Golden Guide Northumberland, 2014 edition by Alabaster Publishing

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2014 EDITION

2014

NEW

t Working after Retirement t Internet for Beginners t Befriending Schemes

A wealth of practical information... local contacts...and how to get help from the experts!

R ORDfEree

YOUR OW YN COP

Northumberland in association with Northumberland County Council, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Age UK Northumberland

Do you use social care or health services in Northumberland? Would you like a say on how these are run? We are looking for people who have experience of using these services or support someone who does, and have ideas about how the services can be improved in the future. You don’t need to be an expert - you just need to have an opinion.

These include t " MPOH UFSN DPOEJUJPOT GPSVN t -FBSOJOH EJTBCJMJUZ GPSVNT t %FNFOUJB GPSVNT t 0MEFS QFPQMF GPSVNT We’ll pay travel expenses, or arrange transport to help you to attend.

We have a number of forums who generally meet every two months for around two hours in various locations across the County.

For more information please contact: "OO #SPXO *OWPMWFNFOU 4FSWJDF %FWFMPQNFOU 5FBN PO Tel: 01670 629029 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk Email: ann.brown@northumbria-healthcare.nhs.uk

2014

The

GOLDENguide ...it’s worth its weight

Hello and welcome to the bumper 2014 edition of the Golden Guide. Our stylish makeover was recommended by readers, so we hope you like our fresh new look.

Daljit Lally Executive Director Wellbeing and Community Health Services Northumberland County Council Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Katherine Shearer Chief Executive Age UK Northumberland

As usual the wealth of activities, groups and clubs in the county continues to grow—so the guide is a handy way to find out what’s around. Look out for new sections on Writing groups, Garden clubs, Computer classes and more—we try to find plenty of choice wherever you live. Older people have also told us they would like more information about the life of their community so they can participate as fully as possible. So as well as leisure activities we have reflected this growing interest— including community projects like Elderberries and Ageing Well. And because there are big changes coming along in health and social care services we’ve highlighted local groups such as Healthwatch (see back cover) and Northumbria Healthcare’s own series of health and social care forums, (see inside front cover). These forums are important so you can help shape the changes—your comments really are taken on board—they’d be delighted to welcome you! Support and advice services are growing too—have a look at the new section on Befriending schemes for vulnerable older people, and for help with your finances there’s Age UK Northumberland’s advice and advocacy service as part of the Money Go Round project (page 58). And finally thanks to all those who sponsor pages in the guide. Do take a look at their services and please help by mentioning the guide when you contact them. Many of them will be giving out Golden Guides too— even more reason to get in touch! Heather Alabaster Editor

Partners & Sponsors Major Partners

See also www.walkingforhealth.org.uk

Other outdoor activities include "SDIFSZ $ZDMJOH 'JTIJOH 3JEJOH Sailing, as well as sports such as Bowling, Cricket, Golf and Tennis can be found on the website at www.northumberlandlife.org or in the Yellow Pages directory See also page 31 for outdoor volunteering opportunities.

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Out & About

LIFELONG LEARNING Pursue an interest, or study for a specific qualification, there is a wide range of classes available locally for informal or more targeted learning. See overleaf for computer classes. Northumberland Adult Learning Service 01670 624878 www.northumberland.gov.uk/ adultlearning Courses run across the county, either for fun, or to gain qualifications. Some are free, others have concessions. 4PNF FYUSB TVQQPSU GPS QFPQMF with disabilities. Courses include: Science, Maths, Construction, Car maintenance, Cookery, Health and Wellbeing, Languages, Alternative therapies, Gardening, Lip reading and many more. Enrol throughout the year. Northumberland College 01670 841200 www.northumberland.ac.uk Wide range of courses from horticulture to horse management at their campuses in Ashington, )FYIBN #FSXJDL BOE BU ,JSLMFZ )BMM 4IPSU CJUF TJ[F DPVSTFT JODMVEF buying and selling online, digital photography etc.

University of the Third Age, (U3A) www.u3a.org.uk Although called a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Universityâ&#x20AC;? no qualifications are required or awarded. Branches run interest HSPVQT VTJOH UIF FYQFSUJTF PG members. Popular groups include art, music, genealogy, philosophy, science, architecture, foreign travel and more. Groups in Northumberland are: Alnwick 01665 575552 www.u3asites.org.uk/alnwick Ashington 01670 221924 www.u3asites.org.uk/ashington Berwick 01890 781400 www.berwicku3a.org.uk Tynedale (Hexham) 01434 602360 www.tynedaleu3a.org.uk Mid-Northumberland (Longhirst) 01670 825283 www.mid-northumberland-u3a.org.uk Morpeth 01670 505899 www.u3asites.org.uk/morpeth Ponteland 01670 775433 www.u3asites.org.uk/ponteland Prudhoe 01661 832020 www.sites.google.com/site u3a4prudhoe Wooler 01668 281408 www.wooler-online.info/community

2014 edition

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WEA Northeast

Open College of the Arts

0191 212 6100

0800 731 2116

www.wea.org.uk Adult learning classes in centres across Northumberland. Subjects JODMVEF 'BNJMZ 5SFFT "SUT .BSJUJNF History, Astronomy, Gardening, Dressmaking etc.

www.oca-uk.com Home study arts courses e.g. photography, musical composition, creative writing, art etc. No entry requirements, support for disabled students, some bursaries. Student finance available.

DISTANCE LEARNING & OPEN LEARNING Learning by post, television, internet or email allows you to decide the content of a course and how long you want it to take. The National Careers Service 0800 100 900 nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk Telephone, internet and face to face advice on careers, retraining and funding, vocational and recreational courses. Covers distance learning courses as well as those at local centres. Helpline 8.00am—10.00pm seven days a week. The National Extension College (NEC)

As organisations increasingly use online communications, it is important to become familiar with computer use—or at least to find some local sources of help. Library branches have free internet access and will help if you are stuck, and there are classes to get you started on email and skype as well as online banking, shopping and official transactions. Age UK Northumberland, The

0800 389 2839 www.nec.ac.uk Courses from GCSEs and A’ levels to Management, Book-keeping, Childcare training and Counselling.

COMPUTER COURSES & INTERNET FOR BEGINNERS

Roundhouse, Lintonville Parkway, Ashington, NE63 9JZ 0845 140 0088 www.ageuk.org.uk/northumberland/ Computer drop-in sessions Mon 12.30pm—2.30pm.

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Get the best out of life! The Royal Voluntary Service is busy in Northumberland supporting older people to get the best from life. All our services are run by friendly volunteers, take a look at what we do...

Social Centres... to keep you on your toes, meet people and find some help filling in those forms. Open one day a week with activities, lunch clubs, help with benefits and more. Find them in: Alnwick Ashington Bedlington Berwick

Morpeth Rothbury Stocksfield Wooler

Good Neighbours Befriending Scheme... For some company, a bit of help with shopping, someone to go for a walk with, or to sit and have a cup of tea, our brand new service is just the thing! We can arrange regular visits or telephone calls from our team throughout Northumberland. It’s like a friend dropping in. Come and join us... we’re known for our helpful and friendly volunteers, and the word’s getting out because our services are growing. Can you spare some time to make a difference to the lives of older people?

For all our services ring 0845 266 8906 or 01668 260248 we’ll be delighted to hear from you. www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

2014 edition

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Blyth Resource & Initiative Centre (BRIC), The Eric Tolhurst Centre, 3-13

See also page 27 Northumberland College.

Quay Road, Blyth, NE24 2AS 01670 353817 #FHJOOFS *5 DPVSTFT IFSF BOE JO WFOVFT UISPVHIPVU 4FBUPO 7BMMFZ Also employability service, and older peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activity groups. See page 12 for more activities at BRIC. Northumberland Community Development Network, (NCDN) 01668 219879 or 07775 817544 www.ncdn.org 'SFF JOEJWJEVBM BOE TNBMM DPNQVUFS group support sessions for beginners PS UIF NPSF FYQFSJFODFE Wansbeck CVS, 107-109 Station Road, Ashington, NE63 8RS

NORTHUMBERLAND LIBRARIES 0845 600 6400 general, 01670 620391, Morpeth Library www.mylibrary.co.uk Northumberland has 34 Branch libraries, 3 Mobile libraries and a Home Library Service for housebound customers. The library is a hub for entertainment, events, information and provides fiction, nonfiction, large print & audio books; CDs, %7%T POMJOF SFTPVSDFT DPNQVUFST internet access. Music sets, play sets BOE .FNPSZ #PYFT BSF MPBOFE GSFF PG charge from Morpeth. Activities may include author visits, courses, local history, crafts. Membership is free, with TNBMM DIBSHFT GPS MPBOT PG %7%T BOE CDs.

01670 858688 www.wansbeckcvs.org.uk New technology courses including computing, mobile phones and *QBET GPS PMEFS QFPQMF 3JOH GPS details.

The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Reading Well Books on

UK Online Centres

Titles can be prescribed by health professionals and are available from larger libraries.

0800 771 234 www.learnmyway.com Centres operate in community venues to help people learn computer skills. Ring for your nearest. Website offers simple courses for new internet users.

Prescriptionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; scheme provides selfhelp books for people with mild to moderate mental health problems to help manage their condition.

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Out & About

Note on Internet Help We always include websites in the Golden Guide listings. If you have no internet access, go along to your local library where staff will help you find the information online.’

VOLUNTEERING

Age UK Northumberland, 0845 140 0088 www.ageuk.org.uk/northumberland/ 7PMVOUFFST BSF BMXBZT XFMDPNF UP support the wellbeing of older people in the community. Wide range of projects and services, get in touch for details. Prudhoe and District Volunteer

Volunteering is an increasingly important way to find employment or to begin retraining for a change of career. It is a rewarding way to support a worthwhile cause, meet people, and have structure to your day. Support and training is offered by all organisations. Opportunities in Northumberland have included work with children, young people, disabled people, animals, heritage, befriending, gardening, admin work and trusteeships. Contact your local centre for details or visit the websites below for volunteering opportunities nationally and in Northumberland. www.do-it.org.uk—for lists of

Centre, Spetchells Centre, Front Street, Prudhoe NE42 5AA 01661 836668 Contact the centre for volunteering opportunities in and around the area. REACH 020 7582 6543 www.reachskills.org.uk Reach finds opportunities for skilled volunteers to use their professional, NBOBHFSJBM BOE CVTJOFTT FYQFSJFODF within the voluntary sector. RSVP (Retired & Senior Volunteer Programme) 0191 389 1155 regional office www.csv-rsvp.org.uk Recruits volunteers over 50 for various projects, e.g. telephone befriending, knitting (trauma teddies, blankets) etc.

opportunities www.volunteering.org.uk—for general information

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Volunteering Northumberland, Wansbeck CVS, 107-109 Station Road, Ashington, NE63 8RS 01670 858688

Consult the Pension Service to find out how earnings after pension age may affect benefits such as Pension Credit.

www.volunteeringnorthumberland. org.uk Ring for contact details to find out about volunteering opportunities.

