Tri something new as Jorvik Tricycles sets up for a limited time at The Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh

jorvik tricycles

​ Date: Friday 20th & Saturday 21st October Location: The Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh EH28 8NB ​Hosted by Jorvik Tricycles, this interactive event will bring a passion for three wheels to Scotland. Grab the handlebars and try out a new hobby at the Exhibition Edinburgh Try-Cycle event this autumn. For those with a lust for the outdoors, now is the perfect time to try getting around on three wheels if you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like.  Following an exceptionally popular pop up event in Henley-on-Thames in the summer, Europe’s leading provider of adult electric tricycles is bringing its one-to-one trial ride experience to Scotland for the very first time. The event will run from 10am-4pm Friday 20th and 10am-3pm Sunday 21st October at The Royal Highland Centre, Edinburgh. Discover an alternative way to travel and enjoy the freedom of three wheels in this iconic venue, just outside the city! Visitors to the Exhibition Edinburgh Try-Cycle event will have the exclusive opportunity to test the full range of models and see what makes a Jorvik different, as well as the chance to win a tricycle for themselves. The venue will be complete with an indoor track, set up so visitors can experience the exhilaration of riding a tricycle for themselves, as well as the chance to speak to experts from the Jorvik Tricycles team about the products and features, and a limited number of products will be available to purchase on the day. Accessible and easy to use; Jorvik Tricycles was created by founder James Walker after he struggled to find a solution to aid his father’s love of cycling whilst living with Parkinson’s disease.  James said: “We’re really excited to showcase our tricycles. There really is nothing better than getting to try the tricycles out and that’s what these events are all about. There’s no obligation to purchase, it’s just a chance to come along, try a tricycle for yourself and enjoy being out and about.  “We can’t wait to see everyone and help them try out a new way of getting around.”  The third installment in a series of events across the UK, the Exhibition Edinburgh Try-Cycle encourages visitors to saddle up and pick from eight models to test ride, using the custom built indoor track.  To find out more and register your interest, click here. ​

Invisible Disabilities Week: How support a dog changes perceptions

support dog with family

​ Judging looks have turned to smiles and admiration – that’s how one mum of an autistic child describes a major difference a support dog brings. Emma Mills’ son Sam was diagnosed with autism at the age of five, followed a year later by depression. He has sensory difficulties, which means he struggles with noise and crowds and can often lash out and have meltdowns. Sam – who, like most autistic children has no sense of danger and can run into traffic – couldn’t leave the house, never felt safe and had “lost his smile”, said Emma, of Sheffield. But in 2017, support dog Willow entered Sam’s life – and things changed for the better. This week is Invisible Disabilities Week, which aims to highlight non-apparent, or hidden disabilities and break down barriers by making people more aware of the different types of conditions people have to manage on a daily basis. Emma said Willow, an eight-year-old black Labrador trained by the Sheffield-based Support Dogs charity,  has been instrumental in helping to improve understanding and reduce judgement when they’re out and about. She added: “Prior to having Willow, when Sam was dysregulated in public and may run away, get upset, scream, shout, swear and maybe lash out, people would look at him like he was a naughty child. “They would stop and stare and you could feel their judgement, or other mums would ignore us or look the other way walking to and from school. “This all changed with Willow – we started to get smiles or at the very least not stopped and judged. “People were more likely to offer support like a quiet room to wait in or give us more space and privacy. “Having Willow turned stressful and uncomfortable situations in public to something more positive ​for everyone. Instead of staring and seeing a naughty boy, people would look and see a boy being comforted by his support dog.” Emma, who is also mum to Ellie, added that not only did having Willow aid understanding, it also took the focus off of Sam, now 13, as people would notice Willow and admire her and what she was doing. “Willow took the burden of social stares away from Sam and absorbed it all for him,” she said. “She would lay down with him and he would lay his head under hers and then she put her paws over him. She’s very protective of him and would always lay in such a way Sam could hide from the world when it got too much.” They once spent an hour on Llandudno Pier with Willow laying just like that on Sam while he calmed. “Instead of hearing people make judgemental or upsetting comments, we could hear people saying how amazing Willow was, and ‘look at that dog!’,” said Emma. “The pressure it took off of us all as a family was amazing, it was such a relief for us all to know that Willow took away that burden of judgement, awkwardness and upset when Sam did struggle when we were out – not only for Sam but for the whole family.” And it’s not just difficult situations that Willow helps with – she has made everywhere more accessible for Sam. Emma says seeing Sam enter places with Willow opens people’s minds and they immediately see he might need “something different” so they will offer a quiet space to wait, turn the music down “no questions asked”, or make space for Willow or offer her a drink.  “She was also the focus for people so instead of raising Sam’s anxiety by trying to talk to him they would talk to Willow or ask about Willow and this reduces that social pressure on Sam,” she added. “Plus, he loves talking about Willow and it gives him something to connect to people.” Emma says Willow has made Sam’s invisible disability visible, in a positive and a “wow, there’s such an amazing dog there” kind of way. Now people look at Sam and Willow and smile, awe-inspired by seeing them together supporting each other.  Willow even supported Sam on a holiday to Disneyland – a trip that in Sam’s younger years would have been unfathomable. “Willow had superstar status that week,” added Emma.  ​Iggy is another canine hero making a real difference to how one boy makes sense of the world – and how others perceive him. The yellow Labrador has been the lifeline of 13-year-old Louis Neylon, who is autistic and has global development delay, since he was just seven. Louis has limited speech and has occasional meltdowns and mum, Kelly, of Hull, says Iggy has made a world of difference in helping to make people more aware of her son’s condition. Describing the public perception to when Louis has had meltdowns, Kelly said: “You do get the reaction that he’s a naughty child. “When he was younger, people just thought he was a typical cute child having a tantrum, and went about their business. “But now he’s older and he’s quite a big lad, the looks you get from people are different – people do stare as because he’s big it can look quite scary. “You try not to let it bother you, but it does bother you. “Having a support dog now is so much more vital than when he was a child.” Although Louis doesn’t have Iggy attached to him now he is older, the pooch still goes everywhere with him. “It’s good to have Iggy out and about with his Support Dogs jacket on, just to highlight Louis’ condition. You don’t have to explain yourself to strangers,” said Kelly. “People seem to be more understanding than if you haven’t got the dog. “The UK is quite a dog-loving nation, so it’s a talking point and people will be more accepting and approach Louis more. “People will say ‘what’s your dog’s name?’ and it encourages social interaction and encourages Louis to talk to someone he wouldn’t normally talk to

Bagel – giving the support for freedom in water

bagel

​ One of the biggest restrictions for anyone with limitations- and their carers- when bathing or participating in aqua therapy is achieving strain-free support in the water. AAT’s Bagel removes that restriction. It restores the person’s ability to free float without any risk of head immersion by stabilising and supporting their head above the water without restricting their body. ​ Utilising innovative vacuum technology, the core cushion can be precisely and infinitely moulded to each user. Hook and loop straps round the body secure the cushion in place, thereby positioning he buoyancy on the chest and torso. This relieves pressure on the neck and head, ensuring safe, proper stability and relaxation whilst immersed in the water. As a result, it enables all areas of the user’s body to be easily reached and cleaned during bathing, and allows full movement and thus flotation benefits of hydrotherapy to be enjoyed. “Bagel supports all involved to get the most out of basic ADLs such as bathing or aquatherapy,” explains AAT Director Peter Wingrave. “It ensures the client receives the full benefit of their hydrotherapy or bath experience, by having the safety and freedom to free-float. “As importantly, it relies the carer of the physical strain of having to support them- particularly an issue in bathing, when you’re trying to balance properly supporting the head above the water, over the side of the bath, and perform the hygiene routine.” Find out more and book a free, no obligation assessment here: Bagel is just one element of AAT’s innovative support solutions to help with water-based scenarios. Details of the full range of options are available here: https://www.aatgb.com/bathing-solutions/ ​

Empowering Disabled Individuals to Shine in Media and Journalism: Ability Today’s Trailblazing Opportunity

ability today

Are you a person with a disability, or know someone driven by a passion for journalism? Ability Today, the ground-breaking social enterprise dedicated to empowering disabled individuals, is thrilled to unveil a golden opportunity for disabled people of all ages from across the UK to embark on a journey into the world of media and journalism. With an unparalleled commitment to inclusivity, Ability Today has already enabled over 80 disabled individuals to upskill and transition into successful media careers. Now, the doors are wide open for even more to join this extraordinary movement. Limited spots are available for the prestigious and highly sought-after Diploma in Journalism, offered in collaboration with the Academy for Disabled Journalists and accredited by the esteemed National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ). The introductory level Certificate in Foundation Journalism is also available through their academy. Dismantling the barriers that have held back too many, these courses have harnessed cutting-edge technology to make education accessible to all. Founder Grant Logan, himself a visionary who overcame adversity, established Ability Today in 2014, from his base in Surrey, to unlock the potential of disabled individuals of all ages. The resounding success stories of past students who now thrive at renowned media powerhouses like ITV, the BBC, and numerous other news organisations stand as testaments to the transformative power of Ability Today’s programmes. One such success story is ITV journalist Jamie Green aged 29 from Didcot, Oxfordshire whose journey exemplifies the impact of Ability Today’s support. “I couldn’t have done it without Ability Today,” said Green. “Their accessible approach to the NCTJ diploma made my transition into journalism a seamless experience.” Grant Logan, 51 and lives in Chobham, Surrey is the visionary founder of Ability Today, himself a survivor of a life-changing accident, embodies the organisation’s unwavering dedication. “Our mission is to spotlight what people with disabilities can do, rather than what they can’t,” said Logan. “We are lighting up new paths, bridging the gaps, and ensuring that the world of journalism becomes an open avenue for disabled individuals to shine.” Many of the Academy students who have studied for the CFJ have gone on to undertake the Diploma Course including James Nelson in Edinburgh, Joanne Halliday from Annan, Dr Julie McElroy from Glasgow, Lisa Kavaney of Norfolk, Victoria Scholes from Sunbury on Thames, Ellie Forrester in Shropshire, Tom Jackson-Wood from Hertfordshire, and Kim To and Georgie Morell, both from London. The rallying cry of Ability Today is to break down barriers that for far too long have stifled disabled individuals’ ambitions. By fostering accessibility, support, and reasonable adjustments, Ability Today is levelling the playing field, and creating a host of new opportunities. “We are forging pathways that empower disabled individuals to embrace meaningful careers, raising their self-belief, confidence, motivation, and integration into the workforce,” said Logan. The social enterprise expanded its educational offering, launching an SEO course with Novos earlier this year and is also creating the Academy for Disabled Bookkeepers with Kaplan Financial Services and in talks with CX Training and website development companies for further courses as Ability Today continues to pave the way for countless disabled individuals to forge impactful careers. If you’re ready to script your journey into the captivating realm of media and journalism, seize this moment. Interested applicants are invited to submit a 300-word story via the Ability Today website by September 15. For successful candidates, an induction awaits on September 26, followed by enlightening online lessons every Tuesday from October 3. Course highlights include modules on Essential Journalism, Media Law, Ethics, PR and Communications, Video Journalism, Digital Audience Engagement, and Public Affairs. Students can also opt for additional modules in shorthand, practical magazine journalism, and sports journalism. To glean a deeper understanding of the Academy for Disabled Journalists, and to witness the inspiring journeys of former students, visit the Ability Today website.

How to Pay For The Motability Scheme 

motability

Mobility experts over at Mobility Solutions Direct have provided advice on how to get the most out of the Motability Scheme. The Direct Line Motability (DLM), the new insurer for the Motability Scheme replacing RSA Motability, will receive your payments straight from your allowance provider. How much you pay depends on the mobility allowance you receive: You Need to Make an Advanced Payment For Some Vehicles In addition to your weekly mobility allowance, you may need to pay upfront for some vehicles. Be aware that it’s not a deposit and it’s non-refundable. Upfront costs are required because your allowance might not cover the full cost for more expensive vehicles. The amount you pay is calculated by looking at the cost of the vehicle, its servicing and maintenance, and its expected value at the end of your lease. The DLM will try to negotiate with the vehicle manufacturer every three months to get you the best price. This payment will be made directly to your Motability Scheme dealer either on the day you get the vehicle or before.  If you are paying by cheque, you need to send this at least seven days before you receive the vehicle. Alternatively, if you are eligible for the £750 New Vehicle Payment, we can send this directly to your dealer to help towards your Advance Payment. How To Pay Your Advance Payment The Advanced Payment method you will use depends on your vehicle dealer: What You Need When Applying Visit a dealer when looking for a new wheelchair-accessible vehicle, a scooter, or a powered wheelchair. If you’re looking for a WAV or someone to install adaptations to make your vehicle accessible, the supplier will come to your location and assist you in placing the order for the vehicle or adaptations. If you apply at the dealer, you need to bring: If you apply online, you need to bring: How to Receive a New Vehicle Payment If you’re new to the Motability Scheme and you order your first vehicle in 2023, you’ll receive a special payment after you collect your new vehicle. This payment can be used to help with the upfront cost. Alternatively, you can send this payment directly to your dealer to reduce the Advance Payment amount. However, if you order a scooter or a powered wheelchair, you will instead receive a New Product Payment to assist with the cost. It’s important to note that you can only receive this payment once. There Are 5 Vehicle Options Available 1 – Standard Cars Package, which includes: 2 – Electric Cars Package, which includes: 3 – Adaptations, which make your vehicle to use, can include: 4 – Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAV), which include: 5 – Scooters and Powered Wheelchairs, which can include: Image credit: Jon Tyson

Empowering deaf individuals through inclusive support

service users participating in karaoke

David Ashton-Jones, Chief Executive at care home group Homes Together, discusses the importance of supporting the deaf community during international week for the Deaf and beyond.  It is currently International Week of Deaf People, which is a chance to celebrate and highlight the Deaf community across the globe. Deafness is a different way of experiencing the world for many people, and in the UK alone 12 million adults are deaf or have hearing loss.  At Homes Together, we care for many service users that live with hearing impairments, so know firsthand some of the challenges that these people face in their day to day lives. One thing we believe is that everyone should be treated as an individual, so we look at ways to support the specific needs of our hearing-impaired service users and ensure we’re putting processes in place that best suit the person. Staff training  Training for staff providing care for Deaf people is essential for fostering effective communication, safety, emotional support, advocacy, and access to necessary services. Many of our team members are trained in British Sign Language before they start, but we ensure that all our new starters undergo a six-week British Sign Language course that is led by a Deaf instructor – following this is a four-week face to face course with our in-house activities tutor. It’s important to remain informed about the latest developments in sign language, so we also implement regular refresher sessions so our teams can keep up to date. Supporting Deaf people   Deaf individuals, like anyone else, have unique talents, perspectives, and aspirations, but they often face communication barriers that can limit their opportunities and social interactions.  As part of our wider goal of integrating each service user as much as possible within the community, we take every available opportunity to make use of local facilities and attend events. We think that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves to experience life to the fullest. That is why we provide a wide range of activities to suit every interest and level of ability.  Developing personalised care plans is vital when proving a high level of care. We communicate with our Deaf service users regularly to determine their specific needs, preferences, and ambitions and provide the necessary level of assistance to help them achieve this. For instance, our team will provide support in helping to find a job, encourage practicing a hobby (such as waterskiing) and finding suitable groups in the community for exercise, social interaction or whatever else they may be seeking.  Wider society  While significant progress has been made in the UK to support deaf people, there are still areas where we believe improvements are needed. Here are some areas where more can be done to support Deaf people in the UK: Supporting deaf people is important not only during special awareness weeks but as an ongoing commitment to inclusivity, equal rights, and the well-being of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. It fosters a more inclusive and diverse society where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. 

5 ways to adapt your home for older people with reduced mobility

lady with reduced mobility

You no doubt want to make your home a comfortable, safe, and welcoming environment where all your loved ones can spend time with one another. But if you have older relatives who require some extra help getting around, because of reduced mobility — or have recently moved in due to a decline in their mobility — you may be realising that your home could use some accessible updates.  Making a few key changes to your home layout and investing in specialist furniture can make the world of difference when regularly caring for elderly people, and can give them back a sense of independence and dignity that everyone deserves. Below, CLH Healthcare share five ways you can start making your home more accessible to all. Start small  If you have reduced mobility and want to start creating a more accessible home environment on a shorter deadline or while sticking to a budget, there are a few small changes you can make that will have a noticeable difference. In case you feel unsure about where to start, your local council will offer a home assessment which you can book through the government website. This can highlight potential hazards you may not have even considered, such as the width of your doorways or the height of kitchen countertops for those using wheelchairs. You may even qualify for council funding or grants to help with the cost of these alterations.  The NHS has a handy list of smaller household gadgets that can make home life easier for those with limited mobility, and this can be a great place to start if you’re on a budget or can’t make any larger home improvements quite yet. These gadgets might range from slip mats for the bath or shower (or for any smooth surface like tile and linoleum) to hooks or shoehorns that make getting dressed that bit easier. One of the most cost-effective and easily installed mobility aids, however, are grab rails: placing rails in areas where you notice your relatives struggling or slowing down is a simple yet effective way of preventing falls around the house. The bathroom  The bathroom can often be the most hazardous room in the house due to the number of slippery surfaces to deal with on a daily basis. One of the first issues elderly relatives may come across is using the toilet, as just like getting in and out of a chair, this requires joint strength and balance that may be waning. Firstly, installing grab rails around the toilet, bath, and shower areas is a must — as well as this, however, you may want to opt for a taller toilet seat (around 19 inches high) to make this transition from sitting to standing easier.   Alongside smaller details like larger, easy-to-turn handles for taps, you may also choose to make more significant alterations like converting a standard shower into a walk-in shower or creating a whole new wet room. This will reduce hazards like tripping over the shower threshold or the action of stepping in and out of a bathtub. As well as being beneficial for older relatives, this will make it easier and safer for anyone who has restricted mobility to go to the bathroom, no matter what age group they are in. This is particularly important as having the right precautions and specialist furniture in place can allow them to go to the bathroom unaided, which can help to preserve their independence and self-confidence.  The bedroom Good quality sleep is a pivotal part of anyone’s well-being, but particularly for those dealing with health issues or chronic pain. So, it’s important to not only invest in a high-quality mattress but also consider any other care equipment that your elderly relative may benefit from. Depending on the extent of their mobility, this may include a hoist to assist them from their bed and into a wheelchair, or a commode, which is a chair with a concealed toilet to minimise trips to and from the bathroom during the night. You might also install a stair lift if their bedroom is not on the ground floor.   The dining room  When it comes to the dining room, investing in sturdy, spacious, and easy-to-clean furniture will help to make mealtimes easier for everyone. Try to opt for designs that have integral arms and skis, padded backs, and wipeable materials such as faux leather vinyl, so that your older relatives can enjoy their meals comfortably and with maximum support for their back. Keeping a supply of dining aids in your kitchen such as bendable cutlery with extra grip can also make mealtimes go more smoothly.  The living area As a generous portion of our time is often spent in the living room, supportive, mobility-friendly furniture is a wise investment for anyone caring for the elderly. For instance, getting in and out of chairs can often be difficult for older people as their joints become weaker and their balance becomes less reliable.  So, when making your living room more accessible for all, a set of rise-and recline-chairs are a great place to start. These chairs have a remote that allows users to both elevate their legs (which is important for those with poor circulation) and raise the chair up at an incline, meaning they are already in a semi-standing position when they want to get up. Again, this can offer elderly people a valuable sense of independence, while also reducing the chance of falls.  “If you are caring for elderly relatives or have them visit regularly, making a few key home improvements will help to prevent any accidents like slips and falls. This is not only important in terms of safety, but having accessible features in place also means that your loved ones with reduced mobility can retain their independence and dignity, helping them feel more like themselves.  “These home updates can range from small yet effective gadgets to larger investments like specialist furniture or changing the overall layout of a room.

Duo focused on securing another gold medal ahead of the 2024 Paralympic Games

Paralympic duo

Despite the World Championships not being too far away, the duo who have won 12 of their last 13 races, are looking to ensure they keep up their impressive form on the streets of Paris. Ellis said: “You’re not looking too far ahead. I know the World Championships is close, but you still want to do your best performance here and learn as much as you can. “Looking too far ahead and thinking we’ve got the worlds to prepare for so this doesn’t matter, is the wrong attitude to have. We’re definitely focusing on this, and we’ve put in a good block of work for it.” That attitude is matched by Pollard. He explained: “Looking too far ahead you lose focus on what is coming up and before you know it half the season is gone, and you haven’t quite got the results you want. “So, I think our approach, taking it race by race, gives us the best opportunity to get the best results.” The race offers the duo, who compete in the PTVI category, the opportunity to experience the same course they will go for gold on at next summer’s Paralympic Games and is providing plenty of new challenges. Ellis said: “It’s quite a different event, with swimming in a river, which we don’t normally do and racing on the cobbles, so to have the opportunity to see how it goes and what we need to change and adapt is really positive for next year to make sure we’re prepared for that.” The duo have been at a training camp in France ahead of the racing with  of the British paratriathlon team. The pair have found the opportunity a positive one as part of the group that includes fellow PTVI athlete and guide Oscar Kelly and Charlie Harding, and bronze medallist from Tokyo Claire Cashmore. Pollard explained: “I think with it being a newer squad, it’s nice to share what we’ve learnt and hear the experiences they’ve had. It’s nice to share different stuff.” Ellis added: “Having a positive environment always helps. It’s been good. Just getting over to France and getting some decent training in is positive. “The group all together is quite nice, to have different people to train with and spend a bit of time with.” Ellis and Pollard will race on Saturday 19 July in the PTVI category. They get underway at 7:05 and you can watch their race on Triathlon Live. You can view the full start list for the men’s PTVI race here. Photo credit: Jessica Barratt

Edinburgh disability charity to hold summer holiday camp with help from local school

fettes college and supertroop

Edinburgh-based charity SuperTroop, which provides residential breaks for children with learning disabilities, will hold a summer holiday camp on the grounds of Fettes College thanks to the school’s generosity.  The event is a community effort, with students, teaching staff and the operational team involved throughout the week, meaning Fettes is much more than just a host for the holiday camp.  Around two dozen students will give up the first week of their summer break to volunteer with the holidaymakers and help give them support and friendship. Fettes teaching staff also volunteer to organise and support the holiday, with some taking the lead in activities throughout the week. In just 24 hours, Dalmeny House – a boarding house on the Fettes campus – is transformed into the perfect accessible location for attendees to SuperTroop’s week-long camp. Dalmeny House is a modern, accessible building with dorm bedrooms, shared bathrooms and lots of relaxation space. 16 children and young people with learning disabilities take part in the holiday week, receiving 24/7 one-to-one support. Many of the participants have never had a night away from home before. Student Louisa said: “The relationship between SuperTroop and Fettes has not only provided incredible holidays but also a transformative learning experience for us as Fettesians. We all hold SuperTroop dear to our hearts and hope that future Fettesians can continue to support this beautiful charity in the future.” The holidaymakers stay on campus, sleep in dorm rooms with their peers and 1:1 helpers, and eat meals as a group in the dining hall. Fettes provides a high-quality and accessible residence, catering for the week, and facilities such as outdoor spaces, swimming pool and sports hall.  Sue Fletcher-Watson, Founder of SuperTroop said: “We are thrilled with the efforts from the students and staff at Fettes College towards SuperTroop’s residential break. Their generosity will make sure that this residential break is truly special for all involved and make for some very happy campers. “SuperTroop’s goal is to provide extraordinary holidays, creating an environment in which holiday makers feel surrounded by friends. The support we have from Fettes, as fundraisers, hosts and volunteers, is vital to provide the best experience possible.” Mr Rhys Rowlands, Director of Service at Fettes College said: “The work that SuperTroop do to bring a fun break to these young people is truly remarkable. Fettes is proud to be able to support this charity in any way we can and help provide a fun summer for everyone taking part.” £10,000 raised from a log-carrying challenge will allow SuperTroop to provide travel, admission to places such as Edinburgh Zoo, fun activities and art supplies for 16 young people. In March, every Fettes College student took a turn carrying a 100kg metal log up and down the school’s drive for 24 hours, taking it in 15-minute shifts.  To find out how you can join the troop or lend your support, go to supertroop.org/ Images: Young people with learning disabilities are helped by Fettes student volunteers to decorate cakes on their SuperTroop holiday Images taken by Chris Watt Photography.