Help Visually Impaired Youngsters Unlock Their ‘Superpowers’
This Christmas, a leading sight loss charity, is calling on the public to help visually impaired children discover their hidden superpowers that can transform their lives. One inspiring example is 19-year-old Jemima Billam, who went from feeling isolated in mainstream education to thriving with confidence and independence after finding her own ‘superpower’ at Edinburgh’s Royal Blind School. Living with Bardet–Biedl Syndrome and Retinitis Pigmentosa, Jemima describes her time at the Royal Blind School as “life-changing.” The specialist support she received helped her rebuild self-belief and prepare for an exciting new chapter at the Royal National College for the Blind (RNC). Before joining the Royal Blind School, Jemima lacked confidence, struggled socially, and found schoolwork increasingly challenging. Everything changed when she began a split placement at the Royal Blind School in 2022, later transitioning to full-time residential attendance in August 2024. Her parents, Jayne and Lloyd, say the transformation has been remarkable. Jayne, explains: “We have watched Jemima grow into a young woman who is ready to live independently. She has come so far. Previously, Jemima was isolated and anxious. She struggled to get the right support in mainstream school. But everything changed when she started at the Royal Blind School. She learned independent living skills, grew socially, and discovered braille – which she calls her “superpower.” She can now read, write, and express herself through poetry. Drama and mindfulness have also helped her manage her anxiety and frustration. “The Royal Blind School has been like an extended family. The school gave Jemima independence, friends, and the ability to believe in and speak up for herself. Without that, she would not be going into further education. The Royal Blind School has given her more than education – it provided her with community, belonging and trust. She found her ‘tribe’ there. Now she is ready for RNC, with the skills, friendships, and independence she has gained.” Prior to leaving the Royal Blind School, Jemima wrote a few words describing her time there: “Qualified Teachers of Children and Young People with Vision Impairment (QTVI) are gold dust. They ‘get me’ like mainstream teachers never did and gave me the freedom to learn on my own and at my own speed – that makes me much more independent. I am more confident and have a future now that I never dreamed possible before the Royal Blind School. “They taught me Braille – it is my superpower – which lets me read and write again and now I can learn and grow but just see in a different way. I can now use my cane to move around on my own and can talk about my feelings better because QTVI teachers understand me – I love drama and mindfulness and chilling at the Royal Blind School as it makes me feel calm. All the QTVI teachers at the school have helped me grow and I wish there were more near me and in schools and colleges. I am lucky to go to RNC to continue school, but it is so far away. “When people ask me if I want my sight back, I say ‘NO’ because I see better now than before and I really found my tribe at the Royal Blind School.” Sight Scotland is now sharing Jemima’s inspiring journey as part of its Winter Appeal, calling on the public to help ensure that more children and young people with visual impairments across Scotland receive the vital support they need. The need has never been greater. While the number of children living with visual impairment is rising, the support available to them is falling short. Jemima’s journey, and discovering her ‘superpower,’ was only possible because of the specialist education and care provided by Sight Scotland. Through its Royal Blind School and Outreach services, the charity is helping hundreds of children build confidence, independence, and a brighter future. But the charity cannot do it alone and it needs your help. With your support, it can continue to provide life-changing education and help more children to unlock their superpowers. Please donate today online at sightscotland.org.uk or call Sight Scotland’s fundraising team on 0131 446 3089.