WORKING AFTER RETIREMENT www.gov.uk/plan-retirementincome/working-past-statepension-age If you wish you can choose to carry on working while still taking your State Pension, or defer claiming it to be paid a larger amount later on. *ODPNF GSPN XPSLJOH JO SFUJSFNFOU JT UBYBCMF BU UIF VTVBM SBUFT BMPOH with income from your State Pension, personal or occupational pension BOE GSPN DFSUBJO UBYBCMF CFOFĂĽUT :PV may actually earn more, since once you reach pension age you pay no /BUJPOBM *OTVSBODF BOE UIFSF NBZ CF some age-related allowances. You are still entitled to the national minimum wage for any paid work you do.

*G ZPV EFGFS DMBJNJOH ZPVS QFOTJPO you may be able to have the EFGFSSFE BNPVOU BT B UBYBCMF MVNQ TVN *G ZPV SF BMSFBEZ HFUUJOH UIF State Pension you can cancel this if you get the chance to do some work that would pay enough for your needs. Your State Pension will stop until you choose to claim it again. However you can only do this once. See also pages 82-89 on Pensions and Benefits. Universal Jobmatch www.gov.uk/jobsearch Online search service allows you to search for vacancies nationally. Register with them to upload your cv, keep track of applications and request email alerts. Employers add their own vacancies so that the site is constantly updated.

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Out & About

Jobcentre Plus

Pay & Work Rights helpline,

0845 604 3719

0800 917 2368

www.gov.uk They advise on finding work, training, CFOFĂĽUT BOE BOZ FYUSB IFMQ BWBJMBCMF Local branches are in Alnwick, Ashington, Bedlington, Berwick, Blyth, $SBNMJOHUPO )FYIBN BOE .PSQFUI and the contact telephone number is the same for them all:

0800 121 4042 text phone www.gov.uk/pay-and-work-rightshelpline Advice on employment rights covers national minimum wage, working time laws, agency workers and agricultural workers.

STARTING A BUSINESS Jobseeker Direct

Business Link Helpline

0845 60 60 234

0845 600 9006

0845 60 55 255 textphone

www.gov.uk Signposting information on business planning, finances, marketing etc.

www.gov.uk Telephone service helps find vacancies if you have no internet access, or are not familiar with online use.

Princeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Initiative for Mature Enterprise 0845 862 2023 or

ACAS

020 3137 8525

0845 747 47 47,

www.prime.org.uk Dedicated to helping people over 50 set up in business. Support, training and networking events.

18001 08457 474747 text Relay www.acas.org.uk *NQBSUJBM BEWJDF PO BMM BSFBT PG employment relations, including age discrimination. See page 28 National Careers Service for retraining, funding etc.

TAEN (The Age & Employment Network), 020 7837 4762 www.taen.org.uk Campaigns for better opportunities for over 50s. Not an employment agency but they can signpost individuals to organisations that will help directly. Also see pages 92 for advice on legal issues.

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TrilogE, Thomas Muckle Buildings, Bridge Street, Rothbury, NE65 7SG, 01669 620506 www.triloge.org.uk 'SJFOEMZ UFBN PGGFS CVTJOFTT TVQQPSU across Northumberland for people in rural areas who run a business or want to start one. One to one and group sessions, mentoring, training and practical help. Also help with job TFFLJOH JODMVEJOH $7 BOE JOUFSWJFX skills and job tasters.

TRANSPORT Concessionary Fares: Bus Passes 0845 600 6400 www.northumberland.gov.uk 'SFF CVT QBTTFT GPS QFPQMF PG pension age or who are registered disabled cover travel on local buses BOZXIFSF JO &OHMBOE *O TPNF BSFBT you may only travel after 9.30am but in Northumberland older people can use them from 9.00am Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 'SJ BOE BMM EBZ BU XFFLFOET BOE bank holidays. You can also travel before 9.00am if you have a hospital appointment (take the letter with you for proof). Disabled pass holders go free at BOZ UJNF BOZ EBZ *G ZPV OFFE B carer to travel with you, apply for a Companion Card to cover their bus fare too. You will need acceptable proof to confirm your condition.

To Apply by Post Ring for an application form and send to Concessionary Travel, Passenger Transport Unit, Northumberland County Council, $PVOUZ )BMM .PSQFUI /& &' " replacement pass costs ÂŁ15 if you lose it, but is free if your pass is stolen BOE ZPV IBWF B DSJNF OVNCFS *U JT also free if the pass will not work on the Smartcard reader on the bus To Apply in Person 7JTJU POF PG UIF $PVODJM *OGPSNBUJPO Centres, taking proof of age (birth certificate, passport) and residency, your disability (if applicable) and a passport photograph. Your pass should arrive within two weeks. $PVODJM *OGPSNBUJPO $FOUSFT MPDBUFE in: t (SFFOXFMM -BOF "MOXJDL

t 8BOTCFDL 4RVBSF "TIJOHUPO t 'SPOU 4U 8FTU #FEMJOHUPO t 8BMMBDF (SFFO #FSXJDL t ,FFM 3PX $FOUSF #MZUI 7BMMFZ t 'PSVN 8BZ $SBNMJOHUPO t )BESJBO )PVTF )FYIBN

t -JCSBSZ (BT )PVTF -BOF

Morpeth t -JCSBSZ "TUMFZ )JHI 4DIPPM 4FBUPO Delaval

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Out & About

Ian Lavery MP for Wansbeck says: As we get older and our priorities change it’s useful to have a guide like this to help us ﬁnd out about things, or solve day to day problems. So I am delighted to recommend this excellent little book - full of ideas and advice for improving our quality of life wherever in Northumberland we live. If you are from Wansbeck and have something you would like to discuss, or a particular problem I can help with, contact me as follows: Ian Lavery MP, Constituency Ofﬁce Tel: 01670 852494 Fax: 01670 818262 Email: ian.lavery.mp@parliament.uk Ian Lavery MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA Or make an appointment to attend my regular constituency Surgery

Guy Opperman MP Member of Parliament for the Hexham Constituency I enjoy my time working as one of your local MPs here in Northumberland. In particular I enjoy being able to help local residents who may need a helping hand to solve a problem, or some advice on issues such as beneﬁts, bus passes or elderly care. If you have any concerns and want to get in touch please do not hesitate to do so. You can contact me by letter, email or phone, or else arrange an appointment at one of my regular surgeries. Or feel free just to have a word if you see me in the street.

Guy Opperman MP 1 Meal Market, Hexham, Northumberland, NE46 1NF 01434 601420 or 020 7219 7227

House of Commons, London, SW1 0AA guy.opperman.mp@parliament.uk

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Concessionary Fares: Taxi Tokens

Blue Badge Initial Enquiry

0845 600 6400 Scheme for anyone receiving certain benefits, without access to a car BOE XIP DBOOPU VTF FYJTUJOH QVCMJD transport because of disability. You can buy ÂŁ50 worth of tokens per year for ÂŁ10. Ring for details or visit B $PVODJM *OGPSNBUJPO $FOUSF GPS BO BQQMJDBUJPO GPSN BOE B MJTU PG UBYJ firms who will accept tokens.

Support Service 0844 463 0213 www.gov.uk *OGPSNBUJPO PO FMJHJCJMJUZ IPX BOE where to use the Blue Badge etc. They do not take applications over the phone.

MOBILITY SCHEMES Motability 0845 456 4566

BLUE BADGE PARKING SCHEME

0845 675 0009 textphone

www.gov.uk National scheme allows parking concessions for people with severe mobility problemsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;whether drivers or passengers.

www.motability.co.uk Charity leases cars, scooters and powered wheelchairs through a network of dealers. You may be eligible if you receive the higher rate of the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance, Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of 1FSTPOBM *OEFQFOEFODF 1BZNFOU 1*1 UIF 8BS 1FOTJPOFST .PCJMJUZ Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed 'PSDFT *OEFQFOEFODF 1BZNFOU "'*1 3JOH GPS NPSF EFUBJMT BOE BO information pack.

Apply online at www.gov.uk or through Northumberland County Council 0845 600 6400 Badges cost ÂŁ10 and are issued for up to three years, to people with proof of permanent disability. Renewal takes around 3 weeks, so get in touch well before your current badge FYQJSFT 3JOH GPS BO BQQMJDBUJPO pack, download from the website or WJTJU POF PG UIF $PVODJM *OGPSNBUJPO Centres.

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Out & About

Bell View Help at Home believe that care should be KVTU â&#x20AC;&#x153;what you want when you want itâ&#x20AC;?.

Bell View Day Care Centre caters for the older people in our community.

5IFSF NBZ DPNF B UJNF XIFO living at home becomes EJĂłDVMU 0VS DBSF TFSWJDF DBO IFMQ DMPTF UIJT HBQ and maintain your dignity and self respect.

We aim to reduce isolation for those living in rural locations. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what we can offer you: t $POUBDU XJUI PVS GSJFOEMZ QSPGFTTJPOBM TUBĂ˛ t $BSFGVMMZ BTTFTTFE BDUJWJUJFT FJUIFS PO ZPVS PXO PS JO B HSPVQ t #BUIJOH BOE TIPXFSJOH GBDJMJUJFT t 0VUJOHT BOE UIF DIBODF UP KPJO JO PUIFS community activities.

01668 219221

5SVTU JO PVS DPOTJTUFOU IJHI RVBMJUZ IPNF DBSF services for older people.

t Bespoke elderly care services t Robust recruitment practices t Continuity of care

01668 219538

Email: DBSFCFMMWJFX!IPUNBJM DP VL

Email: CFMMWJFXIFMQBUIPNF!IPUNBJM DP VL

Ronnie Campbell MP Blyth Valley Constituency 2IÂżFH KRXUV 0RQ 7KXUV DP SP )UL DP SP Ronnie now has monthly surgeries in the Blyth Valley area on a Saturday. Check local press for GHWDLOV RU FRQWDFW WKH RIÂżFH ZKHUH VWDII ZLOO EH DEOH WR DVVLVW Ronnie Campbell MP Blyth Valley Constituency 42 Renwick Road Blyth Tel: 01670 363050 NE24 2LQ Fax: 01670 355192 Email: FDPSEHOOU#SDUOLDPHQW XN

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

National Forum of Mobility Centres

USEFUL TRANSPORT CONTACTS

0800 559 3636

National Rail Enquiries

www.mobility-centres.org.uk Helpline and information sheets on all BTQFDUT PG PVUEPPS NPCJMJUZ *ODMVEFT vehicle access and adaptations, scooters, wheelchairs, driving with B EJTBCJMJUZ FUD /PSUI &BTU 'PSVN member as below

08457 48 49 50, 0845 60 50 600 textphone www.nationalrail.co.uk Transport Direct, www.transportdirect.info Traveline, 0871 200 2233

North East Drive Mobility, Walkergate

www.travelinenortheast.info

Park, Centre for Neuro-Rehabilitation & Neuro-Psychiatry, Benfield Road, Newcastle, NE6 4QD

COMMUNITY TRANSPORT SCHEMES

0191 287 5090

Adapt (North East)

www.ntw.nhs.uk/mobility Personal advice and driving and passenger assessment service helps you retain or regain your independence if you have a condition affecting your ability to use a vehicle. Refer yourself or be referred. "DDSFEJUFE CZ UIF 'PSVN PG .PCJMJUZ Centres.

01434 600599

See also page 76 and page 93 wheelchairs.

Blyth Valley Disabled Forum

www.adapt-ne.org.uk Range of transport schemes for members, who are isolated by disability or through living in a rural BSFB *OEJWJEVBM NFNCFSTIJQ DVSSFOUMZ ÂŁ2 per year. Services include Minibus hire, Dial a Ride and Wheelchair Loan.

