All Together Now magazine - Issue 24 - April 2009 by All Together Now

YOUR AWARD-WINNING CHARITY MAGAZINE THAT’S BREAKING DOWN THE BARRIERS p7

TAKE ME HOME! WIN! WIN! WIN!

AUTISM BOOST

AIRPORT’S NEW GUIDE FOR PARENTS p8

All Together Now! is supported by:

APRIL-MAY 2009

LIVING LIVING THE DREAM DREAM

ROD’S BACK p27

400 APPRENTICESHIPS!

p10

p32

WORLD CLASS

www.direct.gov.uk/disability Public services all in one place www.direct.gov.uk

When you have finished reading this magazine please pass it on to a friend or neighbour

All Together Now!

What’s inside NEWS:

p2-4

LEISUREZONE:

MERESEYTRAVEL:

GARDENING: Competition

DAY OUTS:

p8-9

COVER STORY:

p10

SKILLZONE:

p11

MOTORZONE

p15-18

PUZZLEZONE:

p20-21

HEALTHZONE:

p24-27

CAREZONE:

p28

UNITED UTILITIES:

p29

NOTICEBOARD:

p30

SPORTSZONE :

p31-32

Telephone: 0151 230 0307

Who to contact Editorial Editor: Tom Dowling email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

Advertising/sponsorship Chris Groves Gemma Tasker email: sales@alltogethernow.org.uk IT Support: Ken Almond Website: Pharos Design

NEXT EDITION: Wednesday June 3, 2009 All Together Now! is published by All Together Now! Ltd, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP Registered Charity No.1106387 Company No. 5096931

Printed by the Liverpool Daily Post & ECHO, Old Hall Street, Liverpool L69 3EB

April/May 2009

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NEWS

Cellists tune up for spinal injury run Benefit boost for blind THEY have raised more than £10,000 for charities. Now three friends who call themselves The Extreme Cellists are ready to run a half marathon – carrying cellos on their backs and making regular stops to give recitals to runners and spectators! Jeremy Dawson (32), James Rees (28), and Clare Wallace (49), will be striding out in the SIG Insulations Sheffield Half Marathon to raise money for the spinal cord injury charity Aspire. The event takes place on April 26 at Don Valley Stadium, Sheffield. To join the cellists, call 0114 230 8429, or visit www.sheffieldmarathon.com

TWENTY-SIX thousand “severely visually impaired” people will, from April 2011, receive the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance.

HIGH NOTES: Half marathon next for The Extreme Cellists

Rock legend Rod tops the bill at charity ball ROD STEWART is to headline an annual fundraising event for sick and disabled children. The Caudwell Children’s charity ‘Butterfly Ball’ will be Rod’s first performance in England since Princess Diana’s memorial concert at Wembley Stadium in 2007. Founded by successful entrepreneur-turnedphilanthropist, John Caudwell, the Caudwell Children charity has donated over £9m and helped change the lives of thousands of children across the UK. The ball will take place at London’s Battersea

Evolution on May 14. Charity chief executive Trudi Beswick said: “We are thrilled that Rod has confirmed as our headline act and that he has kindly donated his time.” Last year’s celebrity guests included Joan Collins, Buzz Aldrin, Kelly Rowland, Louis Walsh and David Furnish who helped raise a £1.5million for the charity. Caudwell Children charity is based in Staffordshire and provides direct donations for treatments, therapies and specialist equipment throughout the UK. ■ www.caudwellchildren.co.uk

Lesley-Anne Alexander, chief executive of the Royal National Institute of Blind people, who campaigned for the change, said: “This is a fantastic victory for people with severe visual impairment and for everybody who has supported RNIB’s two and a half year campaign to end this long-standing injustice.” During the campaign over 300 MPs agreed with RNIB’s call that blind people, who obviously cannot drive, have been treated unfairly by DLA rules in only being allowed to receive the lower rate of £17.75 a week, when other disabled people who can drive receive £46.75. Under current rules, to qualify for the Disability Living Allowance higher rate mobility component a person must have a physical disablement, which renders them unable or virtually unable to walk.

www.direct.gov.uk

More adventures are guaranteed THE Children’s Adventure Farm Trust, which provides breaks and activities for disadvantaged children at Millington, Cheshire, is one of four charities to share a £20,000 donation from vehicle leasing specialist GE Capital Solutions, Fleet Services. Rich Green, managing director at GE Capital Solutions, said: “We take our responsibilities in the community very seriously. A business does not exist in isolation and must play an active part in its local area. “Our staff have built very strong relationships with organisations such as CAFT through hands-on work in recent years, and we are pleased to be in a position to make this charitable donation to all of these causes.” Other charities to benefit from the donation are: ■ Stockdales, which offers respite and residential care in four local homes for children and adults with complex learning and physical disabilities. ■ Trafford Womens’ Aid, which supports abused women and children. ■ The Education Business Solutions initiative, which aims to raise the aspirations and achievements of young people.

CHEQUE MATES: Back row, Martin Goswell (GE Capital Solutions), Jenny Swindells (GE Capital Solutions), Marilyn Ainsworth (Trafford Women’s Aid), Elaine Booth (Trafford Women’s Aid), Christine Hodgkinson (GE Capital Solutions), Julie Birchenough (GE Capital Solutions). Front: Alistair Laing (CAFT), Paul Farrington (CAFT), Emma Morris (Stockdales), Reg Chick (Education Business Solutions)

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April/May 2009

All Together Now!

NEWS

Where there’s life, there’s hope . . . THE winner of our recent MOTORZONE competition to win a fantastic Blue Badge satnav is Mr D Houghton, Timperley Lane, Leigh, Lancashire. He writes: “I pick up my copy of All Together NOW! from my local Morrisons supermarket. It’s a very interesting read and helpful in so many ways. Very much looking forward to the next info-packed edition. “Keep up the good work!”

THE CLOCKS have leapt forward, the Grand National has been run, and the sun is shining . . . That means it’s spring – and what a fantastic spring edition we have lined up for you! We may be surrounded by lots of financial gloom and doom, with many charities (including All Together NOW!) facing exceptionally tough and uncertain times. But, as the saying goes, where there’s life there’s hope . . .

and kicking. Our other hope is that we get a good mention at TAKE ME HOME! this year’s North West media awards, run by the How Do media website. For the second year running we’ve been short listed in the ‘Best Magazine’ section. D-Day is Thursday April 30 at And, as you will see as Old Trafford. Keep your you flick through these fingers crossed for us. pages, there’s plenty of We’re back in print in hope and vitality about! June – June 3 to be Our immediate hope is precise. See you then! finding a few more — Tom Dowling, editor sponsors to keep us alive

Oh no, Ronaldo! Fair play – that’s all we want . . .

ISABLED motorists charity Mobiise has hit out at Manchester United’s Christiano Ronaldo after he parked in a disabled bay Helen Smith, Mobilise director of policy and campaigns, said: “I am absolutely disgusted. He is lucky enough not to need a disabled bay so I have no idea why he decided to park there. He is either extremely selfish or has no respect for disabled people who

What our winners say about us . . . THE FIVE lucky winners of our recent gardening competition are: Claire Gillison, Inman Road, Upton, Wirral, who picked up her copy of All Together NOW! in her doctor’s surgery. She writes:

‘ ‘ ‘ ‘ ‘

I love everything about All Together NOW! It has helped all our family through all the different articles.

Mrs K Parr, Vicarage Road, Orrell, Wigan (Southport Library). She writes:

All Together NOW! is colourful, cheerful and helpful. I love it!

Mrs Tracey Boka, Rhydwen Farm Mews, Dyserth Road, Rhyl (White Rose Shopping Centre, Rhyl). She writes: I like All Together NOW! because it covers issues that relate to everybody in the family, and has so many features on how to make life easier, more fun and more interesting!

Mrs Cynthia Bevins, Scarisbrick Street, Ormskirk (Ormskirk hospital). She writes:

OFFSIDE: Christiano Ronaldo caught parking in a disabled bay. Photograph courtesy of Ray Bradbury

need wider spaces to be able to get out of their cars. “He’s not the first footballer to be caught parking in a disabled bay but I sincerely hope he will be the last.” According to the Manchester Evening News, Ronaldo was with a pal when he parked in one of only two clearly marked disabled bays in the South Street car park in Alderley Edge. In January, Ronaldo was fined £70 for parking at a bus stop.

Luckily for Ronaldo, 23, who earns about £120,000 a week, a traffic warden didn’t spot his latest parking offence. A spokesman for Manchester United said: “It is a personal matter for the player”. Mobilise does not agree. They say that some of the worst abusers of disabled bays are young men and that footballers should be leading by example.

There is so much for EVERYONE in every edition. It’s fantastic and it’s FREE.

Miss Sarah Jones, Chapel Close, Comberbach, Northwich, entered via our website (www.alltogethernow.org.uk). She writes: All Together NOW! is the perfect one stop site for all the North West disability news. I don’t think there are any other sites to rival it.

They all win £50 worth of plants, courtesy of Sutton Seeds. Check out our lastest competition: p7

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

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NEWS

Here’s to a longer and healthier life THE length of time people can expect to live free from a limiting chronic illness or disability has increased for all countries in the UK, according to the Office for National Statistics. Figures show that disability-free life expectancy (DFLE) at birth for males in the UK increased from 60 years in 2000-02 to 62 years in 2004-06. For females it increased from 63 years in 2000-02 to 64 years in 2004-06. DFLE for males in 2004-06 was highest in England, at 63 years, compared with 62 years in Scotland and 60 years in Northern Ireland and Wales. For females, DFLE was 64 years in England, around 63 years in Wales and Scotland, and 61 years in Northern Ireland. The increases between 2000-02 and 2004-06 were generally greater than the increases in life expectancy so the proportion of life spent disability-free has risen. The increases represent for males an additional 11 months of life free from a limiting chronic illness or disability more than the increase in life expectancy in England and Wales, 14 months in Northern Ireland and 20 months in Scotland. For females, gains were three months in9651 England, month in Northern GI adone 98x150:Layout 1 26/1/09 Ireland and 19 months in Wales.

TAKE ME HOME!

Magazine gets ‘big screen’ treatment

Work with charities, say Mind COMING SOON . . . to a shopping centre near you . . .

We’re going places All Together NOW! continues to attract plenty of supporters – all keen to help the charity get your trailblazing magazine to more and more people. We’re beginning to get new, dual-branded dispenser bins in some of the North West’s top visitor attractions (see below). And now, thanks to Estate Media Partners Ltd, your awardwinning online magazine is about to be available in shopping centres across the region. “Our Mall Vision programme will revolutionise the way customers get information,” says EMP commercial director Jason Levy. Page 1 10:00

“Large touch-screen units allow the public to navigate around the mall, view various offers and access regional and local services in a single touch. “Mall Vision will enhance shoppers’ perception of the mall, and allow them to interact with their community services like never before.” As well as All Together NOW! EMP are working with councils, police, NHS, transport authorities, the leisure industry, and charities. “The network is expanding rapidly and currently reaches over 2.6 million shoppers each

week,” said Mr Levy. “By recording data on each click our customers can now accurately evaluate the success of each campaign. “EMP is at the forefront of digital media, we are always looking for new ways to embrace the untold opportunities of the sector. “By working in partnerships with regional businesses we believe we can ensure digital communication will be accessible to all audiences.” All Together NOW! will soon be up and running on the “big screen” at The Arcades, Ellesmere Port, and Belle Vale, Liverpool. Other venues will soon follow. Watch this space . .

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POPULAR EXHIBIT: Pippa Andrews and Drew Molyneux at the science museum, and a very interested customer at Gordale DOCTOR Who and some famous Egyptian Pharaohs are the latest big name supporters of All Together NOW! The Doctor is letting us use his Tardis, based at the Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester, to store copies of your favourite magazine. And the ‘resident pharaohs’ at the World Museum, Liverpool, are overseeing hundreds of copies being

snapped up by hundreds of visitors to the William Brown Street building. Our stylish, dual-branded dispenser bins are also going down very well with stockists. “They are great,” said Jill Nicholson, at Gordale Garden Centre, Burton, Wirral. “Our customers love the magazine. More than 200 copies went within the first few days of the dispenser bin being placed at our reception.”

Want a bin? Call 0151 230 0307

MENTAL health charity Mind has welcomed the Government’s commitment to invest £93m in mental health services to prepare for the human cost of the recession. Mind’s Chief Executive Paul Farmer said: “Redundancy and money worries put strain on family relationships, cause sleepless nights, trigger stress and increase the risk of developing depression. “It’s essential the £80m the Government has earmarked Primary Care Trusts to spend on debt and employment advice is adhered to. “Primary Care Trusts should be encouraged to consider the role of third sector in helping to deliver these support services.” www.mind.org.uk

Fawlty service FAWLTY Towers actor Andrew Sachs is backing a campaign to help blind people enjoy more TV programmes. “So much of what made Fawlty Towers enjoyable was not what was said,” says Sachs, “but was the physical comedy and interplay between characters.” The Royal National Institute for Blind people is urging broadcasters to follow the lead of Sky TV and double the amount of audio described programmes from 10 to 20 per cent. The charity’s chief executive Lesley-Anne Alexander said: “Audio description is as essential for blind and partially sighted people as subtitles are for deaf and hard of hearing people.”

On your bikes A NEW cycling event is being launched in April especially for women. The first Pedal it Pink, organised by the Breast Cancer Campaign, will take place in Liverpool’s Sefton Park on Sunday, April 19. Routes include a 5k family lap to a full marathon of 26.2 miles. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, accounting for nearly one in three of all cancers in women. Tel, 020 7749 3700

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April/May 2009

All Together Now!

Your guide to the good things in life — the arts, the countryside, gardening, shopping, travel, and more . . . ALL ABOARD: The new shuttle bus at Quarry Bank Mill is the National Trust’s latest way of helping visitors with mobility problems

It’s a real mill in a million . .

HEN it comes to improving access for people with wideranging disabilities, historic properties often present unusual challenges – requiring imaginative solutions. The National Trust’s Quarry Bank Mill is a fine example of what can be done. Over the past few years they have improved signage at the venue, installed induction loops, set up a wheelchair loan service, and created accessible pathways. Their latest innovation is a brand new wheelchair accessible shuttle bus – and a virtual tour of the site to inform visitors about those areas they might otherwise finest surviving cotton mills of the period. find it difficult to access. Situated in Styal, Cheshire, the estate Founded in 1784 by Samuel Greg during makes for 1a great day out. 09_20401_ATN.qxd:Layout 3 23/3/09 11:59 Page the first phase of Britain’s Industrial Children can explore the mill trail and Revolution, Quarry Bank Mill is one of the

during school holidays take part in themed craft activities. Visitors can explore the riverside walk, terraced paths, seasonal displays of

rhododendrons and bluebells and see the grotto, once according to local folklore, home to a poor family and a hermit. ■ Contact, tel 01625 445896.

