Allied Mobility Access All Areas Magazine Spring 2015

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Spring 2015

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Discovering um e s u M r to o M u ie l Beau

with Aaron Morgan

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All Areas

Spring 2015

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Welcome Welcome to the Spring edition of patiently Access All Areas. We’re still waiting us, let like re you’ if so for the sun to appear, ad! inste day this issue brighten your about We speak to two of our customers ssible acce air elch whe ired acqu their newly a change vehicles and find out just how big . lives ple’s peo to g brin a WAV can

eum, We also visit the National Motor Mus Morgan. n at Beaulieu, in Hampshire with Aaro top this at He reviews the visitor experience ive. pect pers ’s attraction from a wheelchair user make the We also give you some top tips to rable mise it’s n whe most of your day, even , make way the on g outside. Finally, with Sprin set of a win to ion sure to enter our competit those for cially espe d gardening tools, designe with reduced mobility.

Happy reading!

Sarah Fergusson Editor

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Disability News

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Acting on Impulse

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Top 10 Tips - Spring into Spring

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P10 Charity Focus: Wheelchair Dance P14 Charity Focus: Wheelpower P15 Discovering Beaulieu with Aaron Morgan P18 Second Hand Car, First Class Service P20 Puzzled P21 Accessible Holidays P22 News Round Up

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P23 Sports News

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FIRST BUS WIN WHEELCHAIR APPEAL The First Bus Group’s ‘buggy-gate’ appeal has left disability campaigners shocked and disgusted.

The issue was brought to court originally by wheelchair user Doug Paulley when he was unable to access a bus because a woman on board with a pushchair refused to move. Doug was successful in his original court action but the ruling has now been overturned by the Court of Appeal.

UNFAIR POLICY At the time Doug tried to board a bus, back in February 2012, First Bus’ policy was to ask parents with prams and buggies to give way to wheelchair users but not to force them. Mr Paulley argued that this was unfair and was awarded £5,500 in damages when the court found this policy in breach of the Equality Act 2010.

However, senior judge, Lord Justice Lewison, subsequently ‘respectfully disagreed’ with the decision, saying: “The judge seems to me to have thought that the needs of wheelchair users trumped all other considerations.”

DISAPPOINTING OUTCOME The new ruling means that if someone refuses to move from the wheelchair bay on a bus then nothing more can be done. Andy Cole, from the Leonard Cheshire Disability charity, says they were deeply disappointed with the outcome.

“The judgement does not provide clarity and certainty for disabled bus passengers that the space they need will be made available.”

Lord Justice Underhill, who also upheld First Bus’ appeal, commented: “It has to be accepted that our ruling means that wheelchair users will occasionally be prevented by other passengers from using the wheelchair space on the bus.

“However, I don’t believe that the fact that some passengers will – albeit rarely – act selfishly and irresponsibly is a sufficient reason for imposing a legal responsibility on bus companies for a situation which is not of their making and which they can’t prevent.”

Doug Paulley’s lawyers have applied for permission to appeal this decision to the UK Supreme Court.

Have Your Say

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Incredible New Treatment Helps Man Walk 40 year old Darek Fidyka, from Poland, has received ground breaking new treatment to help him walk again after a knife attack resulted in paralysis.

Darek was stabbed repeatedly in the back in an attack which severed his spinal cord. As a result he was left paralysed from the chest down and relied on a wheelchair to get about.

Specialist Treatment Specialist surgeons in Poland collaborated with scientists from University College London’s Institute of Neurology to develop the treatment. The team took olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) – specialist cells that form part of your sense of smell – to use as pathway cells to allow his body to renew nerve fibres. The treated OECs were transplanted into Darek’s spinal cord, alongside four thin strips of nerve tissue taken from his ankle.

The combination of OECs and nerve fibres allowed the injury to reconnect

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FAYRE’S FAIR

West Midlands MP, Ian Austin, is calling on the government to make charging wheelchair passengers more for taxi fares illegal.

Investigations have shown that many taxi companies are guilty of adding on an extra charge for a wheelchair user. Mr Austin, Labour MP for Dudley North, says that he has written to Equalities Minister, Nicky Morgan, urging the government to enforce the Equalities Act to make sure that wheelchair passengers are not paying more than anyone else.

