All Together NOW! SPRING 2026

THE FIGHT GOES ON TO KEEP YOUR FAVOURITE PAPER ALIVE

Dad’s Everest bid for deaf kids p13 inside

SPRING 2026

Happy days ahead p6 in the classroom?

WHEEL LIFE STORIES

p5

Andy’s run for p12 your money

. . . proud to sponsor this vital community lifeline

2

All Together NOW!

What’s inside NEWS

p2-6

UNITED UTILITIES

p7/18

HEALTHZONE

p8-9

MOTORZONE

p10-11

INDEPENDENT LIVING

p12-13

ACCESS ACROSS THE PLANET

SPRING 2026

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

TAKING THE TRAIN: GOOD NEWS AND THE NOT SO GOOD NEWS

Journeys filled with stress BLIND and partially sighted people fear being stranded, stressed and disoriented during train journeys.

p14-15

CONTACT BOARD

p16-17

THEATREZONE

p19-22

GARDENING

p23

PUZZLEZONE

p24-25

KEN PYE: Discovering Liverpool

p26

HOROSCOPE

p27

Can YOU help keep us going? 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.

– see back page Editor: Tom Dowling 0151 230 0307 email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk Editorial Support: Gerry Corner IT Support: Ken Almond

Advertising/sponsorship 0151 230 0307 sales@alltogethernow.org.uk www.alltogethernow.org.uk

NEXT EDITION JUNE 2026 All Together NOW! is published by All Together Now! Ltd, The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP Registered Charity No.1106387 Company No. 5096931

Film reveals trials of travelling A BSL-signed short film highlights the challenges deaf people face on trains.

Sarah Regan, manager at Hull and East Yorkshire Deaf Centre, who co-produced the film with Hull Trains, said: “People assume that if there are screens with subtitles, that ticks a box.

“But they forget that the deaf community often has trouble reading and also that they do really enjoy

personal human interaction.” l One in three adults in the UK – 18 million – have some form of hearing loss. l More than half aged 55 or more are affected. l By the age of 70, 80% of people will have hearing loss. n You can watch the film at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4JWjNaUupw

Rail life winners . . . and the losers

N

ORTHERN Trains has come bottom of a new league table of rail companies’ passenger assistance provision – while Avanti West Coast was one of the best performers.

Operating primarily from Liverpool Lime Street station, with additional stops at Liverpool South Parkway, Northern is the second largest train operator in the UK, with 2,650 services a day to more than 500 stations across the North of England.

Fourteen train operators plus Network Rail were assessed by the regulator for their reliability of assistance delivery and passenger satisfaction from 2022 to 2025.

The findings of the Office of Rail and Road highlighted that while passengers are generally satisfied with the standard of assistance when it is delivered, delivery itself can be unreliable with 11% of passengers reporting they received none of the assistance they booked in 2024/25.

Southeastern, LNER and Network Rail delivered the highest reliability, closely followed by Avanti West Coast, which runs

Access standards across the world – centre pages regular services between Liverpool and London, Northern Trains recorded the lowest reliability score in the benchmarking assessment, and during last year it implemented an improvement plan in response to concerns raised by the ORR.

In August 2025, Northern reported that around 800 passenger-facing staff had not completed disability awareness training.

Stephanie Tobyn, from the ORR, said: “Passenger assistance is essential for many older and disabled people. When it works well, it gives freedom and confidence.

“But as our reporting shows, there are too many instances where the service has not been delivered as promised.

Connecting with 250,000 people . . .

Research from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) finds three in four blind and partially sighted people can’t rely on rail staff for assistance and information.

More than 60% say they are not consistently met by staff at stations when they have booked passenger assistance.

And a similar number say are not confident train staff will alert them if the destination of their train changes while they’re on it.

Physical safety also remains a serious concern.

Erik Matthies, RNIB’s lead for travel and transport, said: “Far too many people with sight loss are frequently stuck at stations unable to board or change trains and face the stressful experience of having to seek help and locate platforms and carriages themselves.

Facilities “They have to contend with challenging ticket buying methods, inaccessible stations, platforms and on-board facilities like toilets, and inconsistent gaps between the train and platform edges which contribute to anxious, potentially unsafe journeys.”

The research, Platform for Change: making rail journeys more accessible for people with sight loss, also shows rail companies are too often failing to provide information for blind and partially sighted passengers in formats they can understand – whether that’s on ticket machines, apps or websites, or on signage and guidance for locating and navigating around platforms, carriages and facilities such as buffets and train toilets.

RNIB is now calling on the Government and transport bodies to make sure accessibility is embedded in the Great British Railways bill.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

3

Blues helping to get your breath back

E

VERTON in the Community’s pioneering BEAT Breathlessness Hub will help another 1,500 people across the Liverpool City Region.

The British Heart Foundation is backing the community-based screening hub – the first of its kind in England – which offers early detection, diagnosis and management of cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.

BREATH WORK: Pioneering hub Since launching in 2023, the hub has highest regions for cardiac illness. screened 1,200 people, of which 42 were Michael Salla, deputy CEO at EiTC, said: diagnosed with heart failure and treated, “This is a huge step forward, allowing us to 28 were identified with atrial fibrillation, and reach many more people in our community 420 had poorly controlled blood pressure. who may be living with undiagnosed Liverpool City Region is one of the UK’s

cardiovascular or respiratory conditions.

“We know that late diagnosis is a significant issue in deprived areas, and this project is changing that by bringing lifesaving services closer to people’s homes to support early detection and better outcomes for patients.”

For more than 35 years, the EiTC charity has delivered award-winning life-changing, and life-saving, provision to those most in need across the region. n BEAT Breathlessness locations – The People’s Place, 46A Spellow Lane; Garston Family Health Centre; and Central Liverpool Primary Care Network Hub, London Road.

The search goes on for sponsors

S

PRING has sprung – and it’s GREAT to be back with another bright info-packed issue.

It’s also a chance to say a big thank you for all your ideas and suggestions for potential sponsors to keep this vital free newspaper alive.

When we launched in 2005, few people gave us any chance of lasting a year.

What’s helped to keep our heads above water so far has been the support of a handful of funders who recognise the value of a trusted newspaper like All Together NOW! that reaches and engages with the huge numbers of people who are digitally excluded.

But competition for funding has never been as intense as it is now.

As we move closer to our 21st anniversary issue – scheduled to be published in June – we know we’ve a mountain to climb.

But, as always, we fight on. And as our patron Mike McCartney says in his video on our website: “Never ever give in. There’s always light at the end of the tunnel.”

TOM DOWLING, editor l Potential sponsors or funders can contact me on 0151 230 0307 or at news@alltogethernow.org.uk

GLOBAL CAUSE: Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium is one of many venues for the event

IT’S APPENING! O

N YOUR MARKS . . . and get set to run for a special cause at exactly the same time as people all across the planet.

The annual Wings for Life World Run, which has so far raised more than £60 million for spinal research, is coming to Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday May 10.

And it’s open for everyone – whether you run, jog or push your way in a wheelchair.

Just one thing . . . you will need a smartphone!

The big difference with this run is that you will be joining hundreds of thousands of

runners at locations all over the world – and it’s all being controlled by an app on your phones.

There is no traditional finish line. Instead, 30 minutes after the synchronised start, the Virtual Catcher Car – a moving line which tracks your progress – sets off and steadily increases its pace.

When it catches you, your race is complete, with the last remaining male and female participants being crowned the winners.

The run involves a circular, two-kilometre route around the stadium. www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com/en/locations/ liverpool-liverpool

Free Home Demonstrations

Council Approved Contractor & Suppliers Covering The Northwest Stairlifts Supplied and Fully Fitted from £550.00 Fully Stocked & Equipped Workshops Hire Stairlifts available at £50.00 per month Waterproofs Bathlifts Incontinence Products Vertical lifts, Steplifts, Ceiling and Mobile Hoists Toilet Aids Walking Aids Kitchen Aids Wheelchair & Scooter Hire Batteries, Parts & Accessories Rise & Recline Armchairs 24HR EMERGENCY CALL-OUT 365 DAYS YEAR

SALES, REPAIR & SERVICING OF ALL MOBILITY & DISABILITY PRODUCTS

Arts and sports stars to WOW waterfront LIVERPOOL’S famous waterfront is set to host an international festival featuring stars from disabled sport and the arts.

Four top para sports events will be held across the week-long event next May, along with performances from leading disabled and neurodivergent artists.

UK Sport and Arts Council England have come together to make the groundbreaking event possible.

The M&S Bank Arena, Exhibition Centre Liverpool and the Pier Head will be among venues for the festival being produced by UKEL – an independent company established to deliver major international sporting events – in collaboration with Liverpool City Council.

The city council’s cabinet member for health, wellbeing and culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “We’re delighted to be hosting such an important and empowering event in our city, bringing together athletes, artists, and audiences in a truly accessible and inclusive way.”

Speak up on transport PEOPLE with hearing loss are being urged to have their say on public transport accessibility.

The survey, the first of its kind for deaf people, is part of a major project that will inform transport providers, policymakers and technology companies.

Frankie Garforth, head of inclusion at the Royal National Institute for Deaf People, said: “Public transport should be accessible to everyone. However, right now, that’s not the reality for many people who are deaf or have hearing loss.”

Chelsea Fleming, at the Motability Foundation, who are funding the project, said: “Accessible transport must work for everyone.”

The survey closes on April 13. n www.rnid.org.uk/transport-survey

TV viewing for everyone MORE than 18 million people across the UK are to benefit from new rules that force the big streamers like Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney+ to provide more subtitles, audio-description and BSL signing on their programmes.

Eighty per cent of their total catalogue will have to be subtitled, 10% with audiodescribed, and 5% signed for deaf viewers.

They will have to follow similar Ofcom accessibility requirements to those already in place for traditional broadcasters.

See our Website for all products, prices and to Order Online if you prefer

Call Us On:

0151 423 3738 Widnes Mobility Supercentre (Largest in Northwest) 62 Victoria Road, Widnes, Cheshire WA8 7RA

4

SPRING 2026

Jobs lost as backlog for help lengthens WAITS of more than three months for support at work is costing disabled people their jobs.

Huge delays and backlogs within the Access to Work scheme have been exposed by the National Audit Office.

The Access to Work scheme allows people with physical or mental health conditions or disabilities to apply for grants covering practical workplace support, mental health management, or communication assistance for job interviews.

Average waiting time for an application to be processed reached 109 working days in November 2025, up from 66 working days in 2024/25.

The NAO said delays had “a negative impact on individuals and employers”.

The report says: “Four of the organisations we consulted said application delays and late payments have affected employees’ job security, and one noted that in some cases delays have resulted in people having job offers withdrawn.”

Bosses can lead change WORKPLACE barriers remain for disabled people, research from the Business Disability Forum (BDF) shows.

Almost half (47%) of disabled people in work or looking for work believe it is harder for them to hold down a job due to their disability or health condition.

Access to more flexible working options (46%), better understanding of disability (40%), and a more positive attitude towards employing disabled people (25%), are key factors disabled people feel would improve their workplace experience.

BDF chief Diane Lightfoot said: “These findings show the difference inclusive employers can make.”

PIP panel set for action DISABLED people will have their voices at the centre of the first ever comprehensive review of Personal Independence Payment with the appointment of 12 members to its steering group.

The Timms Review will report to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions by autumn, with an interim update expected ahead of that.

The steering group: Dr Mark Brookes, Dimensions UK; George Fielding, London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham; Tara Flood, London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham; Mark Fosbrook, West Midlands Combined Authority; Ben Geiger, King’s College London; Katrina Gilman, UNISON; JeanAndré Prager, Flint Global; Dr Lucy Reynolds, Disability North; Dr Felix Shi, Bangor University; Dr Dharshana Sridhar, Spinal Injuries Association; Phil Stevens, CEO, Disability Action in Islington; Leila Talmadge, Autistic Knowledge Development.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

POWERED TO THE PEOPLE RULES OF THE ROAD: They are about to change for some mobility devices. Images – Shutterstock and DaVinci

C

HANGES to 50-year-old laws covering powered mobility devices are on the way – and you can have your say on them.

A Government consultation suggests options for updating legislation on powered wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and power assisted devices like hand bikes and trail riders.

The Department for Transport (DfT) says powered mobility devices are often a lifeline for people, but that some aspects of the law are now out of date, and do not reflect the devices disabled people, and people with reduced mobility, need or want to use.

The DfT says that any reforms should allow people who need a mobility device to use it legally, lead to greater choice of devices, and enable people to feel and be safe when using roads and pavements.

Among the changes proposed is to scrap the use of the term “invalid carriage” in legislation and replace

Help shape new laws it with “mobility device”.

The consultation seeks views on: l What types of mobility device should be able to use cycle lanes on roads and off-road cycle tracks. l If weight, speed and minimum age limits for different classes of powered mobility devices should be altered. l Whether disabled people should be allowed to carry passengers on their devices in certain situations.

It will also examine whether

wheelchairs with devices such as power, hand cycle or hand e-cycle attachments should be recognised as powered mobility devices under the legislation for use on roads and pavements.

And it will look at whether pedal cycles, e-scooters and e-cycles should be recognised as mobility devices and treated differently when used on pavements and in public spaces by a disabled person.

Sir Stephen Timms, the minister for social security and disability, said: “I encourage disabled people to respond to the consultation, so their views and voices are used to shape this policy.”

How to take part . . . n Online: www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/x-HTXUML/ n By post: Paper copies available from – Micromobility Team, Roads Transport Group, Department for Transport, 33 Horseferry Road, London SW1P 4DR n Email: mobilitydevices@dft.gov.uk The consultation runs until April 22.

Years-long fight pays off

T

HE CONSULTATION follows years of campaigning by the disabled people’s organisation Wheels for Wellbeing (WfW).

One of its cases involved the confiscation by Metropolitan Police, last May, of a man’s wheelchair and clip-on powered attachment.

Police treated them as an uninsured motor vehicle.

The law currently says such attachments can only be used legally on roads if they have an MOT certificate, insurance and licence plate, and the user has the

appropriate driving licence.

Isabelle Clement, director of WfW, said: “Over 10 million people in the UK have mobility-related impairments. Existing laws create confusion, restrict market innovation and limit disabled people’s freedom to travel.

“New high-quality regulations that meet disabled people’s needs will enable millions more disabled people to legally use a growing range of existing and innovative mobility devices to move around our communities.”

Nick Goldup, chief executive

of the Wheelchair Alliance, whose board members include wheelchair-users – including its president, Baroness [Tanni] GreyThompson – said: “For too long, wheelchair-users have been sidelined by outdated legislation and offensive terminology.

“Many individuals using wheelchairs over 150kg have been left feeling anxious and worried about breaking the law. We will continue to amplify the voices of our community to ensure this review delivers a fairer, more inclusive future for all.”

‘Lives at risk’ as support halved SLASHING vital support for disabled people by almost half will put lives at risk, the Government has been warned.

Campaigners say Labour’s decision to cut the health element of universal credit for most new claimants from about £430 a month to £217 is a recipe for greater hardship.

The Department for Work and Pensions claim the cuts would “tackle perverse incentives that discourage work and trap people on long-term benefits”.

But Linda Burnip, cofounder of Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), said: “How ridiculous it is trying to get more disabled people into work at the same time as they’re slashing Access to Work.”

Ministers were pushing ahead with the cuts despite research by public health experts at the University of Liverpool warning last year that they were likely to have devastating consequences for disabled people’s mental health, and could drive many into serious poverty.

