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www.alltogethernow.org.uk ACT NOW: Protesters deliver a petition to the PM’s office in Downing Street as part of a call for help with long-term support needs

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Can YOU help? n All Together NOW! is a registered charity set up to provide a tip top news service for anyone whose life is affected by disability, long-term health condtions or age. n The charity – the only one of its kind in the UK – relies entirely on support from its sponsors, advertisers, subscriptions and donations.

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Editor: Tom Dowling

email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

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NEXT EDITION

TUESDAY 2 APRIL 2019 All Together NOW! is published

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Care fight taken to No.10

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ENS of thousands of people are calling on the Government to force councils into ensuring disabled people age 25 and over are helped to plan their future care and support.

Deafblind Sense have been campaigning to provide better long-term support for disabled people and families, following the charity’s ‘When I’m Gone’ report.

The report revealed that over two-thirds of families caring for disabled adults with complex disabilities live in fear of what

Counting on your fingers?

Now try spelling on them!

will happen to their loved one when they are no longer able to provide support.

Three in four families caring for a loved one with complex disabilities have no long-term plan for when they are no longer able to provide support.

Campaigners delivered a petition to 10 Downing Street backing their call for more help.

Freedom of Information data, also included in the report, highlighted that only one in four councils are able to support disabled people and their carers to make contingency plans for

HUNDREDS of people learned how to finger spell – and almost certainly created a new world record into the bargain.

A Guinness World Record attempt for the Largest Tactile Signing Lesson attracted 388 participants to the Tower of London.

Tactile signing is a common means of communication used by people who are deafblind (having both a sight and hearing impairment),

future care; and just one in three authorities are aware of how many disabled adults are being cared for by family and friends at home in their area.

Sense is also calling on the Government to ensure social care is adequately funded to meet the growing needs of families and disabled adults.

Richard Kramer, the charity’s chief executive, said: “It’s time that disabled adults and their families receive the right support at the right time and in the most appropriate setting.” n Sense: Tel. 0300 330 9256.

which is based on a sign language and involves touch.

Organised by national disability charity, Sense, and the international accountancy and advisory firm, Mazars, the event was held to raise awareness of the different communication methods used by people with complex disabilities.

The evidence is now being verified by the Guinness World Records.

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

Good diet, good care the key to a long life

FEELING good and having a positive outlook on life have long been argued as the best way to improve not only the quality of your life but the quantity.

But research shows happiness is one of the factors least associated with life expectancy.

Out of 20 ranking factors, happiness was ranked 16th for its connection to how long we can expect to live, with only a 52% correlation.

Nutrition and medical care came out top in the Key to a Long Life study by comparison website, Compare the Market.

Japan leads the way, thanks to the country’s healthy diet, hygiene, and encouragement of exercise among all ages.

With an average life expectancy of 85, Japan has some of the best healthcare and nutrition ratings around the world, with research showing that this factor directly affects how long we can expect to live.

The study’s five factors that correlate the most to a higher life expectancy are: 1. Nutrition and Medical Care (89.53%) 2. Environmental Quality (75.45%) 3. Access to Information and Communications (75.05%) 4. Wealth/Capita (74.19%) 5. Adult Literacy Rate (71.03%) One of the lowest scores for nutrition and medical care was revealed to be in the Central African Republic, which also scored very low for access to information and communications.

The country has the lowest life expectancy in the world, with the average being around 51.

This is related to factors including conflict, displacement of population, and high mortality rates from infectious disease.

Dan Hutson, of Compare the Market, said: “Not only did we find that nutrition and medical care directly affected a nation’s average life expectancy, we’re also seeing how global warming and harmful emissions have a negative effect.

“It may come as a surprise that happiness is placed as one of the lower ranking keys to a longer life, but the correlation between other basic factors, including access to the internet and wealth, prove that they help to build more fulfilled, longer lives in nations around the world.”

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

February/March 2019

Onward and Upward!

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Thanks to our partners for their ongoing support

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Hello

VERY warm welcome to the FASTEST growing newspaper in the great North West!

Over the coming weeks, a whopping 100,000 (yes, that’s correct!) copies of All Together NOW! will be finding their way all over Merseyside, Manchester and across the region.

That’s an enormous circulation – especially for a FREE charity newspaper – and it’s all down to the tremendous support we are getting from our loyal sponsors, advertisers and donations.

Over the years, you’ve repeatedly told us that the main reasons you love this newspaper include: n Because it’s bursting with news and information you just can’t get elsewhere; n Because it inspires you to get active; n Because it motivates you to help others; n Because you are not connected to the internet, or those of you who are, much prefer the printed word; n Because it’s like a friend coming into your home; and n Because it’s FREE! Well, we are now even more determined to get more papers to even greater numbers of people.

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A HUGE thanks to the Persula Foundation for covering the print costs of this issue.

Over the past few years, the Foundation have been very generous to All Together NOW! This new support is very much appreciated!

HEY DIDN’T make it to the finals of BBC TV’s The Greatest Dancer, but Andrew (pictured) and Chris certainly left a big impression, leaving many viewers very disappointed.

Andrew’s passionate performance left

3 wheel walker Only £49 Red, Silver or Blue Includes FREE DELIVERY

If so, the Alzheimer’s Society want to hear from you.

Their new Side by Side service is helping people all over the UK. And they want to help more people in East Lancashire.

Dorothy Parsons, Side by Side Coordinator for the East Lancashire area said: “Loneliness is a real problem for people with dementia. We know that one of the most important things for those affected is to remain part of their community and continue to do the things they love – from going shopping to enjoying a local football match.” n Tel 0300 222 11 22 or Kathryn.clay@ alzheimers.org.uk OTHER N.W CONTACTS n Merseyside: 0151 426 4433 n Sefton: 01704 539 967 n Manchester: 0161 962 4769 n Rochdale 0161 477 6999 n Cheshire/St Helens: 0300 3690570 n Cumbria/ Lancashire: 01282 447 771 n North Wales: 01352 700462 n Isle of Man 01624 613181

info@alltogethernow.org.uk In the meantime, I hope you really enjoy this issue.

We are back in the spring.

Tuesday April 2 to be precise.

See you then!

Family day out

TOM DOWLING, editor

the presenters and audience in tears, with Andrew contending that he had "Dance Syndrome" rather than Down’s Syndrome.

Andrew, 21, is a student at The Orpheus Centre, a specialist college in Godstone, Surrey, set up by Sir Richard Stilgoe to help young disabled people

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AN you spare some time to share a common interest or hobby with someone affected by dementia?

Over the coming months our small team will be targeting new locations across the region, with the aim of getting more of our brightly coloured pick-up boxes into supermarkets, hospitals, garden centres, and visitor attractions.

We’ve already identified a number of venues, but we are especially keen to hear if YOU have any suggestions. If you do, please get in touch with us and we’ll do the rest!

You can call us on: 0151 230 0307 or email

The The greatest greatest moment moment .. .. ..

Your friendship can mean so much

develop independence skills through performing and visual arts.

Sir Richard said Andrew’s performance was “triumphant”, adding, “Anything less than a determination to achieve high standards is patronising”. n Tel, 01883 744664 n www.orpheus.org.uk

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SALES, REPAIR & SERVICING OF ALL MOBILITY & DISABILITY PRODUCTS

FAMILIES with a visually impaired child can pick up lots of tips and advice about all kinds of lifestyle issues at a special event being planned by blind charities.

The Family Support and Fun Day takes place at St Vincent’s school, Yew Tree Lane, Liverpool, on Sunday 10 March, from 11am-3pm. n Contact Carly at Henshaws – carly.ferry@henshaws.org.uk Tel, 0300 222 5555

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NEWS

N-West trailblazers for student mental health

LIVERPOOL and Greater Manchester are to become trailblazers for mental health support in schools.

The NHS is uniting with schools and colleges in 25 areas across England to provide expert mental health support for up to half a million pupils a year – part of the Government’s ambitious plans to transform children and young people’s mental health through the NHS LongTerm Plan.

New Mental Health Support Teams will cater to a population of more than 470,000 children and young people, who will be based in and near schools and colleges, starting this year.

The first new staff began their training at seven universities nationwide in January.

One in nine young people aged five to 15 had a mental health condition in 2017 and teenagers with a mental disorder are more than two and a half times more likely to have a mental disorder in adulthood.

Top ten employers

ONLINE recruitment site VERCIDA has published its own list of top ten disability-inclusive employers.

1. Network Rail 2. Channel 4 3. Environment Agency 4. Aviva 5. Bank of England (BoE) 6. UK Athletics 7. Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) 8. Lloyds Banking Group 9. Aon 10. Allianz

Vision for everyone

EYE care specialists are campaigning to stop patients with learning disabilities being failed by NHS services.

The Association of Optometrists has come up with a list of ways in which improvements can be made to the service, especially in England.

These include providing sight tests in all special schools and making NHSfunded tests available to everyone with a learning disability.

Henrietta Alderman, AOP executive, said they would challenge “inequalities in service provision”, adding: “Many of the most vulnerable patients are being disadvantaged.”

Improve home grants

BIG changes are needed to the way facilities to help disabled people in their homes are provided and funded.

That’s the result of an independent investigation into the Government’s disabled facilities grants.

The review suggests, there should be “a fresh approach that is all-encompassing and creates a home environment that enables disabled people to live a full life”.

Among other suggestions, the review says the Government should increase the upper limit on DFGs from £30,000, and rename the grant as part of a national awareness-raising campaign.

February/March 2019

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Digging for health

WORK has started on one of the most advanced healthcare diagnostic centres to be built in the UK. Liverpool is to be the site of the flagship HQ of Rutherford Diagnostics, located in Knowledge Quarter Liverpool (KQ Liverpool) in the £1 billion Paddington Village Development.

The centre, which will be the first in a network of centres, will address the significant shortage of diagnostic provision in the UK resulting in patients waiting weeks for test results.

BADGE FEARS

PICTURED: From left, Rutherford Diagnostics general manager Michael Ashton, Rutherford chief diagnostics officer Steven Powell, Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson, Proton Partners International CEO Mike Moran, and Knowledge Quarter Liverpool CEO Colin Sinclair

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HE boss of Disabled Motoring UK has again expressed fears that the Blue Badge parking scheme, which gives physically disabled motorists special parking concessions, could be scrapped – because of Government proposals to expand the scheme for people with hidden disabilities.

Graham Footer, the charity’s CEO, said: “DMUK has deep concerns about the potential increase in numbers of Blue Badge holders when the changes to the eligibility criteria come in affect. Just extending the criteria will not necessarily mean that more disabled people will benefit.

“This change may have disastrous consequences for all Blue Badge holders, including people new to the scheme, as there is simply not enough parking

to meet demand and concessions could soon disappear because of increased numbers.”

Last autumn, transport minister Jesse Norman said the plans to expand the scheme, which are expected to take effect this year, would include people who: n Cannot undertake a journey without there being a risk of serious harm to their health or safety or that of any other person (such as young children with autism) n Cannot undertake a journey without it causing them very considerable psychological distress n Have very considerable difficulty when walking (both the physical act and experience of walking) There are currently 2.35 million Blue Badges in use in England. n DMUK, tel 01508 489449

Tune in to this . . .

MUSIC charity Attitude is Everything’s (AiE) is pushing for improvements to the accessibility of performing, rehearsing and recording spaces.

The charity’s NEXT STAGE project has already secured the support of leading disabled musicians such as Blaine Harrison (pictured) of Mystery Jets, singer-songwriter and violinist Gaelynn Lea, Kris Halpin from Winter of ’82, and Rob Maddison from Revenge of Calculon.

AiE is now looking for disabled and Deaf musicians to take part in the nationwide survey and provide information about their own experiences of rehearsing, recording, playing live, attending industry events and applying for arts funding.

AiE hopes to use the survey results to develop a comprehensive network of disabled artists, musicians, songwriters and DJs. n www.attitudeiseverything.org.uk

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

Boost for women’s projects

PROJECTS in Warrington, Chester and other parts of Cheshire are sharing in a £43K pot.

The money is coming from Cheshire Community Foundation and the Tampon Tax Community Fund for projects that improve the lives of disadvantaged women and girls. n Motherwell Cheshire CIO, Crewe: £9,796 – to extend their Bright Stars mentoring programme, which pairs experienced mothers with younger mothers who are experiencing mental health issues. n The SMILE Group, Macclesfield: £9,999 – to help mothers in Macclesfield, Congleton and Sandbach who are struggling with parenthood or who have postnatal depression. n Fallen Angels Dance Theatre, Chester: £5,635 – to create a series of dance and wellbeing workshops. n Chester Voluntary Action, Chester: £5,000 – to better equip women who want to contribute to the leadership of charitable organisations.

Home-Start Cheshire: £9,623 – to support mothers with extremely low levels of lifestyle and confidence. n Warrington Youth Club: £3,578 – to help vulnerable teenage girls to receive support from trained staff and likeminded peers.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

February/March 2019

Three peaks’ Bob gets the award he deserves NEWS

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AST year Bob Nolan became the first deafblind person to complete the Three Peaks Challenge, climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon, while also cycling the 483 miles between them on a tandem bike.

His remarkable efforts have been rewarded with the Unsung Hero Award at the Deaf Sports Personality of the Year awards held at Lancashire County Cricket club.

Bob, who is chairman of the Deafblind UK charity, was born deaf and has since lost 97% of his vision due to Usher’s syndrome.

He said: “It was special to be recognised

by Deaf Sports. They recognised my small

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Fuel poverty: we must help disabled people

part in encouraging and supporting deafblind people all over the UK these past 20 years.

As the first deafblind recipient of a Deaf Sports Personality of the Year award, I do hope many more will now follow.

“I’d like to thank are my wife, Louise, who herself is severely deaf and has completed all my tandem challenges with me and supports me in everything I do.

“However, I’d also like to dedicate my award to one of my closest friends, Richard Cole. Richard was also deafblind (with Usher type II) and contracted motor neurone disease in 2005. In his later years he was an enthusiastic blind archer and retained a positive outlook and terrific sense of humour

even through the dreadful final stages of his MND. “Richard and his wife Jane crossed the country to be part of our first Lands EndJohn O’Groats Tandem Challenge in 2008 despite only having weeks to live.”

There are over 400,000 deafblind people in the UK with different degrees of sight loss and hearing loss.

Combined sight and earing loss is a growing issue in the UK, and predictions suggest that by 2030 there could be as many as 600,000 people in the UK struggling with it.

n Deafblind UK, textphone 01733 358356

MUCH more needs to be done to ensure that disabled people and other groups in fuel poverty can benefit from energy efficiency schemes, according to a new report.

The report says that disabled people often have higher energy demands, because of factors such as health-related needs to keep warm and the electricity needed to use equipment such as nebulisers, stair lifts and hoists, and to charge wheelchairs.

The report, published by the UK Energy Research Centre, University of York, and ACE Research, says this can lead to both higher energy costs and a greater risk of harm if energy supplies are disconnected.

Sue Bott, deputy chief executive of Disability Rights UK, said: “Fuel poverty blights the lives of disabled people of any age. The effects can penetrate deep into everyday life and exacerbate existing impairments and health conditions.”

Dr Joanne Wade, chief executive of ACE, said: “We have to stop ignoring people who don’t always have the loudest voices; we have to stop avoiding people who are harder to engage, or more expensive and more difficult to help.”

