Darlington Association on Disability

DAD - AGM: 27th January 2022

30th December 2021

Please join us at the Annual General Meeting (2021)

of Darlington Association on Disability

on Thursday 27th January 2022

at 11.00am

 

Unfortunately, as we are still unable to hold meetings in person, we will be holding this event online.  

 

Please inform us if you would like to attend the AGM, by contacting Judith, by email: judith.gledhill@darlingtondisability.org or by telephone:  01325 489999 so that we can arrange for a link to the online video meeting to be sent to you.  Please inform us if you have any disability access requirements for a video link meeting. 

 

Copies of the audited accounts and annual report will be available for members which will sent out prior to the AGM once you have confirmed your attendance.  If you are unable to attend and would also like a copy, please contact us.  

 

I hope you can join us and look forward to seeing you. 

COVID-19 communications update

01st December 2021

The Prime Minister has announced new rules to help us all protect ourselves and others from a new variant of COVID-19 called Omicron.

The Omicron variant has extensive mutations from previous versions of the virus so we need to take urgent measures to protect ourselves from it.

UK scientists are working hard to find out more about the new variant. In the meantime, we must all follow new guidelines to help slow its spread:

 

Face coverings

New COVID-19 rules on wearing face coverings in England will go ahead from 30 November.

Face coverings must be worn in shops and other similar businesses such as banks, post offices and personal care venues like hairdressers, as well as on public transport. This is enforceable by law and people face fines if they do not follow the rules.

People with certain medical conditions are exempt.

 

Travel

The Government is also bringing in measures to prevent new cases from abroad.

All travellers arriving into the country from 4am on Tuesday 30 November will be required to take a PCR test on day 2 and self isolate until they have received a negative test result. These PCR tests can be purchased from private providers.

A number of countries have been added to the red list. UK residents arriving from these countries must isolate in a government-approved facility for 10 days. During their stay, they will be required to take a coronavirus test on day 2 and day 8.

 

Isolation rules

If you come into contact with someone  who tests positive with a suspected case of Omicron you will also have to self-isolate for ten days, even if fully vaccinated.

The new measures on our borders, self-isolation and face coverings will be reviewed in three weeks.

 

Vaccines

We have good reasons for believing booster vaccines will provide some protection from the new variant so it is important that everyone who is eligible for vaccines or a booster jab get them as soon as possible.

You can book online and join the 17 million people who have already had a booster or third jab.

 

By practising key safer behaviours and actions, we can continue to protect ourselves and others and help reduce the virus spreading.

 

Please encourage people in your community to follow these behaviours and actions that include: Wash your hands regularly; Test regularly; Stay at home when you feel unwell; Download and use the COVID-19 NHS App.

 

Ensuring these protections are a part of our everyday behaviours will control transmission of the virus.

 

The details of the Prime Minister’s announcement are online. There is also a version of his announcement on YouTube with BSL. Please share these links with your networks.

Carers Rights Day - 25th November 2021

25th November 2021

Whether you are a new carer or have been caring for someone for a while, we believe that it’s important that you understand your rights and are able to access the support that is available to you as soon as you need it. Many people are taking on more caring responsibilities for their relatives and friends who are disabled, ill or older and who need support. Each year, Carers Rights Day helps us:

• ensure carers are aware of their rights
• let carers know where to get help and support
• raise awareness of the needs of carers.

This year's Carers Rights Day campaign will focus on raising awareness of the rights that unpaid carers have. The pandemic has had a massive impact on the lives of carers, affecting access to services, the ability to juggle work and care and much more. That's why it’s more important than ever that carers are aware of what they have the right to.

Why being aware of your rights is so important

In a recent survey of nearly 6,000 carers, we found:

• Four in five unpaid carers are providing more care for relatives
• 78% reported that the needs of the person they care for have increased during the pandemic
• Two thirds (67%) worried about how they will cope through further lockdowns or local restrictions.

Carers need to know their rights wherever they are in their caring journey: whether they are in the workplace, in a healthcare setting, when interacting with professionals or at home. This Carers Rights Day, we want to empower carers with information and support, so they can feel confident asking for what they need. We also want carers to know how to challenge things when their rights are not being met.

Carers Rights Day 2021 is supported by Barclays LifeSkills

16 days of action 2021

15th November 2021

Learning Events  

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that commences on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. 

During the 16 days of Action, specialist providers would like to invite you to participate in a series of online learning events which are aimed at increasing professional understanding of domestic abuse, sexual violence, honour based violence & sexual exploitation.

Tuesday 23 November:   1:30 – 2:30  (in advance of the 16 days programme)   Halo Project and IDAS

Insight into honour based abuse (HBA) and coercive control experienced by black and minoritised victims and survivors.  Enhance safeguarding knowledge through specialist guidance and survivor stories

Zoom virtual event:  https://courses.idas.org.uk/training-event/live-online-hear-our-story-halo-x-idas/

 

Thursday 25 November:  Family Help

For everyone.  Visit Family Help’s White Ribbon stall at the indoor market

Just turn up to show support by signing the pledge to end violence against women and girls. 

 

Thursday 25 November:  10:00am – 2:00pm   The Soroptimists  

For everyone. Visit the Soroptimists Orange the World stalls at The Dolphin Centre and the Cornmill shopping centre

Just turn up and show support for the orange the world campaign  “Orange the world: End violence against women now!”

 

Friday 26 November:  2:00 – 3:00pm  Dr Jane Monckton Smith - Homicide Coercive Control and  Stalking 

Virtual Session.  Places are limited.  Register your interest via email to:  Claire_Moore@middlesbrough.gov.uk

 

Friday 26 November:  9.30 – 11.00am  Durham Safeguarding Adults - For professionals only. 

Safeguarding adults from domestic abuse.  The aim of this session is to focus on domestic abuse in the context of adults with needs to care and support, and includes:  Definitions, The Legal Framework, Patterns of Coercion and Control and Warning Signs, Highlights Some Approaches and Toolkits to Support Good Practice.

Register using the following link:  https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=BIQER23xIUuKVYrF1-chluiTqbgrxopCvCqNvprjOyZUQkgyWVJHRVVaUVZUSVNRUFdGRDFTTUhaUy4u

 

Friday 26 November:  1.30 – 3.00pm  Hour Glass - Elder abuse

For professionals only.  This briefing is to raise awareness on Elder Abuse.  Hourglass is a UK based Charity focusing on the abuse and exploitation of Older People in the UK. The session will enable you to look for signs and indicators of elder abuse, how to support someone who is experiencing elder abuse and the support Hourglass can offer

Virtual session via Zoom.  Register using the following link:  https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=BIQER23xIUuKVYrF1-chluiTqbgrxopCvCqNvprjOyZUQkgyWVJHRVVaUVZUSVNRUFdGRDFTTUhaUy4u

 

Monday 29 November:  Darlington Borough Council’s Housing Options

For everyone.  Housing options in Darlington - The Housing Options Team discuss their approach to supporting survivors of domestic abuse.  The team discuss what support is available and how they work with a number of different agencies.

Virtual session:  Access the link to the pre-recorded event on the Darlington Borough Council webpage:  https://www.darlington.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/domestic-abuse/16-days-of-action/

 

Monday 29 November:  Family Help refuge

For everyone.  Family Help refuge. Virtual session. Access the link to the pre-recorded event on the Darlington Borough Council webpage:

https://www.darlington.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/domestic-abuse/16-days-of-action/

 

Tuesday 30 November:  Dr Wendy Shepherd  “ Silence is not an Option “- sexual abuse and violence

For professionals and Voluntary and community organisations only.  Seen, Heard, Believe Project.  Virtual session via Microsoft teams

To register interest and receive log in details please Contact:  claire_moore@middlesbrough.gov.uk

 

Tuesday 30 November:  11am -12.30pm   Homes For Cathy

Open to all professionals.  Women, homelessness & violence: How can the housing sector improve its response?

