19 minute read
Motoring and Mobility
from Winter Q1 2021
by AbilityNeeds
Reduces your outgoings. Not your going out.
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You’ve waited long enough to get back out there. And with a year of family days out, visits with friends and weekends away to catch up on, your bank balance should be the last thing stopping you. The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross range, available from no advance payment.
Motability Stock Available
Visit mitsubishi-motors.co.uk to find your nearest dealer.
Fuel economy and CO₂ results for the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross / MPG (l/100km) (combined): 32.5 (8.7) to 37.7 (7.5) / CO₂ emissions: 196 - 170 g/km.
The Motability Contract Hire Scheme is administered by Motability Operations PLC (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance, the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of the Personal Independence Payment, War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement or the Armed Forces Independence Payment which will be taken in lieu of the four weekly rental. No advance payment on the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Verve and Design SE Manual variants. Subject to availability, whilst stocks last and may be amended or withdrawn at any time. Terms and Conditions apply. Please ask the dealer for full details. Rentals valid for applications placed between 1st January and 31st March 2021. 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.
The THERA-Trainer range offers the chance to exercise at home from the sitting position. No matter what your mobility level, the THERATrainer bikes will have you cycling to improve your health and stamina from your own front room.
One of our customers shared his story with us and we are delighted to share it with you.
Paul’s Story
When faced with life following a spinal injury I knew I would have challenges along the way, to maintain my fitness, strength and moral.
I was determined to include exercise in my daily routine, so buying the THERA-Trainer was mainly to improve my muscle strength and cardiovascular activity. Little did I know it would do so much more!
I use the bike for 30 minutes every morning and have noticed a continual improvement in my muscle power; my blood pressure has dropped and bladder function has improved to the point that my medication has been reduced.
The simplicity of the bike makes it a perfect solution for me. I am fully independent when cycling and at the end of every session I can get a report showing me how I have done during the session. When I see the improvement over the weeks and months it keeps me going back for more. I look forward to my daily routine and know that I am keeping my muscles going and having fun along the way. I am stronger; my breathing has improved and I have more energy than before.
I am so glad that I have bought my THERA-Trainer bike from Medicotech - it has changed my life!
In these difficult times using the THERA Trainer bike on a regular basis will only make you feel better and fitter.
Contact Medicotech Ltd on: 01908-564100 www.medicotech.co.uk
Staying warm whilst out and about
Staying warm in winter is sometimes easier said than done, especially if you need to venture out on your scooter or powered wheelchair, however with a bit of planning, it doesn’t have to be.
If you’re a powered wheelchair or scooter user planning on having a day out, here’s five things we recommend taking to keep you cosy:
Gloves, scarf and hat
This may sound obvious, but don’t underestimate the value of good winter wear to keep the heat in!
Hand warmers
Readily available, easy to use, and can be paired with gloves. An easy solution to keep your hands warm whilst out and about.
Thermals
An extra layer is always helpful, and as thermals generally go under your normal clothing, they are highly effective at trapping warmth and reducing heat loss.
Umbrella
Winter isn’t just cold, it is often wet as well. Keep an umbrella handy for any unexpected downpours.
Snow boots
Or at least, some warm footwear. Cold feet are unpleasant at the best of times and good shoes can make all the difference.
Electric hot water bottle
These handy devices generally take just a few minutes to charge but stay warm for a number of hours, so they’re ideal for cold winter days. Pop it on your lap or behind your back to feel the full benefit.
Blanket
In very cold weather a blanket, or even a sleeping bag, is ideal to keep the cold air at bay. It may not be ideal if heavy rain is expected but if the forecast looks dry, tuck yourself in and keep warm.
Providing independence & comfort through standing
Designed and developed in the Midlands over the past 15 years the Genie V2 is one of design, the Genie provides independence and comfort for all levels of dependency.
The Genie V2 has been designed with your everyday needs in mind, providing upper and lower body support to allow washing, air as access to previously inaccessible places or even Genie users have, whilst providing everyday maintaining good health. The Genie can aid in the bone development and pressure management.
Everyone’s needs can change.
• Easy transfers from bed to
Custom built to suit all needs Comfortable & maneuverable Enhances quality of life Provides dignity, independence & mobility
Removes boundaries
Designed & Manufactered in GREAT BRITAIN
10 things to help you decide if the Motability Scheme is right for you
When you join the Motability Scheme you get more than just a car, Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV), scooter or powered wheelchair of your choice, you also get to enjoy all the freedom that comes with a truly worry-free lease. We know that getting a new car is a big decision, which is why we’ve highlighted a few things that people often want to talk to us about before deciding if the Scheme is for them.
1. How does the Motability Scheme work?
The purpose of the Scheme is to provide the simplest, most affordable way to run a brand new car. There’s no credit checks or lengthy forms to fill out. You just exchange your mobility allowance to lease the car that suits your needs best. Everyday running costs such as insurance for up to three named drivers, servicing and maintenance and breakdown recovery are all included in the weekly price.
2. Can I get a car on the Scheme if I don’t drive?
Yes, you don’t have to be able to drive to get a car on the Scheme. That’s why the insurance with your lease is for up to three named drivers. So your car could be driven by a family member, friend or carer, it doesn’t have to be you. Also, you can lease a Motability Scheme car as a learner driver, so long as you have a provisional licence and are listed as a permitted driver on the Certificate of Motor Insurance.
3. What if I’m family, a friend or a carer?
We want the Motability Scheme to be as convenient as possible for our customers and the people who support them. That’s one of the reasons we include insurance for up to three named drivers on the lease.
4. How do I know if I am eligible for the Scheme?
You’re eligible if you currently receive any of these allowances and have 12 months remaining on your award: • Higher Rate Mobility Component of the
Disability Living Allowance (DLA) • Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) • War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) • Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP)
5. What about PIP reassessments?
If you’re currently in receipt of the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and are invited for a reassessment, as long as you’re successful in your application for the Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you will still be eligible to join the Motability Scheme. If you became a customer, then lost your allowance, we would offer you the chance to buy the car, or you could return it with no further payments to make.
6. How much will a new car cost me a week?
Our choice of over 2,000 vehicles is split into the three price band options below. You can pick from the one that fits your budget the best: • Cars that cost less than your weekly mobility allowance, so you keep the difference. • Cars that cost exactly the same as your allowance. • Cars that cost the same as your allowance, plus a one-off Advance Payment.
7. What if I need adaptations?
If you require adaptations to help make driving, or travelling, easier or more comfortable, you’ll be pleased to know that many of the most popular ones are available at no additional cost when fitted at the start of your lease.
8. Can I trade in my old car against a new one?
You can trade in your privately owned car at most Motability Scheme dealerships. This could help finance an Advance Payment or optional extras for your new car.
9. Will I definitely be able to get the car I need?
The Motability Scheme stays right up-to-date with the latest car models from most of the leading manufacturers. So yes, the likelihood is that the car you want will be available.
10. How do I apply?
It’s simple- search through our range of vehicles to see what’s available, then visit a dealership to speak to a Motability specialist and arrange a test drive. When you’ve decided on the car, the dealer you choose will help complete your order for you at the dealership.
Remember, we’re here to help however we can, so if there are other things that you would like to talk to us about, just call when you are ready. Or you can request a call back at a time that’s convenient for you. You can reach one of the team on 0800 694 9000
Independent Living Solutions from N&C Phlexicare
FOR OVER40 years N&C Phlexicare have led the way in healthcare products with an extensive range of independent living solutions, that allow for complete independence within the home.
Nearly half a century ago, two forward thinking individuals began what has become the leading manufacturer and distributor of products for the elderly and disability market. Ken Forbes (Now Group Chairman) and Lesley Mason recognised that individuals had very little product available in order to be able to live comfortably and confidently at home without relying on others. Since this, we have designed and manufactured many daily living solutions which have helped those to live independently in the comfort of their own homes.
N&C Phlexicare design, manufacture and distribute an extensive range of bathroom, wet rom, daily living, access, wall and floor and kitchen solutions within the healthcare market. All of which are inspirational by design, functional by nature and produced using high quality materials. We help to enable freedom and independence for users with different capabilities.
The ethos of N&C Phlexicare is simple:
• Design products to give back people their dignity and independence • Give value for money • Be of practical use and improve the quality of life • Create independent living solutions without compromising on design
Phlexicare is part of the Nicholls and Clarke Group of companies and is the only company in the UK that can provide a truly ‘One stop shop’ for independent living. View N&C Phlexicare’s full range online today.
For more information telephone 0208 586 4600, email info@ncphlexicare.com or visit www.ncphlexicare.com
Closure of RNIB’s Giant Print Library
THE RNIB Giant Print Library and Moon Library in Peterborough will close on 31 January 2021, with customers being notified by letter.
David Clarke, RNIB Director of Services, said: “The shift in the way our library users now access books through mainstream devices such as the iPad and Amazon Kindle, where font sizes and colours are easily adjustable, has meant that operating a traditional giant print and Moon library is no longer sustainable.
“We understand the decision will disappoint some customers who still use the service, however borrowing numbers have been steadily falling, and the cost to run the service has continued to rise.
“We know reading is important to our customers and large print formats will still be available from our free Personal Transcription Service, which will produce books in bespoke large print for customers on request. We will also continue to offer accessible books and reading materials in other formats. These are available through RNIB’s own free Online Reading Library, which is the largest of its kind in the UK, our braille library and Talking Books service. Our Library and Tech for Life Teams will also be on hand to support and guide customers through the transition.
“We will be offering customers, including schools, the opportunity to keep books that they order from now on until the service is finally closed. Any books that are not gifted to customers will be donated overseas to a number of organisations that RNIB has sent books to over many years.”
About RNIB
We are the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB). Every six minutes, someone in the UK begins to lose their sight. RNIB is taking a stand against exclusion, inequality and isolation to create a world without barriers where people with sight loss can lead full lives. A different world where society values blind and partially sighted people not for the disabilities they’ve overcome, but for the people they are. RNIB. See differently. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk
Fight for Sight launches survey to determine how continued lockdown restrictions are impacting people with eye conditions
EYE RESEARCH CHARITYFight for Sight has launched a survey to gather broader insights into how continued lockdown restrictions are affecting people with sight loss and eye conditions.
This survey is a follow-up to the charity’s research in May, which found that the pandemic is having a disproportionate effect on people with eye conditions, with 73% of respondents saying their access to treatment had got worse since the beginning of the pandemic. Four in ten people said they feared their eyesight had or would further deteriorate as a result.
Fight for Sight is inviting those affected by sight loss or an eye condition to participate in the survey, to help it to continue to campaign on behalf of people with sight loss and strengthen the case for urgently needed eye research funding.
To take part in the survey, you must be aged 18 or over, living in the UK, and personally have an eye condition(s).
There are currently over two million people in the UK living with sight loss, more than half of which is avoidable. According to Fight for Sight’s Time to Focus report, which was released in September, this number will jump to 3.5 million by 2050. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, eye research was already woefully underfunded, with only one and a half percent of national research funding invested in eye research. That’s in spite of the fact that eye conditions account for ten percent of all hospital outpatient appointments – the largest of any specialty.
Director of Engagement at Fight for Sight, Sarah Campion said: “This is a challenging time for everyone, but we know from our research that the current pandemic and lockdown is having a particularly harsh effect on those living with eye conditions and sight loss. We need the input of those affected so that we can understand how lockdown restrictions are continuing to impact them as we head into 2021 and determine how best to campaign on their behalf.”
Take the survey at - www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/BH6PT2R or by visiting Fight for Sight’s website at www.fightforsight.org.uk.
Ambient Support’s Caring Heroes Celebrated in National Care Forum’s ‘Caring in Covid’ Book
CARE PROVIDERSacross the UK have played a vital role throughout the Covid pandemic, caring for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.
The National Care Forum (NCF), the leading membership association for notfor-profit social care providers, bore witness to incredible acts from its members and decided to record and celebrate their response to the outbreak and ensuing restrictions by bringing together a collection of wonderful stories in a Caring in Covid book.
National Charity Ambient Support, who provides care in a number of settings, contributed three stories in totalone acknowledging their very own CEO, Mark Milton, for his outstanding leadership and support to the entire team.
Ambient Support’s Activities Coordinator, Stevie Housley, from Ambient Support’s Gardenia House Care Home in Dartford, featured in the book. Stevie raised £1,350 dying her hair waist-long hair the colours of the rainbow which raised money to improve the lives of the residents she supports.
The moving experiences and resilience of manager, Louise Foyle-York and her care team during two phases of Covid outbreaks at The Croft care home in Amersham are also highly commended in the book. The team’s upmost determination, commitment and unwavering passion, at the very hardest of times, demonstrates just how important the role of the care worker is and how good quality care is truly indispensable. Vic Rayner, Executive Director of the National Care Forum said: “Through the collection of Caring Heroes stories, the reader peeks behind the closed doors and experiences what it was really like for care staff, residents in care homes, and people needing support in their own homes during lockdown. This book is more than just a nod to social history, it demonstrates how people’s lives are enriched by the role of those working in the care sector through their creativity, dedication and passion, and through their many skills and talents.”
Read the inspiring stories from Ambient Support (www.ambient.org.uk) and other providers in the NCF’s Caring in Covid book at www.nationalcareforum.org.uk/ ncf-caring-in-covid-project/.
QCS supports Down’s syndrome charity to launch national video learning programme
Quality Compliance Systems (QCS), a leading content provider for the care, health and learning sectors, is proud to support 21 Together, a Kent-based Down’s syndrome charity, to roll-out a national Covid-19 learning programme
QCS HASprovided 21 Together with both funding and logistical resources to launch this online learning resource, Teach Me Too, which is a library of educational videos designed to help develop skills in speech, language and cognition. Thanks to QCS’s support, the learning resource, which has been designed specifically for children with Down’s syndrome, will now be free to access both in the UK and around the world.
The first batch of videos, which are focused on developing Speech & Language, cognition and learning skills, were launched in time for Christmas to help deliver on the promise of a gift for every child.
The videos, which have been specifically designed to focus on ‘stage’ rather than ‘age’ break new ground. By taking an innovative and non-conventional approach to learning, 21 Together have ensured that they can be accessed and enjoyed by a wide range of ages. 21 Together charity manager, Jo Aiyathurai explains, “As parents, we understand the learning challenges that children with Down’s syndrome face. While they can flourish in a mainstream learning environment, in order to do so, they need to learn visually, rather than through auditory learning techniques. These videos – which prioritise ‘stage’ rather than ‘age’ – recognise that children with Down’s syndrome can begin their reading journey from the age of two and, with the right support, some can achieve expected reading milestones when they start school. We think that is life changing and are grateful to QCS for all its support.”
QCS’s partnership with 21 Together is part of a wider goal to drive innovation, to make content more accessible to providers, to move it beyond compliance and in doing so, to make it available to new sectors, markets and geographies. As part of this strategy, QCS is supporting the work of experts in a number of different fields in a raft of sectors, including dementia care, where QCS is collaborating with Jackie Pool, a frontline dementia care expert, to further develop the QCS PAL Instrument, a tool which assesses cognitive ability. Mat Whittingham, QCS’s Chief Executive and CoFounder, said, “We’re delighted, excited and honoured to be supporting 21 Together’s Teach Me Too programme. When we met with Jo and her team, what really shone through was a passion and determination to make this game-changing learning resource universally available to every person with Down’s syndrome. At QCS, we’re focused on helping those that care to go above and beyond standards and regulations. With this in mind, we will do all that we can to support 21 Together to launch and develop this unique and pioneering video learning resource.”
Jo Aiyathurai added, “Every child, regardless of background, income, or family situation deserves access to education materials that meet their needs. For too long access has only been available to those that can pay for it and that is what 21 Together wanted to change. As a group, we are extremely proud of our achievement and are incredibly grateful to Quality Compliance Systems. QCS has been pivotal in enabling us to make the project accessible to the world, and our whole community will benefit because of their support.”
QCS
Quality Compliance System (QCS) provides a high-quality, bespoke Care Quality Commission management service for Adult Social Care providers, Dentists and GPs. Across the social care sector, QCS is widely trusted and respected brand which is specifically designed to conform to the CQC Fundamental Standards set out by the CQC. To find out more about QCS, call 0333-405-33 33 or email sales@qcs.co.uk.
21 Together
21 Together is a registered charity in Kent set up in 2016 by four parents, each with a child with Down’s syndrome. It is now a vibrant and thriving community charity with families at its heart, supporting over 140 families and 200 individuals within Kent. It was named “Charity of the Year” at the Wards Children’s Charity Awards in November 2019. To find out more about 21 Together, or its Teach Me Too online resource, please email teachmetoo@21together.org.uk
