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THE GOOD GUYS!

BLADE RUNNERS APRIL-MAY, 2012

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LIVING THE DREAM A FANTASTIC WEEK IN THE LAKES . . . p19

It’s one long, hard-working ‘holiday’ for Joan, Reg p19 and Jazz the sheepdog

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PICTURE by DAVID STEPHENSON

opening doors . . . broadening minds

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n Premiership

BANK WORKERS CHARITY

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GETTING ON

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INDEPENDENT LIVING

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UNITED UTILITIES

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MERSEYTRAVEL

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star Fabrice Muamba was continuing his astonishing recovery after a cardiac arrest while playing for Bolton – proof positive that prompt treatment of heart victims is a life-saver

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0151 230 0307 Who to contact Editor: Tom Dowling email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

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n All Together NOW! is a registered charity set up to provide a tip top news service for anyone whose life is affected by disability, longterm health condtions or age. n The charity relies entirely on support from its sponsors, advertisers and from general subscriptions and grants. n You can contact us on

April/May 2012

HEART LESSONS: Headteacher Phillip Hewitt, Hand On Heart campaign manager Gina Harris, ex-pupil Aylish Doherty and students at Little Lever School

Young lifesavers!

SALFORD-based charity is helping to teach pupils across the country how they can save the lives of friends who suffer a heart attack.

Hundreds of children’s deaths through sudden cardiac arrest may be avoided by a campaign which also involves equipping schools with life-saving defibrillator machines. The Hand On Heart charity has already provided 12 schools across the UK with free automated external defibrillators (AEDs), along with free cardiopulmonary

resuscitation (CPR) training for school staff and pupils. Twelve young people die each week from a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), 80% of whom show no symptoms beforehand. But the survival rates are dramatically increased – from six per cent to 74% – if the young victim gets immediate access to a defibrillator. Little Lever School in Bolton is one of the schools that has already benefited from Hand On Heart’s work. An ex-student, Aylish Doherty, nominated the school for a free defibrillator because her friend had

suffered a cardiac arrest and collapsed. Head teacher Phillip Hewitt said: “We will never forget the events of September 2010 and how the training and quick action of two teachers saved the life of one of our students.” Since April 2011, two monthly winners have been picked from a list of nominations to receive a free defibrillator and training. Nominations have come from staff, parents and pupils, often after reading the alarming statistics on SCA in the UK. n Hand on Heart, 0845 071 0822 www.handonheart.org

exercising and looking after their emotional well-being Activities include demonstrating how to cook healthy meals and eat a balanced diet, and trying new foods through a fun “bush tucker trial”, in the style of ITV’s hit show I’m A Celebrity . . . Get Me Out Of Here! “We want to make the project as fun and interactive as we can,” said Youth Health Champio and project organiser, Helen Forshaw. “Just talking at a group of young people is unlikely to make a difference, so it was important that

we got them involved as much as possible.” Aids such as “beer goggles” to demonstrate the effects of alcohol, and arts and crafts to illustrate emotional issues among young people are all part of the project. Cllr Eddie Connor, Knowsley Council’s leisure, community and culture chief, said: “This is a fantastic and interesting project. “Encouraging young people to take an active role in the course, it keeps them engaged and the messages are more likely to have a lasting effect.”

HEALTHY SMILES: Left to right – Lewis Owens, Jordan Murphy, Lewis Pilkington, Jordan McHugh and Dylan English with OurPlace youth worker, Jason McTigue

How being fit really can be fun

EER goggles and bush tucker trials are being used to tackle one of the worst health records in the country.

Schools and youth clubs across Knowsley are taking part in a project designed to transform the area’s physical and emotional health by addressing everything from bad diets to bullying. Make Space for Health – developed by Knowsley Council’s youth service in partnership with 4Children – aims to educate youngsters on eating well,

£1,500 for banned blind man A RESTAURANT has been ordered to pay £1,500 damages after barring a blind man’s guide dog. Jon Prashar was turned away from the Indigo restaurant in Carlisle with his dog, Mr T – despite informing staff that Mr T was a guide dog. Mr Prashar brought the case at Birmingham County Court on the grounds that the restaurant had discriminated against him. The court issued judgement when the restaurant failed to file a defence, and found the business in breach of the Equality Act 2010. Mr Prashar, a trustee of Leonard Cheshire Disability charity, said: “I’m delighted that such a clear message has been sent to businesses that access is a legal right and not a luxury for disabled people. “Disabled people make up 18% of the population and are a valuable source of income to businesses. “I hope that this judgement will help change attitudes amongst businesses, so that I can eat where I choose to.” Under the Equality Act 2010, businesses must make reasonable adjustments – within the scope of their resources – to ensure disabled people are able to use their services and are not discriminated against. This includes a duty to anticipate the sort of issues that might arise and to plan in advance, meaning that all businesses should be thinking about whether they are properly accessible. However, because compliance is not formally enforced or monitored, it relies on cases such as Mr Prashar’s being brought to court, which can be time-consuming and costly for the individual.

All Together NOW! is exceptionally well liked by its readers. 210,000 readers DO NOT see any other local paper — The Murray Consultancy

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Hello!

It’s great to be back – and great to be able to share with you some more very exciting news about All Together NOW! Your FREE and favourite charity paper has just been shortlisted for another TWO prestigious awards. All Together NOW! is among the finalists for the Best Magazine of the Year in the North West media awards, run by the How Do media website. And judges of the annual Newspaper Awards have included us among the finalists of the Niche Newspaper of the Year category. We’re up there with the likes of the long-standing Angling Times and Catholic Herald! This is a fantastic boost for the All Together NOW! charity, which is funded through sponsorships, advertising and grant donations. Since setting up the paper seven years ago, we have been lucky to have scooped a string of regional and community awards. But this is the first time the paper – the only one of its kind in the country – has been recognised at national level. Decision days are in late April, so please keep your fingers – and everything else -–crossed for us. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy our latest action-packed spring issue. Thanks for all the support. We’re back in summer – after the Queen’s Jubilee weekend – June 5 to be precise. See you then!

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Book your places NOW for DAD! Tom Dowling, editor WANT A BOX IN YOUR STORE?

ORGANISERS of this year’s 21st annual Disability Awareness Day say there is still time for charities and businesses to book their place at the biggest event of its kind in the UK. More than 25,000 people are expected to flock to the ‘DAD’ family event, taking place at at Walton Hall Gardens, Warrington, on Sunday July 15. Dave Thompson, chairman and founder of Warrington Disability Partnership, said: “It’s going to be a truly fantastic, funpacked day. “Brian Cronin, group chief executive at Your Housing Trust, has just told us that they are delighted to be our main sponsor this year and everything points to another great day.” Many of the 250 stands and stalls that SCUBA CHALLENGE: Dave Thompson will occupy the marques and parkland

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have already been booked. “But there is still time to reserve a place,” says Dave. “With so many people expected to be there, it’s a perfect way to promote your services.” Dave and the team at WDP are also involved in all kinds of fundraising activities to ensure that the event is a big hit. Their latest scuba swim event pulled in more than £6,000 and involved a team of 22 – which included wheelchair-user Dave, who only has limited use of his left arm. “I’m still aching all over now but I was determined not to give up,” said a jubilant Dave. To book a stand at DAD call 01925 240064 or visit www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk

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All aboard, please, for bus announcements! BLIND bus passengers are being left stranded and vulnerable, say national charity Guide Dogs. Nearly nine out of ten passengers with sight loss who took part in the charity’s survey had missed their stop – just because they didn’t know where they were on a bus journey. Guide dog owner and nurse Andy Parkinson, from Nantwich, spends three hours a day commuting. He said: “Bus drivers can often be patronising and impatient. “They regularly forget to let me know when we’ve reached my stop. There have been times I have ended up back at the depot or in unknown parts of town, not knowing where I was or how to get home.” David Cowdrey, campaigns manager at Guide Dogs, said: “Some of the stories that people told us were awful, including one lady who was almost locked in a bus in a depot for the night because the driver forgot she was there. “People are ending up lost or left in potentially dangerous situations because they can’t get the information they need about their bus journeys.” Guide Dogs is lobbying for audiovisual announcements on buses to help everyone, not just blind and partially sighted people. “We want all buses to have information telling passengers the next stop and the final destination, much like trains,” added Mr Cowdrey

Diary dates . . . APRIL 14-15: MS Life, Manchester Central. The MS Society hosts its flagship national event – and Europe ‘s largest event of its kind. The free exhibition/seminar is aimed at everyone affected by multiple sclerosis (MS), whether personally or professionally. Details, tel 020 8438 0941 www.mssociety.org.uk/mslife MAY 1-3: Naidex, NEC Birmingham. Free exhibition of aids and equipment to help people with their independence. www.naidex.co.uk MAY 23: Knowsley Active Challenge, Knowsley Hall. Lots of family walks for people of all ages and abilities. Details, tel 0151 443 2120

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April/May 2012

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NEWS

Can YOU hear the telly all right? Court ruling leaves passengers up in air! ALARM bells are ringing over a court ruling that could have a big effect on disabled air passengers. The Court of Appeal’s dismissal of two discrimination claims has narrowed the rights of disabled people when flying, say the Equality and Human Rights Commission. The judges decided that international rules on air travel – the Montreal Convention – should take precedence over domestic law on accessibility and discrimination onboard aeroplanes. The ruling means that, after boarding the plane, disabled passengers are not covered by UK law and the European Regulation on air travel. Nor can disabled people seek compensation from the airline if they are discriminated against during a flight. The Commission is now considering taking the case of Tony Hook against British Airways and Christopher Stott’s case against Thomas Cook to the Supreme Court. John Wadham, at the Equality and Human Rights Commission, said: “The decision renders the regulation regarding air travel for disabled passengers toothless. “It offers no protection for disabled travellers discriminated against while flyin and means disabled passengers cannot get compensation even after an airline has been found to be discriminatory by the courts.”

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Why we love this paper

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I FOUND All Together NOW! in Sainsbury’s at Cheshire Oaks. I like the fact that from the front cover you don’t realise that it is a paper for people with disabilities. Great design and positivity — Rob Sharpe, Woodland Park, Colwyn Bay I REALLY like All Together NOW! It makes me realise there are lots of families like mine are out there. — Mrs Alice Boardman, Clayton Villa Fold, Clayton-leWoods, Chorley, Lancashire

Action over website NEW European laws to warn smokers of the risk of blindness have been welcomed by the Royal National Institute of Blind People. EU governments have up to two years to introduce the new “smoking increases the risk of blindness” on tobacco products. Steve Winyard, at RNIB, said: “Whilst people are generally aware that smoking causes cancer, they don’t realise that they are gambling with their eyesight. People who smoke not only double the risk of developing AMD – the UK’s leading cause of blindness. “They also tend to develop it earlier than non-smokers do.”

SEVEN out of 10 adults have trouble hearing the TV clearly, a new study shows. And BBC bosses are so concerned at the findings they have launched an industry-wide training programme to address the problem. The first study into speech intelligibility on TV revealed that 71% of UK adults cannot always hear clearly what is being said. The research comprised two studies run in tandem – the first cofunded by Danish hearing aid manufacturer Widex and Channel 4, and the second by the BBC.

Eight thousand members of the BBC Pulse adult online panel, and 508 non-internet users aged over 65 took part. n Of the online adults surveyed, 70% recorded problems (59% occasionally, 11% always or often) hearing what was being said. For the over-65s age group that rose to 76% (occasionally 59%, always/often 17%). n The biggest surprise revealed by the Widex/C4 Study was that the issue of poor speech intelligibility had much more to do with technical issues during a programme’s

recording than with the subsequent overlaying of a soundtrack. Other key findings include: n 62% of the over-65s questioned describe the use of background music as reducing their enjoyment of a programme. n Of those over-65s with poor or very poor hearing, 99% have trouble hearing speech clearly on TV even though 61% use hearing aids. n As many as one programme in five watched by those with poor/very poor hearing presented them with spoken word problems.

Legal threat to welfare reform

AMPAIGNERS are threatening legal action over the Government’s welfare reforms which will see huge cuts to disability benefits, plus other major changes.

Peers and MPs failed to reverse the most potentially damaging aspects of the bill, which cleared its final hurdle in the Lords hours before a Parliamentary report warned that disabled people’s right to independent living is being put at risk by the changes. Campaign leaders claimed the report, coinciding as it did with the deeply controversial bill’s safe passage, was “very embarrassing” for the Government. The critical verdict came from the Parliamentary joint committee on human rights. Neil Coyle, director of policy and campaigns for Disability Rights UK, said: “The JCHR made clear that there are significant risks for disabled

n TV licence concessions— P6

by JOHN PRING

people with the Government’s welfare proposals, particularly with the cumulative effect when social care changes are taken into account as well.” He said he and colleagues had been asking the Government for 18 months to carry out a full assessment of the impact on disabled people of all of the cuts and reforms taken together, but it had yet to do so. Mr Coyle said legal action on the bill was now being discussed by groups including Disability Rights UK. He added: “A lot of organisations are exploring options.” Under article 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the UK government must take steps to ensure disabled people have an “equal right” to “live in the community with choices equal to others”.

PICTURED RIGHT: Jane Asher, left, Lucinda Bredhin and Gaby Roslin at the launch of the competition

Autistic artists get a chance to shine ACTRESS Jane Asher is urging young artists with autism to enter a major national contest. Create! Art for Autism 2012 is open to all young people aged 11-25 years who are formally diagnosed with an Autistic Spectrum Condition including Asperger’s Syndrome.

Jane, president of the National Autistic Society, said: “The wealth of talent and imagination of those in the autistic community has long been overlooked. “I’m sure that this competition, now in its second year, will help to bring it the recognition it deserves.”

There are four main categories – 2D Art, 3D Art, Digital Art and Poetry – and there will also be a People’s Choice award, the winner of which will be voted for by the readers of the Times Educational Supplement. n Closing date, May 18. www.createartforautism.co.uk

280,000 – two-thirds of All Together NOW! readers – DO NOT read any other disability or health publication — The Murray Consultancy

A warm wecome down on the farm FARMS and nature reserves across the country are opening their gates and offering free visits to people who would never normally have the chance to experience them. Free and accessible farm visits for people with disabilities, from socially deprived areas, and aged 65 and over and are available under the Let Nature Feed Your Senses scheme. Seventy-five farms and nature reserves are hosting visits, with sites to meet a variety of needs. Hosts will adapt visits to suit different groups’ requirements and many of the farms are wheelchair accessible with plenty of things to see, smell and touch at wheelchair height. The Big Lottery scheme is run by farming charity LEAF (Linking Environment And Farming) and Sensory Trust. North-West farms taking part in the scheme include: n Bickley Hall Farm, Bickley Lane, Bickley, near Malpas n Briercliffe, Wheathead Lane, Blacko, Nelson n Cronkshaw Fold Farm & Study Centre, Alden Road, Helmshore, Rossendale n New Laund Farm, Whitewell, Clitheroe n Reaseheath College, Reaseheath, Nantwich n Slack House Farm, Gilsland, Brampton n The Croft, Houghton, Carlisle n The Grange, Warrington Road, Mickle Trafford, Chester n Windy Pike, Rowntree Farms, Gisburn, Clitheroe n Visits can be booked until August. Call 0247 6413 911 or 01726 222 900.

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April/May 2012

NEWS YOUNG HEROES: Peter Millar (Great Sporting Achievement) with Peter Johnson, left, chairman of Tranmere Rovers FC and Park Group, and actor Andrew Lancell. Centre, Karl Thompson (Young Carer) and Esther McVey MP. Right, Christopher Gavin (Overcoming Disability) and Frank Field MP

‘Bad guy’ meets the good guys

ORMER Coronation Street ‘bad guy’ Frank Foster (aka Andrew Lancel) came face to face with some real cool good guys . . .

Andrew was presenting the first Wirral Youth Heroes awards at a gala dinner at Thornton Hall Hotel, Wirral. “I’ve been lucky enough to have been invited to lots of award nights,” he said, “but this is something very, very special. “The judges selected nine young people to receive the awards, but all the 24 nominees are winners. Every one of them has an incredible story to tell – real-life stories that are truly inspirational and

deeply moving.” The awards were organised by Christian charity Youth for Christ in response to last summer’s natonwide riots. Martin Dickson from YFC, said: “We set up the awards to inspire other young people to do something special for their community.”

