Future Voice - Autumn 2012 Issue 21 by Midland Heart

ISSUE 21

AUTUMN 2012

THE MAGAZINE FOR MIDLAND HEART’S SUPPORTED HOUSING CUSTOMERS

FUTURE

VOICE Flint Green House gets motivated pages 20-21

Welcome to Issue 21 of Future Voice, the magazine for and about Midland Heart’s Care & Support customers. A big thank you to everyone who has submitted stories and ideas for this edition – we couldn’t put it together without your help. It’s another packed issue with roundups from around the services as well as special features on World Mental Health Day and Black History Month. There was a great response from customers at our editorial board meeting this time at the Lichfield Foyer. If you hear that the board is meeting at a service near you... please feel free to join the team. We take a look at the ‘Back on Track’ programme which has taken on a second phase of young apprentices (page 8). There’s also a big feature on the volunteers in Midland Heart’s mental health services (pages 4 & 5) and an update on how you can get involved in the Venture volunteer scheme to boost your employment prospects. We visited Calthorpe Park on 15 September with our photographer to catch the action at the Midland Heart Future Festival Funday. Turn to pages 16 and 17 for the full story. Of course there’s all the usual regulars including our call for you to keep your stories and letters coming in - we couldn’t put Future Voice together without your help. Chris Munday Managing Director of Midland Heart Care and Support

Pop-up shop spreads the Midland Heart message Midland Heart ‘popped up’ in The Pavilions to bring the care and support message to a whole new audience. The pop-up shop in the city centre shopping arcade opened its doors on14 August for six weeks to display customers’ art, host art and craft workshops and provide a wide range of advice services. Visitors also had the chance to find out more information on all Midland Heart’s services and customer involvement opportunities. It was set up by customer involvement’s Tommy Fellows who said: “We were given the shop rent-free so it was the perfect opportunity to showcase the entries in the Midland HeART competition and to promote what we do at Midland Heart. “We have made contact with a lot of potential customers and have talked to people about issues we may be able to help them with.” Talented customers from across Care & Support selected their favourite creations to enter the Midland HeART competition. The entries, based around the theme ‘Home is where the HeART is’, showcased at the pop-up shop, and ranged from modern art and traditional watercolours to a knitted patchwork blanket and a short story. Mary Lynn, a customer at Helen Dixon House, was delighted to see her painting in the gallery. She said: “I’m very proud to have it on display in Birmingham. I was really buzzing with excitement to come and see it for myself.

Contents Our valuable volunteers 4 & 5 Tyze takes off

Getting Back on Track

Going under canvas

“I wouldn’t say I can draw very well but I like painting abstracts. I feel that I can get my feelings out when I’m painting; it relaxes me and calms me down.” Mary, who also enjoys making cards and calligraphy, hopes to run an art and craft session at Helen Dixon House for other customers. Her Support Worker Dee Ashmore said: “I’m very pleased for Mary, she has come a long way since she moved into the service and she’s worked very hard.”

10 & 11

Soccer success stories

Poetry power

Funday fun & games 16 & 17 Well Being drive

20 & 21

Black History Month

New life for Nigel

Benefits reform

26 & 27

One key focus for 2012 is to ‘Make a real

difference to peoples lives’. Using this icon (pictured below) we’ll highlight some of the articles about customers whose lives have been transformed thanks to the dedicated work and encouragement of the Midland Heart team.

VOLUNTEERING...

Volunteer coordinator Chrissie Morris

Midland Heart’s team of volunteers gain valuable experience and skills as well as playing a valuable role in the community. Chrissie Morris took up the new position as Midland Heart’s volunteer coordinator 12 months ago and has helped the programme to really take off. With generic systems and procedures now in place it is much easier for service managers to give individuals an opportunity to volunteer within Midland Heart. Chrissie explained: “A lot of people approach Midland Heart wanting to volunteer. This ranges from people wanting to gain experience to support their search for employment to people wanting to give something back to the local community. “We have found that volunteers bring many new skills to the services and give us and our customers extra

Valuable volunteers make a huge contribution to our service support which is invaluable. “In return, the volunteers enjoy feeling that they have made a real difference to people’s lives and have gained valuable experience for their C.V.s, college or university courses.”

Claire Street Claire Street first joined Holliday Road as a volunteer Support Worker before being offered a full time position. “I completed my Psychology degree and a Master’s degree in Health Psychology

but I didn’t have any practical experience. “I started volunteering at Midland Heart last November working at weekends and I feel that I have learned more in the last six months than I did in four years at University. “Nothing beats face to face work. In the classroom we learnt about statistics and case studies. Now I am learning about the stories behind the person and am gaining practical skills. I love the work and no two days are the same. “I’d recommend volunteering to anyone. It is a great way to gain experience and skills and looks good on your C.V.” Flint Green House “Our volunteers bring many new skills to our service and are a very valuable part of our team,” said Roz Ratcliffe, manager of Flint Green House.

Emma Riddell came to Flint Green as an occupational therapy student needing to gain experience. Although she has since completed her course, she Richmond House Richmond House has taken on board the government’s Big Society message and has worked to strengthen the community. Assistant Manager Emma Rowley said: “We believe that volunteering can be really rewarding. Volunteers often find they feel part of a special community where they meet new people and make friends. “At Richmond they find the experience motivating and fulfilling and something that gives them a real sense of achievement.”

enjoyed volunteering so much that she still comes in most Saturday mornings to run the Brunch Club, helping customers to gain cooking skills and enjoy this social activity.

“Everyone enjoys the sessions and they get a lot out of it,” Roz added. “It is a real achievement and more and more customers want to join in.”

“I enjoy meeting and greeting people and interacting with the customers. I find it very rewarding” Martin Fahey, Richmond House volunteer

“Being a volunteer has been the most exciting experience; I have learned many skills, gained confidence, knowledge and greater understanding of people who have needs”. Abir Egal, Richmond House volunteer Openin Breakin g minds – g dow n barr 5-9N iers ovemb er 201 Look o 2 ut fo outcom r the positive es to fo llow.

Calvert Trust

Customers keen to Venture into new careers The Venture volunteering project continues to grow as word about the success of former volunteers spreads. The scheme, which enables customers to take on volunteering opportunities within Midland Heart’s Care and Support Inclusion Services, received a record number of applications for the latest vacancies. Interviews for the 14 part-time volunteering positions took place in August and the new

recruits will shortly begin in their new roles. Chrissie Morris, Midland Heart’s Volunteer Coordinator, said: “We are delighted that the project has become so popular. “Many of our former volunteers have progressed into full-time positions after gaining valuable experience and new skills.” Anyone interested in becoming a Venture Volunteer should contact Chrissie Morris, Volunteer Coordinator on 02476 680110.

