All Together NOW! May-June 2023

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YEARS OF BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER inside

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JUDI’S BLUE BADGE MISSION

MAY-JUNE 2023

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SNOW QUEEN – ON WHEELS

DAD TIME! The countdown begins

SUMMER p23 DELIGHTS

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ON THE CITY’S FREEDOM TRAIL

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What’s inside NEWS

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NEWS

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STEVE MORGAN FOUNDATION

UNITED UTILITIES

MOTORZONE

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CONTACT BOARD

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DISABILITY AWARENESS DAY p14-15

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THEATREZONE

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GARDENING

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HOROSCOPE

PUZZLEZONE

SPORT

ACCESS: The good and not-so-good news . . .

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

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INDEPENDENT LIVING

HEALTHZONE

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

0151 230 0307

Editor: Tom Dowling 0151 230 0307

email: news@alltogethernow.org.uk

Editorial Support: Gerry Corner

Advertising/sponsorship 0151 929 3912

email: helen@alltogethernow.org.uk IT Support: Ken Almond Website: Pharos Design

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NEXT EDITION Monday JULY 3

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

TRAIL TRIUMPH

FREEDOM: Better access on the way for cyclists of all abilities.

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REAT news for wheelchair users and cyclists who enjoy being in the big outdoors.

Liverpool’s historic Loop Line – an 11-mile trafficfree trail – is undergoing a major upgrade.

A £500,000 scheme will make access easier for people using wheelchairs, handbikes, mobility scooters, prams – and horse riders.

Upgrades to the route, that winds from Halewood to Aintree, have been funded by the city council and cycling charity Sustrans. They include: l Improving 30 access points. l Relocating barriers, such as street lighting columns and litter bins. l New bollards. l Improving access for maintenance vehicles. l Restoring dropped kerbs. l Resurfacing paths and footways. l Fencing improvements. l Widening access paths.

Some trees have also been removed along the route as part of the pre-works programme as roots were eroding the geologically important sandstone along the path, and causing a hazard.

Picture by Chris Foster, Sustrans

The work is due to be completed by June and forms part of Liverpool’s ambitious active travel programme.

This includes seven safer cycle routes across the city, as well as a new learn to ride facility for children in Everton Park.

Councillor Dan Barrington, cabinet member for climate change and highways, said: “The Liverpool Loop Line is like a magical corridor. It’s in the city, but it makes you feel like you’re in the country.

“Unfortunately, it is not currently accessible to everyone but I’m delighted we’re going to be able to change that through this investment.

“Once it’s complete in the summer, it will be a much-improved resource for our residents and visitors giving them a free and healthy experience full of wonder and discovery that few other cities can match.”

Tim Hollins, Sustrans’ north west network manager, added: “These changes will make it much easier for people with mobility aids, families with buggies, and those with larger bikes to enjoy the health and transport benefits of a traffic-free path.”

Now get streets sorted

. . . but just moving around neighbourhoods continues to be a struggle for many

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MASTERPLAN has been drawn up to improve the grim experience of disabled people moving around their own communities.

The series of recommendations aimed at making the streets accessible to all follows research that paints a stark picture of how inaccessible and dangerous our neighbourhoods have become.

In a survey of over 1,100 disabled people across the UK, more than two in five people face barriers to reaching their destination on foot or in a wheelchair.

Now the Sustrans charity is calling on the Government and local authorities to ensure disabled people are at the centre of future planning.

Xavier Brice, CEO of Sustrans, said: “Putting disabled people at the centre of discussions about how we plan and create spaces where we can all

move around easily and safely is vital. The Government must listen and take action to create places planned around people, not cars.”

“The recommendations are contained in a report from Sustrans that follows a six-month long Disabled Citizens Inquiry, which the charity produced in partnership with disabled people’s organisation Transport for All. They include: l Prohibiting pavement parking to make communities more accessible. l Creation of a long-term dedicated pavement fund to improve and maintain pavements. l Ensuring disabled people can be within walking or wheeling distance of services and amenities by creating communities with accessible services close to where people live through better planning.

Connecting with 250,000 people . . .

Are you missing out on benefits?

MORE than 600,000 disabled people could be missing out on thousands of pounds a year in benefits.

New figures show 632,000 people are getting out-ofwork disability benefits for those with the highest support needs – but are not receiving disability living allowance (DLA) or personal independence payment (PIP).

It could mean tens or even hundreds of thousands of disabled people might be eligible for up to £156 a week more.

Labour shadow minister for disabled people, Vicky Foxcroft obtained the figures and has called on the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to take action.

She said the DWP should write to all 632,000 claimants to ask if they have considered applying for PIP. A DWP spokesperson said: “PIP/DLA can help with some of the extra costs if your health condition or disability is expected to last 12 months, while ESA/Universal Credit can provide financial support to people whose disability or health condition affects how much they can work.

“Receiving one benefit does not mean an individual will be eligible for the other.” l Disability Rights UK Handbook – p5

Covid-19: The cruel truth

HUGE numbers of disabled people say they are yet to recover from their experience of the Covid-19 pandemic.

National charity Sense have announced results of their latest study which will be used at the independent Covid-19 inquiry that starts on June 13.

Sarah White, head of policy at Sense, said: “The upcoming public inquiry is an opportunity to learn from the mistakes that have happened during the pandemic and ensure that never again are disabled people treated as second class citizens. We must seize it.”

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www.alltogethernow.org.uk

OUR VISION

A WORLD where people affected by disability, and others who are disadvantaged, can enjoy the same opportunities as everyone else

WHY THE FIGHT MUST GO ON!

years of of bringing bringing people people together together years

HALF A MILLION PEOPLE ACROSS THE REGION ARE DIGITALLY EXCLUDED

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VERY warm welcome to our 18th anniversary issue. There have been many times when we thought we would never reach this milestone.

Over the past decade hundreds of well-established local newspapers have collapsed, caused by the powerful surge of the internet and the seismic decline in advertising revenue.

But, against all odds, we have been able to get this far. How we’ve been able to do so is down to the tremendous and ongoing support we’ve had from organisations who understand the importance of All Together NOW! They know there are more than HALF A MILLION people across Merseyside and Cheshire who are not internet users and have no other way of accessing the kind of help, advice,

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guidance and inspiration that only this newspaper provides.

It’s hardly surprising that the vast majority of these people are over 65, affected by disability, or simply can’t afford to go online.

For 18 years, All Together NOW! has filled this vital gap. As tough as it is, we are fully prepared to fight on.

But we also need a lot more help . . .

I hope you like the edition as much as we have enjoyed producing it.

We’re back in July. See you then.

TOM DOWLING editor

FIRST EDITION: MAY 2005

Council Approved Contractor & Suppliers Covering The Northwest

Free Home Demonstrations

SALES, REPAIR & SERVICING OF ALL MOBILITY & DISABILITY PRODUCTS

Move to fine airlines failing disabled flyers

A NEW campaign is under way to fine airlines who fail in their obligations to disabled travellers.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, MP Marion Fellows called for legislation to give the Civil Aviation Authority to impose fines on airlines who: l Damage wheelchairs or essential mobility devices. l Leave disabled passengers on flights for a prolonged period once the flight has landed. l Fail to provide adequate assistance despite prior knowledge of disabled passengers’ needs.

Mrs Fellows, Scottish National Party spokesperson for people with disabilities, said well-publicised cases of high profile disabled people like Sophie Morgan, Frank Gardner and Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson are just the tip of the iceberg.

She writes: “This Government has made a worthy commitment to make sure that disabled people are able to travel easily, confidently and without extra cost as outlined within the Inclusive Transport Strategy.

“However, in the aviation industry, disabled passengers are unable to travel with ease or confidence and regularly face additional costs.”

Snap to it . . .

THE final call has gone out to people with Down’s syndrome to enter the international photography competition, My Perspective 2023.

Every year, budding photographers from all over the world enter, and this year it’s bigger and better, with new categories, a child and adult section, and a new short film category.

Winning entries will have their work displayed at a series of UK-wide exhibitions, and all those shortlisted will be invited to an awards night in London.

Deadline, May 31.

Down’s Syndrome Association Helpline: 0333 121 2300. n www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/ourwork/our-voice/my-perspective/

Call Us On:

01744 602602 Also At:

0151 423 3738

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

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Benefits fast-tracked at time of most need

THOUSANDS of terminally ill people are to have disability benefits fast-tracked.

People in their final year of life can now get vital financial support six months earlier than they were able to previously.

Those who are eligible will not be required to attend a medical assessment, and in the majority of cases, they will receive the highest rate of benefits.

This will apply to Personal Independent Payment, Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance.

Mark Jackson, Marie Curie’s senior policy and research manager, said: “We are pleased to see these changes come into effect, having campaigned alongside terminally ill people and the Motor Neurone Disease Association to scrap the previous six-month rule.”

Alex Massey, head of campaigning at the Motor Neurone Disease Association, added: “This will enable more people with the disease to access the support they need quickly without the need for a face-to-face assessment.”

Help for the helpers

A NEW effort is being made to support unpaid black, Asian and minority ethnic carers who are not getting the help they need.

Often, they will not even recognise themselves as carers, with some languages lacking a distinct word for “carer”.

Now the Carers UK charity has released a best practice guide to advise organisations on how they can best support people from these backgrounds. n Download the best practice guide at www.carersuk.org Health Inequalities: Page 6

Hiden costs of cancer

PEOPLE with cancer are also having to cope with soaring daily living costs and the additional worry that comes with it.

The research found 83% of people with cancer say unexpected expenses since their diagnosis are impacting their mental health, with over a third (36%) feeling the impact strongly.

On top of that, 78% of people are struggling to pay bills as a result of the costs that come with a diagnosis.

The poll was carried out for cancer support charity Maggies, whose chief executive Dame Laura Lee said: “It is unthinkable that someone worrying about cancer is also worrying about putting the heating on, getting to their hospital appointment or buying food.”

PROUD MOMENT: Pauline Thornley and Councillor Frazer Lake sign the Liverpool Kinship Charter

MAY-JUNE 2023

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

City first to create charter of rights

UNSUNG CARERS WIN PROTECTION

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IVERPOOL has become the first place in the country to create a charter supporting the “unsung heroes” who care for the children of relatives or friends.

Find YOUR local Carers Centre – p17

So-called “kinship carers” take in the children of parents who are no longer able to cope for a variety of reasons, which might include drug and alcohol abuse, bereavement, imprisonment or illness.

Kinship carers can be grandparents, aunts and uncles, neighbours and others and the support available to them from local authorities and statutory services varies enormously, according to the charity Kinship.

Cllr Frazer Lake, Deputy Mayor of Liverpool and cabinet member for children’s social care, said: “Kinship carers are very often our unsung heroes, not only because they care for children and young people, but because they help to keep family units together.

“The new charter, which is a national first, clearly sets out what kinship carers can rightly expect from the council and from other services which might be commissioned, respecting the role they play in caring for and supporting children who may often be vulnerable.”

Pauline Thornley, project co-ordinator for Liverpool Kinship Carers, said: “Being the first city in the country to adopt a charter is a proud moment for all those families who have endlessly campaigned over the years to bring about change.”

Ian Byrne, MP for West Derby and member of the cross-party parliamentary taskforce on kinship care, said: “I look forward to highlighting this achievement nationally with all involved and using it as a template for kinship to roll out to other local authorities.”

It is estimated that there are about 180,000 children in the UK being looked after in a kinship family.

Juggling jobs with loved ones

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HE number of carers who are juggling employment with high levels of care has increased alarmingly over the past decade.

Those in work who are spending between 20 and 49 hours a week caring for loved ones and friends has almost doubled, according to new figures from the Office of National Statistics.

In all, there are now 2.5m unpaid carers who are trying to balance employment and caring duties.

Emily Holzhausen, director of policy and public affairs at Carers UK, said: “Around half a million unpaid carers providing 20-49 hours of care a week are also in work,

while 400,000 providing more than 50 hours of care a week are managing to squeeze in time to work as well.

“During a cost of living crisis when every pound counts, and when access to social care is so limited, it is vital that this group of carers is adequately supported by Government and employers to manage both roles.

“For those carers providing more than 35 hours of care a week and receiving Carer’s Allowance, it is vital that the earnings threshold is raised so that they are not penalised for working more hours. We also want Carer’s Allowance raised.” n Helpline: 0808 808 7777.

The stark figures:

l 1.5m are caring for 19 hours or less. l 500,000 are caring for 20-49 hours. l 400,000 are caring for over 50 hours. l 43,000 are full-time students who are in employment l 1.2m are retired. l 625,000 are looking after family or home. l 217,000 are long term sick or disabled. l 117,000 are unemployed and seeking work/waiting to start work (excluding students). l 1.4m are women; 1m are men.

‘Benefit reforms are not fit for purpose’

CAMPAIGNERS have slammed controversial new disability benefits reforms.

They were giving evidence as part of a Commons women and equalities committee inquiry into the Government’s National Disability Strategy.

They mostly focused on plans in the Transforming Support white paper to scrap the work capability assessment (WCA), and to tighten the benefits sanctions regime.

Under the WCA plans, sick and disabled people who cannot work would only be able to qualify for a new health element of universal credit if they also received the extra costs benefits personal independence payment (PIP) or disability living allowance.

This would mean that responsibility for deciding if a disabled person had to carry out work-related activity would be handed to work coaches, who would be likely to have no healthcare qualifications.

Bad practice

Fazilet Hadi, head of policy for Disability Rights UK, said that leaving it to individual work coaches to decide what work-related activity a disabled person should carry out would leave disabled people exposed to bad practice.

She claimed there would be people who were not fit for work but would not qualify for PIP and therefore be ineligible for the new health element of universal credit under the new system.