Roll of Honour Overall Winner and Inspirational Volunteer: Josh Rotherham. Josh, 19, turned his back on gangs and became a volunteer with the Wirral Youth Theatre, supporting young people with disabilities. Great Sporting Achievement: Peter

Millar. Tennis-mad Peter, 19, won two gold medals for GB in the Special Olympics at Shanghai – and has been National Champion (singles and doubles) since 2005. He has aslo qualified as one of the first people in the country with learning difficulties to be an assistant tennis coach. Overcoming Illness/Disability: Christopher Gavin. Aged six, Gavin, 17, was diagnosed with a large brain tumour which needed extensive life threatening surgery. Radiotherapy followed, but the tumour remained. Christopher is a hero because despite being bullied, he is now involved in sports coaching for younger

children. Young Carer: Karl Thompson. Karl, 16, has autism, learning difficulties, epilepsy, and visually impaired. Coping with his own disabilities is tough, but Carl also help his older brother, David, who is also severely disabled. Community Action: Hannah Brown. Hannah, 16, is a hero to the members of the St Mary’s MENCAP group. Outstanding Educational Achievement: Erin Nolan. Contribution to the Arts: Rob Muir. Courage & Bravery: Georgia Price. Enterprise: Benjamin Caveen.

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April/May 2012

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NEWS

Have YOU been a victim of hate crime? A NEW guide to help disabled people and their carers report incidents of hate crime has been launched. Liz Sayce, chief executive of Disability Rights UK, said: “Hate Crime against disabled people is shocking and has to stop. “I hope our guidance will lead to change locally, enable disabled people to report hate crime and support new partnerships between disabled people’s organisations and local agencies, ranging from housing associations through to the police and the Crown Prosecution Service.” n The Let’s Stop Disability Hate Crime guidance documents can be downloaded from www.radar.org.uk

Telly licence help A CAMPAIGN has been launched to ensure blind people are claiming the 50% concession on TV licences. The concession entitles people who are registered blind or severely sight impaired, to get their licence at a reduced fee of £72.75 for colour and £24.50 for a black and white TV Licence. Not only that, if you live with someone who is registered blind or severely sight impaired, their 50% licence concession will cover all the equipment in the household. n Anyone over 75 can also get a free licence. Call 0300 790 6073. www.tvlicensing.co.uk/over75

House fit for all THE House of Commons is to be made more accessible for MPs, staff and visitors. Plans include developing new tailored tours for disabled and mobility impaired visitors, and encouraging more senior staff from minority ethnic backgrounds.

Mayors hear people’s fears

Who’s your hero?

CHAIN REACTION: Mayors and political leaders at the Neurosupport event

Search is on for region’s deaf champions

HE hunt is on for the UK’s finest deaf communicators.

Nominations are wanted for the 2012 Signature Annual Awards, which recognise those who are making a positive contribution to the lives of the deaf community. Forming part of Signature’s celebrations to mark its 30th anniversary of providing accredited sign language qualifications, the awards uncover the inspirational stories behind the UK’s teachers and

DELIGHT: Clark Denmark, winner of last year’s Outstanding Contribution award, with Nick Lewis, chair of Signature learners who are helping to break down the barriers to communication that deaf and deafblind people regularly face. Alongside honouring the talents of the country’s regional Teacher of the Year and Learner of the Year, Signature is also looking for the individuals and organisations for its national awards including Community Spirit, Communication Professional of the Year and the prestigious Joseph Maitland Robinson Award for Outstanding Contribution.

Jim Edwards, chief executive of Signature, said: “Since the launch of awards in 2009 we have uncovered so many truly inspirational individuals and organisations that have shown a real passion for creating a society in which deaf and deafblind people have full access.” n Nominations for the regional

Teacher of the Year and Learner of the Year awards can be submitted at www.signature.org.uk/awards until Wednesday May 2.

MAYORS and MPs from across Merseyside heard the fears and concerns of people with neurological conditions at a special event at Liverpool’s Neurosupport centre. Thirteen neurological charities were represented at the event, which highlighted the key findings of the National Audit Office report, ‘Services for People with Neurological Conditions’. The report states that current services for people with long term neurological conditions do not represent value for money, are poorly coordinated and that information and support for these people and their families is inadequate. MPs were also informed about the national campaign by the Neurological Alliance to request a response to the report’s findings from the Health Minister – and were asked to raise questions in Parliament based on the information gained from the Neurosupport event. Julie McWilliam, chair of the Merseyside & Cheshire Neurological Alliance, said: “We are really heartened by the interest shown by our local MPs and mayors. “Our member charities work tirelessly raising awareness and educating people about neurological conditions but there is no substitute for meeting the people affected by them on a daily basis.”

Ready for a break at a good price? O

NE of the most popular stands at the North West’s Annual Disability Awareness Day is that of the organisers, Warrington Disability Partnership. And among the most common questions people ask is where they can find a truly accessible and affordable caravan holiday. Well, they’ve an answer for that infact they have TWO . . . “We’ve got two fantastic caravans situated in North Wales that are wheelchair accessible, very affordable, and very popular,” says Dave Thompson, founder and chair of the charity. The Grenadere, in Pensarn, and the Guillemot, in Rhyl, have ramped

entrances, wider exterior doors and exterior lights. The interiors have been designed with wheelchair users in mind, with wide sliding doors that provide easy access to each room. Ceiling-mounted grab chains are also positioned above the beds. Carpets are particularly suited to wheelchairs, and electrical switches, sockets and appliance controls are placed at appropriate heights. The fitted kitchen includes lower level work surfaces and a recess beneath the sink unit, while special attention has also been given to the spacious shower rooms. Costs range from £120 to £390 per week. Full details – WDP, 01925 240064.

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April/May 2012

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MIRIAM* was 50 when the finance company she worked for closed.

ARE YOU, like me, wondering how quickly the time goes? She had to deal with the Already, we’re in spring and for the loss of the job she loved team at the Bank Workers Charity and her sudden loss of (BWC) it’s a time for reflection. income – it left her totally It will be a year in May that we unprepared to manage changed our name from the Bankers her debts. Benevolent Fund to the Bank Workers As demand letters and Charity which was the start of a new rent arrears mounted, ambition to help more people in the Miriam struggled to keep banking community with life’s up, feeling isolated and challenges than ever before. alone. Since then we are continually looking “It’s not easy to tell your at new ways to help our clients, children that you’ve failed and that you are about to whether it’s new partnerships with be evicted from your expert organisations, new services or home,” she says. updating our website with even more Threatened with court helpful links and information. action, and scared, she Here’s some stats about what we’ve got in touch with us. achieved so far: Our client advisors n 3,000 helpline calls helped Miriam find n More than 3,000 web interventions organisations that would n More than 245 partner service users n More than 300 clients supported with maximising their incomes n More than 500 grants provided. So what can we do if you come to us with money problems? Our skilled client advisors look at the big picture – what outgoings We give banking families and you have, including housing costs retirees support and advice or any debts or arrears. when it is most needed When working out ways of overcoming money problems, we not only look at budgeting. We also look into how debts or arrears could be paid off in CALL US FREE: 0800 0234 834 different ways and look into maximising your income.

FRED PAYNE, Chief Executive of the Bank Workers Charity, reflects on a tough year

assist in untangling her debts, and were able to contact her landlord and get the threat of eviction removed. Within weeks, Miriam’s finances were more stable and she was focused on finding a new job. But despite being motivated and experienced, Miriam’s confidence had hit rock bottom. We arranged coaching sessions with an employment specialist, and Miriam soon found a new position. Through our mentoring support, she now knows how to manage her debts, and feels positive about her future.

HE Bank Workers Charity exists to help anyone currently working, or who has worked, in the banking industry who has hit hard times. We know there are thousands of All Together NOW! readers who could benefit from our support services – we just need to know who YOU are! Over the next year we will be encouraging readers to register with us so that we can provide the appropriate help. We will also keep you regularly informed about the kind of support we are giving to people across the UK, and keep you posted on any new initiatives (ours, or those of other charities) which we think you might benefit from. We’ll even enter you in our special prize draws to win £50 Marks & Spencer gift vouchers. So register now – you have absolutely nothing to lose and maybe lots to gain. This draw runs until the end of May. The lucky winner will be notified by mid-June.

NAME ADDRESS

*Name and photo changed to protect our client’s privacy

Making a difference

The Bank Workers Charity

www.bwcharity.org.uk

Often we find that clients don’t know about financial support or benefits they might be entitled to which can make a huge difference to their circumstances. There are 13.5 million people living below the poverty line in the UK, including 3.8 million children, but around £19.18 billion of welfare benefits go unclaimed each year. Awareness of the money that is available to individuals who are at risk of losing their income is low, and research by one of our partners, the Turn2us charity, shows that only 40% would try to claim benefits if they

needed to. This is why I think it’s really important to let people know about what financial assistance is out there, including benefits, and it’s why we’re backing Benefits Awareness Month, which is a campaign being run throughout April by Turn2us to raise awareness of the benefits anyone on low or limited incomes could be entitled to. The campaign is also aiming to tackle the perceived stigma associated with making a benefits claim. I’d urge anyone that is having financial problems to get in touch with an

organisation like ours before it gets on top of you. We will work through the issues step by step and do our best to find a way around the problems. You can also use lots of information on our website, including the Turn2us benefits checker. To find out what entitlements you may have or how to budget, log on to www.bwcharity.org.uk/services/my-money You can also give us a call for more indepth support – both services are absolutely free and confidential.

TEL: EMAIL:

EMPLOYER DETAILS EMPLOYER:

EMPLOYER’S ADDRESS:

Year(s) of employment: Send this form to: Registration, Bank Workers Charity, Pinners Hall, 105-108 Old Broad Street, London EC2N 1EX. You can also register by email at info@bwcharity.org.uk — but please inlcude all requested details.

Remploy axed!

All Together NOW!

April/May 2012

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

NEWS

Danger every clubber needs to know about TINNITUS – a constant buzzing or ringing in the ears – seriously affects the lives of almost than 2.5m people in Britain. But it seems most people don’t have a clue about the condition. A recent study asked 1,000 people what tinnitus is – and 39% of people said that they didn’t know. A further 22% said they thought it was an allergy to metal – and 11 people thought it was a repetitive strain injury. A staggering 56% had hurt their ears at a live concert because the music was so loud. But only 33% have ever worn earplugs or tried other forms of hearing protection. Emma Harrison, director of public engagement at national charity Action on Hearing Loss, said: “Tinnitus can destroy a person’s quality of life. It is common among young people who go out clubbing regularly or who listen to music a lot.”

HE AXE has fallen on 36 Remploy factories across the UK – including seven in the North west – that aren’t making money.

After all the speculation – and following a review of disability employment services – the decision means another 1,752 disabled people will be joining the dole queue. The North West jobs are to go in Barrow, Birkenhead, Bolton, Manchester, Oldham, Preston and Wigan. Worst hit is Oldham where 107 disabled people will be sacked. Another 78 jobs at factories in Burnley, Blackburn and Heywood are now also threatened. Maria Miller, the minister for disabled people, said the factory closures had been recommended in the review led by the chief executive of Disability Rights UK, which said expensive, segregated employment should be phased out. n Action on Hearing Loss Information The doomed factories lose a total Line, 0808 808 0123 (freephone); 0808 £63m a year and the average 808 9000 (textphone) or email: taxpayer subsidy is £25,000 for informationline@hearingloss.org.uk each worker – compared with just www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk £2,900 to support a disabled person Lifeline All Together Now 132x165 ad_Layout 1 21/03/2012 14:58 Page 1 in a mainstream job.

“We have been absolutely clear that the £320m budget for specialist disability employment services has been protected,” the minister said. “But by spending the money more effectively, we can get thousands more disabled people in work. “That is why we have accepted the recommendation from the Sayce review to refocus support on individuals through services like Access to Work, rather than institutions like Remploy, so more disabled people can work in mainstream employment rather than

Government funded segregated factories.” Not all disability charities agree. Mike Smith, chief executive of the UK’s largest Christian disability charity, Livability, said: “Although, we understand that, in some instances, it might be necessary to close expensive and loss-making factories, we do not support the urgency with which this is being done. “More time and support should be allowed for Remploy’s disabled workforce to find other employment.”

‘The clock is being turned backwards’

A button that could save your life!

LMOST nine out of 10 people questioned in a new survey feel that those with disabilities are treated badly – despite new laws promising to outlaw discrimination.

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For more information about how the service works, or for a FREE demonstration, call 0845 075 3900, or visit www.vnclifeline.co.uk

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The research, by charity Papworth Trust, also revealed that one in seven believed disabled people were labelled “benefit scroungers” and 12% of disabled people said they felt like second or lower class citizens. The survey was based on a sample of over 750 people, most of whom were disabled. It also found that those questioned often felt marginalised by the actions of politicians and the media. Four out of five people surveyed said politicians did not treat disabled people fairly, while more than two-thirds of people levelled the same criticism at newspapers. Many disabled people said that after years of seeing improvements in attitudes to disability, they had recently noticed a backlash.

“For most of my life things have been improving for us, disabled,” said one participant. “However, in the past couple of years it feels like the clock is being turned backwards, and quickly.” The survey was carried out as part of the Papworth’s response to a Government consultation to inform their disability strategy. The charity concluded that there are two easy changes which could be made to improve attitudes towards disabled people: n A Government-led national review of Government and media language to highlight the damage done by pejorative language and negative stereotyping. n More education and awareness-raising campaigns directed at schools, professionals and the public about disability. This would include a review of the effectiveness of current awareness-raising programmes about disability where they exist and assess where gaps could be filled.

420,000 readers . . .

‘Cowardly’ factory closures slammed SHAMEFUL – that’s the verdict of the North West TUC on the decision to shut Remploy factories. “Disabled people are now paying the price for the Government’s failure to properly support these Remploy factories and help make them a sustainable part of a growing economy,” Regional Secretary Alan Manning. “These factories enabled disabled people to play their full part in society – and make a proper and valuable contribution to our economy. “The Government have smuggled out this shameful decision to shut down the factories in a cowardly manner through a written statement, without having the courage to make a proper ministerial statement to the House of Commons.”

Barber hits out TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber has blasted the latest results of the Government’s incapacity benefit re-assessment tests for Employment and Support Allowance. Mr Barber said: “These tests have deemed terminally ill patients and people with severe disabilities as ‘fit to work’, are costing taxpayers a small fortune in successful legal appeals and serve no clear benefit to the very people they are supposed to help. “The point of a fitness test should be to identify whether someone is really fit to work, not to kick people off benefits whatever the cost.”

TAKE ME HOME!

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

April/May 2012

Making a difference – that’s our goal!

ERE at the Morgan Foundation we want to help organisations who share our philosophy – Making a Difference.

Over the past decade we have helped hundreds of organisations across the region, committing more than £9 million. And this year we will be giving away to good causes a whopping £1.5 MILLION! Created in 2001 by businessman Steve Morgan OBE, founder and chairman of Redrow plc, chairman of the Bridgemere Group of Companies and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, the Morgan Foundation supports charities across North Wales, Merseyside, West Cheshire and North Shropshire. Our aim is to provide funding for small to medium

sized organisations who are addressing specific needs in these regions. We are particularly keen to support those who have already begun to make an impact, but need a helping hand to expand their work and increase their effectiveness. We focus our help mainly on those who work directly with children and families but we recognise that many wider issues may also affect their welfare, so we are interested in any project that contributes to the quality of life in our region. If you, your group or charity is based within our geographical area (see map, right) and you think we might be able to help with your project then please call our administrator, Jane Harris, BEFORE sending your application. Contact Jane on 01829 782800

Tee off for the children!

HE CALL has gone out to companies and golfers to get involved in The Morgan Foundation’s exclusive charity golf day at the stunning Carden Park Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa. Steve Morgan, chairman of The Morgan Foundation, said: “This event offers a fabulous opportunity for great golf on the famous Championship Nicklaus course and an evening of top class entertainment – whilst raising much needed funds to provide disabled children and young people with essential mobility equipment that can quite literally change lives.” Benefiting from the event this year will be the Chester-based Children Today charity, which provides a wide range of of equipment for disabled children all over the UK. Steve continued: “Too many children and young people with disabilities

The Morgan Foundation Charity Golf Day & Gala Dinner Friday May 25 – Carden Park Hotel, near Chester

TOP comedian John Bishop and UK Queen of Soul Beverley Knight will be topping the bill at the Gala Dinner

Picture by Lorenzo Agius

HOTLINE: 01829 782800

remain excluded from a lifestyle that others take for granted. “They want to take part in the same sort of activities, within their capabilities, as their siblings or other children. “They want to gain more independence from their parents as they get older, but are often prevented from doing so – and often just because they don’t have the right kind of wheelchair or other piece of vital equipment!” Children Today provide a range of

bespoke items from sensory equipment through to tricycles and powered sit-to-stand wheelchairs that enable youngsters with mobility problems to be independent. Many of the children they help have life-threatening or life-limiting conditions. “Children Today always have more families on their waiting list than they can provide for,” Steve added. “Every story is heart-breaking and every family is in real need. With your help we can make a real difference.”

