Allied Mobility Access All Areas Magazine Autumn 2014

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Autumn 2014

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PLUS

TOP 10

ACCESSIBLE DAYS OUT

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All Areas

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Autumn 2014

P4 P22 rummond Amanda D Editor

Welcome Welcome to the autumn edition of Access All Areas. We hope you enjoyed the wonderful ‘Indian summer’ we experienced. With this in mind, sit back, relax and enjoy the latest news from Allied.

In this issue we explore the latest scientific and technological discoveries for those living with a disability. We also take a look at some outstanding achievements by people in the disabled community, highlighting that anything is possible.

We’ll inspire you to get out and about this autumn with our top ten accessible days out.

You’ll also find reviews for some of our wheelchair accessible vehicles and how they have made a difference in people’s lives, along with a round-up of our space-tacular event at the National Space Centre, in Leicester.

Finally, if you fancy yourself as the next Lewis Hamilton, don’t miss our exclusive discount on a super car driving experience with Mithril Racing at Goodwood Circuit.

Happy reading!

Amanda Drummond

P4 – Disability News P6 – Horizon Makes Life Easier P8 – Top 10 Accessible Days Out P10 – Ferrari in the Fast Lane P11 – Roaring Success for Zoo P14 – Reach for the Stars P16 – Charity Focus: Wheelchair Dance P18 – True Independence P20 – Puzzled

P23

P21 – Motoring News P22 – News Round Up P23 – Sports News

Editor

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Disability NEWS...

Plant Extract May be Miracle Cure Scientists in Edinburgh have found evidence that quercetin, an extract found in many plants, fruits and vegetables, could be the key to providing treatment for a rare muscular disease that seriously affects mobility in babies.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy The disease, known as floppy baby syndrome, is a form of spinal muscular atrophy that proves fatal for many babies.

A common symptom of the disease is decreased muscle tone or hypotonia, which means that babies have severely reduced mobility and are unable to support themselves.

The condition is usually detected very early on and affects one in 6,000 babies - almost half of which will die before the age of two.

Experts have discovered that the quercetin extract, which is a pigment found readily in nature, could help prevent damage to nerves relating to spinal muscular atrophy. The chemicals in the plant extract target specific molecules in cells that cause some of the symptoms of the disease.

Positive Results The extract has been tested on some insect species and has had positive results, with a noticeable improvement in the condition of affected nerve and muscle cells.

Edinburgh University professor, Tom Gillingwater, who’s been working on the project, comments: “This is an important step that could one day improve quality of life for the babies affected by this condition and their families.

“There is currently no cure for this kind of neuromuscular disorder so new treatments that can tackle the progression of the disease are urgently needed.”

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lake

Sir Quentin B

Much Loved Author Celebrates Disabled Children

Known and loved the world over for his whimsical illustrations, Sir Quentin Blake is best known for his charming accompaniments to Roald Dahl classics.

However, he has recently forayed into the world of writing himself and is currently penning a new book celebrating children with disabilities.

THE FIVE OF US The story, called ‘The Five of Us’, features five friends who each posses a special ability. When disaster strikes in the countryside, they come together to save the day. Although Sir Blake doesn’t refer to their disabilities in the story, one of the children uses a wheelchair, another has impaired eyesight while a third has a stutter. Each child’s ‘unusual ability’ is depicted in the accompanying illustrations.

BRIGHT IDEAS

Sir Blake came up with the idea when he was working on illustrations for disability charity, Scope. He says:

“ I've put chil dre n with d isab ilities into my boo ks in the pas t, as mino r cha racters .

Two or thre e yea rs ago I tho ugh t: 'W hy ca n't the y be the main cha racters ? ' It ' s a sen sitive are a; yo u do n ’t wa nt a quo ta b ut yo u wa nt the se cha racters ”to be represe nte d bec aus e tha t ’s w hat life is li ke . ” The Five of Us is available to buy from all good bookshops.

UK disability charity, Scope, has uncovered that almost two thirds of the Great British public feel uncomfortable when speaking to people with a disability.

The Scope of Public Awkwardness Positive Interaction

Lack of Understanding The biggest source of awkwardness was fear of saying the wrong thing and concerns about accidentally offending the person they’re talking to.

A staggering 76% of people surveyed were of the opinion that all disabled people were in need of constant care and were incapable of looking after themselves.

