I got more help at the cinema than the optician!
Emma and Alan share their experiences of visiting the optician in the UK and believe their cinema provides more support for people with sight loss. Emma feels there is a true lack of appropriate training given to opticians to empower them to support patients with visual impairment. If you prefer to listen to this article, you can access the podcast version at by clicking the following link:https://anchor.fm/visualise/episodes/Our-cinema-provided-us-more-support-than-our-optician-eb1iql If you’re experiencing difficulties with your eyesight, the bearer of that difficult news may well be an optician. As you sit there in front of an eye-chart, struggling to see some or all of the letters, the stark reality that you’re about to lose your sight could be about to hit you … but at a time when you most need information, advice and support, increasing evidence suggests it isn’t always available. Alan is 34 and lives with his partner Emma, in a newly-built house in Runcorn. He has been registered blind now for some ten years. In his early 20s, Alan went to an optician who told him there was something wrong. After six months of tests, Alan was told by a consultant he had Stargardt disease, a form of macular dystrophy, and that he was going to lose all his sight. This was the last time Alan drove. The consultant told him he would have to stop driving immediately. “It’s a degenerative condition, said Alan. “At the start, it felt like nothing was wrong. As time has progressed, it’s got severely and steadily worse. Now, it’s considerably bad and I’m struggling.” Despite Alan’s deteriorating vision, he has continued in full-time employment: “I was actually working as an upgrades and retention advisor for O2, as my eye condition progressed, I was struggling to do my job … struggling to use the systems, so through my employer, we’ve been able to redeploy me into a data analyst role where I’m able to do a lot more stuff. As a result, I’m not tied to a customer; I can help and support the teams instead. I’m getting quite a lot of reward and confidence from that.” Outside work, Alan and Emma both enjoy going to the cinema. Emma takes up the story: “With the cinema, you know you’re going out … it’s a date night … it’s nice, cheap and cheerful. When we were going into the cinema, we were met with very friendly faces at all times, and we didn’t know that there was an audio-description headset – that was a big step in the fact that you enjoyed going out more. Before that, Alan used to come to appease me because I like to go and see all the films, but he didn’t have that much enjoyment out of it. That’s given Alan a new lease of life and has enabled him to join in on that activity.” Alan continued: “It’s totally changed my whole experience. I walk in, they come over with the (audio-description) headset and they’re constantly checking I’m getting full use of the cinema, making sure I’m getting all the support I need. They’ll even take me to my seat if I’m struggling; it’s brilliant, I don’t even have to ask them, it’s really good.” In contrast, Alan is less positive over the help he received from the optician: “The optician didn’t really give me anything … they just sent me to the doctor’s; they just said something’s wrong. They didn’t tell me what was going on, what was going to happen … they just said something’s wrong and I’m going to send you to the hospital.” Looking back on his experience at the optician’s, Alan has clear views on how the service he received could have been better: “Firstly, they could have given me a ‘heads up’, letting me know that there was something seriously wrong. At that point, I think they should have given me some support rather than just expecting me to sit there and have to wait for a hospital appointment. I was left not knowing what was going on … the fear of that.” Emma too feels that the optician could have shown more compassion: “While the staff were quite friendly, I don’t think they knew how to support a person who is losing their sight. They couldn’t provide information in alternative formats … I can get a letter in braille, large print or even on an audio CD from my telecoms provider, but not from the optician. The staff at the cinema on the other hand, saw Alan’s guide dog and just dealt with the situation … they seemed to know what to do.” Concerned that Alan was slipping through the proverbial net, Emma took matters into her own hands. With the help of Google and LinkedIn, she came across Daniel Williams, who runs a company called Visualise Training and Consultancy. Among other things, Daniel trains opticians on the services and support that are available to people who are experiencing eyesight difficulties. Emma said: “I was scrolling through LinkedIn and found Daniel Williams. I saw Dan’s guide dog and it hit off from there. I looked at Dan’s profile and what he did and thought wow, this is absolutely fantastic. We had just been trying to get on with things; not realising all this support, guidance and help were available. “I then had a 45-minute phone call with Dan, and he was absolutely fantastic. By the end of the conversation, it felt like I’d known Dan for years. Dan spoke to me on a personal level. He asked me about what support we had had and what we feel we needed. Dan then listed off ten organisations specifically in this area, where we can go and get support. It was simple things like just going for a pint, or meeting people who are in our situation. Emma added: “It didn’t end there. Dan’s phoned me back and he’s pointed me in the direction of places where, not only can we get support and advice,
TGA to launch unique mobility scooter passport and flight checklist at Naidex
