundant after four-and-a-half years of working at a debt management company. His search for work has been far from straightforward.

“I know it’s not easy for anyone to find a new job,” he says. “But working in IT infrastructure, it was even harder because there was only so much I could do. I couldn’t do any lifting of computers or anything like that. The months went by, but I kept getting told I wasn’t the right

person that they were looking for. I felt like I was being discriminated against because of my impairment. On my CV, I put down that I’d had a stroke at birth. I thought if I just turned up to an interview and didn’t say that I was disabled, then they’d start questioning why I didn’t put that in.”

Despite turning to specialist recruitment agencies, Matt still struggled to find work. He eventually took matters into his own hands and put a post on LinkedIn, explaining that he had cerebral palsy, was looking for a job and highly employable.

The response was fantastic.

“It led to me being offered a job at a start-up,” Matt says. “Hiring me was a win-win situation for me and my boss, because I introduced her to the Shaw Trust who also help new businesses.”

Matt has since lost his job, due to financial constraints at the company.

He’s now self-employed, with a selfemployment advisor supporting him.

“It’s a great shame that not all

companies give people like me the opportunity to show what we can do,” he says.

And this is something which Scope are working to challenge. Work With Me seeks to raise awareness of the current disability employment gap – and encourage employers, and members of the public, to do more to create opportunities for disabled people in the workplace. Despite best efforts, and a lot of good practice in the job market, disabled people still face many barriers when it comes to securing employment.

“What we were hearing from the research was that one in three were concerned that they’d be a ‘risky’ hire,” James says. “We hear it from some disabled people themselves, and there’s news of some employers seeing disabled people as ‘too expensive’ or too much of a risk, which are the attitudes we need to change. That’s also what we’re trying to do with this campaign.” www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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CHANGING ATTITUDES Attitudes are one of the biggest barriers which disabled people face in the world of work – and not always from employers.

Twenty-two-year-old Carys Llewellyn from Swansea is studying towards a master’s degree in abnormal and clinical psychology, and works part-time for cosmetics retailer Lush. While her employer has been hugely supportive, making adaptations and offering support without even approaching Access to Work, she says the public can be challenging.

“Customers have made comments like, ‘it’s really shocking they let you work here’, as if I can’t be trusted on the shop floor because I’m blind,” Carys says. “Lots of people ask me if I’m wearing contact lenses, so I constantly have to explain that I have a visual impairment. It doesn’t need to be brought up all the time. But learning how to deal with negative attitudes is a skill in itself. I’m trying to manage it in a more constructive way, rather than just letting it upset me. I’m lucky to have an employer who understands that simple changes can make such a huge difference, but it should be the same at every company.”

This is something which Scope are working to encourage amongst employers. Good practice, as Carys has experienced with Lush, does exist within the world of work – organisations like the Business Disability Forum are working hard with big-name employers like Barclays, Channel 4 and Microsoft to make sure they’re more inclusive. But there needs to be more of this.

PARTNERSHIP As part of the Work With Me campaign, which will run for three years, Scope are teaming up with Virgin Media, a company which employs and provides services for thousands of people across the UK. Together, they’ll be raising awareness and undertaking research to get a better understanding of the barriers disabled people face in terms of getting into and staying in work. Virgin Media will also be working to improve their own practices around inclusion and accessibility, and will be funding Scope’s new digital employment service, which will be launching online soon.

“We chose Virgin Media because they really care about the issues,” James explains. “They’re doing a lot, and we’re working with them on ensuring

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that they can become a best in class employer as well. By having the campaign spearheaded by Virgin Media and us, we’re hoping that other employers will join us and get involved.”

With understanding from employers, and support where required, the world of work shouldn’t be off-limits to anyone.

With so many people willing and ready to work, companies across the country need to sit up and take notice of the talent that they’re missing out on – and change their policies and practices accordingly.

“The majority of us spend most of our lives in work – not necessarily in an office, but being employed,” James points out.

“A huge number of disabled people are missing out on an awful lot. Having a job is important to pay the bills, to be able to start a family, to take part in your community, building friendships – and also having a sense of achievement.

Disabled people are being shut out from or not experiencing as much as nondisabled people.” i

FIND OUT MORE

To find out more about cope and irgin edia s work on the ork ith e campaign, or to lend your support, head to www.scope.org.uk

Customers have made comments like, ‘it’s really shocking they let you work here’, as if I can’t be trusted on t e s o oor because I’m blind Carys Llewellyn

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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Are you looking for work?

Support to Work is Scope’s digital employment service. It can help you with:

• Personalised support by email, telephone or Skype • Employability skills • Support with writing CVs • Interview preparation.

Find out if we can support you and apply:

scope.org.uk/ supporttowork This service is proudly funded by Virgin Media 12297_A Scope is a registered charity, number 208231. Copyright Scope October 2017

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EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION

IN ASSOCIATION WITH GSK

eadin t e

a in in

sion

More and more big-name employers are making a commitment to inclusion and diversity in the workplace – like pharmaceutical giants GSK. Tracy, senior director of clinical development, quality and risk management in research and development at the organisation, shares her experiences

H

ow would you describe your role at GSK? During 15 years at GSK, I’ve enjoyed increased responsibilities of various roles, resulting in a rewarding career. Currently I am responsible for quality and risk management in dermatology research and development.

What do you like about working at GSK? Seeing first-hand how GSK is aiming to be a more disability confident organisation, in the US, UK and globally. I feel a sense of pride in helping GSK to move in the right direction.

Did you require an adaptation or

support to do your work? How did GSK respond?

Having a disability that is not particularly noticeable, at times it has been challenging accessing the tools and support needed.

Through my experiences, I realised that others may also be dealing with similar issues and not have the courage to make their needs known. I decided I had to be brave and speak up so I could help make a lasting impact. With that in mind and with the help of others, I launched the Disability Confidence Network (DCN) as a GSK Employee Resource Group.

DCN is a trusted internal resource that partners with our businesses to focus on the ability in disability and enable all GSK

e isa i it on den e et or is a tr sted interna reso r e t at artners it o r sinesses to o s on t e a i it in disa i it and ena e a em o ees to rea t eir tr e otentia at or 82

employees to reach their true potential at work. We’re advocates for those with disabilities and we’ve helped individuals navigate their own challenges. In the last year alone, we’ve held an inclusion week and disability awareness sessions, supported fundraising efforts and much more, resulting in a steady increase in membership.

How would you describe the culture at GSK? As well as being a founder of DCN, I’m a member of both the GSK Global Disability Council and the GSK R&D Inclusion Council. It’s been really important that people at the top have bought into the idea of a disability confident culture, but there’s always work to be done, particularly in ensuring facilities and technology are more accessible and addressing cultural and attitudinal behaviours by building our disability confidence. o nd o t more a o t areers it ead to s om en areers

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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I love being part of a company that does the right thing for people.

Colin Jones Quality, Risk & Compliance Director UK

As a senior IT professional who has worked with GSK for some years, Colin has seen the culture, and the support available to hearingimpaired employees, change over time.

“I’ve always worked in IT – I began my career in operations and programming. Now I work in Risk Management. It’s a very diverse role, with a lot of projects to juggle. I had a cochlear implant fitted earlier this year, and I’m still adapting to that – GSK has been very supportive in giving me time to adjust properly. Over the past few years,

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I’ve noticed the culture at GSK become more transparent it feels like there is a lot of openness and trust. Plus the workforce is becoming more diverse, so the company must be doing something right.”

Read Colin’s story in full, and explore opportunities within our technology team, and throughout the organisation here: http://uk.gsk.com/en-gb/careers/meet-our-people/

23/10/2017 15:53

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