01670 360927 www.blythdisabledforum.co.uk Two fully accessible minibuses for people who are disabled or who have limited or restricted mobility for social outings, church services, recreation, etc.

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Out & About

The BRINGO, Bell View Resource

Northumberland Car Share,

Centre, 33 West Street, Belford,

Northumberland County Council

NE70 7QB

01670 620161

01668 219220 Wheelchair accessible car scheme for essential and social journeys, driven by volunteer drivers.

www.gosmarternorthumberland.

See also page 7. Getabout Northumberland, 0845 266 8906 www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk 3PZBM 7PMVOUBSZ 4FSWJDF WPMVOUFFS DBS transport scheme for regular or oneoff trips, shopping, social, hospital etc. Known for its friendly volunteers who offer useful advice too. See also page 10 for RVS main entry and ad on page 29. NEED Ltd (NE Equality & Diversity) 01665 605780 www.needltd.co.uk Accessible transport across the North East and Border region for groups and for older or disabled people who are isolated, or without access to conventional transport. Dial-a-Ride service into market towns from rural areas and Travel Planning for help with difficult journeys.

co.uk Car sharing scheme for one-off or regular trips, saves money, carbon footprint, and time. Register online or ring the team for details. Also see page 7 for Age UK Rural Access Project. Reaction Independent Living, Shopping Project, Wansbeck CVS 01670 858688, Karen Cox www.wansbeckcvs.org.uk Scheme for people who are isolated or disabled to travel to the shops, bank etc. Collects from home, with volunteers to help. Runs from different parts of Blyth, Wansbeck area and 4FBUPO 7BMMFZ VTVBMMZ 5VFT 8FE BOE Thurs although it may be either fortnightly or monthly. Ring to apply or ask your care manager. Red Cross Transport Support 0191 273 7961 www.redcross.org.uk North of Tyne scheme covers Northumberland too. Wheelchair adapted car can be arranged for any journey purpose. Ring to book or make a request via the website. See page 76 for more Red Cross support.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Upper Coquetdale Community Transport, 07870 577 667 or 01669 621855 www.ucct.btck.co.uk Wheelchair accessible 17 seat bus covers whole area for individual PS HSPVQ CPPLJOHT 3FHVMBS 'SJEBZ shopping trips to Rothbury.

Watbus Community Transport 01670 522999 www.watbus.org.uk Community transport scheme across Northumberland for users who are older or who have difficulty using NBJOTUSFBN USBOTQPSU 'PS JOEJWJEVBMT or groups. Also cycle trip scheme.

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We all cherish our independence, but if you are living alone, the risk of accidents, falls and illness is always a worry.

Join Valley Care and your call will always be answered t 24 hours, seven days a week across the county t Simple to use t Simple to install - works alongside your own telephone t Specialist contact centre t Qualiﬁed staff who respond promptly to emergencies and enquiries

Telecare gives carers and their families peace of mind. Additional sensors link to the basic alarm and then automatically contact Valley Care. Margaret uses Telecare services. She is 89 and lives alone, but has early stage dementia. Margaret was given a pendant alarm, detectors for falls and smoke, an extreme temperature sensor and medication prompt dispenser.

Margaret’s daughter said: “The telecare system means mum can live in her own home, it’s given her conﬁdence and makes her feel good about herself and about everything.” Valley Care is Northumberland County Council’s community alarm service delivering county wide community alarm and Telecare services to all its residents. For more information contact

Call Valley Care on

01670 827100

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

02 )0.& $0..6/*5: Running a home as efficiently as possible and helping achieve a safe community sometimes needs a little support. Here are some schemes, services and contacts to help things along.

REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

Handyperson Service 01670 851952

Blyth Star Enterprises 01670 855130 or 01670 355421 www.blythstar.com Charity runs gardening service JO #MZUI 7BMMFZ $BTUMF .PSQFUI and Wansbeck areas, including maintenance, tidying, supplying bedding and hanging baskets.

Four Housing Care & Repair

www.fourhousing.co.uk %*: BOE TNBMM SFQBJST BSF DBSSJFE PVU for disabled and older people. Home safety assessments are free and work which helps prevent falls JT GSFF F H DIBOHF MJHIU CVMCT ĂĽ Y curtain rails, fasten loose carpets etc. Other essential work costs ÂŁ10 per visit e.g. install shelves, fit locks, change tap washers. They cannot do electrical or plumbing work; roofing repairs; decorating; gas appliance maintenance. Non essential work is charged at ÂŁ24 per hour.

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Home & Community

Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation (CISWO) 'LG \RX RU \RXU SDUWQHU ZRUN LQ WKH &RDO ,QGXVWU\" $PRQJ WKH VHUYLFHV RIIHUHG E\ &,6:2 DUH: Â&#x2018; Â&#x2018; Â&#x2018; Â&#x2018; Â&#x2018; Â&#x2018;

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)RU IXUWKHU LQIRUPDWLRQ DERXW XV RU WR DFFHVV RXU VHUYLFHV SOHDVH FRQWDFW XV %\ SRVW %HZLFN 5RDG *DWHVKHDG 7\QH :HDU 1( '3 %\ WHOHSKRQH 0191 477 7242 :HEVLWH www.ciswo.org.uk &KDULW\ 5HJLVWUDWLRQ 1R

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Four Housing Care & Repair

Northumberland Community

Homeowners Financial Assistance

Enterprise Ltd

01670 851844 Loans can be paid to people on low incomes who own their own property and who cannot access a high street loan and where a property is in need of essential repairs or improvement, such as tackling damp, roof repairs etc. Care & Repair will carry out a Decent Homes survey to identify work needed and project manage any works which need to be carried out.

01670 519575

Morpeth Community Works,

The Council or Housing Providers maintain their own properties. Some help with garden maintenance for older people who cannot do the work and have no-one to do it for them. The schemes vary, there may be a charge and possibly a waiting list for gardening. Ring your housing provider for details .

Handyman service 01670 519575 morpethcommunityworks.co.uk 'SFF TFSWJDF GPS PWFS T EJTBCMFE PS low income residents in South East Northumberland. They fit curtains, shelving, flat pack furniture, and other small jobs. Seasonal gardening service likely to commence in 2014â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ring to be added to the list.

www.ncenterpriseltd.co.uk 'SFF 1BJOUJOH BOE %FDPSBUJOH TFSWJDF for people who cannot do this themselves. Also Community Repaint Scheme, where donated unused paint is redistributed to others who can use it. Ring to see if you are eligible to join these schemes.

COUNCIL OR SOCIAL HOUSING TENANTS: REPAIRS & GARDENS

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Home & Community

HOME ADAPTATIONS If you need adaptations to your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; such as installing a stairlift, bathing adaptations, wheelchair ramp etc, you can arrange this privately by hiring or buying equipment or you may be eligible for partial or full financial help through the Disabled Facilities Grant. If you are a tenant your landlord may arrange adaptations. In either case you should contact Adult Social Care to arrange an assessment of your needs by an occupational therapist. This can be helpful even if you intend to pay yourself.

LOW COST FURNISHINGS Core Furniture, The Tynedale Centre, Haugh Lane Industrial Estate, Haugh Lane, Hexham, NE46 3PU, 01434 607509 Donated furniture is restored and sold on at low cost. Also white goods and some electrical equipment. Open to all Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Thurs 9.30amâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; QN 'SJEBZ DMPTF BU QN 'SFF collection of donated furniture, small charge for deliveries. Reâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Nuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; It, St. Thomas Close Workshops, Alnwick, NE66 1DJ 07792 175827 'VSOJUVSF FMFDUSJDBMT CFEEJOH DSPDLFSZ FUD 'SFF PS WFSZ MPX DPTU delivery and collection of donations. 0QFO 5VFT BOE 'SJ BNÂ&#x2030; QN

DISABLED FACILITIES GRANT This means-tested Council grant is available to disabled, older or vulnerable owner-occupiers or private tenants. Once the occupational therapistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recommendations have been approved then Care & Repair Northumberland facilitate the rest of the process on behalf of the Council. See also pages 81-83 on Retirement and Sheltered Housing.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

WARMTH & ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Northumberland Warm Zone, 01670 356642 01670 356624 Lisa Oxley (Benefits Advice Officer)

DAWN CAB, British Gas Energy Trust, 28 Bridge Street, Morpeth, NE61 1NL 0300 303 1931 fueldebtadvice@dawnadvice.org.uk Energy Advice Team can help with energy bills by applying to the Energy Trust for financial assistance. Also budgeting advice for ongoing consumption, help to understand your bill and negotiating with energy suppliers. See also page 91 Debt and ad opposite. Energy Saving Trust

www.warmzones.co.uk Practical advice on improving the warmth of your home and increasing energy efficiency. Grants for free insulation and boiler replacement if you are eligible. Oil CAN, 01670 500812 www.ca-north.org.uk/oil Countywide bulk-buying scheme for heating oil, operated by Community Action Northumberland. The scheme makes the most of joint buying power to achieve greater savings to pass on to customers.

0300 123 1234 www.energysavingtrust.org.uk *NQBSUJBM BEWJDF BOE UFDIOJDBM information to help save energy and reduce fuel bills. Home Heat Helpline 0800 33 66 99 www.homeheathelpline.org.uk Advice on making your home more energy efficient, also information on grants and schemes to save fuel costs if you qualify, e.g. Warm Home Discount will take ÂŁ135 off your electricity bill in 2014.

Winter Fuel Payment Helpline 0845 915 1515 0845 601 5613 textphone www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-paymenthelpline 'PS BOZPOF PG RVBMJGZJOH BHFÂ&#x2030;CPSO PO PS CFGPSF +BO GPS XJOUFS *G ZPV SFDFJWF DFSUBJO CFOFĂĽUT you are paid automatically, otherwise you must claim. Ring for advice on eligibility and how to make a claim.

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Home & Community

Dawn CAB Energy Advice Project Funded by the British Gas Energy Trust. We can help anybody regardless of who supplies your gas or electricity. How the Project can help: * Apply for financial assistance from the Energy Trust.

Deal with fuel debt, including negotiating with energy suppliers/ resolving energy debt problems.

To find out more please call us on

0300 303 1931

email fueldebtadvice@dawnadvice.org.uk

BASIC PA start froCKAGE m

£3.17 per week

(£2.64 ex

inc VAT VAT)

SixtyEightyThirty Supports women in Northumberland who have experienced domestic abuse at any time in their lives, regardless of sexual orientation, religion, culture or gender assigned at birth.

Domestic Abuse may be Physical . Sexual . Economic . Emotional . Harassment It’s about one person controlling another We offer practical and emotional support, helping women to understand their experiences and make decisions about their future.

(01434) 608030 www.sixtyeightythirty.com Company Limited by Guarantee Number: 6431269 Registered Charity Number: 1122969

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

HOME SECURITY Emergency calls 999 'PS BOZ TJUVBUJPO XIJDI IBT CFDPNF dangerous or where a crime has just been, or is about to be, committed. Northumbria Police 101 www.northumbria.police.uk Use this number for all non-emergency concerns, enquiries and information. Northumberland Fire & Rescue Service www.northumberland.gov.uk Ring 999 for ALL emergencies. Fire Safety Advice 0800 731 1351 Advice on fire safety in the home from UIF $PNNVOJUZ 'JSF 4BGFUZ UFBN PS from any fire station. They recommend a smoke alarm on each level of your house, which should be tested regularly. Advice also on specialist alarms for hearing-impaired residents. 'SFF IPNF TBGFUZ DIFDLT BOE TNPLF alarms. Ring for details.