Need for Education The results show a lack of understanding in the public domain about people with disabilities in general and their capabilities.

Scope highlights the need for education, to help people understand that disabled people are no different from non-disabled people.

To find out more about End the Awkward or Scope, visit their website: www.scope.org.uk/awkward

Feedback also suggests that positive interaction between the public and people with disabilities would help, with a third of people suggesting that being able to ask a disabled person questions would make them feel more comfortable in the future.

The report has been the basis for Scope’s newest ‘End the Awkward’ advertising campaign, which includes advice and information on what not to say and assumptions to avoid.

Star of their television adverts, Alex Brooker, who wears a prosthetic leg says, “I don’t think people are awkward because they don’t care or because they’re ignorant – it’s completely the opposite.”

“People can become quite awkward because they do care and they don’t want to make someone feel conscious about themselves.”

A young mum from Staffordshire with Locked-in syndrome has completed a university degree in Ancient History entirely by blinking.

Blinking Brilliant

Locked-in syndrome left Dawn Webster aware of her surroundings but unable to move or communicate verbally due to complete paralysis of nearly all voluntary muscles in her body except for her eyes. Her condition was the result of a stroke she had eleven years ago shortly after giving birth to her son, Alexander.

Emergency Dawn was rushed to hospital 26 weeks into her pregnancy with pre-eclampsia and gave birth to Alexander when he was just 1lb 8oz. Shortly after having him she suddenly woke one morning feeling dizzy with pins and needles rushing up one side.

Her condition was so bad that she could not move any of her muscles. She had a breakthrough when her dad, Alec, asked her to respond to a question by blinking. Her family was ecstatic when she did and she was soon provided with a computer which allowed her to communicate.

Determination Determined to prove herself, Dawn decided to undertake a university degree. At her average writing speed of 50 words an hour, Dawn painstakingly took six years to achieve her goal.

She enthused: “My computer is my lifeline. Never did I imagine when I got pregnant that my life would turn out like this.”

Dawn will graduate with a BA in Ancient History in October, in Manchester. Her dad Alec says: “It’s going to be such a proud moment for us all.”

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Stephen Ruddock, from Bury St. Edmonds, recently took delivery of his brand new Peugeot Horizon™ and it’s hardly stopped since it arrived on the Ruddock family’s doorstep.

Stephen’s daughter Charlotte is the main driver and loves the freedom it has brought her family.

Great Features Charlotte explains: “We initially chose Horizon because it fitted in with our budget but, after seeing it, we realised it had plenty of other great features that were ideal for us. We got in touch with Allied Mobility and heard back straight away which was great.

“Our local mobility advisor, Karen, brought the Horizon round on a day that suited us. She answered all of our questions with a great knowledge of the whole process and the vehicle’s specification.”

Horizon™, the UK’s favourite wheelchair accessible vehicle, is based on the Peugeot Partner and has recently been updated to include some great new features. With its brand new EasyLift™ ramp, non-slip floor and up-rated restraint system, Horizon™ is better and more accessible than ever.

Excellently Equipped Charlotte comments: “Horizon comes excellently equipped. The Peugeot Partner base vehicle comes with a really great specification as standard and Allied Mobility’s conversion is brilliant. The features of the car are really easy to use, especially the ramp, which needs very little effort to lift.”

Having a wheelchair accessible vehicle has made life much easier for the Ruddocks. Charlotte can take her dad Stephen out more often and the family can enjoy days out together without worrying about the time constraints that usually come with relying on taxis and buses.

Charlotte adds: “We no longer rely on taxis, which saves us lots of money. More importantly it also means we have much more freedom.”

Always Out and About Charlotte continues: “I take my dad to regular gym appointments. Since he got his own wheelchair accessible vehicle we can make the most of the rest of the day by going out for leisure trips or shopping.

We’re always out and about now! Since we got our Horizon we’ve planned at least one day out a week, which has been brilliant for our family. It’s great to have the flexibility to do what we like, whenever we like. My dad also belongs to a car club which was near impossible for him to get to before, so the Horizon makes things a lot easier.”

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Fantastic Service Charlotte concludes: “Gillian at Allied Mobility was really helpful during the issues we had getting my dad on the Scheme and she understood how quickly we needed the vehicle. The communication was great, never too many phone calls and just the right amount of information to keep us informed. The service we’ve received overall has been fantastic.