Miles and miles of smiles!

HERE have been smiles all round at Ysgol Maes Hyfryd in Flint following the delivery of their brand new Smiley Bus, courtesy of The Morgan Foundation. The bus, a fully wheelchair accessible 17-seater, replaces an older vehicle and allows pupils to continue their weekly visits to a local hydrotherapy pool, to sports activities in Holywell and Flint, and to lessons with Riding for the Disabled. Sixth form students also use the bus to travel to work experience placements, college

KEY TO FREEDOM: Jane Harris hands over the key of the new Smiley Bus

www.morganfoundation.co.uk

courses and community activities every day. As a special needs school with 140 pupils aged 11 to 19 years, Ysgol Maes Hyfryd offers students the chance to take part in a wide range of activities.. The Friends of Ysgol Maes Hyfryd raised £10,000 towards the cost of the new bus through various fundraising activities, with the rest of the finances being provided by The Morgan Foundation. This is the 21st bus donated by The Morgan Foundation to charities and social enterprises within the region.

Tel. 01829 782800

GETTING ON . . .

MONEY — are YOU getting enough? NEW research reveals the average retired person feels they need an extra £140 a week – or £7,300 a year – to be financially comfortable. However, if people shopped around before accepting the annuity rate or product offered by their pension provider, this could increase their income by as much as 50%. MGM Advantage has published a checklist of things for people to consider when making important decisions at retirement: 1. Claim all state benefits to which you are entitled. To check, go to www.direct.gov.uk Data suggests that pensioners are missing out on up to £5 billion a year in unclaimed pension credit, housing and council tax benefits, as well as attendance and disability living allowances. 2. Keep a track on any old personal or occupational pension arrangements. If you think you might have lost track of an old pension, you can check via the Department for Work and Pensions tracing service at www.the pensionservice.gov.uk 3. Check if you have any old savings accounts by going to www.unclaimed assets.co.uk 4. Don’t just accept the annuity rate offered by your pension provider. You should shop around for the best rate and you might qualify for an enhanced rate for preexisting medical conditions. 5. Seek professional financial advice. To find an independent adviser try looking at www.unbiased.co.uk

All Together NOW!

You’ve really got to laugh!

CIENTISTS are being paid to find out how to make people happy as they enter old age.

Experts have been given £465,000 to examine how our brains deal with emotion as we get older. The work is thought to be crucial to keeping elderly people involved in society and reducing the burden on long-term healthcare – the more older people are happy, the smaller the healthcare costs! Dr Carien van Reekum, who will carry out the University of Reading study, said her aim was to help governments and public health bodies maintain healthy levels of well-being among an ageing population. She also hoped to break down misunderstandings among the general public about mental health and ageing. “With a projected rise of 32% in the population aged 65 and over by 2033, it is crucial that we understand and promote healthy ageing,” she said. While we know a great deal about how our brains ‘shrink’ as

April/May 2012

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Life is fragile, handle with care . . .

WISE WINNIE

. . . helps to solve some of the problems faced by older people

IN THE summer I am having my 10 year-old grand-daughter to stay while her hard-working parents go for a much-needed break.

HAPPINESS: Ken Dodd wrote a song about it, now it’s the subject of a scientific study

we get older – affecting abilities such as memory, attention, planning and movement – little is known about how they impact on our emotional well-being. If these brain systems deteriorate with age, then do older adults deal with emotional situations less well - or do they use different brain systems to stay happy in their daily lives?

Younger “Large survey studies have reported an increase in positive emotion with age, with some psychologists suggesting an improvement in the skills to control one’s emotions,” Dr van Reekum said. “What has not been studied is how these age-related individual differences affect our ability to appropriately regulate emotion.” Researchers will use Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to scan the brains of volunteers aged 55 to 85, as well as a control group of younger people, and measure their physiological and behavioural responses to emotion.

Scientists will also conduct cognitive tests, well-being surveys and daily saliva samples to measure changes in stress hormones. Researchers will then analyse the data to see how individuals whose brains have deteriorated with age compensate by activating their brains differently when regulating emotion. And they will examine how people’s ability to regulate emotion, even in the face of decline in cognitive ability and brain matter, affects people’s stress levels and sense of wellbeing. It is hoped the research will aid understanding of how older adults can successfully adapt to stressful events by regulating their emotions, leading to the creation of more effective treatments to promote lifelong well-being. The work, at the university’s centre for integrative neuroscience and neurodynamics, will begin later this year with the grant from research council the BBSRC.

SENIOR MOMENTS . . . with FRANK HARRIS

I’m looking forward to having her company, but worried about how to amuse her. I am not into today’s technology. I don’t have a computer and even a DVD gives me problems. My grand-daughter keeps in touch with her friends and their doings on her mobile phone, but how can I entertain her the rest of the time? She’s not one for sitting reading a book like I used to do. I would love this visit to bring us closer together, but I’m beginning to feel I have nothing to offer.

CHEER UP, there’s a lot you can give her. This could be a chance to introduce her to creative hobbies that her busy parents hadn’t the time to do. If you watched Kirstie’s Handmade Britain on TV you would have seen Kirstie Allsopp making many lovely things without spending a lot of money. Start now by visiting craft centres for ideas. Making jewellery from beads might appeal to a 10-year-old and so might other activities such as felt work, doing soap sculptures, decoupage (covering surfaces with decorative paper) and designing cards for all occasions. Many art galleries lay on holiday activity programmes with professional artists introducing youngsters to skills ranging from ceramics to painting or printing. Find out what’s on offer, also at libraries. Grans used to teach grand-daughters how to knit, and knitting has taken on a new lease of life, with celebrities like Sex in the City’s Sarah Jessica Parker even making it cool to knit The new novelty wools are fun to work with and it’s not difficult to make young fashion accessories like trendy hats and scarves. One day you could try a cosy baking afternoon. Or how about bringing out the old photograph albums to let her see her parents and family ‘oldies’ in a new light? Something as simple as a leisurely country walk might be an eye-opener for her, especially if you brought back smooth stones to decorate with bright paints. Crafts are really high on the leisure time agenda and make lovely presents. Introducing your grand-daughter to a lifetime hobby that she loves would be your present to her. I can see you happily bonding without the help of technology.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

April/May 2012

FAMILYZONE Changing the face of healthcare LIVERPOOL Community Health NHS Trust is aiming to become one of the first Community Foundation Trusts in the country. A series of public events have been held across Liverpool, Sefton, Knowsley, St Helens and Halton about improving local NHS community healthcare. The final event is being event is being held on Thursday 19 April (noon-2pm) at Kirkdale Neighbourhood Community Centre and is open to anyone. Bernie Cuthel, chief executive of Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust, said: “Becoming a Foundation Trust is all about providing an even better quality of healthcare service for local residents. It will enable us to have more independence from central government and be more accountable to the communities we work in.” The Trust is aiming to recruit 2,500 public members and elect 13 public governors by this October. (See below)

New service tackles family breakdowns

ATIONAL charity Contact a Family is helping children’s centre staff understand the unique pressures that impact on families with a disabled child.

With input from Relate, the relationship people, the charity has developed training and workshops for a range of staff – aiming to help them recognise and respond to the problems faced by parents of disabled children and how this can often impact on the whole family. Louise Derbyshire, at Contact a Family, says: “Couples caring for a child with a disability face a unique combination of emotional, social, physical and financial pressures that impact on family life. “They are often at greater risk of marital problems and divorce. “Our research has shown that 53% of parents caring for a child with a disability believed it had caused either ‘some’ or ‘major’ difficulties or the breakdown of their relationship. “The good news is that early intervention from professionals, together with access to the right specialist support, can help prevent some family breakdowns. “That’s why we are encouraging children’s centre staff to find out more about the training we are offering and increase their skills and confidence when helping families that include disabled child.” Contact a Family Helpline - 0808 808 3555

New services for people struggling with debt.

Money Advice

A confidential and impartial service for people on low incomes and/or qualifying benefits (Income Support, Income-based JSA/ESA, Guaranteed Pensions Credit).

Support includes:

z Income maximisation z Dealing with emergencies e.g. bailiffs z Help with bankruptcy applications z Representation at court hearings z Credit card/personal loan debts z Rent/mortgage arrears z Budgeting advice

Contact the team on 0151 705 2383 or email info@localsolutions.org.uk

Care GPs Quality Safe Blood Tests Place Merseyside Community Matrons Community Intermediate Care Skin Care Immuni sations GPs Treatment Rooms Follow us on Twitter Skin Care @ N H S L i v e r p o o l C H R a d i o l o g y Wa l k - i n C e n t r e s C a r e M e d i c i n e M a n a g e m e n t C o m m u n i t y F o o d Wo r k e r s Speech and Language Therapy I NHS Immunisations Courage Dist rict Nurses Dental Wh eelch air Ser vice GPs Community Health Visitors Dental Collaboration Podiatry Abacus Care Lifehouse Unplanned Care Direct Courage Dieticians Occupational Therapy Radiology Commitment Abacus Physiotherapy Courage Sexual Health Continence Blood Tests Vaccinations Armistead Radiography Liveability Safe Place Merseyside Community Equipment Prison Health Courage Speech and Language Therapy Q u a l i t y S a f e g u a rd i n g D e n t a l Walk-in Centres Community Unplanned Care Direct Health Visitor s School Nurses Care

Fuel Debt Advice

Supporting you with your gas and electricity bills

Our qualified team will support you with: z Managing your debt z Accessing grants to clear arrears z Understanding your bills z Reducing energy usage z Switching suppliers Call our friendly advisors FREE on 0800 988 2655 or email fueldebt@localsolutions.org.uk Local Solutions charity number 515060

We’re passionate about community health services. We think you are too. Liverpool Community Health is planning to become an NHS Foundation Trust. We want you to take part in our consultation. Have your say from 6th Feb to 30th April and become a member of your community health Trust. Find out more at: liverpoolcommunityhealth.nhs.uk Or by email: cft@liverpoolch.nhs.uk

INDEPENDENT LIVING All Together NOW!

April/May 2012

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

‘

We receive lots of interest from councils, Primary Care Trusts and other user-led organisations across the UK with a view to them developing similar services — Dave Thompson

Disabled people’s organisation take over the running of city’s independent living centre

New lease of Lifehouse! A

WELL-KNOWN Liverpool centre that provides aids and equipment to help people lead more independent lives is now being run by disabled people.

Warrington Disability Partnership, which operates a similar and hugely successful service in Warrington, has taken over the running of Lifehouse, situated in Summers Road, Brunswick

Business Park. Over the past year, the Warrington charity – led by disabled people - has been working with Liverpool City Council and Liverpool Community Health to

Mobility & Independent Living Service High Quality Mobility Products at Affordable Prices

Equipment Sales (New and Used) Walking Stick MOT Service Continence Products

Supporting:

Additional services also available:

Registered Company Ltd No: 07491504 VAT No: 104 8436 30

Battery Testing Service Mobility Workshop & Service Centre

Registered Company Ltd No: 4726639 Registered Charity No: 1113597

01925 240064 & 0151 709 0121 www.disabilitytradingcompany.co.uk www.disabilitypartnership.org.uk

Services available in Warrington at the Centre for Independent Living, Warrington Market, Golden Square & Shopmobility and new service available from the Liverpool Disabled Living Centre from 2nd April.

develop the new ‘user-led’ style approach to the wide range of services available at Lifehouse. Dave Thompson, founder and chairman of WDP, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with Liverpool City Council, Liverpool Community Health and local disability organisations and individuals. “This service builds on the recognition we received from the Department of Health when they reviewed our Warrington Centre for Independent Living which they have promoted as an example of ‘best practice’ in terms of the development of innovative user-led services. “We have followed national recommendations to develop our services, and we receive lots of interest from councils, Primary Care Trusts and other user-led organisations across the UK with a view to them developing similar services.” The new Mobility and Independent Living Services offers high quality products at competitive prices – backed up by an extensive range of information, advice and support services. The product range includes scooters, wheelchairs, armchairs, adjustable beds, bath seats and raisers, ramps, three/four wheeled walkers, batteries, tyres and daily living products. The new service opened on April 2. For more details about the new services, and for information about other WDP services, call 01925 240064 or 0151 709 0121 or visit www.disabilitypartnership.org.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2012

All Together NOW!

%ONmT GBĆžĆž VJDTJM to bogus callers! 6NJTFE 6TJĆžJTJFS JS DBĆžĆžJNH ON BĆžĆž DUSTOMFRS TO PROTFDT TIFMSFĆžVFS GROM EOORSTFP DRJMJNBĆžS Statistics show that around 20 bogus caller crimes are committed every day in the UK, but this might only be 10% of the total that actually take place as victims often feel too embarrassed to report it to the police. Bogus callers often claim that there is an emergency and that they need to check the water supply; they will use this as an opportunity to trick themselves into customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; homes claiming to be from United Utilities or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the water boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Once inside, they will distract the homeowner while they or an accomplice helps themselves to money and valuables. Genuine United Utilitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; employees always carry an ID card and are happy to show this to you. They will never put pressure on you to get into your home and are happy for you to phone United Utilities to check their identity. And genuine employees wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t refer to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the water boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; as this hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t existed for more than 30 years! Bogus callers can be very persuasive, but our advice is to never feel under pressure to let someone into your home.

Need a little ExtraCare? We offer a range of free services to help customers who: q BSF PMEFS q IBWF B EJTBCJMJUZ q IBWF B TFSJPVT JMMOFTT q IBWF TJHIU IFBSJOH PS MFBSOJOH EJGÄ DVMUJFT 0VS TFSWJDFT JODMVEF q QFSTPOBM OPUJÄ DBUJPO PG XBUFS TIVU PGGT q MBSHF QSJOU #SBJMMF BOE UBMLJOH CJMMT 8F BMTP PGGFS B GSFF QBTTXPSE TDIFNF GPS BMM PVS DVTUPNFST

To find out more call 0845 746 1100 or textphone 0808 143 1195 03/12/SD/5073

Beat the bogus caller p -0$, Home or away â&#x20AC;&#x201C; keep all doors -0$,&%

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To help you, we operate a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;password protectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; scheme. Joining the United Utilities password scheme is easy. It takes just one call to 0845 746 1100. We simply need your details and your choice of password. Then, whenever someone claiming to be from United Utilities calls at your home, you can ask them for your password. Only a genuine visitor from United Utilities will know what it is. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a simple deterrent that really does work and will give you the confidence to turn people away. Most gas, electricity and telephone companies will operate a similar scheme â&#x20AC;&#x201C; see a recent bill for further details and contact numbers.

All Together NOW!

MERSEYTRAVEL

April/May 2012

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SUMMIT SPECIAL! TOP OF THE WORLD: Matt set for his summit attempt

AREDEVIL Matt Chamberlain donned his climbing gear and scaled Africa’s tallest mountain – raising more than £1,500 for a children’s charity.

Matt at height of his powers for children charity

Matt, from Merseytravel, took part in the eight-day day sponsored scaling of Mount Kilimanjaro – starting in the tropical rainforests of Tanzania in 30C heat and finishing at a chilling –18C in the famous ice fields at the summit. Matt, who is in the corporate strategy and marketing team, said: “Once Merseytravel staff had chosen Calder Kids as their charity of the year, I had no hesitation in deciding I wanted to raise funds for them. “The climb itself consisted of four upwards hiking days followed by the summit attempt and two further days heading down off the mountain.

“The first four days were comfortable, but by the end of day three, I was really dehydrated and had to recover quickly as we would continue to climb the next day. “Day five was our summit attempt. We ate at around 5.30pm and were told to get as much sleep as possible as our summit attempt would commence at midnight. “As we slowly ascended with only head torches and a bright full moon to lead the way, members of our team started to feel the effects of the climb. “Many were experiencing altitude sickness symptoms with headaches,

fatigue and some were being violently sick. “After seven and a half hours, reaching the summit was a pure release of emotion and pride in what I had achieved. “It took three hours to get back down to the camp, followed by a further four energy-sapping hours’ hike to the next campsite. That night I can honestly say I had no problem sleeping! “Reaching the end gate was very sad. Obviously it meant I could have a shower, but it was the end of a unique journey. “This experience has taught me two things. Firstly that determination, desire and sheer hunger will push you to achieve things that you feel cannot be done. Secondly, pushing yourself outside your usual boundaries gives you a wonderful sense of achievement.”

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.