Gas Emergency Contact Number 0800 111 999 www.nationalgrid.com/uk Emergency 24 hour number if you smell gas, or suspect DBSCPO NPOPYJEF GVNFT PS IBWF VOFYQMBJOFE MPTT PG TVQQMZ PS HBT pressure. Local engineers will attend free of charge to make the property safe, but do not carry out repairs.

BOGUS CALLERS Crime Prevention Advisers, Northumbria Police 101 Advice on making your home secure through locks, lights, alarms and sensible precautions. They warn that ZPV TIPVME OPU BMMPX BOZ VOFYQFDUFE caller into your home, ask them to call another time and have someone with you as even identification can be faked.

COLD CALLERS You should never respond to VOFYQFDUFE DBMMFST PGGFSJOH CVJMEJOH XPSL SFQBJST PS B TFSWJDF FUD *G ZPV need maintenance work doing, always check with two or three reputable firms to arrive at a fair price for the job. See also pages 76-77 for personal alarm systems.

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Home & Community

ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR & DISABILITY HATE CRIME

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & ABUSE

Northumbria Police

Violence helpline

101

0808 2000 247

www.northumbria.police.uk Residents are encouraged to report any kind of anti social behaviour. But you should still ring 999 when there is immediate danger or you witness a crime taking place. Disability Hate Crime 101 This is any crime motivated by the WJDUJN T EJTBCJMJUZ *O /PSUIVNCFSMBOE there are now Safe Reporting Centres in 20 community venues, listed on the police website or else ring for more information. Community Safety Team, Northumberland County Council 0845 600 6400 www.northumberland.gov.uk Ring with concerns about a safety issue, or anti-social behaviour in your area; noisy neighbours, vandalism and fly-tipping. Housing Association tenants can contact the Tenancy Enforcement team.

National 24 hour Domestic

Action on Elder Abuse Helpline 0808 808 8141 www.elderabuse.org.uk *OGPSNBUJPO BOE TVQQPSU GPS WJDUJNT or others with concerns. Deals with QIZTJDBM QTZDIPMPHJDBM TFYVBM BOE financial abuse and neglect.

Grace (Northumberland Rape Crisis) 0800 035 2794 evenings helpline 0191 222 0272 counselling referrals www.gracenrc.org.uk Supports women (16+) XIP IBWF FYQFSJFODFE SBQF TFYVBM WJPMFODF BOE DIJMEIPPE TFYVBM BCVTF This includes free individual counselling sessions in outreach venues across Northumberland and a telephone support helpline (Tues, Wed and Thurs 6.00pm â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8.30pm).

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Adult Safeguarding,

Victim Support

Adult Social Care

0845 30 30 900 national helpline

01670 536400 Office Hours

0845 277 0977 or 0191 281 0491

0845 600 5252 Out of Hours

local victim care centre

Emergencies *G ZPV UIJOL TPNFPOF XIP JT vulnerable is at risk of abuse or neglect please call the numbers BCPWF *G ZPV UIJOL UIFSF JT JNNFEJBUF danger contact the police.

www.victimsupport.org.uk Supports victims of crime, including domestic abuse and anti social behaviour, whether or not reported to the police.

Cease24 01665 606881, Alnwick or 01670 861963, Blyth www.enough.me.uk Emotional and practical support for domestic abuse victims, not counselling. Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Advice Line 0808 801 0327 www.mensadviceline.org.uk Advice, information and emotional support for male victims of domestic abuse.

WHAC (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Advice Centre), 1 Council Road, Ashington, NE63 8RZ, 01670 853977 www.whac-online.co.uk Counselling and support for women includes physical and mental health and wellbeing, domestic and TFYVBM BCVTF CFSFBWFNFOU divorce, debt, and more. Now also working with men depending on capacity being available.

SixtyEightyThirty 01434 60 80 30 www.sixtyeightythirty.com Practical and emotional support for women in Northumberland who FYQFSJFODFE EPNFTUJD BCVTF BU BOZ time in their lives, regardless of age, religion, culture etc. See ad on page 47.

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Home & Community

Safeguarding Adults is everyone’s business. See it, Report it! If you suspect a neighbour, friend or family member is being neglected or abused or you need help yourself... Call Adult SRFLDO &DUH

01670 536 400 (Calls are conﬁdential)

For outside ofﬁce hours and at weekends call 0845 600 5252

www.northumberland.gov.uk/safe

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

MPS IN NORTHUMBERLAND Contact your MP at the constituency office, or attend one of their surgeries - held in local venues, either by appointment, or on a drop-in basis. Or write to them at: The House of Commons, Westminster, London SW1A 0AA Berwick: Sir Alan Beith 01665 602901 54, Bondgate Within, Alnwick, /& +% alanbeith@berwicklibdems.org.uk Blyth Valley: Ronnie Campbell 01670 363050 42 Renwick Road, Blyth, NE24 2LQ ronnie.campbell.mp@parliament.uk Hexham: Guy Opperman 020 7219 7227 or 01434 603777 .FBM .BSLFU )FYIBN /& /' guy.opperman.mp@parliament.uk Wansbeck: *BO -BWFSZ 01670 852494, 7,Esther Court, Wansbeck Business Park, Ashington, NE63 8AP ian.lavery.mp@parliament.uk

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Fiona Hall MEP Lib Dem MEP for the North East

It’s easy to contact Fiona...

It’s easy to contact Fiona... By post: 55a Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN By email: fiona@fionahallmep.co.uk By phone: 0191 383 0119

www.FionaHall.org.uk

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

03 )&"-5) 8&--#&*/( *O UIJT TFDUJPO XF MJTU LFZ health providers as well as a range of support groups and organisations offering advice and help. We canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fit everything in, but if you belong to a group you think we should include, please let us know.

MEDICAL CARE & OUT OF HOURS HELP NHS 111 www.nhs.uk/111 This service has replaced NHS Direct as well as the Out of Hours service. Ring 111 if you urgently need medical help or advice. Your symptoms will be assessed and you may be given an appointment to attend an Out of Hours Centre. But if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lifethreatening situation you should call 999.

OUT OF HOURS CENTRES Centres are in Alnwick, Ashington, #FSXJDL )FYIBN /PSUI 5ZOFTJEF BOE UIF 37* 5IFSF BSF NJOPS JOKVSZ DFOUSFT at Wansbeck hospital, North Tyneside BOE UIF 37* XIFSF ZPV DBO KVTU UVSO up, but for anything else you will be given an appointment. Health Information NHS Choices www.nhs.uk Website gives detailed health and TPDJBM DBSF JOGPSNBUJPO *U BMTP MJTUT local hospitals, doctors, dentists, opticians, pharmacists etc and has a Choose and Book facility for specialist appointments. If you do not have access to the internet, ring NHS 111

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Health & Wellbeing

HOSPITALS

DENTAL CARE

0844 811 8111 or 0191 203 1200

'PS EFOUJTUT UBLJOH PO /)4 QBUJFOUT or for emergencies if you have no dentist, please call NHS 111.

Also see page 59 for help with dental and other health costs.

NHS HEALTH TRAINERS

either can be be used for: t "MOXJDL *OĂĽSNBSZ

t #FSXJDL *OĂĽSNBSZ t #MZUI $PNNVOJUZ )PTQJUBM t )FYIBN (FOFSBM )PTQJUBM t .PSQFUI $PUUBHF )PTQJUBM t /PSUI 5ZOFTJEF (FOFSBM t 8BOTCFDL (FOFSBM

OTHER HOSPITALS t )BMUXIJTUMF )PTQJUBM

01434 655405 DVSSFOUMZ 8BSE BU )FYIBN EVSJOH SFCVJME FYQFDUFE UP SFUVSO in Spring 2014)

t 3PUICVSZ $PNNVOJUZ )PTQJUBM 01669 620555 t /FXDBTUMF (FOFSBM 37* 'SFFNBO and Dental Hospitals 0191 233 6161 t 4JS (# )VOUFS .FNPSJBM )PTQJUBM 0191 220 5968 0844 811 5522 or 0191 213 0151 either can be used for: t /PSUIHBUF )PTQJUBM t 'FSOEFBO )PTQJUBM (formerly Prudhoe Hospital) t 4U (FPSHF T 1BSL t 4U /JDIPMBT )PTQJUBM

01670 784194 or 784198 One to one advice, support and information to help you plan and implement healthy lifestyle choices, including diet, keeping fit, smoking, alcohol consumption etc. They operate across Northumberland in various locations.

PHARMACY SERVICE Pharmacies act as local health hubs and many are now accredited to give healthy lifestyle advice and support XJUI TFMG DBSF *G ZPV SFDFJWF GSFF prescriptions the pharmacist may be able to treat you without having to see the doctor first. They advise on minor ailments, can SFWJFX ZPVS NFEJDJOFT BOE FYQMBJO side effects. Other services may include cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose tests, flu jabs, help with weight management, stopping smoking etc.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

PODIATRY SERVICE

ALCOHOL OR DRUGS PROBLEMS

Good foot care helps keep you steady on your feet to prevent falls. The service gives self-care advice, help with toenails, skin problems, foot pain, or help if you have diabetes, arthritis or medication concerns. Your GP can refer you or else advise on making an appointment.

Northumberland Recovery

See also page 7 for Age UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foot care sessions.

Berwick (Tues, Wed, Thurs)

Partnership Community based service to enable recovery for people with alcohol or drugs problems. Self-refer by ringing direct to: Blyth Valley, 01670 396303 Ashington, 01670 844610 01289 356908 Hexham, 01434 655715 or Blyth

STOPPING SMOKING

number as above.

Northumberland Stop Smoking Service 01670 813135 Smokers are up to four times more likely to quit using support from local NHS stop smoking services. 'SFF GSJFOEMZ TVQQPSU UISPVHIPVU Northumberland including some pharmacies. GP or Practice Nurse Some GP practices have a nurse trained to help people stop smoking. Ring to make an appointment.

Drinkline, 0800 917 8282 Confidential NHS helpline. Escape Family Support, 01670 544055, office 07702 833944 24 hour helpline www.escapefamilysupport.org.uk Support for alcohol or drug problems in Northumberland. Confidential counselling, complementary therapies, respite breaks, diversionary activities and family support. Self refer or be referred by a health professional.

NHS Smoking Helpline, 0800 022 4 332 www.smokefree.nhs.uk *OGPSNBUJPO TQFDJBMJTU BEWJTFST BOE free Quit Kits.

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Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re committed to providing high quality care to our patients whether that is in hospital, in the community or at home. Quality is at the heart of everything we do and whilst we run some of the best health services in the country, with dedicated staff who deliver personalised care on a daily basis, we fully appreciate that there will always be things that we can improve and do better.

We are passionate about listening to our patients, staff and stakeholders and want to know how things can be improved to make experiences of care even better.

There are two ways you can share your ideas about how we can improve the quality of what we do: E\ ÂżOOLQJ LQ D VXJJHVWLRQ FDUG DYDLODEOH LQ RXU PDLQ general hospitals and community sites or by completing an online form at

www.northumbria.nhs.uk/listening

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

DEALING WITH CONCERNS

Age UK Northumberland Advocacy Service 0845 140 0088 or 077207 40988

Comments, Compliments and

www.ageuk.org.uk/northumberland/ Countywide, confidential, free service for over 50s who would like help to FYQSFTT UIFJS WJFXT BDDFTT TFSWJDFT and have their rights upheld. Service includes Money Go Round project supporting people suffering financial abuse or scams etc. Also the 'JSTU 4UPQ QSPKFDU PGGFST BEWPDBDZ GPS people around housing and social care options.

Complaints Team

See also ad on page 64.

National Osteoporosis Society, 0845 450 0230 Newcastle group, Mea House, Ellison Place,

01423 779662 Jill Beaumont www.nos.org.uk #SBODI NFFUT JO .BSDI +VOF 4FQU and Dec on the second Mon of the month at 2.00pm. All welcome. Talks, medical updates and events.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Parkinsons UK 0808 800 0303 National Helpline

and Bedlington Station. Self referral or via GP or speech therapist.

www.parkinsons.org.uk 0844 225 3608, Information & Support

Tynedale Hospice at Home, Care

Worker - Northumberland

Service, 01434 600388

0844 225 3604 - Branch and

www.tynedalehospice.com Nursing at home for end of life care on referral from healthcare professionals. Also volunteer transport service for patients needing frequent medical visits.

Volunteer Support Officer can put you in touch with local support groups across Northumberland.

See also ad on page 64. Prostate Cancer Support, Age UK Northumberland, 0845 140 0088 www.ageuk.org.uk/ northumberland/ Holistic programme of practical support for older men and their families who are living with prostate DBODFS *ODMVEFT JOGPSNBUJPO and support, advocacy, FYFSDJTF DMBTTFT FUD 3JOH GPS details. Scheme supported by Prostate Cancer UK.

Stroke Association 0303 30 33 100 National Helpline 01670 840408

Wansbeck Disability Forum, 01670 221048 www.wansbeckdisabilityforum.com *OGPSNBUJPO BOE TVQQPSU JODMVEFT support for victims of hate crime. New projects coming along for 2014, ring for details. WHAC (Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Advice Centre), 1 Council Road, Ashington, NE63 8RZ 01670 853977 www.whac-online.co.uk Counselling and support for women includes physical and mental health and wellbeing, domestic and TFYVBM BCVTF CFSFBWFNFOU EJWPSDF debt. Now also working with men depending on capacity.

www.stroke.org.uk Stroke clubs, or Speech after Stroke clubs, in Alnwick, Ashington, Berwick, #MZUI )FYIBN .PSQFUI $SBNMJOHUPO

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M CAL P E E RK K AFTEF EEP CALM K O LO URSELPH ASK A ARMA YO CI AND

AND

hs omac set st home. u at ers, up ngov ed by yo s, ha at throat all be tre re so , can Colds aches head and eeded r if n k et .uin ca rgb kille e n r.o in ai icte ap win mised Take ed www. mth keep stopcckal ne l-ee calm el.k calm w thisw w w ep a w .uk @ke @kee 111 inter.org.u Keep r.org k HSpcalmne inte www. Seisw keep N calm almth lf-care th pc iswint lmyne .kee caac er.or @kee ep g m Ph www p uk ke armac @Phar 1

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Self

NHS

111

‘Keep calm and look after yourself’ is the strong message from the county’s NHS, to remind people that many of the common ailments and illnesses are easily treated at home, or with advice from a pharmacist – with no need to see a doctor or nurse. The ‘Keep Calm’ campaign gives advice on how to treat a range of common conditions by keeping a well-stocked medicines cabinet at home or speaking to your local pharmacist.

No need to panic Hexham GP and NHS Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group lead for Urgent Care, Dr David Shovlin, said there is no need to panic when feeling under the weather. “Colds, sore throats, headaches, hangovers, upset stomachs, coughs, aches, pains, and vomiting should all be treated at home or with the advice of your local pharmacist, with pain killers, rest and plenty of ﬂuids. By doing this not only are you helping to reduce the spread of viruses to other vulnerable patients in NHS waiting rooms – you are also keeping appointments available for people who have serious health conditions that must see a doctor or nurse.”

If you or someone you care for requires medicines regularly, make sure you order and collect repeat prescriptions in good time to ensure you or your family have enough medicine to last over bank holiday periods. Many of the calls to out of hours health services are for emergency repeat prescriptions when people have run out of their medication – a situation that could be avoided with advance planning. By thinking ahead for your regular medication, you are helping our busy out of hours doctors and nurses.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

04 '*/%*/( 065 "#065 $"3& *O /PSUIVNCFSMBOE BT elsewhere, changes in the care system are designed to give more control to those eligible to receive it, to improve conditions for carers and refine social care working practice. Many of the contacts listed here will help FYQMBJO ZPVS SJHIUT OFHPUJBUF new arrangements and show you where to find support.

SUPPORT FOR CARERS Carers Northumberland 01670 320025 or 0844 800 7354 www.carersnorthumberland.org.uk Countywide support for carers as individuals and groups. Regular meetings with other carers, including former carers and carers of those in residential care. Also skills development, emotional/listening support, emergency planning and small grants for personalised breaks.

Carerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emergency Card *G VOFYQFDUFE FWFOUT TIPVME IBQQFO e.g. car breakdown, this card offers peace of mind that the person you care for will be looked after until longer term arrangements can be made. The card shows only a 24-hour telephone number and a unique reference that activates instructions given in advance by the carer. Contact Carers Northumberland to register.

Carer Support Workers in Belford, )FYIBN BOE "TIJOHUPO HJWF MPDBM TVQQPSU *OGPSNBUJPO -JOF .PO 'SJ 10.00am-2.00pm and on first and third Tues of the month 5.30pmâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;7.30pm (answerphone at other times).

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Information & Advice service Care at home you can trust Free confidential, impartial and independent advice a Age UK Northumberland is founded on providing trusted service by local peopleFace-to-face for local people. welfare Information & Advice service rights service

For the over-50s, their families, $OO RI RXU &DUH DW +RPH VXSSRUW LV SHUVRQDOLVHG WR PHHW WKH QHHGV RI WKH LQGLYLGXDO DQG LV F Benefit checks carers and organisations. IXOO\ ĆŽ H[LEOH EHFDXVH OLIH LV OLNH WKDW WKLQJV FKDQJH F Welfare benefits, grants and entitlements F Community, residential and social care F Housing and home adaptations F Disability issues and aids F Local leisure, health and educational activities F Wills, Powers of Attorney, family protection trusts F Local trader register â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I get good careâ&#x20AC;Ś they do everything Open 10amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;1pm they can to help meâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

F Form completion

So whether the F Appeals to tribunal support needs are: r r r r r r r r

F Appeals to upper tribunal

3HUVRQDO &DUH F Home visits 'RPHVWLF DQG +RXVHNHHSLQJ 0HDO 3UHSDUDWLRQ Open 9amâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;5pm +HOS ZLWK 0HGLFDWLRQ Tuesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Thursday (including collection and ordering) &RPSDQLRQVKLS 01665 511 571 'D\V RXW IRU VKRSSLQJ DQG FRPPXQLW\ DFFHVV +HOSLQJ ZLWK LPSRUWDQW KHDOWK DSSRLQWPHQWV 2YHUQLJKW VXSSRUW

7R PHQWLRQ EXW D IHZ ZD\V ZH FDQ KHOS $OO RI RXU VHUYLFHV DUH DYDLODEOH GD\V D ZHHN GD\V D \HDU Why not ask about our Social and Lunch Clubs too!

Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Thursday 08450 950 150 or 01665 605 3OHDVH FDOO XV RQ 0845 140707 0088 or 01670 784800

:KHUH D IULHQGO\ ORFDO YRLFH ZLOO EH DEOH WR KHOS

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Carer Support Fund Small grants up to ÂŁ150, to help carers take a break from caring where there are difficult financial circumstances. Available to carers registered with Carers Northumberland. Carerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wellbeing Check This self-assessment helps you think about your own health, how your caring role affects your life and how to make things easier. Available from health and social care professionals or contact Carers Northumberland.

STAYING AT HOME WITH HELP Adult Social Care service 01670 536400 www.northumberland.gov.uk The Adult Social Care service, funded by the County Council, can help people who need short term help following a health crisis or accident, and also people who need longerterm support. Carers are also supported as they are entitled to have their own needs assessed.

CARERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; HELPLINES Carerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Allowance Unit, 0845 608 4321, 0845 604 5312 textphone www.gov.uk Eligibility details and how to claim Carerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Allowance and Carerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Credit. Carers Direct Helpline 0300 123 1053 www.nhs.uk/carersdirect Carers UK, Advice Line, 0808 808 7777 www.carersuk.org Carers Trust 0844 800 4361 www.carers.org Not a helpline service, but they will give personal support by email. *OGPSNBUJPO TJHOQPTUJOH BOE JOUFSOFU discussion boards on the website.

SELF-DIRECTED SUPPORT & PERSONAL BUDGETS *G ZPV OFFE MPOHFS UFSN TVQQPSU there are self-directed support arrangements so you stay in control. *G ZPV BSF BTTFTTFE BT OFFEJOH JU ZPV will be offered a personal budget which you can make arrangements to suit you. You can either manage the money yourself or ask an organisation to handle the administration for you. Or you can opt to have Adult Social Care arrange support such as help from a home care agency, or help getting out of the house. Even if you are not entitled to a personal budget, you can still receive advice and information about social care services, ring as above.

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If someone who is physically or mentally ill, disabled or has an addiction, relies on you for support at home... THEN YOU ARE A CARER Tell us, so we can work with you to provide the best care possible. Our Northumberland Carers Wellbeing Check will help you to think about the impact caring has on your own life and find solutions. As a carer you may have the right to: t #FOF책UT PS 책OBODJBM IFMQ t 1SBDUJDBM TVQQPSU t )FBMUI BOE DBSF technology in the home t 8PSLQMBDF SJHIUT

Call us

01670 536 400

for more information about support available

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

COSTS FOR SUPPORT AT HOME Care Charges Helpline, 01670 622891 Most people contribute at least part of the cost of support. You usually pay the hourly rate of ÂŁ12.84 up UP B NBYJNVN DIBSHF PG b per week for support at home. The level of contribution depends on your income and savings following a financial assessment. Charges current up to April 2014.

MORE HELP WITH INDEPENDENT LIVING Age UK National Advice Line, 0800 169 6565 www.ageuk.org.uk Wide range of information guides and factsheets on care, including paying for a care home, finding help at home, housing options, personal budgets etc. Age UK Northumberland Information and Advice Service,

EQUIPMENT FOR INDEPENDENT LIVING Many simple aids are available from high street chemists or shops whilst others are more specialist. Find advice and suppliers listed at www. dlfdirectory.org.uk, or ring the Disabled Living Foundation helpline on 0300 999 0004. In some cases Adult Social Care or health staff may be able to arrange equipment e.g. to help you move safely home from hospital. See page 45 for Disabled Facilities Grant.