No impact Existing claimants already assessed as having limited capability for work-related activity (LCWRA), and new claimants who meet the severe conditions criteria or the rules for those who are terminally ill, will not be affected.

But from April, most new claimants found to be not currently fit for work will see their extra payment drastically cut.

The Government continued to stress that the standard allowance received by all universal credit claimants would have an above-inflation increase in April, worth £295 extra this year in cash terms for a single person aged 25 or over, with further aboveinflation rises set for the following three Aprils.

The University of Liverpool research also found the cuts were likely to impose major costs on other public services, such as the NHS, social care and other local authority support, while having no impact on people’s employment chances.

Engaging with 250,000 people across the region . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

WHEEL LIFE STORIES Grandson Charlie inspires hit books GRAND SUM: Books have raised over £100K. Far right, Charlie and Brian

B

RIAN Abram turned his grandson’s curiosity about his wheelchair into a children’s book series and a £100,000 boost for spinal injuries charities.

His achievements come after a life-changing accident left him facing months of rehabilitation and chronic pain.

Grandson Charlie’s questions about his new life in a wheelchair inspired Brian to create Grandad Wheels—a fun, adventurous character who proves disability is no barrier to living life to the fullest.

Seven years later he has added another five titles to the series, made £101,000 for spinal injury charities, and visited more than 200 schools with his mission to break down myths about disability.

Brian was paralysed from the waist down after coming off his bike and falling down a sheer drop into a river in 2013.

By chance, one school visit reunited Brian with one of his rescuers, Stephen, whose daughter took home a signed copy of the author’s book.

“I owe my life to Stephen and everyone who helped me that day,” said Brian, from Halifax. “To meet him again through my work was incredible.”

The books, one of which features Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft, have reached readers as far as Australia, Canada, and Indonesia, with all the proceeds donated to charity.

A spokesperson for Spinal Injuries Association, one of the charities benefiting from the books, said: “This is wonderful news and credit to Brian’s hard work.

“His fundraising means we can support even more of the 105,000 people in the UK living with spinal cord injury to lead fulfilled lives.” n Copies of the books are available at Amazon or www.grandadwheels.com

All Together NOW! 5

Going shopping at your convenience THE historic city of York is putting out the welcome mat for disabled visitors.

Shops, cafes, churches, a theatre and cinema are among dozens of venues inviting people with a disability, a longterm health condition or frailty to use their seats and/or toilets without any obligation to make a purchase.

A “For Your Convenience” sticker is displayed in the window of each location, listing the facilities being offered.

These include: l Access: if there is or isn’t step-free access, or wheelchair accessibility. l Seating: if any seating has or hasn’t arms. l Toilets: if any are available and if they are accessible for wheelchair users. l Baby changing: whether or not it’s offered.

Cllr Jenny Kent, at City of York Council, said: “We are not surprised that many generous local businesses and sponsors are willing to offer free rest and toilet facilities to help make our city easier for everyone.”

SUMMERTIME SPECIAL

THE HOTTEST HEALTH NEWSPAPER IN TOWN – DON’T MISS THIS VERY SPECIAL ISSUE . . . sales@alltogethernow.org.uk

60,000 FREE COPIES – OUT IN JUNE

tel 0151 230 0307

6

SPRING 2026

Postcode lottery for pupils with dyslexia BARELY any English local authorities know how many dyslexic children live in their area.

Despite a much greater understanding than of old about how the condition can hamper a child’s progress in school, fewer than 2% of local authorities could provide any figure for their number of dyslexic children.

Where figures were provided, they were significantly below the expected 10% of the population who have the condition, suggesting that many children are not being identified or supported.

The British Dyslexia Association says the responses – to Freedom of Information requests – expose stark inconsistencies between local authorities While some assess for dyslexia and provide clear, practical guidance to schools, others pass responsibility entirely to individual schools.

Some even go so far as to refuse to recognise dyslexia as a valid diagnostic term.

Fewer than half of local authorities report employing specialists such as educational psychologists or specialist teachers to assess dyslexia in schools, and around one third provide no guidance at all on identifying or supporting dyslexia or wider literacy difficulties.

Ellen Broomé, CEO of the British Dyslexia Association, said: “Without urgent action, thousands of dyslexic children will continue to be missed, left unsupported, and set up for ongoing educational failure.

“We are calling on the Government and local authorities to record dyslexia in education datasets so support can be properly planned and monitored.”

The students losing out YOUNG people with disabilities are still at a disadvantage all the way through school, college and university compared to their fellow students.

Research ordered by the last government found education staff had “inadequate” training in disability, inclusion and reasonable adjustments, which led to students experiencing “inconsistent support and highly variable experience”.

It also found disabled students often experience social exclusion and loneliness, partly due to the attitudes of their peers and partly due to policies that limit their chances of friendship and social integration.

The report was one of four, all of which looked at the lived experience of disabled people in the UK. A second report – on public perceptions and attitudes towards disabled people – found society’s attitudes were “mainly negative”, and often focused on “impairments and limitations”.

There were also mainly negative comments in the other two reports on housing and social care.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

FIGHT FOR KIDS’ RIGHTS ‘IS WON’

R

ADICAL plans to reform the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system have received a welcome – but cautious – response from charities.

Currently, more than a million children with additional needs have no legally enforceable rights.

Under the new £4 billion programme there will be a new legal requirement for all schools to create individual support plans (ISPs) for all children with SEND. Education, health and care plans (EHCPs) will be retained and improved under plans in the Government’s schools’ white paper: ‘Every child achieving and thriving’. They will offer a wider legal entitlement beyond the ISP to more intensive or complex support than schools can routinely provide.

But by 2035, only children with the most complex needs will qualify for EHCPs. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “The SEND system designed 10 years ago for a small number of children is now broken.

“These plans will take children with SEND from sidelined and excluded to seen, heard and included.

Every child will get the brilliant support they deserve, when they need it, as routine and without a fight.

Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the National Association of Head Teachers, said: “We welcome the

white paper, and are optimistic that it contains the foundation of a successful new approach to education and support for children with SEND.” Amanda Allard, Council for Disabled Children, said: “This has the potential to create an education system that fully values children and young people with additional needs and their families.”

James Watson-O’Neill, boss at Sense, said: “This shows a real commitment to fix the broken system.

“However, without clear detail on how ‘complex needs’ will be defined in practice, many families will understandably fear that their child could fall through the cracks.”

The National Deaf Children’s Society says the Government’s £1.8 billion commitment to fund specialist staff to support mainstream schools could make a real difference for deaf children – but only if it leads to a significant increase in qualified Teachers of the Deaf.

Craig Brown, head of education at blind charity RNIB, said: “We need the right tailored support for every child with vision impairment.

“Without enough specialist teachers, it will be impossible to turn improvements on paper into reality in the classroom.”

Specialist training for all teachers

A UNIQUE new space for 250 pupils with special educational needs and disabilities will be “a village not a school” in Liverpool.

With education, therapy, and family support for children aged two to 11 all on one site, the £37m landmark project is set to be up and running by September 2029.

Liverpool City Council has approved the single-story school, which will house state of the art learning and therapeutic areas purposebuilt for children with diverse and complex needs and who have been given an Education Health and Care Plan.

The Princes Special Educational Needs and Disabilities School in Dovecot will bring together pupils from the existing Princes School, who are currently spread across four sites in the city.

Unlike traditional school layouts, the design follows a village vision that includes green oases – internal courtyards – a café, multi-sensory rooms, hydrotherapy pools, an accessible play area, plus a forest school for outdoor learning.

It will also be the city’s first net zero in operation school, targeting high sustainability standards to reduce carbon emissions.

Lea-sons to be cheerful MORE good news from Abbot’s Lea School in Woolton, Liverpool.

E

VERY teacher in the UK is to get specific training to help children and young adults with special educational needs and disabilities.

The Government says its £200 million teacher training programme will be “the most ambitious and comprehensive SEND training offer ever seen by the English schools system”.

From next year, teaching staff in every nursery, school and college will be required to receive training on SEND and inclusion – ensuring every teacher nationwide is reached.

A Department of Education spokesman said the training package “builds on a landmark £3 billion investment to deliver around 50,000 more inclusive spaces in mainstream schools by matching these spaces with expert staff”.

Tom Rees, chair of the Expert Advisory Group on Inclusion, said: “This investment is very welcome and an important step forward as we build a more high-

A £37m village to raise a child

performing and inclusive school system, in which all children can experience success at school.

“Building confidence and expertise across the school workforce is central to this reform. It is particularly positive that this training will reach the whole workforce, including teaching assistants and support staff.”

Cllr Amanda Hopgood, chair of the Local Government Association’s Children, Young People and Families Committee, said: “We look to the Government following this positive announcement up soon with the Schools White Paper, that sets out how the SEND system will be transformed to meet children’s needs more quickly and fix the failings of the current system.”

Named last year as one of the UK’s best school for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and the Most Inspirational School in the North West, Abbots Lea has devised new flexible ways to help pupils.

Headteacher Ania Hildrey said: “The Flexible Provision offers a nurturing environment for students who may feel overwhelmed by the pace or pressures of a traditional classroom.

“It is about equipping them with the tools they need to become emotionally stronger, more socially confident, and ready to flourish.”

Abbot’s Lea has more 270 students aged three to 19 living with autism and a range of associated sensory and learning differences.

Engaging with 250,000 people across the region . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

All Together NOW!

Here to help with your water bill

We all have times when we 昀nd it di cult to make ends meet. This could be due to losing a job, having a low income or struggling with increases in bill payments.

Whatever the reason, if you’re 昀nding it di cult to pay your water bill, the message from United Utilities is to give them a call so they can help.

A昀ordability manager Jane Haymes said: “We really don’t want our customers to worry about their water bill so please get in touch if you’re having payment di culties.

We have lots of ways to make your bills more a昀ordable but it’s important you speak to us so we know you’re having problems and can recommend the best way to help.”

United Utilities has a number of 昀nancial support schemes available including: • Back on Track scheme: if you’re either receiving bene昀ts or on a low income and 昀nding it di cult to pay your bill following a recent change in 昀nancial circumstances, this scheme can reduce the amount you have to pay.

• WaterSure and WaterSure Plus: if you have a water meter, receive bene昀ts and use a lot of water due to illness or having a large family, the company can cap your annual bill regardless of how much water you need to use.

• Help to Pay: receiving Pension Credit?

If so you can apply to have your bills capped at a lower amount.

• Payment Break: if you have a low income and are struggling with your bill payments due to losing your job or having to pay out for an unexpected household emergency, you can delay your bill payments for an agreed period of time.

• Low income discount scheme: an annual discount for customers with a low household income and receiving speci昀c bene昀ts, to help make water bills more a昀ordable.

Cheaper with a meter Switching to a water meter could also reduce your bill. If your home has more bedrooms than people it’s likely you’ll make a saving compared to your existing 昀xed bill. The company will 昀t them for free and the majority of customers who switch save at least £100 a year. You have two years to trial the meter and during that time the company guarantees that if your charges with a meter are higher than they would have been on rateable value, then they will charge you the lower amount. Visit unitedutilities.com/ meters for details.

Get in touch by calling 0800 072 6765 or visit unitedutilities.com/di culty-paying-bill and complete the online form.

Support when you need it most We can all bene昀t from a bit of extra help at some stage in our lives.

This could be due to age, ill health, disability, mental health problems, 昀nancial worries or language barriers.

Registering for Priority Services is free and it means you will bene昀t from additional services to support your particular needs. Services include: • A dedicated team to listen and help • Braille, large print, ‘talking’ bills and text relay service • Knock and wait service if you have mobility needs • Nominate a carer, family member or friend to speak to us on your behalf • Additional support if you have a medical need for water • Protection from bogus callers with a password protection scheme • Notice of interruptions to your water supply • Translation services

Register at: unitedutilities.com/ priorityservices or call: 0345 672 2888.

7

8

All Together NOW!

SUMMER 2026

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SAVE THIS VITAL LIFELINE MEDICAL NOTES Bid to rid diets of processed food A BID to reverse the damage done by processed food in Nepal could have lessons for diabetes treatment here in the UK. The disease used to be rare in Nepal, despite Nepalese people, along with other Asian and indigenous peoples, being genetically predisposed to type-2 diabetes It only emerged after processed foods were introduced to the country and people started to gain weight.

Now the country has a high prevalence of the disease and its disabling complications – about one in five people aged over 40 have it, and medication-based diabetes treatments are unaffordable for most people.

In a bid to address the issue, an international team of researchers is investigating whether reverting to a traditional diet could reduce the numbers contracting the condition.

Diabetes and nutrition expert Professor Michael Lean from the University of Glasgow, is leading the CoDIAPREM project in collaboration with Dhulikhel Hospital in Nepal, He said: “The CoDIAPREM project is an exciting and important opportunity to understand whether a low-cost, traditional food-based intervention could work to prevent the onset of type-2 diabetes and help achieve remission for those who already have the disease.”

Cataracts on the rise EYE conditions were the biggest single reason people were admitted to hospital in England last year.

Cataracts were the most common hospital admission in 2023-24, with 374,072 cases – a 17% rise on the previous year.

Pneumonia showed one of the sharpest increases, up 18% year on year.

Abdominal pain (319,813 cases) and chest/throat pain (266,281 cases) were the fourth and fifth most common reasons for being admitted.

The findings come from a study by personalised medical bracelet specialists at The ID Band Company, which analysed NHS England data to reveal the most common reasons for hospital stays and what they say about the nation’s health.

Spokeswoman Paula Lingard said: “These findings demonstrate the significant burden that eye conditions place on our healthcare system.

“With cataracts topping the list and showing double-digit growth, it’s clear that our ageing population is driving increased demand for these treatments.”

– BACK PAGE

Reaching out to the ‘missing carers’ CARERS from a South Asian background in the UK are being reached out to in a bid to provide the support many are missing out on.

Experts say they have been largely absent from research into disability worldwide, and as a result face stigma, financial pressure and major barriers to getting help.

Now a UK study will uncover the often hidden pressures families from South Asian backgrounds face when supporting relatives with intellectual and developmental disabilities such as Down’s syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy and Prader-Willi syndrome. Researchers are looking for

parents, family carers, and adult siblings of those affected to take part in the UK, US, India and Sri Lanka.

Their study is one of the first international efforts to put South Asian families’ experiences at the centre of disability research.

Dr Meghana Wadnerkar Kamble, from the University of East Anglia’s School of Health Sciences, said: “We know that South Asian families supporting relatives with intellectual disabilities may have unmet needs, and face barriers to accessing support.

“These families often face significant personal, financial, social and wellbeing

challenges – pressures that are particularly acute in countries such as India and Sri Lanka, as well as within South Asian communities in the UK. “Yet their lived experiences remain disproportionately absent from research and service design. We want to change that.”

To bridge this gap, the UEA project will use the experiences of South Asian families in a cross country effort to drive change and improve understanding. n Want to take part? Visit www.uea.ac.uk/groups-and centres/ projects/focus-project

We don’t want to discuss dangers of booze

SOBERING THOUGHTS

T

HE British are even more uncomfortable talking about alcohol than about sex or money.

Only 16% of people feel at ease talking about their relationship with drink, ranking it among the least talked-about topics — less so than sex (17%) and money (29%).

The revelation comes in a survey from the World Cancer Research Fund, which attempts to highlight links between alcohol and cancer.

One in four Brits polled thought there were no health risks attached to drinking alcohol.

