Aiming High for Disabled Children Issue 10, Spring 2013
The Aiming High for Disabled Children editorial team recently visited Rowan Park School to take photographs for the Transitions Guide and couldn’t resist putting Head Girl, Talita on the cover!
How do you want to receive AHDC
Our recent evaluation of the Aiming High for Disabled Children told us that approximately 50% of you might prefer to receive your copy of Aiming High for Disabled Children by email. If you would prefer to receive the magazine by email contact Christine Bates on 0151 934 3853 or by email: Christine.Bates@sefton.gov.uk To find out more about the results from our evaluation, turn to Page 3
Are you registered with the Disabled Children’s Information and Database?
The Disabled Children’s Information and Database aims to provide parents with information both locally and nationally for families and children who may require specialist as well as mainstream services. Alongside this is an opportunity to identify services that could make a difference so they can be best developed for the future. The database can include children with: • Developmental delay • Physical disability • Chronic illness / medical condition • Moderate to severe learning disability • Hearing impairment / visual impairment • Communication difficulties
What’s in it for my child and me?
A regular newsletter sent direct to your home giving information about services, events, benefits and support available locally and nationally. As the register is voluntary, you may have been given a copy of this newsletter by a third party who thought it would benefit you. There is a referral form below. Once you have returned the referral form (or you can call the Disabled Children’s Information and Database on 0151 934 3853), you will be contacted to arrange a home visit to complete a data collection form. Christine Bates Database Coordinator
Disabled Children’s Information and Database (0-18 years)
Please complete the following information and return it to the address (right) and the Database Coordinator will contact you. Child’s Name: Date of Birth: Parent/Carer Name: Relationship to child: Family Address:
Telephone: Primary diagnosis: Signature:
Date:
Sefton’s Disabled Children’s Information and Database
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The Good Shepherd Site, Sterrix Lane, Litherland. L21 0DA. Tel: 0151 934 3853 Email: dcr@sefton.gov.uk Web: www.sefton.gov.uk/dcr Database Coordinator Christine Bates Database Administrator Glenda Foley
Hello and welcome to 2013’s first edition of Aiming High for Disabled Children. I want to begin with the Disability Pathway, which will define Sefton’s offer for its residents with disabilities. It will be designed to deliver improved outcomes for our disabled children and we want as many of you to have a say as possible. With the support of P.A.C.T.S (Parents and Carers Team Sefton) some consultation has already taken place but more is scheduled in March, with specific dates to be confirmed. You can find out more about the disability pathway overleaf on Page 3. On Page 11 you will find details of how you can join P.A.C.T.S, which I advise you to do. In a period of such transition it’s important that you tell us as a Local Authority what we’re doing well and where we can improve. DCATCH (Disabled Children’s Access to Childcare) is a fantastic service that we know is worth its weight in gold to many of you reading this newsletter. The service recently underwent a consultation that many of you will have taken part in and will mean this valuable service remains sustainable moving forward. You can find out more about the consultation on the back page of this newsletter. Finally, in the last issue we asked you to take part in the evaluation of the newsletter, a summary of which can be found on Page 3. I want to take this opportunity to thank those who took part in the consultation and a special thanks to P.A.C.T.S, who were vital to the process. I hope you enjoy this issue. If you there’s anything that you would like to see featured in future issues, please contact Christine Bates on the contact details below. Kind Regards, Jacqui Kerr, Manager, Early Intervention and Prevention (11+), Sefton Council
The right Merseytravel path for Customer Forums disabilities in Sefton Anticipated to be set up by March 2013, Sefton is developing a new Disability Pathway with the purpose of providing the right support at the right time and in the right place for disabled children and young people and their families. This will support them to reach their full potential and lead to improved outcomes. The Disability Pathway will be supported by Susan Hayward and Jane Harrison at ‘Together for Change’. Susan and Jane have extensive experience of working with local authorities to develop services for disabled children and young people, including the Short Breaks agenda. For more information on the Disability Pathway and how it can help you and your family, please contact Susan and Jane at ‘Together for Change’ on 07738 896 444 / 07718 193 532 or by email: susan.hayward@impactsb.co.uk / jane.harrison@impactsb.co.uk
Do you have any problems with accessing / using public transport in Merseyside? If, so Merseytravel host customer forums across Sefton. The next forum takes place on 16th April at 2pm at Christ Church on Lord Street in Southport (PR8 1AA). You are welcome to attend and can get more information on the forums by calling 0151 330 1200. Christine Bates will be meeting up with a representative from Merseytravel to raise the issue of free concessionary passes for young people with a learning disability and why some children are asked to attend a medical
assessment when parents have all the information from medical professionals and school confirming a child has a learning disability. If you have been refused a pass or feel strongly about that the process is unfair then please either contact Christine. She will not be able to discuss individual cases at these meetings but may be able to bring your issues to the attention of managers. To find out more, contact Christine Bates, Disabled Children’s Information and Database Coordinator on 0151 934 3853 or by email: Christine.Bates@sefton.gov.uk
Wheels for All
The ‘Wheels for All’ session at Litherland Sports Park will start again in the spring around March / April. They run on a Wednesday, 3.30 - 5pm and are suitable for young people age 8 years and over. There’s a wide range of cycling equipment to enable almost everyone whatever their ability to enjoy cycling. If you would like more information please contact Ann Gaynor at Litherland Sports Park on 0151 288 6288.
