Access All Areas Winter 2018

A

Access All Areas

Freedom for the Freemans Top 10 Invictus Games Moments WINTER ISSUE 2018

Disability Charity of the Year

\\\

EAM T S L L U EN F L E H H T WI D A E H A 1

ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE HIRE

Whe accesseilbclheacir & minibus h ar ire

the UK’s leading supplier of accessible vehicles Allied Mobility offers a wide variety of wheelchair accessible and specially adapted vehicles for short and long-term hire. For advice on finding a vehicle to suit your needs, call our experienced team now.

Driving for Perfection

Driving aids and adaptations Tel: 0800 587 9640 www.alliedmobility.com

WELCOME With the dark nights settling in, we love nothing more than sitting down with a nice mug of hot chocolate and a cosy blanket. We hope you’re doing the same with the latest Access All Areas magazine!

In this edition we give you the behind the scenes excitement of the recent DMUK Awards. We were thrilled that we could give a special award on the night for the Disability Charity of the Year.

Our special reporter, Helen Dolphin, visits a steam railway and blogger, Kate Stanforth, gives us an insight into her life with her assistance dog, Spencer. We also catch up with two of our vehicle customers; the Freemans and the Lewis family.

A

\\\ 6

22

Happy reading!

20

News Round-up...................................... 4 Freedom for the Freemans...................... 6 Charity Focus: Strongbones..................... 8 Top 10 Invictus Games Moments..............10 Spencer and Me....................................13 Walking on Air......................................16

12

Full Steam Ahead .................................17 Changing Train Travel ...........................20 Crusader's Corner.................................22 True Independence™............................24 DMUK Awards......................................27 Sports Update .....................................30

0800 587 9640

3

A

\\\

News Round Up\\\

M&S Clothing Launch One of the UK’s largest retailers, Marks and Spencer (M&S), has received praise from the public for the launch of their ‘Easy Dressing’ clothing line.

M&S is said to be the first high street retailer to produce clothing for children with physical and sensory disabilities. Tailored for kids who require clothing that’s easy to put on, has extra compartments to secure

feeding tubes or is soft enough for sensitive skin, the exciting new range endeavours to make clothing more accessible for the 1.5 million disabled children in the UK. The retailer asked mum of three, Emma, to try out the designs on her children, five-year-old twins Edward and Celia.

She said: “Edward has hemiplegia,

which is cerebral palsy that affects his right side. He has limited control and movement in his arm and leg and epilepsy. The Velcro fastening down the back of the sweater and bodywarmer means I can easily get Edward ready to go out when he’s in his wheelchair. I haven’t seen anything else like this before. Edward loved how cool they looked.”

Trip of a Lifetime 192 disabled and seriously ill children from all across the UK have been given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to enjoy a free Dreamflight trip to Florida.

The children, some of whom require round-theclock care, had been nominated for the trip by social workers, healthcare teams and doctors. They visited the likes of SeaWorld, Universal Studios and Disney World.

As the grand finale of the life changing trip, the children were given the chance to swim with dolphins at Discovery Cove. For many, this meant being lifted from their wheelchairs into the water, where staff and carers helped them to interact with the dolphins.

Charity founder Pat Pearce said: “32 years on, I look around and I’m really proud to see a charity that keeps going year after year, supported by very kind people and features only one person drawing a salary.

Not many charities can say that and it is down to the generosity of the volunteers and those who help fund Dreamflight.”

4

A

Access All Areas

NEWS FROM PARIS News from France hit UK headlines when a driver ordered all passengers off a bus after they refused to make space for a wheelchair user. François Le Berre, who has multiple sclerosis, was unable to board the bus with his fellow commuters as they had blocked the area reserved for a wheelchair and made no effort to move for him.

A

\\\

Taking matters into his own hands, the driver reportedly declared: “Terminating!

Everybody off!”, according to a tweet describing the incident by a group called “Accessible Pour Tous” – or “Accessible for All”.

The driver then asked François to board the bus and take his place, advising the removed passengers to wait on the next scheduled pick up. The Twitter post has been shared more than 5,000 times and attracted more than 12,000 likes. One Twitter user commented: “Bravo to the bus driver but shame on the passengers.”

THE ABILITY PEOPLE: TACKLING UNEMPLOYMENT When former Paralympian, Liz Johnson, learned of the very low number of workingage, unemployed disabled people in the UK, she knew something had to change.

Liz, who has competed for Team GB in three Paralympic Games, paired her successful sporting career with a business management degree. Her degree took her to the world of recruitment, from where her business idea ultimately stemmed.

The Ability People is staffed by a team of employees who all live with a disability.

Liz herself has cerebral palsy and believes disabled people have the skills needed to become a good recruiter.

She describes how living with a disability means she and her fellow recruiters have a “unique perspective”.

Liz continued: “We see talent that others

miss. After all, we’ve built careers by defying expectation.”

The Ability People’s ethos is “supporting clients and candidates without bias” – ensuring they place the right person in the right job. Both disabled and able-bodied job seekers and employers can approach the company. Liz hopes she has created an environment that encourages more disabled people to work with the company. She notes: “I’ve had 32 years to get used to my disability and as a Paralympic swimmer, I couldn’t hide my disability. But not everyone feels that way.”

The Ability People argue flexible working is key. They, of course, live by their own advice.

Liz explains: “For many companies, flexible working might mean adding a ramp or making a computer screen larger for visually-impaired staff. Or it might mean giving an employee the right to work three days and then asking which three days they choose. That doesn’t always work for people with disabilities. You might have three good days but be floored for a week.”

www.alliedmobility.com 5

“

“

I now arrive relaxed after every trip - it’s definitely a five-star choice!

A

\\\

0800 587 9640 info@alliedmobility.com www.alliedmobility.com/horizon

Freedom for For Carol and Paul Freeman, from Harpenden, this was their second wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) from Allied Mobility.

A

\\\

6

A

Access All Areas

Already the proud owners of the Peugeot Horizon™, it was an easy choice for the couple when it came to the end of their five-year Motability contract.

Picking the Right WAV When Carol, who has Multiple Sclerosis, was no longer able to transfer from her wheelchair, the couple knew a wheelchair accessible car was the right option for them. They originally had a Renault Trafic, followed by Fiat Doblo but neither felt quite right. They then contacted Allied Mobility.

Paul comments: “When we found Allied Mobility in 2013, we opted for the Horizon. It was so good we decided that our next WAV would be the same.

However, this time it had really gotten so much better!”

Mobility Day Decision We were delighted to hear that the Freemans attended our South East Mobility Day at Chatham Dockyards earlier in the year. Paul remarked that it gave the couple the chance to check out the vehicle before arranging their home demonstration while adding it gave them “a great free day out!”

Carol and Paul were then visited at home by their local mobility consultant, Matt, for a full demonstration. Paul commented: “Matt came to the house and did all the work - he made it all amazingly easy.”

Vehicle Improvements Since their last Horizon™ the couple noted the improvements made to the vehicle in the last five years, including

the Freemans the innovative EasyGlide™ ramp.

Paul says: “The new ramp is so easy to use and makes a huge difference in the road noise that comes with an adapted car. The vehicle is great to drive, especially with the automatic gearbox. I now arrive relaxed after every trip - it’s definitely a five-star choice!”

Life in the Horizon™ This impressive wheelchair access vehicle offers style, safety and maximum accessibility.

Paul enthuses: “Without our Horizon we'd be totally isolated and unable to get to a lot of Carol’s appointments. We’d also find it hard to socialise.”

Peugeot Horizon™ is available exclusively from Allied Mobility to buy, rent or via the Motability Scheme, with advance payments starting from £895.

7

This autumn Allied Mobility was delighted to partner with Disabled Motoring UK to sponsor a new, national award for the Disability Charity of the Year.

Choosing the Award We decided to honour the countless people across the UK and Ireland who dedicate their time and expertise to helping disabled people. We launched a week-long competition on our Facebook page to find the 2018 Disabled Charity of the Year. With over 800 entries, and a very difficult judging day, the winner was eventually announced at the annual DMUK Awards.

Allied Mobility was delighted to crown Strongbones Children’s Charitable Trust as the overall winner. Access All Areas recently spoke to April Fitzmaurice, a trustee for the charity, who told us a bit 8

A

Access All Areas

experience new adventures together and forging lifelong friendships and support networks.”

more about the organisation and what the award means to them.

What is Strongbones?

Alongside the award, Allied Mobility was also delighted to present the charity with a £1,000 donation.

Strongbones is a national registered charity helping children with bone conditions, alongside complex needs, under the age of 21. They aim to increase inclusion by providing accessible activities and family interaction days.

April continued: “The donation from Allied Mobility will be used to book our next Family Day. We change the theme each year. This year we’ve gone for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the marquee will be a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party!”

Supportive Role Based in Essex, Strongbones also provides a range of disability equipment, including wheelchairs and adapted trikes/hand cycles, alongside a variety of sensory packs.

They offer invaluable support for families, including guidance on how to make their child’s condition more manageable and enhance their quality of life. They also recognise the emotional impact having a disabled brother or sister can have. Their Super Sibling project runs competitions and activities specifically designed to involve the whole family.

“

“

We take families out of social isolation by helping them experience new adventures together.

A

\\\

Amazing Achievement April said of the award: “We’re so happy and proud to have received this award and be recognised for the vital work we carry out. We take families out of social isolation by helping them

For more information on Strongbones visit their website www.strongbones.org.uk

www.alliedmobility.com 9

1. One Team

2. Swimming Saviour The ISA 50m breaststroke final was at risk of cancellation until triple amputee, Mark Ormrod, took to the water. Amazingly, Mark had never attempted, let alone competed in the stroke. With a total of three minutes practise under his belt, Mark was crowned the winner and took home gold!

Paul Guest, a wheelchair tennis competitor, was comforted by his team mate after a helicopter flying overhead unsettled the former mine warfare specialist. Paul’s doubles partner, Edwin Vermetten, said of the moment: “I took him by the face and said: ‘Look at me.

We are a team so let it go.’” Vermetten was awarded the “above and beyond award” by the royals at the closing ceremony.

5. Return of Matt Model Matt, who had already secured two silver medals for indoor rowing, believed his games had come to successful end and was getting ready to cheer on his fellow Aussie’s in the 400m relay final. With only a few hours left until the start of the race, reserve runner, Matt, hadn’t expected to be involved so late on. The last-minute call up proved to be a good one! Matt bounded ahead, giving an early lead to his team mates who kept up the momentum to bring home gold!

7. Courageous Cavell Cavell Simmonds proved age is just a number after her appearance as the oldest competitor at the games. At 67, the former military nurse who suffers from PTSD, wowed fellow participants by appearing in almost every event. Cavell achieved a podium finish for archery and also competed in wheelchair rugby, powerlifting and golf (amongst other sports). Cavell said of the games: “I am so privileged to be participating.

This opportunity has been very beneficial in helping me cope with this (PTSD) condition.”

10

A

Access All Areas

TOP Moments of the

8. Big Little Warriors

It was a very exciting moment during the games for the children of Cerebal Palsy Alliance (CPA) who took to the field for a special relay race. Encouraged by the deafening cheers from the crowd, many of the children who participated have high hopes of becoming future Paralympians. 12 year-old Alex Coombs said of the experience: “Being at the Invictus Games is very inspirational because the competitors show us that we can do anything.”

3. Sydney Service Dogs When powerlifter, Ben Farinazzo, entered the stadium for his first Invictus Games he was overwhelmed by his surroundings and the booming noise from the crowds. Afraid his body wouldn’t be able to cope with the pressures, Ben started to panic. Amazingly, service dog, Tank, a 15-month old Labrador was immediately by his side. Ben said that Tank “had this remarkably calming feel over me that was totally unexpected.” Ben was able to continue and achieved a personal best lift.

P 10 Invictus Games

4. Award Ceremony to Wedding Ceremony Relay winner, Dean Knobel, followed up his gold medal performance by getting down on one knee to propose! Swimmer Dean, who suffered a spinal injury and was medically discharged from the Navy, dried himself off before asking his partner, Rachel, to be his wife in front of an astonished crowd. She said yes!

6. True Sportsmanship One of the most touching moments of the games, highlighting the true comradery between nations, came between Australia and New Zealand in a scintillating wheelchair rugby match. Kiwi, George Nepata, a tetraplegic, is new to the discipline and so wasn’t expecting his role in the games to be so extensive. However, after a team mate had to drop out, George found himself playing the entire match. His Australian counterparts were so impressed with his unrelenting energy levels, they made sure he finished the match in style, passing him the ball and encouraging him across the Kiwi goal line.

9. Cycling Challenge

10. Meghan's Moving Speech

Navy veteran, Karen Frisk, was another competitor who highlighted the amazing physical and mental endurance the Invictus athletes possess. Karen, who has multiple sclerosis, battled to the very end of the race with fellow UK team member, Michael Matthews, by her side for the final stages. Michael reportedly urged Karen to continue to the finish line, encouraging: “It’s only a little hill, you’ve had bigger mountains to climb.”

The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, gave an emotional testimony to the men and women of the Invictus Games.

The closing ceremony was a celebration of an exceptional games which showcased the strength and togetherness of those affected by disability. Meghan said: “I wanted to thank all of you for welcoming me into the Invictus family. I’m truly so grateful to be a part of this with each and every one of you.”

0800 587 9640

11

0800 587 9640

www.alliedmobility.com

Discover the unique benefits of Allied Aftercare™ www.alliedmobility.com/aftercare

MAXIMISE YOUR

INDEPENDENCE

TM

All of our vehicle s are certifie d for heavier wheelchair s

4-7 seats

FORD TOURNEO Advance Payment from INDEPENDENCE™

£3,495

Roomy & comfortable

>> Lightweight EasyFold™ ramp >> Personalised seating layouts >> Bluetooth® connectivity >> Privacy glass >> Front & rear air conditioning P geot A >> Easy-use electric winchow >> eParking st Peu sensors L t Ford Lowes

Custom

Advance Payments correct at time of going to press. Images for illustrative purposes only.