“Wheels of Change” – Viatris
Viatris employees join forces to build wheelchairs for communities in need Hatfield – November 21, 2025 – Viatris UK, part of global healthcare company Viatris Inc. (Nasdaq: VTRS), came together with the Herts Disability Sports Foundation (HDSF) and former GB athlete Ella Beaumont today, to construct and assemble sports wheelchairs for children and young people living with disabilities. According to the UK’s leading charity for young wheelchair users, Whizz Kidz, more than 1,000 children are waiting for the right wheelchair or piece of mobility equipment (1). Viatris is a leading volume supplier of medicines in the UK (2), and through the efforts of their European, philanthropic programme “#BuildingHealthierCommunities”, will bring lasting relief to children and their families. Over the course of the day, employees spanning Viatris’ local and global business units, came together to assemble wheelchairs, working side-by-side with representatives from the Herts Disability Sports Foundation, who shared their lived experiences and expertise. The initiative not only delivered practical support in the form of mobility aids, but also fostered greater understanding and awareness of the daily challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing and joining in sports. Melissa Fisher, Country Manager for Viatris United Kingdom explained: “Our Building Healthier Communities initiative goes beyond building sports wheelchairs – it’s about creating opportunity and enabling access to movement. We’re proud that our employees are contributing their time and energy to make a tangible difference, and we are grateful to Herts Disability Sports Foundation and Ella Beaumont for partnering with us to bring this initiative to life.” The sports wheelchairs will be distributed to charities and individuals across the UK, many of whom face barriers to mobility and limited access to assistive technologies. For recipients, the chairs represent more than physical support – they provide freedom of movement, access to sport, and the chance to take part in inclusive activities that build confidence, wellbeing, and connection with others. “At HDSF, we believe access to sport changes lives – it builds confidence, community and independence,” said Ros Cramp, Charity Director at Herts Disability Sports Foundation (HDSF). “Partnering with Viatris allows us to reach even more young people and families who too often miss out. These sports wheelchairs aren’t just equipment, they’re enablers of inclusion.” Ella Beaumont, personal trainer at Stoke Mandeville Stadium, the birthplace of the paralympic movement, and herself a former GB athlete added: “As someone who relies on a sports wheelchair, I know how transformative the right equipment can be. It’s not just about taking part – it’s about unlocking potential, chasing goals, and experiencing the pure joy of sport. The right chair gives you the freedom to push beyond limits and the confidence to believe in what’s possible. Seeing so many people come together to build sports wheelchairs is a powerful reminder of how access can spark opportunity, ambition, and dreams.” Viatris’ #BuildingHealthierCommunities initiative aims to engage employees across Europe, together with healthcare partners, in social and environmental projects that create visible impact within the local communities they serve. Every initiative – from volunteering to fundraising – helps strengthen communities and improve lives. This year, across Europe, more than 50 events have taken place, involving over 1,700 colleagues volunteering more than 4,800 hours of their time to local causes. With a mission to empower people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life, Viatris was also recognised as a Great Place To Work (3) in the UK for 2025 and a Top Employer (4) in the UK for the third consecutive year, which is a testament to the company’s continued dedication to creating an excellent workplace that puts people first. (1) https://www.whizz-kidz.org.uk/childhood-cant-wait/stories-of-childhood-on-hold/ (2) Based on internal analysis by Viatris using data from the following source: IQVIA MIDAS® Monthly volume sales data (units) in the UK for the period MAT July 2025 reflecting estimates of real-world activity. Copyright IQVIA. All rights reserved. (3) https://www.greatplacetowork.co.uk/certified-company/1575849 (4) https://www.top-employers.com/employer/viatris-uk/
Parents of Disabled Children Endure Unseen Burdens
UK Families Face Overwhelming Struggles as Parents of Disabled Children Endure Unseen Burdens Noble Live-In Care, part of City & County Healthcare, is highlighting the profound emotional, financial, and mental health challenges faced by parents caring for disabled children across the UK. These families are grappling with overwhelming responsibilities, often without seeking help due to guilt, stigma, or a lack of awareness about available support options. Nearly 1.8 million disabled children in the UK are cared for at home, and the impact on parent-carers is staggering. Research shows that 79% of carers feel stressed or anxious, with 49% experiencing depression, while around half report feeling socially isolated. Over half of parent-carers (54%) have seen their physical health deteriorate due to the demands of caregiving, including chronic fatigue, poor sleep, and strain-related ailments. The financial pressures are equally severe. Many parent-careers have had to reduce or give up paid work, leading to an average annual loss of £21,174. Disabled households frequently spend around £1,599 every six months on additional costs, and 44% report being unable to meet day-to-day living expenses even while receiving disability benefits. Only 7% of carers are able to work full-time, and many parents juggle second jobs or extra hours just to make ends meet, often at the expense of personal hobbies, social life, and their own wellbeing. Despite these hardships, many parents are reluctant to place their children in full-time residential care, feeling a deep sense of guilt or fearing the loss of family connection. The lack of accessible support, combined with insufficient government assistance and limited respite care, leaves families exhausted and isolated, struggling to maintain both their child’s wellbeing and their own. Kirsty Prendiville Lawes, Operations Manager at Noble Live-In Care, commented: “The emotional and physical toll on parents caring for disabled children is immense. Live-in care offers a compassionate and empowering solution that supports the individual while preserving the wellbeing of the entire family. Families don’t have to face these challenges alone, and raising awareness of these options is crucial.” Noble Live-In Care encourages families to explore live-in care as a long-term solution that can protect health, financial stability, and quality of family life. By offering professional in-home support, parents can continue caregiving with dignity and balance while preserving their own wellbeing.
