Enable September/October 2019

A luxury weekend in the Peak District

CARE IN THE SPOTLIGHT

We speak with Minister of State for Health

The UK’s leading disability and lifestyle magazine

enablemagazine.co.uk

September/October 2019

MAKING MISTAKES Inside the restaurant getting people with dementia back to work

BEHIND THE TEST

Two people share the pros and cons of genetic testing

CURTAIN CALL

ROAD TO TOKYO

Getting ready for the 2020 Paralympic Games

The top accessible theatre performances hitting the stage

FORGET ME NOT

Sir Jackie Stewart is on the drive of his life as he shares his journey to find a cure for dementia 001_EN_SO19_cvr FINAL.indd 1

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spacious sporty and loads of spec

from NIL advance payment

*

Fuel economy and CO2† results for the MG ZS. Mpg (l/100km) (combined): 38.6 (7.3) to 41.5 (6.8). †CO2 emissions: 140–145 g/km Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted

(post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. †There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. *Model shown: MG ZS Exclusive with Dynamic Red paint available at nil Advance Payment. 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 Independent 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 July 2019 and 30th September 2019. Prices are correct at time of print, are subject to availability and may change. *Applicable to MG ZS Excite and Exclusive models only.

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Welcome As the leaves start to turn, enjoy the September/October issue of Enable

The UK’s leading disability and lifestyle magazine

P

EDITOR’S PICKS...

18 BEHIND THE TEST If you had the opportunity to be tested for a hereditary condition, would you?

Two people share their views on why they have or haven’t been tested for Huntington’s disease.

51 PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE Pensions, they can be confusing to understand. We investigate what you need to know when it comes to pensions.

64 THE COUNTDOWN TO TOKYO 2020 As athletes across the world prepare for the upcoming Paralympic Games, discover the events set to take place next summer.

roviding or getting the highest quality of care for a loved one is something every single one of us would strive for. As much as there are services providing fantastic care, some may be falling behind.

After a BBC Panorama documentary aired earlier in the year highlighting alleged abuse at an inpatient unit, we have been investigating what preventative methods have been put in place. On page 14 we spoke with the Minister of State for Health, Caroline Dinenage about plans for the future, improvements to the care system and questioned what the Minister is doing to ensure everyone with a disability receives adequate care.

Calling on improvements and change is a running theme in this issue. I had the great pleasure of speaking with the Flying Scot himself, Sir Jackie Stewart on page 10 about his greatest challenge to date: finding a cure or preventative treatment for dementia. Sir Jackie discusses his Race Against Dementia to help support his wife, Lady Helen.

As the cooler nights threaten to fall in, we’re getting ready for panto season. Oh, yes, we are. Don’t miss our top picks of accessible theatres, before we delve head first into the shops and organisations getting involved with this year’s Autism Hour, on page 38.

From graduate schemes to tackling bullying online: we’ve covered it all in this issue. Take some time and let me know what you think using the contact details in the box Get in touch to the right.

Until next time. editor@enablemagazine.co.uk facebook.com/enablemagazine

Lorne Gillies, Editor

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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

ENABLE MAGAZINE www.enablemagazine.co.uk

WALK FOR MS

So much fun was had at the Glasgow Kilt Walk, we’re getting our trainers on to raise money for the MS Society as we hit the capital. Follow Enable on Insta to see how we get on...

Staff writer Saskia visited Liverpool to interview former Enable cover-star, Katie Piper at the official opening of the Katie Piper Foundation Rehabilitation Centre.

PUBLISHER Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk

SALES Marian Mathieson marian.mathieson@dcpublishing.co.uk

Behind the scenes

TIME WITH KATIE

COVER PRICE £3.00

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

ONLINE

Never miss a beat over on our website. From extended features to breaking news, we’ve got you covered. Top read: our interview with Katie Piper.

©DC Publishing Ltd 2019. 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.

WIN

A long weekend break with Hoe Grange Holidays over on page 41.

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What’s inside

38

September/October 2019

Interview

10 SIR JACKIE STEWART’S RACE AGAINST DEMENTIA The Flying Scot discusses his most challenging race to date.

Voices

16 GRACE’S SIGN How one young activist is supporting people with hidden disabilities.

29 RENOVATION READY Our columnist takes us behind his accessible redecorating.

30 OVERCOMING TRAUMA Ben Tansley shares his journey to recovery.

82 THE LOOK OF LOVE Discover the couple changing attitudes to disability and romance.

Spotlight

18 BEHIND THE TEST Two people share why they did, or

4

didn’t, get genetic testing.

32 THE RESTAURANT THAT MAKES MISTAKES A restaurant proving that people with dementia can still work.

68 POWER OF PALLIATIVE CARE How does palliative care work?

81 THE WHEELIE GOOD IDEA The charity shipping wheelchairs to South Africa.

Health

24 PREVENTING SUICIDE IS EVERYONE’S BUSINESS Working to prevent suicide this World Suicide Prevention Day.

82

Care

14 THE CRISIS IN CARE: FILLING IN THE GAPS Minister of State for Health, Caroline Dinenage speaks out.

21 OPENING DOORS TO ADOPTION Could you welcome a child into their forever home?

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41

WIN

You and three friends could take a break with Hoe Grange Holidays over on page 41. Good luck!

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21 22 32

Life

27 BECOMING FLUENT IN BSL Get connected with British Sign Language.

35 A NIGHT AT THE THEATRE A look at the inclusive productions coming your way.

38 AUTISM HOUR ON THE CLOCK What is being done during this year’s Autism Hour? One autistic shopper shares his thoughts.

43 THE DIARY Dates you don’t want to miss this autumn, 61 PRODUCT ROUNDUP A look at the must-have products for your home.

Finance

51 PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE If you have to leave work, how can this impact your pension? An expert reveals all.

Support

48 SAFETY ONLINE We ask what social media channels are doing to tackle bullying.

Travel

45 THE FUTURE OF ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORT In what way is the UK becoming more travel inclusive?

59 INCLUSIVE BREAKS The organisation taking RAF personnel or veterans on holiday.

Sport

64 THE COUNTDOWN TO TOKYO 2020 Getting ready for the upcoming Summer Paralympic Games.

67 PARALYMPIAN KARE ADENEGAN We chat with Kare as she prepares for Tokyo 2020.

Education

74 GRADUATE TO SUCCESS Is a graduate scheme right for you?

77 AHEAD OF THE GRADE Could summer school take your education further?

Employment

71 MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH ACCENTURE Inclusion in the workplace.

72 IPO’S MENTALLY HEALTHY WORK A look at IPO’s mental health policies.

Motoring

55 EVERY DETAIL PUTS YOUR WELLBEING FIRST Take a spin with Volvo.

56 REVIEW VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC Alisdair Suttie takes the T-Roc for a drive.

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News

PRESIDENT OF THE INTERNATIONAL Paralympic Committee (IPC), Andrew Parsons hopes the upcoming Paralympic Games will spark a change in perceptions surrounding people living with disabilities.

Excitement for the Games is already reaching a crescendo, with the event

officially opening on 25 August 2020.

The Tokyo Paralympic Games will see thousands of athletes from across the world descend on Tokyo for the iconic Games.

During an interview, Parsons revealed he believes the legacy of the Paralympic Games will see changing attitudes

PIC: © TOKYO 2020

Changing perceptions at Tokyo Paralympic Games 2020 towards disability and new beliefs or understanding in what disabled people can, and do, achieve amongst the people of Japan and wider society.

With many new sports taking centre stage for the first time, it is sure to be a Games unlike any other. Find out our full coverage on page 64.

De Montfort University turn plastic bottles into prosthetics ENGINEERING EXPERTS AT DE MONTFORT University have turned plastic bottles into prosthetic limbs.

It is hoped that the technique could be the first step in reducing the cost of sockets from £5,000 to £10 – aiding in stopping plastic pollution, too.

The method of turning the plastic bottles into prosthetics has already been tested by amputees, who are said to have been “really impressed.”

Ground down bottles are then heated down to form a solid, lightweight material which is then moulded into prosthetic sockets. Two tailor made sockets were made in Leicester prior to getting taken to India for two members of Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti – an organisation assisting in disability rehabilitation.

6

9,000 ELDERLY AND DISABLED PEOPLE LIVING IN UNSAFE CARE HOMES THE CARE QUALITY COMMISSION has rated 251 residential care homes in England as inadequate, leaving 9,000 elderly and disabled people living in unsafe care homes.

Reasons for the low rankings included limited numbers of staffing, harassment of patients and mismanagement of medicine. Findings come after calls have been made to improve services and care for the disabled community living in care homes.

We investigate the care home crisis on page 14.

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READY FOR ANY ROAD YOU TAKE.

JEEP® COMPASS AND RENEGADE. BORN TO BE WILD. JEEP® RANGE FROM NIL ADVANCE PAYMENT * For more information or to book a test drive visit Jeep.co.uk/motability or visit your nearest Jeep dealer OFFICIAL FUEL CONSUMPTION FIGURES FOR THE JEEP® RENEGADE AND COMPASS RANGE MPG (L/100KM) COMBINED: 48.7 (5.8) TO 29.4 (9.6). CO₂ EMISSIONS: 190 - 128 G/KM. Fuel consumption figures determined on the basis of the new WLTP test procedure as per Regulation (EU) 2017/1347. CO 2 figures are determined on the basis of the NEDC outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are provided for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedure. Models shown are Jeep Compass 1.4 MultiAir II 140hp Limited (MY19) from £845 and Jeep Renegade 1.0 120hp Limited 4x2 from £395 Advance Payment. *Nil Advance Payment is available on Jeep Renegade 1.0 120hp Sport 4x2 and Jeep Renegade 1.0 120hp Longitude 4x2. 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 July and 30th September 2019. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Terms & Conditions apply. Subject to stock availability. Offers subject to change in the event of the imposition of any Brexit related tariffs. Jeep® is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

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News HAIRY BIKERS CALL FOR PEOPLE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR MS CELEBRITY CHEF PAIRING, DAVE Myers and Si King, known professionally as the Hairy Bikers, are calling on people to support the MS Society’s Cake Break on 4 October 2019.

At the age of eight, Dave’s mother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS), and she became a wheelchair user.

In a bid to encourage people to get involved with the Cake Break – where the charity is calling on people to host a bake sale to raise awareness and funds for MS – the chef has shared his experiences

of caring for someone with MS. Dave said: “There’s been a great deal of work done to support those with MS, but we still need to raise as much money as possible to make MS a thing of the past.

And what better way to get a slice of the action than by hosting a Cake Break?”

There is still time to get involved with Cake Break. Simply visit the MS Society (www.mssociety.org.uk) website and use the hashtag #CakeBreak2019 to show off your bakes.

Sports boost in West Midlands

Deafblind UK and Oxsight work to improve sight loss OXSIGHT, THE PROVIDER OF high-tech glasses, has teamed up with Deafblind UK to enhance the lives of people living with sight loss.

Providing high-tech glasses that can give people with visual impairments their sight back, OXSIGHT glasses expand the field of vision for those living with peripheral sight loss. The product has been beneficial for people living with sight loss due to glaucoma, diabetes or other degenerative eye diseases.

Of the partnership, Steve Conway, CEO of Deafblind UK said: “Losing your sight can be devastating but even more so when your hearing is also impaired, and you are unable to rely on audio communications. That’s why OXSIGHT’s products are even more important to people who are deafblind.”

The partnership will see OXSIGHT clinics take place at the Deafblind UK offices on 23 October, 20 November, 18 December and dates into 2020, where visitors can learn more about the glasses and if they will be suitable.

8

PEOPLE LIVING WITH COMPLEX disabilities are set to receive a £1.3million funding boost for great opportunities to participate in sport and physical activity.

After being awarded £1,338,449

by Sport England, national disability charity Sense is set to tackle issues of inactivity amongst people with complex disabilities in the West Midlands.

Research from Sport England, inactivity (meaning less than thirty minutes of exercise per week) is more common in disabled people than nondisabled people.

The boost will support more than two and a half thousand people with high-level support needs, aged five to 50+, to access sport and physical activities over the next three years.

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Fuel consumption and CO2** figures for the MY20 Volvo XC40 T3 FWD Momentum Manual, in MPG (l/100km): WLTP Combined 37.2 (7.6) – 41.5 (6.8). NEDC CO2 emissions 146 – 142g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. **There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. Preliminary data. Please contact your retailer for latest information. *Advance Payment of £1,899 is for the Volvo XC40 T3 FWD Momentum Manual. Metallic Paint is included free of charge. Offer available on the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. To be eligible to join the Motability Scheme you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independence Payment, which will be taken in lieu of the four-weekly rental for 36 months’ duration. 60,000 mileage allowance over 3 years; excess mileage charges may apply. Offer available from 01/07/2019 to 30/09/2019 subject to availability at participating retailers. Offer not available with other promotions and may be subject to change.

For full terms and conditions, visit www.motability.co.uk. Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HB.

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26/08/2019 26/07/2019 12:53 12:15

SIR JACKIE STEWART’S

Race against dementia

One of the most iconic Formula 1 drivers of his time, Sir Jackie Stewart won World Championships with his sweetheart, Lady Helen by his side recording his track time. Now, Sir Jackie is racing the clock to find a cure for dementia to help Lady Helen; he spoke with Lorne Gillies

“

I

t’s a really cruel illness,” emphasises Sir Jackie Stewart as he discusses the impact of watching his wife, Lady Helen Stewart succumb to symptoms of frontotemporal dementia. “It is a terrible thing to see someone fading away in front of you. I have been married 57 years to Helen; she was my timekeeper, my lap charter when I was a Grand Prix driver, she brought up two boys and we have nine grandchildren – it is a sad thing to see.”

Five years prior, Sir Jackie and Lady Helen attended an annual check-up where doctors found the initial signs of dementia. Although in the very early stages at that time, Lady Helen’s

condition has advanced and she now requires around the clock attention.

Dementia is a painful disease for someone to live with, and it is a challenge for family members, too. This is why Sir Jackie is embarking on his most challenging race to date.

“Seeing the degradation of Helen’s quality of life is why I started Race Against Dementia,” he explains about his charity, which is working to raise funds to find prevention or treatment of dementia. “There is no cure and for over 30 years people have been piling money into the race to try and find corrective medicine, and perhaps even more importantly, preventive medicine.

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interview “This is the biggest challenge I have ever met in my life, but I think we’ve got to do it in a very business-like, thorough way and go to the best people.”