NEW SERVICE & NEW ONLINE NETWORK...

Learning disabilities services expand in

Coventry

Midland Heart welcomed a new service to Learning Disabilities in September after taking over the running of the Brook View registered care home in Coventry. The service offers residential care to a maximum of eight customers with varying levels of need. The 22-strong staff team, led by manager Sara Coleman, work hard to ensure their customers lead comfortable and varied lives. Sara said: “Brook View is a lovely home. When I came for my interview for the position of manager two years ago, I noticed immediately that the home had a fantastic feel to it. “Many of the staff have worked here for a long time so the customers are very comfortable with them and we understand their needs very well.” Sara said getting customers out and about is one of the team’s key aims although activities are chosen around the weather. “We go out every day and during term time the regular activities are usually swimming, bowling and dance classes. “During the summer, picnics and barbecues are very popular and we do a big trip each week to various activity locations.”

Better

together

with Tyze

A new online service is helping customers across Care and Support to manage their support networks. Midland Heart is piloting the Tyze personal network system which enables the individual, family, friends and care professionals to work together more efficiently. All networks are completely confidential and are centred around one specific person. Everyone on the individual’s network can see and organise appointments, plan events, ask for help, send messages and add updates. Those on the network are likely to be family, friends, neighbours and care providers and only the network administrators can invite new members. The Tyze trial at Midland Heart, headed by Tyze co-ordinator Mathew Kemp, will include a total of 100 people, including staff members, and when Future Voice went to press, 68 people had live networks. Helping families Richard Bates, Housing IT and Information Officer, became involved professionally and personally when a Tyze network was set up for his four year old son, Finley, who has a chromosome deletion (10Q26.2). Richard said: “Tyze is a way of bringing together all of the people involved in the care or support of a person. This could be friends and family when caring for someone with a care need. It helps manage some of the

practical day to day jobs that really matter. It also helps paid professionals link in with each other and share information across systems. “My family has found our network for Finley to be really useful, particularly the appointments calendar. Our extended family members can access the network so we can keep everyone up-to-date without having ten conversations. “It also helps staff working at his school understand what nurses, dieticians and physio’s have said. This allows them to change Finley’s diet or care as appropriate” “At the moment we have 68 people on live networks and we are working to make sure that the quality of each network is first class before adding more to the system.” Want to learn more about Tyze? Check out this short video on You Tube – it will make everything crystal clear. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQcXYjtJFRo In our next issue we will meet staff at a Learning Disabilities service in Hereford to see how the system is helping customers there.

APPRENTICESHIPS...

Back on Track’s a runaway success The innovative Back on Track programme has 19 young apprentices in work placements across Midland Heart. The scheme was launched by Midland Heart in response to last year’s August disturbances in Birmingham to help young people who would normally be excluded from apprenticeship opportunities. The young men and women who signed up to Back on Track are being supported at every stage to reach their full potential. Michelle Goodall, Intervention Service Manager for Back on Track, told Future Voice that demand is high for places on the programme. “We had 35 referrals for 11 places on the second phase,” she said. “To try and meet the high demand we extended the number of vacancies to 14. “Those who weren’t successful were signposted to the Midland Heart Young People’s Employment Development Officer where they could access employment related support.” “Our programme invests in She added: “We are very any young people who live in pleased with how the the communities in which we programme is going and it is work and gives support that wonderful to see the young is centred on the needs of the people progress. individual. “We were realistic in our “It would be fantastic to expectations and know that expand the initiative - we for many of the apprentices it would be delighted to work has been a huge transition. with partners to further “A few of them are on develop and invest in even performance improvement more opportunities for young plans to help them achieve people.” their goals but overall their Michelle Musgrave, Midland work has been excellent.” Heart Director for Customers and Communities

Hitting the headlines Back on Track hit the small screen in the Midlands Today news round-up in August. The staff and apprentices interviewed on the BBC early evening programme talked about the success of the scheme so far.

“My life has completely changed because of Back on Track. I never thought I would be able to get a job, but here I am working.” Shaquille Robinson, Back on Track apprentice

“This opportunity means more than a lot to me. Looking back at the last two years I still can’t believe how far I have come in the last six months. “Back on Track has opened up new doors to a new future, giving us a major opportunity to turn our lives around regardless of our past. “It was not an easy road but Sharon and Michelle have been there to keep me motivated and they have helped me with accommodation, preparing me for adulthood and for this opportunity I am more than grateful.” Jesse Bowen “This opportunity means a lot because if it wasn’t for Midland Heart I wouldn’t be doing anything with myself.” Danielle Caprani “Back on Track has given me a chance to push myself in a positive way. I’ve come a long way since this programme started, and fingers crossed, it’s just the beginning.” Zain Qumar

Frost & Snow reaches new audiences Frost & Snow is going from strength to strength with the launch of a new website, Facebook page and Twitter updates. The social enterprise bakery, which opened a café at the Snow Hill in May, is now boosting its business online. The lively website highlights the wonderful array of cupcakes it offers as well as introducing its valuable team members. It complemented the website launch with a new Facebook page – which had 368 likes in the first three weeks and is gaining more every day. You can find the website at: www.frostandsnow.co.uk

EAT, CAMP, CLIMB...

Magical weekends customers will never forget Customers got a real taste of outdoor life this summer on a series of camping trips organised by the Customer Involvement Team. The team took four groups of up to 10 Inclusion service customers to The Roaches in the Peak District for magical weekends they will never forget. Customers saw their confidence and self-

esteem soar as they pitched their tents and tried rock climbing activities. The groups, who were also treated to a trip to the spectacular Blue John Mines, also worked on life skills and spent an evening in the ‘mess’ tent discussing policy reform. Su Moss said: “The customers had a great time and got involved with all the activities. They got a lot from the experience.”

Going under canvas for weekend of fun High Street South customers got a taste for the outdoor life on a three-day camping trip. The group pitched their tents in Fineshade Woods in Rockingham Forest, near Corby and spent the weekend doing various team activities such as walking, sports, team building activity, bush craft and games.

Customers reach dizzy heights A planned camping trip may have been called off following a week of wet weather, but young people from Staffordshire weren’t left feeling disappointed. Support staff arranged a trip to the Redpoint climbing centre in Birmingham for ten customers from Lichfield Foyer and Stafford’s Eagle House. Stephen Dewis, Life Skills Worker at Lichfield Foyer, said: “It was a great day and the teamwork among the young people was brilliant.