Free workshop.  Register Interest via link:  Women, homelessness & violence: How can the housing sector improve its response? | Homes for Cathy

 

Wednesday 1 December:  11.00 – 12.00pm  Harbour - Impact of domestic abuse on children

For professionals only. Join Zoom Meeting:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86282196589?pwd=OWZxS3JyWFNHTVduRHp2VUhhc29kQT09

Meeting ID: 862 8219 6589    Passcode: 679684

 

Wednesday 1 December:  11.00am – 12.00pm  Darlington Borough Council Community Safety Team, Andrew Allison

For everyone.  Meeting :  To explore actions being taken in Darlington to address violence and intimidation against women and girls, To explain the partnership approach adopted in Darlington, To highlight the benefits of the Purple Flag scheme, To inform delegates of the various work strands linked to the ‘Safer Streets’ schemes  Teams session

 

Thursday 2 December:  10:00 – 11:00am  We are with You - Substance misuse and domestic abuse

For professionals only (Darlington and Redcar & Cleveland service but available to all areas).  The correlation between substance misuse and domestic abuse;  Services that are available and the work that WAWY does; and How professionals can work collaboratively to support individuals with complex needs who experience domestic abuse.

Google meet.  Email We are with You to book your place  vicki.bignall@wearewithyou.org.uk

 

Friday 3 December:  10:00 – 11:30am   Hour Glass - Introduction to Elder Abuse

For everyone.  This briefing is to raise awareness on Elder Abuse.  Hourglass is a UK based Charity focusing on the abuse and exploitation of Older People in the UK. The session will enable you to look for signs and indicators of elder abuse, how to support someone who is experiencing elder abuse and the support Hourglass can offer.   Virtual Session   Contact Hourglass via email to book a space:  timbuttle@wearehourglass.org

 

Monday 6 December:  11.00 – 12.00pm  Harbour - Why do we need to work with perpetrators?

For professionals only.  Zoom meeting

Join zoom meeting:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89295034462?pwd=UHluM2c1ZVA2UkFPT2Y2czY2cXFrQT09

Meeting ID: 892 9503 4462   Passcode: 644406

 

Monday 6 December:  1.00 – 2.30pm   PRIDE - LGBTQ+

For professionals only.  This briefing is to focus on LGBTQ+ and domestic Abuse, covering the Myths, Challenges and to provide an overview of the work that PRIDE do to support.

Virtual session  Register using the following link:  https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=BIQER23xIUuKVYrF1-chluiTqbgrxopCvCqNvprjOyZUQkgyWVJHRVVaUVZUSVNRUFdGRDFTTUhaUy4u

 

Tuesday 7 December  10:00am  ARCH

For professionals only.  Disclosures and Support.  Virtual Session

Join Zoom Meeting:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82005814865?pwd=YjVqOEROQjRNRjFib2IvQTF2LzQyQT09

Meeting ID: 820 0581 4865   Passcode: 317928

 

Wednesday 8 December  9.30 – 11.30am   Simon Finch - Cyber stalking and domestic abuse

For professionals only.  The aim of the session to increase participants awareness of cyber stalking.  The session will be facilitated by Simon Finch who will cover:  An Overview of cyber and digitally assisted, stalking and legislation, The challenges and benefits of relationships in the digital age, How technology and social media are used to stalk and harass, Key strategies and actions to identify and remove surveillance apps and technology, Sources of help and support.

Register using the following link:  https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=BIQER23xIUuKVYrF1-chluiTqbgrxopCvCqNvprjOyZUQkgyWVJHRVVaUVZUSVNRUFdGRDFTTUhaUy4u

 

Thursday 9 December  2.00 – 4.00pm  Darlington Borough Council Safeguarding Training - Domestic Abuse Awareness (level 3)

For Darlington Safeguarding Partnership members.  For practitioners who have responsibility for undertaking child and adult protection enquiries and who work with complex cases.  For those who hold professional or organisational authority and a substantial degree of personal responsibility and autonomy to act on child and adult welfare concerns.  Full safeguarding training directory can be found at:  virtual-2021-training-programme-2nd-edition-01-06-21-31-12-21.pdf (darlington-safeguarding-partnership.co.uk)

To book a place please contact:  DSP.Training@darlington.gov.uk or 01325 406452

 

Thursday 9 December:  ARCH - Supporting parents and caregivers of children who experience child sexual exploitation

For everyone.  Virtual session.  Join Zoom Meeting:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87387437451?pwd=SFpYeWVINDRyNXhiN2F5NFp1MlhCQT09

Meeting ID: 873 8743 7451    Passcode: 211331

 

Thursday 9 December:  10:00am – 3:00pm  Darlington Borough Council and Harbour support services - Awareness raising stall at the Dolphin Centre

For everyone.  In person at the Dolphin Centre.  Darlington Borough Council and Harbour support services will have a stall set up in the Dolphin Centre reception area.

 

Friday 10 December:  11:00am  My Sisters Place - IRIS training

Professional Only.  GPs Improving identification and Response to Domestic Abuse.  Virtual Session

Join Zoom Meeting.  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81637582699?pwd=S1NoVlduWWhSRTljR3AzQWYyZVVGUT09

Meeting ID: 816 3758 2699   Passcode: 718874

 

Friday 10 December:  3:00 – 4:30pm  Arcus and Darlington Unity Group - LGBTQ+ seminar

For everyone.  Zoom session.  Contact Arcus to book your place:  contact@arcuslgbt.com

#ItsWhatWeDo

25th October 2021

From 24th October 2021, and for the next 12 months, Co-op Members will be able to support Darlington Association on Disability - Young Leaders as part of the

Co-op Local Community Fund.

For every £1 Co-op members spend on selected Co-op branded products and services, 2p will go into their membership account.

The same amount will support community organisations and local causes including DAD’s Young Leaders.

To collect rewards and contribute to a cause, Co-op members must swipe or scan their membership card when they shop.

Please ask in store if you would like to become a Co-op member or visit https://www.coop.co.uk/membership

DAD’s Young Leaders are linked to the following Co-op stores and services;

• Co-op – Mowden store
• Co-op West Park Store
• Co-op West Auckland Road Store
• Co-op Cockerton Store
• Co-op Funeral Care Darlington

Even though we are linked to local Co-op outlets, money raised through Co-op Membership can be generated anywhere in the UK, as long as a Member is buying selected products or services from the Co-op Group, please select Darlington Association on Disability – Young Leaders when selecting a cause to support.

#ItsWhatWeDo

 

DAD have Trustee vacancies

22nd October 2021

DAD currently has vacancies on our Trustee Board.  DAD is a registered Charity and Company Limited by Guarantee and as such Trustees are required to oversee and provide governance to the running of the organisation. All Members are entitled to put themselves forward for consideration to act as a voluntary Trustee of the organisation.

Ideally, we are seeking people with skills in Finance, Human Resources or Marketing and or knowledge of disabled people’s issues particularly across Tees Valley and County Durham.

As an organisation supporting equality, in all its forms, we are seeking Trustees who reflect our community who are currently underrepresented including: women, people from minority communities and young people. There will be a selection process involving an informal interview with Trustees. The organisation must be led by a majority of disabled people and this will be taken account of in any Trustee appointments.  

For more information about being a trustee: ‘5-minute guides’ for charity trustees -  Charity Commission guidance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

If you are interested and would like further information please contact Lauren Robinson, Chief Executive or Gordon Pybus, Chairperson  for an initial discussion

Thank you to Ruth for running the Great North Run!

14th September 2021

A HUGE thank you and well done to Ruth, from our Children and Young People's Service, who completed the Great North Run at the weekend in an amazing time of 3 hours 15 minutes and so far has raised £320.00 for DAD.🏃👋

Well done Ruth and thank you to everyone who has donated so far!

You can still donate through Ruth's Just Giving page and any donations would be much appreciated

 http://www.justgiving.com/Ruth-Christian1?utm_id=121&fbclid=IwAR3DmjwCfKdD87g_yhS7LSj1Wb3iGQGFpKPUPAZeRwx3I6Lfg-GqR-CP_sE

 

 

Changing Places

13th September 2021

Durham County Council are asking individuals and carers to share their experiences of using Changing Places toilets, as part of plans to improve facilities for those with disabilities.