The Results are in!
In the Autumn 2012 issue of Aiming High for Disabled Children, we included an evaluation form for the newsletter, which was also replicated in an online form. Stand out parts of the feedback that will inform its delivery in future are:
80% 65% 40% 95% 90% 80%
Over 80% of respondents feel the newsletter is delivered at appropriate times. While positive, this still indicates that nearly 20% feel this area could be improved, which we will seek to do.
Over 65% of respondents said they would prefer to receive a digital copy, whether by email or online. We will now endeavour to identify those of you who want to consume the newsletter in this way and begin the process. Almost 40% of you have said of sharing our online version with you further you would like more frequent issues or updates than at present. In line with the stated desire to access it online we will evaluate how possible this will be. 95% feel the newsletter is easy to read and almost 90% of you feel there’s nothing you would add to it.
90% of respondents are registered on the Disabled Children’s Information and Database.
80% of you feel the newsletter has been of a direct benefit to you. While happy with this figure we recognise again that a sizeable proportion of readers aren’t feeling a direct benefit and we need to know why. 3
Lagan’s Foundation
Supported by Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Lagan’s Foundation is the only charity in the UK to provide support and home care to families with babies and children age 5 years and under who are diagnosed with acquired or congenital heart defects and / or the feeding difficulties associated with those defects. Lagan’s foundation understand the stresses caused by non-feeding and the possible failure to thrive and are offering support to parents.
“Me” time
Lagan’s will supply fully trained , CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) checked and NSPCC Child Protection Certified volunteers to your home to help in any way they can and give you some “me” time.
With a minimum of two hours help per week, the service is completely flexible and controlled by you, although you are not allowed to leave the premises while care is provided. To receive this support your child must be age five years and under with a heart defect or feeding difficulty. To complete the application you can self-refer or ask a health visitor, specialist nurse or your consultant doctor. Home support is regulated by the Care Quality Commission. To find out more about how you can apply for home support, contact Lagan’s Foundation on 01204 468 300 / 07879 663 304 or by email: info@lagans.org.uk For more information on the charity visit: www.lagans.org.uk
A ‘Special Place’ in Sefton
Sefton Carers Centre runs ‘Special Place’ disability support groups in Netherton and Southport. In Netherton the sessions take place every Thursday morning during term time from 9.30 – 11.30am at Netherton Children’s Centre, Magdalen Square, Netherton, L30 5QH. The programme up to Easter includes a variety of guest speakers. On 28th February 2013, Bethan Roberts, Sleep Practitioner for Cerebra will provide help and advice on sleep issues, while there will also be a therapy led clinic. Beverly Searle, CEO at Unique will cover rare chromosome conditions on 7th March followed a week later by Geoff Swainson at Sefton OPERA, who will also provide a demonstration of relaxation techniques and therapies. The last 4
session at Netherton before Easter will be on 21st March, when ‘Unique Kids and Co’ provide a talk on specialist services for disabled children, including childcare and social activities. The Southport group takes place every term time Friday from 9.3011.30am at Parenting 2000 on Mornington Road. On 1st, 8th and 15th March there will be the chance to get those creative juices flowing at expressive arts workshops and on 22nd March Sue at Sefton Carers Centre will deliver a session focussed on therapies. There are more sessions to be confirmed at Parenting 2000 such as nail art, ‘Speak Easy’, sensory occupational therapy and an ADHD nurse. To find out more or to put forward any suggestions for future sessions, contact Sefton Carers Centre on 0151 288 6060.
