Enable September / October 2022 by DC Publishing

enablemagazine.co.uk September / October 2022 The UK’s leading disability and lifestyle magazine THE COST OFCRISISLIVING As prices continue to rise, we speak to members of the disability community about their concerns

26 OCTOBER 2022–1 JANUARY 2023 ROYAL SHAKESPEARE STRATFORD-UPON-AVONTHEATRE RSC©GlendinningHugobyPhotography The work of the RSC is supported by the Culture Recovery Fund The work of the RSC Literary Department is generously supported by The Drue and H.J. Heinz II Charitable Trust IntegratedChilledRelaxed BSL AudioCaptioneddescribed BOOK ASSISTED PERFORMANCES NOW rsc.org.uk

45 MENOPAUSEHIGHLIGHTING Paralympian Carly

menopause and her

Magazine

for a diagnosis. Behind the scenes KIDZ TO ADULTZ Say hello to the team and tell us what you want to see in the magazine at Kidz to Adultz Scotland on 8 September and Kidz to Adultz North on 1 November. WIN An shortaccessiblebreakinLiverpoolonpage 54 COVER PRICE £3.00 PUBLISHER Denise denise@dcpublishing.co.ukConnelly EDITOR Emma emma.storr@dcpublishing.co.ukStorr EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Darren Edwards Jane TimVictoriaHattonJenkinsRushby-SmithAlisdairSuttie DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Lucy lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.ukBaillie SALES Marian marian.mathieson@dcpublishing.co.ukMathieson ENABLE MAGAZINE 198www.enablemagazine.co.ukDCPublishingLtd,BathStreet,Glasgow,G24HGTel:08442499007 instagram.com/enablemagazinetwitter.com/enablemagazineeditor@enablemagazine.co.ukfacebook.com/enablemagazine Get in touch ONLINE Visit the Enable website to ensure you never miss the latest news, interviews and information from the disability community. I

our

Welcome

READY, SET, BAKE As we approach 30 September, the team at Enable will be taking part in the Macmillan Cancer Support World’s Biggest Coffee Look out for snaps of bakes on the Enable social media. is 59, is 14, living with how the scheme is helping people get on to the property ladder for less. Tait up about experiencing premature battle

nside this issue, we put the focus on the topical matters aﬀecting the disability community while celebrating the diﬀerent forms of support available.

Emma Storr, Editor

3enablemagazine.co.uk

PICKS...EDITOR’S

opens

On page 10 reporter Frank Gardner talks about the need for greater inclusivity in air travel. Rising costs have left many people concerned for the future. On page 26 disabled people share their concerns and how one campaign can help save you hundreds of pounds a year on energy bills. Problems like this might leave you feeling stressed: on page 42 two mental health charities discuss World Mental Health Day and their tips for improving mental wellbeing. During times of need, community can make a big diﬀerence, on page 13 a carers’ organisation shares the importance of having an emergency plan and we ﬁnd out more about an illustrated book sharing stories from family carers of people living with dementia on page 38. Also inside, two people with arthritis share their experiences on page 33; the founder of Unhidden Fashion, Victoria Jenkins, writes about the growth of adaptive fashion on page 68; before adventurer Darren Edwards discusses taking on the World Marathon Challenge this October on pagePlus,81.on page 65 we sit down with Microsoft to talk about assistive technology; actor Adam Pearson gets excited about his current projects on page 16; and we’re explaining how to get on the career path on page 72. All of this and much more inside.

talk about

a visible foradvicetheperceptionsdifference,andsharequestionsandthattheyhaveeachother. 30 EXPLAINEDOWNERSHIPSHARED This Shared Ownership Week, we explore

Morning.

and David, who

©DC Publishing Ltd 2022. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of DC Publishing Ltd. The publisher takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers within the publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that information is accurate; while dates and prices are correct at time of going to print, DC Publishing Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors. Get ready to enjoy another engaging issue of Enable for September/October

18 SHARING EXPERIENCESOUR Chrissie, who

4 enablemagazine.co.uk What’s inside 16Interview10 10 ON-BOARD WITH FRANK GARDNER How inaccessible air travel is creating barriers for disabled people. 33HealthMANAGING LIFE WITH ARTHRITIS People living with arthritis discuss perceptions and management. 42 PUTTING THE FOCUS ON MENTAL HEALTH Raising awareness this World Mental Health Day. 45 HIGHLIGHTING MENOPAUSE Carly Tait shares her experience of premature menopause. 48 TAKING ACTION ON SUDEP The need for public awareness on SUDEP Action Day. 13 TIMECare TO PLAN FOR THE BEST The campaign helping families prepare for the future. 38 UNITED IN DEMENTIA CARE The book providing comfort for family carers. Voices 24 LIVED EXPERIENCE OR JUST LIVING? Tim Rushby-Smith on the impact of the phrase lived experience. 68 AN EXPLOSION OF INCLUSION Victoria Jenkins writes about the rise in adaptive fashion. 81 REDEFINING LIMITS Darren Edwards discusses training for the World Marathon Challenge. Spotlight26 THECOSTOF LIVING CRISIS Members of the disability community highlight their concerns. 16 FIVELife MINUTES WITH ADAM PEARSON The actor and presenter sits down with Enable. 18 SHARING OUR EXPERIENCES Chrissie, who is 59, and David, who is 14, discuss growing up with a visible difference. 21 OPENING DOORS TO ADOPTION Improving awareness of who can adopt this National Adoption Week. September / October 2022 5842

5enablemagazine.co.uk enable contents 65 BUILDING ON ACCESSIBLE TECHNOLOGY Creating a better understanding of assistive tech. 66 PRODUCT ROUNDUP Our pick of products to aid you in daily life. 82 THE SNOWBALL EFFECT The app mapping accessible spots throughout the UK. 30 SHAREDHousingOWNERSHIPEXPLAINED Get on the property ladder for less with this helpful scheme. 58 REVIEW:MotoringMAZDA CX-30 Alisdair Suttie hits the road in this stylish SUV. 70 CREATINGEmploymentAFUNCTIONAL CV Founder of Evenbreak, Jane Hatton, answers your employment questions. 72 STARTING YOUR CAREER PATH Master the steps to your first job with our helpful guide. 74 A SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACE Leslie Harkins, who works at Audit Scotland, writes about the power of support at work. 76 CALLING FOR EQUAL EDUCATION What is needed to ensure deaf pupils can achieve positive outcomes? 78 MASTERINGEducationTHE MOVE TO HIGHER EDUCATION Start your new life at college or university with the right support. WIN AN SHORTACCESSIBLEBREAKINLIVERPOOLONPAGE54 5452 36 NAVIGATINGRELATIONSHIPS Finding support when your situation changes. 40 FINDING LOCAL SUPPORT Discover the organisations in your community. 50 THE DIARY Events to attend this September and October. 52 RECIPE: ONE-POT HALLOUMI AND TOMATO PASTA Meliz Berg shares this one-pot recipe from her debut cookbook. 56 AUTUMN READS Cosy up with a good book as we enter a new season. 62 ON THE MOVE Exploring access on transport and your rights. 38

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ON 1 SEPTEMBER, ENTRIES opened for the Disabled Poets Prize 2023. The new award was set up to recognise the work currently being produced by deaf and disabled poets within the UK, recognising writers who have faced ableist and audist barriers in accessing their careers. This includes D/deaf/ HoH people; people who are blind or visually impaired; people with mobility or physical impairments; people with chronic or long-term conditions; people with mental health conditions or experience of mental distress; people who are neurodivergent, have cognitive impairments or have a learning disability.Withsupport from a range of sponsors, winners of the first, second, third and highly commended prizes will receive financial support, while the first and second prize winners will also receive additional support to develop their writing. Alongside the main prizes, all category winners will receive a yearlong membership to the community platform Being A Writer from The Literary Consultancy. Find out more about the awards and enter www.disabledpoetsprize.org.ukat FOR THE FIRST POETS PRIZE

enable news News ENTRIES OPEN

New initiative launched to help adults with learning disabilities and autism into work

THE UK GOVERNMENT HAS announced a new initiative to help autistic adults and adults with a learning disability into work. The Local Supported Employment initiative will provide grant funding to 24 local authorities in England and Wales over the next three years, backed by an investment of £7.6 million. Each local authority area involved will be able to support between 60 and 140 people to move into employment while also providing the help necessary to maintain thatThejob.initiative will involve assigning job coaches to carry out vocational profiling, engaging employers and providing in-work support. The new aid is part of the government’s target to see one million more disabled people in work by 2027, helping to close the disability employment gap.

DISABLED

AN ONLINE ANALYSIS BY British grocery specialist Britsuperstore has revealed the best and worst supermarkets for disabled customers. The organisation analysed the content of more than 750 reviews by disabled people on the platform Trustpilot, mainly identifying problems with delivery services and customer service. Sainsbury’s had the most complaints from disabled shoppers followed by Asda, while Coop performed best followed by Lidl and Marks & Spencer. The need for better accessibility and inclusivity from supermarkets has been further illustrated by charity Scope who recently found that nearly three quarters of disabled people have changed where they shop due to negative experiences during the coronavirus pandemic. Best and revealedcustomersforsupermarketsworstdisabled

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TheAndeyouinthedrivinASchemLookers.ethatputsgseat.ventwoothers.MotabilitySchemeisadministeredbyMotabilityOperationsLimited(RegisteredCompanyNo.1373876),CityGateHouse,22SouthwarkBridge Road, London SE1 9HB. The facilities o ered are for the hire (bailment) of goods. You will not own the vehicle. Agreement subject to acceptance and age restrictions may apply. The agreement can be terminated early with the consent of Motability Operations Limited and administrative charges may be applicable. Mileage allowance of 20,000 miles per annum over three- or five-year terms. To qualify you must be in receipt of one of, the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP), which will be taken in lieu of the four weekly hire rental. Attendance Allowance is a nonqualifying allowance. Terms and conditions apply and are available on request. Lookers is a trading name of Lookers Motor Group Limited, 3 Etchells Road, West Timperley, Altrincham, WA14 5XS, registered in England & Wales Reg. No. 143470. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We are a credit broker, not a lender and can introduce you to a number of lenders. Introducing you to a number of lenders means we receive a commission. Lenders pay commission at di erent rates either as a fixed fee or as a fixed percentage of the amount you borrow. The commission that we receive does not a ect the amount that you pay to the lender under the credit agreement. We’ve got dedicated parking you can reser ve for your visit. Just let us know and we’ll save you a space right out side.

AFFECTEDSERVICESTORYTELLINGNEWFORFAMILIESBYMND

THE UK ENERGYGOVERNMENT’S Bills Support Scheme will come into place this October, giving households £400 off their energy bills. The discount, which was announced earlier this year, will be made in six instalments in an effort to help families with the rising cost of gas and electric bills during the winter.

THE MND ASSOCIATION HAS teamed up with Featherbed Tales to give families affected by motor neurone disease (MND) the chance to create recordings of illustrated, digital storybooks with their loved ones. Caroline England, writer and founder of Featherbed Tales was inspired to support people with the condition after seeing former rugby player Rob Burrows MBE share his experiences with MND. The service from the two organisations is being provided free of charge, giving families the opportunity to personalise and record digital stories, poems or greetings cards, helping people who can’t always be together to create lasting memories. The recordings can be done individually or as a family, taking turns to read. Families can even add their own sound effects or other personal additions.

A NEW RESEARCH PROJECT has secured funding of £2 million to explore the impact of stigma on the inequalities faced by disabled adults in later life. Led by the University of Stirling’s housing expert, Dr Vikki McCall, the study entitled Intersectional Stigma for Placebased Ageing will investigate and identify how stigma related to age, disability and location can create additional barriers for older people living with sensory and mobility impairments. The five-year project will see researchers work in collaboration with disabled adults, using their findings to develop guidance on the action and modifications required in homes and environments to ensure this group can age well in their communities. The upcoming project will also build the Inclusive Living Alliance – a UK-wide network of housing, health, social care and third sector organisations – to test the new guidance and focus on long-term policy change.

Starting in October 2022 until March 2023, around 29 million households will receive the non-repayable funding. The money will be administered by energy companies with those paying by standing credit, payment card or direct debit receiving an automatic deduction to their bills.

People with prepayment meters will be provided with Energy Bill discount vouchers during the first week of each month, issued via text, email or post. Customers can then take these into their usual top-up point for use. While the scheme gets underway, people are being urged to be aware of potential scams: in all cases no household should be asked for bank details in order to access this funding.

ENERGY BEGINDISCOUNTBILLSTOINOCTOBER

8 enablemagazine.co.uk enable news News

peopleolderstigmatoResearchbeginonfordisabled

Download from orFreeStyleDiabetes.co.uk/inner/easyreadscantheQRcode Images are for illustrative purposes only. Not actual patient or data. © 2022 Abbott. FreeStyle, Libre, and related brand marks are marks of Abbott. ADC-60461 v1.0 07/22. The FreeStyle Libre 2 system. Easy read information. Easy read is an accessible format of providing information about the FreeStyle Libre 2 system, designed for people with a learning disability and their carers.

The same aviation report found that people physicalwith disabilities or health conditions are considerably more likely than others to have diﬃculties.

TWITTERVIA@FRANKRGARDNERPIC:

CONCERNS Issues with special assistance during air travel are nothing new: the latest UK Aviation Consumer Survey (www. caa.co.uk) highlights that three in five people with a disability have or would have difficulties accessing and/or using airports or flying. This is the highest proportion since tracking began in 2018.

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That’s just inhumane, expecting wheelchair users to not go to the toilet for over eight hours

F Since the majority of air travel resumed in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, more people have taken to social media and news outlets to share their experiences of less than adequate assistance, most notably, passengers who require assistance to disembark an aircraft being left on board for extended periods of time after landing.

“This seems to be a peculiarly UK problem so I can only conclude that not enough money and resources are put into serving disabled passengers in thisWhencountry.”faced with problems during his own travels, Frank has frequently been met with the excuse of policy. These pre-set rules can see people’s dignity cast aside, or in the worst scenarios, essential mobility aids damaged.“Oneof the loathsome phrases I frequently encounter is ‘policy’, as in ‘no we can’t stow your dismantled wheelchair here in the cabin, it has to

Frank doesn’t believe this issue has necessarily gotten a lot worse, but the disability community is now ready to take a stand. “I would not say [my concerns] have grown, I have just become more robust in confronting and calling out totally unnecessary obstacles,” oﬀers Frank. “Sadly, I think the situation in UK airports has slipped backwards recently. There’s a diﬀerent excuse each time a person with reduced mobility is left stranded on a plane long after everyone else has disembarked.”

Reporter Frank Gardner is ready to call out inaccessible air travel and work with the aviation industry to remove barriers for disabled people rank Gardner was just eight-years-old when he experienced his first air travel mishap. While flying as an unaccompanied minor from the UK to the Netherlands, his flight was redirected, leaving his parents to frantically drive across the country to find him. Nowadays, the BBC security correspondent looks back on it as an adventure, but his gauge of negative travel experiences has changed since he became a wheelchair user in 2004. Frank was reporting in Saudi Arabia when he was shot six times, sustaining life-changing injuries. As a frequent traveller, Frank has become all too familiar with the barriers disabled people face in air travel.

“There are three cogs in this machine and they need to work in sync: that’s the airline, the airport and the contracted ground handler,” highlights Frank. “Frequently one fails to communicate with the other.