Merseytravel is making sure that Public Transport on Merseyside is easy for everyone to use

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: U Àii V ViÃÃ >ÀÞ ÌÀ>Ûi v À ÛiÀ {n]äää «i « iÊ with disabilities U ìÀ ] Ü y À] >VViÃÃ L i LÕÃiÃ Ü V >ÀiÊ developed in partnership with our local authorities and bus companies U v À >Ì > Û>À iÌÞ v v À >ÌÃ V Õ` } Ì iÊ iÀÃiÞÌÀ>Ûi VViÃÃ Õ ì q V Ì> } >VViÃÃÊ ÊÊÊìÌ> ÃÊv ÀÊ> ÊLÕÃÊ> `ÊÀ> ÊÃÌ>Ì ÃÊ Ê iÀÃiÞÃ ì Textphone users can dial 18001 then 0871 200 22 33 for a text relay assisted call

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

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

April/May 2012

All Together NOW!

So how’s YOUR eyesight . . ?

ILLIONS of motorists over 40 have no idea they could be risking not only their own lives – but passengers and pedestrians too.

Many drivers are oblivious to the dangers of developing glaucoma, and the impact the disease can have on vision. In a survey of over 1,000 drivers, over half (52%) did not know that glaucoma mainly affects peripheral vision even though 96% described glaucoma as an eye disease. The survey revealed 30% of people in the 40 to 54 age group – when vulnerability starts to increase – are failing to take an eye test at least every twoNow_Layout years. CI0006 All Together 1 23/05/2011 12:46 David Wright, head of the International Glaucoma Association, said: “Too many people over 40 assume their eyesight is fine and don’t bother with regular eye testing that

TO BOOST knowledge of glaucoma, the IGA has launched the ‘EyeWay Code to Keep Your Eyes and life on the Road after 40 years old’, downloadable from www.glaucomaassociation.com

includes simple, painless tests for glaucoma. “Thousands of drivers are on our roads with undiagnosed and untreated glaucoma and millions are not testing frequently enough. Page 1 “It is a glaring risk for drivers, passengers and pedestrians. It’s a pity because if detected and treated early most glaucoma patients can carry on driving for many years and avoid the

life-changing impact of losing their licence.” Experts, including the IGA, recommend people aged 40 and over take a glaucoma test at least every two years to ensure early diagnosis, when treatment is most effective. The IGA’s survey highlights the life-changing impact of losing the ability to drive: eight out of 10 people said it would dramatically or considerably change their life if they could no

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longer drive; 73% feared the impact on social life; 21% would no longer be able to work. Medical research shows that with early detection and compliance with treatment – usually eye-drops – a glaucoma patient could expect on average to retain good sight for 12 years more than a patient who is not treated.

Turn to page 16

Glaucoma warning for 40+ drivers

All Together NOW!

(From page 15)

combined visual picture, the brain will reconstruct the missing parts of the picture based on the information it has from the parts of the field of vision that are working. “This may give a dangerously inaccurate picture and un-expected events may be missed, such as a child crossing the road.”

London, said: “Glaucoma affects the off-centre parts of the field of vision first and does not affect the central detailed vision until the late stages of the condition. “When both eyes are affected the danger comes, especially in driving, when the damaged areas in each eye overlap. “Instead of an accurate

Drivers who develop glaucoma in both eyes must report their condition to the DVLA and will be required to have a new visual field test to check they are still safe to drive. Professor David Crabb, at the Department of Optometry and Visual Science, City University,

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Motability’s key part in Jonathan’s success

AFE and reliable transport is a huge help for families affected by disability – as the mother of Paralympian swimmer Jonathan Fox knows only too well. Jonathan, 20, was born with cerebral palsy, that affected his movement, coordination and posture. His mum, Mary, said: “We got our first Motability car when Jonathan was five. He has lots of medical appointments to attend and Motability removed the worry of transport from us.” Fifteen years on, Jonathan has now taken delivery of his very own Motability car which he drives himself – and which gives him the freedom to pursue his passion for swimming independently. Mary says: “Jonathan trains at the Newquay Cormorants swimming club

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eight to 10 times a week so having a reliable car is great. “He can take himself to training and competitions around the country and all we have to do is find the petrol money. Everything else is taken care of.” Mary adds: “He is now a full time swimmer for Great Britain and has travelled to places such as the USA, China, Australia, South Africa and Europe to train and compete.” n The Motability Scheme is open to anyone who receives either the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement, and has at least 12 months’ award length when they apply. n Freephone 0800 093 1000 or visit the website motability.co.uk

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April/May 2012

ITH several new features and a fresh approach to onal events, make sure low plenty of time to n all the action at this Mobility Roadshow.

UK’s premier consumer y event returns to the East and Showground, orough, in June. ys popular is the unity to test-drive a wide of adapted vehicles and ist conversions, including and drive-from-wheelchair s. You can register for test now at www.mobility ow.co.uk brating the 2012 London cs, there will be a daily mme of mini-tournaments ents at the ‘Mobility how Olympics’ in the Sports Activity Zone, hosted by Wheelchairs. an find out how to keep fit althy at Cyclone ologies’ new Focus on

Fitness Zone, from gentle activity to full cardiovascular workouts and including the latest innovations in FES technology. You can see in action the amazing ReWalk ‘bionic’ walking device for paraplegics. The Design Zone is expanding to include a café/meeting place for visitors to vote on product favourites and exchange ideas with designers. Each day there will be a Designer in Residence from the Helen Hamlyn Centre at the Royal College of Art. If you have a subject you’d like explored in the Meet the Experts

sessions, log onto www.mobility roadshow.co.uk now and make your request. Also new is interactive Creative Crafting on the Saturday where you can find out how therapeutic this can be and learn new skills with actress, disability rights campaigner and crafting fanatic Julie Fernandez. There will also, of course, be a huge selection of vehicles on display as well as adaptations and conversions, motoring accessories, scooters and bikes, products for the home and children, clothing, gadgets and all kinds of gizmos. And if that’s not enough to keep you occupied, there will also be organisations offering advice and products that include insurance, accessible holidays and accommodation, fitness and therapies.

n Register for free tickets now

at www.mobilityroadshow.co.uk or call 0845 241 0390 and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

FREEDOM: Owning a mobility car has made a big difference to James and Jeanne

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ETTING out and about has just got a whole lot easier for chester couple, Jeanne James Hodgkiss.

viously when travelling by ames, who has multiple osis, had to transfer into one e passenger seats. w, thanks to Allied Mobility’s Renault Autograph, James tay in his wheelchair when are travelling. nne said: “We didn’t know were mobility cars available fically designed for lchair users. Instead, we on taxis, which wasn’t

convenient as it meant any trips needed planning in advance. “For James, transferring into a passenger seat was becoming more difficult so we were pleased to find out that wheelchair accessible vehicles provided the features that would make travelling so much easier. “The Autograph was the obvious choice for us as it had the accessibility that James needed while also being the right size for us and available with automatic transmission, which I need for driving.” Based on the Renault Kangoo, the Autograph provides easy

wheelchair access and has the choice of automatic or manual transmission. Not only does the Autograph have all the features you would expect, such as a full wheelchair securing system and lowered floor, but this versatile car also has a specially designed wider ramp for those who have larger scooters or wheelchairs. The Renault Kangoo Autograph is available to buy, rent or through the Motability Scheme. n Allied Mobility’s free helpline: 0800 916 3018. Email info@alliedmobility.com or visit www.alliedmobility.com

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We got the key to a fab new life T

V soap star David Proud handed over the keys of a new wheelchair accessible car to the lucky winners of a super competition run by Constables Mobility.

Matthew Iceton and wife Catharine, who has multiple sclerosis, won the Constables Peugeot Partner Tepee 1.6 – worth £15,000 – in a competition organised to celebrate the company’s 30-year anniversary. Matthew, 39, from Peterlee in Durham, was one of almost 3,000 entrants. He said: “I’d completely forgotten I’d entered and

April/May 2012

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‘Safe as can be’

PROUD MOMENT: Eastenders’ actor David Proud, Constables MD, David Constable, Matthew and Catherine Iceton, and carer Marie Smith

hadn’t even told my wife about it. “We were in shock for days. It’s such a fantastic prize. “My wife is a wheelchair user and has to use taxis to get everywhere. “We had been looking for a wheelchair accessible car for a few months when I entered the competition, and had come to the conclusion we couldn’t afford to buy one for a number of years. “Winning this car is going to make such a difference to our lives.” David, a wheelchair user who plays Adam Best in EastEnders, said: “I am delighted to be the person who gets to hand the keys

of this lovely new car to Matthew and Catharine. “Being mobile is so important as a disabled person and I hope this car leads to lots of new adventures for them. “Constables Mobility has helped thousands of people in the UK become mobile over the last 30 years, and I wish them every success for the future.” The vehicle has a gently sloping lightweight safety edged ramp with anti-slip surface, fully lowered floor for generous headroom and all round visibility, and a simple four-point wheelchair securing system.

CONSTABLES Mobility is urging people who are considering buying wheelchair accessible vehicles to ask for proof of “sledge testing”. Converting a car to make it wheelchair accessible is a complex process involving significant structural changes to the vehicle such as lowering the floor. A sledge test is similar to crash testing – a dummy is strapped into a wheelchair in the car, which is then put through head-on collisions to check that both the belts and their fixings are strong enough to withstand a real life accident and keep the wheelchair passenger secure. Constables’ managing director David Constable said: “Every Constables Mobility conversion has been successfully tested to meet and exceed the latest European safety standards to make sure it is as safe as it can be. “We believe that all converters should be made to carry out the same tests.” n For a free demonstration of a Constables vehicle contact 0800 222 9000 or visit ww.constables mobility.com

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April/May 2012

All Together NOW!

HOLIDAYS

LIVING THE DREAM

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TIME FOR A BREATHER: Joan, Reg and Jazz

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EG ALMOND left school just after the Second World War all set to take on the reigns of the family farm in Sefton, Merseyside.

But fate intervened... The 300-acre dairy and arable farm, which his family had worked for three generations, was sold by the then Lord Sefton to the local authority for housing. And instead of a lifetime of rearing cattle and planting crops, the teenage and entrepreneurial Reg was to spend the next 40 years in the construction and land reclamation industry. The new family business he created – R W Almond Builders Merchants – still thrives in Formby and is now being run by the younger generation. But for Reg and his wife, Joan, things have virtually turned full circle... At a time when most people are planning retirement, Reg decided to go back to his roots aged 60 – and buy a farm, a very run-down farm, in the Lake District.

TAKE ME HOME!

EDITOR TOM DOWLING caught up with a couple who are making dreams come true for disabled holidaymakers . . .

“I just wanted to be a farmer again,” he says, “and when the chance came up to buy the 250-acre Irton Farm there was only one thing we could do. It took a huge amount of blood, sweat and tears restoring the

farmhouse and converting the outbuildings into holiday cottages, but it was a labour of love. Reg and Joan, and their pal, Ernest, did all the conversion work themselves – often

GET YOUR ENTRY IN NOW!

HERE’S your chance to win a super week’s self-catering holiday for up to four people at Irton House Farm. Situated in the beautiful countryside at Isel, about a 15minute drive from Cockermouth to the west, and from Keswick to the east, the stone-built cottages provide top class accommodation. Two of the cottages are especially suitable for wheelchair users. Irton House Farm is ideal for a peaceful holiday. Majestic views and wildlife provide some terrific opportunities for artists and photographers. For a chance of winning this

fantastic prize, all you have to do is answer this question: Where is Irton House Farm situated? Send your answers to: Irton House Farm Competition, All Together NOW! The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP. Please also tell us where you picked up your copy of All Together NOW! – and what you think of the paper. You can also enter online at www.alltogethernow.org.uk Closing date: Friday, July 27. The seven-night stay at Irton House Farm is subject to availability. The winning entry will be required to liaise directly with the property owners, Reg and Joan Almond.

working in snow and ice, and throughout the night. And it wasn’t just a matter of dealing with all the building work. Reg and Joan also had to look after 450 sheep. Twenty-three years on, and despite various health setbacks – “and three false hips between us” – the couple are still in the thick of it all, and deservedly proud of their achievements. They’ve lots of trophies and certificates to show for their prize-winning Texel flock – plus hundreds of letters and testimonials from very satisfied holidaymakers, many with mobility problems. “We have always felt very strongly about providing top class accommodation for families affected by disability,” says Joan, who looks after the bookings for the six cottages and adjoining caravan site. “There are just not enough wheelchairaccessible places for families to have a holiday and we are trying to do our bit to change things.” Reg and Joan are certainly doing that. “We’re still in love with the place,” said Reg, pointing down the hills to Bassenthwaite. “We wake up every morning to one of the best views in the Lake District, if not the world. And it’s all here to be shared by our family and our visitors.

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April/May 2012

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Table lifesaver!

Time for fair play for ALL students

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

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SIMPLE but brilliantly designed table that could save the lives of rail passengers in wheelchairs, is the work of University of Bolton engineer Dr Emmanuel Matsika.

The table’s unique design means if a wheelchair-user hits it at high speed, the table would absorb the impact – leaving the passenger with only minor injuries. In the event of a train crash, this could prove a life-saver for wheelchair-users and other passengers. Wheelchairs on trains are only secured by their brakes. But if there was a collision or heavy braking, the wheelchair could become insecure. Emmanuel’s solution is a simple one – a small, lightweight but highly durable fold-down table placed in front of a wheelchair-user aboard a train. “Such is the design of the table, it doesn’t matter how big the person is, or how fast

UNIVERSITY students with disabilties face paying double for accommodation so carers can stay on campus. they are propelled, the table will absorb the force in a controlled manner,” said Emmanuel, who graduated at the University of Derby. According to the Rail Safety and Standards board (RSSB), wheelchair users are statistically more likely to be severely injured during a train crash. They are more at risk of head, facial, chest, stomach, back and internal injuries, depending on the impact and the position of the wheelchairs. The next step for Emmanuel is to patent the idea and then present his results, findings and table design to rail safety bodies.

DUMMY RUN: Dr Emmanuel Matsika

‘Teenagers are losing hope ...’ N

EARLY one in three young people with special educational needs at 16 are not in any form of education, employment or training two years later.

A shocking new report shows teenagers and their parents faced with a system that is “extremely complex and difficult to navigate”, with a baffling array of different providers including schools, further education colleges and specialist organisations. And as young people fail to get the information they need to decide what’s right for them, many are losing hope, says the report by a committee of MPs. Margaret Hodge, chair of the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee, said: “The Government spent £640 million on special education for 16- to 25-year-olds in 2009-10, yet too many of these young people are falling through the gaps after they leave compulsory education, damaging their life chances and leaving a legacy of costs to the taxpayer.” An end to the apparent postcode lottery

Tell

suffered by young people with a statement of special educational needs is called for in the committee’s report, Oversight Of Special Education For Young People Aged 16-25. Ms Hodge said: “The Department for Education doesn’t know how much money is actually spent on supporting young people with special educational needs. The huge variation between local authorities in funding per student suggests that a postcode lottery is at work.” “Parents need to know what support their child is entitled to, how it can be accessed, and how well different options would meet their child’s needs,” added Ms Hodge.

Identify them! “But three quarters of local authorities do not give parents any information at all about the respective performance of schools, FE colleges and specialist providers.” The report also urges that the local authorities failing young people be identified and steps taken to make improvements. The Special Educational Needs Green Paper could pave the way for that reform.

And they are having to wait up to six months for local authorities to transport their care packages, according to young campaigners. Disabled university students and graduates from across the UK have joined forces with MPs and student leaders to find ways of tackling the growing obstacles to higher education for young disabled people. Eighteen members of Trailblazers, the young campaigning arm of the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign charity, joined a meeting of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Young Disabled People at Westminster, to discuss disabled student issues like debt and care. Together with MP Paul Maynard, chair of the Parliamentary Group, and members of the National Union of Students, they voiced their concerns about what’s going wrong for disabled students. And the meeting called on universities, local authorities and education leaders to ensure that this year’s disabled applicants have the tools they need for a smooth start to term and to make the most of their academic careers. Trailblazers is a nationwide organisation of young disabled and nondisabled campaigners. They fight social injustices experienced by young people living with muscle disease or a related condition.

420,000 readers about your equality

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April/May 2012

. . . EDUCATION . . . TRAINING . . . JOBS

Different and PROUD of it! CHAMPION FUNDRAISER: Michelle Lewis

N ACTIONpacked concert – incorporating some thoughtprovoking messages – was a fitting finale to Liverpool Community College’s annual Diversity Week.