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NEWS

Why are we failing adults with Down’s?

ADULTS with Down’s syndrome are being failed by local authorities which are taking too long to assess their basic needs and get proper support in place.

That’s the warning from the Down’s Syndrome Association.

Under the Care Act 2014, local authorities have a statutory duty to assess an adult’s needs. In the vast majority of cases, no assessment means no social care support.

The charity’s chief executive, Carol Boys, said: “Our survey found that care and support is often poor in quality and quantity and seriously lacks attention to health conditions, which has sadly resulted in some deaths.

“Some local authorities lack understanding of an individual’s rights.

Others display a complete and blatant disregard for people’s human rights, with some practices that are even unlawful.” n DSA Helpline: Tel. 0333 1212 300. n www.downs-syndrome.org.uk

Help worried workers

BUSINESSES in Manchester need to do more to support employees suffering with work-related performance anxiety, according to new research.

RADA Business, the commercial subsidiary of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, has found that on average, workers in Manchester feel anxious two to three times per week.

Adrian Kirk, at RADA Business, said: “It’s concerning to see how many workers in Manchester aren’t getting the support they need to tackle feelings of anxiety around communicating at work.

“These findings highlight the urgent need for more awareness from businesses, and more strategies to support their employees in this area.”

Champions of Europe

STEWARDS at Liverpool FC have been going the extra mile for fans with disabilities – about 1,400 miles in fact!

The club’s Accessibility Stewards accompanied fans all the way to Kiev, the Ukrainian capital, for the Champions League final last year.

Now the club has been rewarded for its efforts by winning the Disabled People’s Choice for the most Inclusive Service Provider, Employer or Experience at the Business Disability Forum’s Disability-Smart Awards.

Other winners: n Senior Disability Champion of the Year: Sir Philip Rutnam, Permanent Secretary, UK Civil Service. n Positive Cultural Change of the Year: West Midlands Police. n Workplace Adjustments Innovation of the Year: Financial Conduct Authority. n Influential business of the year: KPMG. n Technology initiative of the year: Microsoft.

February/March 2019

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

LOUISE Beardmore and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who opened United Utilities’ second annual Affordability Summit at the Convention Centre Complex, Manchester

UNITED TO HELP PEOPLE IN DEBT

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NEW service has been set up to help the one in three people in the North West who are struggling to pay their bills.

The Hardship Hub – the first of its kind in the UK – has been developed in conjunction with experts from the money advice community, including Citizens Advice and housing associations.

It has been dubbed a ‘trip advisor’ for financial advice and advisors can use it to search for all the available help in their local area.

Launching the service at United Utilities’ annual Affordability Summit, the water company’s customer services and people director Louise Beardmore said: “The North West Hardship Hub has been created following the collective outcome of lasts year’s event.

“Our new research worryingly found that more than one in four people did not speak to anyone about their recent financial hardship, so we want everyone living in the North West to know help is out there.

“The hub gives the region’s money advice community the tools to help pinpoint the right support for the people who come to them for help.”

Debt advisor Robert Bereton said: “The North West Hardship Hub will be an amazing one-stop shop tool for advisors to use when looking to find financial schemes and support

TOP TEN affordability cut backs – things that people in the North West have cut back on due to financial hardship: 1. Clothes (69%) 2. Going out for meals (68%) 3. Holidays (68%) 4. Going out/socialising (66%) 5. Food shopping (49%) 6. Drinking alcohol (43%) 7. Treats for their children (32%) 8. Gym membership (28%) 9. Paying credit card bills (27%) 10. Paying household bills (23%) for people who have come to them for help. It will inevitably save valuable advisors time and most important of all, mean we can find people in financial difficulty the right package of support a lot faster, which is fantastic.”

United Utilities’ research also found that more than a fifth of local residents (21%) are worried about their financial situation, with 27% saying they did not speak to anyone

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

about their most recent experience of financial hardship.

Louise Beardmore added: “This our second Affordability Summit. From our point of view, if customers are struggling with water bills, they are likely to be struggling to pay most of their household bills.

“It can be difficult for a single organisation to make a widespread difference and we believe that a collaborative regional partnership can go way beyond what any one organisation could do alone.

“Our new research worryingly found that more than one in four people did not speak to anyone about their recent financial hardship, so we want everyone living in the North West to know help is out there.

The summit was held on ‘Blue Monday’ (January 21), typically the most depressing calendar date of the year due to a combination of post-Christmas blues, cold dark nights and the arrival of unpaid credit card bills. n More information on all the financial assistance United Utilities can provide can be found on their website at unitedutilities.com/difficulty-paying-bill n www.hadshiphub.co.uk

See Page 9

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

February/March 2019

All Together NOW!

Changing lives T HE Steve Morgan Foundation aims to make a real difference by changing the lives of thousands of people across the region.

Founded by Steve Morgan CBE in 2001, the Foundation supports projects that help children and families, people with physical or learning disabilities, the elderly, and the socially disadvantaged across North Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire and North Shropshire.

More than £30m has so far been awarded to over 650 charities and organisations, and this number will increase dramatically over the coming years after Steve committed £200 million additional funding

to the Foundation in 2017.

Enable funding for individuals was also introduced to provide grants for adults and children with disabilities in financial hardship, who require specialised equipment.

There are three types of funding available for organisations which fit the application criteria: n Major grants and one-off capital funding for large projects; n Regional grant funding; n Enable funding for specialised equipment, which includes the brand new Smiley Buses.

If you need help, contact us – details at the foot of the page.

ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL

Harry and Meghan see the difference charities are making

Lighter days ahead

A UNIVERSITY student from Runcorn is now literally able to go the extra mile, thanks to an Enable grant from the Steve Morgan Foundation that has paid for a new lightweight wheelchair.

Ryan, 20, has cerebral palsy and HREE charities supported by the Steve found pushing his Morgan Foundation were high on Prince NHS chair tough Harry and Meghan Markle’s visiting list going – especially on a special day in Birkenhead. around the University Jane Harris, the Foundation’s Director of Regional of Chester campus, Funding met up with the Duke and Duchess of where he is studying Sussex at the Feeding Birkenhead Number 7 for a BSc in Computer Community Shop, one of many initiatives set up by Games Development. local MP Frank Field.

“Ryan is an active “Harry and Meghan spent quite a while talking to young man who likes members of the community shop,” says Jane. going out socially and playing wheelchair “Harry asked me about support for people The Royal couple finding out what’s going on down at The Hive basketball,” says Jane Harris, suffering with mental health issues as this is Director of Funding with the Steve something close to his heart and Morgan Foundation.

Meghan felt that the community shop “The provision of a model should be rolled out all over the lightweight, more country.”

THE Steve Morgan Foundation has awarded a manoeuvrable and Meanwhile, Steve Morgan Foundation grant of £74,647 to the SPACE centre in comfortable chair helps him trustee Ashley Lewis met the Royal Chester, which provides accessible play for to achieve this. couple at The Hive – Wirral’s Youth children with additional needs and their “Our Enable grant is for a Zone. families.

GTM Endeavour wheelchair The Hive was set up as one of the The centre offers sessions for children of all including loopwheels, which many Onside Youth Zones across the ages and abilities, specialist equipment to adds suspension to make country, designed to provide a safe ensure all activities are accessible, an Ryan more comfortable and environment for young people to attend interactive sensory room, and a resource reduce pain, especially over and not only enjoy themselves but build room for parents and carers that includes the uneven surfaces within key skills and raise their aspirations and information, advice and counselling services. the campus and the city. confidence.

Charity Manager Jemma Gregory says: “He will also be able to use The Duke and Duchess also called in “The funding has been hugely beneficial in his own Batec wheelchair at Tomorrow’s Women Wirral, which helping the charity to move forward.” attachment to his new chair supports women in vulnerable for longer journeys.” n www.spacecheshire.org Steve Morgan Foundation trustee Ashley Lewis at SPACE circumstances.

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More children to play in SPACE!

www.stevemorganfoundation.org.uk Tel 01829 782808

Steve Morgan Foundation

@stevemorganfdn

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OVER-65s from across the country are being enrolled for a major study of yoga’s health-giving properties.

The Government has stumped up £1.4 million to investigate what benefits the ancient practice brings to older people with multiple long-term health conditions.

Health chiefs hope the research will help reduce the massive NHS spending on people with long-term conditions.

In the UK, two thirds of people over the age of 65 have “multimorbidity” – two or more long-term health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease and asthma, and mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

Evidence shows people with a number of long-term conditions are more likely to have reduced physical function, lower quality of life and life expectancy, combined with more need for help with mental health issues.

Professor Garry Tew, at the University of Northumbria’s Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, will work with the University of York and yoga consultants on the study. He said: “In older adults specifically, there is promising evidence yoga can improve physical function and quality of life.”

Open your minds – Page 23

Water award...

FLORIDA’S Aquatica Orlando has become the first water park in the world to be accredited as a Certified Autism Centre.

The park will provide on-going staff training to assist families and children with special needs, specifically on the autism spectrum.

David Heaton, of Aquatica Orlando, said: “We are committed in our efforts to offer families inclusive activities for children with autism and other special needs.”

Call to reveal pay gap

The TUC is calling on the government to make it compulsory for employers to publish their disability pay gaps.

The call comes as new TUC analysis shows that the average pay gap for disabled workers has hit 15.2% – the equivalent of £2,821 a year.

However, for people with mental illnesses (29.8%) and depression (26.3%) the pay gulf is even worse.

In December, ministers published a voluntary code to encourage employers to disclose the number of disabled people they employ, their career progression and pay.

But the TUC says that without a legally binding requirement on companies to publish their pay gaps (and set out what action they are taking to address them), progress will be too slow.

Just half of working-age disabled people in the UK currently have a job, compared to four-fifths of non-disabled people.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Scientists unite to fight diseases NEWS

Could yoga be the key to longer, better life?

February/March 2019

F

OUR million people in the UK – including those with Type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis – could benefit from a new ‘first of its kind’ research partnership that will tackle the high prevalence of autoimmune conditions.

These conditions see the body’s immune system mistakenly attack healthy cells.

Up to a third of the four million people affected live with more than one autoimmune condition. This can lead to health needs that are more complex and lives that are more challenging.

The new Connect Immune Research is a collaboration between Type 1 diabetes charity Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the MS Society, and

Versus Arthritis – supported by the British Society for Immunology.

Karen Addington, UK chief executive of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, said: “Autoimmune conditions all involve the immune system acting inappropriately, so we know they are connected. But researchers investigating different autoimmune conditions are not.

“Until now they have largely worked separately, focused on the specific conditions rather than the interconnected factors of autoimmunity.

“By bringing them together, we can more find information about these conditions – meaning reduced costs, and more new treatments, faster.

“One insight into one condition could act as a skeleton key, unlocking a range of treatments

and even cures.”

Dr Stephen Simpson, director of research at Versus Arthritis, said: “The pain and fatigue caused by arthritis can significantly impact a person’s ability to move freely – making it difficult for them to travel to work, care for their family or get dressed.

“The immune system continues to intrigue us and as we get closer to finding ways of moderating its response in inflammatory arthritis, new and unexpected challenges emerge.

“By working together and sharing expertise, we can ramp up our understanding and address questions not only relevant to people with arthritis but for those living with other autoimmune conditions, such as MS and type 1 diabetes.”

PUBS LOSING OUR CUSTOM

W

HAT’S your local like for disabled access?

Mine was great – until like hundreds of other pubs around the region, it was forced to close its doors two years ago.

But I accept I was lucky to enjoy step-free access – and perfectly decent staff and customers – for so long.

It’s definitely not the case generally, as a new report from Leonard Cheshire Disability reveals.

The charity says the vast majority of disabled pubgoers have had bad experiences during a night out.

In their latest survey, four out of every five pub and bar customers with a disability said they had their visit spoiled by everything from being stared at to being treated like a health and safety hazard.

One man’s hearing difficulties led to him being barred from his local.

William Odgen, 27, said: “I went to purchase a cake, but I did not hear the bar staff telling me to not touch it myself.

“She called over a bouncer. I explained I was deaf and I could not hear her, but I was barred for a year!”

Almost half of those who took part in the survey said they had experienced a negative attitude from staff.

And a third said they have faced negative attitudes from customers.

“I find security staff treat me like a health and safety risk,” said one respondent, while another remarked: “People stand looking at you.”

For some, it was enough to stop them going out altogether.

Pub layouts, toilets, menus, bar heights and stepped access also proved sticking points.

One respondent said: “High up bars mean I can’t get served because [staff] can’t see me. Layout of tables is often very difficult to navigate in a wheelchair or lack of lowered seating means I can’t get to a table.”

Attitudes of non-disabled customers was also a concern. One respondent, unable to stand for long due to chronic pain, said: “It does not feel socially acceptable to ask somebody for a seat in a pub.”

Leonard Cheshire contacted four of the leading pub and bar companies to find out about their disabled customer provisions.

Only Wetherspoons responded. Company spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “Our aim is to make each and every one of them as welcome in our pubs as possible. We are especially proud of the Changing Places (accessible toilets with changing areas) facilities in a number of our pubs.”

Husna Mortuza, Leonard Cheshire’s Head of Policy and Campaigns, said: “Pubs are part of our national tradition and nobody should be made to feel they are not welcome.

“This isn’t just about drinking, pubs are a great way to get out and avoid social isolation.

“If pubs and bars take note, they also stand a chance to cash in on the £249 billion that the disabled person market is worth.”

by TOM DOWLING

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

All the lonely YOUNG people

YOUNG people feel lonely more often and more deeply than any other age group, according to the world’s largest survey on the subject.

The BBC Loneliness Experiment heard how 55,000 people aged 16-99 think and feel about loneliness.

The results showed that 16 to 24-year-olds are the worst affected.

Two out of five (40%) said they felt lonely often or very often, compared with 29% of people aged 65-74 and 27% of people aged over 75.

Professor Christina Victor at Brunel University London developed the survey, with academics at the University of Manchester and the University of Exeter, alongside Radio 4’s All in the Mind programme and its presenter Claudia Hammond.

Prof Victor, who specialises in researching ageing and later life, said: “Our results show we need to take loneliness seriously in all age groups. We know most loneliness is temporary, but we need to find ways to prevent it from becoming chronic.”

The survey paints a detailed picture of when and how people feel lonely, how loneliness ties in with age, being alone, being a carer, discrimination, and job prospects.

But it also flags up how 83% of people said they like being on their own.

One reason young people might feel so deeply lonely is that it is a feeling they have never had to deal with before, Prof Victor said.

“Young adults might have less experience of regulating their emotions.

“They haven’t had the chance to learn that loneliness often passes.”

IT’S GOOD TO TALK – P11

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

February/March 2019

All Together NOW!

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All Together NOW!

10

February/March 2019

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Call to pay carers the proper rate

‘We can help you get the best out of life...’

O

LDER people in the North West are to receive extra help to “get the most out of life”, thanks to a £1m grant.

The Later Life Goals programme, to be delivered by Age UK groups, including those in Cheshire and Blackburn and Darwen, will provide one-to-one support to 10,000 older people going through major transitions in their lives, like bereavement, serious health diagnosis or a partner going to live in a care home.

Age UK research shows that significant life moments like these can be triggers for older people becoming more isolated and feeling lonelier.

Trained advisors will provide information, advice and links to services or social activities.

David Innes, chief executive of the Masonic Charitable Foundation, which donated the money, said: “We’re very pleased to be able to work closely with Age UK to help with one of the most difficult issues affecting older people today.

“Loneliness not only makes people miserable, but can have a very serious impact on physical health.” n www.ageuk.org.uk/ourimpact/programmes/laterlife-goals

C

ALLS are being made to scrap Carer’s Allowance and replace it with a new benefit that will increase it from £64 to £73.10.

A love for life STROKES OF GENIUS: Margaret relies on memories and her sense of touch to paint

F

AILING eyesight has not stopped grandmother Margaret O’Neil from pursuing the twin loves of her life – painting and bakery!

Margaret, 95, has a particular forte for rugged landscapes and animal portraits, with many of her finished pieces hanging in homes around the globe.

But since being registered blind three years ago, the former House of Fraser dress fitter has relied on both her sense of touch and memories to bring her paintings to life.

“I’ve always painted,” Margaret said. “When we used to go up north in a tent I had watercolours and oil paints, and used to get the big stones from the beach, paint them all and give them to people as door stops. I had never had any formal training.”

She took up art after the death of her husband, George.

“I was walking my Labrador and a friend stopped her car and said she was taking me to an arts and crafts class. Everyone was so nice but I was so heartbroken that I never enjoyed myself.”

Then while attending a tap dancing session she heard about Duncan Brown – an art teacher at my local town hall.

“Before I left I had been enrolled in Wednesday and Thursday art classes,” she said.

“I did around 221 big paintings until my sight got

so bad that I thought I would need to give up.

Duncan wouldn’t let me leave. So I have to do it all by memory. It is hard, but I get there.”

Her portfolio has now increased to 350 dazzling pantings.

When not creating strokes of genius, Margaret spends most of her time baking.

“I make around 20 cakes on a normal day, and another 12 for church on Sunday – half cakes for couples and quarters for single people.

“The dentist and the doctors’ surgeries get one each every week, and one goes to the police department and the bank. It gives me a purpose in life.

“Why would you get up in the morning and think poor old me? With nothing to do until lunch time then tea time – that’s an empty life.

“It’s nice to know that you have given someone a wee bit of pleasure, and I have always said to have a friend you’ve to be one yourself because so many people want to take and don’t want to give of themselves.

“I’m not talking about presents, I’m talking about time and interest. I just happen to like people.

“Maybe that’s why people refer to me as their ‘surrogate granny’. I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

n Margaret lives at Fife Court, one of many Bield developments around Scotland. www.bield.co.uk

The Demos think tank is calling for the introduction of a new Universal Carer’s Income for all carers providing more than 35 hours a week of care, paid at the same rate as Jobseeker’s Allowance, currently £73.10 weekly.

The new proposal would extend financial support to more than two million more carers, with those currently in receipt of Carer’s Allowance receiving an estimated pay rise of £442 a year.

It is claimed the new plan would cost £10.2bn and could be funded through a 1% increase in National Insurance Contributions for employees and the self-employed.

Demos Researcher Ben Glover said: “Unpaid carers prop up our entire social care system but have for decades been taken for granted by policy makers.

“A Universal Carer’s Income is a first step towards putting that right, laying the foundation for a new settlement between the state and the carer.”

Demos estimates there are now almost eight million informal carers in the UK – a staggering 35% increase since 2001.

This means the informal care economy is now equivalent to £139bn – more than seven times the UK’s total annual spend on adult social care (£18bn) and as large as overall health spending in the UK. An ageing population and growing pressure on NHS services means these figures are likely to grow substantially in the coming years.

But the new research, The Carers’ Covenant, finds Government policy has failed to keep pace with these changes, leaving too many carers without the support they need.

Carer’s Allowance isn’t available to many in-work carers – despite more than half of carers being in full time employment – and is paid at a significantly lower rate than other income-replacement benefits.

Emily Holzhausen, Director of Policy at Carers UK said: “The call from Demos for a step change in the way carers are supported is welcome. Government needs to look closely at measures to improve carers’ income and rights at within the forthcoming Green Paper on Social Care.”

“Despite carers having to provide at least 35 hours of care per week to receive it, Carer’s Allowance remains the lowest benefit of its kind.”

HALF A MILLION READERS . . . Tel 0151 230 0307

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

February/March 2019

All Together NOW!

Find your local Carers’ Centre – page 19

IT’S GOOD TO TALK

A

NYONE over 65 will have seen plenty of changes in the world – and in their lives.

From politics and social shifts to the drastic transformation of technology, they’ve been through it all.

But one thing they never thought they would have to deal with is loneliness.

A new survey involving 1,000 older people across the country revealed some significant results. n 53% of over 65-year-olds often feel lonely. n 68% choose not to tell their friends or family that they are lonely. n Seven in 10 have created Facebook profiles in a bid to communicate with family and friends. n 35% of over 65-year-olds go up to four days without speaking to family.

The effects of retirement, family-relocation and losing loved ones are all cited as causes of loneliness.

And even though four out of five of those surveyed believed they had someone to turn to if they felt lonely, almost two in five decided to keep their feelings from their family, as they see it as being a burden.

Just talking is still favoured by this generation, and 64% of people surveyed admitted that a phone call would really make

Make friends with someone over-65

a difference to their loneliness. They also agreed that small actions from others, such as a postman or courier stopping for a chat, would vastly improve their feeling of loneliness (68%).

Just being asked to help a neighbour, family member or friends would make them feel less lonely.

A change in family mentalities and commitments also affects over 65-year-olds.

Although almost half believe that their sons and daughters should be looking after them, a similar number choose to not their discuss health, finances or loneliness together. Two in five think that their family have enough of their own problems.

One in seven say they are embarrassed about feeling lonely, and 30% think that the healthcare profession should be responsible for lonely older people. One in four believe it is the Government’s responsibility.

Becoming a volunteer seems to be one solution to loneliness. Almost two in five of

those surveyed have volunteered with their local community, including working in charity shops, running local shows and helping their neighbours with gardening.

Other methods to combat loneliness include spending time with pets, taking up hobbies and reading. Three out of five said they just turned on the TV. A spokesperson for retirement home company McCarthy & Stone, which carried out the study, said: “We all have a responsibility to older people living in our communities.”

“It is important to realise that small everyday actions can actually be game changers. It doesn’t take a massive time commitment to help older people feel far less isolated – it can just take one person, one moment, one action.

“We are urging everyone to be aware of the older people living around them, and to get a little more involved in their neighbourhood from time to time.”

And he added: “An impromptu chat with those living next door, being invited round for dinner once in a while, and even someone offering to put your bins out for the weekly collection are among the many thoughtful actions that can make all the difference when you’re feeling alone.”

THE new Muffie, created by Teresa Gwilt, is one way of definitely keeping those fingers warm.

This colourlful and cosy hand muff has super-soft lining and is very gentle on sensitive skin.

Another plus is that it also acts as a ‘stress buster’ to help you feel comfy and relaxed. You can even use it as a cushion or pillow! n Price: £35.95 www.muffie.co.uk

Keep those fingers warm RAYNAUD’S syndrome ia a condition that can be incredibly painful and makes parts of the body, usually the fingers, hands and toes, feel cold and numb, typically in response to low temperatures or stress.

Keep warm If you must go out in the cold, wrap up in several thin layers, which are much better for retaining body heat than a single thick jumper.

Eliminate stress Learning a relaxation technique or practising mindfulness may help. Consider what’s causing your stress and what lifestyle changes you could make to reduce it.

Speak to your GP Drugs such as Nifedipine can help make the symptoms less severe. Your GP will able to prescribe medication if they think it’s appropriate in your case.

Alternative therapies Acupuncture is known to stimulate the circulation, while taking fish oil, ginkgo and other supplements may help.

Exercise Exercise increases circulation and will get blood flowing better to all areas. n www.raynauds.org Tel, 800-280-8055

HALF A MILLION READERS . . . Tel 0151 230 0307

11

All Together NOW!

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February/March 2019

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Helen said: “I knew that as a disabled person I would struggle to get out of my car in a standard sized bay.

“We are absolutely delighted that NCP have installed a dual bay in their new car park”.

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Keeping you on the road to freedom

P

EOPLE with mobility issues are getting expert help on how to get behind – or stay behind – the wheel!

The new Regional Driving Assessment Centre for disabled drivers, based in Salford, provides helpful advice for drivers in Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Cheshire.

It is one of 20 centres accredited by the Driving Mobility charity that offer support and driving assessments to people who need to gain, or retain, the ability to drive following a diagnosis involving impairment or disability.

The RDAC provides assessments for older and disabled drivers, together with

February/March 2019

passengers, motorcyclists and mobility scooter or wheelchair users.

Within its services, practical advice is given regarding appropriate driving adaptations, WAVs (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles) and specialist tuition so that domestic – and professional – drivers can remain independent and safe.

Team manager Sean Barratt directs a team of Approved Driving Instructors, occupational therapists and administrative staff.

Sean said: “The team and I are so proud of our new spacious centre – its modern facilities will make a huge difference to service users

All Together NOW!

13

SPACIOUS: Salford Ceremonial Mayor Councillor Ronald H Wilson and Mayoress Pat Wilson (centre) officially open the new centre

looking to regain their driving independence.

RDAC is all about restoring confidence and improving safety – we strive to help as many people as possible to regain driving independence.

“We have a fully accessible indoor assessment zone so that vehicles can be driven into the centre for demonstrations and discussions, whatever the weather.

“This is a major advantage, making appointments to discuss driving adaptations far more engaging. Our premises include a suite of private consultation rooms and an information lounge full of the latest guidance

and literature. Thanks to our stadium location, service users can benefit from a driving experience that is calm and reassuring.”

The centre also has the benefit of “off road” assessment areas for the use of non-licence holders.

Other services include Tryb4uFly cabin assessments to help with accessible air travel, and guidance regarding specialist car seats for disabled children.

n A J Bell Stadium, 1 Stadium Way, Barton-upon-Irwell, Salford, Greater Manchester. Tel. 0300 300 2240

14

All Together NOW!

Not too late to stretch yourself

DAILY muscle stretching could bring health benefits to older people with reduced mobility, according to research.

The strenuous nature of exercise training and the numbers of older people with reduced mobility and weak muscles are often the reasons why they don’t take part in exercise.

But regular stretching can work wonders, says Dr Judy Muller-Delp, Professor of Biomedical Sciences at the Florida State University College of Medicine.

“Our research suggests that static muscle stretching performed regularly can have a real impact by increasing blood flow to muscles in the lower leg.

“Even individuals who struggle to walk due to pain or lack of mobility can undertake activity to possibly improve their health.

“It is possible that greater stretch or stretch that increases steadily over a four week period would have an even greater benefit. It is also possible that greater benefit would be seen if the stretching continued for longer.”

Muscle stretching is widely performed as a warm-up or cool-down and is low intensity compared to aerobic exercise – perfect for everyone, no matter how old you are!

February/March 2019

Elen’s hi-tech earbuds sound just about perfect

A

NEW idea for wireless earbuds — designed for people of all hearing abilities — could help tackle stigma around disability and traditional hearing aids.

Devised by Elen Parry, a student at Manchester Metropolitan University, HeX Earbuds are audio headphones that double up as an advanced hearing device, from which everyone can benefit.

An advanced chip that receives and processes sound signals would differentiate between background noise and the sound people want to hear.

Elen said: “People with disabilities often feel excluded and conspicuous because of

their medical devices, so I want to transform hearing aids into a desirable wearable tech product that gives people enhanced hearing, style and confidence – something that anyone might want to wear.

“3D printing enables us to manufacture them quickly and relatively simply, so HeX earbuds could be easily produced for a mass audience.”

The device could be produced easily on a large scale and be personalised and printed to fit any shape or size of ear.

A prototype of the earbuds has been produced at Print City, Manchester Metropolitan’s advanced 3D printing and digital manufacturing hub.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

HEAR, HEAR! Student Elen Parry and the earbuds set to transform the image of hearing aids

ANDREW’S Phoenix AI wheelchair is an ultralightweight manual wheelchair made from carbon-fiber.

Using smart sensors the chair will configure itself to what the user is doing so it remains in sync with how the user moves.

The sensors detect if the user is leaning forward or back, algorithms will calculate the wheelchair’s response.

Intelligent, lightweight power assist will make slopes easier to ascend while automatic braking will remove the need for users to grip the wheels to slow down.

The $500,000 super chair

A

MAN who broke his back 35 years ago, aged 14, has been handed $500,000 to develop his revolutionary wheelchair.

Andrew Slorance, who runs the Phoenix Instinct company, is one of five finalists in the Toyota Mobility Foundation’s $4m global competition aimed at improving the mobility and independence of people with lower limb paralysis.

Andrew, 48, said: “I’m delighted to have made it to the final five. I’ve worked towards this for years but didn’t expect to make it through!

“I’m so pleased the judges recognised that the wheelchair has proved itself as the most viable mobility device for decades.

Although it has done well it is now tired and in need of a serious makeover. I want to show how I think the wheelchair can be evolved while

Tel 0151 230 0307

maintaining its core, proven fundamental capabilities that are behind its success as a mobility device.

“I broke my back when I was 14. By the time I was 16, I’d decided that I would one day design a wheelchair that would change perceptions by using cutting edge materials and styling.”

In the meantime, Andrew has been a TV producer for ITV, Channel 4 and Sky before becoming an inventor. He and wife, Mary, remortgaged their home to start his company in Scotland.

“We’ve got 18 months to turn the wheelchair into a futuristic device that intelligently makes wheelchair life easier,” said Andrew, from Nairn, Inverness.

The other finalists are: n The Evowalk: Evolution Devices (US) – a smart wearable leg sleeve that helps people with partial lower limb paralysis regain their mobility. The

EvoWalk AI system uses sensors to predict the user’s walking motion and stimulates the right muscles at the right time to help them walk better. n Moby: Italdesign (Italy) – an integrated network of wheel-on powered devices, allowing users of manual wheelchairs the convenience and benefits of a powered chair, accessible via an app-based share scheme. n Qolo (Quality of Life with Locomotion): Team Qolo, University of Tsukuba (Japan) – a mobile exoskeleton on wheels, allowing users to sit or stand with ease. n Quix: IHMC & MYOLYN (US) – a highly mobile, powered exo-skeleton offering fast, stable and agile upright mobility.

The overall winner will be announced in September 2020.

sales@alltogethernow.org.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

The handy new control putting you in control

I

F YOU are unable to drive using the pedals in your vehicle, this new push/pull hand control is well worth a closer look.

The adaptation, produced by Warringtonbased company BAS, is seat-mounted and runs along the inside door sill.

In most cases, there is also no cutting or

All Together NOW!

February/March 2019

re-shaping of the trim or components of the vehicle.

Jo Novoa Bradley, marketing manager at BAS, said: “We have over 35 years’ experience in the vehicle adaptations industry, and are constantly striving to develop and manufacture innovative and pioneering products.

“Our push/pull brake/accelerator allows for full movement of the steering wheel, enabling each driver to set the wheel at the best and safest driving position for them.

“Furthermore, the new design means that the vehicle’s airbags are never removed or interfered with. If the airbag is deployed, the driver’s safety is not compromised. There

are also are a range of handles and handle bars to choose from, ensuring a bespoke driving experience for every customer.”

The product is available on the Motability scheme with nil customer contribution!

n BAS: Tel. 0161 776 1594. n www.basnw.co.uk

Vehicle Adaptations

Irton House Farm Wheelchair Hoist

Person Hoist

10 Way Secondary Driving Control

HAElectric PPY HOLID Hatch A AOpener WARD 201 Y 2!

The new BAS Push/Pull Brake/Accelerator

A warm welcome is customer waiting Where safetyfor you at our is never compromised! superbly scenic, fullyNilaccessible self catering Payment on Motability Transfer Plate cottages in the Lake District.

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Hand Held Accelerators • Left Foot Accelerators • Pedal Extensions • Seating Aids/Conversions • Lifts • Steps • Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles • Authorised Agents throughout the UK

0161 776 1594

Use Promo Code BAS19 to receive your free dash cam

www.irtonhousefarm.com 017687 76380

Tel 0151 230 0307

School Lane, Hollins Green, Warrington WA3 6LJ office@basnw.co.uk www.basnw.co.uk

sales@alltogethernow.org.uk

*Orders over £150

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All Together NOW!

ON THE TRAIL

February/March 2019

www.alltogethe

Signs of whisky

Lenka Whyles and Joseph Sheridan at Scotch Whisky Experience

T

HE Scotch Whisky Experience has become the first in Edinburgh to offer whisky tours in British and American Sign Language.

The Royal Mile attraction has invested over £50,000 into multi-functional audio guides which feature interpreters conducting tours in both BSL and ASL. As 80% of its visitors come from overseas, subtitled tours in German, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch and Swedish will also be launching.

The addition of the new BSL and ASL devices means the attraction now

offers whisky tours in a total of 20 languages.

Lenka Whyles, head of operations at The Scotch Whisky Experience, said: “Careful consideration has been given to the background colour of the screen on the new devices, as well as the clothes of the interpreters to make them as user-friendly as possible and we also flew one of the American signers over from the USA.” There is also an audiovisual tour for wheelchair users. n Tel, 0131 220 0441 n www.scotchwhisky experience.co.uk

New fron

Irton House Farm

HAPPY HO LID AWARD 2 AY 012!

T

WO WHEELCHAIR users have an 11-kilometre section of the Trail in South America.

A warm welcome is waiting for you at our superbly scenic, fully accessible self catering cottages in the Lake District.

HALF A MILLION READERS . . .

www.irtonhousefarm.com 017687 76380

Álvaro Silberstein, 33, and Isabel Agui from Chile, have became the first quadri paraplegic respectively to complete the t The one-day challenge to Machu Picch undertaken to promote accessible travel region, with a group of 14 participating o day tour of Peru, which also explored Cu the Sacred Valley. Álvaro, founder of Wheel the World, wh create more exciting treks for wheelchai

0151 230 0307

sales@alltog

L OF THE INCAS

ernow.org.uk

February/March 2019

ntiers for wheelchair users

e traversed great Inca

rre, 36, both iplegic and trek. hu was l in the on an eightusco and

hich aims to r users,

said: “Completing the one-day Inca Trail was both beautiful and hard. At many exhausted moments we wondered if we would make it but reaching the Sun Gate and seeing Machu Picchu from on high was probably the most beautiful moment in my life.

“Our mission is to allow people with disabilities to be able to explore every single corner of the globe, so we were thrilled to partner with PEAK DMC to bring accessible adventure to Peru. They’re the perfect tour operator for us – not only bringing destination expertise but an amazing team of tour leaders and suppliers. We hope to replicate this model all around the world in the future.”

gethernow.org.uk

The eight-day tour also included other activities such as a 10 km cycling trip through the Sacred Valley, kayaking on the tranquil waters of Piuray Lake and an excursion exploring the ruins of Sacsayhuaman.

Special equipment such as the Joëlette chair will be made available for travellers on future departures.

Gary Cohen, regional manager at PEAK DMC, South America’s, said: “Adventure is for everyone and Álvaro and Isabel are breaking down the barriers to prove it.” n www.gowheeltheworld.com

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

Reaching 500,000 readers across the North West

Positively different: A breath of fresh air

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SHOPMOBILITY

n ALTRINCHAM . Tel 0161 929 1714 n ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE. Tel 0161 339 9500 n BARROW. Tel 01229 434039 n BIRKENHEAD. Tel 0151 647 6162 n BLACKBURN AND DARWEN. Tel 01254 690566 or 07757 502217 n BLACKPOOL. Tel 01253 349427 n BOLTON. Tel 01204 392946 n CARLISLE. Tel 01228 631564 n CHESTER. Tel 01244 312626 n CHORLEY. Tel 01257 260 888 n COLWYN BAY. Tel 01492 533822 n CREWE. Tel 01270 580 031 n ELLESMERE PORT. Tel 0151 355 1420 n KENDAL. Tel 01539 740 933 n LEIGH, Wigan.

Tel 01942 777 985 n LIVERPOOL. Tel 0151 707 0877 n MANCHESTER Trafford Centre. Tel 0161 747 2684 n MANCHESTER Arndale Centre. Tel 0161 839 4060 n NELSON. Tel 01282 692 502 n NORTHWICH, Vale Royal Tel 01606 288820 n OSWESTRY. Tel 01691 656882 n PENRITH. Tel 01768 895 438 n PRESTON. Tel 01772 204 667 n RHYL. Tel 01745 350665 n ROCHDALE. Tel 01706 865 986 n RUNCORN, Halton Lea Tel 01928 710144 n SHREWSBURY. Tel 01743 236900 SKELMERSDALE. Tel 01695 550066 n ST HELENS. Tel 01744 613 388 n STOCKPORT. Tel 0161 666 1100 n WARRINGTON. Tel 01925 240064 n WARRINGTON. Birchwood Tel 01925 822 411 WIDNES: 0151 511 8833 n WIGAN. Tel 01942 776 070 n WINSFORD Tel 01606 557550 n WREXHAM. Tel 01978 312390 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM. Snow Hill Railway Station. Tel 0121 236 8980. Level 2, Centre Car Park, Bullring. Tel 0121 616 2942 n STAFFORD. Tel 01785 619456 n STOKE ON TRENT. Tel 01782 233333 n SUTTON COLDFIELD. Tel 0121 355 1112 n TAMWORTH. Tel, 01827

February/March 2019

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Grow Trug winners

THE THREE lucky winners of our gardening competition to win a super Grow Trug® are:

Azeem gives a few footballing tips to Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham – and tells him about the difficulties blnd commuters face

Mrs A Hunter, Asland Gardens, Southport (“I picked up my copy of All Together NOW! at Southport hospital”) J Winder, Eccleshill Road, Stoneycroft, Liverpool (Kensington Health Centre) Miss Rosemary Kozakiewicz, The Oval, Ellesmere Port (Countess of Chester hospital)

Why catching a train was better than playing for England!

A

ZEEM Amir, 19, plays for England and Liverpool blind football teams and has completed lots of physical challenges.

But by far his greatest achievement, he says, was simply being able to take a train ride – on his own – to join the England football squad.

He said: “When I went to my first development camp with the England squad, it was down in Hereford and I had to catch the train.

“The football was important, but the major achievement for me was being able to get the train down by myself, get to the hotel, then get home again on the train. That was even more important to me than the football.”

Azeem, from Rochdale, was among the key guests at a special open day organised

by Greater Manchester Travel Training Forum, which gives young people with an array of mobility issues the confidence and the skills to use public transport.

He said his mobility officer, Dave Potter, has played a huge role in his life from an early age and taught him skills such as being able to use a cane and how to use buses independently.

“Those basic skills are the foundation of where I am today. I am currently training for the Paralympics and have gone from learning how to catch a bus to catching flights all over the world on my own. That shows the impact that the training has had on my life.

“It’s not just about getting on the bus, it’s about where to scan your card, where to sit down, when to ring the bell for your stop then how to get off. It can be quite daunting.”

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: “It really was inspirational to hear how this excellent scheme has enriched the lives of so many people, not just the young people who receive the training but also their parents and their carers too.”

TfGMC chair Councillor Mark Aldred said: “Being able to use a bus, a train or a tram is something that most of us take for granted but for some people it can be a challenging experience.

“Thankfully, via the Greater Manchester Travel Training Forum, there is an excellent support network out there which can help people develop crucial skills, unlock their potential and achieve their ambitions.” n Membership of the forum is free. Tel, 0161 244 1000 .

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE

n ANGLESEY: TARAN Tel 01407 721933 n BLACKPOOL Disability Information and Support.

Tel 01253 472 202.

Textphone 01253 476 450 n CHESHIRE CIL Tel 01606 331853 n CHESTER Dial House Tel 01244 345655 n DENBIGHSHIRE Tel 01745 354445 n ELLESMERE PORT DICE Tel 0151 355 1420

n HALTON Disability Service Tel 01928 717222 n KNOWSLEY DISABILITY CONCERN. 0151 480 4090 n LANCASTER DISC Tel 01524 34411 n LIVERPOOL Association of Disabled People. 0151 263 8366. Text 0151 260 4076. n ACSIL (Amputees and Carers), Tel, 0151 261 1166 n THE BRAIN CHARITY Tel 0151 298 2999

n MANCHESTER (GTR) Coalition of Disabled People Tel 0161-273 5154 n MOLD Flintshire Disability Tel 01352 755546 n NELSON: Pendle Pakistan Welfare Association.

Tel 01282 603 616 n PRESTON DISC: Tel 01772 558 863.

Text 01772 204 787 n RHYL Tel 01745 350665 n STOCKPORT: Disability

Stockport. 0161 480 7248 n WARRINGTON Disability Partnership. 01925 240064 n WIRRAL WIRED Tel 0151 670 1500 n WEST LANCS HELPLINE Freefone 0800 220676 n ST HELENS DASH Tel 01744 453053 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM Disability Resource Centre Tel 0121 789 7365

n Disabled People’s Network Solihull Tel 0121 788 1544 n STOKE: Disability Solutions Tel 01782 683800 n WOLVERHAMPTON Elder and Disabled Group Tel 01902 448552 n WEST MIDS Amputee

Group. 07891 794733; 07585 958322; 07557 228154

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All Together NOW!

February/March 2019

CARERS’ CENTRES

Charity champs

BIG-HEARTED staff at Transport for Greater Manchester raised £28,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support and the Alzheimer’s Society.

Emma Vallely, at the TfGM charity committee, said: “I’m really proud of the amount of money we’ve raised for both charities.

“Not only is it a record for the organisation but it shows just how committed TfGM is when it comes to putting more than just transport back into the communities it serves.”

Alzheimer’s Society fundraiser Suzie Gordon said: “Dementia devastates lives, but dementia won’t win. We need more people like the staff at TfGM to join us now and unite against dementia.”

Macmillan’s Cheryl Jenkinson added: “It’s been a pleasure to find out more about TfGM and work alongside them and the Alzheimer’s Society.”

VISUAL PROBLEMS n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 233332 n BARROW Tel 01229 820698 n BIRMINGHAM Action for Blind Tel 0121 665 4200 n BLACKBURN Tel 0125 554143 n BLACKPOOL: N-Vision Tel 01253 362696 n BURY Tel 0161 763 7014 n BURNLEY Tel 01282 438507

WIN tickets for ‘The Wall’

B

RIT FLOYD, the one of the world’s greatest Pink Floyd tribute shows, return to the North West with its most ambitious and best production yet – a very special 40th Anniversary retrospective of the band’s iconic rock opera, ‘The Wall’.

Released in November 1979, The Wall remains one of the biggest selling albums of all time, and an important moment in Rock music history.

The band will also perform classic gems from The Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here, Animals and The Division Bell plus lots more.

We have TWO PAIRS of tickets each for the

shows at the Liverpool Arena (Thurs 28 February) and Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall (Friday 15 March).

To stand a chance of winning a pair of tickets all you have to do is answer the following question: What year was The Wall released?

Send your entries to: Brit Floyd Comp, All Together NOW!, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP. You can also email your entry to: competition@alltogethernow.org.uk. Insert BRIT FLOYD in the subject line – and remember to tell us where you picked up your copy of All Together NOW! Also please tell us if you would like to receive our FREE e-newsletter.

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE

n CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121 n CHESHIRE & N WALES: Vision Support. Tel 01244 381515 n CUMBRIA (West) Tel 01946 592474 n CUMBRIA (Sth Lakeland) Tel 01539 726613 n GUIDE DOGS Tel 0118 983 5555 n HENSHAW’S 0161 872 234 or 0151 708 7055

n LIVERPOOL: Bradbury Fields.Tel 0151 221 0888: Action for Bind Tel 0151 298 3222 n MANCHESTER: Action for Blind Tel 0161 787 9252 n PRESTON: Action for Blind People Tel 01772 320550 n OLDHAM Tel 0161 682 8019 n ROSSENDALE Tel 01706 873256 n SIGHTLINE (North West) Tel 0800 587 2252

n WIGAN Tel 01942 242891 n WIRRAL Tel 0151 652 8877 HEARING ISSUES n BIRMINGHAM Institute for Deaf Tel 0121 246 6101 n CHESHIRE Deaf Society Tel 01606 47831 n CUMBRIA Deaf Society Tel 01228 606434 n LANCASHIRE (EAST) Deaf Society Tel 01282 839180 n MANCHESTER Deaf Centre. Tel 0161 273 3415

Genie Networks.

Tel 0161 941 4549.

Text 18001 0161 941 4549 n MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888 n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887 n WOLVERHAMPTON Centre for Deaf Tel 01902 420904 n N WALES Deaf Association, Tel 01492 542235

n ACCRINGTON Tel 01254 387 444 n BLACKBURN with DARWEN Tel 01254 688 www.bwdcarers.org n BLACKPOOL Blackpool Borough Council, Tel 01253 477 716 nCUMBRIA Carlisle.

Tel 01228 542 156 Penrith.

Tel 01768 890 280 Barrow-in-Furness.

Tel 01229 822 822 Kendal.

Tel 01539 732 927 Whitehaven, Tel 01946 592 223 n CHESHIRE & WARRINGTON Helpline:0300 102 0008 n KNOWSLEY Tel 0151 549 1412 n LANCASTER Tel 01524 66475 nLIVERPOOL Tel 0151 705 2307 n MANCHESTER Tel 0161 835 2995 n MORECAMBE Tel 01524 833456 n PRESTON Tel 01772 200173 n RUNCORN Tel 01928 580182 n WIDNES Tel 0151 257 9673 n SALFORD Tel 0161 833 0217 n SEFTON Tel 0151 288 6060 n ST HELENS Tel 01744 675 615 n STOCKPORT Tel 0161 442 0442 n WARRINGTON (WIRED) Tel 01925 633 492 n WEST LANCS Tel 01695 711243 n WIGAN & LEIGH Tel 01942 683711 MIDLANDS n BIRMINGHAM Tel 0121 675 8000 n SOLIHULL Tel 0121 788 1143 n WALSALL Tel 01922 610 810 NORTH WALES n ANGLESEY Tel 01248 722828 n BANGOR Tel 01248 370 797 n CONWY Tel 01492 533714 n DENBIGHSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 0845 603 3187 nDOLGELLAU Tel 01341 421167 n FLINTSHIRE: NEWCIS, Tel: 01352 751436 n WREXHAM CARERS SERVICE

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All Together NOW!

FLASHBACK

Mystery tunnels, secret chambers

MOTHER Redcap’s Inn was rebuilt in 1888 when it was converted and re-designed as a café for local trippers and tourists.

During this rebuilding, trapdoors, secret chambers, and passages were indeed discovered. As was the fact that the large yard at the rear was actually the roof of a sizeable cavern beneath the inn, made of great sandstone slabs, supported on beams, and disguised with earth and a manure pile!

It was from this cave that the tunnel led to the Red and Yellow Noses; proving that the legends were true – and increasing the sale of “teas, light refreshments, and minerals” in the process!

Becoming derelict in the 1960s, Mother Redcap’s Café was itself wrecked and demolished in 1974.

A residential home now stands on the site, named Mother Redcap’s Nursing Home, and, while she is certainly neither a resident nor the proprietor, perhaps her spirit haunts the rooms at night, and perhaps, in some lost passage or cave, lies her long-lost “buried treasure”!

n TO READ more about Mother Redcap, and other tales from the grisly side of Merseyside life, you can buy a copy of Ken’s Bloody History of Merseyside. All his books, CDs, and DVDs are available on his website, www.discover-liverpool.com, or from 0151 427 2717, or at ken.pye@discover-liverpool.com

February/March 2019

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

The notorious Mother Redcap

T

HE waters of the Wirral coast, especially the Burbo and Hoyle Banks, are treacherous and deadly.

High tides, turbulent and unpredictable storms, strong currents, and shifting sandbanks were all part of the challenges that sailing ships had to face, coming into and out of the expanding and wealthy Port of Liverpool.

But as if this wasn’t enough of a risk to merchant ships sailing towards the safety of the town and its harbour, they also had to contend with the threat provided by the people of Wallasey – especially during the 17th and 18th centuries.

On dark and stormy nights in particular, with waves crashing over the decks of heaving vessels, terrified sailors would try desperately to keep their small vessels from capsizing.

“How far are we from the haven?” They would cry – hoping against hope to see the first light of the port of Liverpool.

Then they would see it! Faint at first, but then brighter and brighter – the welcoming yellow and golden lantern light of lamps being waved to guide them safely into harbour. Through the storm and the driving rain they would steer towards these reassuring and friendly lights!

But then, and far too late to put about, the horrified mariners would see the rocks and shoals off the Wallasey coast and know that all was lost, as their frail, timber-hulled ships ploughed remorselessly on to certain catastrophe. Vessels would shatter and break themselves on the rocks; their guts spilling into

news@alltogethernow.org.uk

KEN PYE tells one of the most fascinating stories of the Wirral peninsula.

It’s back to the 18th century – a time when the Wallasey coast was rife with thieves, smugglers, and ship wreckers.

the violent seas, along with their cargoes and their crews.

It was not friendly lanterns at all that had drawn them here, but the luring lights of the Wallasey Wreckers, who were now racing down from the headlands and wading out in the waves.

Many a half-drowned sailor who had survived the wreck, while trying to obtain a footing and come safely to land, would be bludgeoned to death and cast back into the sea again – nobody was left alive to tell the tale.

Any corpses that washed up on the shore would be stripped of all coin or valuables and, if the rings on their fingers would not easily come off, then the wreckers would go to work with their knives or short axes. Clothes, too, would be stripped from the drowned seamen, leaving them naked in the waves.

So what did these wreckers and smugglers do with their plunder?

On the shoreline at what is now New

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Brighton is a line of rugged sandstone cliffs, known, because of the shapes and colours of the rock, as the “Red Noses” and the “Yellow Noses”.

Great caves opened up in the cliff-face, connecting with a warren of tunnels and passages – natural and man-made, which still run deep into the peninsular.

These caves have long since been hidden, because the land has been deliberately raised to block them off, and more than halving the height of the cliffs from their original level of at least 50 feet above the shoreline.

The wreckers would drag their looted booty into this warren of caves and tunnels, and one of these passages in particular led to a tiny place further down the coast, almost opposite Liverpool, called Egremont. Here, stood the only building for miles around – the tavern known as Mother Redcap’s Inn. Originally built in 1595, it was taken over in the 1770s by Polly “Poll” Jones, known as Mother Redcap because of the cap she habitually wore.

On what is now the corner of Caithness Drive, on Egremont Parade, this tavern became notorious as the haunt of rough, rugged sailors and maritime folk – and of smugglers!

She was said to be the leader of the Wallasey smugglers and wreckers, storing their ill-gotten gains beneath her tavern.

It was always believed she kept her own great stockpile of gold and loot in some secret vault below her tavern and, when Mother Redcap died, in the mid-1800s, it surprised people that no such hoard was found.

Tel 0151 230 0307

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All Together NOW!

February/March 2019

Appy days! A digital doctor for back pain

P

ATIENTS can assess their own back pain using an app on their phone or tablet as effectively as current paper methods, a study shows.

Research found digital versions of existing measurements for assessing back pain are just as reliable and responsive, opening the possibility for their use by patients for routine measurements and clinical trials.

A team at the University of Warwick see the study as a necessary first step in the greater use of digital media in clinical settings, in light of recent calls for greater use of such technology by healthcare providers.

Back pain is the number one cause of

disability globally, affecting up to 84% of people at some point in their lives. It is estimated that it costs the UK economy billions of pounds each year.

Dr Robert Froud said: “Our intention is to develop technology that allows people to securely complete these kinds of assessments on their own phones and tablets in a way that is safe, secure and accurate.

“If you can accurately monitor in clinical practice what’s happening to patients’ health, then analytically there is a lot that could be done with the data that will benefit patients.

“For example, we may be able to detect

that particular treatment approaches are working better for certain types of people.

“We hear a lot about machine learning, but a learning healthcare system is perhaps next.

“It opens up potential for the development of new and dynamic instruments that adapt to the answers that a user gives.

“The potential of using digital technology in healthcare settings is quite extraordinary but you can’t do any of that without you first having assessments that work robustly and well.”

The study was published in the open access journal Journal of Medical Internet Research.

HAVE A HEART!

Volunteers needed to find the ½m of us at risk of a stroke

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MINDFULNESS is being used by for the first time in a UK hospital to help people lose weight.

Those taking part in the obesity programme lost more weight when they combined it with mindfulness training than those who didn’t.

Mindfulness is the practise of focusing the mind on whatever is happening in the present moment.

Those who completed the mindfulness course at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust on average lost nearly six and a half pounds more than those who took no part in the training.

A study of the results was conducted by a team at the University of Warwick, whose leader, Dr Petra Hanson, said: “This research is significant as we have shown that problematic eating behavior can be improved with mindfulness.

“We are the first centre in the United Kingdom that created a structured multidisciplinary course incorporating mindfulness and assessed its effectiveness in patients attending obesity clinics.”

The findings were published in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

Obesity worldwide has nearly tripled since 1975. As of 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults worldwide are considered overweight or obese.

End to twitching legs?

AVE YOU got the heart to raise awareness of atrial fibrillation in your community?

Volunteers are wanted to become AF Ambassadors in Merseyside, Cheshire and Lancashire.

Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia (heart rhythm disorder) affecting over 1.5 million people across the UK. There are up to 500,000 people unidentified, undiagnosed and at high risk of an AF-related stroke which is more devastating than any other type of stroke and often fatal.

Knowing your pulse can save your life. If your resting heart rate is irregular, too fast, or too slow, it is possible that you have an undiagnosed arrhythmia. Once detected, anticoagulation therapy can prevent a stroke.

Volunteers are equipped with mobile ECG devices which can detect an irregular pulse within one minute.

Dr Julia Reynolds, Head of Programmes at the Innovation Agency, said: “The North West Coast has one of the highest AFrelated stroke rates in the UK and we know that there are at least 20,000 people in our

MEDICAL NOTES Mindfulness used to treat obesity

The facts about atrial fibriliation

LIFE-SAVER: AF Ambassador Sue Whittaker tests a volunteer’s pulse using the device

n Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias) are Britain’s biggest killer and atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia. n AF can affect adults of any age, but it is more common as people get older. In the over-65 age group, it affects about 10% of people. n At the age of 40, we all have a 25% lifetime risk of developing AF, meaning you are five times more likely to suffer an AF-related stroke.

region who are unaware they have AF, so we have a number of people left to find.

“We aim to reduce AF-related strokes to under 500 per year in our region by 2020.”

news@alltogethernow.org.uk

n A recent survey by the AF Association found that over 40% of respondents were not diagnosed with AF until their symptoms were severe enough to send them to A&E – or they were diagnosed only after they had suffered a devastating AF-related stroke. n Despite the prevalence of AF, a recent survey of over 3,800 people diagnosed with AF, found that more than 50% were not previously tested for AF with a routine pulse check, or an ECG.

n Contact Debbie Parkinson on 01772 520250. Alternative, you can email debbie.parkinson@innovationagencynwc. nhs.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

NEW research may have led to a breakthrough in the treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome – a common condition that causes an overwhelming irresistible urge to move the legs.

More than 80% of people with the condition experience their legs jerking or twitching uncontrollably, usually at night.

Until now it was thought that RLS is caused by genetic, metabolic and central nervous system mechanisms. But the new study shows it is not only the central nervous system but also the nerve cells targeting the muscles themselves that are responsible.

The research indicates that the involuntary leg movements are caused by increased excitability of the nerve cells that supply the muscles in the leg, which results in more signals being sent between nerve cells. Using drugs to reduce the signals to normal levels may help prevent the symptoms of RLS occurring.

Next step for teams at the University of Gottingen in Germany, the University of Sydney and Vanderbilt University in Tennessee is to investigate the effect of different medications in patients and the effect on RLS.

Tel 0151 230 0307

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All Together NOW!

MEDICAL NOTES

Smoking warning over links to MS

THE link between smoking and multiple sclerosis is “clearer than ever”, say the MS Society.

Not only are people who smoke more likely to develop MS, smoking can also speed up how fast people with MS become disabled.

“Over 100,000 people in the UK have MS and, in light of this review, we are encouraging and supporting every one of them who smokes to quit,” said Dr Susan Kohlhaas, Director of Research at the MS Society.

“It’s not just people who have MS who need to be aware of this, though, as people who smoke are more likely to develop MS than people who don’t.”

Research suggests smoking can cause further damage to the myelin sheath – the protective layer around our nerves, which is affected in people with MS. This prevents messages getting through properly, causing common symptoms like vision, mobility, and cognitive problems. n MS Helpline: Tel. 0808 800 8000.

AI = ED (early diagnosis)

PATIENTS are set to benefit from radical medical technologies that will diagnose diseases earlier.

Five new artificial intelligence centres will bring together doctors, businesses and academics to develop products to improve early diagnosis of disease, including cancer, by detecting abnormalities.

The centres – which are expected to open this next year at universities and NHS facilities in Leeds, Oxford, Coventry, Glasgow and London – will be funded through the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund.

The fund is the Government’s flagship investment programme that focuses on addressing the opportunities and challenges of the future, and is managed

by UK Research and Innovation.

Knee to know basis

INJURIES to the knee joints can lead to a severe form of osteoarthritis but nobody knew why.

Now, researchers have found a connection between the deterioration of cartilage and the flow of fluid around injury areas.

The discovery could help medics decide on the best form of rehabilitation and improve the quality of life of patients.

Teams from the University of Eastern Finland and Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the US carried out the research.

February/March 2019

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Look out for your eyes and they’ll look out for you LOOKING after our eyes is about more than a two-year check-up at your local optician’s – we need to care for them every day.

Everything from sunlight to computer screens can affect the health of our eyes.

Rates of eyelid cancer have risen by 2% each year and the risk of developing the disease doubles for both men and women for every decade beyond the age of 60, a major study shows.

Constant exposure to UV rays is not only harmful to the skin but also to the eyes. Over time it can accelerate ageing of the skin around the eyes and cause various forms of

eye disorders such as cataracts and eyelid skin cancers as well as contribute to the development of macula degeneration.

UV isn’t the only bad boy when it comes to eye health – our screen-based lifestyles and poor diets can also be contributing factors to a general deterioration.

So, to give your eyes a fighting chance of staying fit and healthy, follow these simple guidelines … n Take regular breaks away from computer screens and digital devices and use the 20/20/20 rule – look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes to reduce eye strain.

n Protect your eyes from UV damage – wear sunglasses in full sunlight, and make sure your everyday glasses have the correct lenses. n Maintain a healthy lifestyle - three factors of poor diet, smoking and alcohol abuse can lead to optic atrophy which can cause visual impairment and damage to the optic nerve cells. n Healthy eating is essential for healthy eyes. Green leaf vegetables help to delay the onset of cataracts; oily fish, packed full of omega-3, reduce the tendency for dry eyes; and zinc found in cheese, milk and poultry helps promote better vision.

SLEEP EASY

Dark nights help keep your sleep quota in credit

S

TAY warm in bed – and take advantage of the long nights to refresh your sleep routine.

Dark mornings and evenings can have lots of amazing health benefits including helping you get a better night’s sleep, according to The Sleep Council.

Melatonin – the hormone that stimulates sleep – is produced when daylight starts to fade, which occurs far earlier during winter.

So take advantage of the fact that your body will fall asleep earlier and stay asleep for longer.

The Sleep Council has produced some other top tips: n Wear night clothes such as pyjamas or a large T-shirt to keep you cosy. Natural fibres such as wool, cotton or silk are better than synthetic materials. n Have a warm bath just before you go to bed. n Have a warm milky drink before bed. n Try to take some exercise which will get the circulation going. n Keep the bedroom around 16° to 18° and free from draughts. n Avoid a saggy bed. Look for a mattress that has a thicker side for use during the winter. A soft sleeping surface is a better insulator than a flat one. Use a fleecy underblanket to retain the heat. n Choose a duvet with a high tog rating or use several layers of bedding rather than one single layer. Layers will trap the air and are easily removed if you get too hot. n Hot water bottles or Electric blankets are ideal – but take care. Never sleep with the an underblanket switched on. n Overblankets maintain a constant temperature throughout the night.

Look after your liver

THE British Liver Trust is calling for greater awareness among the public – and healthcare professionals – of the fastest rising cause of cancer death in the UK. In the last 40 years, liver cancer mortality rates have more than tripled in the UK with over 5,400 people dying from the disease each year.

Judi Rhys, the BLT’s chief executive, said: “More and more people are being diagnosed and dying from liver cancer year on year. We urge people to find out more about the risks and symptoms.

“It is also essential that GPs and other healthcare professionals keep the risk factors and warning signs at the front of their mind so people are referred for specialist tests and diagnosed quickly.

“We are also campaigning with other charities to double the five-year survival

HALF A MILLION people are reading these pages . . .

rate over the next 10 years for the less survivable cancers, which includes liver cancer, so that the successes seen in other cancers such as prostate and breast are emulated.”

Sixteen people are diagnosed every day and most cases are linked to hepatitis infections, alcohol and obesity.

Co-factors such as diabetes and smoking further increase the risk.

Early diagnosis is difficult because there are often no signs or symptoms in the early stages.

Late symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), weakness and fatigue, a change in appetite, unexplained weight loss and abdominal pain.

By 2035, liver cancer cases will have more than doubled in the UK. n BLT Helpline: Tel. 0800 652 7330.

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All Together NOW!

February/March 2019

‘Miracle’ low-carb diet now on mobiles A REVOLUTIONARY diet that has helped people to lose stones in weight and put their Type 2 diabetes into remission is now available to more people through the NHS. The Low Carb Program has been accepted into the NHS apps library — a list of online tools approved by NHS Digital – and is now available for patients for free when it is recommended by GPs. It has been developed in collaboration with GP David Unwin, from Southport, Merseyside and Diabetes Digital Media (DDM).

Available on mobile devices (iOS and Android) and as a web app, the Low Carb

Program educates people on how to reduce their carb intake supported with recipes and meal plans.

It also encourages people to track their health data and can be connected to fitness trackers and a number of Bluetooth-enabled devices.

What’s even better is that 40% of people eliminate at least one medication from their treatment regime and one in four people place their type 2 diabetes into remission.

Based on a study published in journal JMIR Diabetes, the average saving to the NHS is £835 per patient, per year, in medication alone. n www.lowcarbprogram.com/nhs/

OPEN YOUR MINDS!

‘It’s time we began using alternative treatments’

M

Ps want the NHS to embrace complementary, traditional and natural medicine to ease the mounting burden on service provision.

Growing numbers of people suffering from long-term illnesses pose significant threats to the future sustainability of the NHS, a new report released by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Integrated Healthcare warns.

The report says that the costs to the health system of a number of medical conditions are increasing rapidly.

It is estimated that in 2014 to 2015 the NHS spent £6.1 billion on overweight and obesity-related ill-health, with the overall cost of obesity to wider society estimated at £27 billion.

David Tredinnick MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group which produced the report, insisted that the current approach being taken by the Government is unsustainable for the long-term future of the country.

“Despite positive signs that ministers are proving open to change, words must translate into reality. For some time our treasured NHS has faced threats to its financial sustainability and to common trust in the system.

“Multimorbidity (suffering from two or more long-term health conditions) is more apparent now in the UK than at any time in our recent history.

“As a trend it threatens to swamp a struggling NHS, but the good news is that many self-limiting conditions can be treated

n The UK-wide NHS costs attributable to obesity and being overweight are projected to reach £9.7 billion by 2050, with wider costs to society estimated to reach £49.9 billion per year. n Almost 3.7 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes in the UK. n The incidence of lower back pain is increasing, with disability due to back pain rising by more than 50% since 1990. It affects around one-third of the UK adult population each year. n Around 20% of patients will consult

at home with the most minimal of expert intervention.”

“Other European governments facing similar challenges have considered the benefits of exploring complementary, traditional and natural medicines. If we are to hand on our most invaluable institution to future generations, so should we.”

RAISING AWARENESS: Diabetes UK say obesity can lead to people getting Type 2 diabetes

their GP about back pain each year. 43% of people in the UK experience chronic pain. n There are also around 7 million people living with heart and circulatory disease in the UK. These alarming figures hide an even more serious problem: n A staggering 70% of total health expenditure on health and care in England is associated with treating the 30% of the population with one longterm condition or more.

The report says countries such as India and China integrate traditional medicines into their respective systems, working alongside conventional Western medicine.

In France, Germany and Switzerland there is promising integration of mainstream with complementary, traditional and natural medicine.

HALF A MILLION people are reading these pages . . .

MEDICAL NOTES

Pacreatic cancer: we need to know more GPs are being urged to help raise awareness about pancreatic cancer, which is more prevalent across the North West than the rest of the UK. The charity Pancreatic Cancer Action say symptoms are vague and there is currently no effective screening test to detect the disease, despite it being the UK’s fifth biggest cancer killer.

By 2025 deaths from pancreatic cancer are predicted to be 25% higher than breast cancer in the EU. n Every day, 24 people will die of pancreatic cancer – that’s more than the number who will die in road traffic accidents. n Less than 7% of people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer will survive for more than five years – this is because the cancer is very advanced when diagnosed. Unlike other cancers, this figure has not changed significantly in over 40 years. n If patients are able to have surgery and diagnosed early, five-year survival increases to 30%.

The six key symptoms are: n Unexplained and significant weight loss. n Abdominal pain or discomfort that can come and go, which tends to get worse. n Indigestion that’s not responding to prescribed medication. n Yellowing of the skin and/or eyes, dark urine or very itchy skin (jaundice). n Fatty and pale stools that are smelly and hard to flush.

Mid-back pain or discomfort. n Helpline: Tel. 0303 040 1770.

Obesity and exercise

EXERCISE can reduce inflammation in obese people by changing the characteristics of their blood, according to new research.

Inflammation is a natural process in the body in response to harm, but in obese people it can become long term and lead to damage of healthy tissue.

This new research is the first to show that exercise alters the characteristics of blood forming stem cells and therefore reduces the number of blood cells likely to cause inflammation.

Dr Michael De Lisio, from the University of Ottawa, was delighted by the impact the exercise intervention had on some of the participants’ exercise habits.

He said: “After participating in the exercise intervention, some participants were inspired to take part in our local half-marathon.”

The study was published in The Journal of Physiology.

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All Together NOW!

February/March 2019

‘till Feb 16: Annie. Opera House, Manchester. Starring award-winning actress Anita Dobson.

Feb 5-9: Madagascar the Musical.

Liverpool Empire. This smash hit musical features all your favourite furry friends Feb 8: Ga Ga – A Tribute to Queen.

Pavilion, Rhyl Feb 9: Michael. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Tribute to Michael Jackson..

Feb 10: Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman. Liverpool Empire. Fancy dress is strongly encouraged and full audience participation is essential. This is a screening of the movie not a live stage show.

Feb 10: Creedence Clearwater Reimagined. The Brindley, Runcorn.

This brand-new production showcases the world-famous band.

Feb 10: Beyond the Barricade.

Grand Theatre, Blackpool. The best of Broadway and the West End. Feb 10: Anita Harris in Concert.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Feb 10: The King is Back. Charter Theatre, Preston. Ben Portsmouth as Elvis Presley.

Feb 11: Circus of Horrors. Charter Theatre, Preston. Celebrating 24 years on the road, and performed to a live rock soundscape.

Feb 11-14: Schools Alive 2019.

Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Feb 11-16. Kinky Boots. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Musical. Audio described Feb 13, 7.30pm. BSL Performance Feb 14, 7.30pm.

Feb 12: Spirit of the Dance. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Feb 13: Gaelforce Dance. Pavilion, Rhyl. The International phenomenal Irish Dance Show.

Feb 13-16: DNR (Do Not Resurrect). Royal Court, Liverpool.

This darkly comic play by Paul Burns explores the perils of growing old and facing death in the twenty-first century.

Feb 14: Russian State Ballet of Siberia – Giselle. Liverpool Empire. The most poignant of all classical ballets.

Feb 14: An Evening of Marvin Gaye with Wayne Henderson. Lyceum, Crewe.

Feb 14: The Legends of American Country.

Pavilion, Rhyl.

Feb 14-17: Billionaire Boy - The Musical. The Lowry. Hilarious new musical based on the bestselling book by David Walliams.

Feb 15: Russian State Ballet of Siberia - La Fille Mal Gardee. Liverpool Empire. One of the oldest ballets still regularly performed.

Feb 15: Lost Voice Guy. The Lowry.

Lee Ridley may not be able to talk but his comedy will leave you speechless.

Feb 16: Russian State Ballet of Siberia – Nutcracker. Liverpool Empire. The most famous of fantasy ballets for all the family.

Feb 16: Totally Tina. Lyceum Crewe. Tribute act.

Feb 16-17: Annie. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Family musical.

Feb 17: The Rolling Stones Story. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Feb 17: Yamato Drummers.

Liverpool Empire. A

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Palace: 0870 401 3000 SALFORD The Lowry: 0843 208 6000 NEW BRIGHTON Floral Pavillion: 0151 666 0000 PRESTON: Charter Theatre: 0845 344 2012 RHYL: Pavilion: 01745 330 000 RUNCORN The Brindley: 0151 907 8360 SOUTHPORT: Floral Hall: 0844 847 2380 ST HELENS: Theatre Royal: 01744 756000 STOKE: Regent Theatre:

CHEER UP TIME! Compiled by CHRIS GROVES

visual spectacular, high-energy and explosive show.

Feb 18: The Owen McVeigh Foundation Charity Show. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Featuring a number of Northern Dance schools coming together to raise funds for this Merseyside charity.

Feb 18: Peter Andre - Celebrating 25 Years.

Liverpool Empire.

Feb 18-23: The Full Monty. The Play by Simon Beaufoy. Opera House, Manchester.

Feb 18-23: Rough Crossing. The Lowry. New production of one of the most hilarious and brilliant plays by Tom Stoppard.

Feb 19: What’s Love Got To Do With It - A Tribute to Tina Turner. Liverpool Empire.

Feb 19-20: Sherlock Holmes - The Sign of Four. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Feb 19-21: Elmer the Patchwork Elephant.

The Lowry. A great show for children of all ages. Relaxed performance Feb 20, 2pm.

Feb 19-23: Noughts & Crosses. Theatr

REGULAR All Together NOW! readers will know how much we like stand up comic Lee Ridley – the first disabled comedian to win ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent competition.

Well, he’s bringing his unique style of humour to Salford.

Also known as 'The Lost Voice Guy', Lee, 37, was born with cerebral palsy, which affects his walking and speech.

“I have to put a lot of thought and planning into gigs to ensure a smooth delivery of my jokes through my speech machine,” he says.

So get ready for a good laugh! He’s at The Lowry on

Clwyd, Mold. Captivating drama of love, revolution and what it means to grow up in a divided world.

Feb 19-23: Octopus Soup. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. World Premiere of a brand new British farce.

Feb 21: The Bob Dylan Story. Southport Theatre.

Feb 21: The Dreamboys. Liverpool Empire.

Feb 22: Whitney – Queen of the Night. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Tribute show.

Feb 22: Sun Records Concert. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Revisit the recording studio where the distinctive Sun sound was crafted by musical visionary Sam Phillips.

Feb 22: Collabro. Lyceum, Crewe. The world’s most successful musical theatre group, Feb 22-24: The Life I lead. The Lowry.

Miles Jupp, one of Britain’s leading stand-up comedians and revered actors brings David Tomlinson’s remarkable story to life.

Feb 23: The Bowie Experience. Lyceum, Crewe. Tribute show.

Feb 23: An Evening with The Hairy Bikers.

Liverpool Empire.

Feb 23-24: Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom.

Theatre Royal, St Helens. Beautiful story of elves, princesses and childhood innocence.

Feb 25-Mar 2. Rain Man. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Based on the Oscar winning film.

Feb 25-Mar 2: The Lady Vanishes. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. A new adaptation of the much-loved film.

Feb 25-27: The Mousetrap. Southport Theatre. Discover why Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept people guessing for so long.

Feb 26: Peter & the Wolf – Allegrodance.

The Brindley, Runcorn.

Feb 26 - Mar2: Noughts & Crosses. The Lowry. Captivating drama of love, revolution and what it means to grow up in a divided world.

Feb 26 - Mar 23. Motown the Musical. Opera House, Manchester. The songs. The sound.

The story. BSL Mar 7, 7.30.Audio described Mar 13, 7.30pm. Captioned Mar 21, 7.30pm.

Feb 26 - Mar 2: RSC Romeo and Juliet.

Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Shakespeare’s most famous story of love at first sight. BSL Mar 1, 7.30pm. Audio described and Captioned, March 2, 1.30pm.

HALF A MILLION READERS . . . Tel 0151 230 0307

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February/March 2019

DaDaFest delivers – and in the grandest of styles T

HOUSANDS of visitors from all over the UK and beyond were given a real treat at the five-week DaDaFest International.

DaDaFest executive director Richard Nutter said: “The festival showcased a strong, diverse programme of incredible works ranging from heart-warming to thought provoking pieces – and we applaud every performer and artist who participated to help make it a huge success.

“DaDaFest continues to challenge stereotypes through arts and culture.”

TheLiverpool-based festival included music, dance, comedy and theatre, with the programme featuring more than 50 exhibitions, performances, talks, and workshops from well-known mainstream audience artists, as well as showcasing new talent.

Key highlights included sell-out

shows for Jess Thom, The Space In-between, and Martin O’Brien.

Jess Thom performed at the Bluecoat with Not I by Samuel Beckett, the story of a woman’s life told at top speed by a disembodied character, ‘Mouth’.

Jess said: “I love Liverpool and I love DaDaFest. Having one of the most innovative, disability-led arts festivals in the world here in the UK is brilliant.”

Martin O’Brien presented the world premiere of his video installation, Until The Last Breath is Breathed.

Martin has a life limiting condition and grew up thinking he would die at 30. The video installation documents 30 actions to camera performed on the hour, every hour, for 30 hours in an old abandoned morgue.

It was filmed in 2017 during the 30 hours leading up to his 30th birthday.

Feb 26 - Mar 9: The Bodyguard. Liverpool Empire. The international, award-winning smash-hit musical based on the blockbuster film. Captioned Mar 3, 7.30pm. Signed Mar 3, 2.30pm. Touch tour Mar 7, 1.00pm. Audio described Mar 7, 2.30pm.

Feb 27-Mar 2: Tom Gates Live on Stage.

Lyceum, Crewe. From the award-winning producers of Horrible Histories and Gangsta Granny Feb 28. Jack Berry. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 2: The Chicago Blues Brothers. Charter Theatre, Preston. A joyous hoot, a musical riot, a juiced-up jamboree of the coolest, funkiest soul, blues and Motown.

Mar 3: The Glenn Miller Orchestra. Lyceum, Crewe. The sound of the amazing big band.

Mar 4: Choreocracy. Lyceum, Crewe. The fun interactive dance show that puts the audience in control of the performance.

Mar 4-9: The Lady Vanishes. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. Inspired by the Hitchcock classic.

Audio described and BSL, Mar 9, 2.30pm.

Mar 5: Mike and the Mechanics. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 5- 6: That’ll be the Day. Lyceum, Crewe.

Classic gold hits from the 50s, 60s & 70s, with bags of comedy!

Mar 5-9: The Verdict. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Stunning courtroom thriller.

Mar 5-9: Opera North’s The Magic Flute. The Lowry. A bewitching coming-of-age adventure.

BSL Mar 5, 7pm. Captioned Mar 9, 7pm.

Audio described Mar 9, 7pm Mar 6: Billy Ocean. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 7: An Evening with Brian Blessed.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 7: The Wizard of Oz. Theatr Colwyn.

Special screening for people with dementia, memory loss but also open to the general public.

Mar 7: Anton & Erin – Dance those magical Musicals. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 7: Psychic Sally. Theatre Royal, St Helens. World renowned psychic Sally Morgan.

Mar 8: The Searchers Farewell Tour. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 8 - Apr 6. Brick Up 2 - The Wrath Of Ann Twacky. Royal Court, Liverpool.

Mar 9: Champions of Rock. Lyceum, Crewe. the supreme Queen concert show.

Mar 9: Thank ABBA for the Music. Pavilion, Rhyl. ABBA and 70’s fancy dress optional…but encouraged.

Mar 11: Jason Donovan’s Amazing Midlife Crisis. The Brindley.

VELMA VON BON BON at DaDaLesque at Constellations

Mar 11-16: Abigail’s Party. Grand Theatre, Blackpool. The groundbreaking comedy classic.

BSL and Audio described, Mar 16, 2.30pm.

Mar 11-16: Fame the Musical.

Liverpool Empire.

Mar 11-16: The Girl on the Train. Playhouse, Liverpool. This gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment.

Mar 11-16: Rain Man. The Lowry. Based on the Oscar winning film. Audio Described Mar 16, 2pm, with a Touch Tour at 12.30pm.

Mar 12: Frank Skinner. The Lowry.

Mar 12: Dr John Cooper Clarke – The Luckiest Guy Alive Tour. Charter Theatre, Preston.

Mar 12: Gaelforce. Theatre Royal, St. Helens.

The phenomenal Irish Dance Show.

Mar 12-16: Grease. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 13: Derek Acorah – Love, Life, Laughter Tour. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 14-15: The Dublin Legends. The Seven Drunken Nights and More Tour. The Lowry. Irish Folk music at its very best!

Mar 14-15: Guys & Dolls. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 15: A Beautiful Noise. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Celebrating the music and life of Neil Diamond.

All Together NOW!

Mar 16: Arrival – The Hits of ABBA. Charter Theatre, Preston.

Mar 16: An evening with The Hairy Bikers.

Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 17: David Starkey - A Monarchy of Misfits. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 17: Beatlemania. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 18-23: Stones in His Pockets. Playhouse, Liverpool. Top comedy.

Mar 18-23: The Full Monty. Liverpool Empire.

Live on stage.

Mar 19: The Solid Silver 60’s Show. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. This year 60s favourites Peter Noone, Brian Poole and Dave Berry with Vanity Fare unite for what could be the last ever Solid Silver 60s.

Mar 20: An Evening with Alfie Boe. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 20: Circus of Horrors. Southport Theatre.

Mar 20-23: Birmingham Royal Ballet: Beauty and the Beast. The Lowry.

Mar 21: Ricky Tomlinson and his Special Guests.The Brindley, Runcorn.

Mar 21: Solid 60’s Show. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 21: Fastlove. Lyceum, Crewe. A tribute to George Michael.

Mar 22: The Upbeat Beatles. Lyceum, Crewe.

Tribute show.

Mar 22: Showaddywaddy in Concert. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 22: Remembering the Movies. Charter Theatre, Preston. Strictly’s very own Aljaz Skorjanec and Janette Manrara are back on tour with their brand new show.

Mar 22: The Solid Silver 60s Show. Southport Theatre.

Mar 23: Reach Out to Motown. Grand Theatre, Blackpool.

Mar 24: Tosca. Theatr Clwyd, Mold. Mid-Wales Opera.

Mar 25: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 25-30: Glengarry Glen Ross. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 25-30: Abigail’s Party.

Playhouse, Liverpool. Mike Leigh comedy.

Mar 25-Apr 6. Kinky Boots.

Liverpool Empire. Musical. BSL Mar 28, 7.30pm. Captioned Apr 1, 7.30pm.

Audio described Apr 3, 7.30pm.

Mar 26-30: Spamalot. The Brindley, Runcorn. Mar 26-30: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

Pavilion, Rhyl.

Mar 26-30: Kiss Me Quickstep. Theatr Clywd, Mold. Sequin-studded warm hearted ballroom drama.

Mar 27-28: Sherlock Holmes: the Sign of Four. Charter Theatre, Preston.

Mar 28: The Kast off Kinks. Lyceum, Crewe.

Featuring three former members of the legendary band.

Mar 30: The Drifters. Charter Theatre, Preston.

Mar 31: The Chicago Blues Brothers Motown Mission. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 31: Francis Rossi: I Talk Too Much.

Lyceu m, Crewe.

Apr 1: Jasper Carrot’s Stand Up and Rock. Grand Theatre, Blackpool Apr 1-6: The Girl on the Train. The Lowry.

Apr 1-6: The Mousetrap. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 2: Julian Clary - Born to Mince. Opera House, Manchester.

Apr 2: The Bootleg Beatles. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

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All Together NOW!

Books

n

A Girl Behind Dark Glasses, by Jessica Taylor-Bearman, pub Hashtag Press, £12.99

How Jessica made dreams came true

A

GED 15, when her friends were doing all the exciting things in life that teenage girls do, Jessica Taylor-Bearman was lying in hospital, unable to move, speak, and eat.

Jessica had become acutely unwell with myalgic encephalomyelitis (M.E.), a long-term fluctuating, neurological condition, and remained bedridden for the next four years.

The only thing that kept her sane was thinking of ways to communicate with the outside world – and the new Share a Star charity she set up to help seriously unwell youngsters.

Not long after her 16th birthday, Jessica began to teach herself to paint through the movement of laughter.

She realised that through balancing a paintbrush in her hand, laughter caused it to move, creating a new form of art that she called a ‘Laugh-OGram’.

Her first collection was exhibited in the Canterbury Art Festival 2009. All her pieces have been exhibited since then.

Since she left hospital, Jessica’s journey with M.E. has continued to be very challenging. She’s still mostly bedridden, but writes a blog called The World of One Room and has made a YouTube video of the same name that has reached tens of thousands of people across the world.

“I started writing my book on an iPod Touch, which only required the smallest touch to work. It included me having to decipher the notes I had made through the days where I couldn’t communicate due to the severity of my M.E. “I decided that it was time to share this intense story and finally be able to fulfil my dream.”

Last year Jessica fulfilled another dream . . .

She married her soulmate, Samuel, and managed to walk down the aisle. They live together in Kent.

February/March 2019

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

ARIES (March 21st-April 20th)

light. It’s important to be more discreet with people you don’t know very well. If someone who has pretending to be your friend betrays you, stay calm. Treat this as a teaching moment. It may be necessary to apologise for some catty remarks you made about a neighbour or relative.

Who you know is just as important as what you know this month. If you’re having trouble finding a home, job or romantic partner, spread the word among your nearest and dearest.

Chances are you will find what you desire through an intermediary. Embarking on a spiritual journey is advised for the beginning of March. The New Moon on the 6th urges you to turn your attention inward. If your current job or lifestyle makes you uncomfortable, it’s time to make a change. It may be necessary to take up another line of work or relocate to a different part of the world. Trust your intuition; it will not let you down. Dreams contain psychic messages at this time. Keep a pen and paper handy at all times this month.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st)

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

The Full Moon on the 19th is ideal for romance.

If you’re looking for love, you’ll find it with an ardent admirer. It will be good for your ego to be pursued by someone determined to win your heart. Joining a group or team will pay off handsomely during the first half of March. The New Moon on the 6th urges you to join forces with other creative people. Whether you’re collaborating on a work-related proposal or developing an artistic project is immaterial. The important thing is that you will get the encouragement and affirmation you crave from people you respect. On the 21st, the Full Moon will create some disappointment on the health front. It will be necessary to improve your eating and exercise habits.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

This is an ideal time to visit a country that has fascinated you since childhood. At times, you will feel like a fish out of water. Don’t worry about looking foolish. Locals will be happy to show you the ropes. On the 19th, the Full Moon will bring a domestic matter to its successful conclusion. If you’ve been trying to buy or sell a house, you’ll be able to seal a profitable deal.

The New Moon on the March 6th pulls an exciting opportunity into your orbit. You could take on a new role with a charitable organisation, cultural institution or creative company. Your ability to work with people from all walks of life will fuel your success. When going on job interviews, emphasise your communication and interpersonal skills.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

Money from an inheritance, legal settlement or insurance refund will allow you to pay off debts and build savings. If you have a romantic or business partner, there’s a good chance your other half will get a big raise or bonus. The Full Moon on the 19th brings fantastic news. You’ll have a chance to expand your horizons at the beginning of March. Whatever path you take will have an educational component to it. Being exposed to new ideas and attitudes will prompt you to make some changes to your lifestyle. It’s possible you’ll take up a spiritual practice or relocate to a different part of the world. Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams this month; they will lead you to happiness.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

It’s possible you’ll take a trip or relocate to an exciting part of the world. The days surrounding the 19th will be lucrative. A handsome payment will land in your bank account, allowing you to indulge in a few luxuries. If you’ve been thinking of upgrading your computer or smartphone, this would be a good time to do so. Are you feeling ambitious? Modernising your kitchen or bathroom will greatly increase the value of your home. Money from an inheritance, royalty payment or legal settlement will arrive on March 6th, just when you need it most. If you’re in a romantic relationship, you’ll

RUSSELL GRANT CALLING . . .

have an especially good time with your amour.

Are you single? You could meet someone special at a seaside resort. Be open to flirting with a charming stranger.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd)

Now is an excellent for beginning a health regimen. It’s important to attend to your mental and spiritual wellbeing as well as your physical fitness. If you’re prone to anxiety, learn some relaxation techniques. Training yourself to cope with stress in a constructive way will be liberating. Never underestimate the mind’s impact on the body. March’s New Moon on the 6th paves the way for a passionate encounter with your partner. Take this opportunity to enjoy a relaxing vacation with your amour. Entering into a creative alliance is definitely worth thinking. In both love and business, two heads are better than one.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd)

Visiting a part of the world that is totally different from home will be a joyful experience.

On the 19th, the Full Moon will invite you to rest, relax and recharge your batteries.

Colleagues will pressure you to do more than your fair share of work. Issue firm but polite refusals. By reducing your work load, you’ll have time for the activities you truly love.

Finding ways to rest and relax will cultivate renewed health at the beginning of March.

Listen to what your body is telling you on or around the 6th. That’s when the New Moon will urge you to scale back your work schedule.

Taking a vacation, cutting back your work hours or establishing a soothing bedtime routine will make you feel years younger.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd)

If you’ve been thinking of moving, the beginning of February presents an ideal opportunity to do so. The Full Moon on the 19th is ideal for throwing a party. Bringing together your nearest and dearest will remind you of how very lucky you truly are. If you’re single, you could meet someone special through this shindig. The New Moon on March 6th attracts romance like a flower draws bees. The Full Moon on the 21st brings a shocking secret to

People appreciate your unorthodox views and may even seek your advice on everything from relationships to shopping to cooking to travel.

Don’t worry about breaking the rules. You always fare best after breaking away from the pack. March’s New Moon on the 6th marks a happy time at home. A pregnancy or a birth could be announced. If you’ve always wanted to adopt a more spiritual lifestyle, do so at the beginning of March. Create a lifestyle that makes you happy. The Full Moon on the 21st will mark some changes to your social circle.

You’re tired of dealing with someone who enjoys raining on your parade. Going your separate ways will make you breathe a sigh of relief. Don’t feel guilty about this break.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th)

Use everything you’ve learned to deepen your appreciation for life. Instead of pouring all your energy into getting ahead and making more money, start doing things for pure pleasure.

Developing art projects, communing with nature and spending time with pets will bring happiness that money can’t buy. The spiritual world should trump the material realm during the second half of February. Good news reaches your ears on March 6th. The New Moon has a powerful message for you. Be open to accepting signs from the spiritual realm. A strange coincidence, a chance encounter or a found object will affirm you are on the right path.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th)

Making a fresh start will put a spring in your step and a sparkle in your eyes. Obey your instincts; they won’t steer you wrong at the beginning of February. The Full Moon on the 19th cultivates passion on the relationship front. Team up with someone who is always making intriguing observations; you’ll find their company highly satisfying. March’s New Moon on the 6th will attract a moneymaking opportunity. Getting paid to exercise your creative talent will be the answer to a prayer.

The Full Moon on the 21st could create legal trouble. A decision could go against your interest. Instead of dwelling on your anger, find a healthy outlet for it.

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th)

Solitary pleasures and pastimes are best for you at the beginning of February. Don’t let demanding loved ones invade your privacy.

Incredible breakthroughs will occur when you escape the meddling influence of those around you. The Full Moon on the 19th presents an excellent opportunity to help a loved one. The first half of March is ideal for revamping your image. Getting a new hairstyle, updating your wardrobe or joining a new social circle will lift your spirits and improve your outlook. On the 21st, you may have an argument over a joint financial account. A business or romantic partner has a very different attitude towards money.

This is putting stress on your relationship.

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February/March 2019

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WIN! BOOK THAT GROWS ON YOU

M

AKE 2019 the best year ever for your garden with this prize book – the Royal Horticultural Society’s Gardening Through the Year.

This new edition is the best guide yet to month-bymonth planning, easy for beginners to follow yet with a wealth of information experienced gardeners will find valuable.

The 352-page Gardening Through the Year, by Ian Spence, published by Dorling Kindersley, costs £20.

We have FIVE copies to give away!

The book is packed with advice on what to do and when to do it in the garden.

Each month photo galleries showcase the best plants and flowers, and a checklist of essential tasks covers

every major category of gardening from flowers and foliage to pest control and attracting wildlife. There is an excellent directory and an innovative “weather watch” section for every month.

To enter the competition, answer this question: How many pages does Gardening Through the Year contain?

Send your entry with your name and address on a postcard or sealed envelope, stating where you picked up your copy of All Together NOW!, to Gardening Book Competition, All Together NOW!, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP, to arrive by Friday, March 22, or enter online at www.alltogethernow.org.uk n For the full range of Dorling Kindersley books, go to www.dk.com

WHAT A DIFFERENCE!

T

HE decking has been dumped, the rubbish relegated and the plot perfected – just in time for a new growing season.

As I reported here last year, my wife and I downsized to a bungalow at which the tiny garden was laid with wall-to-wall decking. Not the ideal site for an obsessive gardener like me.

We’ve had fencing upgraded, a conservatory built, a small greenhouse installed, a terrace with steps made, a waterfall and rock garden built of local sandstone, lawn laid and borders established.

Then the planting started. It is surprising how much can be grown in narrow borders. Among plants we managed to include are the brilliant crimson climbing rose, Danse de Feu; evergreen, long-flowering honeysuckle Lonicera japonica; February-scented evergreen shrub, Sarcococca humilis; the unusual clematis Freckles; winter-

flowering heathers; the best variety of Viburnum tinus, called Gwenllian; the golden-leaved form of Mexican orange blossom, Choisya ternata Sundance; winter jasmine; and four columnar fruit trees – two apples and two pears. Next, around the water feature, will come ferns, candelabra primulas and dwarf winter cyclamen.

We deliberated long and hard about the best small tree for the lawn – a fruit tree with lovely spring blossom followed by a tasty crop or an ornamental specimen with beauty for us and

berries for wildlife. We chose a colourful variety of hawthorn, Crataegus laevigata Crimson Cloud, above, which has scarlet single flowers with a white centre, then plentiful red berries and yellow leaves in autumn. It was bred in the US but will look just as impressive over here.

What produce for our new circumstances? Large pots will host strawberries, lettuces, salad leaves and smaller vegetables like carrots and beetroot.

Salad onions and radishes will flourish in deep seed trays and tomatoes love it in the greenhouse.

I have also secured the tenancy of a mini-plot on the nearby allotment site which will be ideal for shallots, leeks, broad and runner beans, peas, brassicas, flowers for cutting – especially chrysanthemums – and, best of all, for making a new asparagus bed with the prospect of enjoying that delicious crop in two or three years’ time.

Keep watching this space!

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CHECKLIST

FLOWERS: If your snowdrops or winter aconites have grown into congested clumps, wait until their flowers fade then divide the clumps while the leaves are still green.

SHRUBS: Prune winter jasmine, Jasminum nudiflorum, when the yellow star-like flowers die. Cut back all the side shoots which have flowered, leaving just 3cm-4cm (about 1.5in) of shoot. Towards the end of March, prune the butterfly bush, buddleia, down to 30cm (12in) from the ground. Strong new shoots will flower this year.

LAWNS: Keep lawns clear of twigs, wormcasts and other debris by brushing them off. Do not walk on lawns when frost is on the ground. If new growth is beginning, give a light trim in March.

PONDS: Check electrical equipment and cables.

Remove slippery algae from paths and decking. As the weather becomes milder try fish with a little food but if they ignore it remove the food and wait another fortnight.

VEGETABLES: Sow broad beans and plant onion and shallot sets if there is a mild spell in February; otherwise wait a few weeks. Sow peas, carrots and beetroots in March.

FRUIT: Prune gooseberries and redcurrants if you missed them in the autumn, aiming to produce a goblet shaped bush.

GLASS: Reduce the risk of plants rotting by opening greenhouses and cold frames on sunny days but close them by midafternoon. In March, sow seeds of salads and herbs in pots in a greenhouse or indoors on a windowsill.

HOUSEPLANTS: Remove fading flowers and dying leaves. Give plants as much light as possible but in most cases only water when the compost surface is starting to dry out.

Exceptions are azalea, cyclamen and maidenhair fern, which prefer more moisture.

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February/March 2019

The Accumulator Quiz

STARSPOT CROSSWORD Can you find the celebrity name hidden in this Starspot Crossword? Complete the crossword in the normal way then make a note of the letters contained in all the squares which are marked with shaded stars. These letters will make an anagram of the name you are looking for.

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A B C D

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A B C D

Excavation (4) Voice-box (6) One taking a prisoner (6) Ocean phase (4) Extend, scatter (6) Proposal (6) Bid (5) Strong fabric (5) Famous diarist (5) Rose fruit (3) Himalayan country (5) Irritating (5) Female sheep (3) Enumerate (6) Nevertheless (4,2) Jewish greeting (6) Needed (6) Stout pole (4) Labyrinth (4)

6

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: Which scientist was the first to publish his work outlining the existence of oxygen?

A B C D

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: Which singer has the real name George O’Dowd?

A B C D

A B C D

A B C D

Cubs Pups Kits Scuts

A B C D

Sting Boy George Bono Shaggy

Manchester Belfast Liverpool Leeds Bradford

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Which country has Port Moresby as its capital?

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: Which natural product was the cornerstone of English foreign trade in the 14th century?

A B C D

Joseph Priestley Michael Faraday James Dewar Humphry Davy

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: Which city airport was renamed to celebrate sporting legend George Best?

Actor James Norton. See Question 4

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: English actor James Norton plays a crimesolving vicar in which TV series?

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: What are baby rabbits called?

Red White Black Yellow

A B C D

Wheat Timber Wool Coal

Papua New Guinea Fiji Tonga Samoa

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: Which is the largest country by area in the European Union?

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: Which city’s underground railway system has the greatest number of stations?

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: Who wrote John Barleycorn, his book of ‘alcoholic memoirs’, which was published in 1913?

A B C D

A B C D

A B C D

Spain Germany Italy France

Paris London NewYork Moscow

D.H. Lawrence Rudyard Kipling Jack London H.G. Wells

KAKURO

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5

A B C D

Trumpet Banjo Piano Saxophone

Grantchester Cadfael Father Brown Rev.

Collar Hip Knee Wrist

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: What colour are new buds on an ash tree?

Goose Chicken Duck Turkey

There is just one simple rule in Sudoku. Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9, and so must each 3 x 3 box. This is a logic puzzle, and you should not have to guess.

7 4

A B C D

Daphne Dotty Daisy Dolly

SUDOKU

DIFFICULT

3

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: Where in the human body is the patella bone?

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: Which bird is traditionally eaten in the USA at Thanksgiving?

A B C D

★

Not expressly stated (8) Oil reservoir (4) Little demon (3) Fearless (8) Cycle of duty (4) Pry (5) Capital of Vietnam (5) Bend (4) Permanent inhabitant (8) Towards the side (8) Cleanse (4) Bailiff (5) Large group of fish (5) Pledge (4) Sumptuous, spacious (8) Ocean (3) Counter-tenor (4) Cured (8)

chosen answers and keep a record of your points total. Maximum total points 120.

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: In The Muppet Show, Kermit the Frog played which instrument?

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Each question has four possible answers and is worth from one to 15 points. Circle your QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: Who is the girlfriend of Walt Disney’s cartoon character Donald Duck?

8

9

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4

2 5 7 3 8 2 8 5 1 6 7 5 5 6 7 3 7 8 6 4 1 3 2 9 1 2 4 9

3 6 4

2

8 5 3 7 9 5 6 2 9 7 1 8 4 9 8 5 7 7 6 8 6 4

Fill in the blank squares in the grid with numbers so that each horizontal or vertical line adds up to the total given in the box either to the left or above it.

Horizontal totals are given in the top right corners of the shaded boxes; vertical totals in the bottom left corners.

You can use the numbers 1 to 9, but may not use the same number more than once in any run. The number may be used again, however, in the same row or column but as part of another run.

MEDIUM 8

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14

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Telephone dialling pads combine several letters on one key. Here we have encoded several sets of words or items by using numbers rather than letters. Then we have divided them into groups of three characters and run all the names one after another to make your task a little more difficult. Can you crack the codes?

29

DIALLING CODES

CROSS CODE

All Together NOW!

February/March 2019

Each number in our Cross Code grid represents a different letter of the alphabet. You have three letters in the control grid to start you off.

Enter them in the appropriate squares in the main grid, then use your knowledge of words to work out which letters should go in the missing squares.

As you get the letters, fill in other squares with the same number in the main grid and control grid. Check off the alphabetical list of letters as you identify them.

3 DEF

4 GHI

5 JKL

6 MNO

7 PQRS

8 TUV

9 WXYZ

2. Barbra Streisand films 435 561 365 591 386 691 447 512 551 644 481 566 418 431 647 767 142 718 961 322 371 217 827 147 126 761 942 871 871 362 184 316 246 138 368

3. languages 226 866 373 144 634 137 362 418 264 517 877 426 184 386 263 731 767 884 837 315 272 637 312 722 421 236 425 417 726 474 148 254 261 437 626

capital 4. Commonwealth cities 226 237 721 688 292 154 647 866 184 286 742 152 672 521 342 521 935 546 486 613 733 869 617 678 163 177 246 127 434 386 961 582 521 586 787

5. famous explorers 627 261 765 615 263 712 665 137 262 471 372 531 223 518 276 261 328 431 548 464 786 631 762 531 268 637 361 436 791 483 766 153 736 912 875

6. European football clubs 227 235 662 172 628 446 245 671 396 266 154 381 732 516 237 431 252 915 294 612 216 452 612 678 774 213 678 686 317 274 717 246 814 376 246

PATHWORDS

SPOT CHECK

Starting from the central shaded letter, move one letter at a time (up, down, right or left, but not diagonally) to find 11 medical specialists.

Can you place the six dominoes (right) into the grid below in such a way that the number of spots in all four rows across and all four rows down totals 11?

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terms and 1. scientific quantities 627 718 463 135 328 742 128 773 681 264 531 373 783 629 136 723 193 444 817 737 787 317 693 718 658 243 162 463 842 134 353 183 673 728 873

MISSING LINK Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (e.g. FRONT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; DOOR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MAT). The initial letters of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out an item of clothing.

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2) An item or token given as security for a transaction, as opposed to a cash deposit;

1. SAS soldiers successfully storm the Iranian Embassy in London after a long siege.

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2. John Lennon is murdered by a deranged fan in New York.

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3. Pierre Trudeau becomes prime minister of Canada for the second time.

Clue: Hard work will amplify the network.

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WAS IT? a) 1974; b) 1976; c) 1978; d) 1980; e) 1982.

____ +N=___N_

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords anaesthetist; paediatrician; surgeon; urologist; pathologist; obstetrician; neurologist; geriatrician; oncologist; cardiologist; immunologist.

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Accumulator Quiz 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 2 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; D; 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 4 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 5 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; D; 7 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 9 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 10 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 11 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C; 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 13 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; B; 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A; 15 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; C. Starspot Crossword Across â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 Implicit; 6 Sump; 8 Imp; 9 Intrepid; 10 Rota; 12 Snoop; 14 Hanoi; 17 Flex; 18 Resident; 20 Edgeways; 24 Wash; 25 Reeve; 26 Shoal; 29 Pawn; 30 Palatial; 31 Sea; 32 Alto; 33 Remedied.

Down â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2 Mine; 3 Larynx; 4 Captor; 5 Tide; 6 Spread; 7 Motion; 11 Offer; 12 Serge; 13 Pepys; 14 Hip; 15 Nepal; 16 Itchy; 19 Ewe; 21 Detail; 22 Even so; 23 Shalom; 24 Wanted; 27 Spar; 28 Maze.

Star Name: CLIVE OWEN

Word Wizard No 3 is correct. To pleach is to intertwine branches.

Dialling Codes 1. mass; time; electric current; angle; frequency; force; weight; pressure; power; voltage; magnetic field; temperature.

2. Hello Dolly; Funny Girl; All Night Long; The Mirror Has Two Faces; A Star Is Born; Whats Up Doc; The Main Event.

3. Cantonese; Hindi; French; Tamil; Russian; Vietnamese; Portuguese; Japanese; Arabic; Bengali; Spanish; Italian; German.

4. Canberra; Ottawa; Kingston; Victoria; Kampala; Dhaka; Wellington; Freetown; Port Of Spain; Bridgetown; Kuala Lumpur.

5. Marco Polo; James Cook; Francis Drake; Abel Tasman; David Livingstone; Roald Amundsen; Henry Hudson; Jeremy Curl.

6. Barcelona; Panathinaikos; Dynamo Kiev; Real Madrid; Ajax; Lazio; AC Milan; Borussia Dortmund; Paris Saint Germain.

Spot Check A = 1; B = 3; C = 6; D = 2; E = 4; F = 5.

Missing Link bread; log; ankle; zero; ever; roof.

Clothing: blazer.

Make a Date The year was 1980.

Transformer Grid + N = Grind.

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All Together NOW! is helping and inspiring tens of thousands of people whose lives are affected by disability.

But the charity needs to find ways to balance the books.

You can help in a big way by becoming one of our loyal subscribers. For a suggested £15 donation (more, if you can afford it!) we will send you the next SIX editions.

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A BRUTAL BATTLE February/March 2019

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CHALLENGE: David Pond, CEO of GB Wheelchair Rugby, Shinji Okazaki, Martyn Salt, Event Director of WR Quad Nations, and Kasper Schmeichel with some of the Team GB Wheelchair Rugby Squad. PICTURE: Osborne Hollis

TAND by for a weekend of “brutal, supercharged action” as the Wheelchair Rugby Quad Nations tournament takes place.

Great Britain will take on world champions Japan at Leicester’s King Power Stadium.

The GB team will also be facing Canada, who are currently ranked 4th in the world, and France, ranked 7th.

Fast paced and violent, all players have mobility issues and compete in speciallydesigned wheelchairs.

More than 5,000 supporters watched last year’s inaugural event, which saw the GB squad battle it out with Australia, Japan and USA. The three-day tournament – March 1-3 – marks an important performance

opportunity for Great Britain ahead of the 2019 European Championships in Denmark where Team GB will defend their title, and ahead of the World Wheelchair Rugby Challenge, which will be played alongside the Rugby World Cup in Tokyo in October and involve the top eight teams in the world. n www.wrquadnations.com

On your marks . . .

ENTRIES are open for the British Blind Sport National Youth Swimming Gala.

Taking place at the University of Birmingham’s Sport & Fitness Centre, Edgbaston on Saturday, March 30, the gala is free to enter for all blind and partially-sighted children aged 8 to 17.

It’s the only VI (visually impaired) specific youth swimming competition in the UK, attracting participants from across the country Free, one-to-one and small group lessons will also be on offer for children aged 5-17, who want to learn to swim. n BBS: Tel. 07929 356428, or email Alex@britishblindsport.org.uk www. britishblindsport.org.uk

HALF A MILLION readers across the North West . . .

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February/March 2019

All Together NOW!

Everyone for tennis as more pick up rackets

TOP OF THE WORLD T

HE Scottish Highlands are becoming a playground for skiers and snowboarders with a disability.

A new partnership aims to make the UK’s highest snowsports destination more accessible to all, regardless of their ability.

Specialist rental equipment is available for disabled skiers and snowboarders, together with increased access to qualified instructor time, thanks to the alliance between Nevis Range Mountain Experience in Lochaber (The Outdoor Capital of the UK) and Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK).

Nikki Stafford, at Nevis Range Mountain Experience, said: “Partnering with DSUK means that our mountain will become even more accessible to all abilities and at an affordable price.

“The partnership will also enable us to provide a training facility for para athletes, as well providing the facilities and equipment to develop the skills of up and coming athletes.”

The Nevis Range prides itself on

disability access throughout the venue, including having the only gondola system of its kind in Britain that transports up to 1,700 snowsports enthusiasts up the mountain every hour.

Mark Kelvin, head of Disability Snowsport UK, said: “We’re so excited to partner with Nevis Range in making skiing and snowboarding accessible to disabled people.

“We’re looking forward to working with local accommodation providers in order to package specialised short breaks so that disabled skiers and snowboarders can experience the thrill and exhilaration of snowsport at one of the UK’s finest mountain resorts.

“This is a fantastic addition to our current adaptive snowsport schools at dry slopes and indoor snow centres throughout the UK, and a great opportunity to try out a mountain resort before joining us on one of our trips abroad.” n Lessons, costing from £75-£100, can be arranged by calling 01479 861 262.

news@alltogethernow.org.uk www.alltogethernow.org.uk Tel 0151 230 0307

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RECORD numbers of disabled people are picking up a tennis racket for the first time, the Tennis Foundation has revealed.

Last year saw 12,689 disabled people playing the game on a monthly basis across the venues in the Foundation’s development scheme – a 66% increase on 2017 and a four-fold increase since the programme’s launch in 2013.

Over 500 locations across the country have now been recruited to be part of the programme and offer tennis sessions for disabled people in their local community.

Almost 60% of monthly participants are players with a learning disability, with the remainder including wheelchair tennis players, blind or visually impaired players and deaf or hearing impaired players.

More sessions for people with a mental health problem were also set up, with these now accounting for 9% of monthly participants in the programme.

Wimbledon wheelchair tennis champions Gordon Reid and Alfie Hewett also helped to make more people aware of tennis as a sport for disabled people.

Jill Osleger, National Disability Development Manager for the Tennis Foundation, said: “We are looking forward to continuing the momentum and ensuring that Great Britain retains its reputation as one of the leading nations in the world for disability tennis.” n Tennis Foundation:l Tel. 020 8487 7000.

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