On-board with GARDNERFRANK

“Despite the recent downturn in performance at UK airports, which I dearly hope is temporary, I do think both attitudes and service have improved markedly,” enthuses Frank. “Heathrow, for example, no longer goes in for that nonsense of sending your wheelchair oﬀ into the terminal and expecting you to clamber into some hospital contraption then go oﬀ to hunt down your own chair in the baggage hall.

enable interview

ADVICE Armed with his own experiences, Frank has advice for non-disabled passengers along with the airports, airlines and ground staﬀ responsible for providing special assistance.

11enablemagazine.co.uk go in the hold because that’s our policy’,” explains Frank. “Fair enough if there’s genuinely no room in the cupboards, but when I recently ﬂew KLM to Panama, they refused to put my chair in the empty business class cabin.

“Every disabled person is diﬀerent with diﬀerent needs so please don’t make assumptions, e.g. please don’t come up to someone in a wheelchair and start pushing them without being asked, it’s insulting and demeaning,” highlights Frank. “Instead just ask the simple question: tell us how we can help.“Do not treat our wheelchairs like ordinary baggage. They are expensive, precision-made pieces of machinery on which we rely to get around. If an airline loses your suitcase it’s a pain. If an airline loses your wheelchair you can’t move and your trip is ruined. I’ve seen baggage handlers chuck chairs around like they are indestructible, they are not.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION Keep up to date with Frank Gardner on Twitter @FrankRGardner

“I’ve managed to get two airlines - Kenya Airways and Air Niugini - to change their nonsensical ‘policy’ of not having an on-board aisle chair on longhaul flights,” reveals Frank. “That’s just inhumane, expecting wheelchair users not to go to the toilet for over eight hours.”Hehas also experienced good practice in the UK, recently arriving at Gatwick to find his chair waiting at the plane door, meaning he was able to disembark seconds after other passengers left. “This is how it should be every time,” stresses Frank. “It’s how it is in most other airports I fly to around the world, so there is no reason why it can’t be done here.”

SOLUTIONS

“When we landed and I retrieved it the wheels were buckled inwards from the ﬂight so I spent the next week having to push twice as hard as the wheels were rubbing up hard against the mudguards. I suppose the biggest concern is: will my wheelchair turn up in one piece at the other end?” “Common sense should always trump ‘policy’,” adds Frank. “Please don’t hide behind some dumb rule just because it suits the airline or airport and not the passenger.”

The chance that an essential aid for independence, like a wheelchair, could be damaged during travel can leave people feeling on edge in the lead up to their journey. Presenter and author Sophie Morgan recently spoke out about this anxiety and the fact that every single flight she takes is a risk. Earlier this year, there were calls for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the industry’s independent regulator, to hand out fines for each failure of providing the right assistance for disabled“That’speople.abitof a last resort but I can’t help thinking UK airports’ policies towards serving disabled passengers are primarily drawn up by people who are not themselves disabled,” highlights Frank.Tocombat these issues – and to see adaptability instilled rather than rigid and sometimes unnecessary policies – Frank has worked with the aviation industry to find solutions.

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TIME TO PLAN FOR THE BEST enablemagazine.co.uk

“Carers give up so much to look after the person that they care for, so taking some time out to ensure they are looked after when they’re not around just makes sense.”

A new campaign is encouraging family carers to prepare for the future and improve outcomes for their loved ones by creating emergency plans arers often know their loved ones better than anyone else and their ongoing support is essential, but in unexpected situations, an emergency plan can ensure this same quality of care continues.

CAMPAIGN Support organisation Carers First is helping families prepare for the future through the Plan for the Best campaign. The campaign aims to guide carers through the points they should consider while creating an emergency plan, and to encourage more carers to create one. “In an emergency situation, it means that there’s already a plan in place to explain what should happen,” highlights Lisa Saunders, operations manager at the organisation. “Some people might already have this in place, but it’s something that we need to draw people’s attention to.

An easy-to-follow template is available as part of the campaign, but the team at Carers First are also hopeful that while using this, more family carers can identify themselves and get the support they“Peopledeserve.who have never identified themselves as carers before might see this, make a plan and realise they are actually a carer and should come and get support,” highlights Lisa.

Carers give up so much to look after the person that they care for

PURPOSE While plans like this are essential for when a carer is no longer there, their purpose stretches further than this and beginning your own emergency plan shouldn’t be a daunting prospect. The plans can be used in a wide-range of situations: if you get stuck behind an accident on your way home from the shops; you’re on a trip away and your transport home gets delayed; you have to go into hospital unexpectedly; a health professional who isn’t familiar with your loved one’s needs joins their team.Having these plans in place, and ensuring key contacts are aware of them, doesn’t just ensure your loved C enable care

14 enablemagazine.co.uk enable care FOR MORE INFORMATION Read more about the campaign and how to get support at www.carersfirst.org.uk

The house layout; information about medication; if there’s any pets in the home; who is in your loved one’s support network; and advice around meal times should also be included.

CONTENTS

one gets the right support: it takes the pressure off of carers if an emergency does arise. “They do help carers feel supported in these situations,” offers Lisa. “It means they don’t constantly have to be on the phone explaining what should happen.”

With the right preparation and support, an emergency plan can help make unexpected situations less stressful, ensuring quality of care but also removing uncertainty for carers. It means they don’t constantly have to be on the shouldexplainingphonewhathappen

“When you’re writing it, get the person who will be your key contact, or even a couple of people who will be involved, to read it through and make sure you’re not missing anything that should be on there,” says Lisa. “You should involve the support network of the person you care for and anyone you would trust to go into the home.”

“The plan is just a reminder of things that need to be done or things that would be helpful to know,” adds Lisa. “How long it’s safe to leave that person, really their daily routine. “It’s a plan that can be used immediately, so that you know the person you care for is going to be relatively ok while you’re not there.”

If any carers are struggling to think of what to include in the plan, organisations like Carers First can help. When aspects of the carer or cared for person’s life, care and routine change, the plan should also be updated to reflect this.

“I would say that best practice would be to look through it every year, but if anything changes in the meantime –like a trusted person’s contact details, medications or their routine – then you should update it accordingly,” advises Lisa.Carers don’t need to create this type of plan alone, it should be a collaborative effort with the people who might step in during an emergency.

The contents of an emergency plan will look different for everyone and should always be based around the needs of the person they care for, but there are some essential things that should be included.“Youcan start to create a plan by thinking ‘what would I want somebody going in to my house to know to support their immediate needs?’,” suggests Lisa.

“It might be that when you enter the room they don’t like eye contact, or the way in which you need to explain some things. “If someone would struggle to get up to open the door or when children should get home from school, it’s just all those little things.”

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I like food but I don’t know how to cook it, so it seemed like a real opportunity to learn a skill. I’m a big believer in taking opportunities and the consequences usually sort themselves out. The whole thing is really intense once you get there: you get an hour to cook and you’re on your own. Your brain does some crazy mental gymnastics and you crack on with it, but at the same time you do have fun with it. I still talk to all four of the people I was on the show with. Did you pick up any cooking tips whilst ﬁlming? For me, I had no idea about seasoning meat before you cook it, I didn’t know that was a thing – I thought you just seasoned things while you were cooking them. Just little things like that, small life hacks that you can use every day. What has the response to the show been like so far? Whenever you’re on the telly, no matter what you’re doing, it’s always so exposing and there’s always that group that aren’t the kindest on earth, especially on social media. But then again, I’ve never been one to let the opinion of strangers bother me. What was the biggest challenge for you on the show? I guess the most intimidating thing is the unknown. You don’t get to cook your own stuﬀ straight away, a lot of it is just food and cooking knowledge, the ability to think and react quickly and being able to work well under pressure. I wish I had learned to cook outside of it and I think I’d like to pick up a few more skills. I’m not the next Gordon Ramsay that’s for sure, but it’s certainly something that has captivated me.

You’re busy with a host of projects at the moment, what’s been your favourite thing to work on lately? I think everything is exciting. It was a great experience having six weeks in New York filming A Different Man and I’ve just finished recording Celebrity Antiques Road Trip as well. The best bit is getting out there, making it happen, letting the public see it and just enjoying it all while it’s happening. life

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We sit down with actor and presenter Adam Pearson to chat about taking part in Celebrity MasterChef and filming in the United States ou’re on the latest season of itMasterChef,Celebritywhatwaslike?

Adam Pearson

IN THE HOT SEAT

FIVE MINUTES WITH

What’s your favourite thing to cook? While I was prepping for MasterChef I made a really good chicken biryani and I also make a great jambalaya. What did you miss while you were in the US? Tea. A proper cup of good Yorkshire tea. Is there one thing you don’t travel without? I have a little stuffed rabbit that I take with me everywhere as a sort of lucky mascot, so I don’t go anywhere without Sunny Bunny. What’s the best movie you’ve seen lately? There’s a horror film called The Black Phone that I saw when I was in the States and it’s so good, really clever and really different.

enable

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This summer, Enable sat down with Chrissie, who is 59, and David, who is 14. Both Chrissie and David have a visible di erence and despite growing up in di erent times, the stigma they have faced is similar. Here, they both share their experiences and the questions and advice that they have for each other

“I took a break from school and the teachers actually had an assembly with everyone in my year,” reveals David. “They showed them my creams and bandages and let them smell them and feel them, after that they accepted me. Since then I’ve got a lot of friends.”

CONFIDENCE

These experiences were detrimental to David’s conﬁdence, but things started to change when his teachers stepped in.

When Christine, who goes by Chrissie, was three, she was in an accident that left her with third degree burns on her face, arms, body and thighs. Growing up with her four siblings and in nursery, Chrissie didn’t feel like she was treated differently, but everything changed when she started school. “As I grew older I realised children would treat me differently and I didn’t know why because my family didn’t treat me differently so why would other people?” asks Chrissie. “Once I was at school I started to get bullied and the name calling started.” David, who has the skin condition bullous ichthyosiform erythroderma, had a similar experience when he made the transition from nursery to school. “It’s quite rubbish really, I have to wake up every morning and put cream on, I’ve got blisters that always come open and I can’t walk around that much,” shares David. “I can’t enjoy things like playing football, riding my bike or going out with my friends most of the time because they all like doing active things and I just have to sit on the“Itside.was kind of the same for me at nursery, everyone would just play and it was nothing different, but as soon as I got into primary school people treated mePeopledifferently.”avoided David and treated him like his skin condition was contagious. Eventually he stopped going to school. “I only had one or two people I was friends with and even then, they still didn’t really talk to me because everyone else would think ‘why are they talking to the weird person?’,” admits David. “No one wanted to speak to me and I was really just alone.”

EXPERIENCE

SHARING OUR Experiences

Chrissie

18 enablemagazine.co.uk

As David approached the end of primary school, he started to worry Keep helpingsmilingonandpeopleunderstand

“There was nothing like Changing Faces around when I was young, there was no support and no one I could call for advice, I just had my family and friends who helped me get through everything,” admits Chrissie. “It’s been quite a long journey.” Chrissie came across the charity by chance while on a counselling skills course and after being encouraged by friends, decided to share her story. “It’s really good to be out there and educating the general public,” emphasises Chrissie. “It just makes me feel like I’m part of helping others as well now, that’s why I became a campaigner.”

“I’d like to see people being a lot more accepting and I think education is the key, if we can help more people understand that just because you look different, it doesn’t mean that you are any different, then people could be a lot more open minded,” offers Chrissie. “I would like the staring to stop to be honest,” adds David. “People should realise that not everyone’s the same, I think when people look different it doesn’t mean they’re evil or have no friends, it’s just a visible difference.”

CONNECTION Having had the opportunity to speak with David and hear about his experiences, Chrissie shared her advice with him, she says: “I think what you’ve achieved at only 14 is absolutely brilliant. To have the conﬁdence you do at your age is absolutely wonderful. I didn’t have that conﬁdence at that age, I didn’t learn that until later on in life and I just think whatever you’re doing just keep on doing it. Keep on smiling and helping people understand.”

19enablemagazine.co.uk that he would experience the same prejudices in high school, but this wasn’t the case.

Both Chrissie and David have connected with Changing Faces, the UK’s leading charity for everyone with a scar, mark or condition on their face or body. The charity supports people with a visible diﬀerence while campaigning to change perceptions and end discrimination.

“Moving into secondary school I thought it would be the exact same thing, I would have to try and make friends and people would make fun of me, but I haven’t had one single issue,” he enthuses.

Like David, Chrissie’s confidence was affected due to people treating her differently and bullying her for her appearance.

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Knowing that Chrissie was able to move past the negativity she has faced, David had one question for her: “Do you still experience the negativity?” “I experience it still yes, but it’s the way you react to it,” highlights Chrissie.

SHARING

You want to ﬁt in with the crowdyouaround David

“You want to fit in with the crowd around you, you see all of your friends hanging out, laughing and having fun and you want to be included in that,” shares Chrissie. “Being an outsider, you feel like you’re alone and it did affect my confidence a lot.”

David ﬁrst heard about Changing Faces during a dermatology appointment where he was introduced to one of the charity’s counsellors.

Find out more about the support available from Changing Faces visit www.changingfaces.org.uk

“I met her and spoke to her a few times about how I was feeling about my skin and she gave me some advice on how to deal with it,” shares David. “She said they were starting a youth group so I joined it and I’ve done lots of things with them including going down to London for a video, I was on the radio and have been in a few magazines and newspapers.”Sincejoining the group, David has also spoken at a children’s conference in Edinburgh, campaigned to Scottish National Party MPs and been part of the BBC’s lifeline appeal. “It’s made my confidence go sky high,” enthuses David. “I’ve even had a few times where my teachers have asked me to do speeches to the school on Changing Faces.” With their own understandings of how negative perceptions and stigma can damage confidence for people with a visible difference, Chrissie and David want to see things change.

“Growing up as a teenager I used to get very angry and get into a lot of arguments with people about them staring at me, but later on I’ve learnt to walk away from it and not react to them and I think that’s basically part of self-care really. As long as you’ve got a good group of people around you, which I know you have, then you’ll get through it.”

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cross the UK, there are children looking for loving homes, but some groups are less likely to be adopted. This National Adoption Week, taking place from 14 to 19 October, organisations are putting the spotlight on the children that wait much longer than others to be adopted.

ADOPTION Opening

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Currently, children in certain groups are waiting longer to find their forever family, and this National Adoption Week it’s time to highlight who can adopt doors to

“We use the week really to raise awareness of the need for families for some of the UK’s most vulnerable children,” highlights Alison Woodhead, director of public aﬀairs and communications at Adoption UK. “We always need adopters to come forward who consider providing new families for the children that need them, but this year we’re focussing particularly on the children who tend to A enable life

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WHO Almost anyone can adopt, whether they are single, in a relationship, have a partner of the same sex, or have a disability.

The average age for a child to be adopted is three and a half, and perceptions of adoption need to change to ensure more children can be placed in a loving home.

“I think another myth is around the people who come forward to adopt: people assume that most people who put themselves forward for adoption come from a history of experiencing infertility problems, that it’s a second choice or second-best option, but actually that’s only about half of the people who come forward,” explains Alison. “An increasing number of people are choosing adoption in the ﬁrst place when creating a family.

“There’s a more general purpose to National Adoption Week which is to explain what modern adoption is because there’s still a lot of myths around it,” reveals Alison. “People think that the children are being given up voluntarily by a mum who can’t look after them or doesn’t want them, but modern adoption is a decision of last resort for people in really diﬃcult circumstances.”

“The only automatic exclusions to adoption are if you’re under 21; you’re not a UK citizen; if you have a criminal record which relates to an offence towards children,” reveals Alison. Disability is not an automatic barrier to adoption, and your specific needs and any support you would require can be discussed directly with an adoption agency.“Iwould encourage people who are interested in adopting to just dip their toe in the water and contact their local authority,” suggests Alison. “Have that first conversation, it doesn’t commit them to anything by just having that first conversation.”