Allied Mobility is a great business to deal with!”

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TOP 10 ACCESSIBLE DAYS The UK is packed with award winning attractions, from art galleries to zoos and everything in between. However, planning a day out when you of careful planning before you’ve even left the house. With the help of Euan’s Guide (www.euansguide.com), the disabled access review website (in no particular order!).

1

CHESTER ZOO

Chester Zoo, in Upton-by-Chester, was recently voted the UK’s Best Zoo by Trip Advisor and features over 400 different species spread over 110 acres. It’s well equipped for disabled visitors with 100 disabled parking spots and free entry for carers.

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CUTTY SARK

Moored in Greenwich, it would be easy to presume that a ship as old as the Cutty Sark wouldn’t be wheelchair friendly but lifts to all levels and helpful staff mean that this famous attraction is accessible to all. However, it’s worth noting that mobility scooters are not allowed on board due to their size.

MILLENNIUM GALLERY

5

HARRY POTTER TOUR

RIVERSIDE MUSEUM

DISCOVERY MUSEUM

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Sheffield’s Millennium Gallery houses some of Yorkshire’s best art, craft and design exhibitions. Purpose built, the gallery has been designed to be fully accessible, with top marks received for its disabled toilets.

Fans of Harry Potter will be blown away by this award winning experience near London. Based at Leavesden Studios, the tour has received top marks for accessibility, with the helpfulness of staff and the quality of its facilities being highly commended.

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The Discovery Museum provides an insight into life through the years in Newcastle and Tyneside and offers excellent accessibility, with plenty of space for wheelchairs. There are lifts to all floors and plenty of seating around for those who struggle to walk long distances.

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Glasgow’s recently built Riverside Museum is home to over 3,000 objects that tell the story of the city’s rich history.

Disabled parking bays are positioned right at the main door and the on-site café is easily accessed on the ground floor of the building.

OUT IN THE UK or someone in your party has a disability often requires many degrees and app, we bring you ten of the top rated UK accessible days out.

Housed in 80 acres, Paignton Zoo is committed to providing a great day out for all of its visitors. The majority of the zoo is on low gradient slopes and it has been highly commended for the way it looks after customers with assistance dogs, and for going that extra mile to provide shade and water on hot days.

Based near Gaydon, Warwickshire, helpful staff rank highly at the Heritage Motor Centre, where the spacious exhibits allow wheelchairs to manoeuvre with ease.

The museum is ideal for motor enthusiasts as it houses the world’s largest collection of vintage British cars.

PAIGNTON ZOO

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HERITAGE MOTORING CENTRE

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TITANIC EXPERIENCE

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Opened in 2012, 100 years after the doomed ship was lost to the Atlantic Ocean, the Titanic Experience has become one of Northern Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions.

The experience is designed to be wheelchair friendly and the website gives a comprehensive guide to planning your visit.

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FOLLY FARM

Folly Farm is an award winning family attraction in Wales. It works hard to accommodate everyone, so whether it’s feeding the penguins or riding the big wheel, disabled visitors are guaranteed a great day out. There is no cost for on-site parking and every carer accompanying a full paying visitor is admitted for free.

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ever one to shy away from the fast lane, Aaron Morgan’s love for car racing sees him regularly take to the track as the only disabled driver in the Production BMW Championship.

Recently, he swapped his trusty BMW E30 for an iconic red Ferrari as part of one of Mithril Racing’s supercharged driving experiences. He spoke to Access All Areas about his day at Goodwood.

GRAND DAY OUT

“Although I’m used to driving fast, I’d never driven a Ferrari before so I couldn’t wait to experience it.

Goodwood is ideal in terms of accessibility and I had no problems getting inside the building or using any of the facilities.

“The Ferrari has a semi-automatic gearbox, so it can be driven as an automatic or with hand paddles, which I’m used to driving with when I race.”

NEED FOR SPEED

“Before I knew it I was sitting in the driver’s seat, raring to go. I was joined by an instructor who laid down some very clear ground rules to ensure that I had the safest and most enjoyable experience possible.

“It was then time to take to the track! When I pulled the accelerator for the first time I was pushed right back into my seat – it was unlike any power I’d ever felt

before. By the time I got to the third lap I was much more confident and decided to try using the paddle gears. This made driving the Ferrari more challenging but it was great fun. My fourth and final lap was by far my fastest and it was incredible.