£30 million in funding (based on need) has been made available to local authorities in England, to install Changing Places toilets in their communities. The toilets are larger accessible toilets for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets and are essential for more than 250,000 disabled people in the UK.

They are now asking people to get in touch about where they would most like to see additional facilities across County Durham.

Find out more: http://ow.ly/6H2M50G3GiG

Domestic Abuse Accommodation Needs Assessment Interviews

01st September 2021

Darlington Borough Council is undertaking a Domestic Abuse Accommodation Needs Assessment as per requirements outlined in the Domestic Abuse Act (April 2021).

As part of this work, they have commissioned RRR Consultancy to undertake interviews with people who have experienced domestic abuse. The aim of the interviews is to help us better understand the accommodation needs of domestic abuse survivors, barriers to provision, what works, and what could be improved.

They are particularly keen to ensure that the work reflects the needs of people with disabilities.

The interviews would be undertaken by telephone, and are likely to last between 30 and 45 minutes.

As a 'Thank You' for taking part, a £30 High Street voucher will be given to all interviewees.

They do not require any personal details of the interviewees except a first name and contact number. Although the results of the interviews will be summarised in a report, the anonymity of the interviewee will be maintained at all times.

Information Sheet - provides further details about the interviews.

 

 

Domestic abuse services

11th August 2021

Part of the current domestic abuse needs assessment data gathering process involves gathering the voice of survivors/victims.  This is proving to be quite a challenge however it is essential in identifying gaps in provision and developing a strategy that is survivor led and relevant to the needs of our community.  

Bronwyn Lilley, DBC Domestic Abuse Commissioning Officer, would be most grateful you could complete the survey as a survivor or an agency who works with survivors who have required domestic abuse services.  This is regardless of whether you were able to access services or not – this way they can identify the gaps.  The Act focuses on domestic abuse services within ‘relevant accommodation’ however it would be useful to have an understanding of services broadly as well as those offered within relevant accommodation.

 

3 R's Project

08th July 2021

DAD has been supporting people through COVID to stay connected and understand the guidance. The next steps as restrictions ease is supporting people to become reconnected. With support of our funders we have launched a new project called the 3R’s.

It is called the 3 R project as it supports people to:

Re-connect

Regain confidence

Regain Skills

Jenny Byers is co-ordinating the project with the support of Margaret Langan.  It is great success so far supporting over 15 people.  Support has included helping people to access the community and develop friendships naturally and outside of our support, peer support session, transport training and confidence building, mindfulness sessions and other session to help develop well-being including bowling, circus skills, walks.   

Other sessions will include developing IT skills, creative expression and art sessions, development of self-advocacy.  Four sessions are delivered each week and the aim is that they are community based and COVID secure to enable to people to regain confidence, skills and friendships to last in the long term which will support people to remove some of the barriers which COVID has brought.

We are evaluating the project throughout and look forward to seeing the positive outcomes it will bring.

Carers Week: 7 - 13 June

07th June 2021

Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK. It also helps people who don't think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.

This year, carers across the country are continuing to face new challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people are taking on more caring responsibilities for their relatives and friends who are disabled, ill or older and who need support.

They need to be recognised for the difficulties they are experiencing, respected for all they are doing, and provided with information, support and understanding. So during Carers Week, we're coming together to help Make Caring Visible and Valued.

For more information about Carers Week you can follow the link

https://www.carersweek.org/about-carers-week/

Volunteer week

27th May 2021

Volunteers’ Week -  1st - 7th June 2021 a time to say thanks.

Volunteers’ Week 2021 is a time to say thanks. It goes without saying that volunteers have played a key role in the pandemic response. During an exceptionally difficult year, people from all walks of life around the UK have taken the time to volunteer and make a huge difference to their communities – just as they do every year. This is a time for us to come together and thank all volunteers for their invaluable contribution.

This 37th annual Volunteers’ Week is taking place during the #MonthofCommunity.

We would like to say a huge thank you to all our amazing volunteers, who have been supporting our work over the last year.

Initially volunteers were making deliveries of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as we went into the first national lockdown and later included delivery of activity packs, sunflower growing in kits, Christmas crafts and most recently bird feeder activity packs.

Volunteers also helped make up packages of PPE ready for delivery and helped put activity packs together.

These deliveries have been vital to disabled people in Darlington to keep themselves and others safe and providing fun activities to pass the time, during a time when it is not possible to meet friends and family and do the things people would normally do.

As we headed towards summer volunteers helped clean and sort play equipment into individual packs, so that children and young people accessing our DASH Play Scheme had use of their own set of toys and equipment.

Volunteers have also provided their help to DASH and Darlington’s People’s Parliament to help run face to face and online sessions.

We very much value and appreciate the roles our volunteers play as DAD continues to support disabled people and carers throughout this pandemic and beyond.

So, on behalf of everyone at DAD and disabled people in Darlington, thank you for all you have done and continue to do!

#VolunteersWeek!

GIVE THEM WINGS The Autobiography of Paul Hodgson

13th May 2021

Paul is someone who has been involved with DAD for some years.  Paul has written an autobiography 'GIVE THEM WINGS'

Disabled as a result of childhood meningitis, Paul Hodgson has written this autobiography in order to challenge the stereotype of the wheelchair-bound victim.

Far from being a passive spectator, we learn how Paul struggled to care for his mother through several strokes and Alzheimer’s disease and of the rift this caused within his family. He also speaks of the Community Care system, his experiences of education and employment, and the loyalty of his friends.

This is his account of life as a fan of Darlington Football Club which reveals another side to Paul’s nature, with its fascinating compendium of mishaps and drink-fuelled escapades, which are invariably laced with his own brand of black humour.

Give Them Wings is a graphic story of one man’s fortitude in the face of severe odds, it offers a unique insight into what it means to be disabled in modern society.

Also, please see below the link to Amazon in order to buy the book.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Give-Them-Wings-Autobiography-Hodgson/dp/1782816216/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=give+them+wings&qid=1620825441&sr=8-1

 

Ties in with a blockbuster film of his life, Give Them Wings due to be released in summer 2021.

Directed by Sean Cronin, who has appeared in Harry Potter and Bond movies, the film stars Daniel Watson (as Paul) andEighties punk singer Toyah Willcox.

Give Them Wings won the 'Best Feature' at The London Independent Film Festival. Below is a link to the film trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?fbclid=IwAR23izLTak4EMljSU_eBRE-0rLrQP12X759mJPBDzCqvemafo9pA2Ms_dZQ&v=0zG5vUbyYMc&feature=youtu.be

Forewords by former Darlington FC forward Mark Forster and Aston Villa legend Brian Little.

 

 

Positive Transport Project funded by LNER

29th April 2021

We have been successful in securing funding from LNER for a Positive Transport Project, which will support disabled people and carers of all ages to tackle the barriers they face in accessing transport and travel.

The project will offer a range of options including; individual travel training, group access to social and leisure opportunities for disabled people and families regardless of age or impairment, group participation to tackle issues affecting disabled people.

The first stage of the project is to gather some feedback about people’s experiences of travelling and using public transport, locally, regionally or nationally, to see if there are any common experiences or issues that people are facing and what works well.

Please click here for more details:    /_library/files/reports/Positive%20Travel%20Project%20Word%20Document.docx

Interpreters for Vaccination Appointments

20th April 2021

If a BSL interpreter is not present, you can use the

InterpreterNow app to use NHS 119 BSL for instant access at any Covid-19 vaccination appointment in the UK.

https://youtu.be/Kz6LUS4Mz9E

 

North East Carers Survey

08th April 2021

If you’re one of the thousands of people across the North East who helps look after relatives, friends and neighbours in their own homes, we’d like to hear from you. 

You might help an elderly relative with their shopping, meals or keeping their home spick and span – or it might be even more personal care, like dressing, bathing or with their medicines.

You might help an adult with learning impairments in living a fulfilling and independent life out in the community.