Michael and Paul Atwal-Brice are fathers to two sets of identical twins, Levi and Lucas who are autistic and have epilepsy, and Lotan and Lance. The couple from South Yorkshire have more than 17,000 followers on Instagram and use their platform to discuss adoption, fostering, same-sex parenting and disability. Both Michael and Paul were always passionate about adoption, with Paul being an adoptee himself.

“Too many disabled children stay in long-term care,” stresses Michael. “We would encourage everyone to think about adopting a child with additional needs and to reach out to other families and the great charities that are there to help.” Through their social media platforms, and their podcast Diﬀability, Michael and Paul are helping to show that families can come in many diﬀerent forms.

“When we adopted Levi and Lucas they weren’t diagnosed with anything apart from possible global developmental delay, when we got the diagnosis our lives changed so fast,” explains Paul. “It is like a rollercoaster where the highs are really high and the lows are really low, but children with a disability are just as beautiful as anybody else.”

“We like to use our social media to point families to support but also to show that there is no such thing as a perfect family out there: we want to help change society’s perceptions because families come in all diﬀerent forms,” adds Paul. “Whether a child has a disability or not, they have thoughts and feelings and they need to be

“We’reloved.here to advocate for that the best that we can. I think perceptions are slowly improving but there’s still so much work to do.” wait in care for adoption longer than others.”

These groups include children above the age of ﬁve; children with disabilities; children in sibling groups; and children from black and ethnic minority backgrounds. You Can Adopt is a coalition of adoption agencies, charities and organisations helping to promote the week and doing work all year round to raise awareness of who can adopt.

MYTHS

“There’s lots of reasons why people adopt and there is no single face of adoption.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION Learn more about National Adoption Week at www.youcanadopt.co.uk, or contact Adoption UK at www.adoptionuk.org life

CATCHING UP WITH THE ATWAL-BRICE FAMILY

“I’m adopted and I’m very proud to be,” enthuses Paul. “I remember being in the care system and I remember all of the emotions it brings and I think that’s hard at times, but the journeys that Michael and I have been on have made us who we are today.” When Michael and Paul ﬁrst adopted Levi and Lucas, both of the boys didn’t have their full diagnoses yet, but since then they have received support from a host of diﬀerent organisations.

As ambassadors for multiple charities including Caudwell Michael(www.caudwellchildren.com),ChildrenbothandPaularealwayslooking for ways to highlight how diverse families can be and the support that charities like this provide for adoptive families with disabled children.

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There’s lots of reasons why people adopt and there is no single face of adoption

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Lived experience or just living? voices are hugely important. In disability sport, such contacts are sometimes described as car park conversations. More widely, as parents we share our journeys when we congregate around the school gate or the local playground, and when disability is a part of our lives, such contact can offer vital support. Vital information can be gleaned from how other people negotiate the challenges of everyday life.

Follow Tim on social media on Twitter @Trushbys, and on Instagram @trushbys.art small tips can be. I sincerely hope the wider use of ‘lived experience’ signals a genuine desire to understand service delivery or the impact of trauma from the perspective of the person directly affected. However, there is a danger that the concept is co-opted to justify decisions. It’s not hard to imagine an organisation using the experience of a single individual to tick a box marked ‘livedEnsuringexperience’.thatthe voices heard represent the full diversity of experience is certainly a challenge. But the wider the net is cast, the more representative organisations and services will become. It starts with listening. We know this from our lived experience.

ROLE In truth, lived experience (or whatever we call it) has always played a vital role for people with a disability and those close to them. Those moments when we meet someone who is on a similar journey, and we know they just ‘get it’,

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IMPACT I have written before about the impact that peer led training had on me following my spinal cord injury (SCI), and the flame lit by that first encounter with a peer trainer still burns brightly as I deliver peer led training to others with SCI or a similar disability. I have also enjoyed sharing my parenting journey with other parents with disability, knowing first-hand how valuable even very so often a new phrase emerges and goes viral because it captures a particular concept that is enjoying its moment in the spotlight.

In his sixtieth column for Enable, Tim Rushby-Smith writes about the use of new phrases and issues that could arise from the term ‘lived experience’ E 24

The wider the net is cast, the more servicesorganisationsrepresentativeandwillbecome

Many such phrases flash brightly before disappearing (when did you last hear about a ‘credit crunch’?), some make no sense to begin with (‘differentlyabled’ and its many bastard offspring. ‘Handicap-able’, anyone?) and others get thrown at everything, until they make no sense whatsoever and long outstay their welcome. One wonders what will be the fate of ‘lived experience’. It does encapsulate a concept that is a move towards listening, and a desire to better understand a topic from the perspective of someone who has lived through it. I’m not sure why we can’t just call that ‘experience’ or even ‘personal experience’, and when I heard a politician refer to the hike in petrol prices and the ‘lived experience’ of a person filling their car, it put my teeth on edge.

Tim Rushby-Smith

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THE COST OFCRISISLIVING

he cost of living crisis is affecting everyone differently, but concerns for the disability community are at breaking point with some people unable to work and the additional cost of essential equipment or care. During August 2022, the Office for National Statistics found that 42 per cent of people with a disability have cut back on food and essentials. This concerning information follows data from the Trussell Trust, the charity which runs the UK's main network of foodbanks, T

As concerns reach a new high and prices continue to rise, members of the disability community speak with Enable about their experiences and what needs to change

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The possibility of not earning enough to cover essentials has not only left Kyle feeling anxious about the future, but isolated from his social“Whennetwork.youneed money

showing an 81 per cent increase in the number of emergency food parcels distributed for children in comparison to ﬁve years ago. With the energy price cap conﬁrmed to be rising by 80 per cent this autumn, concerns around the cost of living are at an all-time high. From 1 October 2022, the average dual fuel household is expected to spend £3,549 per year on energy. The price cap, set by regulator Ofgem, already increased by 54 per cent in April 2022, and will rise again during January 2023.*

“Lifesaving equipment such as dialysis machines should not be subject to these rising prices” emphasises Kyle. “If you put a higher price on the cost of running these machines then you’re basically putting a price on a person’s life." It makes your whole world feel smaller

“Even small extra expenses cause a budget problem.”

ANONYMOUSREMAINTOLIKEWOULDINTERVIEWEETHEASPSEUDONYMAISJANE

For Jane, this ﬁnancial pressure means she lives in fear of unexpected bills, having recently had to replace her mobile phone and computer.

“The computer was a big issue because it’s my lifeline to the world,” reveals Jane. “I managed to get a six month buy now pay later plan – but the payments were a real burden.

“When everything is costing so much it has such a demoralising eﬀect," explains Kyle. "In the cost of living crisis all you’re thinking to yourself is how do I earn more and more money to get by.”

Kyle’s story Kyle, who is autistic and has obsessive-compulsive disorder, is a student about to make the transition into the world of work but is worried about the rising cost of living.

Even small extra expenses cause a budget problem

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PRINTOFTIMEATACCURATE*INFORMATION

desperately then friendships come second, it makes your whole world feel smaller,” admits Kyle. Social isolation is a big issue, but the crisis is having an even deeper eﬀect: people are unable to keep their homes heated or aﬀord necessary equipment and food. “I’ve had times where I’ve had no electricity because my meter isn’t topped up,” reveals Kyle. “You see the transactions leave your bank account and it almost feels like you’re losing a part of your soul.” Kyle is also a Labour party councillor in his area and has wider concerns for how vulnerable people in the community are coping.

Jane*, who is 62, is unable to work due to her physical health and lives alone. Before the cost of living crisis, her bills already outweighed her income and this left her with debt which has gotten worse since prices rose exponentially.

Currently, benefits haven’t increased in line with inflation, and this is leaving people like Jane to struggle with their expenses, including the cost of nutritious food, she says: "I worry that my minimalist diet might be vitamin deficient, though I eat as healthily as possible. Fruit is too expensive."

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“With extreme frugality, I manage to almost get by, but the cost of living rise is the straw that’s broken this camel’s back,” explains Jane. “It’s hard to separate out the cost of living crisis from the straitened circumstances that I, and I’m sure many people dependent on beneﬁts, already struggled with before this latest blow to the budget. There is just no wiggle room left.”

Jane also has concerns around the way support has been issued by the government, noting the lack of clear communication of what will happen in the“There’sfuture. been nothing about how they’re going to deal with it in the longer term, and lots of patting themselves on the back,” expresses Jane.

“It’s an understatement to say times are tough and it’s really not nice seeing people in desperate situations,” expresses Kyle. “I’ve seen my own mother tying herself in knots because of money problems and it’s heart-breaking.”Likemanypeople, Kyle is frustrated with the small amount of support that has been oﬀered by the government and is especially worried for disabled people and their families.

Jane’s story

“Me and Oliver had a brief conversation about it and it became apparent to me that Oliver didn’t quite get the correlation between the energy that was used and that actually costing money,” recalls Craig. “He had seen on the news that people were getting worried about the energy crisis and the cost of living crisis, but he wanted to know how he could help people to address that. “We did more research and found out how disproportionately people with disabilities are affected without an energy crisis, but the cost of living crisis has just brought it to the forefront. It’s widening an already increasing gap with more pressure on people who are either accessing social care or working in social care.”Craig set Oliver and his colleague, Marcy, the task of finding easy ways that people can reduce their energy usage. “I saw it on the news and wanted to make people aware of ways they can save money,” explains Oliver. “The campaign is about having someone support people like me to understand what’s going on and how to take charge.” Oliver and Craig wanted the campaign to be informative and supportive, without furthering the anxiety that people were already feeling around increasing costs. “It can be quite scary but we didn’t want it to be a scary campaign showing people sitting in the middle of winter with four jumpers on,” offers Craig. “It’s meant to be helpful life hacks, tips that everyone can use within their life, something that’s dead easy but can have a massive impact.”

Craig believes implementing these tips could be the difference between someone being able to afford the things they enjoy or not, or just feeling less anxious when they look at their bank account. The campaign is made up of helpful tips, videos and webinars, all of which are free to access online, but one thing was essential in its planning: accessibility.“Wehave been doing lots of videos with the different tips, because I wanted people to be able to see the information in an easy way,” says Oliver. Oliver also helped create and check the easy read document that’s part of the campaign. The contents of the campaign were also created to help people working in social care. “We can’t afford to lose some of these amazing people that work in social care,” emphasises Craig. “It’s a price hike, it’s not like people are trying to get something on the cheap – people just can’t afford to spend a ridiculous amount on stuff that they’ve been using for forever. We’re all going to feel it but these little things help massively once you’ve put them into your routine.”

The tips are easy to implement, but the results might be more effective than people realise.

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At the end of June, the charity launched the Taking Charge campaign, hoping to cut energy bills for people in the care sector. Aimed at people with a learning disability, unpaid carers and people who work in social care, the campaign is providing free resources to help people save on their energy bills.

Oliver and Craig Thomason, brothers who both work for the charity, came up with the campaign after Oliver, who has a learning disability, asked Craig why energy prices were rising.

Since the UK Government’s financial support package was announced in May 2022, the disability community has continually expressed concerns over a widening shortfall between income and the cost of living. Organisations offering advice and financial support have been left to pick up the pieces, with charities like Community Integrated Care trying to find innovative ways to help.

“I was doing what 99 per cent of people probably do and putting my phone on charge for seven or eight hours when I go to bed, but it only takes about 90 minutes to charge a smart phone,” reveals Craig. “You can save around £124 a year if you just charge it for your 90 minutes. If you’ve got a phone contract that’s £30 per month for example, then it’s like getting four months free.” Campaigns like this one could help people save hundreds of pounds each year, but without additional support from the government this winter, people will continue to struggle to pay for essential expenses and live in fear of what price increase could come next.

TAKING CHARGE

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FOR MORE INFORMATION To access resources and support around the cost of living, visit www.citizensadvice.org.ukwww.moneysavingexpert.com,www.takingchargeenergy.co.uk, enable Oliver

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There’s supportotheravailable for speciﬁc communities

Owning a home that meets your needs might seem out of reach, but shared ownership can help you get on the property ladder for less aving a home that ﬁts your needs and your taste is important in having a high quality of life, and the UK is taking steps towards making more homes inclusive, accessible and adaptable. During August 2022 the government committed to raising the minimum accessibility standard for new homes after more than 98 per cent of consultation respondents were in favour of this. These new rules won’t come into place immediately, but it is a step towards having better housing for disabled people and could make the idea of purchasing your own home more appealing. In 2022, there’s more support than ever before to help you get on the property ladder including Shared Ownership.

ON PROPERTYTHE LADDER This September, Shared Ownership Week will showcase a scheme helping ﬁrst-time buyers and families get on to the property ladder, but the Shared Ownership Scheme is available all year round for buyers to take advantage of. In April 2021, the UK Government launched a new model of the scheme, making it easier for people to buy their own home and improving the conditions that apply when using it. Shared Ownership might sound like you have to live with someone else to take advantage of the scheme, but this isn’t the case: it allows you to own a share of your home while a housing association owns the rest. This means that unless you can buy your share outright, you’ll take a mortgage out for the amount you own, and you will pay rent on the part that the housing association owns. In England, you can own anything from 10 per cent to 75 per cent of the home, whereas in Scotland this is between 25 per cent and 75 per cent. For example, if you bought 25 per cent of a house worth £100,000, you would own £25,000 of it (25 per cent) and the housing association would own £75,000 of it (75 per cent). Over time, you can buy more shares in your home with the chance to own 100 per cent, but equally, you don’t have to buy any more shares and can split the proﬁt with the housing association if you decide to sell. Shared Ownership Week will give people interested in the scheme a chance to learn more through information and online events with partner organisations.

explained

OWNERSHIPSHARED

You’ll also need a deposit to secure a mortgage for your share of the home, this is normally 10 per cent of the value of your share. For families H

ELIGIBLE A common misconception about Shared Ownership is that it is only available to first time buyers, but this isn’t the case: anyone who meets a set criteria can apply. In order to be eligible, your household earnings must be less than £80,000 outside of London or less than £90,000 if you live in London; you have to be either a first-time buyer or have previously owned a home and can’t afford to buy a new one that suits your needs; and in most cases you have to already live within the area that you are applying in. If you currently own your home, you have to be in the process of selling it to apply.

Unlike Shared Ownership and OPSO, the Home Ownership for People with Long-Term Disabilities (HOLD) scheme gives you the chance to buy a home on the open market under similar conditions if there are no properties available through another

OPTIONS

To find out more about Shared Ownership, visit www.sharedownershipweek.co.uk or learn more about OPSO and HOLD at www.ownyourhome.gov.uk

OwnershipSharedWeektakesplacefrom15to21September2022 enable housing

Shared Ownership is a great option if you’re looking to take your first or next step on the property ladder, especially if homes that meet your needs are out of your current budget, but there’s other support available for specific communities. The Older People’s Shared Ownership (OPSO) scheme has the same principles, but is only available to people over the age of 55 and once you own 75 per cent of the home, you won’t have to pay any rent on the remaining share.

