JUST JORDAN
• Snowfall in January • Check out my new layout of JUST Jordan for 2018 • Valentine’s Day • Education Rights • Kerry’s Poem • Kids Zone
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Introduction Hello everyone and welcome to my February edition of “Just Jordan”. I’ve decided to give my newsletter a new look for 2018 so really hope you like it. I’ve chosen a fun photo for my front page as we rarely get snowfall here in Ardrossan and Mum was full of mischief that day. I designed the photo above as it is filled with my bestest friends in the whole world. Again am elated with the response about my “JUST Jordan” group and newsletter, so thank you all
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from the bottom of my heart! If you’d like to order a paper or hardback edition just drop me a line and I’ll order it for you. I’ve continued with a similar layout but please do share any suggestions for the March edition! As always please do keep your feedback and messages coming, it’s a pleasure hearing from each and everyone of you! I’ve worked very hard on this Newsletter and I hope that you will enjoy and tell all your friends & family about “JUST Jordan”. You will find information on my “JUST Jordan”
Facebook/Twitter page and how to contact me details are also enclosed. As always I look forward to your feedback, submissions and questions for The next edition.
See ya,
Jordan Fernando xx
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Valentine’s Day Craft
With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, I have a fun and easy craft that everyone can do, even the parents! This is a super Valentine’s Day craft that will look adorable on the fridge or hung around the home. I like the idea of using puzzle pieces, since they are also the Autism symbol. So this craft serves two purposes: An easy DIY Valentine’s Day Craft Raising Autism Awareness (And Autism Awareness Month is coming up in April) But first, let’s tackle this Valentine’s Day Craft
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Supplies needed: Puzzle Pieces Craft paint in choice of color Hot glue, glue gun Paint brush Ribbon or twine for hanging Directions: 1. Begin by assembling your heart first. Before adding any glue, arrange the puzzle pieces into a heart shape. This is a great way to get an idea of the size heart you want as well as perfect the shape. 2. Now, start adding the glue. Glue one piece at a time and reassemble into the heart shape. 3. Once your glue is dry and your heart is complete, you can apply the paint. It is easiest to paint the plain cardboard side. It takes the paint nicely. 4. Apply two coats and allow to dry. Finish by attaching a ribbon or twine for hanging.
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Kids Zone by Jordan Fernando
More in the Kids Zone next month!
Please do keep your drawings coming and I’ll do my best to feature them in next months edition of JUST Jordan.
Jfernando_1997@hotmail.co.uk or suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/groups/213071952427706/ @JustJordan2016
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Our regular JUST Jordan poem submitted by Autist Kerry McGinn 20, Stevenston, North Ayrshire.
Happy Valentine’s Day Valentines Day is a round the corner again Some people are giddy about it and some others are not I don’t know if I can top last year’s poem But I’ll give it my best shot As we all know the day was named after The famous martyr, Saint Valentine Who was executed for being a Christian This during his time was a crime According to legend what also got him into trouble Was performing illegal marriages between soldiers and their true loves Which I find romantic because When it comes to love, you can never have enough It’s always traditional to buy gifts for your other half Whether they be handmade or bought And then there are some couples who go All the way by choosing the day to tie the knot I hope that one day I will find that special someone Who I can share my love with And for those who wish the same I hope you will be given that same gift
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#SmearForSmear 2018
Last year we covered the importance of a cervical smear and this year is no exception! As many of you know my Mum is a Cervical Cancer Survivor and has actively been raising awareness for almost 18 years now. And yes she is a survivor however, the long term effects she still suffers with daily (as a result of cervical cancer) can be pretty horrendous. I've seen Mum confined to bed for days as she is in so much joint/bone pain amongst others things I won't go into just yet. So I need everyone to realise that a simple smear test only lasts around 5 minutes but the long term effects of cervical cancer can actually last a lifetime. Their was an increase in the uptake of women going for smears when celebrity Jade Goody died but as the years have passed the numbers have also dwindled. The number of women attending potentially life-saving smear tests is falling dramatically, so am asking for your help to try and change this. We all took part in the campaign in January during Cervical Cancer Prevention Week.