Or you might be providing support for a friend or neighbour who is facing difficulties with addiction.

Whatever the kind of care you provide, and whoever it is for, this survey will help us understand the issues and challenges you face, so that we can support you better. The care you provide is invaluable, so thank you for everything you do.

 

Complete the survey online here: https://tinyurl.com/ADASSCare

 

The survey runs from now until 14th May. 

 

Unpaid Carers - covid vaccine

22nd March 2021

Unpaid carers are now being invited to receive their first COVID-19 vaccination, providing they:
• Are eligible for a carer’s allowance
• Are identified as a primary carer by their GP
• Are receiving support following a carer’s assessment by their local council or from a local carer’s organisation
• Are the sole or primary carer who provides close personal care or face to face support for an elderly or disabled person who is clinically vulnerable to COVID-19

Carers will be contacted in phases, starting with those carers already known to health and social care services. Those who are identified as a primary carer on their GP’s register or eligible for a carer’s allowance will be invited first, followed by those who have had a statutory carer’s assessment by their local council or are receiving support from local carers organisation.
All eligible unpaid carers will be contacted by the NHS when it’s their turn to receive the vaccine and will be given information about how they should book their appointment. This will either be at a vaccination site in their local community supported by their GP practice, or at a large vaccination centre.
In some cases where caring responsibilities are shared, an additional person can be classed as a primary carer and receive a vaccination.

For more information visit www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine

Bus Pass Holders

05th March 2021

Older Person’s Bus Pass holders

Those with an expiring Older Person’s Bus Pass are being asked to use our new online bus pass service, which goes live for renewals tomorrow (Thursday 4 March).  These pass holders are asked to renew before 31 March, if they need to travel from 1 April.  Pass holders will need to register for an online account, update their personal details, and renew their pass, they don’t need to provide a new photo.

The online service provides a safer way to renew during COVID, as it will limit unnecessary face to face contact in our Customer Service Centre. Pass holders will have almost three weeks to renew and, for anyone who is struggling, there is a phone number and email address they can use: 01325 406699 or email: concessionarytravel@darlington.gov.uk

Please find attached a step-by-step renewal guide and a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) sheet, regarding the new online system.  A link to the online service, and the information attached, can also be found on the webpage at: www.darlington.gov.uk/bus-pass

We are hoping the renewals go as smoothly as possible.  However, this is the first time that bus pass holders are asked to use the new online service, so they may be questions and issues along the way.

 

Disabled Person’s Bus Pass holders

Those pass holder’s with a Disabled Person’s or Disabled Companion Person’s Bus Pass have had their pass automatically renewed in February, if they have used their pass in the last 18 months.  Those who haven’t received a pass by 1 April, but require one, are asked to contact the Concessionary Travel Team.  Tel:  (01325) 406699  Email:  concessionarytravel@darlington.gov.uk

 

Roadmap out of lockdown

25th February 2021

A 4-step plan to ease lockdown in England has been announced.

From 8 March

Pupils return to face-to-face education in school and further education in England. Pupils in Wales and Scotland returned on 22 February. Wraparound childcare, such as after-school clubs, can reopen to enable parents to work, attend education, access medical care or attend a support group.

Outdoor recreation, such as a picnic, is allowed. This can be on your own, with one other person, or with your household or support bubble.

Indoor visits to care homes start again for a single named visitor.

Survey for people and families who have a personal health budget and other people who support them, e.g. disabled people's user led organisations

23rd February 2021

Survey for people and families who have a personal health budget and other people who support them, e.g. disabled people's user led organisations

https://puttingpeoplefirst.limeask.com/353114

Personal health budgets and the legal Right to Have

- people with learning disabilities, autistic people or people with learning disabilities who are also autistic

NHS England has written lots of things to help make sure people understand how to make sure personal health budgets work. These are called the delivery support tools

 A charity called In Control has been asked by NHS England and NHS Improvement to look at the delivery support tools for personal health budgets, focusing on the legal Right to Have a personal health budget.

They want to check how helpful the tools are to make sure that people with learning disabilities, autistic people and people with learning disabilities who are also autistic are included in the legal Right to Have a personal health budget.

As part of this, we want to hear the views of a wide range of people involved in the world of personal health budgets and find out what their experience of both getting and being offered a personal health budget is - what helps and what gets in the way?

Helping the NHS to improve services and treatments for patients – can you help?

08th February 2021

Healthwatch are working with NHS England to undertake some research on what patients, current users, non-users and those with long-term conditions, with specific health issues including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, mental health and genetic factors, think about getting involved with clinical research.

This research will be really valuable in helping the NHS develop new medicines and learn more about better health and care for the future.
We want to know how patients and the public feel about clinical research, how they can get involved in research, what digital access they might need and if there are any barriers in place for involvement.

You can take here: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/CResearch21

Please feel free to share with anyone else you know who might like to take part!

Thank you for your support.

**SEND NEWSFLASH**

01st February 2021

• An invitation to complete the , relating to the forthcoming cross-Government Disability Strategy. The deadline for reply is 13 February, with a fallback of 23 April.
• An updated version of our summary of what schools need to or are expected to publish on their websites, including their duties in relation to publishing material on SEN and disability.
• Update on access to work funding remote employability activities post January.

 

UK Disability Survey

The Cabinet Office Disability Unit has launched the UK Disability Survey: https://disabilityunit.citizenspace.com/cabinet-office/ukdisabilitysurvey/

We want to hear from as many people as possible. We are particularly keen to hear from disabled people, their carers, friends and family; but views from the wider public are also very welcome. The survey will remain open until 23 April. All views will be used to shape the delivery of the plans we set out in the forthcoming Strategy, with those that we receive by 13 February informing the development of the Strategy.

We've tried to make sure the survey, which is hosted on Citizen Space, as accessible as possible. It is available in Easy Read and BSL. Written responses can be sent to: DUCitizenspace@cabinetoffice.gov.uk. A braille version is available on request and blind or partially sighted people who are having difficulty filling in the online survey can email RNIB for advice or support at: campaigns@rnib.org.uk.

                                                                

Duties on and expectations of schools over publishing material online

We have updated our summaries of the material that schools must or should publish online, including in relation to:

• SEN Information Reports, which need to be updated at least annually
• details of how a school complies with the public sector equality duty, with information which needs to be updated every year
• a school’s equality objectives, which need to be updated at least once every four years
• contact details of SENCos

Schools will also typically wish to publish the Accessibility Plan, that they have to update at least once every three years. Information as to that Plan needs to be included in their SEN Information Report.

There are no changes to the law and our guidance on publishing of the above, but in the updates of our summaries we have sought to bring together all the relevant material in one place and to set it out clearly.

We invite Heads, SENCOs and governors/trustees to consider whether the above material on their websites remains up to date.

The relevant links to our summaries of the requirements and expectations of schools are:

•   for maintained schools, https://www.gov.uk/guidance/what-maintained-schools-must-publish-online
•   for academies/free schools,  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/what-academies-free-schools-and-colleges-should-publish-online

 

Access to work funding for remote employability activities post January 2021

We are waiting for a ministerial decision on the continuation of Access to Work funding for remote employability activities post January 2021. We expect to receive the decision very shortly, but until then you can continue to use Access to Work funding for remote employability activities.

 

Online exercise session and music quiz tomorrow (09.01.21)

08th January 2021

Bridge Creative are offering an on line exercise session and music quiz tomorrow. It will be posted in the KPC Facebook group. 

Further details of plans for next few weeks to follow including dance, exercises, arts and crafts, cooking with Ian and children's activities.

New Lockdown Rules - 05.01.21

05th January 2021

Another lockdown…

Yesterday, the Prime Minister announced a national lockdown and instructed people to stay at home to control the virus, protect the NHS and save lives.