31enablemagazine.co.uk where someone in the household has a disability, you could apply to the scheme to buy a home that suits your loved one’s specific needs. The scheme applies to new build homes or homes that are listed through a housing association’s resale programme and it’s easy to get the ball rolling. If you think you are eligible, you should get in touch with your local registered provider and homebuy agent to start your application. You can find out how to contact agents in your local area at www. ownyourhome.gov.ukOnceyourapplication is in place, these agents will help you to search for available properties in your area that are eligible for the scheme. Once you find the right one you can reserve it.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

scheme that meets your needs. If you live in Scotland, have a disability and need alternative housing, you could be eligible for up to 49 per cent towards the cost of your home through the Scottish Government’s LIFT Open Market Equity scheme. This helps first time buyers and priority groups get on to the property ladder. To use the scheme, you have to provide supporting evidence of your additional housing costs arising from a disability, but the additional funding will come from the government rather than a housing association. In most cases, you can increase your share to 100 per cent over time. Find out more from Link Housing (www.linkhousing.org.uk).

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Jack is 39 and was diagnosed with Psoriatic arthritis when he was 34 after living an extremely stressful lifestyle. Since his diagnosis and as his condition has worsened, Jack has had to leave four different jobs and wants people to better understand hidden conditions. I’ve had it for probably around five years now and I actually developed it from stress. I developed psoriasis about six months before, I was going to the GP and they thought it was just eczema but nothing was helping. Luckily someone at my GP had a dermatology background, when I saw him my hair was falling out and my nails had ridges in them, straight away he said you have psoriasis. It spread everywhere and it was just out of control. It’s really hard psychologically because it effects your confidence and self-esteem.Psoriasisis basically your body over-producing skin cells as a form of defence, but my system went into overdrive. My business failed and my girlfriend left me in the same week and the stress of that situation triggered the arthritis. At the time I had no clue that the two conditions were related and I was surprised: I thought you just got arthritis when

Arthritis can be a debilitating condition that a ects people of all ages, but the general public are o en unaware of the true e ect it can have. Here, two people share what it’s like to live with the condition

Jack

APROCESSINGDIAGNOSIS

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ARTHRITISLIFEMANAGINGWITH

FOR MORE INFORMATION Organisations including Arthritis Action (www.arthritisaction.org.uk) and Versus Arthritis (www.versusarthritis.org) can offer information and support whether you are seeking a diagnosis or already living with arthritis. you were in your 70s or 80s, my grandma had it. I just didn’t think it was a young person’s disease and I definitely didn’t know how painful it was.The first couple of years were very hard because it’s almost like you’re going through a grieving process. You aren’t able to do the things you used to enjoy: I loved running and wild camping before but they aren’t possible now, I can’t even carry heavy backpacks. For me, it’s also affected my employment because I can’t be on my feet too much and I get bad brain fog. I also had to leave the house I was in because all of the floors were hard. I have arthritis in my feet and it was too painful for me to live there so I moved. The last six years have really changed my life. I wish that people knew that it’s a hidden disability and so if you look at me I might seem absolutely fine because I’m young and look healthy. There’s definitely a lack of compassion because of that, no one is going to give me a seat on the train because to them, I’m not disabled enough. I don’t think people realise how hard it is to live with, it’s a life sentence because you’re in pain every day. Through Arthritis Action and the Psoriasis Association I’ve found a support network that really helps, it can be quite isolating when you have a flare up. There’s a lot of negativity but it’s also completely changed my viewpoint: I definitely live a lot less stressful life now and it has made me slow down and appreciate things.

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Tom is now 74 but was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis when he was 48. Over the years, Tom has found different ways to manage the condition through reducing pain and relaxing his muscles. I was first diagnosed when I had a lump on my foot that was causing difficulty walking, I must have been around 48 or 49 and I was horrified that I had something that, in my head, was meant for old people. A lot of emotions tumbled through me and so I started doing research and discovered that while it isn’t curable, you can mitigate it. I started to get involved with charities because that’s where you find the real information, from real people offering support. I’ve learned that mitigating it is about my diet, mindset, sleep, exercise and how I approach it. The first person responsible for my health is me, what I do and my lifestyle, so I had to go through a big reassessment at that time and consider what I was doing. Through adapting my diet, I found out I had allergies I didn’t know about and I discovered battlefield acupuncture. I’d also never been to a gym before, I’d always been a swim and sauna kind of person but eventually I decided I wanted to go. I was able to walk in and say look I’m now 70, I’ve never been into the gym and I can’t run, but here’s the problems I have. They were absolutely brilliant, they showed me the machines I could use and how and so now I can cycle and row and I love it. I go on a Monday and a Wednesday and then on Friday I go for a swim because that’s really good for relaxing tightened muscles. A big pain reliever was the sauna and I used to use one at the sports centre. Eventually I decided to get one in my home: its infrared and dry so I can take in a book or even an iPad to watch a movie. You can almost feel your joints and ligaments ease as you sit there and now I spend some time in there every evening. I’ve learnt from sleep experts that while the usual advice for most people is a good eight hours a night, the ideal for me is about three to four hours of sleep then to get up and move around before going back to bed. The whole thing for me is management: there’s so many little things that make a difference. I think the first thing people should know is that its normal, but there’s things you can do quite early on in life like getting proper exercise and watching your diet. For people with arthritis I think they need to take charge of it: don’t expect your doctors to do it all because they might not always know that you need more help.

A lot of researchstartedmetumbledemotionsthroughandsoIdoing Tom

MANAGING PAIN

The first couple of years were very hard because it’s almost like you’re going through a grieving process

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Ending a marriage can be a difficult decision, made more complicated when one spouse has a disability and the other is their primary carer, but having the right support can help train on a relationship can happen for various reasons, whether someone has become a carer for their spouse or another loved one, if one person in the relationship acquires a disability, or if a child acquires a disability. Relationships could be affected while someone’s condition progresses or when new symptoms and needs arise. In some situations, people may choose to bring a marriage or civil partnership to an end.

Navigating RELATIONSHIPS

Taking the steps to end a marriage can have an effect both practically and emotionally. When one person in the relationship is the main carer for the other, the divorce process can be more complicated. There are different things to consider in this situation including financial and caring responsibilities. If one spouse has been a full-time carer and as a result was unable to work, or they received benefits because of this, any contributions made to the welfare of the family by either party will be taken into consideration during a divorce. This ensures that an unpaid carer isn’t left without any income after the divorce is complete. Disability will always be considered when negotiating the separation of assets and this should also take into account who will now care for the spouse with a disability.

Across the UK, different law firms are at hand who have worked with disabled clients in the past, and specifically on separations where one party has a disability and the other person is a carer. Slater Gordon (www.slatergordon. co.uk) and OTS Family Law (www.

S FOR MORE INFORMATION Organisations like Family Lives (www.familylives.org.uk) can offer parenting and family support during difficult times, along with advice around divorce and separation.

While this decision is already extremely difficult, it can be made even harder if one person has a disability or long-term health condition and the other party is their primary carer. This could lead to extra considerations around finances and care. Whether ending the relationship is the choice of the disabled person or the carer, there is help, support and advice at hand to aid you through this process.

Alongside the wealth of legal support out there to help you or your current partner during this time, there is also a host of emotional support during this extremely hard time. The chance to speak to a community who understand or empathise with your situation and needs can be a big help. Online forums, like the Scope Online Community (forum. scope.org.uk), provide the opportunity to search through current posts that contain questions with other people in the forum offering answers or advice. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, you could create your own post and reach out to this community. If you think you would benefit from speaking to someone with your current partner while you go through this process and adapt to your new situation, counselling organisations like Relate (www.relate.org.uk) can offer a caring and supportive environment to help you work through any conflicts.

enable life

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

There is help, support and advice at hand to aid you through this process

LEGAL ADVICE

HANDLING DIVORCE

otsfamilysolicitors.co.uk) understand the considerations that should be made during a divorce when one spouse has a disability. The lawyers’ family law teams are at hand to offer support through the divorce process and give guidance on each parties’ rights to care and financial support.

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After therediagnosisatends to be this pattern of overwhelmedhopelessfeelingand

When living with dementia or caring for someone with the condition, comfort and community shouldn’t be underestimated

Released this summer, United Caring For Our Loved Ones Living F

Hearing about the experiences of people in a similar situation can provide a sense of community in the weeks and months following a diagnosis, or in the years to come as someone’s condition progresses.

or people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia and their families, the time following a diagnosis can feel overwhelming and confusing, especially if it comes unexpectedly. This year, World Alzheimer’s Month will focus on the theme of Know Dementia, Know Alzheimer’s, continuing on from the 2021 campaign that focused on the warning signs of dementia and diagnosis. For 2022, the campaign will explore post-diagnosis support.

United in Dementia care

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With Dementia is an illustrated book capturing the real-life stories of people living with dementia, told by the loved ones that care for them.

The book was written by Gina Awad who has been making a difference for people living with dementia and their families for over 10 years. Gina first became interested in the topic while studying a module on dementia care as part of an Open University degree in 2012. Since then, she has utilised her background in counselling and an interest in relationships and the brain to connect with different people in this community. Gina continued to form connections with people living with dementia and their families through volunteer work and creating the Exeter Dementia Action Alliance in 2014. Through this she met illustrator and cartoonist Tony Husband. In 2014, Tony released the book Take Care Son: The Story of My Dad and His Dementia, an illustrated story based on his own family’s experiences. Since meeting six years ago, the duo has worked together on a range of projects to increase awareness of dementia, but as the coronavirus pandemic began to dictate lives and care two years ago, they wanted to help people share their experiences in another way. “We didn’t know at that point. exactly what it would look like other than it would be about dementia,” remembers Gina. “We knew we needed to provide a voice to families of people living with dementia and we came up with the idea for United.”

CREATION

After approaching Tony’s publisher with their plans, Gina began to reach out to her network and form a true understanding of what the book should“Afterbe.adiagnosis there tends to be this pattern of feeling hopeless and overwhelmed while having to navigate the intricate health and social care system which is very complex,” offers Gina. “On top of that people have to deal with the emotional impact for them and their family.” Gina began to identify families who wanted to share their story and through a series of video calls, Gina invited them to share their experiences through her curious questioning style while Tony took notes to base his illustrations on. With each story occupying a number of pages within the book, United provides an easy-to-digest, relatable resource for families caring for a loved one with dementia, and a real-life information source for the professionals working with them. The book also has a section of helpful resources for carers to utilise.

AUTHENTIC While creating the book, it was important to both Tony and Gina that it showcased different people’s unique experiences.“Wewanted to include children and young people as well as adults,” explains Gina. “One story is about a woman who was diagnosed at 42 and her husband looked after her while living at home with her two young children. I wanted to share a bit of what that’s like from the children’s angle because that’s so important.”

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It was also important for United to be suited to carers’ lifestyles, with the chance to read it in one, digest it in small chunks, or revisit different stories that become relevant as someone’s condition advances.

“It’s not a big book, it can be read in an hour or you could read three stories at once. We call it “the little big book,” suggests Gina. “I know one family carer really benefitted from

FOR MORE INFORMATION United Caring For Our Loved Ones Living With Dementia by Gina Awad, illustrated by Tony Husband can be purchased via Amazon and all good book shops. reading it slowly, taking a break after a few stories and reflecting on what she could learn from them.”

Along with families affected by dementia, Gina believes the book can be a powerful resource for the wider disability community.

“One of the significant points that keeps coming back to me when people are reading it is that it helps them to feel less alone, and I think that’s really important. It’s true, it’s humbling, there’s humour and there’s emotion in it too: paired with Tony’s illustrations, it brings people’s stories to life,” concludes Gina. enable care

HUSBANDTONY©ILLUSTRATIONS:

“Even if you haven’t been touched by dementia you can read it,” emphasises Gina. “We got a review from a lady who said she related to the stigma around it and the lack of support but from the context of having a 13-year-old son who is autistic.”Withso many stories from different perspectives, it’s no surprise that readers have found that the book relates to different aspects of their lives. This also gives it the power to tackle feelings of isolation.

hether you have a disability or you are a carer or loved one of someone with a disability, having a support network close by can be extremely beneficial. Where national support groups can provide support through helplines, fundraising events and information, local support groups usually offer both emotional and practical support. These groups can be especially helpful for families who don’t have many loved ones close by, or for people who are in the process of getting a diagnosis.

Finding local support

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Having a support system in your local community can improve quality of life for you and the person you care for

Organisations like SupportLine (www. supportline.org.uk, 01708 765 200), Disability Information Scotland (www. disabilityscot.org.uk, 0300 323 9961) and Skills for Care (www.skillsforcare. org.uk) have searchable databases to help you find your closest support group or information point as well as providing advice themselves. Some national charities, including Mencap (www. mencap.org.uk), also have networks made up of partner organisations around the country which are often specific to small communities.

Finding support in your local area is now as easy as searching online or picking up the phone enable life

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Finding support in your local area is now as easy as searching online or picking up the phone to call a helpline. Your local authority should have a local offer page on their website, listing groups in your area, or you can utilise a national database that has different filters depending on what support you need.

GIVING BACK If you have spare time, you could volunteer with a local support group that you know of, whether they have helped you in the past or you just want to give back in your community. Donating your time can be just as beneficial as helping to raise money for local services and your experiences could aid other disabled people, parents of disabled children and carers.

Attending a local support group comes with a host of benefits regardless of whether it is at a day centre, run by the local council, or simply a chat with other people over coffee in a nearby café. The chance to connect with and learn from people who have similar experiences can reduce feelings of isolation while allowing you to find out more about the services on offer in your area, or things that have helped people in a similar situation. They can offer friendship, the chance to socialise, emotional support, and importantly, advice and information around social care services in your community.Ifyoucare for a loved one full-time, these groups can also be a mode of respite, offering a listening ear and a sense of camaraderie. It can be comforting to speak to people who understand and empathise with your situation and you might be able to share different aspects of your life that comfort or help them, too.

BENEFITS

To contact your local authority and find out about support visit www.gov.uk

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On 10 October, people around the world will start conversations and tackle stigma for World Mental Health Day. The day, which is now in its thirtieth year, aims to protect and improve mental health

MENTAL HEALTH 42 enablemagazine.co.uk Putting the focus on

“For me, this year’s theme is about encouraging people to really think about how they can create change and encourage that conversation on mental health,” expresses Julie. “People can do that at lots of diﬀerent levels, I think that’s what’s really interesting about the theme for this year.”

One practical step is reading the Money Saving Expert (www. moneysavingexpert.com) guide on mental health and debt. The booklet, created by Martin Lewis, is free to download online and talks readers through analysing problem debt and how to get help.

n the UK, organisations including the Mental Health Foundation and Rethink Mental Illness are celebrating World Mental Health Day, helping to promote the support currently available and why it’s so important that we talk about mental health.

The service was created to give people receiving this support a break from some of their ﬁnancial worries. When implemented, this freezes debt interest and charges and prevents debt enforcement action and contact from creditors while they are under care, but also for 30 days after.

“Whether you are struggling with your mental health in general, or as a result of issues outside of your control such as the cost of living crisis, there is practical support out there,” said Gemma. “Figuring out where to start can be overwhelming. Reach out to friends, family or free advice services to help you to understand your options.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION No problem or concern is too small to reach out for support with your mental health. Contact the Rethink Mental Illness Advice Service on 0808 801 0525 or visit www.mentalhealth.org.uk to learn more about mental health.

“There’s a few diﬀerent days like this and actually I think it’s great for stimulating and putting the focus on mental health,” enthuses Julie Cameron, associate director for Scotland at the Mental Health Foundation. “The discussion has been increasing, these conversations are certainly more mainstream, but we also know that a stigma still exists, particularly around long-term mental healthDaysconditions.”likethisenable

As World Mental Health Day approaches, there is one thing aﬀecting the mental wellbeing of almost everyone in the UK: the current cost of living crisis and concerns around money.

