Autumn 2022 Magazine

WELCO TO YO AUTUM EDITIO OF

SCOTLAND

We are back…and with a BANG! We are delighted to bring you this bumper edition of Spinal Life, as we have missed you all We are sure there is something for everyone with features from others who understand life with a spinal injury, plenty of ideas for staying active and all the latest news from Spinal Injuries Scotland including our fantastic summer barbecue down at Castle Semple, including how to try out water sports and Cycling, for FREE as a member.

This year was special as it marked the 60th anniversary of our charity's opening which was celebrated with a BBQ, and it also marked the return of our annual Castle Semple BBQ and Watersports event, which serves as the featured story in this edition of Spinal Life

This is your magazine, about you and for you.

At Spinal

Is there something you think we should include? Maybe you want more information about an article from Spinal Life Maybe you just need some advice and don't know where to go We are here to help and will do everything in our power to meet your needs

Importantly, we want to make sure the magazine reflects real spinal life That means we will not shy away from the subjects that could be challenging for someone with a spinal injury We want to let you know that you are not alone by including real life stories about real life struggles Spinal Injuries Scotland will always be here if you need to get in touch

IN THIS ISSUE

On pages 14, 15 & 16, see the return of the Castle Semple BBQ and Watersports Day which was an outstanding success despite a few years of absence There were a variety of fun activities to try out, including kayaking, canoeing, powerboating and kayaking, plus things to keep children entertained such as arts and crafts

Our

visited Orkney to speak at a road safety event Read more about on

Safe Drive Orkney pages 10 & 11.

Injuries

Scotland we want to provide a quality magazine, free of charge, and offer something for everyone We also want your input Have you been somewhere or done something that other members may find interesting? If so, please get in touch and get involved We would be delighted to feature you

We are always keen to hear what you think about the magazine.

It is completely free to

If you are not a member of Spinal Injuries Scotland then what are you waiting for? join, we will send you each edition of this magazine and you can take advantage of all the other benefits our members enjoy Just contact us through the e mail address or phone number below You can also join us online at www spinalinjuriesscotland org uk

Please enjoy your new edition of Spinal Life The Editors.

info@spinalinjuriesscotland org uk 0800 0132 305

Read about the stories of our three new members of our

Peer Support Outreach Team, page 13.

based in Aberdeen, the Scottish Borders and Dumfries on

staff members and Maureen Laura Torrance

Morrison

Face to face coffee meets across Scotland

Peer support is at the heart of what we do.

For over 60 years the charity has been drawing upon personal experience of the challenges of living with a spinal cord injury.

Our local peer support advisor would love to see you at one of our meetings.

We host virtual coffee meets via Zoom three times a week where you can meet members from all over Scotland.

For details of dates, times and locations please see our website, facebook page or contact us on:

Email: info@spinalinjuriesscotland.org.uk

Phone: 0141 427 7686

Visit: www.spinalinjuriesscotland.org.uk

It takes a lot of guts and determination to make the most of any spinal cord injury.

Gregor Ewan has taken his disability and created a positive influence in wheelchair sport

A three time Paralympian receiving bronze with his team at his first Paralympic Games in Sochi, and silver in the World Championships in Prague, Spinal Life took the opportunity to have a chat with him about his personal journey into wheelchair curling

How and when did you start curling? And was it something you were always interested in?

I always liked sports I did a lot of boxing when I was younger, I did football, rugby and badminton,

but I blew my knee out when I was seventeen years old, and ended up getting cartilage and ligaments done Sport to me was then put on the back burner It was due to this I walked with a limp for a long time

I ended up causing injury to my spine and eventually it just collapsed and I ended up in a wheelchair

Along came a disabled group in Moray Resource Center I was new to the wheelchair game, dealing with being in the chair and thinking life was over for me Meeting those guys they were able to show me that life's not over, life can still continue

They introduced me to handcycling, snooker, and with Norman it was "come curling, come curling, come curling " I thought I’ll go down and keep him happy and play for an hour and then I’ll go do something else

You didn’t need any special equipment, everything is provided by the ice rink I don’t know what it was it just hooked me

I went down to my first British down in Kilmarnock I wasn’t playing I just went down to spectate, to see what the script was and meet a few more folk

At that I just seen all these people in wheelchairs just getting on with their lives Okay, everybody’s got their own struggles, but they were finding a way to enjoy themselves, and have a joke, and I was like "this is brilliant."