People will only be allowed to leave their homes for the following reasons:

• shop for basic necessities, for you or a vulnerable person.
• go to work, or provide voluntary or charitable services, if you cannot reasonably do so from home.
• exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area.
• meet your support bubble or childcare bubble where necessary, but only if you are legally permitted to form one.
• seek medical assistance or avoid injury, illness or risk of harm (including domestic abuse).
• attend education or childcare - for those eligible.
•  

From today, all primary schools, secondary schools and colleges will move to remote learning, except for the children of key workers and vulnerable children.

The government is also advising the clinically extremely vulnerable to begin shielding again, and letters will be sent to individuals with advice on what this means for them.

All non-essential retail, hospitality and personal care services must close, or remain closed. Restaurants can continue delivery, takeaway or click-and-collect of food and non-alcoholic drinks, but venues will no longer be able to serve takeaway or click-and-collect alcohol.

Essential shops and garden centres can remain open. Entertainment venues and animal attractions such as zoos must close, but the outdoor areas of venues such as heritage homes and botanical gardens can remain open, to be used for exercise. Playgrounds may also remain open.

Places of worship can also remain open.

Indoor and outdoor sports facilities including sports courts, gyms, golf courses, swimming pools, and riding arenas must also close. Elite sport and disabled sport can continue, as can PE lessons for those children attending school.

The restrictions will come into effect today and are expected to last until the middle of February if the situation in hospitals improves. By this point, the NHS hopes to have vaccinated everyone in the top four priority groups identified by the Joint Committee on Vaccination & Immunisation (JCVI) – including older care home residents and staff, everyone over 70, all frontline NHS and care staff and all those who are clinically extremely vulnerable.
 

Changes to Christmas Bubbles

21st December 2020

Guidance for the Christmas period - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

The Government have changed the Christmas rules.

On Saturday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson came on tv to tell the country that the Christmas lockdown rules have changed. This is because the number of people getting Coronavirus is going up very fast.

A new Tier 4 London and some parts of the South East have been put into a new Tier 4. This is because lots of people there are catching Coronavirus. People in Tier 4 have to follow stricter lockdown rules.

In the North East, Yorkshire and Humber, our Tiers have not changed. People living in York and North Yorkshire are in Tier 2. Everyone else in the North East, Yorkshire and Humber is in Tier 3. Your lockdown rules stay the same.

The rules for Christmas support bubbles have changed. The Christmas Support Bubble rules used to be that from 23rd to 27th December that 3 households could spend time together.

This has changed.

We can only spend time with people that we do not live with and who are not in our support bubble on Christmas Day. The Government are saying we should stay local and not travel a long way to visit people on Christmas Day.

But it is important to follow the rules to stop people catching Coronavirus.

The Coronavirus bug is changing. The Government have said that the Coronavirus bug has changed. The new version of the Coronavirus bug is easier to catch. The Government say it isn’t more dangerous than the first one and the vaccine should still work.

 

#VitaminD

03rd December 2020

People who are on the 'clinically extremely vulnerable' list, which includes adults (18+) who have Down's syndrome, are now able to get free #VitaminD supplements from the NHS.

Follow the link below for more information and to sign up.

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/people-at-higher-risk/get-vitamin-d-supplements/?fbclid=IwAR2TH8b1ssAVC-6gmRieKwlAqa5UW7DzxPHlmUWzm7owWhGsA10YmVx4rgU

Purple Space

03rd December 2020

‘PurpleSpace is the UK’s only learning, networking and professional development hub for disabled employees, employee network leaders and allies from all sectors and trades. The one thing we have in common is that we want to find and share ways of being our best selves at work.’

They are hosting a Purple Light Up event next week, see below;

PurpleSpace leads this movement, our mark of respect to the UN International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) held annually on 3rd December.

Since 2017, #PurpleLightUp has been driving momentum for disability inclusion across hundreds of organisations, reaching thousands of employees in different ways. This includes lighting up iconic buildings purple, holding events, developing workplace policies for disabled employees and sparking conversations about disability inclusion worldwide.

 

https://www.purplespace.org/about

International Day of People With Disabilities

30th November 2020

This Thursday, December 3rd,  is International Day of People With Disabilities, an annual event to join together to support disabled people in our communities, and raise awareness of the importance of creating a future where disabled people experience equal opportunity and face no barriers in all aspects of their lives— whether it be going about their day-to-day lives within accessible communities, joining the workforce, or being able to showcase their abilities and reach their goals without facing barriers.

#idpwd

New regional tiers

26th November 2020

Here is the link to the new local restriction tiers from 2nd December

Tier 3 - North East and Tees Valley

MEETING FRIENDS AND FAMILY
No mixing of households indoors, or most outdoor places, apart from support bubbles. Maximum of six in some outdoor public spaces (e.g.
parks, public gardens).

BARS, PUBS AND RESTAURANTS
Hospitality is closed, with the exception of sales by takeaway, drive-through or delivery.

RETAIL
Open.

WORK AND BUSINESS
Everyone who can work from home should do so.

EDUCATION
Early years settings, schools, colleges and universities open. Childcare, other supervised activities for children, and childcare bubbles permitted.

INDOOR LEISURE
Open. Group activities and classes should not take place

ACCOMMODATION
Closed (with limited exceptions)

PERSONALCARE
Open.

OVERNIGHT STAYS
We advise against overnight stays other than with household or support bubble.

WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS
15 guests for weddings, civil partnerships and wakes; 30 for funerals. Wedding receptions not permitted.

ENTERTAINMENT
Indoor venues

PLACES OF WORSHIP
Open, but cannot interact with anyone outside household or support bubble.

TRAVELLING
Avoid travelling outside your area, other than where necessary such as for work or education. Further exemptions apply. Reduce the number of journeys where possible.  Plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport. Avoid car sharing with those outside of your household or support bubble.

EXERCISE
Classes and organised adult sport can take place outdoors, but people should avoid higher-risk contact activity. Group exercise activities and sports indoors should not take place, unless with your household or bubble. Organised activities for elite athletes, under-18s and disabled people can continue.

RESIDENTIAL CARE 
COVID-secure arrangements such as substantial screens, visiting pods, and window visits. Outdoor/airtight visits only (rollout of rapid testing
will enable indoor visits including contact).

LARGE EVENTS
Events should not take place. Drive-in events permitted. 

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tier-posters-medium-high-and-very-high

What the DDA did for me.....

11th November 2020

Here is what the DDA did.....

It gave me the right to ask for reasonable adjustments to help me apply for and keep a job. 

It meant I could receive the first pay slip I could read

It enabled me to get braille bank statements

It gave me the right to assistance to get on and off trains

It meant I could stand up against hostility from the public knowing the law was on my side

It lets me get support at the gym to use the equipment

It empowers me to ask for accessible health information

It helped many disabled people to access buses and taxis and to be able to use different means of transport

It helps me to be able to work and make use of the Access to Work scheme

It meant that counters in banks and ATM machines had to be installed in a lower (wheelchair accessible) position

It helped some people’s attitudes change to see us as disabled people with more positivity

Places of worship are more accessible to disabled people

Hospital wards became more accessible to disabled people with more complex physical needs

Pools were made accessible with hoists and other equipment

It meant that schools had a duty to provide accessible education

It meant that transport became more accessible – I was no longer expected to travel in the guard’s carriage with some livestock

Insurance companies could no longer load my quotes because of my impairment (car insurance / life insurance)

New buildings such as shopping centres and cinemas had to be accessible – I was no longer a fire hazard, a reason used to keep me out of the cinema

It means that I have to be recognised as having the right to access shops, leisure facilities, education, housing and transport, rather than being seen as an inconvenience for even asking

It was the ability to see that my hidden disabilities and my mental health condition were not matters to be ashamed of, that others had similar conditions and went about life to the best of their abilities

It was the fact that there is a better chance of getting opportunities for work and positions of influence

It is the fact that there is the ability to legally challenge anyone or any business which tried to infringe on my rights to enjoy full engagement with society

It is being respected by statutory bodies, companies and government for involvement in improving the place of disabled people in their business and policy creation

 

What has the DDA done for you?

10th November 2020

On Sunday 8 November, it was 25 years since the passing of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), the first civil rights legislation in the UK relating to disabled people. The DDA came 20 years after legislation outlawing race discrimination and sex discrimination, and we can thank the disability rights campaigners of the 1980s and 1990s for the fact it came at all.

Of course there is still a lot wrong with the way society treats disabled people, negative attitudes to us persist, inclusive design is not the norm and the benefits, support and services that some of us rely on have been drastically reduced. But none of this should stop us celebrating the DDA and expressing our heartfelt thanks to those who made it possible, the disability rights campaigners and Parliamentarians.

What has the DDA done for you? Email us at mail@darlingtondisability.org

Guidance on shielding and protecting people who are clinically extremely vulnerable

05th November 2020

Guidance on shielding and protecting people who are clinically extremely vulnerable

This guidance has been updated, people are being advised to shield again and only leave house for exercise and essential health appointments.

People with stage-five chronic kidney disease, those undergoing dialysis and adults with Down's syndrome are now also advised to follow the advice.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-extremely-vulnerable-persons-from-covid-19

Purple Tuesday

03rd November 2020

New research reveals how the first national lockdown to halt the spread of COVID-19 has turned back the clock for disabled customers, who have been forced to rely on inaccessible websites and apps to purchase basic essentials and access goods and services.

The research shows that the vast majority of websites do not comply with the latest accessibility requirements and one recent study showed that more than 98% of home pages had accessibility failures.  Specific challenges highlighted by disabled people for Purple Tuesday include:

Inaccessible online forms – which can be difficult to navigate, particularly for people living with sight loss where it’s not clear whether a field is drop-down menu or an open field that requires a typed response

Mobile accessibility – where consumers cannot complete purchases because the website or online form are not mobile-friendly

Product information – where insufficient information is provided as to whether a product or service can meet your needs as a disabled person

Product availability – some disabled people have told us they can’t access products that meet their needs online, including some rail websites which don’t have facilities to book priority seating online

Missed deliveries – which often force disabled people to collect parcels from postal depots that are inaccessible if you don’t drive

https://purpletuesday.org.uk/2020/11/03/purple-tuesday-2020-press-release/

#ThumbsUp #PurpleTuesday

 

Latest Covid News

02nd November 2020

On Saturday 31st October 2020, the Prime Minister announced that from Thursday 5th November until Wednesday 2nd December, due to rising COVID-19 case numbers, the Government is taking the following action:

• Requiring people to stay at home, except for specific purposes.
• Preventing gathering with people you do not live with, except for specific purposes.
• Closing certain businesses and venues.

Subject to it being passed in Parliament later this week, the new measures will apply nationally for four weeks up to Wednesday 2nd December. At the end of the period, the Government will look to return to a regional approach, based on the latest data.

The Government guidance is as follows:

1. Stay at Home

This means you must not leave or be outside of your home except for specific purposes. These include:

• For childcare or education, where this is not provided online.
• For work purposes, where your place of work remains open and where you cannot work from home (including if your job involves working in other people’s homes).
• To exercise outdoors or visit an outdoor public place - with the people you live with, with your support bubble or, when on your own, with 1 person from another household.
• For any medical concerns, reasons, appointments and emergencies, or to avoid or escape risk of injury or harm - such as domestic abuse.
• Shopping for basic necessities, for example food and medicine, which should be as infrequent as possible.
• To visit members of your support bubble or provide care for vulnerable people, or as a volunteer.

This list is not exhaustive and there are other limited circumstances where you may be permitted to leave or be outside of your home. These will be set out in law and further detailed guidance is to be provided.

 

2. Staying Safe Outside the Home (Social Distancing)

You should minimise time spent outside your home and when around other people ensure that you are two metres apart from anyone not in your household or support bubble.
Remember - ‘Hands. Face. Space’:

• Hands – wash your hands regularly and for 20 seconds.
• Face – wear a face covering in indoor settings where social distancing may be difficult, and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet.
• Space – stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with where possible, or 1 metre with extra precautions in place (such as wearing face coverings or increasing ventilation indoors).

 

3. Meeting with Family and Friends

You must not meet socially indoors with family or friends unless they are part of your household - meaning the people you live with - or support bubble.
You can exercise or visit outdoor public places with the people you live with, your support bubble, or 1 person from another household.

Outdoor public places include:

• Parks, beaches, countryside;
• Public gardens (whether or not you pay to enter them), allotments;
• Playgrounds;

You cannot meet in a private garden.

 

4. Businesses and Venues

To reduce social contact, the Government has ordered certain businesses and venues to close. These include:

• All non-essential retail, including, but not limited to clothing and electronics stores, vehicle showrooms, travel agents, betting shops, auction houses, tailors, car washes, tobacco and vape shops.
• Indoor and outdoor leisure facilities such as bowling alleys, leisure centres and gyms, sports facilities including swimming pools, golf courses and driving ranges, dance studios, stables and riding centres, soft play facilities, climbing walls and climbing centres, archery and shooting ranges, water and theme parks.
• Entertainment venues such as theatres, concert halls, cinemas, museums and galleries, casinos, adult gaming centres and arcades, bingo halls, bowling alleys, concert halls, zoos and other animal attractions, botanical gardens.
• Personal care facilities such as hair, beauty and nail salons, tattoo parlours, spas, massage parlours, body and skin piercing services, non-medical acupuncture, and tanning salons.

Food shops, supermarkets, garden centres and certain other retailers providing essential goods and services can remain open. Essential retail should follow COVID-secure guidelines to protect customers, visitors and workers.
Non-essential retail can remain open for delivery to customers and click-and-collect.
Playgrounds can remain open.
Hospitality venues like restaurants, bars and pubs must close, but can still provide takeaway and delivery services. However, takeaway of alcohol will not be allowed.
Hotels, hostels and other accommodation should only open for those who have to travel for work purposes and for a limited number of other exemptions which will be set out in law.
A full list of the business closures will be published and set out in law.
Some venues will be allowed to remain open for specific exempt activities, like childcare and support groups (maximum 15 participants) formally organised to provide mutual aid, therapy or any other form of support. E.g. support victims of crime, drug and alcohol recovery, new parents and guardians, people with long-term illnesses, issues relating to sexuality or gender, and those who have suffered bereavement.
A number of public services will also stay open and you will be able to leave home to visit them. These include: the NHS and medical services like GP's; Jobcentre Plus sites; Courts; and Civil Registration Offices.

 

5. Weddings, Civil Partnerships, Religious Services and Funerals

Funerals can be attended by a maximum of 30 people. Social distancing should be maintained between people who do not live together or share a support bubble.
Weddings and civil partnership ceremonies will not be permitted to take place except in exceptional circumstances.
Places of Worship will be closed, unless they are being used for: Funerals, to broadcast acts of worship, individual prayer, formal childcare or where part of a school. Essential voluntary and public services, such as blood donation or food banks, and other exempted activities such as some support groups.

 

6. Going to Work

Work from home where possible. Where people cannot do so (for instance people who work in critical national infrastructure, construction or manufacturing) they should continue to travel to work/attend their workplace.

 

7. Going to School, College and University

The Government will not be closing schools, colleges or universities.

 

8. Childcare and Children’s Activities

Parents will still be able to access some registered childcare and other childcare activities (including wraparound care) where reasonably necessary to enable parents to work, or for the purposes of respite care.

 

9. Protecting People More at Risk from Coronavirus

Those over 60 or clinically vulnerable, are encouraged to stay at home as much as possible, but are encouraged to go outside for exercise. The full new guidance will be published on Monday 2nd November and the Government will write to everybody who is clinically extremely vulnerable to set out detailed advice while the new restrictions are in place.

 

10. Visiting Relatives in Care Homes

Guidance on care home visits will be published ahead of Thursday.

 

11. Travel

You should avoid travelling in or out of your local area, and you should look to reduce the number of journeys you make. However you can and should still travel for a number of reasons, including:

• Travelling to work where this cannot be done from home.
• Travelling to education and for caring responsibilities.
• Hospital GP and other medical appointments or visits where you have had an accident or are concerned about your health.
• Visiting venues that are open, including essential retail.
• Exercise, if you need to make a short journey to do so.