Take to the skies with the Travel Chair
The Travel Chair fits into a standard airline seat giving firm, postural support for disabled children so you can sit with them during the flight. It is suitable for children from 3 – 11 years, depending on their size and weight. It is quick to install and can fit into the overhead locker. The TravelChair can be purchased or hired by the general public – to find out how visit http://bit.ly/YYx39E It is also available through some airlines who offer the product as part of their service at no extra cost but make sure you check availability with them first.
Cinema a ‘special’ place for children and their families The ‘Special Screenings’ at Plaza Community Cinema in Crosby have proved very popular, with some glowing feedback!
“It’s the best resource in
Sefton” “Staff make you feel really welcome” “It’s great for all the family to go along!”
To find out more about what’s on at Plaza Community Cinema, visit http://plazacinema.org.uk
Did You Know?
The Disabled Children’s Information and Database has 1023 children and young people registered, with 309 girls and 714 boys.
World Autism Awareness Day and support groups in Sefton World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) is on Tuesday 2nd April 2013 and there are loads of ways you can show your support. You can find more information regarding WAAD at the following link: http://bit.ly/11ecVAL Here are three great ideas: 1. Update your Facebook status to tell your friends you are supporting World Autism Awareness Day. 2. Raise awareness in your community by telling someone about your experience of autism.
‘Changing Places’ at Calderstone Park
Calderstone Park is one of the most disabled-friendly parks in Merseyside. There is a sensory garden alongside the accessible ‘Changing Places’ toilet, which also includes additional equipment of a height adjustable, adult sized changing bench, privacy screen and hoist by the Park’s Georgian mansion. Changing Places facilities can also be found at Newsham Park and Croxteth Hall Park. To find out more about ‘Changing Places’ toilets and where they are located locally, visit: www.changing-places.org
3. Host your own fundraising event for WAAD and get involved in the WAAD Skydive. Find out more at http://bit.ly/XRLfv4 In Sefton there are several support groups. Sefton Parent Partnership (SPP) have an ASD (autistic spectrum disorder) and ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder) group that runs from 10am – 12noon on the second Friday of each month (excluding school holidays) at the Good Shepherd Site, Sterrix Lane, Litherland, L21 0DA.
Sefton Carers Saturday Club
Sefton Carers Saturday Club is a self-help group for carers providing leisure and sport activities as well as short breaks. The group meet at the Sally Eccleston Hall, Moss Lane in Litherland each Saturday from 12noon - 5pm. It has activities for everyone to enjoy including pool, music, puzzles, computer games, television and days out. The club is looking for new members to join, especially young people in transition into adulthood from specialist provision in Sefton. If you would like to find out more please contact George Cureton, Sefton Carers Saturday Club on 0151 474 7725.
Please contact the SPP on 0151 291 0551 for more information on times and dates. Parents run a group called ‘Rainbow Drops’ group, where disabled children, young people and their families are welcomed. It’s held every Saturday from 3.30-5.30pm at Netherton Community Centre on Chester Avenue in Netherton. Sefton Council can sometimes offer places to parents / carers on the ASD and ADHD courses they run for staff. If you are interested please contact Norma Georgeson on 0151 934 2872 to check availability.
Enjoy the “Magic” at Playtown!