Is competing at the winter Olympics different than competing at the world championships, or is it on a parallel, or is it a completely different ballgame?

It’s totally different You go from being British curling to GB curling That’s something that nobody can take away from you once you’ve done it You’re a Paralympian, you’ve gone to the top

I’ve been lucky to be picked three times and carry the flag for the country My heart was in my mouth Me and Megan both got selected to do it

I'm so proud to have been able to lead out the British Paralympic team

So, at Sochi you made your Paralympic debut, was that the pinnacle of your curling career?

I still want that gold medal I still want to be on that podium again I'd settle for another bronze, but I still want that gold Olympic medal

It’s a hard thing to say, “Do you go for another four years again and try for Italy”

Will my body hold up? Will my mental state hold up?

Because it’s a big ask I’ve still to ask myself that question because we’ve not done the Beijing debrief yet So maybe after that I'll know

Yes, I want to but it’s a lot of gym work, it’s a lot of travelling

Was this your favourite moment in your curling career so far?

To be honest that was something I had done in a blur, I don’t remember, much about it at all Being in that stadium, I’ve seen pictures and everything, but I can’t remember much about it at all It just seemed to go so quick I think it must have been the adrenaline

For me it was more a case of when I got my name on the back of my top to play for Scotland It was the world championship in Prague I’d come down to Stirling to get my kit with Ewan on the back of the Scotland top, representing your country, that to me was the best perks of my career

Also, leading the Paralympic team in Beijing, that has got to be the best feeling ever Even to be asked I’m Scottish and I’m British Leading out my team was one of the best feelings I’ve ever had

After having a couple of years off, how did it feel to be selected for the GB team and to go back out again?

When I came away from the program, I was more annoyed at my performance and career I didn’t think I played particularly well There were things that had happened, and I came back and done the debrief

You have to reapply for your place on the squad every year, everybody has to do it and it was one of those things

They phoned me and said, “You’re not on the program anymore Gregor, these are the reasons why”

I took two years off and ended up coaching Northern Ice for a while In that time, I was concentrating a lot on myself

I ended up having to go to Gartnavel Hospital for an operation, which made a big difference to my pain management

I was able to lose a lot more weight because I could work out a lot more So, it was a win, win, win

After seeing what happened at the worlds I thought 'hopefully they'll be looking for players again', so I reapplied to see what would happen

Because of everything I had done, the performance staff and the rest of the team were amazed

I had lost about 7 and a half stone Plus, I'd stopped smoking I worked hard and I got back in

Can I ask you where your passion and drive comes from?

I always want to be good at stuff When I was doing my apprenticeship, my boss would say “if you’re going to do it, do it right or don’t do it at all” That’s something that’s always stuck in the back of my head And I try to do things better every time I try to find an easier way to do things but a better way to do it

I try to listen to audio books, to study things or find out an easier way to calm myself down on the ice Because I spend at least 7 hours a week travelling, it’s time that I use wisely

I think everyone has that drive to do something in them but sometimes you’ve got to get someone to spark that drive for you

Your wife Christine Is a big part of that too?

Yeah, she’s a big supporter I think that’s the main thing if you’re going to get into a sport like this, you’ve got to have the backing of your family

I can remember when I first started this journey I went home and said I was going to try to go to Vancouver in 2010, I never made it to Vancouver, but I was a stay at home reserve, but that gave me a bigger drive to go for Sochi.

I still had to go home and say to Christine I wanted to try for Sochi and ask if she was ok with that I mean we had teenagers, my son, and my daughter, and I was going to be away from home quite a bit for it But she said, “you go for it, as long as you're happy”

Then I came back from Sochi and asked whether I should try for Korea Then two years later, do I try for Beijing

You talked about listening to audiobooks, to gain knowledge and keep learning, when you’re out on the ice and just about to start a game or play a shot, do you have a pre game or pre-shot routine?

My warmup exercises are always the same

I always do the exact same exercises and the exact same routine

So I'll get my clothes sorted first, then I'll do my warmup, then I'll do so many deliveries, but also when I go out to the edge of the ice the Paralympics especially you can be out there for 20 25 mins before the game starts due to TV and Cameras; you have to find something not to get your heart rate racing but just before you take a shot raise that up

I’ve gotten very good at the routine of counting, put down the stone, turn, come back from a certain distance

Everything is repetitive and the more times I do that the better I get at it

In the long run it's going to pay off, and it is paying off But I mean I have 10 years’ experience of setting myself up, and lining things up, and changing my routines So, I’ve experienced a few things over the years, and you learn certain things work for you and certain things don’t

I know that you don’t have much spare time but apart from curling what else do you do? Do you have hobbies?