Elaine Bowker, college principal and chief executive, said: “Diversity is hard wired into the college. It’s this that makes it a safe place and a happy place to study and to work. We recognise that being different is something to celebrate. Sometimes you have to look at things differently to see the talent.” Guest speakers at the event, held at The Learning Exchange, included champion fundraiser Michelle Lewis, who has raised nearly £2m for more than 50 charities. Michelle, who has received an MBE for her chartable work, and who is also an Honorary Fellow of Liverpool John Moores University, said: “Life should be all about

working with each other. With the support of others, I have managed to overcome so many barriers and I’m proud of it!” Cath Millen, lead youth worker at the Anthony Walker Foundation, set up in 2005 after the tragic death of Anthony, , in a racially motivated attack, said: “The Foundation inspires young people to be the best they can be. We promote diversity through education, sport and arts events. “We work with people who have offended – we don’t preach, we just get them to realise the impact their actions have had on victims, families and often themselves.” Kathy Lewis, equality manager at LCC, said: “I would like to thank all the students, staff and stakeholders who have made the week such a success. It has given us an opportunity to showcase some of the work that is done throughout the year to break down barriers and promote equality.”

COLLEGE PRINCIPAL ELAINE BOWKER

GUEST SPEAKER CATH MILLEN

LET’S DANCE: Dancers and musicians put on a show at the Diversity Day event

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April/May 2012

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New look at link between Down’s and Alzheimer’s

by Beatrice Fraenkel chair, Mersey Care NHS I WAS delighted to be invited to a community event in Liverpool during Brain Injury Awareness Week – not just because it was organised by one of Mersey Care’s specialist services, but because it is a subject close to my heart. Around one million people each year attend hospital due to an “acquired” brain injury and for a small number (around six per cent) of them, life will never be quite the same. That is true of one of my family members who was involved in an accident many years ago and while apparently the physical trauma has healed, there remains hidden damage still to this day affecting memory or behaviour. This “hidden” damage is something which many of our service users have spoken about, saying their condition is like having a hidden disability as they try to make sense of their lives after brain injury. The most common causes of brain injury are traffic accidents, falls, assaults and other accidents, but there are also many people who suffer from natural occurrences, such as a brain haemorrhage. Our Brain Injury Rehabilitation Centre at Mossley Hill Hospital works with other like-minded agencies, charities and support networks to help people cope with the aftermath of brain injury. This can be help with functional skills, such as everyday tasks, to cognitive difficulties, such as memory or concentration. As an example, think of how you would cook a meal if you cannot even remember putting it in the oven! Importantly, the centre also helps people deal with emotional and behavioural issues, such as anger, anxiety and depression. You may be familiar with stories of post-traumatic stress from soldiers returning from combat, but traumatic events such as near-death experiences in road traffic accidents or house fires can also have a devastating effect on those involved in them. Thanks to the Lord Mayor and his Junior Lord Mayors from the Schools Parliament who attended the event at Liverpool’s Neurosupport Centre. It was wonderful to see so many families too, as comfort and practical support should always be available to carers. Let’s hope in the future we can all be more considerate to people with this “hidden disability”.

WHY people with Down’s syndrome are at such high risk of Alzheimer’s disease, will be the subject of a four-year, £1m study. Down’s syndrome (DS) is the only known disorder – other than the rare inherited forms – in which one can so clearly expect early-onset dementia to develop. “Almost 100% of people with DS develop pathological signs of Alzheimer’s, and clinical symptoms are seen in DS around 40 years earlier than in the general population,” said Professor Tony Holland, who is leading the research. There are 700,000 cases of dementia in

the UK, costing £17 billion a year, and these figures are predicted to rise with the ageing population. The University of Cambridge research team is looking for individuals with DS to volunteer to take part in the study and they have produced a short film – www.youtube.com/user/downsproject – to explain the testing process. “People with DS are living longer lives, and better lives, but this can be a poisoned chalice, as with this comes a real risk of Alzheimer’s” said Professor Holland. “Now we need volunteers to come forward to help us explore what is happening to the brain.”

The term dementia describes a set of symptoms which can include loss of memory, mood changes, and problems with communication and reasoning. As the disease progresses, people with Alzheimer’s need more support from those who care for them. Eventually, they need help with all their daily activities. n If you have Down’s syndrome or know someone with Down’s syndrome over the age of 30, who might be interested to hear more about this study, email Tiina at ta337@medschl.cam.ac.uk, or telephone 01223 746127 (voicemail after office hours).

Fats: The facts

Secrets in our mouths

ILLIONS of people are storing up problems for themselves due to the massive changes in our diets over the last century.

It’s hardly surprising when you consider that for 187,900 of the 188,000 years since Homo Sapiens came into being, the food we ate hardly changed. But in the last 100 years food consumption has changed beyond all recognition, says Kate Walker of BeNiceToYou.com. Kate said: “When you plot this change against the human evolutionary timeline and the explosion of obesity and diabetes it becomes glaringly obvious where the problem lies. “Manufactured fats are so completely alien to our bodies that we cannot properly process them, our bodies simply don’t know how to. She says persuading people to eat closer to nature is key to the battle against obesity and diabetes. Butter was consumed for thousands of years before margarine was invented in the 1950s to try to overcome the social unease being caused by butter rationing. “Our bodies know what to do with it,” said Kate. “The Government even went so far as to tell us that margarine was better for us than butter anyway and as a nation, we believed them, so much so that margarines and spreads still outsell butter today by a considerable margin. INVENTOR: Jaspers “It’s the same story with sugar and manufactured sweeteners. For millennia our bodies have processed sugars such as fructose in fruit and glucose in root vegetables, but our bodies A FAULTY switch in the brain have little concept of what to do could play a part in causing with massive quantities of depression, scientists have Aspartame and Saccharin.” discovered. “If you want to eat more of And UK researchers have found what our bodies are designed to a way to “fix” the switch that could eat, the best advice is to do 90% help future treatment of the illness of your shopping in the produce which affects one in five of us at and butchery aisles, and eat some time in our lives. natural sugars and natural fats.” Aberdeen scientists have found a n www.benicetoyou.com

PLAY TIME A NEW toy making it fun for kids to learn how proteins work in the body, has been created by a British man. Aberdeen scientist Marcel Jaspars’ Tangleproteins toy received an exciting launch at the 109th annual American International Toy Fair in New York, before an international audience of industry representatives . Marcel said: “We often think of protein as one of the basic food groups, contained in products such as meat, fish, eggs, beans and dairy foods, but the truth is that proteins are the building blocks of life.”

A POSSIBLE link between gum disease and a deadly form of cancer has prompted fresh warnings to look after your teeth and gums. The bacteria associated with the most common cause of tooth loss in adults could be a pre-curser for the development of bowel cancer, say scientists. Researchers found an abnormally large number of Fusobacterium – involved in the development of periodontal (gum) disease – in nine tumour samples. That points to the possibility of the two being connected, according to scientists at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in the US. Although more research is needed, work so far suggests the bacterium could be a factor, said Matthew Meyerson of DanaFarber.

Depression: faulty gene may be key mutation in a ‘switch’ that controls a key gene. The gene, BDNF, is found in the part of the brain that controls mood and is thought to be linked with depression. Dr Alasdair MacKenzie, who led the study, said: “The ability to manipulate the activity of this switch with combinations of drugs raises the possibility of devising

novel drug treatments specifically designed to reverse the effects of this mutation. “Importantly, the finding that combinations of drugs are more effective than high doses of individual drugs raises the possibility of the development of more specific therapies with milder side effects.”

Calling all health trusts . . . promote YOUR

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April/May 2012

THE MEAL DEAL: Chefs Stuart Tindell, Irene Saunders, Peter Rorbach, and Thomas Warren McCauley

All Together NOW!

Chefs serve it up! TWO teams of chefs are giving hospital food a good name in Cheshire. Cooks from Leighton hospital won medals in a national contest. Peter Rorbach and Thomas Warren McCauley struck gold, while Irene Saunders and Stuart Tindell were awarded bronze at the Hospital Catering Association Hot Cookery Competition. Peter said: “This year was the fourth consecutive HCA final in which Leighton hospital has been represented. “We are one of only a few hospitals in the country which still cooks traditional food twice-a-day for patients, and these awards recognise the high level of culinary skill utilised here on a daily basis.”

Cancer: The clues

THIRD of all cancers diagnosed in the UK – more than 100,000 cases – are caused by smoking, poor diets, alcohol and excess weight.

This figure increases to around 134,000 when taking into account all 14 lifestyle and environmental risk factors analysed in a major new study by Cancer Research UK. The most comprehensive review of cancer and lifestyle ever carried out in the UK found smoking is far and away the most important lifestyle factor, causing 23% of cancers in men and 15.6% in women (nearly one in five cancers). Overall the review shows that 45% of all cancers in men could be prevented – compared with 40% of all cancers in women. “Many people believe cancer is down to fate or ‘in the genes’ and that it is the luck of the draw whether they get it,” said the study’s author, Professor Max Parkin. “Looking at all the evidence, it’s clear that around 40% of all cancers are caused by things we mostly have the power to change,” said Prof Parkin, a Cancer Research UK epidemiologist based at Queen Mary, University of London “We didn’t expect to find that eating fruit and vegetables would prove to be so important in protecting men against cancer. And among women we didn’t expect being overweight to have a greater effect than alcohol.” Overall, one in 25 cancers is linked to occupation and one in 33 to infections. It is estimated that tobacco smoking, dietary factors, drinking alcohol and bodyweight account for 106,845 or 34% of cancers occurring in 2010. Dr Harpal Kumar, Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, said: “Leading a healthy life doesn’t guarantee that a person won’t get cancer but this study shows that healthy habits can significantly stack the odds in our favour. The full list of risk factors are: tobacco, lack of fruit and vegetables, being overweight, alcohol, excessive sun exposure and sunbeds, occupation, infections, radiation, lack of exercise, lack of breast feeding, hormones, red and processed meat, lack of fibre and too much salt.

NICE TRY: Jamie Foster, third left, with (from left): David Swain, Kerri Maguire, Georgina Worrall, and Norman Jackson

Rugby star Jamie’s new role SAINTS Rugby League star Jamie Foster helped raise £850 for an important cause. He joined a fun event at Sutton Cricket Club in aid of St Helens Hospital Eye Clinic’s AMD Eye Catchers support group. Eye Catchers was set to help people with Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). The group provides support and offers up to date information regarding Macular

Degeneration, early signs and symptoms and the importance of early referral. Macular degeneration is a progressive eye condition that leads to the gradual loss of central vision. Although it rarely results in complete blindness, it robs the individual of all but the outermost vision, leaving dim images or black holes at the centre of vision.

MPs hear about urgent sight issues THE urgent need to deal with the high rate of sight problems among people with learning disabilities has been highlighted by MPs. A person with a learning disability is 10 times more likely to have a serious sight problems than the rest of the population but may not even be aware of it, say leading sight loss charities SeeAbility and Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB). Changes in behaviour may be the only way to communicate that they have problems.

health messages here:

The meeting was held to raise awareness among Parliamentarians and it heard calls for local health planners to set up enhanced sight testing schemes, with more training for optometrists and longer appointment times. Scott Watkin, from SeeAbility, who has a learning disability, told MPs: “Sight tests detected major problems with my vision and through eye surgery I have regained vision, which has opened up all sorts of possibilities for me. If you get the chance to improve your sight – go for it.”

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MEDICAL NOTES New screen tests . . . A SCREENING programme that could save the lives of hundreds of men every year is to be carried out in the North West. The screening, which can detect weakness in the main artery of the body and prevent unnecessary deaths in older men, will take place at the University Hospital of South Manchester. The NHS Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Screening Programme aims to reduce AAA-related mortality among men over 65 by up to 50% through early detection, appropriate monitoring and treatment. The condition kills around 6,000 men every year in this country and is six times more common in men than women. Most at risk include smokers, men with high blood pressure, high cholesterol or overweight. However, if detected early enough, it can be corrected by surgery.

Prof’s big challenge A MANCHESTER professor, who shared the Nobel Prize with former US president Al Gore, is to take a key role in reducing the UK death toll from lung and chest problems. Ashley Woodcock, pictured, has been announced as President Elect of the prestigious British Thoracic Society, a charity dedicated to improving the care of people with respiratory disorders. Professor of respiratory medicine at the North West Lung Centre and University of Manchester and a leading researcher in respiratory diseases, Prof Woodcock said: “The country and our region particularly face huge health challenges. “One in seven people in the UK is affected by lung and chest problems and tens of thousand die each year. “I believe it is only by translating research and education into healthcare that we will truly benefit our patients.”

Mental health cost FAILURE to treat the mental health issues of people with long-term physical conditions is costing the NHS an extraordinary £13 billion a year. Better integration between physical and mental health services is called for in a report by the Kings Fund and Centre for Mental Health The report says problems like anxiety and depression interact with, and can worsen, physical illness, increasing healthcare costs by at least 45% per person. The report echoes the findings of the national audit of services for people with multiple sclerosis, carried out by the MS Trust and Royal College of Physicians in 2011. The audit found that fewer than 50% of the NHS organisations surveyed required health care professionals to ask routine questions about general wellbeing, including mood, leading to a failure to recognise early symptoms of depression and provide timely support.

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E! E HOM TAKE M

BOX OFFICE SENSATION!

April/May 2012

Apr 2-21: The Winslow Boy. Bolton Octagon. Wartime drama. Apr 5-May 19: Phantom of the Opera. Manchester Palace Theatre. Hit musical from Andrew Lloyd Webber. Apr 10: Pete Firman - Jiggery Pokery. Manchester Lowry. Hilarious magic show from the star of BBC’s The Magicians. Apr 10: Chuckle Brothers. Preston Charter Theatre. Kids’ comedy. Apr 10-15: The Tiger Who Came To Tea. Manchester Lowry. Smash hit West End musical. AUDIO DESCRIBED APR 11. Apr 11-14: Titanic - The Musical. Blackpool Grand Theatre. Musical based on the 1912 disaster. Apr 12-14: Rich Hall. Manchester Lowry. Stand-up comedy. Apr 12-28: Henry V. Liverpool Playhouse. Shakespeare’s masterpiece. Apr 13: The Solid Silver 60s Show. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Peter Noone, Chris Montez, Brian Hyland with Brian Poole and all backed by Vanity Fare. Apr 13: Germaine Greer. New Brighton Floral Pavilion. Anecdotes from the feminist icon. Apr 14: The Searchers. New Brighton Floral Pavilion. Original lineup playing all their hits. Apr 15: Germaine Greer. Manchester Lowry. Apr 15: The Solid Silver 60s Show. Blackpool Grand Theatre. Peter Noone, Chris Montez, Brian Hyland with Brian Poole and all backed by Vanity Fare. Apr 16-21: Diary of Anne Frank. Blackpool Grand Theatre. Play version of the classic wartime text. Apr 17-21: Guys and Dolls. Runcorn Brindley. Classic musical. Apr 17-21: I Dreamed a Dream. Liverpool Empire. Starring Elaine C Smith (Rab C Nesbitt) the musical follows Susan Boyle’s rise from humble beginnings to global icon. Apr 17-21: The Gruffalo. Manchester Lowry. Kids’ musical. Apr 17-21: Love’s Labour’s Lost. Manchester Lowry. Mischievous comedy brimming with youthful exuberance. Apr 18: Madama Butterfly. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Puccini’s classic opera. Apr 19: La Boheme. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Puccini’s classic opera. Apr 19-21: Singin’ in the Rain. New Brighton Floral Pavilion. Classic musical comedy. Apr 20: TJ Higgs. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Top UK medium. Apr 20: Bronagh’s Big Weekend. Manchester Lowry. One-woman comedy show. Apr 21-22: Honey Blood. Manchester Lowry. Surreal play about loss, love and desire. Apr 22: Smile Together 2012. Liverpool Empire. A dance variety show with local talent from Liverpool and surrounding areas.

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BOX OFFICE NUMBERS BLACKPOOL Grand Theatre: 01253 290190. BOLTON Octagon: 01204 520661. LIVERPOOL Empire: 08444 999 999. Everyman & Playhouse: 0151 709 4776. Royal Court: 0870 787 1866. LLANDUDNO Venue Cymru: 01492 872000. MOLD: Theatr Clwyd: 0845 3303565.

MANCHESTER Library Theatre: The Lowry: 0843 208 6000. Opera House: 0870 401 9000. Palace Theatre: 0870 401 3000. NEW BRIGHTON Floral Pavillion: 0151 666 0000. PORT SUNLIGHT: Gladstone Theatre: 0151 643 8757. PRESTON: Charter Theatre: 0845 344 2012. RHYL: Pavilion Theatre: 01745 330 000.