Soccer coach who lost limbs to rare flesh eating disease
The extraordinary journey of quad amputee Scott Martin, a rising college soccer coach whose life was forever changed by a sudden and devastating illness, has been revealed in his deeply personal memoirs, Play From Your Heart. Once a man defined by his athleticism, energy, and passion for the game, Martin’s trajectory was abruptly derailed when he was struck down by a rare, flesh-eating bacterial infection. The infection ravaged his body, forcing doctors to amputate both of his hands and portions of his feet. While they told him he was lucky to be alive, survival was only the beginning of a much longer and more grueling battle – a fight to reclaim not just his health, but his sense of self, purpose, and belonging in the world. The memoir opens with the raw and disorienting aftermath of Martin’s illness, as he grapples with the reality of life without the physical tools that once defined him. The soccer field, once his domain of control and creativity, suddenly feels unreachable. He must relearn the most basic actions – how to move, how to communicate, how to teach – while confronting waves of frustration, grief, and uncertainty. Yet amid this physical and emotional devastation, Martin begins to rebuild. Through perseverance, humour, and an unrelenting desire to return to the sport he loves, he starts piecing his life back together one hard-fought step at a time. Martin’s story unfolds across a twenty-five-year odyssey marked by both pain and perseverance. His recovery is not just a medical challenge but a deeply human one, encompassing legal struggles, personal loss, and moments of profound introspection. The book delves into his experiences in hospital rooms and courtrooms, where he must fight not only for his body but also for his rights and his dignity. These battles are juxtaposed with moments of resilience and rediscovery – his return to coaching, his reconnection with the rhythms of the game, and his growing understanding that true strength extends far beyond physical ability. Eventually, Martin finds new purpose through coaching a group of underdog twelve-year-olds. At first, the task seems impossible: how could he, a coach without hands, meaningfully lead and inspire young athletes? But through his sheer determination, creativity, and empathy, Martin not only adapts but thrives. He channels his own experiences of loss and endurance into lessons that transcend sport. Under his guidance, the “rag tag” team of kids learns to play with heart, unity, and courage – qualities that ultimately carry them to an undefeated state championship. This triumph, though smaller in scale than his earlier collegiate ambitions, represents something far greater: a victory of spirit over circumstance, and of love over limitation. Throughout Play From Your Heart, Martin’s voice is marked by unflinching honesty and surprising humour. He refuses to romanticise his suffering or portray himself as a victim. Instead, he confronts each setback with grace and wit, revealing the contradictions of recovery – the moments of absurdity amid despair, the unexpected kindness of strangers, and the stubborn flicker of joy that refuses to die. His writing captures not only the physical pain of rehabilitation but also the spiritual rebirth that comes from redefining one’s identity and rediscovering one’s purpose. At its core, the memoir is about endurance – both physical and emotional – and the power of sport as a vehicle for healing. Soccer becomes a metaphor for life itself: unpredictable, demanding, and at times cruel, yet always capable of beauty and redemption. Martin’s journey demonstrates that even when the body fails, the human spirit remains undefeated. The book celebrates the resilience that emerges when a person faces the unthinkable and still chooses to stand up again, not just to survive, but to live fully and passionately. Play From Your Heart offers readers more than a story of personal recovery; it’s a meditation on the meaning of perseverance, community, and love. It challenges traditional ideas of success and strength, showing that true victory lies not in physical perfection but in the courage to keep going when everything seems lost. Whether read as a sports memoir, an inspirational tale, or a reflection on the human condition, the book leaves readers with a lasting message: that the game of life, like soccer, is not about avoiding defeat, but about how we choose to play through it – with heart, grace, and an unwavering belief in what’s possible.