Cake bake raises funds for trip Brilliant bakers at the High Street service in Blackheath turned their talent into profit to raise funds for a day out. Customers and staff cooked up delicious delights to sell at the local Bethel Church luncheon club run by Loaves and Fishes, a local Christian charity. It was a double delight when they sold all of their cakes and raised £25 towards a day trip. More cake sales are planned. Support Worker Kirsty Jaynes said: “The customers plan to do another cake sale in a few weeks as the cakes proved so popular.” Sonia Chahal, Acting Project Leader said: “Loaves and Fishes have been a great support to the customers at the project since we moved in. I have nominated them to be a recipient of the Midland Heart Give More Charity, as it helps disadvantaged people in Sandwell and Dudley.”

Jacob Fielding was an amazing climber, a natural. There was a completion to see who could get up and down the abseil wall the quickest and Jacob easily won in 1 minute 40 seconds… and he was blindfolded!” Jacob, who lives at the Lichfield Foyer, added: “It was a good day. Everyone enjoyed it, especially the meal at Wing Wah afterwards.”

What a whopper! Trinity Close put the flags out for the Jamaican 50 years of independence celebrations and tucked into a giant 50 inch patty. The enormous patty was donated to the service by Cleone Foods via the Birmingham Central Foodbank. With help from the Life Skills Worker and Support Workers, the customers prepared a colourful salad and a fruit punch, while waiting eagerly for the patty to arrive.

ON THE BALL...

Allen Bennett

Playing for Homeless Cup places In this Olympic year eight customers from the Midland Heart Foyer in Birmingham hoped to achieve sporting glory of their own by playing for England in the Homeless World Cup. The men were picked from hundreds to try out for the England Homeless Football squad, which competes in the finals in Mexico in October. The trials took place at West Brom’s Hawthorns ground in August and customer Bile Hassan was thrilled to go through to the second round at Old Trafford, home of Manchester United. Foyer Support Worker Nathaniel Scarlett said: “The lads did extremely well and we are very proud of them all. It is a shame Bile didn’t get through the selection at Old Trafford but it was still a great achievement.” “It was a great experience for them all and they were treated like professional

footballers at West Bromwich Albion and were invited to watch the first game of the season.” Bile said: “It was a great experience for me to play at West Bromwich Albion and going through to the second round at Manchester United. I would like to thank Midland Heart for supporting me.” What is the Homeless World Cup? The Homeless World Cup Foundation was set up to use the power of football to energise homeless people to change their own lives. It supports grass-roots football programmes and social enterprise developments via a network of 73 national partners and celebrates its work by organising an annual football tournament that unites teams from countries all around the globe. For more information go to: www.homelessworldcup.org

Soccer scheme leads to coaching success Three customers have kicked off their football coaching careers after gaining their FA Level One qualification. Allen Bennett and Matthew Wicket took the qualification on the Birmingham-based coaching scheme which is open to all Midland Heart customers. The sessions, led by Colin Parry and Dave Thomas from the Homeless Services Centre, were launched in February and attract a good crowd each week. Allen and Flint Green’s Simon Richards, who also has his Level 1 award, are doing volunteer coaching work as well as working towards their Level 2 qualification. Allen has also been involved with Football Futures and runs the female team and the Under 7’s squad. Colin said: “They have all done extremely well and we’d like to see more customers getting involved.”

If you would like to take part, speak to your staff team. The sessions, which are free, are held on Wednesdays, from 12 noon – 1.30pm.

Dear Fay

Our Agony Aunt Fay has managed to pack a lot in to her life including 18 months as a customer at the Midland Heart Foyer. She seized the opportunity to become an apprentice and after working across two services, she was offered a full-time position as Support Worker at the Snow Hill.

A problem shared... If you have a problem you need help solving, write in to our very own Agony Aunt Fay. The topic can be about anything you like, including relationships. If your letter is suitable for publishing, she will respond in her own inimitable style. Send your letter to: Fay, Future Voice magazine, Midland Heart, 44 Bradford Street, Digbeth, Birmingham. B5 6HX. Alternatively, you can email her at: Editor.future.voice@ midlandheart.org.uk Your letter/email will be treated in the strictest confidence but please include your name. All letters will be published anonymously.

Q. Dear Fay, I put on a lot of weight after leaving home two years ago and it’s making me really miserable. I’d like to lose three stone but every time I start a diet, I give up after a few days. Whenever I’m fed up or miserable I just start eating and then I think that as I’ve eaten so much, I might as well carry on. What can I do? A. Firstly, thanks for your question. Losing weight can be difficult. Firstly, I would suggest you go and see your GP to get weighed and find about your general health through blood tests etc. The problem with dieting is that a diet is not something that would be a permanent lifestyle. If you comfort eat, you need to look at why and then deal with those issues. To lose weight is all about balance, eating healthy and regular exercise.

You can reach your target of losing three stone by changing your diet - swapping foods that make you put on weight to more fruit and veg, and think about portion size. Birmingham City Council will give people on benefits/low income free membership to the gym. If the gym is something you aren’t interested in you can exercise at home. Try walking around the park or to the shops or find an activity that you will enjoy. Dancing, for example, is a wonderful exercise, which is great for your heart and it can lift your spirits as well. Getting into shape is also about positive thinking… when you are happier you feel more motivated. Keeping to your goal of losing three stone will take time but the end result will be worth it. Make small changes and you will see the results Best wishes Fay

NEW SYSTEM & NEW OPERATIONS MANAGER...

OSKA brings all round benefits A new and more efficient database system is giving care and support staff more time to spend with customers. The OSKA Project, currently being trialled at Gibbs Road and five floating support services across Inclusion Services and Mental Health Services, is transforming the way Midland Heart’s Care and Support division operates. The system will act as a database for all Care and Support customer data, holding all contact notes for customers, alongside Risk and Needs Assessments and Care and Support Plans. Once data is in the system it transfers across to the relevant forms so does not need to be input again – saving staff hundreds of hours at the computer. OSKA, which has been trialled since July, includes digital pen technology to enable front line support staff to capture data with customers face to face. Already staff have said they are delighted with the system which means less paperwork plus improved accuracy and security of customer data. It also responds to customer feedback which revealed that customers want to spend more time with staff. Judith Cross, OSKA Implementation Lead, told Future Voice: “This is a new and innovative way of working that demonstrates how Midland Heart has listened to both staff and customer feedback. “Staff told us that they spent too much time on admin work as they need to be able to evidence all the work that they do for our funders. Customers told us they do not see staff enough and want staff to be able to spend more time supporting them. “As the new system allows data to be transferred directly from the digital pen to the new OSKA system staff then do not need to come back to an office to type up the data. “This then means they have more time in which to be able to support our customers so it’s a win win situation.” OSKA roll out to all Supporting People funded short- term services is due to commence mid October 2012, with a pilot around care funded services also starting at this time.