Equality for All

and bridge the gap in his spinal cord. After the incident Darek had not been able to walk for nearly two years and had shown no sign of improvement despite months of rehabilitation and physiotherapy.

Never Give Up His exercise program continued after his surgery and three months later he began to notice the muscle growing in his left thigh. Now almost two years after treatment, Darek can walk using a frame.

He comments: “I still tire after walking but I think it’s realistic that one day I’ll become independent. I’ve learnt to keep fighting and never give up.”

Scientists say it’s much too early to say that a cure for spinal cord injury in general is at hand. Darek had a very clean-cut separation in his cord and has recovered only partial motor function below the injury.

Nonetheless, this small success with one patient shows that nerve re-growth is possible. With scientists and surgeons around the world keen to explore the possibility of similar treatments, there’s now realistic hope for millions of spinal injury victims.

The Equalities Act was brought into force in 2010 to provide a clear legal framework to tackle disadvantage and discrimination.

Under this act disabled people and their carers are assured of legal rights to equal or advantageous treatment in areas such as employment, education and the access to goods, services and facilities.

Mr Austin’s constituents have spoken to him about the issues they’ve faced trying to use taxis in the area.

He says: “People in Dudley have told me that there have been plenty of times when they’ve actually been refused by a taxi driver because of their wheelchair. On the occasions that they are picked up they’re often charged more, which is both unfair and unreasonable.”

Have Your Say

Share your feelings on this story facebook.com/alliedmobility @alliedmobility

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A cting on Impulse Peter Taylor, from Lancashire, values his ability to go where he wants, when he wants. That’s why the Peugeot Impulse™ from Allied Mobility is the perfect wheelchair accessible vehicle for him.

Peter settled on the Impulse™ because he felt it was the best car for his needs.

He says: “I wanted to be able to transfer into the driver’s seat but couldn’t in a standard vehicle without help.

A car that allowed me to take my wheelchair up-front was the perfect solution and Impulse ticked all the boxes.”

Based on the popular Peugeot Partner, Impulse™ offers a new level of independence, allowing you to drive from your wheelchair or travel as an up-front passenger. The fully automatic ramp and tailgate makes travelling without assistance simple and stress-free.

NEW LEVEL OF INDEPENDENCE Peter enjoys not having to rely on anyone else when he wants to get out and about and really appreciates being able to travel spontaneously, even if it’s just to his local supermarket.

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He comments: “It’s made such a difference to my life.

I’m much more sociable now and love if I get the notion to go somewhere that I can just get in my car and go!”

INTERNAL TRANSFER Peter transfers from his wheelchair to the driver’s seat, which is just one way that Impulse™ can be flexible to fit individual needs. He simply positions his wheelchair in the up-front passenger position and can transfer to the driver’s seat safely and comfortably – especially useful in wet weather! Both front seats in Impulse™ can be removed or replaced easily too, so it’s easy to swap places if you need to.

The ramp and tailgate in Impulse™ are fully automatic and can be controlled by a handy remote control on the key fob. Peter loves this feature, adding: “The ramp is brilliant and so simple to use but the best bit is the look on people’s faces when they see the tailgate swing up and ramp fold down automatically. They’re always really impressed!”

Peter continues: “I pick up my sister’s children from school a couple of times a week too and they thought this was brilliant; the novelty of being able to literally walk into the car has only just worn off!”

Did You Know?

Impulse™ is made up from 13,000 separate components.

“I love if I get a notion to go somewhere that I can just get in my car and go.”

FOOTBALL FANATIC Peter has used his new Impulse™ for a sightseeing holiday to Wales, taking in Snowdonia National Park and loves that his Impulse™ made this possible.

He’s also a keen supporter of Blackburn Rovers and drives to the matches every fortnight.

He says: “I used to have to find someone to go with me if I wanted to see a game and it wasn’t always possible. Now that I can go whenever I want, I hardly ever miss a match.”

Peter’s local Allied Mobility consultant, Philip, visited him at home several times before he plumped for Impulse™, to make sure it was the right car for him.

Peter comments: “I found Philip friendly and very helpful. It was great having the car brought out to me a few times before I made a decision.”

