Spring 2023 Magazine

WELCO TO YO SPRING EDITIO OF

SCOTLAND

As the cold, dark winter months come to a close, we at Spinal Injuries Scotland would like to welcome in the Spring and bring some much needed sunshine into your life by providing you with our latest edition of our Spinal Life Magazine! With the advent of the better (we hope) weather, thoughts of travel and holidays may spring to mind In this issue we look at the experiences of our members when travelling, some handy hints if you are thinking of getting away and some suggested accessible vacation homes if you are planning on staying in Scotland.

We have inspirational stories from some of our members and staff, from medal winners to starting again after an SCI We take a closer look at the work we do in the Spinal Unit in Glasgow, the addition of a new CEO and a new ambassador to our ranks, as well as a host of other articles that we hope you will find entertaining and informative

Remember, this is your magazine! For you and about you. At Spinal 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 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

We aim to help people living with a spinal injury and those who care for them.

The information provided herein is not medical advice and is not intended to substitute for the advice of your personal physician or other healthcare provider

Not a member? It is entirely free to become a member of Spinal Injuries Scotland As well as receiving Spinal Life Scotland through your door, there are so many other benefits to joining For more information please see our website:

www spinalinjuriesscotland org uk Or give us a call on 0141 4277686

Please enjoy your new edition of Spinal Life The Editors.

info@spinalinjuriesscotland org uk 0800 0132 305

IN THIS ISSUE

On pages 18, 19 & 20, our new ambassador Michelle Moffatt took a trip to New York City. As anybody would, Michelle had the experience of a life-time and has many stories she would like to share about her holiday As an added bonus, Michelle also offered some holiday tips to help you get prepared for your next holiday

On pages 13,14 & 15, read about November's Winter Dinner Dance. This year's glamourous event was our most successful ever!

On pages 8 & 9, one of our newest Peer Support staff, Fiona Fraser, shared her experiences of how she got back into cycling after a spinal injury. It is an inspiring read!

Spinal Life Scotland is your free magazine courtesy of Spinal Injuries Scotland and is packed full of great stories and important information.

Fiona Fraser

Michelle Moffatt

Glasgow - 30th April

Aberdeen - 4th June

Dundee - 20th August

Get

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Board of Directors

Christine Dodds

Patrick Cairney

Evelyn Morrison

Ann MacSween

Lucy McOuat

Chair

Lucy McOuat

Chief Executive Officer

Maureen Morrison

Peer Support

Laura Torrance

Stuart McMillan

Michelle Moffatt

Cover Photo:

Michelle Moffatt in New York

ORGANISATION UPDATES

Our New CEO - Maureen Morrison

Spinal Injuries Scotland (SIS), is a Disabled People’s Organisation (DPO) and a leading peer support organsation for people with Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI), their families and carers. We are a charity that wants to make a difference in society.

We are ambitious to achieve positive change so that people with a spinal cord injury can live their daily lives in a more equal environment We are a national organisation with a membership and peer support reach throughout Scotland

The Board of SIS is pleased to announce that Maureen Morrison has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the charity Maureen, former Operations Manager for SIS, will take the charity through our five-year strategy This is a crucial stage for our charity as we grow and develop to meet our member’s needs

Maureen has an SCI and offers valuable lived experience as well as a wealth of knowledge built up from listening to our members, our stakeholders (including the Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit) and those who turn to us for support

When Maureen had her SCI in 2007, life for her changed forever but she was determined that her injury was not going to hold her back Maureen joined the charity in 2013 as a trustee and then in 2017 progressed to the operations side In the last few years she has capably steered us through the pandemic, ensuring support services remained available In her time as Operations Manager, Maureen has been key to our fundraising activities, allowing us to ensure financial stability at challenging times

As part of the strategy, the charity will be recruiting a new Operations Manager who will work with Maureen to grow, strengthen and deliver our strategy and strategic aims through our Peer Support Networks, staff team and membership Our core principle remains supporting and meeting the needs of our members, their families and carers

New Ambassador - Michelle Moffatt

Spinal Injuries Scotland are delighted to welcome this one woman whirlwind - Michelle Anna Moffatt - to our Team of Ambassadors.

She has supported the charity with her fundraising efforts in 2022 and has inspired many with her story Our ambassadors represent the charity in lots of different ways in raising awareness of the needs of our members living with a spinal Cord injury

At the tail end of last year, we were delighted and beaming with pride, that our Peer Support Co-Ordinator Laura Torrance, had been nominated for the Glasgow Times Community Champion Awards in the INDIVIDUAL AWARD (North West) Category.

“Laura Torrance lives with a spinal injury and now provides peer support to others in need Her kindness and understanding have helped many people face the challenges of living with a spinal condition, who might otherwise have had to cope alone ”

“Hi guys! My name is Michelle, I am 41 years old (don’t tell anyone) and I have a spinal injury due to Cauda Equina Syndrome and post operative clot

5

I am L1 incomplete. I was a registered nurse working in Intensive Care prior to my injury In all honesty, the first 2 years post operative I was in denial. I did not want a wheelchair, I was so depressed. I became suicidal and when I found Spinal Injuries Scotland, I realised I have a life - and a purpose.

Adapting to spinal cord injury is not easy, but I promise you can learn to accept the new body you are in Spinal Injuries Scotland were pivotal to my recovery.

I now hand cycle, I’m still a registered nurse and I have my own business. It is okay not to be okay…… and it is normal to struggle. However, this amazing charity have saved my life and I want to help others too!

I’m honoured to be an ambassador for a charity who genuinely strive to help as many living with spinal injury as possible regardless of reason ”

~Michelle Moffatt, Ambassador

Welcome to the team Michelle!

These awards have been rewarding locals who make Glasgow a better place to live for 15 years The awards go right to the heart of communities across the city So far, more than 1,000 community champions have been recognised as finalists and winners Community champions are recognised across nine categories

The range of categories, paired with the area-by-area approach, gives the awards a unique ability to reach and reward those whose efforts may otherwise go unnoticed

Members of the public were asked to vote for their favourite nominees in each of the categories, those with the most votes in each region then went in front of a judging panel to decide the overall winners

Laura went on to win her heat and made it through to the finals The grand ceremony took place on Thursday 8th December where Laura was narrowly pipped to the overall prize by a deserving winner, Kenny Trainer from Bluevale Community Club

Well done Laura!!

Our

Laura left, with family Community Champion - Laura Torrance

SIS AT QENSIU

Spinal Injuries Scotland (SIS) has worked in partnership with NHS Staff for over 30 years to provide Peer Support to patients in the Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit (QENSIU) and at Outpatient Clinics Our staff work alongside the National Spinal Unit where weekly unit visits are coordinated by our Peer Support Officer - Laura Our role is to provide nonclinical support to patients and assist NHS staff by helping rehabilitate patients and prepare them for going back to their family and community

Our Peer Support Team and Volunteers use their own experience of a spinal cord injury in a positive way to provide support to patients and their families Our main focus will continue to be one to one Peer Support where individuals can be open and honest about their concerns and fears, hopes and aspirations, secure in the knowledge that everything is treated in the strictest confidentiality, and is used to shape the focus and direction of individual support plans.