The first Tuesday of every month from 6 - 8pm means ‘Magic Tuesday’ for disabled children, their parents / carers and families at Ocean Plaza in Southport. It’s £2.50 per child with adults admitted free, and the facility is closed to the general public to ensure there’s more space to play for those children and families who go along and enjoy the “magic”! For more information on ‘Magic Tuesdays’ please call 01704 778 444 or find out more at the Playtown website: www.playtownsouthport.com
Kidz unlimited in work experience
As part of Whizz-Kidz, ‘Kidz Unlimited’ have lots of new and exciting work placements across the UK designed for young wheelchair users, with current
opportunities in retail / customer services; human resources; hairdressing; hospitality; IT, finance and law. They can also help you to find a placement if you haven’t seen one you want to go for and have so far supported over 200 young people to gain experience of work and
further their career prospects. Visit Kidz Unlimited at http://bit.ly/m40wjB for advice on choosing a career, and finding a work placement near you. If you have any questions and want to find out more, email Claire at c.smith@whizz-kidz.org.uk
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Magazines, Books and Websites
Sensory toys tested by Mums http://on.fb.me/TQtpNv
Are you self employed? Information guide to claiming tax credits http://bit.ly/UIvx9v
Social stories that you can Personalize
http://www.sandbox-learning.com
Information on communication aids/ sensory toys http://bit.ly/SOdSbd
Respond
‘Respond’ works with children and adults with learning disabilities who have experienced abuse, trauma or have abused others. Respond use psychotherapy, advocacy, campaigning and other support. Respond also runs a free helpline on 0808 808 0700. If you call outside opening hours, leave a message and someone will get back to you. For more information visit: http://www.respond.org.uk
Voice UK
Voice UK is a national charity supporting people with learning disabilities and other vulnerable people who have experienced crime or abuse. Carers, parents and professionals can access their helpline on 0808 802 8686 (Mon-Fri, 9am – 5pm) or can email them at: helpline@voiceuk.org.uk For more information you can visit www.voiceuk.org.uk
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation
The Challenging Behaviour Foundation provides telephone and email support from a Family Support Worker on challenging behaviour associated with severe learning disabilities and related issues. Tel: 0845 602 7885 (Mon-Fri 9-5pm) or email: info@thecbf.org.uk Free information sheets and DVDs are offered about providing good support for people who have a learning disability and whose behaviour is described as challenging. Find out more at: www.challengingbehaviour.org.uk
The Disability Law Service
The Disability Law Service provides telephone or email advice on community care law and is free to disabled people and their family /
carers. You can call them on 0207 791 9800 (Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm) or by email: advice@dls.org.uk For more information, visit: www.dls.org.uk
Mencap Direct Advice and Information Service
Mencap Direct Advice and Information Service provides advice and information on all issues relevant to people with learning disabilities and their families. Advice lines are open from 9-5pm. Monday to Friday on 0808 808 1111 or by email: help@mencap.org.uk For more information on Mencap, visit: www.mencap.org.uk
Deaf Friendly Swimming
Deaf-friendly swimming have a useful factsheet showing simple steps that can be taken to ensure your deaf child can swim safely with their friends and peers. The National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) also produce a book titled ‘Harvey gets grommets’, which helps children to understand the temporary deafness caused by glue ear. To read the factsheet, visit the following link: http://bit.ly/XcrI9o If you are a member of the NDCS you can download the publication or contact NDCS on the freephone helpline 0808 800 8880 or by email: helpline@ndcs.org.uk
Gain a ‘Unique’ insight into setting Braille Books up a disabled children’s charity Do you have any books in The charity Unique Kidz and Co has been set up by parents and aspires to meet the needs of disabled children and their families in Lancaster. They will be sharing their insight from establishing the charity at a parent carer group at Netherton Children’s Centre on 21st March
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2012. The parent carer group is run at Sefton Carers Centre from 9.3011.30am during term time only. To find out more about these sessions and the event on 21st March, contact Ann Summers at Sefton Carers Centre on 0151 288 6060. To find out more about Unique Kidz and Co visit: www.uniquekidzandco.org.uk
Braille you are not using?
Netherton Activity Centre Library is looking for donations to support some of the children who visit the library. If you have any books you would like to donate, please contact Jayne O’Connell at the library on 0151 288 6802.
Travel Insurance for families of disabled children Sometimes the cost of travel insurance can mean families of disabled children and young people can not enjoy a family break together. The Family Fund has chosen independent insurance brokers Holiday Direct Insurance to administer and promote travel
Young Drivers
If you receive the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, you can learn to drive at 16. As a customer, you can learn to drive in your Motability car as long as: • You have a provisional licence. • You are listed as a permitted driver on the Certificate of Motor Insurance. • You are accompanied by a driver
TomTag
‘Tom Tag’ is a colourful daily checklist that clips to your child’s school bag so they always know what to take to school ... and to bring home again!