And only one in 14 knows that alcohol increases the risk of cancer.

The charity says the results of their survey suggest these misconceptions may be hindering the nation’s ability to have informed conversations about the implications of alcohol and cancer risk.

World Cancer Research Fund CEO Rachael Gormley said: “Alcohol is pervasive in our lives, from celebrations to after-work drinks and social gatherings.

“But do we truly understand the risks involved? Our poll shows that most people are unaware that any amount of alcohol elevates the risk of seven types of cancer.

“It’s essential that we engage in more discussions about alcohol and cancer, empowering individuals to make informed health choices.”

Each year around 17,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer attributed to alcohol.

World Cancer Research Fund says their findings underscore the need for clearer public health messaging to raise awareness of the dangers, as well as other measures such as clear health warning labels.

Warning The charity, alongside other health organisations in the UK, is urging Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to implement a national alcohol strategy.

Sir Ian Gilmore, chair of the Alcohol Health Alliance, said: “One of the reasons public awareness is so low is that we are being

kept in the dark about the true cost of drinking. People have the right to know the full picture so that they can make informed choices about what they consume.

“To reduce the impact of alcohol on our health, we need change at a national level.

We urgently need a national alcohol strategy to open up honest conversations about the risks of alcohol, while putting measures in place to tackle and prevent its harms.”

Nikkie Bednall, a World Cancer Research Fund supporter and breast cancer survivor, added: “I always thought drinking a few times a week was fine. I never knew it could raise my cancer risk. If I’d known earlier, I might have made different choices.

“Though hindsight is easy, my perspective has changed with the knowledge that came after my diagnosis.

“For example, I now drink very little alcohol to stack the odds in my favour as much as possible. Now, my motto is: Look after your body like you have nowhere else to live because the reality is you don’t.”

Engaging with 250,000 people across the region . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SUMMER 2026

SAVE THIS VITAL LIFELINE

All Together NOW!

– BACK PAGE

‘Magnetic pulses cured my depression’

MEDICAL NOTES

USING magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain is a cost-effective treatment option for people with depression, a new study claims.

Researchers found transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) reduces depressive symptoms, eases pressures on carers, and helps people get back to work.

Although approved in 2015 by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for use in the NHS, it remains inaccessible for most patients due to its cost.

But senior health economist Edward Cox, from the clinical trials unit at the University of Nottingham, said: “The study found that a proportion of patients receiving TMS therapies can expect to achieve faster and

New weapon in the war on superbugs

more sustained improvements in depressive symptoms compared to usual care.

“These gains represent a cost-effective allocation of scarce NHS resources. Our findings should provide much needed evidence for policymakers to establish cost-effective models for implementing TMS within the NHS.” The treatment involves powerful magnetic pulses delivered to the left side of the patient’s head over a four to six week period.

Susan Varley, who is benefiting from the therapy, said: “As a previously highfunctioning nurse, I suffered severe depression and had to be admitted to hospital because of the severity.

“I tried all sorts of different treatments.

Nothing worked. I then received a course of TMS, and it has transformed my life.

“I am back working as a nurse, lost four stone in weight and I am enjoying life again with family and friends. I strongly believe that others suffering like me should be given the option of TMS under the NHS.” Antidepressants and therapy given as first or second-line treatments help two thirds of people with depression, but the remaining third have treatment resistant depression.

Professor Richard Morriss, at the National Institute for Health and Care Research, said: “Our view is that TMS should be considered as a cost-effective alternative for treating moderate to severe depression after the second course of treatment has failed.”

‘Millions face online hospital shut-out’

Ward wide web!

Y

OU won’t have to worry about finding a parking space when the UK’s newest hospital opens for business – because it’s all online.

Patients will be able to access the “online hospital” from 2027 in the latest attempt to transform the NHS. But there are concerns about people across Merseyside and Cheshire without access to the internet being shut out of the new NHS Online service.

In the Liverpool city region alone, an estimated 245,000 adults lack essential digital skills, and 127,000 adults have not used the internet in the last 12 months.

Questions have also been raised about whether the service would destabilise hospital-based services and who would staff it.

Instead of a physical site, patients are going to be digitally connected to clinicians anywhere in England.

The NHS says that means patients can be seen faster, as teams triage them quickly

through the NHS App and let them book scans at times to suit them at Community Diagnostic Centres closer to home.

When a patient has an appointment with their GP, they will have the option of being referred to the online hospital for specialist care. They can then book directly through the NHS App and have the ability to see specialists from around the country online without leaving their home or wait longer for an in-person appointment.

Expanded Initially the focus will be on a small number of planned treatment areas with the longest waits. Over time this will be expanded to more treatment areas.

NHS Online is expected to deliver the equivalent of up to 8.5 million appointments and assessments in its first three years – four times more than an average trust.

The Government says it is being developed with a commitment to patient partnership.

NHS chief executive Sir Jim Mackey said:

“The NHS can, must and will move forward to match other sectors in offering digital services that make services as personalised, convenient, and flexible as possible for both staff and patients.”

Jacob Lant, head of National Voices, the leading coalition of health and social care charities in England, warned: “The NHS will need to be live to the risk of digital exclusion, ensuring people without access to technology or the right skills are supported to get the help they need.

“But get this right, and it could unlock vital extra capacity that benefits all patients.”

Louise Ansari, chief executive of the health and social care watchdog, Healthwatch England, said: “The public will need clear communication about how to benefit from and access this scheme – including support, if required, to use the NHS App. “And digitally excluded people will need reassurances that their local physical hospital remains a good option for their care.”

Engaging with 250,000 people across the region . . .

A NEW weapon in the fight against socalled superbugs has been developed in the UK and China.

The technique – named AutoEnricher – slashes the time taken to diagnose microbial infections from days to minutes.

Researchers tested the technique, capable of diagnosing multiple simultaneous infections, on hundreds of real patients.

In the future, the system could be a valuable tool in tackling antimicrobial resistance to drugs, a rapidly accelerating global threat to human health which is projected to kill 10 million people a year by 2050.

Dr Jiabao Xu, from the University of Glasgow, said: “One of the major drivers of antibiotic resistance is the misuse or overuse of drugs to treat infections.

“Currently, it can take days or even weeks to culture microbes taken from patient samples in the lab to enable diagnosis.

“That means doctors often have to act urgently and use antibiotics to treat patients suffering from life-threatening conditions like sepsis or pneumonia without knowing for sure if they actually have a bacterial infection.”

Her colleague, Professor Jon Cooper, added: “This new instrument will help enable doctors to match the right antibiotic to an infection at the right time, improving patient outcomes while reducing the potential for the emergence of antimicrobial resistance.”

Urgent care at home TEAMS providing rapid urgent care are saving thousands of people across Cheshire and Merseyside unnecessary stays in hospital.

The region’s urgent community response (UCR) services act on emergency referrals within two hours to provide health and social care in people’s homes.

UCR teams deliver holistic, wraparound care, working closely with ambulance services, GP practices, mental health and other hospital and community services, as well as social care and voluntary sector organisations.

They include a mix of professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses, prescribers, and advanced care practitioners.

Dr Fiona Lemmens, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s Executive Clinical Director, said: “We know many patients recover better at home than in a hospital bed, where reduced activity can ultimately lead to increased frailty.”

9

10

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

The must-WAV models waiting to hit the road

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles

W

Free home demo and delivery across the UK*

HEELCHAIR accessible vehicles (WAVs) aren’t just about getting you from A to B. They’re made to help you do the things you love.

As the UK’s leading wheelchair accessible vehicle supplier, Allied Mobility WAVs have enabled countless numbers of wheelchair users to keep up with the hobbies they’re passionate about.

The company’s Ford Freedo, Peugeot Horizon and Volkswagen Vista WAVs are opening new opportunities for disabled people.

Whether you’re a wheelchair user who is interested in travelling from the comfort of your wheelchair or you care for a wheelchair user who you think would benefit from the accessibility features of a WAV, Allied Mobility have a wide range of models to choose from and plenty of expert mobility advisors on hand.

Not sure how to fund your WAV? Don’t worry, there are lots of ways to take ownership, whether it’s leasing a new or nearly new vehicle through the Motability Scheme, buying a new or second-hand accessible car outright or hiring for short or long-term. n Contact Allied Mobility 0800 916 3028. n www.alliedmobility.com

OVER 150 Used WAVs in Stock

FREE First Mobile Service** FREE 3 Years RAC Platinum Warranty ** FREE 12 Months Breakdown Cover

m 0800 587 9627

K alliedmobility.com/used

*Applies to UK mainland only. **Terms and conditions apply, please speak to your mobility advisor for further details.

THE UK’S LEADING WAV SUPPLIER Peugeot Rifter

The UK’S MOST POPULAR WAV

Motability Purchase Hire Vauxhall Vivaro

ALL-NEW Model

™

™

2-5 Seats 10” colour touchscreen

2-6 Seats 10” colour touchscreen

Fast Delivery!*

16” alloy wheels

17” steel wheels

Plus model available for additional space

Air conditioning

Rear parking sensors & 180° reversing camera

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Electric vehicle now available** Advance Payment From

EXCLUSIVE

£3,995

Ford Tourneo

Advance Payment From

Ford Connect

Volkswagen Caddy ™

™

™

2-6 Seats

HomeStay™ Vehicle Service†

Front & rear air conditioning

Fast Delivery!*

Factory fitted Sat Nav

RE, RS & Twin models now available

13” colour touchscreen Colour reversing camera

Advance Payment From

£11,995

2-5 Seats

2-5 Seats Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Air Conditioning 10” colour touchscreen

HomeStay™ Service†

Fast Delivery!*

10” colour touchscreen

Front & rear parking sensors

Factory fitted Sat Nav

Bluetooth®

Keyless start

Advance Payment From

£4,745

Prices are correct at time of print. Vehicles shown for illustrative purposes only. † HomeStayTM vehicle service is currently available on Ford, Peugeot (excluding eHorizonTM) and Vauxhall vehicles. For other manufacturers, we’ll arrange servicing at a local garage. *Fast delivery available within six weeks on selected models, while stocks last. **eHorizon AP from £5,895

Call Now to Book Your Home Demonstration 0800 916 3028

£8,495

or visit alliedmobility.com/home-demo

Advance Payment From

£4,395

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

All Together NOW!

Millions take to road with failing sight

M

ORE than two million people in the UK are believed to be on the roads with eyesight that falls below the legal standard.

Recent inquests have revealed a number of fatal collisions involving LOOKS FAMILIAR? Time to get your eyes checked . . . drivers with seriously impaired sight.

A senior coroner called the current approach majority of drivers have struggled with glare. “ineffective”, particularly the number plate test One RAC study reported more than four in that still exists in modern driving tests and that five motorists saying the problem is getting so much still hangs on. worse, while government-backed research into The message delivered by the coroner was headlight impact is now under way. harder to pick out in the wet, and lane lines clear: without reform, more avoidable deaths Mandatory eye tests are being considered , seem to shimmer. will follow. Critics argue that with advances in and public debate is lively around the topic; Cataracts add halos and glare that make modern technologies, relying on selfplenty of drivers see this as a step in the right night driving feel like staring into a floodlight. declaration and a kerbside reading test is an direction, but there are concerns about Glaucoma trims away your peripheral vision, ineffective measure of eyesight. fairness and where the line should be drawn. so a cyclist or pedestrian can slip into a Often, worsening vision is not something The Association of Optometrists, backed by blindspot at precisely the wrong moment. drivers immediately notice. the College of Optometrists, is arguing for full All are everyday conditions with very real Astigmatism – a common vision condition sight tests when you first get your licence, consequences once the sun goes down. causing blurry or distorted vision – can smear vision checks at each 10-year renewal for There is also a growing frustration among headlights and street lamps until they sprout most drivers, and more frequent checks – motorists about dazzling headlights. Surveys starbursts and streaks; signs become that bit every three years – for those over 70. over the past couple of years suggest the vast

Stricter vision test needed, say experts

ALL YOU NEED IS DAVINCI At DaVinci Mobility we can make virtually any wheelchair to your exact specification — that’s what we’ve been doing since the 1990s and we have thousands of happy customers who come back whenever they need an upgrade.

We love to chat about all things mobility related to help our customers, so please get in touch to discuss your requirements.

Call: 0151 548 1999 Email: Sales@Davincimobility.co.uk Follow: @DavincimobilityLTD

IF YOU have any concerns about your vision: l Book an eye test if it’s been a while – one every two years is a good rule of thumb, sooner if something feels off. l If night drives have become hazy or headlights leave you dazzled, don’t tough it out – that’s your cue to get checked. l Keep your windscreen and headlamps spotless, consider an anti-reflection coating if you wear specs, and be honest with yourself about long night journeys until your vision is sorted. l Be wary of yellow-tinted “night driving” glasses that pop up online, they can reduce the overall light reaching your eye, which is the last thing you want after dark.

12 All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Andy’s run for your money

A

LL 26.2 miles of the London Marathon course is the latest punishing challenge for triple amputee Andy Reid.

Andy, from St Helens, set a target of 11 hours to cross the finishing line of the race on April 26.

He lost both legs and an arm after stepping on an improvised explosive device while on patrol in Afghanistan, in 2009.

His goal is to show what disabled and injured veterans can achieve – and raise funds for his own charity, Standing Tall Foundation, which focuses on

MARATHON EFFORT: Andy’s fundraising challenge

mental health, addiction and welfare, and the Army Benevolent Fund, of which he is ambassador.

Andy said: “I’m turning 50 this year, and I wanted a challenge! I hope that as many people as possible can support me in raising funds and awareness for both charities.”

Andy’s expects the gruelling marathon will take him about 10 to 11 hours.

“By showing what can be achieved by someone like me, a triple amputee, with the right mindset and support network around you, I want to help others to see what they can overcome.”

It’s not the first jaw-dropping challenge that Andy has taken on since his injury. He’s climbed Mt Kilimanjaro, abseiled Blackpool tower, and completed a 600-mile tricycle ride.

Friend and supporter Ged Mason, of engineering consultancy Morson Group, said: “What I admire about Andy is that he really pushes his limits and nothing holds him back.

“Just by doing what he’s doing, Andy helps motivate others who might be struggling. I am delighted to be supporting him – and looking forward to training with him, too.”

Hari’s 7th heaven

Mobility products, sales, serving & repairs Rise/recline & fireside chairs Adjustment beds & stairs-lifts 3 & 4 Wheel walkers Bathing, kitchen & continence products Free no obligation assessments in-store or in your home

HIGH ACHIEVER: That top of the world feeling for Hari

F

ORMER Pride of Britain winner Hari Budha Magar has become the first double above-knee amputee to summit the highest peaks on seven continents.

Pre-owned equipment available Centre for Independent Living Beaufort Street, Warrington WA5 1BA T: 01925 240064

Mobility & Independent Living Lifehouse, Summers Road, Liverpool T: 0151 7090121

Mobility & Independent Living Store 30 Sankey Street, Warrington WA1 1TD T: 01925 416624

Mobility & Independent Living Store Unit 6, Dewhurst Road Birchwood WA3 7PG T: 01925 251079

www.disabilitytradingcompany.co.uk

All profits support our charity work at Warrington Disability Partnership

Hari battled -25C temperatures, vicious winds, treacherous slopes, and freezing ice fields that tested his mind, body and prosthetic legs to the extreme, to reach the top of Mount Vinson (4,892m).

Hari said: “The climb was very tough. I was literally crawling up on all fours, battling my way up the mountain.”

