PosAbility – Aug / Sep 2020

AUG/SEP 2020

MAGAZINE SAFE TRAVEL

S UM M E R FUN

GARDENING

The safety measures venues are putting in place to welcome back guests

Garden picnics and nature trails to keep the kids amused this summer

The unsung hero of lockdown has been a lifeline for many

Assurance for wherever life takes you

The Volvo XC40 T3 FWD R-Design Manual from £899 Advance Payment* Enjoy all the freedom a car brings, with added benefits to support you.

The Motability Scheme includes insurance, servicing, maintenance and more for additional peace of mind wherever you go. You’ll also benefit from everything our multi-award-winning Volvo XC40 has to offer.

Discover features designed to simplify your journey from start to finish.

Intuitive 9-inch Touch Screen | Volvo On Call | Rear Park Assist Voice activated control for key functions Power-operated tailgate | Euro NCAP five-star safety rating

With Test Drive+, you can choose to try the Volvo XC40 at your local retailer.

Or, have one delivered to your door for an Extended test drive.

Visit volvocars.co.uk/motability or call us on 01423 638710

Fuel consumption and CO2 figures for the Volvo XC40 T3 FWD R-Design Manual, in MPG (l/100km): WLTP Combined 37.2 – 40.4 (7.6 – 7.0). WLTP CO2 emissions 173 – 158g/km. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO 2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures.

These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load.

Accessible, innovative: stay connected with voice control and a 9-inch Touch Screen.

Your app assistant: remotely start your engine, find your car and much more with Volvo On Call.

Power-operated tailgate: height-adjustable for easy access to the car’s adaptable storage area.

*Advance Payment of £899 is for the Volvo XC40 T3 FWD R-Design Manual. Metallic Paint is included free of charge. Offer available on the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. To be eligible to join the Motability Scheme you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independence Payment, which will be taken in lieu of the four-weekly rental for 36 months’ duration. 60,000 mileage allowance over three years; excess mileage charges may apply. Offer available from 01/07/2020 to 30/09/2020 subject to availability at participating retailers. Offer not available with other promotions and may be subject to change. For full terms and conditions, visit www.motability.co.uk. Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HB.

Contact us for dealer details on Info@permobil.co.uk | 01484 722888

Welcome AUG/SEP 20

Ros EDITOR

are unaware of the rules around this, and reports of local spikes in certain areas are cause for real concern. It is understandable that those who have been shielding or self-isolating during this time are choosing to continue to do so. The most important thing is that you make your own decisions about what you are comfortable with to keep yourself and your family safe.

If you are exempt from wearing a face mask turn to page 48 to find out about Euan’s Guide’s free “face mask exempt” badges.

s we tentatively ease out of lockdown and navigate the new rules and regulations with trepidation, it is clear to see that this is a worrying time for many. A post-lockdown world appears to be bringing with it more challenges and concerns than ever before.

Usually this time would be all about the summer holidays for kids, but this year feels very different. That doesn’t mean that you can’t all have some socially distanced family fun! We have come up with a few ideas for getting you all out in the fresh air to discover nature and some fun games to keep the kids amused in the garden.

Those who are exempt from wearing a face mask are risking abuse every time they go out because people

We hope you can all enjoy the summer in whatever way you feel comfortable with.

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Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writers: Katie Campbell Designer: Fionnlagh Ballantine Sales: Val Speers, Cassie Thompson

CONTRIBUTORS

Sam Renke, Mik Scarlet, Dan White, Jane Hatton, Colette Carr, Carrie-Ann Lightley, Hannah Hoskins, Hannah Deakin, Paul F Cockburn

DISCLAIMER

PosAbility Magazine is published by 2A Publishing Limited.

The views expressed in PosAbility Magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor or the publisher. Reproduction in part or in whole is strictly prohibited without the explicit written consent of the publisher.

Copyright 2020 ©2A Publishing Limited.

All Rights Reserved. ISSN 2049-2251

Contact Details: Caledonia House, Evanton Drive, Thornliebank Ind. Est., Glasgow, G46 8JT Tel: 0141 465 2960 Fax: 0141 258 7783 enquiries@2apublishing.co.uk posabilitymagazine.co.uk

AUG/SEP 2020

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MAGAZINE SAFE TRAVEL

S UMMER FUN

GARDENING

The safety measures venues are putting in place to welcome back guests

Garden picnics and nature trails to keep the kids amused this summer

The unsung hero of lockdown has been a lifeline for many

To find out more about subscribing to PosAbility Magazine turn to p66

posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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17 LOCKDOWN LEARNINGS Sam Renke explores what she has learned during lockdown

18 THE STAYING INN We speak to Dr Amy Kavanagh, the landlady of the inclusive virtual pub

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Could this social media platform be promoting inclusivity?

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14 TIKTOK

35 HOT STUFF

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News, stories, and updates

E, NOT LNER

09 FYI

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VU

VA L U A

AUG/SEP 2020 | ISSUE 56

The latest must-have products on the market

39 SAFE TRAVEL Carrie-Ann Lightley has contacted some of the UK’s accessible holiday venues to find out what they are doing to keep customers safe

43 VALUABLE, NOT VULNERABLE Easing out of lockdown is coming with its own challenges and opportunities

47 WIN A BREAK AT HILL LODGE! Hill Lodge are offering a break for up to four people at their accessible cottage in Poole, Dorset

48 VISIT WITH CONFIDENCE 20 SHOP LOCAL Never has it been more important to support local growers and farmers

23 A STATE OF INDEPENDENCE Mik Scarlet discusses what the term “independent living” should mean to everyone

Euan’s Guide are going above and beyond to bring you information on accessibility and cleanliness as venues return to business

50 HANNAH’S HOPE Hannah Deakin fell in love with blogging and here she tells us why

53 KIDS’ CORNER 26 WORKING FROM HOME Everything you could possibly need to make your home working environment welcoming

29 AN OASIS OF CALM Everyone has jumped on the gardening bandwagon recently, and it’s easy to see why

32 CHRONICALLY WORKING Hannah Hoskins writes about her experience of managing work with a chronic illness

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From summer fun in the garden to accessible beach trips, we have something to keep the kids amused over the holidays. Dan White brings us his take on the healthcare system and we bring you more great products for your little ones

60 READING TIME Dan White has used lockdown to devour some books relating to the disabled community

65 DREAM JOB Jane Hatton reminds us why disabled people are premium candidates

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PUMA ECOBOOST MILD HYBRID GET THE FREEDOM TO EXPLORE WITH THE FORD MOTABILITY SCHEME

Use your Mobility allowance to choose from a wide range of Ford vehicles at our network of participating Ford dealers across the UK. Dedicated specialists will listen to your needs and help you through every step of the process to find your perfect Ford vehicle.

To find out more, visit ford.co.uk/motability or call 0345 60 40 019.

ford.co.uk

Available on selected dealer stock only. Please contact a participating Ford dealer for more information. Model shown is a Puma ST-Line X, 5 Door, 1.0 EcoBoost 155PS mHEV, Manual, Petrol with optional LED Headlights, Driver Assistance Pack and Exclusive ‘Desert Island Blue’ Paint Colour. Fuel economy mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 50.4 (5.6). CO2 emissions: 128g/km.

Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted, variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. This programme is subject to the standard conditions of the Motability Scheme hire agreement. Full written details and quotations available on request from a Ford Authorised participating Dealer of Motability Operations Limited. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations. Motability Operations Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under reference number 735390. To qualify, you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) and applications must be made with participating dealers between 1st July and 30th September 2020.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION News and stories from around the world

CHANGING PLACES CAMPAIGN WIN

TRELOAR STUDENT SETS UP PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS

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ew building regulations have made it mandatory to include a Changing Places facility in new public buildings in England from 2021. These buildings include shopping centres, cinemas, arts venues, supermarkets and sports stadiums, among others.

This change to the building regulations is a welcome win for those who have been campaigning for this action for years now, and it is thought that it will help over 250,000 individuals and families who require access to a Changing Places facility.

This change in regulation will make a huge difference to the disabled community as it opens up a wider world of accessible venues for disabled people to attend without having to worry about accessing appropriate facilities.

The government has also pledged a £30 million fund to install Changing Places facilities in existing buildings.

The Department of Transport, in partnership with Muscular Dystrophy UK, has also promised to install 37 further Changing Places facilities in service stations across England.

Kerry Thompson, Changing Places campaigner said: “This is incredible news. Having access to more changing places toilets means freedom. For not just myself but the 250,000 other disabled people and their families.

“Having this much needed change to building regulations guidance will make life easier and more fulfilling. It opens up a whole new world for everyone that needs these life changing facilities. All these changes are helping myself and thousands of others to live the life that we choose, not one that is chosen for us.”

oin Searle is aged 22 and is a student at Treloar College in Alton. He has successfully started his own photography business called Searle’s Photography and sells his imagery online at searlesphotography.shop.

Following a Supported Internship with Vets4Pets, Eoin took the decision to start up his own business as he felt he had gained the skills and experience to confidently take the leap. Eoin commented: “My Supported Internship not only gave me confidence, it taught me work skills and how to be professional in the working world.

“I have really enjoyed setting up my own business and website to share my photography and I have already made some sales. I have been passionate about photography since I got my first camera, aged six.”

Eoin has also been offered employment with Vets4Pets following his internship. His job coach, Charlotte Warwick-Mills said: “It’s absolutely brilliant that Eoin has set up his own website for his photography business alongside his work placement.

His internship year has given him confidence in his own abilities, leading him on to further opportunities.

“Treloar’s Supported Internships involve working together with businesses to create learning workplace opportunities for our students and for inclusive employers.”

Treloar’s are urging local businesses to consider joining their Supported Internship programmes. If you would like to find out more information about the Supported Internships programme and how to get involved, please contact Maria Sherwood, Progress and Transition Manager, on maria.sherwood@ treloar.org.uk.

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VIRTUAL CHALLENGE SERIES

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P Sport and LimbPower have teamed up to keep disabled people active and healthy at home over the next few months.

As many disabled people are still choosing to shield or self-isolate due to their concerns over the easing of lockdown, CP Sport and LimbPower have come together to ensure their communities are not forgotten.

LimbPower conducted research that showed the most popular and engaging activity they had supported during lockdown was the 2.6 challenge back in April, followed by an At Home Superhero event from June to July. This research led them to focus on a challenge based activity, and the Virtual Challenge Series was born.

On completing the first challenge they will receive a bronze medal, for the second challenge a silver medal and for completing all the challenges they will receive a gold medal and a challenge t-shirt.

“We are very excited to be working with LimbPower on the virtual challenge series and providing opportunities for the CP community to stay active throughout the summer and into next year. It is important to us to keep the community connected and, through the workshops for each challenge, we hope to provide opportunities for socialising, as well as professional support from our coaches. We look forward to seeing everyone in action throughout the summer whether they are new to sport or an aspiring Paralympian, getting out there and getting active.”