Peter continues: “Impulse has made a huge difference to my life, I have a brand new sense of independence and not having to rely on anybody else when I want to leave the house is brilliant.”

0800 916 0039

info@alliedmobility.com www.alliedmobility.com/impulse

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TOP 10 TIPS... SPRING INTO It’s always a good time to try something new, and with the promise of sunshine around the corner, there’s a little more ‘spring’ in our step! We’ve put together our top 10 list of fun sports and hobbies to try out, with something for all levels of mobility.

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Wheelchair Dance Wheelchair dance is a great way to have fun and meet new people. Our friends at the Wheelchair Dance Sport Association (WDSA) run events, including taster sessions, around the UK. Check out www.wdsauk.co.uk for more info.

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Scrapbooking Scrapbooking is a fun way to spend time and record memories, especially if it’s miserable outside!

It’s becoming more and more popular and all you need is some paper and a dash of creativity. For those who struggle with reduced mobility, you can scrapbook online for free at websites like smilebox.com

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Gardening Gardening is a great way to enjoy the sunshine and can be a really rewarding hobby for people of all abilities (especially if you have green fingers).

If you’re interested, enter our garden tool competition on page 20 to get a head start!

Boccia Boccia has grown massively in popularity since the Paralympics and Commonwealth Games and is designed especially for people with limited motor function. For more info, including where to find your local club, visit www.gb-boccia.org.

Geocaching Geocaching is a game based on users following GPS co-ordinates to find a ‘geocache’ (container or token) placed by other players. There are geocaches hidden all over the world and many of them are easily accessible.

You can play the game via geocaching.com or find out more about accessible ‘handicaching’ at handicaching.com

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Horse Riding If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try horse-riding?

It’s a great way to see the countryside and organisations like Riding for the Disabled exist to make horse riding accessible for people with disabilities. There are lots of ways to take part, from indoor sessions for beginners to show-jumping and vaulting! Visit rda.org.uk for more info.

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Photography You don’t need an expensive camera to give photography a go, especially with the quality of mobile phones these days. There are lots of photography clubs on the go who welcome people of all levels, or try downloading an app like Afterlight (69p from the App Store) which will help make your phone pics even better!

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8 Start a Collection Collecting things can be lots of fun and depending on what you decide to collect, relatively easy!

Try local car boots sales and charity shops for anything from old records to vintage postcards.

It can also be a great way to get chatting to people that you wouldn’t normally meet.

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Enjoy Nature Regardless of your level of mobility, there’s something for everyone to do in the great outdoors! With warmer weather around the corner (we hope), take time to visit your local park, the seaside or explore somewhere you’ve never been before!

Join a Club There are clubs for nearly every pastime, where you can meet like-minded people and make the most out of your hobbies. If you enjoy reading, join a book club or, if you like more active persuits, check out the sports clubs in your area. Try the Yellow Pages or Google to see what’s happening in your area.

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Wheelchair dance is growing at all levels across the UK and the national association has announced a bumper programme of events for 2015.

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As well as regional taster days there will be three official wheelchair dance competitions during the year, not to mention regular activities undertaken by 16 local clubs. Add to this a glitzy ‘Strictly’ fundraising event and you’ll soon see why there’s such a buzz about wheelchair dance at the moment!

2015 Programme The growing programme of events and activities is coordinated by the Wheelchair Dance Sport Association (UK), in partnership with Sport England and Allied Mobility.

Taster sessions offer a great way to do just that get a taste of wheelchair dance and all that it can offer people of all abilities. Look out for opportunities at Allied Mobility events and many of the larger disability events across the UK this year.

National Competitions Newly announced national wheelchair dance-offs include two beginners’ events - ‘Debutante Competitions’. The first was held down at Weymouth Pavilions on 7th March and the other will be at Kidderminster Town Hall, on 25th July.

The climax of the season, as far as competitive wheelchair dance is concerned, will take place at the famous Stoke Mandeville hospital, in Buckinghamshire, on 31st October, with the National Wheelchair Dance Competition.

and dance, topped off with a fabulous three course meal.

Strictly stars Kevin Clifton and Karen Hauer have already been getting involved to help promote what promises to be a glamorous occasion.