RUNCORN The Brindley: 0151 907 8360. SALE: Waterside Arts Centre: 0161 912 5616. STOKE: Regent Theatre: 0844 871 7627. SOUTHPORT: Floral Hall: 0844 847 2380. ST HELENS: Theatre Royal: 01744 756000. Citadel: 01744 735436. WOLVERHAMPTON Grand Theatre: 01902 429212.

Murder, music, magic . . . Apr 22: The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark. Manchester Lowry. Based on the bestselling children’s book. Apr 22: Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson. Manchester Lowry. Evening of music. Apr 23-28: Murder on the Nile. New Brighton Floral Pavilion. Agatha Christie’s thriller. Apr 24: Dock’s Law. Manchester Lowry. Coming-of-age drama. Apr 24-25: Rhod Gilbert. Manchester Lowry. Stand-up comedy. Apr 24-28: Doctor in the House. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Joe Pasquale and Robert Powell. Apr 24-28: Birds of a Feather. Blackpool Grand Theatre. Revival of the hit 90s sitcom. Apr 25: Ballet Central 2012. Manchester Lowry. Apr 26: The Question of Identity. Manchester Lowry. Thoughtprovoking show about identity and marginalisation. Apr 27-28: Rhod Gilbert. Liverpool Empire. Comedy. Apr 27-28: Hofesh Schechter. Manchester Lowry. Exciting dance troupe.

Apr 27-28: Don Giovanni. Manchester Lowry. Mozart’s opera. Apr 28: Your Last Breath. Manchester Lowry. Dance show. Apr 28: Billy and Wally’s Variety Show. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Apr 29: Stewart Lee. Manchester Lowry. Stand-up comedy. Apr 29: High Tease. Manchester Lowry. Revue show showcasing the best of burlesque. Apr 29: Chris Ramsey. Manchester Lowry. Stand-up comedy. Apr 30-May 7: Chicago. Rhyl Pavilion. The classic musical. May 1: Psychic Sally on the Road. Llandudno Venue Cymru. TV psychic. May 1-5: Rent. Manchester Lowry. Heartbreaking yet optimistic story about friends struggling to survive whilst living with debt, unemployment and HIV. May 1-6: NT Connections. Manchester Lowry. Showcase of plays from the National Youth Theatre. May 2: Brit Floyd. Llandudno Venue Cymru. Pink Floyd tribute act.

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April/May 2012

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Best of health, Laurence!

exhibition

TOP COMIC Laurence Clark is back on tour. Health Hazard is all about his one-

The real Pat SHE was one of the great iconic figures to emerge from TV, finding fame as Elsie Tanner in Coronation Street. But few knew that Pat Phoenix, pictured right, lived a life that was almost as dramatic off the cobbles as it was on. Lynda Rooke takes on Pat’s role in a new play about the actress, while John McArdle plays Tony Booth, the Liverpool actor who lived with Pat during the last six years of her life. The Queen of the North is at the Octagon, Bolton from May 3 - May 26. Tickets, £22.50 £9.50. Tel 01204 520661 www.octagonbolton.co.uk

May 2-5: Dara O’Briain. Manchester Lowry. Stand-up comedy. May 3: Psychic Sally on the Road. Blackpool Grand Theatre. TV medium Sally Morgan. May 3: An Evening with Gervase Phinn. New Brighton Floral Pavilion. May 3-26: Queen of the North. Bolton Octagon. A look at the remarkable career of Pat Phoenix. May 3-Jun 2: Merrily We Roll Along. Theatr Clwyd. Stephen Sondheim’s musical. May 4: Joe Brown in Concert. New Brighton Floral Pavilion. Rock ‘n’ roll legend. May 4-19: Vampirette. Manchester Opera House. Vampire musical. May 5: Ken Dodd. Blackpool Grand Theatre. World’s longest stand-up show. May 6: Magic of Motown. Blackpool Grand Theatre. May 8: Big Daddy vs Giant Haystacks. Manchester Lowry. Award-winning comedy brings the famously feuding wrestlers back to life. May 8-12: Swallows and Amazons. Blackpool Grand Theatre. Musical. May 8-12: Murder on the Nile.

Manchester Lowry. Agatha Christie’s thriller. May 9: 2401 Objects. Manchester Lowry. Show based on the live dissection of a human brain, transmitted via the internet. May 9-12: Mary Shelley. Liverpool Playhouse. Play about the life of one of the world’s greatest storytellers. May 10-12: Our Lady of the Goldfinches. Manchester Lowry. The story of Jean McConville’s murder by the IRA. May 13: Treasure Island. Manchester Lowry. Honest Jim Hawkins sets sail on a frantically funny high seas adventure. May 13: Paul Merton. Manchester Lowry. Stand-up comedy. May 13: Music for Silents - Vampyr. Manchester Lowry. Carl Theodor Dreyer’s unsettling tale of fear and obsession. May 13: Elvis Costello: The Revolver Tour. Liverpool Empire. May 14-15: Derren Brown. Manchester Lowry. Psychological illusionist. May 14-15: Chapter One: Battle for the Soul. Manchester Lowry. Explore the nature and complexities of recovering from addiction. May 14-19: Dancing in the Streets. Liverpool Empire. A spectacular

man mission to help Obama sell the benefits of free healthcare to the American people. In his own inimitable style, Laurence sets off again with camera in hand to show us the ridiculousness of our world when it comes to key decisions - this time on our health. Laurence and his wife, Adele, who were both born with cerebral palsy, were the subjects of a recent BBC TV documentary about their life with their six-year-old son, Tom, and the arrival of their second child, Jamie. Health Hazard tour dates April 7: Hull Truck April 12: Square Chapel, Halifax April 13: The Kirkgate, Cockermouth April 14: The Dukes, Lancaster April 19: Dugdale Arts Centre, Enfield April 20: The Grand Theatre, Blackpool April 25: Vivacity Key Theatre, Peterborough April 27: Harrow Arts Centre May 2: Unity Theatre - Liverpool Comedy Festival May 4: Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Belfast May 5: Playhouse Theatre, Derry May 10: The Junction, Cambridge May 11: Salisbury Arts Centre May 17: Epsom Playhouse www.laurenceclark.co.uk

celebration of the music fromDetroit. May 15-19: Close the Coalhouse Door. Manchester Lowry. Lively play about the ups and downs of the British mining industry. May 15-19: The Sound of Music. Runcorn Brindley. May 15-19: The Lady in the Van. Blackpool Grand Theatre. Comedy from Alan Bennett. May 17-19: How I Helped End Communism. Manchester Lowry. A group of teenagers teach free speech behind the Iron Curtain. May 20: Jon Richardson. Manchester Lowry. Stand-up comedy. May 20: Doug Segal. Manchester Lowry. Master mentalist. May 21-26: Spamalot. Manchester Opera House. The musical lovingly ripped off of Monty Python. May 22-26: The Full Monty. St Helens Theatre Royal. Show based on the hit film. May 22-Jun 2: Sister Act! Liverpool Empire. May 23-26: Carousel. Manchester Lowry. Classic musical. AUDIO DESCRIBED May 25.

You’ve got to hand it to them!

FASCINATING new look at attempts to rebuild the lives of war victims includes everything from a 500-year-old mechanical hand to 21st century carbon-fibre running blades.

The 16th century armour-like iron hand has pride of place at Reconstructing Lives, a moving exhibition which recalls the experience of those throughout history who have lost limbs in conflicts around the world, whether military or civilian. Just opened at the National War Museum at Edinburgh Castle, the exhibition highlights the technology used to help them, with real examples of prosthetic limbs, powerful images, and the amputees’ own stories. Although replacements such as ‘peg legs’ were made in Roman times, the number of people who survived amputations increased dramatically with medical developments from the middle of the 19th century. Examples on display include an early 20th century wooden “Anglesey leg”, named after the Marquis of Anglesey, who lost his leg in the Battle of Waterloo in 1815; and an Orion knee, made in 2011, containing a micro-processor which deduces what the wearer is doing. In contrast, the simple but effective Jaipur leg, which is fitted to tens of thousands of people each year in poorer parts of the world, costs £30 compared with around £2,000 for an average western prosthesis. The exhibition also features prosthetic hands, like the split hook designed by DW Dorrance in 1912, which is still in use today, and a modern i-limb hand. The exhibition, which runs until February 24, 2013, is free with admission to Edinburgh Castle. Castle admission prices are currently: Adult £14.00, Child £8.20, Concession £11.20, Child under 5 TAKE ME HOME! free. www.nms.ac.uk

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ARIES March 21st - April 20th A relationship matter will come to a head, forcing you to choose between personal prestige and domestic happiness. Beware of pushing your body too hard. The middle of April warns against letting your best friend, business partner, or lover curb your enthusiasm. The Easter weekend is great for getting to grips with revamping a computer, car, or other technical gadget. You could be singled out for special praise around the end of April. A flirtatious conversation adds special zest to a May Day party or get together. A health regimen yields impressive results on or around the 16th, and the 20th could bring an unfortunate misunderstanding between you and a relative or neighbour. Trust your head over your heart near the 23rd. Wild rumours circulate - just ignore them. Defying popular opinion helps you stand out from the crowd as May makes space for June. TAURUS April 21st - May 21st The Full Moon on the 6th brings an end to a difficult work project, and the results will be less than pleasing. Resist the urge to buy into someone’s affections. You’ll have to make a choice between personal happiness and professional responsibility at mid-month. Keep a radical idea to yourself over the Easter weekend. You’ll get a wonderful opportunity to put your expertise to use at the end of the month. Keep financial talks a secret, or rivals will take advantage of you. May’s Full Moon brings a painful conclusion to a relationship matter; you need to stand up for yourself. People will be much more receptive to your ideas in the days surrounding the 9th. A transformative travel or educational opportunity is coming your way and an overseas trip could put you on the path to romance. The end of May is ideal for negotiating a raise or landing a well-paid job; hold out for top dollar. GEMINI May 22nd - June 21st The early days of April are perfect for getting a makeover or changing your look in some way. The Full Moon on the 6th forces you to make a painful decision about a romance; you just can’t put up with bad behaviour any longer. A friend offers to showcase your talent. The New Moon on the 21st is perfect for solitary pursuits like reading, writing, and pondering the future. An inheritance, legal settlement, or refund will be granted to you around the end of April. The first days of May are ideal for making a public presentation. The Full Moon on the 6th forces you to get treatment for a nagging health problem. Keep a work project under wraps in the days surrounding the 10th. Trust your instincts regarding an intense flirtation. The middle of May is perfect for launching a home renovation project. Resist getting into an argument with a pushy relative as May turns into June. CANCER June 22nd - July 23rd April begins with a lovely solitary interlude; it’s time to rest, relax, and rejuvenate. But the Full Moon on the 6th triggers a family fight. Take care not to blurt out a secret. The days surrounding the 16th are perfect for finding

April/May 2012

Just look at what’s in store for YOU! by RUSSELL GRANT new customers and clients. Make a radical proposal at Easter; stubborn problems require extreme measures. The final days of the month are favoured for parties, get togethers, and group outings. Trust your instincts in the early days of May. The Full Moon on the 6th forces you to make a difficult decision regarding a romance; you can’t abandon your friends for the sake of love. A friend will invite you on a vacation in the days surrounding the 10th; be sure to accept. A difficult conversation with a friend or relative is slated in the waning days of May; just say what’s in your heart. LEO July 24th - August 23rd You’ll have more time for social pursuits at the start of April. The 7th warns against lending or borrowing money. A friend may take you on vacation on or around the 9th. Don’t let pessimism prevent you from venturing outside of your comfort zone at mid-month. Be sure to follow up on a book or movie recommendation over the Easter weekend. Go out and celebrate a friend’s good luck in the first days of May. An exciting career opportunity near the 13th allows you to make the most of your star power. Take steps to improve your work environment during the middle of the month. You’ll need to spend money to make money on the 16th. A Solar Eclipse on the 20th forces you to fend off advances from an amorous friend. The final days of May warn against spending too much money on expensive social outings. VIRGO August 24th - September 23rd Try not to pressure an indecisive relative near the 7th. Have a heart to heart talk about finances with someone close to you, a business partner, or lover near the 16th. The New Moon on the 21st is perfect for writing a first chapter, signing up for a class, or scheduling an overseas trip. You will be offered a teaching or writing opportunity around the 24th; be sure to accept. Express your creativity as April turns to May. Good news arrives in early May. Someone is attracted by your superior knowledge on or around the 10th. Your sex appeal proves irresistible on the 16th. The Solar Eclipse on the 20th forces you to make a difficult choice between your personal and professional lives. You’ll have to do some serious negotiating with your boss in the days surrounding the 24th. Your gift for analysis wins you favourable publicity near the 27th.

Be patient with the powers that be as May draws to a close. LIBRA September 24th - October 23rd Plan an exciting overseas trip in the opening days of April. You’ll have to make a personal sacrifice for a loved one in the middle of the month; try not to dwell on your resentment. A heart to heart discussion with a relative or neighbour is favoured around the 16th. Easter weekend finds you spending quality time with your lover or best friend. The 24th is perfect for a romantic rendezvous. Don’t let relatives interfere with your personal life. The first days of May are perfect for taking a short trip to see a good friend. The Full Moon on the 6th forces you to fight for money that is owed to you; do not back down. Talking about a deep-seated fear can be helpful in the days surrounding the 9th. Trust your instincts about a household matter. A Solar Eclipse on the 20th forces you to scale back a dream project; you have too many work responsibilities to launch a new endeavour. SCORPIO October 24th - November 22nd Your love life sizzles with excitement in the opening days of April. The Full Moon at Easter brings an unpleasant secret to light; prepare for a shock. The 7th warns against lending or borrowing money. Try a new sport or hobby over Easter weekend; you’ll get hooked immediately. Do something special for a busy friend on or around the 24th. A loud argument with a colleague breaks out in the days surrounding the 25th. You’ll wrap a lover right around your little finger as April comes to a close. May’s Full Moon on the 6th prompts you to make an ultimatum to your best friend, lover or business partner. A loved one will share their financial good fortune with you around the 13th. Starting a fitness routine on the 28th will result in an exciting transformation. SAGITTARIUS November 23rd - December 21st April begins on a beautifully romantic note; say “yes” to someone who is intent on capturing your heart. The Full Moon on the 6th prompts you to break away from a team or organisation that stifles your creativity. A lover delights you with an incredibly romantic gesture around the 9th. Don’t let a cynical friend rain on your parade over the middle of the month. The final days of April are perfect for ramping up your exercise routine. The first days of May are perfect for making a

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love match. The Full Moon on the 6th brings an embarrassing secret to light. The days around the 9th are good for sorting out all kinds of health issues. The Solar Eclipse on the 20th forces you to change some assumptions about intimate relationships. Don’t listen to a relative’s warnings about romance in the days surrounding the 23rd. Your best friend or romantic partner has exciting news on the 28th; go out and celebrate. Don’t argue with your boss in the closing days of May. CAPRICORN December 22nd - January 20th April opens with a glamorous job offer involving film, fashion or music. The middle of the month is great for planning a family get together. The New Moon on the 21st favours getting engaged, married, or having a commitment ceremony. Be willing to move quickly on a great property deal around the 22nd. The 24th is favoured for creative projects of all kinds; it’s time to exercise your imagination. Your powers of persuasion are especially strong as April turns to May. Flex your artistic muscles in the days surrounding the 13th. You’ll get favourable publicity for your handiwork over the middle of the month. Discount travel fares allow you to visit a glamorous place on or around the 16th. The closing days of May find you clashing with an annoying know it all. AQUARIUS January 21st - February 19th The opening days of April could turn out to be the most romantic of the entire year. Don’t lend or borrow money on the 7th, especially when you’re dealing with a romantic partner. The New Moon on the 21st is perfect for closing a property deal or putting a down payment on a house. Put a brilliant idea into motion over the Easter weekend. An attentive lover makes you feel like the sexiest person on the planet around the 24th. Tap into your sensual side as April comes to a close. You get lots of romantic attention in the first days of May. Your heart and head are working in perfect harmony near the 22nd; this is a great time to make a difficult decision. Trust a romantic impulse on the 28th. Don’t confuse lust for love in the final days of May. PISCES February 20th - March 20th Take care not to withdraw too much money from your bank account in mid-April. Negotiate a promotion or pay increase in the days surrounding the 16th. The New Moon on the 21st is perfect for starting a job or setting up a website. The Easter weekend prompts you to side with someone you usually vilify. Give your best friend, lover, or business partner words of encouragementl. A friend offers to share their financial good fortune with you in the first days of May. Begin work on a short story, novel, or screenplay around the 9th. Schedule a trip for pleasure on or around the 13th. Don’t let a manipulative relative walk all over you around the 23rd. A surprising windfall allows you to spend more quality time at home near the 28th. You won’t be able to talk sense to a friend or lover as May draws to a close. TAKE ME HOME!