Publicly owned train operators leading the way on accessibility
Following publication of the government’s Accessibility Roadmap last week, train operators in public ownership are highlighting how they are already turning that vision into reality. The Accessibility Roadmap outlines a long-term vision for a more accessible railway and was published alongside the Railways Bill which sets out plans to overhaul Britain’s rail network through the creation of Great British Railways (GBR). Throughout 2025, the seven train operators now in public ownership have delivered a wide range of accessibility improvements to ensure that rail travel works for everyone. Accessibility improvements across the network in 2025 include: Andrew McClements, customer experience and transformation director at TransPennine Express, said: “Everyone, everywhere deserves a railway that works for them. Making our network truly accessible is the collective mission of all train operators in public ownership. “The government’s Accessibility Roadmap rightly highlights many of the changes, like improving the digital journey for people with visual impairments and driving key infrastructure upgrades, that are being trailblazed through common ownership. A lot has been done, but we know we can do better. “Together, publicly owned operators will collaborate and innovate to chart the path outlined in the Government’s roadmap, as we continue the journey to Great British Railways.” As the Railways Bill moves forward and Great British Railways takes shape, these improvements show what can be achieved when accessibility is placed at the heart of rail reform. https://www.tpexpress.co.uk
Support dog Bailey is veteran Stephen’s protector
Stephen Baker spent nine years protecting Queen and country, even guarding Buckingham Palace as a bearskin and red tunic-clad Coldstream Guard for three of them. But after sustaining multiple injuries while serving, he later became plagued with health issues, needing a support dog. Stephen, 63, has also suffered two major strokes and a number of mini strokes and relied heavily on his wife Angela, who says he is lucky to be alive and couldn’t be left alone. But since having his pet dog, Bailey, trained by the national Support Dogs charity, for the first time in 40 years, Stephen is starting to regain his independence – and the pooch could potentially save his life. Remarkable Labrador Retriever Bailey has been trained to give an alert bark if Stephen falls or needs help – a vital skill as a mini stroke could be a pre-cursor to a major stroke, which can prove serious or fatal. Dad-of-five Stephen, who lives in Northumberland, said: “Bailey is my best friend. “It’s not just about giving myself confidence and reassurance both at home and while out and about, my whole family feel a lot more relaxed knowing Bailey is helping to keep me safe and looking after me. “Now I don’t have to worry about being left on my own.” Bailey can also pick up Stephen’s walking stick, open doors for him and helps out by picking up items like clothes and slippers. This has not only benefitted Stephen hugely, but it has also given Angela more energy to help her husband, as she also cares for one of her daughters. Stephen said he had been left in “embarrassing situations”, including a time when he had been in a pub and dropped his walking stick and couldn’t reach it and no one would help him. But now he doesn’t have to worry about being left feeling so vulnerable, as Bailey will help – and seeing Bailey in his blue Support Dogs jacket makes people aware of Stephen’s disability. Angela said: “Bailey is marvellous – he has changed Stephen’s life and mine too.” Stephen signed up for the Army aged just 17 in 1979 and served around the world. However, his military career was cut short when he was injured in action and was discharged from service. Years later, Stephen deteriorated, having problems walking and suffering back and hip problems and he was hospitalised. He was later diagnosed with osteoarthritis, as well as sleep apnoea and breathing difficulties. His condition worsens over the winter period and in the past two years he had suffered two severe strokes. “He is lucky to be here,” said Angela. “He got through the strokes but has mini strokes and he stands and can’t call for help and his face drops. He is high risk and if I’m in another room I can’t see that happening. “But Bailey is trained to respond to a hand signal, if Stephen can move his hand, and spots this and will do a high-pitched bark.” Although, thankfully, Stephen hasn’t experienced a mini stroke since Bailey’s arrival, the family ensure Bailey’s training is up to speed by Angela falling on the floor and practising what Bailey has been taught by Support Dogs. “It’s fantastic,” added Angela. “It means I’m not on high alert having to think ‘does Stephen need me now?’ Whereas previously I was doing everything for Stephen – I was living his life and I was his body. “I’m no longer his body – Bailey is my helper and it’s shared between me and Bailey. I can safely leave Bailey with him. It’s given Stephen his independence and also means more time for us.” Stephen added: “Support Dogs is fantastic. I never hesitate to recommend the charity to others.” To find out more about the incredible work of Support Dogs, which also trains and provides autism assistance and epilepsy seizure alert dogs, please visit www.supportdogs.org.uk or call 0114 2617800.
Evo PT: Self-Balancing All-Terrain Mobility Device
Author: EVO Mobility This product announcement introduces the Evo PT, a UK-manufactured self-balancing personal transporter that offers genuine advantages for people with mobility limitations, including seniors and those with disabilities. Unlike conventional electric wheelchairs, this two-wheeled device uses an Auto Safety Gyro System that maintains balance automatically while users control movement through body weight shifts and either a joystick or steer bar for turning. The device’s all-terrain capability – handling indoor surfaces, outdoor paths, beaches, and nature trails – addresses a significant gap in mobility solutions for individuals who want to venture beyond smooth, flat surfaces. At a current price of £12,640 (with VAT exemption available), the Evo PT presents a mid-range option in the assistive mobility market, featuring practical specifications including a 20-38 km range, on-the-spot turning capability, and the ability to handle 20% inclines and modest obstacles. For those exploring alternatives to traditional wheelchairs or mobility scooters, particularly individuals seeking greater versatility in outdoor environments, this British-designed product represents an interesting option worth investigating through demonstration bookings – Disabled World (DW). “We created the Evo PT to give people more than just mobility – we wanted to deliver independence and a sense of empowerment,” said a spokesperson from Evo Mobility. “With cutting-edge self-balancing technology, users can move safely and freely across various terrains.” The Evo PT uses a unique Auto Safety Gyro System, an independent safety mechanism that always ensures balance and security. Forward and backward motion is controlled by shifting body weight, while a joystick or the steer bar version allows smooth left and right turns. With this intuitive system, users are always in full control, without the need to manually balance. Accessibility Without Compromise Priced affordably at £12,640 the Evo PT offers value without sacrificing quality. VAT exemption is available with a valid certificate; the company can help with this process. This image shows the Evo PT Self-Balancing Mobility Device, a modern, futuristic-looking electric wheelchair with two large wheels, resembling a Segway-style design. It has a sleek white frame with a black cushioned seat and backrest, as well as armrests on both sides. A single curved detachable handlebar extends from the front for steering or support, and there’s a footrest platform below the seat. The Evo PT enters a mobility market where innovation has often lagged behind user needs, particularly for those seeking adventure beyond paved surfaces. While self-balancing technology has proven itself in consumer products, its application to accessibility devices remains relatively uncommon, making this UK-manufactured transporter noteworthy in its approach to solving real-world mobility challenges. The device’s ability to handle beaches, trails, and uneven terrain could meaningfully expand recreational opportunities for users who have felt limited by conventional wheeled mobility aids. However, potential buyers should thoroughly test the device on terrain types relevant to their lifestyle, verify its performance in various weather conditions, and carefully consider the learning curve associated with gyroscopic controls. As with any significant mobility purchase, hands-on demonstration and professional assessment of individual needs remain essential steps before committing to this innovative but relatively untested platform in the accessibility market – Tel: 01525 376916 Email: propelenergygroup@outlook.com Website: https://www.myevomobility.com
New rules on disability and carers benefits
Disabled people and carers who move to Scotland from other parts of the UK must take action if they want to continue receiving financial support. The Scottish Government has introduced replacements for Personal Independence Payment, DLA for children and Carer’s Allowance. From November 6, anyone getting one of these benefits who moves to Scotland will need to apply for the replacement benefits from Social Security Scotland. To minimise payment disruptions, applications for the replacement benefits – Adult Disability Payment, Child Disability Payment and Carer Support Payment – should be made as soon as possible after the move. Before applying to Social Security Scotland, people must tell the Department for Work and Pensions or Department of Communities in Northern Ireland about their move. Social Security Scotland’s deputy director Karyn Dunning said: “It’s vital disabled people and carers who move to Scotland take action to ensure they continue to get the financial support they are entitled to. “We know applying for benefits can feel daunting, especially alongside moving to a new country, but there is an in-depth guide available on mygov.scot. “Our staff are also here to answer questions and help people apply. We can provide help over the phone, through webchat or through a face-to-face appointment with one of our community-based advisors. “I urge people not to put off applying. The Scottish approach to benefits is very different from that of the DWP. For example, we do not use private sector assessors to make decisions. “Our system is built on the principles of dignity, fairness and respect, and we want disabled people and carers to get every penny they’re entitled to.” For more information visit mygov.scot/moving-to-scotland or call Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222.
‘One Stop Shop’ for people with disabilities and their carers
Long-standing Derby social care providers have joined forces to create a comprehensive ‘One Stop Shop’ helping thousands of people with disabilities to live independently. ‘The Disability Syndicate’ brings together Blue Sky Brokers, DD Payroll Services and the Kate Garraway-backed Blue Sky Social Care Card under one roof for the first time. The new Pride Park based organisation means that people with disabilities – and their carers – can access at the same time the comprehensive range of services offered by all three organisations. These services include managing payroll for those employing carers in their homes; managing pre-paid cards for direct payments; recruiting a personal assistant (PA) and support for those receiving Personal Health Budgets (PHB). Latest figures estimate that there are around 2.5million paid carers in the UK, and a far higher number – just under six million – who are unpaid carers. Around a quarter of the population – some 16million people – are living with a disability in the UK. The Disability Syndicate managing director Raj Johal said: “I’m delighted to be launching The Disability Syndicate which draws under one organisation the huge number of services that have been provided by these brilliant providers. “Since the founding of our parent company, Disability Direct, back in 1993, we have been passionate about helping people living in challenging circumstances to live independent, dignified lives and for carers to get the support they need in a profession that often feels invisible to the wider public. “It makes perfect sense for Blue Sky Brokers, DD Payroll Services and Blue Sky Social Care Card to be operating from the same base. We’re very happy to be launching our new Disability Syndicate which will enable us to provide a powerful One Stop Shop helping thousands of people around the UK every day.” Founded more than 15 years ago, Blue Sky Brokers works with local authorities such as Derbyshire, Bedford, Salford and Lambeth to deliver high quality support services for direct payments – these are benefits payments paid straight to people requiring the assistance of carers or personal assistants to allow them to live independently in the community. Blue Sky Brokers provides a wide range of support for people employing carers including conducting DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks, reference verification, advice on employment law, plus contracts and job descriptions. The organisation also runs a PA Hub helping people recruit personal assistants, as well as free training for employers receiving a direct payment or Personal Health Budget. There is also a wide range of support for paid and unpaid carers including free talking therapies, fortnightly carers’ clinics, welfare rights advice, wellbeing initiatives, signposting to local services and training. DD Payroll provides financial services including managing accounts, HMRC, wages and pensions, and managing a pre-paid card to which care-related payments are added for ease of use. There is also an online portal allowing people to access payslips, audit information and reports. Launched at a glittering event in London hosted by Derby North MP Catherine Atkinson with the help of TV presenter Kate Garraway, the Blue Sky Social Care Card is the first UK-wide ID and discount card for both paid and unpaid carers. The card is fully verified and vetted and can be carried by carers for ID purposes but also to provide perks and discounts in the High Street, in recognition of their valuable role in society. There are now around 10,000 people in the UK who have a Blue Sky Social Care Card. The Disability Syndicate gives all profits to its parent charity, Disability Direct. Raj said: “Our aim with The Disability Syndicate is to provide the best service we can to the huge number of people in the UK who are living with a disability, as well as the carers who support them. “When you have a disability you often find yourself in the position of being an employer and inviting a personal assistant into your home. That brings with it a wealth of responsibility and trust and we are passionate about making that process as easy as we can for both the person needing care and the carer providing it. Many people in the UK do not realise they are caregivers and with our suite of services we aim to raise awareness and help give what practical support we can.”