Wheel Come Dancing takes place at the Auction House, in Luton, on Friday, 19th June. For tickets and to support this great cause, visit wdsauk.co.uk/store.

Competitive events are open to spectators so members of the public can see the top performers in this amazing sport and the dedication of its athletes to the competition. So whether it’s a regional taster session or one of the national competitions, why not come along and find out what wheelchair dancing is all about.

Alllied Mobility chairman, Gerry Facenna, comments: “I’ve always believed you can do anything if you really think you can.

“Wheelchair dance is great because it’s so inclusive.

Yes, it has some fabulous star performers but it really is something everyone can take part in.”

Strictly Having Fun The Wheelchair Dance Sport Association, again with support from Allied Mobility, will also be hosting an ambitious fundraising event this year, Wheel Come Dancing!

Inspired by the hit BBC TV series, Strictly Come Dancing, the event promises to be an exciting evening of competition

0300 111 3045 info@wdsauk.co.uk www.wdsauk.co.uk

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Drive from wheelchair OR Up-front passenger 13

Originally founded in 1972 as the British Paraplegic Sports Society, WheelPower is the national organisation for wheelchair sport in the UK. The charity was founded by Sir Ludwig Guttmann, a German professor working at Stoke Mandeville Hospital, who transformed the treatment of people with spinal injuries in the 1940’s.

He believed sport to be a vital part of the rehabilitation process and launched the Stoke Mandeville Games. These games grew into the Paralympics which we know today.

Nowadays, the people at WheelPower dedicate themselves to providing sporting opportunities for people with disabilities to help them lead healthy and active lifestyles.

Amber’s Story

Amber is 13, has Cerebral Palsy and loves sport.

Taking part in PE at school had been a mixed experience for Amber. Joining in the activities with friends would only happen if her teaching assistant was on hand to help.

Last year, Amber and her mum travelled from Cornwall to Stoke Mandeville Stadium for WheelPower’s National Junior Games, where over 120 disabled children took part.

Amber discovered new sports that she’d never had the opportunity to try before such as handcycling, powerlifting, wheelchair basketball and boccia.

Although excited to learn many new skills, Amber was a little anxious at first and shy in front of the large group.

However, by the end of the week Amber was thriving and everyone noticed a huge increase in her confidence after working with the top class disability sport coaches. She returned home fully enthused 01296 395995 by wheelchair sport and couldn’t wait to info@wheelpower.org.uk show all her friends her new skills and start taking part in sport at her local clubs. www.wheelpower.org.uk Allied Mobility is delighted to support WheelPower.

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Discovering lieu Beauuseum

M r o t o M

with Aaron Morgan We sent disabled racing driver, Aaron Morgan, to Beaulieu National Motor Museum in Hampshire for a day out to review its attractions and accessibility.

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On Arrival Only a short distance from the M27, the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is set in the lovely surroundings of the New Forest. As we drove in we even spotted a few of the Forest’s wild horses!

There’s no need to pre-book your visit to the museum. On arrival there’s a designated disabled parking area with 12 spaces, which are located in easy reach to the main entrance. Once you go inside it’s possible to rent a wheelchair or scooter which is handy, although they did mention that if you want to guarantee availability for these it’s best to book in advance.

There’s a concession rate available for disabled customers and includes one free carer ticket, which is ideal. When we went in, the lady at the desk was very helpful in advising me which areas were fully accessible and let us know that assistance dogs are welcome in the museum.

After we got our tickets, we went through the entrance hall and into the main grounds where we were met with the monorail, which covers most of the park. Unfortunately this is only accessible from a platform, two flights of stairs up, so I wasn’t able to use it. You can see a video of the journey inside if you ask one of the staff but it would have been nice to see it for myself.

Entering the Motor Museum Our next stop was the main motor museum.

The entrance doors aren’t automatic, which could cause a problem for some people with disabilities but once you’re inside the exhibits are great. The first section of the museum has a selection of cars from the early 20th century up to the present day. Each display has a fact sheet giving you information on every car which is really interesting.

Following on from this there are plenty more vehicles to see, including two Formula One cars and the world’s fastest production car, a Bugatti Veyron. There’s an elevated section here which houses a motorcycle exhibit and is accessible by a platform lift for wheelchair users, which is great as I’m a big motorcycle fan. They had a bright red Ducati on display, which any biker will know is a big icon in the motorbike world. There’s also a really cool bike made entirely from Meccano by Top Gear presenter James May and a wall of fame featuring the top 20 motorbike racing legends.

The main floor of the museum is downstairs but there’s a lift, so I was easily able to access it. In here there’s lots more to see and even a small ride that takes you through the development of the motor car. The ride travels very slowly so people can hop on and off without it stopping but the

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museum staff were happy to stop it so I could get in. I had to transfer out of my wheelchair and into one of the ‘cars’ to enjoy the ride, which was fine for me as I’m quite good at it, but might not be very easy or possible for other disabled people.

In Top Gear After looking around the main section of the museum, I made my way to the ‘World of Top Gear’ which is based on the famous (and one of my favourite) TV shows.

In here I was able to get up close and personal with some of the vehicle stars of the show, including Jeremy Clarkson’s Fiat Panda which he converted into a stretch limo! A highlight for me was the selection of amphibious cars that each presenter was challenged to make including James May’s sailing Triumph Herald.

There are a few interactive parts of this exhibit, including a cinema experience to make you feel like part of the audience and remote control cars, which there’s a small extra charge to use. There’s also a simulator ride to experience doing a race lap with The Stig.

Unfortunately in order to get on you have to be able to walk a short distance and climb a flight of stairs which meant I didn’t get a chance to have a go.

Munchies The museum has a cafeteria which serves snacks and hot food, alongside plenty of outside seating for warmer days. The café is well laid out and easy to get around and is also the location of the disabled toilet facilities.

These are accessed with a RADAR key, which you can borrow from staff if you don’t have one. (A RADAR key is a special key that opens over 9,000 disabled toilets throughout the UK and is available to buy online at crm.disabilityrightsuk.org/radar-nks-key).

Fully Recommended!

If you’re a fan of cars in general like me, then visiting the Beaulieu Motor Museum is a must. It provides you with an excellent opportunity to see how the motorcar has developed through time, from the most humble of beginnings through to the cars of today. It’s mostly wheelchair accessible and allowed me to have a really nice day out so I think most disabled people would enjoy it. For any car fanatic there’s plenty to keep you interested!

01590 612345 info@beaulieu.co.uk www.beaulieu.co.uk

World’s fastest production car - Bugatti Veyron

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Getting a brand new vehicle isn’t the ideal option for everyone. That’s why Frederick Fryers, from Essex, decided an approved used wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) from Allied Mobility was the best and most economical choice for him.

SAFE AND SPACIOUS Frederick had been looking for an accessible car for a while when his daughter came across Allied Mobility. He decided that the Peugeot Independence™ would be the perfect size for him.

He was looking for a vehicle that would allow him to safely and easily transport his mobility scooter while he transferred into the driver’s seat.

The Peugeot Independence™ Frederick decided on is only three years old and is packed with great features like a lightweight ramp, air conditioning and Frederick’s personal favourite – cruise control.

He finds the access features really easy to operate: “The ramp is great; it’s nice and light and I find it really simple to use which makes traveling effortless and hassle-free.”

FAMILY TIME Frederick’s Independence™ is his first WAV and he’s found that it’s made a huge difference to his life.

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His previous vehicle was a seven-seater but in order to store his scooter he had to fold forward five of the seats which meant there wasn’t much room for anyone else in the car. This wasn’t ideal for Frederick as he regularly goes out and about with his three grandchildren. Now Independence™ allows him to transport his scooter while still having room for four additional passengers.

Every week he collects his eldest granddaughter, Leah, from school and delivers her to stage school and really enjoys the time they get to spend together. During holidays he enjoys lots of time around the whole family. They’re planning plenty of day trips to their nearest beach, Southend, when the weather improves.

Frederick comments: “The seaside is about an hour’s drive away from here. Now I have such an accessible car it’s great that I can take all the grandkids out for the day. It’s something we wouldn’t have been able to do before so it’s lovely we can spend more time together and make the most of the school holidays.”