SPEED

“There are faster ways of working that wouldn’t have even been imagined when I was a Grand Prix driver – it is remarkable,” he adds.

“And it is all very simple things, such INNOVATION as changing a wheel. In my day a pit Methods in which Race Against stop was two minutes or more to get Dementia are working on a cure go the four wheels changed, now they’re against the grain of any research doing it in less than two seconds and conducted to date. Identifying new it’s partially human and partially doing it medical talent, financially funding PhD a different way. researchers to pursue higher risk ideas, “We just need someone to break to instilling a Formula 1 attitude to through, and it is the same as in the research: Sir Jackie hopes that it is the world of motorsport. Every now and change that will spark finding a cure. again someone finds a new way of He continues passionately: “Nobody working with aerodynamics, or a new ever thought there would be a man way of transmission.” on the moon – things can happen, Travelling across the world to but it happens, usually, through discover the latest talent in completely different groups of research, Race Against people.”

Dementia is putting a Upon discovering Lady 50 million Formula 1 attitude into Helen’s diagnosis, Sir people around the fight for a cure for the Jackie admits one of the world live 850,000 people in the the foremost struggles UK living with a form of with was learning that there dementi a, and the global has been a multitude of dementia issue of over 50 million research conducted over people with the condition. the years to no avail. Going In the time it will take to back to the pits and where the complete a pit stop at the iconic couple thrived, it is hoped Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix, one more person may have the answer. will develop the condition. The time to find a cure is now.

RACE

“

It is a terrible thing to see someone fading away in front of you

“We are using motorsport, Formula 1, as an example because today they are the fastest problem solvers in any business in activity that I know, in the world,” emphasises Sir Jackie.

Formula 1 was the driving force behind the couple, which saw Lady Helen act as Sir Jackie’s stopwatch – recording his laps to the millisecond with precision. Her sharp mind has now, unfortunately, started to deteriorate, but Race Against Dementia hopes a new wave of research can pave an optimistic path for those living with dementia and their families.

After all, as Sir Jackie explains, having a race every 10 days means the teams behind Formula 1 are continually adapting. If we can adapt a car in such a quick turnover, why can we not use this logic to find a cure?

“They will go to the Red Bull factory and the McLaren factory and stay for as long as they need to stay, to see how they go about their business compared to medical laboratories, because we have laboratories in Formula 1,” continues Sir Jackie.

And the change from Sir Jackie’s time driving to now is evident.

CURE

“I’ve been all over the world looking at hospitals to see how we can go about doing research differently. The brain is by far the most complicated part of the body, and my wife Helen is experiencing the most difficult form of dementia,” Sir Jackie says.

“Nothing has helped her as of yet. It has been very difficult, and a frustrating reality to witness. Someone you’ve lived with for most of your life, we have given so much to each other – it is not a nice thing at all.”

Getting behind the driving seat of research, it is with great hope that Sir Jackie Stewart achieves his goal of taking an ethos and sportsmanship which saw him stand on podiums as a World Champion into the laboratories working to find a cure for dementia.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Buckle in with Race Against Dementia (www.raceagainstdementia.com) and get guidance from Alzheimer’s Society (www.alzheimers.org.uk) on 0300 222 11 22.

“

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22/08/2019 12:54 14:16 26/08/2019

The crisis in care Filling in the gaps After the BBC Panorama team exposed horrific abuse at Whorlton Hall earlier this year, questions have been raised about the standard of care being provided to adults with learning disabilities. Saskia Harper spoke with the Minister of State for Health, Caroline Dinenage, to find out what the government is doing

C

are facilities provide vital support to adults with learning disabilities and their families, with the overwhelming majority going above and beyond to provide excellent services to their clients and patients.

However, recent ďŹ ndings have highlighted the gaps in the social care sector, where vast improvements need to be made urgently, to ensure all adults living away from home get the care they are entitled to.

14

BBC

In May, the BBC Panorama team uncovered the abuse and bullying of vulnerable adults at Whorlton Hall – a privately-run, but NHS-funded hospital for autistic adults and adults with learning disabilities. In the aftermath, 10 sta members were arrested. At the time of writing, the investigation continues.

The documentary rightly caused outrage, especially as it was revealed that Whorlton Hall had previously

Nobody should ever be out of sight and out of mind when it comes to staying in an inpatient setting

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DIFFERENTIATE

It’s important to differentiate between care homes and inpatient units: adults living in care homes are usually there voluntarily, in long-term accommodation close to family, and is funded by their local authority.

They provide a level of independence to residents and it’s much easier for families to visit frequently.

Whereas those living in inpatient units are usually there involuntarily.

Patients should only stay there shortterm, for a few weeks or months, but many end up staying for years – an average of 5.3 years, according to learning disability charity, Mencap.

These units are usually in remote locations, removed from society, meaning families have to travel to visit their loved ones.

After the release of the Winterbourne View documentary, Prime Minister at the time, David Cameron, committed to enabling autistic people and people with learning disabilities, inappropriately placed in hospitals such as Whorlton Hall, to move into local community support instead, by June 2014. This deadline was missed. So, how is the current government working to make the changes that are so urgently needed?

CHANGE

been owned by the same company as Winterbourne View, a similar facility which had been the subject of a previous BBC Panorama documentary eight years earlier, also because of allegations of abuse.

It begged the questions: how did this happen, and what will it take for the government to permanently put a stop to this closed culture of abuse in facilities that are supposed to provide care and support to vulnerable adults and their families?

“Nobody should ever be out of sight and out of mind when it comes to staying in an inpatient setting,” stresses Caroline Dinenage, the Minister of State for Health.

“I’m very clear that I want to see a system whereby every possible step will be taken to keep people in the community. Where a hospital admission is necessary it must be for the shortest time possible, as close to home as possible and with a clear route back home.”

As soon as they were made aware of the allegations of abuse, the government set up a Whorlton Hall Incident Coordination Group, to ensure the immediate safety of all living there.

“We are doing everything in our power to ensure services are safe and caring, and the highest possible quality,” Ms. Dinenage continues. “The

Care Quality Commission’s (CQC) independent reviews will look at how they can improve their inspection regime to ensure unacceptable abuse is not missed. We’re also convening an expert group to develop a better model of care and support for those with the most complex needs, to prevent the need for them to go into hospital care.”

SAFE

The CQC is the body that is in charge of making sure all health and social care providers in England are delivering safe, effective, compassionate care. They are also in charge of intervening if a facility is falling below the fundamental standard of care.

“It is clear that we missed what was really going on at Whorlton Hall, and for that we are very sorry,” apologises Kate Terroni, chief inspector of adult social care at the CQC. “The Panorama footage highlighted just how difficult it is to get under the skin of this type of closed culture where people are placed for long periods of time in hospitals and care settings far away from their communities, weakening their support networks and making it more difficult for families to visit them.

“We are supporting our staff to think more carefully about what signs might demonstrate that a culture of abuse could develop in a care service and developing guidance and methodology to help spot this.”

Since the footage aired, the CQC has appointed a clinical psychologist to carry out an independent review of their regulation of Whorlton Hall between 2015 and 2019, making recommendations of how they can improve the regulation of similar service providers.

With changes being made to overhaul the social care system for vulnerable adults, it can only be hoped that Whorlton Hall will be the last to feature in a BBC documentary.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

If you are concerned about the services being provided at a care facility, you can speak to Mencap (www.mencap.org.uk) or Disability Rights UK (www.disabilityrightsuk.org).

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Grace’s Sign Hidden disabilities come in all different forms. As do the people working to change attitudes and highlight our differences. Grace Warnock is one young woman campaigning to improve accessible toilet signage for people with hidden disabilities

A

ccessibility allows people who may require additional support to go about their daily lives with success. However, in some instances accessibility and understanding of disability is limited.

For people living with a hidden disability, a lack of awareness can leave people feeling ostracised. Grace Warnock, aged 14 from East Lothian, is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to changing attitudes around hidden disabilities after she launched Grace’s Sign to combat negativity faced when using an accessible toilet.

WRONG

“The first time I got dirty looks was actually in hospital, which is where I thought people would be most understanding,” explains Grace, who has been campaigning since she was nine-and-a-half. “It makes you feel horrible, because it makes you feel like you’re doing something wrong – but I do need it.”

After writing a letter to her local MSP, Iain Gray, who responded, Grace’s idea has grown into a bespoke accessible toilet sign highlighting that not every disability is visible.

She continues passionately: “Iain Gray managed to get it through Parliament and that’s where the first sign was – the first sign was in the Scottish Parliament. And he kept campaigning with us.”

And the need for the sign is evident with the success of the sign growing across

“

It’s amazing to hear from people that the sign has helped

“

16

Scotland and the rest of the UK.

GROWTH

“It’s amazing to hear from people that the sign has helped,” adds Grace. “We get messages through Facebook, or emails from people we don’t know. It reassures me that people need the sign and also lets me know how far it’s gone.

“People need to understand that hidden disabilities do affect people and their ordinary lives. I’m off school a lot, and people are off work a lot as adults – you just need to know how it affects people and learn to work around it.”

Living with Crohn’s disease, which causes inflammation of the digestive system or gut, Grace – alongside others living with the condition – urgently require the use of a toilet, and accessible toilets provide more space and comfort.

AWARENESS

However, attitudes towards invisible disabilities still require work. It is hoped that Grace’s Sign, which is in talks to be distributed across European countries, will help encourage discussions around hidden disabilities alongside supporting people who need to use accessible toilet facilities.

Appreciating that everyone may have judged another person using an accessible toilet in the past, Grace explains that accepting that others may have a different story to tell is important. “You need to try and understand it from the other person’s point of view, and understand why they might need to use an [accessible toilet] and don’t be too quick to judge,” she fervently advises.

With the work Grace and many others are doing to advocate for those living with hidden disabilities, attitudes and accessibility is sure to improve.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Follow the journey of Grace’s Sign on Facebook (@gracessign10) and get guidance for Crohn’s or colitis from Crohn’s and Colitis UK (crohnsandcolitis.org.uk)

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27/08/2019 09:21

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26/08/2019 12:55

Behind the test Hereditary conditions can pose a flurry of questions within a family. Could you get a similar condition? Will your loved one?

In some cases, genetic testing might be the right answer, or, it might not be the route for you. Two women share their experiences of life impacted by Huntington’s disease

FOR

H

untington’s disease has always been a huge part of 22-year-old Ellis Kerton’s life. “I watched my grandma deteriorate from before I can remember, and I would often be very confused over her actions and logic when I was young, and didn’t fully understand she was ill,” she remembers. Growing older, Ellis began to understand the condition and it wasn’t long before Ellis’ father tested positive, too.

Having a very open family, who never sheltered Ellis from the reality of life with Huntington’s, Ellis understood the familial risks, which she credits to helping her come to terms with receiving her own positive test results, just one year after losing her grandmother to the condition.

Through genetic counselling – where trained professionals can help you process the 50/50 chance of having a faulty gene or if genetic testing is right for you – Ellis was supported and given in-depth information on the benefits and drawbacks of being tested.

“Having grown up with the illness being a massive part of my life, I had already spent so many years, often days upon days, trying to decide whether or not I wanted to be tested,” she explains. “Therefore, I had already made my mind up before entering the

18

process that it was what I wanted, and needed, to do for myself.”

Feeling as though the unknown had a dark hold over her life, Ellis decided it was right for her to take the test. “The disease can impact so many various parts of your life and I wanted to be able to limit the impact it could have on mine. I knew that as a young female who one day would potentially want children, I had to take control of the situation for myself and my future,” Ellis continues. “Now I’ve been tested I can plan for my future as I need to and enjoy every moment as best I can, and see the world while I’m still young.”

I’ve always said that even though I got a positive result and the first few days I was numb, it lifted a massive cloud. I didn’t have to live life in the dark anymore questioning every twitch or stumble and could live properly.

“Now, I have signed up to the drug trials list and go annually to be assessed and know for sure that none of it is Huntington’s, which again gives me the feeling of being in control of the situation.”

Testing positive just three days prior to her participation in the Great North Run and a marathon 17 days later, Ellis continues living with hope that a cure will be found and has put her all into fundraising.

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spotlight

AGAINST

A

t the age of 25, Clare Williamson’s father was diagnosed with Huntington’s disease when he was only in his late 40s.

“I have lived my entire adult life watching people with Huntington’s disease, and it has been hard,” says Clare, who, after ten years of deliberation, decided against genetic testing.

“Every day you do think you’ve got the disease. Every day I do something clumsy, I trip, or I’m forgetful – I’m left thinking I’ve got it and you overthink something and get angry. This is what my dad would do, so then I get more worried; or I notice my fingers moving and I wonder, ‘is this it starting?’ It’s just constant,” she adds.

Having spent time with genetic counsellors, Clare has discussed her options thoroughly and, for her own situation, feels she is living a full, happy life holding hope that a cure or medication will get introduced.

Clare continues: “Maybe, eventually, I would come around [to a positive result], but I think I would be really depressed. Others will know what to do, they will know to plan and do all these amazing things with the time and use it in that way.” However, Clare believes that knowing for sure could put her mind into a dark place.

“I can understand the other side – people can plan their lives better,” says Clare. “However, for me, the way I plan my life, with my dad dying, is to live every day as happily as possible. I’ve learned over the years that I can let what I’ve seen or been through drag me right down, but I choose to live life to the full because that’s what my dad would have wanted, and I want to ensure my son has the best life, too.”

Support from her specialist Huntington’s disease adviser (SHDA), who has worked closely with Clare for over a decade, and HDA, Clare and her family are thriving through the guidance made available to them.

ADVICE There is no right or wrong answer to genetic testing: it is all personal and relative to your own situations.

Support and guidance is readily available from organisations such as the Huntington’s Disease Association to help assist you in coming to a decision that is right for you on. And your own decision is the most important factor.

From her own experiences, Clare fervently advises: “Some people might have the test and not tell anyone – that does happen. It might be something you do and keep to yourself and never tell anyone, but it needs to be your decision. It is your life; your personal choice.”

And Ellis agrees wholeheartedly

HAVE YOUR SAY

Would genetic testing be the right option for you?

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with Clare. “Do whatever is best for you. There are so many people around you who have so many different beliefs, but only you can make the final decision. It’s you that has to live with that question, or the result, not anyone else, so only you can make that decision.”