Our team in the Unit consists of a Peer Support Officer, Peer Support volunteers and our newly appointed IT Assistive Advisor, Richard Copeland Our Team are in 5 days per week and we offer support to patients and their families, onsite at their bedsides, to help them come to terms of living with their SCI

“The support provided by SIS to patients and their families of the Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit is absolutely outstanding such as peer support and organising social activities. The staff of the Unit are very grateful for the positive, helpful, and professional approach of our SIS partners. We wish SIS the very best and look forward to many more years of collaboration.”

We also take part in weekly sessions with the NHS in Rehab and Education sessions which are delivered to patients, covering topics like relationships, bladder, bowel, and discharge planning – to name a few Our Peer Support team take part in Educating NHS staff, advising what patient care should look like This takes place within the Unit for new staff and at Caledonian University & Napier University with master’s degree OT and Adult Nursing degree students

We organise and fund an Annual BBQ for patients, their families and friends to come along down at Castle Semple Patients can try something new that they never thought they would ever be able to do after an injury, giving them hope, aspirations and proving that life is not over

All the work we do while patients and their families are in the unit is to prepare them for discharge. As our Team all have an SCI, we understand the challenges that they face Once they are home, we reconnect with the patient to ensure that they are coping well and link them to the Outreach Peer support Team, who are located all over Scotland for onsite Peer Support if they need it

Come and meet our Team!

Dr. Margaret Purcell, Lead Clinician, Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit

My role is dedicated to the peer support we provide at the start of someone’s journey I lead a fantastic team of volunteers and together we offer a bespoke service at the Spinal Unit

Richard Copeland - Assistive Technology Advisor

Whilst in the Unit, I work in partnership with Occupational Therapy staff determining the kinds of equipment and assistive technology that individuals require to carry out specific tasks. The equipment needed will depend on the level of injury If someone is quadriplegic, or tetraplegic, the degree of mobility of the head, neck, arms, and hands will determine what equipment is needed Some people require voice or eye-controlled systems, such as Dragon, others merely positioning brackets for phones or laptops, and appropriate manual aids, with headsets for vocal communications

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First and foremost, we offer an ear for those at the start of their SCI journey My team and I, all who live with a spinal cord injury, can all relate to this life changing injury and the challenges and emotions it can present We are available from the very acute stage if requested, but typically we are available from rehabilitation stage of the journey We support the patients and their families throughout their hospital duration, whenever they need us, offering our practical advice, support and information where appropriate My team attend the Unit’s Patients Education programme most Thursday afternoons to offer our take on daily living with an SCI There are 15 different topics we cover and support

The Unit also host a family & friends day and this is an overview of the patient education programme to allow them to learn about spinal cord Injury and ways to support and understand their loved one better when they leave hospital The sessions have two purposes, one is to inform about how SIS can assist and the other is to tell our stories in a positive way to bring some hope and answer any questions from a former patients point of view

We host social evenings once a month in the day room which can include a meal, quizzes, live music and themed nights Family and friends are welcome too It’s a welcome break from rehab and a time to relax for an hour or two

When that patient is ready for discharge, we continue that support through our outreach team and their services They cover the whole of Scotland and host virtual and face to face coffee meets that allows members to interact, socialise and get involved in their community We have events throughout the year that offer more ways to socialise and to try out some of our fun water sports, biking and more activities that are all accessible

I also attend hand therapy sessions with the OT department, offering assistive support to allow patients to use technology to connect with loved ones and carry out specific tasks If they are struggling with a piece of technology such as their phone, tablet or laptop I can then make suggestions for techniques or software that will help them to use their technology to its full potential. This has an amazing effect on their feelings of confidence and general wellbeing

For many it’s the feeling of empowerment, not having to ask a nurse or family member to carry out a simple task to allow them to make a phone call, have a chat online, do internet shopping or banking We believe that with the proper resources being made available, and personalised support given to use them, peoples’ quality of life is enhanced immeasurably

Currently we are trialling a new virtual reality experience It’s a very immersive type of game where the patients put on a pair of goggles and are transported to another world They play a rhythm game in which they have to move their arms to the beat, it’s a lot of fun but also a great form of physio for the patients.

Laura Torrance - Peer Support Coordinator

FROM PARALYSIS TO PEDALING

Most of us will be familiar with the extolled benefits of cycling for our physical and mental health But these messages are usually directed towards people for whom cycling is accessible You get a bike, you jump on it, ride for a bit, the ‘bit’ part usually determined by your current fitness, and over time, you go further and faster, as your fitness, skills and confidence improve

However not everyone can just ‘jump on a bike’ Living with certain disabilities or long-term health conditions can make cycling feel more out of reach A good dose of determination and optimism may be required to even contemplate the idea of cycling, when being mobile is an on-going challenge. We met one woman, whose experience getting back into cycling whilst recovering from a spinal injury we think epitomises the definition of determination

Fiona Fraser was told she would never walk again after an accident in 2016 left her paralysed from the chest down

She spent five months in a specialist spinal unit, and her rehabilitation remains on-going, although she went from being initially immobile and unable to brush her teeth, to walking out of the unit on two sticks By 2019 she had built up her physical strength and fitness through exercise and started to think about cycling

But her balance was unsteady, and she could not lift her leg high enough to get on a typical bike frame Thankfully, the solution for this was relatively straightforward, a stepthrough model proved workable, and Fiona could start cycling again At first Fiona cycled a very short distance, around one mile, ensuring she had enough energy for the return journey. With each bike ride she progressed a little more, utilising local cycle paths and accompanied by her husband

I just love the feeling of being out in the fresh air, it helps with pain, and I organise my life to keep my energy for cycling”.

-Fiona Fraser

Fiona second from left with friends

It was the arrival of the COVID pandemic, with its lockdow and empty roads, that facilitated further opportunities to progress her cycling She began cycling with a friend, building up to 15-20 miles, encountering hillier terrain an expanding her adventures. The step-through frame was retired for a hybrid bike, better suited to the local hills and longer distances.

In 2021 Fiona began attending Breeze rides Led by volunteers trained as British Cycling level 1 Ride Leaders, known as Breeze Champions, participants are supported throughout each ride: from the friendly welcome and safe check at the start, to cycling together as a group under th helpful leadership of the volunteers, including the safe navigation through junctions, traffic lights and roundabou etc Breeze rides are categorised into ‘easy-going’, ‘steady and ‘challenging’, with the pace adapted to ensure no on left behind; accommodating any rider, whatever their situation

Balance and coordination difficulties mean starting and stopping is not easy for Fiona She also experiences on-going pain, greater muscle fatigue, and has a leg brace to keep her foot in a suitable position Despite these challenges, she remains committed to cycling without the assistance of a battery on her bike

Through the support and guidance of Breeze Champions and other participants, she feels included and welcomed on rides, highlighting many benefits: discovering new routes; meeting new people; tips on how to make the most of her bike’s gears; and support and encouragement to progress her cycling She now uses a road bike and last year completed a cycling challenge event, cycling from Skye Bridge to Inverness Bridge, a distance of 78 miles This year her plans include Ride the North, the Loch Ness Etape and Etape Caledonia and she is thinking about joining her local cycling club

From not knowing if she would ever walk again, to taking on challenges any cyclist might consider demanding, Fiona’s advice for anyone contemplating cycling is to “just do it” For anyone with additional health and/or physical challenges, she highlights the benefits of exercise and recommends following medical advice whilst trusting and listening to your body She told us the impact cycling has had on her:

“I have fallen in love with cycling, I now don’t mind going out when it is cold and raining I just love the feeling of being out in the fresh air, it helps with pain, and I organise my life to keep my energy for cycling”

Inspired by Fiona’s experience? Find a Breeze or Guided Ride near you: www letsride co uk/

This article was written by Melanie Toner from Scottish Cycling for britishcycling org uk

Fiona, left

Fiona, right

At the beginning of February our Peer Support CoOrdinator, Laura Torrance, hit the road to The University of Stirling to give several days of speeches to over 4400 young people from high schools from across Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannan in aid of Safe Drive, Stay Alive.