Martin McLean, senior policy adviser for the National Deaf Children’s Society, said: “It’s frustrating that disabled young people have not been considered because they can face the biggest barriers in terms of moving into work.”

The disabled Conservative peer Lord Kevin Shinkwin said: “In effect, it is one step forward, two steps back in terms of creating concern and anxiety among disabled people.

“I don’t think the PIP assessment was designed to be fit for purpose for what it is now being proposed it should be used for.”

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

Big push for eye remedy www.alltogethernow.org.uk

MAY-JUNE 2023

Pioneering bid to treat age-related sight loss

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XCITING new research could lead to a breakthrough in the treatment of an eye disease affecting 190 million people worldwide.

Ground-breaking techniques will be used to study age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common condition affecting the vision, particularly in older people.

It is believed the project could provide the key to new treatments for AMD and help develop new and faster ways to diagnose and prevent it.

A team of scientists led by a Northumbria University professor will use a type of stem cell that allows them to follow the development of the disease and the effects of treatment at different stages.

The cutting-edge research has been made possible by £100,000 in funding from the

All Together NOW!

Come up with answers, benefits officials told

BLURRED VISION: How life appears to people with AMD

Academy of Medical Sciences’ Springboard scheme.

The macula is part of the retina at the back of eye that allows you to see fine detail and is responsible for our central vision.

Macula cells can deteriorate for a number of reasons, the most common being ageing, but smoking, poor diet, high blood pressure and genetic history can all play a part too.

Blurred vision

Symptoms include blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and seeing straight lines as wavy. The condition can develop slowly over several years or can develop very quickly and so far, there is no cure.

The risk of developing advanced AMD increases from 2% for those aged 50-59, to nearly 30% for those over 75.

In 2020, the condition is believed to affect

more than 190 million people globally but tthat figure is expected to rise to 288 million people by 2040 as the elderly population increases.

Dr Gerrit Hilgen, an assistant professor in neuroscience at Northumbria University, who is leading the work, said the project was “at the forefront of discovery.

“This will help us better understand AMD as well as find new ways to treat the disease.”

Professor Dianne Ford, from the university’s faculty of health and life sciences, said: “These awards are highly competitive and prestigious. The fact that Gerrit has secured this award is testament to the excellence of his research.”

Dr Suzanne Candy, from the Academy of Medical Sciences, said: “Together with our partners, we are fortunate to be able to support this talented group of researchers doing excellent science.”

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THE Department for Work and Pensions has been warned over its failure to properly answer requests for information on disability benefits, universal credit and claimant deaths.

Information commissioner John Edwards criticised officials for “systematically failingto comply with the law”.

He said cases were increasingly being brought to him where the public interest in releasing information was “not being adequately considered” by DWP. If DWP fails to confirm that it has complied with the report’s recommendations, it could be issued with an enforcement notice and possibly be subject to an “adverse comment” in a report to Parliament.

A DWP spokesperson said: “The department is carefully considering all points raised by the Information Commissioner’s Office and will take any necessary steps to implement any changes required ahead of the ICO’s deadline of 23 June.

“The department takes very seriously its compliance with the Freedom of Information Act and compliance with the Cabinet Office code of practice.”

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MAY-JUNE 2023

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Sight loss veterans ‘back on peaks’ Emotional support for deaf cancer patients DEAF people living with cancer can now access emotional and practical support.

Macmillan Cancer Support and Self Help UK have joined forces to improve the support available.

Claire Adshead, who has been deaf since birth, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2019 and struggled to find support.

She said: “When I saw the surgeon, I didn’t have a BSL interpreter. Luckily, I was able to lipread and understand the surgeon well.

“But afterwards, I needed more support, someone to talk to and I found there were no support groups in my area.”

When her treatment was finished, Claire joined the Macmillan Deaf Cancer Support Group. She said: “The group gives out information that I wished I knew before I started treatment. It’s helped me a lot plus made me feel I am not alone through my cancer journey as a deaf person.

“Now I am officially part of the team to do more good work with deaf people living with cancer.” n Macmillan Helpline: 0808 808 00 00.

Care supply shrinking

ONE in three adult care providers have considered closing in the past year, a shock new report reveals.

The Sector Pulse Check report has highlighted the unique challenges facing social care as a result of the pandemic, the cost of living crisis and decades of under-investment by central government.

Financial and workforce pressures have also seen 42% of providers forced to close parts of their organisation or hand back care contracts to local authorities.

The research into the state of adult care was commissioned by national learning disability charity Hft and Care England, the largest and most diverse representative body for independent providers of adult social care in England.

Job prejudice exposed

AGEISM, sexism and racism are all still rife in the UK jobs market.

Researchers posing as job seekers found discrimination against older job seekers is worse still if they are black or female.

A series of fictitious applications were made for real job vacancies to test the chances of gaining an interview for people of different age, sex and ethnicity.

The results revealed the younger white British male candidate was 16% more likely than the 50-year-old white British male to secure an interview; 18% more likely than the 50-year-old white British female; 22% more likely than the 50-year-old black British male; and 29% more likely than the 50-year-old black British female.

In the research by Anglia Ruskin University, the younger white British male was also offered interviews for jobs that had higher wages.

We’re virtually at the summit!

WHAT A VIEW: Jason in the hills. Inset, one of the blind verterans with a VR headset

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EOPLE with limited vision are “climbing” their favourite mountains again, thanks to virtual reality headsets.

Jason Turnbull makes videos of his climbs on a 360-degree camera and shows it to visually impaired military veterans on VR headsets.

Keen climbers no longer able to make the ascent themselves have been overwhelmed by the experience, which they say is “like being back on the hills”.

Because the VR headset lenses are close to their eyes, the veterans can experience the video footage like everyone else.

Jason, who works at Sight Scotland Veterans Centre in Paisley, is working his way through the Monros – Scotland’s highest peaks.

He said: “I edit the footage and show the veterans when I come back, and they are saying it is absolutely unbelievable.”

Noreen Smith, a former army nurse who has

macular degeneration, had to give up her hill walking due to her vision impairment.

She said: “The VR is just wonderful. It is just like you are back there again. It brings back so many happy memories for me. I can see the whole landscape, all the tremendous views. It really is like I am walking up the hills again.”

Jason was inspired to begin filming after watching 360-degree videos on YouTube.

“I thought ‘I can do better than that’. So I bought a 360-degree camera and took it up the hills with me.

“I then began showing the footage to the veterans who were keen walkers, and those who weren’t, and there was a very positive reaction.”

“I have been going around as many Munros as I can so they can come with me. I am starting with the centrally located ones, in and around Crianlarich, like Ben More and Stob Binnein.

“It is so rewarding to watch them and see their reaction.” n Sight Scotland Veterans: Tel. 0141 370 8050.

‘Our great champion’

TRIBUTES have been paid to Baroness Masham, a former Paralympc star and the longest ever serving female member of the House of Lords who has died aged 87.

After winning medals in swimming and table-tennis at the 1960, 1964 and 1968 Paralymics, she was created a life peer in 1970.

Much of her career was spent campaigning for disability rights.

The Spinal Injuries Association, which she founded in 1974, said it was “devastated to have lost our greatest champion”.

Lady Masham, born Susan

Sinclair, became a wheelchair user after suffering an injury to her spinal cord in a riding accident in 1958.

Two years later, she won a gold medal in the 25m breaststroke at the Paralympic games in Rome, and in 1964 won another in the women’s doubles table tennis in Tokyo.

She won a further six silver medals and two bronze across both sports in the three games at which she competed.

In 1976 she was the subject of an episode of ITV’s This Is Your Life. She sat as a crossbencher and spent a total of 53 years in the House of Lords, more than any other female peer in history.

Covid-19 ‘made health inequality worse’

MORE people from ethnic minority groups died or suffered severe illness during the pandemic because their risk of infection was greater.

Researchers who analysed results from 77 research studies across the world – covering 200 million people – found that the biggest driver of ethnic inequalities was exposure to the virus.

Five UK universities were involved in examining the figures which showed that compared to the white majority group, South Asian people were three times more likely to test positive for infection, black people 1.8 times more likely, and mixed and other ethnic groups 1.3 times more likely.

Among studies that looked at the risk of severe illness or death from Covid-19 in the whole population, black people were 1.5 times more likely to be admitted to hospital than the white majority, indigenous people 1.9 times more likely and Hispanic people 1.32 times more likely.

Intensive care

Dr Patsy Irizar, from The University of Manchester, who led the work, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has worsened existing ethnic inequalities in health, and responses must focus on tackling the drivers of these inequalities, including structural racism and racial discrimination.”

The report also showed the risk of needing intensive care was also higher – South Asian, East Asian, indigenous, Hispanic and black groups all had more than triple the risk than white majority groups. .

Different patterns of employment, income and housing affected the level of risk faced by people from different ethnicities.

For instance, people from ethnic minority groups are more likely to have publicfacing jobs, less likely to be able to self-isolate or work from home, more likely to live in overcrowded housing, and less likely to have access to open spaces.

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

CAMPAIGNING: Lady Masham

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

MAY-JUNE 2023

Change lives – that’s what we do www.stevemorganfoundation.org.uk Tel 01928 706555

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HE Steve Morgan Foundation has been changing people’s lives ever since it was founded by entrepreneur Steve Morgan CBE in 2001.

The philanthropist has committed assets of £300m, and the Foundation has funded everything from the purpose-built Maggie’s Wirral, cuttingedge research into type1 diabetes, as well as helping charities struggling with the impact of Covid-19.

However, one of the biggest changes the Foundation has consistently made to the lives of

stevemorganfoundation

Steve Morgan Foundation

individuals and their families has been through the Enable Fund.

The Enable Fund supports people of all ages in financial hardship, who are in need of specialised equipment, including mobility aids, wheelchairs and trikes.

The list also includes sleep systems, car seats, sensory equipment and communication aids.

Mr Morgan explained: “The Enable Fund was set up to support people to do the things most of us take for granted. It helps them to lead more fulfilling lives.”

POWER

PEOPLE!

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to the

BIG SUPPORTER: Steve Morgan CBE, chairman of the Steve Morgan Foundation, addressing the audience

Our funding is opening new doors

HE first purpose-built mental health and wellbeing hub attached to a Premier League football club is now officially open to help people across Merseyside.

The multi-million-pound venue offers a first of its kind service delivered by a football club’s community foundation.

It has all been made possible thanks to significant funding from the Steve Morgan Foundation, the Premier League, The FA and Government’s Football Foundation, and Phil Brown, who founded enginerering

STRETCH FOR IT . . .

company, Causeway Technologies.

Liam Eaglestone, CEO of the Steve Morgan Foundation, said: “This wonderful new facility will enable Everton in the Community to give more people more access

Picture, Ashleigh Ann Photography

@stevemorganfdn

to a broad range of activities and specialist support to enhance every area of health and wellbeing.”

The building, located just 500 metres away from Goodison Park, will house Everton

in the Community’s 15 mental health projects and provide wellbeing activities.

The People’s Place was declared open

by Evertonian and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham. He said: “This is a much-needed facility that will enable Everton in the Community to continue to grow and develop its well-earned reputation in delivering high-quality mental health provision as well as providing access to key clinical services.”

Boost for therapy centre

A CENTRE that’s helping people with long-term neurological conditions is expanding its services, thanks to the Steve Morgan Foundation.

The Neuro Therapy Centre, which supports people across North Wales, Cheshire and Merseyside, has received a grant of £91,278 to fund the salary of an additional therapist at its Saltney premises.

One in ten people in the UK has one of the neurological conditions that the centre supports through a wide range of activities.

The centre has an oxygen

Enable grants info .... Contact: enable@stevemorganfoundation.org.uk

therapy capsule, a fitness gym, a physiotherapy facility, therapy rooms and a cafe area.

Demand for services is high and membership is due to increase by 50% – with physio sessions going from 155 a month to 210 over the coming months.

Jane Johnston-Cree, CEO, said: “The Steve Morgan Foundation is a wonderful supporter of small charities like ourselves, and we’re so grateful for their support.

“Fundraising is getting tougher but the demand for our services keeps increasing.”

or

Jane Harris, Director of Grants at the Steve Morgan Foundation, said: “The Foundation has supported The Neuro Therapy Centre with various grants since 2011, when it was known as The Multiple Sclerosis Centre.

“We have been hugely impressed with how this charity has grown and adapted its services to reach a wider audience and to provide extensive support, both face to face and online.

“We are delighted to maintain support to underpin their continued growth.”

hello@stevemorganfoundation.org.uk

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Region’s children losing vital help

CHILDREN with sight loss are missing out on vital support as budgets are cut and specialist teachers lost.

And young people in the North West are being hit hardest.

The Royal National institute of Blind People has revealed that despite an increase in the need for specialist support, nearly half (42%) of local authority visual impaired education (VI) teams in England have experienced real term cuts through budgets being cut or frozen in the past year.

And through a Freedom of Information request, the charity found 60% of local authorities reported a decrease or freeze in specialist VI teachers in the last 12 months.

As a result, half of all children and young people with vision impairment will have their access to specialist support adversely affected.

The North West is most affected by the cuts, with 57% of local authorities experiencing cuts and freezes to budgets.

Caireen Sutherland, RNIB’s head of education, said: “We are extremely concerned that caseloads continue to rise and access to vital specialist support is being reduced.

“This will not only impact on education, but will have a significant impact on children’s opportunities in later life.

“We need immediate actions from the Government to improve access to specialist VI support.”

Final wave for canine surging hero Ricochet www.alltogethernow.org.uk

THE world’s first surf therapy dog has died after a lifetime devoted to helping others.

Ricochet, the canine legend and star of film, TV shows and books, succumbed to liver cancer, aged 15.

She became the first ever canine assisted surf therapy dog in 2009 when she jumped on the board of a 15-year-old boy with a spinal cord injury and instinctively balanced it.