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April/May 2012

All Together NOW!

CHECKLIST

FIVE brilliant books to be won WE’VE got FIVE copies of the Royal Horticultural Society’s superb ‘How to Grow Plants in Pots’ to give away in our spring gardening competition. No matter how limited your outside space, this inspirational book from top gardening publisher Dorling Kindersley is the essential guide to patio pottering as well as adding colour and interest to conservatories and sills. It is a real eye-opener to the range of design possibilities, not only for pot plants but also for window boxes and big patio planters. The plants featured suit all tastes and situations, ranging from sculptural ferns and spring bulbs for a windowsill to citrus trees for a patio and chillies and herbs for pots and hanging baskets. The book’s two major sections cover

‘decorative plants’ (flowers, shrubs, etc) and ‘edible plants’ (fruit, vegetables and herbs) with beautiful colour photography alongside key cultural guidance. To enter the competition, name the book’s two major sections. 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 Plants in Pots Competition, All Together NOW!, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP, to arrive by Friday, May 25, or enter online at www.alltogethernow.org.uk Please also tell us where you picked up your copy of All Together NOW! – and what you think of it. n For the full range of Dorling Kindersley’s gardening books, go to www.dk.co.uk

Chive talkin’ W

E’VE had a herbal upheaval at the bottom of the garden.

The patch down there developed sporadically from seeds, cuttings and a few bought plants. It could not have been called a herb garden but became aromatic and attractive, too, because herbs can be pretty as well as tasty. However, there was a drawback from the culinary point of view: the herbs were a long way from the kitchen so, when it came to cooking, they were usually ignored in favour of dried herbs out of a packet. All that has changed. We now have an array of herbs in pots on a patio near the kitchen door. Some plants were easy to move: the kinds which self-sow such as chives and thyme; are compact enough to transplant, like savory and lemon balm; or have roots which can be split, such as mint and tarragon. I took cuttings from sage (in April) and rosemary (in July), because these shrubby herbs were too large to recover from transplanting, and sowed fresh seed of dill, basil, parsley, fennel and coriander. We have added a new bay to the collection – in a very large pot in the hope it will grow to small tree. The mixture of aromas as my wife and I cleared the overgrown collection, bruising the herbs’ leaves as we handled them, was a reward in itself. Now we reap the benefit of fresh herbs in salads and cooked dishes. No one needs a garden to grow herbs, just a collection of large containers and somewhere bright to

CHIVES: Pretty and tasty, they make a great addition to your herb collection

stand them. Most of the favourites like mint, dill, coriander, basil and parsley are happy in medium-sized pots, 22cm (9in) wide. One advantage of pots is that more vulnerable herbs like basil can be moved under cover if an unseasonal cold snap is forecast. Most herbs originated on mountain slopes or the coast so they have two demands - sunshine and good drainage. The reason for this is that most aromatic herbs seem to hold their scent and flavour better if they

HELPING HANDS

are grown “hard” - in free-draining soil to make them work for their water and with less food than garden plants normally get. Generous food and water would make them soft and sappy, so they would not taste as good or keep as well. So when potted into a mediumstrength, soil-based compost – John Innes No 2 is good – herbs require only a weak monthly feed and, when the compost is nearly dry, a thorough watering. Clay pots are ideal because they drain quickly. If plastic containers are used, put a layer of pebbles or broken crocks in the base and, if possible, add grit to the compost when planting. Never let the pots stand in puddles or on wet ground.

If part of your herb corner gets less sunlight than the rest, use it for mint, angelica or chives – they will tolerate some shade. Herbs are best used fresh but, for winter, soft herbs – basil, parsley, mint, chives, savory, chervil – are easy to freeze just by filling ice cube trays with blanched, chopped leaves and topping up with water. Then, when the winter stew is cooking, just drop the frozen cubes into the pot. To dry your own herbs, pick strong young leaves or branches in early summer, spread them on trays or hang in bunches in the airing cupboard or greenhouse and they will be crisp and dry in a day or so. Crush and store them in airtight tins or jars.

FLOWERS: When the flowers of daffodils, tulips and other spring bulbs fade, spray or water them with a liquid feed once a fortnight until the leaves start to die down. In a warm spell in April, plant perennial flowers such as lupins and dahlias. PATIOS: Plant up tubs and hanging baskets but protect them at night until the risk of frost has passed. 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 which have still to flower this year. LAWNS: April is the best time to apply a spring lawn feed, mosskiller or selective lawn weedkiller if the lawn is in poor condition. Combined formulations are available. For maximum effect, let the grass grow for a week before applying. When moss turns black, generally after a fortnight, rake it out of the lawn. PONDS: Divide the roots of water lilies and other pond plants, to make new plants, once they are growing actively. They need feeding just like any other plant: use special pond fertiliser pellets pushed down into the roots. FRUIT: Watch for sawfly or aphid attack on gooseberries and currants, usually starting in the tips of shoots, and squash them or spray with a contact insecticide. The green caterpillars of sawflies can devastate plants. Keep the soil round fruit plants free from grass and weeds. VEGETABLES: In April, sow easy veg like lettuce, radish, beetroot and carrot and, if you are more ambitious, cabbages, cauliflowers, sprouting broccoli, leeks, parsnips, spinach and peas and, at the end of May, French and runner beans. GREENHOUSE: Plant tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, peppers and aubergines in unheated greenhouses. Remove cucumber tendrils as they appear, 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 to hot conditions. TAKE ME HOME!

Disabled and need advice on gardening? Contact national charity THRIVE. Tel. 0118 988 5688. www.thrive.org.uk or www.carryongardening.org.uk

All Together NOW!

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. 2

★

8 9

★

11 12

★ 15

★

22 20

★

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Decisive, at a turning-point (8) 8. Uproar (6) 9. Rotate (4) 10. Uncooked (3) 11. Stretch (6) 12. Fireproof material (8) 15. Maize (6) 16. Shudder (6) 20. Yellowish (6) 24. Crustacean (6) 27. Accept as true (8) 28. Terror (6) 29. Organ of hearing (3) 30. Location (4) 31. Newspaper boss (6) 32. Surrendering (8)

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 12. 13. 14. 17. 18. 19. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26.

Rest (6) Christmas decoration (6) Assistant cleric (6) Least high (6) Carved figure (6) Quickly (slang) (6) Biblical prophet (4) Dance (4) Storage tower (4) German industrial region (4) Spinster (4) Enthralled (4) Rub off (6) Envoy (6) Diluted (6) In short supply (6) Recycled (6) Fingerless glove (6)

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: Which of these fish has both eyes on the same side of its body? A Herring B Plaice C Mackerel D Haddock

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: In which subject did Carol Vorderman gain a Cambridge University degree? A Physics B Mathematics C Chemistry D Engineering

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: Which tree bears large green spiked fruits containing seeds known as conkers? A Horse chestnut B Oak C Beech D Sweet chestnut

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: Who composed and sang the theme tune for the TV comedy series One Foot In The Grave? A Eric Idle B Tim Rice C Tony Hawks D Bernard Cribbins

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: In which English county is the ancient stone monument of Stonehenge? A Hampshire B Dorset C Wiltshire D Somerset

TV celebrity Carol Vorderman. See Question 10

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: What trade is called pargetting? A Plastering patterns on walls B Corn dolly making C Building with square flints D Cutting out figures on hillsides

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: Which group had a UK No 1 hit in 1986 with West End Girls? A Pet Shop Boys B Wham! C Eurythmics D Duran Duran

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: How many black keys does a normal sized piano have? A 24 B 28 C 32 D 36

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: Which channel separates The Isle of Sheppey from mainland Kent? A The Royal Military Canal B The Swale C The Medway D The Dartford Navigation

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: What colour appears on the surface of weathered copper? A Red B Blue C Green D White

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: In Greek mythology which three-headed dog guarded the entrance to the underworld? A Argos B Cerberus C Scylla D Orthrus

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: Which of these countries has no native big cat species? A Russia B Australia C China D Mexico

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: Which film has the line: ‘Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings’? A Little Orphan Annie B The Bells of St Mary’s C It’s A Wonderful Life D Peter Pan

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Where was the iron-clad Rufus Stone placed as a monument to William II? A The New Forest B Windsor Castle C Winchester Cathedral D Westminster Abbey

SUDOKU

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: What do palynologists study? A Pollen grains B Marine shells C Fossilised bones D Fingerprints

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 have to guess.

EASY

DIFFICULT

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The Accumulator Quiz

STARSPOT CROSSWORD

April/May 2012

8 3 3

7 6 4 3 8 4 2 8 9 4

9 5 3 2 8

1 3 8 4 6 7

7 9 5 4 8 5 9 1 8 3 7 9 5 6

4 7 2 6 8

3 5 4

6 3 9 2

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 24

20 28

4 19

18 17

24 23 24 13 8

SAY THAT AGAIN . . .

‘

Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something -— Plato

‘

My religion is simple; my religion is kindness — Dali Lama

‘ ‘ To know the road ahead, ask those coming back — Chinese proverb

Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that -— Martin Luther King Jnr

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19 7

21 23

10 10

7 21

5 12

11 8

25 14

11 15

7 25

2 20

11 22

2 11

11 6

6 11

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.

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?

8 19

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

DIALLING CODES

CROSS CODE 6

All Together NOW!

April/May 2012

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 an African country.

1 []’–

2 ABC

3 DEF

4 GHI

5 JKL

6 MNO

7 PQRS

8 TUV

9 WXYZ

Spaces and any punctuation marks are represented by 1.

1. Rock groups 266 156 841 533 546 134 731 787 655 464 178 663 178 775 317 828 135 338 966 316 374 7

193 248 713 871 221

4. Fruits 536 661 252 252 663 472 628 313 226 262 127 742 286 172 972 916 626 688 127 221 546 3

377 267 681 264 277

E M O

P M

A MAKE A DATE

H E

RACE

OFF

R M A

TAKE

–––

HAND

HAM

–––

FLY

RIGHT

––––––

SNAKE

BACK

132 492 946 177 637

–––––

6. Parts of a ship 429 737 176 784 653 848 142 553 914 282 918 455 371 245 431 241 222 461 274 343 673 556 712 769 171 812 624 67

421 122 137 842 487

N T R U S TRANSFORMER

WORD WIZARD

LONG

917 661 866 612 531

5. World’s biggest lakes 642 444 261 842 867 946 647 341 625 294 554 274 178 737 467 431 642 272 482 184 222 147 328 123 271 661 692 72

SPOT CHECK

––––––

246 283 717 767 733

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 12?

EVEN

871 224 623 691 136

Starting from the central shaded letter, move one letter at a time (up, down, right or left, but not diagonally) to find 16 constellations.

––––

3. Indoor games 768 538 831 327 461 366 466 371 553 126 673 783 468 314 253 736 862 617 156 625 487

PATHWORDS

BEAR

773 717 337 786 436

2. Things found at the seaside 288 853 126 631 374 389 663 172 632 265 154 673 814 376 481 272 217 446 453 126 237 172 634 677 371 476 963 172 967 174 355

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

E D

BORT 1) A subatomic particle which has zero or integral spin;

2) Diamond fragments used industrially for cutting or as an abrasive;

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

1. Britain’s application to join the EEC is formally refused after being blocked by President de Gaulle.

3) A sweetscented Australian shrub, cultivated for its perfume and flowers.

2. Valentina Tereshkova becomes the first woman in space. 3. £2.6 million is stolen in the Great Train Robbery.

Add the given letter to the first word to make a new word. Clue: Kind of adds to a game.

WAS IT? a) 1963; b) 1965; c) 1967; d) 1969; e) 1971.

____ +P=_P___

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords: Hercules; Ursa major; Sagittarius; Orion; Cancer; Pegasus; Hydra; Aquarius; Capricornus; Cygnus; Andromeda; Aries; Cassiopeia; Centaurus; Pisces; Gemini.

1 5 3 8 2 6 4 9 7

8 4 6 9 7 3 5 1 2

3 7 9 1 6 8 2 5 4

6 1 5 4 3 2 8 7 9

2 8 4 7 9 5 3 6 1

4 3 7 6 5 9 1 2 8

9 6 8 2 4 1 7 3 5

5 2 1 3 8 7 9 4 6

4 2 1 3 5 7 9 8 6

3 7 8 9 6 2 1 5 4

9 6 5 8 4 1 3 2 7

8 5 3 4 7 9 2 6 1

15 2

16 3

17 4

R G A

B O H 5

SUDOKU EASY

L W

U M Y

X Q

24 11

25 12

CROSS CODE

7 1 9 5 2 6 4 3 8

2 4 6 1 3 8 7 9 5

6 8 4 2 1 3 5 7 9

5 3 7 6 9 4 8 1 2

1 9 2 7 8 5 6 4 3

8 13 24 4 19 28

8 20 7

2 24

23 24

SUDOKU DIFFICULT

17 18

4 20

ADVERTISE HERE 0151 230 0307

7 9 2 5 1 4 6 8 3

KAKURO MEDIUM

19 4 12

1 3 13

7 3 9 19

Accumulator Quiz 1 – B; 2 – A; 3 – C; 4 – A; 5 – C; 6 – B; 7 – D; 8 – B; 9 – C; 10 – D; 11 – A; 12 – A; 13 – B; 14 – A; 15 – A. Starspot Crossword Across – 1 Critical; 8 Outcry; 9 Spin; 10 Raw; 11 Extend; 12 Asbestos; 15 Mealie; 16 Tremor; 20 Sallow; 24 Shrimp; 27 Accredit; 28 Fright; 29 Ear; 30 Site; 31 Editor; 32 Yielding. Down – 2 Repose; 3 Tinsel; 4 Curate; 5 Lowest; 6 Statue; 7 Pronto; 12 Amos; 13 Ball; 14 Silo; 17 Ruhr; 18 Maid; 19 Rapt; 21 Abrade; 22 Legate; 23 Watery; 24 Scarce; 25 Reused; 26 Mitten. Star Name: SAMANTHA FOX Word Wizard No 2 is correct. Bort is diamond

fragments or dust. Dialling Codes 1. Bon Jovi; Led Zeppelin; Dire Straits; Rolling Stones; Deep Purple; Status Quo; Fleetwood Mac; Genesis. 2. cuttle-bone; driftwood; sandbank; limpet; hermit crab; shingle; amber; sandhopper; groyne; razor shell. 3. roulette; darts; bingo; dominoes; bagatelle; consequences; shovehalfpenny; postman’s knock; forfeits. 4. lemon; blackberry; pomegranate; damson; banana; apricot; tomato; pawpaw; mango; coconut; crabapple; lime. 5.Michigan; Victoria; Winnipeg; Malawi; Balkhash; Superior; Erie;

Sort + P = Sport. Transformer The year was 1963. Make a Date arms; number; grass; answer. Country: Angola.

off;

let;

Missing Link A = 1; B = 3; C = 6; D = 2; E = 4; F = 5. Spot Check 6. hawser; porthole; davit; galley; hatchway; tiller; bilge; winch; cabin; bridge; propellor; crow’s-nest; anchor. Nicaragua; Titicaca; Great Bear; Huron; Nyasa.

REACH 420,000 READERS . . .

TAKE ME HOME!

All Together NOW!