Safe Drive Stay Alive is a road safety show which delivers hard hitting, thought provoking messages to its audience The overall aim is to promote responsible driver and passenger behaviour in order to reduce deaths and injuries on the roads

The programme is an annual event which targets young people (16-25 years) from secondary schools and colleges It looks at and encourages good driving practices; covering issues such as speeding and seatbelt wearing and use of mobile phones whilst driving It also covers consequences of poor driving such as living with an injury following a crash and the impact this has on the individual and wider friends, family and community. Delivered by members of the emergency services, victims of accidents and their families, speaking about their experiences was an emotional day for all involved

Below is a chart which highlights the drop-in incidents of Deaths and Serious injuries between the period of 2004 - 2008 (table on the left) and 2016-2020 (table on the right.

As you can see, all four areas have had a notable decrease in road-related incidents This proves that Central Safe Drive along with other road safety initiatives have been successful in keeping the roads safe and ensuring everyone drive responsibly.

Laura, bottom left, with the Safe Drive, Stay Alive team

Come join the 7th year of our:

ANNUAL BBQ & ACTIVITIES DAY

WEDNESDAY 21ST June 2023

Castle Semple Visitor Centre, Lochwinnoch 10am - 4:30pm

An inclusive day out for the whole family, and it's free! We have a range of fun activities planned, including:

-Sailing -Kayaking -Canoeing

-Hand Biking -A delicious BBQ on the shores of Lochwinnoch

Changing places with fully accessible toilet and changing room with ceiling hoist

Freestandingoutdoor hoist for cycling and other activities

hTwopontoonswith oistingfacilitiesto aidpeoplegettingin andoutofboats

Level entryto café and centre.

Make sure to book your tickets on our website. If you would like to learn more, please email info@spinalinjuriesscotland.org.uk or call us on 0141 427 7686.

WINTER DINNER DANCE 2022

Wow, what a night!!! The 2022 Digby Brown Winter Dinner Dance, which is the 19th edition, took place on 4th November last year. It was, by some way, our most successful Dinner Dance ever. Raising an incredible £102,101 It shatters the previous record of £83,000 raised in 2019.

Around 540 guests attended the black-tie event at the Doubletree by Hilton in Glasgow for a night of live music and games as well as some top drawer grub

The evening was hosted, once again, by Scottish stand-up comedian and broadcaster Des Clarke and featured a special guest performance from Mock The Week comedian Andy Parsons

We were honoured to have our ambassador, Paralympian archer Nathan MacQueen, give one of the most emotional speeches we’ve ever heard

Nathan explained how the Spinal Injuries Scotland peer support team;

“Gave me a second chance and helped me realise that life could go on after a spinal injury. I can safely say I wouldn’t be the man I am today without them.”

We also had our Chair, Lucy McOuat, take the stage and give a rousing speech on behalf of the charity

We would like to thank everyone that attended the dance and gave so generously but most of all we would like to thank all at Digby Brown for organising such a wonderful evening. Our grateful thanks go to Chris Stewart, Craig Semple and Susan Lawrie for making sure everything ran to plan in the build-up and on the night. The event is the lifeblood of the charity and has been for the almost two decades that Digby Brown have been hosting.

The highly anticipated yearly auction went down a storm, with attendees bidding on everything from a signed Manchester United shirt to a diamond necklace generously donated by Chisholm Hunter. We are immensely grateful to every one of the individuals and businesses that donated items to the auction, tombola and prize-draw raffle

The money raised means the world to us. The contributions are greatly appreciated and will go towards helping us continue to provide advice, information and education for people with, both new and long term, spinal cord injuries.

Compère, Des Clarke

Steven McGhee

Nathan McQueen

CEO Maureen Morrison & Alan Gage

As Maureen Morrison, the CEO of Spinal Injuries Scotland says “It’s events like these that help the charity to continue providing support to people all over Scotland. We are so thankful to Digby Brown for the amount of work that goes into the Winter Dinner Dance Without this event, I personally wouldn’t like to think where we would be.”

Nathan McQueen

Chair, Lucy McOuat

Peer Support, Mary Bell & Fiona Fraser

Comedian, Andy Parsons

CloberFarm

Accessible self-catering accommodation

Fully accessible living accommodation and accessible garden with patio area and raised beds, designed with the wheelchair user in mind. Close to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs. Open all year.

Please get in touch with Spinal Injuries Scotland on 0141 427 7686 Twitter@cloberfarmSIS. Email: info@spinalinjuriesscotland.org.uk

Levelaccessthroughout

Sleeps6

MasterbedroomwithLiko200 ceilingtrackinghoist,height adjustableprofilingbedand Invacurepressuereliefair mattress,plussinglebed

Ensuitewetroomwithshower chairsprovidedandright-hand transferaccessibletoilet

Onedoubleroom

andonetwinroom

Familybathroomwith overbathshower,height adjustablesinkandaccessible left-handtransfertoilet

Combinedkitchen/livingarea withpatiodoorsleadingontoa patioareaandlandscaped wheelchairaccessiblegarden Wi-Fiinternetaccess

Privateaccessibleparking, 2spaces

Fullyaccessiblekitchen withlowlevelfridge, freezer,microwave&oven Adjustableheightworktop withinductionhobandsink.

Utilityroomwithwashing machine,dishwasherand clothesairer

Assistancedogswelcome Petswelcome

Nonsmoking

DUNDEE DRAGONS 10th ANNIVERSARY

February saw the 10th anniversary of the fantastic Dundee Dragons Wheelchair Sports Club. We caught up with Founding member Elizabeth Ferris to explain the origins of the Dragons and the effect it has had on the local community.

“Ten years ago a wee idea became a reality Dundee Dragons Wheelchair Sports Club was born because I couldn’t find anywhere to play team based wheelchair sport in Tayside on starting back to University of Dundee Medical School after a Spinal Cord Injury induced hiatus.

With some help from Dundee City Disability Sport, The Bradford Bulls Foundation, Scotland Rugby League plus a number of mates who were cajoled into all sorts of roles, from stuffing envelopes to taking snaps, the launch day happened (after it was hastily rescheduled from a fortnight before, when snow meant the Bulls RFL Wheelchair Rugby League team couldn’t make it north!)