TGA will be unveiling its unique mobility scooter passport and flight checklist at Naidex for easier air travel. Naidex 2020, NEC, 17-18 March, stand N812 and TGA mobility test track. As an established specialist supplier of mobility scooters, TGA is committed to accessible travel for all. Advancements in the design of transportable scooters, such as the compact folding TGA Minimo, are opening up opportunities for disabled travellers however there is still a need for advice and information regarding product suitability on buses, trains and planes. Growth in air travel is of particular significance with more scooter owners seeking to take their own products on planes for holidays, business and family visits. The process of transporting mobility products varies between airport and airlines across the world, nevertheless there are common considerations which can assist with more efficient transfers. Therefore, to support hassle-free flying TGA has developed the UK’s first Scooter Passport scheme and flight checklist so travellers arrive at airports fully prepared for any questions they may face. With complete details regarding their product to hand, along with all planning requirements completed, transit of suitable TGA mobility scooters can be more efficient and seamless – on planes, trains and cruise liners. The new TGA scooter passport comprises of a ‘luggage tag’ style design that can be affixed to products before departure. Its reusable, non-tear material allows owners to write all of their scooter details including product name, size, weight and battery type. At check in, airport staff can then make an informed decision regarding handling of the scooter throughout the airport and stowage on the plane. Ground crew and baggage handlers can manage the scooter appropriately to reduce the risk of damage and airline captains are informed so there is no confusion or delay. On arrival, the TGA passport again offers airport staff invaluable information so ultimately the scooter passenger experience is better. To support the free TGA passport customers can also obtain the new TGA flight checklist which is a simple 4-page, tick-box booklet which details all the recommended actions before air travel with a scooter. Planning activities such as informing airline special assistance teams, checking airport accessibility and scooter battery suitability are all included. Actions are chronologically categorised along with a recommended list of paperwork to take to the airport. Many TGA scooter owners regularly fly with their Zest or Minimo scooter however the new TGA passport and flight checklist will make journeys even easier. Free copies of the new TGA passport and flight checklist will be available to dealers and end users on stand N812 at Naidex 2020.
Teenage girl’s innovative donation helps South Coast Spinal Unit
One South Coast family’s experience of their daughter’s life-enhancing surgery has turned into a generous donation for Southampton Children’s Hospital. Lucy Brimecome, 14, who lives with her parents and older brother near Chichester, was diagnosed with scoliosis in 2018. Previously active and sporty, the increasingly debilitating symptoms left Lucy in constant pain, forcing her to give up much-loved hobbies like rock climbing, tap and ballet dancing. Eventually unable even to sit in one position for any length of time, she faced radical surgery to fuse her lower spine. The whole family were understandably apprehensive leading up to Lucy’s operation, but have praised surgeon Mr Evan Davies and all the staff on the hospital’s G3 spinal ward for their exceptional care and expertise throughout the whole process. Unable to drink normally whilst lying immobile in recuperation, Lucy also risked recovery-threatening dehydration. Researching into the benefits of enabling patients with reduced mobility to drink freely and independently, dad Paul found NRS Healthcare’s Hydrant Drinking Bottle, which enabled Lucy to drink whilst lying flat. This simple piece of equipment transformed Lucy’s recovery, reducing the need for invasive drips, needles and IV fluids. Nurses and physios on the unit also heralded the benefits of the bottle, which supported the aims of March’s National Nutrition and Hydration Week. Happening at the same time as the donation, it promotes the importance of nutrition and hydration in the medical, caring and therapeutic professions. Seeing the impact the Hydrant had on his daughter’s recovery, Paul approached NRS Healthcare, (who supply disability, mobility, therapeutic and living aid products), and together with Mark Moran MBE, from “Hydrate for Health” who designed the bottle, they agreed to donate 60 Hydrant bottles to the unit. These will provide vital hydration to other spinal patients in their recovery, allowing staff to monitor fluid intake for more adaptive post-operative recovery plans. Brave Lucy was also determined to give something back, and the opportunity arose when, just 8 weeks into her recovery, she performed in a dance show at Portsmouth Guildhall. Lucy explains: “I’ve been dancing since I was 4, and when my teacher Louisa Chandler at Melana Dance in Emsworth sent videos of the show dances to me in hospital, this became my goal. Although no one believed I’d be well enough in time, dancing on that stage was my dream come true.” Lucy and Louise arranged for a raffle to be held at the show, raising over £500, which Lucy proudly presented to the G3 spinal ward at her 3 month check-up in March. Lucy’s dad Paul says: “We cannot thank Mr Davies and all the team at the spinal unit enough for their amazing care and dedication which I am sure aided Lucy’s much speedier recovery. The work they do is often despite lack of funds and resources like the Hydrant bottles, which we have seen make such a difference to care and recovery. “We also want to thank Mark Moran at “Hydrate for Health”, NRS Healthcare, Louisa at Melana Dance, and everyone who donated, supported and wished us well. However, the real star of the show is of course Lucy. She’s been through so much, she now has 2 titanium rods and 14 screws in her back, but seeing her light up the stage at her dance show was such a reward for her bravery, determination and compassion.”