If you need to travel we encourage you to walk or cycle where possible, and to plan ahead and avoid busy times and routes on public transport. This will allow you to practise social distancing while you travel.
Overnight stays and holidays away from primary residences will not be allowed.

Friends Against Scams Online Training

19th October 2020

Darlington Trading Standards continues to work to with the National Trading Standards Scams Team to prevent our communities from becoming victims of scams.  This year is the fourth anniversary of the ‘Friends Against Scams’ initiative which aims to protect and prevent people from becoming scam victims by empowering them to take a stand against scams.  As you may be aware, scams, in particular those linked to the pandemic, are on the increase.

Friends Against Scams week commences Monday 19th October 2020 and, on Wednesday 21st we would like as many people as possible to complete online awareness training and help to protect others.  Please help by completing this online awareness training (only 20 minutes long) yourselves and by raising awareness, through communications with your colleagues, followers, etc. to encourage others to do the same.

A link to the online awareness training is below:

https://www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/training/friends-elearning

Hate Crime Week: 10th Oct - 17th Oct

14th October 2020

Disability hate crime is any incident or crime which is perceived by the victim or any other person, to be motivated by a hostility or prejudice based on a person's disability.

If you believe that you or any other person has been targeted because of their disability then please report it.

There are many ways to report hate crime.

• If the matter involves an attack or serious crime which needs an urgent response, ring 999
• If it is a lesser incident such as verbal abuse, ring 101
• Contact your local police directly.
• Contact Darlington Association on Disability on us on 01325 489 999 or email advocacy@darlingtondisability.org for support.

St Teresa's Hospice - Hello, How are you

02nd October 2020

A new series of online talks for anyone caring for a loved one with a serious illness, such as heart or respiratory disease, cancer, or a neurological condition.

Starting 27th Oct 2020

Information and support from local specialists:- * Consultant in palliative medicine   * Solicitor   * Hospice social workers   * Macmillan benefits officer   * Other carers

About a range of topics:- * Your needs and wishes   * Wills and Lasting Power of Attorney   * Emotional and practical support   * Financial grants and benefits  * Self-care and well-being

To request a place or for more information please contact:

Deborah Robinson at St Teresa’s Hospice, Darlington on 01325 254321 or enquiries@darlingtonhospice.org.uk

Technical support offered.

Connect with your Care

30th September 2020

Join us from the comfort of your own home with a cup of coffee for 'Tell us your views Tuesday' online using Zoom from 10am to 11am with a themed conversation topic each week. October 6th we will be talking about 'loneliness'. Email info@healthwatchdarlington.co.uk or call 01325 380145 for your Zoom link.

Join us for #WellbeingWednesdays where we will be joined by guest speakers LIVE on Facebook talking about wellbeing, how local services can help, positive stories and finished off with self-care tips. October 7th from 12:30pm we will be joined by 'Darlington Humankind Young Carers'

All of our #WellbeingWednesday sessions are now booked with guest speakers but we are looking for people to take part in November. Get in touch if you are interested ASAP.

Maybe you can join us with a friend?

Maybe your an organisation who would like to get involved with discussions?

Maybe you know someone who would enjoy our coffee and chat sessions on Tuesdays?

For more information or to take part in one of these sessions get in touch via info@healthwatchdarlington.co.uk or call 01325 380145. Please note out opening hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm.

Have you been in hospital recently?

03rd August 2020

Tell us your views

During the coronavirus pandemic the usual processes hospitals follow to discharge you from their care changed to help free up beds.

While these changes have successfully got people out of hospital and helped the NHS manage the demand created by coronavirus, we want to know what this has meant for you. 

To find out more about people’s experiences of health and care during COVID-19, we recently launched our campaign #BecauseWeAllCare to encourage people to share their experiences of health and social care services in Darlington.

By telling us about your experiences of leaving hospital we can help services in Darlington improve the care they provide now, and in the future.

Share your views today in our short, confidential survey.

Share your experience
https://www.healthwatch.co.uk/tell-us-about-your-experience-leaving-hospital-during-covid-19-pandemic

 

If you or family have not recently been in hospital, please share this email with your friends, neighbours and networks so we can hear from more people about their experiences of care.

If you have any questions about this survey or our work please email info@healthwatchdalrington.co.uk to ensure this is picked up by the relevant staff members who will be able to help.

Supporting People with hearing loss

29th July 2020

Here are some links that may help:

Face masks with windows and visors: https://www.molly-watt-trust.org/

Free BSL lessons on YouTube from 2 sisters in lockdown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rR2Zb7TbiOA

Some free resources here: https://www.british-sign.co.uk/fingerspelling-alphabet-charts/

General info and fingerspelling chart: https://actiononhearingloss.org.uk/information-and-support/deaf-awareness/british-sign-language/

Health videos in BSL if patient needs them: https://signhealth.org.uk/health-video-library/ 

For hard of hearing, communication tips etc… https://actiononhearingloss.org.uk/information-and-support/deaf-awareness/

Face Mask Exemption Cards

23rd July 2020

If you can not wear a face mask because of a disability of health problem please cut out one of the cards

Exemption Cards

#BecauseWeAllCare

09th July 2020

#BecauseWeAllCare

Healthwatch are launching a new campaign with CQC – #BecauseWeAllCare, encouraging the public to share their experiences, both good and bad, to help improve health and social care services. As well as promoting the benefits of giving feedback and why it’s so important, it will also be an opportunity to collect people’s views on key local issues.

The campaign launches on Wednesday 8th July 2020.

As health and social care services work to provide the best possible care during COVID-19, public feedback can play a crucial role to help us identify and address issues that affect the quality of people’s care.

Together we can help services across Darlington improve the care they provide now, and in the future. #BecauseWeAllCare is here to listen and act on public feedback to improve care for you and others – helping patients, key workers, and our communities.

In addition to their campaign launch they will be focusing on key service users groups and health care topics. Will be hosting online focus groups, offering telephone appointments and working with organisations to reach out to service users.

The focus across the coming weeks will be families & young people and hospital discharge.

How can you encourage people to share their experiences and support the campaign?

Following an experience with a health or social care service, patients and carers can share their feedback – both positive and negative - with their local Healthwatch by completing an online form.

https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/HWDCovid,

 

How to get in touch

All the #BecauseWeAllCare team are working from home but we can still be contacted during our normal operational hours 9am to 4pm

Email: info@healthwatchdarlington.co.uk

Telephone: 01325 380145 (Please leave a message and someone will get back to you as soon as possible)

Mobile: 07525237723

Face Coverings

15th June 2020

Face Coverings

I am sure you’ll have heard that government have mandated that from today anyone travelling by public transport must wear a face covering.  If someone doesn’t wear a covering they will be breaking the law and could be fined by the police, although the aim is for high rates of compliance rather than enforcement.  The requirement to wear a face covering doesn’t apply to children under the age of 11, or to those who have a reason not to, which includes the following:

•        if you have a physical or mental illness or impairment, or a disability that means you cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering

•        if putting on, wearing or removing a face covering would cause you severe distress

•        if you are travelling with, or providing assistance to, someone who relies on lip reading to communicate

•        if you are travelling to avoid injury or escape the risk of harm, and you do not have a face covering with you

•        if you need to remove it during your journey to avoid harm or injury or the risk of harm or injury to yourself or others

•        if you need to eat, drink, or take medication you can remove your face covering

•        if you are asked to remove your face covering by a police officer or other official, for example to check your railcard

Full government guidance can be found here - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-safer-travel-guidance-for-passengers#face-coverings

Those travelling by bus, who are exempt from wearing a face covering may wish to carry one of the Journey Assistance Cards shown below with them.  The cards can be downloaded and printed from this page - https://www.arrivabus.co.uk/travel-help-and-accessibility/how-to-obtain-assistance-cards/:

Face Coverings - Hospital

10th June 2020

The government guidance is that all hospital staff will wear facemasks from 15th June. Visitors and outpatients should wear a face covering but masks will be provided in emergencies by hospitals.

