Enable November/December 2018

enable Forget can’t - think can!

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November / December 2018

PUPPY POWER

IN THE MONEY

IMPORTANCE OF ASSISTANCE ANIMALS

HOW TO BRIDGE THE DISABILITY PAY GAP

WINTER WONDERLAND

FESTIVE CHEER AT WINTER MARKETS

AMPUTEE

CORINNE HUTTON ON FINDING HER FEET

S A E R A L L A ACCESS g perceptions in g an ch es ss cu is d man Strictly’s Lauren Stead

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19/10/2018 16:33

MADE FOR PEACE OF MIND

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15/10/2018 22/10/2018 12:39 15:48

enable Forget can’t - think can!

PUBLISHER Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk ASSISTANT EDITOR Lorne Gillies lorne.gillies@dcpublishing.co.uk STAFF WRITERS Emma Storr emma.storr@dcpublishing.co.uk Saskia Harper saskia.harper@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Tim Rushby-Smith Alisdair Suttie DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Lucy Baillie lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.uk PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lisa McCabe lisa.mccabe@dcpublishing.co.uk SALES Marian Mathieson marian.mathieson@dcpublishing.co.uk ENABLE MAGAZINE www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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

COVER PRICE £3.00

Welcome Ho ho ho, and welcome to the final Enable of 2018!

It’s almost hard to believe it’s nearly Christmas. Time flies when you’re having fun, and we hope you’ve enjoyed the wide range of features, interviews and news Enable has brought you over the last year.

This issue is no different. Our lead interview kicks off the magazine in momentous style as we spoke with the first female quadruple amputee to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. It was a passion for change which drove Corinne Hutton in her journey.

This message runs throughout the issue.

Ahead of International Day of Disabled Persons we look at the countries stepping forward in 2018 to improve, or even introduce, rights and opportunities for disabled people. There is still work to be done, even here at home in the UK. The current disability pay gap lingers around disability employment, but work is in place to make figures less upsetting.

Sticking with employment, it is refreshing to see more companies and organisations actively hiring disabled people – simply because they are the right person for the position. We spotlight the employers that could take your career in a new direction.

Outside of work, we’re talking Christmas. No matter if you’re a Buddy the Elf or Scrooge (like myself) everyone can enjoy a festive market. That’s why a sprinkle of festive cheer has been added to the many accessible Christmas markets across the UK. Will you be visiting any this year? Let us know, or share what you would like to see in Enable 2019, by contacting me at editor@dcpublishing.co.uk For now, we hope you enjoy the festive season and a happy new year when it arrives.

EDITOR’S PICKS...

8 STRICTLY COME ACCESSIBILITY Paralympian Lauren Steadman discusses bringing inclusivity to Strictly Come Dancing.

21 MAN’S BEST FRIEND Service dogs play a vital role in keeping owners independent, but they still face hostility. Campaigners discuss wider education.

45 COMBATING LONELINESS AT CHRISTMAS The most magical time of the year can also be the loneliest, especially for those already feeling lonely. We learn the changes need to end the epidemic.

SAY HELLO What was your favourite issue this year? Let us know @EnableMagazine

Lorne Gillies, Assistant Editor

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

@enablemagazine

@enablemagazine

©DC Publishing Ltd 2018. 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.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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What’s 11

PIC: ©BBC / RAY BURMISTON; JORDAN MAGUIRE; BOO MARSHALL

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interview

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DISCUSSING DISABILITY Many people living with a hidden disability or condition may ask: am I disabled?

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IN THE KNOW: THE LEGAL SIDE OF DISABILITY The law is there to keep us safe and ensure everyone is treated equally. Do you know your rights?

STRICTLY COME ACCESSIBILITY

Paralympian Lauren Steadman discusses representation on Strictly Come Dancing.

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ON THE MOUNTAIN WITH CORINNE HUTTON The first female

quadruple amputee discusses reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

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17 24 26

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care

EMBRACING OUR DIFFERENCES WITH NIKKI LILLY

14

spotlight

21

MAN’S BEST FRIEND Assistance dogs provide support to many, but they still face high levels of discrimination.

31

DIABETES: WHAT’S YOUR TYPE? One man reveals his experiences of living with diabetes.

34

THE REALITY OF CHILDHOOD MS A mother shares her daughter’s journey of living with MS from the age of five.

45

COMBATING LONELINESS AT CHRISTMAS The most magical time of the year can be the loneliest. We learn how to combat loneliness.

The YouTube star discusses supporting others to combat low self-esteem.

UNITING AGAINST HATE New figures reveal disability hate crime is still a problem in the UK. INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABLED PERSONS 2018 Countries worldwide are improving lives of disabled people, we discover how ahead of the annual event.

THE CHANGE: IMPROVING MENOPAUSE EDUCATION Enable investigates what more needs to be done to improve education of the menopause.

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UNCONDITIONAL LOVE: PARENTING DISABILITY Being the parent of a child with a disability intensifies feelings of worry, pride and rewards.

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www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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CONTENTS

54 41 42

life PAINT THE TOWN PURPLE

Looking at the UK’s first ever accessible shopping event being held in November.

HAVING AN AUTISM-FRIENDLY CHRISTMAS Christmas can be a

sensory overload, but it can still be an enjoyable time of year.

58

THE DIARY A rundown of the latest

60

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS Spread some

disability events.

festive cheer at the accessible festive markets across the country.

63 54 56

WIN

LET’S DANCE Welcome to Bubble

Club, the disability friendly club night.

motoring THE REVIEW: VOLVO XC40

Alisdair Suttie reviews the latest car in the Volvo range.

We’re giving away an Amazon Echo Dot to get you in the festive mood over on page 39

64

MOTORING NEWS A roundup of motoring news stories hitting the headlines.

71

42 64

sport CALLING ALL SUPERHEROES

We spoke with Sophia Warner about founding the annual Superhero Series.

67

INDEPENDENCE ON THE SLOPES

71

SPORT HAS THE POWER TO CHANGE THE WORLD

Discover the wonder of disability snowsport on the slopes.

We attended the Laureus Sport for Good Global Summit in Paris to discuss inclusivity.

73

employment & education CLOCKING IN WITH MENCAP Learn how the charity can help get you into paid employment.

75

BRIDGING THE EMPLOYMENT GAP What changes are required to end the disability pay gap?

78

THE IMPORTANCE OF: DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVES Get your foot in the door with the range of disability employment schemes on offer.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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NEWS

The

LATEST A roundup of the disability news stories making the headlines

HIDDEN DISABILITY GUIDELINES FOR AIRLINES PUBLISHED THE CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY (CAA) has released new guidance for airlines on how to assist passengers with hidden disabilities.

Guidelines advise that all airlines should allow passengers to request special assistance when booking tickets, travelling with a personal assistant or with a travel companion, at no added cost.

Recommendations include that all staff should be trained to recognise hidden disabilities so passengers can be assisted accordingly, and asks that these passengers be made a priority in the case of a flight delay or cancellation.

Hidden disabilities can include autism, epilepsy, mental health conditions, visual and hearing impairments, and dementia. It is hoped that the guidelines will make airtravel more accessible for the disabled community.

6

Medicinal cannabis to be legalised THE UK GOVERNMENT IS set to legalise medicinal cannabis products from 1 November this year.

Doctors will be able to prescribe cannabis-based medicine on the NHS in England, Scotland and Wales. Shortly after the UK government’s announcement, the Northern Irish Department of Health declared that it would be taking similar steps, too.

Change in legislation comes after a long campaign to decriminalise cannabidiol (CBD). High-profile cases with Billy Caldwell and Alfie Dingley – who both have severe epilepsy – brought the case

into the limelight and caused debate around the country.

MP for Edinburgh West, Christine Jardine, told Enable: “I think it’s fantastic that it’s going to be available now. It’s a shame it’s taken so long and so many people have had to put up with pain when it wasn’t necessary.”

Emerging evidence suggests that the oil has success treating seizures, relieving symptoms severity of medical conditions, though the side effects are currently unknown.

The oil, which is a by-product of cannabis, is thought to have therapeutic properties, including pain relief and reducing inflammation.

THEATRE GROUP CALLS FOR LEARNING DISABILITY REPRESENTATION A WELSH THEATRE GROUP has called for better representation of learning disabilities on-screen. The company, Hijinx, has also challenged the film industry by calling for an actor with a learning disability to win an Oscar by 2030.

Hijinx tours around theatres in the UK, training actors with learning disabilities to appear in performances. They have produced guidelines on how to cast learning disabled actors, and how characters with learning disabilities should be portrayed.

Recommendations include creating more storylines with learning disabled characters and actors, avoiding stereotypes and making auditions more accessible, for example allowing actors who find reading challenging to do non-script-based auditions.

Since the Oscars began in 1929, many actors have won or been nominated for awards for their portrayal of characters with learning disabilities, despite not having a learning disability.

Actors include Tom Hanks and Leonardo DiCaprio.

The group has called for an actor with a learning disability to win a Bafta award by 2028, and a Bafta Cymru by 2025.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 16:39

WE ARE ALL MADE OF WILD.

NEW JEEP® COMPASS AND RENEGADE. BORN TO BE WILD. JEEP RANGE FROM NIL ADVANCE PAYMENT * OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE JEEP® RANGE IN MPG (I/100KM): EXTRA URBAN 29.7 (9.5) – 70.6 (4.0), URBAN 17.5 (16.1) – 54.3 (5.2), COMBINED 23.7 (11.9) – 64.2 (4.4), CO2 EMISSIONS: 276 – 117 G/KM. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are obtained for comparative purposes in accordance with EC directives/regulations and may not be representative of real life driving conditions. Factors such as driving style, weather and road conditions may also have a significant effect on fuel consumption. Jeep® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC. Models shown: Jeep Compass 1.4 Limited 140 hp from £895. Jeep Renegade 1.6 E-Torq Longitude from Nil Advance Payment. Standard Metallic paint is available as a no cost option on the Motability scheme. *Advance payments are correct at time of going to press and subject to orders being placed between 1st October and 31st December 2018. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Terms & Conditions apply. Offer may be varied and withdrawn at any time. Subject to stock availability. Jeep ® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

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19/10/2018 10/10/2018 14:17 11:54

INTERVIEW As the Glitterball trophy glimmers and dancers Rumba, Cha-cha, and Salsa onto the iconic Strictly Come Dancing ballroom, the show continues to make waves for disability inclusion in the media.

Paralympian Lauren Steadman is not letting her lower arm amputation hold her back from success

STRICTLY COME ACCESSIBILITY Q Q Q

Did you face any challenges because of your disability, or is the sporting world more accessible than it used to be?

At times, I have felt challenged, but I’ve never felt limited by my disability. It has given me so many opportunities in life that I just don’t think I would have otherwise had. Possible challenges as an example have been the technicalities of press-ups or balancing, but I’m used to just thinking outside the box. It may not be conventional but I’ve always managed.

Q

You’re now on our screens for Strictly Come Dancing. In what way does the training differ?

The training is almost just as intense – we spend hours and hours training.

The hardest part is mentally preparing yourself. Pushing your body to try new movements and do things you never thought you had the courage to do. I never thought I would have the nerve to be able to do some of the lifts we did for our Charleston routine but I just went for it. The other big difference is how big a role acting plays in Strictly.

Last year Jonnie Peacock wore his blade visibly for several dances, showing disability in a new light for some viewers. How are you looking to change attitudes You are not towards disability?

How can shows defined by what I think the visibility was such as Strictly you can or can’t do, important as it gets Come Dancing you are defined by people talking openly change perceptions of about disability in such disability? your attitude and a positive way. For me, It’s a great platform to see efforts it’s all about focusing on people with a disability the ability rather than the dancing alongside someone disability. Hopefully changing non-disabled. It showcases attitudes in turn will encourage just how capable you can be with and inspire a new generation. a disability and shows a different side. I also think it’s important to remember that disabilities aren’t just physical and there are many non-visible disabilities.

Most people will find themselves unable to achieve certain skills, or be limited in one way or another. You are not defined by what you can or can’t do, you are defined by your attitude and efforts.

Hopefully shows such as Strictly Come Dancing can help encourage everyone, to push themselves more, and have a little belief.

Q

Make sure to catch Lauren on Strictly Come Dancing every weekend on BBC One at 6:45pm

PIC: © BBC - RAY BURMISTON; GUY LEVY

Going back to the very beginning, when did you first get interested in sport?

I’ve just had a love for it for as long as I can remember. Anything to do with sport as a child and I wanted to be involved. My international swimming career started when I was eleven – that’s when I did my first disability competition.

Read our full interview with Lauren on the website, www.enablemagazine.co.uk 8

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 12:41

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Models shown are the Outlander PHEV Juro, Mirage 3 petrol manual, Eclipse Cross 2 petrol manual and Outlander Petrol Juro CVT. Terms and Conditions apply. Please ask the dealer for full details. Rentals valid for applications placed between 1st October and 31st December 2018. 1. Please note that Mitsubishi cannot guarantee compatibility with all mobile phones and Bluetooth devices with the handsfree system fitted to this vehicle. Please check with the mobile phone manufacturer for further information on compatibility. Fuel figures shown are NEDC equivalent and based on the official EU test (WLTP). To be used as a guide for comparative purposes only with other WLTP tested vehicles. This may not reflect real driving results.

Range fuel consumption (excluding Outlander PHEV) in mpg (ltrs/100km): Urban 32.5 - 51.4 (8.7 - 5.5), Extra Urban 41.5 - 67.3 (6.8 - 4.2), Combined 37.7 - 60.1 (7.5 - 4.7). CO2 emission figures range from 171 - 107 g/km. Outlander PHEV range fuel consumption in mpg (ltrs/100km): Full Battery Charge: no fuel used, Depleted Battery Charge: 50.4mpg (5.6), Weighted Average: 159.5mpg (1.8), CO2 emissions: 40.3 g/km.

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27/09/2018 19/10/2018 15:29 14:17

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19/10/2018 14:18

INTERVIEW

On the mountain with

Corinne Hutton Corinne Hutton is as determined as she is motivated. Having recently become the first female quadruple amputee to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, it is an achievement that would have seemed impossible just five years ago. Corinne has had a mesmerising journey and now works to help others, she spoke with Lorne Gillies

“I

t all started with what I thought was the common cold,” coughs Corinne to clear her throat, before laughing. In 2013 Corinne was a healthy mother and businesswoman who was experiencing, what she believed to be, a bad cold.

It was on a Friday she finally decided to get antibiotics from her doctor, by Saturday afternoon Corinne was fighting for her life.

JOURNEY

PICS: © JORDAN MAGUIRE

“On the Saturday night I wasn’t expected to survive at all. My family were told to say their goodbyes and my brother was on a flight from Dubai with his black suit – that’s the reality of it,” explains Corinne

in a matter of fact way. “As it happened I did survive it, but no more than that, it was not a quick recovery. I had just got through the night.”

Corinne was in fact not experiencing symptoms of a cold, but rather acute pneumonia and Strep A, which cumulated to septicaemia. Her organs were shutting down and Corinne went on to lose three weeks of her life in an induced coma.

Her journey was long and her survival, as her nurses and doctors proclaimed, was a miracle. The miracle came from a piece of technology called ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation), which oxygenated Corinne’s blood before pumping it through her body – in the same way a heart works.

“For the first six weeks they were looking after my organs and trying to get me off life support and get me to do things for myself, but my hands and feet had gone black,” Corinne adds. “Basically, what the human body was doing was saving my vital organs and ignoring the extremities. I thought they were going to try and save things. I thought the scans were going to be to decide what was going to be saved. In a word: none.”

Although Corinne’s organs were

functioning, her hands and feet had to be amputated. From here, Corinne had a new destination: regaining the independence and determination she once had.