What staff say… “It is great for support workers to have the opportunity to spend more time with the customers.” Jo Weatherley – Team Leader - HSC “OSKA is a great system. It saves me time because there is no paperwork.” Vicentia Zoubabela – Housing Advice “This project reduces a lot of the paperwork, which is brilliant.” Abiola Gbajumo – Mental Health Floating Support Service “OSKA allows Midland Heart to successfully maintain and record all interaction with customers in a safe and secure way” Adam Taylor – ICT Project Manager

Emma Main is proud to be part of the team It’s a passion for improving the quality of life for people with learning disabilities that led Emma to her new position within Midland Heart. Emma, who previously worked for a small charity in London which delivered innovative services to people with mental health issues and learning disabilities, joined the Midland Heart team in July. “In some ways it feels like I’ve been here forever and in others like I only started yesterday!” she said, “I spent a lot of time in my first few weeks getting out and about meeting staff and customers across Birmingham, Herefordshire, Northampton and Coventry.” Emma said promoting co-production (recognising customers as experts in their own lives) lies at the heart of her role, supporting her staff team to maximise the opportunities available to customers. “We want to offer people with a learning disability a different experience than they perhaps have had with other service providers,” Emma said.

Emma hopes to make a big impact on Learning Disabilities Services and improve customers’ opportunities for independent living Emma, who joined Midland Heart as the Services’ new Operations Manager spoke to Future Voice about her role and how she plans to make a difference.

“Of course residential care homes have their place but within them there are many opportunities to enable customers to become more independent and to fulfill their hopes and aspirations. “We have a broad spectrum of customers with some being able to communicate their needs and wishes more easily than others. “Even though some people may find it more difficult to communicate, it is just as important for us to find out what they would like to do. “My role is to support the regional and service managers in their roles and to help them deliver opportunities that the customers perhaps haven’t been able to access before. “Lots of vulnerable people are prevented from doing things because others, although wellmeaning, feel they aren’t capable. “We need to look at activities and opportunities to see if they can be safely accessed, managing positive risk taking rather than trying to avoid risk altogether.”

CREATIVE, COMMUNITY...

The power of poetry Writing poetry can bring comfort and a sense of calm especially for those who find it difficult to express their feelings out loud. Customer Danni Simpson finds that putting her thoughts down on paper helps to clear her mind and focus on the life she would like to lead. Danni, who had been homeless for many months, moved into Rushden’s High Street South last December. She said: “I write a lot of poetry, usually on good days when I haven’t been drinking. I wrote this poem earlier in the year after I’d been at High Street South for a couple of months. “I’ve had a lot of support and now I can go for up to six days without a drink. I’d never have been able to do that without the help of staff. I know I’ve got a long way to go but I hope to go to college soon. “I’d say to anyone who was at rock bottom not to give up. Take the support which is offered to you and you will move on.”

I don’t want to be a boozer End up on the street, a loser, Sitting here smoking weed, I don’t think I’ll ever succeed. I try to understand, Where my place is in this land, But I find that I am lost, I feel cold like frost, Should have stayed at school, Back then I thought it was cool, To mess around and do a bunk, Taking drugs and getting drunk, Having sex with lots of men, Repeating the sequence again and again, So I could forget all the bad stuff, To try and change it all to fluff, Like a cloud that evaporates, Splits my brain so that it separates, All the good and all the bad, All the happy and all the sad, I hate my life, my smile all gums, Killed too many brain cells, crap at sums, Lots of people call me random, They say that sanity in me is seldom, So many years that I have missed, Because I’ve been high and mostly pissed, I really want to try and change, But without a drink I feel strange, This year I’ll be twenty seven, I don’t think I’ll be accepted in heaven, The doctors say I’m not well, So if I don’t stop, I soon be in hell, Then I pour myself another drink, To try and find that missing link, Then I skin up another joint, Smoke it, then forget the point, Once again I’m drunk as a skunk, My life’s like a game of kerplunk, Pull out bits, my marbles fall out, All I want is to scream and shout, I end up doing stupid things, I wish that I could have wings, To fly away, to another place, Because this world I can no longer face. Danni Simpson

All the Festiva It was the perfect day. The sun shone, people chatted and the sound of music and laughter filled the air. The Future Festival at Birmingham’s Calthorpe Park offered customers from across Care & Support and people from the local community the chance to get out and have fun. The event, on 15 September, saw around 200 people taking part in sports events, side shows, pottery painting, and other attractions. Others preferred to sit in the sun and soak up the atmosphere. Tommy Fellows from the Customer Involvement team, which organised the festival, said: “I really enjoy working with local organisations to pull a great day together. “This has meant a great day for our customers and the wider Birmingham community and we look forward to a bigger day next year.”

fun of the al

“I volunteered to help because I like getting out and I enjoy being involved. I was here at 8.45am helping to set things up.” Customer Ambassador Tracey Miller (with her puppy, Chaos) “It’s a good day out. I like sitting here doing pottery painting. It’s very relaxing.” Eustace Storrod, customer, Jack David House

“I was pleased to be able to come here today. I like to get out and about and support Midland Heart at events like this.” Jason Fox, customer, Holliday Road

“I feel very lucky that I’m well enough to be able to volunteer at events like this. I love getting out and meeting people.” Customer Ambassador Les Brian, Penmakers Court “I’m having a good time. I like getting out.” Cecelia Anderson, customer, Jack David House

“This is the first event I’ve volunteered at. I like to get involved and see people enjoying themselves.” Customer Ambassador Steve Howard, Ralph Barlow Gardens

The Future Festival was a joint project between Midland Heart, Birmingham City Council, Optima Community Association, Friendship Care & Housing and the church of St Ambrose and St Mary in Edgbaston.

INTO SPORT...