He lost both his legs in 2010 to an IED in Afghanistan while serving with the British Army’s Ghurkha regiment.

His seven summit challenge started in 2018 when he first applied to climb Everest,

only to be denied by the Nepali authorities who banned climbers with a disability – a ruling he was key in challenging, and overturning, in the high court.

Four years later, and almost 13 years from the day he lost his legs, Hari stood on top of Everest proving that with determination, and adaptation, anything was possible.

“My message to the world is anything is possible with enough determination. Yes, you might need to adapt your approach, get help, or think differently, but you can do it!”

Through his Conquering Dreams – 7 Summits challenge, Hari is raising money for veterans’ charities including The Ghurkha Welfare Trust, Blesma, Team Forces, On Course Foundation, and Pilgrim Bandits.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

All Together NOW!

Climber urges deaf kids: AIM HIGH!

A lifeline

CORRIE STAR PRIDE FOR EVEREST DAD

A

MERSEYSIDE man who is profoundly deaf is attempting a record ascent of Mount Everest to inspire his TV star son.

Michael Woods, from Liverpool, aims to become the first deaf Briton to conquer the world’s highest peak.

His son Joseph, seven, is also deaf and plays Aled Winter-Brown on ITV’s Coronation Street.

Michael hopes to show him and other deaf children they have no need to set limits on their lives.

Mountaineer Michael is also raising vital funds for the National Deaf Children’s Society as a thank you to the charity that helped secure the support Joseph needed at school.

The charity has supported Joseph from an early age, helping him secure the communication access he needed at school.

To prepare for the expedition, expected to take up to eight weeks, Michael is strength-training three times a week with a personal trainer, alongside endurance work and altitude preparation, which includes using an altitude tent at home.

Ultimately, he is aiming to complete the Seven Summits challenge – climbing the highest peak on each continent.

Michael uses British Sign Language but as there will be no interpreter in the expedition, he will communicate with his team visually and through written methods.

He said: “I want deaf children – including my own – to see that nothing is out of reach for them. The National Deaf Children’s Society stood by us and this climb is my way of saying thank you.

Interpreters “Everest is the biggest challenge of my life, but if it inspires even one deaf child to believe in themselves, it will be worth it.”

With the charity’s help, Joseph secured full-time communication support and BSL interpreters at school—something Michael describes as life-changing.

“Without them, I don’t think we would have managed it. They fought alongside us and made sure Joseph had the support he needed in school.”

In January, Michael reached the 6,961 m (22,840 ft) summit of Aconcagua in Argentina, the highest mountain in South

America. The climb took 17 days and tested him physically, mentally and emotionally.

Afterwards, Joseph told him: “Wow, that’s good, I love you and you did it, proud of you.”

The toughest challenges of Everest will be the extreme altitude, the cold – which can reach -30°C and below – and the mental pressure of long summit pushes, particularly navigating the treacherous icefall between Base Camp and Camp 1.

Melissa Jones, from the National Deaf Children’s Society, said: “Michael’s determination is extraordinary. Taking on Everest is an enormous challenge for anyone, and he’s doing it to inspire deaf children and raise funds for others who need support just like his family once did.”

Funds raised will help the charity continue supporting thousands of deaf children and families across the UK through its helpline, online sessions and one-to-one support. n Follow Michael’s Everest 2026 journey: Facebook: MichaelsSummits1 Instagram: @michaelssummits Website: michaelssummits.com

to thousands of people Merseyside and Cheshire who are

DIGITALLY EXCLUDED

Logged out!

Why this FREE paper is so vital

13

14

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

www.alltogether

From Britain to Beijing, contrasting experi

So, w are y hea this

1. Shangha 2. Singapor 3. Wellingto 4. Munich, G 5. Amsterda Netherland 6. Hong Ko 7. Beijing, C 8. Prague, C 9. Stockhol 10. Canberr 11. Vienna, 12. Hambur 13. Taipei C 14. Warsaw 15. Helskin 16. Oslo, No 17. Zurich, 18. Dubai, U 19. Copenh 20. Riyadh, 21. Seoul, S 22. Aucklan 23. Lausan 24. Abu Dha 25. London

HOLLAND DAYS: Amsterdam scores highly for inclsuive

A WORLD OF

Doomed to second-class travel in the UK

W

HEELCHAIR users continue to suffer a second-class service from the UK’s transport operators.

Barriers faced every day by wheelchair users and people with limited mobility attempting to travel across the country have been exposed in a series of video diaries.

The Spinal Injuries Association’s (SIA) Travel with Confidence campaign – paid for by the Motability Foundation – challenged six people across the UK with spinal cord injuries to reach central London using two forms of public transport with just 48 hours’ notice.

Despite careful planning, only one participant completed the challenge using two forms of public transport, yet he still faced critical barriers including taxi rejection.

Five others failed to finish their journeys as

l STEPHEN could not even start the challenge due to issues including inaccessible pavements and no toilet facilities. He said: “I don’t have the luxury of having access to travel and would like people to acknowledge that.”

fare when she found the London Tube had no lift at Charing Cross. l DANNY said: “Ramps to board trains are VERY steep. I couldn’t have managed without my electric attachment.”

l HARRIET was had no choice other than paying a £52 taxi

l SARAH-JANE received conflicting information about

intended, with one unable to even leave his property.

The SIA says the results show that while most Britons can spontaneously decide to travel, thousands of disabled people face a different reality – they cannot leave their property without assistance, cannot reach bus stops due to

lift availability and said her first train journey since becoming disabled left her “overwhelmed and brought to tears”. l COLIN found all three Tube entrances blocked with no signage for alternatives. “It is essential to give yourself extra time and to plan for setbacks.”

inaccessible pavements, and find their local stations have no toilet facilities.

An estimated 105,000 people live with spinal cord injuries in the UK, alongside 7.5 million people with mobility impairments that may restrict independent travel. SIA’s annual What Matters survey found 71% of respondents reported challenges with public

transport, with the most common ba platform access, lack of level acces the need to pre-book assistance.

While filming the national challeng and accessibility advocate Gary Da wheelchair user, encountered probl including finding himself trapped at both lifts out of order, no staff on sit services unresponsive and the eme not working.

Gary, whose only choice was to ta stop further, then push himself a mi main road, said: “Even on a normal myself trapped at a station with no w “Our volunteers’ experiences reve the UK’s so-called “accessible” tran more of an accessibility lottery, whe people gamble with their dignity, ind safety every time they leave home – home at all.”

We NEED support to keep this ne

SPRING 2026

now.org.uk

All Together NOW!

iences of access across the planet

where you ding ading s year?

ai, China re, Singapore on, New Zealand Germany am, The s ong, China China Czech Republic lm, Sweden ra, Australia Austria rg, Germany City, Taiwan w, Poland ki, Finland orway Switzerland UAE hagen, DFenmark Saudi Arabia South Korea nd, New Zealand ne, Switzerland abi,UAE n, England

STREETS APART: Shanghai tops list of the world’s accessible cities

DIFFERENCE

arriers being poor ss at stations, and

ge, SIA worker awson, himself a ems of his own, a tramstop with e, customer ergency button

ake the tram a le back along a day, I found way out. eal a harsh truth – nsport system is ere disabled dependence, and –if they can leave

Cities making life easier for everyone

S

HANGHAI and Singapore share top places in a new list of 25 of the world’s most accessible cities.

Both cities scores over 80 points out of a possible 100 on a Global Accessibility Index.

Hong Kong and Beijing also make the top ten.

European cities perform well, holding half the spots in the ranking, with Munich, Amsterdam, Prague, and Stockholm standing out by scoring over 67 points.

London only just sneaked on to the list, with 42.59 points.

Two cities Down Under make the top 10 – New Zealand’s capital, Wellington, in third place on 79.12 points, and the

Australian capital, Canberra in 10th spot.

Each city was rated according to the number of adapted tube stations, accessible tourist attractions, and adapted hotels and properties, and whether residents receive support to adapt their homes.

The list was drawn from the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, which ranked 146 cities based on how effectively they use technology to improve residents’ quality of life. Judges then ranked the 25 most accessible of those cities.

In top spot with 84.86 points, Shanghai’s entire tube network is adapted, with a further 733 adapted tourist attractions – 73% of all the attractions in the city.

If you’re looking for somewhere a little

ewspaper alive – back page

closer to home, Munich has also adapted all of its 100 tube stations, allowing visitors to move freely around the city, while 75 of its 359 hotels and apartments and 317 out of 747 tourist attractions are accessible.

Amsterdam (scoring 76.51) has 86 tube stations, all of them adapted, with 53% of its tourist attractions adapted.

Visitors are recommended to download the Ongehinderd app to move more easily around the city.

While the older subway stations in Prague (68.99) have accessibility limitations, 77% of the network is currently accessible, with modern stations equipped with full accessibility features.

Despite being a big draw for tourists, Prague has a low percentage of

accessible accommodation. However, efforts have been made to improve access to major attractions such as Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.

Through its 2030 Vision plan, Stockholm (67.68) aims to make its centre fully accessible for people with reduced mobility.

In the meantime, accessibility at attractions such as the Vasa Museum, the ABBA Museum, and the Royal Palace remains moderate. n www.smartcityexpo.com/smart-citiesaccessibility-ranking/

15

16

All Together NOW!

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 ELLESMERE PORT. Tel 01244 312626 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 01244 312626 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 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 01244 312626 n WIRRAL. 0151 647 6162 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 709392

SPRING 2026

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Flower power

Equipped for life NEED advice finding the right equipment to help you live more independently?

If so, give the friendly people at Adapt & Live a call.

The service is the new name for the helpline run by the Disabled Living charity, which has been operating in Manchester for 125 years.

The team also provides occupational therapy assessments, access audits and accredited training programmes. n Tel. 0161 214 4590

ARTHRITIS Action charity has joined Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, the scheme that provides awareness-raising lanyards for people with hidden disabilities.

The sunflower lanyard has been adopted by all the major airports, many supermarkets, railway stations, leisure facilities, in the NHS and an increasing number of small and large businesses and organisations.

MESSAGE: Lanyard n www.hdsunflower.com

IN THE PICTURE Spreading the message about complex needs

U

NSEEN, undervalued and overlooked – that’s how many disabled people with complex needs feel about their lives.

So how do we change things?

National charity Sense is hoping its new awareness-raising campaign will kick-start a new way of thinking.

Its UK-wide tour of a series of striking portraits celebrating disabled lives, past and present, coincides with the IN THE FRAME: Portraits of Bunty and Kanhai publication of new research into the lived experiences of disabled people who is currently supported by the charity’s with complex needs. residential services.

The artwork, created by acclaimed Bunty was born deafblind and died in disabled artist Tanya Raabe-Webber, 2018 at 65. Her portrait captures her joy, explores identity, visibility and connection. movement and sensory engagement with Tanya, who is also artistic director at the world, using tactile materials and raised Sense and has worked alongside the painting surfaces to reflect the many people National Portrait Gallery and Tate, said: whose lives she touched.

“Too often disabled people are overlooked Kanhai, 60, is deaf, has partial sight loss, and underestimated. These portraits seek is non-speaking, autistic and has a learning to turn this narrative on its head.” disability. His portrait is inspired by his Among those featured in the campaign personal achievements and individuality, are Bunty, the daughter of Sense realised through textured, multi-sensory co-founder Peggy Freeman, and Kanhai, collage and drawing.

Family adventure MERSEYSIDE charity Autism Together has teamed up with regional attractions to provide relaxed activities for children or teens with autism.

The locations of each of the charity’s Family Adventures events will vary each month and, although tickets are limited, they aim to reach as many families as possible throughout the year.

Some of the local venues already signed up include Activity For All family-centred sports centre, Jumpin’ Josephs trampoline park, Bulwark Games, Inflation Wirral inflatable village, Kraken Comics comic book shop and “reading corner”, and Monkey House soft play centre.

Each month there will be an event aimed at younger children, and another event for older children and teens. n For more details about the events, go to autismtogether.co.uk/ advice-support

A survey by the charity reveals stark inequalities faced by disabled people with complex needs: l Two thirds (66%) say they feel invisible in society – unseen and undervalued. l 62% say they feel lonely, compared with 26% of the public. l One in seven say negative public attitudes are the biggest barrier they face, alongside other barriers including the cost of living and access to care. l Just 54% believe the Government is serious about tackling the barriers that stop disabled people from thriving.

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE n BLACKPOOL Disability Information and Support.

Tel 01253 472 202.

Text 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

Partnership Tel 01928 717222 n KNOWSLEY DISABILITY CONCERN. Tel 0151 480 4090 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 636 7534

n MOLD Flintshire Disability Tel 01352 755546 n STOCKPORT: Disability Stockport.

Tel 0161 480 7248 n WARRINGTON Disability Partnership.

Tel 01925 240064 n WIRRAL WIRED Tel 0151 522 7990 n WEST LANCS Tel 01695 51819

n Personal Budgets Helpline Tel. 0330 995 0404 Opening hours: 9.30am-1.30pm, Tues and Thurs personalbudgets@ disabilityrightsuk.org n Disabled Students Helpline Tel. 0330 995 0414 Opening hours: 11am-1pm on Tues and Thurs students@disabilityrightsuk.org n Scope’s Disabilty Information and Advice Line (DIAL) Freephone 0808 800 3333

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

All Together NOW!

Libby’s making sport fairer

L

IBBY Steele’s determination to give deaf athletes a sporting chance has earned her a prestigious national award.

She won the Young STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) in Sport Award for her pioneering work on the experiences of deaf competitors in athletics.

Born deaf, Libby’s research has highlighted how inconsistent starting systems can disadvantage deaf athletes in a line-up up against hearing competitors.

On the start line, deaf athletes are typically faced with variable systems, such as lights, flags, and vibrating armbands, combined with

a sound. The aim is to encourage inclusion but Libby’s research found a lack of consistency in the technologies used makes it harder for deaf athletes to achieve fast reaction times – crucial especially in sprint events.

Her work is now paving the way for fairer, standardised systems in sport, giving deaf competitors an equal chance.

She carried out her research while completing her PhD in Sport and Exercise Sciences at Bangor University.

Libby now works for Welsh Athletics, increasing participation in underrepresented groups.

CARERS’ CENTRES

PRIZE: Libby receiving her award from the Duke of Edinburgh

TAKE THE PLUNGE

Darren’s journey of hope

Top trip tips from TUI’s travel team

PARALYSED adventurer Darren Edwards had to abandon his world record breaking attempt to reach the South Pole.

S

After encountering a week of insurmountable challenges, he and his ‘Redefining Impossible’ team reluctantly cut short their 222 kilometre sit-ski expedition to the Pole.

Darren, 35, broke his back in a climbing accident in Snowdonia in 2016.

He said: “This has been one hell of a journey of redefining impossible.

“It has been much more than reaching the South Pole. It’s about empowering people to achieve things in their lives – the things they couldn’t have dreamt would have been possible.”

PRING is in the air and your thoughts may be turning towards a foreign holiday.

Just remember, almost anything may be possible – if you do your homework, have internet access, and are prepared to listen to the advice of others who have spread their wings.

For the past decade, Hannah Cheetham, 35, has travelled the world with her younger sister, Becky, doing just that – giving GET AWAY: Almost anything is possible . . . if you do your homework disabled people all kinds of travel at TUI UK&I, said: “Our Accessibility three people with a disability avoid tips.