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Mum was extremely busy throughout the week campaigning, giving media interviews across Scotland, visiting hospitals, veteran groups and clinics, clubs, groups and was even interviewed on STV's Live at 5 show with presenters Jennifer and Ewen.
Then to finish the week off she met up with Rebecca Garrett (a local reporter with the Ardrossan & Saltcoats Herald, Patricia Gibson MP and Kenneth Gibson MSP, friends April and James Smith at our local Southbeach Clinic where they discussed the importance of a cervical smear test.
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We want every woman to know that smear tests can prevent cervical cancer.
Share your #SmearForSmear and help us reach as many women as possible with a message about the importance of smear tests. Or why not invite some friends round for a smearforsmear tea party/games night like I did and we had such fun! Your post might be the reminder or encouragement someone needs to go for their smear test, it could save a life. https://www.jostrust.org.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/1Cervical/
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**For The Parents** The National Autistic Society, Enquire and Scottish Autism are looking to hear the experiences of parents with children on the autism spectrum regarding their child’s absence from school. They would like to find out the reasons your child has missed school, whether it was due to illness, anxiety, exclusion, school refusal or something else. They would also like to find out about the kind of support that was offered during this time. Please could you share this survey as widely as possible? https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/K2QVSN7 The survey can also be accessed through The National Autistic Society Scotland Facebook page https://en-gb.facebook.com/autismscotland/ If any of your families need support with their child’s education or absence from school, they can contact the Education Rights Service. Clare Macer Education and Transition Advice Coordinator (Scotland) M: 07833 294101 A: National Autistic Society, Central Chambers 1st Floor, 109 Hope Street, Glasgow G2 6LL
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Education Rights Service What is the Education Rights Service? Our Education Rights Service provides impartial, confidential information, advice and support on education rights and entitlements for parents and carers of pre-school and school-age children with autism to help them get the educational support their child needs. What help is available? We can: •
offer confidential information, advice and support by phone or email
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explain education law and your rights and entitlements
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help you explore your options so that you can make informed decisions about your child’s school education
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help you communicate effectively with your child’s school and education professionals
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explain complaints and appeals processes and support you if you are making an appeal.
How do I get in contact? •
telephone (leave a message on our answering service and we will call you back) – 0808 800 4102 (free from landlines and most mobiles)
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our online form
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email: educationrightsscotland@nas.org.uk
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find education information online: http://www.autism.org.uk/education
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Transition Support Service What is the transition support service? Our transition support service is a free service for young autistic people aged 14 years plus and their parents or carers, looking for information and advice on the transition to adulthood. This includes young people preparing to leave school as well as further and higher education.
What help is available? •
Confidential information and advice by phone and email.
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An explanation of rights and entitlements throughout the transition process.
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Assistance with exploring options so that informed decisions can be made.
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Information about other services that may be useful during the transition process
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Guidance and support on specific issues such as engaging the young person, finding suitable provision, making a complaint or appealing against a decision.
How do I get in contact? •
telephone (leave a message on our answering service and we will call you back) – 0808 800 0027 (free from landlines and most mobiles)
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our online form
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email: transitionsupport@nas.org.uk
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find transition information online: www.autism.org.uk/transition
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WW2 DRAMA’S GUILDFORD CONNECTIONS
It has taken over two years to produce, shoot and edit but Brian O’Connell’s ambitious feature length World War 2 film drama, Sarah’s War, has now been completed. It is an exciting script, written, produced and directed by Brian O’Connell, a member of Surrey Border Movie Makers. Brief Outline of Sarah’s War As an evacuee on her grandfather’s motor boat, Sarah relishes a world that would never normally be the experience for a young girl. She is gutsy, intelligent and determined, and when a Nazi commandeers the vessel, she more than proves her worth. However, the aftermath of the war brings a cruel and relentless personal battle. More than a war film it focuses on the palpable struggle of a single mother in censorious post war England (a topic that is rarely covered), whose only hope lies with the Nazi that once nearly took her life. This film is about courage, survival and love.