0845 0950 150 See main entry on page 66. Age UK Northumberland, Home Care Service 0845 140 0088 or 01670 784800 www.ageuk.org.uk/northumberland/ Provides personal care at home either on behalf of Northumbria Healthcare, through a care manager or privately. See also ad on page 71. Bell View Home Support Scheme, 01668 219220 7PMVOUFFST PGGFS CBTJD TIPSU UFSN support to provide practical help and social contact.

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Helping Hands Community Care Professional and friendly care at home What we offer s s s s s s

0ERSONAL CARE AND MEDICATION PROMPT (OME HELP AND LAUNDRY 3HOPPING AND MEAL PREPARATION #OMPANIONSHIP AND SUPPORT /VERNIGHT SERVICES AND HOLIDAY HELP &RIENDS AND FAMILY RELIEF

What to expect from us Dignity and Respect

Flexibility

/UR #ARE 7ORKERS WILL TREAT YOU WITH 7E ARE COMMITED TO OFFERING CARE POLITENESS AND RESPECT AT ALL TIMES A RESPONSIVE SERVICE WHEREVER POSSIBLE 4HIS MAY INCLUDE VISITS Continuity AT WEEKENDS BANK HOLIDAYS )F WE CANNOT SEND YOUR USUAL #ARE EARLY MORNINGS EVENINGS OR IN 7ORKER WE WILL LET YOU KNOW IN ADVANCE URGENT SITUATIONS AND ENSURE YOU KNOW THE NAME OF THE REPLACEMENT WORKER Punctuality 9OUR SERVICES ARE PROVIDED WITHIN ConďŹ dentiality THE DAYS AND TIMES SPECIlED ON YOUR /UR #ARE 7ORKERS WILL NOT DIVULGE #ARE 0LAN )F THERE WERE ANY UNFORSEEN DETAILS OF YOUR PERSONAL CIRCUMSTANCES CHANGE YOU WOULD BE NOTIlED AND UNLESS YOU WOULD BE AT RISK OTHERWISE ALTERNATIVE ARRANGEMENTS MADE

All staff are fully trained with enhanced CRB checks

01670 797946 "LYTH 01670 320909 (ALTWHISTLE www.helphands.co.uk â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Winners of Care Team of the Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Disability North, The Dene Centre,

EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEMS

Castle Farm Road, Newcastle,

*G ZPV BSF DPODFSOFE BCPVU IPNF safety, especially falls or accidents, you can be connected to a community alarm service so you DBO DBMM GPS IFMQ 'PS UFOBOUT JO PMEFS peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s housing the landlord may offer this automatically, but services are available for residents in all kinds of housing.

NE3 1PH 0191 284 0480 www.disabilitynorth.org.uk Advice on independent living including housing, holidays, mobility aids and equipment around the home. Also advice on benefit claims, representation at appeals, rights to services etc. Ring in advance of a visit, or to make an appointment with a specialist independent living therapist or benefits adviser. Reaction Independent Living, Shopping Project, Wansbeck CVS 01670 858688, Karen Cox Scheme to enable people who are isolated or disabled to travel to the shops, bank etc. See main entry on page 44. Red Cross Equipment Loan 0191 273 7961 www.redcross.org.uk Wheelchair and walking frame loans GSPN EFQPUT JO /FXDBTUMF PS )FYIBN Sometimes second hand wheelchairs are available to buy. Ring in advance to make an appointment to visit. You can also request items and other support services such as transport or short term home care via the website.

TELECARE 5FMFDBSF FYUFOET UIF CBTJD BMBSN system by adding various sensors for BO FYUSB DIBSHF 5IFSF BSF EFUFDUPST for falls, floods, gas leaks, or even unusual patterns of movement e.g. where someone may have become confused. Telehealthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s automated system alerts you when medication is due and will alert staff if it has not been taken. Contact Adult Social Care Service for details on 01670 536400, or ring one of the following: Valley Care, 01670 827100 Northumberland County Council alarm and Telecare service.

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'JOEJOH 0VU "CPVU $BSF

Age UK Personal Alarm

Copper Kettle CafĂŠ, 7 Town Centre,

0800 77 22 66

Lintonville Terrace, Ashington,

www.ageuk.org.uk/alarm

NE63 9UN

%+4 5FMFDBSF 01670 618619 or info@djstelecare.co.uk www.djstelecare.co.uk 'SJFOEMZ QFSTPO DFOUSFE approach from an FYQFSJFODFE MPDBM UFBN 5IFZ BSF Ă˝FYJCMF BCPVU personal preferences and offer options ranging from simple links to a family member, right through to 24/7 monitoring coverage. They specialise in stylish, high quality equipment to suit a variety of settings and are happy to visit and demonstrate these to you and your family. Equipment includes smoke, heat, co2 and fall detectors

01670 815568 Hot meals freshly cooked at the cafĂŠ and delivered around Ashington, Guidepost and Stakeford. Something different every day for older people and people with disabilities, no need for referral. Meals with Care, Royal Voluntary Service 0845 266 8906 www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk *G ZPV MJWF DMPTF UP POF PG UIFJS TPDJBM centres they may be able to deliver meals to you at home.

NURSING & HOME CARE AGENCIES Yellow Pages www.yell.com 'JOE QSJWBUF DBSF TFSWJDFT JO UIF printed directory or on the website. Look under Home Care Services or Nursesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Agencies & Care Agencies. See pages 79-80 for more on finding care.

MEALS Bell View Resource Centre, Belford 01668 219220 'SFTI BOE GSP[FO NFBM EFMJWFSZ TFSWJDF around the local area.

Coming Soon Bluebird Care (Northumberland South) We cover ...

Bluebird Care (Northumberland South) Ponteland, Darras Hall, Cramlington, Morpeth, Prudhoe, Seaton Delaval, We cover Prudhoe, Cramlington, Blyth, Morpeth, Ashington, Bedlington, Seaton Sluice, Blyth, Bedlington, Choppington, Pegswood, Lynemouth, Ponteland, Darras Hall and Seaton Delaval. Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, Ashington, Lynemouth, Ellington, Widdrington. Email: northumberlandsouth@bluebirdcare.co.uk Tel: 0191 250 2244

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/uk_office/about/northumberland_south Email: northumberlandsouth@bluebirdcare.co.uk www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk ǁǁǁ͘ďůƵĞďŝƌĚĐĂƌĞ͘ĐŽ͘ƵŬͬƵŬͺŽĸĐĞͬĂďŽƵƚͬŶŽƌƚŚƵŵďĞƌůĂŶĚͺƐŽƵƚŚ

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RETIREMENT OR SHELTERED HOUSING Bungalows, bedsits and flats to rent from the local authority and housing providers. Usually with alarm system, often with warden support and communal facilities e.g. laundry, lounge. Northumberland County Council,

First Stop Care Advice 0800 377 7070 or 020 7820 1343 www.firststopcareadvice.org.uk www.housingcare.org Detailed information on specialist accommodation that offers support and/or care. They have lists of sheltered housing and care homes across the country, along with advice on making choices as well as a directory of services for those opting to stay at home.

0845 600 6400 www.northumberland.gov.uk Contact them for housing advice and options whether you live in public or private housing.

Shelter Housing Advice Helpline 0808 800 4444 www.shelter.org.uk /BUJPOBM IFMQMJOF .POÂ&#x2030;'SJ BNÂ&#x2030; 8.00pm, Sat, Sun 8.00amâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;5.00pm.

Northumberland Homefinder 0845 600 6400

Shelter North East, 1-2 Blackfriars

www.northumberlandhomefinder.

Court, Dispensary Lane, Newcastle,

org.uk Housing allocation service for Northumberland will give you information and tell you how to apply.

NE1 4XB

Age UK Northumberland, The Roundhouse, Lintonville Parkway, Ashington, NE63 9JZ, 01670 784846

0344 515 1601 Specialist face to face advice on housing and they have an in-house housing solicitor too. They deal with a range of issues, including homelessness, evictions, repossession and rent arrears.

www.ageuk.org.uk/northumberland/ Housing and social care options service offers free face to face advice and advocacy for owner occupiers and tenants on housing, social care, staying independent, aids etc. Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; Thurs 9.00amâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;5.00pm. See also ad on page 71.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

FINDING A CARE HOME Care homes may be run privately or by charities or housing associations. All are registered and inspected regularly. Some provide nursing care and some do not. If you need financial help to move to a care home the Adult Social Care Service will assess you. If you have specific nursing requirements your care may be partly funded by the NHS, or if your primary need is for health care you may be eligible to have your care wholly funded by the NHS.

Carers Direct 0300 123 1053 www.nhs.uk/carersdirect $BSF IPNF PQUJPOT FYQMBJOFE %FUBJMT of services and standards for all CQC registered care services, residential and nursing care homes. General advice also for carers, their families and the person being cared for. First Stop Advice 0800 377 7070 or 020 7820 1343 www.firststopcareadvice.org.uk www.housingcare.org Advice on all care issues e.g. housing, types of care, legal and financial matters relating to housing and care, home adaptations etc.

Care Quality Commission 03000 61 61 61 enquiries@cqc.org.uk www.cqc.org.uk Regulates adult health and social care services. They hold lists of care services, care homes, hospitals, dentists etc with results of quality inspections. They are not a complaints service, but if you have a serious concern about someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s welfare they will signpost you to the relevant complaints authority and also pass the details on to the inspector.

www.northumberland.gov.uk Website lists care homes in Northumberland with their quality ratings. Enter â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Care Homesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the TFBSDI CPY UP CSJOH VQ UIF MJTU See also page 92 for advice on legal issues, and page 90 for sources of financial help.

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'JOEJOH 0VU "CPVU $BSF

Look out for....

LIVINGeasy

Disability and Mental Health Support, Northumberland

free

LIVINGeasy First Edition 2013

from the Golden Guide team

Disability & Mental Health Support, Northumberland

INSPIRING INFORMATION FOR ADULTS WITH LONG TERM CONDITIONS. Brimming with details of local facilities, specialist support, who can help and how to get in touch.

R ORDfEree

YOUR OW YN COP

Resources for making life easier in your home or out of it In association with Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust

*G ZPV BSF BO BEVMU with a long term condition, or know someone who is... Look out for LIVING easy. 'SPN UIF (PMEFO Guide teamâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;get the lowdown on specialist local health support as well as: t "DUJWJUJFT t /FUXPSLT t )PCCJFT t $MVCT t 4QPSU To inspire your working life, your home life and your social life too!

'PS B free copy of -*7*/( easy sent to you by post, ring Healthwatch Northumberland on 03332 408 468 Also online at www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk Email info@alabasterpublishing.co.uk Tel 0191 386 5918 Also look out for Living easy coverage expanding to Newcastle and North Tyneside too...coming soon... www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

05 MONEY MATTERS *G ZPV BSF DMPTF UP SFUJSJOH PS have already retired, you will be keeping an eye on your financial position. Careful planning and the right advice will help you achieve the best income you can. Use our suggestions here to find contacts for specialist advice and information

HELP WITH PENSIONS The State Pension age is currently 65 for men and between 60 and 65 for women, depending on their date of CJSUI 'SPN %FD VOUJM UIF State Pension age for both men and women will increase to 66. What you get depends on the OVNCFS PG ZFBST PG /BUJPOBM *OTVSBODF contributions paid during your working lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; 30 years for a full basic 4UBUF 1FOTJPO *G FMJHJCMF ZPV NBZ buy missing years of contributions to boost the total. Or you may qualify for /* DSFEJUT JG ZPV IBWF CFFO VOBCMF UP pay regular contributions e.g. whilst raising a family or as a carer.