Sing, Sign and Say
‘Sing, Sign and Say’ is a communications group for parents and children at Playtown in Southport. Taking place every Wednesday, with sessions at 10.30am and 11.30am, you don’t need to book in advance so just turn up and join in the fun! The sessions are run by Chris Gerring, who some of you may know from his time working in Sefton’s Speech and Language Therapy Services.
insurance to families. A travel insurance policy is available for families raising a disabled or seriously ill child aged up to 18 years old and those with a disabled or seriously ill young person aged 18-23yrs who is in full-time education when a family
who is over 21 and has held their licence for at least three years. You can apply for your provisional licence three months before your 16th birthday by completing an online application at direct.gov.uk or by obtaining a D1 application form from your local post office. If you are a Motability customer aged between 16 and 24, you may be eligible for help towards the cost of lessons. Find out more at: http://bit.ly/X7GbBY There's also a visual planner to help students with organisation. For more information visit: www.orkidideas.com/index.html You can contact Orkid Ideas on 01904 213 123 or by email: sales@orkidideas.com
Crelling Harnesses
Crelling Harnesses offer a full range of seatbelts and harnesses for children and adults with special needs. The belts and harnesses are designed to offer postural support, as well as restraint for those with learning difficulties and challenging behaviour. For more information visit: www.crelling.com You can contact them on 01253 852 298 or by email: info@crelling.com
break takes place. For more information and to book your Family Fund travel insurance visit: http://bit.ly/XJlZ9u Once you have accessed the web page you will need the Family Fund code FF0712 to insert when prompted.
Practice Makes Perfect for the right signals
In Southport, Maureen Doyle has set up ‘Practice Makes Perfect’ to raise deaf awareness, introduce the manual alphabet and provide easy sign language lessons to help local people and organisations, giving them the chance to learn and practice these basic communication skills. Sessions are for people of all ages, with nominal charges and concessions. If you would be interested in finding out when the sessions are on, please give Maureen a call on 01704 546 626 / 07960 984 306 or visit: www.practicemakesperfect.org.uk
Enjoy the Fun Factor
The Fun Factor is an indoor play centre in Sefton Lane in Maghull, which offers a discount for disabled children. You will need to provide some evidence of disability living allowance or something similar. Find out more at www.thefunfactor.co.uk/admission or give them a call on 0151 526 6332.
Cerebra Children’s Club
The Cerebra Children’s Club is an interactive online resource where children with brain related conditions can send in their own work and contributions to share with other children and their families, while families receive an
emailed copy of a children’s magazine twice a year, emailed newsletters twice a year and a welcome pack and membership certificate. To find out more about the Cerebra Children’s Club visit: http://bit.ly/YhDm3V 7
Hi Everyone In September I returned to Hugh Baird College to do another year of my Business Administration Course. I enjoy answering the phone, taking messages and doing work in the practical office as well as general lessons. At our ‘Work in Progress’ youth club on Thursday nights, as well as music and Wii, we are cooking different meals each week. My favourite one so far is curry and rice because I like really spicy food. At Christmas the youth club gang went to see the Cinderella pantomime at Southport Theatre, “Oh no, we didn’t! Oh yes we did!” It was fantastic!
No Mountain too high for T.E.A.M in Sefton
Fundraising trust T.E.A.M (Together Everyone Achieves More) are raising funds for a holiday lodge for Sefton’s disabled children, young people and their families to use for a short break. The lodge will be adapted to include a hoist and be accessible for as many families as possible. In order to help raise funds, T.E.A.M have organised the ‘Snowden Challenge’ and are looking for as many volunteers as possible to join the challenge and raise much needed funds. Charity packs containing sponsorship forms are available from Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre for £20. Last year the walk up Snowden Mountain, the highest peak in Wales, raised £5,500. For more information or to find out how you can get involved, contact Kieran Owens at T.E.A.M on 07507 672 971 or by email: info@teamfundraising.org.uk
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I’ve had a busy time since Christmas. I have been taking part in the West End Players pantomime- ‘Dick Whittington and His Cat’. I was a member of the dance troupe and filled in a number of small parts. I’ve enjoyed dancing the night away at two of my friends’ birthday parties. A snowy evening didn’t stop the fun at Hannah’s 21st celebration and a great time was also had by all at Chelsea’s 18th birthday party. Bye until next time,
Diane
‘Meet other Down’s parents of Syndrome children with Awareness a hearing loss’
Week
18th-23rd March 2013
What do you see when you look at a person with Down's syndrome? Hope? Talent? In Sefton we believe that people with Down’s syndrome can play an important role in society and enjoy great lives, that’s why we’ll be celebrating Down’s syndrome Awareness Week from 18th – 23rd March, with a parent support group coffee morning on 21st March to recognise the achievements of our children and young people with the disability. The venue is yet to be confirmed, but if you would like more information contact Christine Bates, Disabled Children’s Information and Database Coordinator on 0151 934 3853 or by emailing Donna Proctor donnaproctor@hotmail.co.uk For Down's syndrome help and information, visit: www.downs-syndrome.org.uk or call 0333 1212 300.