In his spare time Frederick likes to collect medals, especially those from the First and Second World War. Having his Independence™ means he can travel to fairs and car boot sales to further his collection.

APPROVED USED Frederick found used WAV specialist, Philip, extremely helpful when choosing his car as he didn’t know much about accessible vehicles to begin with. He comments “Phil was extremely knowledgeable and was able to explain all of the features of the car to me so I knew it would suit my needs. I think my Independence is great and love the freedom and space I now have so I can spend more quality time with my family.”

“It ’s lovely we can spend all this time tog ether and make the most of the school holidays .”

Frederick and his Peugeot IndependenceTM

0800 916 0039

info@alliedmobility.com www.alliedmobility.com/independence

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Grand Plans for Grand Prize

K

im Cassidy, from Bury, was the lucky £1,000 prize winner in Allied Mobility’s annual freedom voucher competition.

Kim couldn’t quite believe her luck when she found out that she’d won, enthusing: “I thought it was a joke! It couldn’t be better timing for us as we have a project on the go that this money is perfect for.”

Kim and her husband David have two foster children who both use a wheelchair and have struggled in the past to find a family holiday destination that can accommodate them. They decided to take matters into their own hands and buy a holiday home in Wales that they’re working on to make accessible.

WIN

Family Holidays

Kim adds: “We’re really excited about this project. It’s going to be lovely to get away as a family to a place that everyone can enjoy.

We plan to use our £1,000 freedom voucher to install a hoist in the house, which will be a really helpful addition to the property.”

Local mobility advisor, Phil, presented Kim with her cheque after she entered Allied Mobility’s prize draw at the Kidz Event in Manchester. She was chosen at random from entries collected at various events throughout last year.

W

ith spring around the corner, we’re giving you the chance to win a luxury pair of gardening gloves and tools especially designed for those with restricted mobility.

All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is send an email with your name and address to competitions@alliedmobility.com.

Don’t forget to let us know if you would prefer the standard or long handled tools and if you would like small, medium or large gloves!

The lucky winner will be chosen at random after 30th April 2015.

Good luck!

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The Motability Scheme allows people in the UK to use their disability allowance to afford mobility solutions like wheelchair accessible vehicles, adapted cars and scooters. On the go for 36 years, Motability has helped over three million people get mobile, bringing many a new lease of life.

With over half a million people currently benefitting from the scheme, Motability has branched out into other areas including specialist travel insurance.

Careful Planning For many people with a disability, going on holiday is not as simple as booking online and turning up. There’s plenty of careful planning to be done and making sure you choose the right travel insurance is of utmost important to those with existing conditions and unique requirements.

The last thing you need before you take a vacation is stress and worry over who picks up the bill if something goes wrong.

That’s why specialist travel insurance that caters specifically for those with mobility issues is ideal.

Insurance for All In partnership with Unique Insurance, Motability now offers an individual and personal service, ensuring peace of mind when booking a holiday. Motability’s policies have no upper age limit and approve cover for 98% of people who request a quotation.

You can rest assured that they understand the importance of tailoring insurance to the individual and look at a whole host of factors to make sure you have the coverage you need. These include medical conditions you declare, how long you plan to go away for, where you’re visiting and what sort of medical treatments are available at your destination.

motability.co.uk/travelinsurance 0800 561 0146

Amsterdam and Dutch Bulbfields

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£ 25 hotel c taken in A redit on holidays pr and Novem il, May, October ber

Specialist h otel, Treva nion supports ind ividuals and House, groups who have learn ing disabili ties to have an independ ent holiday. are a plea There sant mix of local amenities, all set in th e picturesque Cornwall cou ntryside.

For further de Can Do Holid tails contact ays on 0800 298 3052 or email enq uiries@cand oholidays.c and quote om ‘Allied Mobili ty’

21

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NEWS ROUND UP

1

National Access Card Launched

A social enterprise company run by disabled people has launched a brand new National Access Card. The card details the holder’s specific needs and adjustments to allow them to easily inform venue staff of their requirements without having to go into potentially embarrassing details. The card features details such as how far the holder can walk or if they have an assistance dog and acts as proof of disability when paying concessionary prices. To find out more or to get yours visit credability.uk.com/access-card or call 01332 404040 (option 5).

2

Chart Toppers Headline Accessible Gigs

Big names such as Coldplay and Ed Sheeran have been announced as headline acts for a series of concerts hosted by Radio 1 DJ, Jameela Jamil’s organisation, Why Not People. The project specialises in putting on events and gigs for disabled people and incorporates new technology to make sure people with disabilities are able to enjoy the show as much as non-disabled people.

To join Why Not People and be the first to hear when gig dates are announced, see whynotpeople.com

3

Disabled Mugging Victim Receives Thousands in Donations

67 year old Alan Barnes, from Tyneside, was mugged outside his home at the end of January.

Since news of the horrible attack went viral online, over £300,000 has been raised by kind strangers to help Mr Barnes get his life back to normal.

Alan, who became disabled after his mother contracted German measles whilst she was pregnant, says: “I’ve got a solicitor who’s giving me advice so the money is all put to good use. I didn’t expect any of this but I’m so grateful.”

4

No Disabled Access to Benefit Interview

Michael Sparks, from Bournemouth, was turned away from his disability benefits interview because he couldn’t access the floor the interview was being held on. Michael, whose right leg is amputated beneath the knee, was told that he couldn’t use the lift as he would be a ‘fire hazard’.

Michael made a complaint and has since been offered a home assessment but thinks the whole ordeal was ridiculous: “I was flabbergasted. They’re running a disability assessment, yet this seems to be disability discrimination against those in a wheelchair.”

Access All Areas 22

DISABILITY SPORTS NEWS

BOOST FOR WHEELCHAIR RUGBY BT have agreed to a three year sponsorship deal of GB Wheelchair Rugby (GBWR), becoming their new Official Principal Partner.

Team GB is ranked number one in Europe and number five in the world.

It’s hoped the support from BT will help the team maintain and improve their excellent position.

FANTASTIC Chief executive of GB Wheelchair Rugby, David Pond, says: “It’s fantastic to have BT behind us as we continue to grow wheelchair rugby over the next three years.

“Not only will the team benefit from the partnership as they prepare for the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games but we’ll be able to build

020 8831 7645 info@gbwr.org.uk

Most people would instantly associate rock climbing with experienced adrenaline junkies.

However, one man from Scotland is on a mission to change this, making climbing accessible to all.

Challenging Boundaries Jamie Andrew lost both his hands and feet to frostbite, after becoming storm-bound while winter climbing in the French Alps.

Despite this, he has carried on climbing and many other outdoor pursuits. Now he’s been working hard to change the boundaries of what people with disabilities can do by encouraging others to try climbing.

At the end of last year he helped organise Scotland’s first para-climb competition at Edinburgh International Climbing Arena. The arena is the world’s largest, built into an old rock quarry and boasts walls with climbing routes up to an impressive 28 metres high.

The event saw over thirty people participating our Club National Championships and get from a wide range of backgrounds, from more people than ever playing the game Cody, a US war veteran who lost a leg in an in their local communities.” explosion to six year old Ethan, who has brittle bone disease.

CREATING AND DEVELOPING Inclusive BT is also planning to support Jamie comments: “Paraclimbing is entirely several wheelchair rugby community inclusive; we don’t care if your disability is programmes by creating three new clubs a physical one or a mental one. I believe and developing six youth teams. Over the everyone should have the chance to try climbing and see if it’s something they enjoy.” next three years, the aim is to introduce up Kat Langdon, who took part in the to 400 young people to the sport through competition, suffers from introductory sessions. cerebral palsy which affects her muscle control and movements. Climbing, however, gives her a sense of freedom.

Kat says: “I get on the wall and it’s like I’m free,” she enthuses. “Just like everyone else. Someone actually told me once that I don’t look any different from anyone else when I’m on the wall rt, pa ok to and that is the essence of o wh , 13 year old Matthew b team lim climbing for me.” rac Pa GB e th to wants to make it on Jamie’s mission is to eventually make climbing accessible for everyone across the country.

British Mountaineering Council 0161 445 6111 office@thebmc.co.uk www.thebmc.co.uk

gbwr.org.uk

0800 916 0039 23

0800 916 0039

www.alliedmobility.com

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

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

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