Since then she has surfed with children with special

STOP THIS SUFFERING

N

URSES, carers and politicians are all backing a major campaign to stop spinal cord injured patients suffering appalling neglect by being denied essential bowel care.

Politicians of all parties came together in Parliament to hear calls for an end to the “needless suffering” experienced in a medical setting by many whose bladder and bowel function is affected by injury.

The Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) says specialist bowel care is an issue that has been routinely ignored by policy makers for years, with serious consequences for patients.

A spinal cord injury affects all bodily

functions below the point of injury including bladder and bowel function.

Many patients have told the charity shocking stories of neglect, like Heather Scott from Leicestershire.

She said: “I was instructed to get on with my own bowel care even if that meant messing the bed, so I soiled myself many times.

Humiliated

“I’ve been spinal cord injured for over 40 years and have never felt as humiliated and frustrated as I did then.”

Another, Terry Turner from Liverpool, said of his experience of poor bowel care: “If that was animals in a zoo the bosses would be jailed, and the zoo closed down.”

Disabled people leading change CHARITY SPOTLIGHT

D

ISABILITY Rights UK is the largest national charity led by, run by, and working for disabled people.

It works with Disabled People’s Organisations and Government across the UK to influence regional and national change for better rights, benefits, quality of life and economic opportunities for disabled people.

DR UK’s distinctive position means it can put concerns strongly and directly to government, infrastructure and service providers, and care regulators. It was strongly involved in lobbying the major supermarkets to provide priority shopping and online delivery slots for disabled customers.

It continues to provide vital information to disabled people across the country through its helplines, news updates and factsheets.

Unique services, such as its Student Helpline, provide information about how to access support at university. It also partners with various grass roots organisations in the North West to run projects enabling disabled people to participate in sport and physical activity.

Naturally, the charity’s resources were stretched during the Covid-19 pandemic and donations are very welcome at

www.justgiving.com/disabilityrightsuk

needs, wounded warriors, adaptive surfers, a goat, pro surfers and more.

Her exploits were regularly featured in All Together NOW! Ricochet’s work won many awards such as an American Humane Association Hero Dog Award, and the American Red Cross Hero award.

Her guardian, Judy Fridono, said: “I don’t want people to be sad, I want them to celebrate and continue supporting what she started.”

OUT NOW! Everything you need to know

THE new Disability Rights Handbook provides in-depth, comprehensive guidance on the benefits system, explains how social care operates around the UK and includes information about other services and resources for disabled people.

And it’s full of tools and tactics to help you make a successful claim.

Written in plain English by benefits’ specialists and legally referenced, it’s the only user-friendly guide designed for both claimants and advisers.

Fully updated for 2023/24 and easy to find your way around, it has the answers you need, to claim what you’re entitled to, or challenge an unsuccessful application for benefits or social care. n Reduced price copies for individuals are available online at www.disabilityrightsuk.org/shop or by calling 020 3687 0790.

Dave Bracher, SIA’s campaigns manager, said: “Many will be shocked and appalled to hear the stories we are going to be sharing, but this is the reality of life for far too many spinal cord injured people.”

Mohammed Belal, a consultant urological surgeon at University Hospital Birmingham, sustained a spinal cord injury after being struck by a tree in 2021. He believes the hardest part of his recovery was the bowel care.

Mr Belal said: ”Poor bowel care can have significant mental and emotional effects, with a decreased quality of life, social isolation, and depression. It is so important to get it right.”

Genuine Radar NKS Key Get priority access to accessible public toilets

If you have a health condition or disability, finding an accessible toilet that’s clean, tidy and available for you to use can be a challenge.

And they’re often kept locked.

l The Radar key gives you access to over 9,000 locked disabled public toilets around the UK.

l Disability Rights UK manages the Radar NKS Scheme and relies on key sales to maintain it.

l Don’t risk buying a cheap copy that may not work.

l All keys manufactured and guaranteed by the makers of the Radar locks themselves Genuine Radar Key £5.00 including P&P Available from: www.disabilityrightsuk.org/shop

You can also send a £5 cheque made payable to ‘Disability Rights UK’

Disability Rights UK, Plexal, 14 East Bay Lane, Here East, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 3BS

MAY-JUNE 2023

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

All Together NOW!

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 May 2016, more than 300,000 people across the North West have now registered for United Utilities’ Priority Services scheme.

Amanda Phillips, Priority Services manager at United Utilities 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 KHDOWK SUREOHPV LJQDQFLDO ZRUULHV RU language barriers.

“By registering for our scheme, we can make sure you receive the right support from us during those times ZKHQ ZH PD\ QHHG WR VZLWFK RDŽ WKH water to repair a leak, or if we need to visit you in your own home.

“A lot of people I speak to tell me they don’t need this support, but I always say that we all know at least one SHUVRQ ZKR ZRXOG EHQHLJW Ý LQFOXGLQJ a parent, friend or neighbour - so register them on their behalf if you think we could help.”

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

Supporting DAD! One of the UK's biggest and best disability events is taking place in Warrington again this summer.

Disability Awareness Day takes place at Walton Hall Gardens in Warrington on Sunday 16th July with a huge tented village attracting thousands of visitors with lots of entertainment for people of all ages.

Amanda Phillips, Priority Services manager at United Utilities said: “Disability Awareness Day is a fantastic event we’ve supported for many years. We’re proud to be one of the main sponsors again this year, and look forward to meeting lots of customers who visit our information stand.”

The event opens at 10am and entry is FREE. Visit: www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk for further details.

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 04/22/SD/10023

9

10 All Together NOW!

MAY-JUNE 2023

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Mobility vehicle experts really growing places!

A

LLIED Vehicles is boosting production to more than 7,500 vehicles a year – and recruiting more staff – as it prepares to make inroads into the European market.

They are looking for more than 70 people to join its team, mostly in its pre-production and production areas, after two years of a postCovid famine, exacerbated by global vehicle supply problems and the war in Ukraine.

The Glasgow-based family firm, established almost 30 years ago, converts a variety of vehicles to make them suitable for wheelchair users, both passengers and drivers.

Operations director George McAdam said: “The plans we have put in place will bring an additional 78 people into the business.

“During the slump we had less than a day’s worth of cars at times. Now, for the first time in about 18 months, we are getting a week to two weeks’ worth of base vehicles here ready to convert.”

Peter Facenna, the company’s managing director, added: “Most people probably think we only make things here for Glasgow and Scotland, but we make them for all of the UK and now, most of western Europe.”

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Judi backs Blue Badge protesters

D

AME Judi Dench has taken on a new role – campaigning for a ban on Blue Badge parking in York city centre to be lifted.

A permanent ban on disabled parking in pedestrianised areas was introduced in November 2021.

The decision angered many of those affected, who said they had been made to feel like “second-class citizens”.

Now the Oscar-winning actress says she is giving her wholehearted support to the Reverse The Ban group.

Dame Judi, 88, who was born in Heworth, York, said: “York city centre is a rare jewel that should be free for all to enjoy, including those with a disability and for whom accessible parking is essential.

“As someone living with sight loss, I know only too well how gaining access to places can be exceptionally difficult.

MAY-JUNE 2023

“York city centre should be fully accessible through these types of schemes.

“I should like to offer my wholehearted support to people who are asking the local council to reconsider any ban to the Blue Badge scheme in the city centre.”

Marilyn Crawshaw, from the group Reverse The Ban, said they was “absolutely delighted” to have received a message from the James Bond star.

The parking ban came into force after the council installed anti-terror measures to prevent the risk of so-called hostile vehicle attacks.

Councillors previously said they had approved a series of mitigation measures,

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7

including dropped kerbs, the employment of an access officer and a feasibility study into an accessible shuttle service.

However, findings from a new study by postgraduate students from the University of York has found the Blue Badge ban had wideranging impacts, not only affecting current and future badge holders but also their family members and carers.

Fazilet Hadi, head of policy at Disability

All Together NOW!

11

Rights UK, said: “This report strips away the spurious justification that the ban was necessary to prevent terrorism.

“We urge York City Council to consider the report and reverse the ban. It is hugely discriminatory, and has stopped thousands of disabled people and their families from accessing public services and social, retail and cultural opportunities open to all other citizens.”

12 All Together NOW!

MAY-JUNE 2023

Lack of info is a real problem

ACCESS CAMPAIGNER: Euan MacDonald

IT’S SOMETHING anyone affected by disability knows only too well.

Now there’s some hard evidence to back it up: disabled people ARE being excluded from everyday life due to poor access information.

And that even applies to those who are lucky enough to be able to use the internet to find out what they can do and where they can go.

Research by disabled access charity Euan’s Guide shows that almost threequarters of the 7,500 disabled people questioned found accessibility information on a venue’s website to be misleading, confusing or inaccurate.

A similar number also reported having experienced a disappointing trip or having

had to change plans due to poor accessibility.

Powerchair user Euan MacDonald, founder of the guide, said: “Businesses are undervaluing disabled people both in terms of social inclusion and spending power.”

Euan set up the guide in 2013 with his sister, Kiki, after he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease. He said: “We encourage disabled people to review the places they visit on EuansGuide.com and use the website to find first-hand experiences of disabled access at venues across the UK and beyond.

“Likewise, if you work at a venue, please promote your disabled access information in your own communications and by listing on our guide for free.”

Read All Together NOW! on PressReader with enhanced accessibility features.

Enlarge the font, listen on-demand, and browse with just a few taps.

about.pressreader.com/accessibility

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

I’ll never forget day I chose to lose a leg

JOHN PAFFATT’s life changed completely at 16 when he was told he had a few months to live or have the whole of his right leg amputated to rid me of cancer.

The good news, he says, was he was still alive: The bad, was he now had to readjust to being disabled.

G

ROWING up in the 60s, I loved sports and was in both the school football and cricket teams.

Then, when I was 11 and during a football match, I had the most excruciating pain in the right side of my groin.

The pain periodically returned and after several visits to our local doctor, I was referred to an orthopaedic consultant, who said the sensation was psychological, and that I was simply trying to get out of school.

When I was 15, I had a biopsy on the area. It showed nothing untoward, but I knew deep down something was not right. I had experienced four years of shooting pains in my groin, and they were getting progressively worse.

By the time I reached 16, a sarcoma had been discovered in my thigh. All I understood was an operation was necessary to remove it – not the seriousness of it. It was a strange feeling to be vindicated, quite irrational

knowing I was right and the consultant wrong.

So, just five months into my apprenticeship as a gas fitter, doctors operated but failed to remove all the cancer.

Despair

Shortly afterwards my parents were told I only had four to six months to live.

They shared the brunt of this because I was not told I had the disease.

I can only imagine the pain and despair for them now as a parent now myself, because when your child hurts so do you. The

cancer was eating away at me. With no appetite, I weighed only six and half stone (41 kilos). Three weeks later, after being examined by two specialists, my parents were told there was a 50/50 chance I would survive if I had my whole right leg removed.

After seeing the family doctor, who said “If it was my son, I would let him die rather than go through the operation”, they initially said no. But after a heartwrenching and painful talk with my consultant, they left the decision to me.

I will never forget the day they returned from seeing him at the hospital and tearfully told me: “They want to amputate your leg.”

It was like receiving an electric shock. I had no idea what to do, but after the initial trauma, I chose the possibility of life over the certainty of death.

For me, it was an obvious decision. What would be the point of hanging on to something that was killing me?

So, in June 1967, after five months of radiotherapy

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Pain and heartache – but my life has been so rewarding

BLESSED: John and Brenda I had a hemipelvectomy—the removal of the whole leg and part of the pelvis.

I was 16, my life was just beginning, yet now the pathway forward would be so different than anything I could ever have imagined.

Three months later, I had my first fitting for an artificial leg. It was made up of what’s known as a bucket socket, with two belts around my waist and a strap over each shoulder. I was also handed two walking sticks.

Every step was painful, as it is to this day, but after a while my pain threshold rose to meet the needs of independent mobility.

Eventually, after a difficult eight months, I managed to get rid of both shoulder straps and walking sticks.

First car

But my days as a gas fitter were over. Thankfully, the gas board transferred me to a role to the drawing office, and I was able to buy my first car.

This gave me a measure of freedom, but I wanted the fun and excitement that I knew I was missing out on.

After having a few girlfriends, I met Ann, a beautiful 18-year-old who embraced my disability without a second thought.

We fell in love and were married a year later.

In our mid-20s, we moved to a new house and Ann gave birth to our daughter, Donna, followed by two boys, Darren

HAPPY HOLIDAYS: Ann and our children

and Jamie. It was a wonderful time in both our lives.

To the children, their dad has always had just one leg. To me though, there were times when I wished I could chase them around the garden, play football or simply carry them in my arms.

Fortunately, my disability never impacted on my ability to work. It was never an issue.

And after switching jobs several times, I found one which I really enjoyed in the oil and gas industry, starting as a planning engineer. It was an exciting job with some travel home and abroad.

My career was moving forward, but when Ann was 36, we had the devastating news of her breast cancer diagnosis. A

All Together NOW!

MAY-JUNE 2023

mastectomy was necessary and eight years of operations, chemotherapy and deterioration culminated in her untimely death in November 1995, at 44 – just 12 days short of our silver anniversary.

Love again

It left me totally shattered.

Somehow, I had to be mum and dad to our three now teenage children – and hold down a fulltime job. It was hard and painful for all of us.

I never thought it would happen, but just over a year after losing Ann, I met Brenda, who had two young boys, Lewis, 14, and Russell, 10. I fell madly in love again. We married six years later and recently celebrated our 20th anniversary.

I have been truly blessed with her.

Looking back on my life, I have learned to manage my disability, limiting my walking where possible, using the shortest routes and finding pain relief options, which worked most of the time but not always.