Not really, I don’t have time to do much else to tell you the truth My whole week is taken up by the curling It’s not a full time job but it’s a full time commitment to the program

I can see when you’re on the ice the commitment and the passion and the conviction for your sport is there.

I love the game and I love the people I play with

Even all the different countries I’ve been, I’ve got respect for every curler I’ve ever met.

From the person that has to do short curling due to their disability to the person I’ve played against who’s blind I’ve got a massive amount of respect for them putting themselves out there and trying to make themselves a better sportsperson

Spinal Life would like to thank Gregor for taking the time to share some of his story with us.

SPINAL LIFE

MICHELLE'S STORYSPINAL AWARENESS DAY

To accept themselves first just like anyone else

Initially people are getting their lives back together, leaning new skills thinking about the effects on relationships and family, changes of roles in family due to money, managing where they now might live, dealing with grief how they will now move about managing their bowels and bladder spasms care givers

There is so much to think about so sometimes it's the first thing on someone’s mind and sometimes the very last.

After the initial information about function that is sometimes given in the spinal rehab centers it often takes people up to 3 years to start to open up about how they feel about their intimate lives

It depends on their level of injury, and their mental state

Those that need higher levels of care, it is often more difficult to meet people

To join in as much as possible we have to be out there to be noticed for our own confidence to grow for ourselves to accept ourselves, to

to enable conversation’s with others

I was paralysed in 96 no one was asking mainly women the questions about sex so I wanted to fill that gap and I went to uni!

Communication as with anyone else

My partner said a whole load of patience as not only am I a girl but I’m a princess in a wheelchair it takes me ages to go to the loo, to get ready to go out We build this into our routine and talk!

We want to say thank you to Michelle Donald who was brave enough to share her personal story with the intent to support others experiencing similar conditions.

Q: Why do you think that after a spinal cord injury, people tend to neglect sexuality and intimacy?

Q: Are there any unique challenges about the dating lives of those with SCI?

Q: Could you share a little bit about your journey to becoming a Psychosexual Therapist?

Q: What are you hoping participants learn from the panel discussion (Dating with Disabilities)?

Q: Any advice for those who are living with SCI and are currently going through personal struggles regarding dating?

debate,

Q: How can someone who is not SCI, but dating someone who is, better understand their partner?

GLASGOW WHEELCHAIR RUGBY CLUB SPORTS

A new start!

Glasgow wheelchair rugby club

Before the lockdown in 2020, Glasgow Wheelchair Rugby Club (GWRC) was struggling Their player and volunteer numbers had dwind along with their coffers and morale

As the world came to a grinding halt during the Covid 19 crisis, it gave an opportunity for a massive reset

Taking a step back to take stock and view themselves from a new perspective, it initiated a journey that led to, amongst other things, an eye catching rebrand

"With the country on an enforced hiatus, it gave us the breathing space to enable us to shore up our finances with a successful round of funding applications, which enabled us to get the club on a firmer financial footing

As time went by, many of our volunteers had dropped away, due to their changes of circumstances and priorities leaving a dedicated few

"We decided to launch a recruitment drive where we were able to recruit a group of young and enthusiastic volunteers who were able to add a youthful vibe to training sessions It was all very well having the funds, great setup and volunteer base, but without players you don’t have a club

"We had a long term and a short term strategy to resolve the issue Short term, we hosted our first ever wheelchair rugby session at Tollcross leisure centre Taster sessions would do the job short term but going forward we would need a different approach This was when we decided to develop a junior team, to be called

"Not only would having a junior team go a long way to futureproofing our club, but it would also bring the well known benefits of playing a sport, like the increase in physical and mental wellbeing as well as the social interaction and camaraderie, to a whole new younger audience

As we take part in the Great Britian Wheelchair Rugby league, our club has to be competitive and our players strive to be the best To open up the game for new players, we would have to make our club more inclusive We plan on tackling this issue by, when possible, fielding a second team that will play in a lower division

This development team, , will give the opportunity for those players who don’t make the first team to play competitively It will also act as a transition opportunity for the younger players as they make the step up to the adult game

Our plan for having two new teams required a club restructure We decided that we should change the name of the club to within which we would have three teams, our first team, our development team and our junior team called , and respectively

This takes us back to our eye catching rebrand If we were going to change our club’s name and have two new teams, we would require four new logos, so why not go for a full new rebrand?