Ambassadors are helping us travelling abroad due to concerns Having lived with cerebral palsy reimagine what inclusive travel truly over accessibility. since birth, Hannah has lots of looks like.

Their lived experiences l Most disabled people questioned first-hand experiences, good and and honest feedback are invaluable believe travel challenges are simply bad. in shaping services that work for an expected part of life.

She’s also one of a group of everyone. l Criticisms centred around Accessibility Ambassadors who are “We believe travel should be joyful inaccessible booking systems to working with travel company TUI to and accessible; and thanks to our long waits at airports, inadequate share their travel stories via a ambassadors, we’re making support from airline and hotel staff, dedicated webpage that’s packed meaningful strides toward that and unsuitable lifts. with tips and reassurance for goal.” n www.tui.co.uk/info/holidaysanyone wanting to get away. for-everyone l A TUI survey found one in every Neil Swanson, managing director

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE VISUAL PROBLEMS n CARLISLE: Action for Blind People Tel 01228 595121 n CHESHIRE & N WALES: Vision Support. Tel 01244 381515 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 Society of the Blind and Partially Sighted. 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 MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888 n SOUTHPORT Centre for the Deaf Tel 01704 537001 n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre. Tel 01744 23887 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 n CUMBRIA 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 LANCASHIRE 0345 688 7113 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 705959 / 486923 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

17

18

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Help when you need it most United Utilities is calling on its customers to take advantage of FREE support with their water services.

Since launching in 2015, more than 580,000 people across the North West have now registered for United Utilities’ Priority Services scheme.

Steph Smith from the Priority Services team said: “Our Priority Services scheme is free to all our customers who may need a bit of extra support in life. This could be due to age, ill health, disability, mental health problems, 昀nancial worries or language barriers.

“By registering for our scheme, we can make sure you receive the right support from us during those times when we may need to switch o昀 the water to repair a leak, or if we need to visit you in your own home.

“Even if you don’t need this support, we all know someone who would bene昀t from these services - such as a friend, family member or neighbour - so please encourage them to get in touch to register.”

Services include: • A dedicated team on hand to listen and help • Braille, large print, ‘talking’ bills and text relay service • Knock and wait service. If you tell us you have mobility needs and we have to visit your home, we will wait allowing enough time for you to answer the door • Nominate a carer, family member or friend to check your bills and speak to us on your behalf • Additional support if you have a medical need for water.

• Protection from bogus callers with a password protection scheme • Notice of interruptions to your water supply • Translation services • Every two years we’ll check that your details are still correct

Our scheme is designed to support people who: • are blind or partially sighted; • have a chronic (long-term) or serious illness; • have a condition that a昀ects their development; • have dementia; • rely on dialysis, feeding pumps or automated medication; • are having 昀nancial di culties; • are deaf or hard of hearing, or have speech di culties; • have a mental health condition; • have children aged 5 or under; • are experiencing temporary life changes (including divorce or bereavement); • are recovering after leaving hospital; • have restricted movement making it di cult to answer the door; or • may struggle to communicate because their 昀rst language isn’t English.

Scan the QR code to visit our Priority Services webpage, where you can click on ‘Accessibility Help’ to turn on text-to-speech or change the language used on our website.

To register for Priority Services apply online at: unitedutilities.com/priorityservices or call 0345 672 2888

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

All Together NOW!

19

Your guide to some of spring’s best treats Mar 25-26: My Mixed Up Tape. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. Funny, full-throttle new play about identity, class, rage, and belonging in modern Wales.

Mar 25: Andy Zaltzmann: The Zaltgeist.

Playhouse, Liverpool.

Mar 25: The ELO Show. The Lowry, Salford.

Tribute show.

Mar 25: Elen Kent: The Farewell Tour – Carmen. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 25: The Shoop Shoop Show – The Cider Collection. Atkinson, Southport.

Mar 26-28: Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Mar 26-Apr 25: Matilda The Musical. Palace, Manchester. The story of an extraordinary little girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Signed, Apr 10; captioned, Apr 17; audio described, Apr 25.

Mar 26: Ellen Kent: The Farewell Tour – Madama Butterfly. Opera House, Manchester.

Mar 26: Thank You For The Music. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Abba tribute show.

Mar 26: The Mersey Beatles. Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 26: Ardal O’Hanlon: Not Himself.

Playhouse, Liverpool.

Mar 26: Elgar Serenade for Strings.

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Mar 26: An Evening with Laurel & Hardy. Atkinson, Southport. Neil Brand celebrating the 100th anniversary of Stan and Olly’s debut in Holywood.

Mar 27-28: Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Mar 27: Coldplace: Tribute to Coldplay.

Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 27: Aisling Bea: Older Than Jesus.

Playhouse, Liverpool.

May 27: Here We Go Gathering Cups in May. Philharmonic, Liverpool. Stories from players and fans of Liverpool FC’s victories in Europe.

Mar 28-Apr 12: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs – Easter Pantomime. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Mar 28: Hollie McNish: Brand New Book Tour. Playhouse, Liverpool.

Mar 28: The Brand New Heavies.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Mar 28: An Evening with Laurel & Hardy. Storyhouse, Chester. Neil Brand celebrating the 100th anniversary of Stan and Olly’s debut in Holywood.

Mar 28: Oh What a Night. Pavilion, Rhyl. A musical journey through the incredible career of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons.

Mar 28: Sara Pascoe: I am a Strange Gloop.

The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 29: Too Much Too Young. Lyceum, Crewe. The music of 2 Tone and Beyond.

Mar 29: An Audience with Sue Johnston and John McArdle. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot.

Mar 29: Grieg Piano Concerto with Alexandra Dariescu. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Mar 29: Foil, Arms and Hog – Skittish. The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 29: Nigel Kennedy: A Virtuoso Concert Performance. Storyhouse, Chester.

Mar 29: James Bond Concert Spectacular.

Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 29: Darren Walsh: Do You Like Puns?

The Lowry, Salford.

Mar 29: James Bond Concert Spectacular.

Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Mar 29: Grieg Piano Concerto with Alexandra Dariescu.

PREVIEW

T

l SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION: Playhouse, Liverpool, Mar 31-Apr 4; Theatr Clwyd, May 12-16

l OMID DJALILI: Lyceum, Crewe, Apr 5; Lowry, Salford, Apr 5; Storyhouse, Chester, Apr 7 l RUBY WAX: Absolutely Famous, The Lowry, Apr 6

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Mar 30-Apr 4: Friends! The Musical Parody.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Mar 30-Apr 4: Mean Girls. Regent, Stoke.

Smash-hit musical.

Mar 30: Stars and their Consolations. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Mar 30: The Extra Mile: An Evening with Kevin Sinfield. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool. A night of inspiration, motivation and leadership.

The remarkable story of the ex-rugby league legend – and his long-time friendship with the late Rob Borrow, who died after a long battle with motor neurone disease.

Mar 31-Apr 4: The Shawshank Redemption.

Playhouse, Liverpool. Despite protests of his innocence, Andy Dufresne is handed a double life sentence for the brutal murders of his wife and her lover.

Mar 31-Apr 4: Top Hat. The Lowry, Salford.

Musical based on the classic 1935 film which starred Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.

Mar 31: Wren’s World. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. In an evolving society where we are discovering more about our differences, this show is for anybody who strives for kindness and acceptance. All performances are relaxed; visual guides available.

Mar 31: Royal Opera House: Siegried. Theatr Clwyd, Mold. Film.

To advertise, contact . . .

Mar 31: Mythos: Ragnarok. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Combining Viking storytelling with high-octane action.

Mar 31: My Mix(ed Up) Tape. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Mar 31: Just Enough Madness & Caught in the Net of Rebirth. The Lowry, Salford. Dance.

Mar 31: The Royal Opera: Siegfield.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Mar 31: The Atkinson Wellbeing Choir.

Atkinson, Southport.

Mar 31: Mark Smith: Antiques Expert on the Road. Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 1-4: Sherlock Holmes and The Hunt For Moriarty. Octagon, Bolton.

Apr 1: The Billy Joel Songbook.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 1: Murder She Didn’t Write. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. The improvised murder mystery.

Apr 2-5: Russell Howard. Opera House, Manchester.

Apr 2-4: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 2: Dino Tales. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 2: Merry Hell. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 2: Spring Supper Club. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot.

Apr 2: Murder Trial Tonight: Death of a Landlord. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 2: The Drifters. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 2: Murder, She Didn’t Write. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 3-4: We Will Rock You. Empire, Liverpool.

Performed by the theatre’s youth theatre.

Apr 3: Brain Clemens Jazz Orchestra: Songs of the Silver Screen. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 4: Magic of Motown. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 4: Amy Mason – Behold! Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 4: Mother Goose. Rhyl Pavilion.

Apr 4: Omid Djalili: Namaste. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 4: The Haunting of Blaine Manor. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 5: The Music of Zimmer vs Williams.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 5: Huey Morgan: Fun Lovin’ Criminal.

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 5: Luther Live & Velvet Voices. Empire, Liverpool. Tribute show.

Apr 5: Omid Djalili: Namasta. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 6-11: 2:22 A Ghost Story.

Empire, Liverpool. Funny and adrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear… What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?

Apr 6-11: A Ghost Story. Empire, Liverpool.

Apr 6: Ruby Wax: Absolutely Famous. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 6: Nick Cope’s Family Show.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 7-11: Inspector Morse – House of Ghosts. The Lowry, Salford. A chilling mystery unfolds when a young actress suddenly dies on stage. Audio described/touch tour, Apr 9; signed, Apr 10.

Apr 7-11: Zog. Playhouse, Liverpool. Musical for children.

Apr 7-11: Sunny Afternoon. Regent, Stoke.

The Kinks’ musical.

Apr 7-10: Once Upon a Tide … Ar Lan y Mar … Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 7-8: There’s a Monster in Your Show.

Octagon, Bolton. Family fun.

Apr 7-9: The Wizard of Oz. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 7: Omid Djalil: Namaste.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 7: Blue Lantern Sessions: Motel Sundown. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 7: Out With The Buckleys. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 7: Simon Evans is Starring at the Sun. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 8: Rob Anton: CAN. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 8: Taylormania. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Tribute show.

Apr 8: Robin Hood – The Greatest Easter Pantomime Adventure. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 8: K-Pop Forever. Rhyl Pavilion.

Apr 8: Grateful Fred’s: Kirsten Adamson.

Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 9: Daliso Chaponda. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 9: Them Heavy Souls: The Ultimate British Blues Rock Experience. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 9: Motionhouse: Hidden. Storyhouse, Chester. Dance-circus.

Apr 9: Track Dogs 20th Anniversary Tour.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 9: Man in the Mirrow: A Tribute to Michael Jackson. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 9: Ministry of Science – Science Saved the World. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 9: Suzi Quatro. Opera House, Manchester.

l continued next pages

sales@alltogethernow.org.uk

20

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Your guide to some of the best treats l Continued from p19 Apr 9: Bubble Show 2 – More Bubbles. Octagon, Bolton. Great family show.

Apr 9: Nick Mohammed is Mr Swallow – Show Pony.

Royal Court, Liverpool.

Apr 9: Tom Houghton: Deep.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 10-14: Spring Holiday Club.

Empire, Liverpool. Four days of singing, dancing, acting and building confidence.

Apr 10-11: Dark Side – The Pink Floyd Show. Epstein Theatre, Liverpool. Tribute show.

Apr 10-11: You Choose. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 10: Sisters 360. Octagon, Bolton.

Fatima and Salima are the closest, coolest, hijabi-wearing step-sisters in all of Bradford – and nothing is going to stop them from winning the Tiny is Mighty skateboarding competition.

Perfect for ages 8-12 – and anyone who remembers being that age!

Apr 10: Judi Love: All About the Love. Storyhouse, Chester. Judi is back with a show packed with home truths about the hustle of juggling motherhood, work, and everyday life.

Apr 10: Rapunzel. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 10: Gravity. Opera House, Manchester. West End legends Kerry Ellis, Louise Dearman and Rachel Tucker with a special night of music.

Apr 10: Ultimate 70s Show. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 10: Tom Houghton: Deep.

The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 10: Fixing. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 11: Pardody of the Rings. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 11: The Sooty Show. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 11: Made of Stone Roses. The Brindley, Runcorn. Tribute show.

Apr 11: The Invisible Man. Storyhouse, Chester. Fast-paced and riotous adaptation of the HG Wells classic story.

Apr 11: Aisling Bea: Older Than Jesus. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 11: The Ultimate Boy Band Party Show. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 11: Rapunzel. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. Golden-haired Rapunzel is trapped in her lofty tower by a wicked witch, who lops off the locks of her beautiful hair and sells them for a tidy profit.

Apr 11: Matteo Lane: We Gota Catch Up! Opera House, Manchester.

Apr 11: Lost in Music. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 11: The Utterly Revolting Science Show.

Octagon, Bolton.

Apr 11: A Sky Full of Stars – Tribute to Coldplay. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 11: Chris McCausland.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 12: The Illegal Eagles. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 12: Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners.

Empire, Liverpool.

Apr 12: The Definitive Burt Bacharach Songbook. Epstein

BOX OFFICE CONTACTS BOLTON Octagon: 01204 520661 CHESTER Storyhouse: 01244 409 113 CREWE Lyceum: 01270 368 242 LIVERPOOL Empire: 08444 999 999 Everyman & Playhouse: 0151 709 4776 Philharmonic Hall: 0151 709 3789 Royal Court: 0870 787 1866 Shakespeare North Playhouse: 0151 433 7156 Unity: 0151 709 4988 LLANDUDNO Venue Cymru: 01492 872000

MANCHESTER Opera House: 0870 401 9000 Palace: 0870 401 3000

T

MOLD: Theatr Clwyd: 0845 3303565 NEW BRIGHTON Floral Pavilion: 0151 666 0000 RHYL: Pavilion: 01745 330 000 RUNCORN The Brindley: 0151 907 8360 SALFORD The Lowry: 0843 208 6000 Access line: 0333 320 2838 SOUTHPORT Atkinson: ST HELENS: Theatre Royal: 01744 756000

Theatre, Liverpool.

Apr 12: Dreamcoat Stars. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 12: Peter Donohoe. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 12: Chris McCausland. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 12: Mikey Kenney: Stiwdio Gigs. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 12: Aisling Bea: Older Than Jesus. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 12: Mark Steel: The Leopard in My House. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 13: Pierre Novellie: You Sit There, I’ll Stand Here. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 13: A Wind Octet: But Delicately Different. Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 13: Strange But True Crime. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 13: Blue – 25th Anniversary Tour.

Regent, Stoke.

Apr 14-19: Zog. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 14-18: Double Indemnity. Playhouse, Liverpool. James M. Cain’s masterpiece of murder, deceit, and mystery.

Apr 14-18: Legally Blonde. Empire, Liverpool.

Feel-good rom-com, based on the awardwinning film starring Reese Witherspoon.

Apr 14-15: James Acaster: Little Wander.

Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot.

Apr 14-15: Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty. Atkinson, Southport.

Apr14: Ballet Black at 25. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 14: Mike Wozniak: The Bench. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 15-18: Come From Away. Storyhouse, Chester. Musical based on the true story of when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland played host to the world.

l SINGLE WHITE FEMALE: Playhouse, Liverpool; Apr 28-May 2; Regent, Stoke, May 26-30

Lesson in life l THE BOY AT THE BACK OF THE CLASS: The Lowry, Salford, Apr 15-18

Apr 15-May 2: Waiting for Godot. Octagon, Bolton. Mathew Kelly and George Costigan star in a new staging of Samuel Beckett’s classic play – in which absolutely nothing happens!