Genetic testing is available to people aged 18 and over, and will take place at Regional Genetics Clinics – you can ask your GP to make an appointment for you. Even if you have a test booked, you can change your mind at any time and remove yourself from the testing process. When you do get results follow-up counselling will be made available.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Support and further information is available from Huntington’s Disease Association (www.hda.org.uk) by emailing info@hda.org.uk or call 0151 331 5444. More information on symptoms can be obtained through the NHS (www.nhs.uk).

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Opening doors to

Adoption Growing your family or starting a new one, adoption is a possibility to bring new joy into your life.

We speak to one adoptive parent and Adoption UK about why disability isn’t a barrier to adoption

I

n the UK there are more children waiting to be adopted than prospective adoptive parents. No matter if you have a disability, or you would like to adopt a child with additional needs, there could be a match out there for you.

Benjamin Carpenter always knew he wanted to be a father, but as a single, gay man he didn’t know if adoption would be possible. After experience working with children and adults with complex needs, he knew it was the right path for him.

DECISION

“From a very young age, going back to the age of five, I had a caring disposition,” explains Benjamin. “I just decided something was missing in my life and I desperately wanted to be a

parent, but I didn’t want a relationship, and the rewards will be limitless.” so, I thought I would apply to adopt.”

Sue’s thoughts are echoed by With his background working in a Benjamin – who was worried about his care environment Benjamin decided eligibility to adopt – he says: “I suppose he wanted to adopt a child with in my head I had these myths like additional needs or a disability. they’re going to want someone Now, 12 years later, with money, who owns a Benjamin has adopted five house and has a status, In 2017, 74% of children, each with their a professional person. own unique needs.

They’re not going to want children waiting to Like Benjamin, some little old Ben from West be adopted were people can question Yorkshire; I quickly found aged two or older their eligibility to adopt. that wasn’t the case.”

Your relationship status, Disability is not a gender, career and cultural barrier to adoption and can background do not affect often provide further benefits this. Sue Armstrong Brown, chief for children who are waiting to be executive of Adoption UK, says: “If you adopted. are able to offer love, commitment, “It is recognised that the life time, patience and the motivation to experiences of disabled people can give want to understand how your child them a unique insight into the lives of sees the world, then that is a great start children in care, who often have a sense

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PROCESS

The time the adoption process takes is individual to each case, but it is in-depth. “The adoption process can seem overwhelming and daunting just even knowing where to start can be confusing,” emphasises Sue. After applying through an adoption agency, you will undergo checks, preparation, assessment and have to be approved by a panel before being introduced to a potential match. You will also have to provide references to prove you will be a suitable parent.

Although this process can be difficult and time consuming, it has always been worth it for Benjamin. The process doesn’t stop once a child is legally yours, he explains: “I wanted to adopt a child who needed my help and support – for me it was about giving back.

“I thought if I’m going to do this it has to be about helping and supporting a child, and also supporting them into becoming an adult.”

“

If I’m going to do this it has to be about helping and supporting a child

“

of themselves as ‘different’ or who may also have a disability,” Sue continues.

“Even if you believe you might need some additional assistance to adopt a young person, social services may be able to provide this support.”

CHANGE

Once you are approved to adopt a child and a match has been found, you are given time to adapt to the new addition in your family. “Once a match has been made, you spend time getting to know the child with the support of your adoption social worker,” explains Sue. Even once you have legally adopted your child, it takes time to settle in to life as a parent, Benjamin says: “I had to get used to being a parent and I had to get used to being called dad, then as times gone on you really are a tried and tested parent and know your children inside out.”

Along with becoming a parent, Benjamin had to learn to cater to the additional needs of his children. “My life

has massively changed: I can’t just go out at the drop of a hat and everything has to be centred around children.”

This has meant that structure is key to things running smoothly in Benjamin’s family, but the rewards of being a parent are worth it.

“All these elements that are massively different to what my life was, but I love my life I wouldn’t change it for the world,” stresses Benjamin. “I’m a great believer that anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad.

“I just love my children and they love me, we’re just a unique but very loving family.”

Benjamin has no current plans to grow his family further but wouldn’t turn the opportunity down in the future. Now, he would encourage other people to adopt children with a disability and to not let their own disability hold them back from adoption.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Learn more about adoption, or locate your closest adoption agency, by speaking to Adoption UK (www.adoptionuk.org) or Coram Adoption (www.coramadoption.org.uk).

Benjamin and his children

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21/01/2019 12:06:30 26/08/2019 12:56

“PREVENTING everyone’s

business

“

is

Suicide

Suicide is a topic that can still illicit whispers and misunderstanding. However, it is a subject that more people need to discuss to raise awareness, knowledge and prevent deaths. Together, we can all work to prevent suicide

D

iscussions around mental health have increased insurmountably in recent years, however, stigma and taboos still hold a grip on mental illness and suicidal thoughts or completing suicide.

In fact, one in five people will think about suicide at some point in their lives – with more than 6,000 people dying by suicide each year in the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

Ahead of World Suicide Prevention Day, how can we work together to prevent suicide?

COMPLEX

“It’s vitally important that we remember suicide is not inevitable. The reasons behind suicide are complex,” emphasises Mairi Gordon who works with Samaritans, the charity committed to reduce feelings of isolation. “It’s rarely possible to point to a single reason why someone chooses to take their own life. But we know there are some factors that can increase risk.”

Mental health does not discriminate, and neither do suicidal thoughts or tendencies. However, some societal factors can play a part as does living with a mental health condition or experiencing self-harm. Similarly, relationship to financial worries can also put a greater strain on a person,

who may in turn experience suicidal thoughts.

This is an incredibly dark and debilitating point in a person’s life, which can see someone reach crisis point. An isolating situation, we all need to work together to aid those experiencing suicidal thoughts.

COMMUNITY

“Preventing suicide is everyone’s business,” continues Mairi. “We believe addressing all the complex and overlapping factors that can affect someone’s wellbeing goes beyond any single service. We need health, care and emergency services, schools and colleges, charities and communities to all work together to make it easier for people to ask for and get help when they need it most.”

And this is the defining theme for this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day. Working together to prevent suicide, a theme that can resonate with people across the world, it highlights the impact we can all have on an individual – no matter how small.

One way which we can limit the number of deaths by suicide is through open, honest discussions. To do this we need to remove the taboo.

HONESTY

“There is still a stigma associated

with suicide and with mental health challenges more generally, which can make it difficult to ask for help,” says Mairi. “When we are struggling, we might find it hard to speak about what we’re feeling or we may feel embarrassed or worried about how others will respond. Similarly, when someone we know is struggling, we may want to speak to them about how they’re feeling, but worry about making it worse or saying the wrong thing.

“But, evidence shows that when we make time to talk and to really listen to someone who is struggling it can make a big difference – and even be lifesaving. That’s why Samaritans is encouraging people to reach out to family members, friends or co-workers

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TIME TO SHUSH If you are concerned that someone you love is experiencing suicidal thoughts, you can start a conversation using the Samaritans’ SHUSH listening tips.

SHOW YOU CARE:

Focus on the other person completely.

HAVE PATIENCE: It can take time to open up, so try not to rush the person you are worried about.

USE OPEN QUESTIONS:

Avoid yes or no answers. If this happens, follow up by asking them to tell you more.

SAY IT BACK: Repeating what the person has said to you will show you are listening, and can help you to understand how they are feeling.

HAVE COURAGE: Don’t feel you have to fill any silences, don’t worry about asking hard questions – the person will appreciate you are there for them. By giving the person time and space to share how they’re feeling you can help them take the next steps to getting help.

It’s important to remember you’re not alone

who might be struggling.”

In a bid to ensure everyone in need of guidance can reach out, the Samaritans welcomes people coming in for faceto-face chats in a branch, phoning alongside currently piloting webchat to make it more accessible for people to get in touch.

Through opening up about our emotions and having a listening ear, we can save more people from completing suicide.

“It can be prevented and we can all play a part in that,” enthuses Mairi.

“Most people who feel suicidal do not actually want to die; they do not want to live the life they have. The distinction may seem small but it’s very important.

It’s why talking through other options at

the right time is so vital.

“We might not realise it, but we already have the skills to be there for someone who is struggling.”

If you are experiencing a mental health condition, feel as though you are not coping or are worried about thoughts of suicide: it’s time for you to reach out. Mairi advises: “It’s important to remember you’re not alone.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

If you need support, call the Samaritans (www.samaritans.org) on 116 123. Additional mental health guidance is available from Mind (www.mind.org.uk), the NHS (www.nhs.uk) and CALM (www.thecalmzone.net).

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BECOMING FLUENT IN BSL

British Sign Language (BSL) is the preferred language of around 145,000 people in the UK. A visual means of communicating, BSL is mainly used by people who are D/deaf or have hearing impairments. With awareness increasing, more people are tuning into BSL

S

ign language uses gestures, facial expressions and body language as a form of communication, but each country, and even each region, uses different variations of sign language.

In the UK, BSL is the most commonly used form of sign language. Each form of the language has its own grammatical structure and arrangement of words, like any other language spoken in the world.

The language does not relate to English, unlike its counterpart Sign Supported English, which uses the same signs as BSL but in the same order as spoken English.

AWARENESS

Since 2003 the UK government has recognised BSL as an official minority language and awareness of the language has continued to grow ever since.

BSL now has a similar status to other minority languages spoken in the UK like Gaelic or Welsh.

In Scotland, BSL is now a formal qualification provided in schools by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA).

The first two awards were made available in autumn 2018 at SQFC level three and four, with a further two awards being made available this autumn at level five and six.

Following a campaign to recognise BSL as a qualification in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, it is expected that the Department for Education (DfE) will introduce a GSCE BSL qualification before 2022.

Thanks to a viral video this summer, the general public’s interest in BSL is at a peak. After Stormzy’s historical Glastonbury 2019 performance went viral, so did a video of his sign language interpreter, Tara Asher, who is one of only four people in the UK to interpret live grime music.

Tara’s skills quickly impressed people on social media and even made it to

national news, raising the profile of the language and leaving more people interested than ever before.

LEARNING

Due to the popularity of online distance learning, it is now easier than ever to learn BSL at a pace and time that suits you. Like learning any new language, learning BSL will stimulate your brain and can boost other skills.

Becoming fluent in BSL will help you

Learning BSL will stimulate your brain and can boost other skills

to communicate with other people, opening doors in your career, allowing you to meet new people, and building your confidence.

The easiest way to learn BSL is with British Sign UK. The company provides an introduction to BSL course which is delivered solely online. You can learn when, where and how you want. Once purchased the course is available for a year but takes approximately 16 hours to complete.

With awareness of BSL on the rise, awareness of the language will continue to grow and see more people able to connect despite their differences.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Learn British Sign Language, or get more information, by visiting, www.british-sign.co.uk

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08/08/2019 12:58 14:37 26/08/2019

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Tim Rushby-Smith

Renovation ready Currently in the midst of decorating, our columnist Tim Rushby-Smith discusses the importance of taking the time to ensure your home is the right fit for you and your needs

A

s I write this, we are two weeks into the chaos of major house renovations, having lived in a less than ideal house for five years.

CHANGE

PLANNING

I have spent much of the last five years planning just how I would have everything set up, and I can’t wait to see the concepts realised.

This is the second time that I have been through this process since my spinal cord injury thirteen years ago.

And while many adaptations are obvious, I do have a few personal preferences that have changed over time.

Firstly, I want everything to work

for me, and that may not mean the best-practice-OT-universal-accesssolution. While we have been careful to ensure both bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, neither will work for everyone. But, that’s the compromise when planning a family home where space isn’t limitless.

FINANCES

Secondly, I have come to the conclusion that buying expensive access solutions in order to be able to access every cupboard simply isn’t worth the money; especially if you break it down to a square metre rate.

Instead the kitchen will be mostly drawers, and the few overhead cupboards, while being lower than standard, will not allow me to access every shelf. The advantage of this is that most of us have stuff that we hang onto for years without really knowing why, so it’s good to have somewhere to heave this stuff into so that you never have to look at it again.

I only wish I could do the same with the bill when the work is finished…

“

I have spent much of the last five years planning just how I would have everything set up

“

It’s amazing what can become normal, the bathroom being a case in point.

I have lost count of how many times I took skin off my toes on sharp tiles and trim, as I have been faced every morning with a 180-degree transfer from wheelchair to toilet, and the same in the shower.

While this can be fun if you imagine you are at a fairground on one of those stalls where you have to try to get a ball into a hole that you suspect is smaller than said ball: there are no prizes on offer, except the satisfaction that comes from not ending up on the floor.

The kitchen has also been a challenge, although my father-in-law (a furniture maker) did come up with a great solution to make it manageable: rather than lower all the surfaces, he built a plywood floor and ramp, thus raising the floor level by about 5 centimetres. This offered me a performance area, which is a good reflection on the way I cook, but also meant occasionally careering backwards down the ramp with a lap full of noodles.

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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PIC: ©PAUL TIBBS PHOTOGRAPHY; TANO_HG; MATT PEARSON

Overcoming trauma

A spinal cord injury changes every part of your life, but Ben Tansley was determined to find the positive after being left paralysed from a motorcycle accident in 2017. Emma Storr speaks to Ben about overcoming trauma for his children and the importance of supportive friends

T

here is an estimated 50,000 people in the UK living with a spinal cord injury (SCI). In 2017 father of two Ben Tansley became paralysed after a motorbike accident, but knew he had to continue to fight for his family.

FAMILY

A SCI can change your whole life in a matter of seconds, something which Ben never imagined happening. “It’s just something you never expect to happen,” explains Ben. “You go through life feeling like you’re always going to walk.”

While he was in hospital at the beginning of his recovery, Ben came to terms with the ways his injury would change his life, but didn’t want it to hold him back.

“I came out of surgery and for a couple of days I lay in bed and just cried my eyes out,” remembers Ben. “Not because I was paralysed, it was more that I had

gone from being someone who would run to save anyone out of a burning house to being the one who’s got to be saved.”

As a business owner and dad, Ben knew he couldn’t give up for the sake of his family and health. “The main thing for me after I had the operation was that I’ve got two kids,” recalls Ben. “I’ve got to be brave and do something with my life, although it was a curve ball: you’ve always got to continue and be the driving force.

“I’ve got to do some things differently, but I still do as much as I did before. For the kids I didn’t want to adjust as a dad, I’m still the same dad and that’s kind of made it easier for them and for me.”

SOCIAL MEDIA

While Ben continued to support his family through his recovery, he was encouraged to document the process by his friend Josh Patterson (you can

read our interview with Josh online), quickly growing his social media following.

Ben’s story started to inspire others to remain positive during their recovery and it left him wondering what more he could do to raise awareness of SCI and the need to continue a normal life.

“I was getting messages from people who had been in chairs for 15 years and had not done much,” remembers Ben. “Seeing me take a positive attitude was [encouraging] people so my thoughts really started to shift.

“I thought I can make a change to people’s lives, that helped me; we can all help each other.”

As a gym owner and a deep love of sport to back his ideas, Ben made the decision to enter the Berlin marathon with Josh just weeks after he was released from hospital. Both Ben and Josh would complete the marathon in wheelchairs.

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People do have setbacks and I need to realise it isn’t straight forward

“Josh has got such a big social media following I knew if I could get him involved it would help spread the message further, and that means more money for the charity,” explains Ben. He intended to complete the marathon with little training, but received messages of encouragement every day on social media. “Just one click and there’s somebody who’s done it, suddenly one of the messages was from [Paralympian] David Weir,” remembers Ben. “It was the power of that community and so many people willing to help.”

While fundraising for the Berlin Marathon Ben and Josh raised a total of £14,000 for the Spinal Injury Association (www.spinal.co.uk).

DRIVING FORCE

As Ben set out to do the Berlin Marathon his children remained his main inspiration, he says: “I just thought how can I show the kids dad’s still dad, I wanted to come out and do something

impressive.”

Ben found that it became a lifeline for him, a reason to keep pushing his recovery further. Training for the marathon also became a lifeline for Josh, Ben explains: “As we started training for the marathon Josh went through a messy break up, he found solace in training and was introduced to a new community of people.”

Since completing the marathon and continuing to grow his social media following, Ben has been in contact with other people with a SCI. This community continues to inspire him.

“I’ve had quite a few parents contact me and I’ve been to see different young lads and people of a similar age to me, I’ve been from one end of the country to the other,” explains Ben. “I’m really enjoying that aspect of it.”

Being able to share his journey with others has helped Ben come to terms with his injury, and to always make the best out of every situation.

Despite his positive attitude and

determination to succeed, Ben has learnt that there can still be setbacks during recovery. “I try not to overthink things and just look forward, but people do have setbacks and I need to realise it isn’t straight forward,” emphasises Ben. “I don’t look back a lot; sometimes I think look how far you have come in a year, it’s nice to reflect on where you’ve come from.”

As Ben continues to recover from his SCI, he hopes to continue dedicating his time to helping others and spending quality time with his family.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Keep up to date with Ben’s recovery on Instagram @tano_hg

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For people diagnosed with young-onset dementia, the condition can be misunderstood resulting in an inaccessible work environment. One restaurant decided to challenge this, highlighting the importance of employment for dementia and Alzheimer’s patients

T

here are an estimated 42,000 people under the age of 65 living with dementia in the UK. However, only a fifth continue to work after receiving their diagnosis. Young-onset dementia can have consequences on your working life, but it doesn’t have to be the end of your career, as one project recently demonstrated.

RESTAURANT

The Restaurant That Makes Mistakes aired on Channel 4 in June, following 14 volunteers who have young-onset dementia, as they worked in a busy restaurant run by Michelin-starred chef and restaurant owner, Josh Eggleton.

Sue Strachan decided to volunteer for

the restaurant to try and raise awareness of the disease. After Sue experienced transient global amnesia (TGA) – a sudden loss of short-term memory – she was diagnosed with vascular dementia at 57.

“I want to raise as much awareness as possible,” Sue explains. “I want people to know that although dementia is a terrible disease, life is not necessarily over when one is diagnosed.”

WORK

Volunteers worked in all aspects of the restaurant, from front of house and serving, to cooking and interacting with guests. Under the careful eye of Josh, they were given more responsibility over the five weeks, to the point where Josh trusted them to run the restaurant without him.

“I was a bit anxious about meeting others with dementia,” Sue admits. “But we became a strong group and always had each other’s backs. The day Josh was not at the restaurant was stressful, but very satisfying once it was over, and we proved that we were capable of more than we thought.”

Welcoming celebrities including David Baddiel, Hugh Bonneville and Rachel Riley, family, friends and members of the public to the restaurant, the show

“

People living with dementia can still be a valuable part of society

“

The restaurant that makes mistakes

PIC: © CHANNEL 4 / JOSS BARRETT

spotlight

has highlighted the important role employment plays in maintaining a sense of normalcy for those living with youngonset dementia.

RESULTS

At the start of the experiment, the volunteers were assessed in terms of their cognitive ability and mental health, with many scoring low in terms of wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem.

They were tested again at the end of the five weeks, with all making significant improvements across the board; demonstrating how important access to employment can be, offering a sense of purpose and a chance to socialise.

“We had fun,” enthuses Sue. “We laughed together at so many things.

Seeing the positive change in some of my colleagues was actually very emotional, but brilliant. Often, people living with dementia can feel isolated and useless: being employed and feeling useful is vital to everybody. People living with dementia can still be a valuable part of society.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

You can watch the Restaurant That Makes Mistakes on All 4

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27/08/2019 09:39

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Signed performances Sat 23rd Dec 6.30pm & Thur 2nd Jan 6.30pm Relaxed performance Fri 3rd Jan 3.00pm

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20 Sep – 5 Oct

A CURVE, BELGRADE THEATRE COVENTRY, EVERYMAN THEATRE CHELTENHAM SE CO-PRODUCTION AND LEEDS PLAYHOU

for Everyone

ISHI HANIF KURE A PLAY BY NPLAY EE SCR BASED ON HIS DIRECTOR NIKOLAI FOSTER

9 – 31 Dec

CURVE, ROSE THEATRE KINGSTON & SIMON FRIEND PRESENT In association with Hachette Children’s Group and Coolabi Group

Based on the bestselling book by

GILES ANDREAE

GUY PARKER-REES

23 Nov – 11 Jan WEST SIDE STORY

JEROME ROBBINS ARTHUR LAURENTS LEONARD BERNSTEIN STEPHEN SONDHEIM Based on a conception of

Book by

Music by

Lyrics by

Entire Original Production Directed and Choreographed by

JEROME ROBBINS

NIKOLAI FOSTER Choreographer ELLEN KANE Set Designer MICHAEL TAYLOR Costume Designer EDD LINDLEY Musical Supervisor SARAH TRAVIS Lighting Designer GUY HOARE Sound Designer TOM MARSHALL Casting Director KAY MAGSON CDG Director

Originally produced on Broadway by Robert E. Griffith and Harold S. Prince by arrangement with Roger L. Stevens Performed by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) Limited

Curve is proud to offer a programme of accessible performances throughout the year, including: Relaxed, Dementia Friendly,Touch Tours, Captioned, Audio Described and Signed Performances.

To find out more about our Access Performances or other services we offer, contact us at contactus@curvetheatre.co.uk or 0116 242 3595

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A NIGHT AT THE THEATRE

Desperate to see a musical, a play or even a panto in the lead up to Christmas, the theatre is more accessible than ever before. Check out our top picks of the best inclusive theatre dates for your diary THE LION KING

Edinburgh Playhouse, Edinburgh 5 December 2019 – 9 February 2020 www.atgtickets.com Join more than 100 million people who have seen The Lion King worldwide. Reimagined from the classic Disney film, this powerful stage production will be a unique experience to remember.

Set against the Serengeti Plains of Africa, the production follows the story of Simba and his journey to take his place as King of the Pridelands.

A captioned performance, signed performance and relaxed performance of The Lion King are all available at the Edinburgh Playhouse. The theatre also has an at seat service available on request to access the bar.

There are limited wheelchair spaces for each performance and infra-red and induction loop hearing systems. For more information on accessibility or other requirements call the theatre’s access booking line on 0800 912 6971

OLIVER!

Mercury at Abbey Field, Colchester 27 September 2019 – 12 October 2019 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk Mercury at Abbey Field is Mercury Theatre’s pop-up performance venue in the heart of Colchester, housing a range of performances while redevelopment work takes place on the main theatre building.

Oliver! will be the Mercury Theatre’s first full collaboration with Colchester Operatic Society, bringing the popular show to life on stage.

Follow Oliver from the workhouse to being sold to a cruel undertaker, to escaping to London. Here he learns to pick a pocket or two and meets his one true friend, Nancy.

After being given a chance at a new life, all is not well as a plot begins to kidnap Oliver.

All performances of Oliver! are wheelchair accessible with audio described and captioned shows available. Touch tours of the theatre can also be booked along with an assisted listening system in the theatre.

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Accessible car parking is available, but has to be booked in advance of your visit to the theatre.

CINDERELLA

Redditch Palace Theatre, Worcestershire 14 December 2019 – 5 January 2020 www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk Get into the festive spirit with a pantomime at the Redditch Palace Theatre. Watch as the story of Cinderella is brought to life on stage in the lead up to Christmas.

A tale we all know and love too well, make sure you’re not out after midnight to avoid clothes turning into rags and getting home in a carriage of pumpkins. The pantomime will have signed performances and a relaxed performance during the festive period. Within the theatre, the main auditorium, Palace Studio, box office and bar are fitted with induction loop systems throughout.

WEST SIDE STORY

Curve Theatre, Leicester 23 November 2019 – 11 January 2019 www.curveonline.co.uk Prepare to be transported to the West Side of New York City in 1957 in the midst of gang rivalry and racial tensions.

Tony, a founding member of the WhiteAmerican Jets, falls in love at first sight with Maria, the sister of Bernardo, leader of the Puerto Rican Sharks.

The two young lovers meet in secret,

but the rival gangs will have one final rumble to fight it out. Inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this musical will leave a lasting impression and have you singing songs from its timeless score.

Multiple access performances are available for the show. Signed, audiodescribed, captioned and relaxed performances will take place alongside touch tour and a dementia friendly performance.

You can also sign up to join the theatres Access Register which stores information on your personal requirements for future visits. To join the register email access@curvetheatre. co.uk

JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

King’s Theatre, Glasgow 30 November 2019 – 5 January 2020 www.atgtickets.com For the first time in over 30 years Jack and the Beanstalk returns to the King’s.

Doomed to sell his trusty cow in a bad deal, a mighty beanstalk grows in Jack’s garden, setting him out on a quest to save a beautiful princess, outwit an evil giant and win riches, along with the girl he loves.

Expect laughs, music and a lot of audience participation from this giant pantomime.

Audio described, captioned and sign language interpreted performances will take place in December alongside a

touch tour before the audio described performance. Five wheelchair spaces and three transfer seats are available at the theatre and an infra-red audio enhancement system is installed in the auditorium.

CHRISTMAS AT THE (SNOW) GLOBE

Shakespeare’s Globe, London 19 December 2019 – 23 December 2019 www.shakespearesglobe.com Bring your friends and family to Shakespeare’s Globe this winter to experience the magic of the festive season. Help performers to deck the halls and tell the story of what can be achieved when you believe in magic.

Christmas at the (Snow) Globe will have integrated British Sign Language for every performance along with captioned and audio described performances on selected dates. A touch tour will take place ahead of the audio described performance.

For more information on accessibility at the Globe call the access information line on 020 7902 1409.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Be prepared for a night of entertainment and review services offered by different venues at Euan’s Guide (www.euansguide.com), Access Scottish Theatre (www.accessscottishtheatre.com) or Society of London Theatre (www.solt.co.uk).

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The Mercury Theatre Colchester pantomime has been supersized to fill our new pop-up performance space, Mercury at Abbey Field meaning more glitter, glamour, songs and seats than ever before!

The venue is completely undercover, heated and fully carpeted with plenty of accessible spaces in the auditorium, a full bar, kiosk & toilet facilities.

Still got concerns? Head to: www.mercurytheatre.co.uk/mercuryatabbeyfield

ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES RP

TT

Sun 8 Dec

12pm

Relaxed Performance

Thu 19 Dec

7pm

Captioned Performance

Sat 21 Dec

11.30am

Touch Tour

Sat 21 Dec

1pm

Audio Described

Mercury at Abbey Field

Call 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

SAT 30 NOV - SUN 5 JAN

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AUTISM HOUR ON THE CLOCK

Autism Hour is set to return in a bid to improve the shopping experiences of autistic customers. But, why should more high street brands get involved, and how can businesses make their stores more accessible all year round?

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L

aunched in 2017 by the National Autistic Society, Autism Hour has been celebrated every year since, to raise awareness of the barriers that autistic shoppers face in stores across the UK every day.

According to the National Autistic Society, 700,000 people in the UK are autistic, and along with their families, they make up three million shoppers.

But, for many, high street shops and independent stores don’t take their needs into account, making a trip into town difficult, or even impossible.

In 2018, more than 11,000 businesses took part in Autism Hour.

This year, it’s hoped even more brands will get involved and make their stores accessible for all shoppers. Similarly, the impact the event will have on consumers is sure to be a strong push for organisations to change their ways for more than just one hour out of the year.

“I default to shopping online because it’s easier and a lot less hassle,” explains Connor Ward, who is autistic. “But, of course, I do want to go and shop and look at clothes in person and it can be extremely difficult at times, especially clothes shopping. You go into some shops and it’s like going to a club or a disco in the middle of the day with rave music.”

WHAT IS AUTISM HOUR?

The campaign aims to make businesses aware of the experiences autistic shoppers may have in their stores, it hopes raised awareness will see organisations improve their services to take autistic consumers’ needs into account.

During the week, high street brands and independent stores adjust their premises, turning down music and limiting other background noise, dimming the lights, reducing tannoy announcements, introducing a quiet area in-store and limiting strong smells.

Staff members are also given additional training to improve their understanding of autism and how they can further assist autistic customers.

In the past, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug, Co-op, Marks and Spencer, Toys ‘R’ Us and the entire Trafford Centre in Manchester have taken part.

Autism Hour highlights the simple changes that can be easily made, and can have a positive effect for autistic

Autism Hour just takes away the general anxiety of shopping shoppers. In fact, the changes are so easy to implement, that many businesses taking part in the campaign choose to make permanent weekly changes, making their stores a more welcoming environment all year round.

Asda hopes that by hosting their own inclusive hour, other retailers will see just how easy it is to get involved with the campaign.