The perfect gift for every occasion! G Home of the famous Love2shop Gift Voucher G Over 20 different gift vouchers available G Next day delivery option Accepted in over 18,000 stores in the UK, the Love2shop Gift Voucher is a fantastic gift idea. We also offer other top name vouchers such as Marks & Spencer, John Lewis and Arcadia (Dorothy Perkins & Topshop). So whatever the occasion, the gift vouchers you need are at highstreetvouchers.com

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

Access gets better and better

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Better seating, tactile paving – and more!

CCESS for people with mobility problems has been vastly improved at four Merseyrail stations. Merseytravel and Merseyrail, with support from the Department for Transport, have invested £557,000 in the scheme. At Bidston Station, improvements include a fully

accessible toilet, better seating and customer information screens on the platforms and waiting room. New Brighton now also has information screens in the booking hall and on the platforms. In addition there is a rise and fall ticket counter, automatic station entrance doors, improved seating, tactile paving and new flooring in the booking hall.

ON TRACK: Cllr Dowd (left) and Cllr Blakeley at New Brighton Station

Wallasey Grove Road improvements include new information screens, a rise and fall counter, tactile paving, and double-glazed windows to the Liverpool platform waiting room. At Wallasey Village, both waiting rooms have been refurbished and there are improved seating and information screens on the platforms and at the top of the stairs. Councillor Mark Dowd, chair of

Merseytravel, said: “Improvements such as these can make a big difference to people’s lives and we hope that all of these projects will directly benefit both disabled passengers and people with mobility difficulties.” Councillor Chris Blakeley, chair of Merseytravel’s Rail Services Committee, added: “This investment is important because we are making these stations,

and the way information is provided, much easier for people to use. “Everyone should have the opportunity to reap the benefits of the services we provide.” The projects have been partfinanced by the Department for Transport’s Access for All Small Schemes fund (£265,760) with Merseytravel contributing a further £271,240 and Merseyrail £20,000.

Merseytravel is making sure that Public Transport on Merseyside is easy for everyone to use. We care about the accessibility of our buildings, vehicles and information. All of our staff are trained to be courteous and considerate, particularly when our customers have special requirements. Whether it be automatic door-openers in our head office, availability of textphones for main points of contact, or producing timetables in large print, we want to make public transport easier for everyone to use.

Among our services and facilities are: UÊÊ Merseylink – a door to door fully accessible transport service for people who are mobility impaired. UÊÊ ree concessionary travel for over 48,000 people with disabilities. U Modern, low floor, fully accessible buses, which are developed in partnership with local authorities and bus companies. UÊÊ Information in a variety of formats, including the Merseytravel Access Guide – containing access details for all bus and rail stations on Merseyside.

0871 200 22 33 Calls cost 10p per minute from land lines, mobiles may vary

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Textphone users can dial 18001 then 0871 200 22 33 for a typetalk assisted call.

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April/May 2009

All Together Now!

WIN! WIN! WIN! A stylish planter for the garden AS MORE people grow flowers and vegetables on the patio, the containers themselves are becoming increasingly stylish. One of the latest is a free-standing, Georgian-style cradle planter from Gardman, and we have FIVE to give away! The cradle planter is made of durable wrought iron with a black ‘crackle’ finish – an elegant, slightly rough blistered effect – and comes complete with a sturdy fibre liner. It costs £22.99 and is 60cm long, 20cm deep and 40cm high (24in x 8in x 16in), plenty big enough for a wide range of plants to root and flourish. Among the many suitable flowers are summer kinds such as petunias, fuchsias and lobelias;

Equally at home will be vegetables such as Tumbling Tom tomatoes, lettuces, carrots, beetroot, spring onions and radishes; and herbs like basil, thyme, parsley and tarragon. To enter, answer this question: What colour is the Gardman cradle planter? Send your entry with your name and address on a postcard or sealed envelope, stating where you picked up your copy of All Together Now! to Cradle Planter Competition, All Together Now! The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP, to arrive by Friday May 16, or enter online at www.altogethernow.org.uk smaller varieties of chrysanthemum for autumn; heathers and pansies for winter; and daffodils and other bulbs for spring.

■ For your nearest stockists of Gardman’s range of gardening products, phone 01406372227.

Fun time, kids S

PRING is in the air – and it’s time to put some fun back into your gardens and some smiles on young faces! There are plenty of quick-growing flowers to impress them. For size, sow giant alliums (ornamental onions), hollyhocks and sunflowers. For shape, choose the striking, rust-red seed pods of Chinese lanterns, or multi-coloured antirrhinums, also known as snapdragons because the dragon-like flowers open their ‘mouths’ when squeezed gently. Few children have the patience to follow long or complex cultivation procedures so seeds should not be sown in the ground until the soil has warmed up in May. Of course, that grumpy grandad will be expected to thin the seedlings, feed and water them, protect them from pests and install canes to support them if necessary. He can then draw little Johnny’s attention to them when they are starting to look like the picture on the seed packet. The vegetable garden also offers prospects for fun. First, there’s primitive play – digging holes and making mud pies. Then the children can graduate to growing large vegetables. When my four were young, there was always a debate about who would be allowed to grow the marrow for harvest festival at our parish church. Second favourite veg was a string of large onions, third the longest runner beans and fourth the biggest cabbage. Ornamental gourds come in weird shapes and striking colour combinations but are NOT edible. American pumpkin varieties weigh up to 320kg (700 lb) although a variety tipping the scales at 14kg (35lb) would be quite big

PHENOMENAL AND FUN: Giant alliums appeal to children

enough for most back gardens. Pumpkins are grown much like marrows. Plant them outdoors in May or early June when all risk of frost has passed. They need rich soil, plenty of space, liquid feeding after the flowers have set fruit and regular watering in dry weather. Vegetable spaghetti is a more discreet member of the same family. It grows and looks like a small marrow but, after the fruits have been boiled whole, the flesh comes away in thin strips like spaghetti. And it tastes delicious. There’s also fun to be had growing walking-

stick cabbage, grown as a tourist attraction in Jersey for generations. The cabbage stem, thick and rigid, can grow up to 2m (6ft 7in) in fertile soil. In autumn, dig up the plant, saw off the roots and the cabbage head - which is not worth eating - and dry the stem in a greenhouse or indoors. In Jersey they varnish the sticks and sell them for high prices. ■ Seeds of walking-stick cabbages and ornamental gourds can be bought online at www.thompsonmorgan.com/seeds ME HOME!

Will your garden centre stock our charity magazine . . ?

TAKE ME

Checklist FLOWERS: Plant summer bedding as long as there’s no hint of unseasonable frost. Spray leaves of daffodils, tulips and other spring bulbs, or water round their roots, with a liquid feed once a fortnight until the leaves start to die down. Fill gaps in borders by sowing annuals like English marigolds and love-in-a-mist. PATIOS: Plant up tubs, hanging baskets – and the attractive cradle planters waiting to be won in the competition on this page. Sow salad leaf mixtures in large pots. SHRUBS AND TREES: Prune shrubs that have finished flowering. Cut out dead wood, weak growth and crossing branches then trim to keep the shape balanced. Do not prune shrubs and trees still to flower this year. LAWNS: April is the time to apply a spring lawn feed, moss killer or selective lawn weed killer. Combined formulations are available. PONDS: Divide the roots of water lilies and other pond plants, to make new plants, once they are growing actively. They need feeding too: use pond fertilisers or slow-release pellets. FRUIT: Watch for aphid attack on gooseberries and currants, usually starting in the tips of shoots. VEGETABLES: In May, sow easy veg like lettuce, radish, beetroot and carrot and, if you are more ambitious, cabbages, caulis, sprouting broccoli, leeks, parsnips, spinach and turnips. Sow peas and, at the end of May, French and runner beans. For better yields you could try the Pea and Bean Booster from Mr Fothergills Seeds. HERBS: Sow Florence fennel and chives outdoors. If you find parsley difficult to grow, sow it now. Make seed-drills a quarter of an inch deep and water them with boiling water, then sow thinly. GREENHOUSE: Plant tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, peppers and aubergines in unheated greenhouses. Remove cucumber tendrils to encourage crop production. HOUSEPLANTS: Water more freely, feed regularly and do not leave them in full sun all day except for types really suited.

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

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ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAYS 3GREATCHOICES!

HOTEL Blackpool

Specialist holidays for carers & service users

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EASY ACCESS FOR WHEELCHAIRS CAR PARK EN-SUITE ROOMS ADJOINING ROOMS ELECTRIC HOISTS OVERHEAD TRACKING HOIST ELECTRIC BEDS COT SIDES COMMODES MODERN SPACIOUS BAR & RESTAURANT SPECIAL DIETS CATERED FOR HYDROTHERAPY POOL CONFERENCE FACILITIES LIVE CABARET SHOW EVERY NIGHT PICK-UP AND RETURN SERVICE

PARTY at the Bond Hotel Blackpool, where the great fun atmosphere is a very popular choice for many of our guests. The hotel has 65 bedrooms, most of which are wheelchair-accessible, and all the extra facilities that you might require during your stay. With great food, and nightly entertainment, this hotel offers the perfect Blackpool holiday!

HOTEL St. Annes

The Beach, 69-71 South Promenade, St Annes on Sea, FY8 1LZ

RELAX in our sophisticated new hotel in St Annes. Recently refurbished to the highest possible standard, this stylish 26-room hotel overlooks the sea, and offers a choice of luxurious wheelchair-accessible accommodation - from single rooms up to 3-room suites. The new Bond Hotel, St Annes is the ideal venue for those looking for the chance to unwind in style. ENJOY our de-luxe holiday homes at scenic Marton Mere. If you would prefer a self-catering break, these superbly appointed holiday homes could be just the thing. They sleep up to six, have central heating and all mod cons, are fully accessible, and overlook the beautiful lake and wildlife area at this popular resort.

HOLIDAY HOMES

Marton Mere Holiday Village

LUXURY travel wherever you choose to stay, you will have access to Bond Accessible Coaches Ltd who will pick you up and take you home at very reasonable prices So come and explore a whole world of special holidays for very special guests. Whether it's a week with the stars of “Coronation Street or Emmerdale”, a break on a nature reserve, or a luxury room with a great sea view, we can provide it - and at a great price too!

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Booking hotline 01253 341218

Autism boost A

NEW guide is available to help passengers at Manchester Airport who are travelling with autistic children. The guide, Airport Awareness, has been produced by the airport’s press officer Katy Gough, and uses airport images to show what passengers can expect on their journey through the airport, from checking-in to going through security and returning home. Katy, who has personal experience of autism through a member of her immediate family, created the guide after several

passengers requested photographs of the airport to allow them to plan their trip. Katy said: “I’ve worked with several autism charities such as Bolton Kidz2gether, The National Autistic Society and Autistic Society Greater Manchester Area to understand what makes travelling through airports difficult. “The main problems are that the airport environment is an alien one and processes such as check-in and security require cooperation with strict guidelines. “However, by including pictures in the guide about each stage of

travelling through the airports, makes it easier for parents.” Sarah Barrett, head of Customer Experience at Manchester Airport, said: ““We’re the first airport in the UK to launch a guide like this and I’m sure that all the work that Katy and the charities have put into creating it will make it a great success.” The free guide is available from the airport information desks and direct from Katy Gough on 0161 489 3446 or via email at katy.gough@manairport.co.uk You can also download it from www.manchesterairport.co.uk

WRITE ON! T

HERE are times in life when you seriously question your philosophy, when, decades into this one way ride, you begin to doubt the wisdom of your approach.

www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk

FREE ENTRY Funded by: DCMS/Wolfson Museums and Galleries Improvement Fund and the Molly Tomlinson Bequests

I have always followed a fairly simple creed – if an opportunity arises, just say “yes” and see what happens. So when I was asked to write a book on the wildlife of Merseyside I jumped at the chance. No problem, I thought. I’ve been a journalist for 22 years, written oodles of copy, and the natural world is my hobby, so combining the two should be straightforward. Or so I thought . . . Naive isn’t the word. The first problem was the biggest: where to start? Merseyside has so many incredible birds, mammals, insects and plants to observe, it was hard to fit them all into one pocketsized wee book. There is so much going on in this

by JOHN DEMPSEY region, month after month, it rapidly became clear I had to be hugely selective about what I included, and what was discarded (or saved for the next book). Moths alone would fill a hefty tome, but to be honest, I can’t see that flying (or should that be fluttering) off the shelves, so I had to be ruthless. What I wanted to do was give a taste of what readers could see with a bit of patience within easy reach of the average doorstep, and more importantly a book that could be used by anyone. Next problem: Writing is usually easy, but the sense of responsibility as I tapped away on the keyboard weighed heavy - the “tutting” ghost of that greatest of Merseyside naturalists, Eric Hardy, was audible on numerous occasions as I tried to capture each season, but still keep the information accessible to all. As I wrote the various chapters, digging out pictures and writing

paragraphs on species I have seen so many times over the years, one thing became clear to me, a new philosophy, if you like. And that is that in the natural world, there is no such thing as the commonplace – the most regularly occurring species of fish or fowl are never mundane, they each have a whole universe of their own going on . . . remember it don’t have to be rare to be interesting. The arrival of little gulls at Crosby Marina in spring, on their way to breeding grounds in Finland; the remarkable global migration of the Arctic tern or the astonishing turn of speed of a brown hare, made me remember that although I have been witnessing the seasons turn in Merseyside’s natural world for nearly 40 years, it is no less breathtaking – and it is free to us all. ■ Wild Merseyside, £4.99, is available from all good bookshops, newsagents and online at www.merseyshop.com

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April/May 2009

All Together Now!

Online country guide

WHAT’S ON

A NEW online countryside guide provides detailed access information and pictures of six of England’s National Nature Reserves. Sir Martin Doughty, chair of Natural England, said: “This site will help people to plan their days out to some of our most important areas for wildlife in the knowledge that they are easy to get to and easy to get around. “Making our countryside easily accessible is essential, not just for health and wellbeing, but to help forge a connection between people and the natural environment.” The six natures reserves featured on the site are: Ainsdale Sand Dunes (Merseyside) Aston Rowant (Oxfordshire) Castle Eden Dene (County Durham) Shapwick Heath (Somerset) Stiperstones (Shropshire) Thursley Heath (Surrey) ■ You can access the guide at: www.directenquiries.com www.naturalengland.org.uk

April 28-30: Naidex 2009, Birmingham NEC. The UK’s largest event for homecare, disability and rehabilitation. April 30: We Will Rock You. Palace Theatre Manchester. Signed performance, 7.30pm May 3-5: Continental Market at Festival Markets, Morecambe. June 4-6: The Mobility Roadshow, Kemble Airfield, Gloucestershire. June 18: Kidz South, Rivermead Leisure Complex, Reading. July 12: Disability Awareness Day, Walton Hall Gardens, Warrington. The best independent living exhibition and family fun day in the North West. Organised by Warrington Disability Partnership

WHEEL POWER: Left, Rebecca Jones and Steffan Llyr Garlick, from Ysgol Pendalar, Caernarfon, try out the new bridge. Right, the new scooter at Chepstow castle

Moat-ability W

HEELCHAIR access to two of Wales’ castles has been improved courtesy of Cadw, the Welsh historic environment service. Caernarfon Castle’s new access bridge was opened by Alun Ffred Jones, Minister for Heritage – and a mobility scooter has been provided at Chepstow Castle. With about 200,000 visitors each year Caernarfon Castle is one of the most visited ancient monuments in Wales. Access had only been possible through the main King’s Gate entrance via an external stone staircase.