Apr 15-18: The Boy at the Back of the Class.

The Lowry, Salford. Told from a child’s perspective and highlighting the power of good friends and courage in a world that doesn’t always make sense.

Apr 15-18: Ghost The Musical. Lyceum, Crewe. Crewe Amateur Musicals Society.

Apr 15-18: War of the Worlds. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 15-17: Diversity: Soul. Opera House, Manchester. The UK’s most successful dance group.

Apr 15: Paradise Found: A Dedication to the Legend of Meat Loaf. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 15: Danny Baker: Aye Aye! Ahoy Hoy! The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 15: Spontaneous Potter. Epstein Theatre, Liverpool. Improvised wizarding comedy play.

Apr 16-18: Eat The Rich (But Maybe Not Me Mates X). Everyman, Liverpool. Jade Franks’s award-winning solo show is back.

Apr 16: Thomas Green: Brainstorm.

The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 16: Viking Voices with Paul Atherton. Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 16: Jive Talkin’. Atkinson, Southport. The music of the Bee Gees.

Apr 16: Mendelssohn Scottish Symphony.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 16: King of Pop starring Navi and Jennifer Batten. Rhyl Pavilion.

Apr 17-May 9: Conteh. Royal Court, Liverpool.

Aron Julius has written and stars in this drama

To advertise, contact . . .

about one of Liverpool’s sporting greats.

Apr 17: Tim Lucas ‘We’re Havin’ a Party’.

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Apr 17: The Wizard of Oz – Adults Only. Rhyl Pavilion.

Apr 17: Jim Henson’s Labyrinth in Concert.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 17: Scott Bennett: Stuff.

Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 17: Looking for Me Friend.

Epstein Theatre, Liverpool. The music of Victoria Wood.

Apr 17: Taylormania. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Taylor Swift tribute show.

Apr 17: Amber Sings Ella. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. Amber Kuti’s tribute to Ella Fitzgerald.

Apr 17: Getting Triggy With It: Matt Parker Does The Maths. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 17: Leila Nevabi: Relay. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 18: Looking For Me Friend: The Music of Victoria Wood. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 18: Emma Doran: Emmaculate. The Lowry, Salford. Comedy.

Apr 18: Down In Laurel Canyon. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. The 7-piece band reimagining iconic 60s-70s California hits.

Apr 18: The Wizard of Oz Summer Youth Project Taster Workshop. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 18: Blackmore’s Blood. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 18: Totally Tina. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Tribute show.

Apr 18: Marty Wilde & The Wildcats. Epstein Theatre, Liverpool.

Apr 18: Robin Hood: Easter Pantomime.

Atkinson, Southport.

sales@alltogethernow.org.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

in store at theatres across the region

T

21

Apr 28-May 2: Single White Female.

Playhouse, Liverpool. Kym Marsh and Lisa Faulkner star in stage production of the iconic thriller.

Apr 28: Double Identity. Opera House, Manchester. Gripping adaptation of one of the greatest crime novels of the 20th Century.

Apr 28: Jethro Tull. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 28: Damien Lewis: Who Dares Wins.

Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 28: English Touring Opera: Pagliacci.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 29-30: Wolf. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 29: English Touring Opera: The Gondoliers. Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 29: Nashville Live. Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 29: Absolute Amy. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Amy Winehouse tribute show.

Apr 30: The Manfreds. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 30: Luke and Pete Talking Sheet Live.

Epstein Theatre, Liverpool.

Apr 30: The Makings of a Murderer – The Undercover Detective. Lyceum, Crewe.

Apr 30: Blue. Philharmonic, Liverpool. The boys are back with more hits.

She’s back! l MATILDA: Palace, Manchester, Mar 26-Apr 25 Signed, Apr 10; captioned, Apr 17; audio described, Apr 25

l SPITFIRE GIRLS: Theatr Clwyd, Apr 21-25; Octagon, Bolton, May 26-20

Apr 19: An Orchestral Tribute to Tim Burton & Dark Fantasy by Moonlight. Regent, Stoke.

Apr 19: The Rock Orchestra by Candelight.

Opera House, Manchester.

Apr 19: Nigel Kennedy – Virtuoso. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 19: Cassidy Janson sings Carol King.

Epstein Theatre, Liverpool.

Apr 19: Johnny Cash Roadshow. Epstein Theatre, Liverpool.

Apr 19: Dr Louise Newson. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 19: Josh Widdicombe: Not My Cup of Tea. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 19: The Remarkable Ben Hart.

The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 20: State of the Nation: An Evening with Akala. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 20: Buttons Meets Broadway. The Brindley, Runcorn. Kerry Ellis and Andrew Curphew.

Apr 21-May 2: Miss Saigon. Empire, Liverpool.

Musical set in the last days of the Vietnam War. Apr 21-25: Spitfire Girls. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 21-25: Mamma Mia! Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Abba musical.

Apr 21-25: The Beekeeper of Aleppo.

Storyhouse, Chester. Nuri is a beekeeper; his wife, Afra, an artist. They live a simple life, rich in family and friends, in the beautiful Syrian city of Aleppo – until the unthinkable happens.

Audio described/signed, Apr 22.

Apr 21-25: Noughts and Crosses. The Lowry, Salford. Gripping Romeo and Juliet story and what it means to grow up in a divided world.

Audio described/touch tour, signed, captioned Apr 23; signed Apr 24.

Apr 21: Royal Opera: The Magic Flute. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

All Together NOW!

l MICHAEL ROSEN: Getting Through It, Playhouse, Liverpool, Apr 22

Apr 21: Kate Butch – Choose Your Own Cabaret. Epstein Theatre, Liverpool.

Apr 22-25: Carmen. Opera House, Manchester. New version created by Cuban ballet dancer Carlos Acosta.

Apr 22-25: James Acaster. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 22: Timeless. The Lowry, Salford. Dance theatre.

Apr 22: Michael Rosen: Getting Through It. Playhouse, Liverpool. Michael talks about losing his 18-year-old son to meningitis and his own battle with Covid-19.

Apr 22: The Britpop Show with Mare Burrows. Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 22: A Chorus of Us – Shadow Dance.

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 23: Psychic Sally. Rhyl Pavilion.

Apr 23: The Smooth Rock Show. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 23: A Choral Celebration.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 23: An Evening with Chrissy Rock. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 23: Tenors Unlimited. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 24: Calling Planet Earth. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Apr 24: Jumada. The Brindley, Runcorn. Local rock band.

Apr 24: Rob Rouse: Funny Bones.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Apr 24: The Manfreds. Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 24: Michelle de Swarte: The Afters. Epstein Theatre, Liverpool.

Apr 24: Stealing Sheep.

Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot.

Apr 24: The Silence of Snow: The Life of

l MISS SAIGON: Empire, Liverpool, Apr 21-May 2

Patrick Hamilton. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. The life of one of the great English writers of the inter-war years.

Apr 25-May 16: Twelfth Night. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

Apr 25: Women Aren’t Funny (Cockpit). Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. Kay Nicholson’s hilarious look on life.

Apr 25: The Drifters. Rhyl Pavilion.

Apr 25: Judi Love: All About The Love. Playhouse, Liverpool. Judi is back with a new show packed with home truths.

Apr 25: Michael Starring Ben – The Magic of Michael Jackson. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Apr 25: Phil Mealey: Early Doors – Behind the Bar and Beyond. Atkinson, Southport.

Apr 25: Hillsborough: One Boy’s Story of a Tragedy. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 25: Yes. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 25: Flat & The Curves: Now That’s What I Call Feral. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 26: Tiny Planet. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 26: Jethro Tull. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 26: Matt Forde: Defying Calamity. The Lowry, Salford.

Apr 26: Rob Lamberti Presents Perfectly George. Theatre Royal, S Helens. George Michael tribute show.

Apr 26: Tchaikovsky Symphony No 5.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

Apr 26: Legends of American Country. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Apr 27-May 2: 2:22 A Ghost Story. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Apr 27-May 2: Operation Mincemeat. Regent, Stoke. Wartime musical.

Apr 27: Alfie Boe. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

. . . reaching people who are digitally excluded . . .

May 1-2: They Were All Some Mother’s Sons.

Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. Based on the true story of two German soldiers, Rolf Rheinlander and Eric Kirste, who were detained together as Prisoners of War in 1945 in a camp on The King George playing field in Huyton.

May 1-2: Justin Moorhouse: The Greatest Performance of My Life.

Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot.

May 1-2: Paul Carrack. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 1: Stiwdio Gigs: Sinfonia Cymru: Julieth Lozano Rolong. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

May 1: MANIA: The Abba Tribute. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 1: Burn – Deep Purple Tribute. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 1: Girl Power Live. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 1: Matt Forde: Defying Calamity.

Storyhouse, Chester.

May 1: Gary Delaney: Gary on Laughing. Atkinson, Southport.

May 1: Disco for Grown-Ups. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 1: The UK Rock Show. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 2-23: The Assassination of Margaret Thatcher. Everyman, Liverpool. It’s late summer, 1983. Out in the street, the world is waiting to greet Margaret Thatcher as she emerges from hospital. Just routine surgery – what on earth could go wrong? Captioned, May 7; audio described, May 14.

May 2-16: Bank of Dave: The Musical. The Lowry, Salford. Audio described/touch tour, May 6. Touch tour, May 16; Signed, May 6, May 15.

May 2: Enchanted: The Ultimate Princess Concert. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 2: The World Famous Elvis Show. Rhyl Pavilion.

May 2: Jekyll and Hyde. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 3: That’ll Be The Day: 40th Year Anniversary Tour. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 4-9: The Rocky Horror Show. Empire, Liverpool. Jason Donovan starsl.

May 4-9: Operation Mincemeat. Storyhouse, Chester. 1943 and we’re losing the war. Luckily, we’re about to gamble all our futures on a stolen corpse. Audio described/ signed, May 6.

l Continued next page

22

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

Your guide l Continued from p21 May 5-16: Teechers. Octagon, Bolton.

John Godber’s comedy masterpiece has been reset for our post-Covid times.

Audio described, May 9; captioned, May 12.

May 5-9: Fawlty Towers The Play. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 5-9: The Choir Man. Opera House, Manchester. Welcome to the best pub in the world.

May 5: Simon Reeve – To the Ends of the Earth. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 6-9: Crewe Gang Show. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 6-7: Dan Daw – Exxy. The Lowry, Salford.

May 6: WHAM! The Show. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Tribute show.

May 6: Grateful Fred’s: Stephen Fearing.

Atkinson, Southport.

May 6: An Evening with Steve Cradock.

Atkinson, Southport.

May 6: Addysgu Rita. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

May 7: Thank You for the Music: The Ultimate Tribute to Abba. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

May 7: The Radiohead Poroject. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 7: Dial 1 for UK. The Lowry, Salford.

May 8: Man in the Mirror – A Tribute to Michael Jackson. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 8: Roland Gift presents Young Cannibals. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 8: Legends of American Country.

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 8: The Fleetwood Mac Songbook. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 8: John Kearns: Tilting at Windmills. The Lowry, Salford.

May 8: Nine Sixteens. The Lowry, Salford.

May 9: Period Drama. The Lowry, Salford.

May 9: The Mersey Beatles. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 9: Midge Ure. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 9: Wifi Wars. Octagon, Bolton.

May 9: Luke Combs UK. Floral Pavilion, NewBrighton.

May 12-23: The Karate Kid: The Musical.

Palace, Manchester.

May 12-16: To Kill a Mockingbird. Empire, Liverpool.

May 12-16: Party Season: Whatever You Do, Don’t Join The Whatsapp Group. The Lowry, Salford.

May 12: Sky Full of Stars. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Cold Play tribute show.

May 12: Frozen The Musical. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 12: Kiell Smith-Bynoe’s Kool Story Bro. Lyceum, Crewe. Comedy.

May 14: Super Furry Animals. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 14: The City of Curses: A Murder Mystery By Trial. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot.

May 14: Music of the Americas: USA. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 14: Craig Revel Horwood: Revelations.

Atkinson, Southport.

May 14: Stewart Lee vs The Man-Wulf. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 14: Damien Lewis – Who Dares Wins: The Secrets of the SAS. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 15: John Barrowman: My Life in Musicals. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 15: An Evening with Duncan Ferguson.

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 16-17:

PREVIEW

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

T

l WAITRESS: Palace, Manchester, May 26-30

l AN EVENING WITH DUNCAN FERGUSON: Floral Pavilion, New Brighton, May 15

FAME JR. The Brindley, Runcorn. Musical set in 1980s New York.

May 16: Seven Drunken Nights. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 16: Supreme Queen. Rhyl Pavilion.

Tribute show.

May 16: The Bench: A Tale from Paradise Heights. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 16: Copacabana Magic – The Barry Manilow Show. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 16: An Evening with John Craven: The Stories Behind the Headlines. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 17: An Evening with Sir Lenny Henry. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 17: An Evening with Toyah: Songs and Stories. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 17: Animals. The Brindley, Runcorn.

Celebration of All Creatures Great and Small.

May 17: Cassidy Janson: The Songs of Carole King. Octagon, Bolton.

May 17: Gyles Brandreth: Can’t Stop Talking.

The Lowry, Salford.

May 17: Paul McCaffery: What a Time to be Alive. The Lowry, Salford.

May 18: Blue. Opera House, Manchester. The Blue boys are back with plenty of their hits.

May 18: Springtide Organ Recital.

Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 18: Chris McCausland: Yonks! Grand, Blackpool.

May 19: An Evening with Henry Cole. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 19-24: Exhibition on Screen: Frida Khalo. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

May 19-23: The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged). Octagon, Bolton.

May 19-23: Sunny Afternoon. Empire, Liverpool. Musical. True story behind The Kinks.

May 19-20: Strictly: The Professionals. The Lowry, Salford.

May 19: Alfie Boe plus support Jessica Sweetman. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 19: K-Pop All Stars Tribute. Floral

l THE KARATE KID: The Musical, Palace, Manchester, May 12-23

Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 19: Max Cooper Live. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 19: Hamza Yassin: My Life Behind the Lens. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 20-21: Desperate Scousewives: Lily’s Story. The Brindley, Runcorn. Starring Chrissy Rock.

May 20-21: Seven Drunken Nights. Atkinson, Southport.

May 21-23: Come Together: The Lennon and McCartney Songbook. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

May 21: Macbeth. Empire, Liverpool.

May 21: Psychic Sally. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 21: Michael starring Ben. Lyceum, Crewe. Michael Jackson tribute show.

May 21: Harry Baker: Tender. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 21: That’ll Be The Day 40th Anniversary Show. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 21: Matt Haig – The Midnight Train. The Lowry, Salford.

May 21: Chuckl. Rhyl Pavilion.

Russell Kane.

May 22-Jun 6: Cured. Royal Court, Liverpool. New play by Liverpool writer and comedian Laurence Clark.

May 22: Walk Like a Man. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. The music of Franki Valli and The Four Seasons.

May 22: Cabaret Pride. The Brindley, Runcorn.

May 22: Classic Double: Blondie, Television and Talking Heads. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. Tribute show.

May 22: Reflections – The Musical Legacy of Diana Ross. Rhyl Pavilion.

May 22: Across The Universe 66-70: The Beatles Studio Years. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 22: Copacabana Magic: The Barry Manilow Tribute Show. Atkinson, Southport.