MONEY WORRIES

“You don’t have to be the next big sporting superstar, exercise can mean simple things like stretches and can be done at any level, it all helps mental health,” reveals Julie. One way to ensure you’re getting a nutritious meal while tackling any feelings of isolation or loneliness is to attend a community kitchen. Organisations like Food Cycle (www.foodcycle.org.uk) allow you to search for your closest community kitchen online. When you attend, you’ll get to enjoy a free meal and have a chat with people in your local area, and if there is extra food, attendees get the chance to take this home to enjoy.

“Mental health aﬀects us all and I think sometimes people forget that: our mental health can go up and down throughout life the same as our physical health can go up and down throughout life,” highlights Gemma. “Any day in the diary that helps us talk about mental health, whether it’s more broadly or opening up about personal issues, is just a fantastic opportunity.”

Gemma Thickett is part of the team at Rethink Mental Illness (www.rethink.org), managing a service which provides advice and information to members of the public on living with mental illness.

conversations that wouldn’t otherwise take place, creating an opportunity for people to speak with those around them or outside sources of support about their mental health.

For people who are in debt and receiving mental health crisis treatment, the Mental Health Crisis Breathing Space scheme can help.

GLOBAL This year the theme for the day is make mental health and wellbeing for all a global priority. Set by the World Health Organisation, the theme aims to help people reconnect and provide an opportunity to re-kindle eﬀorts to protect and improve mental health.

The discussion has increasing,been mainstreamcertainlyconversationsthesearemore enable health

“It basically means doing things that help you get a good night’s sleep like having a regular bedtime routine; exercising regularly so you get a deeper sleep; not using your phone before bed and absolutely no doom scrolling,” explains Gemma. Doom scrolling before bed - the constant refreshing of social media sites or continuous scrolling through feeds - has been shown to disrupt and delay sleep, or to diminish the quality of sleep.

“It has this overarching message that no debt problems are unsolvable and I think that’s a really important message for people to hear at the moment,” oﬀers Julie.

SELF-HELP Regardless of what you are worried about, there are tools and support available to aid your mental health and wellbeing. Both Julie and Gemma highlight the importance of a good night’s sleep in supporting better mental“Therehealth.aresome things that really help our ability to cope with stress and sleep is a key one,” says Julie. Focussing on sleep hygiene can help improve the quality of sleep that you are getting each night.

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“When I realise that’s happening I tell myself to stop and do some mindfulness to help me be present, I personally ﬁnd that really helpful when I’m starting to get anxious or lost in my phone,” shares Gemma. Maintaining a balanced diet and a good level of physical activity, or getting outdoors, can also contribute to better mental health.

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MISSED OPPORTUNITIES

HIGHLIGHTING Menopause

T Carly We need to pregnanthowaroundperiodswomen’sdiscussionsseearoundhealthandcentredmorethannottoget

Wheelchair athlete Carly Tait was diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency - often referred to as premature menopause - in 2020 at the age of 34 and is now speaking out about the challenges she faced in trying to get a diagnosis and support.

Premature menopause is estimated to effect one per cent of women under 40, amounting to nearly 350,000 women in the UK.

“All I knew about the menopause was that you don’t have periods, but I didn’t know about the transitional period and what comes with that,” highlights Carly. “I now know that I was 100 per cent menopausal when competing at Rio 2016.”After Rio, Carly wanted to compete for another year: she started her sporting journey as a spectator at London 2012 and wanted to end it in the same location as an athlete. As her symptoms got worse and her concerns grew, her performance as an athlete didn’t improve and she made the decision to retire in the summer of 2017.

“Things weren’t regular but I wasn’t worried because I didn’t expect them to be, but when it started to get to about 60 days each time, I started panicking and I would take a pregnancy test but they were always negative,” explains Carly. “I raised it to the British team as well as to GPs. They said because of your intensive training it’s to be expected.”Theidea that Carly wasn’t menstruating regularly because of sport was something she was told time and time again, but her concerns remained.

enable health

Carly always had irregular and often debilitating periods ever since she was 14-years-old, and when she was 18 she went on the contraceptive pill. Two years into her sporting career at age 29, she was more conscious of what she was putting into her body and decided to stop taking it.

British wheelchair athlete Carly Tait is ready to share her battle for a diagnosis and raise awareness of what is medically known as premature ovarian insufficiency he menopause is often explained as a time when a woman can no longer get pregnant, and while this is the case, the change in hormones can also lead to serious health problems if left undiagnosed and unmonitored.

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“To this day my last period was November 2017 which was the last of those four, after that there was nothing,” reveals Carly. “I remember the last one vividly: it didn’t stop for weeks. I went to the doctor as a non-athletic person and I remember thinking they’ll have to take me seriously now.” Carly saw an on-call doctor instead of her regular GP who told her they should start investigating for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that aﬀects how the ovaries work. “I had a scan to check for PCOS and they said it was all normal, but in reality, at this point I was six weeks pregnant and didn’t know. I had fallen pregnant despite not having had a period for three months,” explains Carly. “Because they were looking at my ovaries and not my uterus they missed the baby. They decided to refer me to gynaecology and they said it would be 70 days until my appointment.“Luckily,Ihad private healthcare under my partner’s plan so I rang them and said I’m not having periods and this needsTheseinvestigating.”doctorsran the same tests

“That makes me cross but what makes me crosser is that there were so many opportunities for somebody to connect the dots,” emphasises Carly. “I went private and no one found it, I had a major private institution around me, and I had the NHS, how many other times should I have said it?

“It’s important that people understand the impact: it’s not just that I don’t have periods, I’m now more prone to heart attacks, my brain is not the same, I don’t have the opportunity to produce my own children,” highlights Carly. “We need to see discussions around women’s health and periods centred around more than how not to get pregnant.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION Every year, World Menopause Day takes place on 18 October, helping to raise awareness of the menopause and the support options available. Find out more at www.themenopausecharity.org

INVESTIGATION

“That’s what really upsets me because as a result I wasn’t able to freeze eggs so I don’t have any biological opportunities now to have another child.”

AWARENESS Carly will be on HRT for the next 30 years and the treatment has completely changed her life. Now, she’s focused on getting healthy again and raising awareness of premature menopause. With greater knowledge of women’s health across society, people could avoid a missed diagnosis and the stress that Carly had to go through.

Armed with the correct diagnosis, Carly is connecting with other woman through The Daisy Network (www. daisynetwork.org), a charity oﬀering information, advice and support for women with premature ovarian failure.

After retiring, Carly and her partner Matthew decided to have a baby, at this time she had four back-to-back 28-day cycles and began tracking ovulation, but then didn’t have another period again.

DEVASTATING

again, confirming that Carly didn’t have PCOS but that she was pregnant. By this time, Carly was 13 weeks along. “I was shocked because at this point we were still trying, I had taken pregnancy tests previously and they were negative,” says Carly. “I then had the baby and within a matter of weeks it was like I fell off a cliff: my brain switched off, it was a breakdown.” Carly experienced extreme depression and anxiety which started to affect all of her relationships. Paired with being a new mum she was told this was postnatal depression and was put on antidepressants.“Ipresented myself at A and E because I needed help and didn’t know what was going on,” shares Carly. “At this point still, no one said the word menopause, everyone thought it was post-natal depression but I knew it wasn’t.”

After being given holistic support as a new mum, Carly and her partner started trying for a second child, but this time she didn’t want to wait and see what happened.“Iwentthrough my partners plan again and I got an appointment within six weeks, I had two sets of blood tests and the gynaecologist said this is menopause, you’re almost through it,” states Carly. “I asked her to scan me and there was only one or two follicles where a woman my age should have 15 on each side. I had a complete depletion of all hormones. “It was so devastating because we were trying for our second child and it was the worst news I could receive. She put me on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and I also had to have a scan to check my bones, they said I had osteopenia and that is a direct result of going through the menopause for years without enough oestrogen in my system.”Thediagnosis of osteopenia is of concern for Carly: she was already at risk of falls due to having cerebral palsy and this condition now means that she is more likely to sustain fractures.

Carly and her son enable health

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Rollinwetroomshower Dogswelcome Staysomewherespecial Wheelchairaccessible Self-cateringlogcabins inthePeakDistrictcountryside Mobilehoist Specialistequipment www.hoegrangeholidays.co.uk tel:01629540262 @LakesideHub @BrickHCottages Lakeside_Hub BrickHCottages Based in Lancashire within 6 acres of countryside Electric track hoists in all cottages from bedroom to wet room & profile beds available All overlooking our private fishing lake Luxury hot tubs with track hoist in 9 of 12 Additional equipment to make your stay a home from Privatehomehire of Hydrotherapy pool & Interactive sensory room Fully equipped Changing Place Toilet www.brickhousecottages.co.uk info@brickhousecottages.co.uk / 01253 702 122 / Brickhouse Lane, Hambleton, FY6 9BG AccessibleHolidayCottages with onsite accessible facilities; hydrotherapy pool, sensory room & bistro £40 off code: Enable40 - Jan - Mar '23 EscapewithConfidence,HolidaywithFreedomChipping Campden’s history in stone is the Cotswolds’ hidden gem - an idyllic centre for easy access to the local towns and villages, Stratford, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Oxford, Warwick & Worcester, etc. A A Self4—Starcatering Michael Haines George Barn, Blind Lane, Chipping Campden, Glos. GL55 6ED Mobile/Text: 07889 649812 Email: info@cotswoldcharm.com Visit our website: www.cotswoldcharm.com George Barn is within no more than a 7 to 8 minute walk to the curved High Street, its inns, restaurants, shops & attractions. • Semi-rural location 20 minutes from the spectacular Jurassic Coastline and Poole Harbour • Sleeps 6 •Wheelchair accessible ground-floor with wheel-in wet •Electricroomprofiling bed • Adapted kitchen • Variety of mobility aids provided, on request, including self-propelling shower-chair •Dogs welcome Hill Accommodation,AccessibleLodgeSelf-CateringPoole,Dorset Contact: Tel: 01202 becky@endeavour-uk.co.uk630075www.endeavour-uk.co.uk

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Whether you have a loved one who was affected by SUDEP or you have epilepsy and want to see greater awareness of it, SUDEP Action Day is a chance to share your experiences. On the day, you can use #SUDEPActionDay2022 and #SUDEP on social media to spread the word, or you can use these platforms to talk about how you manage your seizures in case this information helps other people with epilepsy. If you work in healthcare and want to use the awareness day to speak with patients about the risks of SUDEP, the Epilepsy Foundation (www.epilepsy.com) have resources to support you in this. If you have lost someone to SUDEP, contributing to an epilepsy death register through an organisation like SUDEP Action (www.sudep.org) can aid research in this area and increase awareness. Despite it being a scary topic, informedpeoplecanawarenesspublicleavebetter

PREVENTION SUDEP is defined as when a person with epilepsy dies suddenly and prematurely and no reason for death is found. When this happens, it can be extremely distressing for loved ones as there is little closure or reasoning as to why it has happened.

Taking action on

SUDEPE

Finding the best way to manage your seizures is thought to be key to preventing SUDEP. Taking the correct medication, meeting up with your healthcare team regularly and highlighting any changes or concerns with them are all positive, proactive steps. If you are planning a big lifestyle change that could cause higher levels of stress and affect your seizures, like having a baby or moving home to go to university, discuss this with medical staff.

Greater public awareness and more research is key to opening conversations on SUDEP, highlighted by this year’s SUDEP Action Day health ach year in the UK, around 1,000 people die from causes related to epilepsy, and as many as 600 of these deaths are due to Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). Every death due to SUDEP is thought to be potentially avoidable, but there are no warning signs or markers that this will happen.

FOR INFORMATIONMORE To find out more about SUDEP, SUDEP Action Day and how to get involved, visit www.sudep.org or www.epilepsy.com better seizure management with their healthcare team. GET INVOLVED

enable

Research has shown that certain types of seizures put people with epilepsy at higher risk of SUDEP, and so awareness of preventative measures is essential.

Each year, SUDEP Action Day takes place on 19 October in an effort to start the conversation about SUDEP and make more people aware of this risk. The day aims to encourage people with epilepsy to learn about their individual risk; highlight the need for further research into SUDEP; raise awareness of SUDEP; and to honour the lives of people who have died because of it. This year, the day is especially important as the 2021 LeDeR report found that epilepsy was the most common long-term health condition associated with an earlier age at death for people with a learning disability. Despite it being a scary topic, public awareness can leave people better informed about how it affects them. This also gives people with epilepsy the chance to discuss

TAKING ACTION

you.

**An average of £36 will go to Motability Enterprises Limited. Based on RSA data May 2021 to April 2022. These funds are used by Motability to help disabled people with their personal mobility. Motability Enterprises Limited (Registered No. 1786053 England and Wales) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Motability (Registered Charity in England and Wales No. 299745) both of which have their registered office at Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, Essex CM19 5PX. Motability Enterprises Limited is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd. Motability Home Insurance is administered and underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd (No. 93792) registered in England and Wales at St. Mark’s Court, Chart Way, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1XL. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Calls may be recorded and monitored. call FREE on 0800 316 8275 quoting WIN250 or visit RSA online at: rsahomeinsurance.motability.org.uk

buildings and

and

out, RSA will

cover. This includes loss or accidental damage to: Cover what matters with RSA home insurance • Class 1 wheelchairs up to £2,500 • Artificial limbs up to £500 • Hearing aids up to £500 • Carer’s contents in your home up to £500 With every policy

Whether you’re

At RSA, understand how important your home is to It’s where memories are made, belongings are kept, and it’s your own private space to relax and unwind. renting or are a homeowner, RSA have disabled people in mind will ensure that get the need to feel safe at home. That is why to £400,000 £50,000 contents taken give an average of £36 to Motability Enterprises Limited to help disabled people with their personal mobility**. make a difference

we offer up

Take your chance to win £250 by 31 Dec 2022* . And we’ll take care of insuring your home. Provided by Introduced by Advertisement Feature • Legal expenses • Personal items • Garden contents • Technology and entertainment • Accidental damage Our home insurance offers additional cover options, including: We work around you You can choose to pay in one single payment for the year, or in monthly installments at no extra cost. Win £250 with your home Insurance Purchase home insurance with us using promo code WIN250 by 31 Dec 2022. You will be agreeing to enter our prize draw to win one of twenty £250 cash prizes. Terms and Conditions *(1) The £250 cash prize draw is open to UK residents aged 18 or over excluding employees of any group company of RSA Group Insurance Ltd including Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd (RSA), Motability Enterprises Ltd and their families. (2) To enter the Prize Draw entrants must buy any RSA Home Insurance policy and correctly enter promo code WIN250 on the website at rsahomeinsurance.motability.org.uk or when calling the call centre on 0800 316 8275. (3) The start date for receipt of entries is 01/07/2022. (4) The closing date is 31/12/2022 (5). Entries are limited to one per person/household. (5) To opt out, entrants should email motability.prizedraw@uk.rsagroup.com. (6) Any entry that is incomplete or fraudulent, or otherwise does not comply with these rules, will be disqualified. (7) Winners of the prize draw will receive a cheque to the value of £250. (8) Winners will be chosen at random from all eligible entries received. (9) The draw will be made within 30 days of the closing date, winners will be notified by post within 30 days and receive their prize by post within 60 days of the closing date. (10) All entrants agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this prize draw. (11) Winner’s details (surname and county of residence) may be published or made available unless the winner does not consent to their details being generally published or made available. Should a winner opt out of publicity, they may request that their details and winning entry are made available only to the Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) if requested by the ASA. (12) Decisions of the promoter are final. (13) These terms and conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any disputes arising from these terms and conditions shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of England and Wales. (14) The promoter is [Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd].

you

Get your quote today:

policy you

Your home insurance can

Organ donation week gives people an opportunity to discuss their wishes with their loved ones. During the week, people are given information and tools to help them start an open conversation about organ donation. Alongside this, Organ Donation Week provides an opportunity for people to learn about organ donation, their rights and what the laws around this are throughout the UK.

enable

Events to keep you informed and active during September and October

If you have any events coming up in November and December email us at diary@enablemagazine.co.uk with the details for inclusion in next issue’s diary page.