Holiday Breaks in the Lakes near Keswick Self catering apartments for 2-6 people. Specially designed with the wheelchair in mind. No steps. Beautiful views in a superb location. Friendly owners in residence. Open all year.

TAKE ME HOME!

The shop has a range of modern and easy to use mobility equipment for hire.

l Powered Wheelchairs l l Electric Scooters l l Manual Wheelchairs l l Extra Wide Wheelchairs l

Shopmobility is based in the Liverpool ONE retail and leisure development 3rd floor Strand Street Q Car Park open seven days a week with late evening hours Telephone 0151 707 0877 email: LShopmobility@localsolutions.org.uk website: www.localsolutions.org.uk

unforgettably

AMAZING

Self Catering Holiday Cottages

SPECIAL OFFER FOR 2009

Book your 2009 holidays with us before the end of September 2008 and we’ll give them to you at 2008 prices

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Quarry Bank Mill & Garden,

Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 4LA • Georgian cotton mill • Secret Garden • Delightful woodland setting • Guided tour of the Apprentice House • Ideal destination for a group • Shopping, lunch and delicious cream teas For further details telephone 01625 445896

www.disabled-holiday.net email: joan@irtonhousefarm.co.uk

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Making Liverpool accessible

Treginegar, St Merryn, Padstow, North Cornwall PL28 8PT

Treginegar self catering cottages benefit from level access throughout, some have ’wet’ rooms, and all are ideal for wheelchair access or those with mobility difficulties. A shower chair is available for hire (£10 weekly) for disabled guests.

For a colour brochure

Castle, said: “This scooter will definitely make access to this site a great deal easier for a large number of people with limited mobility. “There is a fantastic viewpoint over the River Wye from the castle and up until now some visitors have missed out because they simply do not have the strength to walk all the way. “Having the mobility scooter on site now makes any visit much more enjoyable for everybody.” ■ Cadw acts on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government, working for an accessible and well protected historic environment for Wales.

LIVERPOOL SHOPMOBILITY

For details on bookings and availabilities Rob and Tracey Cleary on: 01841 521920 (Int: +44 1841 521920)

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Registered Charity No 205846

IRTON HOUSE FARM

Mr Jones said: “This futuristic looking bridge has already been generally well received by the public. “The new bridge is a fitting start to a year of celebrating the fantastic achievements of the past 25 years of Cadw – and also to look forward with confidence to an exciting future for the historic environment in Wales.” Meanwhile, at Chepstow the four-wheel battery driven Shoprider Sovereign scooter, fitted with automatic braking, is part of a pilot initiative which it is hoped will be rolled out at across a number of other sites. Averil Sumners, custodian at Chepstow

Reach 250,000 readers call Gemma Tasker 0151 230 0307

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

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This show is Bound to please

4879_Speke_ad_v3:4794_05_Access_ad_v1

23/3/09

Exciting launch of a new sensory trail at Speke Hall! Let your senses guide you around this special building and experience some of the smells and sounds of the past.

THRILL OF A LIFETIME: Pamela Shaw with one of the huskies

The trail is the result of a partnership between the National Trust and Liverpool Mencap’s ‘Access to Heritage Forum’.

Speke Hall, Liverpool, is open Wednesday to Sundays.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Pamela has had a fascination for huskies ever since reading Jack London’s classic novel White Fang, set in the frozen wilds of Canada. “I’ve always dreamed of being able to have a go at mushing with a team of huskies,” she said. “And now I’ve done it! And it was one of the best, most thrilling experiences of my life!” The chance of a lifetime came when Pamela, from Accrington, Lancashire, entered Stannah Stairlifts’ Think Again Fund. Every month someone over 50 is selected at random for Stannah to help make a life-long dream come true. Pamela, 63, was shown how to

My dog day was dream come true

‘

harness the dogs before taking charge of the sledge and guiding them around a four-mile track in the beautiful Kent countryside. Following her afternoon jaunt, she had the opportunity for a cuddle before taking the dogs back to their kennels. Pamela said: “Despite being totally splattered in mud I had just the best time. It totally exceeded my expectations and was such good fun that I had jaw ache from laughing.” The Think Again Fund was launched in response to a poll

conducted among the over 50s that revealed only 13% feel they are achieving their life goals and two-thirds regret not having pursued their dreams when they were younger. Previous winners have included Derek, (80), skydiving; Richard, (74), rock climbing; and Mary, (69), racing a Lotus Esprit. Jon Stannah, managing director at Stannah, said: “I’m continually astounded at the zest for life and fun that our Think Again entrants have. “Pamela is the perfect example of what the fund is about having fun, recognising ambitions, and proving you’re never too old!” ■ All Together Now! readers who are over 50 can apply to the Think Again Fund by visiting www.stannahstairlifts.co.uk

All aboard dream coach HE Jumbulance Trust, which provides tailor made coaches to help severely disabled people go on holiday or daily trips, has just taken delivery of a new vehicle.

There are 5 new pieces of art on the ground floor of the house that you can touch, smell and listen to.

For more details please email spekehall@nationaltrust.org.uk or call 0151 427 7231 .

OU are never too old to fulfil your dreams – as Pamela Shaw discovered.

NATIONAL TRUST

Access for All – Speke Hall

April/May 2009

All Together Now!

Pam lives life on the sledge!

BEYOND Boundaries Live, the UK’s leading event for people with disabilities, is set to be the biggest and best yet as it moves to Farnborough’s FIVE venue. This year’s event, which is based on the highly acclaimed Beyond Boundaries TV series, takes place on July 4-5. The new look show will see a host of activities and features ranging from sporting challenges, a rock climbing wall and a ski slope through to a Paralympic experience, cooking demonstrations, glamorous fashion show and off-road test track. There will also be a larger number of exhibitors than ever with a 10:20comprehensive Page 1 range of products and services.

t THE

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

The keys to the £350,000 vehicle - part-coach, partambulance - were handed over at the London Eye where the charity was joined by Britain’s most successful Paralympic swimmer and former Disability Rights Commissioner, Chris Holmes. Chris said: “Sport, travel and leisure are activities that should be open to everyone – but sadly this is not always the case. “The Jumbulance Trust provides disabled people with the precious opportunity to get to sporting events, offering

them the inspiration to get involved and to fulfil their own sporting aspirations.” The vehicle’s features include a wide platform lift, fully adjustable trolley beds, a large wheelchair-accessible toilet/washroom, emergency medical equipment such as heart start, suction units and oxygen, mobile hoist, ample storage for wheelchairs, and provisions for clamping up to seven wheelchairs. Groups can hire a Jumbulance – with drivers -– for day trips or even for a 10day holiday to places all over mainland Europe. Costs range from about £600 per day.

■ For more information, call 01582 831444. www.jumbulance.org.uk

A REAL EYEFUL: The new £350,000 Jumbulance at the London Eye

PLEA: Donna Scraggs wants a new group for disabled parents

A change is needed for mothers like me

AVING a baby should be one of the happiest times in a mum’s life. Sadly, mine wasn’t. I have a disability called spastic paraplegia which, in my case, means I use a walking aid. That aside, I try to live life to the best of my ability. In November 2007 I gave birth to a beautiful girl. Before the birth I had done lots of research, finding out the impact of childbirth on my body, how I would adapt to take care of the child, etc, etc. The hospital midwife devised a plan for when I was in hospital. It involved the midwife visiting my home to see what adjustments could be made, to show me how to wash and care for the baby. It also included providing an adjustable cot and a low bed for when I was in hospital. I had wanted a natural birth, but as things turned out I had to have a Caesarean, which meant I would face a long recovery period. To my surprise the disability midwife was not present at the birth, and when I came to I found that no special arrangements had been made for either myself or my baby. I also had a terrible reaction to the drugs that I had been given. When I returned home my boyfriend was there to help me. However, his two weeks’ paternity leave soon came to an end. My health visitor suggested that the social workers would help, but to my horror, a few days later I received a call from the child protection people who told me that I was a liability to my baby. There were concerns that I could drop the baby.

POSTBAG I was told that my boyfriend should become a full-time carer for myself and the child. I was distraught. My boyfriend was given time off work but we remained fearful that our baby would be taken from us. I made many suggestions, but I only received negativity. My request for a home help was refused on the grounds that the adult homehelp service could only help me and not the baby. The social workers advised me to apply for a nursery place for the baby, but for whatever reason the forms keep getting mislaid. I have also had a visit from Scope, the national charity. They hold many classes for mothers and babies which would benefit us. I successfully applied for a “Cumfy Bus” pass but was told the baby could not remain in the pram but needed a car seat. This means I would have my walking aid in one hand, a pram in the other. Where would I balance the car seat? We are told that being a parent is such a positive experience. Not mine. For me it has all been so deeply frustrating . . . Why does there seem to be so much help for parents with disabled children, and yet nothing for disabled parents? And why aren’t there any groups for people like myself? Maybe it is time we started one. — Donna Scraggs, Merseyside ■ Readers can contact Donna via All Together Now! Letters please to: Mum’s Story, All Together Now! The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP. Email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

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April/May 2009

All Together Now!

EMPLOYMENT . . . TRAINING . . . EDUCATION . . . BUSINESS . . . RIGHTS

£8m more to keep jobs safe A

NOTHER £8 million to help disabled people remain in work will be made available this year through the Government’s Access to Work programme. Minister for Disabled People Jonathan Shaw said the extra money will ensure disabled people who are in employment or have a firm job offer do not miss out as a result of the economic climate. He said in the longer term the

Government is committed to doubling the budget from £69m to £138m by 2013/14. Speaking at the Beginnings Conference in London, Mr Shaw said: “This extra funding forms part of the £2 billion package we are investing to give people real help in these tough times. “Part of improving rights and opportunities for disabled people is making sure everyone has the same opportunities to find and stay in work. “Even in the current economic downturn we are committed to

Bosses’ mental health warning A POOL OF talent will go to waste if employers make false assumptions about job applicants with mental health problems.

ensuring that disabled people get the support they need to take control of their lives and live independently.” Access to Work, a specialist disability programme run by Jobcentre Plus, provides practical advice and support to disabled people and their employers to help them overcome work-related obstacles resulting from disability. ■ To find out more information on Access to Work visit http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

DISABILITY MINISTER Jonathan Shaw

Helping to build a stronger future for the local community With a proud heritage which includes the development of the world's first commercial nuclear power station, Sellafield Ltd has emerged from the groundbreaking reorganisation of the country's nuclear assets and liabilities as the team responsible for the safe delivery of multi-million pound contracts at Sellafield and Capenhurst on behalf of site owners the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority. The challenge of managing the UK's nuclear legacy comes with the responsibility to ensure that our operations and activities leave the lightest environmental footprint. To that end the company, in discussion with the Environment Agency, undertakes an embedded programme of monitoring of our environments. We have a long history of supporting our local communities. Working with the NDA our socioeconomic plans encourage employee involvement in local activities, charitable donation schemes and inward investment.

Our endeavours in this area are born from a wish to protect the current skills base, encourage new businesses and, wherever we can, help the overall socio-economic well being of our local communities. We take great pride in being able to make a positive impact on people's lives. We have invested over £2million through our economic development programme. Sustainability and enhanced prosperity in our local regions is the focal point of our economic regeneration policy. We encourage skills development for both businesses and individuals enabling them to take control of their own future. Our support builds upon the efforts and enthusiasm of our partners in the community, and our own employees, where we are all striving to achieve a vibrant and healthy community.

For more information, please visit www.sellafieldsites.com

That’s the message from Susan Scott-Parker, boss of the Employers’ Forum on Disability. Her comments come in response to Cheltenham Borough Council’s decision to take legal action against Christine Laird – its former managing director – for not declaring her mental health history on her job application. EFD’s chief executive, Ms Scott-Parker said: “This case illustrates that the ignorance that surrounds mental health issues means that some employers risk missing out on the talents of people with mental health conditions.

Gains “Making negative assumptions about what a person with mental health problems can and cannot do is also direct discrimination under the Disability Discrimination Act. “It makes good business sense for employers to get it right on all areas of disability, including mental health. Disability-confident organisations are better employers for everyone, and make significant cost savings and productivity gains through developing more efficient recruitment, employment and customer service processes. “In a case like Christine Laird’s, time and money can often be saved by making small, cost-free adjustments, such as flexible working hours, that support an employee to perform well. Continued on page 14

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

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www.alltogethernow.org.uk

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All Together Now!

RIGHTS . . . BUSINESS . . . TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . . .R

College is a credit to the Community

KCC Equality of Opportunity: Outstanding, Grade One (Ofsted, April, 2008)

The College has a dedicated Pre-Foundation Section offering tailored courses for learners with learning difficulties and disabilities, and also strives to integrate learners into mainstream provision whenever appropriate.

DELIVERING: College Prinicipal Maureen Mellor was delighted

IVERPOOL Community College has maintained its outstanding Ofsted rating. Inspectors said the college has a transformational effect on learners’ lives.

Their 2009 report describes how the college “has woven an intricate web of learning opportunities and support throughout the diverse communities of Liverpool. “This is an outstanding college,” it says. “Success rates demonstrate sustained improvement to or above national rates. Teaching is outstanding. “The college is strongly and energetically represented in the heart of the regenerated and vibrant centre but has an equally strong presence in the most deprived and socially challenging communities. Care, guidance and support are outstanding. “The very effective work of the learning support faculty is based on clear rationale. Priorities include the early identification of learners’ needs and effective targeting of specific groups and individuals.” College principal Maureen Mellor said: “We are delighted with the inspectors’ findings. The report reflects the effort we have made to deliver a high quality of education. “The governors and staff feel privileged to serve the people of N INNOVATIVE scheme Liverpool and are quite rightly aimed at helping young proud of this judgement.” people with disabilities The Ofsted report highlighted the into work has been launched college’s key strengths as: at West Cheshire College. ■ High pass rates on most The Leap2Work programme courses; has been developed to support ■ Outstanding teaching and young people with disabilities learning; aged 16-25 to access work ■ Innovative and high quality experience placements and partnership working; ultimately paid employment. ■ Exemplary responsiveness to The college, which has the needs of the local community; campuses at Chester, Ellesmere ■ Outstanding support for Port and Capenhurst, is one of learners; the first organisations in the ■ Outstanding management of county to introduce the scheme. change by the principal and senior Project manager Andrea Peers leaders; said: “Research has shown that ■ Outstanding curriculum there are a lot of students in this management; category who work hard, ■ Outstanding approach to participate in learning and equality and inclusion; progress well but find it difficult to ■ Outstanding governance. access paid employment. “This service is specifically Liverpool Community College is designed to provide extra support one of the largest further in the workplace on an individual education colleges in the country basis according to need.” with over 20,000 students. The scheme tailors packages ■ The full inspection report is for young people to encourage potential employers to offer available at www.liv-coll.ac.uk

KCC offers you:

Support through transition

Support with reading and a range of learning differences Communication support, including Makaton and Symbols Independence skills Employability skills Social skills

Disabled students Leap2Work

Knowsley Community College Unique because you are!

placements and also raise awareness about the skills and knowledge young people with disabilities can bring to the workplace. Andrea Peers said: “We are already getting positive feedback from employers. “The programme is available to anyone in Cheshire who meets the criteria, whether they are already a student at the college or not. They can be referred by other agencies or contact us directly.” The Leap2Work team operates by assessing the needs, abilities and interests of individuals and offers them ongoing advice and guidance, work skills training plus interview and CV preparation. ■ Anyone interested in finding out more about Leap2Work, either individuals looking to join the programme or employers able to offer placements or jobs, should contact Andrea Peers or Jeff Wynne on 01244 670595. www.west-cheshire.ac.uk

To find out more about courses, and how to apply or enrol, please contact Student Services on: T: 0845 155 1055 E: info@knowsleycollege.ac.uk W: www.knowsleycollege.ac.uk

Reach 250 readers. Call 0151 230 0307

TAKE ME HOME!