Olympic medals up for grabs While the world was glued to their TV screen, enthralled by the 2012 London Olympics, Gibbs Road customers were out there doing it for themselves. Support staff – helped by Rob and Jamie from the Recovery In Progress Team at Atlantic House - organised a two-day Olympic event for customers. They battled for medals in eight exciting events including an obstacle course and a Olympic torch relay. All competitors enjoyed a free lunch to keep up their energy levels. Mike Foster, Acting Team Leader, said: “The event was an opportunity to offer some different activities to those we usually run, and it was good to be part of the Olympic buzz which gripped the country!” “The Gibbs Road Olympics was very entertaining, inspirational and it was great seeing the hostel come together to get into the Olympic spirit”. Kye Flatman “It was a good day and helped bring the staff and customers together.” Kristian Watkins

Volunteer work earns Alan Olympic ticket Customer Alan Bennett couldn’t believe his luck when he was offered a ticket to an Olympic football event as a thank you for the volunteering work he has done. Alan, from Zambesi in Sparkbrook, was treated to a night at Coventry’s Ricoh stadium to see Japan v Honduras and United Arab Emirates v Senagal in the battle for a place in the quarter finals. Future Voice spoke to Alan as he took his seat at the ground minutes before kick-off. He said: “I was so excited when I heard that I had been given a ticket. I couldn’t contain myself. It is fantastic to actually be here at an Olympic event. The atmosphere is amazing and the crowds are so loud.” Alan was given the ticket as a thank you for the volunteer work he has done this year with the Inclusion Services.

Muirhead signs up for Ping! Ping Pong power came to Midland Heart’s Muirhead House as part of the popular Ping! Brum initiative. The project provided 64 ping pong tables across the city free of charge to get as many people as possible playing. Jon Bassett, who was Team Leader at Muirhead House earlier in the year, applied for a table and was delighted when his request was accepted. “It was a great initiative to promote well-being and a sense of community,” he said. “The outdoor table and equipment were well used… customers were always up for a game or two.”

Boxing trio share their new-found skills A trio from Lichfield House are celebrating after becoming accredited non-contact boxing tutors. Alex Cutter, Dan Bell and John Kelly signed up with the Right Stuff Boxing Project run by local Police Officer Andy Whitehall. After attending Wednesday morning training sessions their effort and dedication paid off and they passed their preliminary award. The three young men from the service in Stafford then completed their training to become accredited non-contact boxing tutors and have used their new skills to volunteer

at the project’s summer sessions for young people between 8 and 17. Life Skills Worker Pascale Pug, said: “After just a couple of weeks at the training sessions you could already see the improvements. Alex, Dan and John are really enjoying it, so much so that Dan is looking at the different options available to continue with the sport.” The Right Stuff Stafford Town ABC was launched in 2009 to engage young people, tackle youth crime and anti-social behaviour. It also encourages parents and other adult volunteers to take part in a mentoring programme.

AND MORE SPORT...

Errol Harding

Mr Motivator makes a difference

Flint Green House’s very own ‘Mr Motivator’ is helping to improve the well-being of customers. Errol Harding was appointed Well-Being Champion to encourage customers and staff at the service to become more active. Errol, who has worked as a fitness instructor and a teacher during his career, said: “Exercise should be part of everyone’s life and I am doing my best to motivate everyone.” He has established regular gym sessions as well as encouraging customers to engage in activities such as skipping and football. Errol said: “From our 15 customers, five are regulars in the gym. No-one ever wants to do it but after they finish and have a shower they

always say how much better they feel for it. “Unfortunately many of our customers are on medication which can lead to cravings for carbs so it is difficult for them to eat healthily. But we are starting with fitness and hope that as they feel fitter, they will try to tackle their diet.”

“I really enjoy the sessions at Flint Green. They make me feel happy and relaxed.” Adbi Hussein “The exercise I do at Flint Green is really tiring but I feel good afterwards. I’m going to do it regularly now that I’ve started” Mohammad Naheem

The staff team are determined to lead by example and all got involved with the Midland Heart Mile. Flint Green House manager Roz Ratcliffe completed her mile in her own inimitable style… on a space hopper. Errol said: “That meant Roz had to complete 35 laps of the garden here. She did it over several days and we tracked her progress.”

Better mental healthcare needed to prevent premature deaths Despite improved healthcare, a recent study has revealed that people with serious mental illness are more likely to die prematurely. New research suggests that those diagnosed with illnesses such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder can have a life expectancy 10 to 15 years lower than the UK average. Researchers followed more than 30,000 patients and discovered that many were dying early from heart attacks, stroke and cancer rather than violence or suicide. The study, carried out at the Biomedical Research Centre for Mental Health at the Maudsley Hospital in London, examined life expectancy for people experiencing specific mental illnesses like schizophrenia, serious depression and bipolar disorder. The researchers believe a combination of factors higher-risk lifestyles, long-term anti-psychotic drug use and social disadvantage - could be to blame. What you can do to help yourself It’s never too late to change your habits and establish a healthier lifestyle. Your support worker will be able to give you all the information you need to take the first steps towards healthy living. Diet – eat a healthy, balanced diet which is low in fat and sugars. Exercise - boosting your levels of general daily activity can massively improve your health and energy. A 30 minute walk each day is a great start. Smoking – quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to cut the risk of developing cancer. Giving up the habit isn’t easy, but is one of the best lifestyle choices you can make and there’s lots of support available. For more info go to the NHS Live Well website at: www. nhs.uk/LiveWell

CELEBRATIONS...

Celebrating Black History… and what it means to you In the UK, each year October is Black History Month, a national celebration to promote and celebrate Black contributions to British society and improve an understanding of Black history. It is an important annual celebration of heritage, identity and pride. “Black History Month is something to celebrate and be promoted to all other cultures too.” Luke Hume, 23, The Foyer “When I think about Black History Month I think about Malcolm X. I go to carnivals and events with friends and family to celebrate my culture.” Omari, 22, The Foyer “For me Black History Month is a time for honouring the good things that black people have done - it is about celebrating that they have stood up for what they believe in. It is something that should be celebrated all the time. Stephan Williams, 24, Snow Hill “Black History Month for me is about heritage, pride, who we are and what we stand for.” Simon Adams, 37, Snow Hill

Diwali celebrations Diwali is the five-day festival of lights celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs which celebrates the victory of good over evil and marks the start of the Hindu New Year. This year the festival begins on 13 November. Lamps are lit to help Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, find her way into people’s homes. “Diwali is a time for celebration and in order to bring prosperity to homes we honour the Goddess Lakshmi. Special food is eaten and gifts are given.” Gurminder Degan, Snow Hill

Celebrating Refugee Week Customers of Midland Heart’s Refugee service were treated to a go karting day during the annual Refugee Week celebrations. Monique Rosemond, Team Leader, Homeless Services, said: “The go karting day was a fantastic opportunity for customers to have fun and talk about what Refugee Week means.”