30 OCTOBER

thediary

ORGAN DONATION WEEK Nation-wide www.organdonation.nhs.uk

SEPTEMBEROCTOBER life

THE GUIDE DOGS 5K Sutton Park, Birmingham www.guidedogs.org.uk

17 SEPTEMBER 19-25

THE LONDON MARATHON Nation-wide www.tcslondonmarathon.com

The Motability Scheme is concluding its summer of face-to-face events with One Big Day Edinburgh. The event oﬀers the chance for visitors to ﬁnd out everything they need to know about the Scheme while seeing the latest range of products available, having questions answered by Scheme experts, and test driving a wide range of vehicles.

It’s almost time for the world’s biggest marathon to get underway and this year it will take place on Sunday 2 October. For 2022, the event will welcome 50,000 participants in-person on the streets of London, alongside up to another 50,000 participants completing the 26.2 mile course anywhere in the world on the same day. The event’s website provides a host of helpful information and resources for people with a disability who want to take part, from guidance on what wheelchairs are permitted for use, to how to get a free marathon place for a support runner.

The WheelPower Sports Festival in Cambridge is suitable for anyone ﬁve-years and older with a physical disability, providing an opportunity to discover sport in a safe and welcoming environment. Held at the Cambridge University Sports Centre, the event will cater to all abilities. At the free event, activities will be split into age appropriate groups and will include a variety of wheelchair sports. SEPTEMBER

2 OCTOBER

WHEELPOWER SPORTS FESTIVAL Cambridge University www.wheelpower.org.uk

The Care Show is an industry event for people and organisations in the social care sector, connecting them with products and services that can aid in delivering care and running a business. This year, the show will have more than 200 healthcare suppliers; 80 expert care speakers; more than 75 CPD accredited conference sessions and ﬁve training zones. Along with providing inspiration and practical solutions, the event is a chance to network with other people in the sector and share solutions.

11 OCTOBER

12-13 OCTOBER THE CARE SHOW 2022 National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham www.careshow.co.uk 50 enablemagazine.co.uk

This October, it’s time to grab your workout gear and get ready to run, walk or jog The Guide Dogs 5K in Sutton Park. The fundraising event is suitable for the whole family, costing £15 per person for over 16s and nothing for under 16s. Each adult taking part will also be given a £125 fundraising target. Every fundraiser will be sent dog ears and a nose to wear on the day and guide dogs will be ready to meet participants at the ﬁnish line.

ONE BIG DAY EDINBURGH Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh www.motabilityonebigday.co.uk

An amazing opportunity to buy a fully adapted property with annexe on the beautiful island of Tenerife in the Canaries. Situated in the foothills, just 10 minutes from Tenerife South Airport and 20 minutes from one of the main holiday resorts. Would suit a family with a disabled member or an organisation/company to purchase to provide accessible holidays. All enquiries to Isabelle at Visa Verde Estate Agents in Tenerife. Visit www.visaverde.com/en/property/577 for further information, property reference number 577 Fully Wheelchair Accessible Holiday Property

3 tbsp olive oil

400 g (14 oz) can chopped

1⁄2 tsp sea salt ﬂakes 1 tsp coarse black pepper, plus extra to serve (optional) 6 tsp dried mint, plus extra to serve (optional)

halloumiOne-pot & tomato pasta

JONESDANANDBERGMELIZ©PICS:

1 tsp ground cinnamon

52 enablemagazine.co.uk

2 bay leaves 300 g (10. oz) penne pasta 1 tbsp fresh ﬂat leaf parsley, ﬁnely chopped 150 g (5. oz) halloumi cheese, grated, plus extra to serve (optional) Extra virgin olive oil, to serve tomatoes with cold water, add to the jug, stir, then top up with as much as necessary to bring the stock mixture up to 1 litre (1 3⁄4 pints). Add the bay leaves and the pasta to the pan, stir everything through the mixture, then pour in the stock. Stir the pasta well, bring to the boil, then reduce to a low–medium simmer for around 12–15 minutes. In a bowl, combine the grated halloumi with two teaspoons of dried mint and the remaining half teaspoon of black pepper. Once the pasta has cooked (there should still be some juices in the pan, but the sauce should have reduced down), carefully pour it into a large serving dish, stir through the parsley, the halloumi and the remaining two teaspoons of dried mint. Drizzle over some extra virgin olive oil to serve and garnish with extra halloumi, dried mint and black pepper if desired.

RECIPE enable life

INGREDIENTS4-6

1⁄2 tsp paprika

2 onions, ﬁnely chopped 4 garlic cloves, ﬁnely grated

Extracted from Meliz's Kitchen by Meliz Berg (Ebury Press, £25).

1tomatoeschicken or vegetable stock

STEPS Heat the 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large non-stick pan over a medium heat and add the onions, softening until caramelised for around 12–15 minutes. Add the garlic and stir for around a minute or two, then add the paprika, cinnamon, salt, half a teaspoon of the black pepper and two teaspoons of the dried mint and stir well. Add the tomato purée and the chopped tomatoes, stir well and reduce the heat down to the lowest simmer and let everything cook for 2–3 minutes while you get the stock ingredients ready. Keep checking the pan and giving it the occasional stir to make sure it doesn’t catch on the bottom of the pan. Add the stock cube to a large measuring jug and dissolve fully in 500 ml (18 ﬂ oz) boiling water. Fill the empty can of chopped

SERVES

4 tbsp tomato purée

500cubeml (18 ﬂ oz) boiling water

Car adaptedinsuranceforyou If your vehicle has been adapted or modified to cater for your disability, or you’re a carer who needs bespoke cover, experienced insurance experts at Adrian Flux can talk you through our tailor made policies. Call Adrian Flux today to make even bigger savings with our newly reduced rates. Policy benefits can include: M New for old cover on adaptations M Breakdown cover M Any driver cover available M And many more... Call our UK team on 0800 587 5288 Ask us about our new for old cover on adaptations Authorisedadrianflux.co.uk&regulatedbytheFinancialConduct Authority Trustpilot rating checked on 24th August 2022 NowChildrenswithAvailable

his autumn, you could win a two-night break in Liverpool with accommodation at StayCity Liverpool Waterfront (www.staycity. com) along with a visit to Strawberry Field, a River Explorer Cruise with Mersey Ferries, a Classic Tour with Fab4Taxis and a tapas meal at Silk Road Restaurant. The trip for two adults and two children, or up to three adults, will take you down to Strawberry (www.strawberryfieldliverpool.com)Field where complimentary entry will allow you to discover the rich history of the attraction which is forever linked to John Lennon. You’ll get to enjoy a delicious lunch or afternoon tea at the Imagine More café as part of your prize, before relaxing in the peaceful gardens where John Lennon found solace as a child. The award-winning site aims

WIN T

This issue, we’ve teamed up with Strawberry Field and their partners to give readers the chance to win an accessible short break in Liverpool 54 enablemagazine.co.uk to lead the way for accessibility in the city, with full wheelchair access; tours for people who are visually impaired; features to support people who are hard of hearing; a Changing Places toilet facility and more. You’ll get the chance to explore the city as you travel to and from Strawberry Field with Fab4Taxis (www. fab4taxitours.com). The taxis, which are fully wheelchair accessible, are providing a complimentary, bespoke Beatles tour with an expert driver taking you around Liverpool. The winner and their group will also receive a complimentary River Explorer Cruise lasting 50 minutes from Mersey Ferries (www. merseyferries.co.uk). The ferry, which is fully accessible on the main deck, offers spectacular views of the city and the chance to learn about Liverpool’s maritime history.

After a long day of sightseeing, a

AN INSHORTACCESSIBLEBREAKLIVERPOOL

To be in with the chance of winning this prize, simply send us your name, contact details and where you picked up your copy of Enable to competitions@dcpublishing.co.uk quoting Liverpool short break. Or visit the Enable website and enter online at: www.enablemagazine.co.uk/liverpoolshortbreak

All entries must be received by Monday 24 October 2022. Good luck! enable competition stylish StayCity studio apartment at StayCity Liverpool Waterfront awaits you. The accessible apartments are the perfect blend of hotel and home, they are comfortable and convenient with a fully equipped kitchen. The apartments come with ample living, dining and work spaces, along with having amenities including a 24-hour reception, bar, café andDuringgym. your stay, head across the street from the apartments to the fully accessible Silk Road Restaurant (www. silkrd.co.uk) where the winner can enjoy a tapas meal with a £50 voucher to spend. The dining experience will take you on a journey of flavours from the Pacific to the Mediterranean. The award-winning site aims to lead the way for accessibility in the city

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: All entries must be received by Monday 24 October 2022. The prize is a two-night, mid-week break available Sunday to Thursday at StayCity Liverpool Waterfront for two adults and up to two children, or three adults total; admission to Strawberry Field with lunch or afternoon tea; a bespoke Beatles tour with Fab4Taxis; a River Explorer cruise with Mersey Ferries; a £50 voucher towards a meal at Silk Road Restaurant. Dates subject to availability. Date of use to be confirmed with all partners in advance of trip. The contents of the prize may differ from the images and descriptions included here. The prize in non-transferable, non-refundable, there is no cash alternative and cannot be sold to another party. One entry per household. The publisher’s decision is final. For full terms and conditions visit www.enablemagazine.co.uk/liverpoolshortbreak

55enablemagazine.co.uk

HOW TO ENTER

Fairy Tale Stephen www.stephenking.comKing In the latest instalment from storytellerlegendaryStephen King, a boyseventeen-year-oldinheritsthekeys to a parallel world where good and evil are at war, but the outcome could aﬀect both their world and ours.

enable

You can access our top reads this autumn in print, e-book and audiobook format.

AUTUMN READS

The TheEdieAmazingEckhart:BigTrip Rosie Jones www.hachette.co.uk Edie Eckhart is back in Rosie Jones’ second children’s novel The Big Trip as she heads on a school camping trip complete with muddy walks and games, but it turns out to be a disaster. After Edie takes back control of the trip she discovers more about herself and who she is. his autumn, it’s time to get reading regardless of the format you need or prefer to enjoy the latest book releases. There are more ways than ever to read new books in an accessible and aﬀordable way. If you have a library card you can check out thousands of e-books, audiobooks and magazines using Libby (www. overdrive.com), a completely free library reading app, or head to your local library to browse in person.

If you loved The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo or Daisy Jones and the Six then this new release from the same author is for you. The page turner follows a legendary tennis player as she steps out of retirement and tries to reclaim her grand slam winning record while she comes to term with the cost of achieving greatness.

WIDENING ACCESS Accessibility in the literature space is improving, with e-books which are often compatible with screen readers becoming more popular in recent years. In 2021 sales revenue from audiobook downloads in the UK reached £151 million and 67 per cent of UK adults note that listening to audiobooks gives them a sense of companionship.Earlierthisyear, Calibre Audio (www.calibreaudio.org. uk) announced new additions to its audiobook oﬀering. The charity provides a completely free audiobook service to anyone who has a disability that makes reading print diﬃcult. Through the service, more than 13,000 audiobooks are available via digital streaming, download and memory stick.

As the weather gets cooler it’s time to get cosy with a cuppa and a new book

Now, two of the UK’s leading book publishers - Hachette UK and Penguin Randomhouse UKhave donated new and additional titles to this library, making more books accessible to the disability community.Otherservices with inclusive options include Guide Dogs CustomEyes (www.guidedogs. co.uk) which allows you to get custom made versions of books where you can pick the font size, spacing, colour and more; The Reading House andbookscom)RNIBhasthereadinghouse.co.uk)(www.whichalargeprintonlineshop;andLibrary(www.rniblibrary.whichhasover60,000freeinformatsincludingaudiobraille.

OUR PICKS

Carrie Soto Is Back Taylor Jenkins www.penguin.co.ukReid

T life 56 enablemagazine.co.uk

Tyres and battery replacement

What’s included on the Motability Scheme?

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

BreakdownInsurance assistance

• War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS).

How Motability, the Charity can help We can provide charitable grants for:

• Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP).

“We went on our first family camping trip. Something we couldn’t have done without the new car.”

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

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

Sam, Elisabeth’s mum

Servicing and repairs

Who can join the Motability Scheme? You may be able to join the Scheme if you receive one of the following:

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

• Car adaptations to help make travelling as comfortable as possible.

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

lifeMakingeasierfordisabledpeople

• Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA).

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

• Vehicle Advance Payments for larger, more expensive vehicles.

Mazda has long been one of the best at creating a great looking interior and one that will cope with everything you throw at it. The CX-30 doesn’t have the elevated driving position of some SUVs, but it is very comfortable thanks to well-shaped seats and plenty of adjustment in the driver’s pew and steering wheel. A small disappointment is only the top two trim levels have adjustable lumbar support for that added element of cosiness. All-round vision is good in the CX30 for the driver, and better than in a Skoda Karoq. You also get rear parking sensors with every version of the Mazda, while all but the base trim also come with front sensors and reversing camera.

Alisdair Suttie takes the stylish and fun Mazda CX-30 for a test drive

MAZDA CX-30

The clean-cut appearance of the dash makes it easy to read the dials, while the heating controls are conveniently close to the driver’s left hand. We like that Mazda sticks with physical buttons for the ventilation rather than operating them through the infotainment screen.

58 enablemagazine.co.uk

INSIDE

Another bonus is Mazda works its infotainment with the rotary controller in the centre console, which is easier and more intuitive than most touchscreen systems.Intheback, space is adequate rather than good, so a Skoda Karoq or Nissan Qashqai offers considerably more room. However, the Mazda’s boot is reasonable for the class and the rear seat splits 60/40, but you’ll have to fold up a wheelchair to fit it in.

REVIEW

There are two e-Skyactiv 2.0-litre petrol engines to choose from in the CX-30, both with mild hybrid tech to improve economy. The hybrid technology doesn’t allow for electric-only driving, but you can expect mid-40s fuel economy from both. Both the 122- and 186hp motors are offered with six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes, and the more potent engine can also be ordered with four-wheel drive, though this does impact on consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. Choosing the auto box also means a higher initial PIP Advance Payment. The engines are smooth and refined, but they have to be worked harder than similarly powered motors in the CX-30’s rivals. This is fine for keen drivers, but enable motoring EQUIPMENT DRIVING

some may find the Mazda misses too much low-down pulling urge for town driving. On rough roads, the CX-30 is composed and quiet, and it’s the same story on the motorway. It also handles more nimbly than most cars in this sector, with the exception of the Ford Puma.

The Mazda CX-30 is available through Motability with an Advance Payment from £1,199. Find out more at www.motability.co.uk

The SE-L starts the CX-30 range with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers, and rear parking sensors. There’s cloth upholstery, an 8.8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, air conditioning, all-round electric windows, and a generous spread of safety kit. The SE-L Lux adds reversing camera and front parking sensors, heated front seats, keyless entry, and selectable driving modes. Sport Lux trim gets you 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive headlights, and rear privacy glass, while the GT Sport has black leather upholstery, electric front seat adjustment, and heated steering wheel.

59enablemagazine.co.uk

SUMMARY Well-equipped and comfortable, the CX-30 is hampered by engines that need to be revved and limited rear seat space.