Until folk started rolling into Fintry Primary School that chilly Saturday morning I honestly had no idea how it was going to go! People did come though They also had a blast trying Wheelchair Rugby and it became clear there was an appetite for this to be a regular thing in the area

Fast Forward 10 years and we now offer a minimum of 7 hours of sport per week across 7 disciplines, to people of all ages and abilities

From Curling to Cycling, Badminton to Basketball (and of course Rugby!) every week we have folk participating in grassroots adaptive sport just for the joy of taking part, through to those who have pushed themselves to regional, national and international competition

We’ve had fun branching out to try different activities like Skiing, Surfing and Golf, and as well as obtaining SCIO Charity Status We were one of the first disability sports clubs to receive national funding from Sport Scotland (the national agency for sport) for a paid coordinator who could dedicate time each week to breathe the lifechanging fire of Dragons Sport as far as it could reach

It’s been an amazing journey, only made possible by the help of some fantastically dedicated volunteers that I’m now lucky enough to be able to call dear friends

They all make up vital members of the Dragons Family If you can push a manual wheelchair, we can find a sport for you to play If you can give an hour or two a month, we can find a volunteering activity for you to join in with

It’s a win for everyone! Our motto is #AllAboutAbility and we know we change lives Happy Birthday Dundee Dragons here’s to the next 10 years!”

For more information on how you can get involved see www.dundeedragons.net

Elizabeth Ferris watches the Dragons train

TRAVELLING WITH A SPINAL INJURY

Adjusting to life with spinal cord injury can be very difficult but it is something we all have to adjust to How can we travel if we are 100% wheelchair dependent?

Hi guys, I am Michelle and I am 41 years old I have a spinal cord injury (L1 incomplete) following Cauda Equina syndrome, and 2 epidural haematomas. I am honoured to be an ambassador for Spinal Injuries Scotland. So here is my very first wee blog style article I hope it helps!

I struggled to come to terms with wheelchair life However, when I accepted it, I questioned “HELP, HOW CAN I GET ABROAD?” It was such a worry

I will admit I was 100% nervous - I mean, how do I get on the flight? Once I am on, what if I need to catheterise? What if I need to do an urgent toilet trip for my stoma bag / bowel issues SO MANY WORRIES!!!

I travel for business and often fly to California This starts with a wee short trip to London, then a whopping big transfer to my 7 hour flight I WAS SCARED Anxiety overload is no fun, but the staff 100% put me at ease WHAT A RELIEF!

FIRST FLIGHT POST INJURY

So my first flight post injury was to New York, and I flew with my friend for our 40th birthday celebrations I have flown with several airlines now However, my first experience was with British Airways, and WOW what an incredible and comforting trip!

BEFORE YOU GO

So I was extremely nervous, but I ensured that I requested assistance prior to my flight I explained that I am unable to walk at all and need assistance on to (and around) the aircraft With British Airways, I did this all online with my booking However, with other airlines I had to call and explain that I need help ON to the plane, AND to my seat

TIP

ALWAYS ensure you ask for assistance at the time of booking I always like to ask at check in “so I have assistance?” The assistance for me has always been amazing

I generally ask for it to begin from the gate HOWEVER, if you need someone to assist you from the point of check in - this is also available at most airports

THE CHAIR

So I have to admit, I was semi nervous and semi hysterically laughing as I had to transfer to an “aisle chair” from my wheelchair I was strapped in all over and so super secure!

I had my own chair to the aircraft door, and then when I transferred to their aisle chair - I was all strapped in They lifted the aisle chair on board, and wheeled me to my seat Voila - easy!

I like to take my wheelchair cushion on board to sit on my chair to help protect my pressure areas My wheelchair was then taken to the hold, and I wouldn’t see it until arrival at my destination Voila!

TIP

I tend to put a wee luggage tracker tag in my chair so that in the off chance it is missing, I can track from my phone - PS They do not lose chairs - I am just overly protective of my wee wheeled buddy

How Do I Get To The Toilet?

ACCESSIBILITY

What Next?

Landing at the destination, it is easy I was told to stay where I was and we just wait for the airport staff to arrive

Once everyone has disembarked from the flight, that is when some lovely staff arrive with an aisle chair for me to transfer to, and be safely taken off of the aircraft My wheel chair is always waiting for me at the door of the aircraft, and I just transfer over and I am on my way!

So we arrive at our hotel I like to think I am super organised when it comes to travel etc However, I forgot to request an accessible room when in New York The staff organised this for me (Luckily they had empty rooms)

TIP I would say PLEASE always request accessibility when you travel The room I had was HUGE and the sink at a good height and a wet room with grab bars Perfect!

Within the USA, if a room is said to be “accessible” they do have to meet very specific standards, and so I have found that in the USA the accessibility in hotels is amazing!

MY TOP TIPS

So travelling around abroad, things to consider:

-How are the streets? This generally is not so much of an issue in tourist areas, but it can depend on where you visit

-Practice those “wheelies” to get up and down kerbs New York, and most of the places in California that I have visited have dropped kerbs and it is not an issue

-ASK for information if there is somewhere you want to visit I tend to contact restaurants and tourist places in advance to check if they are wheelchair friendly

A real worry and serious concern to me was the big question for long flight

“how do I get to a toilet?”

I have travelled alone and with a friend, and on all flights - the staff are amazing and have a little “on board wheelchair” that I transfer on to and get wheeled to the toilet.

But Most Importantly!!

It can be daunting to travel for the first time after huge life changes However, it can be so amazing

I tend to stick with British Airways and can 100% vouch for their amazing service!

TRAVEL TRAVEL TIPS

Please see below for a handy check list of travel tips.

By no means complete, but it may help you when deciding to vacation for the first time in a wheelchair or can be used to tick off points prior to your holiday. Bonnes vacances!

Booking an accessible hotel

No matter what it says on the website, phone ahead and ask for details of the room you’re booking

Ask as many questions as possible What are the hotels accessible features? What are the rooms accessible features? Is the surrounding area accessible?

Ask for photos

Prepare to bring your own equipment

Sometimes it’s best to use established hotel chains rather than smaller, independent hotels They are more likely to have accessible rooms

Try using websites like Euan’s Guide and user-led Facebook groups to research hotels before you book them

Looking after your bladder and bowels while travelling

Indwelling catheter - attach a two-litre leg bag for long distances

have any catheters / meds / bowel regime or stoma bits in hand luggage and accessible

Destination delivery items - Bullen provides a service where your prescriptions can be sent to your destination

Bring RADAR key

Bring Precautionary Anti biotics

Remember that your body may take a while to get used to a new routine in a different time zone You may also be eating different types of food, which can affect your bladder and bowels

Adjusting your bowel routine on the days of travelling Pack spares of any equipment or medication you may need for your bladder and bowel – you never know if something could get lost while travelling, so pack extra and follow correct procedures on travelling with the medication eg: keep in packaging!

Looking

Pressure relieve

Check skin regularly

The right cushion for you – Speak to your OT & ask around

Make sure you’re not sitting on catheter tubes when travelling

Be cautious when wearing new items of clothing swimwear or extra layers to keep warm

Take First Aid kit

Activity Cushion

Alternating Pressure Relief Cushion

Travelling with personal assistants (PAs)

Consider your PAs while booking your stay

Do you have a plan in place in case of an emergency? Make sure a back-up PA is available back home to come out to you in the event of your PA getting ill Your PA will need to have insurance as well

When do your PAs get breaks? What are their shift times? Make sure they aren’t being overworked Most hotels should have attachment room for carers/PAs.