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The Actors and Guildford School of Acting The title role of Sarah is played with conviction by Lily Smith, with Simon Christian as Klaus Bergman the Nazi Lieutenant. One of our own members of JUST Jordan Autist Sean Kingswell actually starred in the movie and played the part of a Military Policeman. Sean said: "The Film premiere of Sarah’s law, was shown in Guildford surrey, at the electric theatre. I starred in it as a military policeman, I was asked to come in uniform and do some acting at the door etc we all received Oscars at the end of the show. Was really hard for me as It wasn't my routine. I managed my autism well but I got a little uncomfortable afterwards in the lounge among the crew and fellow actors so my wife shuffled me out the back and we headed home. I loved every minute of it though and would like to thank Brian for this amazing opportunity."
View Sean’s Interview before the Premier:
Sean Kingswell Swar preview evening 2 - Medium.mov
Brian said: "Sean did a great job both on the set, and also on our preview evening when he greeted many of guests as a member of the armed forces, and displayed professionalism, charm and confidence in dealing with the public."
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The production owes a great deal not only to its professional cast and crew but also to Brian’s video friends at Surrey Border Movie Makers, who supported him as extras and crew through the two years of production. Interested in Film Making? If you are interested in film making, Surrey Border Movie Makers always welcome new members. You can find out more by visiting www.surreyborder.org.uk or email secretary@surreyborder.org.uk They meet on the first Friday of the month at St Joan’s Centre, 19 Tilford Road, Farnham GU9 8DJ where there is plenty of parking and your first visit is free. Facebook https://www.facebook.com/SurreyBorderMovieMakers/timeline As many of you know my Mum also served as a Military Policewoman in the Army so it has been both an honour and a privilege to feature Sean’s film debut. Way to go Sean, JUST Jordan is very proud of you !!
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It’s Sno….Joke ! Finally Ardrossan gets a snowfall and it even lay long enough for us to build a snowman, make a snow angel and enjoy a good old Snaw Fight too!! If you have any photos you’d like to submit to “JUST Jordan” please pm me on our Facebook page or email suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk
Video made by Paul Gilmour Absolutely beautiful! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qt1fk_7Gwp8&feature=youtu.be
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Dear Jordan…… Ask me anything and I’ll be as frank with my views as Coleen is on Loose Women!! I can be your straightesttalking agony aunt, giving advice on relationships, bullying, early diagnosis and any life problems you may have…..xx Huge thanks to everyone who submitted questions for “Dear Jordan”
“Dear Jordan: I'm in a relationship for the first time, I really like her a lot but am not sure how to celebrate Valentines Day with her. Am really nervous and just need some advice please. Well I know that on Valentine’s Day I like things to be a little bit different and to spend some time with someone I like. The important thing is to make sure both you and your girlfriend are comfortable. You can surprise her or you can talk to her about what she would like to do. If you surprise her, it’s nice do something she really enjoys or buy her something you know she would like. You should buy a Valentine’s Day card and a small present. The present could be something like a book she has been wanting to read for a while, a lovely bunch of flowers, or a nice necklace. Just think about what she likes and then try and find something that you think she would like that she does not already have. The other option is to go on a date night - this could be for a nice meal or the movies. If you are going to do this, choose somewhere you feel comfortable and book it as it gets very busy on Valentine’s Day. You can talk to her about it and chat about what she might like to do, this would guide you to booking the right place or doing the right thing! Most of all though just have fun! Hope this helps ! Love Jordan xxx
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“Dear Jordan”: I really like this boy at school, he is on the spectrum and I'm not. I'd like to ask him out on a date but not sure how to approach him let along ask him out on a date. Desperately seeking advice please. You should try and treat him like you treat every other guy. Be aware that his social skills might not be as good as yours and he might not respond in a way that you would expect. This doesn’t mean he is not interested, it just means that he is unsure about how to respond. Try and find out what he likes to talk about and this will give you a hint about what he might like to do. Start by trying to spend more time with him at school. Make your time with him purposeful so try and do something at school together. This will allow him to be more comfortable around you. If you do know him and spend time with him already then just arrange to go somewhere you know he will like and be clear on the plan. So where you will meet him, the time and what you will do. He will also want to know when you are going home. That’s ok! Just relax and have fun! Hope this helps ! Love Jordan xxx