Celebrate good mental health World Mental Health Day takes place on 10 October to raise awareness of a common mental disorder which can be successfully treated…depression. This condition affects more than 350 million people across the world and it is estimated that by 2020 depression will be the second leading cause of world disability. What is depression? Everyone is sad at one time or another but true depression is a clinical issue and it is extremely important to seek help. Without intervention, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years.

Where to go for help If you think you are clinically depressed your first port of call should be your support worker or your GP. Nehemiah’s Story Nehemiah Leachman moved to Flint Green House in April 2010. He first experienced severe depression in 2002 at the age of 31. “I was in a very dark place for a long time. When I am depressed I feel very low with no energy. “When I did eventually see a doctor he told me I was ill and that I needed to come here. I felt a sense of relief because I had felt so alone.” “I’ve had a lot of support here at Flint Green House,” he said. “My medication has

helped and there’s always someone to talk to. I feel fine now but it has taken a long time for me to get to this stage. “I’ve enjoyed my time at Flint Green. The staff have been very kind to me and I’ve made some good friends.” No matter how low, You may feel at times, Always remember there, Is light at the end of the tunnel, Those darkest days, Those darkest nights, Time will heal the pain. Anytime, just talk to someone, Talk it out and let it go, You will feel better inside, Because only you know how you feel inside Nehemiah Leachman 12 July 2012

A very British afternoon

In the wettest summer on record Helen Dixon House made sure they made the most of what little sunshine there was by throwing a nonalcoholic cocktail party for customers. The service in Moseley, which offers safe and supported accommodation for 42 women aged over 25, provided music, a buffet and cocktails - of the non-alcoholic variety - one sunny afternoon. Customer Mary Lynn said: “It was a good day, a bit like a picnic in the park.”

Early success for new rough sleepers outreach service A new pilot scheme to tackle rough sleeping in the West Midlands has celebrated an early success after helping customer Nigel Williams get his life back accommodation had failed. on track. Sara Hussey, Rough Sleeper Personalisation The scheme was launched by Midland Officer, explained: “We went out several times Heart in April after a study, conducted on looking for Nigel and finally behalf of West Midlands tracked him down in June “This is the first real help I’ve Homelessness Forum, in a shed at a community had in a very long time. You are highlighted a lack of centre in West Bromwich. brilliant people who are doing provision in the areas everything I need. “He didn’t have much trust outside of Birmingham. in people before but just “All the workers are very good, The service provides two weeks after we first very supportive. I’m not used support to rough sleepers made contact with him to people being nice to me, I’m in the Sandwell, Dudley, we had him in his own used to watching my back. My Walsall, Stratford-uponproperty.” future’s looking brighter now Avon and Solihull areas, thanks to Midland Heart.” She added: “The team and works alongside has put in a lot of work Nigel Williams voluntary and statutory supporting Nigel and it has agencies. To date more been so rewarding seeing than 25 new customers have been supported him become so much more positive. He with six moving into accommodation. signs on and is trying to address his alcohol Nigel was referred into the Project problems… he really feels like he’s been given by Sandwell Council following all a second chance in life.” previous attempts to support Nigel into

Colin’s back on the air

Eid celebrations bring customers and staff together Customers from all cultures joined in Snow Hill’s Islamic Eid celebrations to mark the end of Ramadan. The party, on 24 August, was a lively affair with food, music and lots of laughter and all private and supported customers were invited to join in the fun. Traditionally Muslim women henna their hands with intricate designs to mark the end of the Islamic month of fasting, so housing manager Debbie Hart arranged for a henna artist to work her magic. Some of the staff team even wore something green – one of the colours associated with Eid. Support Worker Nadira Begum ‘’I enjoyed the Eid said: “It was a good afternoon party. It was nice and around 20 customers because not only got involved. It was a good Muslims attended, opportunity for people to get but people with together and learn about other beliefs. It was another culture.” a mixed group of people, so everybody learnt from each other.” Alisha Green, customer Photography taken by Midland Heart customer, Gurminder Degan

Moving into independent accommodation has given floating support customer Colin the space he needs to indulge in his hobby. Thanks to support from the Accommodation Access Service, Colin is now settled in his new home and has again set up his prized amateur radio equipment. Colin, a keen radio ‘ham’ for 28 years, speaks to people across the world via the airwaves and says the hobby is completely absorbing. “I started with home study materials to help me to gain my foundation licence, which you need to be able to transmit on air,” he explained “You can progress on to the Intermediate and Advanced licences by widening your knowledge through study.” Colin said that for him the best thing about amateur radio is knowing that once he has put a call out, someone will pick it up and return it.” For more information about amateur radio go to: www.rsgb.org or to find your nearest club: www.radioclubs.net Do you have an absorbing hobby? Whether it’s dressmaking, running, photography or yoga, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with us via your Support Worker or by contacting us at the usual address.

YOUR BENEFITS?

Benefit how will it Reform affect you? The Government is making major changes to the welfare system with almost all benefits being affected. We know about some of the changes now, however, particularly in Care and Support, there are many important decisions which have not been finalised and we are working hard to bring influence to get the best decisions we can. Some changes are already underway while others will be introduced over the next few years. The welfare reforms will mean changes to how an individual’s benefit is worked out and also how their benefits are paid. Those that will be affected include: • Customers who receive housing benefit • Customers with more bedrooms than they need • Customers with larger families (more than 5 children) • Changes to how benefits are paid and received The new ‘Universal Credit’ system has the twin aims of simplifying the benefit system and increasing work incentives for those who are unemployed or working part-time. It will be phased in from October 2013. For many claimants, Housing Benefit, Income Support and Job Seekers Allowance will be merged into a new single benefit. Some customers will receive their housing benefit payment in their hand, rather than

“we are working hard to find solutions to reduce the impact the reforms will bring.” paid direct to us as their rent payment (known as ‘direct payments’). For most households the new benefit payment (Universal Credit) will be paid in arrears as a single monthly payment to mirror the experience of most people in work. What we are doing to help our customers Midland Heart has already remodelled its operations to make sure they have the processes in place to help and support its customers’ needs following the changes. Chris Munday, Director for Care and Support at Midland Heart said: “We know that the changes the government are planning may bring major issues and hardship for many of our customers and we are working hard to find solutions to reduce the impact the reforms will bring.” We are engaging with our customers to maximise their income, give them good information and the best advice to help them to deal with the challenges that the welfare reforms will bring. We are working to identify and clarify the services that will be protected for our most vulnerable customers. We are developing a communication campaign to drive the message of how the reforms will affect each of our customers financially.