“I had a huge smile on my face by the end of my session and enjoyed every minute of it. It’s a fantastic opportunity to be able to drive a supercar and something I’ve always wanted to do. I would definitely recommend it to anyone!”

Aaron competes regularly in the Production BMW Championship. To keep up to date with his progress be sure to follow us on Facebook! www.facebook.com/alliedmobility

Exclusive Discount!

Allied Mobility is pleased to team up with Mithril Racing to offer our readers an exclusive £19 discount off their adapted Ferrari driving experience at Goodwood circuit.

Simply contact Mithrill via one of the methods below and quote ‘Allied Mobility’ to experience the thrill of driving historic Goodwood in an iconic supercar for only £100!

E H T N I I R A FERR FAST LANE Find out more online at www.mithril.co.uk, email info@mithril.co.uk or phone 01243 528 815.

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g n i r a o r r R

r o f s s succe Zoo

Allied Mobility and Edinburgh Zoo have teamed up to provide a brand new wheelchair r accessible vehicle fo visitors with reduced d mobility to use in an around the park.

The new Peugeot Horizon™ will make it easier than ever for people with disabilities to enjoy the zoo.

Peugeot Horizon™ Based on the Peugeot Partner, Horizon™ is the UK’s most popular wheelchair accessible vehicle. It’s cleverly designed with a unique EasyLift™ ramp that folds flat to the vehicle floor when not in use and comes with a full wheelchair restraint system and lowered, non-slip floor for a low ramp gradient.

The new Edinburgh Zoo vehicle has proven to be a big hit with visitors. Pamela Kendall took her family to test out the new service and enthused: “We really enjoyed our visit to the zoo.”

Making Life Easier Visitors are given a phone number on arrival which they can call at any point during the day if the vehicle is required. They’re then driven to their chosen location where they can enjoy the park at their leisure, before calling for the vehicle to come and pick them up.

Pamela said: “Mandy loved the service and the zoo’s driver was so helpful and informative.

He even gave us a guided tour as he drove. All the staff were Pamela continued: “My daughter lovely and really accommodating.

Mandy uses a wheelchair, so having We’d recommend the service to a vehicle that could take us around anyone with reduced mobility who the park made the day really fancies a day at the zoo!” enjoyable and stress free.”

To plan your visit to Edinburgh Zoo visit www.edinburghzoo.org.uk, or to find out more about Peugeot Horizon™ simply contact us using the details below: 0808 231 5827, info@allliedmobility.com or visit www.alliedmobility.com/horizon

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Reach for the Stars The National Space Centre in Leicester proved an out of this world venue for the recent Midlands Mobility Day.

Organised by Allied Mobility, other exhibitors included DMUK, Motability and a whole host of mobility product suppliers, charities and disability organisations, all contributing to the success of the event.

More than 430 people attended in beautiful, sunny weather with the iconic tower (which houses a real rocket!) gleaming in the background. Visitors were able to chat with expert mobility advisors, take their time talking to exhibitors and then round-off their day with a cup of tea and free entry to the fantastic visitor experience.

Opened in 2001, the National Space Centre is the UK’s largest attraction dedicated to space and hosts an impressive selection of exhibits and artefacts, not least the incredible rockets which take pride of place in the tower.

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Blast Off

Mission Complete

Allied Mobility was excited to have its wheelchair accessible vehicles on display and experienced local staff on hand to provide expert information and advice.

Allied Mobility’s sales director, Peter Facenna, commented: “We really enjoyed getting out on the road and meeting people. These events are an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in our wheelchair accessible vehicles to come out and see them all in one place.

The popular Peugeot Horizon™ and Peugeot Independence™ proved exceptionally popular on the day, with lots of people interested in their great accessibility options. The recently improved Horizon™ with its unique EasyLift™ ramp is better than ever.

The ramp is mechanically assisted for ease of use and folds flat when it’s not needed, creating a spacious boot. Independence™ offers plenty of flexible solutions for families and groups with varying needs and comes in two models, which can be tailored to suit specific requirements.

“They also give individuals and families a chance to speak with our team of expert mobility advisors about their specific needs.

“We had a brilliant time in Leicester and can’t wait for the next one!”