We engaged the services of a local design company called Design Hero, who put together a complete brand pack, with new colours, fonts and logos to use on our kit, promo material and online content Our new logos are all different although have the same theme running throughout, giving each team their own identity whilst feeling part of a larger entity We are all very happy with how our club is developing and proud of our new look

We are always looking for new players and volunteers

Ultimately, we are looking to thrive and not just survive

SPINAL LIFE

Road traffic accidents are responsible for over 36% of spinal cord injuries. 15% of these cases are a result of accidents involving cars, lorries or buses and over 10% are connected to motorbike incidents.

These types of events deliver thought provoking messages to young drivers by demonstrating in realistic terms the potentially lethal consequences should they fail to understand and accept their responsibilities when getting behind the wheel of a car

As the crowds gathered outside St Magnus Cathedral in Orkney’s capital of Kirkwall, we witnessed the staged rescue of Counselor Dawson As part of the Road Safety demonstration, Mr Dawson was trapped in a car whilst The Scottish Ambulance Service were teamworking with the Scottish Fire and Rescue to save the casualty The live narrated exercise lasted over 30 minutes going through the step by step stages of getting the person out of the car safely

Once Counselor Dawson was removed safely to the ambulance, we then heard from Laura Torrance (SIS Peer Support Co Ordinator) about her story of being in a car accident at the age of 16 and how that changed her and her family’s lives forever Laura’s accident happened over 20 years ago and she has spoken at many of these engagements Though the talks can be hard hitting and extremely emotional at times, the feedback from young people makes every one worth the effort

The main causes of road traffic crashes can, in the majority of cases, be broken down to ‘the fatal five:

dangerous and careless driving speeding, seatbelt offences, mobile phone offences drink and drug driving.

"That moment of carelessness or 'taking a chance' on speed, drink or drug driving, or answering that mobile phone all that and more could have life changing or fatal consequences. And it’s a gamble which there is no coming back from "

Stage

We would like to thank Commander John McKenna at Kirkwall Fire Station in partnership with Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Services, Scottish Fire and Rescue and Orkney Islands Council for pulling this all together as well as the Orkney Island Council for the photos

If you would like more information on events like these, please contact the charity info@spinalinjuriesscotland org uk

Chief Inspector Ali Garrow

Stage 2: Hood of car being lifted

Stage 1: Ambulance arriving at the scene

Stage 3: Being rescued from the site

Stage 4: Being carried to a hospital bed

5: Being transported to an ambulance

SUPPORT HAVE YOU BEEN TO OUR COFFEE MEET YET?

"It’s lovely to meet with people who understand your struggles but can also talk about things they have found helpful, recommend places they’ve been to, and have a good chat."

Kalpa, Aberdeen, Incomplete, T12/L1

Spinal Injuries Scotland is the leading charity in Scotland for peer support.

We have peer support members of staff across Scotland, ensuring no patients or members are left feeling alone

Our support follows through initial entry to the QENSIU where our Peer Support Co Ordinator, Laura Torrance, is based; through to our outreach team led by Stuart McMillan

Over the past year we have expanded our outreach team with new members of staff in and the

Aberdeen, Dumfries Scottish Borders.

Our outreach staff all have spinal injuries and have first hand experience of the issues faced on the journey to recovery

In the past year, we have added three new members to our Peer Support Team

Not long before Arran’s 17th birthday, he was involved as a passenger in a nasty car crash. After being taken to several Edinburgh hospitals he was transferred to the Queen Elizabeth

in Glasgow to receive the treatment support and rehabilitation required. It was there that the significance of the injury was established, complete C4/5 tetraplegic.

"being able to give to other people the support and smile that Spinal Injuries Scotland gave to me when I needed it most was a dream come true"

mary.bell@spinalinjuriesscotland.org.uk

In 2004, Whilst driving, Mary was involved in a hit and run accident and sustained a high level spinal injury (C5 7 incomplete) which affects hand function, coordination and balance, and is now a full time wheelchair user.

“there is always something positive in every tough situation… we just have to dig a little harder for it sometimes.. but it is there…”

In 2019 Joanna was involved in a car accident which resulted in a T12 Complete Spinal Cord Injury She spent 5 months in the

Spinal Unit (QENSIU), learning how to manage her SCI.