Nerve pain is unbearable and if you cannot manage it with medication it is very debilitating and drags you down to a dreadful place. But I still have hang ups – like seeing myself walk, for instance.

My devastating experience in life has been tough, but I believe I am a better person for it. I have more empathy and appreciate such simple things in life, like watching the birds and seeing the wonderful colours in a garden or in the sky.

I know the ravages of time on my body will further limit my walking, but I am pushing myself forever onward to enjoy life with Brenda, who encourages me and gives me such a special love.

We share and have fun every single day. What a wonderful life it has been, and I count myself lucky to this day.

And my advice to a 16-yearold faced with amputation from the same terrible disease would be: say goodbye to your old life.

Your new life starts now, you cannot go back. Embrace your disability and push yourself onwards to a full and rewarding life.

On the right track for all

A

NORTH West hotel is proving that providing good quality accessible accommodation is actually great for business.

While the cost of living crisis bites across the industry, Manchester’s Hotel Brooklyn made £217,000 from its accessible suites and events in 2022 alone.

Accessible features extend from bedrooms and bathrooms to conference rooms, restaurant, bar, and mini cinema.

And it’s all made the hotel a sought-after event venue for groups that include guests with access needs.

Owners Bespoke Hotels say the venue proves the business case for embedding accessibility from the outset. Its most regular repeat visitors, who have each visited more than 50 times, are both wheelchair users travelling with service dogs.

Robin Sheppard, Bespoke president, said: “We have demonstrated how accessibility can be incorporated into a luxury hotel.

“We hope tthis will inspire others to help make UK hospitality more accessible for all.”

Inclusive design specialist Motionspot was employed to design and supply the 18 accessible suites and build in attractive access principles and features throughout the hotel’s communal areas.

Among accessible features are: n Ceiling track hoists subtly concealed in light fittings and stored within built-in storage. n Wall-mounted basins featuring discreet integrated hand grips that can be used from a seated or standing position. n Discreet accessible bedroom furniture including safes, mini-bars, wardrobes, desks, and adjustable height robe hooks. n Interconnecting rooms for family and carer access. n Well planned circulation space throughout the hotel including stylish wheelchair accessible public toilets.

Accessible tourism in England is a £15.3 billion a year market, with guests requiring accessible rooms tending to travel with others, take longer trips, and stay loyal to hospitality venues that get it right.

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14

All Together NOW!

DISABILITY AWARENESS DAY:

MAY-JUNE 2023

www.alltogetherno

SUNDAY JULY 16

A DAY TO REME

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE: Highlights from last year’s Disability Awareness Day. This year’s event is set to be another cracker.

Make sure you are there . . .

T

HE countdown has started for the biggest disability event in the North West.

The 32nd annual Disability Awareness Day – affectionately known as DAD – is all set to return to Walton Hall Gardens, near Warrington.

After last year’s hugely successful event that followed the Covid-19 pandemic, organisers Warrington Disability Partnership are determined to make this show even better!

Dave Thompson, chief executive of Warrington Disability Partnership, said: “We are delighted to say that DAD just gets better and better. When we started the event all those years ago, we couldn’t have imagined it would become so big and so popular.

“The event has also inspired other disability organisations across the world to set up their own DADs. “The day brings together people of all ages and abilities, and is now firmly established as THE place to visit for getting instant information about a wide range of disability and health issues.

‘We’re all working hard to make the day as enjoyable as we can, so make sure to get along and make it a day to remember!”

The historical Walton Hall and Gardens will once again be transformed into a tented village housing more than 240 exhibitors promoting independent living.

DAD caters for families and people of all ages, with over 120 disability support charities promoting services to help people with living with mental health issues, sensory impairments as well as providing help for those with neurological,

. . . and a week

THE WEEK leading up to DAD is always full of exciting and interesting events. Parking on site is available for all events July 10-14.

Tues July 11: 10.30am-1pm.

Disability Confident. Walton Gardens. Event for employers.

Recruitment and retention, reasonable adjustments and funding.

For more info call J.Balshaw@disabilitypartnership.org. uk or tel 01925 240064 Tues July 11: 7pm-9.30pm.

Creating Adventures: One Time Only. Arts Marquee, Walton Gardens. A variety show with a difference. Licenced bar. Tickets £5 available online.

Wed July 12: 10.30am-3.30pm.

Ignite your Life. Arts Marquee, Walton Gardens. Merseycare NHS Foundation Trust. Mental health and wellbeing event. Workshops, talks, activities, information stands. Free refreshment available, including

buffet lunch. For more info Dennis Dewar via dennis.dewar@merseyca or tel 01925 664850.

Wed July 12: 7pm-9.30p Summertime Special. Ar Marquee, Walton Gardens entertainment from the tea amazing Ella Performance An evening of dance, sing much more. Tickets £5 av online.

Thurs July 13: 6pm-9.30

physical and learning disabilities.

Dozens of businesses will be featuring a wide range of mobility and independent products, wheelchair accessible vehicles, and car adaptations.

Statutory service providers will have a strong presence supplying information about health, social care, education and

employment services.

There will also be a “Can Zone with scuba diving in a inclusive cricket, wheelcha football, wheelchair basket chi, martial arts, sports for visually impaired people – wheelchair Rugby League

n Warrington Disability Partnership: Tel. 01925 240064

n www.disabilityawarenessday.org.uk

ow.org.uk

MAY-JUNE 2023

WALTON HALL GARDENS, WARRINGTON

EMBER

All Together NOW!

We reach people who are DIGITALLY EXCLUDED

k to savour!

o contact

re.nhs.uk

pm. Ella rts s. Top ams at the e Group. ging and vailable

0pm. Party

n Do” Sports an on-site pool, air American tball, total tai blind and plus for people with

in the Park for disabled children, young disabled people, young carers and young adult carers.

Arts Marquee, Walton Gardens. A collaboration between Warrington Disability Partnership, Warrington Youth Club, Warrington Wolves Foundation, and Warrington Young Carers. A fun-filled evening of sports, arts, dance, chat and chill out, crafts, karaoke, music, silent disco and fun areas. Free refreshments and free admission.

Call Kate on 01925 240064.

Fri July 14: 7.30pm-11.30pm. Bjorn to be ABBA. Arts Marquee, Walton Gardens. Top tribute band perform a range of Abba’s most loved hits.

Dance the night away to great music!

Licenced bar.

Tickets £10 available online.

Sun July 16: 10am-4.30pm. The BigEvent – 32nd Disability Awareness Day. Check the website for more details. disabilityawarenessday.org.uk

physical and learning disabilities.

And if that’s not enough for you, there is a tip-top programme of music planned for the Arts Marquee, including nationally acclaimed Ella Together Performance Group.

It’s all promising to be a really great DAY TO REMEMBER!

n E-mail info@disabilitypartnership.org.uk

For details of cost-effective advertising and sponsorship opportunities, call Helen McLoughlin 0151 929 3912 or 07511 839397

15

16 All Together NOW!

Richard: ‘I’m rooting for you’

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 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 n WALSALL. Tel 01922 650781

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

MAY-JUNE 2023

T

HE new head of a Merseyside-based charity has vowed to ensure the hundreds of autistic adults they support “have a voice that is heard”.

AT THE HELM: New autism charity chief Richrad Whitby

Baking star backing autism charity

G

REAT British Bake Off finalist Sandro Farmhouse has become a Celebrity Ambassador for the National Autistic Society.

TV star and baker Sandro, who makes autism friendly recipes, will help to highlight the work of the national charity for people on the autism spectrum and their families.

He launched Baking on the Spectrum, an online workshop for autistic children and their families, as a response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Over the past two years, it has worked with over 100 families.

Sandro, who reached the final of Channel 4’s Great British Bake Off in 2022, said: “I’m

Former support worker Richard Whitby is returning to his Wirral roots to become chief executive of Autism Together.

From its Bromborough base, the organisation supports autistic people of all ages, with around 800 staff providing residential, supported living and day services to over 400 autistic adults, and support to many more families across Merseyside and Cheshire.

Whitby, who has held senior leadership roles with some of the UK’s largest care providers, said: “Autism Together will continue to be a modern, inclusive charity, working positively for the people we support and our dedicated staff teams.

“I want to ensure the people we support genuinely have a voice and that this voice is heard, so we need to help push the dialogue on autism acceptance and support.” n Autism Together: Tel. 0151 334 7510.

excited to get involved in increasing acceptance and understanding of autism.”

Caroline Stevens, the Society’s chief executive, said: “We are delighted to welcome Sandro on board as Celebrity Ambassador and greatly appreciate his time and support for our charity.

“We’re looking forward to working together with Sandro to transform lives, change attitudes and create a society that works for autistic people.” n NAS: Tel. 020 7833 2299.

HELPLINES

n Personal Budgets Helpline Tel. 0330 995 0404 Opening hours: 9.30am-1.30pm, Tues and Thurs personalbudgets@di sabilityrightsuk.org

n Disabled Students Helpline Tel. 0330 995 0414 Opening hours: 11am-1pm on Tues and Thurs students@disabilityri ghtsuk.org

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE

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

Tel 01253 472 202.

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

Tel 0151 355 1420 n HALTON Disability Service Tel 01928 717222 n KNOWSLEY DISABILITY CONCERN. 0151 480 4090 n LANCASTER DISC Tel 01524 34411 n ACSIL (Amputees and Carers), Tel, 0151 261 1166 n THE BRAIN CHARITY Tel 0151 298 2999 n MANCHESTER (GTR) Coalition of Disabled

People Tel 0161-273 5154 n MOLD Flintshire Disability Tel 01352 755546 n NELSON: Pendle Pakistan Welfare Association.

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

Text 01772 204 787 n RHYL Tel 01745 350665 n STOCKPORT: Disability Stockport. 0161 480 7248

n Scope’s Disabilty Information and Advice Line (DIAL) Freephone 0808 800 3333

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

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

Group. 07891 794733; 07585 958322; 07557 228154

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

MAY-JUNE 2023

THE WHEEL QUEEN T

HE UK’S first all-wheelchair professional dance company has been wowing audiences.

Propel Dance staged three stunning performances of their reimagined version of Hans Christian Anderson’s fantastical fairy tale, The Snow Queen.

The company secured funding from Arts Council England to pilot a short tour of the Midlands – their first ever live shows.

The Birmingham-based outfit was founded by Helen Mason, who has a track record of making dance for and with disabled people for over 20 years.

Helen said: “There are few professional opportunities for wheelchair dancers, and we want to be that change; to create something that enables progression and inspiration to future generations.”

Want to know more about the company? n Contact Helen: Tel. 07817 372578.

Info.propeldance@gmail.com

A world of audio books to choose from

P

UBLISHING giant Bloomsbury have donated their entire audio book collection to the free Talking Books Library run by blind people’s charity RNIB.

The worldwide publishing house’s collection includes around 600 titles and every future Bloomsbury audio book will also be added to RNIB’s Library.

RNIB launched its online library two years ago, offering people with sight loss instant access to free books in formats they can read – including audio. It now has close to 40,000 Talking Books in its collection.

Sam Halstead, director of audio at Bloomsbury, said, “We have long admired the brilliant work of the Talking Books Library and it is great to know every audio book we publish will be available to the library’s users.” n RNIB helpline: 0303 123 9999.

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

A

BEST-SELLING title by fantasy writer Ben Aaronovitch has been chosen by members of the Listening Books charity as their book of the year.

Listening Books provides audio books to people who have an illness, disability, learning difficulty or mental health condition which makes reading print difficult or impossible.

Actor Stephen Fry, the charity’s patron, presented the 2022 Members Choice Award to Aaronovitch for his

urban fantasy Rivers of London: Amongst Our Weapons.

Aaronovitch, pictured, said: “I listen to books all the time and I think it is a wonderful way to hear a story. After all, when you write you are hearing it in your head, and so having it spoken out loud is practically an extension of what you are doing!”

Membership is free to those who would find cost a barrier. n Listening Books: Tel. 020 7407 9417

HELP AT THE END OF A PHONE

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

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

Tel 0800 587 2252 n WIGAN Tel 01942 242891 n WIRRAL Tel 0151 652 8877 HEARING ISSUES n BIRMINGHAM Institute for Deaf Tel 0121 246 6101 n CHESHIRE Deaf Society Tel 01606 47831 n CUMBRIA Deaf Society Tel 01228 606434 n LANCASHIRE (EAST) Deaf Society Tel 01282 839180

n MANCHESTER Deaf Centre. Tel 0161 273 3415 Genie Networks.

Tel 0161 941 4549.

Text 18001 0161 941 4549 n MERSEYSIDE Society for Deaf Tel 0151 228 0888 n SOUTHPORT Centre for the Deaf Tel 01704 537001 n ST HELENS: Deafness Resource Centre Tel 01744 23887 n WOLVERHAMPTON Centre for Deaf Tel 01902

All Together NOW!

CARERS’ CENTRES

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

Tel 01228 542 156 Penrith.

Tel 01768 890 280 Barrow-in-Furness.

Tel 01229 822 822 Kendal.

Tel 01539 732 927 Whitehaven, Tel 01946 592 223 n CHESHIRE & WARRINGTON Helpline:0300 102 0008 n KNOWSLEY Tel 0151 549 1412 n LANCASTER Tel 01524 66475 nLIVERPOOL Tel 0151 705 2307 n MANCHESTER Tel 0161 835 2995 n MORECAMBE Tel 01524 833456 n PRESTON Tel 01772 200173 n RUNCORN Tel 01928 580182 n WIDNES Tel 0151 257 9673 n SALFORD Tel 0161 833 0217 n SEFTON Tel 0151 288 6060 n ST HELENS Tel 01744 675 615 n STOCKPORT Tel 0161 442 0442 n WARRINGTON (WIRED) Tel 01925 633 492 n WEST LANCS Tel 01695 711243 n WIGAN & LEIGH Tel 01942 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!