A varied array of exhibitors kept the day interesting, with organisations such as Euan’s Guide, the Wheelchair Dance Sport Association and DMUK, all proving a hit with visitors. There was also a wide selection of mobility products, ranging from top of the range scooters to handy daily living aids, which visitors could buy on the day.

ility plans b o M d ie All over the events all ply ‘like’ im S . y r t coun to ook page b e c a f r u o o date. keep up t

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Charity

FOCUS

Strictly Come Wheelchair Dancing Fancy yourself as the next Ginger Rogers or Fred Astaire? Then why not check out Wheelchair Dance Sport Association (WDSA), the UK’s national charity and governing body for wheelchair dance.

with learning disabilities.

WDSA (UK), is committed to making dance accessible to all, no matter your ability. It’s passionate about encouraging disabled people to get active and take up dance as a competitive sport or an enjoyable form of exercise.

Allied Mobility recently signed an agreement with WDSA, as its first official sponsor and is proud to be involved in supporting the charity on its quest to spread the word about the sport.

According to WDSA, wheelchair dance provides many benefits to those with a range of disabilities and has a beneficial impact on health and well-being. It promotes better posture and balance and increases spatial awareness. This in turn leads to an increase in the depth and duration of breath, which helps digestion and metabolism. Co-ordination, strength and circulation also show a marked improvement, while elevation to the heart rate turns the activity into a cardiovascular exercise.

WDSA business development director, Patrick McGeough, states: “This sponsorship opportunity with Allied Mobility will help us to grow the sport of wheelchair dance in the UK.

Apart from all these advantages, wheelchair dance is great fun too!

Music and dance are a wonderful way to elevate your mood and will give a burst of natural endorphins, providing natural pain relief, which can be especially important for those

New Sponsor

“This endorsement has laid the foundation for WDSA to run a competition in the UK and provides funding to allow us to promote our awareness events. We hope, that with the support of their staff and customers, WDSA will be able to raise more money enabling more disabled people to be engaged and active in the sport. We hope to see this grow and develop in the future.”

Peter Facenna, sales director at Allied Mobility, comments, “We’re delighted to offer our support and commitment to such a dedicated charity. WDSA provides disabled people with a fantastic opportunity to participate in dance sport and feel included and empowered.

We really believe that all sport should be fully inclusive, no matter what your ability and are happy to be able to give a little back to the community.”

Wheelchair dance has had a positive impact on many lives.

The charity has first hand experience of how the sport has significantly transformed many disabled people’s outlook for the better.

Get in touch with Wheelchair Dance Sport Association using the details below: 0300 111 30 45, wheelkeepdancing@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.wdsauk.co.uk

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r. He had erated, power chai op t an nd te at e, in a larg d awake that me to a workshop sed that if he staye and some group ca vi s ad ha r C re s ca ie is irt H th Chas: In his late al communication. ral couple dances ession and no verb activity. He was partnered in seve pr ex l cia fa d ite lim the ying himself and ion. duced a dramatic meant he was enjo ged and awake, for the entire sess ground and this in lise and move ck ba ga e en th as in w g d in an ay ca pl dancing g, ‘Footloose’ was came very animated and began to vo re classes to eak in the dancin tu be fu br s t to or ha in sh “C a ed , g at lls in or ca ur rp re D His carer ic was inco r. us m ou vi of e ha ec be pi s’s s hi ha change in C surprised.” T lchair. I was very on the carers propel around in his whee ement and awareness. l wheelchair that ov ua m an g, m tra tin a ex bi es is as us th y ch er ell su trigg in her teens, K tive behaviour at a special school act and it would often trigger nega es and then, whilst the Kelly: A student nt da co ction nc dislikes physical le of easy introdu up co a in or. her behalf. Kelly ed sh pu the side of the flo ing. She was y, placing e was wheeled to sh , scratching or spitt ps ste e d went over to Kell tor, nc an ff da xt sta ne re e ca th of ht ce ug e instruc the advi instructor ta uctor overlooked en at the face of th to this th str d in e an th nd d ha an e ed th ay at The music was pl dn’t react negatively nce. Kelly looked , asking her, to da or again. Care staff said: “ Kelly di actively holding the instructors rs he er ov nd ha r he was her out onto the flo of the session she Kelly was calm and experienced who smiled and led re truly astonished.” By the end n, so les e nc da e we ter th physical contact, we reported that, for several hours af ff hand. The care sta nded a wheelchair up a power chair atte sts. ur es tb us ou ort warm ho r w he rt lsy fu pa no cerebral there is always a sh oulders ith n w so dy les la e d nc ol da ar ye ch sh -six of ea gers, moving the Sharon: A twenty riod of eight weeks. At the start ms, hands and fin e eight week period of ar pe e a th er g ov in p en ou op gr d e danc ing an wing th lves raising, lower apist said: “ Follo routine which invo unk rotation. Sharon’s physiother ility and co-ordination.” e tr aron’s stretch ab iotherapist also and head and som lessons. The phys sharp increase in Sh e a nc ted n da no e I th r y, fo ap er pt y exce gth, trunk rotatio physioth other physiotherap ked improvement in her core stren y an g in iv ce re t Sharon was no oduced a mar ical activity had pr observed that phys s. es and special awaren