“If my experience has taught me anything it's the capability of the human spirit”

Read about their stories here:

Mary Bell Peer Support Adviser, Dumfries & Galloway Area

Arran Middlemiss - Peer Support Advisor, Borders Area arran middlemiss@spinalinjuriesscotland org uk

spinal unit

Joanna Robertson - Peer Support Advisor, Aberdeen & The Grampian Area

joanna robertson@spinalinjuriesscotland org uk

Glasgow

FEATURE

Our annual Castle Semple BBQ and Watersports Day returned after a few years as a massive success!

Castle Semple Loch is the jewel in the crown of Renfrewshire’s outdoor leisure facilities Set in beautiful countryside in Lochwinnoch, with a fantastic range of activities available on land and on the water

Our members are particularly well catered for as the Centre is equipped with accessible equipment including hoists and lifting gear This means anyone can try sailing, canoeing and powerboating, as well as handcycling, or for wheelchair users, go offroad on a tri ride

Following the Covid 19 pandemic and the loneliness and isolation experienced by many members, what better place to put that behind us?

Our Annual BBQ & Watersports Day gave us the opportunity to get together in the sunshine with friends old and new to enjoy activities and fill our bellies

That is exactly what more than 60 members alongside their families and friends did on Wednesday July 20th

SIS's brilliant team of Volunteers were on hand to welcome members, and help them make the most of their day in the sun Also in attendance, were physios and nursing staff from the Spinal Unit in the QENSIU, and our friends and long time supporters from Digby Brown, Bullen and Hollister

Members came from as far as Aberdeen, Inverness and the Borders to join us on the day and everyone agreed the long journey and early start were well worth it The unanimous verdict was that the day was a cracking success, with people telling us how thrilled they were to catch up in person with people they had only ever seen on Zoom!

"Many members, coming for the first time, told us they never imagined that they would ever be able to go on a bike or tri ride, never mind a canoe, sailboat, or powerboat, and that the experience was totally liberating , and great for their self confidence."

The specially trained Centre staff, led by David Hill, were on hand to ensure that members could access the specially adapted sports equipment safely and have the confidence to use the hand controls to sail by themselves

Canoes were fitted with floating devices to minimise the risk of capsizing, some more daring members were spotted almost out of sight in the middle of the loch!

The sailing boats with adaptive hand controls can carry two people, and the power boats can accommodate wheelchair users

As usual the hand cycling, and tri riding were the most popular activities, with members venturing out on the pathways along the loch

"Having a great day out in a wheelchair friendly environment, and seeing so many others with a SCI out on the water, or cycling round the centre was fabulous!"

The barbecue, generously provided by Digby Brown catered for all tastes with burgers, sausages, vegetarian, and vegan choices

SIS Operations Manager Maureen Morrison gave a short speech thanking everyone for coming and giving a special note of thanks to Centre staff, our Volunteers, Spinal Unit staff, and our sponsors

We were also delighted to announce another years funding from the Awards for All program from the Lottery, this allows our members to try out the equipment available throughout the year If you would like more information on this, please get in touch with the charity

There are plans to have more than one Activities and Barbecue day next year, we aim to bring this to the North in order to increase accessibility to our many members in Grampian and Highland region. Watch this space for further details.

"I loved getting to meet with everyone else there, with people I knew from the Spinal Unit, and some with an SCI for many years."

The activities were fantastic, and honestly, every single thing was just phenomenal!

All of us at Spinal Injuries Scotland would like to say a huge thank you to everybody who showed up on the day of the event. We all hope that all the attendees had a wonderful day out and we look forward to meeting you all again in the future.

DATE: VENUE: TIME: COST:

Friday 4th November 2022 Doubletree by Hilton Glasgow Central, Cambridge Street, Glasgow 6.45pm until late £1,450 for a table of 10 (includes all entertainment, drinks reception, 4 course dinner and complimentary wine) You can book your table now by emailing susan.lawrie@digbybrown.co.uk

BENEFITS UPDATE SUPPORT

What’s changing with Disability Benefits in Scotland?

Disability Benefits are changing and will now be paid by Social Security Scotland The main disability benefits being changed are

payable to children and some adults, payable to people of working age payable to people of pension age

In 2013 PIP began to replace DLA for adults Some claimants may still be receiving DLA while they wait to be transferred to PIP. The changes in Scotland affect those people too.