“It’s all about understanding and education,” explains Clair. “We’re not experts in any of this: we’re listening to the feedback from our customers and working with relevant community groups to provide a better shopping experience. We want to make sure our colleagues are being friendly and helpful: the knowledge our colleagues have gained through launching Inclusive Hour has already broken down some of the barriers.”

IMPROVEMENTS

Campaigns such as Autism Hour not only ask businesses to make their stores more autism-friendly, but raise CHANGES awareness in the wider community, Brands including Morrisons, The and encourage non-disabled Entertainer, Home Bargains and customers to consider their own Asda have introduced permanent behaviour when they shop. autism hours, or quiet hours, to make “Autism Hour just takes away the shopping in-store a more pleasant general anxiety of shopping,” Connor experience for autistic people and enthuses. “I still have to get on with their families. everyday tasks, such as going to the “Back in 2016, we were the first supermarket and I’m just constantly retailer to trial a ‘quiet hour’ which tense when I’m in there. was set up by one of our store “The whole idea of me being in a managers in Manchester,” says Clair shop is to go in, get my stuff and get Hufton, consumer media relations out. However, when it’s a quiet manager at Asda. “This was hour, you can take your aimed at autistic customers time, you don’t feel any and during this trial we pressure because you’re learned that we needed Autism Hour in a relaxed environment to support a wider 2019 will take and it makes all the audience and restarted place from 5 -12 difference.” a new inclusive hour With many brands trial. Our aim is to be a October adopting a weekly truly inclusive retailer and inclusive hour, the support customers with a campaign has made the high variety of physical and hidden street more accessible to autistic disabilities.” customers. And, as more shops open Asda’s Inclusive Hour considers the their doors to Autism Hour, Connor needs of not only autistic shoppers, hopes the campaign will extend into but customers with other hidden other premises, including restaurants, disabilities, including dementia and gyms and more.

Alzheimer’s. As a result, in 2018 “I can’t understand why more Asda’s Sittingbourne store was named places don’t do it,” Connor says. the Best Dementia Friendly Company, “Any contribution is better than no at the Dementia Friendly Kent contribution: if you just turn the lights Awards. and music down, that has made a “The response has been massive difference already. It’s the overwhelmingly positive,” Clair little steps that make a big difference.” enthuses. “We always want to put our customers’ needs first and make their shopping experiences better and FOR MORE INFORMATION hassle-free. We play an important Autism Hour 2019 information and stores part in local communities and want taking part are available from the National customers to feel comfortable in our Autistic Society (www.autism.org.uk). stores.”

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ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY TO KEEP YOU ON THE MOVE

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26/08/2019 12:59

enable competition

WIN

A BREAK AT HOE GRANGE HOLIDAYS

You and three friends could be heading for a break at one of Hoe Grange Holidays’ accessible holiday lodges in the Peak District

H

oe Grange Holidays offers four national award-winning, wheelchair accessible, self-catering lodges, set in the stunning countryside on a working farm. Close to Ashbourne and Bakewell, it’s the perfect place to unwind with family or friends and explore the sights of the Derbyshire Peak District.

With all the home comforts and a wide range of specialist equipment, including hoist and profile beds, you can relax in the peaceful surroundings and take time out to watch the wildlife.

Sleeping up to four guests

each lodge has an accessible wheel-in shower room, as well as a luxurious family bathroom.

The lodges are thoughtfully set up for wheelchair users and guests with visual and hearing impairments, with lots of space.

A truly relaxing environment, you can unwind in the log-fired hot tub and barrel sauna, or enjoy an evening cooking your own pizzas in the outdoor pizza oven. There’s plenty to explore in the surrounding area, too.

You could be packing your bags and heading off to enjoy a three or four-night break in one of the lodges with this issue’s competition.

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, all you have to do is send us your name, address, daytime telephone number and where you picked up your copy of Enable to competitions@dcpublishing.co.uk or enter online at www.enablemagazine.co.uk/HoeGrange

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: All entries must be received by Monday 28 October 2019. Winner is entitled to a three or four night midweek break at Hoe Grange Holidays between Monday 6 January 2020 and Friday 27 March 2020 for up to four people. Arrival after 3pm and checkout before 10am. Prize is subject to availability. Transport, food, hire of the log-fired hot tub, barrel sauna, pizza oven or off-road wheelchair not included. Booking subject to availability, prize is non-transferable, nonrefundable and there is no cash alternative and cannot be sold to another party.

One entry per household. The publisher’s decision is final. If you do not wish to be contacted by Hoe Grange Holidays, please write OPT OUT on your entry.

Discover more about Hoe Grange Holidays at www.hoegrangeholidays.co.uk, or call 01629 540 262 enablemagazine.co.uk

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quality top-quality accessible in Devon • Eight 8 accessible luxury lakesideholiday lodges lodges in Devon • Touring caravan & tent pitches with electric hook up • Well stocked 1.5 acre coarse fishing lake • Heated indoor pool (Seasonal) • Games Room and Free WiFi • Orchard and woodland walk • Dogs welcome

Wheelchair accessible self-catering log cabins set in the spectacular Derbyshire countryside • mobile hoist and specialist equipment • roll in wet room shower with grab rail • explore local trails on our Boma 7 off-road wheelchair • Closomat toilet

01409 211140 info@blagdonfarm.co.uk www.blagdonfarm.co.uk

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27/08/2019 16:50

thediary SEPTEMBER 21 SEPTEMBER USE YOUR SENSES 5K

Glasgow www.guidedogs.org.uk Taste, see, touch, smell and listen this September to support Guide Dogs. The Use Your Senses event is a chance to have fun while fundraising. The 5K run is a family friendly event which is suitable for everyone: you can run, jog, skip or walk your 5K. If a 5K isn’t for you, you can sign up to take part in the Mini Use Your Senses.

This route is shorter but includes all of the sensory experiences of the full route.

24 SEPTEMBER LEARNING DISABILITIES AND AUTISM: PROMOTING POSITIVE OUTCOMES CONFERENCE

Ambassadors Hotel, London www.openforumevents.co.uk

Individuals with learning disabilities and/or autism have the same rights to healthcare, independent living, employment opportunities and accommodation as everyone else, and this conference celebrates that.

Focus will be around health and social care, discussing meeting future needs, support provision and initiatives currently in place. This event is perfect for health and social care professionals or those who want to learn more about the NHS 10-year plan to make people with learning disability and/or autism a priority.

10 OCTOBER WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

PIC: ©BRITISH SWIMMING

Worldwide www.mentalhealth.org.uk

It is estimated that one in six people experience a common mental health problem every week. World Mental Health Day is a chance to show your support, break down stigma and be open about your mental health.

Wear a green ribbon, the official symbol for mental health awareness, to show your support, get involved in the conversation on social media, or simply chat to your friends, family and loved ones about mental health.

enable life

All of the events happening across September and October you don’t want to miss

9-15 SEPTEMBER WORLD PARA SWIMMING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

London www.britishswimming.org The ninth edition of the World Para Swimming Championships takes place this September and will be a key qualifier for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. The second time the event will be staged in the UK, it will be held at the London Aquatics Centre.

The event is the largest Para-Swimming championships outside of the Paralympic Games and will see an estimated 600 swimmers from 60 countries compete.

OCTOBER 9-10 OCTOBER THE CARE SHOW

NEC, Birmingham www.careshow.co.uk The Care Show is the UK’s largest care focused event attracting more than 3,500 professionals from across the UK. Providing expert-led CPD accredited conference sessions, hands-on training, latest solutions and networking opportunities, it is an essential day out for people responsible for providing care for others. Exhibitors from the residential care, home care, construction and health care sectors will be in attendance to provide information, advice and exclusive show deals.

18 OCTOBER EPILEPSY ACTION TEA BREAK

Nationwide www.epilepsy.org.uk The Epilepsy Action Tea Break is a chance to get together with your friends, family or colleagues to support people with epilepsy – all while having a cuppa. Use the day as a chance to host an event like a bake sale to fundraise, or just to share accurate information about epilepsy.

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

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26/08/2019 16:16

enable travel

The future of

ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORT

Accessible transport is key to living an independent life. Learn about the different areas of transport and the advancements making travel more accessible for the disabled community

T

he UK is currently making extensive strides in working to improve the face of accessible travel.

Advancements have already been made one year on from the launch of the Inclusive Transport Strategy, there have been positive changes. But, when it comes to accessibility there is still more to be done.

ON THE ROAD

Along with the weather changing between extremes and the beginning of the one-year countdown to Tokyo 2020 (read more on page 64), August marked the extension of the Blue Badge scheme. From 30 August 2019 people with hidden disabilities were able to access Blue Badge parking permits under new guidance.

The development marks the biggest INCLUSIVE TRANSPORT change to the scheme since the 1970s, This July marked the one-year but one which was long overdue. anniversary since the publication Aimed to make travel less stressful and of the Inclusive Transport Strategy, combat social isolation for people with the government’s plan to make the a hidden disability, the scheme will transport system more inclusive for now allow people with a hidden disabled people. disability to park closer to Since the launch of the their destination. strategy in 2018 motorway Eligibility for the service stations have been Answer Scope’s scheme is not invited to apply for a share new survey and have determined on the of £2 million funding to your say on how to basis of a particular install fully accessible make travelling by condition, but Changing Places facilities, public transport fair the effect that a to support disabled people at campaigns.scope. permanent disability to travel comfortably. org.uk has on your ability The first impartial and to walk. For more independent Rail Ombudsman information on the Blue has also been introduced, Badge scheme and eligibility visit providing an outlet for passengers www.gov.uk when train companies fall short. While

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enable travel advancements have been made in the last year, the strategy still has much to achieve to create a transport system offering equal access by 2030.

PRIVATE TRANSPORT

When the bus or train can’t take you to your destination a taxi might be the only option. With this mode of private transport, you have more rights than you might realise.

Since a change to the law in 2017 taxi drivers face a fine of up to £1,000 if they refuse to transport a wheelchair user. This law also means taxi drivers cannot charge wheelchair users extra and must provide appropriate assistance.

Today, most black cabs have wheelchair ramps fitted to provide wheelchair users with a dignified entrance to a vehicle.

The rise of private transport Apps means taxis are becoming more accessible than ever before. Popular taxi App Uber (www.uber.com) provides two services to make travel easier for people with a disability. These services are available in the majority of cities where the App is available.

UberASSIST is an option for people who need additional assistance when getting to their destination, and UberACCESS provides forwardfacing wheelchair accessible vehicles.

All UberACCESS vehicles are fully wheelchair accessible and can transport one wheelchair user and an additional passenger.

RAIL TRAVEL

Since the Access for All programme launched in 2006 to address the issues faced by disabled passengers, more than 150 stations have been improved, but there is still more to be done.

During July 2019 £20 million funding was announced to improve accessibility at train stations. The new fund is open for applications from stations that need improvements, leading to small-scale enhancements such as the installation of handrails, tactile paving and Harrington Humps to raise platforms.

The aim of the fund and these improvements is to allow disabled passengers to travel with confidence.

The funding announcement followed another in April that 73 stations will benefit from accessible routes to and between platforms.

Now is the time for transport links to focus on improving their accessibility for disabled travellers.

A BREAK FOR CARERS WITH REVITALISE Time spent in prolonged stressful and exhausting situations can have a detrimental effect on our health.

That’s why we all need a break from time to time.

Revitalise exists to provide a friendly, safe and relaxing environment as well as good quality respite in a holiday setting for disabled people and carers. For Lin and Steve, their Revitalise holiday was a lifesaver.

Just 15 months after their wedding day, Steve experienced a stroke and Lin became his full-time carer. Day to day life is hard for the couple as they are not able to go away or take a break.

Lin and Steve received financial support so they could take a muchneeded respite break together. On their Revitalise holiday, Lin saw a huge change in Steve, she explains: “He grew in confidence and regained some independence as he felt safe.

“The staff knew all the things that were important to me and Steve – even that we would be celebrating our wedding anniversary on our holiday.”

“Steve can’t follow conversation and would not have felt confident on a big table in the dining room, so the staff organised for us to eat at our own table,” Lin continues. “We felt like a couple again.”

At Revitalise, Lin can spend quality time with her husband – to laugh, have fun and simply enjoy being husband and wife. Knowing that she and Steve can have a holiday at Revitalise is what keeps Lin going.

Visit www.revitalise.org.uk to find out how you could benefit from a Revitalise respite holiday today.

46 enablemagazine.co.uk

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26/08/2019 16:19

SAFETY

online

Surfing the web can be a form of escapism from reality.

However, this escapism can be tainted as online bullying and ableist views across social media platforms rise. So, what are sites such as Instagram doing about it?

S

haring a picture of a night out with friends, uploading highlights of a gig, to your latest holiday snaps: social media is an innocent, yet effective way of staying in contact with friends across the world.

However, as more of us become accustomed to spending all our time online, challenges have started to arise.

One such issue is the growing trend of bullying online – but, it isn’t all as it seems.

TRADITIONAL

“There has been a huge focus on online bullying in recent years as more and more aspects of everyday life move online. However, there are some misconceptions around online bullying,” explains Nicola Murray, head of programmes at the Anti-Bullying Alliance. “Mainly that online bullying is something that happens in isolation, when in fact it has much more of an overlap with ‘traditional’ face-to-face bullying than you might think.”

As we celebrated the advancements in modern technology, the unfortunate aspect is the fact that bullying is no longer left at the school gates, so to speak. From experiencing bullying in the workplace, at school, or in a social group, in the past negative comments would be left at your front door.

Now, as we all stay connected through social media the negative comments or malicious attitudes don’t switch off, which can have a detrimental impact on our health.

PROTECTION

Nicola continues: “In a consultation we carried out with disabled young people about their experiences online, we found that many were being bullied and did not know how to keep themselves safe while online, or they were actively avoiding the internet for fear of bullying and of not being safe.

“As well, of those who had experienced bullying online, a lot of the young people spoke about frequently seeing disablist language or jokes about disability online, which affected how they felt about themselves.” revealed earlier this year. After Freedom Bullying online can take many of Information (FOI) requests were different forms, and cyberbullying is made by the charity to all police forces incredibly serious and hurtful. across England and Wales, the findings Through online platforms, you can highlighted the harrowing aspects that create an entirely new identity, some disabled people can face profile, or feel removed online. from what you are doing Now, this is not to say through the anonymous that all disabled people Online nature of being online. experience bullying online, disability hate This can contribute to and figures may be rising crimes have the increasing reports because more people are of trolling or receiving soared by 33% coming forward to report nasty, derogatory instances – even so, it comments. makes for thought provoking Nicola says: “An effect reading. of online anonymity and Through their research, Leonard global connectivity has been the Cheshire found that disability hate normalisation of hate speech and the crimes rose to 313 during the period of views of those who perpetrate it.”