H i r e e l c i h Accessible Ve • Short or long term hire available • Choose from a wide range of wheelchair accessible and adapted vehicles • Delivered to you anywhere in the UK

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For many people, a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) can make a huge difference to their quality of life. Stephen Jones, from Hampshire, is one such Allied Mobility customer who can’t say enough nice things about his new Peugeot Independence™.

Stephen recalls: “When it comes to choosing a wheelchair accessible vehicle, it’s not as easy as just nipping down to a local dealer. Allied Mobility’s website was really helpful and provided all the information I needed.”

Specific Needs Stephen’s needs were very specific, from the terrain around his house, to his budget. Allied’s Peugeot Independence™ turned out to be the perfect answer. He comments: “It’s as if Independence chose me!”

Independence™ is based on the spacious Peugeot Expert and is designed to be flexible and comfortable. With plenty of seating options, it can be tailored to individual needs and comes with many great accessibility features, such as its lightweight EasyFold™ ramp.

Stephen finds the features really simple to use: “Loading my wheelchair is so easy and the ramp is really light too. The conversion of the car is brilliant because I have so much space when I’m in it.

I feel as if many designers overlook this for people with disabilities.

“It’s not just about being able to get into the car but having room once you’re inside. My previous WAV was really cramped, so even things like wearing layers on a cold day became awkward and uncomfortable.”

Comfort Comes First Stephen continues: “It’s so smooth and comfortable which makes all the difference to me when travelling long distances.

Now I arrive at my

His new car also means he can enjoy trips with his family and their dog, Pruddi. He says: “Our grandson Rueben will be staying with us for a week, so I’m really excited to spend time with him. We’ve got a day out planned at the Dorset Steam Fair, which is the biggest and best in the world!”

The couple like holidaying in Europe but found that their previous WAV was just too small to properly enjoy the experience. Stephen comments: “A couple of years ago we went to France but it was quite unpleasant in the old car. Next year we hope to travel to Belgium and Luxembourg and we can’t wait. How different the experience will be in Independence!”

Peace of Mind Local mobility advisor, John, met with Stephen to give him a home demonstration before they decided on a vehicle.

Stephen says: “With all the research I’d done, I was conscious that it might get very confusing but John had brilliant all round knowledge and was able to guide me through my requirements easily. His approach and careful direction meant that I was very clear about the vehicle, which gave me complete peace of mind.”

Stephen continues: “When you search for a WAV you don’t necessarily consider how you might feel about it. The most important things for me are convenience and ease of use, which make driving more enjoyable. My new Independence has really given me a new lease of life!”

E D N E P E D N I E U R T destination fit enough to make the journey worthwhile.”

Stephen and his wife Sue live in the picturesque Hampshire countryside but are sometimes faced with heavy flooding after bad weather. Their old WAV couldn’t cope with roads awash with rain water, so they always lived with the fear of being marooned at home during the winter.

This is no longer an issue for Stephen: “My new Independence has brought me so much relief from my fear of being stranded in bad weather.”

Rock and Roll Stephen has plenty of hobbies that keep him busy, which have all been made much easier with his new car. Stephen used to be a keen horseman - even representing Great Britain in European Horse Driving Trials - and still enjoys following them with Sue. He plays bass and keyboards in local rock and blues band ‘Cliff Lift and the Zig Zags’, so the extra space is really handy for transporting all his equipment.

Access All Areas 18

ENCE “It’s as if Independence chose me!”