Ashford Taxi Drivers Prosecuted for Refusing Guide Dogs
Two taxi drivers have been successfully prosecuted by Ashford Borough Council for refusing to take a visually impaired passenger and their assistance dog. Despite a legal duty on taxi drivers to take a disabled person who is accompanied by an assistance dog, on the evening of 21 March 2019 outside the town’s railway station, the first taxi driver Jamshed Nasir of Oakland, Ashford refused to carry the passenger who was accompanied by their assistance dog. This was quickly followed by a refusal by another taxi driver, Kemal Yalcin, of Ploughmans Way, Ashford. The refusals left the passenger struggling to get home. After an investigation, Ashford Borough Council’s licensing team decided to prosecute for the offences under the Equality Act 2010 and on 24 February at Folkestone Magistrates Court both defendants were found guilty. They had both denied the offence and therefore the matter had gone to a full trial. In summing up, District Judge Justin Barron commented that the taxi drivers had knowingly turned the passenger away. Parliament’s intention was to stop what was happening, to prevent disabled people being told to go to someone else down the cab rank – to interpret the act any other way would “drive a coach and horses” through the intention of Parliament when they drafted the Equalities Act. The offence is clearly one created as one of public policy as the government wants to ensure that everyone is dealt with equally and particularly that disabled people are not discriminated against, added Judge Barron. Yalcin was fined £180, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £30 and costs of £1,200, while Nasir was fined £270, ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £30 and costs of £1,200. Both drivers also had their Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Drivers licences revoked by the council at a prior hearing. They are not appealing the council’s decision to revoke their licences. Chair of the council’s Licensing Committee, Cllr Peter Feacey, said: “I hope that our action following these incidents shows how robustly we will deal with taxi drivers who fail to comply with their legal obligations and leave a potentially vulnerable person at risk.” Siobhan Meade, Guide Dogs Engagement Officer for the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, said: “Refusing to carry someone who is blind or visually impaired simply because they work with a guide dog strikes at the very independence we exist to provide. “I know from personal experience that each refusal feels like an assault from which the mental scars remain. We welcome Ashford Borough Council’s actions in this matter and we will always support them with test-purchasing, advice and support.”