May 22: Good Vibrations: A Celebration of the Beach Boys. Philharmonic, Liverpool. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

May 22: The Two Mr P’s in a Podcast Live –

Please help keep this vital charity newspaper alive

to some of Let That Be A Lesson. The Lowry, Salford.

May 23: Scott Bennett: Stuff. The Lowry, Salford.

May 23: Cinderella Ice Cream Seller. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

May 23: Land of Sing: Voices of the Valleys.

Rhyl Pavilion.

May 23: The Lancashire Hotpots. Atkinson, Southport.

May 23: Justin Live – Just in Time to ROCK. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 24: Joe Kent-Walters Is Frankie Monroe: Dead!! (Good Fun Time). The Lowry, Salford.

May 24: Daliso Chaponda: Topical Storm.

The Lowry, Salford.

May 25: James Morrison. Philharmonic, Liverpool.

May 26-30: Glorious. Theatr Clwyd, Mold. True story of American socialite Florence Foster Jenkins, dubbed the “worst singer in the world”.

May 26-30: Our Public House. Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot. Funny and big-hearted show about change, set in a pub where anything can happen.

May 26-30: Spitfire Girls. Octagon, Bolton.

New Year’s Eve, 1959. Two women meet in the Spitfire pub and reminisce about their extraordinary true stories of flying in the war.

May 26-30: Waitress. Palace, Manchester.

Musical that’ll have you singing in the aisles.

May 26-30: Single White Female. Regent, Stoke. Starring Kim Marsh and Lisa Faulkner.

May 26-30: The Beekeeper of Aleppo. Grand, Blackpool.

May 26: K-Pop Forever. The Brindley, Runcorn. Tribute concert.

May 26: That’ll Be The Day 40th Anniversary Show. Atkinson, Southport.

May 26: Dino Tales – Jurassic Rescue. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 27-30: Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift. Opera House, Manchester.

May 27: Flowers and Friendship Bracelets.

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 27: What’s Love Got To Do With It? The Lowry, Salford. Tina Turner tribute show.

May 28-31: NT Live: Playboy of the Western World. Theatr Clwyd, Mold.

May 28-30: The Bench: A Tale form Paradise Heights. Octagon, Bolton. Dark comedy/drama with a rich vein of the supernatural.

May 28: Everton Legends. Empire, Liverpool.

May 28: The Legend of Barry White: Let the Music Play. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 28: Legend – The Music of Bob Marley.

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 29-Jun 6: Mrs Dalloway. Storyhouse, Chester. Virginia Woolf’s masterpiece bursts into life with a bold new production. Captioned, Jun 4; audio described/signed, Jun 6.

May 28: Olaf Falafel’s Stupidest Super Stupid Show. The Lowry, Salford.

May 28: Keith Brymer Jones and Marj Hogarth: US, Pots and a Welsh Chapel. The Lowry, Salford.

May 29: A Country Night in Nashville. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 29: Red Hot Chilli Pipers. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Tribute show.

May 29: Strictly Come Dancing: The Professionals. Empire, Liverpool.t. .

May 31: England v Scotland – The Comedy Show. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 31: Shoot From The Hip. The Lowry, Salford.

Jun 1-6: Bodyguard The Musical. Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

Jun 2-6: The Karate Kid – The Musical.

Empire, Liverpool. The powerful bond between Daniel and Mr. Miyagi, who teaches that karate isn’t about fighting, it’s about balance, dignity, and respect.

. . . see back page

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

HOW PLANTS GOT THEIR NAMES: LOBELIAS have long been popular as a long-flowering summer plant, best known as a small, spreading border-edge species with blue, purple, pink or white blooms.

There are also trailing kinds for pots and hanging baskets.

Most of those are hybrids of Lobelia erinus but there are more than 300 species including the striking Lobelia cardinalis, up to a metre (3ft) tall with rich bronze leaves and brilliant scarlet flowers.

They are named after Mathias de l’Obel, also known as Matthaeus Lobelius who was a Flemish physician and plant enthusiast.

Born in Flanders in 1538, he died in

All Together NOW!

Lobellia

TIP OF THE SEASON l STOP feeding houseplants which have flowered in winter but continue to feed those due to flower in spring or summer. l When cyclamen flowers fade, remove them by grasping the flower stem firmly near the base and pulling it sharply away from the corm. l This reduces the danger of the corm rotting.

London in 1616, probably having fled to England as a Protestant refugee from religious persecution.

He became superintendent of a botanical garden in London and a major link between British and European botanists, writing several innovative books and dedicating the first to Elizabeth I.

IT’S MED IN BRITAIN Bring the Riviera to your garden

SUNNY OUTLOOK: Right, warm colours of a Meditterranen garden Left, Pebbly beach style

A

FTER winter’s chill you might want to head for the Med this summer.

But if that is not possible, create your own Riviera setting at home.

A few tweaks can make all the difference – a beach-like pebbly surface, pots that look as if they have been baked in the sun and palm tree look-alike plants.

Patios paved with large slabs can be converted by removing one or two slabs and planting ground-hugging herbs in the spaces, in soil topped with pebbles Most varieties of thyme are ideal because they produce pink or purple summer flowers that bees and butterflies love and also tolerate being trodden on occasionally, releasing their spicy scent.

Terracotta containers could have been invented to give gardens a sunny glow, especially when bursting with vivid flowers such as petunias, the sun-loving daisy flowers of osteospermums or gazanias or bright foliage like the crimson and limegreen leaves of coleus.

Spiky-leaved plants give a passable impression of palm trees.

LEFT: Yucca filamento RIGHT: Petunias Yucca filamentosa, from the US makes a large spiky shrub and produces huge panicles of white, bell-shaped flowers from mid-summer.

Cordyline australis looks like a South Sea Island plant, although it comes from New Zealand. When mature it flowers with great clusters of scented, cream-coloured cups. It can eventually grow over 6m (20ft) tall so needs space. Young specimens can be grown in pots for a few years.

The New Zealand flax, Phormium tenax, looks similar but remains shrub-sized and is available with sword-like foliage in numerous shades of bronze, silver, green and gold.

However well the plants flourish, a summery garden is incomplete with a wintry background. Not everyone is lucky enough to have garden boundaries of red brick or

in terracotta container

local stone so if yours is a faded fence, it can be painted a warm colour such as russet or deep orange.

The final touch – a small water feature, just enough to add the sound of splashing or trickling, perhaps from the mouth of a wall-mounted figure or bubbling up from a pebble pool.

,. . . donate to the All Together NOW! charity

. . . see back page

23

24

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

STARSPOT CROSSWORD

The Accumulator Quiz

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.

★

1

2

3

4 8

★

8

9

★

5

6

★

10

11

12

13

★

14

16

7

15

17

★

22 18

21

19

20

21

25

26

23

27

★

★

28

29

31

★

22

★

24

26

25

★

30

★

32

Each question has four possible answers and is worth from one to 15 points. Circle your chosen answers and keep a record of your points total. Maximum total points 120.

QUESTION 1 – for 1 point: What was the name of Mickey Mouse’s pet dog?

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: At which course is the classic horse race the St Leger run?

A B C D

A B C D

Bluto Pluto Juno Sumo

A B C D

DOWN

1. Spouted vessel (6) 4. Self-centredness (6) 8. Annul (6) 10. Clinging gastropod (6) 11. Psalmist (5) 12. Intelligent (6) 14. Amalgamation (6) 16. Tear asunder (4) 17. Poetic name for Ireland (4) 19. Chair (4) 22. Sculpture of head (4) 26. Cope with (6) 27. Discomfort (6) 28. Artist’s material (5) 29. Disclose (6) 30. Kitchen utensil (6) 31. Narrative song (6) 32. Fireside (6)

1. Cherry liqueur (6) 2. Opera hat (inf.) (6) 3. Dull grey (6) 5. Non-powered aircraft (6) 6. Call in question (6) 7. Ripen (6) 9. Cooking fat (4) 10. Citrus fruit (4) 13. Irked (5) 15. Wash lightly (5) 18. Angelic being (6) 19. Run at the nose (6) 20. Woolly animal (6) 21. Freshwater duck (4) 22. Stopper (4) 23. False (6) 24. Rag (6) 25. Quest (6)

A B C D

William Byrd Franz Liszt Michael Tippett Pyotr Tchaikovsky

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: Which fictional crimefighter shares their name with a city in Turkey?

A B C D

A B C D

Calf Foal Elver Cub

Naturalist David Attenborough. See Question 14

A B C D

H HH HB BB

A B C D

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: Who was the mother of King Henry VIII?

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Which of the following David Attenborough TV programmes was made first?

A B C D

A B C D

A B C D

Semper Fidelis The Washington Post The Liberty Bell King Cotton

Elizabeth of York Anne of Denmark Margaret of Anjou Catherine of Valois

The Living Planet Life on Earth The Private Life of Plants The Trials of Life

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: The song Back for Good was a 1995 UK hit single for which boy band?

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: Which Gilbert and Sullivan operetta character boasted of leading his regiment from behind?

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: What type of game bird is also known as a francolin?

A B C D

A B C D

A B C D

Westlife Take That Backstreet Boys Boyz II Men

DIFFICULT

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

William Holman Hunt John Everett Millais Dante Gabriel Rossetti John Ruskin

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: Which Sousa march became the signature tune of Monty Python’s Flying Circus?

Colonel Fairfax The Duke of Plaza Toro The Mikado Captain Corcoran

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.

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

A B C D

Seven weeks Nine weeks Eleven weeks Thirteen weeks

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.

9 8 6 4

Poirot Batman Columbo Lewis

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: Which Pre-Raphaelite artist painted The Light of the World?

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: What is the average gestation period for a female dog?

KAKURO

7 1

Dubai Muscat Abu Dhabi Doha

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: What is a young whale called?

SUDOKU

EASY

Doncaster Epsom Ascot Newbury

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: What is the capital of the Sultanate of Oman?

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: Who composed the music for the ballet Swan Lake?

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: Which of the following letters indicates the softest pencil lead?

ACROSS

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

9 1 3 1 9

7 8 8 3 1 9 4

3 5 4

2 6

9 7 4 5 2

A pheasant A snipe A partridge A woodcock

MEDIUM 37

5

29

6

11

13

22

22

16 4

7

20 22

32 3 10 20 24

8

11

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SPRING 2026

19

3

2

19 5

21

10

11

22

19

13

19

9

10 19

2

3

15

4

1

19

21

2

1

22

3

14

2

3

16

19

9

17

9 7

7

19

19

15

11

19

20

19

19

2

22

9

13

22

3

12

3

14

15

10

13

19

2

15

22

2

6

15

19

11

13

5

22

19

9

15

19

21

10

19

10

3 3

11 8

9

15 17

25

9

2

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?

7 19

19

26

15

7

22

15

5

2

8

2

18

26

26

23 3

22

8 16

6

11

19

13 24

10

8

22 10

11

11 10

8 17

17

15

14

15

A T

3

4

5

6

7

16

17

18

19

20

L

2 ABC

3 DEF

4 GHI

5 JKL

6 MNO

7 PQRS

8 TUV

9 WXYZ

Spaces and any punctuation marks are represented by 1.

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.

2

1 []’– 1

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

1

25

DIALLING CODES

CROSS CODE 22

All Together NOW!

8

9

10

11

12

13

21

22

23

24

25

26

fictional sailors

2. and pirates 467 284 614 676 256 937 156 641 564 617 458 371 746 223 184 317 245 671 522 512 827 391 245 591 283 312 278 246 178 492 741 522 517 727 769

3. adventure sports 752 832 627 346 417 593 484 641 944 831 928 371 723 846 413 733 178 664 641 762 512 546 246 419 463 787 346 412 273 158 674 641 227 345 464

4. states in the USA 225 436 764 212 666 328 428 817 688 413 256 821 568 474 262 164 663 768 216 382 321 356 743 213 352 927 316 477 477 477 419 378 184 744 642

5. operas 243 218 672 212 276 361 843 122 723 716 317 384 553 126 741 326 188 883 134 335 461 337 176 736 528 254 371 366 144 682 664 141 724 542 224

6. female singers 363 541 726 331 526 213 351 739 123 353 174 821 672 172 566 213 248 412 396 623 127 486 391 773 277 152 391 424 216 425 416 462 517 442 662

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 14 breeds of horse and pony.

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 9?

A

V

extreme and

1. types of prepared fish 535 543 313 351 765 566 714 377 464 154 773 712 624 689 134 553 817 665 331 725 666 125 628 371 768 833 174 746 713 737 733 127 221 722 674

R

E

D

H

E

A

N

R

C

B

H

T

O N O R

I

P

E

H

A

H O

R

N

I

F

O

P

R

E

E

B

U O

E

D

Y

S

A

N

G

R

1

WORD WIZARD

2

3

4

5

6

Here is an unusual word with three definitions, only one of which is correct. Can you identify the right definition?

C

G

PEPERINO

E

G

N

A

S

D

L

F

F

I

L

O

D

1) A dark volcanic rock, with many crystals and rock fragments;

F

U O A F N C A P M U L E S L H B F MAKE A DATE

MISSING LINK Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (e.g. FRONT – DOOR – MAT). The initial letters of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out an alternative name for a bird of prey.

A

P

T

S

A

L

O H

C

N

U

D W E

C O

R

In which year did all three of these significant historical events take place?

H

E

I

1. Chancellor Gordon Brown cuts the basic rate of income tax to 22%.

L

S

S

I

R M X

E

N

A

P

K

HAND

––––

ROAD

S

O

L

A

N

SEX

––––––

COURT

A

E

T

I

H O O

MILITARY

––––––

DOG

SOFT

–––––

TYPE

S H E R S TRANSFORMER

CRUDE

–––

FIELD

Add the given letter to the first word to make a new word.

NORFOLK

––––

PIPE

2) A purplestriped, pale yellow fruit with sweet flesh, oval in shape;

2. The European Union Commisssioners resign en masse after a report on EU corruption is released.

3) A highly spiced Italian soup made from a selection of pulses.

3. Queen Elizabeth II opens the new Scottish Parliament.

Clue: Make a slow change into a complete turn.

WAS IT? a) 1995; b) 1996; c) 1997; d) 1998; e) 1999.

_________ +R=R_________

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords Clydesdale; Suffolk punch; mustang; Appaloosa; Shetland; Welsh Cob; Haflinger; Paso Fino; Thoroughbred; Hanoverian; percheron; Friesian; Exmoor; shire.

4 9 3 6 2 1 8 5 7

6 2 8 7 5 4 3 1 9

7 1 5 8 3 9 6 4 2

2 5 1 3 7 6 9 8 4

SUDOKU EASY

9 3 4 5 1 8 7 2 6

8 6 7 4 9 2 1 3 5

1 4 6 9 8 5 2 7 3

5 7 2 1 6 3 4 9 8

3 8 9 2 4 7 5 6 1

1 8 4 7 9 6 2 5 3

2 9 3 4 5 8 7 1 6

5 6 7 2 1 3 8 9 4

3 7 6 1 8 5 4 2 9

T

F

A O Q C

B

14 1

15 2

K

16 3

H

17 4

18 5

J

E W M R

19 6

20

Y

7

21

L

22

G S

8

9

Z

X

23 10

24

I

V

25

N P

11

12

U

26

D

13

CROSS CODE

4 5 1 9 3 2 6 8 7

8 2 9 6 4 7 1 3 5

SUDOKU DIFFICULT

9 1 8 3 6 4 5 7 2

6 3 2 5 7 1 9 4 8

7 4 5 8 2 9 3 6 1

9

24 20 3 32 7 22

8

8

9

1 10

2

2 6

4

7

9

9

6 22

1

8

3 13 6

4

7

1 22

5 37

20

7

5

KAKURO MEDIUM

1 8

1 3 4 16 11

5 7 9 8 29

1 7 3 11

Accumulator Quiz 1 – B; 2 – D; 3 – A; 4 – D; 5 – C; 6 – B; 7 – B; 8 – A; 9 – B; 10 – A; 11 – B; 12 – B; 13 – A; 14 – B; 15 – C. Starspot Crossword Across – 1 Kettle; 4 Egoism; 8 Repeal; 10 Limpet; 11 David; 12 Clever; 14 Merger; 16 Rend; 17 Erin; 19 Seat; 22 Bust; 26 Handle; 27 Unease; 28 Paint; 29 Reveal; 30 Grater; 31 Ballad; 32 Hearth.