MAY-JUNE 2023

MEDICAL NOTES

Training the mind will keep you on your toes

YOU might think that our risk of falling as we grow older is all down to physical factors like frailty and limited mobility.

But it seems the brain has a big say in the matter too.

Researchers in the US say brain speed is a major risk factor for falls and that rewiring the brain can help people stay on their feet.

Our brains start to slow down by very small amounts (measured in milliseconds – thousandths of a second) in our 20s.

With each passing decade, the slowing grows, but may not be noticeable until our 40s or 50s, when we find ourselves increasingly pausing to think of a word.

The same sort of slowing also impacts our processing speed and reaction time related to movement.

Numerous studies have shown that slower visual processing speed puts us at a higher risk of falling and of suffering worse injuries as a result.

But the decade-long ACTIVE study showed falls among older adults can be significantly reduced through a modest amount of a particular kind of computerised brain training.

Nearly three thousand people across the US took part in the study, which revealed that among those with a high chance of falling, training their brains to process thoughts more quickly lowered their risk by almost a third.

“Think about losing your balance and starting to fall,” said Dr. Mahncke, head of Posit Science, which makes the brain training app, BrainHQ. “Your head suddenly begins to move through space in a downward direction, alerting your brain’s visual and balance systems that you are about to fall.

“By speeding up the brain, you get extra time, measurable in split-seconds, to process that information and regain your footing. Extra time can make the difference between staying on your feet or crashing to the ground.”

Saddle up to ease pain

HORSE riding can help people suffering from low back pain, says a new study into what’s known as equine-facilitated therapy.

Sanna Mattila-Rautiainen, who led a team of researchers at the University of Eastern Finland, said: “The gait of a horse encourages the right kind of lumbar movement.

“Patients with chronic pain tend to avoid the sensation of pain that comes from moving the affected part of their body.

“However, when sitting on a moving horse, a person with low back pain will end up moving to the gait of the horse, which encourages the right kind of lumbar movement.”

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

‘Big step forward’ in Alzheimer’s battle

S

CIENTISTS are celebrating “a substantial step forward” in the search for a treatment for Alzheimer’s.

UK researchers have helped to develop a new drug treatment that may slow the progress of the disease.

A breakthrough study found that many of the features of human Alzheimer’s, including memory loss and inflammation of the brain, could be treated in mice.

The mice were given the new drug – known as a positive allosteric modulator, or M1-PAM – which is the result of more than a decade of research at the University of

Glasgow and Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Professor Craig Lindsley, the lead scientist at Vanderbilt, said: “This is a very important moment, as we genuinely have the prospect of not only treating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, including memory loss, but that we might actually be able to slow the disease and increase the lifespan of sufferers from neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.”

Despite considerable effort by scientists across the world, attempts to find a drug that can halt or slow the progression of the disease have until now been unsuccessful.

Professor Andrew Tobin, at the University of Glasgow, said: “The world desperately needs clues as to how to stop neurodegenerative diseases.

“Our study is of critical importance as we show that many of the features of the disease seen in our animal model can be halted by our drug treatment.”

Dr Louis Dwomoh, lead author on the study from the University of Glasgow, adds: “It is a huge privilege to be involved in a study that provides hope for a treatment that may halt Alzheimer’s disease. The findings mark a substantial step forward in a potential treatment for this terrible disease.

DEMENTIA: know the risk and reduce it

HOW do you know what your risk is and what and how to change to reduce that risk?

That’s what the Food for the Brain Foundation has been working on for a decade.

A free Cognitive Function Test is available on their website.

You then complete a questionnaire that works out your future dementia risk index.

It also tells you exactly what’s driving your risk up and what to do about it. n www.foodforthebrain.org .

FOUR-tify your brain TIME TO ACT: Four simple ways that could help protect you

D

EMENTIA experts taking part in a global summit reckon there are four easy ways to cut your risk of the condition by half.

A combination of fish oil, vitamin B supplements, more activity and less sugar is the key to protecting the brain, they say.

And specialists taking part in the worldwide Alzheimer’s Prevention Conference say adding another four actions could reduce the threat of dementia by as much as two thirds.

China’s leading dementia prevention expert, Professor Jin-Tai Yu, told the conference that a study of half a million people showed “higher blood levels of omega-3, and supplementing fish oils, is associated with less risk of dementia”.

Professor Yu added that Vitamin B was “a most promising treatment” for lowering

levels of an amino acid called homocysteine, which has been linked to cognitive impairment.

The results are even better when you combine the two, according to Professor David Smith from Oxford University. He said: “Research shows impressive results if you give omega-3 and B vitamins together rather than on their own.”

Tommy Wood, from the University of Washington, told the conference that exercise is important because “it makes the brain do things that keep it healthy, such as growth and repair”.

“When they aren’t stimulated, the health of brain tissues deteriorates, with a knock-on effect on memory and thinking.”

It’s not just physical activity that does this, we also benefit from the mental exercise involved in things like solving puzzles or learning a language.

“For many people the worst thing they can do for their brain is to retire,” said Mr Wood.

“They lose much of the stimulation that kept it healthy.”

The conference was told that sugar levels can also affect the risk of developing dementia.

A US study concluded that “a high level of sugar and insulin in the blood – linked with a high carbohydrate diet – is definitely a driver for Alzheimer’s.”

Hosted by UK charity foodforthebrain.org, the audience heard that four other actions can further reduce your risk of dementia – eating antioxidants from fruit and veg; having a healthy gut; sleeping well; and controlling stress.

And they agreed that targeting all eight risk factors earlier in life may reduce risk by two thirds.

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

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

MAY-JUNE 2023

Future hopes after HIV ‘jet lag’ discovery

S

YMPTOMS similar to chronic jet lag have been discovered in people with HIV.

work or jet lag, they say. And the findings, from researchers at universities in South Africa and the UK, may explain some of the health problems experienced by people with HIV, and lead to research that will improve their quality of life.

People aged 45 and over in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province, where the infection is endemic and does not associate with any difference in lifestyle, agreed to take part in the study.

Mum’s plea to students: Get vaxxed

Researchers found the body’s daily rhythm – essential for good health – is delayed by more than an hour on average in HIV positive patients. Their sleep also started later and finished earlier.

All of this suggests the possibility that HIV infection may cause a circadian rhythm disorder similar to that experienced in shift

“The participants living with HIV essentially experience the one-hour disruption associated with switching to daylight savings time – but every single morning,” said Professor Malcolm von Schantz, professor of chronobiology at Northumbria University.

“This happens in spite of the fact that essentially everybody is exposed to the same light-dark cycle. Our findings have important potential implications for the health and wellbeing of people living with HIV.”

T

He soon made friends in his halls. We would have short text messages and phone calls to reassure us he was happy, settling into student life and coping with his course.

Although there were no general concerns health-wise, he did have a cough, which was noticeable when he spoke on the phone.

This seemed to persist for a few weeks but never seemed to bother him much.

Whenever I brought attention to it, he would say ‘well mum, everyone has a cough!’ and I

was reassured by friends who had TRAGIC: Teygan had no idea he was so ill children at uni that it was probably fresher’s flu – something every student seems his door but collapsed in the hallway. He was found by a friend who immediately saw he to get. had a rash.

Teygan came home for a few days during His friend knew it was one of the signs of October half term and, apart from tiredness, meningitis and rang for an ambulance straight gave no cause for concern. He returned to uni and went out for Halloween, then out again on away. But he could not be saved.

As a family, we are united in our grief and the Saturday night. shock at what happened. No one had any real On the Sunday, he went to bed and stayed awareness of the risks of meningitis at there the whole day. A check was made on university, neither family nor friends. him by someone in the halls around 8pm and I realise now that we have to change this it was said he gave the impression he was perception and make it one of the first things feeling better, but the conversation was held families think of when a student starts through his door. He was not seen. preparing for university.

About an hour later, he got up and opened

THE symptoms of meningitis can be confused with flu, a hangover, or Covid-19, and students are particularly at risk of missing the early warning signs.

Dr Caroline Rumble, from the UK Health Security Agency, North West, said: “We encourage all students heading to university or college to ensure they’re up to date with their vaccinations which will help to protect them against lifethreatening diseases like meningitis.

“First-year or returning students can be at increased risk of infections including meningitis, as they mix with large numbers of other students from around the country and overseas.

“All students should ask their GP if they’re up to date with their MenACWY (meningitis) vaccinations and be aware of the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia – don’t assume it’s a hangover or flu. Look out for a blotchy rash that

Be sure it’s not more than a hangover

doesn’t fade when a glass is rolled over it, a fever, aching muscles/joints and a stiff neck.

Dr Rumble, a consultant in health protection, added: “If you’re unwell, make sure a friend knows and stay in touch regularly with friends who are ill. These diseases can progress rapidly so if you think you or a friend could have meningitis do seek urgent medical help.” n Meningitis Now Helplne. 0808 80 10 388.

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

19

MEDICAL NOTES

Ancient viruses key to future treatments

ANCIENT viruses could hold the key to treating a wide range of genetic diseases in the future.

Scientists have been studying a group of small viruses, called parvoviruses, which infect mammals including humans without causing disease.

By “fossilising” the viruses, researchers can see how they have evolved in mammals over millions of years, taking on different specialised properties along the way.

Dr Rob Gifford, an evolutionary biologist at Glasgow’s Centre for Virus Research, said: “This study reveals exciting insights into the long term evolutionary history of an important virus group. Parvovirus gene therapy is a cutting-edge biomedical technology.”

He added that ”studying the natural biology and evolutionary history of parvoviruses” could help lead to “safer and more effective gene therapies.”

Aim of the game

l A HEARTBROKEN mother is urging young people across the North West to have a potentially life-saving vaccination. l Meningococcal disease can cause serious illnesses, including meningitis and septiceemia, which can be deadly and require urgent treatment. l University student Teygan had everything to live for. His mum, Ailsa, describes her devastating loss . . .

EYGAN was 19 when he went to Manchester University to study Russian. The middle child of three and the first to go to uni, he was very excited.

All Together NOW!

COULD it be a game changer for the “silent killer”?

A digital game has been launched which it is hoped will improve awareness of pancreatic cancer, whose early symptoms can be hard to detect.

The Pancreatic Cancer Awareness game was co-created by Focus Games Ltd, Queen’s University Belfast and pancreatic cancer charity NIPANC. Gary Mitchell, from Queen’s, said: “Games have shown promising results in raising awareness and changing perceptions.”

The early bid ‘wins’

ARE you an early bird? Or a night owl?

The answer might affect your health.

Our activity patterns and sleep cycles may influence our risk of developing diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease, according to research.

Those who stay up later have are less able to use fat for energy, meaning fats may build-up in the body, the study suggested.

Professor Steven Malin, who led the research at Rutgers University, New Jersey, said: “The differences in fat metabolism between early birds and night owls shows that our body’s circadian rhythm (wake/sleep cycle) could affect how our bodies use insulin.”

20 All Together NOW!

MAY-JUNE 2023

Until May 27: A Thong for Europe. Royal Court, Liverpool. Lulu (Lindzi Germain), is the biggest Eurovision nut that you will ever meet.

When Liverpool won the right to host the competition, she knew that this was her big chance to make her dream come true and be there on the night itself.

May 2-7: Unexpected Twist. The Lowry, Salford. Re-telling of the Charles Dickens classic. Shona and her class are studying Oliver Twist. She’s the new girl in school and is finding it hard to stay out of trouble – much like Oliver himself.

When she’s given a new phone by a stranger, she begins to suspect there’s something unusual about the new boys she’s met.

May 2-6: The Ocean at the End of the Lane. Empire, Liverpool. Returning to his childhood home, a man finds himself standing beside the pond of the old Sussex farmhouse where he used to play. He's transported to his 12th birthday when his remarkable friend Lettie claimed it wasn't a pond, but an ocean–a place where everything is possible...

May 2-6: Rock of Ages. Venue Cymru.

May 2-6: Pride and Prejudice (*sort of). Grand, Blackpool. Unique and audacious retelling of Jane Austen’s most iconic love story.

May 4: Marti Pellow – Pellow Talk.

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 5: The Zombies – The Invaders Return Tour. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 5: Marti Pellow: Pellow Talk.

Venue Cymru.

May 5: Paul Smith – Joker. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 6: Genesis Visible Touch – The Shapes Album at 40. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

May 6: The Dolly Show. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Tribute show.

May 6: Supreme Queen. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Tribute show.

May 7: The Magic of Motown. Empire, Liverpool. Tribute show.

May 7: Legends of American Country.

Grand, Blackpool.

May 8-13: Annie. Regent, Stoke. Musical starring Craig Revel Horwood as Miss Hannigan.

May 9: Frankie Boyle. Grand, Blackpool.

May 9-13: The King and I. Palace, Manchester.

May 9-10: Strictly Come Dancing – The Professionals. The Lowry, Salford.

May 10: Dara O’Briain. Grand, Blackpool.

Mar 11-13: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Empire, Liverpool. With a fantastical flying car, a heartwarming love story, and whole bunch of teamwork, this timeless story is brought to life in a spectacular musical adaptation of the iconic family film.

May 11: The Simon and Garfunkel Story.

Grand, Blackpool.

May 12: Tapped by Katie Redford. Octagon, Bolton. Witty and sensitive portrayal of managing mental health within a family.

May 13: 80s Show. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 13: Rock of Ages. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 13: Lost in Music – One Night at the Disco. Grand, Blackpool.

May 14: Katie Melua.