Managing your luggage & Travel Insurance

Extra allowance for equipment and medication

An airline assistant can also support you with carrying luggage around the airport, this can be booked when getting your flights online There is specialised equipment that can make luggage carrying easier Such as the Phoenix Instinct suitcase and DIY methods

Always tell an insurance company if you are aware of any circumstances likely to affect your cover, either when you are taking out your policy and when you renew, as they could then refuse to pay any money on grounds of non-disclosure

Make sure any equipment you are taking with you is also covered

Useful Websites!

https://www gov uk/government/publications/disab led-travellers

https://www.qef.org.uk/service/accessible-aviation/ https://media.lonelyplanet.com/shop/media/accessi ble-travel-online-resources.pdf

https://www.scope.org.uk/advice-andsupport/insurance/

https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/publicati on-download/your-rights-fly-what-you-need-know

BRIAN'S STORY A QUADRIPLEGIC ABROAD

Hello folks, firstly to introduce myself I’m Brian a quadriplegic due to a work accident in 2009 I was working on a building site in Aberdeenshire down a 3m excavation laying concrete pipes when with a flick of a switch disaster struck and a digger bucket landed beside me causing me to be paralysed from the shoulders down Things could have been much worse so I try to remain positive and live life to the full including my holidays abroad, I love the heat and suffer the cold weather here terribly!

My jaunts have taken me to Tenerife, Majorca, Gran Canaria and my favourite of all Turkey to which I now travel to twice a year for 4-6 weeks at a time I’m sharing my travel adventures with you all in the hope it will benefit others in similar situations to myself

Airports! What I can tell you is it’s certainly an unforgettable experience On arriving at the airport you get straight to the front of the queue I stay in my power chair until I’m about to board the plane, this is where the shenanigans begin! To get you from your wheelchair onto the little aeroplane stool you are manually lifted by the airport special assistance team Team of 4, 2 at the front and 2 at the back, sometimes my carers need to assist if 4 not available To enable my chair to get in the hold a carer usually stays with the chair, reclines it fully and removing the joystick section, arm and footrests securing these to the chair so they don’t get damaged inflight and turn on manual mode so the airport staff can push it manually

My carers put my hoisting sling in so I am being lifted with this rather than being lifted from under armpits, a much smoother transition I’m seatbelted in at the waist however as I can’t support myself and you often need to remind them you need a chest harness

Some airports have an eagle hoist which is similar to your ceiling hoist at home which runs up the middle of the aisle which is fabulous but unfortunately I’ve only had this once as apparently it’s always broken I actually think not many staff know how to use it which is a more likely story so definitely check with your airport if one available You are then taken to your seat and again lifted into it Again no chest strap available, after head butting the seat in front of me when landing and sending the poor gentleman seated here flying (we saw the funny side) I now use a suitcase strap around my chest to prevent further mishaps!

On arriving at destination you are last off the plane and generally your chair is waiting for you to be man handled into once again! Once in chair relax and holiday mode can begin

Accomodation- always says wheelchair friendly and accessible! I’ve came across ramps into hotels at a 90 degree incline, not for the faint hearted, I usually have to get a carer to operate the chair from behind as when I recline too far I can’t reach my joystick I do sometimes wonder where my carers got their driving licence from so where possible I operate it myself

Lifts!! Check the measurements as if wheelchair accessible I am presuming European wheelchairs must be way smaller than ours! I’ve had to remove foot plates etc just to get myself in then someone push the button and try and race the lift up the stairs! As you can imagine with other guests calling the lifts it can be some time before we meet again and I’m a tad sea sick On one occasion my chair wouldn’t fit in a lift at all no matter what we removed, but where there’s a will there’s a way! Bring out the hotel managers plush wheeled office chair! Oh yes hoisted in reception from my chair into his up in the lift, wait for the carers and hoist to arrive and put me to bed, phew!

On one occasion I arrived in a Turkish hotel to discover my hoist wouldn’t work, discussing with the hotel manager me hiring a hoist at 500 euro a week he wouldn’t hear of it! No sir we help you he says and low and behold 4 people were sent to my room to put me to bed and get me up as required, I had everyone from kitchen porters to maintenance men to the manager himself, got to love the Turkish will do anything to help

Getting about - most places pavements are fine for the wheelchair it’s the getting off the pavements and across the road that can be an issue Astounding to see the size of some kerbs/pedestrian crossings with no slope to get off them, sometimes I go on the road with the cars as I find it easier, I have a big flag coming out the back of my chair making sure I’m seen I also purchased a folding ramp which I can carry on my chair for this reason it’s an essential travel companion

If you wish to travel further afield of your destination it’s worth checking out the taxis/ buses first Gran Canaria for example had ramp access taxis but Antalya in Turkey don’t, unless you book the airport transfer ones which are a fortune! I can however access the buses in Antalya which is great

Konyailti beach in Antalya is my favourite place, there’s a promenade that runs the length of the beach around 6 miles with smooth lanes for chairs and cyclists, they also have a disabled section of the beach with direct access for the chair with a Pier out over the sea, for those of you that can brave the sea there’s a seat to lower you into the water, also beach wheelchairs available

We’ve certainly had some disasters and laughs on holiday but this won’t deter me from going, as I say where there’s a will there’s a way! My advice is just go for it but check out the points I’ve mentioned above first and if you have any questions feel free to get spinal to put us in touch I would love to hear your stories and answer any questions you may have

Happy holidays folks!

-Brian

SUPPORT WELFARE RIGHTS

One of the many benefits of Spinal Injuries Scotland membership is a free legal and welfare advice service. Access to effective and timely legal assistance can be as important as rehabilitation. In fact, effective legal assistance is often necessary to sustain the needed rehabilitation services over a long period of time. Following initial advice, assistance on completing benefit forms is available as well as representation at hearings.

We recommend Digby Brown Solicitors for anyone in Scotland with a spinal cord injury looking for legal or welfare rights advice

The firm has more than 40 years' experience dealing with every aspect of someone who has sustained a spinal cord injury

We would like to introduce the new Senior Welfare Rights Manager for Digby Brown, Douglas McAndrew Below he talks through some of the recent benefit changes If you would like a free benefits appraisal, please get in touch

My name is Douglas McAndrew and I’m delighted to introduce myself as the new Senior Welfare Rights Manager for Digby Brown Solicitors After thirteen years which saw an expansion of the free welfare rights service provided for clients and on behalf of our charity partners, my predecessor Jacqueline Lange decided to hang up her Disability Rights Handbook and retire We all wish her the very best for the future

I’ve been a welfare rights advisor for almost eighteen years in and around Glasgow, learning the ropes initially as a volunteer for the Citizens Advice Bureau before working at a local disability project in Knightswood, Renfrewshire Council and for the last eleven years at a community based Housing Association My drive to advocate on behalf of clients is as strong as ever, not least because the welfare rights environment has been in a constant state of change which means the job is always evolving The 2010’s were defined by the Welfare Reform Act which saw the introduction of Personal Independence Payment to replace Disability Living Allowance as well as the rollout of Universal Credit which replaced six ‘legacy benefits’ including Tax Credits and Housing Benefit A difficult adjustment for many reasons

The most significant change for disabled Scots in the 2020’s is the increasing presence of the new Scottish Social Security Agency and the process of devolving several benefits from the UK’s Department of Work and Pensions

Most significantly this has been the introduction of the Child Disability Payment in 2021 and last year the Adult Disability Payment, the new disability benefit which replaces Personal Independence Payment for working age people This was fully rolled out for all new disability benefit claims on 28th of August last year with the intention of migrating existing PIP claims over the next few years The Pension Age Disability Payment is set for a pilot in 2024 with a full launch the following year

Many readers may have experienced difficulties with PIP and sought to challenge decisions Government statistics from July to September 2022 reveal that 68% of PIP decisions were overturned at a tribunal hearing, in other words an independent adjudicator found that over two thirds of these decisions were incorrect and as a result an award has been made or increased This overturn rate has been consistent throughout the life of the benefit Perhaps like me you may wonder why the Department for Work and Pensions have chosen not to address these demonstrable flaws in their assessment and decision-making process?