SHOPMOBILITY n ALTRINCHAM. Tel 0161 929 1714 n ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE. Tel 0161 339 9500 n BARROW. Tel 01229 434039 n BIRKENHEAD. Tel 0151 647 6162 n BLACKBURN AND DARWEN. Tel 01254 690566 or 07757 502217 n BLACKPOOL. Tel 01253 349 427 n BOLTON. Tel 01204 392946 n BURY. Tel 0161 764 9966 n CARLISLE. Tel 01228 625950 n CHESTER. Tel 01244 312626 n CHORLEY. Tel 01257 260 888 n COLWYN BAY. Tel 01492 533822 n CREWE. Tel 01270 580 031 n ELLESMERE PORT. Tel 0151 355 1420 n KENDAL. Tel 01539 740 933 n LEIGH, Wigan. Tel 01942 777 985 n LIVERPOOL. Tel 0151 707 0877 n MANCHESTER Trafford Centre. Tel 0161 747 2684 n MANCHESTER Arndale Centre. Tel 0161 839 4060 n NELSON. Tel 01282 692 502 n NORTHWICH, Vale Royal Tel 01606 353525 n ORMSKIRK, West Lancashire Tel 01695 570055 n OSWESTRY. Tel 01691 656882 n PENRITH. Tel 01768 895 438 n PRESTON. Tel 01772 204 667 n RHYL. Tel 01745 350665 n ROCHDALE. Tel 01706 865 986 n RUNCORN, Halton Lea Tel 01928 716971 n SHREWSBURY. Tel 01743 236900 n SOUTHPORT. Tel 0151 288 6885 n ST HELENS. Tel 01744 613 388 n STOCKPORT. Tel 0161 666 1100 n WARRINGTON. Tel 01925 240064 n WARRINGTON. Birchwood Tel 01925 822 411 n WIGAN. Tel 01942 776 070 n WINSFORD. Tel 01606 557550 n WREXHAM. Tel 01978 312390 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM. Snow Hill Railway Station. Tel 0121 236 8980. Level 2, Centre Car Park, Bullring. Tel 0121 616 2942 n STAFFORD. Tel 01785 619456 n STOKE ON TRENT. Tel 01782 233333 n SUTTON COLDFIELD. Tel 0121 355 1112 n TAMWORTH. Tel, 01827 709392 n WALSALL. Tel 01922 650781 n WEST BROMWICH: Sandwell. Tel 0121 553 1943 n WOLVERHAMPTON. Tel 01902 556021

April/May 2012

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CARERS’ CENTRES

That winning feeling! THE FIVE lucky winners of our gardening competition were: Rob Sharpe, Woodland Avenue, Colwyn Bay, Conwy Mrs Alice Boardman, Clayton Villa Fold, Clayton-leWoods, Chorley, Lancs Jane Codd, Pangbourne Close, Appleton, Warrington Mr G Holroyd, Mythop Road, Lytham St Annes, Lancs Mrs E Reid, Cosham Road, Wythenshawe All winners will each receive a 200-page seed catalogue from Thompson & Morgan PLUS £30 vouchers which can be exchanged for any items listed or online. Prizes will be sent within 28 days.

Do you need help with Parkinson’s? THE St Helens branch of Parkinson’s UK are holding an open day at the United Reform Church, King Street, St Helens on Wednesday April 18 to celebrate Parkinson’s Awareness Week. The group, who meet on alternate Wednesdays (11am-3pm), are keen to attract new members. Parkinson’s is a chronic, progressive, neurological condition for which there is presently no cure. It occurs most often in older people affecting 1 in 100 over 65 years old and 1 in 50 over the age of 80.

Symptoms include slowness of movement, limb stiffness and 70% of people will have a tremor at rest. Parkinson’s Helpline: 0808 800 0303 www.parkinsons.org.uk CHESTER Accessibility Action Group is producing a free e-Newsletter. If you want to receive a copy, email access.group@dialhousechester.org.uk The group is based at DIAL House, the Disability Rights Centre in Hamilton Place, Chester Tel, 01244 345655.

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE n ANGLESEY:

TARAN Tel 01407 721933 n BLACKPOOL Disability Information and Support. Tel 01253 472 202. Textphone 01253 476 450 n CHESHIRE CIL Tel 01606 782760 n CHESTER Dial House Tel 01244 345655 n DENBIGHSHIRE Tel 01745 354445 n ELLESMERE PORT DICE Tel 0151 355 1420 n HALTON Disability Service Tel 01928 717222 n KNOWSLEY DISABILITY CONCERN. 0151 480 4090 n LANCASTER DISC Tel 01524 34411 n LIVERPOOL Association of Disabled People. Tel 0151 263 8366. Text 0151 260 4076 n MERSEYSIDE Coalition of Inclusive Living. Tel 0151 260 4001 n NEUROSUPPORT Centre Tel 0151 298 2999 n MANCHESTER (GTR) Coalition of Disabled People Tel 0161-273 5154 n MOLD Flintshire Disability Tel 01352 755546 n NELSON: Pendle Pakistan Welfare Association. Tel 01282 603 616 n PRESTON DISC: Tel 01772 558 863. Textphone 01772 204 787 n RHYL Tel 01745 350665 n STOCKPORT: Disability Stockport. 0161 480 7248

n WARRINGTON

Disability Partnership. 01925 240064 n WIRRAL WIRED Tel 0151 670 1500 n WEST LANCS HELPLINE Freefone 0800 220676 n ST HELENS DASH Tel 01744 453053 n WREXHAM Tel 01978 262955 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 n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 233332 n BARROW Tel 01229 820698 n BIRMINGHAM Action for Blind Tel 0121 665 4200 n BLACKBURN Tel 0125 554143 n BLACKPOOL Tel 01253 792600 n BURY Tel 0161 763 7014 n BURNLEY Tel 01282 438507 n CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121 CHESHIRE & N WALES: Vision Support. Tel 01244 381515 n CUMBRIA (West) Tel 01946 592474 n CUMBRIA (Sth Lakeland)

Tel 01539 726613 DOGS Tel 0118 983 5555 n HENSHAW’S 0161 872 1234 Tel 0151 227 1226 n LIVERPOOL: Bradbury Fields.Tel 0151 221 0888: Action for Bind Tel 0151 298 3222 n MANCHESTER: Action for Blind Tel 0161 787 9252 n PRESTON: Action for Blind People Tel 01772 320550 n OLDHAM Tel 0161 682 8019 n ROSSENDALE Tel 01706 873256 n SIGHTLINE (North West) Tel 0800 587 2252 n WIGAN Tel 01942 242891 n WIRRAL Tel 0151 652 8877 n GUIDE

ORGANISATIONS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE DEAF n BIRMINGHAM Institute for Deaf Tel 0121 246 6101 n CHESHIRE Deaf Society Tel 01606 47831 n CUMBRIA Deaf Society Tel 01228 606434 n LANCASHIRE (EAST) Deaf Society Tel 01282 839180 n MANCHESTER Deaf Centre Tel 0161 273 3415 n MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888 n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887 n WOLVERHAMPTON Centre for Deaf Tel 01902 420904 n N WALES Deaf Association, Tel 01492 542235

n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 387 444 n BLACKBURN with DARWEN Tel 01254 688 www.bwdcarers.org n BLACKPOOL Blackpool Borough Council, Tel 01253 477 716 n CUMBRIA Carlisle. Tel 01228 542 156 Penrith. Tel 01768 890 280 Barrow-in-Furness. Tel 01229 822 822 Kendal. Tel 01539 732 927 Whitehaven, Tel 01946 592 223 n CHESHIRE Helpline: 0800 085 0307 n KNOWSLEY Tel 0151 549 1412 n LANCASTER Tel 01524 66475 n LIVERPOOL Tel 0151 705 2307 n MANCHESTER Tel 0161 835 2995 n MORECAMBE Tel 01524 833456 n PRESTON Tel 01772 200173 n RUNCORN Tel 01928 580182 n WIDNES Tel 0151 257 9673 n SALFORD Tel 0161 833 0217 n SEFTON Tel 0151 288 6060 n ST HELENS Tel 01744 675 615 n STOCKPORT Tel 0161 456 2808 n WARRINGTON Tel 01925 644 212 n WEST LANCS Tel 01695 711243 n WIGAN & LEIGH Tel 01942 683711 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM Tel 0121 675 8000 n SOLIHULL Tel 0121 788 1143 n WALSALL Tel 01922 610 810 NORTH WALES n ANGLESEY Tel 01248 722828 n BANGOR Tel 01248 370 797 n CONWY Tel 01492 533714 n DENBIGHSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 0845 603 3187 n DOLGELLAU Tel 01341 421167 n FLINTSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 01352 751436 n WREXHAM: NEWCIS, Tel: 01978 310414.

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

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All Together NOW!

April/May 2012

Return of the record breakers

THE confirmed Great Britain and Northern Ireland team:

Greaves and co set to throw their weight around!

OUR world record breakers including discus record holder Dan Greaves are included in a 24-strong Great Britain and Northern Ireland team headed to the BT Paralympic World Cup in May.

Greaves, who recorded a new F44 discus World Record of 59.27m at the BT Paralympic World Cup 12 months ago, returns to the Manchester Regional Arena with realistic aspirations of a throw in excess of 60m. The three-time world champion, who broke his own world record on three occasions last year – most significantly when exceeding his Manchester mark with a new 59.85m global best at the US Paralympic Championships in Florida – opened his 2012 campaign with an impressive indoor world best of 57.56m at the unique World GOLDEN Indoor Throwing meet in Sweden. Joining Greaves for the event is fellow world MOMENT: record holder and T42 200m world champion Discus Richard Whitehead. champion Multi-talented Whitehead, an equally brilliant Dan endurance athlete with a marathon best of Greaves in 2:42.54h, has made huge gains on the track in the past 18 months and clocked a 200m world action at record of 25.69 (-0.9m/s) at the Aviva London last year’s Grand Prix at Crystal Palace last summer. World Cup Also breaking world records in 2011 and 2012, BT Ambassadors Hannah Cockroft and Nathan Stephens will compete in the T34 100m and F55/56/57/58 seated javelin respectively, and will add experience to a team which THE BT Paralympic World Cup is the largest annual international includes a number of exciting multi-sport competition in elite disability sport and will once again be developing athletes. T44 sprinter Sophie Kamlish will broadcast by Channel 4. The Manchester Regional Arena will host all events, starting with compete in the T42/43/44 100m athletics on ay 22, followed by wheelchair basketball and seven-aand 200m; F57 thrower Derek side football on May 23-26. Derenelagi takes on the The boccia international match will be staged on May 24 and the F55/56/57/58 seated javelin and T54 wheelchair racing duo Will sitting volleyball international match will be held on May 25. Smith and Georgina Oliver race Ticket information: www.btparalympicworldcup.com in the T54/54 100m and 400m.

Make a date of it...

Jonathan Adams (F32/33/34 Shot Putt): Loughborough Greame Ballard (T36 100/200m): East Lancashire Mickey Bushell (T53/54 100m/400m): Telford Richard Chiassaro (T53/54 100m): Harlow Libby Clegg (T11/12 100/200m): Newcastle Hannah Cockroft (T34 100m): Halifax Aled Davies (F42/44 Discus): Cardiff Derek Derenalagi (F55/56/57/58 Seated Javelin): Bushey Dan Greaves (F42/44 Discus): Loughborough Katrina Hart (T37 100/200m): Redditch Sophie Kamlish (T42/43/44 100/200m): Bath Jenny McLoughlin (T37 100/200m): Chepstow Goergina Oliver (T53/54 100/400m): Brighouse Jonnie Peacock (T42/43/44 100/200m): London Stef Reid (T42/43/44 100/200m): London Ben Rushgrove (T36 100/200m): Bath Will Smith (T53/54 100/400m): London Nathan Stephens (F55/56/57/58 Seated Javelin): Bridgend Anne Strike (T53/54 100/800m): Harlow Owain Taylor (F55/56/57/58 Seated Javelin): Cwmbran David Weir (T53/54 400/800m): Wallington Dan West (F32/33/34 Shot Putt): Nottingham Richard Whitehead (T42/43/44 100/200m): Nottingham Bethy Woodward (T37 100/200m): London

Blade runners are ready to light up Arena Continued from Page 32 Peacock, who was inspired to try to compete in Paralympic sport after seeing Pistorius on TV in the Beijing Paralympic Games, is also looking forward to the event. “I always love lining up against Oscar,” he said. “Not only is he a fantastic athlete, but

he’s a great person to be around, especially if you are a young sportsman. “He’s always very willing to give encouragement and tips.” Phil Craven, chief executive of the International Paralympic Committee, said: “The men’s T44 100m at the Paralympics is

going to be ‘the race’ of the Games and is one of our strongest classes together with men’s T54 racing. “At last year’s World Championships all finishers were under 12 seconds and just 0.09 seconds separated first and fourth place so we are sure to witness a thrilling race.”

Strongest ever line-up for London Marathon

AVID Weir and Amanda McGrory are gearing themselves up to defend their Virgin London Marathon titles against the strongest fields ever assembled for the elite wheelchair races. Weir is aiming to match the six London Marathon titles won by British Paralympic legend Dame Tanni GreyThompson when he makes his 12th consecutive appearance in the race. Last year he became the first man to win five wheelchair marathons in London while McGrory smashed the women’s course record to regain the crown she first won in 2009. Weir won a thrilling sprint finish in 2011, beating Switzerland’s Heinz Frei by two seconds, and the Briton will face the veteran world record holder again this year when 18 of the world’s elite men take to the start line just four months before the 2012 Paralympic Games. The British record holder will be up against four former London champions, including the 54-year-old Frei, a champion three times in the late 1990s, Mexico’s Saul Mendoza, London champion in 2004 and 2005, the 2010 winner, Josh Cassidy of Canada, and Frenchman Denis Lemeunier, the 2001 champion who appears in London for the 11th time.

Tough challenges However, Weir’s sternest challenge could come from South African Ernst van Dyk, who has won the prestigious Boston Marathon a record nine times, and from the in-form Japanese racer, Masazumi Soejima. McGrory’s task will be equally tough. The American made the most of perfect conditions last April when she took nearly two minutes from Sandra Graf’s 2008 course record. McGrory outsprinted British record holder Shelly Woods by the narrowest of margins as four women beat the old time. The recently-married Woods, from Blackpool, will be out for revenge this time as she looks to regain the title she won in 2007 while Graf also returns seeking another win for Switzerland after being second twice and third in the last three years. The 11-strong elite women’s field also includes the Beijing Paralympic champion, Edith Hunkeler, of Switzerland, and the world champion, Wakako Tsuchida, of Japan. n The London

Marathon: Sunday, April 22.

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The Queen to open Games

Andy’s Classic in Louisiana ANDY Lapthorne lifted his fourth ITF 1 Series wheelchair tennis title after beating American world No. 2 David Wagner in the quad singles final at the Cajun Classic in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. World No. 4 and second seed Lapthorne started the tournament with a tough 7-6, 4-6, 6-3 victory over Sweden’s Anders Hard, but improved round-by-round to beat Sweden’s Marcus Jonsson and Lucas Sithole, of South Africa, comfortably in straight sets. He then produced his best performance in nine career meetings against Wagner to win the final 6-2, 6-2 and gain only his second victory over the American, who had beaten British second seed Jamie Burdekin 6-0, 6-4 in the last four to thwart hopes of an all-British final. On a day when British players contested four finals, a second title eluded Lapthorne in the quad doubles when he and Burdekin lost out to American top seeds Nick Taylor and David Wagner 62, 6-3. Meanwhile, Lucy Shuker and Jordanne Whiley reached the women’s doubles final after upsetting second seeds Sabine Ellerbrock and Sharon Walraven. But they lost out to Dutch top seeds Jiske Griffioen and Aniek van Koot. Louise Hunt also reached the women’s consolation singles final but was edged out 6-4, 6-4 by Chile’s Francisca Mardones.

Pistorius and Peacock to go head to head in Manchester

THE Queen and Duke of Edinburgh will open the London 2012 Paralympic Games in the Olympic Stadium on Wednesday, August 29. This will be the first time The Queen has opened a Paralympic Games. The 1984 Paralympic Games were officially opened by The Prince of Wales.

Blades sharpened!

CLASH of the titans is set for Manchester at May’s BT Paralympic World Cup.

Top South African athlete Oscar Pistorius takes on ‘Britain’s Blade Runner’ Jonnie Peacock at the May event. The pair clash in the T43/44 100m and 200m sprints at the Manchester Regional Arena. “I’ve been waiting a long time for

RUNNING BATTLE: Oscar Pistorius, left, and Britain’s Jonnie Peacock

2012 to come around and I’m so excited it’s now here,” said Pistorius. “The BT Paralympic World Cup will be more important than ever.” Pistorius comes into the event on the back of a whirlwind 2011, which saw him represent South Africa at the IAAF World Championships in Daegu, where he reached the semifinal in the 400m before becoming the first amputee to win a world track

medal after helping his country take silver in the 4x400m relay. In addition to that success in South Korea last year, Pistorius – who is the reigning World Record holder in both the T43/44 100m and 200m – took three IPC Athletics World titles in New Zealand and scooped gold in the T43/44 100m and 400m at the 2011 BT Paralympic World Cup.

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Lucky 13

WHEELCHAIR rhythmic gymnast Victoria Perez (above) was among the “lucky 13” Cheshire Academy of Sport’s athletes who returned with medals from the Special Olympics North West Games in Nantwich. Victoria recorded two perfect scores – the first perfect score recorded in the UK since 1999 when another Cheshire Academy rhythmic gymnast Michael Taylor achieved the remarkable feat. Other medals came from Daisy Fairclough, Poppy Wood-Wright, Lauren Whalley, Phoebe Low, Laura Taylor, Rachel Perris, Sophie Hughes, Charlotte Kay, Amy Jones, Felicity Martin, Elizabeth Cooper, Kirsty Robertson. Rhythmic gymnastic routines involve using ribbons, hoops, ropes, and balls, and are performed to music.