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

BOX OFFICE CONTACTS

BLACKPOOL Grand Theatre: 01253 290190 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 Unity 0151 709 4988 LLANDUDNO Venue Cymru: 01492 872000 MOLD: Theatr Clwyd: 0845 3303565

MANCHESTER Opera House: 0870 401 9000 Palace: 0870 401 3000 SALFORD The Lowry: 0843 208 6000 Access line: 0333 320 2838 NEW BRIGHTON Floral Pavilion: 0151 666 0000 RHYL: Pavilion: 01745 330 000 RUNCORN The Brindley: 0151 907 8360 ST HELENS: Theatre Royal: 01744 756000 STOKE: Regent Theatre: 0844 871 7627 CHESTER: Storyhouse: 01244 409 113

Roger’s return

NEW and old poems from Liverpool’s 85-year-old wordsmith.

May 19: Roger McGough – Alive and Giggling. Playhouse, Liverpool.

BACK to the decade of electronics, experimentation, synthesizers and great song writing . . .

May 15: Midge Ure The Voice & Vision Tour: Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool; and May 29, Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

MAKE TIME FOR May 15-20: Sister Act. Empire, Liverpool. All your prayers have been answered with a stunning cast, including Lesley Joseph, Lizzie Bea and Sandra Marvin as Deloris, everyone’s favourite nun on the run!

May 15-20: Annie. Venue Cymru. The smashhit production with Jodie Prenger as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan!

May 15: Midge Ure. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

May 16-27: Greatest Days. Palace, Manchester. Relight Your Fire with this sensational new production of Take That’s smash hit musical. Follows five best friends in the 1990s who reunite over 20 years later to see their heartthrobs one last. Previously titled The Band, the show broke box office records when it performed from 2017 – 2019.

May 16-20: The Spongebob Musical. Opera House, Manchester.

May 16-20: Julius Caesar. Grand, Blackpool.

The Royal Shakespeare Company’s fast-faced political thriller. Captioned Jul 18; Integrated BSL performance Jul 19; audio described Jul 20.

May 17: Dreamcoat Stars. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 17-Jun 3: The Book of Will. Octagon, Bolton. Shakespeare has barely been dead for

To advertise, contact . . .

three years when a pirated Hamlet rip-off hits a stage near the Globe Theatre. Audio described May 23; signed, captioned May 31.

May 19: Roger McGough: Alive and Giggling. Playhouse, Liverpool.

May 19: Roy Chubby Brown.

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 19: Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of The Dubliners. Regent, Stoke.

May 19: Daniel O’Donnell. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

May 20: Johannes Radebe: Freedom Unleased. Regent, Stoke.

May 20: The Rocket Man – A tribute to Elton John. William Aston Hall, Wrexham.

May 20: This Is Britpop! Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 20: Fanny Galore’s Big Bingo Party.

Lyceum, Crewe.

May 20: The Lancashire Hot Pots: Good Times. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 21: Sensational 60s Experience.

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

May 21: Walk Right Back – The Everly Brothers Story. Regent, Stoke.

May 21: Carducci String Quartet. Theatr Clwyd.

May 21: Johannes Radebe: Freedom Unleashed.Venue Cymru.

May 21: Ceri Dupree. Grand, Blackpool. The finest female impersonator treading the boards today.

May 21: Seven Drunken Nights – The Story of the Dubliners. Empire, Liverpool.

May 22-27: The Way Old Friends Do. The Lowry, Salford. New comedy about devotion, desire and dancing queens. In 1988, two Birmingham school friends tentatively come out to one another: one as gay, the other – more shockingly – as an ABBA fan.

May 22: Mike and The Mechanics: Refueled!

Venue Cymru.

May 22: Frankie Boyle – Lap of Shame.

Lyceum, Crewe.

May 23-27: Steel Magnolias. Playhouse, Liverpool. Hilarious and heart-warming true story that inspired the hit film.

May 23-27: Wish You Were Dead. The Lowry, Salford. When Detective Superintendent Roy Grace and Cleo Morey take their first holiday together, Cleo hopes she will finally get Grace to herself for a few days and away from his crime solving exploits. But their dream escape turns out to be the holiday from hell, as the past comes back to haunt them.

Signed May 24; audio described / touch tour May 26.

helen@alltogethernow.org.uk

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

MAY-JUNE 2023

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

Jodie’s on to a shore thing

CORONATION Street star Jodie Prenger is swapping the cobbles for the beach.

The Blackpool actress stars as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan in the smash-hit production of Annie, coming to Llandudno direct from London’s West End. Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage.

Her luck soon changes when she’s chosen to spend a

A GOOD GIGGLE Feeling in need of a lift?

SEE the hit film come to life before your eyes with this emotional and triumphant live stage show.

Jun 13-17: Dirty Dancing. Empire, Liverpool.

May 23-27: Unexpected Twist. Grand, Blackpool. Re-telling of Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist.

May 23: An Audience with Liverpool Legends. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 24: The Scummy Mummies: Greatest Hits. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 24: Sounds of the 70s Live with Tony Blackburn. Empire, Liverpool.

May 25: Russell Howard. Empire, Liverpool.

May 25: Frankie Boyle. Opera House, Manchester.

May 25: The Sensational 60s Experience.

Lyceum, Crewe.

May 26: Calling Planet Earth. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 26: Roy “Chubby” Brown. Pavilion, Rhyl.

May 26: Simon Brodkin: Screwed Up. Storyhouse, Chester.

May 27: The Mersey Beatles. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

May 27: Peter Andre. Lyceum, Crewe.

May 27: Carrie Hope Fletcher: An Open Book. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Liverpool.

Songs from her appearances in Heathers, Les Misérables, The Addams Family and many more, interspersed with chat about May 28: Beach Boyz. Octagon, Bolton.

May 29: Midge Ure: The Voice & Vision Tour.

Venue Cymru, Llandudno.

May 29-Jun 3: The Commitments. Venue Cymru. Fantastically feel good celebration of soul based on the BAFTA award-winning film classic. Starring Nigel Pivaro (Coronation Street) as Da. May 30-Jun 3: The King and I. Regent, Stoke.

Musical.

May 31- Jun 3: The Wizard of Oz. Grand, Blackpool. Blackpool & Fylde Light Opera Company.

Jun 1: Midnight Train to Georgia. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Jun 1: Ministry of Science Live. Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 1: Carrie Hope Fletcher. Empire, Liverpool. Songs from her appearances in Heathers, Les Misérables, The Addams Family and many more, interspersed with chat about Carrie’s fascinating life and career.

Jun 2: A Fright in the Museum. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Danny and Mick and their dad, Clive, have decided they don’t make enough money from their circus, so they get themselves part time jobs as night watchmen in the museum to make ends meet. However, things do not go according to plan.

fairytale Christmas with famous billionaire Oliver Warbucks. But spiteful Miss Hannigan has other ideas . . .

May 15-20: Annie. Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Signed, May 18.

Jun 2: Walk Right Back – The Everly Brothers Story. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Jun 2: The Fleetwood Mac Legacy. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Tribute show.

Jun 3: Barry Steele and Friends – The Roy Orbison Stiory. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Jun 3: Gary Delaney: Gary in Punderland.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 4: Seven Drunken Nights. Grand, Blackpool. The story of the Dubliners.

Jun 5-10: Annie. Empire, Liverpool. Set in 1930s New York during The Great Depression, brave young Annie is forced to live a life of misery at Miss Hannigan’s orphanage.

Jun 5-10: The Commitments. Opera House, Manchester. Get ready for a feel-good celebration of soul. Based on the BAFTA awardwinning film classic, the ups and downs of an Irish soul band.

Jun 5: In Conversation with Stacey Dooley – Are You Really OK? The Lowry, Salford.

Stacey opens up the conversation about mental health in young people to challenge the stigma and stereotypes around it.

Jun 6: In Conversation with Stavey Dooley – Are You Really OK? Understanding Britain’s Mental Health Emergency. Storyhouse, Chester.

Jun 7: An Audience with Manchester United

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

21

Legends. Bryan Robson and Brian McClair with host, Jed Stone. Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 8: Psychic Sally. Grand, Blackpool.

Jun 8: Northern Live. Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 9-Jul 8: Vernons Girls. Royal Court, Liverpool. Join Vernons Pools worker 16-year-old Peggy in a show that celebrates the sheer joy of being a teenager in the exciting days of the 1950s.

Glamour, celebrities and great music all combine for the birth of a Liverpool rock and roll story to match any other.

Jun 9-Jul 1: Blonde Bombshells of 1943. Octagon, Bolton. Lavish new production with live music and stellar performances. The Blonde Bombshells, the most glamorous all-girl swing band in the North, loses members every time they play a GI camp.

Now there’s an important BBC job in the offing and Betty needs to find new musicians fast.

Signed, captioned June 20; audio described, June 28.

Jun 9: Roy Chubby Brown.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 9: Psychic Sally. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Jun 9: Francis Rossie – Tunes & Chat. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Jun 9: Hits out of Hell: The Legend of Meat Loaf. Theatre Royal, St Helens. Trubute show.

Jun 10: A Night at the Musicals. Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Jun 10: Whitney – Queen of the Night. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton. Tribute show.

Jun 10: Bye Bye Baby. Lyceum, Crewe.

Tribute show.

Jun 10: Breakin’ Convention. Grand, Blackpool. Ground-breaking festival of hip hop dance theatre.

Jun 11: Lipstick on your Collar. Grand, Blackpool. Musical. Step back in time to the golden era of music where your feet didn’t touch the floor.

Jun 11: Rumours of Fleetwood Mac. Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 14: The Simon & Garfunkel Story.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 15-Aug 27: The Great Gatsby. Dolphin Pub, Mold. Here’s your invitation to the best roaring 1920s party ever! Theatr Clwyd’s hit show returns and this is going to be the afterparty of the century. Cocktails are flowing in an era of bootleg liquor and red hot jazz. 1920s dress code encouraged, dancing shoes recommended! Audio described / touch tours Jul 5, 28, Aug 25; Signed Jun 28, Jul 22, Aug 23.

Jun 16: Phil Wang – Wang in There, Baby!

Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 16: The Merseybeats. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Jun 16: YES. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Progressive legends return to Liverpool.

Jun 17: The Searchers. Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool.

Jun 18: Ministry of Science. Grand, Blackpool.

The UK’s favourite science team Ministry of Science are back and more explosive than ever!

Join our presenters as they dive deep into the world of science.

Jun 19-24: The Mousetrap. Grand, Blackpool.

The genre-defining murder mystery from the best-selling novelist of all time.

Jun 18: The Very Best of Tommy Cooper.

Theatre Royal, St Helens.

Jun 20-24: RSC: Julius Caesar.

The Lowry, Salford.

Continued Page 22

22

All Together NOW!

MAY-JUNE 2023

ARIES (March 21st-April 20th)

n Continued from Page 21

Jun 23: The McCartney Songbook. Floral Pavilion, New Brighton.

Jun 23: Tom Davis – Work in Progress.

Storyhouse, Chester.

Jun 23: Anything For Love. Lyceum, Crewe.

Tribute show.

Jun 24: Roy Lambert presents Perfectly George. Pavilion, Rhyl. George Michael tribute show.

Jun 24-25: Russell Howard. Opera House, Manchester.

Jun 25: Sun Records The Concert – 70th Anniversary. Lyceum, Crewe.

June 25: This is Elvis. Grand, Blackpool. Ben Portsmouth’s tribute show.

Jun 26-Jul 1: Strictly Ballroom. The Lowry, Salford.

Jun 27-Jul 1: Quality Street. Grand, Blackpool.

Jun 27-Jul 1: Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story. Regent, Stoke.

Jun 27: Frankie Boyle. Empire, Liverpool.

Jun 28: Forbidden Nights. Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 29: The Diana Ross Story. Lyceum, Crewe.

Jun 30: Bronwen Lewis 2023 – More from The Living Room. Pavilion, Rhyl.

Jul 1: The Rocket Man – A Tribute to Elton John. Empire, Liverpool.

Jul 4-8: Heathers The Musical. Empire, Liverpool. Westerberg High’s Veronica Sawyer is just another nobody dreaming of a better day.

But when she joins the beautiful and impossibly cruel Heathers and her dreams of popularity may finally come true, mysterious teen rebel JD teaches her that it might kill to be a nobody, but it is murder being a somebody.

Jul 2: Elton John Show. Grand, Blackpool.

Tribute show.

Jul 4-8: Titanic the Musical. The Lowry, Salford. In the final hours of 14th April 1912 the RMS Titanic, on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York, collided with an iceberg. The “unsinkable ship” slowly sank.

Jul 4-30: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical. Palace, Manchester. Escape to a world of pure imagination with Roald Dahl’s Charlie and The Chocolate Factory – The Musical.

Jul 7: Steve Steinman’s Anything for Love.

Grand, Blackpool. The Meat Loaf story.

Jul 10-15: The Rocky Horror Show. Lyceum, Crewe.

Jul 13-14: Seussical JR. Regent, Stoke.

Jul 14: Simon & Garfunkel – Through the Years. Octagon, Bolton. Tribute show.

Jul 15: Don’t Stop Queen Now. Octagon, Bolton. Tribute show Jul 15: Anton & Giovanni – Him and Me. Regent, Stoke.

Jul 23: Fanny Galore’s Big Bingo Party.

Lyceum, Crewe.

Jul 23: The Very Best of Tommy Cooper.

Grand, Blackpool.

Jul 27: Tim Vine – Breeeep!

Lyceum, Crewe.

the end of a source of earned income. Once this assignment ends. Don’t let a pushy relative discourage you from pursuing a new goal; you need to remember that your words have power.

Make it your mission to only speak positive words, especially about yourself. .

More money will pour in, giving you the resources to purchase beautiful luxuries. The New Moon on the 19th is perfect for going to a job interview or audition. Your charisma will soar on the 20th; use it to lure an attractive person into your web of intrigue. Domestic activities are a profound source of pleasure during June; take this opportunity to connect with your nearest and dearest. Your charisma gets a big boost, possibly triggering a friend’s jealousy. Emerging from a self-imposed period of solitude makes the 17th a happy day for you. It’s nice to resume your busy social life. The New Moon on the 18th warns against blurting out a friend’s secrets; do your best to maintain their privacy.