Although ADP is identical to PIP in terms of the two rates of payment for a ‘Daily Living’ and ‘Mobility’ component the Scottish Government want to deliver a smoother assessment process

Douglas McAndrew

Their hope is that fewer decisions will be subject to challenge which essentially means they anticipate a higher rate of successful awards made The PIP assessment could often be a trigger for acute anxiety, usually in anticipation of a medical carried out by someone lacking in appropriate clinical experience A key difference promoted for ADP would seem to be a greater reliance on supporting evidence supplied by the claimant meaning fewer assessments

How are the Scottish Social Security Agency doing with ADP so far? Let’s look at the official statistics

These are the key figures in the reporting period from 21st March to 31st October last year

39,170 part 1 applications were received. This is the short initial stage which captures the personal information needed to date stamp a claim.

18,685 part 2 applications were received. This is the bulk of the form which asks all the questions relating to how the claimant’s health affects them. After registering a claim eight weeks are allowed to submit part 2.

We can see that 11% more awards have been authorised for ADP and the rate of disallowance is less than half that of PIP The high rate of ADP withdrawals has been accounted for by applications made incorrectly, for example in a local authority area yet to begin their pilot launch or from someone ineligible because they’re in the wrong age group We expect to see the rate of withdrawal decrease as the benefit becomes more familiar

The next set of statistics are released in March and will cover the first six months of the full launch The last statistics noted only 160 claims had been subject to redetermination by the SSSA with none forwarded to the new ‘Social Security Chamber’ which will offer an independent tribunal As the year progresses we’ll look more closely at the infrastructure in place to deal with challenging decisions

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The figures above tell us fewer than half the claims registered have been completed, although some will have been submitted after the 31st October The paper version of part 2 of the ADP form is 87 pages compared to 39 in a full PIP form Is this too daunting for some people to complete? Lots of the space is given over to images and prompts which help the claimant understand the questions however it’s a lot of information to absorb

5665 ADP applications have been processed with a decision made by 31st October Of these 62% were authorised, 23% were denied and 15% were withdrawn

For comparison, between April 2013 and October 2022 6 1 million new PIP claims have been decided with 51% of these authorised, 47% denied and 2% withdrawn

All benefits will be increased by 10 1% from April 2023 to reflect inflationary pressure on household budgets We know that the cost of living crisis has had a disproportionate effect on disabled households, for example because of the need to maintain a warm house and power equipment, so we await the statement from the Chancellor this month and will examine it carefully

Targeted support for vulnerable people is always welcome but equally the ‘social protection’ budget from which all benefit spending comes has in recent years been an easy target for spending cuts and some observers speculate that the cost of the pandemic and low economic growth will usher in a new round of austerity measures

Douglas McAndrew Senior Welfare Rights Manager Digby Brown Solicitors

Spinal Injuries Scotland provides a legal and welfare advice service. This is free for members. For more information please get in touch.

MEET OUR VOLUNTEER JOHN LONG

We recently had a chance to catch up with our member John Long, shortly before his big 80th birthday celebrations.

Always a bundle of positivity, we chatted about John’s impressive achievements in archery and his love of singing Both of which John credits for his ‘can do’ attitude to life and longevity

John was involved in a road traffic accident in 1976 which left him with a C5/C6 incomplete injury and partially sighted He was registered legally blind in 1990, both of these would leave a lesser man reeling but as John says “I never wanted to be a professional disabled person!”

Throughout the 70s John was in the Navy and post accident, as an ex-serviceman became involved in disabled veterans’ activities Winning medals in sailing (gold, silver and bronze at the world championships, 1 gold and 2 silver at the European Championships and 4 golds at British Regattas) then moving on to archery, in which he has excelled

Picking up a bow for the first time in 1998 after attending a Blind Veterans UK open day, a natural aptitude saw John join the Golden Arrows club at Merkinch Community Centre in Inverness

In my ignorance, I asked how does archery work for him being blind? He explained that he works with a spotter An assistant that can give instructions on where to aim using a clock face technique, up a bit, to the right - 3 o’clock, down a bit to the left - 8 o’clock etc He also explained that there is an archery version of a hole in one, if he lands all the arrows in the bullseye he has to buy the entire clubhouse a drink!! “cost me 60 quid last time!!!” worth every penny I’m sure

John has gone on to win multiple Club Championship medals including 2 golds, 2 silver and a bronze at the Blind Veteran Club Championships in 2012, and more at the 2015 championships He has been chair of the British Blind Bowmen (previously St Dunstans) since 2010

This March, John is heading down to Brighton for the indoor Championships where he hopes to pick up another haul of medals

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Car transfer

When he’s not slinging arrows John can also be found singing classical choral music to an equally high degree. He has always sang and in 1975, while still in the Navy and prior to his accident, he took part in a charity concert to raise money for the widows and orphans of fishermen. Whilst taking part, it was suggested he audition for the Newcastle Choir. From here it become an intrinsic part of his life and being.

He credits music with “keeping me sane (or keeping me mad, not sure which)” during the 18 months he was in hospital in the aftermath of his accident Endlessly sending nurses out for more batteries for his Walkman so he could listen to his beloved classical

Since then, John has sung just about everywhere! He performed with Carl Jenkins, singing the world debut of Peacemaker in Carnegie Hall in New York, he has performed at the Royal Albert Hall numerous times, at the Mozart Festival in Salzburg, at the Commonwealth Games opening in Glasgow alongside Amy MacDonald as well as regular concerts with his beloved Inverness Choral Society (of which he has been a member since the early 1980s) and The Royal National Scottish Orchestra

With typical humour, John says he can always find a spot in the choir as he’s a Tenor and there’s not many of them about!!

John will be performing in the following upcoming concerts and I’m sure he’d love your support

Upcoming concerts

22nd April: Inverness Cathedral – Inverness Choral Spring Concert

Spring Concert featuring the Inverness Choral Society singing Fauré Requiem, and choral music by Mendelssohn, Elgar and others

26th April: Crown Church Inverness - 50th Anniversary of the Inverness Singers Concert

Inverness Singers present a programme of choral music from past concerts and new music not previously performed

Step 1: Picking an arrow

Step 2: Inserting the arrow

Step 3: Preparing to shoot the arrow

Step 4: Retrieving shoot the arrow

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

SPINAL LIFE INTERNATIONAL NURSES DAY 2023

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

Dr Jig Retirement

Many of our members that have passed through the Glasgow spinal unit will have passed through the capable hands of Mahananda Veerappa Jigajinni, more commonly known as Dr Jig.

Mahananda Qualified in India 1978 and then subsequently gained her Scottish qualification in Glasgow in 1981.

International Nurses Day is celebrated annually around the world on 12 May – the anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale – and is led by the International Council of Nurses.