Employers’ Forum for local businesses

I m p r o v e y o u r a w a re n e s s o f di sa bi li ty em pl oym e nt i ssue s Routeways to employment for disabled people Employers’ Forum is free to join and offers a range of services for members, including: free disability awareness training advice around issues of employment of disabled people an opportunity to network with other local employers and share good practice specialist discussion and access to experts about subjects selected by members e-newsletter and links to appropriate contacts Working together to help you achieve what you want in the workplace

0151 733 7255 routeways@greenbank-project.org.uk * greenbank employment services are offered by Greenbank, Greenbank Lane, Liverpool L17 1AG. Reg Charity no 513814.

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2009

EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS . . . RIGHTS . . . BUSINESS . . . FINANCE . . .

‘Attitudes must change’

City College Manchester and MANCAT have come together to form The Manchester College

Better for school leavers Better for employment skills Better for career development Better for businesses Better for higher education Better for you, better for Manchester For more information about courses call: 0800 068 8585 or visit: www.themanchestercollege.ac.uk

Continued from p11 “Our own research into line managers’ attitudes into mental health at work found that many line managers often want to support employees experiencing mental distress, but lack the means or authority to do so. “That’s why we provide our members with practical advice and support about making reasonable adjustments on mental health. Now more than ever, as we face unprecedented economic challenges, employers need a flexible workplace that makes the most of all their workforce’s skills and talents.”

EFD factfile: ■ The Employers’ Forum on Disability is the employers’ organisation focused on disability as it affects employers and service providers. ■ With over 400 members, EFD represents organisations that employ around 20% of the UK workforce. ■ Since its establishment in 1991, EFD has worked closely with government and other stakeholders, sharing best practice to make it easier to employ disabled people and serve disabled customers. ■ www.efd.org.uk

Fresh hope for jobs G

More than 80 representatives of a wide range of employers including Royal Mail, Suites Hotel and Halfords attended the launch, organised by the Routeways to Employment for disabled people (Liverpool and Knowsley) project. Co-ordinator Lisa Turner said: “The response has been really encouraging and I would urge as many employers as possible

to get involved in the forum and be supportive of employing disabled staff.’’ Funded by Greater Merseyside Learning and Skills Council and the European Social Fund, the Routeways project offers help and support to assist disabled people preparing for, or wanting to enter, employment. Partners include Alt Valley Community Trust, Daisy UK, ELECT, Greenbank, Liverpool ADHD Foundation, Mencap, Merseyside Disability Federation, Merseyside Welfare Rights, Moving On With Life and Learning, Merseyside Society for Deaf People, Network Employment - Mersey

A GUIDE is available to help employers needing to make adjustments to the workplace for disabled workers.

Care NHS Trust, Neurosupport, and The Independence Initiative. Membership of the Forum is free and offers local employers: ■ Free disability awareness training advice; ■ An opportunity to network with other local employers and share good practice; ■ Specialist discussion and access to experts about subjects selected by members; ■ E-newsletter and links to contacts.

The Reasonable Adjustments - Line Manager Guide provides practical information and advice. Susan Scott-Parker, chief executive of the national charity, Employers Forum on Disability, said: “As we face uncertain economic times, it is even more important that employers get it right on disability to get the best from their entire workforce. “In 2007, EFD’s Disability Standard benchmark found that one in three employers is at legal risk. With the 2009 Disability Standard about to begin, it’s the perfect time for employers to find out where they are on disability, where they need to be and how to get there.”

support for learners is

outstanding Ofsted 2005

Over 20,000 learners Over 950 staff

MC1018 ALLon TOGETHER 23-1:08 15/1/09 12:50 Page 1 ■ Contact the10X3 Forum 0151 733NOW 7255 ■www.efd.org.uk/publications

Just the tonic NEW guidance has been published to help medical schools get their access plans right for disabled students. Some schools have already begun to make some adjustments, including providing modified stethoscopes for students with hearing impairments and linking microscopes to CCTV screens for use in laboratory work for those with visual impairments. The guidance also highlights that poor health can have an impact on student’s performance and fitness to practise. Details are available at: www.gmc-uk.org/students

Liverpool Community College

Time to adjust

JUST THE JOB: John Grace (Royal Mail); Laila Ollite (learner); Christian Adeniran (Routeways manager); and Dave James (Merseyside Society for Deaf People)

ETTING more disabled people into work is the aim of a new employers forum on Merseyside.

All Together Now!

6 centres of vocational excellence

Mid-Cheshire College Specialists in Vocational Education for School Leavers and Adults

Mid-Cheshire is a fully inclusive college and is proud of the support it offers to students with learning difficulties and disabilities. Specialist Staff offer support to students who have been identified with specific learning needs such as dyspraxia, mental health issues, sensory difficulties, ADHD, OCD, physical disabilities and Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

Men’s sheds – they’re great OLDER men can learn carpentry and joinery in a joint project by Mid-Cheshire College and Age Concern. Geoff Clewes, (pictured right), team leader of the Men’s Sheds’ project, said:“We have just replaced equipment in our carpentry and joinery workshops and have donated some work benches to the project. “It is great to see these men enjoying themselves and learning new skills.”

For further information call 01606

74444

Mid-Cheshire College, Hartford Campus, Chester Road, Northwich, Cheshire CW8 1LJ Hit Us @ www.midchesh.ac.uk or email info@midchesh.ac.uk

All Together Now! is supported by . . .

19 drop-in centres throughout the community 15% of learners with a learning difficulty or disability Supported by the following teams:

• • • • • •

dyslexia; specific learning difficulties; visual impairment; hearing impairment; personal care team; physical disabilities. For further information contact:

0151 252 3000 www.liv-coll.ac.uk

GET ON BOARD . . . CALL 0151 230 0307

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April/May 2009

All Together Now!

To advertise in these pages call Chris Groves on 0151 230 0307 or email sales@alltogethernow.org.uk

Sirus puts fun back into life L

IVING with disability can present various challenges – but don’t let motoring be one of them!

Sirus Automotives’ Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle aims to make life easier. This multi-purpose vehicle provides one wheelchair space – plus an additional five seats. Extremely versatile, when the chair user is not travelling, the rear bench seats provided can easily be installed in seconds, giving a full seven-seater vehicle. Based on the Volkswagen Caddy Maxi Life this conversion

provides a mid-sized choice for those who have previously had to settle for a much larger van based conversion. Sirus ensure the ramp is at a very low angle making for safe and easy access. The easy fold ramp is released with a simple twist lever and ‘click’ locking device.

Extra low floor It is made from aluminium ensuring it is as light as possible and has a textured anti-slip coating. The vehicle is fitted with an extra low floor pan to ensure the chair user’s eyeline is within the window area giving

a much better view. The volume of space in the rear should accommodate a manual or powered wheelchairs, plus most models of scooters. An automatic gearbox featuring VW’s patented DSG transmission makes for a smooth ride, and consumption figures of 50mpg make the vehicle even more appealing. Home demonstrations are available and there is a three-year warranty on the vehicle. Private purchase from £19,995. It is also available through the Motability scheme on a five-year lease plan. Untitled-2 1

25/3/09 17:12:35

To go hybrid or not, that’s the question

I COVER a lot of miles and am thinking about buying a hybrid car. I’d always believed these were the most fuelefficient vehicles and therefore better for the environment, but I was recently told that hybrid cars are not as impressive as I’d been led to believe. Can you separate fact from fiction?

HYBRID car is one that uses two or more forms of power, with the most common being petroleum-

electric hybrid. These engines are generally thought to be very “green”. For example, official figures for the Toyota Prius say fuel consumption will be 65.7mpg, which sounds very impressive. However, many owners of these hybrids are not achieving this mpg. The reason for this is because mpg depends on what kind of driving you do. The hybrid concept only works exceptionally well when the car is crawling along in traffic because it is using mainly its electric power. However, once you drive above 25mph

the car starts to run entirely on the petrol engine and so is less efficient than a good modern diesel. Moreover if a hybrid is driven on a stretch of motorway, the efficiency lessens as the car also carries a heavy battery. Overall, hybrid cars are great if you spend a lot of times sitting in a queue in the rush hour. Once out of town they are simply outperformed by many other vehicles. So look more closely at what technology is the best for the type of driving you do.

MOBILISE, the national disability motoring charity, has teamed up with All Together NOW! to provide readers with a tip-top motoring news and information service. For full details of membership including members concessions contact: Mobilise Organisation, National Headquarters, Ashwellthorpe, Norwich, NR16 1EX. Tel: 01508 489449. Email: enquiries@mobilise.info

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

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If you’re disabled driver you can drive a better deal with Fish Insurance. As the UK’s leading disability and Independent Living insurance specialist, we know a disabled driver is a safer driver. That’s why you can enjoy savings of up to 35% and take advantage of car insurance specifically designed for disabled drivers, including wheelchair accessible and specially adapted vehicles.

So if you are disabled or drive for a disabled person, whether the vehicle is modified or not you can put the brakes on costly car insurance!

FREEPHONE 0500 432141 [[[ ´WLMRWYVERGI GS YO INSURING YOUR INDEPENDENCE Monday-Friday 9.00-5.00. Terms and conditions apply. Fish Administration is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Telephone calls may be monitored or recorded for security and training purposes. Fish Insurance is a trading style of Fish Administration Ltd. Registered in England No. 4214119

3130_Motor Ad 100x135.indd 1

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MOTORING CONTACTS

Independence days are here again CARRY ON CAMPING: The Independence Premier wheelchair accessible vehicle from Allied Vehicles is perfect for Beth Copeland and her family

HERE is no one who understands the importance of having accessible transport more than the Copeland family from Crewe, Cheshire. Like thousands of people throughout the UK, Mark and Samantha Copeland have a large family – including a child with a disability.

Their daughter Beth, age three, has spina bifida and hydrocephalus which severely restricts her mobility, meaning her only way of getting about is to travel in her wheelchair. The family, which also includes Beth’s brother, David, and sister, Laura, found getting out and about difficult in their old car, which was not wheelchair accessible. Samantha said: “We used to have a seven-

The special Constables at your service

seater car with no adaptation so we were constantly having to lift Beth in and out of her wheelchair, which was so difficult. We had to lift the wheelchair into the boot, too.” So they decided it was time for change. After doing their homework they came across the Independence Premier from Allied Mobility. Built in association with Peugeot, Allied’s innovative people carrier can accommodate

E ON M N H O T I OC L E E E T R AE H I R F NS V O RY E M DE EV

driver, wheelchair passenger and up to five seated passengers – and provides optimum accessibility with a lightweight folding ramp, low floor and lowering suspension. “As well as the fantastic storage, the car’s brilliant to drive and the ramp is so easy to use that Beth even helps to push herself up and put her wheelchair seatbelt on,” said Samantha. Camping trips are now also on the agenda.

Samantha said: “With all our equipment on board we tested the car to its limits and there was no problem. The Independence accomodated Beth and her wheelchair, all of our luggage, and our newest member of the family, our son-in-law, Jason!” ■ For more information on the Allied range call 0800 916 3062, email info@alliedmobility.com or visit www.alliedmobility.com

PEUGEOT HORIZON

FREE metallic paint

FREE air conditioning

FREE electric winch

Lowered floor

£395

■ Wrightington Mobility Centre, Hall Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9EP. Tel: 01257 256409 www.mobility-centre.org.uk ■ The North Wales Driving Assessment Centre, Disability Resources Centre, Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire. Tel: 01745 584858 ■ Regional Driving Assessment Centre, Unit 11, Network Park, Duddeston Mill Road, Birmingham. Tel: 0845 3371540 ■ Motability, Goodman House, Station Approach, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2ET. Helpline 0845 456 4566 (voice), 01279 632273 (text). www.motability.co.uk ■ National Association of Bikers with a Disability, Unit 20, The Bridgewater Centre, Robson Avenue, Urmston, Manchester, M41 7TE. Tel: 0870 759 0603. www.nabd.org.uk ■ Disabled Motorcyclists Association, Ada House, 77 Thompson Street, Manchester, M4 5FY. Tel: 0161 214 8314, 07947 138303. www.thedma.org.uk

CITROËN LIFESTYLE

Advance Payment

£500 Advance Payment

Ultra low advance payments from only £395

OR more than 30 years Constables Mobility has been in conversation with its customers.

Customers regularly comment that wheelchair accessible vehicles can do more than make the practicalities of life a little bit easier – and so Constables has continuously worked to ensure their conversions offer the freedom of the open road as well! Constables’ years of listening, research and engineering expertise have resulted in some of the best rear access conversion vehicles in the UK. For example, Constables

Mobility offers specially lowered floors in all their conversions to give everyone the best possible view of the road ahead – which means that both driver and passengers can enjoy the journey as much as the arrival! An added benefit is the practicality and convenience of winch-free access because, with Constables’ lowered floors, a winch is simply no longer necessary. However, freedom still needs to be affordable, particularly today! Listening to their customers, Constables has taken the step of offering certain extras as an option – letting you decide whether the added running

cost of extras like air conditioning are worth it. Other options, which don’t affect the running cost of your car, are still included as standard: for example, metallic paint, which has the bonus of offering protection to the value of your car, is standard across the range. Constables Mobility is a Motability Premier Partner and approved dealer and is one of only two companies to hold the prestigious Renault Accord Product Award for quality and technical excellence. ■ Constables Mobility:

01323 76 75 74 www.constablesmobility.com

Having your own wheelchair accessible car doesn't have to cost the earth. Allied Mobility are committed to helping you find the right wheelchair accessible vehicle to meet your needs at a price you can afford.