FINDING HER FEET

Before Corinne fell ill, fundraising was an integral part of her life. Having completed the New York Marathon to climbing in the Himalayas, Corinne was an avid fan of pushing herself outside of her comfort zone, all whilst helping others.

“I’m quite pleased to think that I’m not that different now,” Corinne enthuses.

“I’m still the same person, and I still love to challenge myself. I still want to do some good and see the benefits going to somebody. That really hasn’t changed.

Fundraising now is my way of life and my therapy, as well as my job, and my friends.”

It was a chance visit (or rather escaping from hospital) to a McDonald’s with her brother and nephew that spurred Corinne on her new mission of starting a charity.

Finding Your Feet was established to fill the void of support Corinne felt was missing during her time in hospital.

Whilst recovering, Corinne did not receive a visit from an amputee who

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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had adapted to their new life. However, Olivia Giles, quadruple amputee and founder of charity 500 miles, visited Corinne’s family but it was advised she didn’t visit directly.

Believing the visit would have spurred Corinne's perseverance to recover and live her life to the fullest, Finding Your Feet, which helps support people with amputation and limb difference, has filled the void and helped Corinne personally.

“I felt so useless and worthless in hospital and [Finding Your Feet] has just changed everything,” she says. “And it is doing that for a lot of other people as well.”

THE CLIMB

Encouraging others to leave their home, even for a cup of tea and a chat, Finding Your Feet has helped improve the lives of many adapting to amputation by ensuring they don’t let their disability hold them back. And Corinne is not one for sitting at home.

Having completed three world records, carried the torch in the Queen’s Baton Relay for the 2014 Commonwealth Games to completing a triathlon, Corinne’s latest success is one unlike any other.

“Have you heard of that disease FOMO?” asks Corinne in reference to the feeling we’ve all had: fear of missing out. “Well, I’ve got it and I was watching people I’ve known for years, who are all good fun, sign up to this event that I’ve wanted to do for years. I happened to fly over Kilimanjaro and I thought, ‘is it better to try and fail, than not try?’”

With this in mind, Corinne prepared for the long trek ahead of her and the team.

“As the days went on people started to talk about getting to the top and it became more and more apparent that this would happen for me,” enthuses Corinne with a subtle hint of excitement evident in her voice. “I was absolutely delighted when we did it.” Posting videos of her ascent, the conditions were clearly gruelling, tiresome and putting a lot of pressure on her body, but the glimmer of resilience shines through Corinne’s eyes.

Fundraising for Finding Your Feet, Corinne drives home that the charity is there to support people no matter where they are in their recovery. Corinne encourages: “If there are people looking at me and thinking if she can do it why can’t I? Maybe people don’t want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or anything like it, maybe getting out of bed is a big enough mountain to climb. Whatever it is you

Maybe people don’t want to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or anything like it, maybe getting out of bed is a big enough mountain to climb

PIC: © © KRIS KESIAK

INTERVIEW

want to be able to do: we will help you.”

For now, Corinne is on bed rest to recover from her expedition. Although, this might be the hardest part for Corinne who details she’s already itching to get up and go – albeit not onto another mountain for the foreseeable future. She’ll leave the next one to her friends (if FOMO doesn’t kick in).

You can follow Corinne’s journey at Finding Your Feet or get support for amputation by visiting, www.findingyourfeet.net

Read our extended interview with Corinne online at www.enablemagazine.co.uk 12

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 12:43

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Hearing that your child has a physical, sensory or learning disability can evoke a powerful set of emotions. From grieving the child you thought you had to fiercely supporting and encouraging their development, parenting a disabled child can be as challenging as it is rewarding

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

PARENTING DISABILITY C

aroline White is the proud mother of Seb, a sporty, loving, and free spirited ten-year-old, and his two siblings. Saying her goodbyes in work to go on maternity leave, Caroline went into unexpected labour that very evening – it was so unexpected she didn’t even have an overnight bag.

“I remember when he came out, he was taken away from me and he was swollen and blue and didn’t cry. I was really worried that it was really serious,” remembers Caroline. “Then he did eventually cry and the nurses gave him back to me. I do remember having this nagging feeling that something wasn’t right, but I couldn’t really work out what.”

Caroline and her husband were initially told Seb had a chromosomal abnormality.

Doing what any parent would have done, Caroline Googled the term and everything she read referenced the same condition: Down’s syndrome. A week after Seb Seb

came into the world the diagnosis was confirmed.

She says: “My whole world had fallen apart and I was literally just stuck in this moment in time thinking how on earth are we going to deal with this?”

UNDERSTANDING

After leaving hospital, Caroline and her husband joined the Down’s Syndrome Association and read as many books, online forums, and information on the condition as possible. In hindsight, Caroline believes this was the wrong decision.

She explains: “What’s interesting now, ten years on, at the time I was taking an element of control for something I couldn’t control in any way. Actually, I feel like now it was the wrong thing to do. Everything I read just made me feel worse, because it was just lists of all the characteristics, health problems, what could go wrong, and it really dehumanises your baby.

All I could see when I looked at Seb was Down’s syndrome, and I regret that now.”

BONDING

Becoming a first time parent is a rollercoaster of sleepless nights, anxiety, unconditional and overwhelming love watching your child develop. And, regardless of abilities, all children will grow and progress on a daily basis, which is the most beautiful part of parenting. For Caroline, like many new parents, watching Seb develop and his bubbly personality shine through, it was a turning point in their journey.

She remembers fondly: “As time went

14

on I accepted that I have a baby and he’s gorgeous. And this is applicable to all babies: they start doing things. Once he started to laugh and interact and hold things and roll over, all the things babies do, then I started to see he wasn’t Down’s syndrome, he was a baby.”

It was not long before Caroline and her husband welcomed two more children.

Undoubtedly, parenting a child with a disability can cause additional stress, worry, but the benefits that come for siblings who have a disabled brother or sister are insurmountable. Developing emotional understanding, advancing caring skills, not to mention being more accepting of disability, Seb and his siblings have a unique bond.

But, the parenting challenges where only just beginning as Caroline laughs: “My boys are very much quite straight forward in the way that they are, but my daughter is much more complicated. That

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22/10/2018 12:44

CARE The rewards are huge, what I feel is completely magnified for Seb: be that worry or pride

was a massive shock for me because I had Seb and then Dominic and I thought she would just be the same.

It’s funny, everything I really love about Seb is what I worry about. He really lives in the moment and I love that about him, he doesn’t dwell on anything that has happened and doesn’t worry about what is going to happen, but on the flipside of that: if he has a thought in his head to do something he will just do it.”

DEVELOPMENT

As Seb’s charismatic, curious and optimistic personality thrives his personal development and education is also flourishing. Even so, raising a disabled child does have it’s challenges and Caroline details that reading and writing are areas Seb is still learning and needs help with, but his younger brother can do more independently.

The joy when your child achieves a goal

is always emotional, but there is added sentiment when caring for a disabled child.

Caroline explains: “The rewards are huge, what I feel is completely magnified for Seb: be that worry or pride. It is all the extra emotions. Seb came over to me and all his spelling was correct and I literally thought I was going to burst with pride.

It’s spelling that my five year old could do easily, but so much more work had gone into him getting to that point that the pride is unbelievable.”

Now, Seb is developing not only his communication skills, but also working to change attitudes towards disability.

Getting your first school uniform is a momentus occasion, however, for Caroline and Seb it was tinged with a taste of discomfort as none of the models represented Seb. Now a model for Marks and Spencer, Seb is changing the face of the ‘typical’ child.

“I remember seeing Seb as a baby when he was growing and he was so beautiful I thought if people could see the personality he has, then it would change people’s perceptions. Think of the mum’s coming into M&S with their children, how amazing for them to see themselves represented and people can relate to it. And it’s amazing for other children to normalise disability, too,” concludes Caroline.

i

FIND OUT MORE

Down’s Syndrome Association

www.downs-syndrome.org.uk

Council for Disabled Children

www.councilfordisabled children.org.uk

Contact

www.contact.org.uk

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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19/10/2018 14:26

SPOTLIGHT

Uniting against hate Disability motivated hate crimes have risen by 30 per cent in the last year. We investigate why people commit targeted offences and what preventative measures are needed to put an end to hate crimes www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 12:46

SPOTLIGHT

I

n the UK a hate crime is described as a crime motivated by someone’s race, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, disability or someone identifying as transgender. From 2017 to 2018 there was nearly 100,000 reported hate crimes in the UK with many more unreported. Disabled people have long been subjected to hate crime as wider society fails to communicate or find common ground with people who are different to them.

Psychotherapist Noel McDermott works with victims of hate crime to help resolve their trauma. Recently, hate crimes have been on the rise and this often means an increase in violence, Noel explains: “Someone willing to commit a hate crime is just as willing to create more crime. With rising hate crime, there will be rising violence.”

Self-care is also a vital component in dealing with the mental scars of hate crime. “People tend to blame themselves, but understand you’re a victim not the one that caused this,” encourages Noel.

“It is not a reflection on you. Move away from that kind of thinking, try and do something pleasant if you have had that experience, and don’t isolate yourself.”

Factors like inequality have grown, that leads to resentment and people looking for scapegoats

CAUSES

A person who commits a hate crime may Awareness events such as Hate Crime not always discriminate against just one Awareness Week, which took place subgroup of society. “One person might from 13–18 October this year, and Antitarget many groups,” explains Noel.

Bullying week, which will take place from “Someone who is homophobic might not 12–16 November, help to prevent hate just stick with that.” crime. They empower communities and The reasons why a person is likely to encourage people to think about how they abuse others stems from their own would respond if a hate crime happened. experiences Noel says: “People “It’s all about encouraging a dialogue might have been excluded that become the focus for yearlong SURGE a lot in school, involved in programmes,” says Noel. “They’re Eight per cent In the last year hate gangs, come from excluded bringing issues forward and talking about of hate crime crimes in England and economic groups, workless it, challenging some of the myths that offences are Wales have increased by families where generations exist.”

30 per cent, while hate have not contributed to Communication is key to forming a against disabled crimes in Scotland have employment. Other people united front against hate crime. “It infects people. risen by 51 per cent. We may be disadvantaged.” people. Using that image and metaphor, should not be surprised that If an individual has been how do we cure it? We work together as these figures are on an annual exposed to negative thoughts a society,” explains Noel. “That opens the increase. Noel adds: “It comes about certain groups in society it possibility of having a conversation saying down to the fact that we’ve become a less can be difficult to break this cycle or why would I be interested in a group that tolerant society. Pressures around politics inspire change. “If someone is in that I’m not in.” have encouraged extreme views. Factors environment and it’s not challenged, In order to progress, these like inequality have grown, that leads then violence is promoted and accepted, conversations need to include the whole to resentment and people looking for becoming learned behaviours that will of society, whether someone has been scapegoats.” continue,” says Noel. a victim of hate crime or not. “You can’t Spikes in the number of hate crimes Splits in society can be the result of just live away from this stuff, most people are evident when certain events occur, hate crime, but they also leave the door are good and want a decent world, the examples include the EU Referendum open for crime levels to rise. “Politicians message has to be that we all need to be vote or the terrorist attacks in 2017. “As we and leaders are creating division. There part of the solution,” adds Noel. become more intolerant we become more are no unifying voices, we are seeing more Educating young people on different disconnected, certain groups are always extremism happening on the domestic cultures, beliefs, disability, and promoting targeted,” says Noel. front now,” explains Noel. “Whenever these equality is vital in bringing hate crime People committing a hate crime often events happen it is very clear that there will numbers down. “It is important that see themselves as superior to subgroups be a spike in hate crime.” education is on board, we need openness in society. “They have the ability to view and debate and to be teaching kids the PREVENTION the other person they’re targeting as part resolution skills they need,” says Noel.

It is evident, as figures for hate crimes of a group and below them, and see them “Even if a child comes from a challenging increase, that more needs done to prevent as an individual who is causing problems,” background, a good school environment violent behaviour. “We need to think about explains Noel. “[People committing the can mend that.” what is happening, who is affected and crimes] have no reason to experience This early intervention is essential why, what their lives are like,” says Noel. “I compassion.” to tackle negative thoughts towards think there’s many ways we can help, and If you are the victim of hate crime it subgroups, resolve problems and put an national awareness days are vital.” is important to talk to those who have end to hate crime once and for all. continually shown you support. “The best place to turn is always to the people that i FIND OUT MORE love you,” advises Noel. “If you have loving If you have experienced hate crime, find your local police station to make a report by friends, family, colleagues: turn to them visiting: www.report-it.org.uk, www.police.uk, or www.scotland.police.uk and let them know what has happened.”

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www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 12:46

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WLTPfacts.eu. For cars certified under WLTP, revised CO2 and mpg figures are available from your local Toyota Centre on request. *Model shown is C-HR Excel 5 door Coupe FWD Hybrid 1.8 VVT-i Auto at £895 Advance Payment. Model shown is 2018 Yaris Icon Tech 5 door 1.5 VVT-i Manual with 15" Alloys at £0 Advance Payment. †Model shown is Auris Hybrid Icon 5 door 1.8 VVT-i Auto at £295 Advance Payment. ±Model shown is RAV4 Hybrid Icon Tech 5 door FWD 2.5 VVT-i Auto at £1,345 Advance Payment. Subject to availability. Available as part of the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Please note that a total of 60,000 miles over three years are allowed on the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Offer valid between 1st October 2018 and 31st December 2018. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) and applications must be made with participating dealers between 1st October 2018 and 31st December 2018. Prices are correct at time of print, are subject to availability and may change.

020_EN_ND18_ADV.indd 20

19/10/2018 15:51

CARE

BEST FRIEND T

he bond between an assistance dog and its owner is like no other.

However, despite calls for further education on the important role service animals play, dogs are still being hindered from performing to the best of their ability by members of the public.

DETECTION

Claire Pesterfield has type one diabetes, which means her body cannot regulate its glucose levels. If Claire’s glucose level becomes too low, it can be life-threatening.

To manage this, she used to check her blood sugar levels every hour, day and night, and was too afraid to sleep in case she had a hypoglycaemia (hypo). Five years ago, she was partnered with her medical

detection dog, Magic, whom she estimates has saved her life over 4,500 times.

“Having Magic means that I feel safe and protected,” explains Claire. “I no longer fall unconscious from a hypo, as he gives me enough warning to prevent them. I have managed to maintain a full-time job and more importantly, I can do simple things that many people take for granted: such as sleep at night without worrying if I will ever wake up.”

Magic senses the chemical changes that takes place when Claire’s glucose levels start to

PICS: ©BOO MARSHALL

Service dogs play a crucial role in the community. Even so, many dogs still face daily obstacles whilst working due to lack of awareness and understanding. Saskia Harper talks to the people striving for advanced education on the importance of service dogs

Claire Pesterfield and Magic

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 14:58

CARE Amit and Kika

drop, and he can alert her to act before it becomes dangerous – because of this, Magic has to be on duty 24/7. Despite his important role in Claire’s life, members of the public often fail to take this into account.

PUBLIC PERCEPTION

“The biggest issue is the people who love dogs and want to come and stroke Magic without asking or thinking what effect that may have on me,” Claire says. “They let their children pull at him, I’ve even had children kick Magic to see if he reacts.

The smallest group of people are those who know how to interact with assistance dogs. They will talk to me first before talking to him and will ask permission to interact with him. Sometimes, when I feel my glucose levels are okay I allow it, as it does help educate the public on the work that medical detection dogs do, but these people are very few and far between.”

Going out in public with an assistance dog can be an unpredictable, daunting experience, especially when it’s impossible to know how people will react.

Assistance dog handlers, especially those with hidden disabilities, often experience harassment from other members of the public who don’t understand the important roles medical dogs play.

“When we travel, it can be a nightmare.

Overcrowding, people not looking down, and even complaining that my dog is taking up space or leaving the odd dog hair on their clothes” Claire adds. “The worst experiences are always on the London Underground trains. Magic has nearly been trodden on so many times, yet I am shouted at when I ask someone to mind their step and people often tell me that dogs shouldn’t be on the underground.”

LONDON UNDERGROUND

Claire is not alone in her experiences. Amit Patel lost his sight five years ago, and his guide dog, Kika, has been guiding him for the last three years. His experience on the London Underground went viral earlier this year, after he posted a video on social media of a passenger trying to barge past him on an escalator.

Occasionally, on journeys through the tube station, Kika would stop abruptly. “I always just assumed she was getting her bearings, or waiting for a crowd to die down,” Amit explains. After this happened a few times, someone approached him to ask if he was okay. The person explained that Kika had stopped because someone had hit her with an umbrella to get her to

22

move out of their way. It was after this that Amit decided to attach a camera to Kika.

“The treatment she receives from members of the public has a massive effect on her ability to work,” says Amit.

“Sometimes she stops at escalators and she doesn’t want to get on because she’s scared of being pushed.”

There have been complaints in recent years about the London Underground’s provisions for people with disabilities.

However, Transport for London has committed to achieving equality and improving accessibility across the board, ensuring everyone can travel safely and securely by 2020. They plan to do this by guaranteeing priority seating is available to those who need it and improve on staff availability for assistance.

KINDNESS

Though it is undeniable that there are people out there who don’t take the time to be mindful of assistance Don’t be afraid dogs and their owners, of offering there are plenty who assistance: most are eager and willing to help; especially after people will watching the videos be really Amit posts to his social grateful media accounts.

“I post the videos online to raise awareness that this is what we encounter on a daily basis, and encourage others to speak up if they’ve had similar experiences,” explains Amit. “People often ask me about the best ways to approach someone, as they’re scared that offering help could be seen as offensive. Don’t be afraid of offering assistance: most people will be really grateful.”

The negative treatment Amit has often received from the public has not deterred him from embracing his independence.

“Having Kika by my side allows me to live independently,” explains Amit. “She’s enhanced my life and improved my confidence, in fact, she makes me forget I’m blind.” Without their assistance dog, many people wouldn’t feel confident leaving the house. i FIND OUT MORE Reactions to assistance dogs from the public – no matter how good the intention Guide Dog Trust – is putting people’s safety at risk every www.guidedogs.org.uk day. It’s time greater resources are created Medical Detection Dogs to ensure improved public education on www.medicaldetectiondogs.org.uk how to treat service dogs, and to recognise their importance. Simple steps put in place Hearing Dogs for Deaf People can ensure everyone has a safe experience www.hearingdogs.org.uk when they leave their home.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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19/10/2018 16:51

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22/10/2018 16:29

SPOTLIGHT

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DISABLED PERSONS 2018 Ahead of International Day of Disabled Persons we spotlight the countries improving care, understanding, and inclusivity for disabled people worldwide

I

nternational Day of Disabled Persons is an annual celebration held on 3 December. Founded in 1992, it promotes the rights of disabled people and increases awareness of their experiences in every aspect of life, from politics to culture.

There is certainly still a long way to go, but major steps have been taken over the last year promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities worldwide.

UK

Earlier this year, the British Government announced it would increase funding for developing countries, including Bangladesh, Uganda and Nigeria, to support disabled people finding sustainable employment, increase access to healthcare and reduce stigma and discrimination.

Increased financial support was also awarded to UK businesses and charities helping people with disabilities into employment. The Department for Transport also extended the Blue Badge scheme to people with hidden disabilities.

Meaning people with mental health conditions or on the autistic spectrum are now able to apply.

24

EGYPT

Though they still have a long way to go in terms of overall human rights, Egypt has taken the lead in progressing disability rights. In February, the law on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities was passed: the first legislation affecting people with disabilities in Egypt since 1975. It provides a wide range of rights and protections for people with disabilities, including rights to employment, education, healthcare and political activity.

Earlier this year saw the creation of a special needs school, and a technological institute for people with disabilities was announced – the first of its kind in North Africa.

CANADA

Earlier in the year, Canada passed the country’s first national accessibility law, in a key step forward in inclusion. The main aim of the act is to identify, remove and prevent any accessibility barriers in public spaces, technology and transport.

Approximately 1.2 million Canadians with disabilities live below the poverty line, thus the key aim of the legislation is to increase disability employment. Fines for businesses and organisations violating the new law could be as high as $250,000.

JAPAN

Technology-giant Japan has used their ever-growing technological landscape to benefit their disabled workers.

Telecommuting is the country’s latest solution for workers with disabilities or illnesses who would prefer to work from home, or cannot commute to work.

Increasing numbers of businesses are allowing employees with disabilities to work from home, and productivity is not affected. Not only does this make the lives of many disabled people easier, it also ensures they are in sustainable employment on their own terms, rather than having to adapt to their employer’s needs.

These four countries have taken necessary steps forward to create a safer, more equal environment for people with disabilities. There is still a long way to go, and more countries would benefit from following in their footsteps.

i

MORE INFORMATION

To learn more about International Day of Disabled Persons visit, www.un.org/en/events/disabilitiesday

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 16:21

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19/10/2018 14:41

Women will go through many changes in their lifetime.

One certainty is menopause, however Enable has discovered a distinct lack of education available to support women with learning disabilities through this milestone. Lorne Gillies investigates what more needs to be done

THE CHANGE

Improving menopause education I

t is no secret that sexual health and relationship education is missing the mark in the disabled community.

Regardless of mental capacity, many physically disabled people can find themselves excluded from sex or relationship-based education. When it comes to children, young adults and adults with a learning disability there is an unspoken non-sexual bubble they are enclosed in.

At Enable we have discussed sexual health education before (you can still read Love is All Around online), but it appears the discussion of menopause and disability is yet to be fully ignited.

THE TIME

“I would say there is a lot of misinformation and lack of information across the board, in all aspects,” explains Mr Haitham Hamoda MD FRCOG, consultant gynaecologist, subspecialist in reproductive medicine and surgery at King’s College Hospital. “It is amazing how many patients comment on the symptoms and don’t realise they would be related to the menopause. As you can imagine, if you can’t express your symptoms this becomes a lot more challenging.”

26

A woman’s body can begin to change at she was experiencing low levels of mood, different times in their life, but the average discomfort and more symptoms. Five years age most women experience symptoms previous, Jackie had approached BBC of the menopause is 51. Up until this bosses to pitch a documentary focusing moment, many women with a learning on the menopause when she realised the disability may not even know that severity of changes her body was going their body will go through such through – only to be brushed to a significant development, the side. which can come with For Jackie, she If you can’t uncomfortable symptoms. understood why she was Haitham adds: “You experiencing changes, express your want public information, but information or symptoms this but you also want support was not what it information suitable for becomes a lot more should be. Women with a women with a learning learning disability are left challenging disability to understand. in the dark, and it needs to Having information change. available in different CHALLENGE presentation formats so it is “We do so see a lot of women with more accessible is crucial.” It is not learning disabilities, and it is a difficult just women with learning disabilities that situation. You see patients and some can experience the menopause in darkness grasp a level of the conversation but their without the relevant support and guidance mum, next of kin, or carer would be with to what their body is going through. them. Some people are totally not in the During World Menopause Day 2018 position to understand,” says Haitham. “The (18 October), television presenter Jackie women who have a level of mild learning Bird revealed her struggle with the disability, and their next of kin or carer is menopause during an impromptue BBC with them, can then discuss symptoms interview to discuss the distinctive lack they do and don’t have and guide the of information, or even assistance, when

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

026-027_EN_ND18_Menopause.indd 26

22/10/2018 14:20

SPOTLIGHT

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS As women age, their periods will stop and they are no longer able to get pregnant naturally. Several years or months before stopping completely, periods are likely to become less frequent – or they can stop suddenly.

Common symptoms include: • Hot flushes • Night sweats • Insomnia • Reduced sex drive • Memory or concentration issues • Low mood or anxiety

Learn more about symptoms and treatment at www.nhs.uk

discussion.

The difficulty comes in the women who have a more severe form of learning disability. You’re entering into a situation of difficulty in what symptoms they have, and the next of kin or carer is put in a difficult position of what decision to make for treatment.”

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most common treatment for menopause, which involves taking oestrogen to replace the declining levels being made naturally. However, treatment is usually advised specifically based on symptoms.

Haitham adds: “When you talk to a patient you can detail the benefits and small risks to treatment and they can decide independently. When you’re making a choice for your daughter, sister, or someone you’re caring for, you might feel that extra responsibility in finding out if a treatment is dangerous, or if it increases the risk of breast cancer, and so on.” The main crux of limited education can also come from the taboo that still surrounds the menopause, periods, and sex.

EXPERIENCE

“When I asked family members and friends

about the menopause, they were reluctant to talk about it. I really couldn’t understand why, as all women will have to go through it at some point in their life,” expresses Bev Tinsely, who is profoundly deaf and has faced difficulties receiving information on how her body is changing.

“There is more medical information than there is about women’s experience’s going through the menopause. I think I would have found it easier to accept if I had been provided information about women’s experiences going through it. I’m not even sure if the menopause is taught to our young daughters in school? We talk about sex, so why not?”

Bev started going through the change when she was just 44, some women can experience symptoms under the age of 40, which is known as premature menopause.

It can be a daunting, traumatic and difficult time to be told you are menopausal for women, like Bev, who understand what is happening to them. Women with learning disabilities are not as fortunate.

RESEARCH

One of the most significant pieces of information available on this topic was conducted by Michelle McCarthy and

Lorraine Millard as part of the Growing Older with Learning Disabilities (GOLD) programme at the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities.

Their research details: “Most women with learning disabilities who were not yet menopausal did not know that their periods would eventually cease. However, most of the women who were already menopausal did know that women eventually stopped having periods, but did not know why this happened or what it meant.”

Scratching the surface it is evident there is a lot more to be done when it comes to providing adequate information and support on the menopause. Enable is calling for accessible information on the menopause to be improved to guide women as their bodies change. i

FIND OUT MORE

Find your local menopause specialist by visiting the British Menopause Society’s clinic finder at www.thebms.org.uk/find-amenopause-specialist

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 14:21

Healthcare

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19/10/2018 14:43

VOICES

TIM RUSHBY-SMITH

Labels on the table December is an important time for the disabled community as countries worldwide celebrate International Day of Disabled Persons. Our columnist Tim discusses how more people can feel empowered in their own skin thanks to their chosen labels

H

ow do you identify? This is not a question that Identity nouns was heard very often outside of a social sciences have become a tool classroom until relatively of empowerment as recently, but now identity many groups choose nouns have become a tool their own label in a of empowerment as many bid to shake off those groups choose their own imposed by others label in a bid to shake off those imposed by others.

‘Disabled’ is a label. And as with every label, the wearer may choose for it to mean one thing, but in practice it can become whatever other people associate with it. The obvious example is that of a wheelchair user (my own label). I am the living embodiment of whatever people think of when they see a parking space or a toilet door. This certainly simplifies some things. I have never had anyone challenge me over my right to use said parking space or bathroom, but I am all too aware that for those of us who don’t conform to that symbol, accessing such is to create a society where labels become facilities can lead to sour looks or even all but irrelevant in most aspects of daily abuse. life?

Other labels also have ‘sub-labels’, In the meantime, I have come up with such as cis (or comfortable in skin), some other subsets to help us more which opens up all sorts of possibilities accurately define our disability: when discussing disability. In my case, I acquired my status as ‘disabled’ by 1. Cic – comfortable in chair. accident (literally), and so I was forced to 2. Cib – comfortable in bed challenge my own preconceptions about 3. Fuwpttkhyfiosmaahtucfaw – disability, and I was certainly not ‘cis’ for fed up with people thinking they ‘know many years. how you feel, I once sprained my ankle Thirteen years later, I still don’t see the and had to use crutches for a week.’ label ‘disabled’ as a positive, but nor do I 4. Ninaaaijhad – no it’s not an assistance see it as a negative. It’s certainly a highly animal, I just have a dog. charged word and I know that, for many 5. Atswbai – able to shop without being of us, it has become a badge of belonging an ‘inspiration.’ and of solidarity, but in the battle for 6. Ino – it’s not obvious equality, surely the over-arching objective 7. Nrm – not Rainman

8. Namol – not all my own limbs 9. Td - thinks differently 10. Pd – pees differently This is just a starting point. I’m sure you can think of some more, and in so doing, help to ensure the self-appointed toilet police restrict their mutterings to the back of taxis or the pub.

Beyond The Break,

by Darren Longbottom and Tim Rushby-Smith is published by Ebury Press in Australia and is available internationally as an eBook

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DIABETES

WHAT’S YOUR

Over four million people in the UK are living with diabetes. The diagnosis can have harmful complications and holds constant control over the lives of people with the illness, but it is often overlooked as a disability. We discover one man's experience of diabetes

J

ames was diagnosed with type one diabetes at the age of 12, now 49 he has lived with the illness for the majority of his life. While he acknowledges he is disabled, this isn’t how he sees himself as James says: “I have special footwear, calibres, I can’t walk much. It is a disability, it’s not something I want, but something you have to learn to live with. People ask if diabetes is classed as a disability: yes, it can be very disabling.”

DIAGNOSIS

Before being diagnosed James was continually ill and severely underweight.

“I was five stone and collapsed playing football. I got in the bath and my mum looked at me,” James explains. “I was all skin and bone, constantly thirsty, forever going to the toilet. We took a urine sample to the doctor and that’s when I was diagnosed with type one.”

Despite the relief of a diagnosis, dealing with the illness was no easy feat. The athome equipment we know today was just on the cusp of being introduced and not yet accurate. “Things were very different, blood machines had just come out and you had to test sugar by urine test,” says James. “I learned to inject at the age of

12, it was difficult. I was only interested in football and sweets.”

A lack of easy at-home testing meant a strict diet and regime James says: “Everything was strict. I was on one injection a day. If your urine sugars were up, the only way to get them down was exercising.” In a world without smartphones or information available at the touch of a button, James and his mother had to rely on diabetic-friendly recipe books to keep him in good health.

“All food was measured out, we didn’t

have the labelling on foods like we do now, diet drinks were a luxury, diabetic chocolate was extremely expensive and full of laxative,” he adds.

COMPLICATIONS

At a young age James found it difficult to keep to his strict regime he says: “It was hard for me to understand what was going on, but it could be worse and that’s how you need to look at it.” Now with a greater understanding of the illness and better resources, James tries to remain positive despite the hurdles.

“I’m still here to tell the tale, but as I got older complications developed,” says James. “They first started around 15 years ago, I normally get one then two or three.”

Dealing with countless complications throughout his life, James has suffered

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with diabetic frozen shoulder, carpel tunnel, a muscle wasting disease in his feet and more. After his sight progressively deteriorated, James had laser treatment and surgery on both eyes to restore his vision. “You just have to make the best of what you’ve got, but the eyes were a worry,” says James. “I lost about 75 per cent of vision in both eyes for about a year, the surgery was a huge relief.” Although the operation helped restore his sight, James lost his peripheral vision and night vision leaving him unable to drive.

CHANGE

As his sight had deteriorated, James also had an ulcer on his foot which resulted in his toe being amputated. “I couldn’t consider working again which was a real kick in the teeth, especially being so young,” says James. “I was 39 the last time I worked, I didn’t want to give up work. I used to work as a safety officer at a football club, I had to give it up and I was devastated; it was my dream job.”

Having his toe amputated was a major life change. “It was horrendous and when I was in hospital they then diagnosed another condition with my feet,” recalls James. As his feet started growing inwards it resulted in surgery to pin his right foot and perform an ankle fusion, but after six months the pins moved. “I had a huge infection, I was on antibiotics to save my leg. That was testing as well,” says James. “I have good family support and a good wife, but the complications are scary, I still see diabetics struggling now.”

You have days where you feel like sinking, but you could be a lot worse off AWARENESS

Now James wants to spread awareness that anyone can be diagnosed with diabetes. It is estimated nearly one million people in the UK have type two diabetes but haven’t been diagnosed. “A lot of people have the same opinion as I did that it won’t happen to them, but it can,” says James. “Even now with technology, and people talking, and the blood testing, they’re still not hearing the advice.”

Seizing the opportunity to do voluntary speaking and writing blogs on the illness, James is encouraging improved understanding. “I’m quite an outgoing person, I do talks regularly on disability, diabetes, the Equality Act (2010). You’ve got to, it’s sink or swim,” says James. “You have days where you feel like sinking, but you could be a lot worse off, people are told you’ve not got long to live and you have to make the most of it, I’m still the same person.”

Despite life-changing complications, a strict regime and learning to live with a disability, James remains positive through his battle with diabetes. i

FIND OUT MORE

To find out more about diabetes visit www.diabetes.org.uk

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The reality of

Childhood MS Many people living with MS experience symptoms years prior to diagnosis. For one family, their daughter was diagnosed at just five-years-old, this is their journey

L

ucy Wood was a toddler enjoying her life when one day her mother, Sharon, noticed Lucy had lost the sight in her left eye. After months of tests, hospital appointments and MRI scans, Lucy was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS).

“We’ve always had hope, been a positive, glass half full family. For being young, Lucy has been very accepting of it,” explains Sharon. “She has had her moments of getting herself frustrated and upset.”

UNIQUE

Affecting more than 100,000 people in the UK; most are diagnosed in their 20’s or 30’s.

Even so, it is extremely common for people to have experienced symptoms of MS for many years prior to diagnosis – including in childhood.

MS is unpredictable and different for everyone, but Lucy is in an incredibly distinctive situation. Alongside her extremely early diagnosis, Lucy’s father Stuart was diagnosed with MS when he was just 27, now 15 and 49 respectively, Lucy and Stuart have been on a similar path.

Sharon says: “Everyone’s MS is unique, but Lucy’s did follow Stuart’s experiences with a relapse, it was all very similar. We were ready for the diagnosis but it does hit you like a ton of bricks. It is still really frightening because we never knew if she was going to get back to full health every time. As the relapses were so aggressive we couldn’t get her off steroids. We got it down to a low enough dose in tablet form and she would relapse straight away.”

medication through a port in her chest. “It was great, she would say it was like being plugged in and charging her batteries,” recalls Sharon fondly.

Through the dark times, Sharon reveals there is one emotion that helps the entire family get through the tough moments.

LAUGHTER

MEDICATION

Watching your child in pain or discomfort is one of the most challenging parts of parenting. For Lucy and her family, they have been on a long road to find the right medication, not only for her symptoms, but to allow Lucy to enjoy her young life.

Lucy had nearly an eight-year period where she was relapse free due to medication, but she still had to go for weekly hospital visits and receive

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We were ready for the diagnosis but it does hit you like a ton of bricks

“Whatever situation that comes out we’re trying not to make fun of it, but make light of it. And it does help,” says Sharon. Lucy’s father was diagnosed with MS after he and Sharon were newlyweds and, in a way, it has benefited their experience with Lucy.

Sharon adds: “I wouldn’t say it was a blessing to have a husband with MS, but it has helped Lucy as well because she’s got the experience of seeing how her dad is and how he copes when he is going through relapses. It is laughter; I can’t say it enough.”

With a supportive family around her, Lucy will not let anything hold her back. i

FIND OUT MORE

MS Society www.mssociety.org.uk Or call the MS Society helpline on 0808 800 8000

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Discussing disability Everyone has their own story of disability, and many find solace in the disabled community. For people with a hidden disability it can be a different struggle on each new day, raising the question: am I disabled?

DIAGNOSIS

“It’s funny how memory works. I don’t remember experiencing all the symptoms, but I do remember the doctors’ visits, the blood tests, and my time in hospital. My parents have told me that they had to fight for my diagnosis with a lot of doctors writing it off as just a bug or food poisoning. I’m glad they persisted; otherwise who knows how much longer it would have taken,” remembers Hannah Witton, who was aged seven when she was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis.

Hannah, who now vlogs about her experiences and provides advice on relationships and sex with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), living with an ostomy, and is a successful author, adds that being diagnosed so young meant her condition became part of her normal.

She says: “The most life changing

36

experience was my most recent flare up at 25-years-old, which was so severe we couldn’t get it under control with medications and I needed emergency surgery to remove my colon. So, the diagnosis itself never felt life changing, but the surgery was.”

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are the two main forms of IBD and effects more than 300,000 people in the UK alone. Diagnosis of the conditions can be a significant hurdle to overcome, after diagnosis (a relief for many after years of uncertainty) understanding your body and new circumstances can be challenging.

As a hidden illness, IBD still carries a lot of stigma and this can fall into the facilities being used. The main symptom of IBD is an urgent need to use the toilet, but if you’re not physically disabled this can come up against some hardship.

MISCONCEPTIONS

“Just because we look fine doesn’t mean we’re fine,” Hannah stresses. “There’s the added assumptions that you’re healthy and strong because you’re young. Postsurgery I had a lot of trouble walking so I needed a walking stick whilst I was out and about. I would get a lot of comments from strangers asking what was wrong with my leg.”

There is no face of disability, be it physical, sensory, learning or mental, the misconceptions and myths surrounding disability stand.

GOVERNMENT

In relation to disability from a governmental standard, a disabled

Hannah

I would think about calling myself disabled when I was having a flare up, but I’d be too ill to really care about labels

PIC: © GEORGE YONGE

L

ifting the veil of disability can be challenging, as everyone’s experiences are relative. Some may find manoeuvring on a crowded street daunting, while others take it in their stride. Many may find they don’t need to explain why they are using a disabled toilet; people can also feel judged for using disabled facilities whilst not having an obvious disability.

Hidden disabilities or illnesses can be caused by many conditions ranging from multiple sclerosis (MS) to Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. There can be an additional hidden toll when a disability is not overtly obvious, not to mention how each person independently feels about qualifying as disabled.

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SPOTLIGHT

person is classed as disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if they have a “physical or mental impairment that has a ‘substantial’ and ‘long-term’ negative effect on your ability to do normal daily activities.” Focusing on IBD, MS, autism or depression, to name a few: these can all be challenging and debilitating in their own way – but some symptoms may not fall under the governments umbrella of disability.

“I remember when I was younger I got a card from the charity Crohn’s and Colitis UK that said something like ‘this person has a condition and needs to use the toilet urgently.’ I never had to use it because most places I would rush into just let me use their toilet, but I had it with me, just in case,” remembers Hannah.

“I now have a similar card, which I’ve used a couple times to get access to toilets. Even though I don’t qualify by the government’s standards there are still things in place to help. For example, I have a radar key so I can access public disabled toilets.”

But Hannah, like many others with a hidden illness or disability that

alters levels of pain, requirement for adaptations or medication on a dayto-day basis, the idea of disability can cause continued misunderstanding and emotional conflict.

DISABILITY

Hannah continues: “When I was ill, I was so weak I couldn’t move except to go to the toilet. I wasn’t eating, my voice was quiet and I would just lie down in pain all day. I couldn’t think. I was so ill I didn’t even have the energy to look at my phone.

Now, with a stoma it’s not ‘debilitating’ but there are lots of extra things I need to think about and consider daily. I need to carry emergency supplies with me in case of a leakage, I need to make sure I’ve emptied the bag before going somewhere where I know I won’t have access to a toilet for a while and I have to set an alarm every night for about three or four in the morning to empty the bag.

I would think about calling myself disabled when I was having a flare up, but I’d be too ill to really care about labels.

And then, as soon as I was better I didn’t

really think about it. It’s only since having the stoma, which has in a way ‘cured’ my ulcerative colitis, that I’ve considered myself disabled.”

Disability is not linear, everyone has their own story to tell. Ultimately, everyone is trying their best to live their life to the fullest and best of their ability.

Misconceptions still exist, unfortunately, around disability but times are changing. As more people are educated on disability, is it time improved understanding of hidden disabilities is shared?

Hannah concludes: “To be honest, I’m still figuring it out for myself. In some ways I feel disabled in other ways I don’t. I just think it’s whatever you feel comfortable with.”

i

FIND OUT MORE

Crohn’s and Colitis UK www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk Hannah Witton www.hannahwitton.com

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WIN AN AMAZON ECHO DOT

COMPETITION

We’re giving Enable readers the chance to win an Amazon Echo Dot, the must-have personal assistant, just in time for Christmas. The handsfree smart speaker lets you use your voice to control everything from music to messages

T

he Amazon Echo Dot design is sleek and stylish, fitting into any room of the house.

Guaranteed not to take up much space in the home and only lighting up when you make a request.

Inside the must-have piece of tech is Amazon’s digital assistant Alexa.

You can do nearly anything with the device – all you have to do is talk to it.

Ask Alexa to play music, answer questions, make calls, send and receive messages or even check the weather. Catch up on the latest news, sport and more. Alexa can help you to control your thermostat, TV, light switches and more, making your house the ultimate smart home.

Alexa is getting smarter everyday adding new features and skills.

Your very own personal assistant automatically updates through the cloud and is continually learning. The more you use the Echo the more it will respond to your speech patterns and personal preferences.

When you’re not using your Echo to order from Just Eat or check when your favourite show is on, you can use the device to play your favourite music. The Echo has seven speakers to project sound across the room.

The perfect opportunity to play some Christmas music while you’re cooking the turkey and getting the family excited for the festive season ahead.

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning, send your name and contact details to competitions@dcpublishing.co.uk quoting Echo Dot. All entries must be received by Monday 10 December. Good luck!

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: All entries must be received by Monday 10 December 2018. The winner is entitled to one Amazon Echo Dot, which will be posted out to the recipient. The prize is 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.

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LIFE

Paint the town

Purple

Tuesday 13 November is Purple Tuesday, the UK’s first ever day dedicated to accessible shopping both on the high street, online and raising awareness of the value of the purple pound. Many companies have already stepped in to back Purple Tuesday and continue supporting accessibility

T

aking place in the run up to this spending power with a connection to Christmas, Purple Tuesday has someone with a disability. been created to promote the Unlike regular shopping events, such importance and shopping needs as Black Friday, it is hoped that Purple of people with a disability. The day, Tuesday will stretch further than a oneco-ordinated by disability organisation day event. The event aims to encourage Purple, is to benefit both consumers sustainable change for organisations, with a disability and businesses with raising awareness of the need for accessibility issues. accessibility for years to come.

Barriers to accessibility are not ACCESSIBILITY exclusive to the retail sector, Businesses are being bars, restaurants or any Purple encouraged to act in other establishment with Tuesday preparation for the day. While a customer base can have takes place on every organisation is unique accessibility issues. Any 13 November and has different challenges business big or small can to overcome, suggestions take part whether they 2018 include giving staff disability are located on the high focused training, signing up to street or online. Several large the Disability Confident Scheme or retailers are already signed up, or appointing a member of staff to deal with backing the campaign. These include accessibility issues.

Argos, Barclays, Marks & Spencer and A checklist accessibility audit is Sainsbury’s. available on the Purple Tuesday

PURPLE POUND

Purple Tuesday is about more than making shopping inclusive, it will also aid retailers missing out on business from a large portion of the population.

It is estimated that the purple pound, the collective spending power of people with a disability and their households, is worth around £249 billion to the UK economy. Over half of households have

Businesses are being encouraged to take action in preparation for the day

website for businesses to assess their accessibility. An online accessibility selfassessment is also available.

EMPLOYMENT

Accessibility issues stretch further than the consumer, Purple Tuesday will shed light on the current employment struggles faced by people with a disability and solutions that can be put in place. According to Scope, disabled people are more than twice as likely to be unemployed as non-disabled people.

This event could help change inequality.

COMMITMENT

As part of the day, businesses who take part are required to make at least one long-term commitment to guarantee the shopping experience is more inclusive of people with a disability.

The nature of the commitment is up to each individual business, but could include regular quiet hours for customers with sensory issues, more inclusive marketing campaigns, accessible changing facilities in store or improving the accessibility of apps and websites. i

FIND OUT MORE

To find out more visit www.purpletuesday.org.uk

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19/10/2018 16:25

Having an

Autism -Friendly

Christmas Christmas can be the most wonderful time of the year, but for children on the autistic spectrum or with complex needs, Christmas can be overwhelming. We share our tips to guarantee your festive season runs smoothly

F

un, food and family is at the heart of Christmas. However, transitioning into the holiday season can be a difficult time to manage; particularly if you are the parent of someone on the autistic spectrum.

Some of the best-loved traditions such as opening presents, turkey dinners and pulling crackers can be triggering; routines are disrupted, and extra sights, smells and sounds may lead to sensory overload.

ADVICE

Charlene Tait is the deputy CEO at Scottish Autism, the leading provider of autism-specific services in Scotland, who details that Christmas can cause some complications.

“While Christmas can be a wonderful time for families, it can also present some significant challenges for those living with autism,” explains Charlene.

“Autistic individuals can find the sensory changes that accompany this time of year quite daunting and difficult – this includes unfamiliar sights and smells, more frequent and often louder noises and an influx of festive outings and social visits, sometimes involving unfamiliar people.

“These variations from a routine can make life more unpredictable, causing stress and sometimes distress for some autistic people who can find such changes to their usual environment overwhelming.”

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However, there are many ways to get ready for Christmas, ensuring that everyone has a joyful, stress-free time.

EXPLANATION

One of the most important things you can do is prepare your child for the changes that come in the winter months, and let them know how it will affect them. Describing that bad weather could make you late for picking them up from school, or introducing activities such as advent calendars and decorating the house to their usual routine, are good ways of preparing.

Rachel Dutton knows first-hand how the Christmas period can be disruptive of routines. Her son Ruben was diagnosed with autism just after turning three, and has had trouble adapting to the seasonal changes in the past.

“Christmas brings many challenges because big routines go out of the window,” explains Rachel. “No school, places looking different, people turning up unannounced for ‘a quick drink’. As far as possible, we try to keep things normal at home to balance out the chaos outside.”

Visual aids can be particularly useful: use a calendar or timetable to keep track of specific events such as school concerts or parties, day trips and when relatives are coming to stay. Even something as small as discussing what someone would like to eat for Christmas Dinner – for example if you usually have pizza on a Tuesday, they may want to stick with this – can help with preparation in the long run.

It is also vital that people know the changes are only for a little while, and

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LIFE

not forever: this might be a good way of putting them at ease about all the sensory and physical changes taking place, but will also manage their expectations and ensure they anticipate the changes coming to an end, so that will not come as a shock, too.

CALM SPACE

Added smells, flashing lights, new toys and presents can be overwhelming, so it is a good idea to create a designated ‘calm space’ for those moments when it all becomes too much. This is particularly important if you’re spending Christmas in an unfamiliar environment, such as a relative’s home, or a hotel or restaurant.

If you are planning a large family gathering over the festive period, it is bound to get noisy. If your child is sensitive to loud sounds, the calm space is a great way for them to escape and take some time for themself.

Investing in a pair of earplugs or ear defenders to counter the noise can also be worthwhile; allowing them to take part in the family fun without getting overstimulated.

DECORATIONS

Autistic individuals can find the sensory changes that accompany this time of year quite daunting and difficult

Heading out to the supermarket or on a family day out, it is almost impossible to escape the Christmas cheer. Shops blaring festive tunes out the door, flashing lights lining the streets and bigger crowds than usual frantically doing their gift shopping: all of which can leave autistic people feeling drained and stressed.

To avoid sensory overload, you could allow them to wear sunglasses to tone down the bright lights, or headphones with a familiar CD or playlist playing to counter the loud music.

“Until last year, Ruben was almost frightened of his stocking, refused to open presents and was highly suspicious of the Christmas tree,” says Rachel.

“However, he absolutely loves lights and this helps us to manage the sensory issues – we try to draw attention to twinkling displays to distract from the noise and sheer volume of people in shops.”

At home, allow your child to be in control of the sensory experience, by providing them with buttons for

Rachel and Ruben

the lights, and choosing the music or film playing in the background. Make sure they’re directly involved in the decoration of your home, including the tree, if you think that’s something they will enjoy, as coming home one day to lots of flashing lights and changes to the usual setting could come as a shock.

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

“One of the joys of autism is that these children can delight in the simplest of things,” explains Rachel. “Ruben does not require material things to be happy. He adores opening envelopes and reading his name on cards so that is always lovely, and just seeing him engage with things like decorating the tree is magical.”

There’s no doubt that the festive period can be an overwhelming time, but preparation and careful management can help ensure everyone has a merry Christmas.

“Finding the right balance of excitement and security is vital, even if it means you have to be a bit stubborn and have some awkward conversations with excitable, well-meaning family and friends,” Rachel advises. “Take it at your own pace and enjoy your own version of Christmas.”

i

FIND OUT MORE

Ambitious about Autism www.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk Scottish Autism www.scottishautism.org

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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CARE

Combating

LONELINESS at Christmas

It is estimated that nearly half of working age disabled people in the UK are chronically lonely, saying they always or often feel lonely.

The pressure to socialise during the festive season can escalate feelings of loneliness and isolation

L

oneliness is often a result of a loss or lack of companionship, it is a mismatch in the quality and quantity of social relationships we have and want. CEO of Sense, Richard Kramer, says: “There is a stigma about disability and a stigma about saying ‘I feel lonely.’ It is a serious public health issue that needs more attention. Loneliness needs to be everyone’s business and dealt with at an individual level.”

ISOLATION

Friendships and family relationships form the base of our ability to cope with stress, change and at times of crisis. Ian Treherne has Usher Syndrome, a condition that causes his eyesight to slowly deteriorate.

After being diagnosed, Ian had little support from his family or friends, leaving

him socially isolated and family and friends we have lost feeling alone. or about being away from Isolation and feelings home.” of loneliness are When speaking about There is a stigma heightened during loneliness over the about disability the festive period. Ian festive season it often and a stigma explains: “I was quite centres around the about saying ‘I a recluse for a long elderly, but the issue feel lonely’ time, not letting people can be worse for people in or trusting them. A with a disability. “We talk key component in anyone about older people and how diagnosed with blindness their support diminishes, but is having good support and that many disabled people might not connects with Christmas.” have friendships in the first place,” says A loss of assistance or separation from Richard. “There’s a poor understanding family or friends is a common cause of from the general public that has created loneliness for people with a disability bigger barriers felt during the Christmas Richard adds: “It’s a time when people get season.” together and therefore people may feel Although loneliness can be a result particularly alone, it might remind us of of relationships breaking down, the www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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CARE

solution is not as simple as surrounding yourself with friends and family Richard explains: “You can feel lonely even when you are with others. Someone might feel lonely in a crowded room while others are alone but content, it’s such a complicated issue.” For people who frequently experience loneliness it can be frustrating when this quick fix doesn’t work.

TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS

Ian believes that the traditional model of Christmas can I’m just enjoying cause feelings of loneliness the basics like and isolation to escalate.

“There’s a template of catching up with a Christmas and some friend or going up to people have that, but it’s London with friends rare. A lot of people don’t and some people spend to see the lights it being completely alone: like myself. It adds a lot more pressure especially for what you’re living up to, it’s difficult when you don’t have that family support,” Ian says.

Five years ago, Ian made the decision to change the structure of his Christmas, removing the pressure to see family, buy presents and enjoy every moment of the festive period. “I don’t see my parents, I don’t buy presents, but I also don’t walk around like Scrooge being all negative,” Ian Treherne he adds. “I’m just enjoying the basics like catching up with a friend or going up to London with friends to see the lights.”

Like Ian, going back to basics of The usual Christmas tasks like buying meeting up with friends for a catch up presents can come with extra struggles or doing a new activity can be the first for people with a disability explains Ian. step to tackling isolation and loneliness Travelling to shops to buy gifts, a lack of Richard says: “It doesn’t have to be a accessibility and the financial demands café or community project, it’s just about can all act as a barrier to enjoying the being part of the local community and day. recognising we have more in common Ignoring the usual demands of the than what divides us.” festive period has removed the burden of Christmas for Ian. “I’ve probably enjoyed CHANGE it more without the social pressure,” Changing your approach to Christmas, or he says. “It was difficult at first because even cutting it from your routine, might people would be offended when I said work for some, one method of removing I didn’t do it assuming I was being this pressure may not be the right path negative, but it’s not like that.” for everyone. “Loneliness is such a Despite finding a solution that works complicated issue, what works for one for him, Ian sometimes still experiences person won’t work for everyone,” says loneliness at Christmas, but knows this is Richard. normal. He says: “I always try and remind Loneliness and isolation are not myself it’s OK and just another day, specific to the festive period and making hopefully the next day someone will be a conscious effort to combat them should in touch. Try and reach out to at least one be a priority year-round Richard says: person and try to get out at some point “Let’s think how we can help one another over Christmas if you can.” and how we can support friendships

46

every day. Think of giving, invite people in, talk to other people, take a step back and recognise how it might be difficult for different people.”

Although the decision to reach out can be difficult, it is worth it. Ian encourages: “Make a conscious decision to be strong and say it’s for yourself you’re doing it because you want to change something and get rid of that weight.”

Building new friendships, reaching out to others or changing the way you celebrate over the festive period can all help to remove the pressure of Christmas and decrease feelings of loneliness.

i

FIND OUT MORE

If you are experiencing loneliness over the festive period contact Sense (www.sense.org.uk) or the Jo Cox Commission on Loneliness (www.jocoxloneliness.org)

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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Could you provide stability, encouragement and warmth?

Make a difference to a child’s life today, foster with our charity.

Specialist dedicated support. Paid respite. Annual holiday

0800 05 222 50

www.togethertrust.org.uk Registered charity no 209782

Protect disability benefits from means testing Setting up a Personal Injury Trust can play a major role in protecting an injured person’s assets from means testing and other risks.

It is often such a relief once a litigation claim has ended and settlement in the proceedings has been reached. However, the next step following receipt of an award can sometimes be just as daunting!

Contact Thomas Mundy for a free no obligation discussion about how a Personal Injury Trust could give financial help to you and your family.

t: 0114 267 5593 e: thomas.mundy@wrigleys.co.uk w: www.wrigleys.co.uk

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IN THE KNOW

THE LEGAL SIDE OF DISABILITY There are a multitude of laws and regulations in place to ensure disabled people do not experience discrimination in the workplace, in society and beyond – it can be hard to keep up. Do you know your rights?

C

ontinually working to bring exciting ventures to the local community and beyond, appreciating that everyone in society is different to providing definitive support for each individual living in Britain – the law is on side to make sure you are not ostracised.

EQUALITY ACT 2010 Everyone in society should have the same opportunities and chances as their peers, regardless of ability. The Equality Act 2010 is an integral, statement law in the United Kingdom, and one all disabled people should know and understand.

In basic terms, the Act legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society because of their age, race, sexuality, gender, and/ or disability. Replacing previous acts pertaining to judgement in society, including the Disability Discrimination 48

Act 1995, the Equality Act 2010 holds all instances of discrimination under one umbrella to ensure everyone receives the same treatment across the board.

INTERVIEW

From education to employment, all the way to providing a statement to the police – the Equality Act 2010 has your best interests at heart. If you find yourself being questioned or interviewed at a police station, did you know you have additional rights because of your

disability?

Police officers are legally obliged to arrange an interpreter to be present if you are deaf, have hearing or speech difficulties. Similarly, for those with a learning disability, a responsible person – also known as an appropriate adult – has to be present. Everyone, regardless of circumstance, has a right to medical examination by a healthcare worker. Your safety and comfort are one of your basic human rights, which should always be respected.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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SPOTLIGHT

THE HUMAN RIGHTS ACT 1998

People living in the UK have their rights protected by the Human Rights Act 1998. Arguably one of the most crucial and vital rights of any individual in the world, the Human Rights Act puts into motion what you are legally entitled to from the European Convention of Human Rights (known simply as European Convention).

Protecting the rights of countries that belong to the Council of Europe, examples of your human rights include: the right to life, the right to respect for private and family life, the right to freedom of religion or belief, all the way to the right to education and participation in free elections.

The Human Rights Act is crucial not just on a legal standing, it helps to influence the public services that are delivered and the services provided to the disabled community. Regardless of if you’re living independently, with a carer, in education, employment or using public services, they are not allowed to breach your rights.

If you feel a public authority, which includes DWP benefit decision makers, courts, appeal tribunals, HM Revenue and Customs and more, has breached your human rights you can call on the Human Rights Act to seek justice. This will likely be a long and arduous process with many legal advisors unequipped to support such a length and complex case, in these instances taking specialist legal advice is usually advised.

SOCIAL MODEL OF DISABILITY

The UK signed up to the European Convention in 1951

Alongside understanding your rights, it is important to know how those rights and attitudes are shaping society.

The social model of disability is developed by people living with a disability to showcase their collective and individual views of the world. A key message in the model is the reason people are disabled, this is not, in fact, because of their impairment, difference or condition, but rather the barriers put in place by society.

There are many barriers throughout communities, villages, cities and beyond that can see disabled people struggling to live an independent life. With more than ten per cent of the world’s population identifying as disabled there has been a significant shift in the attitudes towards disability, one such change is through the social model of disability.

There is help from numerous organisations and services, but looking at the rights of disabled people in society is pioneering increased change and knowledge of disability for people with a hidden, physical, sensory or learning disability and mental health condition.

i

SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT

Equality and Human Rights Commission

www.equalityhumanrights.com

Disability Rights UK

www.disabilityrightsuk.org

Citizens Advice

www.citizensadvice.org.uk

The United Nations convention on the rights for people with disabilities Introduced specifically to protect and promote your human rights as a disabled person, the UK first signed the treaty in 2009. Nearing our tenth year as a member, your rights are protected in a range of areas including, but not limited to: health, education and employment, independent living, access to information, access to justice and personal security.

Encouraged to ensure the rights of the disabled community are protected, the Convention on the Rights for People with Disabilities calls on each home nation to assess their current disabled services and what can, and needs, to be improved upon.

In April of 2017, the UK government highlighted a list of issues they felt disabled people faced in Britain, and the United Nations (UN) reviewed the issues and made their requirements for the UK to increase living standards for disabled people. At the start of this year, the UN’s recommendations for the UK were published in a report entitled How well is the UK performing on disability rights? There were over 80 recommendations made for the UK government to act on alongside the devolved governments of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The suggested requirements have to be put in place.

Initiatives and services such as this from the UN promise a more unified, accepting and accessible future for the disabled and wider community.

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LIFE

Product We’ve rounded up the best adaptive products available on the market to help your needs PANOVA WHEELCHAIR LIFT Price available on request www.panova.biz 01482 480 710 Forward thinking and innovative, the Panova wheelchair lift is fast becoming the go-to choice for improving disabled access in both the home and business environment. The lift allows users to safely overcome steps of up to one metre in height and lies in a concealed discreet pit when not in use. Panova is the ideal choice for homeowners, occupational therapists and architects.

ERGONOMIC UCCELLO KETTLE TIPPER

PHONEPLUS TELEPHONE HANDSET AMPLIFIER

£37.56, www.amazon.co.uk The kettle’s tilt and pour action directs hot water to the fixed position of the cup without removing the kettle from its cradle. The weighted base means the kettle is not weight-bearing for the user, delivering hot water safely and steadily. The wide spout and hinged lid make the kettle easy to refill.

£23.50 including VAT, www.sarabec.com The Phoneplus is a subtle, battery operated device that connects between the base and handset of corded telephones. The device can be used to increase the volume or tone of your telephone to aid people with impaired hearing. Batteries are not wasted in the product which automatically switches on when the handset is lifted and off when the handset is replaced.

ATOM BY JENX

Price available on request www.jiraffe.org.uk Modern, child-centered styling, combined with a comprehensive range of support options make Atom the ideal seating system to give children the right amount of support to develop correct seating posture and function.

Suitable for users approximately six months to five years old.

MEDICOTECH THERA-TRAINER MOBI

Price available on request, www.medicotech.co.uk, 01908 564 100 A small, portable arm and leg exerciser for use at home, the Thera-Trainer MOBI helps those with mobility issues who want to exercise. The MOBI allows you to cycle against resistance, forward, and backwards to build up strength and stamina. The portable device comes with a remote control attached by an extendable cord for easy access. Home demonstrations are available.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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LIFE AIDAPT DUO DELUXE ROLLATOR AND TRANSIT CHAIR IN ONE

£138.12 including VAT www.aids4mobility.co.uk The Aidapt Duo Deluxe is a high-quality multi-use mobility walking aid. The Rollator allows the user to walk while also functioning as a seat when rest is needed. The built-in footrest and padded backrest mean that the Rollator can also be used as a transit chair.

Handle height can be adjusted to suit the user and the mechanism is foldable for easy storage and transportation.

ARDOO 140 HOIST

Price available on request www.ardoohoists.com 0115 718 0676 The Ardoo 140 hoist is the lightest folding multiuse hoist available, weighing only 23kg. Its unique front lifting boom facilitates safe and precise movement, allowing for easy placement in the seats of vehicles. The perfect travel companion, the hoist folds easily to fit in the boot of a car or to be taken in the hold of an aircraft. The product can also be easily adapted for use as a stand aid.

ETAC CUTTING BOARD £20.94 including VAT, www.completecareshop.co.uk 03330 160 000 The ETAC cutting board makes cutting items safer and easier for users. The knife sits between two sides of the safety guide keeping cutting straight and preventing slips. Slice thickness can also be controlled using an adjuster bar on the cutting board. This is ideal for those with a tremor, impaired sight or people who struggle to hold multiple items at once.

DAYS LIGHTWEIGHT HEIGHT ADJUSTABLE SHOWER STOOL

£24.95, www.amazon.co.uk This lightweight adjustable shower stool can also be used as a bathroom seat, shower chair and bathing aid. It provides support and stability while bathing and handles on the stool provide additional support for transfers. The clipon seat can be easily removed when not in use.

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OBJECT LOCATOR

£32.18 including VAT www.nrshealthcare.co.uk, 0345 121 8111 The object locator works with a remote control and wireless keyring beepers. Buttons on the remote control corresponds to five beepers that can be attached to different items like your keys, purse or even your walking stick. The locator is perfect for people who struggle to remember where they have left things with an activation range of up to 50 metres.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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Panova In safe hands

Smart Lift Solutions

www.panova.biz Mail@panova.biz

01482 480710

TECHNOLOGY EQUIPPED FOR GRIP

A HEART WARMING STORY A gentleman came to see us at our stand at the Bird Fair, at Oakham on the side of Rutland Water - great location!

What happened is that this chap interrupted a sale to say “I have driven 100 miles to meet you to say a very big thank you for saving my life”. I was taken aback and said how? He was in a wheelchair and he said “These are the ONLY gloves that I can use to manipulate my wheelchair, use my crutches (normal gloves don’t work with crutches) and still take a phone call on my mobile - they are superb and EVERY disabled person should have a pair of MacWets - I have been in a wheelchair for 40 years and I wish I had found them a long time ago, they would have improved my quality of life”.

MACWET GLOVES PROVIDE: Incredible touch and feel - you won’t realise you’re wearing them!

Unrivalled grip in dry, wet or humid conditions The perfect fit - available in 14 sizes A choice of 6 colours, two styles and two cuff lengths Durability - machine washable and long-lasting Touch screen sensitive - for use with iPhones, iPads and cameras

Call: 0845 603 9075 I Email: info@macwet.com

www.macwet.com

Your home without limitation Enjoy the feeling of getting around your home freely and easily . Take control of your surroundings and enhance your independence with Panova. Our lifts are discreet, unobtrusive and designed to match your decor. Avaliable for indoor and outdoor use.

Sunken Trampolines are the experts in providing trampoline solutions for schools, care institutions and families across the UK.

For a free consultation and site survey please contact us and we would be more than happy to help.

Contact: Joel: 07801 573278 / Angus: 07765 256537 sales@sunkentrampolines.co.uk / www.sunkentrampolines.co.uk Sunken Trampolines - Advert - residential - Jan 2017.indd 1

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22/10/2018 14:50

The review

Volvo

Volvo has taken its stylish SUV design and scaled it down in size and price to create the desirable XC40

Inside

Getting into the XC40 is much simpler than in many of its hatchback-derived rivals. The driver’s door opens to a wide angle and you have a large aperture to step through. Once installed, the front seats are simply among the best of any car, regardless of class, make or price.

The seats give the Volvo the sort of all-day comfort that makes journeys much more pleasurable.

Adding to the driver’s sense of well-being is the raised seating position that gives excellent vision to the front and sides.

Over-the-shoulder views are limited by the rear windows’ shape and back pillars, but rear parking sensors are standard on

54

all models and a parking camera is an affordable and worthwhile option.

The dash is uncluttered and most systems work through the clear, large infotainment screen.

There’s also voice control for selected functions like heating and radio operation.

Even though the XC40 is a smaller Volvo SUV, it still offers excellent rear seat space and a generous boot, so carrying passengers and packing a wheelchair are both easily achieved. You can also opt for the Convenience Pack that lets you drop the 60/40 split and fold rear seats electrically using a switch inside the boot opening.

Driving Most SUV drivers will gravitate towards diesel and the XC40 offers three such engines. The 150hp 2.0-litre D3 is the most efficient engine in front-wheel drive form, but this model is only offered with a manual gearbox.

Choose the all-wheel drive with the eight-speed auto and you’ll see a combined economy of 56.5mpg. The more potent D4 offers greater performance thanks to its 190hp and gives the same fuel consumption as the D3, so it’s the one to have if your budget stretches to its higher cost. All of the diesels are smooth, quiet and flexible, while the auto transmission is seamlessly good in any situation.

Petrol options are covered by the entertaining threecylinder 1.5-litre T3, but again it’s not offered with an automatic gearbox. Pick the 2.0-litre turbo petrol in T4 or T5 guises with 190hp and 247hp respectively and you get all-wheel drive, an auto box and sportily swift pace. However, this is at the expense of economy, which works out at around 40mpg for each.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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MOTORING

Find your ideal car Rica, a consumer research charity working with older and disabled people, has a unique online car search with key measurements and fact sheets. Check it out online at www.rica.org.uk/content/ car-search.

It offers excellent space, comfort, quality and driving

Summary

Equipment The range starts with Momentum that comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, rear parking sensors, cruise control, keyless entry and starting, and Hill Start Assist. Inside, you’ll find fabric upholstery, climate control, a 12.3inch driver’s information display and nine-inch centre infotainment screen. There’s also a suite of safety kit including a driver’s knee airbag, City Safety emergency braking and

Driver Alert Control with Lane Keeping Aid. Move up to R-Design and you get a different wheel design, sports body kit, leather seats and firmer suspension. The top spec Inscription offers leather upholstery, wood dash trim, electric seat adjustment and a powered tailgate. All models can be upgraded with a Pro option that gives you heated seats and washer jet nozzles, headlight cleaners heated windscreen and larger alloys.

Volvo goes straight to the top of the compact premium SUV sector. It offers excellent space, comfort, quality and driving.

Motability Customers The Volvo XC40 is available through the Motability Scheme, starting from your total weekly allowance plus zero Advance Payment. Find out more about the Scheme at www.motability.co.uk, or call 0300 456 4566

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19/10/2018 16:26

NEWS

MOTORING

NEWS

A roundup of motoring news stories making the headlines

GET GOING LIVE! OPENS DOORS FOR YOUNG DRIVERS TEENAGERS AS YOUNG AS 15-YEARS-OLD were given the opportunity to test drive adapted vehicles for the first time at a free Get Going Live! event.

The first in a series of events, held in Carshalton, focused on young people with disabilities, novice drivers and individuals that have recently become disabled.

Attendees were able to try adapted driving for the first time accompanied by qualified specialist instructors. A dedicated test track was created to allow non-license holders to try adapted driving. The opportunity opened doors for young disabled people who would otherwise struggle to test drive adapted cars.

The Get Going Live! feature was previously part of the national Mobility Roadshow which was held annually from 1983 until 2017. Driving assessments were also available at the relaunched event, which displayed assistive technology for driving and a range of mobility products.

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New flagship facility for driving mobility DRIVING MOBILITY, A CHARITY that helps disabled people access assisted driving, has announced a modern new facility in Manchester, opening on 1 November.

The custombuilt centre in Salford is a flagship modern facility operated by Regional Driving Assessment Centres (RDAC). Servicing people from Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cheshire, the centre is committed to getting people back on the road.

Driving assessments for older and disabled drivers, passengers, motorcyclists and mobility scooter users are available along with specialist tuition and advice so that drivers can remain independent.

Off-road assessment areas have also been created for non-license holders to drive on, and a fully accessible indoor assessment zone is available for use in bad weather. The centre also provides Tryb4uFly services to help with accessible air travel and guidance on specialist car seats for disabled children.

Disabled drivers to benefit from £500 million in funding DISABILITY CAR SCHEME Motability has pledged to donate £500 million to its charitable division over the next two years. The scheme provides vehicles specifically adapted for use by disabled people.

Ran by Motability Operations, the company will donate £400 million from its profits this year with hopes to donate a further £100 million next year. The extra funding will benefit disabled drivers supported by the charity.

The company began making donations to its charitable division in 2010 and has since

donated £340 million.

Motability, the charity, oversees and sets policy for the Motability Scheme. It also provides financial help for customers who are unable to afford the right mobility solution to meet their needs.

Donations come after Motability faced criticism over its reserves and chief executive pay levels. Motability Operations chief executive, Michael Betts, is paid £1.7 million a year, £2.4 billion in reserves, which were being kept as a cushion against business risks, were also criticised.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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From £21,995 or £7,495 Motability Advance Payment

22/10/2018 16:32

LIFE

THE

DIARY 21 – 22 NOVEMBER

8 NOVEMBER

KIDZ TO ADULTZ NORTH

EventCity, Manchester www.kidzexhibitions.co.uk exhibition for Kidz to Adultz is the UK’s largest free s of age year 25 to up ts adul children and young ful Help s. need al tion addi and es with disabiliti and nals for parents, carers, education professio ion mat infor out other support workers. Find about funding, education, accessibility, e. The transport, leisure, sports and much mor essional prof g inuin cont ide prov also ns bitio exhi wide a ring cove , development (CPD) seminars website the visit t, ticke a k range of topics. To boo .

8200 607 or call 0161

THE OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY SHOW

17 NOVEMBER

LIVING WITH MS

Ricoh Arena, Coventry www.eventbrite.co.uk Hosted by the MS Society, the conference is the perfect opportunity for those who have multiple sclerosis (MS), and their friends and family to meet each other and learn more about the condition.

The conference will provide talks on the different aspects of life with MS, interactive workshops on topics such as benefits and symptom management, and charity staff members will be there to answer any questions.

2 DECEMBER

EPILEPSY ACTION REINDEER STAMPEDE

Lister Park, Bradford www.epilepsy.org.uk Dress up as your favourite reindeer and trot through the streets of Bradford this winter, all while raising money for Epilepsy Action. The 5km fun run will provide free reindeer antlers, mince pies, carols performed by a local brass band and a medal for all runners.

There will also be a 400m ministampede for children. Adults can enter for £14 and children for £8.

58

NEC Birmingham www.theotshow.com The OT Show is the UK’s largest education and trade event for occupational therapists and other healthcare professionals.

Exhibitors include Active Minds, the Disabled Living Foundation, Motability, and various universities from across the UK. A total of more than 80 hours of professional development is on offer across the two days.

Register attendance free online.

Email us

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

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

3 DECEMBER

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

Worldwide www.un.org/en/events/ disabilitiesday Every year, International Day of Persons with Disabilities falls on 3 December. The day aims to promote the rights and equality of people with disabilities, and raise awareness about their experiences. Though there are no official events happening in the UK, why not throw your own celebration?

11 DECEMBER

DISABILITY IN SCOTLAND: EXPLORING IDENTITY

Royal Bank of Scotland Conference Centre, Edinburgh www.businessdisabilityforum. org.uk Promising a panel of disabled people speaking about their experiences and careers. Dr Caroline Casey, founder of Binc, will be on the panel, discussing her own hidden disability and her commitment to creating an equal society for the 1.3 billion people in the world with a disability. Head to the website for free registration.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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19/10/2018 16:27

Relaxed Performances at Birmingham Hippodrome

0121 689 1060*birminghamhippodrome.com *For access sales and enquiries only ly. ly y. For other enquiries please call Ticket Sales 0844 338 5000 (calls cost 4.5p per min plus access charge).

Where applicable,a 6% transaction charge may apply l excluding cash sales in person,postage from £1.50. ly

T e 18 & Tu Wed 19 Dec 1pm £10

Birmingham Royal Ballet

Wed 23 Jan 12 noon

Thu 28 Feb 1pm

£13.50

£13.50

Relaxed Performances are specially adapted for audience members with an Autism Spectrum Condition, sensory and communication disorders or a learning disability. To book, call our Access Line on 0121 689 1060* or buy in person (not available online).

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22/10/2018 15:30

s a m t s i r h C It’s beginning to look a lot like

Twinkling fairy lights, the smell of bratwurst in the air and a cup of hot mulled wine is enough to get anyone into the festive spirit. Why not visit one of the many accessible Christmas markets this winter to get into the holiday spirit?

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND

Hyde Park, London 22 November 2018 – 6 January 2019 hydeparkwinterwonderland.com The biggest Christmas market in the UK, Winter Wonderland at Hyde Park is also extremely accessible. All bookable attractions are wheelchair accessible, including The Magical Ice Kingdom, the ice rink, The Snowman Experience, and the Giant Wheel, which has a wheelchair accessible pod. Winter Wonderland advises booking tickets and making them aware of any access requirements in advance to allow the correct facilities to be provided.

The event also offers additional tickets for carers and personal assistants, allowing them to accompany for free.

There are 23 disabled parking spaces in the surrounding car parks (free for Blue Badge-holders) and accessible toilets at all eight toilet blocks throughout the site.

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BIRMINGHAM’S FRANKFURT CHRISTMAS MARKET

Victoria Square, Birmingham 15 November – 23 December www.germanchristmasmarketbirmingham.com The largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria, Birmingham’s market promises your fill of beer, sausage and stollen cake. Over 180 stalls will sell decorations, handmade gifts and wooden toys – the perfect opportunity to do some present shopping. More brilliant news: it’s also fully accessible, as it is possible to take a route to the square that avoids the use of stairs. There is ample parking in the city centre for Blue Badge holders and accessible toilets on site, next to the stage on Victoria Square.

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LIFE Various Locations, Manchester 9 November – 23 December www.visitmanchester.com This year, the markets in Manchester will take place across different city centre locations, including Albert Square, Corn Exchange, Cathedral Gardens and Market Street. With over 300 festive stalls selling crafts, clothing, jewellery and toys, there will be something for everyone, and the good news is, it is accessible to all.

European producers will be there selling tasy treats such as Hungarian goulash and Spanish paella, with vegetarian options, too. Assistance dogs are welcome, and the site is completely accessible for wheelchair users. The public toilets serving the Albert Square site are also wheelchair friendly, and there is on-street parking for Blue Badge holders nearby.

PIC: © MARK WAUGH

MANCHESTER CHRISTMAS MARKET

NOTTINGHAM WINTER WONDERLAND

Old Market Square, Nottingham 15 November – 31 December www.nottinghamwinterwonderland.co.uk The East Midlands has plenty of festive of ice) will make a return this year, with cheer this winter, too. A new addition ice sculptures and glasses to drink to the festivities is the Sur-La-Piste Bar: from. One of the biggest attractions a French ski lodge inspired bar, which at the square is the ice rink, which is will be the setting of a whole host of completely accessible. Disabled skaters entertainers, from Christmas songs pay a concession fee, and carers or and carols during the day, to musicians personal assistants go free. The ice rink and DJs in the evening. The Ice Bar is also wheelchair-friendly. To book a (you guessed it – a bar made entirely session on the ice, call 0115 807 7900.

EDINBURGH CHRISTMAS MARKET

East Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh 16 November – 5 January 2019 www.edinburghschristmas.com The market in Princes Street Gardens in the heart of the Scottish capital is fully accessible from both Princes Street and Waverly Bridge.

The walkways around the park are made as even as possible with ramps up to stalls. Many of the attractions are accessible too, with the ice rink, the Forth 1 Big Wheel and Spiegeltent designed to accommodate wheelchairs. For shows and performances, complimentary tickets for carers and personal assistants are available, and an induction loop can be found in the Spiegeltent. Accessible parking is located on Frederick Street, George Street, Hanover Street and Waterloo Place, which is free for Blue Badge holders, with no time limit. Accessible toilets are also available throughout the site.

For further enquiries, call 0131 469 3891.

TRADITION German Markets can be dated as far back as the Late Middle Ages in German-speaking destinations across Europe.

CARDIFF WINTER WONDERLAND

15 November – 6 January 2019 St John Street and Park Place, Cardiff www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com Spread across Cardiff, festivities are engulfing the city with Winter Wonderland on Park Place, and the Christmas market on St John Street and the surrounding area. Following on from the success of last year, the ice rink will run ‘relaxed access sessions’, featuring static lighting, lowered sound levels and decreased capacity to allow those who need extra support to enjoy the facility. Guide dogs are welcomed on site and drinking water for the dogs will be provided next to the box office. Cardiff City Council is providing a free City Centre Mobility Service, transporting disabled and elderly passengers around pedestrianised areas in the city centre. For more information, or to book a journey call 029 2087 3888.

LEEDS CHRISTKINDELMARKT

Millennium Square, Leeds 9 November – 22 December whatson.leeds.gov.uk/germanchristmasmarket Leeds will be transformed into a German village, with a chalet restaurant offering traditional Bavarian-style food, or meet Santa for breakfast every weekend morning from 24 November (ho ho ho).

There is a high dependency unit next to the Civic Hall, fully equipped with a tracking hoist and height adjustable sink, and two accessible toilets on site. The grounds are wheelchair accessible and service dogs are welcomed. Accessible toilets are available next to the Civic Hall, too. There is ample Blue Badge parking around the square and dropoff areas near the entrances on Rossington Street and Portland Gate.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 15:57

LIFE

Let’s

Dance

Homemade decorations hang on the walls, the smell of beer is in the air, laughter fills the room and the band starts to play. Welcome to Bubble Club – the organisation making sure that clubbing is accessible and inclusive

B

ubble Club, an events management team, has been running accessible club nights in east London for 13 years.

Organised by and for people with learning disabilities, the club nights are some of the only regular disability-friendly events in the UK, and they’re more popular than ever, with around 120 people attending each event.

for the night,” says Jenny, a member of the co-production team.

For many people with learning disabilities, mainstream club nights can be overwhelming or unsuitable. Bubble Club provides a safe, non-judgemental space to enjoy an adult event. The nights welcome all sensory, physical or learning disabled clubbers and non-disabled people, too.

SOCIAL

“It’s a great experience,” adds Rufaro, another member of the organisation team and Bubble Club’s stage manager. “We’re a big family and everyone feels included.

Everyone has a really good time.”

One of the key criticisms of social care for people with learning disabilities is that much of their entertainment is provided by day centres, meaning evenings and nights can be lonely, which can lead to social isolation and an increase in mental health issues.

“There’s a lack of evening entertainment, and people are looking for stuff to do,” explains Hugo. “We love seeing new faces: Bubble Club is an actively safe, inclusive space for everyone, and a great place to socialise and meet friends.”

Attendees believe the nights improve confidence and independence by providing a friendly atmosphere for socialising and creating a sense of belonging, where everyone can be themselves. Jenny concludes: “Don’t be shy, come along and meet our Bubble Club family!”

ENJOYMENT

“People with learning disabilities want the opportunity to hang out in the evening,” says Hugo Fergusson, Bubble Club’s project facilitator. “Many activities for people with learning disabilities are provided by day centres and finish at 4pm, but the evening is the time when people let their hair down, shake off the week and connect with friends. Loneliness and isolation levels are already way too high, everyone should have access to socialising in the evening.”

The club is actively inclusive and accessible, with wheelchair access and no flashing lights. Held at the Backyard Bar in Bethnal Green once every two months, the club usually starts at around 7pm, the event features live bands and DJs. Each night has a different theme, the most recent being Legendary Women of Awesome, to celebrate the centenary of women first getting the vote.

INVOLVEMENT

Running as a model of co-production, Bubble Club holds weekly meetings allowing the team, who have various learning disabilities, to gather ideas and voice what they would like to see at the events.

“One of the best things about being a part of Bubble Club is being involved in all the ideas for the events and getting creative, making the posters and drawings

Bubble Club is a big family and everyone feels included. Everyone has a really good time

i

NIGHTLIFE MATTERS

To find out more about Bubble Club, visit www.bubbleclub.org You can donate to the Bubble Club crowdfunding page by visiting, www.spacehive.com/backthebubble

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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SPORT

CALLING ALL

SUPERHEROES

T

Superhero Series is the UK’s one and only sporting event for everyday superheroes.

Suitable for any disability and their sidekicks, with no restrictions on equipment or cut-off times – founder Sophia Warner explains why the event is so important

his year’s Winter Wonderwheels event, powered by npower, takes place at Dorney Lake in Windsor on 2 December. Participants can cycle, walk, run, or push anything a 1km, 5km or 10km route around the lake.

Paralympian Sophia Warner started the series after she struggled to find events she could take part in.

SPORT FOR FUN “I have always been a big lover of sport and love taking part in mass participation events, but it became increasingly tricky to find things that I could do,” says Sophia. “It takes the fun out of it. I wanted to create a sort of tough mudder for people with a disability so that they could enjoy sport for fun.”

The event is more than throwing bean bags through a hoop says Sophia: “I’ve never been to disability taster days where I think ‘I’d love to have a go at that.’ It’s exciting sport for fun not competition.” The ‘anything goes’ ethos of the event means it is an opportunity to try something new that might have seemed impossible before.

INSPIRATION For Sophia, the everyday heroes taking part in the event are the inspiration to make it bigger and better every year. “Some people

64

haven’t done any sport before and have kept coming back, and now exercise has become part of their life,” she says. “It’s the look on people’s faces when they cross the finish line – that’s my favourite part.”

Each event has celebrity team captains lead the way. This year’s Winter Wonderwheels line-up includes JJ Chalmers, Sophie Christiansen, Dave Henson and Jonnie Peacock. The event is slower paced than its summertime counterpart so participants will get the chance to chat with their team captains.

“It’s going to be a real personal prize,” Sophia adds. “People can wheel all the way round the lake with the team captains, rather than feel rushed. I like Winter Wonderwheels because it’s more intimate, they can chat and get to know each other.”

Some people haven’t done any sport before and have kept coming back, and now exercise has become part of their life

Christmas will be at the finish line, we want to make the day as silly and fun as we can. We’re getting carol singers, Christmas things to eat, lots of festive fun.”

Already working on your outfit or still unsure if you 25% off should take part, give it FESTIVITIES a chance encourages tickets Participants are Sophia: “Come down We’ve teamed up with encouraged to dress and do it, look at it Superhero Series to give up as their favourite with a different vision.

Enable readers an exclusive superhero for the Whether people are discount code for the event. event, or add a touch sporty or not they can Visit www.superheroseries. of sparkle to their come.” co.uk and use the code outfit in the lead up to Grab your best cape, ENABLE25 Christmas. The festivities sidekick and festive to register now will be in full swing at the cheer – Dorney Lake is event Sophia says: “Father waiting.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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ENJOY

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22/10/2018 16:11

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22/10/2018 16:01

SPORT

INDEPENDENCE

on the slopes Rushing down the crisp white untouched snow of the mountain at 70mph is an adrenaline rush unlike any other. It is an experience that breaks the mould of typical exercise classes – disability snowsport oozes action with an integral message of independence

I

n 1974 Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK) founder, David Morris made a powerful comment that still stands today: “Why shouldn’t you have a wheelchair on the top of a mountain?” A poignant message that is still relevant today, and with the continued support of DSUK more disabled snowsport fans are getting on the mountain for an indescribable experience of sport.

Indescribable is the word used by current DSUK CEO, Mark Kelvin. The beneficial emotional, physical and mental impact that snowsport can have on an individual is tangible: but you would have to either see it for yourself, or get involved.

And there are many reasons people should grab their winter jackets and buckle into the most thrilling sport that packs the biggest dose of community, exercise, exhilaration, and more into one punch.

THERAPY

“It is absolutely unique. There are a number of physical and mental health benefits to snowsport, as well as the social inclusion that comes with après ski, which is what happens after the slopes,” explains Mark. “There is a huge community feel to snowsport so it helps bring people with disabilities into new communities, with people with similar interests where they can share their journey, challenges, and how they’ve overcome them.”

Once on the slopes, be it outdoors or in a centre in your local area, the therapeutic benefits of this high action sport is palpable. Yes, there is therapy

involved in racing down a hill on skis or performing adrenaline-pumping moves on a snowboard. From improved posture to strengthening and conditioning of muscles, the core aspect of any snowsport is extremely beneficial for disabled people.

Mark enthuses: “One thing that is unique to snowsport that you won’t get, potentially, from other sports is the level of individual risk that comes with it.” The risk factor is not for the faint hearted, but it is the crowning jewel of snowsport.

STIMULATING

“We will train people who are visually impaired or physically disabled to be able to propel themselves down a mountain at 70mph. There is a unique level of risk where a lot of other sports are done in tandem or in teams – this is something that people can do completely on their own,” explains Mark. “We can support, we can be there with a tether to help manage risk, guide, and teach people, regardless of any condition or any disability, we can provide that individual level of risk, which so many people are craving because since acquiring or being born with a disability there is often that cotton wool approach.”

The benefits of snowsport have not gone unnoticed with Millie Knight, who is a three-time Paralympic medallist, twotime Paralympian and Downhill World Champion. First experiencing skiing before she lost her sight, she says: “I got involved through DSUK and it just snowballed from there.

“When I lost my sight, I was doing

Why shouldn’t you have a wheelchair on the top of a mountain?

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SPORT We will train people who are visually impaired or physically disabled to be able to propel themselves down a mountain at 70mph

Get out there

sports that were not very blind friendly…

My mum took me away skiing just before I lost my sight and I absolutely loved it – probably because it was so totally different. When I’m on snow I can make the decisions on what way we go, where we go and it’s great.”

CHANGE

For people involved in snowboarding, skiing and other snowsport-based activities, Mark has seen directly the change that it can have on individuals.

Regardless of ability, living with cerebral palsy, visual impairments, as a wheelchair user or amputee, there is a change that occurs when on the mountain.

Mark says: “The difference from getting to the top of the mountain to the bottom of the mountain and the emotions that come with it is amazing. Autistic people who have been skiing with us and start to communicate verbally who had never communicated verbally before – it does something that is indescribable.”

Chris Lloyd has experienced the power of change through snowsport, too. Having been on the slopes since the age of 14 years-old it was a car accident in later life that looked to have robbed Chris of his passion. Paralysed from the neck down, doctors told Chris he would never ski again. A love of the sport combined with the powerful force behind snowsport saw Chris not only walking and skiing again, but

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DSUK are looking for volunteers.

Have you got what it takes? representing Britain at the PyeongChang Winter Paralympics in 2018.

“I had such a passion and I loved it so much that I set myself a goal to get back on the skis,” Chris adds. “When you’re out there and you’re free, doing something you love; there are people I ski with who are in wheelchairs and they’re skiing at the same speed as everyone else, doing the same as everyone else – it’s quite liberating,” explains Chris. “It’s great speaking to them and seeing that they’re not being held back.”

And for you reading this, there is no reason that you should be held back either.

VOLUNTEERING

Running Activity Weeks abroad, DSUK is more than a sport – it is a community.

Visiting destinations in Austria, Italy, the Highlands of Scotland and America, the Activity Weeks provide an opportunity for people to learn new techniques, advance their current skills whilst enjoying the atmosphere that comes with snowsport.

Mark explains: “If they’re beginning,

people can come to Austria where the slopes are gentler, we have some people coming along with family and carers.

The next year they come on their own because they’ve got that confidence.

This season we have approximately 40 to 50 per cent returning customers, and are excited to welcome new thrill-seekers.

Our ambition is to continue to grow these unique weeks.”

As we approach the new year, are you looking for an activity that breaks the norm of exercise? Snowsport could be the release that propels your interest for sport into a new direction with no signs of stopping. We’ll see you on the mountain.

Get on the slopes

Discover a new dawn of exercising with Disability Snowsport UK. Visit www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk or call 01479 861 272 for more information and to find your nearest centre.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 16:22

SPORT

‘Sport has the

POWER

to change the

World’

I

n the outskirts of Paris, the second day of the Laureus Sport for Good Summit began with a thought provoking and intriguing question: we all like to think we’re inclusive, but how can we be more inclusive?

Regardless of ability, sport can be a haven for millions worldwide and almost all are easily adaptable. This is more than just sport, it is supporting communities to better education and awareness of disability.

MESSAGE

Laureus Sport for Good holds six key messages to help eradicate current social issues. During the event, sponsored by Allianz, projects worldwide came together to discuss changes possible for their local and wider community through sport.

Helping the disabled community, specifically children with learning disabilities, to become further integrated in sport can be the pivotal step for inclusion and improved understanding of different abilities.

Anna Schaffelhuber, seven-time gold medal para-alpine skier for Germany, agrees: “From Ethiopia to Germany and the United States, it starts at the very basics and works with children and adults. Children are the best people to give information on inclusion and diversity because it is better to start early and support people all over the world.”

PICS: © SIMONHOFMANN

The Laureus Sport for Good Foundation was originally founded in response to Nelson Mandela’s iconic quote in 2000. Nearly twenty years later, the Laureus Sport for Good Global Summit is spearheading inclusivity through the power of sport

South African based project, Waves for Change showcased how their work has spread awareness of safety on South Africa’s beaches and the importance of surf therapy for autistic children. Without their work many families would be hesitant to allow children onto beaches and miss out on the beauty of surfing. Their work would not be possible without Laureus, Allianz, and sporting ambassadors.

AMBASSADORS

Part of Laureus is their innovative Laureus Academy, alongside Ambassadors, combining over 200 of the greatest sporting stars from the past and present. The Academy Members and Ambassadors help to share the Laureus message of inclusivity, alongside sport as an important tool.

During the event, Anna, was announced as the organisation’s newest Ambassador.

“It feels really good,” enthuses Anna. “I was told about the programmes and the work Laureus is doing and I was really inspired.”

Andy Barrow, retired wheelchair rugby player for Great Britain, also discussed the work that Laureus puts in to change perceptions of disability across western and

eastern societies – a crucial step to reaching equality.

FUNDING

It has to be said, without funding from Allianz – one of the leading integrated financial service providers worldwide – many of the projects based in Columbia, India and here at home in the UK, would not be possible.

Anna expresses: “You get the opportunity.

Allianz is a big company and they do a lot in Paralympic sport and a lot with diversity, you can use their networks to bring new resources to different projects. It is very, very important to have them.”

“We all love the quote, ‘sport can change the world,’ and we all subscribe and believe in it,” concludes Andy.

With all parties combined, sport really has the power to change the world.

i

MORE INFORMATION

Discover more about Laureus Sport for Good by visiting www.laureus.com and see how sport can unite your community.

Read all about the Laureus Sport for Good Global Summit over at www.enablemagazine.co.uk www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 14:03

Helping people with a learning disability get ahead Most people with a learning disability can and want to work. But just 6% of those able to work are in paid employment*.

We’ve developed our award-winning supported internship study programme into a national model.

Interns and Outcomes offers young people aged 16-24, with an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan, the opportunity to get practical work-based learning experience as part of a full-time study programme, creating a smooth transition from education to paid employment.

If you would like to join our internship programme, or you’re an employer, college, local authority or training provider interested in helping us deliver Interns and Outcomes, visit our website or get in touch. www.mencap.org.uk/employment

Committed to equal opportunity Audit Scotland is an independent public body responsible for auditing Scotland’s public organisations, to check that public money is spent properly and provides best value for money.

We are committed to equal opportunity and to a culture that respects difference. As an employer, and in our audit role, we play a leading part in the promotion and application of diversity and equality.

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*Department of Health (November 2010) The Adult Social Care Outcomes Framework 2015/16 Registered Charity Number 222377 (England and Wales); SC041079 (Scotland) 2018.023

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22/10/2018 16:07

EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION

at ITV studios. I did a work trial with them so they could see how I worked. They then offered me a job as a Runner – I love this job because I get to meet new people and get to learn new skills.”

Alongside their 40 years of experience supporting people getting into paid employment, Mencap works alongside many employers who are actively looking to employ disabled workers.

DISABILITY CONFIDENT ITV is just one organisation liaising directly with Mencap as a disability confident employer. Employers that have supported employees with learning disabilities include 4 Talent, Houses of Parliament, Kids adVentures and many more.

Through their participation Mencap has helped more people get into paid work, which can be a barrier for people living with a learning disability. In fact, less than two in ten working age people with a mild or moderate learning disability are in work.

Determined to change employer attitudes, dismantle myths surrounding hiring disabled workers partnered with the guidance of Mencap’s dedicated team, it won’t be long before you can be clocking in, too.

Only 6 in 100 learning disabled people are in work

CLOCKING IN WITH

Mencap

Finding your dream job can be a mammoth task. That’s why Mencap, a charity proud to be the leading voice of learning disability, is supporting more people into employment

Q

asim Butt was actively looking for employment before he was referred to Mencap. Attending regular meetings at the Job Centre, Qasim’s disability employment advisor encouraged him to connect with Mencap.

Pioneering in their field, Mencap is more than just a charity providing valuable advice; Mencap also opens the doors to employment for thousands of people across the UK with learning disabilities.

GUIDING HAND Starting off the job seeking process,

Mencap provided guidance to Qasim as he completed applications, developed interview skills and most importantly, the advice allowed Qasim’s confidence to flourish.

From application to interview, Mencap was there at every step of the process – even attending interviews with Qasim if he felt he required additional encouragement.

“Mencap gave me my work step by step and broke each task down for me. They also supported me to learn new skills,” explains Qasim. “I also wanted more hours, so Mencap even helped me find paid work

HELP For job seekers still struggling to find employment, Qasim encourages them to get in contact with their job coaches at the Job Centre for advice. “If you can, ask your family and friends to help you look for work and also charities like Mencap. Try and not get stressed and keep your head up,” adds Qasim. “Always remember to do things that make you feel good and don’t be afraid to ask for help.”

Offering a guiding hand across a variety of sectors and services throughout the UK, connecting with Mencap could set your career in motion. There is a job out there for everyone and Mencap are committed to getting more disabled people into paid employment.

i

FIND OUT MORE

To find out how Mencap can support you directly visit, www.mencap.org.uk/ employment-services or call 0808 808 1111

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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22/10/2018 14:45

EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION

Bridging the

Employment gap The overall disability pay gap in the UK, which is the difference between the average hourly pay of disabled and non-disabled workers, is 13.6 per cent. We investigate why the disability pay gap exists, and changes required to achieve equality in the workplace

I

n recent years the gender pay gap has dominated headlines, gaining a deserved level of attention and forcing the issue to be addressed, after decades of discrimination. Now, the spotlight is on other imbalances in pay.

Executive director at the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), Alastair Pringle, believes the momentum shouldn’t stop. “While we have made good progress in starting to tackle the gender pay gap, we must not lose sight of other inequalities in the workplace,” encourages

Alastair.

Two recent reports by the EHRC highlighted the extremes of both the disability and ethnicity pay gap. One report, found just three per cent of organisations measure their ethnicity or disability pay gaps.

The careful examination of the gender pay gap shouldn’t differ for other inequalities Alastair says: “It is important to ensure that there is the same level of scrutiny and focused action on workplace inequalities that ethnic minority and

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EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION

disabled people face regarding their recruitment, retention and progression, which are areas we know people face barriers.”

COMPLEX The realities of analysing information surrounding inequalities for ethnic minorities and disabled people in the workplace are layered and complex.

“These pay gaps are not binary issues – for example there are differences between pay gaps for different ethnic minority groups or for disabled people with different mental or physical impairments,” Alastair explains.

There are now calls from EHRC for businesses to be required to publish this data alongside a narrative and action plan on how they will address any issues.

Problems could be anything from a lack of easy access to premises to the pay gap itself. The unique nature of this data means that there is no single solution.

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While we have made good progress in starting to tackle the gender pay gap, we must not lose sight of other inequalities in the workplace

“This may mean changing the way in which employment is structured, removing physical barriers, changing policies and procedures and/or providing extra support for a disabled worker,” says Alastair. “This aims to make sure that, as far as is reasonable, a disabled worker has the same access to everything that is involved in doing and keeping a job as a non-disabled person.”

Equal access to opportunities and services often doesn’t exist or isn’t easily accessible. Making all employees aware of company policies on disability will increase accessibility, equality and improve staff retention for organisations.

MOVING FORWARD Monitoring the effectiveness of an organisation’s actions to close the disability pay gap is only possible if they have adequate knowledge of employees’ disabilities. Disclosing a disability to your employer is a choice, not a legal requirement. You may choose not to disclose an existing or new disability to your employer for fear of prejudice or discrimination, or you simply feel it is not information pertinent to the position.

Phillip agrees, he believes disclosing a disability should remain a choice.

“Disabled people shouldn’t have to disclose the specifics of their disability unless they require reasonable adjustments, but there should be a

supportive culture, for example: flexible working,” says Phillip.

A trusting relationship between employee and employer is often necessary for full transparency.

“Employees should feel confident that their employer will use any information they share on their disability to support them within the workplace,” adds Alastair. “They can do this by engaging with disabled people in the workforce to get their input and find out if they are experiencing improvements.”

This support should be made available from day one Phillip says: “Disabled people should look for employers willing to implement reasonable adjustments at interviews, at induction, who have an equality and inclusion ethos.” It is refreshing to see, despite the evident pay gap inequality, that more businesses and companies are actively stepping forward to hire disabled employees. A disability does not mean you are any less suited for a position, after all.

Transparency and trust between organisations and their workers is essential to recognising inequalities, but if monitoring became mandatory the question remains: will the necessary steps to close the disability pay gap be taken, and when?

ALL FACTS AND FIGURES WERE ACCURATE AT TIME OF PRINT.

INEQUALITY Pay gaps in any capacity should not exist, but a focus on the disability pay gap by the government and organisations is continually lacking. Prime Minister Theresa May has launched a consultation on whether mandatory reporting will help address the ethnicity pay gap. The difference between the average hourly pay of ethnic minorities and White British people is currently at 5.7 per cent, less than half of the disability pay gap.

Why the 13.6 per cent disability pay gap in average hourly pay exists is no mystery, especially considering how challenging it can be for disabled workers to find paid employment. Barriers can be complex with each individual facing a unique set of circumstances. Policy and development manager at Disability Rights UK, Phillip Connolly, says this can include a number of possible factors: “Disabled people can be trapped in part time and entry level jobs, have a lack of support and training in work progression. Also, a lack of transparency makes this form of discrimination possible.”

Organisations with over 250 employees are now required to report on their gender pay gap. Gathering information about employees for evaluation could be a step in the right direction. Alastair adds: “It’s so important that businesses collect and understand information about who their workforce are to identify where there are inequalities and how to reduce them.”

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Employment Opportunities Over 100 careers paths – one employer Know what you want to pursue as a career, or looking for ideas? Interested in employment or placement opportunities?

We recognise the value that everyone brings to our organisation. Through our ‘Job Interview Guarantee’ we will consider you on your abilities and guarantee an interview where you meet the essential criteria for the post. We have a wide range of jobs at entry and qualified level and offer great opportunities for career development – and much more.

All our vacancies are advertised on: www.jobs.scot.nhs.uk More information on the initiatives NHS Lothian are involved in and details of our modern apprenticeships can be found at: www.careers.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk Come and see what we can offer for your career in healthcare.

Apply for money for training If you employ your own personal assistants (PAs) using a personal budget (from health or social care) or your own money, you can apply for money to train you and your staff.

The money can be used to pay for training to develop the skills of your PAs and improve your knowledge as an employer.

Find out more and apply at www.skillsforcare.org.uk/iefunding.

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31/07/2018 09:56:40

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THE IMPORTANCE OF

DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT INITIATIVES Last year the government promised to get more disabled people into paid employment over the next decade. Although there is a long road ahead, disability employment initiatives are spearheading the change

I

t was just last November Prime Minister Theresa May pledged to help get more disabled workers into employment.

According to government figures, there are currently over 32 million people in paid employment, including 600,000 more disabled people.

But there is still a lot of work to do before more disabled workers are living the reality of nine to five.

CAMPAIGN

There is a plethora of opportunities and careers on the job market and, gradually, more businesses and organisations are reaping the rewards of new employees – many with disabilities.

In July, the Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, Sarah Newton, and the Minister for Mental Health and Inequalities, Jackie Doyle-Price launched a challenge fund of £4.2 million to help ensure people with mental health or musculoskeletal conditions continue in paid employment.

It is hoped the fund will see one million more people in paid employment by 2027.

In the UK, 78 per cent of people acquire a disability or are diagnosed with a debilitating health condition compared to the number of people born with a disability. Of the initiatives in place to help disabled people either get into work or remain in their current position, albeit with adaptations, the introduction of such schemes are breaking the mould of employment as we know it.

EXPERIENCE

Alongside producing engaging dramas featuring disability, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is paving the way for future generations

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of journalists, runners, producers, and beyond the media sphere. Journalism is a wonderful profession bringing the heart of the news to people worldwide and in the comfort of their own home. It is also a career that is cemented around experience.

For disabled workers finding employment can be challenging enough without adding the need for experience REPRESENTATION into the equation. It is for this reason the Ian George, Extend in News project BBC has introduced their Extend in News manager, adds: “BBC Extend in News was initiative, providing roles from junior to an initiative started last year with two senior editorial levels, for people with aims. The first was to increase the number visible or hidden disabilities. of journalists with disabilities across BBC Natasha Lipman is a BBC journalist News due to an under-representation who entered the organisation of disabled staff across the through Extend in News. organisation.

Having participated in The BBC has to be the BBC Ouch podcast reflective of the UK’s It actually feels several times, the population, both in its strange to have editor encouraged staffing and in output, such a supportive Natasha to send so another aim of the employer, and I feel her application into programme was to that everyone is Extend in News. increase disability Certain that the related content to really trying their programme would give more of a voice to hardest to make not be suitable for her disabled people.” this work health needs, Natasha Natasha enthuses waited until the last minute that her team and BBC to send in her application. management are very Now, Natasha is a broadcast forthcoming in understanding her journalist on the writers desk at BBC news and managing their expectations of Stories. what she can or may not be able to do due “I’m very fortunate to be able to work to her disability. Similarly, employment part-time, and I only go in a few hours a feedback is an integral part of the initiative week if and when I’m up to it, and I have to ensure everyone gets the most out of no deadlines on my stories,” explains the scheme and it can continue to develop Natasha. “It actually feels strange to have for others in the future. such a supportive employer, and I feel that “The scheme wasn’t really conceived everyone is really trying their hardest to with situations like mine fully in mind, make this work.” but I have to say everyone has been

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EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION

extremely open to listen and learn about the adjustments that I need,” says Natasha.

“I’m really thrilled for what this means for the new cohort and anyone else coming in with chronic illness.”

Ian agrees: “Working with disabled staff is an ongoing learning process for us too, as everyone we recruit is different, with varying needs. We really do value the feedback we regularly ask for and get – and we do make a point of allowing the Extend programme to be a two-way communication process, as it helps us as an organisation learn, grow and become a more inclusive employer.

The feedback we get around the jobs and support we offer is overwhelmingly positive, which is very reassuring. If and when we get feedback that there is a problem, we then listen, work with the individual and make sure that everything is resolved as quickly as possible.” The passion and dedication from the BBC is evident in their work. i

EXTEND IN NEWS

Learn more about the BBC’s project and look out for 2019 applications by following @InExtend on Twitter

MORE INITIATIVES PLUSS

www.pluss.org.uk Supporting thousands of people with disabilities or disadvantages into employment annually, Pluss works to ensure nobody is left behind. Providing employment for people with learning, physical, mental or sensory disability, Pluss is helping get more people into work through their social enterprise. Of their current 500 employees, almost half have a disability.

CHANGE 100

www.leonardcheshire.org Bringing together the UK’s top employers and committed and talented disabled workers, Leonard Cheshire’s Change 100 programme is enabling more young disabled people to get into their desired

field of work. Partnering with over 90 employers since launching in 2014 you could soon be working with Lloyds, Taylor Wimpey, the BBC and more.

MANPOWERGROUP

www.manpowergroup.co.uk Understanding the importance of a diverse workforce, ManpowerGroup is committed to a more inclusive culture.

Working with charities to help get disabled candidates into employment, ensuring a diverse work environment, and matching individuals with the right career, more disabled people can feel empowered in work. The company’s dedication has seen them recognised at the recent Recruitment Industry Disability Initiative (RIDI) Awards.

www.enablemagazine.co.uk

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INTERVIEW YouTube sensation, CBBC star and Bake Off winner, Nikki Lilly is living the dream life of most 14-year-olds. Unlike her peers, Nikki has already had 38 operations to help her disability, but makes sure it doesn’t hold her back. Nikki is supporting others to combat low self-esteem and negative comments

NIKKI LILLY

EMBRACING OUR DIFFERENCES WITH

N

ikki Lilly has an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) meaning there are no pathways between her veins and arteries causing her veins to expand and rupture. The condition creates life-threatening nose bleeds, facial swelling and migraines.

DIAGNOSIS Even though Nikki was born with AVM she wasn’t diagnosed until the age of six. At that point Nikki was too young to know how it would affect her life. “I did not really understand that this was going to be a life-long problem for me,” she explains.

Forced to leave school and give up any physical activities, Nikki adds: “I really missed my friends at school. I was so sad and lonely, all I kept thinking was why me?”

ESCAPISM Stuck at home, Nikki decided to start a YouTube channel, something her parents were wary of but understood. “My parents realised that I needed some connection with the outside world,” she recalls. “I had my childhood and confidence taken away from me when I became sick.”

Filming and editing videos kept her busy at home and allowed Nikki to make new friends in the form of subscribers.

“It gave me a voice and a purpose,” says Nikki. “It was my escapism as my condition meant I was basically a prisoner in my own home.”

It’s OK to feel vulnerable and to look different

Covering everything from baking to bullying, Nikki won CBBC’s Junior Bake Off in 2016 and has over 440,000 friends who look forward to her videos.

She has her own CBBC slot, Nikki Lilly Meets, interviewing and baking with celebrities. “It feels crazy,” she explains.

“I am so lucky to be able to interview and chat to all the different people in the public eye about their life and how they got into what they do today.”

Nikki’s list of interviewees includes Theresa May, Nicole Scherzinger and Katie Piper, and she has high hopes to talk with Barack Obama and Meghan Markle next.

ROLE MODEL Nikki has become a role model to many disabled people or those experiencing mental health issues. Some of her videos talk about being different, how to deal with bullies and negative thoughts. “All too often a person suffers in silence because they don’t want to burden friends or family with their invisible issues,” she says.

“It is OK to feel vulnerable and to feel and look different. Believe that your disability is an obstacle that can be overcome and does not define who you are,” urges Nikki. “I cannot change the fact that I am different but I can try to fulfil my

dreams to the best of my ability.”

Being a teenager can be difficult, but Nikki is a spokesperson for embracing who you are, a role model and an expert baker. We can’t wait to see what she does next.

Nikki has launched her own charity, to find out more about the Butterfly AVM Charity visit www.butterflyavmcharity.org.uk

Read our full interview with Nikki online, www.enablemagazine.co.uk 82

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TOYOTA C-HR ICON £45 ADVANCE PAYMENT *

On the Motability Scheme

✔ Fully insured for two drivers ✔ Servicing, maintenance

and repair included

✔ Full breakdown assistance ✔ Tyre replacement and

windscreen repair included

EXPLORE MORE. ENJOY MORE. Visit: toyota.co.uk/motability for more information C-HR Icon 5 door Coupe FWD 1.2T VVT-i Manual. Official Fuel Consumption Figures in mpg (l/100km): Urban 38.2 (7.4), Extra Urban 53.2 (5.3), Combined 47.1 (6.0). CO Emissions 135g/km. All mpg and CO figures quoted are sourced from official EU regulated laboratory test results.

These are provided to allow comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect your actual driving experience. From 1 September 2017, certain new vehicles will be type-approved using the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which is a new, more realistic test procedure for measuring fuel consumption and CO emissions. From 1 September 2018 WLTP will fully replace the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), which is the current test procedure. Due to more realistic test conditions, the fuel consumption and CO emissions measured under the WLTP are in many cases higher compared to those measured under the NEDC. More information can be found by visiting www.WLTPfacts.eu *Model shown is C-HR Icon 5 door Coupe FWD 1.2 VVT-i Manual at £45 Advance Payment. Subject to availability. Available as part of the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Please note that a total of 60,000 miles over three years are allowed on the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Off er valid between 1st October and 31st December. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) and applications must be made with participating dealers between 1st October and 31st December. Prices are correct at time of print, are subject to availability and may change.

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