SAGITTARIUS November 23rd-December 21st

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st)

Taking a pleasure trip is worth your time and money; you’ll get an energy boost from the beautiful surroundings. You’ll be looking your best on the 19th, courtesy of a supportive New Moon. Launching a home improvement project is favoured for the 20th. Your charming way with words attracts an artistic admirer in June. This is the beginning of a beautiful relationship. The Full Moon on the 4th brings an end to a period of intense spending, allowing you to build up savings again. An original idea for a business is worth developing on this magical day. Your home life is a source of tremendous happiness, but beware of a relative who will try to take advantage of your generosity.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st)

The Lunar Eclipse brings an end to an exhausting time that wreaked havoc with your schedule. Try devoting more time to solitary and spiritual pursuits. The Full Moon on the 4th brings exciting news from a business or romantic partner. The New Moon on the 19th is perfect for taking a relaxing break, preferably to a place that’s famous for its natural beauty.

June’s Full Moon on the 4th brings exciting news from a business or romantic partner. Trust your instincts on the 11th, as they will lead you to a lucrative opportunuty that brings financial stability. It’s best to listen more than you speak on the 15th – you will learn a lot.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd)

It’s time to change your priorities. Your natural good looks and charisma will soar. Give yourself permission to go after a cherished dream. On the 16th, you’ll rub elbows with some innovative and enthusiastic people. These new friends will help you cultivate your natural leadership ability.

Trust your intuition about an emotional or financial opportunity on the 21st. June’s Full Moon helps you achieve a fitness goal. Give yourself a handsome reward for all your hard work. A romantic attraction is too powerful to resist on the 11th; be guided by your heart instead of your head. Plans to travel or take a course could be cancelled on the 17th; try not to be disappointed.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd)

A relationship that has undergone dramatic changes will begin to stabilise and the Lunar Eclipse marks the end of a painful domestic situation. Feel free to move forward with a stalled project on the 15th, when obstacles will vanish into thin air. Don’t be surprised if you’re offered a dream opportunity on the 19th, courtesy of the New Moon. You could meet someone special on the 21st through a mutual friend. June’s Full Moon on the 4th brings about an exciting change in your life. Your star power is tremendous on the 5th. On the 18th, the New Moon can stir up problems in your social life. It’s

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RUSSELL GRANT CALLING . . .

possible a friend won’t pay back a loan, causing you to reconsider your relationship.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd)

A health matter that needs your attention will cause you to slow down. Trust your body’s signals, especially when you feel tired or anxious. Your romantic life will undergo a beautiful transformation on the 16th, whether you’re single or attached. The New Moon on the 19th is perfect for taking a vacation or indulging in a passionate rendezvous. June’s Full Moon urges you to move on to bigger and better things. It may be impossible to resist the allure of a magnetic romantic interest on the 11th. Be open to embarking on a relationship with someone who has an earthy sense of humour.

The strain on a close partnership will weaken on the 17th; meeting with the one you love will be easier.

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd)

A powerful attraction will release its hold on your heart, allowing you to turn your attention to other areas of life. Landing a long-term work assignment on the 13th is a distinct possibility.

The New Moon on the 19th is perfect for indulging your sensual side, either with a romantic partner or a spa treatment. A surprise windfall comes your way on the 26th. June’s Full Moon on the 4th brings a close to an incredibly busy period for you, giving you a chance for a much-needed rest. Beware of steering a friendship into romantic waters on the 5th; it’s probably best to keep things platonic.

Prepare for some drama at home.

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd)

Big changes on the home front will slow down, giving you a chance to adjust to all the shifts that have recently happened. The Lunar Eclipse forces you to abandon some attitudes that have been undermining a solid bond. On the 16th, your personal life will become a source of profound joy when someone admits their love and admiration for you. June’s Full Moon marks

Confusing feelings could create problems in a close relationship. Resist the urge to compare yourself to someone you admire. You have unique talents and abilities that will put you on a different but rewarding path. The New Moon on the 19th drops a wonderful offer in your lap.

Friendship could easily turn to romance on the 21st. Adopting a new lifestyle allows you to travel more freely in June. The 11th helps you find a source of passive income; it will be so much fun to get paid for doing a bare minimum of work. Pressure at home will ease on the 17th, deepening your enjoyment of domestic activities. The New Moon on the 18th warns against getting involved in an intense partnership. It’s better to take things slow so you two can develop trust.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th)

Your financial situation will stabilise. The Lunar Eclipse causes a rift between you and a flighty friend who demands constant attention. On the 16th, you’ll notice a dramatic improvement in your love life. If you’ve been looking for a partner, you could meet someone with a wonderfully earthy sense of humour. The New Moon on the 19th is perfect for taking a financial or emotional risk. The Full Moon in June brings an end to a period of isolation for you. At long last, you can devote time to a close relationship that brings you joy. On the 11th, you’ll resume a high-profile role that allows you to exercise your leadership ability. You’ll enjoy using this position to make order out of chaos.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th)

Your determination to move mountains could diminish, allowing you to adopt a slower pace toward goals. Starting a home-based business can restore your high spirits and optimism. Pay attention to a powerful desire to relocate to a bigger, better home on the 16th. You could stumble across the perfect place to live on the 19th, courtesy of the New Moon. As June arrives, try not to scare off someone special with your intense personality; you can be quite intimidating without knowing it. Returning to a spiritual matter will be soothing on the 11th; it’s important to escape the pressures of the material world from time to time. Financial constraints ease on the 17th.

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th)

Don’t let your family spoil your enthusiasm. Your ability to stay calm under pressure will cause someone to give you a great creative opportunity. Fabulous ideas will come fast and furious, and your guardian angels will be working overtime on your behalf. June 2nd is one of the most romantic days of the year for you. If you’re single, you could meet someone special. On the 4th, the Full Moon brings a spectacular career opportunity into your orbit; accept this offer with an open and grateful heart.

Work commitments prevent you from attending a social event on the 5th; try not to be bitter.

Fortunately, your professional commitments will easeon the 17th, giving you more time for the people and activities you love.

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All Together NOW!

MAY-JUNE 2023

HOW PLANTS GOT THEIR NAMES . . .

DAHLIAS started life as a range of species in Central America, always with woody, hollow stems and often very tall.

Aztecs used them as water pipes for irrigation, and their word for the plant has been translated as “water pipe flower.”

They also grew dahlia tubers as a food crop.

Following the Spanish Conquest, attempts were made to introduce it as food crop in Europe but without success.

Tubers found their way to the Royal Gardens of Madrid, where the director, Abbe Antonio Jose Cavanilles, a 16th-century priest and botanist, collected and named

. . . DAHLIAS

HOW SAFE IS YOUR GARDEN?

H

POPULAR: Dahlias, large and small, add colour to gardens at least 100 kinds of plant.

He named the dahlia after Anders Dahl, a Swedish scholar and botanist who not only travelled abroad in his search for plants but

ERE’S an important quiz for gardeners – especially those with children around:

1. When working in the garden, do you leave sharp tools where children can reach them and, when finished, leave them lying around while you have a cup of tea?

2. Are there any plants in your garden that can cause poisoning if eaten or blisters if touched?

3. Do you leave your lawnmower or other electrical tools plugged in and unattended?

4. When the paddling pool is filled, or if you have a pond, are small children allowed in the garden on their own?

5. Do you let children play in the garden shed?

The answer to each question should be no but, sadly, it is yes in thousands of homes. In 2022, 110,00 children were injured in the garden, according to the Department of Trade and Industry’s home accident surveillance system.

And May is the peak month for accidents.

Toddlers are naturally curious and slightly older children try to “help’” parents In either case, that can lead them to handle shears and electrical equipment, often with tragic results.

Sheds are another trap where children can trip

became curator of a major botanical garden where he catalogued a vast range of plants and then a professor at a Helsinki university.

He died in 1789 at the aged of 38 – two years before the dahlia was named after him. Since then many hundreds of dahlia varieties have been developed in virtually every colour except blue.

They range from small bedding types to tall kinds with enormous flower heads for borders and competitive dahlia shows.

There are so many that they are officially classified in 10 groups, the most recognisable being the Single group, the Pompon with globular flowers, the Decorative, producing huge, multi-petalled blooms, and the Cactus, with numerous petals which furl to a point.

PRETTY BUT POISONOUS – laburnum’s golden flowers

over cables, spill chemicals or pull tools down from benches or hooks on to themselves. Water fascinates children – and it can be a fatal fascination. A number drown every year in paddling pools and shallow ponds.

A pond can be converted into a sand-pit until the kids are older. Several common garden plants are toxic to a greater or lesser extent.

Stag’s horn sumach, euphorbia and the herb rue can cause skin problems if handled while laburnum, yew and hemlock, a hedgerow plant, can kill if eaten.

Anyone moving to a new house with young children should check what plants are growing in the garden and remove any dangerous kinds or ensure youngsters understand the hazard.

Not only children are at risk from garden mishaps. Altogether about 300,000 people are hurt in their gardens each year seriously enough to go to hospital.

Around 87,000 are injured actively gardening or carrying out DIY jobs in the garden. Men have more accidents in the garden than women and, apart from children, people aged 30 to 60 are most likely to be injured.

Safety often depends on using the right equipment for the job and making sure they are of decent quality and in good repair. That applies not only to electrical appliances but also to such tools as spades and hoes, as well as cutting gear like shears and secateurs.

In addition, sturdy gloves and footwear can prevent nasty cuts and bruises.

The top ten list of most dangerous garden objects, compiled by RoSPA (the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) are: 1. Lawnmowers, 6,500 accidents in the UK each year.

2. Flowerpots, 5,300 (people trip over them).

3. Secateurs and pruners, 4,400.

4. Spades, 3,600.

5. Electric hedge-trimmers, 3,100.

6. Plant tubs and troughs, 2,800.

7. Shears, 2,100.

8. Garden forks, 2,000.

9. Hoses and sprinklers, 1,900.

10. Garden canes and sticks, 1,800.

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23

CHECKLIST

FLOWERS: From June onwards spend a few minutes every day trimming the dead flower heads off container blooms and sweet peas to encourage continuous flowering.

PATIOS: Plant up tubs and hanging baskets in May. Make sure the compost in containers does not dry out and give a liquid feed once a week.

SHRUBS AND TREES: Prune shrubs that have flowered this year.

Cut out dead wood, weak growth and crossing branches then trim to keep the shape balanced. Do not prune shrubs and trees which have still to bloom this year.

LAWNS: Spike lawns, especially if they are damp or mossy, then apply a spring lawn feed, mosskiller or lawn weedkiller as appropriate.

PONDS: Water lilies and other pond species need feeding just like any other plant: use special pond fertiliser pellets pushed down into the roots.

FRUIT: Apples or pears that have been infested with grubs in the past can be sprayed with an insecticide when the petals have fallen.

VEGETABLES: Sow French and runner beans in mid or late May. HOUSEPLANTS: Water more freely, feed regularly and do not leave plants in full sun all day except for types really suited to hot conditions.

24 All Together NOW!

The Accumulator Quiz

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

1

2

3

4

5

★

9

10

13

★

★

22

23

26

7

★

7

★ 15

16

21

6

★

11

14

15

20

6

10 11

12

5

8

★

25

17

18

22

23

24

25

★

19

★ 26

27

★

28

31

★

32

29

31

★

34

31

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MAY-JUNE 2023

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: Which English king had a spaniel named after him?

QUESTION 10 – for 10 points: With which art movement is Roy Lichtenstein associated?

A B C D

A B C D

★ 32

★

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Offer of marriage (8) 8. Specialist (6) 9. Drop of rain (4) 10. Move quickly (3) 11. Tagged (anag.) (6) 12. Fragrant (8) 15. Planet (6) 16. Large wasp (6) 20. Cab (6) 24. Time to come (6) 27. Scent spray (8) 28. Macaw (6) 29. Bath (3) 30. Large boat (4) 31. Opportunity (6) 32. Saviour (8)

2. Long sword (6) 3. Healing liquid (6) 4. Sequence (6) 5. Linear extent (6) 6. Arachnid (6) 7. Become ice (6) 12. Haste (4) 13. Mend socks (4) 14. Board game (4) 17. Egg (4) 18. Common sense (inf.) (4) 19. Row (4) 21. Indifference (6) 22. Season (6) 23. Substance (6) 24. Prohibit (6) 25. Thin paper (6) 26. Purify (6)

QUESTION 11 – for 11 points: Which of the following is one-tenth of a nautical mile?

A B C D

A B C D

The Goodies The Two Ronnies Monty Python’s Flying Circus Fawlty Towers

QUESTION 3 – for 3 points: What is the unit for measuring the height of a horse?

Finger Hand Foot Leg

QUESTION 4 – for 4 points: Who was Bob Cratchit’s son in A Christmas Carol?

A B C D

Little Jack Horner Tiny Tim Little Willie Tom Thumb

QUESTION 5 – for 5 points: What is a chukka?

A B C D

QUESTION 6 – for 6 points: In 2014 actress Gillian Anderson was widely acclaimed for her London performance in the role of Blanche DuBois in which Tennessee Williams play?

A B C D

Actress Gillian Anderson. See Question 6

The Glass Menagerie A Streetcar Named Desire Cat on a Hot Tin Roof The Night of the Iguana

QUESTION 13 – for 13 points: A crossed-out triangle on laundry labels means what?

A B C D

A B C D

Venus Mars Jupiter Saturn

A B C D

2 4 1 9 3

4

5 2

1 8

3 1

5 6 5 9

7 8 3

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

A B C D

Caracas Veracruz Mexico City San Salvador

QUESTION 9 – for 9 points: What is studied by a herpetologist?