AP

New Ford facelift

Free UK-wide home demonstrations call 0800 587 9640

SPENCER \\\ AND ME Being a young, chronically ill woman I crave an independent life.

A couple of years ago I stumbled across the Canine Partners website and put in an application for an assistance dog.

Little did I know just how much four paws were about to transform my life.

Meeting Spencer Spencer is a Labrador-Retreiver, and because of this, I assumed he'd be a golden colour. So, when a stunning charcoal black dog bounded through the door at our first visit, my first words were ‘I’m not sure that’s my dog, Mum’. After we laughed about the mix-up, I was hit with a wave of emotions and soon realised that he was perfect for me.

Just over a month later, I travelled six hours back down to West Sussex to spend two weeks of intensive training with him. This was by far one of the most rewarding, but tiring, few weeks I’ve ever experienced. The dogs are specifically matched to the client’s personality, lifestyle and disability which

is a really important process to create the best partnerships. Within the first few days, I found out that Spencer is the most affectionate pup who just wants to please everyone by working as hard as he can.

I also found out he needs an afternoon nap otherwise he can get a bit grumpy.

He's basically me in dog form!

Special Bond Spencer and I have now been partnered for six months. I see him not just as my dog but my colleague and my companion. His task-list is ever growing and adapting with my needs. He helps me with personal care like getting undressed and even bringing a towel for me after I wash. He helps me around the house by fetching the phone, pressing a ‘help’ alarm if I fall and even putting the washing in the machine.

He offers me companionship which aids my anxiety. But his most impressive task at the moment, which he’s picked up through our close bond, is alerting me to a dip in blood pressure.

Canine Partners didn’t teach him to do this, he worked this out himself as he's so in tune with my body.

Most importantly though, he's a happy dog who loves to work but also still gets free time galloping around fields with his favourite squeaky ball. We've already achieved so much and I can’t wait to continue our adventures together.

A

\\\

Follow our journey @spencerandme_ @spencerandkate

www.alliedmobility.com 13

Discover the unique benefits of Allied Aftercare™ www.alliedmobility.com/aftercare

NEW

NEARLY NEW

ACCESS FOR ALL Lowest Peugeo

t AP

4-7 seats

Lowest Ford Cu

stom AP

5 seats

FORD TOURNEO Advance Payment from INDEPENDENCE™

Advance Payment from FORD GRAND CONNECT FREEDOM™

Roomy & comfortable

Ultra-modern & fuel efficient

£3,495

>> Lightweight EasyFold™ ramp >> Personalised seating layouts >> Bluetooth® connectivity >> Privacy glass >> Front & rear air conditioning >> Easy-use electric winch >> Parking sensors

£2,395

>> Unique EasyGlide™ pull-out ramp >> Original Ford seating throughout >> Easy-use electric winch >> Parking sensors >> Privacy glass >> Air conditioning

New Ford Facelift

4-7 seats

5 seats

VOLKSWAGEN CADDY VISTA™

Advance Payment from

£2,995

Luxurious quality & style

>> EasyFold™ go-flat ramp >> Full original Volkswagen seating >> Air conditioning >> Cruise control >> Bluetooth® connectivity >> Privacy glass >> Easy-use electric winch >> Parking sensors

PEUGEOT BOXER SPIRIT™

Advance Payment from

£5,895

Excellent accessibility & storage

>> Personalised seating options >> Front & rear air conditioning >> Automatic tail lift or ramp >> Bluetooth® connectivity >> DAB radio

Advance Payments correct at time of going to press. Images for illustrative purposes only.

0800 587 9640 www.alliedmobility.com USED

HIRE

With Allied Mobility, having your own wheelchair accessible car doesn’t have to cost the earth.

All of our vehicle s are certifie d for heavier wheelchair s

ugeot AP

Lowest Pe

3-5 seats

PEUGEOT HORIZON™

Advance Payment from only AP rd Custom Lowest Fo

£895

The UK’s most popular WAV >> Unique EasyGlide™ pull-out ramp >> RE model for larger wheelchairs >> Original Peugeot seating throughout* >> Easy-use electric winch >> Parking sensors >> Air conditioning >> Privacy glass >> Bluetooth® connectivity

*RS model

Free UK-wide home demonstrations - call 0800 587 9640

\\\

Walking on Air

Margaret Ferry, originally from Guernsey, literally rose to the challenge of raising money for MS Trust recently – by flying in a glider!

61-year-old Margaret, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) thirty years ago, teamed up with Scottish charity, Walking on Air, who helped her achieve her amazing feat.

Billed as the “simplest form of soaring”, the specially adapted glider is engineless and uses updraughts to produce the lift to keep the plane airborne.

Capable of reaching tens of thousands of feet in the air and travelling distances of over 600 miles, gliding is fast becoming a popular sport. Walking on Air is one such charity making this experience a reality for disabled people too.

16

A

Access All Areas

Worthy Cause Before her MS diagnosis, Margaret would often participate in events to help raise money for different charities. Realising she had a brilliant chance to raise money for a charity very close to her heart, Margaret researched potential activities and happened upon gliding.

She contacted Walking on Air and booked in for her inaugural flight.

Preparing to Fly Allied Mobility caught up with Margaret after the flight and she talked us through the special day. Margaret enthused: “Before I went up I thought that it would be brilliant but it not only lived up to expectations, it surpassed it!”

With no movement in her hands, arms and legs, Margaret was lifted from her wheelchair into the cockpit and took her place in front of pilot, Andy. The glider was then towed into position

and attached to a winch, preparing the aircraft for flight. The winch pulled the glider into the air, similar in the way a kite is launched.

Up, Up and Away!

The pair rose to 900 feet and the clear blue skies meant the two could see for miles. Margaret continued: “I did shut my eyes for take-off but after that, the views were incredible”.

Margaret was able to raise an outstanding £1,010 for MS Trust and Walking on Air and Allied Mobility was delighted to contribute to her amazing accomplishment.

A

\\\

For more information visit www.walkingonair.org.uk

Full Steam Ahead ! with Helen Dolphin Allied Mobility’s special reporter, Helen Dolphin, MBE, takes us on a train journey through the heart of BrontÍ country on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. www.alliedmobility.com 17

the station and fortunately both were available when I pulled up.

Tickets Please!

Keighley station has been very well preserved and retains many original features including a glass canopy, waiting room and toilets.

The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway (KWVR) provides a fantastic opportunity to step back in time and enjoy a steam train journey.

All Aboard Originally built to serve the local mill trade in the late 19th Century, the KWVR opened for business in 1968 as a tourist attraction, making 2018 its 50th anniversary year.

There are six stations along the route and advice for passengers with disabilities is to board at either Oxenhope or Ingrow West. There’s free parking available.

After getting stuck in traffic, I missed the Oxenhoe departure so headed for Keighley instead. It’s not recommended for disabled passengers to start their journey from here as the car park is some distance away. However, there are two disabled bays situated right outside

A

\\\

To pre-book the specially adapted carriage call: 01535 645 214

18

A

Access All Areas

I bought my ticket for the train and was informed that a concessionary fare is available to holders of National Rail Disabled Railcards or National Concessionary Travel Disabled Passes.

Your carer can accompany you free of charge. I was also informed that as soon as it was time to board someone would be there to help me.

Accessibility The majority of train carriages were built in the 1950s and have been largely restored to reflect their original construction. A ramp is therefore necessary to board the train. There’s a space to travel in your wheelchair but as it was in the part between the carriages

I decided to get out of my wheelchair and sit in the main carriage instead.

I discovered after my trip that there’s a carriage which has been specially adapted to allow wheelchair access for up to two wheelchair users and their carers.

You must check the availability 48 hours before your journey. There’s a toilet on the train but it's not possible to access it because the carriages are fitted with traditional narrow doors. However, the stations are fitted with accessible toilets.

Ingrow West With a loud whistle the train left Keighley and set off to Ingrow West. Ingrow West is home to two award winning museums.

The Carriage Works – showcasing one of the finest collections of restored railway carriages in the country and The Engine Shed - which displays artefacts from the age of steam. Unfortunately, both museums are not fully accessible due to the age and nature of the buildings but you can get to most areas.

Destination Damems The next stop, Damems, is the smallest ‘full-size’ station in Britain. This station

was opened in 1868 with the purpose of serving a small mill close-by and is only long enough for one coach. From here to the next station at Oakworth there are some amazing views of the countryside.

Onwards to Oakworth As the train pulled into Oakworth station I thought it looked vaguely familiar. The station was used in the 1970 version of the film The Railway Children. The KWVR persuaded the film-makers to keep the name Oakworth in the film, which has attracted many Railway Children fans ever since.

High-speed to Haworth The penultimate station along the route is Haworth which is the largest station and goods yard on the Railway. Haworth was also home to the three Brontë sisters famed for their literary works.

Final Stop The final stop was Oxenhope which is 660 feet above sea level. This station is now the main site for the restoration and servicing of the carriages and

goods vehicles in regular use on the railway. This stop was a good opportunity to have a closer look at the steam train. There’s also a collection of historic locomotives and coaches in the Exhibition Shed.

Although the train ride is only 25 minutes in total, you could easily turn this into a day out by getting off at the different stops and visiting the museums. I think it’s a trip that'd be enjoyed by people of all ages, whether they're steam train fans or not.

Helen's ratings Accessible Parking Attraction Accessibilit

y

Attraction Interest Accessible Toilets Value for Money Key: Great

Good

Okay

Poor

0800 587 9640

19

Changing Train Travel According to the Rail Delivery Group, a new smartphone app for assisting passengers with disabilities is set to be launched next year.

The ‘life-changing’ app will update station staff on a passenger’s location at any given time, allowing them to react accordingly to delays, cancellations or platform changes.

MBE, has campaigned for better accessibility for rail users with disabilities and said the app would “empower disabled people to travel without any fear”.

assistance usually works, I’ve had awful experiences when it’s failed. It’s great to see the rail industry addressing this and planning to change and improve for the benefit of disabled people.”

Assistance App to Empower

The Team GB wheelchair racer continued: “Although passenger

User Friendly

Currently, passengers book travel assistance prior to boarding rail services online and this generates a print-out to station staff detailing their mobility requirements. However, when a change occurs there’s no way to update the printed list, which can lead to staff being in the wrong location at the wrong time. Passengers requiring the vital support while boarding are then left without assistance at all.

Paralympian,

20

A

Access All Areas

Anne

Wafula-Strike

The app is intended to allow passengers to book, change and cancel assistance quickly. Users can also create a profile to specify their personal details and the type of assistance they require.

Chairman of Transport for All, Alan Benson, commented: “Our team still hears regularly from disabled people sharing stories of rail passenger assistance going wrong. This app can really improve the journey experience of disabled and older passengers.”

Car Servicing

Where You Are

TM

ALLIED AUTOCARE

Vehicle maintenance expertise at your door rd ble to all Fo a il a v a w o N ity ot Motabil and Peuge stomers Scheme cu

UK wide HomeStay™

We’ll come to your door, so you can simply stay at home!

WorkBase™

If you take your car to work, we’ll meet you there!

New from Allied Autocare™, our innovative mobile servicing means you can now have your Motability Scheme car serviced where and when suits you best.* Manufacturer-approved service, warranty & repair Full diagnostic testing Keep your vehicle maintenance record up to date Warranty repairs & recalls included Additional safety checks for accessible vehicles & adaptations *Applies to all Ford and Peugeot vehicles.

Simply call today to arrange your annual Motability Scheme service.

0800 587 9680

info@alliedautocare.co.uk

www.alliedautocare.co.uk/mobile

AL

Age: 15

9 Years playing: Club(s): saders Coventry Cru : Achievements Jess el Dow desw Gold in BWB e Women’s Leagu 8 2017/1 r League Gold in Junio 2017/18. ’s B U'24 women Selected for G year. eans later this side in Europ l

25

We recently caught up with Jess Dowdenswell, a dedicated Crusader who’s been with the club for nine years!

q How did you get into wheelchair basketball?

q What player do you look up to and why?

I started when I was just six years old. It was suggested to us by a friend as her son had just started and he really enjoyed it.

I definitely look up to Joy Hazelden. She is very hardworking and gives everything 100%. Joy is very manoeuvrable and so fast in her chair, I aspire to be that fast.

q What’s been the best match of your career?

In 2017 I played my first school tournament for England central and we won silver. We played loads of close and exciting games. My favourite game of the tournament, although we lost, was the final. It was so intense and we played really well. I also learned so much from that game, especially in terms of my maturity on the court. I realised that even if you lose, or you are losing, you still have to stay positive if not for you, then for the rest of your team as they can be affected by your attitude. q How do you keep fit

during the season break?

This summer I was invited to train with the GB Juniors. We travelled to Holland where we trained with one of their clubs. It was amazing!

A

\\\

22

Crusader's Corner

A

Access All Areas

q So spill, who’s the joker of the club?

I think we have too many jokers at the club to count. If I had to pick one I would say Dan May! q What’s an interesting fact about you?

Earlier in the year I worked on a short film with Upworthy and Candoco. Candoco is a contemporary dance company of disabled and non-disabled dancers. It was an amazing experience and was released in May of this year.

The Crusaders are part of the Coventry wheelchair basketball academy, which Allied Mobility is delighted to help support.

A

\\\

Check out Jess’ video on the Upworthy Facebook page.

It’s been viewed a massive 2.7 million times!!

0800 587 9640

www.alliedmobility.com

USED WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES

Discover the unique benefits of Allied Aftercare™ alliedmobility.com/ aftercare

Trust the UK’s leading accessible vehicle specialist for added peace of mind.

Comprehensive quality & safety check

12 months warranty

12 months breakdown assistance

ONLY

FIAT DOBLO

£7,995

3+

Plate:

62 (2012)

ONLY

25,000

PEUGEOT INDEPENDENCE

£9,995

Seats: 3 + Plate:

Colour: Silver

13 (2013) Miles:

VOLKSWAGEN VISTA

6,500

ONLY

Plate:

Colour: Red

13 (2013) Miles:

29,000

ONLY

£11,495

Seats: 7 + Plate:

Colour: Silver

15 (2015) Miles:

PEUGEOT HORIZON

32,000

ONLY

£13,995

£11,995

Seats: 5 +

70 USED

IN STOCK

Colour: Blue

CITROEN BERLINGO

MORE THAN

VEHICLES

Seats:

Miles:

12 months MOT (if applicable)

UK WIDE FREE HOME

DEMONSTRATIONS FORD INDEPENDENCE

+VAT

Seats: 5 + Plate:

17 (2017)

£23,495 +VAT

Colour: Grey

Seats: 5 +

Miles:

Plate:

9,000

ONLY

Colour: Silver

18 (2018) Miles:

10,500

“

“

We contacted Allied Mobility and we couldn’t be happier.

A

\\\

True Independence

Alun and Carol Lewis recently decided to swap their Citroen Picasso to a wheelchair accessible vehicle.

They were looking for a family-friendly vehicle for their daughter Emma and they found the new Ford Independence™ from Allied Mobility would ultimately help them gain the freedom they needed.

24

Cerebal Palsy and uses a wheelchair full time.

Alun says: “We used to carry Emma from the house to the car but it’s getting more difficult as she gets older and we’re not getting any younger!”

Carol continues: “Our existing car was becoming a burden. We really needed a ramp.”

A Smooth and Simple Process

Feeling the Strain

The family turned to Allied Mobility and their extensive range of wheelchair accessible vehicles.

The Lewis’ family from Mountain Ash, Wales, wanted to get out and about with their daughter Emma, 43. Emma has

Alun enthuses: “We contacted Allied Mobility and we couldn’t be happier. The process was so simple.”

A

Access All Areas

With help from their local mobility consultant, John, the family settled on the Ford Independence™ on a five-year Motability contract and it’s easy to see why.

Newfound Freedom The spacious Independence™ RS model easily accommodated the whole family with room to spare. The low gradient EasyFold™ ramp made the struggle to get Emma in and out of the car a thing of the past. What’s more, on the Motability Scheme the family could rest easy knowing that insurance and servicing was included in their monthly payments.

Alun, Carol and Emma could get on with enjoying their newfound independence.

Carol says: “The Independence has changed everything. It’s like night and day compared to our old car. Such a smooth and comfortable drive and we no longer have to plan ahead for every journey which is just a dream.”

Day Trippers Since taking delivery of their Independence™, the family is taking more day trips than ever. From indulging in retail therapy together to taking Emma to the day centre she loves, there’s no stopping the Lewis family.

A

\\\

0800 587 9640 info@alliedmobility.com www.alliedmobility.com/ independence

Carol jokes: “We go everywhere in the new car now and completely rely on it.

We’ll be taking it up the Brecon Beacons soon, it’s just a shame we can’t rely on the Welsh weather!”

REFER A FRIEND You can claim £100 for a successful referral. Check out our website for more details www.alliedmobility. com/referrals or email us at referrals@alliedmobility.com.

www.alliedmobility.com 25

Mobility Solutions Life made easier

Hundre of prod ds u to choo cts se from

Shop Online

Scooters Powerchairs Wheelchairs Rise & Recliners

0800 916 0069

www.mobilitysolutions.co.uk

Adjustable Beds Daily Living Aids Footwear Bathing

2018 Disabled Motoring Awards It was a bright, warm, autumn evening in London. Allied Mobility was dressed to impress and ready to raise a toast to the worthy nominees and winners of the 2018 Disabled Motoring Awards.

0800 587 9640

27

Above: Blue Badge Fraud Team – Parking Enforcement Right: Nathalie McGloin – The O.A Denly Memorial Award Below: Tina Preston – Highly Commended, Best Driving Instructor DMUK’s Dazzling Display Held at the prestigious Victory Services Club in the heart of London, the event was fittingly hosted by Simon Weston, the former Welsh Guard and Falklands veteran. As overall sponsors of the glittering event, we were on hand to help present awards to an array of

companies and individuals, all of whom promote and celebrate disability.

Allied Mobility Special Award With 13 awards up for grabs, it was certainly a night of celebration. We were particularly honoured to present our very own award for the Disability Charity of the Year, as nominated by our Facebook followers. It’s difficult to describe how completely overwhelmed we were by the response and our judges were faced with the daunting task of picking only one winner.

We were delighted to present the award on the night to Strongbones C h i l d r e n’s Charitable Trust, who support children and young people who have a serious muscular skeletal and/or learning disabilities. The award was collected by youth ambassador, Myles Sketchley.

28

A

Access All Areas

Supporters Facebooker Siobhan Davies, one of many who pledged her support for Strongbones, enthused: “My son and I vote for Strongbones as they work tirelessly to ensure children have an inclusive party each year. They provide specialist equipment and so much more.

In my son’s words, it’s where children belong’.”

Invaluable Support Disabled Motoring UK (DMUK) works with the government and businesses across the UK to improve parking, refuelling and access provisions for disabled people.

As it’s not government funded, DMUK relies on donations, fundraisers and new and existing members joining the charity. Members can sign up for the monthly magazine which features news, views and advice about all aspects of mobility. This paid membership costs just £24 a year and also opens the chance to receive exclusive discounts on things like groceries, days out and holidays - making it excellent value for money.

A

\\\

Become a member of DMUK visit: www.disabledmotoring.org

2018 Charity of the Year Nominees “The Les Hoey Dream Maker foundation provides so much support and love for children battling cancer and other life-threatening illness. We are very blessed to have them.”

Joe-Anne Devlin "I volunteer with this charity every year for the residential trip that provides respite for carers, parents and siblings. Disabled children get the chance to do many activities such as canoeing, abseiling, cycling – the list goes on!"

Hannah Coller “This is a small charity who support children and young adults with disabilities to fulfil their dreams. My daughter is a part of their Lifewise group who meet every week and have fun as well as learning new skills.”

Yvonne Miles “This charity ensure siblings know how amazing they truly are and raise awareness to the responsibilities they undertake and the vital roles they have in the family unit.”

Laura Rolph-Willis

0800 587 9640

29

A

\\\

SPORTS UPDATE 2020 Paralympic Pledge The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) has issued a stark warning to the 2020 hosts, Tokyo. IPC head, Xavier Gonzalez, was concerned over the number of wheelchair accessible hotels available to the athletes and insisted this must be addressed immediately.

With 4,400 athletes, 1,800 of which are wheelchair users, expected at the 12-day event, the Japanese government has pledged to increase the availability of accessible rooms across the country. Currently, for hotels with 50 or more rooms, only one is expected to be wheelchair accessible.

The new ruling now means that at least 1% of guest rooms, regardless of hotel size, must be accessible.

IPC President, Andrew Parson, said of the motion: “The IPC strongly applauds the efforts of the Japanese government to revise the standard concerning the number of accessible rooms. It’s a really positive step forward.”

KARE CROWNED 2018 CHAMPION British wheelchair racer, Kare Adenegan, has been crowned the 2018 Young Sports Personality of the Year. Kare, who was one of two para-athletes nominated, faced tough competition from fellow young sport stars.

The record breaking 17-year-old was rewarded for an already spectacular career which includes three Paralympic medals and a T34 100m world record.

Kare, who has previously told of a time when she was discouraged from taking part in sport, fell in love with wheelchair racing when watching the London Paralympic Games in 2012. She was in awe of racer, Hannah Cockroft and the speeds she reached when competing. Kare started training to race competitively and it wasn't long after that she was racing against Hannah.

30

A

Access All Areas

WORLD CUP WONDERS After England’s amputee football side had its funding cut by the Football Association due to “sporadic league and player participation”, the team faced with the daunting task of raising the £70,000 needed to participate in the 2018 World Cup. When the EAFA agonisingly fell only £10,000 short of the target, the international side looked unlikely to compete in the Mexico finals. That was until the Premier League and club sponsors, Simple Business, donated the remaining funds.

Head coach, Owen Coyle Jnr, said of the donation: “We’re delighted – the Premier League got in touch and our sponsors Simply Business have also been very generous in helping us to reach the target.”

Grooving with Goz In 2015, Goz Ugochukwu and her friend, Ross, got involved in the BBC Sports Get Inspired programme.

Cameras followed wheelchair user Goz and friend Ross as they tried their hand at a variety of sports including skiing, cycling and tennis.

However, the sport that stood out for Goz was also the one she was most sceptical about, dance. Goz admitted not long after her first lesson three years ago that she had caught the ‘dance bug’. She enthused: “As I practised I got more and more into learning the routine.” Now, alongside dance partner Lloyd, she competes nationally and internationally.

0800 587 9640

31

Allied Mobility is 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.

“With Jessica often requiring her wheelchair and in-house chair, both easily fit in the Independence” FORD INDEPENDENCE

The Needham Family, Newtownards

“With the pull-out ramp I can be in and out in 30 seconds.”

PEUGEOT HORIZON

Paul DiGiacamo, Glasgow

VOLKSWAGEN VISTA

The Dean Family, Lancashire

"It might sound ridiculous but, from a carer's point of view, it's so much easier.”

0800 0800587 5879640 9640

www.alliedmobility.com www.alliedmobility.com