The registration fee for one challenge is £12.50 and £25 for all three challenges. Participants can book online via Eventbrite for LimbPower and Go Membership for CP Sport.

You can find out more on the Virtual Challenge Series Facebook group.

The Virtual Challenge Series are three consecutive participation events with a different theme for each event: Challenge one is distance and runs from the 15th August to 15th September Challenge two is time and runs from the 15th October to 15th November Challenge three is numbers and runs from 15th December to 15th January All participants set their own targets and goals and they have a month to achieve their target.

ON YOUR MARKS, GET SET, FUNDRAISE

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heelPower are unable to hold their usual Mix 96 Tour de Vale Bike Ride this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so they have created the Alternative Mix 96 Tour de Vale, that means you can get involved wherever you live.

If you live in the Aylesbury Vale area you can choose one of the planned routes, decide when you want to do it and where you want to start.

Depending on your cycling experience you can

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choose from a variety of routes: 110km – an advanced ride for experienced cyclists 65km – a challenge ride with a few steep hills 25km – a fun ride for all the family Happening in September, participants from further afield can choose a route near them, or even set a target on an exercise bike at home. You can register at tourdevale.com and you will be supported to set up a fundraising page and have access to a Facebook support group.

The pandemic has hit charities hard and WheelPower is no different as they expect their income to be reduced by over 50%. They are currently raising funds to help keep disabled people active at home and all support at this time would be much appreciated.

GYMPANZEES LENDING LIBRARY

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he specialist, award-winning charity that has been delivering pop up activity gyms in Bristol has been supporting families with disabled children throughout lockdown with a lending library.

your home following all the government guidelines on socially distancing. Items are available to you for two weeks.

To order items or discuss your child’s needs call Lucy on 07761 913 466 or email lucy@gympanzees.org.

Any family in the BS postcode area in Bristol can borrow specialist play and exercise equipment. These products include sensory boxes specifically tailored to your child’s needs through to therapy and exercise equipment, sensory toys and other pieces of kit used in the pop ups.

They have a detailed list of the equipment on their website, and these items will be delivered direct to

FACE MASK EXEMPTIONS

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s we ease out of lockdown and new rules and restrictions are put in place, it can be hard to keep track of what rules we are supposed to be following. Many disabled people are still feeling very uneasy about the lifting of the restrictions across the UK and it is clear that more clarification is warranted.

Face mask coverings are currently one of the most discussed regulations that are now in place. There are exemptions, but these vary between the nations and you are best to check on the regulations for your own area on gov.uk.

If you have a disability, illness, mental health problem or are travelling with someone who relies on lip reading or facial expressions for communication you are exempt from wearing a face covering. However, the disabled community has been reporting abuse from uninformed members of the public which is making people very uneasy about being out in public.

The good news is that you can get your hands on some “face mask exempt” wearables to hopefully inform the masses that you are not obligated to wear a face mask. Euan’s Guide have produced badges that are free on request and Disability Horizons have created a lanyard and ID badge that can be worn too – these can be purchased for £6.95 from their online shop. The team behind the hidden disabilities sunflower lanyard have also created a card that you can wear that highlights that due to a hidden disability you are exempt. Alternatively you could make your own badge or signage at home.

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LEFT IN LOCKDOWN

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he Disabled Children’s Partnership carried out a survey in June this year to find out how the pandemic was impacting families with disabled children.

expressed a decline in the mental health of their children. Add to this, the pressures of home schooling and it has made for an impossible time for families.

They received over 4,000 responses to the survey and it revealed that 76% of parents who had previously received support for their disabled children, said it had stopped altogether. This then left parent carers and siblings to take on full-time caring roles.

Recommendations of the report included: the need of a plan for re-establishing and expanding care support such as short breaks; and for the Care review to include a focus on social care support for disabled children - to support the SEND Review and to address the wider changes needed.

Unfortunately 64% reported that lockdown was having a negative impact on their child’s disability or condition and nearly 80% have

You can read the full report at: disabledchildrenspartnership.org. uk/left-in-lockdown.

LATEST

TWEETS

@aSICKmagazine Thank you @nytimes for including SICK in this great list of ways to learn about disability culture!

@SpiralChris Also I want to remind those on the autistic spectrum, that you are entitled to an exemption under this law, if you need it. Do not wear a face mask if it will cause you distress, and PLEASE do not assume those without one don’t have a reason.

@neatebox A double whammy of good news today as @SimonBerryOptom becomes the first #Optometrist in the world to install #WelcoMeApp & the first venues in the #NorthEast #England to use WelcoMe to improve #CustomerService for #disabled people post #lockdown @NorthEastTweets @NETimesMagazine

@emomaxist Happy disability pride month!!

I don’t talk about it much on here, but I have cerebral palsy.

This is the first time taking pride in myself for this month after spending a lifetime trying to hide it. This is me! I’m disabled and I’m badass! Accessibility is a necessity!

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TikTok

BY COLETTE CARR

Could the latest social media platform be inadvertently shaping a more inclusive future generation?

@INDIASASHA “I’m so excited that I’ve got this comment,” @indiasasha confesses as she introduces a TikTok video responding to a reply that reads, “I’ve never seen so many of these types of hands until I joined TikTok.” The video sees India Atkinson explain the hands themselves aren’t becoming more common, but the confidence of those with them is rising.

Her bio reads “Queen of self-love and comedy”, and the reason she makes so much “hand content” amongst her other hilarious skits, is because having “always believed she was ugly” and taking 20 years to “love herself”, she wants to make sure others share her confidence. With 4 million others with amniotic band syndrome and 250,000 with symbrachydactyly (her two diagnosis), she knows the power visibility can have.

TikTok is the new kid on the block. You may think it’s just another social media platform that serves to stroke the egos of youngsters, but the creative outlet is different to the rest.

Even if you aren’t one of the 800 million active daily users who have the app, you may have seen it on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram as they become awash with the short videos as TikTok continues to boom in popularity and influence.

If you want a crash course on just how big the social media giant’s power is, the song Savage, which featured on a viral dance trend, was re-released after Beyonce recognised its popularity and teamed up with original singer Megan Thee Stallion for a remix. TikTok is officially Beyonce big.

Almost anything goes on the app.

Soundtracked by original audio, humourous dialogues or viral trending songs, TikTok videos last up to one minute and are what you make of them. FYP, For Your Page, is the main feed you first meet when you open the app, which brings you the most popular videos and ones suited to you, and from there, it’s a rabbithole.

Rightly or wrongly kids and tweens are obsessed with the fast-moving app. It comes with the usual territory of dangers they are being exposed to anywhere on the internet, but it is also giving a new generation of disabled people a platform to help normalise disability.

Self-deprecating humour (key for a good TikTok, FYI) removes awkwardness, adds relatability, and perhaps most importantly, can take the power away from bullies and open conversations. TikTokers are using it to dispel myths or preconceptions and educate their followers, who, like young children, aren’t slow to ask awkward questions in earnest.

With nothing private in the 21st century, it’s commonplace for teens to share details of their lives without blinking, making it easier for some disabled teens and young adults to open up.

...she knows the power visibility can have

@LIZALOVESAVOCADOS @Lizalovesavocados is a 16-year-old ambulatory wheelchair user with paralysis and chronic illnesses. As well as posting information on the “spoonies” community, she also regularly addresses the fact that some wheelchair users can stand up unaided and move.

Who’s to say young people seeing her videos won’t now think twice when they see wheelchair users standing up in the future instead of assuming they’re fraudulent?

@SARAHTODDHAMMER Sarah Todd (@sarahtoddhammer) lives with hand and arm paralysis and has used her TikTok to educate followers on the importance of adaptive clothing, the differences between visible and invisible disabilities and how she manages daily tasks. The One Direction superfan mixes funny videos piggybacking on trends and in-depth videos of her adaptive bathroom and things that increase her independence.

@PNUKS Australian @PNuks documents “the perks of having a fake leg” and “fake leg problems” in entertaining and informative fashion.

In one TikTok, he hilariously reels off “dumb things people have told me about my disability” as he sits in his car with a hysterically deadpan yet exasperated expression painted on his face. He rounds it off with: “There are people with hidden disabilities, I need you to know this. One last note, just because a disabled person is successful at living, it doesn’t mean their struggles aren’t real.”

There are thousands of other disabled people across the globe finding their voice on TikTok with willing listeners and viewers growing every day.

TikTok like all social media has its trolls and it hasn’t been without its ableist controversies including the recent ‘Autism Trend’ and reports from late 2019 that TikTok tried to “filter out videos from ugly, poor or disabled users” - a move the tech giants claimed was an attempt to curb cyber bullying and not censorship.

But with copycat videos encouraging creativity and self-confidence, and relatability its core concept, could this in time be the voice of a kinder and more diverse and accepting generation?

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All-New

Renault CAPTUR Your choice, your CAPTUR

To find out more about our award winning All-New CAPTUR range visit renault.co.uk/CAPTUR The official combined fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the All-New CAPTUR range are: 42.8 (6.6) – 58.9 (4.8).

The official CO2 emissions are 148 –124g/km.

WLTP figures shown are for comparability purposes. Actual real-world driving results may vary depending on various factors including any accessories fitted after registration. Renault UK Limited is a credit broker (not a lender) in relation to financial promotions. To qualify for the Motability Scheme you must be in receipt of a Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioner’s Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP). The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No.1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HB. Full written details, including terms and conditions, of the Motability Scheme are available on request from Motability. For details visit renault.co.uk/motability

I learned that reaching out and asking for professional help was the best decision I’ve had in a very long time and that cognitive behavioural therapy works wonders when you’re in isolation.

SAM RENKE

I’ve learned that most people, although having had a taste of isolation and social exclusion, really haven’t shown as much sympathy towards the disabled community as I’d hoped. It appears to have been a toothache affect. You would give anything to get rid of it, even say you will become a better human but once the pain subsides you forget all about the pain and return to normal.

COLUMNIST

Our favourite teacher-turnedactress, Sam Renke, brings you her take on life and the colourful experiences it throws her way.

I’ve learned that the British news would rather talk about people’s urgency of getting their haircut than the struggles of those shielding who went without care or food provisions.

I have been on ‘standby’ for a number of TV shows so that’s a start right… hmmmm.

LOCKDOWN LEARNINGS

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o say I’ve learned a lot about myself during this period of lockdown or in my case shielding, is an understatement.

I’ve learned that living back home with my mother isn’t as bad as one would think. I actually enjoyed our time together without her ‘mum-nagging’ being an issue. The fact that she brought me a cuppa and brioche in bed each morning had nothing to do with it. Honest.

I’ve learned that letting others help me and relinquishing some of my independence isn’t the end of the world. This doesn’t make me a burden.

People help because they love and care for you.

I’ve learned that I need my friends in the disability community more than I ever thought possible. I’ve learned so much from this diverse group of incredibly gifted and bonkers people of which I’m proud to be part of.

I’ve learned that not being as contactable or being the queen of Zoom meetings doesn’t make me a bad friend. So, don’t let anyone make you feel guilty for not being at their

disposal as they hoped.