2017/2018, compared to 235 the year prior. With a rise in cyberbullying it RISE can have a butterfly effect on people’s Online disability hate crimes have everyday lives both online and in increased by 33 per cent, research from reality.

An anonymous respondent of the disability charity Leonard Cheshire

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Young people spoke about frequently seeing disablist language or jokes about disability online

survey was quoted as saying: “The online abuse affected my mental and emotional health, I was unable to sleep properly for months. Experiences like this make me worried for younger people with disabilities who may be more susceptible.”

Change can happen to reduce cyberbullying, and it has already started at the root of the problem.

REDUCTION

During Facebook’s annual F8 conference held in May of this year, head of social media platform Instagram, Adam Mosseri made a commitment to lead the industry into the fight to tackle online bullying.

Two new features have already been announced by Instagram to reduce the opportunity to spread malicious comments on the platform.

From restricting your account to limit unwanted social interactions, such as comments or direct messaging, to

a comment warning, which notifies people that their comment may be deemed offensive.

“The industry can and must do more,” emphasises Nicola. “It is not good enough that these Apps become multimillion or even billion-pound companies before they think about how they really protect people online. Companies need to put safety and privacy at the heart of the technology from their inception.”

Similarly, the government has been called to get involved in tackling cyberbullying, including ableist and derogatory comments made to a group of individuals online. Nicola explains: “Regulation is clearly needed for the internet to become a safer place, and that’s where government comes in.” The Anti-Bullying Alliance has partnered with the NSPCC to call on the government to implement an independent regulator.

“Alongside effective legislation, there needs to be high quality education.

New risks in online behaviour will appear as quickly as legislation tackles existing ones,” she adds.

One way to help in reduce the levels of disabled people experiencing cyberbullying is by helping to bring the conversation to life. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing discrimination online make sure not to retaliate – this is usually what a bully wants from you – instead, save the evidence using screenshots or by saving messages, and report the user.

Nicola advises: “Remember that the problem is with the person doing the bullying, not with you.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Support and advice on bullying online is available from the Anti-Bullying Alliance (www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk), Leonard Cheshire (www.leonardcheshire.org), and Bullying UK (www.bullying.co.uk).

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PENSIONS

Preparing for the future When you have to stop working after acquiring a disability or receiving a diagnosis, this can have a knock-on effect on your finances later in life. Perhaps not the first thing on your mind, but how will leaving work affect your pension?

T

aking the decision to leave work after acquiring a disability or receiving a diagnosis is a tough choice, and one that requires careful planning. Often, short-term plans can take priority during the transition process, however one of the things that can have a huge impact later in life is your pension.

KNOW YOUR PENSION

Your pension is the money you receive when you reach retirement age and stop working. While you’re working, your employer will enrol you in a workplace pension whereby you make monthly contributions, as does your employer, unless you opt out.

You are also eligible for a State Pension, which is money you receive weekly from the government when you reach State Pension age. It’s normally something you have to claim, as opposed to receiving it automatically. To be eligible for a State Pension, you must have paid National Insurance (NI) for 10 years of your working life.

You can also invest in a private pension scheme, topping up your funds for your retirement.

However, when you stop working, this can have a ripple effect on your pension and it’s important to know how to prepare for your retirement.

SUPPORT

The Money and Pensions Service (MAPS) provides impartial support and financial advice, to ensure everyone is receiving the financial aid they’re entitled to.

“Regardless of whether someone has a money question, debt issue or pensions issue, we’re the place where everybody can come to get the support they need,” says Charlotte Jackson, head of pensions guidance.

“For someone who’s had to take early retirement because of disability, the type of diagnosis will influence when they can receive their pension.

For some people, you’d be able to potentially access your pension from the date you’ve been told you’re unable to work from.”

The support you can receive, and the age at which you can access your pension after leaving work is unique to each individual situation, so it’s important to reach out to services such as MAPS, to find out exactly what you’re entitled to.

NATIONAL INSURANCE CREDITS

If you leave work due to disability or diagnosis, there are plenty of options to help you when you reach retirement age.

When you’re working, you pay National Insurance, which helps fund certain state benefits and the State Pension. When you stop work, you also stop paying NI, which means your contributions towards the State Pension also end. This can mean you’re no longer eligible to receive your State Pension.

However, if you receive certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, or Disability Living Allowance, you automatically begin receiving credits

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PENSION CREDIT

If you have to leave work due to diagnosis or disability, you might be eligible to receive Pension Credit.

Pension Credit is an income-related benefit that offers people over State Pension age a weekly top-up, intended to give you more money during your retirement. If you have a disability, or are a carer, you might be entitled to a higher amount of Pension Credit.

“Pension Credit is a means-tested state benefit,” Charlotte explains. “So, when someone reaches their State Pension age, they’ll stop getting their other benefits – their in-work benefits – and start getting Pension Credit. You

“ type of diagnosis The will influence when they can receive their pension

“

and start to build up entitlement to a State Pension.

National Insurance Credits help fill in the gaps of your NI record, to make sure you qualify for the State Pension. Depending on the benefits you receive, you might get credits automatically, but it’s also worth checking you’re eligible, as in some cases you might have to apply.

can claim Pension Credit regardless of if you’re still working or retired: as long as you’re over the State Pension age, you can claim it.”

If you’re successful in receiving Pension Credit, you may also qualify for other benefits, such as council tax reduction, warm homes discount, housing benefit, cold weather payments and free TV licenses for over-75s, so it’s definitely worth investigating if you qualify.

You can’t apply for Pension Credit until you reach State Pension age, however knowing the benefit is in place can be a relief, and ease worries about your pension in the future.

PLANNING

In the meantime, before accessing your pension, you can research which benefits you’re entitled to and start building up credits for the future, which will be incredibly helpful when the time comes.

“Online benefits calculators are a helpful way to make sure you’re getting everything you should be,” Charlotte advises. “You can also look into purchasing an enhanced annuity.”

An annuity is an income you can buy with your pension pot and will bring in a fixed amount of money for the rest of your life. If you have a life limiting illness or disability, you can purchase an enhanced annuity, to get a higher retirement income. All you need to do is provide the insurance company with your medical details.

“Leaving work is a really big decision,” Charlotte emphasises.

“Services like ours are there to provide support, to make sure people have one less worry, so they can understand what they’re entitled to and how they can afford to pay their bills. Don’t add another worry to your plate when you’re already dealing with more than you can manage.”

It can be daunting to think about how leaving employment permanently will affect your future, but there is advice at hand, to ensure you’re supported every step of the way.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Get advice or further information about your pension by visiting the Money and Pension Service (www.moneyandpensionsservice.org.uk) or the Pension Advisory Service (www.pensionsadvisoryservice.org.uk).

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he XC40’s interior was created to make people’s lives easier.

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BADGES OF ASSURANCE

This unique design philosophy is largely why it’s been so well received. Named as the Best Small Hatch at the UK Car of the Year Awards, the XC40 was praised for originality, design, space and flexibility.

However, it still does the fundamentals well, recently winning What Car? Car of the Year 2019 – Best Family SUV with its “plush and high-quality interior, with a big

boot and comfortable ride.”

At the 2019 Motor Trader Awards, the XC40 was named ‘New Car of the Year’.

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The XC40’s interior was created to make people’s lives easier

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REVIEW

Volkswagen T-ROC The Volkswagen T-Roc is the T-Cross’ trendier sister and promises a more engaging drive than most in the small SUV class, says Alisdair Suttie

INSIDE The T-Roc’s cabin is a story of two halves. Let’s start with the positive side that begins with the excellent quality evident in every surface you come into contact with. There’s a premium feel to the T-Roc you don’t get in rivals such as the Nissan Juke or Vauxhall Mokka. That’s complemented by the excellent driving position, clear dash layout and simple rotary controls for the heating and ventilation.

Access for the driver is also very good and the raised seating of this type of car makes it ideal for wheelchair users. We’re also fans of the T-Roc’s front seats that offer

good support without ever feeling too ‘sporty’ and being overly snug. With plenty of head, leg and shoulder space, it’s all good in the front.

Then we come to the rear seats and the news is less satisfying. The slope of the roof means headroom isn’t the best in this class. It’s further undermined by poor leg space, which makes it harder to stash a wheelchair behind the front seats. As for the boot, it’s similar in size to a small hatch’s, but you have to lift items over a high sill and the floor isn’t completely flat when the rear pews are folded down.

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EQUIPMENT The entry-point S model doesn’t need any Advance Payment through Motability and comes with alloy wheels, electric door mirrors, height adjustable front seats and six air bags. It also includes an 8.0-inch colour touchscreen for the infotainment, Bluetooth connection, electric parking brake, Lane Assist and autonomous emergency braking.

We’d spend the extra on the SE for its body-coloured bumpers, roof rails, adaptive cruise control and allround parking sensors. It also comes with heated door mirrors and easy connection to smartphones through the infotainment.

The Design model gains its own alloy wheel blueprint, rear privacy glass, driver fatigue warning and a choice of coloured dash panels. An SEL model has Sat Nav and off-road driving modes, if you choose this car with four-wheel drive. The sporty R-Line trim offers 19-inch alloy wheels, body kit and rear spoiler, front sports seats and a heated windscreen.

DRIVING Balancing comfort with agile handling in an SUV often means sacrifices in one of these areas, and the T-Roc falls into this trap. To endow the car with good cornering, Volkswagen has made the ride a little too firm over most typical UK road surfaces. While it’s fun in the corners, we’d prefer a suppler experience most of the time.

There’s no faulting how refined the T-Roc is, however, and it’s quieter than most competitors on the motorway or around town. You can’t complain about the engine line-up, either. It starts with a 114bhp 1.0-litre turbo petrol – that’s all you need in the city. The 1.5-litre turbo petrol is the best all-rounder and is available with the smooth seven-speed automatic gearbox. There are also 1.6-

and 2.0-litre turbodiesel options if fuel economy is one of your main concerns when choosing a T-Roc. The 4Motion all-wheel drive system is only offered on the most powerful engine from the petrol and diesel lines.

Off-road, the T-Roc is soon out of its depth, but the all-wheel drive is ideal for winter driving on icy roads, though it adds considerably to the cost of the car.

SUMMARY The Volkswagen T-Roc is fun, but that comes at the expense of comfort and cabin space compared to most rivals.

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INCLUSIVE BREAKS

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It can be hard to find the time to go on holiday, and it can be even more stressful when having to consider accessibility. For RAF serving personnel or veterans, one organisation is ensuring their next trip is inclusive from start to finish

he RAF Disabled Holiday Trust ensures that disabled RAF personnel and veterans can enjoy a holiday with their family, free from the all-too-familiar worries of whether accommodation is accessible or not Managed by the RAF Benevolent Fund – the RAF’s leading welfare charity – the RAF Disabled Holiday Trust offers a selection of places to stay and visit both in the UK and abroad, allowing families to holiday together.

From hotel accommodation to villas or apartments, the properties available have a range of adapted rooms, wheel-in showers, door widths and pool hoists, as well as adapted transfers – so all guests have to worry about is what they are going to be doing during their holiday.

MISLED

Former Flight Sergeant Graham Duncan’s wife Angie was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) in 2006. As her MS advanced, Graham became Angie’s full-time carer. The couple had been disappointed by holiday accommodation that was sold as accessible a number of times in the past.

“I remember one particular time where we booked an accessible room for a wedding. When we arrived, we were met with two giant steps and a bathroom which was not wide enough for a wheelchair, leaving Angie unable to bathe or use the toilet,” remembers Graham.

“As it turned out, the only accessible toilet was a shared bathroom, on the other side of the hotel. A totally humiliating experience.”

TRUST

However, thanks to the RAF Disabled Holiday Trust, Graham and Angie have enjoyed time away in Kent, France, Dorset, Scotland and most recently St Bride’s in the beautiful Welsh

Angie on holiday

Graham

countryside.

“Everything has already been thought about – simple things like gravel free car parks and ensuring the mirrors are all wheelchair height, which so many of us take for granted but it makes a huge difference to the individual.

“The facilities at St Brides were excellent which included a swimming pool, table tennis and billiard room.

We even managed to play a game of bowls on the artificial lawn near our accommodation.”

The Trust’s key objective is to integrate disabled people into holiday developments primarily created for the use of non-disabled people, and to promote holidays in self-catering accommodation where there is a choice between a restful break and full participation in typical holiday and social activities.

Don’t let disability hold you back from spreading your wings and enjoying the

Everything has already been thought about simple things cultures, foods and activities happening across the world. If you are serving personnel with the RAF or an RAF veteran, the RAF Disabled Holiday Trust is here to get your holiday sorted – now, all you have to do is pack.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

To learn more about the RAF Disabled Holiday Trust, go to www.rafbf.org/raf-disabled-holiday-trust, alternatively, call 020 7307 3370 or email rafdht@rafbf.org.uk

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Product Roundup Our top picks of products and adaptations sure to aid in your daily routine

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You name it, we’ve written about it, and each issue is filled with the latest discussions, debates, and experiences pertinent to the disabled community, family and professionals.

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PICS: ©TOKYO 2020

THE COUNTDOWN TO

TOKYO 2020

In 1964 Tokyo played host to the second annual Paralympic Games, now 56 years later, Tokyo will again welcome Paralympic athletes from around the world. From mascots to new Paralympic sports, take a look at what you can expect to see at Tokyo 2020

T

here is less than a year to go until the Paralympic Games kicks off in Japan’s capital city, Tokyo. Taking place from 25 August to 6 September 2020, the Games will see an expected 4,400 athletes compete for medals in 22 sports across nearly 540 events.

HISTORY

56 years after Tokyo first hosted the Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, the city is set to welcome athletes from more than 100 countries around the world. The 1964 Games marked the second Paralympic Games to ever take place, and the last to happen in the same city as the Summer Olympics until 1988.

Since its second year, the Paralympic Games has grown in size and popularity.

During Tokyo 1964 just 375 athletes from 21 nations competed in nine sports across 144 events – a small fraction of the athletes set to travel to Tokyo next summer.