The appearanceclean-cutof the dash makes it easy to read the dials

The GT Sport Tech ups the ante with enhanced safety equipment and a bird’s eye view parking camera.

Subscribe to s the UK’s most respected and exciting disability and lifestyle publication, each issue of Enable Magazine is bursting with relevant and exclusive content from real life stories and celebrity interviews to advice and spotlight features on the topics that really matter to readers. Every issue we cover subjects pertinent to the disabled community whether you have a physical, hidden, learning disability and/or mental health conditions, you are a paid or unpaid carer, or a medical professional working with disabled people.From interviewing politicians, activists and big names in disability to investigating topical causes such as the wait times for an autism diagnosis and stem cell treatments for multiple sclerosis, Enable goes above and beyond to produce engaging content. A Subscribe today and get the UK’s leading disability and lifestyle title delivered right to your door September / October 2022 By phone Call a member of the subscription team on 0844 249 9007, and we can take payment details over the phone. By post Complete the form below and send alongside a cheque to the address at the bottom of the page. HOW DO I GET INVOLVED? If you are a UK resident, there are three quick and easy ways you can subscribe to Enable Magazine:21WHAT DOES IT COST? You can subscribe for either one or two years at a time. • One year (six issues) - £15 • Two years (12 issues) - £25 Online Head to subscribeenablemagazine.co.uk/ to enter your payment details and pay via PayPal. It’s completely secure! Subscribe to Enable Magazine Postcode:Address:Name: Tel: Signed:Email: Date: Please return this form to DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG I enclose a cheque made payable to DC Publishing Ltd for: £15 (1 year): ■ £25 (2 years): ■ Please enter your details below: 3

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

62 enablemagazine.co.uk

T Many people in the journeysfacecommunitydisabilitystillinaccessible

A lack of accessibility on public transport can be a barrier to travel for the disability community, but knowing your rights, how to access a ordable travel and how services are improving can help he Department for Transport’s Inclusive Transport Strategy, which was published in 2018, aimed to achieve equal access for disabled people by 2030, but as slow progress is made, many people in the disability community still face inaccessible journeys. Understanding your rights, what support and help is available, and the advancements underway can make your journeys less stressful.

On movethe

RAIL In the UK, there is still no agreed approach to determining the accessibility of the rail network. This fact can make it difficult to plan journeys with specific needs in mind. In an effort to improve access when using the rail network, earlier this year the Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee (DPTAC) released a reference framework called Working Towards a Fully Accessible Railway. Encompassing stations, rail vehicles, staffing and assistance, and industry accessibility drivers, the independent report set out guidance on what a fully accessible railway could look like. Until accessibility in stations and on trains is improved, looking out for key phrases or features when you plan journeys can be helpful. Depending on your unique needs, look for stations with step-free access; details of the platform to train stepping distance; platform width; whether accessible toilets are available on the platform and on board; if there are heated waiting areas; if a station or train is staffed and able to deliver the assistance you need. Network Rail operates Britain’s railway infrastructure and provides a railcard for passengers with a disability. The Disabled Persons Railcard railcard.co.uk)(www.disabledpersons-givescustomersa third off their own and a companion’s rail fare and costs £20 for a year.

Be prepared

TOP TIPSTRAVEL

All modes of travel should be fully accessible, but until then, preparing for your journey can help you feel confident while you travel. Look into your route, book any necessary assistance and consider any delays, cancellations or other issues that could cause disruption before you set off.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

ROAD

Keep in touch If you are undertaking a long journey or one different to your daily commute, tell a trusted person your plans before you begin in case you need help during your travels. Keeping a note of the transport providers contact details can also be helpful in the event of there being no staff at a station when you arrive.

Know your rights Like in other situations, your rights are protected under the Equality Act 2010. If assistance or an alternative means of finishing your journey aren’t provided, this could be classed as disability discrimination. enable life

AIR In the UK, passengers with a disability or reduced mobility are legally entitled to support, often referred to as special assistance, when travelling by air. This means airports and airlines have to provide free assistance to ensure you have a less stressful journey. These laws apply when you fly on any airline from a UK airport; you fly on a European Union (EU) or UK registered airline to a UK airport; you fly from outside of the UK or EU to the EU on a UK carrier. While the UK transitions out of the EU, the law still applies in this way with further guidance expected after this move is Althoughcomplete.thisassistance is required by law, over the last few months more disabled people have been speaking out after being left on planes for long periods of time while they wait for support, or essential mobility aids being damaged by staff on the ground. In response to a high number of complaints, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has since issued a warning to all UK airports, highlighting their responsibilities and the action that could be taken if they don’t comply. If you have been mistreated while travelling by air, you can lodge a complaint with the CAA at www.caa.co.uk

For further advice and information about accessible travel and your rights, visit www.transportforall.org.uk

Local buses are the most-used form of public transport in the UK, with 69 per cent of public journeys taking place on them in 2021. Throughout the UK, the law states that buses and coaches that can carry more than 22 passengers have to be accessible with space for a wheelchair; a boarding device to support wheelchair users getting on and off the bus; a minimum number of priority seats; colour contrasting handrails and steps, and more. Wheelchair users should also be given priority over people with a pram or pushchair if there is only space for one on a bus. Across the UK, different government schemes exist to provide free bus passes to disabled people to make travelling more affordable. Visit www.gov.uk to find out more. In 2020, people with mobility issues made more than twice as many trips by taxis and private hire vehicles than people with no mobility issues. This highlights the need for fair and equal access to taxis for the disability community. During April 2022, this need for access became the law when the Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles (Disabled Persons) Act 2022 was passed. This new law means licensing authorities can ensure that drivers of taxis and private hire vehicles comply with requirements on disabled access. The guidance provides advice for authorities to designate vehicles as wheelchair accessible; communicate requirements to drivers and operators; handle exemption applications from drivers; and enforce the requirements. The Act also places duties on drivers, operators and licensing authorities to ensure disabled people are protected and are able to receive assistance without being charged extra for their journeys.

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COLLABORATION

“Accessibility doesn’t happen, it is deliberate. You cannot be accidentally accessible, you have to build a thing that is accessible.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION Training on accessibility features is available through Microsoft Learn at learn.microsoft.com enable life

“If you engage with somebody with a disability as a social care worker, a teacher, a healthcare worker, an occupational therapist, then you need digital accessibility skills,” emphasises Hector. “We’ve got to get to the point where we’re not adding stigma because we don’t understand and instead saying ‘let me turn the captions on for you’ or ‘can I make this text bigger’, this should be common place.”

The key to making these discussions a success is ensuring they include disabled people themselves. “If you look at the features we’re using on a daily basis like the blurred background in Teams, that was designed by a deaf engineer who wanted lip reading to be easier on video calls,” reveals Hector. “If we didn’t have that talent in our organisation, we wouldn’t H get that innovation.”

Greater awareness of accessibility features and the need for inclusive design is necessary, but with the right education and funding, simple changes could make a big diﬀerence.

Technology is key to our everyday lives, but without training and improvements to current facecommunityfeatures,technologyassistiveandaccessibilitythedisabilitywillcontinuetodigitalexclusion

“We’re investing not just in the technology itself, but through supporting businesses, supporting governments to understand that this is key knowledge, a whole ecosystem has to be part of this,” explains Hector. “There is an absolute requirement from technology companies of all shapes and sizes to ensure that people with disabilities are not inadvertently designed out.

“We rely on our technology to access government services, through the pandemic education was impossible unless you had access to technology, doctor’s services, employment, your bank: all of these things rely increasingly on having access to technology,” highlights Hector.

Hector Minto

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EDUCATION Hector is currently working with the UK Government on training 27,000 work coaches on Microsoft assistive technologies, but wants to see education like this stretch further in society.

Currently, Microsoft is taking steps to increase the built-in accessibility features across their devices: soon captions will automatically be available regardless of the platform or website you’re using. But, the tech giant also understands the need for collaboration with other companies in the technology industry and wider in society.

BUILDING ON ACCESSIBLE TECHNOLOGY

ector Minto is the director of accessibility for Europe, Middle East and Africa at Microsoft, with a wide understanding of the value of inclusive technology. Having worked in the ﬁeld of assistive technology, alternative communication and special educational needs for more than 20 years, Hector is now also the UK Government’s Disability and Access Ambassador for the Technology and Website sectors.“Accessibility should be thought about like a modern digital skill because we need it: across the world there’s over a billion people with a disability, how can we build technology that excludes a billion people?” asks Hector. Accessibility can be simple and is already built into many productsMicrosoft have had accessibility features like a magniﬁer built into their systems since Windows 95 – but now inclusive design is more important than ever.

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66 enablemagazine.co.uk Products to aid you in your daily

Product Roundup

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This extra loud alarm clock comes with a vibrating bed shaker, suitable for anyone who struggles to wake up with a standard alarm clock. The compact design features in-built white LED lights that ﬂash when the alarm goes oﬀ, and can also be used as a lamp on your bedside table.

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People are ﬁnally, ﬁnally ready to listen andactiontake

FOR MORE INFORMATION Find out more about Unhidden online at www.unhiddenclothing.com their head office after seeing the space!), and there are other household names also sharing skills and products to help make it a truly spectacular event. Before that happy day (17 September 2022) I am also flying out to Nashville to take part in Fashion Is For Every Body on 10 September; now in its sixth year, this is a gorgeous, inclusive event that gains global coverage, and Unhidden will be the first international brand to show there. I am hoping to also ‘pop in’ to New York and see Runway of Dreams. Whilst not wishing my life away I am also looking forward to a rest once these shows are all done!

enable voicesAN

INDUSTRY Joining the British Fashion Council as a member does however mean that at an industry level I am beginning to gain support and keep inclusion on the agenda all year round - not just during fashion weeks. Planning Unhidden’s first full runway show means I have been in contact with and gained the support of retail giants that are keen to support not just Unhidden, but the disabled and chronic sick community; and I will continue to hold them to account and promote the use of universal and adaptive design alongside hiring practice, education and workplace culture. It’s a very exciting time and the difference between now and 2016 when I first began developing my ideas is massive: people are finally, finally ready to listen and take action.

This September, Unhidden Clothing will have its first full runway show in London. In the lead up, founder Victoria Jenkins writes about the building momentum around inclusive fashion and what still needs to change he past 22 months have been transformational for myself, Unhidden and the adaptive design community, with brands like Liberare getting investors, to the launch of Chamiah Dewey - a UK ﬁrst for womenswear short stature design - the momentum truly feels like it is growing around the world.Having spent 14 years now working in fashion however, I am still deeply concerned at the lack of progress. It’s not just about practicing true inclusion on runways or in the media, it’s also about head oﬃce roles, disability in C-suite, disabled and chronic sick students being encouraged to join an industry that has never welcomed and embraced them… the road is still very long.

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RUNWAY I’ll take you on a whirlwind tour now of what is actually happening in September. Not having any funds at all means I have had to get very creative and also very persuasive with other people and companies. I am absolutely thrilled that Kurt Geiger has oﬀered their showroom for the venue and their shoes to be used on the runway (I actually danced out of

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Q&A

EMPLOYMENT could include what software you learned to use, or what skills you honed. If you won any awards or commendations, include these too. Including things about you that will impress the employer at the top of your CV means they will read that ﬁrst and then will already have a good impression of you by the time they get to the work history. Most recruiters take an average of seven seconds to look at a CV, so you need them to read the good stuﬀ in that time.Ihope this works for you – give it a go, and let me know how you got on.

Jane Hatton, founder of Evenbreak, answers your questionsemployment 70 enablemagazine.co.uk

I haven’t worked for a while and there are gaps in my CV, I think this must be putting employers off because I’m never invited for an interview. I don’t want to lie on my CV, but I don’t know what to do. This is quite common with disabled candidates – our CVs might not reflect our abilities due to previous discrimination, lack of opportunities or health issues. However, not all CVs need to follow the same format. It might be worth looking at a functional CV. This focuses more on skills than work experience, so could work better for you. You would start the CV in the same way, with a strong personal statement emphasising the skills or qualities you have that are relevant to the role you are applying for. Next, you would list the specific skills, experience, qualifications or employment

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Creating functionala CV

In her column

Jane Hatton YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED

Evenbreak (www.evenbreak. co.uk) is a social enterprise run by and for disabled people, with a specialist job board and a career hive (hive.evenbreak.co.uk) where you can receive career advice and personalised support. In this series, Jane Hatton, founder of Evenbreak, answers your employment-related questions. If you have a question for Jane to answer send it to editor@dcpublishing.co.uk strengths mentioned in the job advert, and write evidence of having each. This could include examples of things you have achieved, whether in or out of work. If they are looking for specific qualifications and you have them, put this near the top. If they don’t mention qualifications, and you don’t have any relevant ones, either don’t mention this, or put them much lower down. Make the final section your work history but don’t put dates: just include this in reverse order of when you worked there. Next to each, give a brief sentence about what you achieved while you were there. This

Starting your Entering the world of work can be an exciting time, but if it is your first time looking for a job it can also be nerve-racking. Understanding how to get on the career path and land your first role can help career path 72 enablemagazine.co.uk

FOR MORE INFORMATION

CHOOSING YOUR PATH

Find advice on how to build a CV from Prospects (www.prospects. ac.uk) and easy read advice from Mencap.Youshould change your cover letter for each job you apply for. This is a few paragraphs about why you’re right for the job. When writing a cover letter, look out for skills, qualifications and qualities that are mentioned in the job description and try to include these. After you have submitted applications for job roles you like, you might be asked to meet the employer for an interview to find out more about you and see if you’re suited to the job. When attending an interview, you should wear smart clothes, like a shirt and trousers or skirt, and come armed with a few questions for the employer to show that you are interested and enthusiastic. It can help to do some mock interviews with a friend, loved one or support worker to make this situation less nerve-racking. It might take a while to find the right job for you, but once you’ve been offered a job it’s time to start your new career.

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GAINING EXPERIENCE

You could reach out to someone in your chosen career to ask for advice n June 2022, job vacancies in the UK reached a record high of almost 1.3 million. This means that currently, lots of industries are looking for new talent to join their teams and often provide the training and support necessary to help you start work for the ﬁrst time.

Picking the career path you want to follow is a big decision, that’s why it’s important to consider your needs, likes, dislikes and qualiﬁcations before making your ﬁnal choice. Remember, you can change your career and retrain in the future: the job you pick now doesn’t have to be your job for the rest of your working life.

APPLICATION TIME

Find advice and information around choosing the right career, speak to the National Careers Service (nationalcareers.service.gov.uk) if you are in England, or Skills Development Scotland (www.skillsdevelopmentscotland.co.uk) if you are in Scotland. full-time job would suit you, or whether you would thrive in an apprenticeship where you study and work at the same time. Once you have answered these basic questions, you can start to think about what industry and job role would suit you, your qualiﬁcations and your interests.