Benefit reforms… what customers said We talked to support staff across Care and Support about their customers’ feelings and concerns about the proposed changes in benefits. This is what they reported back… n “The general feedback from customers was one of dismay and negativity and they are afraid that they will be unable to live on reduced benefits. They see the cap and don’t realise that they often fall well inside this cap.” n “Our customers have a great difficulty in understanding the changes and how they affect them and see the proposed changes as a direct attack designed to cut benefits.” n “Customers who now receive more than one benefit, for example DLA and JSA, are alarmed because when combined with Council Tax benefit, they will see the amount of benefits they receive cut.” n “One customer said that he would be happy to have control of his money as it would help him feel that he is trusted and in control. Others are worried about being tempted to spend the money on substance abuse or about being financially abused.” n “Customers are worried that because the payment of all benefits will be paid monthly, this would make it difficult to budget.” n “Customers are concerned about the paperwork being done on the computer. At the moment the system crashes and sometimes they must complete the application form several times before it is submitted successfully. Others, who aren’t computer literate and do not feel confident entering public libraries, feel quite helpless and believe that they will lose out because of this.”

Viewpoint Viewpoint… we find out what you would like to be doing in five years’ time? Having a realistic long-term goal is a great way to focus your mind on what you would like to achieve and how to take the first steps on that journey. In this issue our roving reporters met customers and asked: “What would you like to be doing in five years’ time?” This is what you said... “In five years’ time I would like to have some qualifications and hopefully have joined the army within this time. Maybe even have a family of my own, or a reliable, well-paid job.” Tiarna Wheeler, Rolfe Street Foyer, Smethwick

“I would like to have a job working with children in hospital or in Santa’s grotto” Lorna Hayward, 19, Eagle House, Stafford

“Moving into my own independent Midland Heart property will give me the stability to focus on higher education and voluntary opportunities. I would eventually like to work full-time in the substance misuse/recovery field. I would also like to learn to drive and go on holiday abroad. I just want to be like anyone else, feel part of the community and be able to give something back.” Vickie Copper, Solihull Tier 4 customer

“I would like to be working in a restaurant specialising in Thai food, have my own apartment and be engaged.” John Moulding, 34, Eagle House, Stafford

“I’d like to be settled and secure in myself in all aspects, in full time employment and in settled accommodation.” Inclusion services customer

a e r

EDITORIAL BOARD “I am currently starting a business and in five years’ time I would like to have two or three shops selling furniture. I would also like a chain of restaurants, which is my real dream.”

homelessness and substance issues.

Raul Carneiro, Rolfe Street Foyer

Adam Hough, Rolfe Street Foyer

“I want to be financially stable with a job and my own accommodation”

“I am due to be a father shortly and would like to provide a stable home for my child. I’d like to train as an electrician.”

James Duffy, 26, Eagle House, Stafford

“I would like to change tenancy, get better in terms of my mental well-being and find voluntary work.” Shamin Mohammed, customer supported by the Birmingham Mental Health Floating Support Team

“I would like to establish a safe living environment, get my teeth and other medical conditions sorted so I can start to live my life again as I did before. Once I am well, I would like to start publishing my poems and stories.” Shane Macintyre, customer supported by the Birmingham Mental Health Floating Support Team

“I would like to be working as an electrician and have my own home. I’d also like to work with people who are experiencing

Adam Tolley, Gibbs Road, Stourbridge

“I would like to have my own flat and a job.”

Danny Bowen, Gibbs Road, Stourbridge

“I would like to work with the new generation who have problems.”

Everyone’s welcome, JOIN IN Future Voice visits Lichfield Foyer Future Voice’s editorial board meeting this time was held at the young person’s service in the small Staffordshire city of Lichfield. Lichfield Foyer has 17 single bedrooms with shared facilities and nine one-bedroom self contained flats at Aiden Court, an adjoining property.

Philip Hodgetts, Gibbs Road, Stourbridge

“To be a fully qualified electrician and to live and work in the USA.” Andrew Halifax, Gibbs Road, Stourbridge

Pictured from left to right: Andrew Halifax, Danny Bowen, Philip Hodgetts, Adam Tolley.

Meet Ebony… Ebony Aldridge returned to college in Walsall in September to start her Level 2 course in Hair and Beauty. “It’s good to learn the basics of both hair and beauty but I really enjoy the hairdressing side. It comes quite naturally to me and I like to be creative. I hope to go on to a Level 3 apprenticeship so I can gain more experience.” She added: “It is alright here and

the staff are good at helping with family problems. I hadn’t spoken to my Mum for three months and they helped us to get talking again.” Meet Vikki… Vikki Snelling had been living at the Lichfield Foyer for eight weeks when Future Voice visited the service. “I’m finding it really good here and everyone makes you feel welcome,” she said. “But it would be better if we could keep pets. Even a goldfish would do! At my Nan’s I have two dogs, nine rabbits as well as chickens and ducks.” Vikki, who is qualified in equine care, added: “Now I’ve settled in I want to sort myself out and get a job.” Meet Jacob… Customer Jacob Fielding told us: “Lichfield is alright but there’s nothing to do here. Ideally I’d like to move to Manchester.” Jacob explained that he was an apprentice plumber but was made redundant halfway through his apprenticeship. “I’d like to carry on with the plumbing but there’s not much going on around here.” Meet Samantha… When we visited Lichfield, Samantha Cartwright, who is expecting her first child in January, was preparing to move into her new flat in nearby Tamworth. “I’ve been here for nearly two years,” she explained, “and although it was OK in the beginning, now I can’t wait to move into my own place.” If you would like to attend a Future Voice editorial meeting to talk about what you’d like to see in the magazine, speak to your staff team. Alternatively you can get in touch with the team by emailing us at: Editor.future.voice@ midlandheart.org.uk

Homemade delights thank Church for its support The young people at Lichfield Foyer and Aiden Court cooked up a range of delicious goodies to sell at St. Michael’s summer fayre, donating some of the proceeds to the Church to thank them for their on-going support. With support from Anne Whatson, their link with the church, they worked hard to create homemade delicacies such as cherry biscuits, coconut truffle balls, peppermint creams and a variety of chutneys. Support Worker Jo Rose said: “We have built up a really good relationship with St. Michael’s which has supported us and our young people in a number of ways over the years including donations of food, Christmas presents and Easter eggs. continued over page...