The legacy of Tokyo 1964 has not been forgotten by the host city. The two

Games will be connected by holding a number of events in legacy venues across Tokyo. Venues for the Games are situated in two zones of the city: the heritage zone and the Tokyo bay zone.

The New National Stadium will serve as the main venue for the Olympics and Paralympics, hosting the Opening and Closing ceremonies alongside a number of sporting events. The stadium was used during the 1964 Olympics and is being rebuilt in the same spot in the heritage zone ahead of Tokyo 2020.

CULTURE

Japan’s rich culture will play a large part in the Games. The Paralympic mascot, Someity, has been created to represent the superhuman power that Paralympic athletes embody. The character, which was chosen by Japanese school children, was inspired by cherry blossoms.

The name Someity derives from the name of a popular cherry blossom variety and the phrase ‘so mighty’.

The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic torch was also inspired by the country’s cherry blossoms. The torch is based

on the share your light concept of the Paralympic Games and unites tradition and modern technology.

Designed from aluminium to form the shape of a flower, the torch is made from construction waste from temporary housing built in the aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

The torch symbolises the rebuilding of shattered lives into a symbol of peace.

SPORT

The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games will feature 22 sports including athletics, boccia, rowing and wheelchair rugby. Of these 22 sports, two are new additions to the Paralympic roster.

Badminton will make its Paralympic debut next summer as a total of 90 players compete in singles, doubles and mixed doubles events. The sports inclusion in the Games recognises its global growth with the game now played in more than 60 countries around the world.

Taekwondo will also feature as a new addition to the Paralympic schedule at Tokyo 2020. The martial art has been

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enable sport

added to help grow interest of the sport around the world. A relatively new sport, with a version for people with disabilities only being created in 2005, and the first World Championships held in 2009.

There are two forms of the accessible sport: Gyeorugi for athletes with upper limb impairments and Poomsae for athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Athletes will compete in four sport classes and three weight classes at the Games.

On 26 August, the day after the Opening Ceremony, track cycling athletes will be the first to receive their Paralympic medals. A total of 24 events, including 16 swimming events, four wheelchair fencing events, and four cycling events will take place on the day, officially kicking off the Paralympic sport programme.

Midway through the games on 30 August 63 medal events will be held, with the day earning the nickname of Golden Sunday. The most medal events will take place on this day during the Games.

On 6 September, the closing day more inclusive society. of the Paralympic Games, 15 events The Agitos Foundation develops will be held in badminton, wheelchair sport activities for people with an basketball, sitting volleyball, athletics impairment as a tool for changing lives. marathon and shooting. The last medal The I’mPOSSIBLE award derives from session of the Games will take place the foundation’s education programme at 10am that day ahead of the which promotes social inclusion Closing Ceremony. by raising awareness of the Team GB will compete Paralympic movement. in all 22 sports with some Three schools, two The Tokyo 2020 team line-ups already from Japan and one Paralympic Games confirmed for Tokyo from overseas, will be open on 25 August 2020. At world and recognised during the European championships Closing Ceremony along 2020 Paralympic athletes have with two Paralympians. been gearing up for the The addition of the award Games to begin next summer. to the Closing Ceremony will celebrate the promotion of diversity and inclusion in sport throughout the I’MPOSSIBLE Games, and begin a new legacy for The power of inclusion and diversity Tokyo. will be highlighted throughout the Games, but will have a special place in the Closing Ceremony. During the FOR MORE INFORMATION ceremony the Agitos Foundation To find out what sports you should tune into, (www.paralympic.org/agitos-foundation) and what athletes you should follow visit will mark the presentation of a new www.paralympics.org.uk, www.paralympic.org award to schools and Paralympians or www.tokyo2020.org making significant contributions to a

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PARALYMPIAN

Kare Adenegan

It’s been a whirlwind year for wheelchair racer Kare Adenegan – winning the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year award and taking time out of training to complete her A-Level exams. We caught up with the Paralympian, to chat Tokyo 2020

H

ow did you first get into sport when you were younger?

I watched the London 2012 Paralympic Games and was inspired by the GB athletes I saw. I did some wheelchair basketball before wheelchair racing, but, didn’t realise how many opportunities there were for people with disabilities to get into elite sport until watching the London Games.

After doing some research, I found a wheelchair racing group who trained 10 minutes away from my home, so I began to train with them.

What are you most excited for about Tokyo 2020?

I am excited at the prospect of representing my country again and also the opportunity to experience a new culture. I’ve always wanted to go to Japan and fortunately my sport allows me to travel to some amazing places.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve encountered in the run up to Tokyo?

I had some time off for my A-Level exams, but things are coming into place and I’m on track for the World Championships in Dubai, which is an important step on the run up to Tokyo.

Having time off training is always a challenge because it feels like taking a step back while everyone else is taking strides forward towards Tokyo preparations. However, fortunately this season is long, and with the World Championships in November, there’s plenty of time to prepare.

What has been the biggest highlight of

Kare in training

your career in wheelchair racing so far?

The highlight would have to be breaking my first world record last year in the T34 100m. I was surprised by the time going sub-17 seconds but worked very hard so I knew it was possible.

How do you deal with any nerves you have before you race?

I remind myself that regardless of the outcome it isn’t the end of the world and I encourage myself that the hard work has already been done in training, so I can have fun.

What would you say to anyone who is inspired to try a new sport ahead of Tokyo 2020?

Go for it. Try lots of different sports and find what’s right for you. It’s not too late to even qualify for the Tokyo Paralympic Games in many sports so you never know, you could be there, too.

Winning her award

I am excited at the prospect of representing my country again

FOR MORE INFORMATION

You can keep up to date with Kare’s journey to Tokyo 2020 on Twitter (@AdeneganK) or on Instagram (@kareadenegan).

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PICS: © KARE ADENEGAN

What was it that appealed to you most about wheelchair racing?

The speed mostly appealed to me. I used to whizz around my school corridors and enjoyed going fast, so finding a sport with a focus on speed got me very excited.

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enable

spotlight

POWER OF

Pallative care

End of life care is unique to every individual person. Palliative care nurses and specialists are continually on hand to ensure everyone receives the right care and guidance, but, how do dedicated teams provide end of life care to people with a learning disability?

P

eople living with a learning disability will require the same palliative care and support as the non-disabled community. For this reason, there is a dedicated team of people working to ensure their best interests are put first.

Jason Davidson, supportive care service manager for Marie Curie, is on hand to ensure people with a learning disability and their loved ones are cared for.

ESSENTIAL

Having worked as a social worker within learning disability services, Jason saw first-hand the need for people to be included in discussions about health and death. “Lots of the men and women we supported had experienced many losses in life and were often excluded from rituals such as funerals,” explains Jason. “It’s difficult to develop a basic understanding about death and dying when you aren’t included in it.”

Everyone should have the right to good palliative and end of life care

Now, Jason is ensuring the hospice supports people’s emotional, spiritual and social needs. One such need for those with a learning disability is understanding what is happening in any given situation, thus communication is essential.

should provide you with the opportunity to think about your wishes and preferences for care and death and have these written down, so the right people are aware of them.”

Ensuring the needs of people are met is important to specialist, highly skilled Jason Davidson LANGUAGE staff and volunteers within Jason continues: “People palliative and hospice care.

Jason adds: “You can talk to with learning disabilities us about anything,” continues Jason. “You have told me they want to hear words can share your feelings, thoughts, and like dead and died, rather than passed concerns, and we won’t judge you. away because they know what those “Palliative care should be person words mean. Use simple straight centred. Everyone should have the right forward language – be sensitive, direct, to good palliative and end of life care and and clear.” this includes people who have a learning In a bid to increase understanding of disability.” The people who know us best palliative care, in 1998 a small group can be on hand to ensure we receive the of people with learning disabilities palliative or end of life care we would and palliative care professionals want. came together to create the PCPLD Through the support of people such (Palliative Care for People with Learning as Jason, Marie Curie, and the wider Disabilities) Network. medical community, everyone is working The organisation strives to ensure to ensure every moment of our life is as service providers are connected with we would want it, regardless of ability. the learning-disabled community with palliative care needs, which is critical for people’s best interests.

WISHES

“Palliative care and end of life care is there to help you live as well as possible until you die,” emphasises Jason. “It

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Learn more about the importance of palliative care with Marie Curie (www.mariecurie.org.uk, 0800 090 2309) and PCPLD Network (www.pcpld.org).

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ACCELERATING DISABILITY INCLUSION EMPOWERING WORKPLACE EQUALITY FOR ALL

VISIT ACCENTURE.COM/CAREERS

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.

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PIC: © JAMES BELLORINI

enable employment

MAKING A DIFFERENCE WITH

Accenture T

he Accenture Enablement Network is a vibrant community with over 1,000 members representing a wide spectrum of both visible and invisible disabilities.

Within the network, there are three core missions: to support all employees with a disability to perform at their personal best; to influence the culture at Accenture to be more accepting of disability; and to ensure Accenture hires and retains the best talent, regardless of disability.

Liaising closely with Accenture recruitment teams, the network works to ensure all recruitment policies reflect best practice. The business is dedicated to simplifying the reasonable adjustments process for employees to improve accessibility within Accenture offices.

CHAMPIONS

Accenture’s global Persons with Disabilities Champions Network was created to bring employees, supporters and friends together for networking, collaboration, and mentoring.

The organisation’s disability champions are active supporters of persons with disabilities initiatives and programmes at Accenture. Together, champions work to help foster an inclusive workplace for everyone.

As a global business of almost 500,000

Revel in the confidence of working alongside an employer that acts on inclusion in the workplace with Accenture

colleagues, the reach for inclusion goes far beyond the UK. So much so, that Accenture currently has over 24,000 disability champions worldwide and 1,606 in the UK.

ALLIES

Alongside champions, Accenture has a group of trained, trusted people working as Mental Health Allies. Seen as ambassadors and advocates for mental health, the Allies are dedicated to providing guidance for employees seeking support or information for themselves or a colleague.

Mental Health Allies can help normalise and de-stigmatise conversations around mental health and promote a culture of openness. Currently, there are 2,000 Mental Health Allies in the UK, and 4,000 globally, working to promote a healthy workplace environment.

EQUAL

As Accenture is an equal opportunities employer, the organisation welcomes applications from all of society and does not discriminate on grounds of race, religion or belief, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, citizenship, marital, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation, or gender identity or any other basis as protected by applicable law.

The organisation is committed to

accelerating equality for all, to create an inclusive and diverse workplace supporting Accenture’s disabled employees or customers. So committed to equality in the workplace, the organisation has worked directly with external companies to broaden access.

INNOVATIVE

Working with the National Theatre, Accenture Digital’s Extended Reality team liaised with the theatre to transform how live captioning is provided to D/deaf and hard of hearing (HoH) audiences. The collaboration resulted in the theatre’s smart caption glasses.

Using Open Access Smart Capture technology and speech tracking software, captions are projected in real time onto the lenses of the glasses, allowing users to see the dialogue in front of their eyes.

Outside of work, Accenture are pioneering in accessibility. Within the workplace, Accenture is ensuring every member of staff – new, current, or prospective – feels supported and confident in the workplace to be who they truly are. Are you ready to join the team?

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Discover a career with Accenture by visiting accenture.com/gb-en/careers or call 0800 0285516

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IPO’S mentally healthy work

Paving the way to insure all employees can reach their full potential, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is committed to hosting a mentally healthy environment

W

orking as an executive agency, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is the official UK government body responsible for intellectual property (IP). From trademarks and copyright, to patents and designs, the IPO works to ensure people’s creativity is protected.

Alongside safeguarding creativity, you could be welcomed into a workplace dedicated to ensuring all your needs are met, so you can thrive.

PRAISE

Commending the environment that IPO provide for all members of staff, senior business analyst in IT, Dave Watts enthuses: “The IPO is here to get the best out of people by treating them the best way that they can. One such way is by continually providing support or guidance pertinent to mental health care.”

Workplace stress is one of the leading causes for people leaving employment or turning away from a job they once loved. Through societal attitudes and stigma, it can be daunting to speak with a member of management about your worries.

However, Peer2Peer is the IPO’s group committed to supporting mental health conditions, queries to raising awareness.

GUIDANCE

“It’s got support right from the top: from the chief executive and the head of HR,” continues Dave. “We’ve got other provisions within IPO for mental health support. There are three staff counsellors, who, between them, provide Monday to Friday counselling for staff.

“A lot of people who come to the group have seen staff counsellors or are seeing them. Our group is much more informal; it’s informal but confidential as well.”

Running for an hour during lunch, one day a week, Peer2Peer is on hand to provide vital guidance to all employees looking to reach out – there is no official

diagnosis necessary. Dave adds: “It provides a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for people to come every week.”

ADJUSTMENTS

Reasonable adjustments are a legal requirement for all employers – after all, one small change may be the key to ensuring you thrive – and IPO holds this ethos in high regard.

From supplying employees with a quiet room to take time out from stressful or overwhelming situations that may arise in work, or reducing hours on medical grounds, IPO is pioneering in having a mentally healthy workplace.

Similarly, staff counsellors provide talks and presentations on stress management or the Peer2Peer group run 10-week programmes discussion conditions such as OCD, anxiety,

depression and more in a bid to tackle stigma.

Dave emphasises: “We very much look at mental illness in the same way as physical illness. If people have been off on long-term sick, there’s provision for graduated hours coming back, so you don’t have to come back to a full working week, you can maybe do three or four days. You build up gradually to a full working week.”

The only question is, what can you bring to the IPO team? Send in your application today for inclusive employment unlike ever before.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Discover your career potential with IPO by visiting, www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ intellectual-property-office

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Committed to equal opportunity We’re Scotland’s public-sector auditor, responsible for ensuring that the Scottish Government and public-sector bodies are held to account for the proper, efficient and effective use of public money.

We are committed to equal opportunity and to a culture that respects difference and we welcome applications from all sectors of the community.

We offer an interview to all disabled candidates who meet the essential criteria. As an employer, and in our audit role, we play a leading part in the promotion and application of diversity and equality.

The IPO is an inclusive employer. We are building a great place to work where everyone is confident being themselves.

Visit Civil Service Jobs and search for the Intellectual Property Office.

2018

www.audit-scotland.gov.uk/careers Intellectual Property Office is an operating name of the Patent Office

Registers of Scotland (RoS) has fairness at its core.

We have been named as a disability confident employer

by Jobcentre Plus and have a positive attitude towards job applications from disabled people.

As we progress through 2019 we will be working to improve the ways that we support our staff, customers and stakeholders, regardless of disability, gender, ethnicity, age, religion or sexual orientation. This is a process that we will review constantly – delivering equality is an ongoing process, not an event.

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

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

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

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

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GRADUATE to SUCCESS Thinking about the next steps after your degree can be a mammoth task – what next?

As companies across the UK offer accessible graduate schemes, you’ll be onto your new, exciting adventure in no time 74

AUDIT SCOTLAND Degrees in: Educated to degree level with a minimum 2:1 in any subject www.audit-scotland.gov.uk/careers/graduates The graduate scheme at Audit Scotland provides training to set you on your way to becoming a qualified accountant, while working in a challenging and rewarding environment.

Joining the scheme offers many benefits, including sponsorship to become a Chartered Accountant with ICAS, a starting salary of £23,669, and more. Importantly, your role will enable you to make a difference for the

people of Scotland.

Audit Scotland is a Disability Confident employer and interview all disabled candidates that meet the minimum requirements of the job role. Similarly, the recruitment process can be adjusted to ensure your talent can shine through.

Working with Audit Scotland will give you the chance to gain valuable skills auditing councils, health boards and government departments across Scotland, who spend more than £40billion of public money each year.

Head to the Audit Scotland website, register your interest and receive notifications when their Graduate Recruitment campaign launches across October and November.

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enable education

BARCLAYS Degrees in: Finance, Human Resources, Marketing, Sales, Technology joinus.barclays/eme/graduate-opportunities As one of the most popular banks in the UK, Barclays is always looking for talented graduates to learn from the top and lead the company into its next phase.

Offering graduate schemes in banking, finance, HR, marketing, sales, technology and more, all graduate positions are open to disabled candidates.

The bank has been awarded gold status by the Business Disability Forum for their efforts to make their workplace more inclusive. Employees can join their Reach network, which gives disabled colleagues the chance to receive mentoring, career development support and further education opportunities. Members also help the bank find new, innovative ways to make their services and facilities accessible to customers and colleagues alike.

In 2014, the bank also launched their This is Me campaign, to tackle the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace. The group encourages members to share their mental health experiences, and provides support to not only colleagues, but people in workplaces across the City of London.

Applications for 2020 open in September this year, so make sure to look out for all the latest opportunities on the website.

FRESHFIELDS Degrees in: Law ssl.freshfields.com/ukgraduates As a global law firm, Freshfields provide traineeships to law graduates, to begin your career in the exciting field.

Freshfields is a Disability Confident employer and a partner of the Business Disability Forum, to ensure they are correctly catering to the needs of disabled applicants and staff members.

The graduate traineeship will build your confidence and equip you with the skills necessary to launch your career in law. From financial and employment law, to human rights and climate change law, you’ll be making a valuable contribution to society and learning while you go.

Throughout the recruitment process, Freshfields will facilitate any adaptations or adjustments to ensure you have the best chance possible. This includes additional time for online tests and interviews; hard copy versions of tests to be completed; and you’ll have a direct point of contact to support you and answer any questions you have throughout the recruitment process.

Running graduate schemes twice a year, in winter and summer, so keep an eye on the website for applications opening.

BLOOMBERG Degrees in: Computer Science, Engineering or a related technology subject www.bloomberg.com/careers Media and software giant, Bloomberg, runs graduate schemes for engineering graduates who can keep up with the ever-changing world of technology.

The scheme will teach you how to be a software engineer, and equip you with the skills to set you up with a long and successful career in the industry, learning all about database systems, network communication and real-time data processing.

After the training phase of the graduate scheme, you’ll join Bloomberg’s global team of engineers, working collaboratively on projects and developing software that is used by thousands of people around the world.

You’ll have to be an excellent problem solver who is decisive and has a solid understanding of data structures and algorithms.

Bloomberg is constantly looking to diversify the workplace and bring in new, innovative ideas, that reflect their customers’ needs and views. All you need is a relevant degree, a positive attitude and they will teach you the rest.

If you require any adjustments throughout the recruitment or interview process, you can email access2@ bloomberg.net to make them aware and give you the best chance at success.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Discover more accessible graduate schemes through EmployAbility (www.employ-ability.org.uk).

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Picture this.

You’ve just started at Barclays.

You believe we shouldn’t ever settle for ‘good’.

And so do the people around you.

You’ve got the drive. The ideas.

And the space to run with them.

To realise the downright extraordinary.

This is what it feels like to have the backing of a world-class bank.

Because with us, there’s more to discover.

There’s more to become.

Graduate and apprentice opportunities joinus.barclays

This programme is run on behalf of the Barclays Group which includes: Barclays Bank PLC. Registered in England and Wales (registered no. 1026167). Registered Office: 1 Churchill Place, London, E14 5HP, United Kingdom. Barclays Bank UK PLC. Registered in England (registered no. 9740322). Registered Office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP, United Kingdom. Barclays Services Limited. Registered in England (registered no. 1767980). Registered Office: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP.

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enable education

Ahead of the

I

Grade

It’s almost time to start submitting applications for higher education but before you do, research is essential. We look at a programme letting you test drive the university experience and speak to UCAS about the application process

t can be hard to judge what your university experience will be like before you live through it. Universities throughout the UK run summer schools to give you a true taste of what you can expect as a student in higher education.

This can also be a great way to find out what providers can support your individual needs.

REMOVING BARRIERS

and shared my belief – they enhanced it.”

REAL EXPERIENCE

Attending a summer school is the perfect way to find out what university will be like, and if different providers can cater to your individual support needs.

“It’s really a chance to go and be there yourself and see what it might be like,” explains Laura. “You spend the week speaking to real life students and get to ask questions, the main thing is just being in that environment.”

Learning from people who have already started their higher education journey means you will be more informed, and more connected to student and disability services at universities.

For Tilly, the summer school affirmed what she already knew: university was

“

I needed that support, without it university wouldn’t have been possible

“

The Sutton Trust (www.suttontrust.com) works to break down barriers to high ranking universities for high achieving young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. “Your background and where you’re from shouldn’t affect your outcomes,” explains Laura Bruce, head of programmes at the Sutton Trust.

The Trust runs summer schools for young people from the UK to give them a preview of the university experience.

Tilly, who has type two spinal muscular atrophy, went on a Sutton Trust US summer school programme last year.

This year Tilly completed her first year at Stanford University in California.

“It was the key to me being able to achieve my 12-year-old dream of going to university in the US,” Tilly explains.

“I think it probably stemmed from watching something like High School Musical, but it got serious very quickly when I realised how much the lifestyle there would suit me.”

Tilly travelled to the US last summer and was based at Yale University for a week. From her application to the trip itself, the Trust made sure everything was accessible for Tilly, she says: “It was a journey for all of us to make it work, to make sure the experience was as accessible as humanly possible.”

Tilly’s mum was even able to go on the trip as her assistant, all expenses paid.

“It was incredible for me because I hadn’t factored my disability in as a barrier to study in the US, but this barrier came from other people questioning it,” remembers Tilly. “The Sutton Trust had the opposite attitude

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enable education the perfect choice for her, she says: “It taught me so much about university and set me up for the application process, it helped me figure out what I wanted from the experience.

“Having that summer school made a huge difference for me, I got to say yes I want to do it and give 200 per cent to make it happen.”

Alongside getting real world experience, it is important to do your own research, Laura says: “Definitely ask questions, check university websites for the student services pages, pick up the phone and speak to people.”

Having now lived through the experience Tilly knows how important it is to find the right support early in the process. “Begin thinking about it as early as possible,” stresses Tilly. “It’s another big factor but I needed that support, without it university wouldn’t have been possible.”

Regardless if you are unsure of where you want to study or have your heart set on a certain provider, getting a taste of the higher education experience can leave you confident and ready to take the first step.

APPLICATION From deciding what to study to what you want out of your university experience, any additional support should be considered throughout.

“The most important stage for all students is the research stage,” emphasises Nicola Turner, policy executive at UCAS (www.ucas.com).

It is important to research all aspects of a university or college when thinking about where to apply.

Their facilities, accommodation, support services and the course itself should all be considered.

You should also think about what you want to get out of your time in higher education, Nicola says: “Don’t compromise on that, universities are looking for people who are enthusiastic, people who are ready to succeed and are interested.”

The most important thing during the application process is checking what support is available. “It’s a really

good idea to get in touch with the disability advisor or student services to have a chat about your support needs,” explains Nicola. “It doesn’t matter if you don’t apply, it’s just good to have that confidence when you do apply.”

You shouldn’t feel nervous or embarrassed to ask about the support available, providers are there to make your experience as enjoyable as possible.

It is helpful to have an insurance choice alongside your firm choice when choosing where you want to study. “It’s often a good idea to have a backup list of universities who you know could support you,” advises Nicola. “You can then contact them in the event of Clearing.”

When filling out your UCAS application declaring your disability will mean support is in place for when you start a course.

“

I hadn’t factored my disability in as a barrier to study

“

FOR MORE INFORMATION There is a host of resources to aid you on your journey to higher education.

UCAS www.ucas.com Disabled Students Helpline 0330 995 0414 Student Minds: Know Before You Go www.studentminds.org.uk Ability Net: My Study My Way www.abilitynet.org.uk

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enable

spotlight

The

Wheelie good idea In 2013, Clynfyw Care Farm shipped their first container of refurbished wheelchairs to people who desperately needed them in South Africa. Now, the charity is calling on similar projects to be created, ensuring people worldwide can reclaim their mobility

N

estled into the North Pembrokeshire woodland, Clynfyw Care Farm supports people with learning disabilities and mental health problems into work. Eight people live onsite, while a further 40 volunteer at the farm on day service, giving back to the local and wider community.

“We have different projects happening throughout the week, each of which is meant to be meaningful, so that people have a good day,” explains general manager Jim Bowen.

“There are social and environmental benefits to the projects: whether that’s growing organic food that we sell in local markets; helping to rehouse ex-battery chickens; or fixing up wheelchairs and mobility aids that have been salvaged from skips and donated.”

start their own local projects, to help get equipment to where the need is greatest.

“It took a while to get going, but now we’re swamped. And it’s funding the containers to go overseas, rather than acquiring the aids, which is the challenge,” Jim laughs. “We would love it if other people around the country set up similar projects – it’s really needed overseas, and giving people meaningful things to do in local communities is desperately important as well. It ticks every single box. In our age of climate change, we’re concentrating more on environmental benefits and this does that, too.”

COMMUNITY

Donating your wheelchair or mobility aid to a project such as Wheelie Good ensures it doesn’t end up in the landfill, instead going to a good home, where someone may not have access to it otherwise.

“People are so grateful: they’ve got their granny’s wheelchair in the attic or a wheelchair that the council doesn’t want back,” Jim encourages. “There are so many people delighted to see their equipment going to good homes instead of being dumped on the skip or left in the garden to rot away. It really brings the whole community together, everyone just loves it.”

IDEA

The Wheelie Good Idea was born six years ago, after a staff member asked what happened to discarded wheelchairs and mobility aids. What started as curiosity became a project that not only provided exciting opportunities for the farm’s volunteers, but extended the community’s generosity around the world.

“We try to give people with learning disabilities new skills and enable them to reach their potential, to do as much as they possibly can and push boundaries,” Jim enthuses. “And it also helps people overseas who haven’t got as much.”

Since the first shipping container, Clynfyw have sent 11 more to South Africa, Kenya and to refugees in Greece.

Each container remains in the country it’s shipped to, becoming health and community centres, or schools.

ENCOURAGE

The charity has been inundated with unused mobility aids from donations and want to encourage others to

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Get all the latest information on Wheelie Good Idea and how you can start your own project by visiting, www.clynfyw.co.uk

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enable voices

The look of

Love

With a wicked sense of humour and a positive outlook on life, it’s not hard to see why Shane Burcaw’s online presence gained a mass following. Now, celebrating life alongside fiancé Hannah Aylward, the couple are challenging perceptions of disability and love

Providing free, adaptive and medical equipment to people living with muscular atrophy, Laughing at my Nightmare supplies items from computers to breathing machines. Shane adds: “Our goal is to help people live healthy, comfortable, productive lives.”

And, in his personal life, Shane has connected with many people – none more so than fiancé Hannah Aylward.

Across state lines, as Shane continued writing, directing and developing his charity, he received a message from Hannah – it wasn’t long until romance blossomed.

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS

However, amidst their flourishing relationship, Shane and Hannah have faced adversity due to the fact that Hannah does not have a disability.

“It’s extremely frustrating when people assume we are not a couple,” explains Shane. “There’s a long-standing idea in our society that people with a disability are ‘less than’ everyone else, which is why people are so baffled by the fact that a beautiful, intelligent, funny woman like Hannah would ever want to date me.”

In a bid to tackle this attitude partnered with a love for making people laugh, Shane and Hannah started a

WRITING

Alongside his blog, YouTube channel and charity, Shane is a successful writer. Having released novels including Laughing at my Nightmare and Strangers Assume My Girlfriend is My Nurse, Shane and Hannah are currently in the process of co-authoring a book profiling 30 interabled couples.

We all want and deserve love, and this is one couple ensuring that everyone is accepting of all kinds of love. Shane concludes: “We wish people understood that an interabled relationship is no different than any other.”

“

We want to show people that dating someone with a disability is not weird, taboo, or difficult

Don’t miss our full interview with Shane online, www.enablemagazine.co.uk

PICS: @SHANEBURCAW

CONNECTED

YouTube channel. Just like his blog, their channel – Squirmy and Grubbs – reached unexpected heights, Shane enthuses: “It wasn’t until a few months in that we started thinking more seriously about our message, and the social advocacy work that we were accomplishing.

“Our goal is to share our relationship in an entertaining and authentic way to help normalize the idea of interabled relationships. We want to show people that dating someone with a disability is not weird, taboo, or difficult – like many people inaccurately believe.”

“

L

iving with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Shane Burcaw decided to start a blog – Laughing at my Nightmare – to discuss his experiences.

From a blog releasing his emotions to gaining half a million followers (and counting), it wasn’t long before Shane turned his idea into a charitable organisation.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Follow Shane and Hannah’s adventures on their YouTube channel (@squirmyandgrubs) and get support for SMA from Laughing at my Nightmare (www.laughingatmynightmare.com).

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