For more information simply get in touch by using the details below: 0808 231 5827, info@alliedmobility.com or visit www.alliedmobility.com/independence

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D E L Z Z U P

With the arrival of autumn the nights are getting darker and the weather is turning colder. So what better excuse to make yourself a cup of tea, put your feet up and enjoy our puzzle page?

Brain Teaser

Sometimes known as Einstein’s Riddle, the following puzzle is quite a mind bender!

See if you can solve it‌ (If you get really stuck, the answer is at the bottom of the page)

There is a row of different coloured houses.

Each house is occupied by a man of different nationality, who has a different pet, prefers a different drink and smokes a different brand of cigarettes.

Medium

1. The Brit lives in the red house.

2. The Swede keeps dogs as pets.

3. The Dane drinks tea.

4. The green house is on the left of the white house next to it.

5. The owner of the green house drinks coffee.

6. The person who smokes Pall Mall rears birds.

7. The owner of the yellow house smokes Dunhill.

8. The man living in the centre house drinks milk.

9. The Norwegian lives in the first house.

10. The man who smokes Blends lives next to the one who keeps cats.

11. The man who keeps horses lives next to the man who smokes Dunhill.

12. The man who smokes Blue Master drinks beer.

13. The German smokes Prince.

14. The Norwegian lives next to the blue house.

15. The man who smokes Blends has a neighbour who drinks water.

The question you need to answer is: Who keeps fish?

Answer: The German

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HARD

MOTORING news TAX DISC CHANGES...

1st October, car owners of as , at th d ce un no an sc The government has splay their paper tax di will no longer need to di es hicl . in the window of their ve

Why? The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has an electronic vehicle register which it shares with the police to check if vehicles are taxed.

This means they no longer have to refer to the paper disc but can check electronically using your registration plate.

Do I still need to buy vehicle tax?

What if I qualify for disabled tax exemption?

You will still be required to purchase tax for your vehicle but won’t be issued a disc to display. People who qualify for disabled vehicle tax exemption should still apply but will no longer need to display their free disc either.

How can I find out how much the tax will cost, or if a vehicle is taxed?

A website has been set up to provide information about the current status of a vehicle’s tax and MOT. It also includes the six and twelve monthly rates for taxing the vehicle so you can see at a glance how much it will cost. You can find the site at www.vehicleenquiry.service.gov.uk.

How can I check if a vehicle is taxed for use by a disabled person?

The website www.vehicleenquiry.service.gov.uk provides information

on the status of each vehicle, so you can easily find out if it’s taxed for use by a disabled person. Simply enter the registration number and make of the car to see the results. Councils and police forces have access to the database, so you don’t need to worry about losing out on concessions for which you’re already eligible.

I currently have a disabled person’s tax disc.

Are there any other changes that will affect me?

The changes to the system won’t affect the way you get your vehicle tax.

You will still receive a V11 tax reminder form and will still be required to use this online or at a Post Office to declare that you are eligible.

Checks still need to be carried out on your disabled tax exemption eligibility even though a paper disc is not issued.

If you need any more information about the tax disc changes, you can find out more at www.gov.uk/government/news/vehicle-tax-changes

P DMUK LAUNCHES

DISABLED PARKING AWARD Earlier this year Disabled Motoring UK - the campaigning charity for disabled motorists - launched a Disabled Parking Award (DPA).

Strict Criteria

machines, alternative payment methods and concessions.

More importantly, it must use enforcement to make sure that only disabled people park in its accessible bays.

The charity listened to its members about difficulties disabled people face when Independently Assessed trying to park and decided a standard was When a car park applies for the DPA required so that accessible car parks could the charity arranges an independent be easily identified. assessor to check that the car park For a car park to gain the DPA it has to complies with the standards. meet certain criteria regarding accessible If the car park meets all of these it will bays, clear signage, ease of access, good receive the DPA and continue to be lighting, easy entry, accessible payment monitored annually.

For more information on the DPA please visit www.dpaward.org where you can find details of the car park standards. Once sufficient car parks have received the DPA, DMUK intends to create a searchable database of accessible car parks on the DPA website, so you will always be able to find an accessible car park on arrival at your destination.

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news ROUND-UP Conquering the Climb...

Despite the fact that she has cerebal palsy, Melissa Dempsey has conquered Mam Tor, a 1,695ft viewpoint in the Peak District. Melissa scaled the hill as part of the Duke of Edinburgh Award in her all-terrain Mountain Trike wheelchair.