RENAULT AUTOGRAPH

FIAT FREEDOM NEW LOW FLOOR

PEUGEOT INDEPENDENCE » Ideal for families or small groups

New e hir WAV ce servi now le availab

£3,495

£650

£395

Advance Payment

0800 916 3028 www.alliedvehicles.com

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VROOM, VROOM! FULLY MOBILE: The Tunnacliffe family with one of their two Motability cars

At the double!

EET the Tunnacliffe family from Manchester – mum Margaret, dad Alan and their children, Lucy, Nathan and Paige. Lucy, 13, and Nathan, 10, both have severe autism and learning difficulties and getting out and about used to be very difficult before they discovered Motability. For safety reasons, Lucy and Nathan couldn’t sit next to each other in a car as they would start fighting. Using public transport was fraught with difficulties. But thanks to the Motability Scheme, getting around is now easy as the family use both Lucy and Nathan’s mobility benefits to lease two cars so they can travel separately. Lucy now travels everywhere in the Renault Modus her parents

have leased through the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Mum, Margaret, says: “Having a Motability car is a godsend as it allows us to take Lucy out and about. She attends Chatsworth High, a school that provides good quality special education for young people aged 11 to 19.“The car gives us peace of mind, as we know that Lucy can get to school without the stresses and strains that other forms of transport bring, and that she will be ready to benefit from her day at school.” Nathan also has autism as well as severe learning difficulties, hyperactivity and behavioural problems. Dad, Alan, says: “Having the second Motability car, a Renault Clio, makes such a difference to our family life.”

Help us us to to keep keep spreading spreading the the news news –– subscribe subscribe NOW NOW Help All Together NOW! is helping and inspiring tens of thousands of people whose lives are affected by disability. But the charity needs to find ways to balance the books. You can help in a big way by becoming one of our loyal subscribers. For a suggested £10 donation (or more, if you can afford it!) we will send you the next SIX editions.

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The Accumulator Quiz

STARSPOT CROSSWORD Can you find the celebrity name hidden in this Starspot Crossword? Complete the crossword in the normal way then make a note of the letters contained in all the squares which are marked with shaded stars. These letters will make an anagram of the name you are looking for. 1

★

8 9

★ 10

★ 11

★

24 24

★

★ 30

★

ACROSS

DOWN

1. 8. 9. 10. 11. 14. 16. 18. 19. 20.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 12. 13.

21. 23. 26. 28. 29. 30.

27 28

22 23

★

Strive (7) Vernal ------- (7) Largest ocean (7) Wealthy (7) Cocaine (anag.) (7) Pigpen (3) Afresh (4) Military vehicle (4) Thus (4) Head of cathedral chapter (4) So far (3) Discovering (7) Skit (4-3) Porridge ingredient (7) Cattle thief (7) Intertwined (7)

15. 16. 17. 18. 22. 24. 25. 26. 27.

Each question has four possible answers and is worth from one to 15 points. Circle your chosen answers and keep a record of your points total. Maximum total points 120. QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: Approximately how long does it take to hard boil an ostrich egg?

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: Which of the following might suffer from pneumoconiosis?

A B C D

Six minutes Sixteen minutes Sixty minutes Six hours

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: Which town is the setting for ITV’s Coronation Street?

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: Whom did David Blunkett succeed as Home Secretary?

A B C D

Weatherfield Walford Ambridge Greendale

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: What nickname is given to a score of 111 in cricket?

A B C D

Jill John Jack Joey

Entrepreneur Richard Branson. See Question 9

A B C D

Peanuts Cashew nuts Hazel nuts Brazil nuts

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: To which pet animal are the largest rodents, the South American capybaras, related? A B C D

Guinea pig Rat Hamster Gerbil

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: What is the process in which a solid becomes a gas called? A B C D

Evaporation Distillation Refraction Sublimation

SUDOKU

Wellington Nelson Napoleon Hannibal

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: What name did Sir Francis Drake give to the Pacific coastal region of North America?

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: Which character in a TV comedy had the middle name Iolanthe? A Derek Trotter B Stan Butler C Captain Mainwaring D Reginald Perrin QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: Which of the following holds half a fluid ounce? A Teaspoon B Dessertspoon C Tablespoon D Ladle QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: What was the first album to be released by Richard Branson’s company Virgin Records? A Band On The Run B Tubular Bells C Wish You Were Here D Diamond Dogs

A B C D

New Brunswick New Albion New Britain New Columbia

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Which musical features the song On This Night Of A Thousand Stars? A B C D

Evita Miss Saigon Cats Les Misérables

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: Which profession uses the caduceus wand as a symbol? A B C D

Doctors Architects Lawyers Clergy

KAKURO

THERE is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, and you should not need to have to guess.

EASY

DIFFICULT

7 8 9 3 5 7 2 6 1 3 6 9 7 2 5 2 1 3 7 4 5 1 9 6 1 3 7 4 9 1 6 2 4 3 TAKE ME HOME!

Jack Straw Michael Howard Charles Clark John Reid

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: What name is given to the small white ball in bowls?

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: Which nuts are poisonous and can only be safely eaten after roasting?

Piece of furniture (8) Recess (5) Mischievous (5) Boil (6) Ballet skirt (4) Raging fire (7) Departure point (4) So be it (4) Game played by children (13) Abominable snowman (4) Old (4) Squirmed (8) Male donkey (7) Attempt (6) Unacceptable (3,2) Perfect (5) Sour (4) Unctuous (4)

Cotton mill worker Carpenter Coal miner Asbestos worker

2 1 6 8 1

5 8 9 3

9 6

3 4

5 7 9

2 9 6 4

FILL in the blank squares in the grid with numbers so that each horizontal or vertical line adds up to the total given in the box either to the left or above it. Horizontal totals are given in the top right corners of the shaded boxes; vertical totals in the bottom left corners. You can use the numbers 1 to 9, but may not use the same number more than once in any run. The number may be used again, however, in the same row or column but as part of another run.

MEDIUM 8

23 18

27 18 26 8

11 16

22 16 20 11

TAKE ME HOME!

I am really impressed with All Together NOW! I found loads of useful advice for disabled people. I also like the Skillzone section. It kept me busy for ages — Margaret Littlewood, Leicester Road, Failsworth, Manchester

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April/May 2009

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CROSS CODE 21

16 19

4 4

4 22 1

2 17

12 10

24 24

6 6

25 16

18 23

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ EACH number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off. Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares. As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

1 []’–

2 ABC

3 DEF

4 GHI

5 JKL

6 MNO

7 PQRS

8 TUV

9 WXYZ

25 16

3 23

Telephone dialling pads combine several letters on one key. Here we have encoded several sets of words or items by using numbers rather than letters. Then we have divided them into groups of three characters and run all the names one after another to make your task a little more difficult. Can you crack the codes?

23 7

20 16

L U

MISSING LINK Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (e.g. FRONT – DOOR – MAT). The initial letters of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out the name of a building material.

Spaces and any punctuation marks are represented by 1.

1. forms of marine life 752 658 661 535 593 174 746 717 329 333 221 267 251 765 971 637 432 317 427 517 347 414 426 817 784 321 263 666 3

474 127 426 827 317

2. fictional detectives 737 791 627 661 565 744 547 162 756 931 716 277 531 528 262 721 265 862 614 388 246 847 671 645 314 37

4. British tourist attractions 869 371 631 566 366 142 374 261 719 255 178 663 436 431 288 891 727 512 586 618 693 771 282 546 442 617 252 231 267 331 227 853

5. colours 363 725 314 733 612 627 463 127 467 661 569 129 261 287 486 298 731 887 786 473 742 681 287 681 743 183 764 546 6

PATHWORDS

SPOT CHECK

Starting from the central shaded letter, move one letter at a time (up, down, right or left, but not diagonally) to find 20 metals.

Can you place the six dominoes (right) into the grid below in such a way that the number of spots in all four rows across and all four rows down totals 10?

T W E

U M M

A M

U M S

A O

V MAKE A DATE

N M P

–––––

BAG

R M E

IRON

––––

OUT

N M U

FOREIGN

––––

WORK

U C R S A TRANSFORMER

––––

WHERE

COWAL

TAP

––––

OUT

1) In the nineteenth century, a stonemason who never served an apprenticeship;

In which year did all three of these significant historical events take place?

1. The world’s first commercial computer, UNIVAC1, goes into service with the US Census Bureau.

2) In Australia, a shallow lake or swamp;

2. The Conservative Party wins the general election and Winston Churchill returns as prime minister.

3) A tropical leguminous climbing plant, with stinging hairs on its pod.

3. Persia nationalises the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company.

Add the given letter to the first word to make a new word. Clue: Make painful notch.

WAS IT? a) 1947; b) 1949; c) 1951; d) 1953; e) 1955.

____ +C=_C___

361 714 833 663 166

Here is an unusual word with three definitions, only one of which is correct. Can you identify the right definition?

ROYAL

626 253 417 916 623

WORD WIZARD

Y M S

––––––

782 935 391 127 662

6. people or items found in hospital 927 313 628 671 843 766 638 371 233 187 655 391 783 846 726 731 226 324 316 877 317 974 643 194 335 242 471 562 537 182 257 35

CHANCE

BOY

251 647 441 919 266

3. Abba hits 928 375 661 337 843 194 663 718 812 551 326 246 616 663 916 663 918 253 121 242 163

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords aluminium; silver; tin; copper; platinum; nickel; lead; brass; iron; magnesium; mercury; zinc; cobalt; gold; sodium; manganese; pewter; steel; tungsten; bronze.

6 1 9 3 5 7 4 2 8

4 8 7 1 2 6 9 3 5

1 9 2 6 8 3 5 7 4

SUDOKU EASY

7 5 6 9 4 2 1 8 3

8 3 4 7 1 5 2 6 9

9 4 3 2 6 8 7 5 1

2 7 1 5 3 9 8 4 6

5 6 8 4 7 1 3 9 2

5 3 8 9 4 2 1 7 6

7 1 4 5 3 6 2 9 8

2 6 9 8 1 7 5 3 4

4 8 5 7 6 9 3 2 1

Y O C

15 2

16 3

17 4

18 5

19 6

20 7

21 8

CROSS CODE

1 7 2 4 8 3 9 6 5

3 9 6 1 2 5 4 8 7

SUDOKU DIFFICULT

6 2 1 3 7 4 8 5 9

9 4 3 6 5 8 7 1 2

8 5 7 2 9 1 6 4 3

11 20 9 28

3 6

7 8

1 2 4 7 26

27 23 8

9 8

16 11

3 18

KAKURO MEDIUM

1 3

1 2 9 7 8 5 32

5 4 9 18

Accumulator Quiz 1 – C; 2 – A; 3 – C; 4 – B; 5 – A; 6 – D; 7 – D; 8 – C; 9 – B; 10 – C; 11 – A; 12 – B; 13 – B; 14 – A; 15 – A. Starspot Crossword Across – 1 Contend; 8 Equinox; 9 Pacific; 10 Opulent; 11 Oceanic; 14 Sty; 16 Anew; 18 Jeep; 19 Ergo; 20 Dean; 21 Yet; 23 Finding; 26 Takeoff; 28 Oatmeal; 29 Rustler; 30 Tangled. Down – 1 Cupboard; 2 Niche; 3 Elfin; 4 Decoct; 5 Tutu; 6 Inferno; 7 Exit; 12 Amen; 13 I-spy; 15 Yeti; 16 Aged; 17 Wriggled; 18 Jackass; 22 Effort; 24 Not on; 25 Ideal; 26 Tart; 27 Oily. Star Name: JAMES BLUNT

Word Wizard No 2 is correct. A cowal is a lake. Dialling Codes 1. plankton; jellyfish; shrimp; seaweed; crab; coral polyp; hammerhead shark; starfish; giant squid; sea anemone. 2. Perry Mason; Kojak; Philip Marlowe; Miss Marple; Kavanagh QC; Columbo; Hetty Wainthrop; Mike Hammer. 3. Waterloo; Fernando; The Winner Takes It All; Dancing Queen; Money Money Money; Take A Chance On Me. 4. Tower of London; Hadrian’s Wall; Stonehenge; Cutty Sark; Alton Towers; Buckingham Palace; Corfe Castle.

The thing I like most about All Together NOW! is its newspaper format. It is bright, positive, colourful and modern in outlook — Mary Whitfield Westgate, Westhouse, near Ingleton, Carnforth, Lancs

3 2 5 8 9 4 6 1 7

M W A

5. emerald green; aquamarine; crimson; yellow; cyan; burgundy; azure; turquoise; apricot; burnt sienna; vermilion. 6. ward; doctor; thermometer; bed; trolley; stethoscope; bandage; nurse; syringe; wheelchair; locker; scalpel. Spot Check A = 6; B = 4; C = 5; D = 2; E = 1; F = 3. Missing Link treble; icing; mask; body; else; root. Material: timber. Make a Date The year was 1951. Transformer Sore + C = Score. TAKE ME HOME!

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HealthMatters LIVERPOOL PCT OFFER HEALTH ADVICE YOU CAN REALLY TRUST Dr Katy Gardner

Mark Jones Is Lifestyles Manager at Liverpool City Council and a qualified personal trainer with extensive experience relating to fitness training.

Shirley Judd Is a registered dietitian who was Chief Dietitian at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital before moving to Liverpool PCT.

Is an experienced doctor who has been practicing as a GP for 30 years and can answer all your general health questions.

Dear Mark... My family has a history of heart disease, I’m worried about this. I’ve started eating healthily and I’ve given up smoking, should I be exercising? Graham, Everton

Mark says… Well done, stopping smoking and eating balanced diets are vital steps if you want to prevent Coronary Heart Disease. However, if you wish to further improve your chances it’s also important for you to begin exercising regularly. Taking part in physical activity can up to halve the risk of developing heart disease. Exercise not only helps to improve your cholesterol levels, but can also help lower blood pressure, control your weight, reduce risk of diabetes and relieve stress and anxiety.

Dear Dr Katy... We have been told that our family has FH. My son is nine years old. Is he too young to be tested for this? Jayne, Garston Dr Katy says… FH or Familial Hypercholesterolaemia is a genetic defect that causes high cholesterol.The condition leads to the narrowing of the arteries increasing the likelihood of heart attacks at a younger age. FH is passed through families. Without treatment half of males carrying the defect will have a heart attack by the age of 50 and a third of females by the age of 60. Around 15,000 people in the UK are known to have FH but it is thought that there are many more that are undiagnosed. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) recommends that children are tested before they are 10-years-old but not before the age of two. FH can be diagnosed by a genetic DNA test or by a cholesterol test. If a person is found to have FH their close family members (blood

relatives) should be tested. Regardless of his age, if you ever have any concerns about your son’s cholesterol you can talk to your GP. There’s also plenty you can do to improve your cholesterol by cutting down on foods high in saturated fats. Try and eat more foods rich in unsaturated fats such as oily fish, nuts and seeds. It’s also a good idea to microwave, steam, boil and grill as an alternative to roasting and frying. Make sure you use unsaturated oil and spreads.Try to buy leaner cuts of meat, opt for lower fat dairy products and reduce the amount of full fat products you consume. And of course remember five a day (fruit and veg)! If anyone is diagnosed with FH they should receive specialist referral and dietary advice which should be available through your GP.

The type of exercises that help your heart the most are called ‘aerobic’ exercise. Aerobic exercise increases the body’s demand for oxygen and adds to the workload of the heart and lungs, making the heart and circulation more efficient, which helps to develop your stamina. Activities such as walking, cycling, swimming and dancing are ideal, as these movements involve large muscle groups such as

the legs, shoulders and arms. During moderate aerobic exercise you should be breathing more heavily than normal and also feel warmer. Aim to build up to at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity five or more days a week. If 30 minutes seems too much for you at the moment, build up slowly. Start with five minutes exercise at least three times a day and only at a level that suits you.You should gradually build up the time and frequency until 30 minutes feels easier. Look for opportunities to be active during your whole day e.g.Take the stairs instead of the lift. Try to do activities that you can do with friends and family to make it more sociable. For details of activities taking place across the city please visit www.liverpoolactivecity.net

Dear Shirley ... I work shifts and struggle with meal choices. Is it possible to stick to a healthy diet when eating late at night? Phil, Speke Shirley says… If you are a shift worker, eating patterns can become irregular. This may mean you choose to buy a take-away on the way home. Environmental Health Officers in the city have been researching the nutrient content of take-away’ s alongside JMU, depending on the toppings, some pizza’s for example contained up to 3,000 calories, more than a days worth of energy for even a lumberjack or miner at a coal face! We all know what we should be eating for our health but our lifestyles and food choices are not reflecting this knowledge when it comes to fitting it into our daily lives. So what options are there for shift workers? The answer, as for us all I expect, is planning. One pot meals, such as chilli, curry, casseroles, soups, can all be prepared using lower

fat meats, sparingly stir fried/browned off with spray oils and non stick pans, they are flavoursome, not costly and most of all they freeze well. So portion them off using old take way containers and freeze, to be reheated in a work place microwave or on return from a shift. For those nights when you have nothing planned, pasta based meals are great.Tomato based sauces with a variety of pasta shapes, and a sprinkling of mature grated cheese, so you don’t need loads for flavour, will fill the gap. Snack on a piece of fruit or salad item while you are waiting for it to cook if you have to and help get your 5 a day at the same time. If you want to learn to cook or try new foods; there are loads of healthy, easy to prepare and inexpensive recipe ideas to try visit www.liverpoolfoodworkers.com

We can help...

If you would like some advice on a health-related question email:

HealthMatters@liverpoolpct.nhs.uk

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April/May 2009

Stem-cell demands

The power of yoga

SOME of Britain’s leading stem-cell research supporters are calling for further tests on human embryos to be speeded up. Ep[erts told an Oxford conference the opportunities created by the new Human Fertilisation and Embryology Act must be acted upon quickly. Professor Martin Birchall, who cultivated the stem cells used in the first ever successful tracheal transplant, said: “Although our tracheal transplant patient is completely healthy eight months postoperatively, enthusiasm has to be curbed slightly by the need for more patients and more time in follow-up. “The recent discovery that unregulated stem cell treatments in Russia are causing tumours reminds us of this. However, this fear of uncertainty must not stop us from trying and must not stop clinical trials.”

New hope NEW research has identified the gene responsible for protecting the body from developing lung cancer – paving the way for possible new treatments and early screening techniques. Lung cancer is the UK’s biggest cancer killer, claiming around 33,600 lives a year. Ninety per cent of cases are caused by smoking. Currently it is often detected late resulting in 80% of patients die within a year of being diagnosed. Dame Helena Shovelton, chief executive of the British Lung Foundation, said: “This is very exciting research which could lead to the development of early screening techniques and treatments for lung cancer.”

All Together Now!

SITTING COMFORTABLY: Physiotherapist Carole Griffith and John McCreadie

YOGA is giving a new lease of life to people with a disability. The Flex-Ability group, supported by Liverpool Provider Services, the NHS organisation that delivers care to patients in the community, meets weekly at the Livingston Drive Health Centre, Aigburth.Physiotherapist Carole Griffith said: “Some people have described the yoga experience as like ‘unravelling the knots’ – physically and mentally. “It has changed their lives by giving them improved flexibility and helping with weight loss, fitness, balance and general health.” ■ www.flex-ability.org.uk

by Beatrice Fraenkel chair, Mersey Care NHS

SPOTTING THE SIGNS: Symptoms of AMD include blurred vision and distortion of straight lines

Acting now may save your sight P

EOPLE are losing their sight in Britain simply because of ignorance, a new study reveals. Age-related macular degeneration is the nation’s leading cause of blindness, but 90% of the people who took part in a new sight survey said they did not know of any of the symptoms of the disease which include blurred vision, distortion of straight lines and blind spots. Many people also do not know what increases the risk of AMD with many (70%) unaware that smoking is a key risk factor.

Ophthalmologist Kevin GregoryEvans, at Western Eye Hospital and Imperial College London, said: “These are alarming findings which mean that thousands could be vulnerable to late diagnosis. “In some cases this could lead to avoidable sight loss. “I strongly urge people who experience any of the symptoms of AMD to visit their optician or GP without delay. “I also recommend regular eye health checks.” AMD is more likely to affect people aged 55 or over. Its prevalence is increasing with the ageing population.

People can often mistake early symptoms as ‘just a part of growing older’. Half of people with AMD experience visual impairment severe enough to be registered as blind or partially sighted. Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd has launched a ‘be AMD aware’ campaign, which is supported by Royal National Institute of Blind People, to encourage people aged 55 or over to familiarise themselves with the signs of the condition and have regular eye health checks. ■ www.beAMDaware.co.uk

Cure for insulin-dependent diabetes closer A CURE for insulin dependant diabetes is a step closer, scientists said following research in which liver cells in mice were converted to insulin producers. They believe the process, described in the journal Developmental Cell, could one day lead to a permanent one-off cure for the disease. Dr Lawrence Chan and his team at the the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, injected a gene into mice which converted stem cells in the liver to replace those damaged in the pancreas.

They discovered that the blood sugar of the mice returned to normal within a few weeks and remained that way for the rest of the animal’s natural life. Liver cells have been coverted to insulin producers before but this is the first time scientists have understood the technique and believe eventually could lead to treatment for humans. One obstacle is that in order for the gene called neurogenin3 to bond with a cell it needs to be transported by a virus which could be deadly to humans.

Calling all PCTs – Have your own branded page! Call 0151 230 0307

I ATTENDED a very special premiere in Liverpool the other day (see P27). The film in question is not on general release – but that’s not to say it’s not worth seeing. Quite the contrary. Nor that its impact on an audience may not be far-reaching. Manifesto the Movie is in fact a real blockbuster for the health service. It is humorous and poignant and has been created as part of a movement started more than a year ago in Mersey Care NHS Trust to improve the quality of care across all its mental health and learning disability services. But is the film just a glitzy gimmick, or does it have real purpose? Well, for those of you that have read the newspapers in recent weeks about the failings of a number of hospitals and public bodies across the country, you’ll be aware that an issue at the heart of this outcry is quality of care. Add to that an independent report published by the Health Service Ombudsman and the Local Government Ombudsman. It criticised “significant and distressing failures” and called for an urgent review of health and social care for people with learning disabilities. Using its expertise Mersey Care’s learning disability service has been working for the past three years on a viable way to help patients access other health and care services – particularly important when someone has an urgent medical problem. Called a Health Action Plan (HAP) it seeks to explain to other health professionals some of the complexities of individual patients’ needs in an easy-to-follow guide. Important information in the HAP can be flagged up on hospital patient information systems, leading to improved outcomes and avoiding unnecessary suffering. It has been introduced with the co-operation of key partners at several acute hospitals. But what is this elusive quality of care? Can you package it like a wellknown brand of varnish, that states: “It does what it says on the can”? Perhaps initiatives like Manifesto can help the people who make up the NHS show they really do care.

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Holiday service

Obesity – it’s a fight we must win

THE NHS is urging patients with minor ailments or injuries to use pharmacies or Walk-in Centres over Easter. And to remember to make plans to contact their GP for any repeat prescriptions they may need over the Bank Holiday, or if going away on holiday. Local Community Pharmacists are experts on medicines and how they work. They can answer questions and offer advice on treating everyday ailments. Many pharmacists can also provide some medicines for minor ailments over the counter without the need for a prescription. Patients can also access advice and information from NHS Direct via the 24hour helpline 0845 46 47 or at its website:

FIGHTING TALK: “Simple changes can make a big difference,” says Dr Ruth Hussey, Regional Director of Publc Health

www.nhs.uk

BOUT one in four adults and one in six children in the North West are now obese. Of the region’s 4-5 year-olds, one in ten is obese and one in four is of unhealthy weight. What’s more, one in six of the region’s 10-11 year olds is obese and one in three is of unhealthy weight. Help is coming to the region in the form of ‘Change4Life’, a lifestyle revolution that involves thousands of local organisations and charities to help mums, dads and families eat well, move more and live longer. Last month NHS North West hosted the regional launch of Change4Life. The event brought together stakeholders from local community workers and volunteers to health, nutrition and physical activity professionals to discuss how the region will combat the rising tide of obesity. Dr Ruth Hussey, Regional Director of Public Health, said: “Change4Life is about making sustainable lifestyle changes on the ground, in people’s homes, in schools and in the workplace. “Simple changes can make a big difference and Change4Life is supporting local communities to make more positive life style choices.” Obesity levels have risen sharply in recent years. On a national scale, a third of children

Change for Tap into your own health guide ‘Your health, your way’ is an exciting new guide on the NHS Choices website. It helps you get the information you need to be better able to manage your health – in a way that suits you! Whether you want to know more about your condition, making small changes to your lifestyle, or attending a structured course to help you with your condition, these are just a few of the things you will find here. Taking care of your health, and having the information, confidence and support to make the right decisions about your health is called ‘self care’. www.nhs.uk/Yourhealth/Pages/Homepage.aspx and two thirds of adults are currently overweight or obese and, unless urgent action is taken, this could rise to almost nine in ten adults and two thirds of children by 2050. Obesity can lead to an increased risk of developing life-threatening diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Alan Johnson, Secretary of State for Health, said: “Tackling obesity is the most significant public health challenge

we face today. “This problem must be recognised, owned and addressed in every part of society if we are to reverse current trends.” Change4Life aims to provide clear advice and support through community resources, guidance from local health professionals, web tools, television programming, food and recipe suggestions from local supermarkets and suggestions on creative ways to

travel to and from work or school. These could include school walking buses, cooking clubs, swimming clubs and safe play areas. To date, 12,400 organisations, charities, supermarkets and commercial organisations have signed up to the campaign. For more information and to find out more about what’s happening in your area, go to www.nhs.uk/Change4Life

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April/May 2009

All Together Now!

World premiere! MENTAL health trust, Mersey Care staged its own glitzy film premiere at the Odeon in Liverpool One. Using actors from Liverpoolbased The Splinter Group, Mersey Care’s Manifesto DVD got the big screen treatment - and received some rapturous applause! The 20-minute film features a young woman with mental health issues, and highlights how the right kind of care and support can make life so much better. The film is part of the trust’s new staff training campaign. Mersey Care provides specialist mental health services for adults, older people, as well addiction services and care for people with learning disabilities. About 10,000 people – mainly from Liverpool, Sefton and Kirkby – use its services at any one time. About one in four of us will suffer from a mental health problem at some time during ourlives. Beatrice Fraenkel column — p25

BLOCKBUSTER: Beatrice Fraenkel (Mersey Care NHS Trust chairman) with, centre, Alan Yates (Mersey Care chief executive). Left is John Boyington (Chair of the North West Commission for Mental Health Services), and, right, Mike Farrar (NHS North West chief executive). Inset: Karen Wilson (director, Nursing and Care) and “the crew”

the BETTER! F

OUR hundred new apprenticeships are to be created across the North West this year, thanks to a joint commitment by NHS North West and the North West regional Learning Skills Council. Hospitals and primary care trusts in the North West have a proven track record in apprenticeships, with nearly 200 currently in employment across the region’s hospitals and primary care trusts. Many former apprentices have gone on to

New 400-strong apprentice scheme set up pursue a rewarding career in the NHS. Dean Royles, executive director of workforce

Seven minute warning . . . ONE person every seven minutes is admitted to hospital with alcohol-related problems. This is the stark message in the latest annual report from Sir Liam Donaldson, Chief Medical Officer. Dr Ruth Hussey, Regional Director of Public Health, said: “As a region we are facing significant harm from alcohol, both in crime related to alcohol and in growing numbers of people admitted to hospital with alcohol related problems.

“This amounts to one person every seven minutes. “Alcohol is now making a significant contribution to the mortality gap between the North West and other parts of the country. “The North West Big Drink Debate, published last November, showed that the public is aware of the impact of price and irresponsible promotion on alcohol consumption. “A proposed minimum price per unit can be a stimulus to help people cut their consumption to sensible levels.”

and education at NHS North West, said: “Apprenticeships are key to developing our future pipeline of both clinical and non-clinical support roles and healthcare professionals. “Apprenticeships help us to maximise employment opportunities for our local communities. “With this in mind, we are working with the LSC to create these extra opportunities.” NHS North West and the LSC have agreed to recruit a dedicated ‘Apprenticeship Broker’ for the region, as part of a wider team based within the region’s Skills Academy for Health. In addition, a new National Apprenticeship Service, set up in April, will provide a key role in helping employers match their vacancies to apprenticeship pathways, ranging from administration and human resources, health and sports/fitness to construction and IT. John Korzeniekski, North West director for the LSC, said: “In the current economic climate, and as the largest employer in the UK, the health sector offers a wide and varied range of job roles, with on-going training and development and is well placed to contribute to not only the employment status of the local population, but also its health and well being at the same time.”

YOUR VIEWS PLEASE NHS North West is keen to hear about your experiences of health services and any ideas you have that could improve treatment and care for others. They want YOU to contact them with your suggestions. You can write to them at the address below – they need a maximum of 500 words – and over the next 12 months you can help to build up a picture of people’s experience of NHS services and what can be done to make them better. What’s more, they will put your ideas to the teams making decisions about NHS services in the North West. Send your views to: Communications Team, FREEPOST, NHS North West, 7th Floor, Gateway House, Piccadilly South, Manchester M60 7LP Please include your name and address.

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

. . . with JAN LOCKYER

Feeling the need to weed

20,000 ways to help you remain independent

DID YOU know there are over 20,000 vast range of products with the aid of products designed to assist older and expert advisors disabled people on the market? From beds to bath aids, showers to If you need equipment to help you stair lifts, local Disabled Living stay independent how do you make Centres provide equipment info IT’S great to see the right choice? helplines. the summer Disabled Living Centres provide So for information on equipment and coming but not so independent information and advice how to get it contact your local good to see the weeds and the opportunity to see and try a Disabled Living Centre. Many growing! It’s especially frustrating as I can’t bend down to pull them up. Any ideas? LOTS of garden centres are now stocking ranges of long handled garden tools. Get in touch with Thrive, a national charity that promotes access to, and the benefits of, gardening to anyone with a disability. I CAN get in the bath but I can’t get out! One of Thrive’s key I have been offered a chair that will activities is to help older and lower and lift me in the bath but I would disabled people to enjoy and really like to lie right down and have a soak. Is to continue gardening. there anything that may help me? Thrive offers help and advice through its information you see and try this type of equipment YOU can get inflatable bath service, leaflets and before you get it. cushions and strap-type bath publications and website If you don’t, you could spend a lot of lifts which lower the user right www.carryongardening.org.uk down to the bottom of the bath so that money on something that might not be Thrive, The Geoffrey Udall suitable for you! they can lie down. Centre, Beech Hill, Reading Disabled Living Centres offer you the You need to have good balance to RG7 2AT. Tel: 0118 988 5688. use these and it is really important that opportunity to try equipment and get

products can be provided free on loan through local Community Equipment Services. All Together Now! has teamed up with Liverpool Disabled Living Centre to help readers of all ages and abilities stay independent. If you have a question contact the team on 0151 296 7742. Minicom: 0151 296 7748

Low down on baths

Q A

the advice from independent experts who are not trying to sell you anything. They will explain the advantages and disadvantages of products and will help you find the equipment that suits your needs best – not just now, but in the future too.

It’s your call

CAN you give any advice on choosing a simple to use mobile phone with big buttons?

Lifehouse is a new approach to providing services for disabled and older people in Liverpool.

InAll the summer of 2007 the under following moved together to Lifehouse: these teams are now oneservices roof, working to provide the information and advice people need toDock. be as safe and an accessible, newly renovated building at Brunswick independent as possible .

Wheelchair Service 0151 296 7765 Fax:0151 0151296 296 7764 Wheelchair Service Tel: 7765 Assessment for and provision of wheelchairs for people who live in Liverpool. Disabled Living Centre 0151 296 7742 Fax: 0151 296 7743 7748 Disabled Living Centre 0151 296 7742 Minicom: 0151 296 7744 Moving and Handling Team Tel: 0151 296 7750 Fax: 0151 296 7749 Independent information, assessment and advice on choosing daily living equipment and how to get it.

Communication Aids 0151 296 7408 Fax: 0151 296 7764 Moving and Handling Team Tel: 0151 296 7750 Practical advice for disabled people and their carers on moving and handling people. Adaptations Team 0151 296 7757 Fax: 0151 296 7758 Communication Aids Falls Team

0151 296 7769

Tel: 0151 296 7408

Assessment and provision of communication aids for people who live in Liverpool.

Lifehouse is a newTeam approach to providing services for disabled Adaptations Tel: and 0151older 296 7757 Installation of adaptations to safely people in managing in their ownroof home.will improve people in Liverpool. Having allassist these services under one accessibility. Falls Team Tel: 0151 296 7769 A multidisciplinary team providing practical advice and assessment for people who have fallen. Services will be able to work together to provide the independent information, advice and practical assessment people need to make the rightTel: choices 0151 about 296 7782 Telecare service 7733 Advice, assessment and installation of Telecare equipment. equipment. The existing services will be joined by others which will greatly increase theinformation range of information and available. For further call thethe service youadvice require or contact main reception forDay a further information call service you require or visitour a Lifehouse Open list ofifehouse Lifehouse Open Days.

Lifehouse Lifehouse Lifehouse ifehouse Units 4–5 Dempster Building Units 4–5 Dempster Building Summers Road, Brunswick Business Park Summers Road, Brunswick Business Park Liverpool 4BL Liverpool L3L3 4BL Main Reception: 0151 296 7733 Main Reception: 0151 296 7733 www.liverpoollifehouse.org www.liverpoollifehouse.org

YES - A Guide to Accessible Mobile Phones has been produced by the Royal National Institute for the Blind. Although aimed at blind people, the guide is useful for anyone looking for an easy to use mobile phone. RNIB shops have a range of mobile phones. Call your local shop to find out what they have in stock. The Liverpool RNIB shop and resource centre is on 0151 298 3220. ■ RNIB website: www.rnib.org.uk

Don’t be de-feeted

I HAVE very swollen feet and have tried all ways to make life more comfortable. I’ve been able to find shoes and slippers that make things easier – but I just can’t find the right sort of socks. Can you help?

THERE are lots of extra roomy socks available in cotton, wool, thermal and synthetic fibres. You can get seam free, lightweight plain or patterned socks and bed socks – all to fit people with swollen feet. There is a super stretchy range available now to accommodate even the most swollen feet, and there are ladies hold-ups and knee highs in standard and extra roomy fittings. For information on suppliers contact your local Disabled Living Centre or call Liverpool DLC on 0151 296 7742.

Help on the line ■ BLACKBURN Independent Living Centre, Mill Hill St, Mill Hill, Blackburn. Tel. 01254 269 220 ■ CREWE Leighton Hospital, Middlewich Road, Crewe. Tel. 01270 612 343 ■ HALTON Collier Street, Runcorn. Tel 01928 582 920 ■ LIVERPOOL Disabled Living Centre, Lifehouse Units 4-5, Dempster Building, Summers Road, Brunswick Business Park, Liverpool. Tel. 0151 296 7742 Minicom 0151 296 7748 ■ MACCLESFIELD Macclesfield General Hospital, Victoria Road, Macclesfield, Cheshire. Tel. 01625 661 740 ■ MANCHESTER Assist UK, 4 St Chads Street, Manchester. Tel. 0161 834 1044 ■ NORTHWICH Victoria Infirmary, Winnington Hill, Northwich. Tel. 01606 79260 ■ STOCKPORT St Thomas’s Hospital, Shawheath, Stockport. Tel. 0161 419 4476 ■ WARRINGTON Beaufort Street, Warrington. Tel. 01925 240064 ■ WILMSLOW Redesmere Road. Tel. 01625 374080 ■ WIRRAL St Catherine’s Hospital, Birkenhead. Tel. 0151 678 7272

MIDLANDS

■ BIRMINGHAM St Marks Street, Springhill. Tel. 0121 464 4942/9525 ■ DUDLEY St Giles Street, Netherley. OPEN DAYS at Tel. 01384 813 695 Liverpool Disabled ■ SHREWSBURY The Living Centre: Lantern, Meadow Farm April 21 (1pm-4pm) Drive. May 6 (10am-1pm) Tel. 01743 210820 May 19 (1pm-4pm) ■ WOLVERHAMPTON June 3 (10am-1pm) Bell Street. June 16 (1pm-4pm) Tel. 01902 553 648

Open days

Registered Charity No. 224742

• One of the largest displays of equipment in the UK. • “Real life”areas designed to look and feel like locations within a home. • Independent professional information and advice. Anyone is welcome. • Located in St Chad’s Street, M8 8QA only 5 mins north of Victoria Station.

Tel: 0161 214 5953 www.disabledliving.co.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2009

Help for household customers with a meter using large amounts of water for essential purposes

You could be better off with a water meter

If you already have a meter fitted at your property, but have high water bills due to having a large family or because you or a member of the household has a medical condition which results in the use of significant amounts of water, then we may be able to help. Our WaterSure scheme ensures that your water charges are capped at the same amount as the average household water bill (which this year is £378). So even if you have to use a lot of water, your bill is never more than that for the average customer. To be eligible for the scheme you or someone in your household must be in receipt of certain benefits. To find out more, order our WaterSure information pack by telephoning our 24-hour leaflet request line on 0845 303 7711 or visit our website: www.unitedutilities.com/ watersure

More people are switching to water meters in the North West – and are making a saving on their water bills as a result.

If you live on your own, have a small family, or live in a house with a high rateable value, it is worth considering a water meter. And the best news is that United Utilities will fit one FREE of charge. “If you don’t have a water meter your bill is calculated on the rateable value of your property,” said Simon Wilmot, Metering Manager at United Utilities. “This means that you are charged a fixed rate every year, regardless of how much water you use. “For some customers this will be the preferred option as you know exactly how much your bill will be for the year and you can budget accordingly. “However, if you live on your own or in a house with a high rateable value it is worth considering a water meter as you may be able to reduce your water bill.” If you have access to the internet, United Utilities has an interactive calculator that shows instantly if you could save money on your water bill if you switched to a meter. “A lot of customers are put off switching to a meter because they are unsure if they will make a saving,” said Simon. “However, by

All Together Now!

answering a few simple questions about how you use water in the home and garden, you can find out what your bill could be with a water meter.” You can access this calculator by visiting: www.unitedutilities.com/meters and click on the section headed 'I am considering a water meter'. “Another thing to consider,” said Simon, “is that if you are not happy with your charges after the meter has been installed you have up to 13 months to switch back to how we used to charge you for your water. So you really have nothing to lose.” Even if you live in a property with communal facilities, United Utilities may still be able to install a water meter. However, this will be subject to discussions between ourselves and your landlord to put agreements in place regarding billing and pipework arrangements. You can apply for a water meter via our website www.unitedutilities.com/meters or by calling 0845 303 7744. Alternatively order an information pack from our leaflet request line on 0845 303 7711.

Need a little ExtraCare? We offer a range of free services to help customers who: • are older • have a disability • have a serious illness • have sight, hearing or learning difficulties Our services include: • password scheme • personal notification of water shut-offs • large print, Braille and talking bills

To find out more call 0845 746 1100 or textphone 0808 143 1195 03/09/SD/3604

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk TAKE ME HOME!

SHOPMOBILITY ■ ALTRINCHAM. Tel 0161 929 1714 ■ ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE. Tel 0161 339 9500 ■ BARROW. Tel 01229 434039 ■ BIRKENHEAD. Tel 0151 647 6162 ■ BLACKPOOL. Tel 01253 349 427 ■ BOLTON. Tel 01204 392946 ■ BURY. Tel 0161 764 9966 ■ CARLISLE. Tel 01228 625950 ■ CHESTER. Tel 01244 312626 ■ CHORLEY. Tel 01257 260 888 ■ COLWYN BAY. Tel 01492 533822 ■ CREWE. Tel 01270 580 031 ■ ELLESMERE PORT. Tel 0151 355 1420 ■ KENDAL. Tel 01539 740 933 ■ LEIGH, Wigan. Tel 01942 777 985 ■ LIVERPOOL. Tel 0151 707 0877 ■ MANCHESTER Trafford Centre. Tel 0161 747 8046 ■ MANCHESTER Arndale Centre. Tel 0161 839 4060 ■ NELSON. Tel 01282 692 502 ■ NORTHWICH, Vale Royal Tel 01606 353525 ■ ORMSKIRK, West Lancashire Tel 01695 570055 ■ OSWESTRY. Tel 01691 656882 ■ PENRITH. Tel 01768 895 438 ■ PRESTON. Tel 01772 204 667 ■ RHYL. Tel 01745 350665 ■ ROCHDALE. Tel 01706 865 986 ■ RUNCORN, Halton Lea Tel 01928 717445 ■ SHREWSBURY. Tel 01743 236900 ■ SOUTHPORT. Tel 01704 546 654 ■ ST HELENS. Tel 01744 613 388 ■ STOCKPORT. Tel 0161 666 1100 ■ WARRINGTON. Tel 01925 231941 ■ WARRINGTON. Birchwood Tel 01925 822 411 ■ WIGAN. Tel 01942 776 070 ■ WINSFORD. Tel 01606 557550 ■ WREXHAM. Tel 01978 312390 MIDLANDS ■ BIRMINGHAM. Snow Hill Railway Station. Tel 0121 236 8980. Level 2, Centre Car Park, Bullring. Tel 0121 616 2942 ■ STAFFORD. Tel 01785 619456 ■ STOKE ON TRENT. Tel 01782 233333 ■ SUTTON COLDFIELD. Tel 0121 355 1112 ■ TAMWORTH. Tel, 01827 709392 ■ WALSALL. Tel 01922 650781 ■ WEST BROMWICH: Sandwell. Tel 0121 553 1943 ■ WOLVERHAMPTON. Tel 01902 556021

Never Watch Alone! by Mark Hunter GOING to the match is often anything but simply turning up, taking your seat and watching the game. It is everything else that goes with it – the preparation, the anticipation, getting there, and coping with the crowds . . . The game itself is often just a very small part in what for some is a whole day’s adventure. It’s one of the reasons why a new initiative in Wigan has just been put in place to try and help supporters with learning disabilities. Terry Mann is the man behind the Never Watch Alone Initiative. “We want to help fans with a learning disability to go to games not with a professional carer but with a friend, a “buddy”, like-minded fan who shares the passion for the game – as well as enjoying the socialising before and after the game.” The scheme has come in for high praise from Andy Burnham, secretary of state for culture, media and sport, and Joyce Cook, chair of the National Association of Disabled Supporters. There is also lots of interest from other sports clubs from across the country. “It is all very exciting,” says Terry. “If we can make a success of this then there is no telling

■ ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 387 444 ■ BLACKBURN with DARWEN Tel 01254 688 www.bwdcarers.org ■ BLACKPOOL Blackpool Borough Council, Tel 01253 477 716 ■ CUMBRIA Carlisle. Tel 01228 542 156 Penrith. Tel 01768 890 280 Barrow-in-Furness. Tel 01229 822 822

where it may lead.” Current partners include Wigan Learning Disability Partnership Board; National Association of Disabled Supporters; Wigan Athletic FC and supporters club; Wigan Warriors Rugby League Football Club; Rugby Football League; Mencap; and the Football Supporters Federation. Anyone interested in becoming a buddy or would like further information can contact Terry on 01942 776579 or via e-mail t.mann@wiganmbc.gov.uk

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE CIL Tel 01248 750249 ■ BLACKPOOL Disability Information and Support. Tel 01253 472 202. Textphone 01253 476 450 ■ CHESHIRE Dis Federation Tel 01606 888400 ■ CHESTER Dial House Tel 01244 345655 ■ DENBIGHSHIRE Tel 01745 354445 ■ ELLESMERE PORT DICE Tel 0151 355 1420 ■ HALTON Disability Service Tel 01928 717222 ■ KNOWSLEY DISABILITY CONCERN. 0151 480 4090 ■ LANCASTER DISC Tel 01524 34411 ■ LIVERPOOL Association of Disabled People. Tel 0151 263 8366. Text 0151 260 4076 ■ MERSEYSIDE Inform. Tel 0151 260 4076. ■ NEUROSUPPORT Centre Tel 0151 298 2999 ■ MANCHESTER (GTR) Coalition of Disabled People Tel 0161-273 5154 ■ MOLD Flintshire Disability Tel 01352 755546 ■ NELSON: Pendle Pakistan Welfare Association. Tel 01282 603 616 ■ PRESTON DISC: Tel 01772 558 863. Textphone 01772 204 787 ■ RHYL Tel 01745 350665 ■ WARRINGTON Disability Partnership. 01925 240064 ■ ANGLESEY

CARERS’ CENTRES

WIRED Tel 0151 670 1500 ■ WEST LANCS HELPLINE Freefone 0800 220676 ■ ST HELENS DASH Tel 01744 453053 ■ WREXHAM Tel 01978 262955 ■ WIRRAL