Disability Living Allowance for Children is changing to Child Disability Payment (CDP)

Child Disability Payment, was launched by Social Security Scotland in July 2021 It replaced Disability Living Allowance for children and, after a phased introduction, is now available to claim throughout Scotland

You will find information on eligibility and how to apply at https://www mygov scot/child disability payment

Children already on DLA will gradually be moved over to the new benefit by Social Security Scotland without having to apply

Personal Independence Payment or Disability Living Allowance is changing to Adult Disability Payment (ADP)

Like PIP and DLA, the new benefit is for people with a disability, a long term illness or a physical or mental health condition who need help with daily living activities and/or mobility Adult Disability Payment is being introduced for new applications on a phased basis as follows:

Dundee City, Perth and Kinross, the Western Isles Angus, North Lanarkshire, South Lanarkshire

Fife, Aberdeen City, Aberdeenshire, Moray, North Ayrshire, East Ayrshire, South Ayrshire if you live elsewhere in Scotland

Applications for ADP will be made to Social Security Scotland instead of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP)

For the time being, the eligibility criteria and rates of payment will remain the same as for PIP but the Scottish Government state that they will undertake a review of this within one year.

The removal of routine face to face assessments Social Security Scotland will make decisions about entitlement for ADP using the applicant’s account of their circumstances and existing supporting information This means they will only ask someone to undertake a face to face assessment when it is the only practicable way to make a decision

The introduction of indefinite awards Disabled people on the highest components of the new benefit and whose needs are highly unlikely to change will be eligible for an “indefinite award”. In effect, this will mean they will not be subject to reviews and can rely on their new benefit into the long term

Pension

will support older people who have a disability that means they need assistance with looking after themselves, or supervision to keep them safe

The new

At the time of writing, there is no date set for when this benefit will be introduced. It is likely to be

What are the differences between PIP/DLA and ADP?

People who get the highest rate of the mobility component of ADP will be able to transfer either the whole or part of the money they get for the mobility component to access the new Scottish scheme

This new scheme will provide a service similar to the current Motability scheme, with a range of cars, wheelchair accessible vehicles, scooters and powered wheelchairs on affordable leasing terms, with a range of adaptations at little or no cost The authorised provider is Motability Operations Ltd

Clients who have an existing Motability lease will be able to retain their vehicle until the end of that lease Spinal

You will find information on eligibility and how to apply for ADP at https://www mygov scot/adult disability payment

People already on PIP or DLA will gradually be moved over to ADP by Social Security Scotland without having to apply

If your area is not yet accepting claims to ADP you can still claim PIP Information on eligibility and how to claim PIP can be found at https://www gov uk/pip/how to claim

Jacqueline Lange Welfare Rights Digby Brown Solicitors

SUPPORT DVLA MOTABILITY

For many people, using transport or being able to drive after a Spinal Cord Injury can be a daunting thought.

However, the freedom of a car is more of an essential than a luxury for most wheelchair users and walkers So, for those who are considering it, together with Scottish Driving Assessment Centre and Motability, we have answered some of the most popular questions from our members You can also get more in depth information from the Scottish Driving Assessment Centre in Edinburgh or from the Motability Scheme

Please always check with your Lead Consultant or GP for further guidance.

Do I have to let DVLA know about my injury?

Yes, if you have had a spinal cord injury you are required by law to tell the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). You can do this by letter. They will usually respond in writing to you and may send you out further medical forms for you to complete to gain a clearer picture of your injury

How do I get a Blue badge

The Blue Badge Scheme allows you to be able to park closer to your destination, if you're disabled You don’t need to be a driver to be apply for one Application is made through your own local councils and the charity can support with this through our Welfare Check process https://www gov uk/blue badge scheme information council

As a paraplegic do I need to go for a driving assessment?

If your injury has left you with complete paraplegia, with no other injuries, you do not need a formal assessment As you are unable to operate the pedals of a manual drive car you will need to drive an adapted car, normally an automatic with hand controls Converting your vehicle from manual to hand controls normally costs about £500 though prices do vary There are a number of different types available and a scheme exists with Motability that can assist with costs More information is available on the website https://www motability co uk/products/adaptations/ada ptations available/

As a Tetraplegic will I be able to return to driving?

This is dependent on the level and severity of the injury

As you have paralysis of your lower limbs and partial paralysis of your upper limbs you will need to go for a driving assessment. The purpose of the assessment is to establish if you have the ability to control the car and to identify the adaptations that are required to help this, not your driving ability Your consultant and occupational therapist will make the referral whilst you are in hospital If you are discharged, your consultant or GP can make the referral

I can’t transfer from my wheelchair to a car seat Does this mean I cannot drive?