Coaching Future Stars...

Manchester United has snapped up the world’s first professional football coach who uses a wheelchair.

Twenty-two year old Sohail from Yorkshire has been brought on board to coach the future stars of the world famous football team.

BBC Promises More Disabled People on TV...

The BBC has announced plans to quadruple the number of disabled people it puts on TV by 2017. The news has been welcomed by disability advocates as an important step towards a more realistic balance of disabled people in the media.

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Accessibility Planning Website Launched...

North Somerset Council has developed a website (theaccessofficer.n-somerset.gov.uk) to help businesses and planners make buildings more wheelchair friendly. The website is a comprehensive guide to improving accessibility in public spaces and highlights the needs of disabled people.

Freezing Fun for MND...

The MND ice bucket challenge has swept the internet, with celebrities across the globe stepping up to have an ice cold bucket of water thrown over them. The viral sensation took off as a way to raise money and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease. David Beckham, Britney Spears and Leonardo DiCaprio are among the famous names who’ve been soaked for charity. Search ‘ice bucket challenge’ on YouTube to find out more.

sports news ROUND UP

The English Federation of Disability Sport is working hard to spread the word about its Inclusive Fitness Initiative (IFI). The initiative aims to make physical activity accessible to all.

Encouraging Change The main purpose of the IFI is to provide accessible gyms and facilities and to encourage cultural change and attitudes towards people with disabilities, especially in relation to physical activity.

The initiative has five main objectives: 1. To make sure fitness equipment is inclusive.

2. To provide staff training.

3. To encourage effective marketing and engagement for accessible gyms.

4. To promote sports development.

5. To highlight the importance of accessible facilities.

Independent Accreditation The IFI has independently accredited over 100 pieces of fitness equipment, all designed with the needs of those with reduced mobility in mind.

L L A R O F SPORTS Facilities hoping to receive the IFI mark are carefully assessed to make sure that there’s everything from disabled parking spaces and access ramps, to lowered counters and accessible toilets.

Safe and Effective Staff training is taken seriously, with all staff at IFI accredited gyms undergoing disability equality training. Fitness instructors are also given special training so that they can deliver safe and effective workouts.

Many disabled people aren’t aware that there are gyms up and down the country that can cater for their needs.

If you’ve got the fitness bug but don’t know where to go, simply visit the IFI website to see a full list of accredited gyms: www.efds.co.uk/inclusive_fitness/ifi_gyms or email ifi@efds.co.uk for more information.

Commonwealth Fever Excitement was felt up and down the country when the 2014 Commonwealth Games came to Glasgow for the first time.

The international event featured athletes from 71 Commonwealth teams, competing in 17 different sports.

Largest Para-Sport Programme Ever This year’s event saw the largest Para-Sport programme ever, with 22 medals up for grabs over five different sports - athletics, cycling, lawn bowls, swimming and weightlifting. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) expressed its support for the event and praised organisers for their commitment towards accessibility and diversity throughout the games.

Chief Executive of the IPC, Xavier Gonzalez, commented: “Events such as this help build momentum, particularly in Great Britain, following last years successful Paralympic Games.”

Precious Metal British para-athletes shone in the league tables. The crowds enjoyed highlights such as the commonwealth’s youngest winner, 13 year old Erraid Davies, coming third in the para-sport 100m breaststroke. Erraid suffers from a rare hip condition called Perthes’ disease which meant she used a wheelchair until she was eight years old. She started swimming as a non-weight bearing way to keep active, completing her first mile before she was even six years old. English powerhouse sprinter, David Weir, won his first commonwealth gold in the mens 1500m T54, continuing on from his success at the 2012 London Paralympics.

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www.alliedmobility.com

Our Story

We’re the UK’s leading wheelchair accessible vehicles specialist, offering a wide range of mobility cars throughout the UK. Here’s just a few reasons why.

“Everyone we spoke to was so patient and understanding and the service we’ve received has been first class.”

“The added space in the back is perfect for when we go on holiday and have lots of luggage.”

VOLKSWAGEN VISTA Bryan & Margaret Prodger, Ipswich

PEUGEOT HORIZON Robin & Patricia Haine, Cotswolds “The conversion of Independence is brilliant - the ramp is so light and easy to use.”

PEUGEOT INDEPENDENCE Stephen & Sue Jones, Hampshire