Last year we asked our members to nominate a nurse who most helped them in their time of need We shared the most inspiring stories on our social media channels and surprised some of them with a big bunch of flowers

Obviously, our nurses deserve a whole lot more than this, but the ones we managed to track down were incredibly touched that our members had thought so highly of them and there was barely a dry eye in the place!

The day was such a success that we would like to repeat the gesture this year

If you have a nurse that you would like to nominate in 2023, please email their details (Name/Hospital or Clinic) along with a testimonial to info@spinalinjuriesscotland org uk

This is a special day that aims to share the incredible achievements and wonderful stories about how nurses all over Scotland have made a big difference in their patients' lives that truly demonstrate the best of nursing

She worked in Spinal Unit Edinburgh Edenhall Hospital between 1985 and 1991.

In 1992 she was promoted to Staff Grade and progressed to Spinal Specialty Doctor at the QENSIU. At the end of March 23, Dr Jig is taking her well earned retirement.

We would be delighted if you would like to share your memories and well wishes with us, we will collect these and share them with the good doctor. Please email Info@spinalinjuriesscotland.org.uk

- Brian Spalding, Inveraray (T12)

E"Specialfromdayonein denhalltonearlytwelve IyearslaterasanOutpatient, h'msureshewillhavealready admanyothernominations." -ColinRichardson, Coldstream (C8, T1Incomplete)

Laura, right, with Seonag MacDonald

FUNDRAISING

There’s so many amazing ways to help Spinal Injuries Scotland with Fundraising. To help us support people across Scotland.

Whether it’s by joining us on one of the Kiltwalks across Scotland (this year we will pay 100% of your entry fee if you get in touch before signing up), signing up for one of the big runs (Marathons, HalfMarathons, 10k’s or fun runs), or organized cycle events like the ETAPE Loch Ness that happen across Scotland throughout the year. Maybe a sponsored skydive, bungee jump, whisky tasting or you could start your own event like our Peer Support Advisor, Fiona Fraser who organized a sponsored Spinathon.

Get in touch if you are interested in doing something like this and we’ll help in any way we can and send you one of our fab SIS t-shirts!

If all this sounds a bit too much like hard work, there are easier and gentler ways of raising money for us Why not try a Facebook Fundraiser, These can be for anything, a birthday, a sponsored sobriety or a quiz with your pals Or you could just make a direct donation This is easy to do through our website DONATION button

Remember to keep us updated with your progress, we love receiving news and photos of folks on their fundraising journey

Our Super-stars!

There are many different ways you can raise money for our charity. Thanks to everyone's contributions and support!

Those above options sound a bit too standard? Get creative and sell a cow!

Local businesses can run fundraising schemes.

You can raise money by participating in a wheelchair marathon.

You can raise money and also strengthen your muscles by doing a spinathon.

Mark Allan raised £18,000

Fiona Fraser raised £740

West End Garden Centre raised £79.36

Cadzow Brothers raised £850

Joseph Tangney and Rebecca Thomas raised £1,639

There is also another way that you can aid our charity while simultaneously strengthening your muscles.

That is, of course, the annual Kiltwalk, an event that spans across several areas in Scotland where people travel a designated route for the purpose of raising money for their sponsored charity.

Additionally, this year has the lowest entry fee ever so finances shouldn't be a barrier for your decision to sign-up!

Last year we raised over an incredible amount of £11,000 and since 2016, Kiltwalk Heroes have raised £22 5 million and the Hunter Foundation have added £11 4 million To give you a clearer picture on how beneficial the Kiltwalk is to supporting people with spinal injuries, that's £33 9 million which has been distributed to over 3,000 charities!

Please get in contact with us if you would like to walk in aid of SIS before you sign up and we will send to a code to cover 100% of your entry fee You’ll also get a fab tshirt in the post!

Kiltwalk 2023 Dates

Glasgow - 30th April

Aberdeen - 4th June

Dundee - 20th August

Edinburgh - 17th September

Memories from last year!

ACCESSIBLE PROPERTIES ACROSS SCOTLAND

Holidays are great, Scotland is great, why not plan a trip in this amazing country of ours!!

We are often asked if we can recommend disabled access vacation properties around Scotland. Naturally, Clober Farm is always at the top of the list as it’s run by Spinal Injuries Scotland. But, there are times that we are booked out, or people are looking for something in another part of the country.

Clober Farm is a fully accessible vacation accommodation run by Spinal Injuries Scotland Designed with the wheelchair user in mind, primarily for people with a Spinal Cord Injury, though we do accept others that are in need of the facilities we offer It is situated in Milngavie, on the outskirts of Glasgow, close to Loch Lomond and Trossachs

Clober Farm is a self-catering apartment that can sleep up to 6 people, in three bedrooms The Master bedroom is fitted with a Liko 200 ceiling tracking hoist and a height adjustable profiling bed with an Invacare pressure relief air mattress

It has 2 bathrooms, one of which has an ensuite wet room designed for the disabled user with shower/commode chairs provided There is level access throughout and a combined kitchen/living area with doors leading onto a patio area and landscaped garden The garden is paved with a curved, monoblocked path for ease of wheeling

Location: Milngavie, Glasgow, G62 7HW

Info@spinalinjuriesscotland.org.uk -www.cloberfarm.co.uk/

Contact: 0141 4277686

Loch Lomond

Clober Farm

Homelands The Rings

Homelands is an independent Fife-based charity providing luxury 4 star fully accessible self-catering lodges and is located in the beautiful East Neuk (corner) of Fife, just 10 miles from St Andrews and looking over the Firth of Forth Our nine lodges sleep between six and eight people and have specially designed with accessibility in mind Four were opened in September 2014 and our five new lodges are opening to guests at the beginning of May 2023

As standard we provide Guldmann H-frame ceiling tracking hoists in all ground floor bedrooms and the large wetroom in each lodge In addition, we provide one electric profiling bed with pressure relief airflow mattress in each downstairs bedroom

Clos-o-mat toilets feature in selected lodges Small items such as perching stools, toilet raisers, over bed tables and cot bumpers for the profiling beds are all standard in each lodge We can provide a wide range of portable specialist equipment including shower trollies, shower chairs, electric hoists, electric stand aids

We have level access, open plan living/dining/kitchens, wide doorways and paved patio areas Stays start from a minimum of three nights We are open all year round

Location: Lundin Links, Fife, KY8 6AT

Contact: 01333 329039 - info@homelands-fife.co.uk

-www.homelands-fife.co.uk/

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The Rings offers different types of accessible selfcatering accommodation to meet your needs

Part of a 90 acre working sheep farm in Fife, the cottage, cabins, camping and accessible Edu-shed barn have been specifically designed to work for all levels of access needs, inclusive of wheel chair users and neurodiversities

The cottage has 2 studio apartments for individuals or couples, but you can book up to 8 double bedrooms for larger groups Each has ensuite wetroom, three with ceiling track hoists and one with a jacuzzi bath 2 of the kitchens are wheelchair accessible All doors and corridors are wide enough for powerchairs

There are 6 cabins, on one level, 2 of which are wheelchair accessible with open plan kitchens Floor hoists available, please bring your own sling

Wetrooms in all cabins are wheelchair accessible and paths to the door are level access Bisset’s Barn houses an indoor hot tub as well as a full changing place with shower trolley, closomat toilet and rise and fall bath Two sensory rooms and a large multipurpose space for education, play and events

Location: Cupar, Fife, KY15 5PQ

Conatct: 07764235673 - info@therings co uk

-www therings co uk

Dennis Duncan House Sunart Strawbale

Denis Duncan House is a dog-friendly, fully accessible cottage situated in the lovely conservation village of Dirleton which nestles on the Firth of Forth, between the Scottish capital of Edinburgh and the pretty coastal town of North Berwick The cottage sleeps six people in total, two with fully accessible beds It is very spacious and has plenty of room for people with disabilities and their families or carers to spend quality time together

The fully accessible suite is extremely well equipped with two profiling beds, and an overhead hoist to the en-suite bathroom. The bathroom has a height adjustable wash basin and Clos-o-Mat toilet, a hi-lo bath, and a full-size wheel-in shower A large kitchen has everything you need to feel comfortable and at home Upstairs there are two twin bedded rooms, a bathroom, and second sitting room for the family or carers The generous main sitting room leads into a comfortable conservatory from which you can see the local wildlife – deer, pheasant, squirrels, garden birds, and even the occasional hedgehog The attractive garden backs on to the famous Archerfield estate and golf course

Denis Duncan House overlooks one of the village greens and is also in sight of the famous ruined medieval castle Nearby you can visit the coastal town of North Berwick which has a beach and seabird centre, as well as shops, restaurants, and pubs

Location: North Berwick, EH39 5NT

Contact: 01620 892864 - enquiries@leuchiehouse.org.uk -www denisduncanhouse co uk

'Jack' Strawbale House is a fully accessible, 2bedroom/ holiday cottage, located in the West Highlands It is built on an elevated position giving it spectacular views across Loch Sunart to the Morven hills beyond The house has a wheelchair lift, hoists in the master bedroom and en-suite bathroom, a Gerber Aquaclean toilet and a choice of three shower chairs Outside, on the expansive deck, there is a hot tub, partially sunk into the deck, and an Oxford Dipper hoist with a choice of seating attachments

Upstairs the open plan living area has ample room for moving around in a wheelchair The kitchen has lowered worktops, all storage is accessible and additional induction hobs can be set up to enable safe cooking at a comfortable height

The owners have taken care to ensure that high standards of design have been maintained throughout, ensuring that the environment is conducive to a relaxing holiday in gorgeous surroundings

Location: Strontian, Highlands PH36 4HY

Contact: 01967 402453 - justinerob@lycos.com

–www.sunartstrawbale.co.uk

CYP Accessible Pod

Callander Hostel is a social enterprise owned and run by Callander Youth Project Trust Situated only 1 hour from Edinburgh or Glasgow our self-catering accommodation is the ideal location for a break

Our accommodation comprises of 5 en-suite bedrooms within our main building, 3 double bedded glamping pods and one accessible pod situated at the foot of the garden overlooking Ben Ledi

Crathie Opportunity Holidays

We have four specially designed and equipped selfcatering holiday cottages situated in a beautifully paved courtyard looking over the River Dee in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park

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Like all of our glamping lodges, The Crags Accessible Pod has its own en-suite, kitchenette, and covered outdoor seating area There is parking at the rear of the pod with ramp access to the pod itself The pod is on one level with wide doorway throughout There is a single profile bed in the main bedroom, with a ceiling (y-shape) hoist running through to a sizeable wet-room

The wet-room has a shower/changing bench, adjustableheight washbasin and Clos-o-Mat toilet The lounge area has a well-stocked kitchenette, including a fridge, 2 ring hob, microwave and dishwasher A sofa bed pulls out into a double sofa bed and an additional z-bed can be added

Callander Main Street is only 5 minutes from the pod and can be easily accessed through our accessible garden

Location: Callander, FK17 8AH

Contact: 01877 330141 - info@cyp.org.uk - www.cyp.org.uk/accessible

Royal Deeside is renowned for its spectacular scenery, variety of wildlife, castles and whisky distilleries If you want to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday without worrying about access and facilities Crathie Opportunity Holidays is the place for you

Each cottage comes equipped with wheel-in shower, clos-o-mat toilet and height-adjustable sink and a ceiling track hoist in the bathroom (except Gairn cottage), the main bedroom has an electric height-adjustable bed and ceiling track hoist The kitchen surfaces and appliances are all wheelchair accessible with room to manoeuvre There is also a range of other equipment available, at no extra cost, such as mobile hoist, monkey pole, shower chairs, pressure relief mattress etc Each cottage has its own individual style

Other on-site facilities include a fully-equipped laundry room, a glazed Garden Room, a children’s play area and riverside patio with barbecue We also have a rustic log cabin where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you Pets are welcome in all cottages except Gairn cottage which is allergy-free

Location: The Manse Courtyard, Crathie, Ballater, Aberdeenshire, AB35 5UL

Contacy: 01339742100 - info@crathieholidays.org.uk

-www crathieholidays org uk

READING CORNER

Mary Bell

So now proud as punch I wear my blue top My peer support role I’ll never swap, And throughout this pandemic as hard as it’s been I’m so thankful I’ve met such good friends on the screen.

So now when I look in the mirror I see A true reflection of life-loving me

My Mirror and me ~ Mary C Bell

When I look in the mirror what do I see, It’s a fractured resemblance of someone like me. I’m battered and bruised and I feel so alone I really don’t know if I’ll ever get home

I’m a teacher an artist, a lover, a mum And so many other things rolled into one It’s hard to believe I was someone that mattered when I look at my body so broken and shattered

I love to have gel in my short spikey hair But no one has time, and I can’t put it there I can’t hold a pen a fork or a book And I’m deaf so can’t even listen so for now I just look. So looks what I do and I see folk advance And I hope beyond hope that there might be a chance That for someone like me there’s a future ahead And that day will soon come when I get out this bed.

The times really passing now four months, then five I’ve got wheels and I’m mobile and feeling alive I’m moving my arms and my shoulders can shrug And I can almost manage a ‘wobbly’ hug.

With Physios helping with hand function too I’m sitting with others t’was long overdue And planning for home preparations begin I’m excited, can’t wait! Oh my heads in a spin.

To my brothers in arms I say my goodbyes And as we’re driving away I have tears in my eyes

I’m feeling quite scared of the new days to come As I’m still making sense of the me I’ve become.

Now many years have rolled past 17 maybe more Who would have believed what my life had in store I’m back teaching music my joy and delight My life has a purpose, my future so bright

But my story’s not finished, it doesn’t end yet. A meeting last summer I’ll never forget. Apply for this job Mary - you will be great But I’m rubbish at interviews - Oh what a terrible state

Our member Annie Sturgeon has started a shared reading group on Zoom for our members

Sessions last an hour, once a month

"The sessions are free and you can come and go as you please (they won't be in a series so it wouldn't matter if you miss any), each session would stand alone and you'd book your free space through Eventbrite We would read and comment on linked poems, short stories or extracts There's no homework! We can take turns to read aloud but there's no obligation Open Book usually chooses the theme and I'll find the pieces we'll read, OB suggest some as well I think it could be an interesting focus for a zoom meet that has nothing to do with SCI but adds another dimension to our wonderful zoom connection "

Contact Annie via email: imagesofbirds@gmail com for more information and to sign up

See www openbookreading com for more information on what they do