MIDLANDS BIRMINGHAM Disability Resource Centre Tel 0121 789 7365 Disabled People’s Network Solihull Tel 0121 788 1544 STOKE: Disability Solutions Tel 01782 683800 WOLVERHAMPTON Elder and Disabled Group Tel 01902 448552 ORGANISATIONS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE BLIND ■ ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 233332 ■ BARROW Tel 01229 820698 ■ BIRMINGHAM Action for Blind Tel 0121 665 4200 ■ BLACKBURN Tel 0125 554143 ■ BLACKPOOL Tel 01253 792600 ■ BURY Tel 0161 763 7014 ■ BURNLEY Tel 01282 438507 ■ CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121 CHESHIRE & N WALES: Vision Support. Tel 01244 381515 ■ CUMBRIA (West) Tel 01946 592474 ■ CUMBRIA (Sth Lakeland) Tel 01539 726613

■ HENSHAW’S

Tel 0161 872 1234 ■ HENSHAW’S

Tel 0151 227 1226 Bradbury Fields.Tel 0151 221 0888: Action for Bind Tel 0151 708 9008 ■ MANCHESTER: Action for Blind Tel 0161 787 9252 ■ PRESTON: Action for Blind People Tel 01772 320550 ■ OLDHAM Tel 0161 682 8019 ■ ROSSENDALE Tel 01706 873256 ■ WIGAN Tel 01942 242891 ■ WIRRAL Tel 0151 652 8877 ORGANISATIONS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE DEAF ■ BIRMINGHAM Institute for Deaf Tel 0121 246 6101 ■ CHESHIRE Deaf Society Tel 01606 47831 ■ CUMBRIA Deaf Society Tel 01228 606434 ■ LANCASHIRE (EAST) Deaf Society Tel 01282 839180 ■ MANCHESTER Deaf Centre Tel 0161 273 3415 ■ MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888 ■ ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887 ■ WOLVERHAMPTON Centre for Deaf Tel 01902 420904 ■ LIVERPOOL:

■ NORTH

WALES Deaf Association, Tel 01492 542235

Kendal. Tel 01539 732 927 Whitehaven, Tel 01946 592 223 ■ CHESHIRE Helpline: 0800 085 0307 ■ KNOWSLEY Tel 0151 549 1412 ■ LANCASTER Tel 01524 66475 ■ LIVERPOOL Tel 0151 705 2307 ■ MANCHESTER Tel 0161 835 2995 ■ MORECAMBE Tel 01524 833456 ■ PRESTON Tel 01772 200173 ■ RUNCORN Tel 01928 580182 ■ WIDNES Tel 0151 257 7767 ■ SALFORD Tel 0161 833 0217 ■ SEFTON Tel 0151 288 6060 ■ ST HELENS Tel 01744 675 615 ■ WARRINGTON Tel 01925 644 212 ■ WEST LANCS Tel 01695 733737 ■ WIGAN & LEIGH Tel 01942 683711 MIDLANDS ■ BIRMINGHAM Tel 0121 675 8000 ■ SOLIHULL Tel 0121 788 1143 ■ WALSALL Tel 01922 610 810 NORTH WALES ■ ANGLESEY Tel 01248 722828 ■ BANGOR Tel 01248 370 797 ■ CONWY Tel 01492 533714 ■ DENBIGHSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 0845 603 3187 ■ DOLGELLAU Tel 01341 421167 ■ FLINTSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 01352 751436 ■ WREXHAM: NEWCIS, Tel: 01978 310414.

Email your news to us at news@allltogethernow.org .uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2009

All Together Now!

Heather’s records

Fixtures GREATER MANCHESTER ABILITY COUNTS FOOTBALL All games to be played at Salford Sports Village, April 21 ADULT MALE PREMIERSHIP Man City v Amputees (6.30pm) Rochdale v Oldham A (7pm) Man City v Everton A (7.30pm) Oldham A v Amputees (8pm) Rochdale v Everton A (8.30pm) ADULT MALE CHAMPIONSHIP Tameside A v Everton B (6.30pm) Wigan A v Bury (7pm) Tameside A v Man Utd (7.30pm) Bury v Everton B (8pm) Wigan A v Man Utd (8.30pm) ADULT MALE LEAGUE Wigan B v Oldham B (6.30pm) Oldham B v Bolton (7.30pm) Ashton v Bolton (7.45pm)

PARALYMPICS GB EVENTS CALENDAR: Apr 16-19: Table Tennis. Czech Open, Ostrava, Czech Republic Apr 21-23: Multi-Spinal Unit Games, Stoke Mandeville Apr 21-27: Table Tennis. Slovakia Open, Piestany, Slovakia Apr 23-30: Shooting. JIKJI Cup, Korea Apr 29: London Marathon May 2-3: International Adaptive Regatta, Varese, Italy May 5-9: Shooting. Bodrum Competition, Turkey May 5-10: Table Tennis. Slovenia Open, Lasko, Slovenia May 8-10: DSE Mini Games, Stoke Mandeville May 13-17: Hessan Pokal Shooting Tournament May 15-17: Swimming. DSE Long Course Championships, Sheffield May 20-24: Shooting. Grand Prix de France May 21-24: Table Tennis. 3rd Romania Open, Cluj-Napoca May 23-28: Goalball. IBSA European Championships, Portugal

LONDON LINES UP A CRACKER B

EIJING Paralympian hero David Weir is on course for the Flora London Wheelchair Marathon on Sunday April 26. Weir, the first man ever to win three London titles in a row, aims for his fourth consecutive victory, fifth in total, against the highest quality field in the event’s 27-year history. His top challenger is likely to be his arch rival and double Paralympic Games champion Kurt Fearnley, the Australian he beat in a sprint finish last year. Fearnley won his second Paralympic Games marathon title in Beijing last summer in a Paralympic record, but Weir will be confident after taking Paralympic gold medals in the 800m and 1500m. “London is my home town, so

it’s nice to be among family and friends,” said Weir, who was awarded an MBE in the New Year honours list. Among those who’ll be close on Weir’s back wheels is the world record holder Heinz Frei, of Switzerland, who was fifth last year; the super-fast South African Ernst Van Dyk, who was sixth; and the Frenchman Denis Lemuenier, a London winner back in 2001. The women’s field is also the strongest to date, featuring the reigning champion, Sandra Graf (Switzerland), the Paralympic champion, Edith Hunkeler, and the North West’s Paralympic Games hero, Shelly Woods. After taking the London title in 2007, the 22-year-old Blackpool racer was disappointed to finish third last year and is keen to

regain her crown this time. She said: “Last year was all about Beijing. Hopefully, being able to focus on London this winter will help in my overall performance. “The London Marathon is very special to me as it’s the biggest race I get on home soil, and there is nothing like racing at home.” The women’s field also includes Amanda McGrory, the American who was second here last year and silver medallist in Beijing where she lost out to Hunkeler by one second. Diane Roy, the world championship record holder from Canada, and Australian debutant Christie Dawes, complete the field. www.london-marathon.co.uk

CITY of Salford swimmer Heather Frederiksen (pictured) twice broke the S8 world record in the women’s 100m Backstroke event and then lowered the women’s 100m Freestyle S8 European record at the British Gas Swimming Championships. She said: “If I had posted those times in Beijing then I would have come away with three gold medals, but it is all looking good towards London 2012.” Matt Walker (Marple, S7) took gold in the men’s 50m Butterfly. PARALYMPIC gold medallists Ellie Simmonds and Sam Hynd helped shatter 18 British records at the Nationwide Junior Swimming Championships at Ponds Forge, Sheffield. There was also great performances from the North West’s Sam Kaye (S9 50m butterfly) and Thomas Young (S8 50m backstroke) who also re-wrote the record books with times of 29.64 and 32.60, respectively.

Tennis winners BRITAIN’S world No 1 ranked junior wheelchair tennis players Gordon Reid and Jordanne Whiley sealed their third successive North West Challenge titles. There was joy too for Merseyside’s Jamie Burdekin who took the quad singles event at the South Ribble Tennis Centre, near Preston. Reid, from Helensburgh, Scotland, beat former British No 2 and Athens Paralympian Kevin Plowman, 6-4, 6-1. Whiley (Halesown) beat Bolton’s Anna Tarkowski, 6-1, 6-2, in the semi-finals, before crushing Wiltshire’s Louise Hunt, 6-2, 6-2. Compensation for Hunt came in the women’s doubles final, when she teamed up with Wirral’s Debbie Thomas to beat Whiley and Pauline Helouin.

IFI accredited gyms in the North West . . . All Together NOW! has teamed up with the Inclusive Fitness Initiative in a bid to get more people with disabilities and long-term health conditions going to the gym. Set up ten years ago, the IFI aims to have 1,000 disabled friendly gyms across the UK on its books by 2012. There are the currently 23 IFIaccredited North West venues with hopes of having another 17 signed up during the year. Free copies of All Together Now! will soon be made available at all of them. www.inclusivefitness.org

CHESHIRE Winsford Sports Complex, The Drumber, Winsford. Tel 01606 552776

CUMBRIA Activzone, Lakes College, Workington. Tel 01946 839308 Kendall Leisure Centre, Burton Road, Kendal. Tel 01539 729777 The Sands Centre, New Market Street, Carlisle. Tel 01228 625222 Ulverston Leisure Centre, Priory Road, Ulverston. Tel 01229 584110

GREATER MANCHESTER Fit City - Clarendon, Liverpool Street, Salford. Tel 0161 7361494 George H Carnell Leisure Centre, Kingsway Park, Davyhulme, Manchester. Tel 0161 9122980

Hindley Sports Centre, Borsdane Avenue, Hindley, Wigan. Tel 01942 253142 Leigh Indoor Sports Centre, Sale Way, Leigh Sports Village, Leigh. Tel 01942 487800 OBA Millenium Cultural Centre, Featherstall Road North, Oldham. Tel 0161 6223812 Robin Park Indoor Sports Centre, Loire Drive, Wigan. Tel 01942 828550 Royal School for the Deaf & Communication Disorder, Stanley Road, Cheadle Hulme. Tel 0161 610 0100

LANCASHIRE All Seasons Leisure Centre, Water Street, Chorley. Tel 01257 515000 Sporting Edge, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk. Tel 01695 584745 Salt Ayre Sports Centre, Doris Henderson

Way, Salt Ayre Lane, Lancaster. Tel 01524 847540 West Craven Sports Centre, Kelbrook Road, Barnoldswick. Tel 01282 666710 Westview Leisure Centre, Westview, Ribbleton, Preston. Tel. 01772 796788

MERSEYSIDE Bootle Leisure Centre, Washington Parade, Bootle. Tel 0151 3303301 Halewood Leisure Centre, Bailey’s Lane, Halewood. Tel 0151 4432124 Kensington Community Sports College, Jubilee Drive, Kensington, Liverpool. Tel 0151 2619598 LA Fitness Formby, Liverpool Road, Formby. Tel 01704 875875

Stay ahead of the game . . . www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together Now!

April/May 2009

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

The BT Paralympic World Cup will be staged from May 20-25, with more than 400 competitors from over 31 countries scheduled to compete. Wheelchair basketball and athletics events take place at the Manchester Regional Arena; swimming at the Aquatics Centre and track cycling at the Velodrome. Tickets, £3 per session, are available by calling 0844 8471622 or via the website: www.paralympics.org.uk BBC TV will broadcast live from the Manchester Aquatics Centre on May 25. BLADE RUNNERS: action from last year’s Paralympic World Cup

WORLD CLASS! Top athletes all set for Manchester challenge

with MARK HUNTER

Blue skies DISABILITY FOOTBALL: Everton A kept their place at the top of the Adult Premiership after narrowly seeing off Oldham, 4-3, and Amputees, 6-1. The Blues are now certain favourites to take the title after six straight wins. However, they face tricky games against Man City and Rochdale, who will both be desperate for wins to push into third place. In the Adult Male championship, Everton B took advantage of second-placed Bury’s 4-0 slip against Tameside, by thrashing Man United 8-0. Tameside went on to beat Wigan 5-1 to set up what should be a very interesting home game against Everton. Oldham retained top spot in the Adult Male League ahead of Bolton. Athletic lead by two points after playing out a thrilling 5-5 draw with third-place Wigan, before seeing off Ashton, 3-1. Bolton, meanwhile, managed to stretch their winning streak to five games with comfortable wins over Wigan and Ashton.

Fixtures – page 31

Owls slip

ARALYMPIC champion Oscar Pistorius will be lining up with some of the world’s best disabled athletes at the BT Paralympic World Cup in Manchester.

Pistorius, 22, known as the “Blade Runner”, won the T44 100m, 200m and 400m in Beijing and will compete in the 100m and 400m at the Manchester Regional Arena. Currently recovering from a boating accident in South Africa, he said: “This competition is vital in my preparation and it gives me that vital indication as to where I am lying in my season and my ranking amongst other top athletes.” Having been cleared by the Court of Arbitration for Sport last year to compete in IAAF able-bodied events, Pistorius narrowly missed qualifying for the Olympic Games. South Africa’s swimming sensation Natalie Du Toit will also be at the event. Du Toit became the first ever female amputee swimmer to qualify for both the Olympics and Paralympics last year, where she placed 16th in the inaugural

ROUND-UP

WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL: Oldham Owls slipped to third in the GB Wheelchair Basketball Super League -– despite seeing off Essex Outlaws, 64-37.

HOLDING COURT: The world’s best disabled athletes ready to take centre stage Olympic 10km open water event before winning five gold medals at the Paralympics a month later. “I will be competing in the 100m freestyle,” said the 25-year-old. “The BT Paralympic World Cup is a great stepping stone in the disability international competition calendar and will really help with my preparations.” Four of the top five teams in the world will contest the men’s wheelchair basketball event, with

Paralympic champions Australia and bronze medallists Great Britain confirmed for the competition. USA, who finished fourth in Beijing and Germany, complete the quartet. GB coach Murray Treseder said: “Australia is now the benchmark and we are excited about exposing the younger emerging athletes to play against the best in the world.” In the women’s competition, last year’s champions, Netherlands

take on silver medallists China, with bronze medallists Great Britain and Mexico, who won the title in 2006, completing the line-up. On the athetics track, leading British wheelchair racer David Weir will be competing in his fifth consecutive event, after a successful Paralympics in Beijing where he won four medals, including golds in the T54 800m and 1500m. London Marathon – p31

The Owls play Sheffield in their next game. Meanwhile, in the First Division North, Everton Greenbank Cats stay at the foot of the table and face tough away trips to the Sheffield Steelers and the Knights. In the 2nd Division North, Oldham Owls remain top after thumping Stoke Spitfires, 51-22. In the 3rd Division, Bolton Bulls just squeezed past Cardinals, winning 40-41. In the Women’s League, Manchester Mavericks continue their recovery from an early seasons set back with a convincing 59-16 win over Vixens 2. Mavericks stay third but leaders Aspire Force have played a game more.

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