If you are unable to transfer in and out of a car independently, there may be equipment available that will assist you. This can be assessed at the Driving Assessment Centre If you cannot transfer, you will need to consider a vehicle that can be converted to allow you to drive from your wheelchair These vehicles can be expensive Although grants are available through the Motability Scheme, there are limitations and specific criteria to consider

Is using hand controls difficult?

Driving using hand controls can be worrying at first but most people adapt to it fairly quickly. For some, balance is the one thing that they find most difficult to adapt to but this varies by individuals

What happens during the assessment?

The initial part of the assessment is an interview This is to get basic details about you and to gain further information about your injury and your current health It involves a basic eyesight test and physical assessment The test will then establish if you have any cognitive problems When you complete the assessment you will be advised at the time, and in writing on the adaptations that you need to allow you to safely drive, and possibly the type of car that you may need If the test hasn’t gone as well as you hoped there is always the opportunity to go for a further assessment in the future. It isn’t a matter of one test, one chance

Driving from his wheelchair in a Wheelchair Adapted Vehicle (WAV), through the Motability Scheme. Ray's van has a ramp at the side, so he can get his Powerchair and into the position where its secured into place Also with the use of hand controls, he is able to drive his car from his chair securely.

Ray, Member, Aberdeen, Complete C5/C6

My injury is incomplete, do I have to go for an assessment?

Probably If you have an incomplete tetraplegia, then we recommend a driving assessment This is because you have weakness in all 4 limbs and again it is to make sure you can safely control the car The recommendation may simply be an automatic vehicle with ultra light steering If you have an incomplete paraplegia, the need for an assessment depends on the level of weakness and any sensory deficit in your lower limbs

During my injury I acquired a head injury, how soon can I return to driving?

This depends very much on the severity of the head injury you have had and if you had any surgery to treat it If you are experiencing black outs, memory problems, seizures, visual disturbances etc then it may be too soon to have a driving assessment

Depending on the severity of your head injury and surgery you may have to wait 12 months to get a driving assessment

I am a ‘walker’ and have a Spinal Cord Injury, can I still drive?

Most people may feel they could return back to driving as normal but it would be best to check with DVLA and they will advise the next steps required

I do not drive and cannot transfer out of my wheelchair What are the options for transport for me?

• Public transport buses and trains

• Taxi hackney taxis have ramps

• Dial a ride

• Wheelchair adapted vehicle etc

Insurance

There should be no difference to insurance for cars fitted with hand controls. Hand controls are not seen as an adaptation to the car but it is good practice to let your insurance company know that you are driving with hand controls Best to always check with your own company If you lease a car through the Motability scheme, you will not accrue any ‘No claims discount’ as you would do on other regular insurance policies

FUNDRAISING

On Sunday 24 April 2022 several Spinal injuries Scotland staff, along with some particularly intrepid members and Toby the wee Staffy, set off on the first KiltWalk of the year in Glasgow.

The weather was perfect, sunny but not too hot and more importantly, dry!

Friends of the charity, Sharon Black and her daughter Jamie Leigh set off at an un godly hour to face the Mighty Stride, a 24 mile walk along the highways and by ways of Glasgow Starting at Glasgow Green and ending in Moss O'Balloch Park, on the shores of Loch Lomond

The rest of us (Maureen SIS Operations Manager, Stewart Admin Officer, Member Michelle and her dad Dave, along with Michelle’s personal trainer Frederic and of course, Toby ) stared down the route of the less daunting Wee Wander Less daunting, that is, until you try it in a wheelchair or with Cauda Equina!!