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/face-masks-and-coverings-to-be-worn-by-all-nhs-hospital-staff-and-visitors#:~:text=Face%20masks%20and%20coverings%20to%20be%20worn%20by%20all%20NHS,face%20coverings%20at%20all%20times.

 

Coronavirus (COVID-19): getting tested

06th May 2020

Guidance on coronavirus testing, including who is eligible for a test, how to get tested and the different types of test available.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested

 

Personal Protective Equipment animation and resources

01st May 2020

PPE

 

What PPE to wear when providing care out of hospital

This short animation shows you what personal protective equipment to wear when providing care (including caring for extremely vulnerable and shielded people) in care homes or caring for people in their own homes.  It is based on Public Health England’s recently published guidance:-

https://vimeo.com/408471512

 

Putting on and removing PPE – a guide for care homes

This Public Health Education video includes a flowchart for care workers providing care to residents to identify whether there is a need for PPE, PPE recommendations for care home staff, and some frequently asked questions on the use of PPE in care homes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozY50PPmsvE&feature=youtu.be

 

Website for further resources

The above animation and video and further resources/links that may be of help to people providing care out of hospital are all grouped in this one website.  Under the “resources” section are other videos including how to take someone’s temperature, guides to help with your personal wellbeing, along with a training package on Covid-19 infection prevention and control.  You can also download posters on how to take off PPE and on the “useful links” tab, there are quick links to other websites for further information/support eg E-learning for Healthcare:-

https://ppecovid19.co.uk/

Coronavirus (COVID-19): providing unpaid care

14th April 2020

Who this guidance is for

This guidance is for anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who, due to a lifelong condition, illness, disability, serious injury, a mental health condition or an addiction, cannot cope without their support.

Follow this link for more information

www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-providing-unpaid-care

Disabled Children's Partnership

03rd April 2020

New coronavirus resource webpage from Disabled Children's Partnership. 

The Disabled Children's Partnership has gathered a range of online info for families with disabled children & put them together in one place 

www.disabledchildrenspartnership.org.uk/coronavirus/

 

Update - testing for PAs and PHB holders

27th March 2020

The latest update from the Department of Health and Social Care is as follows:

 

All PAs are now able to receive a test, symptomatic or asymptomatic – as essential, frontline workers. The test is most effective in the first three days of infection (but can still be effective up to five days). So practically, any PA who is symptomatic, should get tested as soon as possible and any PA who is asymptomatic (but thinks they may have been exposed recently) can also now access testing. As before, PAs can either self-register, or be referred by their employer, with availability for both home-delivered tests, and drive-through testing.

 

All patients in the NHS, and residents in care homes can now access tests, symptomatic or asymptomatic. It has also been agreed that ‘patients’ extends to individuals with personal health budgets in place. Therefore, any personal health budget holders with concerns that they may have Covid-19 / been exposed to Covid-19, can now access these tests (via self-referral).

 

Individuals with just a personal budget in place, who don’t have either a) a personal health budget, or b) a health condition that would constitute them being a ‘patient’, are not eligible to access these tests yet… unless they are over 65 and have symptoms, or are required to go into work because they cannot work from home, and have symptoms.  

 

 

Covid-19 - Easy read guidance on shielding vulnerable people

25th March 2020

Here is a link to an easy read guide on shielding vulnerable people which might be helpful for sharing.

 

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/875126/Easy_read_guidance_on_shielding_March_2020.pdf

Free Coronavirus Video

23rd March 2020

Free Coronavirus Awareness eLearning Video from IHASCO

In this short free Coronavirus eLearning video, IHASCO provide practical advice to raise awareness of what Coronavirus is, how to reduce the risk of the virus spreading and what to do if you’re showing symptoms.

This free resource is for anyone wishing to find out more about Coronavirus and how to minimise its impact.

Raising Awareness: Watch the 8 minute video below and share with friends, family and staff!

Fear of the unknown and feeling like we have a lack of control certainly contributes to further panic. But what’s important is learning what there is to know at the moment, and how this information can help us to take preventive measures, whilst also knowing what to do if further action is needed.

Thankfully, there are a few things that can be done.

With this in mind, iHASCO felt it is their duty to use their expertise and resources to provide a free online awareness video about the Coronavirus.

Here is a link to the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exOSi6ZEadI&feature=youtu.be

DAD Support to staff, volunteers and users

16th March 2020

We want to make sure that our staff, volunteers and people we support are safe during the Coronavirus outbreak

As a result, we will be changing the way we work:

From Monday 23 March 2020 our services will not be doing home visits until further notice, unless it is essential, although we can still support you by phone using the usual numbers 01325 489999 or 01325 360524.

To protect the people we support and our staff and volunteers we are following the Government guidance and all activities at The Independent Living Hub at West Lodge, West Crescent have been cancelled, this includes Monday night sessions, Young Leaders, Mentoring for Independence, Subway Healthy Hearts, Short breaks and Skills for Care training, and sessions will not be running until further notice.

Peoples Parliament and all Direct Payment Peer Support Groups have also had to be cancelled.

DASH will not be running activities during the Easter holidays. All other services will be working as normally as possible under the current circumstances depending on the levels of staff available.

We have already arranged for all our staff who are at high risk to be at home and work from there if it all possible. We are actively planning what we can do to provide information and support people in this difficult time and will be in regular contact with people we support.

NHS Consultation Information for Stroke Rehabilitation and Ward 6 at Bishop Auckland

28th January 2020

The three NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups in County Durham and Darlington (NHS Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield CCG (DDES), Darlington CCG and North Durham CCG) have launched two public consultations to ask local people to share their views and ideas on Stroke Rehabilitation Services and Inpatient Rehabilitation (Ward 6) at Bishop Auckland Hospital.

There will be four public events for each consultation:

Stroke Rehabilitation public events

Saturday 25 January 2020:   10.00am - 12noon    Bishop Auckland Football Club

Tuesday 4 February 2020:     6.00pm - 8.00pm      Durham Town Hall

Thursday 6 February 2020:    10.00am - 12noon    The Witham, Barnard Castle

Tuesday 11 February 2020:    1.00pm - 3.00pm      St Augustines Parish Centre, Darlington

 

Ward 6 public events

Thursday 30 January 2020:      10.00am -12 noon     Durham Town Hall event

Saturday 8 February 2020:        10.00am -12 noon    The Witham, Barnard Castle event

Wednesday 12 February 2020:  6.00pm - 8.00pm      Football Club, Bishop Auckland event

Tuesday 25 February 2020:       1.00pm - 3.00pm       St Augustines Parish Centre, Darlington event

 

To book a place please go to https://northdurhamccg.nhs.uk/involve-me/ward-6-consultation/

 

Ways in which people can get involved

1. Complete the Stroke Rehabilitation consultation survey and Inpatient Rehabilitation (Ward 6) consultation survey

2. Visit the websites for full details on the consultation and to read the full consultation document: Stroke Rehabilitation Services and  Ward 6

3. Sign up to MY NHS

4. Follow these social media platforms:

NHS Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield CCG Facebook  and Twitter

NHS Darlington CCG Facebook and Twitter

NHS North Durham CCG Facebook and Twitter

If you have any questions please call the CCG Engagement Teams on 0191 389 8609 and leave your name, email address or phone number or email the team

 

We can provide versions of the consultation document in other languages and formats such as Braille and large print on request. Please contact the NECS Communications Team on 01642 745401.

Direct Payment Support Service Vacancies page update

24th May 2019

See the update Direct Payment Support Service Vacancies.

Visit to Town Hall

09th April 2019

Young People from DAD enjoyed a visit to Darlington Town Hall last week after being invited to visit by Darlington Mayor, Councillor Veronica Copeland.

The Mayor gave a tour of the Mayor’s Parlour and talked to young people about the role of the Mayor and local disability history with the opportunity for young people to ask the Mayor questions.

They all really enjoyed the evening and thank the Mayor for inviting them.