“Dear Jordan”: My Son has been missing a lot of school recently due to his anxieties, the school have not offered any support and am at my wits end. Any advice/support would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Hi this is extremely difficult and if you are in Scotland, I would give an organisation called Enquire a call as they will advise you on your specific situation. You can find their details here http://enquire.org.uk There number is 0345 123 2303 They are generally open from 9am to 4pm. You may also want to link in to your local Carers centre and they may offer you emotional and practical support as it is extremely stressful. Just to reassure you that if you are in Scotland , you should expect input from school and they should lead on co- ordinating support for you. Hope this helps ! Love Jordan xxx
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What’s On in Ayrshire
***Ayrshire Veteran Breakfast club also meet every Monday morning at 10 in the Melbourne Café, Saltcoats. All welcome!***
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https://www.facebook.com/groups/476315025910707/ or https://www.facebook.com/VintageRoseTherapies.co.uk/
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Little Fix ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Watch them on 'Even Better Than The Real Thing' on BBC1 on Saturday 16th September. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Tickets, Adult £14, Kids £12, Family 4 of £48. On sale now. Under 14s must be accompanied by an adult. Little Fix are the most accurate tribute to girl super group Little Mix on the market. Since Little Mix formed in front of our very own eyes on the X Factor in 2011 they have become the biggest girl group on the planet and have churned out amazing chart hits such as Wings, DNA, Change Your Life, Move, How You Doin and Black Magic to name a few. Little Fix deliver a high energy show and replicate the energy, stage presence and vocal abilities of the original group with stunning stage outfits to match. The band power through all of Little Mixes biggest hits with identical choreography and vocal finesse proving that “Girl Power” is back on the agenda. https://www.facebook.com/events/329451314133339/
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Headspace For Relaxation This is a good starter app for learning how to relax with meditation and mindfulness. There is an introductory video along with clear to read instructions. When you begin the journey you are guided at your own pace, by a calm voice that takes you through the steps. Please click on the link below for further information and to download the app. Headspace: https://www.headspace.com/headspacemeditation-app
POLL: What would you like to read about in “JUST Jordan”? Let us know by contacting us via email: jfernando_1997@hotmail.co.uk or suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk
HOW TO SUBMIT AN ARTICLE. If you would like to submit an article, picture, ask a question or offer support in next month’s newsletter please contact me via email: jfernando_1997@hotmail.co.uk or suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk
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Join us on 26 March - 2 April for World Autism Awareness Week! Whether you bake, run, or host a bucket collection, your fundraising will help us to continue to support the 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK. Get your free fundraising pack now and find out what you can do!
Why take part? We've come a long way in raising awareness about autism, but there's still more to be done until everyone understands. That's why we are holding World Autism Awareness Week - a week of fundraising activities and events in your community, at work, or at school, to help raise money to continue our life-changing work. You can make a huge difference to the lives of over 700,000 autistic people by taking part. We are here to transform lives, challenge perceptions and build a society that works for autistic people – and the money you raise will help do just that. Your fundraising has helped us gather knowledge from vital resources, spreading the word far and wide through ground-breaking campaigns like Too Much Information. Last year, thousands of you got involved in World Autism Awareness Week and fundraised an amazing £300,000.
How can I get involved? Sign up now and get your free fundraising guide, jam-packed full of fun ideas and activities to help you raise money your way. http://www.autism.org.uk/get-involved/world-autism-awareness-week/form-individual.aspx
Autism Group Meeting Largs library community room on Allan park Street Feb 16th 10-12
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“JUST Jordan” Copyright of Miss Jordan Fernando Jfernando_1997@hotmail.co.uk suzfernando@yahoo.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/groups/213071952427706/ @JustJordan2016 https://issuu.com/justjordan19/ Disclaimer: All articles and information in this newsletter are of the writers own personal experiences and opinions.