‘Meet other parents of children with a hearing loss’ has been organised by the Sefton and West Lancs Deaf Children’s Society to help parents / carers and children with hearing loss to meet each other; siblings and friends can also go along and join the fun! Sessions are built around demand. Please contact parent Carolyn Dix directly by email: sdix2@sky.com or text her on 07950 243 159 to find out more or organise a session in your area. Sefton and West Lancs Deaf Children’s Society (SWLDCS) also have a Facebook page. Search for them and ask to join; it’s fun and a great way to engage with other parents / carers quickly.
Pat on the back for local charities
We would like to take the opportunity to recognise the Crosby and District Lions Club and Crosby Rotary Club for recently providing funds for a local family who were struggling with work they had undertaken. Another example of the generosity and great work that happens in Sefton’s communities.
U Clac Me Up Making a splash Lakeside style, young people in Sefton are now able to enjoy a range of wet and dry sports activities as part of the new ‘U Clac Me Up’ programme of activities. Taking place at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre, the new weekly activity programme runs every Saturday and is open to children and young people aged 8-12yrs. With a range of activities on offer, disabled children and young people can try out a variety of watersports including: bell boating, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing and canoeing. With specially adapted boats and equipment, the team at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre are able to provide specialist support on the water to enable disabled children and young people to enjoy a positive and fun learning experience. If waterside activities aren’t your sport of choice, there are a variety of dry activities for land lovers
including climbing, orienteering and environment focused activities, all of which are supported by highly qualified CRB accredited support staff. Commenting on the programme, Kevin Leavitt, Development Officer for the Sefton Aiming High team noted the variety of sports activities available on the ‘U Clac Me Up’ programme, “This popular programme provides an all round exciting and fun weekend of activities. It’s a great opportunity to learn new skills and try out a new sport and we have had fantastic feedback from young people who have taken part.” If you would like further information on activities provided through ‘U Clac Me Up’, please contact Kevin Leavitt direct on 0151 288 6929 or by email Kevin.Leavitt@sefton.gov.uk Alternatively log on to www.moveitsefton.co.uk/aiminghigh
Young people get down Lakeside style!
Making a Splash!
Making a splash in a fun, inclusive environment has been made a possibility for hundreds of families at Dunes Splash World with Sefton’s Aiming High team. Unique disability specific sessions running at the water theme park mean families, carers and friends can socialise in a safe environment free from prejudice while being supervised by a qualified and understanding team. Dunes Splash World is the ultimate escape for children and can be very bright and noisy with its pools, activity areas, slides, rides, water play features and high lighting levels. The exclusive sessions mean that the pools are less crowded and less noisy while the lighting is adapted to ensure it is fully accessible by all families. All staff at Dunes Splash World have basic autism awareness training to ensure they are equipped to deal with situations that arise while the use of whistles is banned so that participants won’t be alarmed by any sudden or loud noises. Working through a strong partnership with Sefton’s Sport and Recreation Team the exclusive sessions have been so successful that they have been rolled out year round and are attended by families from across the UK. These sessions have enabled the Aiming High team and staff at Dunes Splash World to engage families in other programmes and alleviate the isolation and frustration of children and young people with disabilities. Richard Potts, Development Manager for Aiming High stated: ‘This is a great project to be part of and the hard work of the teams at Dunes Splash World and Sefton Sport and Recreation alongside the Aiming High team has led to a service that was not only needed but is also valued by children, young people and families alike.’ Feedback from parents included: ‘Fantastic – it’s brilliant to be able to do something as a family, not excluding one child or the other’. ‘Thank you to everyone. The help you all give is fantastic. Also Splash World is a great idea’. For a list of dates for sessions or if you would like any further information about projects that have been developed by the Aiming High Team, please feel free to contact them on 0151 288 6811 or alternatively at www.moveitsefton.co.uk by following the ‘Aiming High’ tabs. 9
Aiming High Aiming High Team and Positive Futures set to “Break the Boredom” Team Holiday Programmes 2013
Working to “break the boredom” of disabled young people in Sefton, both children and adults combined forces this month to find a solution. Addressing the issue of a continuing demand for sessions and activities suitable, in particular, for young people with ADHD (attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder), the Aiming High and Positive Futures teams within Sefton Council hosted two consultation events at Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre to seek the views of young people. As a result of the consultation, the Aiming High and Positive Futures teams are now running a number of outdoor wet and dry adventure activities including bell boating, canoeing, kayaking, climbing, adventure walks and biking, with the first programme already being fully booked. “Break the boredom” sessions are designed to provide engaging and energetic outdoor activities for
children and young people with ADHD and are running throughout the year. If you would like to book your pupils onto the next programme, or would like further information for parents / carers / guardians or teachers, please contact the Aiming High or Active Outdoors team direct on 0151 288 6811 (Aiming High) or 0151 966 6868 (Active Outdoors) or by email: John.Doran@sefton.gov.uk (Aiming High) / James.Mealing@sefton.gov.uk (Active Outdoors).
The popular sensory and soft play facility, Jake’s Sensory World recently celebrated its first year with a Christmas party that featured a Christmas grotto, with Santa Claus handing presents to children as visitors of all ages had a great time. Featuring both a soft padded inclusive location for play as well as foam padded sensory facility for visitors to enjoy stimulation and relaxation, the leisure attraction has recently expanded its range of sessions with group bookings, parties and drop-in sessions now available. Jake’s Sensory World is housed within the Netherton Activity Centre (NAC), which offers a combined leisure centre and library complex, as
well as outdoor football facilities to enhance the offering for visitors to Jake’s Sensory World. Providing an inclusive location for all visitors, access to Jake’s Sensory World has been made as easy as possible with both the sensory room and soft play area featuring a ceiling tracking hoist to enable visitors to access all areas of the facility. In addition, the centre is fully accessible for wheelchair users and there are two disabled toilets / changing rooms, which have been designed in line with the ‘Changing Places’ campaign and include hydraulic changing beds and tracked ceiling hoists. For further information on Jake’s Sensory World, the facilities on offer or to read its brochure and prices – log on to www.moveitsefton.co.uk and click the tabs for Jake’s Sensory World.
Catch me if you can!
Soft Play Proves Popular with Santa
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The Aiming High Team are already busy planning this year’s summer programme. Given the feedback received last year, the team is hoping to run plenty of activities across the borough that disabled children and young people can engage in and fully enjoy. Letters will shortly be forwarded requesting that parents update their child(s) care plan and are offering the opportunity for this to be done online at www.moveitsefton.co.uk or if they prefer, hand writing it and sending it to the Aiming High team. All details will be explained in the letter. The February half-term flyer will be ready very soon and programmes for the Spring Break and Whitsun will offer plenty more opportunities for children to have fun, try new experiences and create new friendships. All information about holiday programmes and regular weekly activities is available for you to view at www.moveitsefton.co.uk following the ‘Aiming High’ tabs or alternatively at Sefton’s Family Services Directory at www.sefton.fsd.org.uk and click on the ‘Disability and Special Needs’ section. Details will be sent to all regular attendees. If you are aware of a family that do not access Aiming High activities but would like to come to the summer programme, or indeed the full yearly activities, then please encourage them to contact the Aiming High team on the details below. If you are not sure if your child or children are registered with the Aiming High Team then please do not hesitate to contact them on 0151 288 6811 or by email: aiminghigh@sefton.gov.uk
Do something new in 2013 and join P.A.C.T.S
As you are aware cuts in services are on-going, so now more than ever, it is vital that we work with service providers to ensure that services are suitable, safe and meaningful for children and that cuts are not made that disadvantage them or their families. P.A.C.T.S are encouraged that so far service providers within Sefton have listened and have indicated that they will continue to do so. The group continue to look for areas of good practice and feed them back and build on them whilst still identifying areas where things could be done better.