FUTURE VOICE magazine

“This was our way of giving something back in return for all their support.” “I found a new side to me. I didn’t realise I had the confidence to do it and to approach people to sell items to them.” Codie, Lichfield Foyer customer “I had a fantastic time and am really looking forward to doing it again.” Ebony, Lichfield Foyer customer

Future Voice is a quarterly magazine for customers of Midland Heart supported housing – Inclusion – Homeless & Youth services, Mental Health services and Learning Disability services. Each issue features a wide range of stories that are relevant to our customers and are aimed at helping them move forward to a brighter future. To make sure Future Voice is bursting with things you want to read about we need to hear your news and ideas. Contact us at: Editor.future.voice@ midlandheart.org.uk or write to: Su Moss, Future Voice magazine, Midland Heart, 44 Bradford Street, Digbeth, Birmingham. B5 6HX.

Tell your story Do you have a story to tell? Our readers enjoy reading about other people’s experiences. If you would like to tell your story, get in touch by writing to us at the usual address or by speaking to your service manager or key worker. We prefer to include names and photographs for our case studies, but if you would like to remain anonymous, then we won’t include your details. You’ll also be given final approval on the article – we won’t print anything that you’re not happy with.

Issue 20 w inner...

Word Search

We’re looking out for people with unusual hobbies to feature in forthcoming editions. So our word search this time includes activities people often enjoy in their spare time. There’s a £50 voucher of your choice for the first correct entry out of the bag, so make sure you send in your entry to be in the running... it’ll give a useful boost to your finances. Cycling Swimming Knitting Running Bowling Dancing

Singing Tarot reading Sewing Boxing Painting Jigsaws

Name Address

Telephone High Street coupon of choice

Congratula tions to the winner of the word search com petition in Issue 20 . The winne Post your entry r, Jon Schurmann from Oasis to: FREEPOST, House who wins a £ 50 Asda vo RRAL-ZTXB-SJXT, His ucher. winning en try was picke Future Voice Word of th d out e search, Midland from hat by Roxanne Procter The Birmin gham Foye Heart, Bath Row, r.

Birmingham. B15 1LZ. Please note the competition is only open to Midland Heart customers with only one entry per customer. Final deadline for entries is 7 December 2012.

O B U F W V X N J W K I J M X F S I N G I N G W N E Z P D X H I E I D L D P Z N K W N A H B J S G Q K O Z C U J H T P H S X G L J I A W T J W K D D A C X F P Q J Q V J O R Y O D D A S C U L H O I L Y U E O H V D D R E I R A Y R E W G G W J W Q Q X C O N L C I G W J I E Z D W B A V I P D A G N I T N I A P N D W C R D W I I K V A B J M A C V Q Z L S R I I W B T Z O N C K G G N K H O B M S C A G K M W W L O Z D G Z B R N N C I E F Q V Q V H N M A W P R J P X X L Y C I I I Z V J K N I T T I N G J A T R U N C X A I X C G D N E J A D A W L H Q T W C Y C L I N G N O N X H L Z E I F S Z W M H Q W R F I A F I D K B A C G H P X H Q R S O P Y X L L O E O I S U J W D M D V I M F W Y A B U O G M X Z R U N N I N G N F R Z O I G Z S T E R N L Y K X I R Q Z U G W M X C S V

First Point of Contact Baseline Stimulant Service A client-led drop service to meet the needs of stimulant drug users which provides information, advice and harm reduction services. Tel: 0116 222 9555 www.lcp-trust.org.uk Unlock - supports reformed offenders in breaking down barriers to reintegration by offering practical advice, support, information, knowledge and skills. www.unlock.org.uk Futures Unlocked, Leicester - supports ex-offenders to lead crime-free lives 9 Newarke Street, Leicester. Tel: 0116 255 3742 www.futuresunlocked.org

SOVA - national volunteer mentoring organisation. Help and support for those who are socially and economically disadvantaged Midlands Office Tel : 0121 643 7400 www.sova.org.uk Start Again Project - a Social Enterprise that is committed to understanding, encouraging and empowering young people aged 13 to 30 in their search for a better life. http://www.start-again.co.uk/ Depression Alliance - help & information about depression; depression and self help groups. www.depressionalliance.org/

The Samaritans Do you need someone to talk to? Tel: 0845 790 9090 (local rate) www.samaritans.org.uk Mind - a leading mental health charity. MindinfoLine Monday – Friday, 9.15am – 5.15pm Tel: 0845 766 0163 www.mind.org.uk SANE - provides practical help, emotional support and specialist information to individuals affected by mental health problems, their family, friends and carers. Helpline: 0845 767 8000 (6pm – 11pm) Support Forum: www.sane.org.uk/DB

No Panic - advice, counselling and selfhelp for people who experience anxiety, panic attacks, phobias or compulsive disorders. FREEPHONE 0808 808 0545 (10am–10pm every day) www.no-panic.co.uk National Debtline Free confidential and independent advice on how to deal with debt problems. Call 0808 808 4000 Monday to Friday 9am-9pm and Saturday 9.30am-1pm Talk to Frank Information and advice on drugs Tel: 0800 776 600 (freephone) www.talktofrank.com Aquarius - Full range of help for people affected by alcohol and drug problems. Northamptonshire - tel: 01604 632421 Birmingham North - tel: 0121 685 6340 Birmingham South - tel: 0121 414 0888 Sandwell - tel: 0121 525 9292

Leicester Drugs Advice Centre 96 New Walk, Leicester Tel: 0116 222 9555 Northampton Women’s Aid 0845 123 2311 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.30pm) Citizens Advice Bureau www.adviceguide.org.uk Birmingham and Solihull Women’s Aid 0121 685 8687 (Mon-Fri 10am – 5pm) UK National Domestic Violence Tel: 0808 2000 247 (24hr freephone) Victim Support’s Male Helpline 0800 328 3623 (12 noon to 2 pm, Mon-Fri) Alcoholics Anonymous 0845 769 7555 www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.uk Brook Advisory Confidential sex advice for the under 25s

We are happy to make the contents available on tape, large print, braille or in a different language. We also subscribe to the Language Line interpretation service. If you need help communicating with us or understanding any of our documents, we can arrange for a Language Line interpreter or translator to help you. If any of these services would benefit you please contact us.

Tel: 0800 0185 023 (freephone) www.brook.org.uk Shelter housing advice helpline Lines are open daily from 8am to midnight. Tel: 0808 800 4444 england.shelter.org.uk Runaway Advice for under 18s who have run away from home Tel: 0808 800 7070 (freephone) www.missingpeople.org.uk DECCA (Drug Education, Counselling and Confidential Advice) is the Sandwell young people’s drug service. Tel: 0845 835 5317 www.ukdrugzone.com NHS Direct Health Advice Tel: 0845 4647 (local call) www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk