PosAbility – February / March 2020

FEB/MAR

2020

MAGAZINE TRAVEL

WDSD 2020

EASTER

Tracking down Dracula in Transylvania

We celebrate World Down’s Syndrome Day

Egg hunts, family days out and sports

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Official fuel consumption WLTP for the ŠKODA KAROQ range in mpg (litres/100km): Combined 50.4 (5.6) to 32.1 (8.8). NEDC equivalent CO2 combined emissions for the ŠKODA KAROQ range are 118 to 156 g/km.

Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other vehicles 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. There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures (known as WLTP). The CO2 figures shown however, are based on a calculation designed to be equivalent to the outgoing (NEDC) test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. For more information, please see www.skoda.co.uk/owners/wltp-info or consult your retailer. Data correct at January 2020. Figures quoted are for a range of configurations (including non-UK) and are subject to change due to ongoing approvals/changes. Please contact your retailer for further information.

Welcome FEB/MAR 20

the people behind these powerful campaigns on page 13. Don’t forget to wear lots of odd socks on 21 March and tweet us some pictures at @PosAbilityMag!

Ros EDITOR

We made it to February everyone!

I think we all deserve a pat on the back for making it through the 1,784 days that somehow appear to exist in January.

With February comes longer days, hopefully more sunshine and snowdrops peeking through the undergrowth giving the first indication that there is indeed life beyond winter.

A perfect time to start preparing your garden for spring! Don’t worry if you are a total beginner that doesn’t have the best track record of keeping a houseplant alive; take a look at page 28 for advice on how to get started.

World Down’s Syndrome Day takes place on 21 March each year and this year we are celebrating the voices fighting against the roll out of the non-invasive pre-natal testing (NIPT) technique. You can read more about Like us on Facebook Search for ‘PosAbility Magazine’

We have also teamed up with Euan’s Guide for the next few issues to keep you updated on the best and most accessible places to visit. If it is unusual holidays and trips to the unknown you are looking for, look no further than adventure-seeker Anthony Tipling-Bower’s trip to Romania where he goes in search of the infamous Count Dracula!

If you are one of the lucky ones who will be making your way to Japan this summer for the Paralympic Games in Tokyo, we have got you covered – and we are not jealous at all, not even a little bit. Staff writer Katie Campbell self-confessed lover of Japan and all things Japanese – was set the slightly cruel task of putting together her wish list of sights to see and things to do in Japan. It is clear that all her passion and many of her tears were poured into this article, you can find it on page 54. Please don’t send her a postcard, she is not emotionally prepared for that.

Editor: Rosalind Tulloch Staff Writers: Katie Campbell, Colette Cooper Designer: Fionnlagh Ballantine Sales: Val Speers

CONTRIBUTORS

Sam Renke, Mik Scarlet, Dan White, Jane Hatton, Anthony Tipling-Bower, Stephanie Quintrell, Thomas Stamp, Shona Louise

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FEB/MAR

MAGAZINE

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2020

TRAVEL

WDSD 2020

EASTER

Tracking down Dracula in Transylvania

We celebrate World Down’s Syndrome Day

Egg hunts, family days out and sports

Follow us on Instagram @ posabilitymagazine

To find out more about subscribing to PosAbility Magazine turn to p98

1 – Cover.indd 1

31/01/2020 14:03:13

Image: Don’t Screen Us Out Campaign

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13 WORLD DOWN’S SYNDROME DAY We celebrate the voices fighting for the rights of people living with Down’s syndrome

17 A SPOONFUL OF SPOON THEORY What is spoon theory and why is it important for people who live with chronic illness?

19 FORGING FRIENDSHIPS Columnist Sam Renke explains the importance of forming true friendships

20 THE PREPPERS CLUB Sunday nights aren’t just for relaxing - it’s time to get into meal prep

22 ACCESS ROMANCE Romantic getaways, meals, and fun for the best Valentine’s Day ever

27 COMPETITION TIME Win a week at Brickhouse Farm Holiday Cottages

28 IN FULL BLOOM Spring is coming, and it’s time for the green-fingered among us to shine

30 SELF-CARING Everything you need to top up your mental and emotional health

33 WE ARE DISABLED, LET US ROAR! Columnist Mik Scarlet explains why it’s so important to elevate disabled voices

35 HOT STUFF The latest must-have products

39 UNITING GENERATIONS How intergenerational living can help people, young and old

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43 CINEMA FOR ALL

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News, stories and updates

OLOG IS OUR L

07 FYI

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FEB/MAR 2020 | ISSUE 53

A Glasgow cinema is pioneering film discussion for disabled people

46 LIFE HACK APPS Technology is our life, so why not make our lives easier through apps?

49 ROAMING ROMANIA Anthony Tipling-Bower ventures to Dracula’s homeland

52 EUAN’S GUIDE We welcome Euan’s Guide as a new regular contributor to PosAbility

54 ACCESSING JAPAN Going to Tokyo 2020? Make it the trip of a lifetime with our guide

61 KIDS’ CORNER Short on ideas for the Easter holidays? We’ve got loads of fun things you could do, as well as regular columns from Dan White, and Future Voices

79 INCLUSIVE SPORT FOR 2020 The Paralympics are fast approaching, so what better time is there to get into parasport?

83 #NOBEDTIMES The Stay Up Late campaign is keeping music fans out way past bedtime

87 A GUIDE TO ACCESSIBLE THEATRE Theatre blogger Shona Louise demystifies accessible theatre

91 THE MEANING OF LIFE We remember comedy juggernaut and Monty Python legend Terry Jones, who passed away in January

92 THE ELECTRIC ERA Electric cars are the future, and there are loads of accessible options

95 DREAM JOB Jane Hatton explains how to create a winning CV

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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. † T here is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO 2 figures. The CO 2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration.

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 January and 31st March 2020. For more information, please see www.ford.co.uk/motability

FOR YOUR INFORMATION News and stories from around the world

SENSE AND UKACTIVE NEED PARENTS FEEDBACK

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ational disability charity Sense and the ukactive Research Institute have confirmed a three-year research project which seeks to better understand the needs of families and parents of disabled children, and how they access sport and activity opportunities.

Parents of disabled children are being asked to provide feedback on the challenges they experience when it comes to accessing sport and physical activity by completing an online survey

by Sunday 15 March. You can access the survey at surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ Sensesurvey.

The project will look at the obstacles and motivations of families, as well as the challenges that families face when being active together, the access of provision, the impact on non-disabled siblings, and if there are differences between education provision and community.

Following initial research, Sense will establish a national activity programme for disabled children and evaluate its impact on a child and their wider family.

A 2015 Sense public inquiry into the provision of play opportunities for children with complex disabilities discovered that 92% of parents felt their child did not have the same opportunities to play as their nondisabled peers, while 81% of parents reported difficulties in accessing local play opportunities.

Head of sport and physical activity at Sense, Alissa Ayling, said: “We’re delighted to be collaborating with ukactive and look forward to working together to learn more about the challenges faced by the families of children with complex disabilities.”

Find out more about the project at ukactive.com.

SCHOOLBOY DESIGNS AUTISM WRISTBAND

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schoolboy has designed a wristband to help students with autism subtly alert their teachers when they feel that they need a break from class. The project was on display at the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition in Dublin last month.

Hugh Murtagh from Coláiste Mhuire, Co Westmeath, designed a wristband for autistic students and those who can become overwhelmed with their surroundings.

The wristband has a button on it which can be pressed to alert the teacher, and when the student is feeling overwhelmed, they can subtly let their teacher know how they’re feeling.

Hugh told the Irish Journal: “I wanted to do this because I have autism myself and I know how hard it is to be overwhelmed in a classroom and trying to focus.

“I’m doing it for people with autism, generally students because at that age, going through life and that stuff, it can become very stressful.”

According to Hugh, the teacher will think of a reason to ask the student to leave the room after they’ve received the alert.

Hugh hopes the device will also help to enhance the teacher’s knowledge and awareness of autism.

To see more on the exhibition visit btyoungscientist.com.

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SADIQ KHAN PLEDGES FREE TRAVEL FOR CARERS

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ondon Mayor Sadiq Khan has launched a re-election bid assuring free travel for those accompanying a disabled person on city transport.

The bid has been launched with the promise of a companion pass on the city’s transport network. The pass would allow anyone travelling with a disabled person to travel for free on all public transport services, including the Overground, Underground and on bus services.

in our city can access our fantastic transport network, and that travel in the capital is inclusive and affordable.

“The companion pass is intended to make a big difference to disabled Londoners. It will help them to move around our city more easily and take advantage of all the fantastic opportunities London has to offer.”

With the introduction of Khan’s new pass, anyone with a disabled persons’ or older persons’ freedom pass who needs a companion to travel with is expected to be able to apply. Following a successful application, the pass would be given to the person who requires assistance when travelling to allow their family, friends or carers to use it.

This news came at the same time as the UK’s annual fares hike, which saw transport costs rise by 2.7%.

Khan told the Guardian: “My job is to stand up for all Londoners. I want to ensure everyone

£5K RAISED FOR GRIMSBY TOWN DISABLED SUPPORTERS CLUB

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n amazing £5,000 has been raised for disabled fans of Grimsby Town Football Club, which will go towards funding the group’s coach travel to away games.

Photo: Michael White/Grimsby Town FC

The club’s original target was £3,000, which was reached within a few days. They then moved their target up to £6,000.

John Tondeur, from BBC Radio Humberside and club press officer Dale Ladson handed over a cheque for £5,000 to the supporter’s club ahead of the fixture with Exeter City. Dale was also the one to start the fundraising campaign.

The club has thanked everyone who has pledged their support.

Supporters can donate through the Crowdfunder page justgiving.com. Or you can contribute to the cause on a monthly basis, by visiting marinerstrust.co.uk.

£1,000 DONATION LETS 16-YEAR-OLD SAIL

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fter 16-year-old Madison Haynes received a crucial £1,000 donation from Barratt and David Wilson Homes, she can now follow her dreams of sailing.

Madi’s mother, Sally told the Maldon Standard: “The support of the sailing club and local community, including David Wilson Homes has been amazing.

The money that was donated for Madison, who has quadriplegic cerebral palsy, is to buy specialist equipment to ensure her sailing experience is as accessible and comfortable as possible.

“Madi loves being on the water, and now with the imminent installation of the hoist it will make it so much more comfortable for not only Madi but other disabled sailors to access their boats and the water.”

Following successful fundraising events held by Madi’s family and friends, they raised enough money to buy a specially adapted boat designed for disabled people, the RS Venture Connect. However, they still needed to purchase a hoist to help Madi access the boat in safety and comfort.

After the family met with the managing director of Barratt and David Wilson Homes, Mark Cotes, he told Maldon Standard: “We’re thrilled to have been able to support Madi’s family in their fundraising efforts through our Community Fund scheme.”

FATHER CREATES CUSTOM GAMES CONTROLLER FOR 9-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER

Photo: Rory Steel/Twitter

F

Elizabeth Barnes @e_j_barnes In so many ways, #disability is a skill. And it's a skill you have to learn - piece by piece, often on your own. It gets better because YOU GET BETTER AT IT. Zec's Reviews, Blogs & Life @SatonmyButt Mum is coming round today.

I wonder what the newspaper/ magazine clipping that she pulls out of her handbag will say about helping my Chronic Pain this time?

#disability #spoonie

Bethany Asher @Bethany40644990 Been speaking to mum about the holocaust. The first people had disabilities and some like me with Downs syndrome. I had no idea.

They did not deserve to die #HolocaustRemembranceDay

Rory built the Nintendo Switch controller for nine-year-old Ava, who has hereditary spastic paraplegia.

Her five-year old brother, Corben was also involved and has the same condition. A video posted to Twitter of Ava using the controller has reached more than 800,000 views.

Bryce Johnson, an inventor of the Xbox controller and founder

TWEETS

Maybe this time it will be Vinegar, Salt & Squirrel Sh*t?

ather Rory Steel wanted his disabled nine-year-old daughter to play video games just like her friends, so he hand-built her a custom games controller, which she has given a “big thumbs up”.

Rory, who is a teacher and head of the Digital Jersey Academy, reportedly spent a weekend building the controller using two joysticks and flashing buttons which are connected to a Microsoft Xbox adaptive controller.

LATEST

of Microsoft’s Inclusive Tech Lab, reposted some of Rory’s tweets and gave him some suggestions regarding the device.

Rory stated that he had some more ideas to improve the controller and he was going to post instructions online for people who want to try to build their own device.

Sam Renke @samrenke So brushing my teeth for early bed and singing to myself ‘this is the way we brush our teeth, brush our teeth, brush our teeth... someone help me!!!!!!!

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YOUNG SPORTING AMBASSADOR ANNOUNCED

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thlete Thomas Stamp has been announced as a Young Sporting Ambassador for Cerebral Palsy Sport.

Thomas is a T35 athlete, a member of South Gloucestershire Athletics Club, and is on the British Athletics parallel success pathway. He is also a regular contributor and medallist at Cerebral Palsy Sport Athletics events and was selected to take part in the BBC Children in Need Rickshaw Challenge 2019.

Thomas has also been supported

by Cerebral Palsy Sport and has excelled in his sporting career.

Through his involvement with Cerebral Palsy Sport, Thomas competed in the CISPRA 2018 World Games where he won silver medals in 100m and 200m events,

NAIDEX 2020

B

ack for its 46th year, Naidex promises to offer visitors to this year’s show an unmissable event.

Boasting an incredible line up of speakers, from our very own employment advice columnist Jane Hatton of Evenbreak to Martyn Sibley co-founder and CEO of

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to which he said was life-changing.

The Rickshaw Challenge alone raised £8.5 million towards the £47,886,382 total of the 2019 Appeal.

Thomas was honoured to be asked to be a Young Sporting Ambassador for the charity. He said: “I accepted with great honour the invitation to become a Young Sporting Ambassador for Cerebral Palsy Sport and am looking forward to inspiring generations of children and adults of now and generations to come.”

Thomas has also written for our Future Voices column this issue, which you can read on page 75. cpsport.org.uk

SPRINTING ON ICE

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ouble Paralympic Champion Libby Clegg has made history by becoming the first visually impaired contestant to take part in ITV’s Dancing on Ice. Not content with being a winner on the track, she has now set her sights on cleaning up on the ice. All this only nine months after having her first baby, Edward, via emergency c-section. Is there nothing she can’t do?

The show sees celebrities train with professionals to perform a routine each week in front of a panel of skating greats, including Jane Torvill and Christopher Dean, and Libby excelled from the outset.

She wowed the judges with her very first performance where she achieved the highest score of the series and she continues to show off her strong, steady, athletic prowess on the ice.

Disability Horizons. Disability and theatre blogger Shona Louise (who is also featured in this issue on page 87) is hosting a panel session on blogging, and James Brown of SEN Legal Ltd will be talking you through the maze of education for children with SEND. In addition to this, you will find a huge exhibition of organisations showcasing products, independent living aids and services, giving you the opportunity to speak to the experts. You will also find a mobility test track to allow you to test out scooters and powerchairs, a live sports arena where you can test out sports and activities and a wellness area to allow visitors to relax and explore the latest in wellness solutions.

You can also come and visit the PosAbility team on stand N390 on 17-18 March at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information visit naidex.co.uk.

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You can watch Libby’s progress on Dancing on Ice on ITV at 6pm on Sunday evenings.

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Fuel economy and CO₂ results for the Mitsubishi Range (excluding Outlander PHEV). Mpg (l/100km) (combined): 32.5 – 37.7 (8.7 – 7.5). CO₂ emissions: 169 - 154 g/km*.

Fuel economy and CO₂ results for the Outlander PHEV. Mpg (l/100km) (weighted combined): 139.7 (2.0). Electric energy consumption (weighted combined): 3.68 miles/ kWh. CO₂ emissions (weighted): 40 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. Models shown are the Outlander Design automatic, ASX Dynamic petrol manual, Eclipse Cross Verve petrol manual and Outlander PHEV Design. Terms and Conditions apply. Please ask the dealer for full details. Rentals valid for applications placed between 1st January and 31st March 2020. 1. Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Android is a trademark of Google LLC, registered in the U.S. and other countries. 2. Please note that Mitsubishi cannot guarantee compatibility with all mobile phones and Bluetooth devices with the handsfree system fitted to this vehicle. Please check with the mobile phone manufacturer for further information on compatibility. Fuel consumption, CO₂ and electric range figures shown are for comparability purposes. Outlander PHEV fuel consumption and CO₂ figures shown were obtained using a combination of battery power and fuel. The Outlander PHEV is a plug-in hybrid vehicle requiring mains electricity for charging. Only compare fuel consumption, CO₂ and electric range 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, accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. *There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO₂ figures. The CO₂ figures shown however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration.

WDSD

2020

BY ROSALIND TULLOCH

This year for World Down’s Syndrome Day we are celebrating the diverse landscape of the Down’s syndrome community and the voices that are fighting for the rights of people living with Down’s syndrome.

T

his year’s World Down’s Syndrome Day (WDSD) on 21 March has the theme “We Decide”. Every individual who has Down’s syndrome should have the right to be part of the decisionmaking process on issues that affect their lives directly. This is too often not the case in a world where negative attitudes, discrimination and exclusion result in people with Down’s syndrome being left out of the conversation on issues that are important to them.

voice heard. Make a video to share your message with the world, or host an event to educate people in your local area about why your voice matters.

This World Down’s Syndrome Day 2020 we are encouraging you to support this movement. If you have Down’s syndrome tell the world “we decide” and have your

Follow PosAbility Magazine on any of our social media channels to be treated to some pictures of our stinky feet in #LotsOfSocks!

Another fun thing to do on WDSD is to wear #LotsOfSocks and share your pictures on social media. Make sure you use the following hashtags if you are posting anything for WDSD: #WeDecide #WorldDownSyndromeDay #WDSD2020

#WeDecide #WorldDownSyndromeDay #WDSD2020 #LotsOfSocks!

Images: Don’t Screeun Us Out campaign

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SALLY PHILLIPS TACKLING NIPT Last year, Sally Phillips, sitcom actor and mum to Olly, who has Down’s syndrome, was invited to talk at the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) World Congress 2019.

Sally is a prominent voice in the Down’s syndrome community and in 2016, she fronted the BBC documentary A World Without Down’s Syndrome? This documentary saw Sally and her son Olly highlight the misconceptions of life with Down’s syndrome and tackle the issue of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and the effect it would have on our society.

NIPT is a new form of prenatal screening that has been introduced as an evaluative roll out in some hospitals in the UK. It is non-invasive and has been touted as being 99% accurate in detecting Down’s syndrome in an unborn baby. However, Sally reports that these statistics are misleading and inaccurate for many cases. Statistics have now shown that there has been a 30% drop in the birth rate of babies with Down’s syndrome in hospitals that are using NIPT. Sally’s talk at the RCOG World Congress in June last year was entitled “Ethics

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and Unforeseen Consequences of NIPT”.

With the weight of the community on her shoulders, she used her position to fight for the rights and welfare of the Down’s syndrome community and to call out the public health bodies that have conveniently ignored the ethics issues presented by this new form of screening.

Talking to this group of healthcare professionals, Sally explained in no uncertain terms why NIPT is detrimental to the Down’s syndrome community: “A reduced birth rate has a knock-on impact on the living. A smaller community doesn’t just mean our children have fewer friends. It brings with it a reduction in investment in research to improve quality of life for those with Down’s syndrome, a reduced incentive to provide appropriate schooling, reduced access to work and work opportunities which in turn means less independence and more isolation for people with Down’s syndrome. No work means less money, poverty, dependence, poorer health outcomes, and greater separation from the rest of us. People fear the unknown. People with Down’s syndrome not being known, in turn means more terminations.”

She also highlighted the reality of NIPT and the fact that the driving force behind this business is financial. It is reported that the global NIPT industry is expected to be worth over $6 billion by 2025. They are not in the business of care, their bottom line is all that matters, no matter the cost to people’s lives.

IBC WARNING

They are also calling on medical reform to better support families who are expecting a baby who has been diagnosed with Down’s syndrome. Currently there is a lack of information, support and a lack of training for healthcare professionals on how to talk to expectant parents and how to support them through pregnancy, birth and beyond.

A report from the International Bioethics Committee of the United Nations Educational, Social and Cultural Organisation has issued a grave warning around the roll-out of NIPT in national screening programmes. It acknowledges that these tests mark a technical advance in medicine but warn of the ethical dilemmas these pose.

The report states: “Many fear that the widespread use of NIPT as general screening may induce ‘eugenic’ use, even when the state is not involved. The adding up of a lot of individual choices to the ‘acceptability’ of aborting certain kinds of embryos or foetuses brings forward a societal phenomenon, which resembles a kind of eugenics in the search for a ‘perfect child’. It is therefore important to develop a framework that on the one hand acknowledges the right of an individual to make autonomous choices, and on the other hand ensures what is enshrined in articles 6 and 2 of the Universal Declaration on the Human Genome and Human Rights: that no one shall be subjected to discrimination based on genetic characteristics and that individuals should be respected in their uniqueness and diversity.”

DON’T SCREEN US OUT The Don’t Screen Us Out campaign began in 2016 as a direct result of the government announcing the roll out of NIPT. Started by a group of Down’s syndrome advocates they have been tirelessly fighting to halt the implementation of the NIPT technique called cell free DNA (cfDNA), knowing it would result in a reduction of babies born with Down’s syndrome, and the effect that would have on the Down’s syndrome community.

For the last four years, this powerful group have used their platform to inform and educate people on the lasting damage that a roll out of NIPT could cause to the Down’s syndrome population. They have encouraged people to contact their MPs, to create petitions, to march, and campaign to stop the introduction of NIPT.

Find out more about the work Don’t Screen Us Out are doing at dontscreenusout.org.

WOULDN’T CHANGE A THING An organisation that are working to change outdated perceptions of Down’s syndrome.

It all started in 2018 with one little music video.

For the last four years this powerful group have used their platform to inform and educate people on the lasting damage that a roll out of NIPT could cause to the Down’s syndrome population

The first music video they made saw a group of 50 mums with 50 children living with Down’s syndrome using Makaton signing to sing along to Christina Perri’s A Thousand Years. Their aim was to show the world how ordinary and fun life really is when you have a child with Down’s syndrome.

The beautiful and moving video went viral and sparked an amazing, positive reaction from everyone who viewed it. To date it has had over 450 million views worldwide.

The group were invited onto ITV show This Morning, where the mums spoke about their experiences and why they made the video. One mum commented: “We wouldn’t change a thing about our children, but we would change the world around them.”

The group have gone on to make more viral music videos to continue to spread a positive message to the mainstream audience. They have developed their website to include parent stories designed to help new parents and they have been engaging in talks and presentations to various organisations to educate people on the realities of life with a child who has Down’s syndrome. wouldntchangeathing.org

World Down Syndrome Day

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ASSURANCE FOR WHEREVER LIFE TAKES YOU

OUR MULTI-AWARD-WINNING COMPACT SUV NOW ON MOTABILIT Y Experience a car that’s designed to put you first, from the inside out. With our Motability Scheme offers, the multi-award-winning XC40 could be yours for less. Enjoy the comprehensive range of features on our compact SUV, which simplify your journey from start to finish.

Intuitive 9-inch Touch Screen | Volvo On Call Optional Park Assist Pilot | Optional programmable tailgate opening height Euro NCAP five-star safety rating | 479 litres of load space VISIT VOLVOCARS.CO.UK/MOTABILITY

Fuel consumption and CO2* figures for the Volvo XC40 range, in MPG (l/100km): WLTP Combined 31.0 – 141.1 (9.1 – 2.0). NEDC CO2 emissions 168 – 41g/km. Twin Engine WLTP electric energy consumption 3.7 – 4.0 miles/kWh. Twin Engine WLTP all electric range 26.1 – 28.0 miles. 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. *There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown, however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration.

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 mile allowance over 3 years; excess mileage charges may apply. Available 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.

A SPOONFUL OF SPOON THEORY

BY KATIE CAMPBELL What is a spoonie, and how does it relate to the lived experience of chronic illness?

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ow do you explain your chronic illness to someone who has no concept of how being chronically ill works? When people have no real understanding of how much of your energy reserves are used to do very basic activities that other people – sometimes even other disabled people – don’t understand may obliterate your reserves?

How do you explain it to doctors, nurses, GPs, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals who have read about people like you in a textbook, but have never lived a day in your shoes?

Many chronically ill people refer to themselves as spoonies. They get spoon tattoos, spoon necklaces, and measure everything in cutlery. While it might seem strange to the layperson, it’s a vitally important imperial measurement of chronic illness.

The concept of spoon theory was put forward by Christine Miserandino, who first wrote an essay about it on her blog, But You Don’t Look Sick, in 2003. Christine, who lives with the autoimmune condition lupus, was asked by her best friend to describe what living with the condition was like. In front of her on the table was a pot of spoons; she used them to represent the well of energy that she had to draw from during the day. She explained that a ‘normal’ person would have more spoons to draw from, whereas with her chronic illness, she drew from a limited pool of energy.

Christine explained that each activity she did during the day – getting dressed, making a meal, going to work – required spoons, or energy. She could become in debt by going over her daily allowance,

but this would have a knock-on effect which could last for some time. This resulted in her having to ration and think carefully about the spoons she was using during the day, to ensure she was getting what she needed out of her limited energy.

Christine explained it to her friend with 12 spoons; a traditionally healthy person may have 17 or 20 spoons to utilise throughout the day, whereas a person living with severe chronic fatigue syndrome may only have four spoons that they can use.

For some people who live with chronic illness, the act of calling themselves a spoonie is one that allows them to reclaim control over their chronic illness; it gives them a united group to which they feel they belong. It also gives them a vitally important visual tool that they can utilise in explaining to anyone who needs to know just how their chronic illness affects them.

In that respect, it’s also a theory that is used by people who live with a mental illness, chronic pain, or other long-term health conditions.

Spoon theory helps chronically ill people to break down the negative stereotype that they are simply being lazy, when in fact, symptoms relating to their conditions, like post-exertional malaise, are preventing them from being able to undertake certain everyday activities, like cooking or bathing.

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My girlfriends knew how to carry me and fold my chair into their cars, they truly understood my needs.

Unfortunately, relying on friends for your independence can really come back and bite you on the bottom.

SAM RENKE

Over the years I’d find myself keeping my mouth shut if one of my friends annoyed me for fear of losing my independence. We couldn’t fall out because next week we had a concert, and unlike my peers I couldn’t go on my own.

COLUMNIST

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

I felt at the mercy of my friends without them even knowing it and I would harbour resentment.

I started to formulate new friendships purely on what the other could do for me in a way of enabling me to see the world instead of just enjoying one another’s company and friendship.

FORGING FRIENDSHIPS

M

y late father once told me that you can count your true friends on one hand.

I never really understood how that could be until very recently. My 34th birthday last month sparked a time of reflection, and as I gazed at my friends around the dinner table, all there to celebrate my birthday, I thought about how and why they had come into my life.

We hung out a lot outside of college too. Most of the girls drove and this new circle of friends allowed me to have something I had lacked up until now: my independence.

We went everywhere, no longer bound by my mother’s schedule. Trips to the cinema, girls’ weekends to Edinburgh, even holidays abroad.

We unfortunately live in such a disabling world that we can feel left behind and left out of society and the only way to be brought back in is through the help of others, but maintaining your independence through others shouldn’t come with a catch. We should never feel at the mercy of others and we should never embark on a friendship for selfish means. If someone loves you and wants you in their life, disabilities and all, they will not trap you in a corner and you should be able to be honest and open with them.

I spent most of my high school years craving my peers’ attention, wanting to be part of the cool gang, sometimes to the detriment of my grades.

I often felt rather excluded in high school, being the only disabled girl.

Not that I was by any means a ‘billy no-mates’, but I rarely got invited to sleepovers or other social events.

Eventually, I got what I had been wishing for when I attended college. I had a wonderful group of girls. We’d talk on the phone, spend every second gossiping about boys, talking about clothes and sit together at lunch.

“... this new circle of friends allowed me to have something I had lacked up until now: my independence”

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Preppers The

BY KATIE CAMPBELL

CLUB

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here’s nothing worse than heading to work having forgotten your lunch, only to realise there’s exactly two things you can get from your local supermarket that fit your dietary needs, and one of them is just eating the cutlery that comes with a plain salad. Meal prep is a phase we all go through sooner or later; it’s a low-cost, high-nutrition way of ensuring you’re getting a good meal while you’re out at work, or just giving you the chance to prepare meals ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time doing stuff you actually enjoy. Here’s the PosAbility Magazine low-down on how to get into meal prep and enjoy doing it.

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BAG IT AND TAG IT

If you’re the kind of cool and fun individual who seems to just collect Tupperware like it’s going out of fashion (no judgement here, you’re among friends), you’ll take to meal prep like a duck to water. The best way to start out in meal prep is to get yourself some really good containers.

At the absolute top of the pantheon are the bento boxstyle lunchboxes which add stories as they increase in value, until you’re paying £60 for something that has so many levels it looks like a high-rise flat for mice. If you’re a newbie who’s worried about commitment issues, don’t stress about dropping loads of money on something you won’t stick to. Head to your local supermarket and pick up a few cheap reusable Tupperware containers. Once they’re knackered, get them in the recycling bin and look for some good glassware or bamboo containers. Both are anti-microbial, easy to clean, and suitable for the fridge and microwave, so they’re ideal for any haute cuisine you may come up with. It’s also a good idea, if you’re a label-maker kind of person (again, you’re among friends) to pop some labels on your containers that signify the day of the week they’re for; this will keep you organised.

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The best way to start out in meal prep is to get yourself some really good containers

Meal prep is a phase we all go through sooner or later 2

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ADVANCED KITCHEN CRAFTS

There are kitchen basics that everyone needs without debate: who can live without a good set of pans, some really sharp knives, and a set of go-to spices? Staple kitchen equipment is the foundation of a good home cook, so don’t neglect your basics and they’ll serve you well for years to come. If you’re going to get into meal prep, there are a few things you may want to invest in over time that can help you get the most out of your nutritious meals.

Many home cooks swear by the mighty slow cooker; a beautiful, majestic, unwieldly bit of kitchen kit that if you treat right will change your life. The slow cooker can be left on while you go and do other things (sleep, play the PlayStation, learn how to crochet), and when you come back? Amazing soups, meats, or even desserts. You may also want to invest in a good steamer: for a low energy affair, opt for one that plugs into the mains and can cook 10 litres of food at a time. If you don’t want to spend the big bucks – and who does – go for a little bamboo basket steamer, which you can pick up for less than £20 online. It does the job and looks really cool to boot.

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SERVE AND PROTECT

You might think this is really obvious, but we need to put it out there: some foods are not great for meal prep. Rice is a very obvious offender in this instance. Everyone knows that eating reheated rice is a really great way to clean out your entire digestive system by way of intense food poisoning.

The thing is, rice can actually be reheated safely; the issue isn’t with rice, but with the way it’s stored. If you can’t serve rice right away and just leave it sitting out – as you have to do when you’re waiting for your cooked food to cool down before you pop it in the fridge – you’re risking the growth of a nasty little bug called Bacillus cereus, which lives in uncooked rice. It’s not eliminated by cooking rice, and it can multiply at a ridiculous speed, so the longer you leave rice just cooling on your countertop, the longer you’re asking for 48 hours off work with vomiting and diarrhoea.

The good stuff. If you’re going to do meal prep, make sure you’re cooking things that are safe to reheat, unlike rice, which may or may not give you the runs. Who wants to chance it? Not us.

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THE SPICE OF LIFE

Now you’re ready to get your meal prep on. You know that massively overwhelming feeling when you get into the supermarket and you forget every single foodstuff you’ve ever enjoyed and have no idea what you’re going to cook for dinner ever again? That’s kind of how meal prep feels.

Thankfully, the internet is rich with incredible recipes that suit your dietary needs; all you need to do is Google what your dietary need is and add “meal prep” and you might just find yourself overwhelmed all over again. There’s meal prep lunches for work, desserts, great ideas for healthy eating – you’re drowning in choices, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try something you would normally think isn’t for you. As you make more, you’ll be more excited by what you can do with your food. Some websites also prioritise your ability to freeze the meals you make, so you can spend one Sunday a month just cooking, then your meals for the next few weeks can be frozen. If that’s not an absolute top tip for saving time, we don’t know what is. Get out there and experiment – the world of meal prep is your oyster!

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Romance ACCESS

BY KATIE CAMPBELL

Pucker up Pos readers, it’s time to get romantic! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so get your significant other and get yourself ready for a day of accessible romance. Follow any of these activities up with a little bit of Barry White on the ol’ Spotify playlist and some delicately placed rose petals, and you’re sure to have the best and most accessible Valentine’s Day ever.

THE HAUTE CUISINE If you love your partner enough to drop some serious cash on them, and they love modern British cuisine enough to justify it, look no further than Adam Reid at the French in Manchester. The Masterchef star has created a stunning menu which showcases his playful take on British cuisine, adding his northern flair to create beautiful dishes. The Michelin Guide, the bastion of food reviewing, said of the restaurant: “An intimate hotel restaurant created in the Belle Époque age and brought up-to-date with a moody colour scheme, striking chandeliers and booths down the centre of the room. Boldly flavoured modern dishes focus on one main ingredient and the chefs present and explain the dishes themselves.” The restaurant’s Valentine’s Day package costs an eye-watering £250 per couple, but includes a four-course meal and a bottle of Laurent-Perrier Rose, so if you’re looking to make this a day to remember, you could certainly make worse choices.

Over on Euan’s Guide, powerchair user Charlie highly recommended the restaurant, saying: “This was such a relaxed restaurant matched with fantastic food! Staff were attentive but not intrusive, welcoming and seemed happy to be there. Table space was adjusted to allow wheelchair to fit. Toilets are unisex and disabled and spotlessly clean.” the-french.co.uk

THE LUXURY GETAWAY Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but the views from Bluebell Croft in the beautiful highland village of Acharacle will take your breath away and leave you with memories that will last longer than any gemstone. Located on the western end of Loch Shiel in a valley so picturesque you’ll barely believe it’s real, you and your beloved will feel like the Monarchs of the Glen in no time. Bluebell Croft is extremely accessible for wheelchair users, and it’s the perfect getaway for the discerning romantic. On arrival you can enjoy fresh bread and scones, as well as organic preserves and wine. If they’re in season, you can get some fresh strawberries, an incredible assortment of local fish, cheese, and produce. Why not whip up a romantic meal for your significant other using some of the stunning and unbelievably fresh food that can be delivered straight to your door? When that’s finished, head out to the hot tub for a glass of champagne and a romantic gaze upon some of Scotland’s finest scenery.

The property has 4.9 stars out of five on Euan’s Guide, and powerchair user Marian said of Bluebell Croft: “Spacious and beautifully appointed accommodation with friendly and very helpful owners. Idyllic spot. Would definitely go back.” bluebellcroft.co.uk

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THE COCKTAIL BAR Brewhemia in Edinburgh persists as a hidden gem in the city, despite the fact that it could not possibly shout about its presence any louder. The bar is deceptive in its flowercovered doorway; inside there are halls, rooms, balconies and bars hidden away, allowing you all the privacy and calm you need, even on a busy night. If you’re looking to head out for a cocktail before taking your partner for a bite to eat or a romantic movie, look no further than beautiful Brewhemia. For the gin and whisky lovers, the bar offers a stunning selection and tasting platters so you can pick your poison with precision; and unlike many other bars, Brewhemia is filled with massive copper stills to offer patrons tank-fresh beer from around the world, but their Scottish selection is unreal. If you’re in the mood for fizz, head to the prosecco bar to sample some of the finest bubbles available in the capital.

Karine, a powerchair user, gave the bar five stars on Euan’s Guide, saying: “The bar is well stocked with craft beers and spirits. As you enter, you meet a lovely member of staff who takes into account your needs and seats you which saves you having to worry.” Burtoni gave it four stars, and noted Deaf or hearing impaired people may struggle on busy nights with the level of noise. brewhemia.co.uk

THE CULTURE LOVER Last year the world was asked: if there’s a penis museum (and there is, it’s in Iceland), why is there no vagina museum? It’s a perfectly good question; thankfully, in 2019, the Vagina Museum opened its doors in Camden, and ever since then, the trans-inclusive museum has been demystifying the stigma that surrounds the gynaecological anatomy. It might not be one for first dates (unless your date is pretty cool), but the museum is incredibly accessible, and on Valentine’s Day they’re putting on a crafting event which aims to celebrate and reduce stigma surrounding the vulva. If you need a BSL interpreter, one can be arranged, and the museum is happy to help with anything surrounding accessibility. The museum isn’t there to shock you with its pornographic depictions of anatomy; rather, it’s a really cool learning experience that wants to help correct false myths that surround the vulva – did you know that what people refer to as the vagina is actually the vulva? The vagina is the bit inside your body. Now you know. Go to the Vagina Museum and come back with a fun vulva fact for us.

One Euan’s Guide user, who uses a walking aid, left a glowing five-star review of the Vagina Museum – they said that they felt the staff had a “genuine wish to be accessible and inclusive,” and praised the museum for its great staff and excellent access. vaginamuseum.co.uk

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0800 916 3053 www.alliedmobility.com

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Brand

“The Motability Scheme has been life-changing; it has allowed me to care for my husband and also continue my voluntary work.�

Angela

Making life easier With the Motability Scheme, disabled people can transfer their mobility allowance to lease a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair. Parents and carers can drive on behalf of the customer.

What’s included on the Motability Scheme?

Insurance Breakdown assistance Servicing and repairs Tyres and battery replacement

Today, over 620,000 disabled people and their families benefit from the freedom and independence provided through the Motability Scheme; people such as Angela (pictured above), who was able to apply to Motability, the Charity, for a charitable grant which paid towards a Drive-from-Wheelchair vehicle that met her mobility needs.

How Motability can help Motability is a national charity which oversees the Motability Scheme and may be able to provide charitable grants to disabled people.

We provide charitable grants for: Car adaptations to help make travelling as comfortable and safe as possible.

Vehicle Advance Payments for larger, more expensive vehicles.

Driving lessons, to ensure disabled people have access to driving tuition in specially adapted cars as necessary.

To find out more information, visit: motability.org.uk/posability or call 0300 123 3367 quote Posability

Motability is a Registered Charity in England and Wales (No.299745) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference No. 736309). The Motability Scheme is operated by Motability Operations Limited under contract to Motability. Motability Operations Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Reference No.735390).

WIN WIN A WEEK AT

BRICKHOUSE FARM HOLIDAY COTTAGES! S ituated just 10 miles from the bright lights of Blackpool and an hour from the Lake District, Brickhouse Farm is in six rural acres in Lancashire and provides a fun-filled break for families and friends. Each of our purpose-built, accessible cottages overlook the fully stocked Brickhouse fishing lake and are finished to the highest standards.

Alongside stunning British-made oak furnishings, incredible wet rooms, under floor heating and modern amenities; access is key! Our 12 selfcatering cottages are kitted out with ceiling track hoists, and nine have hoists above the outdoor hot tubs.

Our home from home cottages all have that touch of luxury and disability aids are provided on request.

For you to enjoy your holiday experience further, we have recently built a hydrotherapy pool, a charming Changing Places facility and a bustling, licensed bistro on site - all

accessible and inclusive. Our chefs are sensitive to gluten and dairy free diets, serve delicious vegan delights and will puree any meal on request, all with a smile.

We would like to offer one lucky PosAbility reader the chance to win a seven-night break at our self-catering Brickhouse Farm Cottages for up to six people. The cottage has level access throughout the ground floor and patio.

Also available, accessible fishing pegs around the fishing lake. All bedrooms have stunning en suites and the accessible bedroom downstairs has an adjustable electric bed and ceiling track hoist leading through into a contemporary, spacious wet room. We look forward to meeting you.

Q

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

How many cottages are there at Brickhouse Farm Holiday Cottages?

6

12

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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:

Brickhouse Cottages Competition PosAbility Magazine Caledonia House Thornliebank Ind Est Glasgow G46 8JT

Name: Address:

Postcode: Ian & Sue Rainford

Tel:

Brickhouse Farm Holiday Cottages brickhousecottages.co.uk 01253 702122

Email: ü

Brickhouse Farm Holiday Cottages 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 Brickhouse Farm Holiday Cottages.

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T&Cs: Entries must be received by 31 March 2020. One entry per household. Prize includes a one-week holiday (Friday to Friday) at Brickhouse Farm Holiday Cottages. You can stay in one of our 3 bedroom cottages, which sleeps up to 6 people. Accommodation only. Food, drink and travel not included. The prize winner will be required to disclose any access requirements upon booking. In Pine and Willow Cottage up to 2 dogs are allowed at an additional cost of £50 per pet. Registered service dogs are welcome in any of our cottages free of charge. You can upgrade to one of the cottages with a hot tub for an added cost of £100.00 for the week. The prize must be taken in November/December 2020, January/February 2021 (excluding 21st December 2020 to 4th January 2021 and 12-21 February 2021). Dates may be subject to change and availability.

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IN FULL BLOOM

It’s time to put those green fingers to the test.

BY ROSALIND TULLOCH

T

here is something intensely satisfying about keeping a plant alive. Nurturing it, ensuring it has enough light and water, and keeping it under a watchful eye until one day you wake to see a beautiful flower has bloomed. You admire your work and take full credit for the magic of nature, filling you with a sense of achievement and pride.

This is obviously the best-case scenario, we know that some of us have the ability to kill a cactus – the only plant that needs little or no looking after in any environment.

Whether you are naturally greenfingered or a self-confessed serial plant murderer, the benefits of gardening cannot be denied and they could do you the world of good this spring. You may even learn how to keep a cactus alive!

HEALTHY VIBES The health benefits of gardening are numerous and wide-ranging. Getting out in the fresh air is good for the soul and spending time in your garden or an allotment space can have a great effect on your mental health.

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Gardening keeps the mind active and occupied, it has also been shown to help boost self-esteem and confidence. The sense of achievement from growing your own flowers, fruit, or vegetables is unlike anything else.

Enjoying the fruits of your labour will never have tasted so sweet.

Gardening can be quite a labourintense job. It is a great form of disguised exercise, burning calories as you weed, dig, plant, rake and sow.

It can also be great for hand strength and dexterity.

Research has shown that gardening can help to reduce stress and anxiety: the immersion in the natural outdoors and the engagement in a positive and creative activity like gardening promotes feelings of calm, relaxation, enjoyment, competence and hope.

GARDENING WITH DEMENTIA It has been shown in several studies that gardening activities have a very positive effect on people living with dementia. Reported benefits have included a reduction in pain, improvement in attention and concentration, a reduction in stress, lowering of agitation, reductions in falls and in some cases lowering of medications.

If you care for a loved one who is living with dementia, why not encourage them to spend a little time in the garden? Set up pot planting activities or choose an area in the garden where together you can cultivate a herb garden or try growing potatoes, courgettes or lettuces.

Growing your own vegetables is not only hugely satisfying, but it can also save you some money on your shopping. March is a great time to start planting vegetables: check out The National Allotment Society’s website for more information and advice on what to plan each month, visit nsalg.org.uk.

benches that have a specific space to allow wheelchair users access.

Encourage everyone in your family to spend more time in your garden, it can be a great bonding experience with kids and grandchildren. Children love nothing more than an excuse to get dirty, play with mud, find worms and bugs, and if you plant something together it is lovely to watch it grow and bloom.

WHAT TO DO IN YOUR GARDEN NOW? February and March are the months to spend preparing your garden for spring planting. Following the winter months you have some debris to clear; dead leaves, flowers and grasses will all need cleared to allow you to start preparing your soil for spring.

FEBRUARY ACCESSING THE GARDEN The market is now filled with products that can help people of all ages and abilities access the garden. From long-handled pruners to allow extra reach for trimming and pruning, to raised planters and benches designed specifically to allow wheelchair users comfortable access to them.

Adapted gardening tools are great for those with limited use of their hands and easy-to-use watering wands can be a great solution for people with low hand dexterity or arthritis. Garden kneelers with raised handles can help when lowering down and standing up and they will keep you from getting too sore and stiff with the padded cushion for your knees.

You can even purchase great garden furniture that has been designed with disabled people in mind. These include subtle changes that can make a big difference to users, from raised seat heights and longer armrests, to help when lowering into the seat and getting up, and higher backs for more support. You can also get picnic

The Eden Project give some great advice for tackling the garden over the next couple of months: Enrich your soil before planting with your own compost or a multipurpose fertiliser, With a pair of secateurs, cut back the stems of herbaceous perennials and then spread compost around the plants, If you intend to grow a few different vegetables, draw up a simple seed sowing plan, Chit potatoes in a cool, light place to develop healthy green shoots for planting from March onwards (learn what chit means), Remember, there’s still time to plant garlic cloves,

Get ready for next month with a cold frame – essential protection for fluctuating spring temperatures, Stuck for growing space? Raised beds cut out digging and weeding – just fill them with compost and get growing!

Sow sweet peas indoors in deep pots for endless flowers from July onwards, Sow your seeds into modules (make sure you label and date them). Remember to use a peatfree compost, in the interest of conserving peat bogs, Go out and find some snowdrops.

Maybe February isn’t so bad after all!

MARCH When the grass begins to grow it’s time to outdoor sow and mow. This will vary widely depending on where you live.

Try planting risk-free hardy veg that don’t mind the cold, such as carrots, peas, broad beans, spinach, radish, parsnips and leeks, Keep it simple: only plant small amounts of veg that you actually like to eat, You’ll need labels, finely raked soil and a string line or cane to help you sow straight, Check the packet first, but as a rule of thumb sprinkle the seeds in at twice the depth of the seed and lightly cover with soil, Water, label and protect early sowings, Sow leeks, salads, spinach, chard on a sunny windowsill indoors. Sow into modules to make planting out easier, Fancy growing your own tomatoes this year? Buy ‘ready to go plants’ in March from a garden centre and free up your windowsills, Time to plant ‘early potatoes’ – plant them at a trowel’s depth, Start to deadhead bulbs to improve next year’s flowers. Don’t cut the stems off and there’s no need to tie them up.

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Self-Caring

BY KATIE CAMPBELL Sometimes, self-care is a bath with loads of bubbles, a pint of really good ice cream, and your iPad propped up precariously on the loo with an episode of Queer Eye playing; sometimes it’s yoga under a waterfall; sometimes, self-care is taking five minutes to cry and listen to Enya.

Self-care is what you need to repair your mental and emotional health, and it is what it is. If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve got some tried-andtrue products to help you get well on your way to better emotional and mental health.

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We Come Here Cross Stitch

Ok so think about it: you spend eight hours a day sitting at the same desk (probably, statistically). And it’s probably a bit rubbish. You probably spend your time looking at a screen for about two or three hours at a time, which you break up by getting up to go and pee, or make coffee, or cry in the toilets. We all do it; it’s a fact of late capitalism.

Go home, take up cross stitching, learn to stab something artistically while experiencing great mindfulness, then hey presto, you can hang this little reminder up in your office and remember the time you learned to cross stitch for self-care and sarcastic fun. shop.subversivecrossstitch.com | £5.40

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Yoga for Everyone: 50 Poses for Every Type of Body

Going to a yoga class can be extremely off-putting for people who don’t have what society deems to be “conventionally attractive” bodies, so many people have sworn off yoga after feeling like the fattest or least able person in the class. That’s where people like Dianne Bondy and Jessamyn Stanley come in: they’re teaching yoga that can be adapted to every and any body.

Dianne’s book Yoga for Everyone has loads of poses that work for chair, sitting and many other kinds of yoga, and can be easily adapted dependent on your needs. amazon.co.uk | £13.06

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Golden Snail Gel Mask 24k

Snails: they’re kind of gross. Sorry snails, you’re just out there being you, but you’re sliming the place up, even if you can’t help it. Have you ever considered putting snail goo on your face? Korean beauty experts did, now the world can’t get enough of its ultra-hydrating properties.

Thank you, gross snails! Get yourself a snail goo (mucin, it’s called mucin, but that sounds as unpleasant as “snail goo” honestly) mask, put it on your face, and lie down for half an hour of pure, unadulterated you time. Sometimes, self-care is looking after yourself, and sometimes, self-care is putting a snail goo mask on your face and listening to Enya for 30 minutes. It just is, we don’t make the rules. selfridges.com | £6

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Sleepy Body Lotion

There are more than a few mothers who swear by this Lush lotion, and say that a little dab of it rubbed into their cranky newborn’s tummy sends them into a soothing slumber in no time at all. There are probably more than a few childless adults who say the same thing about rubbing sleepy into their own tummies. Filled with calming lavender, soothing oat milk, and sweet tonka, this signature Lush scent is guaranteed to send you into a peaceful sleep, which will greatly aid your quest for good mental and emotional health. If you really want to knock yourself out, pair it with the Twilight bath bomb or Sleepy shower bomb for calm absolute. uk.lush.com | From £9

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Gookie Dough Tub

Don’t ever let anyone tell you that eating junk food in the bath isn’t self-care if that’s your idea of a restorative and restful activity. If you’re not going overboard with it and having a junk food bath every single night, what’s the harm? Everything in moderation, as they say. If you’re planning to have a bougie self-care sesh, you could do far worse than to stock up on these delicious jars of cookie dough. Made fresh in the UK, the Gookie Dough jars are vegan as well as being egg-free, so you don’t have to worry about cooking them before you stick a spoon in and go to town. Heaven awaits. gookiedough.co | From £7.50

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Mindfulness is a great form of self-care, but some people can’t turn their brain off for long enough to meditate, which is probably the ultimate practice of mindfulness. If that’s you, you’re not alone, so don’t fret. Why not try an adult colouring book? You’ll find yourself slowly slipping into a peaceful calm when concentrating on colouring in the beautiful, intricate drawings included in this book. It’s just a book for you – you’re not getting it graded when you finish – so don’t concern yourself with making good art; the point of it is to relax. So relax! waterstones.com | £7.99

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John Lewis Soft Cover Journal

Getting your thoughts down on paper is a great way to practice self-care; the act of journaling is good for collecting, organising, and understanding your thoughts and feelings when you’re feeling overwhelmed or not in control. This beautiful notebook from John Lewis is for plans and projects, so it’s ideal for getting your thoughts into. It’s got lovely gold embellishments, making it look very fancy. You can carry it around in your bag for self-care on the go, or pop it in a drawer or on a bookshelf so it’s within reach when you need to get it all out. johnlewis.com | £10

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The Mindfulness Colouring Book

Annex Trak Low Shoes

One of the best things you can do as a form of self-care is exercise: this can be anything from getting the dogs out for a walk to going rock climbing. The sky’s the limit, but it can be difficult to find the “get up and go” required to do these things when you’re really not feeling it. If you want to encourage yourself to get out, pick up a good pair of walking shoes. They don’t have to be expensive, but these Annex Trak shoes come very highly recommended, and are great for all kinds of activities, not just walking. gooutdoors.co.uk | £100

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Coastal Roads Candle

If you have the space and the means, you can make yourself a little sacred space in your home that you utilise when you’re performing self-care. It can be the corner of a room or a cupboard, anywhere you have space. Fill this area with things that encourage calm and tranquillity in your life. It’s nice to have a few candles in there to burn, too, to add a little ambience as well as some good scents.

Etsy store Jasper & Jasper make beautiful, aromatic vegan candles that fill your home with light and aroma. This one smells like sea salt and beaches, and it’s great for inspiring a feeling of calm.

Jasper & Jasper at Etsy | From £10

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Chilly’s Water Bottle

Are you drinking enough water? Are you hydrated? We could all stand to drink a little more water, and making sure we’re utilising good water bottles is great, because it’s better for both our long-term health and the planet.

Chilly’s has been around since 2010 and it’s grown quite the famous following through social media, but its fame is centred around its brilliant product and cool branding. You can customise your Chilly’s bottle until your heart’s content and engrave it, and it’ll keep your drinks cold for 24 hours or hot for 12. Green tea on the go? No problem at all.

Want to take some ice water with you to the pool? Grab your Chilly’s and get going! chillysbottles.com/uk | From £20

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The Next Generation of Powerchairs...

Optimus 2 RS Front-Wheel Drive

Orbit

Mid-Wheel Drive

Launching at Visit stand N850 by

MIK SCARLET COLUMNIST

Follow Mik on Twitter

WE ARE DISABLED, LET US ROAR!

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hile surfing social media, sat on the sofa chomping on leftover Christmas chocolate, as you do, I saw a photo of someone I knew that wasn’t disabled delivering what the post called ‘Disability Equality Training’.

I tweeted that this worried me, as I felt this kind of training should be delivered by a disabled person. I was more than shocked to find I received many replies saying that it didn’t matter. These replies broke down into two camps, so I’m going to use this column to explain why I really think it does matter.

The first argument was: “who cares who is speaking out for disabled people as long as they are speaking out?” Well, in one way they are right, all voices speaking out for the rights of disabled people are welcome, but surely it is time that disabled people were at the forefront of the calls for equality? The disability rights movement have had the mantra “nothing about us without us” for decades now, and anyone wanting to fight for disability rights would have heard and hopefully understood why it matters so much. Especially those who are delivering disability equality training.

“...surely it is time that disabled people were at the forefront of the calls for equality?”

@MikScarlet

If we speak for ourselves, it empowers us and places us at the centre of the work to improve equality. The mere action of giving us the platform to speak out is an act of equality, and this in turn helps society see we are capable and gives us the chance to lead in future change. It also creates employment.

Our society keeps pushing disabled people to work, so jobs like equality training, where our lived experience is a positive benefit, should surely be open to us first? I know that since I was head-hunted to work in disability equality training I have seen the real results of training led by disabled people. I would even say that much of the positive change our community has seen in the last decade is due to the growth of professional disabled experts teaching the wider public methods of being more inclusive. Our skill of explaining how society can become more inclusive and fairer are really paying off in a way that it didn’t when it was non-disabled people who spoke for us. This is the key reason why “nothing about us without us” is so important: it works.

the work for disability equality. I, for example, will never know what it is like to be a parent of a disabled child, despite having been a disabled child myself. I never saw the struggles my parents went through because they hid them from me and I was a kid, so I didn’t really care. As long as I had sweets and a TV I was happy. We need the voices of parents to help disabled people campaigning around equality to understand the struggles of disabled kids today. So why is there this tension?

I think it stems from the times that speaking out as a parent and wanting the best for your disabled child spills over into speaking out as a champion of the wider disabled community. It’s done with totally good intentions, but if you take focus from disabled people without being disabled yourself, it doesn’t help in the long run. If you aren’t disabled, parent or not, please try to understand, disabled people have to speak for ourselves, as representatives of our wider community.

The other argument as to why it is OK for non-disabled people to speak for disabled people came from parents and carers of disabled children. Of course non-disabled people should advocate for disabled people, which is essential for many disabled people, and obviously parents want what is best for their children. The issue isn’t that they shouldn’t speak for their children, but that there is a concern over speaking for the wider disabled community.

Be by our side, be our allies, lift us up and support us as we speak out about our experiences, and push for the change you know we deserve. We will fight to give you a platform if you are a parent or carer, and in return all we ask is try to avoid speaking for us when we can speak for ourselves. If you are in a situation where you could suggest a disabled person to speak out around disability equality instead of you, do it. By doing this act you will be the best ally we could ever have, and you will have done more than you can imagine.

So often battle lines get drawn up between disabled campaigners and the parents of disabled children, which is a shame because those parents have a vital part to play in

Together we can build a tomorrow where none of us have to spend so much time fighting for inclusion and equality. That’s something worth working together for, eh?

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

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FABRIC DOORSTOP Need to add a little splash of colour to your home? This doorstop is made from durable fabric and comes in a variety of patterns. The product is filled with natural wheat grains and prevents slamming of doors and stubbing of toes. It is practical for those who have mobility problems and comes with a carry handle, perfect for adding a simple, stylish and practical touch to your home.

Prices from £14.40 0117 941 3791 bluebadgecompany.co.uk

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CRAZY CATS FOLDING CANE This upbeat folding walking stick from Classic Canes features cute cartoon cats in a variety of colours on a black background. Adjustable in height from 79 – 89cm, it fits a wide variety of users and is ideal for anyone who wants to make a style statement. With a range of over 700 designs, Classic Canes has a cane to suit everyone.

Prices from £41.50 classiccanes.co.uk

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NAVY SOCK AID

COMFORT PILLOW

Struggling to bend down to gets your socks on? Consider Blue Badge Company’s navy sock aid. Inexpensive and simple, it can accommodate larger feet due to its flexible plastic core, and the non-slip outside surface allows easy usage, and it comes with longhandled loops. The product also comes with simple instructions and is easily wiped clean.

This Mystery&Melody back pillow is suitable for reading, or even catching up with some work in bed, with sturdy arm supports and a washable cover. This pillow also comes in a variety of colours and patterns for your preference, ensuring it will fit into your home décor and keep you comfy wherever you are sitting.

Prices from £10.00 0117 941 3791 bluebadgecompany.co.uk

Prices from £15.95 amazon.co.uk

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CANDLES Set the mood with luxury Acorn candles, a range of candles which are manufactured by disabled people. In each candle there is a card that tells you about the person who made it and with a wide and varied selection of scents to choose from, you will be able to set a tranquil atmosphere in no time.

Prices from £12.50 028 3083 5764 space-ni.com

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ELISSE SKIN BARRIER & ELITE ADHESIVE REMOVER The ultimate combination to help soothe and prevent sore skin caused by tough adhesives. Ideal for anyone living with a stoma. Elite is for the pain-free removal of adhesives while Elisse soothes sore, itchy and reddened skin and creates a barrier between skin and the new adhesive for added adhesion.

Available on prescription from your GP 0800 531 6280 trioostomycare.com

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THE VALENCY THREE-MOTOR RISER RECLINER The Valency Three-motor CosiChair Riser Recliner is available in two colours and helps improve postural support with a luxurious waterfall back design. The Valency has a fully adjustable powered headrest to assist the head and neck, which moves up to 14cm at the touch of a button for a more natural sitting position.

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SNACK BOWLS This GripWare raised rim plate is designed for one-handed dining, and its non-slip rubber feet prevent it from sliding around.

The steep side of the dish can be used as a stop in order to push food onto a fork or spoon, so a knife is not needed. The product is durable and dishwasher safe too.

Prices available on request 01460 258 125 electricmobility.co.uk

Prices from ÂŁ11.00 0203 195 1278 welcomemobility.co.uk

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UNITING GENERATIONS

BY ROSALIND TULLOCH The concept of intergenerational living is an interesting one.

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ur ageing population is putting pressure on an underfunded and understaffed healthcare system. While there have been many technological advances in telecare and assistive technology to keep people in their homes for longer, these solutions are not always viable, and the care and companionship of a human being cannot always be rivalled.

Many older people who are living on their own can struggle with certain tasks. They are also at a higher risk of falling in their home, and in inclement weather, getting out and about to the shops can be difficult.

If they do not have family living nearby or close friends in the vicinity, which is often the case, injuries and illnesses can go unchecked. Another concern for many older people is a lack of companionship and communication, resulting in loneliness and depression.

A report by Age UK in 2016 stated that there are over 1.2 million chronically lonely older people in the UK and 500,000 older people go at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone at all. Loneliness also comes with its own health risks and can put an individual at a higher risk of dementia, heart disease and depression.

COULD INTERGENERATIONAL LIVING BE THE ANSWER? The idea of intergenerational living is cropping up in different formats across the world. The idea being that an older person, who is living on their own and has a room to rent out in their home, offers it to a young person at an affordable or reduced rate. Some contracts state a certain number of hours of care or companionship is required, but some simply request that the lodger looks out for their host. This set up can often offer family members who live far away some peace of mind knowing that someone is there on a daily basis and can help in the case of a fall or illness, as well as offering companionship and conversation.

“500,000 older people go at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone at all�

On the other end of the spectrum we have the younger generation struggling to get on the property ladder and struggling to even be able to afford rising rents in most major cities. Students and young graduates are not always in a position to afford the high rents that are now commonplace. This has resulted in many remaining at home with their parents, which is not an ideal situation for either party.

...there are over 1.2 million chronically lonely older people in the UK

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This can also be a beneficial arrangement to young people who have moved to a new city, a time that can be very difficult to make new friends. To live in a more homely environment with a friendly face to welcome you home and that is affordable, must be a more appealing option than living on your own in an expensive city centre flat with no one to talk to.

United for All Ages is a ‘think and do’ tank and social enterprise that brings older and younger people together to build stronger communities. They focus on issues that affect different generations in different ways and which require solutions involving all generations, including care, housing, technology, work and ‘fairness for all ages’. Their approach is designed to bring generations together to find solutions to big social and economic problems, rather than pitting them against each other.

The solutions they produce look to dissolve the ‘age apartheid’ that has been prevalent throughout the UK. The older generations are not catered for as well as they should be, loneliness is rife and quality of care is inconsistent.

United for All Ages is a ‘think and do’ tank and social enterprise that brings older and younger people together to build stronger communities.

INTERGENERATIONAL COMMUNITIES Creating environments and communities that integrate people of all ages can have a positive effect on everyone.

Throughout the UK there are developments that have been built to provide affordable housing options for all ages. The premise behind most of these developments is to provide accessible, affordable housing that have specific areas for socialising with neighbours.

Whether this be through an onsite café or a development that includes communal areas for cooking and dining, children’s playrooms and shared outdoor spaces.

By creating fully accessible accommodation that includes increased door widths, level living areas, ample turning spaces in rooms and hallways, it ensures that these homes are future proofed for any age or ability.

Encouraging varying age groups to live in these developments goes against the idea of segregating generations and really focuses on the benefits that can be brought by bringing generations together. It also helps to dispel stereotypes of older people and can help teach children that it is natural to help and interact with older generations, building positive relationships between generations from a young age, which can be really important. Other benefits that have been recognised for children living in intergenerational

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situations include social maturity, increased self-esteem and confidence, and an increased sense of belonging in a community.

Benefits to older generations have been seen time and again to increase mental health, improve cognitive function, decrease the chances of depression and feelings of loneliness and isolation. Physical health benefits have also been reported as they are generally being more active and inadvertently exercising more regularly, in turn this can also reduce the chances of falls and increase independence for longer.

United for All Ages have produced a report that highlights twenty radical ways to create a country for all ages by 2030. It highlights a number of projects that have helped to change attitudes towards ageing, reduced ageism and developed trust between generations in a country that has been divided by age.

Stephen Burke, director of United for All Ages, said: “Bringing Britain together is one of the biggest challenges for the new decade. The last decade saw huge disconnection and division. The 2020s can be different. Ending ‘age apartheid’ and ageism and promoting more intergenerational mixing could help create a Britain for all ages by 2030 – united not divided.”

Find out more at unitedforallages.com.

ACCESSIBLE HOMES

A selection of 2 bedroom apartments designed to accessible standards, available at Manor Place Depot.

Prices start from £148,750 for a 25% share with Shared Ownership* Get in touch to find out more information on room sizes and specification.

nhgsales.com

For more information contact:

020 3813 2343 nhgsales.com/MPD HOME OWNERSHIP STARTS WITH US Notting Hill Genesis terms and conditions apply. *Based on a 25% share price of a 2 bedroom apartment with a full market value of £595,000.

Guidance household income required is £67,790. Affordability and eligibility criteria applies. CGI is for indicative purposes only. Viewings are by appointment only. Prices correct at time of publication. February 2020.

CINEMA ForALL

BY KATIE CAMPBELL

For Deaf and disabled Glaswegians, the Glasgow Film Theatre is leading the way in providing accessible space to watch and discuss cinema of all varieties.

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lmost every cinema across the UK hosts some form of disability-orientated screenings of new and popular movies. These screenings are commonly autism-friendly, or sometimes even dementiafriendly, and sees the cinema alter its conventional way of screening films to accommodate the additional needs of the viewers. Subtitled screenings are often available too, which is great for keeping up to date with the latest blockbusters.

For Deaf and disabled cinema lovers, what options are there for getting into the minutiae of the cinematic experience? Where are all the accessible cinema clubs, where you can make friends and talk at length about how great Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite is, or the artistry in Dario Argento’s use of lighting with people who actually know what those things mean? You go and join a film club – where else?

...if cinema-goers don’t feel comfortable in the theatre but are struggling to communicate, they’re provided with glowsticks that can be used to signal for help

If you take yourself up the rainy streets of Glasgow, you will eventually happen upon the Glasgow Film Theatre, located on a side street in the shadow of the famous Glasgow School of Art. The theatre is an institution in the city; it has served the blockbuster and arthouse crowd in equal measures since it opened as the Cosmo in 1939. The Cosmo – then the GFT – fed Glasgow’s ravenous appetite for cinema, with the city seeing more movies per year than anywhere else in the UK in the year it opened. It has always supported the city’s love for foreign titles too, with 60% of its annual showings being in languages other than English.

While it feeds the city’s love of cinema, it also facilitates the presence of cinema discussion groups for Deaf and disabled patrons. The GFT plays host to two of these groups: Access Film Club, and Visible Cinema.

Access Film Club is held in association with the National Autistic Society, but it isn’t limited to patrons who live with autism. Rather, the relaxed and friendly atmosphere aims

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to be inviting to anyone who lives with a learning disability or difficulty, sensory processing disorders, or any nonneurotypical people who would like to enjoy and discuss film. Everyone is welcome at these screenings, and the GFT aims to make them feel as welcome as possible; there are always two people present within the staff of volunteers who are autistic, and if cinema-goers don’t feel comfortable in the theatre but are struggling to communicate, they’re provided with glowsticks that can be used to signal for help.

If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to catch one of the Access Film Club’s special events, which may involve a special screening or a question and answer session with a person involved in the film. This is incorporated into the discussion aspect of the club, which occurs after the screenings, where patrons can discuss both the movie and themselves amongst like-minded individuals.

At the venue’s Visible Cinema club, Deaf patrons take centre stage. The club is a vital opportunity to explore both Deaf culture in cinema and in the city, with the cinema periodically showing Deaf-interest or Deaf-led movies as part of the club. It’s vitally important that the Deaf community have access to cinema that is accessible to them, and with the advent of the Visible Cinema club in 2015, the GFT have been aiming to do just that.

When you watch a Visible Cinema movie, you can expect to see a captioned or subtitled film, of course. What’s special is that the discussion which takes place outwith the movie is interpreted to the audience via BSL, and live typed in large font onto the cinema screen. Not only this, but some staff at the GFT have been trained in BSL and Deaf awareness, promoting a comfortable and inclusive environment where Deaf film lovers can enjoy and discuss until their heart’s content.

If you’d like to learn more about these film clubs, visit glasgowfilm.org

HOW DO I SET UP MY OWN FILM CLUB FOR DISABLED PEOPLE? If you’re feeling a bit jealous that you can’t attend either of these brilliantly inclusive film clubs, why not look into setting up your own? Inclusive Cinema is a great resource which gives you all the details you need to start your own film club. There’s more to showing movies than just “turn up with a DVD and look for a white wall to project it on,” so it might be worthwhile contacting your local cinema to see if there’s a way you can work with them to host the film club.

This may be easier if you’re lucky enough to live near an independent cinema or smaller chain, like Playhouse cinemas.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to people and see how they can help you – cinemas want everyone to have access to movies, that’s their whole raison d’être.

If you need help, or you’re not sure where to get started, contact Inclusive Cinema or take a look at their how to guides to get started at inclusivecinema.org

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ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY TO KEEP YOU ON THE MOVE

THERA-Trainer EXERCISE BIKES ACTIVE / PASSIVE

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Regular exercise at home is encouraged to help maintain and improve muscle tone, circulation and flexibility, decrease fluid retention and increase stamina levels - all vital for anyone with limited mobility.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT EXERCISE bike to suit both your need and budget from our range of THERA trainers.

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LIFE HACK Apps

BY COLETTE COOPER

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anuary is finally over but you may find your motivation is still running low and it’s difficult to get into the swing of things, making some daily activities feel like a real effort. We are harnessing the power of technology in the form of free apps to help you manage your time, get organised and generally help you feel like you are winning at life.

EXERCISE

HEALTHY EATING

Whether you’re a first timer or fitness fanatic, Sworkit is suitable for everyone – offering exercises such as beginning, intermediate or advanced pilates mat classes, which is reportedly beneficial for those with neuromuscular disorders and injuries.

SWORKIT If the thought of going to the gym is daunting and a bit of a no-go, simply exercise from the comfort of your home with the help of Sworkit.

HEALTH SWAP: THE HEALTHY LIVING APP

Cardio and strength training can be modified to suit you – choose the exercise and the pace, anything from five to 90 minutes. Workouts are simple and suitable for any time of the day. They include stretching, yoga, and there are over 300 workouts and 400 exercises.

This has been created to help people with Down’s syndrome and their parents or carers to make positive lifestyle changes through activity tracking and healthier eating.

While the app aims to make positive lifestyle changes through healthy eating, it is also designed to improve individuals’ capabilities and digital skills. There’s also a choice of healthy home cooked meal alternatives and expert nutritional advice.

There’s no need to search through recipe books or write down endless lists of ingredients. Simply plan meals for the week ahead by scrolling through ideas.

Once you’ve meal prepped, the app will automatically create a useful shopping list.

Losing motivation? Don’t worry, the app rewards you with points and badges when you make positive health changes.

The app is designed to be easy to use and will also give you step by step instructions on how to prepare and cook healthy meals, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts or snacks! If you’re looking to lose weight, get healthier and have fun in the process, Health Swap may just be the one for you. dsactive.org.uk

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While the app aims to make positive lifestyle changes through healthy eating, it is also designed to improve individuals’ capabilities and digital skills

The app is easy, personalised, customisable and provides support if needed - certified trainers are available to answer any fitness or nutrition questions. If you feel like making fitness a part of your everyday routine, consider Sworkit to get you started. sworkit.com

HEALTH

FINANCE

BE MY EYES

MINT: BUDGET TRACKER & PLANNER

Be My Eyes is a worldwide community app that connects people who are blind or have low vision with sighted volunteers. Volunteers help people by working together through live video and communicate directly to tackle challenges and various tasks.

Volunteers can help guide you with things like which direction to point your camera, what to focus on, or when to turn on your torch to find the items you need, helping people gain more independence in their lives.

If you’re a sighted volunteer, you can help by installing the Be My Eyes app, as a blind or a low-vision user may need help with checking expiry dates, reading instructions, distinguishing colours or navigating new surroundings.

If this sounds like something that could help you in your daily life why not download the app to your phone today. bemyeyes.com

TRAVEL ACCESSABLE The creator of AccessAble, Dr Gregory Burke, noticed that there was a lack of useful information on venues’ websites, making it more difficult for people to get around, especially wheelchair users.

Tens of thousands of locations across the UK and Ireland are available with AccessAble. To ensure each location is suitable for you, and information is up to date and complete, they have been visited by a surveyor.

The app includes step by step descriptions regarding the experience you will have at the location, photos and tips, and it lets you know if you’ll need a RADAR key for the toilet.

Do you find yourself buying things you don’t need? Struggling to budget or prioritise your money and savings? You’re not alone, but it is important to stay on top of things.

Mint by Intuit is a personal finance app that takes and categorises your transactions, as well as shows you how you’re spending your money.

Not only can you keep track of your spending and bills, but you can also create a budget you can stick to.

Some of the other features of the app include tracking your investments and scheduling utility payments.

If you find yourself struggling to keep on top of things, the app can send email reminders or add due dates to your phone calendar for bills that you pay manually.

The app also includes free access to your credit score, as well as a breakdown of the factors contributing to your credit score, to stay on top of your credit health.

Mint can be used whenever you wish - by phone or when you access your account by computer. mint.com

MINDFULNESS HAPPY NOT PERFECT It’s easy for us all to get caught up in the turmoils of stress, anxiety and more throughout our lives. Sometimes we can cope, but other times, we have to intervene and take some control over how we feel.

The Happy Not Perfect app is dedicated to looking after our mental health, helping us have a better sleep, calmer mind, and less stress.

The app was created using research into positive psychology, neuroscience and meditation, as well as with the help of developers, creatives and the organisation’s guides.

According to the Happy Not Perfect website, you should check in with yourself before using the app, as labelling your emotion allows the emotional processing to begin and help you feel better.

The app’s ‘Daily Dose,’ allows you to have a moment of mindfulness when you don’t have a lot of time to spare. There are also a variety of experts and guides available to read about on the app, each with their own story and style, to suit whatever mood you’re in.

It’s a great app for those of you looking to explore some new places, from cafes and restaurants to museums and parks.

The Happy Not Perfect app can help to balance out the array of emotions we all face sometimes. Remember, emotions are temporary, not forever.

accessable.co.uk

happynotperfect.com

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Osprey Group

We’re going to

see us on stand N362 www.ospreyhealthcare.com

Romania ROAMING

BY ANTHONY TIPLING-BOWER

Anthony, aka the Geordie Traveller, is on a mission to become the first wheelchair user to visit every country in the world. He has clocked up an impressive 45 countries so far and here he tells us about his adventures in Romania as he searches for the infamous Dracula.

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hether you’re a history-buff or a nature-baby, a thrill-seeker or a sun-worshipper, a road-tripper or a gourmet diner - there’s something to please everyone in vibrant and diverse Romania. Sure, you’ll hear tales of wolf packs and grizzlies wandering through the country’s many forests and ancient stories of vampires sitting pretty in hill-top castles, none more famous than Dracula himself, but don’t be put off; there’s much more to Romania than

one might first think.

As the previous presenters of Top Gear will attest to, Romania is one of the finest countries in the world for driving, with exceptional scenery and exciting roads to challenge even the most skillful of driver. The Transfagarasan Highway in particular was pinpointed as being one of the greatest roads ever built and shot to global fame after Jeremy Clarkson and his team trundled their way down its many hairpin bends and sloping hills, much to the delight of viewers, leaving the highway a newly celebrated tourist attraction in their wake.

VISIONS OF VAMPIRES Nestled in the South-East region of Transylvania, along the Tarnava Mare River, lies the small city of Sighișoara; birthplace of the real-life Dracula. Yes, you read that right, in case you didn’t already know, Dracula did in fact exist! The city of Sighișoara is divided primarily into two parts - the old fortified Citadel, built upon a hill overlooking the river and the valley below, and the lower (slightly more modernlooking) town, in which most of the city’s 28,000 inhabitants live.

Of course, many people visiting Romania will be doing so with the intention of exploring Transylvania. When you first think of Transylvania you’d be forgiven for being mentally transported to visions of a blood-thirsty Dracula-esque figure sitting in a cloud-shrouded castle on top of a hill. But peek behind the folklore curtain and you’ll find an equally mystical region of Europe, steeped in absorbing history.

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Stepping foot inside the walls of Sighișoara’s great UNESCO-protected Citadel is truly like stepping back in time - save for a few tourists here and there.

The town remains largely untouched with cobbled streets and buildings which date back hundreds of years. Despite a large proportion of the buildings not being accessible, given their heritage and design, some are accessible. Even just having an opportunity to stand in the courtyard, in front of the house which is said to be Dracula’s birthplace is impressive in itself - especially on a hot summer’s day where you can enjoy ice-cream with a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys.

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I visited Sighișoara whilst on a guided-holiday with Sano Touring - a tour company offering retreats and tours that are accessible-for-all in Romania. Prior to visiting the birthplace of Dracula (also known as Vlad the Impaler) my friend, a tour guide, and I had spent an enjoyable evening in ClujNapoca - widely regarded as the unofficial capital city of Transylvania. Cluj-Napoca is an interesting blend of gothic and bohemian buildings, thanks to both Hungarian medieval influence and the more modern-day influence of student life within the city.

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Similarly epic views can be absorbed at nearby Râșnov, another intriguing Citadel which, in years gone by, was used as a Soar south-east of Clujplace of refuge for citizens Napoca and you’ll find in the surrounding area yourself in the town of Brașov, a picturesque location whenever the city was under attack. Râșnov’s perfect for both winter-sport enthusiasts and coffee-culture fortified church can be accessed by either taking people-watchers alike. the long flight of stairs, Perhaps you’re searching or (preferably) riding on for a little light relief in the the very modern funicular way of mountain-top spa which will take you right to treatments, or you seek to the top and give you the live like a local in Brașov’s sleepy old town centre? You’ll most extraordinary views, spanning miles into the also find plenty of vantage points around the outskirts of distance. town where you can capture incredible views of Brașov below you and the hills that encroach upon it.

FOR THE CULTURE VULTURE

After checking out Râșnov, it’s only a short drive to Bran - home to Dracula’s Castle, although it’s largely believed that Count Dracula never actually resided there. Bran is usually quite touristy, and the castle itself is unfortunately inaccessible, however a nice view from the outside is still worth your time, and at least you can say you’ve seen Dracula’s castle, right?

No self-respecting trip to Romania is complete without a visit to the impressive Peleș Castle, a neo-renaissance castle situated in the Carpathian Mountains. It’s possible to stumble across Peleș whilst taking the medieval route which links Transylvania with the Romanian region of Wallachia. Indeed, Brașov, Bran, Râșnov and Sinaia are all perfect stop-offs when heading from the heart of Transylvania down to Romania’s capital city, Bucharest.

Peleș Castle, along with Pelișor Castle and Foișor Hunting Lodge, are properties which were built under the reign of King Carol I of Romania, who fell in love with the region when visiting in 1866. The castle and its grounds take influence from both Swiss and Austrian architecture and proudly boasts an accessible entrance via the courtyard at the rear of the building.

Touring around Romania is much more than just seeing the capital city of Bucharest, or going in search of Dracula. There is so much to see and do in this diverse land, with itineraries and tours to suit anyone through accessible tour organisations like Sano Touring, or perhaps you’ll go it alone and test your wits against Romania’s world-famous Count!

You can read more about Anthony’s travels at thegeordietravellerblog.wordpress.com or you can follow him at: @geordie_travels @thegeordietraveller @GeordieTraveller

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Euan’s Guide will be brightening the pages of PosAbility on a regular basis this year to bring you updates on campaigns they are running, work they are doing and to feature real-life reviews from the Euan’s Guide website, ensuring you know all the best and most accessible places to hang out. Their first instalment gives you an insight into the great work Euan and his team are doing.

EuansGuide.com is a place where people can share their firsthand experience and find new places to visit

EUAN’S STORY

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e wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve already heard of Euan MacDonald. He’s defied the odds by living with motor neurone disease (MND) for over 16 years. In that time he’s also established two charitable organisations which bear his name, one which hopes to help slow, stop and eventually reverse MND, and the other which is driven to improve accessibility and make it easier for disabled people to find places to go. He has also helped establish a research project to help individuals retain their voice.

THE EUAN MACDONALD CENTRE Euan MacDonald was just 29 when he was diagnosed with MND in 2003. Following his diagnosis, he made the move from London to Edinburgh to be closer to his family and friends. Once he had settled back in Scotland, he focused his energy on fundraising for MND research. It was there that, just three years after his initial diagnosis, he and his father Donald founded the Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research with The University of Edinburgh. The centre has gone from strength to strength having recently announced a new UK-wide clinical trial which aims to find treatments for MND. Speaking about the new clinical trial, Euan said: “This is the result of 10 years of hard work and collaboration and we are thankful to those involved. Clinical trials like this provide hope that people around the world with MND will one day have access to safe and effective treatments.”

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...many other people were doing the same thing, yet there wasn’t a way to effectively share this knowledge

MND CLINICAL TRIAL The trial, MND-SMART, is innovative in its approach as it will see more than one treatment being tested against a shared placebo group. Initially it will test drugs that are already licenced for use in other conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and depression. However, its adaptive design means that ineffective medicines can be dropped and new drugs added after the trial has started. This approach could dramatically reduce the time it takes for effective treatments to be made available. Speed is needed as half of the people with MND die within two years of diagnosis.

The trial has been developed by specialists from across the UK, led by the Euan MacDonald Centre and in collaboration with University College London and the University of Warwick. Financial support has come from private funders and donors to the Euan MacDonald Centre and from MND Scotland and the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation.

More information about the trial can be found on MND-SMART.org

EUAN’S GUIDE Over the years, Euan has adapted to his changing physical environment. The progressive nature of MND means that he has gone from being ambulant disabled to a manual chair user and now a powerchair user. However, raising a family and being the adventurous sort, Euan didn’t want his access requirements to prevent him from going out and doing the things he loved, like going out to watch rugby matches or taking a trip as a family. This often resulted in hours of research ahead of time trying to find somewhere that was accessible for him. Over time the research started to pay off, as Euan and his network of family and friends had a small list of places which they had discovered were accessible and would visit time and time again. They soon learned that many other people were doing the same thing, yet there wasn’t a way to effectively share this knowledge. Knowing how useful it would be to have a place to share accessible places to go is what inspired Euan and his sister Kiki to create Euan’s Guide, the disabled access review website, in 2013.

Places and audio-described events.

Euan’s Guide wants to make it easy for people to find the information they need and remove the fear of the unknown. It does this by combining reviews, information from venues and pictures to create a clearer view of that place’s accessibility. That way people can decide for themselves if a venue is right for them.

As well as giving people a platform to voice their opinions, the reviews on Euan’s Guide can lead to real-world changes. This is because all of the reviews submitted to the website are sent to venues, which can motivate them to act. Whether that’s getting them to talk more openly about their accessibility, or make physical changes to improve their accessibility.

Euan’s Guide relies on people getting involved and leaving reviews. Reviewers are asked to rate how accessible somewhere is, comment on how to get there, getting in and around the venue, what the loos were like, and how helpful the staff were.

It is easy to get started, simply visit EuansGuide.com, create an account and add your first review!

SPEAKUNIQUE Knowing he was at risk of losing his ability to speak, Euan approached researchers at the University of Edinburgh to see if they could help him find a way to keep communicating with his sons in his own voice. As a collaborative voicebank research project, SpeakUnique aims to create personalised synthetic voices for use in communication aids by individuals who have lost or will lose the ability to speak. Based on research from the Euan MacDonald Centre, Anne Rowling Clinic for Regenerative Neurology and the Centre for Speech Technology Research, SpeakUnique will soon be launching a service to offer personalised synthetic voices more widely. For more information please visit SpeakUnique.org.

Euan said: “We built Euan’s Guide as a user-friendly alternative to hours of web searching, phone calls and recces that people with access requirements often have to make before visiting somewhere new. Our growing users prove that just knowing that someone with similar access requirements went somewhere and had a great time gives others the confidence to visit. I hope that more people will continue to use our website to find different places to go and tell others about their visit.”

EuansGuide.com is a place where people can share their first-hand experience and find new places to visit. The non-profit guide now features thousands of reviews written by disabled people, their families, friends and carers, and covers everything from wheelchair access to Changing

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Tokyo ACCESSING

BY KATIE CAMPBELL

The Paralympics are almost upon us, so get your suitcase packed and prepare for a once-in-alifetime trip to the Land of the Rising Sun.

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re you ready for Tokyo 2020? If you’re flying over to catch the fun first-hand, you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. We’ve put on our research hat and carefully curated a guide for PosAbility readers heading to Japan for what’s set to be the best Paralympics yet.

ON THE MOVE Tokyo is unrelentingly massive. How do the 38,140,000 people who live in the Greater Tokyo area travel? They jump on the megalopolis’ impressive public transport system. Tokyo, like Osaka, has been built up since the 1900s around its light railway system, meaning that infrastructure prioritises the railway over all other forms of public transport. This means, of course, that it’s busy.

During the Olympics and Paralympics, it’s going to be unbelievably busy. The best way to travel in Tokyo is using

ACCESSING TOKYO One of the best tips we found while researching an accessible trip to Tokyo is to look out for Tenji blocks.

In 1965, all-round great guy Seiichi Miyake invented a system of tactile paving to assist a friend of his, who was visually impaired, get around a little easier.

Large buildings, like department stores, and public transport stations all have Tenji blocks installed. If you’re struggling to find an accessible pathway through an area, follow the Tenji blocks, and you’ll likely happen upon an accessible lift, bathroom, or exit.

People in the UK will be pleased to know that Japanese accessible toilets – called daredemo toire (誰でもトイ レ), or everyone toilets – are very like accessible loos at home, but with a lovely Japanese flair. They’re not segregated by gender, so if you need someone to come in and help you, there’s no stigma or trouble surrounding that. They also have those cool toilets that spray your bum clean, so you feel like you’ve just taken your backside through a carwash. Much like your rear end after visiting one, you can expect the toilets to be pretty clean too, even if they’re in a public place, thanks to the Japanese attitude of respecting your

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its railway system, which is fast, reliable, and always on time to a level of precision that will strike joy and fear into the hearts of tourists from the UK. In 2018, the average amount of time a train was delayed for in Tokyo was a measly 0.7 minutes.

While the astonishing levels of punctuality appear to make for a daunting service, Tokyo’s railway system is actually incredibly easy to navigate – especially if you’re a wheelchair user! While that may sound somewhat paradoxical, wheelchair users not only get half-price railway tickets, but in order to properly utilise the train service, they need to tell train staff where they plan on journeying to so they can begin making arrangements for the traveller. This means a member of staff will come and meet you, take you to the train, put you on the train (which may require the use of a temporary ramp, but the train may also be step-on if you’re at one of the modernised stations), and another member of staff will be there to collect you at your next stop. From this point, they’ll either pop you on your connecting train, where yet another member of staff will happily help you out of the train, or escort you to the exit.

93% of Tokyo’s stations offer step-free access, 96% have a “universal” toilet, and almost every single one has tactile paving to help visually impaired travellers get around.

Many buses also have step-on access, and taxis with lifts for wheelchair users are also available, but are costly – taxis in Japan are generally a bit more expensive than the rest of the world, but they are available should you need one.

surroundings. Some toilets even have ostomy bag cleaning facilities! This is usually marked on signs, so it’s easy to see if you need it.

In Japan, if something is accessible, it’s called “barrier free”, or it will be noted that it has “universal design”.

A lot of smaller shops and restaurants will struggle to accommodate wheelchair users due to the cultural emphasis on designing to reduced space, so you may be turned away from restaurants if you’re nonambulatory and can’t manage inside. Space inside shops may be too small for larger wheelchairs – and in Japan, where wheelchairs are manufactured smaller than the rest of the world, you might find your perfectly average wheelchair in the UK being too large.

There may also be a small number of steps leading into shops and restaurants, but ramps are being installed in advance of the Paralympics in many places, so that might be a smaller concern. If you’re out and about and looking for somewhere to go and eat, shop, or get your bottom spring cleaned, Bmaps is a brilliant app that lets you tell other people how accessible a place is. You can use it anywhere in the world, but it’s a Japanese app and is popular amongst disabled citizens there. It’s an absolute must-have for anyone travelling around the city.

SIGHTS AND SOUNDS What are the must-see places in Tokyo? That is massively dependent on a few things: what you’re into, how much time you’ve got, and (sadly) how accessible the location is. The PosAbility Team aren’t going to Japan for the Paralympics (we’re not crying about it we promise), but we’d love to live vicariously through our readers who are, so if we were going, here’s some of the places that we’d be first in line to visit:

HACHIKO-MAE SQUARE, SHIBUYA You know those pictures of all the people crossing the road all at once in Tokyo? That’s here. That’s the Shibuya Crossing, and it’s both terrifying and exhilarating. Right beside it, however, is Hachikō-mae Square. It’s where the statue of a dog – Hachikō the dog – sits, and it’s bound to make you cry. The little dog would wait on his owner coming back from work at the station every day, and even after his owner died, he’d still wait. The public were so moved they erected a statue of Faithful Dog Hachikō (忠 犬ハチ公). Tissues at the ready for this one. Thankfully, it’s totally flat, barrier-free, and a great photo opportunity.

SENSO-JI TEMPLE You wouldn’t think a temple that has existed in parts since 645AD would have incredible access, but that’s Tokyo for you. Sensō-ji is a stunning Buddhist temple, and the most visited spiritual site in the world. Visitors enter through the Kaminarimon (雷門, Thunder Gate), pass through the stunning Hōzōmon (宝蔵門, Treasure-House Gate), and finally see the temple in all its glory. There’s great access here; guide dogs are welcome, English language materials are available, and they’ve designed the lift to blend into its temple surroundings. Non-invasive accessible design at its best.

DIVERCITY TOKYO

Great reason to go here: there is a massive Gundam outside. What is a Gundam, you ask? It is a giant robot (mecha) used for dogfighting in space. Anime fans will be familiar with perhaps one of the somewhere-in-the-regionof 12,000 series of Mobile Suit Gundam (we’re being hyperbolic but there are a lot). It is to Japan what Star Wars is to Westerners. It’s completely accessible, and honestly just extremely cool. There’s also a Gundam café and a merchandise shop!

AKIHABARA Japan is lightyears ahead of the rest of the world in terms of its electronics, and the best place to go for gadget and tech lovers is Akihabara. It’s a pretty accessible shopping location in the city, but of course, access will depend on your needs and the shops themselves. This is also one of the few locations in the city where most stores will have a person who can speak foreign languages, due to the prevalence of tourists. Once you’re finished shopping for gadgets, take a stroll around and see all the cosplayers (people dressed as characters from anime, manga, and so on) advertising stores in the area.

HARAJUKU When you see images of young Japanese boys dressed in rockabilly clothes performing in the park, or girls in gothic Lolita clothing, there’s a good chance those pictures were taken in Harajuku. Yoyogi park is where the rock ‘n’ rollers perform for free; if you want to know what the next big thing in kawaii (cute) fashion is in Japan, head to Takeshita Street and visit one of the 200 shops on the 400m stretch.

As with Akibahara, accessibility varies from shop to shop, but the area’s atmosphere is enough of a reason to go.

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GETTING RESOURCEFUL The first thing you should do if you’re seriously planning to visit Japan is take yourself over to the fantastic website Accessible Japan. If PosAbility’s guide to Japan is the eye in the sky, Josh Grisdale is the man on the ground witnessing the action first-hand. Josh is a Canadian expat who uses a powerchair to move around Tokyo, and his expertise is absolutely invaluable when it comes to figuring out what the best way to do what you want to do on your holiday to Japan is. For manual wheelchair users, we looked to Japanese native Yuriko Oda, whose YouTube channel Wheelchair Walker has fantastic resources showing how she gets around Tokyo in her manual wheelchair. If there’s something you’re desperate to do in Japan and we haven’t covered it, Yuriko and Josh should be your first port of call to see how accessible it is. Accessible Japan also has great information for travellers who are visually impaired, travelling with guide dogs, sign language speakers, and Braille readers on how to successfully navigate Tokyo, so it can’t be understated how great the website is.

If there’s anything in this article that we haven’t covered – we only have so much space, unfortunately – here are some of the best resources for planning your trip: accessible-japan.com omakase-tour.com accessible.jp.org/Tokyo gotokyo.org japan-experience.com japan-accessible.com

TALK THE TALK We’ve told you how to get around, now it’s time to learn what to do when you inevitably get confused and need help: ask! English isn’t particularly widely spoken in Japan, but politeness is a staple of Japanese society, and if you ask for help, you will receive it in abundance. Here’s a few phrases we picked up from around the web (thanks again to Accessible Japan for the disability-centric ones) that you might need on your travels.

Konnichiwa (Kon-ee-chi-WA) Hello Sayounara (Sai-OH-nah-rah) Goodbye Dōmo arigatō/arigatō gozaimashita] (Doh-mo ahree-GAH-toe/ah-ree-GAH-toe go-zai-mash-tah) Thank you very much (casual/formal) Kore wa ikura desuka? (Koh-ray WA ih-koo-rah dess-KAH?) How much is this?

Sumimasen (soo-MEE-mah-sen) Excuse me [Place] Doko desu ka? (doh-koh dess KAH?) Where is [place]?

Shōgai-sha desu (SHOW-guy-sha des) I’m disabled

If there’s something you’re desperate to do in Japan and we haven’t covered it, Yuriko and Josh should be your first port of call

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[disability] o motte-masu ([disability] oh-MOH-tay-e mas) I have [disability] Tetsu datte kudasai (tet-SU dah-tay kuda-sigh) Please help me Kaite itadakimasu ka? (Kai-TAY eeh-ta-dah-kay-mas KAH) Can you write that down for me?

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he cottages are situated on a small farm in the middle of the county and are ideally placed to visit the Eden Project, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, many National Trust properties, and either north or south coastlines. The beautiful filming locations featured in Poldark and Doc Martin are close by too! Accessible trails

have plenty of car parking space beside the ramped access.

such as the Camel Trail are a great way to explore the stunning Cornish scenery. If you like to get out and about on the water there are also plenty of opportunities. The owners live on site and have plenty of knowledge about accessibility in the local area and are happy to suggest ideas for trips out and eateries.

The smaller cottage, Buzzard Watch, has two bedrooms and can accommodate four guests. This cottage features a large, open plan sitting room with exposed beams and a woodburner. The larger cottage, Valley View, has three bedrooms and can accommodate six guests (a z-bed is available for one extra guest). All rooms can be either twin or superking or electric profiling beds are available. Both cottages

Treworgans Farm Holidays have provided fully accessible holiday accommodation for about 15 years and as a result they have built up a large range of mobility aids which are available for guests to use free of charge. These items include electric profiling beds with air mattresses, electric portable hoists, a variety of shower chairs, riser recliner chairs, rota stands, perching stools, wheeled trolleys, and more smaller items. All bedrooms have ensuite facilities with the designated accessible bedrooms having completely level wet rooms. The kitchens are fitted with electric hobs and sinks with a clear under space. They are also equipped with washer dryers, combination microwaves, food processors, and fridges or fridge/freezers. Guests can also benefit from free superfast broadband.

Each cottage has its own private patio area with seating and a BBQ where guests can enjoy the views over the fields.

GET IN TOUCH For more details and news please visit treworgans.co.uk and subscribe to the newsletters. You can also like Treworgans Farm Holidays on Facebook. To speak directly please phone 01726 883 240 or 07762 173 860.

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he end of January brought a flurry of snowy weather that threw us all off-kilter. As January dissipates, we feel ourselves moving towards warmer weather, and the arrival of spring.

With spring comes snowdrops, birds migrating home, and the Easter holidays. With everyone feeling like they’ve just barely left Christmas behind them, the thought of another week or two of keeping the kids occupied can be a little overwhelming. Luckily for you, we’ve been planning ahead of time, and we’ve got a lot of great ideas for things to keep the little ones occupied in between stints of eating chocolate eggs and watching the the Prince of Egypt.

We’ve got a terrific article from Stephanie Quintrell on her experiences as a disabled parent, and she explains what led her to begin her own Facebook group for other disabled parents. Dan White’s regular column this issue explores the toll that a lack of help the system gives to the parents of disabled children can have on them; and we introduce T35 sprinter Thomas Stamp as our Future Voice.

Let’s not forget that we also have our fantastic products on page 72, too! If there’s anything you’d like to see included in our next issue of PosAbility, please don’t hesitate to email ros@2apublishing.co.uk - we’d love to hear from you!

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EASTER!

BY COLETTE COOPER

As spring and the Easter holidays are fast approaching you may be starting to think about your next family outing - but where to begin? Sometimes the thought of getting out and about in bustling, public places is a bit of a no-go, but with a plethora of accessible facilities available for kids and members of the family, you can plan out your Easter break in no time. Here are some examples of the eggcellent activities available for the whole family to enjoy.

ATTRACTIONS f you’re thinking about a day out packed full of adventure and excitement, perhaps consider paying a visit to one of Merlin’s UK attractions. These include: Legoland Windsor Resort and Legoland Discovery Centre, Alton Towers, Chessington World of Adventures, Madame Tussauds and The London Eye. Thankfully, it’s now easier for families with disabled children to visit one of these famous attractions. With a Merlin Pass, which you can get online or at a local attraction, complimentary passes are available for carers.

By visiting one of these attractions, you can experience the excitement of visiting somewhere new, and be safe in the knowledge that there are various accessible facilities available. If you’re thinking about Legoland for example, disabled parking, hotel accessibility, and rides equipped for wheelchair users are available.

The fun continues, as with the Merlin’s Magic Wand children’s charity, you can apply for tickets for your child and their immediate family members, that will give you a free day out at one of their attractions! You’re eligible if your child is aged between two and 18 years old with a disability or a serious or long-term illness.

On the other hand, if you’re thinking of venturing to Alton Towers, their easy-to-find modern Changing Places facilities and toilets, adult changing beds, hoists, height-adjustable sinks and lots of room for carers may also make you feel more at ease. You can also plan out your day with the resort’s handy Accessibility Guide.

If you fancy a magical stroll through a woodland and garden, Alton Tower’s CBeebies Land has the Something Special Sensory Garden with Makaton signage to help children with language development.

If you’re ready for a day or two packed full of excitement, rides, exploring and adventuring, give some of these attractions a try this Easter.

CINEMAS If you’re in the mood for more of a chilled-out family event this Easter, or you simply can’t make up your mind, how about catching the latest flick? Not only will this give yourself and the family the chance to enjoy a film together, but there are a range of facilities available for those with a disability.

The autism charity Dimensions have teamed up with the Vue, Showcase, Cineworld and Odeon cinemas to offer screenings on Sunday mornings that are autism-friendly. They show a selection of new releases as well as classics, so it’s a great way to see all your favourite animated characters in action!

To make the screenings autism-friendly, the lights will be low, the volume turned down, there are no trailers at the beginning, and you can move around the cinema if you wish, as well as take in your own food and drink.

Some of the other adjustments of cinemas partnered with Dimensions include a relaxed environment, disabled access, staff trained in autism awareness, and chill-out zones. The charity also encourages every cinema to personalise their screenings to their audience.

If you have a child over the age of eight, the Cinema Exhibitors Association Card (CEA card) is available and provides a free adult cinema ticket to a parent or carer whenever they accompany a disabled child to the cinema, making the experience a little easier.

So grab some popcorn, a drink, a snack and take the family to a classic, a cheesefest, or perhaps the film of the century.

merlinannualpass.co.uk

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NATURE RESERVES

CLASSES

Have you been stuck inside too long? Need a bit of fresh air in the great outdoors? Want to explore but worried about the lack of accessible options for you and members of your family? Not to fear, there are plenty of areas in the UK which make exploring the great outdoors more of a simple, relaxing process.

If you’re finding a lot of activities and events very ‘been there done that’, why not consider taking a creative class?

One that suits you and the family this Easter. Whether you hope to find your inner Picasso with an art class, or act until your heart’s content with a drama class, there are many accessible options out there.

Whether you fancy some exploring or simply taking a stroll with the family, the Wildlife Trusts organisation has nature reserves which may be the place to go, as many of their paths contain wheelchair and buggy access. Not only that, but some of their reserves also include sensory gardens, lifts, and disabled facilities. Find the closest reserve to you at wildlifetrusts.org.

The Royal Academy of Arts in London offers facilities to blind and partially sighted visitors, wheelchair users, visitors living with dementia, Deaf and hearing-impaired visitors, neurodiverse visitors, and those on the autistic spectrum.

There are various scenic walks and nature reserves across the UK which may also be what you’re looking for. Childwall Woods, Liverpool, has ramped and sloped access around the woodland, Galloway Forest Park – Clatteringshaws Bruce’s Stone Trail in Dumfries and Galloway has a member of staff trained in disability awareness and they also have water bowls for assistance dogs.

If you don’t feel up to travelling too far, why not simply head into the garden or to a nearby park to get some fresh air – and maybe hunt for Easter eggs in the process – everyone loves an Easter egg hunt!

PLAY AREAS AND LEISURE CENTRES While this option is aimed at the younger members of the family, there are still opportunities available for adults and teens.

Let the kids explore and burn off some energy at leisure centres across the UK equipped with the accessibility options you may need. Gympanzees pop-up leisure centres are based around Bristol and offer families with disabled children the opportunity to experience a fun-filled day at a totally inclusive adventure-style gym.

For the family to enjoy, there is a family workshop for children with SEND called Imagining with Paper; it is tailored to your family, and is led by a specialist artist educator and designed for children with SEND and their family and friends. Another family-friendly event that has been taking place is the ‘Art, Coffee and Conversation’ sessions for people living with dementia.

Or, if you’re just looking to pay a little visit to the RA, there is access to the galleries, multi-sensory workshops and regular, or one-to-one audio-described tours.

As far as classes go, it doesn’t just have to be something arty. If you fancy finding your rhythm or you just want a good ol’ boogie, why not consider a dance class?

The Inclusive Dance UK organisation encourages dancers, choreographers and teachers of different genres of dance to join their team of specialists. They aim to develop inclusive dance in the UK - involving both disabled and non-disabled people. You will benefit from the instruction of professional dancers and choreographers, and the beauty is you don’t have to have any dance experience yourself.

Ashcroft Art Centre is also offering a taster session ‘Dance For Young People With Learning Disabilities’ for children between 14-17 years old this spring – a great way for young people with learning difficulties to gain confidence and help develop coordination.

If you think the family might enjoy something creative and different, taking a class may be the way to go.

Gympanzees are still confirming funding and details for their next pop-ups, which they hope to run during the Easter and summer holidays. Not only that, but they’re planning to open the UK’s first, fully inclusive leisure facility across the UK and the first is to be in the Bristol area.

If you would rather take the family for a swim, Michael Woods Sports and Leisure Centre in Glenrothes, Fife, is equipped with facilities such as pool hoists in all three pools, a passenger lift which goes to all three levels, induction loop system within reception and activity areas, disabled changing facilities, disabled toilets, unassisted wheelchair access and a ramp entrance. Guide dogs are also welcome.

Check out your local swimming pool or leisure centre to see what accessible activities they have on offer.

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Hopefully, now you’re prepped and have some ideas for your next family outing or activity. Whether you fancy a chilled day with the kids, bustling adventure with the family, or a mix of both, have a ball this Easter!

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Diary DISABLED MUM

BY STEPHANIE QUINTRELL Stephanie Quintrell shares her experience of being a disabled parent and tells us why she has started her own Facebook page to help other disabled parents.

D

isability isn’t new to me, but being disabled full-time is. I have lived for the last ten years as a part-time wheelchair user.

My health has been up and down, but I have been lucky enough to spend this time never being completely dependent on my wheelchair. After three very good years with my health, I went from being fully mobile to wheelchair-dependent overnight. One day I could walk, the next I couldn’t. Over the last few months, my health has deteriorated rapidly, leaving me unable to weight-bear, the use of only one hand, and having seizures. My world has changed dramatically, but more than that, my family’s world has changed also. I am a mum of a two-year-old boy and now stepmother to an 11-year-old girl. Parenting has definitely changed for me, and we have had to go through a period of adjustment, whilst we adapt to my new capabilities.

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wanted to do, that we cannot because I cannot access the facilities. For us, it’s about forward planning. We fully research where we want to go to make sure I can join in as much as I would like to. For me, sometimes that’s watching from the sideline and being photographer, and yes a little bit of me feels jealous that it’s not me coming down the slide as well, but when I hear my son laugh, it makes me thankful for even being there at all.

It is amazing how a two-year-old can adapt so quickly. He has learnt what mummy can and can’t do: he helps me pick things up when I drop them, he asks daddy to help mummy on the sofa when he wants a cuddle with me, he will kiss my poorly hand to help it get better. Everyone who meets my boy comments on what a caring, lovely child he is, and his nursery noted that when another child is unwell or upset, he strokes them on the back to make them feel better. What more could a parent want than to be bringing up a happy, helpful and loving child? Disability hasn’t stopped me parenting my child; it has just taught me to be creative with how I go about

ped n’t stop : ity has d il il b h a c is D my renting me pa t taught me to o s g it has ju ve with how I ati re c e b things about

The day I entered my wheelchair full-time, was the day I felt incapable of being a parent anymore. I felt I was no longer able to be what my little boy needed me to be; I could no longer chase him around a play centre or run in a park. But now, as I sit in our new adapted house, with my little one asking me to play Spider-Man with him, I realise I am still the mum I always have been, if not better. I am just a sitting mum rather than a standing one. I think society hasn’t helped with how I have felt about myself as a parent. There are so many places to visit as a family with little ones, but how many are fully accessible?

I cannot count the number of places we have wanted to go to, or activities we have

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e

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.

s to find a solut etime i on som to x wh o b at e m th e ay d i s b t

e

an

k to tas y as

things. Opinions expressed by strangers have made me question at times if I should be a parent now I am less physically able, but I am so fortunate to have the most incredible people around me reminding me how much my little man needs me, and what a good job I am doing. Why shouldn’t disabled people be parents? We have the same opportunity to bring up a child well, we just have to look outside the box sometimes to find a solution to what may be an easy task to others.

I started to look into what information is out there for disabled parents and I was surprised and disappointed to find not a lot. This is when my husband suggested I do something to help this, and so my blog was created. It started as a way to recommend and signpost disabled people to accessible places, and has evolved into posts about my experiences as a disabled parent, wife and woman. I created my blog a month ago and now have over 100 followers. It’s early days, but I hope to be able to reach others in a similar situation to me. I love the idea that my blog may benefit even just one person, maybe by one of my recommendations, or maybe just to read that someone out there understands the daily battles we face as a disabled parent.

... we ju s t h ave t

o

loo ko

u

Writing brings me a sort of therapy; I can express how I am feeling in written words in a way I find I cannot verbally. For the time I am sitting and typing, I am free of all the challenges I face every day, as I am just a person talking about life.

If you would like to follow my journey, and maybe find something in my words to help you or someone you know, then please search on Facebook for Diary of a Disabled Mum.

of a sort e m s wI g ess ho in a g brin r n i p t i x r e s W n y, I ca n word therap ing in writte rbally e el nnot v am fe a c I find way I

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A Man’s WORLD

BY KATIE CAMPBELL

Researchers are beginning to believe that girls experience neurodiversity differently to boys – could this explain why autism diagnoses are so comparatively low in girls?

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utism researcher Professor Ami Klin, director of the prestigious Marcus Autism Centre, once referred to autistic women as “research orphans” as multiple medical avenues of intervention aren’t tested on them, but are focused on boys instead.

Other researchers have termed them the “Lost Girls”. Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism, which has led to the creation of the myth that autism is a disorder which only affects boys and men.

In 2018, the Guardian reported that by the age of six, at the time where the initial majority of neurodiverse indicators are expected to have surfaced in children, only 8% of girls were diagnosed as being on the autistic spectrum, compared to 25% of boys.

By age 11, only 20% of girls had received a diagnosis, compared with 50% of boys at the same age. Women are also more likely to receive a different diagnosis before being diagnosed as being on the autistic spectrum than men. In studies researching autism and its diagnostic markers, men outnumber women eight to one.

In the same article, Prof Francesca Happé, director of the Social, Genetic & Developmental Psychiatry Centre at King’s College London, notes that the vast majority of research that has been done thus far on autism isn’t actually on autism as a whole – it’s on male autism. Evidence from recent studies shows that there may in fact be a difference in how autism presents in boys and girls.

“We’ve overlooked autism in women and girls and I think there’s a real gender equality issue here,” she told the newspaper. “I think we are missing large numbers and misdiagnosing them too.”

Neurologist Kevin Pelphrey is a wellrespected researcher who is leading a multidisciplinary group study in which his team try to break down exactly what it is that makes autism present differently between genders.

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It’s thought that autistic girls are better at learning masking techniques than their male counterparts

“The most surprising thing — it might not be surprising to the clinicians out there, but to the scientists — is that we’re seeing strong social brain activation or function in girls with autism, which is, strictly speaking, counter to everything we’ve reported ourselves and other groups have reported,” he told The Atlantic. “Their social brains seem to be intact.”

Socialisation appears to be one of the primary markers which distinguishes the difference in diagnostic markers between boys and girls; younger girls who live with autism may appear overly chatty, but as Happé notes in the same article, girls are expected to be chattier than boys. There is a level of societal expectation which plagues the diagnoses.

“Are we more tolerant, at least in some Western societies, of a girl who is very, very quiet and socially aloof, compared to a boy? I don’t know; I suppose you could say we have higher expectations of women,” said Happé. “All of these are hypotheses and they’re only interesting if they’re testable.”

It’s thought that autistic girls are better at learning masking techniques than their male counterparts. Around puberty, neurotypical girls will begin conforming to societal expectations of gender; they will form tight friendship groups, they will take part in social rituals, they will engage in performative activities involving massively elevated grooming standards. Research suggests that young neurodiverse girls may see these new rules as “pointless,” and when situations arise in which they are expected to conform, they will not. They will begin to experience social isolation as their peers may begin ignoring or bullying them for not following these rules. It’s from here that neurodiverse girls will begin learning the “rules” of being a teenage girl. They will then actively perform the mentally and emotionally draining task of following these rules, where most would follow them instinctively. “It’s exhausting because it’s like you’re doing math all day,” said Pelphrey.

It may be this masking that leads to the substantial number of differential diagnoses in autistic girls. Where a boy exhibits the markers we expect of a neurodiverse person, an autistic girl will work to mask her autism because it’s what society demands of her.

This has led a research team headed by director of the University of Cambridge’s Autism Research Centre, Simon BaronCohen, to coin what they call the “faux pas test”. If a woman is having to work to follow these rules, she will eventually make a mistake, as she’ll encounter a situation that she’s not learned how to deal with yet.

All of this, however, is hypothetical. Some researchers have proposed that autism is more likely to present in boys because girls’ genes are more likely to be “protected” from mutations occurring in their genes; some like evolutionary biologist Bernard Crespi believe that neurotypical traits are “imprinted” on the X chromosome; and some have gone along the lines that it is connected in some way to the fact that men’s brains are larger, and boys are exposed to higher levels of testosterone in the womb.

While it’s not a certain science yet, there are many research groups working to establish how to improve the lives of neurodiverse women and girls. If the medical world can establish a better understanding of how to deliver a prompt and correct diagnosis of neurodiverse girls, their lives will be significantly improved by having appropriate access to the help and resources they need.

...an autistic girl will work to mask her autism because it’s what society demands of her

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Kids’ PRODUCTS

CAN CRASH GAME Inspired by the classic fairground attraction, this game simply has kids trying to topple cans with some bean bags. It includes ten real metal cans with a silly face design and three bean bags – just stack and throw. It can be played solo or with friends and it can help little ones develop throwing skills, aim and increase concentration. coolstuff.com

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Designed to help increase focus, keep kids calm during travel, aid concentration in the classroom and reduce fidgeting, particularly in people living with autism, ADHD and SPD. The pad can also ease restless leg syndrome at night, as it’s small enough to use while working at your computer or watching TV. amazon.co.uk

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£39.97

SPIRAL TUBE SET Prices from

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This sensory liquid set comes with three large, colourful tubes containing water and oil, and is designed for children living with sensory impairments. Watch colourful droplets begin to fall and dribble round a spiral staircase as you turn the tube upside down. This toy is both calming and captivating, and a great way to get a child’s attention. sensetoys.com

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FLEXZI 3 The MERU Flexzi 3 is an extra-strong, triple-stranded Flexzi that can be clamped onto wheelchairs, bed frames and other items. It comes with a detachable iPad case made from EVA foam which has its own carry handle. This can be removed for portability and other devices can be mounted onto the Flexzi 3 in its place.

01372 725 203 meru.org.uk

Prices from

£110

INFINITY MIRROR TUNNEL LAMP This mirror tunnel lamp with LED lighting creates an amazing infinity illusion which is perfect for parties and sensory rooms. The device is battery-operated and is a safe and useful educational tool for children with learning disabilities and autistic children. It’s made from durable materials and is safe to use for all ages. amazon.co.uk

Prices from

£11.49

PRINCESS CASTLE PLAY TENT This large castle play tent is perfect for little fairy princesses. It comes with magical looking star lights and can be used both inside and outside. It offers a safe environment where kids can have their own space to read, relax or play with friends. It is made from a durable, polyester blend fabric which is easy to clean. amazon.co.uk

Prices from

£29.95

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DISABILITY

YOUNG PEOPLE

MENTAL HEALTH

HOMELESSNESS

At Sanctuary Supported Living we provide supported housing, move-on accommodation, CQC registered services, including residential care and nursing homes, and floating support. We specialise in services for young people, people with physical and learning disabilities, people with mental health needs and acquired brain injuries, and homeless families and individuals.

Our personalised care and support services enable people to identify their goals and aspirations, setting them on their pathway to independence.

0330 1233 247 @SancSL www.sanctuary-supported-living.co.uk

HOMELESSNESS AND DISABILITIES

H

omelessness is one of the most devastating issues facing our country. Statistics from Crisis reveal that, on average, homeless people die at just 44 years old. Not only that, but society often doesn’t recognise that each homeless person is an individual; some may be part of a couple, others may have pets, and some may live with disabilities.

According to statistics, the number of physically disabled people affected by homelessness in England increased by three quarters during 2010 to 2019. This is something that national supported housing provider, Sanctuary Supported Living, wants to help address.

We aim to provide holistic support for people accessing our services, not just a roof over their heads. Our service provision reflects the fact that each person who becomes homeless has individual needs.

Our Stanley Grove service in Manchester is part of the ‘A Bed Every Night’ (ABEN) initiative introduced by the Greater Manchester Mayor and the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

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The service meets the immediate needs of entrenched rough sleepers and those with complex support needs.

It supports up to 20 people including those with limited mobility and wheelchair users, and people with mental health needs.

Staff work with residents to build up life skills, from cooking to paying rent, with support to manage any addictions.

Homelessness stretches even further than preventing rough sleeping. Without community-based services with the right support, people living with learning and physical disabilities may face obstacles when simply trying to get by in life.

Services like those provided by Sanctuary Supported Living support people to exercise their right to live in housing of their choice, with access to life’s opportunities.

Residents from Corner House, a residential care home for people with learning disabilities in Mansfield, for example, have been trained in fire safety and personal safety, with further training days hosted for community groups.

Sara Keetley, Operations Director – Sanctuary Supported Living, said: “Every day, our staff ensure that people affected by homelessness and disabilities are treated as individuals with their own needs, and help them to access the right housing and support to lead independent lives.”

Lodge of South Gloucester AC who really took me under his wing and could see the potential in me. I decided that athletics was for me as it was where I was making huge improvements. My mum signed me up to Cerebral Palsy Sport where I made even more friends, my confidence excelled and I had more running opportunities.

FUTURE VOICES Each issue we will be shining a light on a young disabled person who is blazing their own trail. Whether that be campaigning for access, giving up their time to help their community, achieving success in the sporting or arts arena, or educating their peers on disability.

THOMAS STAMP

M

y name is Thomas, I am 17 and a T35 sprinter. I am a member of South Gloucestershire AC and on the parallel success pathway. I enjoy paracycling too. In 2019 I was given the amazing opportunity of being part of Team Rickshaw for BBC Children in Need, an experience I will never forget. I have also recently become a Young Sporting Ambassador for Cerebral Palsy Sport.

I have CP, spastic diplegia, ADHD and mild autism. I am a student in Swindon studying sports coaching, maths and English. I am very sociable, I am also very competitive and determined. Unfortunately, I have experienced bullying and some nasty disability hate crimes, but I do not let it hold me back. In fact, it made me more determined.

Because of my experience of bullying I want to help others and inspire children who have also been victims of bullying and subject to physical attacks because of their disability, through sport.

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN I was always determined for people to see “me” rather than the disability, but because of the bullying I was so angry and mistrusting. I started going to the local access days arranged by Swindon Community Health and Wellbeing Team. On one of these days I was able to access and have a go at various sports that I wouldn’t have otherwise. There I met Job King from UK Athletics who thought I had potential.

I have now competed in many races locally and nationally all around the UK. I’ve represented the Midlands at the School Games where I won silver in the 100m. In 2018 I was selected for the CISPRA World Games in Barcelona. This was an amazing experience, bonding with the team as well as meeting some truly superb athletes from around the world. I was still recovering from injuries but determined to do my country and team proud. I won two silver medals in the 100m and 200m.

THE IMPACT The impact of sport for me is just outstanding. My health and confidence has improved and no longer am I so frustrated. The friends I have made has given my whole outlook of the world a different meaning. I met Paralympian Hannah Cockcroft and she really inspired me to “just smash it!” I’ve trained with Jordan Howe, a T35 sprinter, and met Richard Whitehead. Training can be hard, and I have days when I just want a break from physio and training, but if I don`t put in the effort then I am not going to achieve my goals and dreams. Plus, my muscles will become stiffer and walking and running will be harder for me. I have come from being in a wheelchair (occasionally) and not even being able to jump a small hurdle, to now not using a wheelchair and I can jump as well as run. I have my mum and dad to thank for keeping me motivated when I had some very dark days and some very early morning starts, helping me with my stretches, physio and my nutrition.

AWARDS I was honoured to be awarded the Colin Raines Trophy for Endeavour at the Cerebral Palsy Sport Awards in 2018. It was also Cerebral Palsy Sport who nominated me for the BBC Children in Need Rickshaw Challenge 2019 alongside five other young people, it was a once in a lifetime experience. I accepted with great honour the invitation to become a Young Sporting Ambassador for Cerebral Palsy Sport and am looking forward to inspiring children and adults for generations to come.

You can find out more about Cerebral Palsy Sport at cpsport.org.

My mum rang Job and was able to get me into a local disability sports club. I entered for the Southwest Regional CP football talent team and got selected; I loved it and made new friends. I was also introduced to coach Mark Images: Cerebral Palsy Sport

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CONFIDENCE WITHOUT COMPROMISE With 82%1 of women saying they associate bladder weakness with being embarrassing, Ontex Global is here to provide confidence without compromise. Introducing Intime, a new generation of absorbing underwear for women with incontinence.

Intime provides maximum protection for women and the low waist has been designed with discretion and comfort in mind, absorbing eight times its own weight. With Intime, women won’t feel like they are wearing incontinence pants, as it looks and feels more like regular underwear.

What’s more, the innovative hipster shape provides a perfect fit under all clothing as well as a comfortable sensation for total wear-ability. With advanced odour control and dry-wear technology, Intime delivers 10 hours of freshness and prevents, blocks and masks all unwanted odours. The seamless fit with cotton-like fabric gives the feeling of regular underwear for comfort and femininity.

They fit securely to the body to provide maximum protection against leakage.

In a recent talkhealth trial2 of Intime, conducted over

14 days, 74% of participants trialling the Intime pants in a normal size said that they now feel more confident since using the pads and 90% saying they would now recommend them.

Alex Shaw, Marketing Manager for the UK & Ireland, comments, “We know that a lack of confidence is a big issue for women who experience incontinence and with the Intime range we want women to be able to take control and regain their confidence with no compromise on femininity.”

“Loved these products. Found them very absorbent and comfortable to wear. They fit perfectly and I had no leaks or odour from them. Very discreet under clothing and feminine to wear. I will be purchasing these products in future and would highly recommend.”

“Super comfy, super soft, super absorption. Very impressed as they work extremely well and give confidence. A good fit under clothes, discreet, and no rustling! Highly recommended.”

Both by talkhealth participants.

Intime is available at www.id-direct.com and a wide selection of online retailers. Prices start from £0.65 per pant.

1. Research conducted by Research by Design in October 2018 with 1000 women aged 35 – 75.

2. Trial conducted in spring 2019 with 164 participants.

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DAN WHITE

without even thinking of your own mortality. To be honest, if we, as carers had the right support from day one, we would not be old before our time in the physical sense. Surely it’s a human right in a human world to make sure that everyone is supported and given the tools to survive and prosper, regardless of abilities? We are here not only to love our children but to be in the best of health so when they need us, we will be there, ready to be the best parents of the best children.

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.

THE BACKBONE OF SOCIETY

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t’s a new year, but as I get older I find a little more winter in my hair.

2019 saw the waving goodbye of a year that was busy on the campaigning and media appearance front, but one also unique in that the only operation for Emily was on an ingrown toenail. However, the signs were there that as Emily grew, ready to roar and rampage, that my physical health was rapidly catching up with me.

I’ve always been fairly healthy, running marathons and playing football, but I think possibly the biggest physical exertion (not only to me but my wife and indeed the reader) has been the lifting of my beautiful disabled daughter. From a perspective point of view the majority of children walk, run and climb, but for parents like ourselves, our children were never given that option from mother nature. Postcode lottery aside, if the equipment were readily available to a disabled child from birth, hoists, wheelchairs, and so on, think of the better physical shape most of us would be in now.

As I am writing this, sprawled out next to me on the sofa is my wife. She has

finally seen her back give up the fight and lies inert trying to keep the stabs of pain at bay. This was always inevitable at some point, one of us would see a disc slip and sadly my wife has beaten me and won the gold. At least she has more patience than me. The regular and increasing occurrence of aches and pains in my body has seen me often shake a fist to the cosmos and say “why me?”

The cosmos barely bothers to return the reply: why not?

Age will wither all of us. Our children are magnificent and we adore the very stardust of which they are composed. However, the system’s refusal to step in and assist us at times of urgent need is the very system we should be shaking fists at. The system ages us. Backs, hips, minds, all succumb to an excess of strain and we soldier on in the name of compassion armed with a modicum of stoicism. As comical as it sounds, it isn’t a joke when your body turns from friend to foe.

When you are a parent of a disabled child, you spend all your time supporting an exceptional life

I fear that the same wretched scenario will play out on another generation of parent carers as the system around us is drained away to nothing. Age will see us all lose mobility and turn into our parents (heaven forbid) but the process does not have to be exacerbated by a lack of will and assistance from the outside care system. If every parent carer suddenly became infirm, the health system would buckle and finally collapse in on itself. Think about it, we with our love and diligence are saving the health system, so give us and our children the tools to prolong that care - and our bones.

“If every parent carer suddenly became infirm, the health system would buckle and finally collapse in on itself”

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SPORT FOR 2020

BY COLETTE COOPER With the Paralympics on the horizon, more disabled people than ever will have the chance to get active. The event is sure to motivate disabled and non-disabled people to get involved in sport this year. In fact, many organisations have considered and planned initiatives which aim to encourage disabled people to take part in more activities, and ultimately, make sports more accessible to all. Here are some examples of the inclusive initiatives that have been considered.

T

he 2020 Summer Paralympics are set to take place from 25 August to 6 September in Tokyo, Japan. The international multi-sport event will feature 22 sports including archery, athletics, badminton, cycling, swimming and many more. Athletes from 80 countries across the globe will take centre stage to showcase their sporting prowess in a bid to do their country proud and claim that coveted gold medal.

The Tokyo Paralympics are sure to encourage others with their Innovative Initiatives for the Tokyo 2020 Games.

Not only do they aim to hold “the most innovative games in history,” but the Paralympic Committee also said it will bring “positive reform to the world” through these new initiatives.

As part of their 2020 initiatives, a Tokyo 2020 Robot Project is underway, which aims to provide support to Games spectators in a variety of situations and promote widespread social use of robots created for the Games.

The objective of the project is to promote robots for social good and the Robot Project List includes support for wheelchair users with human support robots, operational support by power-assist suits, Tokyo 2020 mascot-type robots and more.

Reportedly, the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee and Toyota are also discussing several ways for the robots to make it easier and more enjoyable for children to experience the Games. To find out more visit tokyo2020.org.

It is important for people of all abilities to be encouraged to participate in sport, particularly our little ones. By allowing all children to get involved in activities or sport at a young age, it offers them the chance to meet others in the community, develop important social skills, keeps them active and healthy, and participating in sport is also said to help them concentrate better in school.

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PROMOTING INCLUSION There are various organisations which aim to increase inclusive opportunities for disabled people through their initiatives.

The Youth Sport Trust supports schools and focuses on providing more opportunities for young people with SEND. Their aim is for young people to enjoy physical education (PE), school sport and physical activity. The organisation also works with schools so they can hold events, train staff and share practice with other schools.

The Youth Sport Trust also aims to support 50 Lead Inclusion Schools across England, the hubs of expertise on inclusive sport and PE, to act as champions in their local areas.

This year, the organisation’s initiative, Inclusion 2020, aims to reach out to tens of thousands of pupils and 2,800 schools, as well as to train 6,000 teachers and coaches, ahead of the 2020 Games.

Included with this year’s initiatives, Youth Sport Trust is aiming to launch various projects: Learning and Discovery Days A Paralympic inspired festivals project will ensure that 50 primary, secondary and special schools across England organise inclusive Learning and Discovery sport festivals in the run up to summer 2020. As many as 3000 pupils of all abilities will get the opportunity to compete. The festivals will also focus on inspiring pupils with and without SEND to play unified sport and challenge attitudes of disabilities.

My Personal Best: Character Education This project aims to focus on My Personal Best resources (My Personal Best aims to develop life skills, leadership and employability skills in young people) as well as the quality, range and number of opportunities for all young people, to participate and progress in PE, school sport and the school games. The project looks at increasing confidence and skill.

The Swimming Review Project This will focus on increasing the provision and quality of opportunities for young people with SEND to take part and improve in water safety and swimming – focusing also on increasing skills and confidence.

Active30:30 Young Champions This will consider ways of developing and spreading effective ways to deliver 30 active minutes across the school day, which would support schools and teachers to adjust activities to be more inclusive.

Young Champions seek to increase pupils’ physical and emotional wellbeing, by enabling students to reach 30 active minutes during the school day.

You can find out more at youthsporttrust.org.

INCLUSIVE FITNESS INITIATIVE In the case of the Activity Alliance organisation, an Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI) has been established for several years and supports leisure centres to become more accessible and welcoming environments for disabled people.

On their website, the organisation writes: “Achieving the ‘IFI Mark’ gym accreditation is key in addressing inequality in physical activity as it enables leisure facilities to reach inactive populations and raise awareness of the benefits of exercise to get more disabled people physically active.”

Find out more at activityalliance.org.

The Inclusive Fitness Initiative also encourages changes within facilities, through elements such as strategy, leadership, accessible venue, equipment, partnerships and collaboration. It’s evidently important to consider more inclusive initiatives in sport for 2020.

We know sport helps improve fitness levels, muscle tone, strength, dexterity and coordination. It also teaches participants about teamwork, cooperation, working towards objectives, and handling defeats and disappointments. Sport can also have a positive effect on our mental health: it can help us develop stronger self-esteem, increase our personal sense of worth and it can help alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety.

Thanks to the IFI, various gyms across the UK are more inclusive. Hopefully, this will encourage others to be more active and get involved in sports or fitness in 2020. Other gyms may also be inspired to take on the same initiatives this year – getting more people started on their fitness journeys.

POSITIVE PARTNERSHIPS In a 2019 Sport First article called Partnership in Action, it was highlighted that partnership and collaboration are essential principals in helping everyone to get involved in sport. The report said: “the sporting connection established between the bodies responsible for student sport and disability sport in Scotland crystallises the impact that can be achieved by working together.”

It was also said that the “vibrant partnership between Scottish Student Sport (SSS) and Scottish Disability Sport (SDS)” led to “the roll-out of the UKwide Disability Inclusion Training (DIT) programme across the university and college landscape,” the cornerstone of the partnership.

The DIT programme was placed in all PE courses in Scotland, as well as introduced to universities, in order to enhance the trainee primary teaching curriculum, and delivered to coaches in training across universities and colleges.

A trainee of the programme told sportscotland: “The course was a ‘lightbulb’ moment. Inclusion adds value and inspires us all.”

Not only could partnerships between organisations and schools create more of an

‘inclusive culture,’ but the training provided to students also aims to improve the quality of PE provision and coaching for disabled children, as well as their non-disabled peers.

Plus, it aims to give more disabled children a positive experience of sport and PE. Gavin Macleod, chief executive of SDS, highlighted the importance of making sport more inclusive in schools, writing on the sportscotland website: “We recognised that to make physical activity and sport more inclusive, the next generation of teachers and coaches would be the best positioned to support a more inclusive PEPAS [Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport] culture for successive generations.

“SSS and SDS aim to use DIT to make students feel more confident and competent in working with young people with a disability. The training is delivered to all PE and primary teaching students attending initial teacher training and students attending further and highereducation initial coaching courses.”

The future aspirations of the two organisations, Scottish Student Sport and Scottish Disability Sport, were also set out, these included: closer working relationships across the sporting system, improved connections between sport and disability services, as well as a clearer understanding of the student population and its varying needs. You can find more information at sportscotland.org.

Even if you don’t take part in sport, you can still enjoy the benefits of sportscotland’s #sportforlife approach, which aims to help people enjoy as many benefits of sports as they can.

To help people in Scotland get the most from the sporting system, sportscotland help partners work together in order to make the best use of time, money, information and expertise in sport. This is done with the aim of making the most of Scotland’s outdoor spaces, facilities and the people who allow sport to happen. sportforlife.org It’s clear that there are many approaches, movements and initiatives being considered or put into action by various organisations to encourage more inclusive sport for disabled people.

Hopefully, these initiative examples can be encouraged throughout 2020 and in the run up to the Games to get more people active and having fun in the process. posabilitymagazine.co.uk

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#NoBedtimes

BY COLETTE COOPER

Stay Up Late is a Brighton-based charity dedicated to promoting the rights of people with learning disabilities to live the lifestyle they choose. The charity has recently launched a new campaign that shows how restrictive staff rotas can stop people with a learning disability from enjoying nights out, as well as having control over their social lives.

O

ften, adults living with a disability who stay in supported living, have no choice but to leave a night out early, or not go at all, as their support worker finishes their shift in the middle of an event. Stay Up Late’s #NoBedtimes campaign is shedding light on this issue.

The Stay Up Late charity began after the punk band, Heavy Load, noticed that one of the common characteristics of their gigs was that people were leaving at 9pm, just as they went on stage. They then realised that this must have been due to support workers’ shifts and returning home for a certain time.

To try and change this, the band decided to start an awareness campaign, which grew into a charity, as people living with learning disabilities were missing out on full, active social lives.

“...people living with learning disabilities were missing out on full, active social lives”

...adults living with a disability who stay in supported living, have no choice but to leave a night out early, or not go at all

The campaign and band were featured in the movie Heavy Load, after award-winning film director, Jerry Rothwell, became interested in the punk band made up of musicians with and without disabilities, playing Clash covers and more.

Due to the appearance of the campaign in the film, companies such as the BBC and IFC got involved and many people got in contact to say they were experiencing the same frustrations as those who were missing out in their social lives.

In terms of the #NoBedtimes campaign, Stay Up Late’s campaigns coordinator, Darren Johnson said: “We held a conference in March 2019 – the (un) Ordinary Conference where all the speakers had a learning disability and/or autism followed by a number of discussion workshops.

“From those discussions this came out as the number one priority for what people wanted us to campaign on.

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“While #NoBedtimes is a new campaign that emerged out of those discussions Stay Up Late as a charity has always been about working to overcoming the institutional barriers and outdated discriminatory attitudes that prevent people with learning disabilities having a full and active social life.”

He continued: “The campaign tackles things such as inflexible shift patterns for support workers that can get in the way of late night activities like gigs and clubbing and comedy nights or old-fashioned rules in residential homes where residents are expected to be tucked up in bed by 10pm.

“The campaign seeks to raise awareness as well as providing practical advice for support providers and residential managers about how to rethink the way they support people with learning disabilities while protecting staff terms and conditions and working with staff and unions to bring about positive change.”

The #NoBedtimes campaign was launched at a Stay Up Late fundraising gig in Brighton’s Komedia venue on 12 November last year, where everyone turned up in their pyjamas and partied throughout the night.

The event was hosted by Vince Venus, and four bands performed (Italia 90, Asbo Derek, as well as 2 Decks and The Golgis) to raise funds for the charity and raise awareness of its new campaign. This was an accessible, inclusive gig, which finished at midnight and was open to all in one of the busiest areas of Brighton’s city centre.

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RESTRICTIVE ROTAS The #NoBedtimes campaign aims to help people get the most out of their nights out.

Sometimes people with a learning disability are told that there aren’t enough staff to support them to be out late at night, and some residential homes lock their doors at 10pm and residents don’t have a key.

Change could be made to the restrictive rotas that are stopping people from fully enjoying their social lives.

Along with the #NoBedtimes campaign, the Stay Up Late charity also run the Gig Buddies Project, which pairs up people living with and without learning disabilities in Sussex to be friends and go to events together.

Jason O’Neil of Stay Up Late wrote on the organisation’s website: “The #NoBedtimes campaign is important for people with learning disabilities because we do want to have fun and stay up late. We’re no different from anyone else and we should have the same chances as everyone else.”

On the charity’s website, Daniel RandallNason, another Stay Up Late ambassador, said: “When we go to gigs we want to stay out for the whole thing, not leave when the carer says it’s time to go.”

Stay Up Late has also worked with support provider, Grace Eyre, to create an advice sheet that helps support teams to plan a No Bedtimes staff rota. The information sheet demonstrates how it is possible to write staff rotas that mean people with learning disabilities lead great lives and support staff find it better too.

. . . everyone turned up in their pyjamas and partied throughout the night.

GET INVOLVED Director of Stay Up Late is quoted on their website, saying: “We’d absolutely love you to get involved in our #NoBedtimes campaign. We’ve got lots of great new materials about why it’s important to end outdated practices that stop people with learning difficulties having a great social life and staying up late. Support our campaign and help us fight for the right to party!”

The charity’s “Eight steps to devising a No Bedtimes rota” is available to download, as well as digital information and an easy read leaflet about the campaign, on the Stay Up Late website.

The campaign packs also include leaflets, stickers, badges and advice sheets for support providers.

A Knock-Out Idea After considering what he could do to bring people with learning disabilities together, in order to promote #NoBedtimes, to stay up late and have fun, Stay Up Late ambassador, Fiifi Tetteh, had the idea of holding pool knock-out nights.

He thought of having the pool nights at Frames Sports Bar in Coulsdon, to which have reportedly been a great success.

After Fiifi organised four separate Stay Up Late nights each month up to December 2019, the organisation is now planning to hold an event each month in 2020.

The event has also continued to attract

more people each month. Individuals have the chance to network, make friends and have fun.

With the influence and support of Stay Up Late’s senior management team, they are beginning to overcome the fact that some services were reluctant to get involved with the event. In order to spread the news of these events further, they also plan to advocate to have a Stay Up Late champion in as many services as they can.

Fiifi told Stay Up Late: “I like organising events so that people can come along, have a chat, socialise, get to know each other, and have fun.”

Stay Up Late also hopes to connect with local schools and colleges, as well as other organisations who support people with learning disabilities, mental health needs and autism – to increase interest and participation in the events.

To get involved and help the #NoBedtimes campaign, there are options such as: running an information stall at a gig, open day or event, handing out leaflets and stickers, writing a blog or posting on Twitter and Facebook, or getting someone from Stay Up Late to come and talk to your group. There are also the online resources, including their easy to read guide to the campaign. stayuplate.org

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Accessible Theatre A

BY SHONA LOUISE

M

y love of theatre is something that I inherited from my mum.

Between watching classics like Mary Poppins and my mum’s love for Les Misérables, it was inevitable that I too would find myself hooked on musicals.

However, when my genetic condition started affecting me more, I, like many disabled people, wondered if the theatre was a place for me. I found it daunting as I began to consider making my first trips as a wheelchair user, wondering whether these beautiful but old buildings had considered my needs. In the end, it was my lack of knowledge and information about going to the theatre as a disabled person that became the most daunting element. With time and experience, every trip felt easier simply because I knew more about how everything worked and what to expect. I’ve brought together all that knowledge into one handy guide to help ease any anxieties

Want to enjoy an evening in the theatre but you’re unsure how accessible your night out may be? Never fear – theatre fanatic and blogger Shona Louise knows from personal experience how to get the best out of a good show.

you might have. While it’s true that we have a long way to go when it comes to accessibility in the theatre industry, things are improving all the time and more and more shows are opening their doors to us all.

One of the first things you’ll want to do is hunt down the accessibility information for ...when my genetic condition the theatre you’re looking to started affecting me more I, visit, and for most theatres, like many disabled people, this information is usually easy wondered if the theatre was a to find. Often it can be found place for me on the theatre’s website under “Your Visit” and then “Access”.

Here you can find out about everything from how to book tickets, stepfree access, accessible toilets, inclusive performances and more. A small tip: if you’re a wheelchair user then it’s handy to know the measurements of your wheelchair

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as some of the older theatres often have narrow doors and spaces so theatres will detail the sizes of such doors and spaces so you’ll know before you book whether it will be suitable.

When it comes to booking tickets, my experience has been that, most of the time, you will need to ring up the theatre. An email enquiry option is often given but this can slow down the process of purchasing your tickets so, if you’re able, ringing up is always best. Sometimes you need to sign up for a free access scheme first, and potentially provide some evidence relating to your disability, but this is not the case everywhere. Most theatres have a dedicated access booking line where you can speak to someone who knows about the theatre’s access and will be able to find you the best seats for your needs. Of course, if you’re a wheelchair user this is fairly straight forward as your options are limited, but if you’re an ambulant disabled person, visually impaired, hearing impaired or have another disability, they will be able to help find you the most appropriate seats. Think about in advance what your needs are and this will make finding the perfect seat a lot easier.

Booking via the access line also means you’ll be able to enjoy the theatre’s access rate, discounted tickets for disabled people. This works differently everywhere but you can expect to either receive one free carer ticket, two half-price tickets or the theatre will have a set price for two tickets regardless of where they are in the auditorium. This means disabled people are not having to pay more just because they need a carer with them or because they have a limited seating choice.

For some people, their access needs might go beyond seating and getting inside a theatre. This is where accessible and inclusive performances come in. These types of performances are becoming more common now, especially amongst longrunning productions, and they enable theatres to open their doors to people who would usually struggle to visit. Types of accessible performances include audiodescribed, captioned, BSL-interpreted and relaxed performances. If you have a visual or hearing impairment, a learning disability or would just benefit from a more relaxed environment, then these performances could be right for you.

You’ve done your research and booked your tickets, but what should you expect when you get there? If you’ve specifically booked access tickets, then this is something the theatre will be aware of, and from then on your experience should be made a lot easier thanks to the theatre’s access host. This is someone whose job it is to assist disabled patrons to help make for a smooth and enjoyable theatre trip. They will be able to show you to your seats, point out the accessible toilet and even buy drinks and merchandise on your behalf.

As a wheelchair user, there are still obvious barriers for me when it comes to visiting a theatre, but so often it has been a great access host that has made my experience a positive one. They are there to help so don’t be afraid to ask them for it!

One final tip is that I have found that generally, theatres outside of London have better accessibility, likely due to when they were built, and these days most major productions are touring alongside their West End runs, so always look into whether you can see your favourite shows a little closer to home first!

The theatre industry certainly still has a long way to go in making itself accessible to all, but hopefully, a trip to the theatre seems far less daunting now. As a fullyfledged theatre fan, I have to say, you won’t regret booking your tickets.

Follow Shona on Twitter at @shonalouiseblog.

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The

Meaning

of

LIFE

BY KATIE CAMPBELL

Monty Python legend Terry Jones passed away in January after living with a rare and aggressive form of dementia since 2015.

F

ans of the absurd were devastated in January to learn of the passing of Monty Python legend Terry Jones. Terry was 77 when he passed away at his North London home, surrounded by his family. He had lived with a rare form of dementia, primary progressive aphasia, since 2015; Terry, who loved to orate, slowly lost his ability to communicate, and by 2016, he retired from the public eye and stopped giving interviews.

Terry Jones was well-loved as a member of the pioneering surrealist comedy troupe Monty Python; younger readers who did not expect the Spanish Inquisition may know him as the flight cap-

wearing Cardinal Biggles in the famed sketch. Others may be familiar with Sir Bedevere the Wise from Monty Python’s Holy Grail; as the violently explosive and monstrously rude Mr Creosote in Monty Python’s Meaning of Life; as a Spam-obsessed waitress in a greasy spoon from Monty Python’s Flying Circus; or as Brian’s mother in the Life of Brian, who proclaimed that “he’s not the messiah, he’s a very naughty boy!” If nothing else, he’ll be remembered as the man who directed three of the most critically acclaimed comedy films to have ever been produced: the aforementioned Meaning of Life, Holy Grail (with Terry Gilliam), and Life of Brian.

Outside of his work as one sixth of Monty Python, Terry was a wellrespected historian, whose work on medieval and ancient history was well-respected. In 2004, he received an Emmy for his work on Terry Jones’ Medieval Lives. Python biographer George Perry said of Terry: “[you] speak to him on subjects as diverse as fossil fuels, or Rupert Bear, or mercenaries in the Middle Ages or Modern China ... in a moment you will find yourself hopelessly out of your depth, floored by his knowledge.”

Fellow Python John Cleese tweeted: “Just heard about Terry J. It feels strange that a man of so many talents and such endless enthusiasm, should have faded so gently away...

“Of his many achievements, for me the greatest gift he gave us all was his direction of Life of Brian. Perfection.

Two down, four to go.”

Terry Gilliam told the Press Association: “He was kind, generous, supportive and passionate about living life to the full.

“He was far more than one of the funniest writer-performers of his generation, he was the complete Renaissance comedian – writer, director, presenter, historian, brilliant children’s author, and the warmest, most wonderful company you could wish to have.”

Stephen Fry added his condolences on Twitter, writing: “Farewell, Terry Jones. The great foot has come down to stamp on you. My god what pleasure you gave, what untrammelled joy and delight. What a wonderful talent, heart and mind.”

Terry is survived by his first wife Alison Telfer, his second wife Anna Söderström, and his children, Sally, Bill, and Siri.

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Electric Era THE

BY COLETTE COOPER

T

hinking about a vehicle upgrade can be a tricky task. Does it go fast enough? Is it sturdy enough?

Can it go the distance? (Pun intended.) These are just some of the things we tend to think about before purchasing a new car. Like pretty much anything, there are pros and cons to consider, particularly if you’re thinking of switching to an electric vehicle.

An electric vehicle is quick, smooth, and you can charge it up from home – no more lengthy petrol station waits.

Electric vehicles also tend to be cheaper to operate, having a big cost advantage over petrol or diesel cars. There’s no need for oil changes, so maintenance costs are reduced and of course, there is the positive environmental impact you would be contributing – electric vehicles help improve air quality for everyone as they don’t emit those pesky emissions produced by regular petrol or diesel cars.

On the other hand, we shouldn’t go around assuming that electric vehicles are 100% perfect. Popular electric vehicles are said to have a range between 125 and 300 miles and take a while to fully recharge - this range may be okay for shorter journeys, but not if you are planning a longer journey or you commute long distances each day for work.

If you also consider the higher costs of electric vehicles and the lack of consumer choice – not every style may be to your liking. Plus, although a quieter vehicle has its advantages, its lack of sound could pose dangers to road users, places where children are around, and to people who are blind or partially sighted as the car is often too quiet to be detected on approach.

To help you get a better idea of what you’re looking for, here are some examples of the electric vehicles available on the Motability Scheme.

SMART FORFOUR SPECIFICATIONS Motability Advance Payment: £399 Brake Horsepower (BHP): 81 CO2 Emissions (g/km): 0 Boot Capacity (litres): 185

THE CAR The Smart Forfour Electric collection allows you to choose from numerous colour combinations and combine up to two colours on your car. The vehicle has been made with fabric-covered surfaces, plus, you have a choice between a continuous rear bench or the optional ready-space seats practical for when you need a bit of extra storage space.

THE DRIVE With a driving range of up to 70 miles, the car also uses kinetic energy to charge the high-voltage battery via recuperation as soon as you take your foot off the accelerator pedal. The car’s pre-entry climate control allows you to raise or lower the temperature to a nice level before you set off via smartphone or tablet, which saves energy.

COMFORT AND SAFETY The car has a radar-based recuperation; a radar sensor that monitors the traffic in front of the vehicle and automatically selects the optimum recuperation level, ensuring better ride comfort as well as optimised use of the kinetic energy.

You don’t have to worry about getting cold with the car’s winter package which boasts enhanced insulation, a heated multifunction steering wheel and heated seats for the driver and front passenger, ensuring a pleasant interior climate.

You can also reduce the heating output for the benefit of added range. smart.com

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HYUNDAI IONIQ

PEUGEOT E-208

SPECIFICATIONS

SPECIFICATIONS

Motability Advance Payment: £749 Brake Horsepower (BHP): 134 CO2 Emissions (g/km): 0 Boot Capacity (litres): 350

Motability Advance Payment: £1,499 Brake Horsepower (BHP): 134 CO2 Emissions (g/km): 0 Boot Capacity (litres): 311

THE CAR

THE CAR

This is a small car that features an expressive design with cutting-edge technology. You have many colours to choose from and the vehicle includes privacy glass. With a clean, modern look, there is also a new 3D honeycomb pattern featured on Premium models for a sporty look.

The car’s design includes a colour-changing dichroic Lion emblem that changes depending on the angle, a body-coloured chequered front grille, gloss black wheel arches and refined upholstery.

THE DRIVE

This car offers a stimulating and lively drive due to its 100% electric powertrain. There is an easy start up and immediate engine torque that allows clear acceleration without gear changes. Quick and easy charging is available, with programmable deferred charging from the colour touchscreen or through the MyPeugeot App on your phone.

You don’t have to worry about the length of your journey thanks to the five-year subscription to LIVE Services with the Tech Pack option available on Premium models, which keeps you updated throughout your journey. A smoothshifting five-speed manual transmission has also been installed for fast, precise gearshifts. If you opt for the fivegear automatic transmission, it offers higher efficiency than a standard automatic.

COMFORT AND SAFETY There is a rear-view parking camera, navigation, audio system with DAB, steering wheel remote controls and Bluelink, which is available with the Tech Pack cost option, and allows you to control your i10 from your smartphone or with online voice recognition. There are many benefits to this feature, such as a ‘find my car,’ navigation system.

THE DRIVE

COMFORT AND SAFETY The Peugeot range of electric cars offer quiet engines and reduced vibrations, providing a new level of comfort. The car’s immediate reactivity (136hp and torque of 260 Nm available from 0mph) also offers a tranquil driving experience. peugeot.co.uk

hyundai.co.uk

BMW SPECIFICATIONS Motability Advance Payment: £1,749 Brake Horsepower (BHP): 168 CO2 Emissions (g/km): 0 Boot Capacity (litres): 260

THE CAR This vehicle is up to 85% recyclable and approximately 27 used plastic bottles go towards every car to form parts of the seats and doors. It is manufactured in the Leipzig plant, in which the production line runs entirely on renewable wind power. Instead of using petroleum-based plastics, the car is made by natural materials like Kenaf, which is harvested from malva plants and is 30% lighter.

THE DRIVE Not only does this car produce zero driving emissions, but if you have solar panels at your home, you can charge the car with the energy generated by them. The vehicle’s full torque is instantly available from a standing start and keeps coming without delay to give you a smooth and fast set off.

COMFORT AND SAFETY Innovative charging solutions are available and allows smooth e-mobility: energy, transparency, control, safety and security. Both home and public charging is available for BMW electric cars, allowing great flexibility. If you’re still unsure before purchasing, why not take the car for a test drive and try it for yourself? bmw.co.uk

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email: help@aamail.org

Independent mobility for the under 5’s

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he award-winning MERU Bugzi is a powered indoor chair for children aged one to five. Bugzi offers a unique opportunity for pre-school children with disabilities to experience independent mobility, often for the first time in their lives.

“Bugzi is a true gateway to mobility, opening doors for kids with no way of moving independently and helping them to make choices.� Kate el Bizanti, MERU Bugzi Loan Scheme Lead

The FREE Bugzi loan scheme enables children to take a Bugzi home and use it for as long as they need it. After completing an application form each child needs to have an assessment and there are 11 Bugzi assessment centres across the UK, from Truro to Thetford and Belfast to Glasgow.

You can watch Rayan and Charlie experiencing their Bugzis for the first time at qef.org.uk/bugziassessments and see them discover their independence.

Find out more about the MERU Bugzi loan scheme at www.meru.org.uk or email info@meru.org.uk.

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Dream JOB GET THAT

WORDS BY JANE HATTON

CREATE A GREAT CV Jane Hatton offers her expert advice to help you make your CV stand out from the crowd. our CV is a sales document in which you are selling your skills, and like any sales document it has to both emphasise the positives, and be honest.

Y

It may be that like many disabled candidates, your work history doesn’t demonstrate your brilliance. You may have gaps in it, and you may have not had access to work opportunities which really used your potential. If this is the case, don’t start your CV with your work history. Make sure you tell them about your best points right at the beginning.

List the five or six top skills and qualities that you think the recruiter needs for the particular role you are applying for.

Against each, explain how you have that requirement, and give examples (not necessarily from paid work) of where you have shown them if you can.

Here are some examples, just to get you thinking:

TEAMWORK I am a natural team player, and these skills have been honed further by playing in a wheelchair basketball team.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL My high concentration skills and rigorous attention to detail are better than most because of my autism.

LEADERSHIP Being the chair of governors at my local school has given me experience in leading a team of people through sometimes challenging circumstances.

When you do get to your work history, don’t just list the job titles, dates and employers. For each one, mention something that set you apart, or an achievement you made. The recruiter doesn’t just want to know what jobs you had, but how good you were at them. For example, “was awarded Employee of the Month for three months”, or “assisted colleagues on a project to improve the service”.

When it comes to education, if you are a recent graduate, this section needs to appear further up the CV, however if you have lots of experience and skills but few formal qualifications, further down. List appropriate training. For example, if you have O levels from 1976 and a degree from 2006, mention the degree but not the O levels. If GCSEs or A levels are recent, include them. If you have completed training that didn’t lead to a formal qualification, include it if it is relevant to the job you are applying for.

There is no legal obligation for you to mention any impairment, and you may choose not to do so. Where it might be worth mentioning is if: You require reasonable adjustments in the recruitment process (mention in the cover letter).

Your impairment gives you added benefit to the employer (some employers actively pursue candidates on the autistic spectrum, or it may be a role working with people with similar impairments).

The employer offers guaranteed interviews to disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria.

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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CLASSIFIED

Hill Lodge, Dorset

Accessible self-catering holiday let, 10mins from Poole Harbour 3 ensuite double bedrooms, with downstairs bedroom & wetroom Shower-chair & profiling bed provided Other equipment upon request Accessible kitchen and level access to outdoors Dogs allowed. Free wi-fi

Exceptional fully accessible purpose built 4 star self catering holiday accommodation in beautiful rural Dorset.

Superbly equipped comfortable and tastefully furnished cottages, heated indoor splash pool(seasonal), recreation room and stunning views from the guest garden.

Free Wifi. Wet rooms. Electric profiling beds, Zip & Link beds Mobile hoist, Shower chairs and other specialist equipment

For more details please call:

01258 818196 / 07751 062165

Contact details: www.endeavour-uk.co.uk becky@endeavour-uk.co.uk, 01202 630075

Website: www.ellwoodcottages.co.uk Email: admin@ellwoodcottages.co.uk

Luz do Sol

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.

Complimentary accessible adapted car Wheelchair accessible airport transfers Battery operated pool lift PAL Mobile hoist battery operated AKS FOLDY Shower/commode chairs Free WI-FI Profiling beds, pressure mattress on request

website: www.algarve-vacations.com e-mail: info@algarve-vacations.com telephone: 00 351 919032377

FILL THIS SPACE

Two wheelchair accessible cottages with wheel in wetrooms and free use of a wide range of mobility aids. Ideally located for touring the whole county.

TREBETHERICK, POLZEATH, CORNWALL

BREATHTAKING LOCATION

CORNWALL COASTAL GETAWAYS  Fully accessible suites and rooms  Self-catering villas and apartments  Indoor pool with hoist  On-site restaurants

www.treworgans.co.uk 01726 883240 / 07762 173860

TO BOOK YOUR STAY CALL 01208 862242 OR VISIT WWW.STMORITZHOTEL.CO.UK

Located on the stunning Exmoor Coast

I

I-F

Lodges & Cottages

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Accessible Andalucia Stylish Accessible Accommodation in Spain Swimming Pool with Hoist, Mobility Aids, Accessible Transport & Excursions

EE

Las Piedras Hotel & El Pleamar Apartments

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Self-catering

Set in 3 acre gardens on a quiet country lane on the edge of the Exmoor National Park yet within 1 mile of shops, pubs and the beach.

About

Single storey disabled access lodges, three with wet rooms, shower wheelchairs, ramped access and adjacent parking.

www.disabledholidaysinspain.com Tel 029 212 54321 Email info@disabledholidaysinspain.com

Contact Us

The Classified section is a great way to advertise your business to over 156,000 people within the disabled marketplace

For booking and info visit www.woodcombelodges.co.uk call 01643 702789 or email woodcombelodges@outlook.com

GET IN TOUCH NOW TO ADVERTISE WITH US

0141 465 2960

MAGAZINE TRAVEL REVIEWS

Expert travel reviews to help you make the best choice when booking your holiday.

PRODUCTS

An innovative mix of products to support you in everyday living.

EMPLOYMENT AND EDUCATION Regular columns and features on getting your dream job. Providing advice on CVs, interview tips and much more.

PERSONAL STORIES

Inspiring tales from our readers.

COMPETITIONS

Exclusive competitions that give you the chance to win dream holidays, amazing products and once in a lifetime experiences.

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We look at sports and activities available for you to get involved in to help you lead a healthy lifestyle.

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DAYS OUT

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