The sense of accomplishment as the cheerful volunteers at the end point gave us our medals made for a truly special day

So special that Maureen and Michelle vowed to do it again in Aberdeen in May, before we’d had a chance to sit and rest our feet

Several hours later, after laughs, tears, Whatsapp messages from Sharon and Jamie Leigh (still smiling), near soakings (Toby liked the look of Loch Lomond and nearly dragged Maureen along with him) and red knees, we crossed the finish line

Since then, the girls have completed the Aberdeen one, alongside Joanna (SIS peer support for Aberdeen) and her pals Aimee, Skip, Cami, Leona and Gavin, Ian (SIS volunteer) and once again, Michelle’s trusty Dad Dave

Then the Dundee one, alongside Joanna, Ian and Toby again Whilst Members Martin Elvins and Craig Smith took on the Mighty Stride and Big Stroll, respectively

And finally, on Sunday the 18th September the intrepid duo took on the last Kiltwalk trek of the year in Edinburgh Alongside Maureen and Michelle, Sylvia Merino and her team (Amanda Muir, Zoe Muir, Alex Vesco, Duncan Liddle) took on the Big Stroll whilst Lisa McNellis and her nephew Sean Dornan took on the epic Mighty Stride

We would like to thank each and every one of the walkers that stepped up and took on the KiItWalk challenge in aid of Spinal Injuries Scotland this year

Why not give it a go next year and become a Spinal Injuries Scotland KiltWalk Hero!

The KiltWalks are such an important part of our fundraising calendar as a Scottish charity

Each year, every penny raised is topped up by 50% thanks to the generosity of Sir Tom Hunter and The Hunter Foundation

£11,000.

million £11 4 million £33.9 million

So far, the total raised for SIS from Glasgow, Aberdeen and Dundee & Edinburgh with the Hunter top up stands over at an incredible Since 2016, KiltWalk heroes have raised and The Hunter Foundation have added that’s a total of for over 3,000 charities Why not give it a go next year and become a Spinal Injuries Scotland KiltWalk Hero!

David and our mascot Toby!

FUNDRAISING

Thank you to everyone that has raised money for our charity this year, whether through direct donations, fundraising events or participating in walks/runs to raise awareness.

All of your contributions are immensely appreciated!

THANK YOU

DEBBI McKENDRICK who fundraised £280 on her Facebook Birthday Fundraiser

BRIAN SPALDING who fundraised £445 on his Facebook Birthday Fundraiser

KRISTEEN MACKAY who fundraised £134 on her Facebook Birthday Fundraiser

WEST END GARDEN CENTRE

The folks at the West End Garden Centre raised £46 78 in their 'Give 250' donations!

PASSING PLACES TOURS

The folks from Passing Places Tours Motorcycle Adventures in Scotland managed to raise a whopping £3560 for Spinal Injuries Scotland!

At Spinal Injuries Scotland we are dedicated to helping people who are

with decision makers.

a

We need your help so we can be there - on the other end of the phone, in

There are so many different ways you can make a difference, from a coffee morning, to running a marathon, to a gift in your Will

If you are interested, check out our website to learn more about how you can fundraise for us Every contribution counts!

WOULD YOU BE ABLE TO FUNDRAISE FOR US?

MATT MARSH

fundraised £1055 during the London Marathon!

VONNIE ROBERTSON AND TEAM raised £1904 during the South Downs Walk

LYNDA TURNER SCHOOL OF DANCE raised £833 during their most recent raffle!

JOSEPH TANGNEY AND REBECCA THOMAS raised £1639 during the Edinburgh Marathon!

living with

spinal cord injury.

local communities and building relationships

INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY

The 12th of May, saw us celebrate International Nurses Day. We thought it was important to acknowledge and appreciate the hard work that nurses all over the world do on a regular basis to support patients.

To help us celebrate, we asked our members to nominate the nurse who most helped them in their time of need

Below are a few quotes from our own members who had nothing but glowing praise for the support that the across Scotland ed

"She supported me a lot whilst in the QEUH She taught me to self-catheterise and come to terms with my Cauda Equina She was always there when I was depressed and still coping with the aftereffects of CES and I’m so grateful for all her support " Michelle, Dunbartonshire, Cauda Equina

s helped me my entire life being my asthma nurse to ng me cope with my mental h problems. She’s always y to talk over the phone and rateful for all the support she rovided over the years."

Dumfries, C6/C7

"Her attitude, professionalism and commitment to excellence in patient care has been outstanding. She always finds a way of making me fee better about myself and my situation by the time she leaves."

Brian, Argyle & Bute, T12

"She helped me so much during my time there and was the best nurse I ever had."

Joanna, Aberdeen, T12

SPINAL LIFE

"She was so gentle and caring when ever she nursed me in the unit and as an outpatient for my Urodynamics recently " Stuart, Gorebridge, T6/T7

"Special from day one in Edenhall to nearly twelve years later as an Outpatient, I'm sure she will have already had many other nominations." Colin, Borders, C8/T1

We sent out bouquets of flowers to nurses across Scotland