P.A.C.T.S will be sending out a bi-monthly newsletter to members in 2013 via email, the Facebook page, website and will keep you up to date on any meetings they attend on your behalf, and any further P.A.C.T.S meetings or open days that are planned. The group will also post flyers locally and send information via as many of Sefton’s schools as possible. P.A.C.T.S are actively seeking new parent representatives, anyone with a couple of hours spare a month is welcome to come and chat with them to see if you would be interested in joining the team. Joanne Fazakerly, the P.A.C.T.S Development Officer will be holding coffee mornings throughout the borough for any parents to come
along and find out what they do. The next coffee morning will be from 10.30am-12noon at Netherton Children’s Centre, Magdalen Square, Netherton, L30 5QH on 8th March 2013. There will also be one at Southport Community Service Station, 23 – 35 Scarisbrick Avenue, Southport, PR8 1NW. A date for this venue and others will be advertised via the P.A.C.T.S Facebook page. If you have any issues, questions or points to raise please contact the team at: p.a.c.t.s.sefton@gmail.com or for more information visit: www.pactsefton.org.uk You can also interact with the group at their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/PACTSefton
Application to join The Parent’s Forum Parent / Carer contact details
Name:
If your child attends school / nursery please give details below
Child’s Name:
Address:
Telephone:
Please return to P.A.C.T.S (Parent and Carers Team Sefton), c/o 27-37 South Road, Waterloo, Liverpool. L22 5RF. 0151 288 6060 Email: susan.neal@carers.sefton.gov.uk
Email: What’s the best way to contact you? Telephone
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DCATCH Consultation A service-user consultation has been taking place around the DCATCH (Disabled Children’s Access To Childcare) Service. DCATCH offers parents of disabled children aged 0 – 19 access to affordable, high quality, inclusive childcare in order that they can work, attend training or volunteer. Following a huge rise in new referrals, DCATCH has been obliged to freeze its caseload. This has allowed those involved with DCATCH to address the challenge of making
Between October and December 2012, 394 disabled children in Sefton accessed a short break, with a total of 16,015 hours of short breaks enjoyed by disabled children and young people!
Meet Sonya Wall, Transitions Coordinator
The Sefton Transitions Team has recently welcomed Sonya Wall as their new Transitions Coordinator joining Jane Backland. Some of you may already know Sonya from her time working in the Children with Disabilities social work team. She worked in that team for ten years and has a vast experience of working with disabled young people. You can contact Sonya Wall on 0151 934 3830 or by email: Sonya.Wall@sefton.gov.uk
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the service more financially sustainable. A full consultation involving parents, childcare settings and agencies, childminders and other Sefton Council services has now taken place. Viewpoints were collected by questionnaire then followed up by focus groups which examined the different ideas put forward. The focus groups were led by award winning, internationally acclaimed comedian, writer, presenter and actor Dr. Laurence Clarke. Laurence has
featured as a guest reporter on BBC 2′s Newsnight while being the subject (alongside his family) of a BBC1 documentary called “We Won’t Drop the Baby”. A number of suggestions and options regarding the future of DCATCH have now been collected. The DCATCH team are hoping to be in a position to present this information in late February / early March 2013. Please also note that the DCATCH Service has now been relocated to Netherton Activity Centre, Glovers Lane, Netherton, L30 3TL. If you think that DCATCH could support your family, you can contact the team on 0151 288 6812.
Are you or someone you know confused about what you’re going to do when you leave school? Taking place from 10am-2.30pm on April 23rd at Dunes Splash World in Southport, ‘Moving On’ is a transitions event with over sixty stalls where disabled young people can find loads of useful ideas about education, employment and training when they leave school. Stallholders will include, among others: local colleges, Job Centre Plus, training providers, social care, welfare rights and day services. As well as the serious business of preparing for your future, there will also be lots of fun stuff too! Hosting the event will be Sefton’s brilliant Transitions Coordinators, Jane Backland and Sonya Wall, who will be on hand alongside the stallholders to answer any queries or provide help where they can with the support of dedicated, clued-up volunteers. Taking place every year, the ‘Moving On’ event is an essential date in the
calendar for disabled young people and their families and is not to be missed. Make sure go along and don’t miss out on future support that could make a real difference to adult life. For more information, please contact Jane Backland / Sonya Wall, Transitions Coordinators on 0151 934 3845 / 3830 or by email: Jane.Backland@sefton.gov.uk / Sonya.Wall@sefton.gov.uk
‘Moving On’ Up as disabled young people take their next steps
ARE YOU MOVING?
Don't forget to let us know your new address for you to continue to receive Aiming High for Disabled Children Please contact Christine Bates, Database Coordinator, Sefton's Disabled Children's Information and Database on 0151 934 3853 or by Email: dcr@sefton.gov.uk