QUESTION 15 – for 15 points: Which architect designed London’s Crystal Palace?

A B C D

A B C D

Reptiles Fish Butterflies and moths Bees

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.

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

Do not bleach Do not spin dry Do not boil Dry clean only

QUESTION 14 – for 14 points: Which city stands on the ruins of the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlan?

Netherlands Great Britain Australia Germany

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.

DIFFICULT

Pointless Only Connect The Chase Countdown

QUESTION 7 – for 7 points: The Galilean moons, named in honour of Galileo, are moons orbiting which planet?

KAKURO

9 6 7

A B C D

QUESTION 8 – for 8 points: Which country won the Olympic men’s hockey gold medal in 2012?

A period of play in polo An early Roman catapult An Indian feast A nightclub doorman

A chain A cable A pole A knot

QUESTION 12 – for 12 points: Actor Bradley Walsh is the regular questionmaster and host on which TV game show?

SUDOKU

EASY

Surrealism Super-Realism Pop Art Neo-Expressionism

QUESTION 2 – for 2 points: Which TV comedy series featured a sketch about a dead Norwegian Blue parrot?

A B C D

30

Charles II William IV Henry VIII George III

William Burges John Nash John Soane Joseph Paxton

MEDIUM 17

14

11

12

21

16

11 30

27 17 7

20 16

13 20 30 14

11 21

8

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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?

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.

/

1

(

1 []’–

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.

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ

computer parts and

2. classic horror films 779 246 172 732 617 658 374 347 818 431 942 537 162 614 255 693 361 843 135 917 673 627 917 122 291 843 139 672 478 184 317 446 464 125 436

3. Shakespeare plays 843 182 646 416 318 431 747 391 585 487 122 372 712 962 354 631 271 968 154 531 481 267 465 268 716 327 873 136 716 327 873 184 318 367 378

4. classic TV comedy shows 843 184 227 163 134 253 911 255 611 255 611 527 816 318 431 786 637 194 631 665 913 665 712 631 467 737 132 958 918 693 771 346 637 523 437

5. Winter Olympics venues 727 253 861 762 441 725 815 253 124 891 727 767 615 455 342 663 712 523 788 455 317 816 674 891 826 268 837 147 366 253 162 426 612 254 279

6. hit records of the 1960s 466 318 427 284 667 122 291 568 314 382 929 183 578 271 968 641 447 514 616 691 439 158 331 255 167 166 844 641 414 681 968 122 231 585 438

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 17 things powered by batteries.

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?

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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 a unit of liquid measurement.

1. accessories 539 262 731 666 486 714 273 137 483 163 667 917 842 517 746 837 176 883 717 732 537 173 783 714 727 442 712 273 166 873 193 222 617 226 637

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

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TOKAY 1) A Maori priest, a wise man with healing powers; 2) A gecko, native to the Malay archipelago and southeast Asia; 3) A feathered headdress worn by Aztec warriors, to which an additional plume was added for each enemy soldier slain.

F

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WORD WIZARD

2

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MISSING LINK

BRAND

25

DIALLING CODES

CROSS CODE

All Together NOW!

MAY-JUNE 2023

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

1. After almost 30 years of fighting, Apache leader Geronimo surrenders with his last band of warriors to General Nelson Miles.

2. Karl Benz patents the first petrol-driven motor car.

3. The first Canadian Pacific passenger train leaves Montreal for Port Moody on the Pacific coast.

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

Clue: You can bury most of the trainee

WAS IT? a) 1878; b) 1882; c) 1886; d) 1890; e) 1894.

_____ +N=_____N

ALL THE ANSWERS Pathwords: phone; watch; digital camera; remote control; laptop; torch; tablet; calculator; smoke alarm; car; drill; fan; razor; radio; keyboard; toothbrush; pacemaker.

5 6 2 4 3 9 8 1 7

9 7 8 5 6 1 3 2 4

1 3 4 2 7 8 5 9 6

8 2 6 7 1 5 9 4 3

SUDOKU EASY

3 9 1 8 2 4 7 6 5

7 4 5 3 9 6 1 8 2

6 8 7 1 4 3 2 5 9

2 5 9 6 8 7 4 3 1

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3 0 8 & *

CROSS CODE

8 1 5 9 6 7 3 2 4

9 4 7 3 1 2 6 8 5

SUDOKU DIFFICULT

1 7 4 8 2 3 9 5 6

5 8 6 7 9 4 2 3 1

2 3 9 1 5 6 4 7 8

21 11

4

9

2

5 14 30

16 7 27 12

7

8 9

8 3

13

2

9

6

1

5

2

4 30

8 17

14

7 8

20

4

1 11

1

9 20 11

KAKURO MEDIUM

9 4 8 21

6 4 3 2 1 16

9 8 17

Accumulator Quiz 1 – A; 2 – C; 3 – B; 4 – B; 5 – A; 6 – B; 7 – C; 8 – D; 9 – A; 10 – C; 11 – B; 12 – C; 13 – A; 14 – C; 15 – D. Starspot Crossword Across – 1 Proposal; 8 Expert; 9 Spot; 10 Run; 11 Gadget; 12 Redolent; 15 Uranus; 16 Hornet; 20 Hansom; 24 Future; 27 Atomiser; 28 Parrot; 29 Tub; 30 Ship; 31 Chance; 32 Redeemer.

Down – 2 Rapier; 3 Potion; 4 Series; 5 Length; 6 Spider; 7 Freeze; 12 Rush; 13 Darn; 14 Ludo; 17 Ovum; 18 Nous; 19 Tier; 21 Apathy; 22 Spring; 23 Matter; 24 Forbid; 25 Tissue; 26 Refine.

Star Name: PAULA RADCLIFFE

Word Wizard No 2 is correct. A tokay is a gecko.

Dialling Codes 1. keyboard; monitor; hard drive; memory stick; printer; router; speaker; server; graphics card; mouse; webcam; scanner.

2. Psycho; Scream; Poltergeist; The Wicker Man; Halloween; The Fly; Rosemary’s Baby; The Exorcist; The Shining; Alien.

3. The Taming Of The Shrew; Julius Caesar; Cymbeline; As You Like It; Coriolanus; Measure For Measure; The Tempest.

4. The Vicar Of Dibley; ‘Allo ‘Allo!; Last Of The Summer Wine; Only Fools And Horses; Fawlty Towers; Dinnerladies.

5. Sarajevo; Sochi; Salt Lake City; Sapporo; Lillehammer; Albertville; St Moritz; Vancouver; Grenoble; Nagano; Calgary.

6. Good Vibrations; Baby Love; Getaway; Telstar; Young Girl; Go Now; Hey Jude; All Or Nothing; I Got You Babe; Juliet.

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

Missing Link guide; apple; lime; load; olive; new.

Unit of measurement: gallon.

Make a Date The year was 1886.

Transformer Inter + N = Intern

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!

MAY-JUNE 2023

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

THEN . . .

KEN PYE’s latest book, Even More Merseyside Tales, is available in all good bookshops or from Ken directly – as are all of his books and factsheets.

Contact details, below.

TAKE YER COSSIE TO THE CAZZIE NOW . . .

DAY OUT A family stroll on the Cazzie

L

IVERPOOL’S docklands play such a dominant role in its history that it’s hard to imagine the city’s entire waterfront was once largely unspoilt sand and shingle beach.

But with the coming of the Industrial Revolution, and the building of seven and a half miles of dense docklands on the banks of the Mersey, through the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries, that shoreline was lost forever.

Only a small stretch of natural beach remains in the isolated hamlets of Oglet and Dungeon, near the southern district of Speke. And there are fears this too may fall prey to development plans.

One of the riverfront areas particularly despoiled was the Dingle district, just north of Speke. Even so, a short length of shoreline was not actually built over until the early-1980s. Until then it remained a local playground and swimming area for local people.

For decades it was

known as “The Cast-Iron Shore” or “The Cazzie”, and is still fondly remembered by many older Liverpudlians.

The name dates from 1815, and refers to the cast iron produced at the vast Mersey Forge Iron Foundry that stood near the Dingle waterfront, on each side of Sefton Street.

This had been established in 1810, and produced cast and forged iron. Steel was also manufactured here, using massive, pivoting furnaces called Bessemer converters.

Mersey Forge

There were also huge smelting and puddling yards, great rolling and stamping mills, and a 15-ton steam-hammer, whose persistent thump, thump, thumping was loud enough to be heard on the other side of the river, and which was finally silenced after many complaints and a court hearing.

At its peak, the Mersey Forge employed 1,500 men. This ironworks also made armour plating and armaments including, in

www.discover-liverpool.com

1856, the gigantic Horsfall Gun. This was then the largest gun in existence, weighing 21 tons 17cwt.

When it was tested on Liverpool’s North Shore, the streets were decked out with bunting and a huge crowd gathered to witness a 300lb ball being shot for a distance of five miles.

The giant cannon was intended to be used in the Crimean War, fought since 1853 by Turkey, France and Britain against Russia.

But, to the disappointment of the Forge owners and workers, the war ended three days after the gun was finished.

When the Liverpool to Garston railway was being cut through the south docks, in 1864, the forge had to move to three new sites, separated by Grafton and Horsfall Streets but connected by long, wide, and very busy tunnels, that are still there beneath the modern streets.

At a time before health and safety laws and environmental awareness, the spoil from this heavy industry was allowed to run off, heavily tainting and discolouring the land

Below, The Mersey Forge

all around, as well as the shore and the rocks.

The beach now took on all the colour shades of metal – from yellow and orange, through red and blue, to grey and black – hence the name then given to the shore by local people.

After the closure of the Mersey Forge, in 1898, this section of the river’s edge became a very popular swimming spot for local children and young men, and a picnic destination for families.

Disappeared

No one minded the colour of the water or the polluted state of the Cast Iron Shore, why would they?

The Forge sites were eventually demolished, cleared, and built over. Then, in 1982, the Cazzie too disappeared as work began on reclaiming the land for conversion into a new riverside walkway and embankment. This would form part of the International Garden Festival: But that’s another story…

Ken Pye – 0151 427 2717

2 50, 000

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

READERS . . . BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER MAY-JUNE 2023

www.alltogethernow.org.uk

27

“WE’VE advertised in All Together NOW! for the past 14 years – and haven't missed a single issue. It's a fantastic publication that does a brilliant job of presenting disability interests and issues in a positive and inclusive manner. We get a great respons to our advertising – and the team is always great to deal with.”

– Donald Pow, MD, Allied Mobility

“WE HAD a brilliant response to your article about our Atrial Fibrillation Ambassador programme – and lots of people phoned us to find out how they could become an AF Ambassador. Thanks to All Together NOW! many more people with an irregular heart rhythm will now be detected, get the right medication and this will prevent them from having strokes.”

— NHS Innovation Agency

“WE HAVE proudly advertised in All Together NOW! for over 12 years. It is an excellent newspaper, with endless, interesting and helpful facts for all readers.

We have always received great responses to our advertisements.

The newspaper is freely available to so many people throughout the North West and is appreciated by so many.

Heather Maddox, A-Line Mobility

“All Together NOW! is a valuable link to hundreds of thousands of disabled people. We have used this free charity newspaper to promote the services of our mobility shops and the annual Disability Awareness Day and know that it is reaching huge numbers of people who otherwise would go uniformed.”

— Dave Thompson Warrington Disability Partnership

REACHING PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT ONLINE

More than a newspaper – the key to independence

All Together NOW! has been a real help to us. We’ve been involved with the paper since its launch in 2004 and always get a great response to our adverts. Here’s wishing the paper every success — Steve Curran, co-director, DaVinci Mobility “OF ALL the marketing that United Utilities puts into the community, nothing generates as much feedback and response as All Together NOW! It is a great platform that’s helping us to get our messages to our vulnerable customers.”

— Louise Beardmore, Customer Services Director United Utilities

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local, seen by and highly relevant readers – don't let your business miss out on our huge audience!

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Helen McLoughlin Tel 0151 929 3912 07511 839397 helen@alltogethernow.org.uk

“WE HAVE supported All Together NOW! for the past 15 years and are proud to be one of the charity’s main sponsors – recognition for the way in which the newspaper helps bring together so many people and organisations. There is no doubting the importance of this excellent publication. All Together NOW! makes a unique contribution to improving the quality of life of disabled people and their families. We are delighted with the huge progress the paper has made, and we know from the number of telephone calls we receive from people who have read the paper that distribution is on the increase and is reaching the right audience.”

Steve Morgan CBE, chairman Steve Morgan Foundation

www.alltogethernow.org.uk Registered Charity: 1106387

28 All Together NOW!

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MAY-JUNE 2023

We are extremely grateful for all the support we receive and could not continue to do what we do without it.

All Together NOW! is a charity newspaper, part-funded by kind donations from a wide-range of businesses and charitable organisations.

Want to be our friend?

Are you involved with a business that would benefit from brand exposure in front of our 250,000 readers, while at the same time showing your support for our multi awardwinning newspaper, All Together NOW! ?

Well, now you can!

For an annual donation of just £500 (or more if you can afford it!), your organisation is invited to become a FRIEND of All Together NOW!

l W O Street Foundation

l Geoffrey and Pauline Martin Charitable Trust

l UKH Foundation

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l Pilkington Charities Fund

Your logo will feature on our new FRIENDS of All Together NOW! page in six consecutive issues, alongside our other supporters.

At no extra cost, your logo and hyperlink will also be featured on our website and in our brand new e-newsletters.

This is an ideal opportunity if you are a business that would like to show support to your community – and benefit from engaging with our readers.

This opportunity can also complement your advertising campaign, strengthening your presence in the newspaper.

For more information, email helen@alltogethernow.org.uk

Be part of this great paper, contact helen@alltogethernow.org.uk or call 07511 839 397