ReSound launches multiple new hearing solutions
The success of ReSound technology is amplified and multiplied for even more people with hearing loss GN Hearing, the innovation leader in hearing aid technology, today launches a range of exciting new ReSound hearing aid solutions, a move which is in line with the company’s continuous strategic focus on innovation leadership, as communicated as part of the strategy for 2020 and beyond. No matter the degree of hearing loss, the new solutions aim to solve the key listening challenges of people with hearing loss where and when they need it most. Globally, 466 million people have a disabling hearing loss[ii]. GN Hearing wants to help every person with hearing loss improve their hearing and live each day to the full. This extensive launch testifies to GN Hearing’s innovation leadership and dedication to helping people with all types of hearing loss, thanks to its leading sound quality, connectivity and customer care. “We are now taking the first step to implement the new strategy with new solutions that are a significant leap forward in terms of offering even more people access to the benefits of GN Hearing’s technology. We strive to constantly listen to and learn from our customers, and in doing so, we have developed a full range of solutions that meets the diverse needs of each individual and thereby improves their customer experience,” says Gitte Aabo, CEO and President at GN Hearing. ReSound ENZO Q – Beyond powerful For people with severe-to-profound hearing loss, ReSound ENZO Q heralds a new and complete hearing solution, based on the remarkable chip platform of the market-leading ReSound LiNX Quattro product family. Available in High Power and Super Power models, this new solution offers a 100% speed increase, 30% more computing power, 20% less power consumption and 100% more memory compared to its predecessor ReSound ENZO 3D™. Customers can enjoy a 60% average improvement in hearing speech in front of them in noisy environments[iii], which is a major challenge for people with hearing loss. The result is the ability to hear high frequency sounds, better speech intelligibility and all-round listening, and just-right volume and noise reduction. People can go about their daily lives with confidence and a reliable, hassle-free hearing experience. This new hearing solution was trusted by Mo O’Brien, Atlantic rower, when she decided to wear ReSound ENZO Q for the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. After 49 grueling days at sea, she crossed the finish line to become the first person with profound hearing loss to row across the Atlantic Ocean, doing so with her all-female team, and crediting ReSound ENZO Q for helping her smash ‘the world’s toughest row’. Even when not rowing an ocean, sound clarity and the ability to hear in noisy environments are vitally important for people with severe-to-profound hearing loss –– and this new solution is a clear answer to their needs. ReSound LiNX Quattro success extended – Reinforced connectivity leadershipGN Hearing also launches new additions to ReSound LiNX Quattro, the Premium-Plus hearing solution with the industry’s highest input dynamic range and an extended bandwidth of up to 9.5 kHz, which is recognized by hearing care professionals as a clear winner for sound quality[iv]. This popular range now offers three new BTE hearing aids and a mini RIE model, which are eagerly anticipated by people with mild-to-severe hearing loss. These hearing aids offer the renowned ReSound LiNX Quattro sound quality, comfort, ease of use and aesthetically pleasing design. More people can now enjoy a brilliant sound experience with Layers of Sound, which underpins GN Hearing’s innovation leadership. ReSound Assist Live – A step towards improved customer experienceGN Hearing is positioned in a league of its own for connectivity, as demonstrated by this launch with telecoil and Direct Audio Input (DAI) options, and class-leading direct streaming from compatible iOS and AndroidTM devices[v]. The new ReSound Assist Livei, an innovative new feature of the popular ReSound Assist customer care solution, delivers a heightened level of customer experience and business support for hearing care professionals. This expansion of GN Hearing’s connectivity leadership brings even more benefits to people with hearing loss. People can connect to announcements in public places, such as museums and sports grounds via telecoil. Streaming of phone calls, music or any other audio is made easy directly from smartphones and tablets to ReSound hearing aids using Bluetooth® Low Energyv. Hearing aid users can utilize GN Hearing’s existing remote fine-tuning solution, and now, with new ReSound Assist Live, they can also enjoy convenient real-time and face-to-face online support sessions with their hearing care professional at a convenient time and place. The full product portfolio is globally available by the end of February, and it is equally available for Beltone AmazeTM and Beltone Boost UltraTM.
WheelAir announces international expansion
A Glasgow-based mobility company has heralded its expansion into Europe as a “game changer”, after opening a new office in the Netherlands. WheelAir – the start-up behind the first temperature control system designed for, and to fit all, wheelchairs – launched its wholly-owned Dutch subsidiary this month. The move comes after a strong year for the company, in which it expanded its product range and launched version two of the WheelAir system. Looking to build on this success, the team has now set its sights on bolstering its European customer base. “With sales increasing in Europe we thought that now is the time to branch out,” said Corien Staels, WheelAir Managing Director. “We want to really take the time to fully support the business’ growth and to make it a commercial success. And the best way to do this is to open the Dutch subsidiary.” The new office is located in Nieuwerkerk aan den IJssel, near Rotterdam. WheelAir will retain its office in Glasgow and plans to grow the team in both locations. “We will be maintaining a strong presence in the UK and remain fully focused on serving our existing loyal customers and new ones,” Ms Staels continued. “It is a move which the board and team are all excited about!” The 28-year-old entrepreneur formed the company in 2016 in Glasgow, UK, to provide effective temperature regulation solutions to overheating and over-sweating for wheelchair users. Through active airflow, the WheelAir system allows for self regulation of wheelchair users’ body temperature through convection, conduction and evaporation heat loss. Ms Staels said that WheelAir’s customers remain “the number one priority” and visiting them face-to-face across the UK and Europe has been one of her favourite parts of the job. She continued: “Expanding to the Netherlands means that not only will we still be spending as much time as possible with customers in the UK, but with the new offices near Rotterdam, we will be able to spend time with our lovely customers around Europe.” Since its introduction to the market in 2017, WheelAir systems have been sold internationally, providing life-changing results for people all over the world. Chairman of WheelAir, Albert Nicholl said: “The expansion of WheelAir to include a new facility in Rotterdam puts the company in a strong position to not only work more closely with suppliers but to more easily deliver the exemplary customer service that people have become used to from us. “Leading the discussion on microclimate and the issues around overheating and over sweating continues to be at the forefront of everything we do and the new offices and new team members are a demonstration of that commitment to improve the lives of those people who use our products.” www.wheelair.co.uk
Listen Technologies to create inclusive guest experiences
Disney MagicALL promotes inclusion and accessibility; provides seamless, synchronized experiences for all guests Listen Technologies, the leading provider of assistive listening systems for 22 years, is collaborating with Disney Parks, Experiences and Products to develop advanced technology that provides a more inclusive experience for guests. Listen Technologies will develop assistive technologies and tour solutions utilizing the Disney MagicALL suite of Disney SyncLink® Technologies. MagicALL is an accessibility platform featuring a suite of proprietary technologies, intellectual property and patents that enable all guests to experience the magic of Disney. MagicALL is for guests with hearing loss, who are deaf or blind, or guests who speak a different language. Disney licenses MagicALL to other organizations so they can use this technology to enable magical guest experiences everywhere. In collaboration with Disney, Listen Technologies solutions will pave the way to bring products to market that dramatically improve experiences and increase inclusion for users whether they are in a theme park, a performing arts center, on a tour or other destination. In 2018, Listen Technologies entered into a technology agreement with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts to use Disney SyncLink, a synchronization technology that delivers customized content and information. Together, the technology and solutions will deliver the right information at the right time and place to the right person, seamlessly. “Imagine entering an immersive ride, exhibit, or performance and being able to listen in real-time to synchronized audio in your native language or hear clearly despite having hearing loss,” said Maile Keone, president of Listen Technologies. “Disney and Listen Technologies are making this possible. Our solutions, combined with Disney’s SyncLink Technology, will provide inclusive experiences for guests with hearing, visual or translation needs.” “Disney is synonymous with delivering magical experiences to guests so Listen Technologies is thrilled to team with Disney on its MagicALL initiative and bring greater accessibility, inclusion and engagement to all people,” said Russ Gentner, CEO of Listen Technologies. “Listen Technologies is committed to improving life’s experiences by providing exceptional, personalized audio and content on any platform at any venue.” Listen Technologies products provide a new level of connectivity by utilizing a variety of advanced solutions for assistive listening as well as customized content for guided and self-guided tours. Listen Technologies will extend the inclusive, Disney MagicALL experience to concert halls, museums, houses of worship, stadiums, walking tours, and more, providing the technology to allow all types of venues to offer immersive experiences. “We have a commitment to share our accessibility know-how and technology with companies around the world to help enhance experiences for everyone,” said Chief Safety Officer and Vice President for Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Greg Hale. “We are pleased to license Disney SyncLink® Technology to Listen Technologies to further develop seamless synchronized Disney© MagicALL experiences for guests with hearing, visual or language needs.” About Disney Parks, Experiences and ProductsDisney Parks, Experiences and Products brings the magic of The Walt Disney Company’s powerful brands and franchises—including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, ESPN, Twentieth Century Studios and National Geographic—into the daily lives of families and fans around the world to create magical memories that last a lifetime. When Walt Disney opened Disneyland in Anaheim, California, on July 17, 1955, he created a unique destination built around storytelling and immersive experiences, ushering in a new era of family entertainment. More than 60 years later, Disney has grown into one of the world’s leading providers of family travel and leisure experiences, with iconic businesses, including six resort destinations with 12 theme parks and 53 resorts in the United States, Europe and Asia with more than 170,000 cast members; a top-rated cruise line with four ships and plans for three more to be completed in 2021, 2022 and 2023; a luxurious family beach resort in Hawaii; a popular vacation ownership program; and an award-winning guided family adventure business. Disney’s global consumer products operations include the world’s leading licensing business; one of the world’s largest children’s publishing brands; one of the world’s largest licensors of games across platforms; more than 300 Disney store locations around the world; and the shop Disney e-commerce platform. These experiences are created by Disney Imagineers, the creative force behind experiences found in Disney theme parks, resort hotels, cruise ships and consumer products—including books, games and merchandise. To learn more about Disney’s MagicALL initiative, visit https://disneysynclink.com/accessibility/
Charity steps up to present findings of MP poll at academic conference
Research exploring political leaders’ perceptions of clothing choices has been presented at a leading academic conference. The research built on a poll of over 100 MPs, commissioned by learning disabilities charity Hft, that quizzed politicians on their footwear preferences and how likely they were to judge someone by their shoes. Hft hopes that the study will help grow existing knowledge of how clothing choices affect how people are perceived by others. To the charity’s knowledge, it is the first time a major study of British MPs has been conducted in this way. The charity originally conducted this research last June to mark the one year anniversary of its Walk In Our Shoes campaign, which calls on MPs to spend time with adults with learning disabilities to understand more about the issues that matter to them. Findings were presented at a London Centre for Interdisciplinary Research conference, Fashion Body and Culture, last Saturday (15 February) at the University of Oxford. The conference was attended by researchers from institutions around the world. Themes sparked debate on how people use fashion to express themselves, and how power can be asserted through clothing choices. Hft’s research paper is now awaiting publication in an academic journal. Billy Davis, Public Affairs and Policy Manager at Hft, commented: “From Theresa May’s kitten heels[1], or Angela Rayner’s lust for a pair of Star Wars shoes[2], through to Nick Clegg’s choice to forego shoes and socks altogether[3] – politicians are just as likely to make headlines for what they put on their feet as they are for the policies they champion. “Our research has put the shoe on the other foot and instead looked at how MPs judge others by the shoes they wore. Existing research confirms what a powerful impact shoes have on first impressions[4], so it was interesting for us to find that almost a quarter (23%) of MPs surveyed admitted to being likely to judge someone by the shoes they wear. “We received great feedback from the other researchers in the room, and it was great to see how our research is contributing to ongoing conversation on the overlaps between politics and fashion. It was a privilege to be able to present our findings in such auspicious surroundings, and we are now looking forward to publishing the final study in due course.” The charity was able to attend the conference thanks to a Research Activity Grant from the Pasold Research Fund.
How is social media affecting young people’s mental health?
Over the years social media has dramatically changed the way people communicate and how we connect. It’s a powerful tool that allows voices to be heard and raises awareness to a host of topics and causes that may otherwise have gone unnoticed by mainstream media. Although there are benefits to social media, using it frequently can leave people feeling isolated and unhappy, and as usage increases, there have been concerns about the effects that it can have on young people and their mental health. With research still ongoing, there are numerous negative impacts that platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are having, including cyberbullying, unhelpful comparisons and addiction. A recent survey from Vizulize showed that 77% of young adults are concerned about the effects their phone is having on their mental health, with 41% of 18-24 year olds admitting to using their phone for up to 5 hours a day. The impact social media can have on young people’s mental health Some evidence in the UK has found that young people can develop an addiction to social media use, especially those who are introverted, which can result in an increase in loneliness as social media starts to replace social interaction. Those who become dependent on social media find themselves with compulsive urges to constantly check various platforms. This can have consequences such as difficulty relaxing, a poor sleep pattern and a negative impact on performance at school and with exams. Platforms like Instagram are often associated with negative self-esteem and self-image with young people often comparing their lives and bodies to those online, leading to feelings of anxiety and depression. Young people are now faced with unrealistic expectations due to manipulated images being widely available online. On Facebook and Twitter, user-created pages and groups often trivialise and normalise issues like suicide and self-harm in an attempt at dark humour. This is shown in the form of ‘memes’ that are shared by thousands and could encourage ‘suicide contagion.’ Taking a step back from social media While there are definite advantages to social media like reaching new audiences and allowing young people to use their voice on various social and political subjects, the fact is social media can have a negative effect on young people’s mental health. Focusing too much time online can result in becoming disconnected from the real world. Young people are now beginning to take a step back and reduce time spent online, with phones even adding software that monitors how much screen time has been used. Turning off push notifications and limiting time spent online is a start. Some young people are now opting to take a break from social media altogether by deleting apps from their phone. Taking a ‘detox’ is healthy, allowing people to stay focused on real life goals and reclaiming back time. Mental health should be a priority for all and it’s important to seek help if social media is having a negative effect; whether that’s taking a much needed break or reaching out to a professional like a GP for help and advice.