Down – 1 Kirsch; 2 Topper; 3 Leaden; 5 Glider; 6 Impugn; 7 Mature; 9 Lard; 10 Lime; 13 Vexed; 15 Rinse; 18 Cherub; 19 Snivel; 20 Alpaca; 21 Teal; 22 Bung; 23 Untrue; 24 Tatter; 25 Search.

Star Name: PETER GABRIEL

Word Wizard No 1 is correct. Peperino is a volcanic rock.

Dialling Codes 1. jellied eel; rollmop herring; kipper; anchovy fillet; smoked salmon; bloater; potted shrimp; dressed crab; scampi.

2. Horatio Hornblower; Long John Silver; Sinbad The Sailor; Jack Aubrey; Billy Budd; Captain Pugwash; Jack Sparrow.

3. skateboarding; skydiving; white water rafting; free running; rock climbing; windsurfing; base jumping; abseiling.

4. California; Connecticut; South Dakota; Louisiana; Minnesota;

Nevada; Florida; Delaware; Mississippi; West Virginia.

5. Aida; Tosca; Carmen; The Barber Of Seville; Cosi Fan Tutte; Fidelio; Der Rosenkavalier; Don Giovanni; I Pagliacci.

6. Emeli Sandé; Lana Del Rey; Adele; Rita Ora; Paloma Faith; Beyoncé; Britney Spears; Lady Gaga; Nicki Minaj; Rihanna.

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

Missing Link rail; appeal; police; touch; oil; reed.

Bird of prey: raptor.

Make a Date The year was 1999.

Transformer Evolution + R = Revolution.

Studio 42 Photography Portraits Weddings Commercial Print sales Tuitian Picture Framing Photo Restoration Studio Hire.

255 Seabank Road, New Brighton, Wallasey, Merseyside, CH45 1HE. Tel: 0151 638 0412 Email: ken@42multimedia.co.uk

26

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

SUBSCRIBE!

WELL PREPARED: Boy Scout Jamboree, Arrowe Park, the original Birkenhead YMCA

All Together NOW! is helping and inspiring tens of thousands of people.

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 £20 donation (more, if you can afford it!) we will send you the next SIX editions.

NAME

ADDRESS

Please send this coupon and a cheque payable to All Together NOW! to: Subscriptions Dept., All Together NOW! The Bradbury Centre, Youens Way, Liverpool L14 2EP

KEN PYE’s latest book, Liverpool: A Potted History, is now available with Quirky Wirral to follow. All his books are available in all good bookshops or from Ken directly. l Tel. 0151 427 2717 lken@discover-liverpool.com

Area’s key role in birth of scouts

SPEECH: Robert Baden-Powell

BOYS WIRRAL BE BOYS! C

HANCES are you know something about the Boy Scout movement.

But did you know Birkenhead had a key role to play in its development?

Robert Baden-Powell’s plans for a new national youth movement were already catching on at the start of the 20th Century. But the former army officer needed somewhere to put his ideas into practice – which is how he ended up coming to the Wirral.

As a soldier in India in the 1870s, Baden-Powell had found himself specialising in training young soldiers in scouting, map-making, and reconnaissance.

His methods were unorthodox for the time but very successful. This was due particularly to his use of small units or patrols, working together under one leader and with special recognition for those who did well.

For proficiency, “B-P” (as he had become known) awarded his trainees badges resembling the traditional design of the north compass point. Later he served in Africa during the Boer War (1899–1902) and helped defend the town of Mafeking during its notorious 217-day siege.

The courage and resourcefulness shown by the boys, aged between 12

www.discover-liverpool.com

and 15, in the Corps of Messengers at Mafeking made a lasting impression on him. In turn, his own deeds made him a national hero in England, when he returned home in 1903.

He also found that the small handbook he had written for soldiers, Aids to Scouting, was being used by youth leaders and schoolteachers all over the country to teach observation and woodcraft.

This gave Baden-Powell plenty of food for thought so in 1907 he took 22 boys, aged 9-17 and from very different social backgrounds, on a 10-day camp on Brownsea Island, in Poole Harbour, Dorset, to test out his ideas for a youth movement.

Call to action The activities he organised worked so well and made such an impression on the boys that B-P was ready to put his plans into wider action.

He decided to go to one of the most deprived, yet energetic, parts of Britain to speak about his ideas for a national Boy Scout movement, and so he came to the North.

B-P also needed a town with a large population of teenage boys, who he knew would have the will, stamina, and imagination to respond to his call. This also needed to be a place where he

would also find adults with the necessary skills and qualities to lead these young boys – that place was Birkenhead.

And so it was that on January 24,1908, in the YMCA building that once stood on Grange Road in the town, B-P gave a speech to a large, enthusiastic audience and the response was exactly what he had hoped for.

Around the same time, he published his manual for Scouting called Scouting for Boys. This came out in six fortnightly instalments, between January and March 1908. It caught the national imagination, and Boy Scout troops were established right across Britain and, before long, the world, all now adopting B-P’s own motto to “be prepared”.

The rest, as they say, is history. So it was that the true beginnings of the international Scouting movement began in Birkenhead more than 100 years ago.

In 1929, Birkenhead Borough Council was asked to host the International Scout Jamboree on the 21st anniversary of the movement. This was held at Arrowe Park and was an outstanding success.

More than 50,000 Boy Scouts and Girl Guides attended from over 70 countries, and there were more than 300,000 visitors. This event remains the largest Scout Jamboree ever held.

Ken Pye – 0151 427 2717

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20) April: A burst of energy at the month’s start awakens your ambitions, pushing you towards new endeavours and reigniting passions in love. Mid-April brings some difficult emotions, especially with relationships. Honesty is essential to clear the air. Embrace your creative side.

May promises a month of growth and transformation. The first week requires patience and the ability to think long-term, but determination and courage will prevail. The full moon at the end of the month encourages brave steps towards learning, travelling, or achieving a long-held dream.

June will be a month of warm communications, personal development, strategic planning, and creative expression. A competitive spirit, particularly in sports, will make you unstoppable. This period will also bring chances for romance and social events that will bring joy.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21) April: It’s a month ripe for transformation under the light of the full moon. Balance your inner world with the bustle around you. Love may surprise you; an unexpected gesture could spark joy. Trust your instincts; they’ll guide you through.

May: A conflict between comfort and ambition may arise. Conversations will deepen, leading to better expression of needs and renewed faith in decisions.

Support from close ones and a partnership with a practical friend will propel plans forward and open overlooked opportunities.

June brings significant career and financial advances. Your excellent communication skills will inspire others and lead to new prospects.

You’ll find yourself mentally and physically empowered, brimming with enthusiasm. As the month ends, financial worries may arise.

GEMINI (May 22 – Jun 21) April brings a delightful mix of introspection and social engagement. The early days may have you reflecting on your goals and relationships, but don’t worry, your confidence will soon blossom as you embrace new connections.

By the month’s end, you’re ready to express your newfound insights.

May promises a harmonious and inspiring month. New opportunities emerge, fostering optimism. Your ideas will flow freely, and your long-term goals will become clearer, encouraging progress and openness to new possibilities. All in all, a dynamic, productive, and enlightening month.

June promises to be an intriguing period, marked by favourable experiences in romance, business, and finances. Your determination, persistence, and energy are high, enabling you to appreciate the successes of others whilst striving towards your own.

CANCER (Jun 22 – Jul 23) April: The first half of the month might feel like an emotional rollercoaster, but as the moon wanes, clarity follows suit. Romantic sparks fly mid-month, pushing you to be bold in love.

Later in the month, your confidence blooms.

May begins on a harmonious note. The early days encourage you to focus on practical matters, especially related to home and family.

Investing time in your home will strengthen bonds, making shared experiences more

SPRING 2026

All Together NOW!

What do the stars have in store for you this spring . . . RUSSELL GRANT meaningful. As the month progresses, seize the opportunities that arise.

June is set to be a dynamic month, filled with engaging activities and social interaction.

Expect to thrive in a newly invigorated social circle. New and talented acquaintances are poised to help you achieve significant objectives. However, it’s crucial to manage your energy effectively. Embrace changes and prepare for a month of growth and selfdiscovery.

LEO (Jul 24 – Aug 23) April urges you to explore new ideas and connect with those who share your passions.

Relationships heat up; expect some delightful surprises that could ignite a spark. As the month progresses, there might be a few hiccups in communication, think before you speak! Mid-month brings boosts in confidence, allowing you to shine at work.

May starts with supportive influences enabling you to stabilise plans and strengthen partnerships. A minor clash will serve as a learning curve, guiding you towards the most productive use of your energy.

June could be a challenging yet rewarding month. The early part may see you experiencing confrontations with family and workmates, prompting you to consider how you can improve yourself rather than focusing on others’ faults.

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23) April: A fresh breeze sweeps in, stirring your emotional depths and nudging you towards financial reflection. Expect some tender moments in love; let your charms shine and you’ll attract delightful connections. As new challenges emerge, your confidence will soar.

May ushers in a period of control and growth, as changes in routine bring about a deeper connection with personal well-being. However, tension between logic and emotion may arise, highlighting the importance of recognising personal limits.

June highlights your determination and organised nature to shine through. You’ll encounter new opportunities as you expand your social circle. In the final week, you may feel torn between external demands and your own desires.

, . . donate to the All Together NOW! charity

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23) April brings a delightful mix of challenges and triumphs. As the month unfolds, you’ll find your confidence swelling. Romantic sparks may fly, but tread carefully during those difficult moments when communication feels off. Don’t shy away from expressing your feelings and prepare new adventures.

May starts with a possible clash with a friend or workmate. Conserve your energy and stay calm. Hidden opportunities for growth and collaboration may surface, and by the 14th, you’ll be progressing towards an important goal. Reflect on what brings you joy.

June brings an unexpected opportunity, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding. Even if it seems like an excellent deal, there might be better options down the line. A new chapter in your life beckons, filled with travel and novel experiences.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22) April: An energy shift is coming as you step, offering a chance to reassess your routines and relationships. Early on, emotions may bubble under the surface. Mid-month brings a surge of creativity, lighting the way for fresh ideas. Trust your instincts; they won’t steer you wrong!

May finds you making meaningful commitments, mending broken relationships, and navigating emotional highs and lows. Mid-month, the good fortune of someone close to you will prompting you to reflect on your progress and future goals. Taking control of your life becomes a priority.

June promises a month of interaction with people from different cultures and a deep dive into educational, publishing, and legal matters. You will be absorbed in planning future holidays and the laying out of ambitious dreams and hopes.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21) April: There’s an exciting buzz in the air as, sparking your creativity and zest for life.

Relationships take centre stage, with old friendships reviving and new connections blossoming. A romantic twist might catch you by surprise, so keep your heart open and

embrace spontaneity.

May is a significant month, with the focus on practicality, leadership, socialisation, relationships, and personal change. The advice of an older colleague or relative could prove invaluable. Despite moments of restlessness, your spirits will lift as your longterm plans become clearer. Look forward to a life to be filled with joy.

June sees you getting involved with physically demanding group activities. Patience may dwindle, inviting the possibility of letting someone else take the lead. Sharing thoughts could lead to the realisation of a dream.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20) April: Early on, an emotional tug between your personal and professional realms may ask you to re-evaluate priorities. As confidence builds, so will your creative flair – perfect for those looking to woo that special someone.

Mid-month brings a delightful spark but be wary of misunderstandings.

May sees you radiating a sense of calming determination that inspires those around you.

Your aptitude for organisation enhances both your personal life and your professional responsibilities, providing confidence and a renewed sense of purpose.

June brings new opportunities. Unexpected gains may come your way through the people you know, bringing an increased sense of ambition. Financial prospects look promising.

If you’re feeling down, don’t hide it. Be open about it, your honesty will be appreciated by those around you.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19) April invites you to express your ideas with flair, sparking lively conversations. A full moon early in the month might stir a sense of longing for adventure, both emotionally and physically.

Watch for moments of self-doubt, especially mid-month. Don’t let them cloud your vision.

May begins with a focus on what matters most to you. Despite some impatient energy around you, remain calm and consider the long-term consequences of your decisions.

Communication will flow with ease, revealing new possibilities.

June unfolds as a month of opportunities and responsibilities. The initial weeks bring romance, friendship, and sports events into focus. Those in the arts, entertainment, or show business are likely to experience an exciting surge in their careers, possibly even travel opportunities.

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20) April: A month filled with emotional revelations and transformative experiences! Deepening connections in love and friendship will be your guiding stars, allowing for heartfelt conversations and shared laughter. By month’s end, expect a shift that brings clarity to your finances, paving the way for new opportunities. Embrace it all.

May urges you retreat and reflect on emotionally confusing matters. Focus on nurturing close relationships and personal projects. Recognition of hidden patterns will facilitate thoughtful decisions, and empathy will be appreciated by others.

June encourages a balance between work and play, as well as personal and professional responsibilities.

Use this period of positivity and high energy to host a social event or embark on shared activities.

. . . see back page

27

28

All Together NOW!

SPRING 2026

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

EVERY GIFT HELPS

F

OR 20 years, your FREE, multi-award winning All Together NOW! newspaper has been helping and inspiring hundreds of thousands of readers across the region with its unique content.

But publishing newspapers is a hugely costly business – especially for a small charity like ours.

Every advertisement or donation helps us to achieve that goal.

We are now appealing to YOU – our loyal and devoted readers – to help us to carry on the good work by becoming a FRIEND of All Together NOW! By making a donation to the charity you will have the satisfaction of knowing you have a direct involvement in keeping this essential and unique news service in good fettle.

Whatever you can afford to give will be gratefully appreciated!

You can either complete the form below or, if you have access to the internet, you can donate via the link on our website at www.alltogethernow.org.uk All Together NOW! is unique. You can help secure its future – and make it even bigger and better for everyone’s benefit.

Thank you.

TOM DOWLING, editor Tel, 0151 230 0307 news@alltogethernow.org.uk

T

HE Government operates a scheme called Gift Aid that allows charities to claim the basic rate tax on every pound donated.

So for every £20 you donated to All Together NOW!, the charity would be able to get another £5 from the Government!

Gift Aid Declaration Form I am a UK taxpayer. Please treat all donations I make or have made to All Together NOW! for the past 4 years as Gift Aid donations until further notice.

I would like to be a FRIEND of All Together NOW! and agree to donate

£

to the charity

E

Address

AS E L P

www.alltogethernow.org.uk Account Name: All Together Now! Ltd Sort Code: 08 9299 Account Number: 65136809

YOUR support will help keep this VITAL lifeline alive Name

Tel No:

DATE: