An update from Kate...

2023 already! Can you believe it?

I am in the throes of drafting our annual report, which gives me time to reflect on our successes, highlight the work we have done, review what didn’t go so well, and plan how we can continue to provide and improve the services you have asked us for.

Nothing happens without people. This year, we have invested more in our services, and recruited new staff to meet the growing demand for support, advice and engagement from almost 13,000 children, young people and adults who are registered with us, as well as from families, friends, professionals, volunteers, and supporters.

This Summer edition of ‘Together’ showcases some of the work, projects and events we have been involved in or are planning, as well as sharing stories of Shine members from across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, alongside useful tit bits of information and links to other services.

Enjoy the read! Best wishes, Kate

Raising awareness of non-visible disabilities

Thanks to some of our members, we have produced and launched a video and supporting guide to understanding non-visible disabilities, and improving how members living with disabilities, that can’t always be seen, are treated.

Coupled together, the video of our members sharing their stories and the guide which provides a framework for discussion and reflection, can be used to help your friends and families understand the challenges you sometime face in every day live.

It is also a great resource to use with your medical professionals, who need to better understand what you might be going through, or with your employer to improve your working environment and relationships with colleagues.

The budget 2023

In March 2023, the Government announced changes to financial support for people with disabilities, and a greater focus on getting people into work.

Scope has provided a useful summary on its website. Please click or scan the QR code for more information

The changes won't happen overnight, and Shine will be keeping an eye on developments and updating you as and when we can.

GO-Kids-GO

Go-Kids-Go is a small charity that offers free wheelchair training to children and young people all around the UK. We’re told their courses are great fun, and you can attend as many courses as you like. Go to www.go-kids-go.org.uk for more information.

In the meantime, if you have any questions or are at all worried about how these changes might affect you, please contact us for support.