I’ve learned that I can work remotely and from now on will suggest this as an alternative instead of pushing my mind and body to get physically to a meeting just to accommodate others.

I’ve learned that I need to have a stash of Heinz lentil soup and Super Noodles in my cupboard at all times.

I’ve also learned that I need a better line of communication with my personal assistant and to come up with a strategy for when we are thrown a curve ball because, reality check, she has a life and commitments too.

I’ve learned that people need to be told to wear a mask before they do so.

Otherwise it’s simply not cool enough to make a bold statement.

I’ve learned that I have an eBay addiction, but it’s also a great way to subsidise some loss of earnings.

Most importantly I have learned that I am one strong and resilient individual that really doesn’t give myself enough praise.

I urge you all to list what you’ve learned during lockdown… think of it as therapy, heck, burn it afterwards or tie it to a pigeon and watch it fly away, because getting things out and down on paper is better than keeping them locked in your head.

“...the British news would rather talk about people’s urgency of getting their haircut than the struggles of those shielding who went without care or food provisions”

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Staying Inn THE

BY ROSALIND TULLOCH

One positive to come out of lockdown is the creation of supportive online communities that are rallying to connect disabled people through isolation. One particularly successful venture is the virtual pub started by Dr Amy Kavanagh, The Staying Inn. We spoke to Amy to find out how it all began…

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here did the idea for The Staying Inn come from?

It started as a bit of a joke, I put up a sign, a pack of beers, and some games on my dining table for when I had video calls with friends and family. This included a disability campaigners whatsapp group, and everyone kept joking about “when will you open the pub?” so I did! The pub is really inspired by the online community spaces disabled people have been creating for years, in real life so much is inaccessible to us, so an online pub seemed like the perfect lockdown solution.

When did you officially start it?

21 March, it was chaos! I foolishly posted the Zoom link online and we had a lot of trolls turn up! Now we have a newsletter so it’s all safe.

What did you hope The Staying Inn would do for the disabled community?

COVID-19 has been such a difficult time for so many people in the disabled community, especially people who are shielding. I just wanted to create a positive friendly space for people to have fun and feel included. I wanted the pub to be a space for anyone who was feeling lonely, something they could come along to and feel amongst friends who understood their experiences.

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Now The Staying Inn is so much more than just a friendly online chat, it’s a thriving community, it’s providing opportunities for disabled people to share their creativity and activism, for people to build confidence, find friendships and learn new skills. Our events have something for everyone, from our popular quiz night, to the stitch and bitch craft group, book club, disability campaigning workshops, dance parties or funny games! Whether it’s a laugh or a lesson we have something for you, and some of our previous popular sessions are available on the catch up section of our website.

What has the feedback been like?

The feedback has been really positive.

Especially at the start, we had a lot of people who were very isolated during lockdown and the pub was the only time they talked to people that day or that week. We have such a wonderful growing community of regulars who really support each other and are becoming friends, it’s lovely.

Quotes from our recent feedback survey included: “It’s been an essential part of my wellbeing during lockdown.”

“The Staying Inn has been a breath of real life in my very closed world.”

“Has really helped to get me through this time knowing others are in a similar position and to have somewhere that is a safe space for us to relax.”

“Honestly I’ve never seen a community event with such good deaf access (captions and BSL) and a culture of constantly striving to meet people’s needs and balancing inevitable needs-conflicts in a thoughtful way.”

“I absolutely love it so much. It’s made me realise I love socialising, it’s just the energy needed to get out there that I lack, so by the time I get there I’m knackered and I hate it! Being able to just socialise as I am, in my own home, is amazing for me. And being able to get involved and help with hosting has been amazing for my confidence; it’s rare I have the physical ability to help so to be able to is lovely for me.”

Are you hoping to keep the virtual pub going beyond the lifting of lockdown (if that ever happens)?

I will keep it running as long as we have the funds to run sessions. We recognise that as ‘the new normal’ starts people might want something different, but based on our recent feedback there is still a really big appetite for regular sessions. We hope that The Staying Inn becomes a real model for digital inclusivity and tackling social isolation that other organisations might adopt. I think it can be a positive outcome of this pandemic that digital spaces are finally recognised for the value they have in connecting people and creating change, but that also it’s so important that they are accessible and inclusive.

You must be proud of the success of this online community – what makes you happiest or most proud as the landlady of The Staying Inn? It’s very cool being an online landlady, I really do enjoy it, even though it’s a lot of work! At least I don’t have to clean the loos.

I think the event that made me most proud was our Pride event, it was a disabled and LBGTQ+ inclusive quiz, we did all sorts of trivia about Queer culture. So many people were so happy to be there, sharing their stories, excited to be in a space that recognised their needs, as well as celebrating their identity and uplifting them as part of a community, it was so beautiful and positive. Everyone was so supportive of each other, encouraging people who

were new to their LGBTQ+ identity or to their disability, people felt accepted and part of something lovely. I cried afterwards.

I’m always deeply moved by the lovely messages I get after events about how the pub and the people have cheered someone up, encouraged them to try something new or just made them smile for the first time in a while.

Often my activism has been about challenges or exclusions I face as a disabled person. So it’s been really joyful to be part of something empowering and positive, especially during such a difficult time. I just want it to keep going as long as possible!

How can people get involved and attend?

It’s easy, just sign up to our newsletter.

You’ll get a weekly email telling you about all our events, and a reminder before each session with the event information. Visit thestayinginn.org.uk to sign up.

How can people and organisations support or donate to help keep The Staying Inn going?

We are desperate for funds! Each session including live captions and British Sign Language interpreters, plus paying a disabled host costs around £400. We’d happily welcome sponsorships from organisations or businesses relevant to the people we support at The Staying Inn, but most of all we need longer term funding like grants. It’s proving really tricky to get grants as a new online initiative during COVID-19 even though we are addressing a really important issue around social isolation for disabled people. So any support or advice is welcome!

We’re also always looking for fun activities and interesting workshops. So if you can offer a wellbeing or exercise session, something creative or share your skills we’d love to have you along to the pub!

People can reach us at thestayinginn@gmail.com.

We have a go fund me page where people can donate at gofundme. com/f/staying-inn-fund and we also have a PayPal pool paypal.me/ thestayinginn.

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Shop Local

BY ROSALIND TULLOCH

I

f there was one good thing to come out of this pandemic, it seems to be that people have become more aware about supporting local businesses.

Especially those small independent grocers or butchers who were going above and beyond to deliver fresh produce to their local communities during lockdown, all while struggling to keep their businesses afloat. As a society we used to only shop locally at our green grocers, butchers and fish mongers, however now, sadly, the big supermarket chains have been allowed to dominate and the growing need for convenience in our busy lives has taken over. Lockdown has slowed down the pace of all our lives and supporting local growers and farmers has never been more important. So, why not take a look at what your local produce providers have on offer and try out some new recipes this summer?

AUBERGINE

One of my all-time favourite vegetables to cook with is aubergine. It is versatile, flavoursome and filling, and it works as a side dish or as the main event. If you are looking for something comforting and moreish why not try out an aubergine parmigiana with the following recipe:

INGREDIENTS 2 aubergines 2 garlic cloves crushed 1 x 400g chopped tomatoes 1 ball of mozzarella Oregano Parmesan

METHOD Heat your over to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Heat the chopped tomatoes in a pan with the garlic and a good pinch of salt, pepper and oregano. Allow it to simmer gently for 10 minutes. Take the whole aubergines and make four or five incisions across the width - only slice around three quarters of the way through so they are still held together.

Remove the tomato sauce from the heat and add it to an ovenproof dish, before placing the whole aubergines in too. In between each incision add a slice of mozzarella and then sprinkle over some oregano and bake in the oven for approximately 40 minutes.

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COURGETTE

Create the perfect BBQ side dish that is healthy and tasty. I guarantee if you don’t think you like courgette, this dish will change your mind.

INGREDIENTS 3 courgettes 100g feta cheese Handful of pine nuts

METHOD Heat a little oil in a griddle pan or frying pan on the stove.

Then slice the courgettes into approximately 1cm disks.

Add the disks to the pan (careful of any oil splashing as it will be very hot) and season well with salt and pepper. Turn the courgette after a few minutes once they are starting to brown on the underside and allow them to brown a little before removing them to a plate. Repeat until all the courgette disks are cooked. Add a handful of pine nuts to the pan and toast for 2-3 minutes, remove from the heat when you see them browning. Crumble the feta over the courgette, top with the toasted pine nuts and serve.

HALIBUT A great thing about summer is the amount of fresh seafood that is available. It is always worth a trip to your local fishmonger to see what they have on offer. Halibut is a delicious and delicate fish that is a joy to eat in the summer months, if you can get hold of it locally then I would highly recommend trying it out for dinner with some new potatoes and wilted spinach.

INGREDIENTS 2 skinless and boneless halibut fillets 300g new potatoes 1 garlic clove chopped 300g fresh spinach

STRAWBERRIES The perfect months for the most delicious strawberries are upon us and you will almost certainly find yourself very close to a local fruit farm where you can purchase their fresh red loveliness or you can even pick your own – a great day out for the kids. Strawberries don’t really need to be messed around with for us to enjoy them but if you are looking to create a strawberry-inspired dessert then why not try this very easy fresh strawberry mousse.

INGREDIENTS 400g fresh local strawberries 120g granulated sugar 240g double cream

METHOD Keep aside some strawberries for decoration. Slice the rest of the strawberries and add to a food processor with the sugar. Blitz until pureed and then remove half a cup and keep to the side. Whip the cream in a bowl until it has firm peaks and then fold in the remaining puree from the food processor. Look out four small glasses or ramekins and divide the half cup of puree between them, before topping with the strawberry mousse. Set in the fridge for at least an hour and top with fresh strawberries before serving. A wonderful summer treat.

Nutmeg Lemon

METHOD Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Add your new potatoes to a pan with some salt and boil for approximately 15-20 mins. Place the halibut on a baking tray and squeeze the juice of the lemon over them, season well and pop in the oven for approximately 12-15 mins. Heat some oil in a pan and chop your garlic, add to the pan and allow to cook gently for 2-3 mins without burning. Add a couple of handfuls of spinach and allow to wilt down, repeat until the bag is finished and then add a pinch of nutmeg and season well. Serve and enjoy.

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FIAT 500X AVAILABLE ON THE MOTABILITY SCHEME FROM NIL ADVANCED PAYMENT* For more information or to book a test drive visit www.fiat.co.uk/motability or visit your nearest Fiat dealer.

Fuel consumption figures for the Fiat 500X range in mpg (l/100km): Combined 34 (8.3) – 42.2 (6.7). CO2 emissions 164– 147g/km.

Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are provided for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedure. *Fiat 500X available on the Motability scheme. Models shown: Fiat 500X FireFly Turbo 1.0 120hp SPORT (with additional 19” Alloy wheels @£350). Available on the Motability Scheme Nil Advanced Payment. Vehicles only available through Motability accredited participating Fiat retailers and are not available in conjunction with any other offer. Advance Payments are correct at time of publishing and are subject to orders being placed between 1st July and 30th September 2020. Terms & Conditions apply. Offer may be varied and withdrawn at any time.

MIK SCARLET COLUMNIST

Follow Mik on Twitter

A STATE OF INDEPENDENCE

T

his morning, as I lay in bed trying to think of what to write for this issue of PosAbility (oh the tough life of a columnist eh?) I stumbled upon a Twitter thread exploring what independent living means to disabled people. As 11 July is World Independent Living Day, this was a timely thread, but as I read, it became clear that many people don’t understand what the drive for independent living really is. Many comments seemed to think that it was all about doing everything for yourself, and this is what disabled campaigners like myself were working towards. Which they felt meant we were ignoring all those people who would never be able to do this. I joined in with the thread but was struck at how common these misconceptions are.

From my experience the easiest way to understand what the drive for independent living for disabled people is, is to imagine a ship. In the past disabled people were passengers, if they were lucky. Usually they felt more like cargo, being taken somewhere without any choice. What campaigners want is for disabled people to be the captain of their ship. They should decide which ship they captain, whether it’s in their own home, a group home, supported living, or a care home. Whatever level

“Let us prove what we can do if we have control over our lives”

@MikScarlet

of support or care they require, they should decide who supports them, what they do and when they do it. If they can’t make all of those decisions unaided they should still be taking the lead. Just like a captain doesn’t have to know how the engine works, but they decide the speed of the ship.

The captain decides the navigation too. They make the final decisions for the ship. That is what independent living should be. The disabled person should be at the helm, and everyone assisting them to get where they want to be should be helping them do that.

Society tells disabled people that independence is all about doing things for yourself. I was raised to be fiercely independent in a way that meant by the age of eight I was doing all my personal care, including repairing my leg braces at school. As well as my books and lunch, I took a tool kit and oil. It made me feel more equal to the other non-disabled kids.

I grew up doing everything for myself, no matter how hard it was or how much it hurt me trying. It was only after meeting my wife that I started to see how damaging it was to act that way. She saw me struggle and offered help, in the way that any nice person would, only to be met with hostility from me. I can do it. Yes, maybe you can, but can you do it easily? Is it so wrong to ask for help? This change in my mindset allowed me to really build a happy successful life. I spent years in TV breaking myself on a shoot, resisting all assistance so I appeared “independent”, returning home broken and unable to work for the rest of the week. Once I admitted I needed assistance I could work more, do more, and be happier doing it. Society needs to understand that if a disabled person needs support to achieve a happy life, that is no bad thing. Life is a journey, and it

shouldn’t matter how you get to the destination, as long as you are happy along the way.

The key change required to ensure all people, no matter what stage of life they are in, are supported to live happily and healthily, is to ensure “care” is no longer the Cinderella of the health and medical world.

Receiving the right high-quality support to live leads to better health, both physical and mental. Parents and families of disabled people need to be paid a living wage to provide the extra support required. When I was ill back in the 2000s my wife gave up a £500 a week job to nurse me through, receiving £50 a week in carer’s allowance. No one can live on that.

No one should be financially punished for having a disabled family member, that needs their help. Especially parents. The people who work in the “care” industry should be paid well too. At a time when our government is announcing huge investment in our country to battle the impact of the coronavirus lockdown, with the added foresight of the impact of an underfunded care sector, now is the time to demand real investment. Not just throwing money at our current system but building a system that works for the people receiving the support and care. It should be designed and led by them.

This is the time to ensure all disabled people can be given the captain’s hat of their life. That’s what all the campaigners are fighting for. Let’s just hope that it’s also the time we are listened to. As we examine the fallout from the coronavirus crisis, this has to be the point at which the future of support for disabled people is placed in the hands of disabled people. Let us prove what we can do if we have control over our lives.

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to

Working

Home FROM

BY ROSALIND TULLOCH

Our new reality is working from home for the foreseeable future, and that is no bad thing.

Especially if you love stationery as much as we do and love the prospect of making your Zoom background really eye-catching. Embrace your home working space as it will make you more productive than you could have ever thought possible.

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Undated Planner

Who doesn’t love a pineapple? We are huge fans of stationery decorated with the tropical fruit. The great thing about this planner is that you can have it personalised with your name too. It features a 54-week view and it is not dated so you can add in your own dates according to when you start using it. Plenty of room for extra notes and space for important dates and lists. You will be the envy of your colleagues when you start diarising.

Papier | £21.99

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Get Sh*t Done

This A5 notebook is subtle and classy, with just a little small print of “Get Sh*t Done”. Let’s be honest this is the reality of why we make to do lists – it’s what we really mean. Embrace your working from home life by starting some daily lists of sh*t you need to get done and you will be surprised at how satisfying it is to score them off one by one. This notebook will single-handedly help you to achieve your goals.

Etsy | £5.78

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Anxiety Plant

Plants are known to help promote a calmer energy in a room, ideal when you are working from home and feeling anxious or stressed. We have discovered the perfect anxiety plant – it may not be as good as a therapy bunny – but we can already feel the empathy from these empathetic house plants. Choose from a variety of plants that all “photosympathise” with you.

Etsy | £19.99

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Acer Chromebook Spin 311

Working from home has become far more of a reality following lockdown. Many offices are not returning until 2021 and employers have thankfully realised that working from home and working flexibly is actually completely feasible. What better than getting yourself some new tech that will cater for you working from home and for your personal use. This handy Acer Chromebook is portable and versatile, with a sturdy keyboard, scratch resistant screen and good battery life.

Home Essentials | £289.99

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Frida Kahlo Mug

If caffeine is key in your life then, like us, you will appreciate a lovely mug to drink out of. We are very possessive and particular about our mugs at the PosAbility headquarters and I am currently having withdrawal from my gorgeous Pip Studio mug because I left it in the office when we had to flee at the beginning of the pandemic. This Frida Kahlo mug has made its way into my cupboard as my ‘homeworking mug’ and I love it. I am sure you will too.

George Whitstable | £6

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Home Office Wall Grid

Clip all of your notes, reminders, ideas and letters to this stylish and pretty clip frame. Hang it on your wall in your workspace and adorn it with all your important messages and a few personal bits and pieces like family photos. This can also be used as a vision-style board, clip up images of your dream car, the home you aspire to live in, the holiday you are desperate to go on, each time you look up you will hopefully be motivated to keep working hard to achieve your goals.

Etsy | £29.68

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Floral Pen Pots

Is anybody else in a constant struggle to find a pen? Fear not, these beautiful little hand screen painted pen pots will keep all your pens and pencils tidy and close to hand at all times. They will also brighten up your desk, keep it organised and make you happy. One of the best things about these is that they are made from 100% recycled materials and made in an eco-friendly manner.

Karenza & Co | £5.56

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Racoon Hugging Pen

When you think of racoons you probably don’t immediately think of adorable, cute little huggers, but this pen has proved otherwise. This cute little racoon is just cuddling your pen and watching what you write. It’s like having a friend with you while you work and make notes, as long as they don’t correct our spelling then we are good with them. Also available with a panda, bunnies and squirrels.

Paperchase | £8

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Sublime Cloud Sticky Notes

These Japanese cloud sticky notes bring a serene feeling of calm to the need for scrappily writing quick reminders and sticking them all over your laptop. Forget the brightly coloured neon post it notes that have a slightly anxietyinducing effect on the mind and surround yourself with the serenity of blue skies and pastel pink clouds.

Etsy | £5

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Cedar and Patchouli Candle

Made from 100% soy wax in small batches, these candles are vegan-friendly and use paraben free perfumes which are not tested on animals. Everything is produced in the UK and the wonderful thing about this company is that all the products are designed, produced or packaged by people with learning disabilities. Their fragrant candles come in a range of scents that will please any nose.

Promise in Store | £18

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SUPPORTING SERVING AND FORMER MEMBERS OF THE RAF AND THEIR FAMILIES

WE CAN HELP WITH INDEPENDENT LIVING FREE CALL 0300 102 1919 rafbf.org/independent The RAF Benevolent Fund is a registered charity in England and Wales (1081009) and Scotland (SC038109)

SCAN ME WITH YOUR CAMERA

Oasis OF CALM AN

Gardening has been a lifeline for many people throughout lockdown, helping people both physically and mentally to escape the chaos of a pandemic. Therapeutic horticulture charity Thrive have some great advice for making gardening more accessible and manageable, so you can create your own serene oasis to escape to.

muscles, burn calories and improve dexterity, balance, and fine and gross motor skills. Being in the sunshine also reduces blood pressure and boosts Vitamin D levels.

D

“Gardening is a proven way to improve mood,” says Damien. “Growing plants helps thinking skills, concentration levels and problem-solving, which all enhances our confidence and self-esteem.”

omestic gardens have been among the unsung heroes of lockdown.

Many people have found them invaluable places to escape to, lifelines providing a vital connection with nature and a reassuring oasis of calm.

The opportunity to grow vegetables, fruit, or beautiful flowers has provided a positive focus to do something meaningful, creative, and nurturing, all helpful for good wellbeing.

The renewed interest in gardening and its advantages for our health is no surprise to Damien Newman from the therapeutic horticulture charity Thrive, which offers programmes for people with a wide range of disabilities and long-term conditions.

“With so much uncertainty right now, gardening offers some much-needed structure and control and the chance to do something that’s intrinsically hopeful,” says Damien.

“When we plant a seed, we are investing in the future and giving ourselves something to look forward to.”

Gardening has physical benefits too, helping to strengthen

It is the mental wellbeing side many gardeners will recognise as key, with studies showing how time in gardens and nature can reduce anxiety and stress.

Recently published research found that people who spend time in the garden are significantly more likely to report general good health and higher psychological wellbeing than those who do not.

When lockdown began, allotments were one of the few places where people could go to because it was recognised how important they are to physical and mental health. Allotments also provide a way to enjoy the camaraderie of gardening with others, albeit now in a socially distanced way.

Community gardening groups and therapeutic horticulture projects are widespread and offer a social dimension to gardening that can help those feeling isolated and excluded.

And because gardening is such a flexible activity, it can be readily adapted so people with disabilities can take advantage of all these benefits.

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Here are some ways to make gardening easier:

GET TOOLED UP Having the right tools for a job makes all the difference and gardening is no exception.

From digging to pruning to mowing and watering, there are many tools available with weight and size adaptations that can make gardening more accessible. Sometimes all the difference between a difficult job and an easy one can be adding a specially designed handle or grip to an existing tool.

Companies such as Peta (peta-uk.com) offer a sizeable range of easy-to-grip hand and long reach tools designed to be used from sitting or standing positions.

DESIGN DECISIONS PLANT CHOICES Choosing the right plants can make gardening more straightforward; for example, ground cover plants like the periwinkle can cut down your weeding time.

When buying plants, check labels or seek advice, not only to see if they will be suitable for your garden, but to check if they are prone to pests and disease.

Be ruthless about existing plants that cause you problems, such as growing too fast, being too big or that pose a hazard. There are plenty of alternatives that don’t require too much effort or maintenance, whether your garden is sunny or shady.

Garden layout can make a massive difference to how you feel about your garden. For instance, having seated areas dotted around will give you the chance for a breather as well as a vantage point to admire your work.

Flower borders should be kept to 60cm wide if you only have access to one side, as any deeper will make reaching the back of them harder.

Paths should be one metre wide as a minimum and have a surface with good grip. If you use a wheelchair, allow enough space for turning, which can be up to 2.4m for powered chairs.

If you want to start gardening, planting in containers can not only be attractive but is also very manageable.

Similarly, raised beds and planters offer gardening at a more comfortable height.

Don’t be daunted. This is the concluding message from Thrive’s Damien Newman, who sees daily how disability does not stop the charity’s client gardeners enjoying their achievements.

“You can benefit from gardening whatever scale of space you have available and there are lots of ways to keep it simple and accessible,” he said.

“Thrive massively believe that people with all sorts of disabilities and ill-health can make enormously valuable contributions to our society and gardening is one of them.

Making a garden is to create something that so many different people can share and enjoy.”

For advice on making gardening easier, visit Thrive’s Carry on Gardening website: carryongardening.co.uk.

Chronically

WORKING W

BY HANNAH HOSKINS The never-ending balancing act

e often talk about chronic illness being a full-time job but it’s not one that pays the bills, so how do we balance working life with chronic illness?

Before setting up my business I worked in the fast-paced world of TV. I loved every part of what I did but my health did not.

I couldn’t keep up with the long hours and physical demands of the job and the more I tried to hold on to it the less life I got to live. Weekends and evenings were reserved for trying to claw back some small amount of energy just to be ready for the next week and I never saw family or friends.

After a lot of soul searching I finally had to accept it just wasn’t working for me.

I set up Not Your Grandma’s, my mobility and chronic illness lifestyle company around a year ago. Thanks to my not accepting that my old job was killing me I found myself mostly housebound and in possession of a fledgling business. Anyone will tell you setting up a new business is tough in itself but adding chronic illness to the mix made for one hell of a learning curve. I had to unlearn so many things about what I thought a business ‘should’ be like and instead I made my own rules on how I do business.

An average day for me looks a little like this, at the beginning of the week I write out all the stuff I need to complete that week. I will allocate 1-3 tasks a day (depending on the size of the task and calculating how much energy it will likely take from me.) Each morning I check in with myself and decide if I have enough energy to complete the tasks I’ve allocated.

I often build in buffer time so if my illness is playing up I can take the day off or push things back. I also use an adjustable laptop desk that allows me to work on the sofa lying down, which saves me a surprising amount of energy compared to sitting up, and means I can do more in my day.

Adaptions like this are the foundations of working with chronic illness. There is no

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Balancing working with a chronic illness is not easy but there is a reason why so many of us turn to freelance work

one way to do anything and you don’t have to do it the way you always have just because that’s how everyone else does it.

doing the same thing and share your wins and your losses helps me to keep going when I otherwise might have given up.

I normally stop working around 1-3pm again depending on the amount of energy I have that day. As you can see flexibility is incredibly important. My symptoms and energy levels change throughout the day and if I was working in a normal 9-5 I wouldn’t be able to just stop when I needed to. Running my own business allows me to make decisions that benefit my health as well as my work but it also can be lonely. This is where, for me, community became a massive part of how I run my business.

Balancing working with a chronic illness is not easy but there is a reason why so many of us turn to freelance work. Being able to work from home in the way that works for our bodies and symptoms is far more flexible than a ‘normal’ job. It allows us to prioritise our health, and in that way, actually makes us better at doing our jobs.

I am proud of my company and everything that I have managed to achieve, even if it looks very different to how I thought I would be working.

I belong to several networking groups so that I can connect with other business owners who are also creating their own unique ways of working. One of the most helpful has been Indie Roller, as it’s set up to encourage people to move away from the hustle of cultural ideals of constantly being productive, and in fact touts rest as a revolutionary act that ironically makes you more productive. Connecting with others who have restrictions on their ability to work too, not only makes me feel less alone, but it helps when the comparison demons come out the woodwork. Often by having to work so differently to others it feels like our journey is slower or less impressive. To be able to talk to others

ABOUT HANNAH Hannah Hoskins is the founder of Not Your Grandma’s, she is making over mobility aids to rid them of their medical appearance and replace them with style and sass. You can follow Hannah on Instagram @notyourgrandmasuk.

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You can’t put a price on ambition. So we haven’t.

No upfront payment required on a selection of Mitsubishi models.

Our ambitions differ, how we get there doesn’t.

Whether you're looking for a nimble runaround to pop to the garden centre or a 4WD hybrid that allows you to really get your hands dirty, at Mitsubishi we have something for you. And with no advance payment required on a selection of models, together we’ll get you there.

Book a test drive today and drive your ambition.

Motability Stock Available Visit mitsubishi-motors.co.uk to find your nearest dealer.

Fuel economy and CO₂ results for the Mitsubishi Range (excluding Outlander PHEV) / MPG (l/100km) (combined): 32.5 – 56.5 (8.7 – 5.0) / CO₂ emissions: 196 - 113 g/km.

Fuel economy and CO₂ results for the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV / MPG (l/100km) (weighted combined): 139.7 (2.0) / Electric energy consumption (weighted combined): 3.68 miles/kWh / CO₂ emissions (weighted): 46 g/km / Equivalent all-electric range: 28 miles.

The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations PLC (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of the Personal Independence Payment, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independence Payment which will be taken in lieu of the four weekly rental. No advance payment on Mirage range and ASX Dynamic. Terms and Conditions apply. Please ask the dealer for full details. Rentals valid for applications placed between 1st July and 30th September 2020. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO₂ figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Outlander PHEV figures were obtained using a combination of battery power and fuel. The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a plug-in hybrid vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging.

We bring you a mix of the most innovative and helpful products on the market today

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VIP2 FOLDING WHEELCHAIR The VIP2 folding tilt in space wheelchair offers a superb combination of tilt in space and reclining positions to ensure the user can achieve optimum levels of pressure relief, positioning and comfort. It has a 35˚ tilt and either a backrest with fixed recline positions or an adjustable reclining back of 30˚. The recline angle of the fixed backrest adjusts from -5˚ to 15˚.

Prices available on request 0845 630 3436 karmamobility.co.uk/where-to-buy

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SPILLNOT The innovative SpillNot is a cup holder with a difference. It is designed to reduce the risk of the contents of your cup spilling when you are carrying it. You simply place your glass or mug on the SpillNot and the looped, fabric handle prevents you from applying a lateral force to the liquid in the cup, so the liquid doesn’t spill – we don’t know how it actually works but somehow it does!

Prices from £12.46 activehands.com

REUSABLE SILICONE STRAWS These reusable silicone drinking straws come with their own individual carry case that they fold neatly into. The pack of four provides two straight and two bent straws and they come with their own cleaning brushes too. Made from high quality, foodgrade silicone, these handy straws are a great eco-friendly option to carry with you. £6.59 amazon.co.uk

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MOOGOO ONCOLOGY CARE PACK Following chemo or radiation therapy, some patients suffer from dry, red, irritated and sensitive skin. This pack was created to help patients hydrate, protect, soothe and care for their skin during and after treatment. It also includes some soft, cosy socks too. The products are made from natural ingredients and are free of paraffin.

REST AND REFRESH BOX The ideal gift for someone who is feeling overwhelmed and in need of a little relaxation and reassurance. The box contains a handmade eye mask filled with linseed, buckwheat and lavender, a pillow sachet and dropper with a soothing combination of essential oils and a vanilla and cocoa massage melt to massage into sore muscles. You will also find bath salts and some Pukka Sleepy tea bags, all packaged in a beautiful box.

Prices from £25 moogooskincare.co.uk

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HOLT OAK GRAB RAILS This stylish range of wooden grab rails will complement any bathroom. These attractive grab rails do not look medical or clinical, they are warm to the touch unlike steel, and offer a safe and sturdy option for your bathroom. Available in a range of sizes to accommodate your needs.

Prices from £325 designed2enable.co.uk

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Fuel consumption figures for Jeep Compass and Renegade in mpg (l/100km): Combined 29.4 (9.6) - 48.7 (5.8). CO2 emissions 225 – 151g/km.

Fuel consumption and CO2 figures are provided for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedure. *Jeep Compass and Renegade available on the Motability scheme. Models shown: Jeep Compass 1.4 MultiAir II 140hp Night Eagle (with additional bi-colour paint @£400). Available on the Motability Scheme from £695 advanced payment. Jeep Renegade 1.0 GSE T3 120hp MT 4x2 Night Eagle. Available on the Motability Scheme from £95 advance payment. Vehicles only available through Motability accredited participating Jeep retailers and are not available in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to orders being placed between 1st July and 30th September 2020. Terms & Conditions apply. Offer may be varied or withdrawn at any time.

SAFETRAVEL

BY CARRIE-ANN LIGHTLEY

Understandably most people will be apprehensive about taking a holiday this year. With all the new restrictions and concerns over cleanliness, social distancing and travel it can be difficult to know where is safe to book. Carrie-Ann Lightley has been exploring the new measures businesses are putting in place to ensure their accommodation is safe to welcome customers.

I

’ve been chatting to accessible holiday providers across the UK, to find out more about how they’re making travel safer for disabled people in the ‘new normal’. I interviewed:

The Amble Inn - a pub with rooms offering wheelchair accessible facilities in Northumberland Canvas & Campfires - a business offering wheelchair accessible glamping safari tents in Wales Cottage in the Dales - luxurious, tranquil, beautiful and accessible self-catering cottages in the Yorkshire Dales Croft Bungalow - an accessible self-catering holiday cottage in Derbyshire Hoe Grange Holidays - who offer self-catering log cabins with disabled access in the Peak District

CHANGES TO ACCESSIBILITY I’m pleased to say that accessibility remains at a high standard at all of these accommodations.

The Amble Inn are now providing full table service and are no longer taking orders at the bar.

Canvas & Campfires are producing captioned video guides to demonstrate how everything in their tents works in place of their in-person settling in service.

Croft Bungalow staff are wearing PPE to welcome guests, and have optional visors in place of masks to accommodate guests who lipread. Steve Dawes, owner of Croft Bungalow, said: “Accessibility is not a marketing twist or an add on for us. We cater specifically for parties/families with accessibility requirements.”

COVID SAFE TRAINING All of the businesses I spoke to have undertaken extra training and produced COVID-19 risk assessments to ensure that their venues are as safe as possible.

Diane Howarth, Owner of Cottage in the Dales, said: “The key thing is to get the training, put in place the measures and communicate these to guests to give them the information and confidence to make an informed decision about taking/booking a holiday with us.”

Look out for the Visit England ‘We’re Good to Go’ Mark.

This certification means that the tourism business is following government and industry COVID-19 guidelines and has all the correct cleaning protocols, risk assessments and preparations in place for making your holiday as risk free as possible.

CLEANING PROCEDURES Before I started these interviews, I asked my Twitter followers what they’d like to know, to help them feel safe when booking their next accessible holiday. The replies made it clear that the most important change to communicate was cleaning procedures. I was impressed by the level of detail that all of the holiday providers went into when answering this question, all recognising the importance of a two-step process, cleaning and then disinfecting.

Close attention is being paid to sanitise all contact and high touch points, including things like coat hangers, TV remotes, door handles and frames, light switches, and grab bars.

Cottage in the Dales and Hoe Grange Holidays are committed to using eco-friendly cleaning products, as well as a viricidal sanitiser to disinfect.

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EATING AND DRINKING As well as full table service, The Amble Inn have created new, disposable menus, and single-use condiments are available for all diners.

The thing that struck me when chatting to the self-catering holiday providers about local food, delivery and takeaway options, was how committed they all are to supporting local businesses; from pubs offering takeaway, to small independent supermarkets and on-site options.

Felicity Brown, owner of Hoe Grange Holidays, said: “Though our small on-site shop will be closed, guests can pre-order ice cream, milk, butter, yoghurts and bacon, sausage and burgers, all sourced locally.”

PLACES TO VISIT AND ACCESSIBLE TOILETS Of course, accommodation is only one part of a holiday, and for those who want to get out and about, it’s important to know which visitor attractions are open, if they are accessible, and what local accessible toilet provision is like.

With the fast-changing nature of the pandemic and the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions, it’s difficult to give definitive answers for each area. However, the key takeaway from all of the interviews was that tourist board websites are the best place to keep updated on the re-opening of places to visit, and each of the holiday providers I spoke to will be updating and sharing this information with their guests.

CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT Three of the five accessible holiday providers that I spoke to have made their check-in times an hour later, to allow enough time for a high standard of cleaning and disinfecting.

The Amble Inn’s check-in and check-out times remain the same, however guests are required to use contactless payments, and any touch points are immediately sanitised.

Canvas & Campfires have adjusted bookings to allow a minimum of 24 hours between guests, which means they can keep check-in and check-out times the same.

BOOKING FLEXIBILITY Those of whom have cancelled holidays and trips due to the pandemic (myself included), know how important flexibility is.

Each of the businesses interviewed are offering flexible booking procedures; some have a full money-back guarantee, and others are giving the option to move bookings or deposits to 2021.

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FIND OUT MORE To read each of the Safe Accessible Travel Interviews in full, as well as my personal accessibility reviews for all of the venues mentioned, visit my blog carrieannlightley.com.

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NOT VULNERABLE

BY PAUL F COCKBURN Paul explores the challenges and opportunities facing disabled people as we start to emerge from lockdown

...we understand we’re ‘vulnerable’ in the context of the virus, but just to say that as a broad-brush labelling was awful and terrible

Turn up to meeting, discover venue not accessible, come home. So it begins. They are easing lockdown, we’re going back to being excluded. I have so had enough of this 2nd class citizen crap.” So tweeted a frustrated and angry Mik Scarlet – PosAbility columnist and accessibility expert – on 24 July 2020, as he decided not to attempt navigating the “unnecessary” steps in a “fashionable” coffee shop.

The same day, Sense – the charity which supports deafblind people and those living with complex disabilities – released a shocking video showing guide-dog user Karolina Pakenaite being abused by fellow Merseyrail passengers for temporarily removing her face mask.

“I can no longer stay silent about this as I keep experiencing attacks and hearing similar experiences from others too,” Karolina says. “It’s taking an effect on my mental health. Please, respect people individually; ask us, listen, discuss. I am always happy to hear ideas for alternative solutions, but harassment, name calling or any type of abuse or aggression will never

be ok.”

Thanks to COVID-19 the last few months have been stressful for most of us, one way or another, but the irony now is that the slow progress out of lockdown is bringing its own problems, especially for many disabled people.

Of course, we each have our own particular and unique challenges and situations to deal with. It’s fair to say, though, that many of us are finding the so-called “new normal” as potentially distressing and anxiety-inducing as the lockdown itself, which may make at least some of us feel it would be easier to stay isolated at home— regardless of the damage to our mental health.

Simple things like officially-approved “exemption cards” could make a difference when it comes to mask-wearing on public transport and in shops – both now mandatory in Scotland and England – but there’s certainly a feeling that more concise and focused guidelines would help everyone.

“There’s a lot of conflicting information for all people, let alone disabled people,

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about the rules,” says social entrepreneur and disability rights adviser Martin Sibley.

The co-founder of online resource Disability Horizons has type two spinal muscular atrophy, so was shielding from the outside world from the start of the lockdown—all while coping with genuine fears around COVID-19 being brought into his home unintentionally by members of his care team.

Admittedly, lockdown did have some advantages. “For a long time now I’ve worked at home,” he says. “So work, day-to-day, in some ways was better; I found not having to go off to London for meetings, and off to conferences and long days out, was better for my health and energy. But there was also the downside: I felt a bit of Zoom-fatigue, I felt a bit tired being on a laptop morning till night, and not having car rides and train journeys to catch up with books and podcasts, and break the day up a bit.”

Not everyone is so lucky, of course. “There are people [whose] job really can’t be done at home, so that’s a bigger worry for those who have been shielding—to either go back to work and risk getting the virus, or stay at home and maybe risk being made redundant and losing their job.”

He worries too that the lockdown has reinforced some stereotypes around disabled people. “I think labelling us as ‘vulnerable’ was a bad choice of wording;

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we understand we’re ‘vulnerable’ in the context of the virus, but just to say that as a broad-brush labelling was awful and terrible.” Working with inclusive marketing agency Purple Goat, Martyn wants to push a simple message: “Disabled people are valuable, not vulnerable.”

For all of us, coming out of lockdown – especially when we know that COVID-19 is “still out there” – will require renewed confidence. “Rebuilding confidence about not contracting the virus, rebuilding confidence of getting back on public transport and going into buildings, and maybe even just a slight anxiety of social interactions, so I think there’s going to be a lot of areas we need to build up confidence—that we are worthy, we are valuable,” says Martyn.

“But equally, you know, I feel there’s been positive changes that have gone on where there is more inclusion of disabled people – we’ve home education, home work, home leisure. Maybe there are positives to come out of this as well.”

After all, how many of us knew what Zoom was in January? Now the world and its mother is having Zoom meetings online.

“One way or another, we will be able to harness COVID-19 to maybe build a more inclusive and accessible world for everyone. And let’s hope we can take it in that direction rather than be left out more than we were before.”

...how many of us knew what Zoom was in January? Now the world and its mother is having Zoom meetings online

WIN A BREAK Q

FOR FOUR AT HILL LODGE Hill Lodge are offering four people the chance to relax in the coastal town of Poole in Dorset.

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ill Lodge is owned and run by a tetraplegic and full-time wheelchair user.

Having experienced the lack of suitably accessible accommodation, Becky Hill and her husband Paul were determined to open up an opportunity that could fulfil a need. Hill Lodge is a tastefully converted annexe offering accessible self-catering accommodation. It is set in an enviable semi-rural location, just 10 minutes from Poole Harbour and within 20 minutes of some of the finest beaches in Europe. It is ideally situated to explore the wonders of Poole, Bournemouth and the surrounding areas of the Purbecks, Jurassic coastline, rural Dorset and the New Forest.

The accommodation consists of a large downstairs bedroom with an en-suite wet room and two further en-suite double bedrooms upstairs. Facilities include a profiling bed, shower chair and toilet-riser (if required). Additional mobility equipment can be sourced on request. The living space is accessed via a Flexistep (steps that convert to a platform lift), and is equipped with an accessible kitchen. Level access takes you outside where you have full use of the garden and patio area around our feature pond. Free wi-fi and dogs welcome.

If you would like to know more contact Becky at becky@endeavouruk.co-uk or call 01202 630075.

To be in with a chance to win this amazing prize simply select the correct answer below.

Where is Hill Lodge situated?

Plymouth Penzance Poole Email your selection and contact details to posabilitycompetitions@gmail.com, visit posabilitymagazine.co.uk to enter online or fill in your details and post this form to the address below:

Hill Lodge Competition PosAbility Magazine Caledonia House Thornliebank Ind Est Glasgow G46 8JT

Name: Address:

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Hill Lodge would like to send you more information about their products. If you would like to receive this please tick the box.

By ticking the box you are consenting to us providing your details to Hill Lodge.

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I would like to receive updates, offers and information from PosAbility Magazine

T&Cs: The prize is a 3-night stay from Friday to Monday for up to four people. The prize must be taken by 31 Dec 2021. Booking for 2021 must be made by 31 Dec 2020. Prize excludes dates in July and August 2021. Subject to availability. Transport costs are the responsibility of the winner. Prize cannot be transferred nor can any cash alternative be offered. Dogs welcome. Only one entry per household. Entrants must be over 18 years. Only open to UK residents. Closing date for entries is 30 Sept 2020.

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VISIT WITH CONFIDENCE

As Euan’s Guide is the disabled access review website designed to make it easier for disabled people to find great places to go, we are determined to ensure this remains the case as lockdown measures ease.

K

nowing what to expect makes planning a trip so much easier. So many places have been making changes so that they can safely reopen. At Euan’s Guide, we want to do all that we can to make sure information about these changes and venues’ disabled access are easy to find. That’s why we’ve introduced a new feature on our website to enable people to quickly find places to visit where information has been shared on venues’ COVID precautions.

To make this feature as useful as possible, we are calling on reviewers to tell us about the places they have visited recently by adding disabled access reviews to our website.

We already hold thousands of reviews for all sorts of places, including shops, restaurants, parks and transport hubs. At the same time. we’re also reaching out to venues to get them to update their listings with information on the changes they have put in place.

When leaving a review we ask you to rate the place’s disabled access between 0 and 5 stars. To help make the review more useful we ask you to talk about the venue’s disabled access, how you got there, what the toilets were like and how you found the staff. Now we also ask you to say whether or not you felt ‘COVID Confident’ visiting the venue. This simply means whether or not you were happy with the measures they had put in place. There is then the opportunity to provide more information on the venue’s preventative measures within your review.

As our co-founder Euan MacDonald says: “Our reviews are written by and for disabled people. Disabled access reviews are a powerful way of quickly finding new places I can visit. They remove the guesswork and make planning a trip simpler and easier. Reviews are particularly needed right now as venues make changes that could negatively impact on their accessibility. Together we can celebrate the places who prioritise their accessibility and encourage others to make changes to improve their access for everyone.”

As Euan mentioned, reviewing on Euan’s Guide not only provides other people with useful information, it is also a great way to provide venues with valuable feedback. We email venues new reviews that they receive, that way they are reading your feedback and can easily find areas where they can improve.

We surveyed hundreds of disabled people to find out what their concerns are around places reopening and what precautions they would like to see put in place. Our

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research showed that people are particularly concerned about other people not keeping a safe distance away and not having access to adequate and clean toilet facilities.

Things that people are particularly looking for, which would be great to reference in your review, are: Accessible routes that can be navigated independently Clear marking to encourage people to social distance Sanitising stations, with hand sanitiser and wipes, that are at an accessible height Another concern that we were hearing from our users that we were keen to address was a lack of understanding that some people are exempt from wearing a face mask. People who are exempt told us that they were worried about being confronted for not wearing a mask. Similarly, research from Disability Rights UK showed that nearly 60% of people who cannot wear a face covering fear being challenged for not wearing one. In response to this, we created ‘Face Mask Exempt’ badges which we have been giving out for free to disabled people who are exempt from wearing a face covering.

People’s reasons for being exempt may not be obvious at first glance. The badge has been designed to make the wearer feel more comfortable visiting places where the majority of people will be wearing a face covering. It can stand out and quickly alert others that there is a reason why the individual is not wearing a mask. We hope that it will prevent unnecessary questioning and harassment that people might otherwise face.

We received requests for 10,000 badges within the first three weeks of offering them – a number far exceeding our initial expectations. We were able to fulfil the orders thanks to generous donations. And we hope that with the support of further donations we will be able to keep producing and distributing more badges for as long as they are required.

To leave a review on Euan’s Guide visit EuansGuide.com/ write-a-review.

Together we can celebrate the places who prioritise their accessibility and encourage others to make changes to improve their access for everyone

To request a ‘Face Mask Exempt’ badge visit EuansGuide. com/badge.

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Hannah’s Hope

Hannah Deakin is a blogger in the disabled community, with a passion to make a difference in the world. Here, she shares why she started blogging and what she gets out of it.

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y name is Hannah Deakin and I am 29 years old. I started my blog, Hannah’s Hope, in January 2018. I have been blogging for about two and a half years now and am still learning about it everyday! I am a disability and lifestyle blogger.

I am passionate about making a difference, changing perceptions and promoting equality.

I have been disabled since an injury at the age of 14, causing Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and many secondary complications and illnesses. I spent most of my teenage years in hospital and I am a powerchair user.

I hope to raise awareness and increase understanding through the non-disabled community, and provide support to other disabled and chronically ill individuals, so they don’t feel alone.

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WHAT DO I BLOG ABOUT? I blog about my experiences, events I have attended, feelings, achievements and share information that may help others. I have written about: The Superhero Tri, AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians), graduating, Winchester and how accessible it is, tips when speaking to wheelchair users and disabled people, how it feels to be a young disabled person, and grief. The list goes on.

WHY DID I START WRITING MY BLOG? Initially, it was suggested to me about writing a blog by a family friend, when I was probably 16 years old and bedbound in hospital. I had been an inpatient for about a year and I thought “what would I write about each day?”

I would end up just writing that I had been in pain every

day. I thought people would get bored. Furthermore, who would read it? It was not until ten years later that I actually started to write my blog.

It was at this point, in January 2018, I realised there is so much more that I could write about. Being able to get out in the world, most definitely also helps a little. I am able to go to places and do things, I am finding out information and want to share it, to make it easier for others. I have also finally written a few interesting stories from my life in hospital over the four years as an inpatient.

The great thing is that people are reading my blog, even though my search engine optimisation (SEO) skills still need practice, after two and a half years I am only just learning about labels/tags and many other things. Many people have also contacted me and commented on how helpful and insightful some of my blog posts have been.

WHY IS IT CALLED HANNAH’S HOPE? I have had quite a tough journey, and from personal experience I believe you need to have hope. If you don’t have hope, what do you have? Hope has kept me going through some very difficult years. I have hoped that the future would be better. I now hope that I will continue to improve and gain more mobility and independence.

We hope the situation with the coronavirus pandemic will improve soon and our families will stay safe.

Hope is a powerful mindset which is why my blog is called ‘Hannah’s Hope’. I hope I am making a difference.

BLOGGING BENEFITS I find it helpful for myself to write things down, process things and get them off my chest. It is therapeutic. It can be a way of expressing things that are difficult to talk about.

I hope that I am making a little difference and having a positive impact on the world. This is a big thing for me, and something that I feel passionate about. It has also connected me with a great group of like-minded individuals. Other disability and chronic illnesses bloggers.

I think together we make a wonderful community. A community that is very supportive of each other.

I have had many opportunities come up as a result of my blog. I have written guest blog posts for Scope and other blogs and websites, I have written articles for magazines, been a guest on a podcast, delivered speeches and have been the subject of a case study.

I believe, my recent TV appearances on Channel 5 and Sky news and the article I wrote for the Sky news website were partly linked to my blog, as others became aware that I am passionate about speaking up and making a difference in the disabled community.

A couple of months ago, during lockdown I started doing a journalism course part time via Zoom. This opportunity opened up to me through Ability Today (a social enterprise scheme that supports disabled people) working in conjunction with the NCTJ (National Council for the Training of Journalists). Hopefully, it will enable me to improve the quality of my writing and blog posts, as well as improving my technical knowledge of SEO.

FOLLOW HANNAH Blog: hannahdeakin.blogspot.com Facebook @hannahshopeuk Twitter @HannahEDeakin Instagram @hannahedeakin

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Kids’

CORNER

PRODUCTS

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e are well into the throes of summer and, while the landscape of the country is looking pretty different to the usual few weeks of adventures and chaos as the kids take a break from school and education, there is still plenty of mischief to be had.

Many families will still be remaining cautious as we ease out of lockdown, so this issue we take a look at some adventures you can embark on as a family without being in heavily populated indoor areas. Summer is all about being outdoors anyway, so look out your sunscreen, and your wellies – it is Britain after all – and start discovering the beautiful countryside on your doorstep. Take the time to teach your kids about nature and play treasure hunts in the forest, or simply get imaginative with games and picnics in your garden.

Whatever you do, make the most of the summer months in a way you all feel comfortable with and that you know is best for your family.

You will find Dan White’s regular column on page 57 where he discusses the impact the pandemic has had on our health service and our disabled children, and more products for your little ones appear on page 58.

As always if you have anything you would like to share with us and other parents please don’t hesitate to get in touch by emailing ros@2apublishing. co.uk.

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Summer Fun

BY ROSALIND TULLOCH

The summer holidays are well and truly upon us, but this year feels very different. Families with disabled children are used to trawling through the internet in search of some great accessible venues and summer holiday entertainment that their kids can enjoy. This year however, many of these places remain closed, and many families are still shielding or self-isolating. It is lovely to see play parks back open, but not all of these have accessible facilities and during the summer holidays these places are so busy that you may not want to take your child there.

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ntertaining the kids may be a little trickier this summer, but there are still lots of fun adventures that you can take them on before they return to school this year.

WILDLIFE TRUSTS

Getting out and discovering nature is not only enjoyable, but an important part of our lives. Nature and wildlife must be protected, particularly now as we find ourselves in the throes of climate change and endangered ecosystems. We need to teach our younger generations to cherish the world we live in and there is no better way than to start with the wildlife and beauty on your own doorstep.

The Wildlife Trusts is a grassroots movement of people from all walks of life who are actively working to make a positive difference to wildlife and future generations. They are dedicated to opening up nature reserves and country walks to people of all abilities and they have a section on their website that highlights and describes the most accessible nature reserves with great access and facilities for wheelchair users.

These areas are real adventures for all the family. Why not try some bird watching with your kids or take a list of items that you need to find in the forests, from leaves and flowers to spotting squirrels or insects. If you find them all then everyone can be treated to an ice cream at the end!

Discover the closest accessible nature reserve to you by visiting wildliftrusts.org.

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BEACHES

You may feel like the white sands and crystal clear water of other countries are currently outwith your reach, you may have even had a holiday cancelled during this pandemic, however we are here to tell you that the UK is home to some stunning beaches – just make sure 500,000 people have not flocked there all on the same day.

Beaches can pose a problem for anyone using a wheelchair or powerchair in terms of access, but sometimes you just want to be by the seaside taking in the view, enjoying an overpriced ice cream (why do they still call them 99s when they cost ÂŁ3?) and feeling the sea air on your face.

Discovering beaches with flat promenades, Changing Places facilities and nearby accessible walks or parks can be just as important when you are taking a trip to the coast.

Depending on where you live in the UK a quick internet search for your closest accessible beach should not take too long. Most local authority websites have dedicated sections highlighting the provisions and access on offer at the local beaches. These can include hiring facilities for allterrain wheelchairs to allow anyone to get onto the sand, level access, ramps, accessible parking, disabled toilet facilities and more.

If you get the weather for a day on the beach in the UK, it is sometimes hard to imagine why we ever dreamed of travelling abroad. Especially when you can get a great fish and chips on the way home.

GARDEN FUN

Still self-isolating or shielding? No need to worry, if you have access to a garden then you can make the most of the sunny days without the worry of being out in public spaces.

Gardens are the perfect space to get imaginative, enjoy the sun, and maybe start a water fight.

Picnics are an immensely popular idea with kids, the chance to sit on a blanket on the grass and eat your lunch outside is confusingly exciting to them and the preparations are just as fun. Mum and dad can even allow themselves to enjoy a gin and tonic in the sunshine as there is no driving to be done.

Water-related games and paddling pools are what make up a British summertime in the garden. It would be wise to invest in a paddling pool, water guns, water balloons, or even a sprinkler that essentially waters your plants while amusing your kids at the same time when they jump through it or race away from it. Small water balloons can start off an epic battle that can fill a whole afternoon, but if you don’t have any you can just fill small plastic cups or tubs with water and line them up for your throwing pleasure. You will be soaked at the end, but at least you are at home with easy access to towels.

You can also set up your own games and races in the garden to suit any ability, why not start your own mini Paralympics? Races, throwing games and things like skittles can be easy to set up and great fun, you can even make some medals to give out at the end.

Whatever you do this summer, just make sure you all have fun together and make some happy memories. It has been a stressful time for families, especially those who have lost the support of services, carers and family support, but there is hopefully a light at the end of this long tunnel that will brighten our days and bring some form of normality back into our lives. Stay safe and enjoy your summer.

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Accessible Holidays

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DAN WHITE

operation in June, but due to the strains on our healthcare system, this was postponed, again and again, the system was overwhelmed (unnamed sources told me as much). This meant her spine was curving more, causing her incredible pain. We could only watch her growing discomfort, her wheelchair now unfit for her posture.

An operation date was only finalised at the time of writing. As an autistic child petrified of operations, the news that only mum could go with her, that she would be in the hospital for 10 days, recovering in intensive care alone and with me not allowed anywhere near her, has broken all our hearts. The exposed wound of minimal health investment has touched us all, disability especially.

COLUMNIST

Follow Dan on Twitter @DeptOfAbility Dan White, creator of the amazing Department of Ability superheroes and dad to Emily, who is 12 years old and has spina bifida, is a regular face in PosAbility, as he shares his experiences of life as a family with a disabled child.

LAST IN LINE

I

t’s fair to say the care community has been the victim of much political duplicity these last few months. I am talking not only of our selfless NHS staff who are taking on the enemy of COVID-19 armed with only bin liners and caffeine, but everyone who works in care; from social care and care home staff, to ourselves as parents.

effect would have a terrible lasting knock-on effect for our disabled children. The once normal routine of our children’s appointments, social care, physiotherapy sessions, and operations were badly affected by the fallout of the NHS struggling unprepared. This all exponentially increased the strain on us and our children.

Healthcare in Britain was not prepared for this pandemic. I know this is not news, but it needs to be said. Social care and the NHS are decimated and both are floundering like stranded fish on land. The march of COVID-19 has torn through the tissue-thin layer of whatever healthcare protection was left for our disabled children and I am rightly furious. Was this avoidable? Yes.

The few remaining good souls left within the care system, once stretched too thin in normal times, were now overwrought and unavailable to most of us in lockdown. My daughter has been isolating since March and to see her mental and physical decline is heartbreaking. Where once there was empathy and investment there is now only silence, families buckling, and the ignorance of the state to the crisis in our homes caused by their indecision. Errant scientific advice and slow political reaction have failed to protect the disabled community.

Hindsight is a wonderful thing I know, but logic is too. If the administration wants an example of their lack of foresight, then read on.

In October 2016 operation Cygnus took place which was an exercise based around a pandemic. Findings showed that the UK was not prepared to cope with the demands of such an event. This should have shocked the government into action, but it did not. This aversion to action meant healthcare was short of what it needed and that meant the trickle-down

It does seem that our children are always disproportionally affected by external events. It’s a Shakespearean tragedy when a government does not believe in our children’s importance in a society that still sadly values production over people. Lessons must be learned from COVID. We cannot return to a care system hanging on by its financial fingernails. Looking after every citizen equally is morally correct. Protecting the population is not just about military solutions, an effective healthcare system is the most important defense we have.

If you are reading this from outside the disabled community, come see the results of years of care underfunding, now exacerbated. See our children last in line, be witness to my child’s decreasing health, then you’ll believe me.

My daughter was due a scoliosis

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Kids’

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HANDY SCOOPERS These handy little scoopers are ideal for little ones to build hand strength and fine motor skills as they scoop up sand, water, beads, and many other materials. Fun to play with, they have easy-grip handles and come in a handy storage bucket.

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5 IN 1 MUSIC STATION Appeal to your little one’s creative side with this clever and entertaining music station. Watch as they explore the sounds each individual part makes, and then sit back and listen to the cacophony of your child’s Mozart-style music as they have great fun being noisy. argos.co.uk

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BILLY BALANCE BIKE Help your child learn balance and coordination while having fun and scooting around on this nifty little number. With a sturdy frame and solid tyres, the safety handlebar grips and soft saddle make this balance bike comfortable and enjoyable for kids. onbuy.com

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Reading

Time

Lockdown has seen the disabled community effectively isolated more than ever before.

Families challenged to adapt to a life without support networks are bingeing on Netflix, Xboxes, and box sets. Social media and Zoom have kept the sanity for many families, while many of us have taken the time to digest literature like never before. Nothing pretentious (unless lying on Twitter), but good, absorbing literature focused on our community.

To that end, I present my essential lockdown disability reads.

BY DAN WHITE

BEING HUEMANN

BY JUDITH HUEMANN This was essential after stumbling across the Netflix documentary, “CripCamp”. Judith’s groundbreaking biography is the honest work of someone who must go down as one of the greatest disability rights activists in history. I am ashamed that up until seeing the movie, I had not heard of Judith’s fight against the discriminatory American political system, especially her rallying call to arms for equality which culminated in a 10-day sit-in in the offices of the San Francisco office of the US Department of Health, Education and Welfare in 1977. This incredible stance which involved a glorious mix of disabilities and ages helped change the landscape for disability rights across the United States.

The book is empowering and the passion for the disability community literally drips from the pages. Judith comes across as gregarious, generous, and shares the credit around. The book is a must for anyone interested in disability history. It’s a rallying call for our children’s generation because it inspires without being inspirational.

Beautiful.

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FIRST IN THE WORLD SOMEWHERE

BY PENNY PEPPER I’ve known Penny for many years and if you meet her you will be instantly in love. She is passionate and extraordinary. Penny’s memoir sticks out from other disability life stories in that it is equally frank, funny, and fiercely political. This book is what all life stories should contain, sex, music, parties, and punk! Penny’s writing is brisk and punchy, her life, her words, break many taboos, and why not? Disability doesn’t mean sainthood. Penny has much to say and is brutally honest about it. From the emotional early days which seeded her activism, Penny has provoked and challenged the world around her, challenged it to accept that wheelchair or not, everyone is deserving of a shot and everyone has the right to be expressive. She doesn’t shy away from the occasional terrible moments, and that is imperative as we see her progression from childhood to poet, punk, and the author she is now.

Awesome book, witty, different, and fearless.

THE TAYLOR TURBOCHASER

BY DAVID BADDIEL Ok, you got me, I do pick up and read my daughter’s books when she has finished them. Emily is, like me, a total bookworm, and her howls of laughter whilst reading this book pinged my literary radar. I could have reviewed David Walliams “Slime” but this book, in both our opinions hits the mark better. To start with, Mr. Baddiel has probably unwittingly based his main character, Amy, a wheelchair user, on every disabled child in the UK. By that, I mean fearless, passionate, and a want to do and experience everything every other child does. As a children’s book about disability, it doesn’t preach (thank god) and I could really empathise with the characters. The book is funny, without falling into the trap of most books with disabled characters, the one that makes the character such an inspiration, having to overcome insurmountable odds. Writing about disabled characters to a mainstream audience, especially adults, has always been an exercise most publishers shy away from, for fear of slow sales, but children have a natural non-bias to disability, and it’s here that David proves that disability sells. Of course, there has to be a bit of an inclusion message, but I think the subtlety of that does not take away from the humour and the relationships. Oh, and it has a rocking turbo wheelchair.

Where have I seen that before? (Department of Ability?)

Nope, can’t think.

TENDER

BY PENNY WINCER Well, if a book ever summed up my life and collective lives across the country, this is it, my favourite read of lockdown.

Tender is essentially a story of care and carers. With key workers as the lauded champions of COVID, Penny’s timely released book acts as a tap on the shoulder of society to remind it that carers exist in many forms and many places.

Penny has been a carer twice in her lifetime, once to her mother and now to her son. Moving through the reality of what a parent carer does, Penny doesn’t necessarily tell us anything new but creates such a communal empathy that you nod, sigh, and cheer in equal measure. Penny is absolutely and utterly correct in her belief that we, as carers should forget comparisons, ignore pressures, that we are not failing but we are a community that supports each other with guidance and spirit.

With stories from families, perspectives, and support mechanisms on our lives from disabled writers and others, this beautiful book is a cathartic necessity, once read never forgotten. This is the book any one of us could have written, but not as beautifully and powerfully as Penny.

Some other excellent works that need mentioning are “Crippled” by Frances Ryan and “The War on Disabled People” by Ellen Clifford. Both books are written with fiery passion and tell, in different voices, how disabled people have becorne the brunt of social and stereotypical ignorance from the system. Both works are, as a writer and campaigner myself, necessarily brutal, honest, shocking, and truthful. Both Ellen and Frances expose the cruel politics and real-life stories behind so much oppression and both demand nothing less than utter change. Both books will make you equally angry and passionate, but both need reading and sharing both inside and outside our glorious community if a change is to come.

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CLASSIFIED

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WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAY VILLA Luz do Sol wheelchair accessible holiday villa enjoys panoramic sea views over the Algarve coast, a peaceful location is ideally suited for wheelchair users and their families. Sleeps 7 Algarve, Portugal.

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THANK YOU to all the NHS staff, key workers, carers and everyone who has gone above and beyond to keep our communities safe through this global pandemic.

You are all heroes.

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Dream JOB GET THAT

WORDS BY JANE HATTON

ARE YOU A PREMIUM CANDIDATE?

I

have long believed that most disabled people make premium candidates. As people, we of course have the same diverse range of skills, qualities and talents as everyone else. And in addition to those, we will have developed other skills through living in a society not designed for us.

One of these is that, for most of us, things that other people might take for granted require a bit more thought and planning. For example, a trip to meet someone in town might need to be planned like a military exercise, whereas most people just hop onto a bus or into a car and go. As a disabled person, we might have to consider the journey. If we drive, what’s the quickest route? Will there be accessible parking bays? If so, how far are these from the venue we are meeting at? Will the route between the car park and venue be accessible, whether flat for wheelchair use, or few steps for people with energy issues? Or, if using public transport, will the bus, train or tube be accessible? What about the stations or stops at either end? Do I need to contact someone beforehand to ensure a ramp will be available?

Having planned the journey, there may be other considerations. How accessible is the venue? Are there accessible toilets? Will the menu have the foods I need? Will it be too busy, loud or confusing? Will the person I’m meeting understand why I might need or want different things, or should I discuss it with them beforehand?

This is everyday life for many disabled people, and it means we develop all sorts of skills, such as project management, research, anticipation, organisation, planning ahead.

Skills which are useful in most roles with most employers.

Another skill we often develop is creative problem-solving. Living in a largely inaccessible world means we can’t always do things the same way as others. Maybe we use assistive technology to help us. I find it difficult to sit for long periods of time, so I’ve found creative ways to use a computer lying down, or sitting awkwardly on a settee.

Some of us work from home, rather than in an office. People who struggle with short term memory write, type or record lots of lists, to ensure nothing gets forgotten.

All of these skills mean that we tend to be more flexible, agile and adaptable than most non-disabled people. These have always been important skills in the workplace, and never more so than right now.

The world of work is undoubtedly evolving and changing as a result of the pandemic.

How it will change is still uncertain, but one thing we can be sure of is that flexibility, creativity and finding different ways of doing things will become increasingly important.

As disabled people, we have been doing this forever – we are masters in the art of finding new, different and effective ways of achieving results. When people were telling us that most work couldn’t possibly be done from home, we were already doing it. When we were being told that there is only one way of completing a particular task, we had already found a number of different ways of approaching it successfully.

So, when disabled people are looking for work in the new post-COVID world, don’t forget that, even more than before, we are premium candidates with much of value to offer.

For further tips, and jobs from inclusive employers who are looking to attract more disabled candidates, have a look on the Evenbreak website: evenbreak.co.uk.

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MAGAZINE TRAVEL REVIEWS

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DAYS OUT

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I WOULD LIKE TO SUBSCRIBE TO POSABILITY MAGAZINE: MAGAZINE SAFE TRAVEL s venues are putting The safety measure back guests in place to welcome

SUM MER FUN nature trails to Garden picnics and this summer keep the kids amused

GARDENING lockdown The unsung hero of for many has been a lifeline

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