Before applying for an available position, look into the diﬀerent ways you can gain experience in that industry. This could be through work experience or shadowing someone, through an internship, or even an employment programme. Mencap (www.mencap.org. uk) run multiple employment programmes including Employ Me London, traineeships and supported internships, while Scope (www. scope.org.uk) have the Support to Work, Starting Line and Kickstart programmes. These can help you gain valuable experience, skills and qualiﬁcations before you fully enter the world of work. If you aren’t able to do work experience or an employment programme, you could reach out to someone in your chosen career to ask for advice. Most big companies have team members listed on their website or you could reach out to someone on LinkedIn. Completing short courses online can also add to your skills and impress an employer. Websites like FutureLearn (www.futurelearn. com), OpenLearn (www.open.edu/ openlearn) and Coursera (www. coursera.org) have free courses that you can complete in your own time. enable employment

Deciding what career path you want to follow is a big decision, and the first step is doing thorough research to understand what will best suit you. You don’t always need high grades or a university degree to get into an industry: people often value practical skills, experience and enthusiasm just as much. You should start by identifying what you are interested in and what you want out of a job. It’s helpful to ask yourself questions like: do I want to work in an office, at home or out in a busy environment? What working environment would suit my individual needs? Do I need my employer to be flexible around health and social care appointments? What do I enjoy learning about in my spare time? What subjects was I good at in school? In what geographical area do I want to work in?You should also consider if a

Some of the main sectors in the UK are ﬁnance; engineering; healthcare; hospitality; technology; media; retail; science; teaching; business; the arts. Each of these industries has thousands of varying job roles and diﬀerent companies will approach them in unique ways. You can ask the people around you for support in your research, or seek advice from a careers advisor at your school or in your local community. In England, you can speak to the National Careers Service on 0800 100 900, or in Scotland call Skills Development Scotland on 0800 917 8000.

Once you’ve done some research it’s time to start your job search. You can use sites like S1 Jobs (www.s1jobs.com) and Indeed (uk. indeed.com) to look for vacancies, or use a jobsite speciﬁc to disabled candidates to ﬁnd employers who are dedicated to being diverse and inclusive. Evenbreak (www. evenbreak.co.uk) and Disability Jobsite (www.disabilityjobsite.co.uk) exist for this reason. When applying for a job, you normally need to submit your CV, a cover letter and sometimes an additional application. Your CV is a document about you that includes information about your education, work experience, skills and hobbies.

Discover what career opportunities Audit Scotland have available at: www.audit-scotland.gov.uk

Leslie Harkins

Leslie Harkins, an auditor at Audit Scotland, shares the power of ongoing support at work after she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), a degenerative neurological condition, over 10 years ago. Audit Scotland as an organisation, alongside my colleagues, have been with me every step of the way. They’ve helped me in so many ways, from my initial diagnosis, through to supporting me in my day-to-day working life.

I can’t thank my colleagues enough who’ve provided an abundance of help and support how we work. I can’t thank my colleagues enough who’ve provided an abundance of help and support, from carrying my coffee, to those occasions when they’ve picked me up from the floor, quite literally.

THANK YOU Before March 2020, I would work from home when coming into the office was too difficult for me, although I always preferred being office-based. To support longer-term working from home, I’ve recently been provided with a new desk and chair, suited to my individual needs. My husband, who was also my carer, died just before lockdown, so now coming into the office regularly is beyond my physical capability. We also have a disability confident working group that brings together colleagues from across Audit Scotland, enabling and empowering staff to share their experiences and make recommendations to improve further I

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Audit Scotland has a welcoming, caring feel, an organisation that’s proactive in helping colleagues with a disability, without stigmatising them.

When it was first confirmed that I had MS, the then head of HR took me to lunch to reassure me that I would always be a valued member of staff, that Audit Scotland was there to support me. For a senior colleague to set time aside to reassure me meant a great deal. As well as supporting me emotionally, Audit Scotland was there to provide practical help. Before lockdown, travelling around Scotland to carry out audit work was a key part of my job. Given my diagnosis, I was no longer expected to drive to audit locations, whilst also being assigned work that didn’t require overnight stays. And, when I needed it, Audit Scotland organised a taxi to help me get from the train station to my audit location. The support stretched further than this: from paid time off to attend the many medical appointments, to support from a dedicated occupational health professional who provides advice that keeps up with my changing needs. This included a vertical mouse which helped with initial dexterity problems and an adjustable laptop stand. IT colleagues are now looking for better solutions to my needing to type one-handedly.

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REASSURANCE

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A WORKPLACESUPPORTIVE

Support to work in the way that’s right for you Flexible working patterns, different office locations, working from home Work that makes a difference www.audit-scotland.gov.uk/careers BRITISH SIGN LANGUAGE ONLINECOURSE £3 £25 Beginners 20hrsCPD Studyfromhome Stafftraining Learnatyourownpace Paywhatyoucan:Currently,tomakeiteasierformorepeopleto learnBritishSignLanguage,youcandecidewhatyouwishtopay (minimumcontributionof£3). Let’s care YourYourYourmakeseverythingaboutthatyou,you.ambitions.dreams.tomorrow. Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty® For more information Search 'AGCS Careers' or use QR code

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SEND REVIEW

The review was developed in response to recognition that the current systems are failing to deliver for children, young people and their families, identifying specific challenges and proposing solutions to improve this overall.Fordeaf children, the results of the SEND review could be the difference between access to the right support when they need it or continuing to achieve lower grades because it simply isn’t“Thethere.SEND review is already underway and it’s the perfect opportunity to make lasting change for generation after generation,” offers Ian. “With more investment in frontline staff, like Teachers of the Deaf, the T FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact the National Deaf Children’s Society (www.ndcs.org.uk) to learn more about the barriers to education that currently exist for deaf children.

“Deafness isn’t a learning disability and deaf children are just as capable as hearing children, providing they receive the specialist support they need, right from the start,” emphasises Ian. “Any gap in results should be a serious wake-up call for anyone in deaf education, particularly those responsible for its funding.”

Any gap in results should be a serious wake-up call for anyone in deaf education Government can level the playing ﬁeld and make sure every deaf child gets the chance to reach their potential at school.”Without a solid commitment to and funding for better support in schools, deaf children will continue to be left behind at all levels, not just when sitting their GCSEs. ensuring children and Ian Noon

As deaf pupils achieve an entire grade less at GCSE for the seventh year, there are new calls for improved support his school year, the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) are renewing calls for the government to level the playing ﬁeld for deaf pupils. The call to action comes after analysis found that deaf pupils achieved an entire grade less at GCSE for the seventh year running. On average, just over a third of deaf children achieved a grade 5 in key subjects like English and Maths, in comparison to more than half of all children.

The concerning analysis points towards one central question: what barriers are preventing this group from achieving their full potential? Ian Noon is the head of policy at the charity and believes that the figures show our education system is continually failing deaf children. “These figures confirm the stark message that, despite the best efforts of staff like teachers, SENCOs and Teachers of the Deaf, the current system supporting deaf children in schools simply isn’t fit for purpose,” stresses Ian. “Unless we see targeted government investment, it isn’t going to change.”

SPECIALIST SUPPORT

The number of Teachers of the Deaf - who work with deaf children and schools to provide support, advice and training – has declined by 17 per cent over the last decade.

CALLING FOR EQUAL EDUCATION

The calls also follow a consultation on the Department for Education’s SEND review green paper. The review, which is now in the stages of processing feedback, is focussed on ensuring children and young people in England who access the special educational needs and disability, and alternative provision system receive the right support, in the right place, at the right time.

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Since 2010, more students have been self-reporting a disability when starting university.

Starting higher education is a big change, especially if you have moved away from home for the first time, and the costs can add up. Feeling in control of your money will remove unnecessary stress and allow you to focus on doing your best academically. For students with a disability, there is extra financial support. Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is the most common form of financial aid when studying in higher education, this covers study-related costs you have because of a disability, long-term illness or mental health problem and is in addition to any other

Mastering the move to HIGHEREDUCATION

leader. If the college or university you are studying at won’t make reasonable adjustments that would remove barriers to learning, this could be classed as disability discrimination. Charities including Scope (www.scope.org.uk) can offer further information and advice on reasonable adjustments in higher education.

MONEY

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In most cases, you’ll get to work with student services to find the best possible adjustments for you. To start this process, you should contact the disabled students’ support team where you study or speak with your course

ADJUSTMENTS

Most higher education providers now have a dedicated disabled students’ support team that is based within the students’ association. You should be able to make an appointment with this team to ask for support or just get some help and advice. They will also be your first port of call if any adjustments you previously requested haven’t been implemented.Alongsidededicated funding that is available from the government, some colleges and universities have their own grants available for disabled students to help with the cost of assistive technology, accessible accommodation and travel to and from your classes. The same team can help you explore the different aid available if this is an option.

If you’ve just started college or university, finding the right support can help you settle in tarting college or university can be one of the most exciting times of your life, with new freedoms and the chance to meet like-minded people while you learn. If you’re feeling nervous, homesick or overwhelmed at this time it is completely normal, and seeking out support can help. If you feel that help from your course leader or student services would be beneficial, you normally have to disclose your disability to access this, but like in any setting, it’s up to you whether you do.

‘Reasonable adjustments’ is a wideranging term and covers more than what we’ve already mentioned: it could also be the help of a scribe or extra time during exams; having access to online versions of lectures; providing speech to text technology for video calls; a British Sign Language interpreter if you need one; one-to-one support and more. There’s no set definition of what reasonable adjustments are for different disabilities and getting them depends on what you need, what difference it will make, cost and the disruption it could cause to other students.

Most disabledhaveproviderseducationhighernowadedicatedstudents’supportteam

The Act sets out what disabled students are entitled to including the changing of rules or practices; altering or removing physical barriers; providing support services or devices. These measures aim to ensure equal opportunities for students with a disability, but in order to take advantage of this, you will have to disclose your disability with your education provider of choice. This could also involve explaining how your condition affects you and how you learn rather than just what it is.

You may have heard about reasonable adjustments during your exams at school or when people are talking about the world of work, but since 2001, higher education institutions have had a legal requirement to make reasonable adjustments. This law applies for students with a disability and is recognised under the Equality Act 2010.

SUPPORT Even if you’ve already started your classes, there’s still time to ask for support through your college or university’s student services. You can do this at any point in the year, especially if your needs change while you study.

While studying, you can still receive benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) to help you with enable education

Seeking advice

After making the move to higher education, you aren’t alone: support is always at hand to help you when you have a worry, question or problem that you need specialist advice on. The Disabled Students Helpline from Disability Rights

FOR MORE INFORMATION Get additional advice around starting higher education from Prospects (www.prospects.ac.uk)

student finance you get. The financial support is split into four areas of need: specialist equipment; non-medical; general;Unliketravel.other student funding, you don’t have to pay DSA back and it isn’t means tested. You can apply through the regular student funding provider in your country. In England, currently the maximum allowance for DSA is £25,575 not including travel and this is available for both full-time and parttime undergraduate and postgraduate students. Save The Student (www. savethestudent.org) have a helpful online guide for DSA in 2022.

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onassistance.disagreementsonstudents,offers(www.disabilityrightsuk.org)UKinformationtodisabledapprenticesandtraineeseverythingfromresolvingtofinancialContactthehelpline03309950414.

additional costs due to a disability, and you can also take advantage of concession tickets if you need to travel to college or university. Building a budget is a great way to get in control of your money during your first few months of classes. Money Helper (www.moneyhelper.org.uk) have information and advice to help you create your own unique budget and what to do if you are worried about money.

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PREPARE Now, as you read this article, I am busy preparing for perhaps my greatest challenge. The World Marathon Challenge is an iconic global race which sees competitors complete seven marathons in seven days…across seven continents. This incredible feat has been achieved by less than 200 people, and I sit facing this endeavour attempting to become the first person with a disability to complete marathons in Antarctica, Australia, the Middle East, Europe, South America and North America in seven consecutive days. On 25 October, I will set off across the frozen sub-zero surface of Antarctica on the first of these seven marathons. There are so many reasons why, on an almost daily basis, we can choose to see our disabilities as a reason for not doing something, for limiting what we believe we can achieve. I take on this challenge knowing that the list of reasons as to why this might not work is longer than the list in favour, but it is in these moments that we need to gamble on ourselves – and to redefine our limits. So, until you hear from me next, wish me luck?

t wasn’t until I was involved in a life-changing climbing accident, in the mountains of North Wales, that I would come to understand what it feels like to live with a disability. The injury I sustained that day left me paralysed from the chest down, but with a real sense of perspective as to how lucky I had been to survive the fall. Like many of you who have found yourself in a similar position on your own journey, life had reached an important crossroads –how and in which direction do we move forward?

PASSION For me, the aspect of disability I feared most was potentially losing my passion for adventure, that beating heartbeat inside which compelled me to push my comfort zone in the mountains. That’s why, at that critical crossroads moment, I made a quiet but determined commitment to myself to never change. Both adventure and challenge had to remain part of my life. The years that followed that fateful day, 6 August 2016, have been the most challenging yet unexpectedly profound and exciting journey. From tentatively learning to kayak in a local swimming pool, I have gone on to achieve things beyond what I thought existed within the realms of possibility for someone with a disability. In the summer of 2021, I led a team of adaptive adventurers in the world-ﬁrst challenge of kayaking from Land’s End to John O’ Groats – over 1,400 kilometres across the rebellious British seas. In the spring of 2022, I successfully rowed across the I I made a quiet but changemyselfcommitmentdeterminedtotonever

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REDEFINING LIMITS

Ahead of taking on one of the world’s toughest challenges to raise money for the Armed Forces Para-Snowsports Team charity, adventurer Darren Edwards discusses challenging perceptions of what can be achieved with a disability

FOR MORE INFORMATION Keep up to date with Darren and ﬁnd his fundraising page online at www.darrenedwards.org.uk enable voices English Channel as part of a small team. Without any doubt, adventure has been the focal point through which I have channelled my physical and emotional recovery.

“The more people that do it, the better it is for everyone because this is something that can help people access more of their community and the wider world,” highlights Simon.

IMPACT Simon also understands the importance of reviews highlighting a lack of access: he recently spent two hours trying to find an accessible restaurant around Covent Garden in London, facing barriers because of the age of buildings and a lack of accessible bathrooms.

A new app is improving accessibility knowledge around the UK while building a community ccessibility means something different to everyone and the opportunity to hear from real people with similar needs can be a lifeline when planning a dinner, day out, or just to run errands in your local area. That’s why Simon Sansome has created the Snowball app – a community where users can rate how disability-friendly different venues are.

A life

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FOR MORE INFORMATION The Snowball app is available for Apple and Android devices.

MAP The idea for Snowball has been building up for some time now. It all started when Simon tried to visit one of his and his wife’s favourite restaurants after becoming a wheelchair user. When he arrived, he found that the accessible entrance was blocked by a table and became frustrated at how common this lack of access was. Simon took to Facebook to create the group Ability Access which soon gained thousands of followers.AfterFacebook suspended the page, one of the company’s employees was recorded using discriminatory language about disability. The comment, paired with the suspension of the page, led to worldwide media coverage and a global apology.Withthousands if not millions of eyes on him, Simon wanted to turn what started as a Facebook group into something bigger. “It’s essentially word of mouth on a map,” explains Simon. “Not every disability is the same and so people have different experiences when they go out. “It might be simple things like finding out somewhere has a Braille menu, but you can filter the results based on your needs. We’re trying to make it as inclusive as possible.”

LAUNCH The app launched on 1 July with the backing of two major celebrities, Team GB Paralympic gold medallists Hannah Cockroft OBE and Aaron Phipps MBE, and has already seen thousands of people sign up. “Even in the first week some people were using it on a daily basis with hundreds of reviews already added,” emphasises Simon. It’s free to join the Snowball community and once signed up, people can rate services or places including restaurants, tourist attractions, coffee shops and supermarkets.

The Snowball effect

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“It’s important to remember that we also need bad reviews on there, not to shame places because I understand sometimes full access simply isn’t possible, but because you don’t want to arrive to a place and find that you’re going to be turned away because you can’t get in,” offers Simon. From family days out and holidays to making businesses unaware of the barriers they have for the disability community, Snowball is there for everyone to contribute to, to utilise and to learn from.

Hannah Cockroft, Aaron Phipps and Simon Sansome

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