You may have other entitlements too, or an occupational or personal QFOTJPO &WFO XJUI UIFTF FYUSB amounts you may still qualify for Pension Creditâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a top up benefit for those with modest pensions and savings. If you only receive basic State Retirement Pension you should always ask about Pension Credit even if you have savings. 'PS BO estimate of what you are entitled to contact: Future Pension Centre. See entry overleaf.

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08 084 ZZZ FLWL]HQVDGYLFH RUJ XN In partnership with

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Future Pension Centre, The Pension

New Pension Claims

Service, Tyneview Park, Whitley Road,

0800 731 7898

Newcastle upon Tyne, NE98 1BA

0800 731 7339 textphone Ring to make a claim and they can fill in your application over the phone.

0845 3000 168 0845 3000 169 textphone www.gov.uk/pensions Apply online for a Pension Statement or ring direct. They will take your details over the phone and post your TUBUFNFOU PVU JO BSPVOE UFO EBZT *U is an estimate of your pension total at the time of request, based on /BUJPOBM *OTVSBODF DPOUSJCVUJPOT *U JT OPU BO FYBDU GPSFDBTU PG UIF BDUVBM amount you will get when you reach State Pension age.

The Pension Service 0845 60 60 265 0845 731 7339 textphone www.gov.uk/dwp Ring with all general enquiries about State Pension, eligibility, checking on a claim, change of circumstances FUD *G UIFZ DBOOPU IFMQ EJSFDUMZ they will refer you to the correct department.

HMRC National Insurance Helpline,

Pension Credit Application Line,

0300 200 3500

0800 99 1234

www.hmrc.gov.uk

0800 169 0133 textphone www.gov.uk/pension-credit-

PENSION CLAIMS The Pension Service contact you within four months of you reaching State Pension Age. Your pension does not arrive automatically, so within four months you must make your claim. You can defer your pension to get a higher weekly amount or POF PGG UBYBCMF MVNQ TVN QBZNFOU (minimum 12 months for lump sum).

calculator 'PS RVFSJFT BCPVU FOUJUMFNFOU BOE GPS applications. Phone enquiries can be lengthy, so if you can use the online calculator it will save time when you ring.

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Money Matters

DWP Visiting, Northumberland,

The Pensions Advisory Service,

0845 60 60 265

0845 601 2923

www.gov.uk/dwp *G ZPV BSF VOBCMF UP BDDFTT %81 services by telephone or online then you may be able to have an officer visit you at home. They will help complete forms for all the benefits you are entitled to and will refer you to other services if necessary.

www.pensionsadvisoryservice.org.uk *OEFQFOEFOU PSHBOJTBUJPO HJWFT information on all aspects of pensions, whether state, occupational or private. They help to resolve disputes about private pension arrangements, but do not give financial advice.

Pension Tracing Service, 0845 600 2537 www.gov.uk/find-lost-pension Can help trace schemes you may have paid into and lost touch with. Post Office Card Account Helpline, 0845 722 3344 0845 722 5555 textphone www.postoffice.co.uk/post-officecard-account Useful if you have no bank account, this is a simple account for receipt of QFOTJPOT CFOFĂĽUT PS UBY DSFEJUT POMZ Offers plastic card and pin number for cash withdrawal at any branch. *G ZPV OFFE TPNFPOF FMTF UP DPMMFDU your money for you, you can ask for a second card.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

WELFARE BENEFIT CHANGES Here is brief information on some of the major changes happening in the welfare system. These were correct as at the time of writing (Winter 2013) but may be subject to change so please contact the advisers listed for further details, or check online at www.gov.uk/financial-helpdisabled Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Helpline 0845 850 3322 0845 601 6677 textphone www.gov.uk/pip 1*1 JT UIF OFX CFOFĂĽU UIBU JT HSBEVBMMZ replacing Disability Living Allowance (DLA) between 2013 and 2017 for QFPQMF BHFE UP *G ZPV XFSF aged 65 or over on 8 April 2013 you XJMM OPU OFFE UP DMBJN 1*1 CVU XJMM TUBZ on DLA.

*G ZPV XFSF PO %-" BOE UVSOFE after 8th April 2013, you must make B DMBJN GPS 1*1 XIFO UIF %81 XSJUFT to you to claim it. Your DLA will stop if ZPV EPO U DMBJN *G ZPV EPO U BMSFBEZ claim DLA and you are 65 or over, you may be entitled to claim Attendance Allowance instead. See ad on page 83. PIP New claims 0800 917 2222, textphone 0800 917 7777 *G ZPV BSF VOEFS SJOH UP NBLF B OFX DMBJN GPS 1*1 :PV XJMM CF BTTFTTFE based on help you need because of your condition and the impact it has PO ZPVS MJGF 1*1 JT OPU NFBOT UFTUFE JU T UBY GSFF BOE ZPV DBO DMBJN JU XIFUIFS youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in or out of work. You can spend the money as you choose.

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SSAFA Forces Help Whether you left the services (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen andyesterday Families or over sixty years ago, we have a Association Est. 1885) network of volunteers and professional Whether you left the services yesterday or staff to help service men and women over sixty years ago, we have a network of and their families. volunteers and professional staff to help service men and women and their families. SSAFA - How we Help People Our volunteers act as knowledgable and confidential friends, often with veterans and their SSAFA Forces Helpvery - How weworking Help People Our volunteers actfamilies, as including widows widowers.friends, very often working with veterans knowledgable andand conﬁdential and their families, including widows and widowers.

Financial Help Sometimes we simply give support and advice, but in many

Financial Help Sometimes we simply give support and advice, but in cases our help includes drawing together a package of financial help: many cases our help includes drawing together a package of ﬁnancial help:

t 'SPN TFSWJDF CFOFWPMFOU GVOET

t From service benevolent funds t 'SPN PUIFS DIBSJUJFT t From other charities t 'SPN öOBODJBM HSBOUT t From ﬁnancial grants t #Z PCUBJOJOH BQQSPQSJBUF TUBUF CFOFöU t By obtaining appropriate state beneﬁt

Confidential Support Line: 0800 731 4880 Conﬁdential Support 0800 for support, assistance or just aLine: listening ear 731 4880

for support, assistance or just a listening ear or, email the website at: www.ssafa.org.uk or, email the website at: www.ssafa.org.uk Family Escort Escort Service families and dependants Family Service Volunteers Volunteersaccompany accompanyservice service families and travelling to, from and within the UK who have compassionate needs, or who dependants travelling to, from and within the UK who have compassionate would find public transport difficult. needs, or who would ﬁnd public transport difﬁcult. from the thePresident Presidenttotoour our Northumberland NorthumberlandBranch BranchRun Run by by volunteers volunteers from Alnwick, Ashington, Berwick upon Tweed caseworkers, wehave have divisions caseworkers, we divisions in:in: Alnwick, Ashington, Berwick upon Tweed Blyth, Blyth, Hexham Hexham and and Morpeth Morpeth

To contact them, dohesitate not hesitate toon call me on To contact them, do not to call me 01665 576 756 or email 01665 576 756 or email northumberlandpao@gmail.com northumberlandpao@gmail.com Major Brian BrianWilliam WilliamFinlayson, Finlayson, Northumberland Branch Northumberland Branch

Don’t delay - call us Registered Charity number 210760

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Universal Credit (UC) This is a new single payment for people under pension age who are looking for work, or on a low income. *U XJMM HSBEVBMMZ SFQMBDF JODPNF CBTFE +PCTFFLFS T "MMPXBODF income related Employment BOE 4VQQPSU "MMPXBODF *ODPNF 4VQQPSU $IJME 5BY $SFEJUT 8PSLJOH 5BY $SFEJUT BOE )PVTJOH #FOFĂĽU 5IF amount of UC will depend on your DJSDVNTUBODFT 6$ JT OPU FYQFDUFE UP be fully rolled out until 2017. See also page 32-33 on Working after Retirement.

Carerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Allowance Unit, 0845 608 4321 0845 604 5312 textphone www.gov.uk/carers-allowance-unit *OGPSNBUJPO PO FMJHJCJMJUZ BOE DMBJNT but they cannot help fill in forms. Credit Union of South East Northumberland 01670 522779 or 01670 797283 www.cusen.co.uk Benefit checks and individual and group sessions on reducing spending and energy bills for older people over 65. Citizensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Advice Bureau, (CAB)

BENEFITS & MONEY ADVICE

www.adviceguide.org.uk

Age UK Northumberland Welfare

www.citizensadvice.org.uk "EWJDF PO EFCU CFOFĂĽUT UBY IPVTJOH consumer and other issues. Branches open for limited hours and may offer appointments, drop-in sessions and a telephone advice service, although they all differ.

Rights Service 01670 784820 www.ageuk.org.uk/northumberland/ Welfare Rights face to face casework service Monâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Thurs 9.00am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5.00pm See main entry on page 66. Benefit Enquiries, JobCentre Plus on 0845 603 6095 www.gov.uk/benefits-adviser *OGPSNBUJPO GPS QFPQMF XIP BSF JMM PS disabled and their carers. Ring and select the option for the benefit you wish to ask about. Use the website to check entitlements yourself.

Your local branch will also know where sessions run in other community venues. All branches are wheelchair accessible. t "MOXJDL 7BMVBUJPO 0GĂĽDFT PGG 8BHPOXBZ Rd, NE66 1QL. Also at Amble and Seahouses.

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Money Matters

t #FSXJDL 5 Tweed Street, TD15 1NG. Also at Wooler. t #MZUI &SJD 5PMIVSTU $FOUSF 01670 369082 3-13 Quay Road, Byth NE24 2AS. Also at Seaton Delaval and Cramlington. t %BXO $"# 28-32 Bridge Street, Morpeth, NE61 1NL. Also at Hadston. t 8FTU /PSUIVNCFSMBOE 01434 605254 Community Centre, Gilesgate, )FYIBN /& /1 "MTP BU Prudhoe and Haltwhistle. t 8BOTCFDL "QQPJOUNFOU MJOF 01670 522008 89-91 Station Road, Ashington, NE63 8RS. Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance Helpline, 08457 123456 08457 224433 textphone

Grandparents Association 0845 4349 585 www.grandparents-association.org.uk

Grandparents Plus 0300 123 7015 www.grandparentsplus.org.uk Helplines for both of these organisations give advice on noncontact, caring for grandchildren, welfare benefits and information on legal advisers. JobCentre Plus 0800 055 66 88 0800 0 23 48 88 textphone www.gov.uk Benefit claims for people of working BHF BSF NBEF POMJOF WJB +PC$FOUSF 1MVT *G ZPV IBWF OP JOUFSOFU BDDFTT yourself and no-one to help, you DBO WJTJU B CSBODI PG +PC$FOUSF 1MVT where someone will help with queries. As a last resort they may take your information over the phone, although online claims take priority.

www.gov.uk/disability-benefitshelpline Deals with claims and queries.

Money Advice Service, 0300 500 5000 18001 0300 500 5000 typetalk www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk 'SFF VOCJBTFE BEWJDF PO SFUJSFNFOU plans and budgeting as well as ĂĽOBODJBM QSPEVDUT F H *OTVSBODF savings options, annuities etc

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Pension Credit Claims

Society of Later Life Advisers,

0800 99 1234

0845 303 2909

0800 169 0133 textphone

www.societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk Not for profit society has lists of local financial advisors specialising in issues such as equity release, care GVOEJOH QFOTJPOT UBY QMBOOJOH etc. Advisors hold accreditation for FYQFSUJTF JO MBUFS MJGF BEWJDF

See page 84.

FINANCIAL HELP CISWO (Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation) 0191 477 7242

Royal British Legion, 08457 725 725

www.ciswo.org.uk Help and advice on benefits, pensions and in some cases financial support if you meet the eligibility criteria.

0191 495 9510 local branch www.britishlegion.org.uk 'JOBODJBM BOE XFMGBSF IFMQ GPS FY service members and families. Service Personnel & Veterans Agency,

Elizabeth Finn Care,

0800 169 2277

0800 413 2200 (24 hours)

0141 224 2709 Regional Welfare

www.elizabethfinncare.org.uk Charity gives grants to people from some 120 occupational backgrounds. Also part of Turn 2 Us.

Service

Turn2Us, 0808 802 2000 www.turn2us.org.uk Helps people access grants, benefits or other financial support.

www.veterans-uk.com Help with welfare problems, including benefits, pension claims and compensation. Also supports inservice personnel. SSAFA Forces Help 0800 731 4880 Forcesline 01665 576 756, Major Brian Finlayson www.ssafa.org.uk 'JOBODJBM QSBDUJDBM BOE FNPUJPOBM support for those with a forces connection.

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Money Matters

DEBT

TAX

DAWN Advice

HMRC Taxes Helpline,

0300 303 1931

0300 200 3300

01670 516264 Appointment line for

0300 200 3319 textphone

face to face debt advice

www.hmrc.gov.uk "EWJDF PO BOZ UBY JTTVF F H 5BY DPEFT UBY BGUFS SFUJSFNFOU SFGVOET etc.

www.dawnadvice.org.uk Confidential advice on debt QSPCMFNT *O TPNF DBTFT UIFZ BTTJTU with the negotiation process. Advice also on housing, benefits, fuel tariffs and fuel debt. They run a family law practice and are members of the Community Legal Advice service. See also ad on page 47. National Debtline 0808 808 4000 www.nationaldebtline.co.uk Charity gives free, confidential support with practical self-help advice about debt.

HMRC National Insurance Helpline, 0300 200 3500 HMRC Probate, Inheritance Tax, Trusts and Deceased Estates Helpline, 0300 123 1072 Taxaid 0345 120 3779 www.taxaid.org.uk 'SFF UBY BEWJDF GPS QFPQMF XIP cannot afford a professional adviser.

Step Change Debt Charity

Tax Help for Older People, (TOP)

0800 138 1111

0845 601 3321 or 01308 488066

(Also free from mobiles)

www.taxvol.org.uk $POĂĽEFOUJBM UBY BEWJDF GPS QFPQMF with a household income of under b BGUFS UBY XIP BSF DMPTF UP PS PMEFS )FMQ XJUI 1":& DPEFT UBY returns etc and they may liaise with HMRC on your behalf.

www.stepchange.org Confidential advice on money management and individual support with practical methods to reduce debt. Also see page 88-89 for Citizens Advice Bureaux.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

Legal Aid

LEGAL AFFAIRS Age UK Legal Service, 0845 685 1076 www.ageuk.org.uk Age UK national service allows free initial consultation and if you wish to proceed they tell you the costs and carry out the work by post and UFMFQIPOF *ODMVEFT XSJUJOH 8JMMT BOE Power of Attorney documents. Civil Legal Advice 0845 345 4345 www.gov.uk/civil-legal-advice 'SFF BEWJDF GSPN B TQFDJBMJTU MFHBM adviser if you are eligible for Legal Aid. They carry out a short financial assessment and if you are not eligible they will signpost you to someone who can help. They cover benefit appeals, debt, housing, discrimination, special educational needs and issues of domestic violence and children in care.

www.gov.uk/check-legal-aid You may apply for financial help if you meet certain criteria although you may still be asked for a contribution. Ring the Civil Legal Advice helpline or check online to find a local solicitor in the scheme. Disability Law Service, 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF 020 7791 9800 www.dls.org.uk 'SFF MFHBM BEWJDF GPS EJTBCMFE BOE deaf people and their families and carers on community care issues (social services). They also have an MS specific legal officer. Legal Ombudsman, PO Box 6806, Wolverhampton, WV1 9WJ 0300 555 0333 www.legalombudsman.org.uk *OEFQFOEFOU GSFF TFSWJDF UP investigate complaints against lawyers, including solicitors, barristers, conveyancers etc. Range of publications includes â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Using a lawyer as you get olderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

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Money Matters

Mind Legal Advice Line 0300 466 6463 www.mind.org.uk Legal information and general advice on mental health related law, covering mental health, mental capacity, community care etc. Solicitors for the Elderly, 0844 567 6173 www.solicitorsfortheelderly.com *OEFQFOEFOU PSHBOJTBUJPO XIPTF members specialise in issues affecting older people e.g. wills, care home contracts, funding advice, gifting property etc. They offer home visits, documents in large print and take time to ensure clients properly understand all the issues. Members in Alnwick, Berwick, Haltwhistle and Newcastle. See also page 58 Age UK Advocacy, page 91 Dawn Advice and page 94 Which?

CONSUMER ADVICE Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline, 08454 040506 18001 08454 040506 textphone www.adviceguide.org.uk *NQBSUJBM BEWJDF PO HPPET BOE services, your rights and help with making a complaint. Covers gas and electricity, postal services, faulty goods, shoddy workmanship, dishonest traders, scams, online shopping, personal finance. Or DPOUBDU ZPVS MPDBM $JUJ[FOT "EWJDF #VSFBVY See page 88-89. Rica 0207 427 2460 0207 427 2469 textphone www.rica.org.uk Consumer research charity for older and disabled people provides free, unbiased product reports. Popular topics include motoring and mobility, and technology in the home e.g. stairlifts, alarm systems, mobile phones, bathing aids etc.

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...it’s worth its weight

Unsolicited Mail and Telephone Calls, 0845 703 4599 Preference Service Helpline 0845 070 0707 TPS registration line www.mpsonline.org.uk and www.tpsonline.org.uk 'SFF PGåDJBM TFSWJDF IFMQT SFEVDF unsolicited sales or marketing calls. TPS cannot stop recorded messages, silent calls, scam calls or genuine market research—only direct selling calls. Register by phone or online. Register for MPS online or write to Direct Marketing Association, DMA House, 70 Margaret St, London, W1W 8SS. NB 6TF UIF FYBDU XFC BEESFTT BT above since there are scam sites using similar names which will charge you. Which? 01992 822800 www.which.co.uk Campaigning consumer association. 4VCTDSJCF UP UIF NBHB[JOF GPS consumer information and online access to their Which Local service listing recommended local tradesmen. Subscribe to their Legal Department for telephone help with consumer law and other issues.

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NOTES ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................ ............................................................................................................................................................................................

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth its weight

www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk

06 */%&9 OUT & ABOUT ..................................................................................... 06 Community Projects $PNNVOJUZ $FOUSFT 7JMMBHF )BMMT Churches 4PDJFUJFT 'PSVNT $MVCT 0MEFS 1FSTPO T 'PSVNT Lunch Clubs Daytime Activities if you are ill or disabled Arts & Crafts Gardens Writing & Media Music Pipers Theatre Sports & Leisure Centres Walking Groups More Outdoor Activities Lifelong Learning Distance Learning & Open Learning $PNQVUFS *5 $PVSTFT Northumberland Libraries 7PMVOUFFSJOH Working after Retirement Starting a Business Transport Blue Badge Parking Scheme Mobility schemes Community Transport Schemes

6 8 11 11 12 14 15 16 20 20 22 26 26 27 28 30 32 33 34 36 36 38

)0.& $0..6/*5: ....................................................................... 42 Repairs & Maintenance Home Adaptations %JTBCMFE 'BDJMJUJFT (SBOU -PX $PTU 'VSOJTIJOHT Warmth & Energy Efficiency Home Security Bogus Callers & Cold Callers Anti Social Behaviour & Disability Hate Crime %PNFTUJD 7JPMFODF MPs in Northumberland

42 45 46 48 48 49 52

2014 edition

The GOLDEN Guide...it’s worth its weight

*/%&9 )&"-5) 8&--#&*/( ......................................................................... 54 Medical Care & Out of Hours Help Out of Hours Centres Hospitals Dental Care Health Trainers Pharmacy Service Podiatry Service Stopping Smoking Alcohol or Drugs problems Dealing with Concerns Help with Health Costs Mental Health Befriending Schemes Bereavement More Local Support Groups

54 54 55 55 55 55 56 56 56 58 59 59 63 65 66

'*/%*/( 065 "#065 $"3& ................................................................ 70 Support for Carers Carers’ Helplines Staying at Home with Help Self-directed Support & Personal Budgets Costs for Support at Home .PSF )FMQ XJUI *OEFQFOEFOU -JWJOH Emergency Alarm Systems Meals Nursing & Home Care Agencies Retirement or Sheltered Housing 'JOEJOH B $BSF )PNF

70 72 72 72 74 76 77 77 79

MONEY MATTERS................................................................................ 82 Help with Pensions & Pension Claims Welfare Benefit Changes Benefits & Money Advice 'JOBODJBM )FMQ Debt 5BY Legal Affairs Consumer Advice

82 86 88 91 92 93

KEY CONTACT NUMBERS.................................................................... 99 98

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07 KEY CONTACT NUMBERS Adult Social Care Service .............................................................................................. 01670 536400 Age UK Northumberland ...............................................................................................0845 140 0088 Age UK Northumberland Advice Line ..................................................................0845 0950 150 Community Legal Advice............................................................................................ 0845 345 4 345 Healthwatch ...........................................................................................................................03332 408 468 NHS Direct .......................................................................................................................................................... 111 Northumberland County Council Customer Contact Centre ............0845 600 6400 Northumbria Police Non-emergency Enquiries ...................................................................... 101 PALS Service .......................................................................................................................... 0800 032 02 02 Pension Service................................................................................................................... 0845 60 60 265 Samaritans ............................................................................................................................ 0845 7 90 90 90

Important Note on Telephone Numbers Numbers beginning with â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;08â&#x20AC;&#x2122; are used by many businesses, public services and other organisations. They are commonly used for national helplines or customer service and enquiry centres. Call charges to these numbers vary considerably. Some calls may be completely free or low cost, whereas others can be significantly higher. Charges are often higher if you use a mobile rather than a landline.

Healthwatch Northumberland is the consumer champion for health and social care. It helps people who have concerns, questions or comments about these services in the county. Healthwatch Northumberland has real LQĂ XHQFH DV LW LV D PHPEHU RI WKH ORFDO Health and Wellbeing Board. The board helps make sure that the right services are provided for local people and are well run. If you need Healthwatch Northumberlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s KHOS WR Ă&#x20AC;QG LQIRUPDWLRQ RU PDNH D complaint ring 03332 408 468.

If you want to be a supporter, be kept up to date or become www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk a volunteer go to www.healthwatchnorthumberland.co.uk