Darlington Association on Disability

Accessible Energy Support

11th October 2023

 Friday 29 September 2023                                                                          IMMEDIATE RELEASE

£4.8 million to be distributed to organisations to support energy projects through Ofgem Energy Redress Scheme

Funds gathered through the latest round of the Ofgem Redress Scheme are being distributed to organisations across Great Britain to provide energy advice, support decarbonisation projects  and develop innovative energy-focused services and products.

The Ofgem Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme (Energy Redress Scheme) is today announcing how the latest round of funding is being awarded. More than £4.8 million in grants is being distributed to 27 organisations across England, Scotland and Wales. In this funding round, 19 awards  totaling  £3.5 million have been awarded to projects focused on supporting vulnerable people with managing their energy bills and keeping their homes warm through  dedicated energy advice officers.

One successful application made to the Small Projects Fund was from Darlington Association on Disability, which is receiving £49,931 for its programme, Accessible Energy Support. The programme will help those most at risk from fuel poverty with holistic energy advice and support.

Lauren Robinson, chief executive at Darlington Association on Disability said:

“Darlington Association on Disability are delighted to receive a grant from the Energy Redress scheme. The grant will enable us to provide much needed support for disabled people and carers living in Tees Valley who are being hard hit by the cost of living crisis. Disabled people, who need support to get information and advice, will be able to benefit by taking energy-saving measures to save money and reduce energy use.”

Through funding from the Innovation Fund, receiving £199,600, co-operative Sharenergy, which helps communities to set up and own renewable energy societies, will work to establish heat networks with local communities to decarbonise heat and reduce consumer heating costs.  

Jon Hallé, chief executive officer at Sharenergy said:

"Heat networks are widely seen as an absolutely crucial tool in the race to net zero, but despite their widespread use in other countries, they are still a relative rarity in the UK. We see community ownership as a key enabling factor in their development.

“Sharenergy has been working with communities for over ten years so we know the power they have to make seemingly impossible things happen. This funding will allow us to develop the seeds from which communities can grow their own heat networks, in areas across the country.

“Building on our unique expertise in community energy, it will enable us to take the time to work with experts and community groups to co-design a business model that we hope will be a gamechanger."

Over five years, the Energy Redress Scheme has distributed a total of £85.5 million in funding to support 491 projects in England, Scotland and Wales. The funding is collected through Ofgem’s enforcement and compliance activity, where companies that have breached energy rules agree to make a voluntary payment into the Energy Redress Scheme.

The funding rounds include the Main and Small fund, which are aimed at projects supporting households in vulnerable situations. The Carbon Emission Reduction Fund (CERF) supports energy-related activities that will see a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from energy use. Finally, the Innovative Fund supports the development of pioneering products and services related to energy.

Graham Ayling, senior project manager for the Energy Redress Scheme, said, “We’re pleased to announce £4.8 million of support to voluntary sector organisations. These funds will help them to support those most at risk in their communities as the colder weather approaches and energy prices remain high.  It will also fund important projects that demonstrate new approaches to help the UK reach net zero, in ways that are affordable and accessible for everyone and empower more people to share the benefits of this transition.”

Russell Ogilvie, head of enforcement at Ofgem, said: “Ofgem holds the energy industry to account through its robust compliance and enforcement work. We’re proud to work with the Energy Saving Trust in the delivery of the Energy Industry Voluntary Redress Scheme. Through the scheme, communities across Great Britain, including consumers living in vulnerable circumstances, benefit directly when energy companies pay for letting them down.”

Read more about all of the funded projects below and descriptions of the projects on the Energy Redress website.

Learning Disability Network Reasonable Adjustment Campaign

06th July 2023

To support this year’s Learning Disability Awareness Week (which was 19 – 25 June), the North East & Cumbria Learning Disability Network has launched their Reasonable Adjustment Campaign.

Set out in the Equality Act 2010, all health and care services have a legal duty to ensure that they adapt and support people with disabilities to be able to access services in a way that they are accessible for everyone else. This includes people with a physical disability, sensory disability, learning disability or a long term condition such as dementia.

By identifying the need and providing reasonable adjustments in a timely and effective manner it can lead to improved outcomes and experiences for patients and health and care staff.

The Reasonable Adjustment Campaign aims are to:

1. Raise awareness of people’s rights to reasonable adjustments
2. Raise awareness of the legal obligation of health & care services to provide reasonable adjustments
3. Support Health & Care services to provide reasonable adjustments
4. Support Health & Care services to document and share reasonable adjustments

A range of posters and resources have been made available for healthcare, social care and people with a learning disability which can be downloaded at www.necldnetwork.co.uk/work-programmes/reasonableadjustments

Easy Read - Inclusion North News - 09.06.23

13th June 2023

Please click here for the Inclusion North News - 09.06.23

Includes:

• Protect yourself from Pollen Bombs
• Check the pollen forecast
• Take medicines
• Keep clean
• Wellbeing
• Jobs at Inclusion North

Mayor of Darlington - Queen Tribute Night - Saturday 18th February 2023

08th February 2023

The Mayor of Darlington, Ann Marie Curry is holding a Queen Tribute night with the very talented Queen II Tribute Band to raise funds for he chosen charities.

The Charities this year are Family Help Darlington and Darlington Association on Disability.

The event will take place at: Harrowgate Hill Club, Darlington

On:  Saturday 18th February 2023

At:  7.00pm

Tickets cost:   £10 (exc booking fee)

To book:  Buy Tickets

Harrowgate Hill Club website:  http://harrowgateclub.com/

 

Come and see us at the Darlington Job Fair

28th September 2022

Darlington Jobs Fair 2022 - Bigger and better than ever with over 60 local employers with active job vacancies across all sectors.

Are you looking for a new career?

The Darlington Jobs Fair is back this year bigger and busier than ever, come and meet your next employer or even chat with your first employer, there are opportunities for all levels of experience and education backgrounds from over 60 employers. Speak to employers face-to-face and discover opportunities in sectors you didn’t even know existed

Lots of employers waiting to meet you

Over 60 different employers including Darlington Association on Disability, Aldi, Durham Police, Cummins, Arriva, EE, Premier Inn, Domestic and General, Student Loans Company, Darlington Economic Campus including The Treasury and the Department of International Trade, Premier Inn, Teesside Airport, Cder Group, and more

Wide Variety of Roles

Social Care, Finance, management, care, engineering, trainee bus driver, IT, administration, HR, forensics, communications/media, vehicle mechanic, research roles, personal trainer, sports therapist, software developers, paddle board instructors, warehouse, commis chefs and more

The Venue

The Sports Hall in The Dolphin Centre Darlington is in the centre of Darlington near to the market and within in walking distance from the buses and train station, it also has disabled access. Feethams multi-storey car park is a few minutes’ walk away and the first two hours are FREE to park

The event is FREE to attend and a great opportunity to speak directly to your chosen organisation

Carers Week: 6th - 12th

09th June 2022

Carer breaks are funded by Darlington Borough Council to enable the person you support to attend the activities at The Hub, free of charge, for 10 sessions. This can include social activities, learning a new skill such as cooking, joining a keep fit or healthy eating class, developing independence or 1 to 1 support.  The sessions are flexible to meet people’s needs.

Short breaks are also available at The Hub for young people to attend either during the day or a Thursday after school session called Mentoring for Independence (link) where young disabled people can join in fun activities and develop independent living skills including cooking, managing money, travel training and personal care.  Some of these sessions may be funded by Darlington Borough Council for parents and young disabled people who have had an assessment by Social Care. See here for more information:  https://www.darlington.gov.uk/education-and-learning/darlington-special-educational-needs-service/

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.

 

IMPACT: IMProving Adult Care Together

10th June 2021

IMPACT stands for ‘Improving Adult Care Together’. It is a new £15 million UK centre for implementing evidence in adult social care, funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), part of UK Research and Innovation, and the Health Foundation. It will be led by Professor Jon Glasby at the University of Birmingham, with a Leadership Team of 12 other academics, people using social care services, and policy and practice partners - along with a broader consortium of key stakeholders from across the sector and across the four nations of the UK. 

What is IMPACT trying to achieve? In the words of one of the people using services who has helped to shape proposals for the new centre, IMPACT believes that “good support isn’t just about ‘services’ – it’s about having a life."

IMPACT are interested in hearing from everyone who is involved with adult social care in whatever capacity.

Please complete this survey:  https://bham.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9tnuKolsBb3OfGu

This is the English version.  Translations to Bengali, Gujarat, Polish, Punjabi, Urdu and Welsh will follow. We will also launch an easy read version later in the month.

IMPACT have recently launched our website https://more.bham.ac.uk/impact/ which will enable you to keep up-to-date with our activities as these progress. We will start to update this over the coming weeks.

Do you care for a child with a neurodevelopment need?

07th June 2021

If you live in Darlington, Middlesbrough or Redcar and Cleveland, Contact's Listening Ear Service can provide free emotional support, practical advice or strategies to help you cope.

You can book a telephone appointment with a family support advisor using this link contact-tees@eventbrite.co.uk

Find out more by emailing south.tees@contact.org.uk or phoning their free phone number 0800 2540890

 

We need your nominations!

26th May 2021

For the third year running, Ecclesiastical Insurance Group is giving away £1million to charities with the return of its Movement for Good awards and DAD has been nominated by one of our supporters.

From today, people can nominate a cause close to their hearts for a potential £1,000 award to help make a difference.

This year, 500 charities will each receive £1,000 during the first phase of the campaign. A second phase of giving will happen later this summer.

The nomination process is open until 13 June. Winners will be drawn at random and the more times we are nominated the more chance we have of being selected.

Thank you in advance.

https://www.movementforgood.com/

Positive Travel Project

10th May 2021

Positive Travel Project

DAD’s Positive Travel Project, funded by London North Eastern Railway (LNER), 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;

Travel training for those who have never used public transport due to their impairments, lack of confidence, skills etc. This will include accessing all forms of public transport including introducing non rail users to the rail network for the first time. Individuals would be supported for 6- 12 sessions to learn the skills needed to access public transport such as journey planning, booking tickets or taxi’s, safe routes to transport, booking and using support. These sessions will be bespoke to meet individual needs and tailored to their communications need.

Improving access to a range of social activities for disabled people who are isolated and have not been able to get out and about due to the barriers they face. Disabled people and their families will be supported to access group outings that they plan, enabling people to visit new places, meet new people and potentially make new friends therefore tackling isolation and loneliness.

Enabling disabled people to participate through education, skills, conferences and networking to improve their prospects and support their communities to participate.

The project will gather feedback about people’s experiences of travelling and using public transport, locally, regionally or nationally, to identify any common experiences or issues that people are facing and what works well and look at ways of removing barriers and improving services and experiences for disabled people

For more information about the project or if you would like to share your experiences please contact David Thomas on 01325 489999 or email david.thomas@darlingtondisability.org

 

BSL: Roadmap

20th April 2021

This BSL video explains the roadmap out of lockdown in England as coronavirus restrictions are eased.

https://youtu.be/1BdJ2tHfxgE

New videos on Covid-19 vaccination for people with Severe Mental Illness and primary care teams

12th April 2021

PHE have developed a series of short videos on COVID-19 vaccination to support and encourage people with Severe Mental Illness (SMI) to get their COVID-19 vaccines, and for promotion with GPs and healthcare professionals.

• Getting the COVID-19 vaccine: Personal experience guide for people with severe mental illness, Part 1: https://youtu.be/NBl4lhIPw2w
• Getting the COVID-19 vaccine: Personal experience guide for people with severe mental illness, Part 2: https://youtu.be/gYWAby0-tEw
• COVID-19 vaccination: A guide for GPs and teams to support people with severe mental illness: https://youtu.be/OusrDVmUDZg

New videos to support people with severe mental illness (SMI) get their #COVID19 #vaccine and advice for primary care professionals that support people with SMI are now available here: https://bit.ly/3fM24KF @PHE_uk @EquallyWellUK @NHSEngland @dremmatiffin @wendyburn @CoProNorfolk

The videos have been developed by Public Health England in collaboration with Equally Well UK and NHS England, including GP professionals and Expert by Experience. They provide useful information for people with SMI to know what to expect from the vaccination process and how to prepare before their appointments. They also provide information for primary care professionals to better support people with SMI in their areas.

Equally Well UK have also produced a guide for people with a diagnosis of severe mental illness to support them with their vaccination, which can be found here.  

 

Shielding guidance is being paused for clinically extremely vulnerable people

22nd March 2021

The government has announced that shielding guidance is being paused. From Thursday 1 April, clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) people are no longer advised to shield. CEV people must continue to follow the national restrictions that are in place for everyone.

From Thursday 1 April, all CEV children should attend early years provision, school, college, wraparound childcare and out-of-school settings, unless they are one of the very small number of children under paediatric or other specialist care and have been advised by their GP or clinician not to attend.

CEV students who are enrolled in practical, or practice-based (including creative arts) courses should return to in-person teaching.

CEV staff are advised to continue to work from home where possible, but if they cannot work from home, they should now attend their workplace.

Where parents, carers, staff, or students are anxious about attendance, you should speak to them about their concerns and discuss the protective measures that have been put in place to reduce the risk and any additional measures that could be put in place.

Roadmap out of Lockdown

04th March 2021

The Prime Minister announced the plans to ease lockdown in England, a few weeks ago, which, by way of reminder, we summarise below. Obviously, the dates are provisional as they may change depending upon the rate of infection.

8th March:  All schools reopen for all age groups. Work from home guidance remains unchanged.

29th March:  Outdoor sports facilities (e.g. golf courses) reopen.

12th April:  Hospitality business can reopen for outdoor service. Non-essential shops can re-open, plus hairdressers, zoos, theme parks, drive in cinemas, libraries, and indoor leisure facilities.

17th May:  Pubs, bars, and restaurants reopen for indoor service. Hotels, cinemas, theatres and other businesses can reopen.

21st June:  Everything reopens, including nightclubs.

The government will review the need for face masks and social distancing, (which will influence work from home guidance).

PPE for unpaid carers

23rd February 2021

PPE is now available via Local Authorities for those providing unpaid care to someone they do not live with. This offer is available to cover needs for PPE that have arisen due to COVID-19. If you would normally use PPE because of the nature of the care you provide, you should continue to access it through your normal routes.

From the guidance;

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/coronavirus-covid-19-providing-unpaid-care/guidance-for-those-who-provide-unpaid-care-to-friends-or-family#devolved-administrations

 

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

The government are currently rolling out an offer of free PPE for COVID-19 needs to unpaid carers who do not live with the person or people they care for. This will be available until the end of June 2021, and will be available from local authorities (LAs) and local resilience forums (LRFs).

See personal protective equipment (PPE): local contacts for providers for details of LAs and LRFs who are currently making PPE available to unpaid carers. You can contact them to request PPE.

This offer is available to cover needs for PPE that have arisen due to COVID-19. If you would normally use PPE because of the nature of the care you provide, you should continue to access it through your normal routes.

If you live with the person or people you care for, it is not currently recommended that you wear PPE unless advised to do so by a healthcare professional, like a GP or nurse.

Recommended PPE for unpaid carers who do not live with the person or people they care for

If you do not live with the person or people you care for, it is recommended that you wear PPE when delivering care.

It is essential that PPE is worn correctly in order to reduce the risk of transmission. PPE should be put on and removed at least 2 metres away from the person you are caring for.

See guidance on how to put on and take off PPE correctly.

The type of PPE you should wear will depend on the type of care you provide. The type of mask you have been given will be clearly stated on the box.

 

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.

Vaccine information for people with learning impairments

05th January 2021

From NHS England Learning Disability and Autism Programme

The format of the film is our adviser Katie Matthews, asking our national clinical director Dr Roger Banks a series of questions about vaccinations:

https://www.england.nhs.uk/learning-disabilities/improving-health/

The film is 3 ½ minutes  long so we have also produced social media clips for some of the questions so you can link back to the main film.

Here is a download link to the 5 social media clips https://we.tl/t-laSYneEY8f

Understanding Safeguarding for Voluntary and Community Organisations

15th December 2020

DCA as a partner with Catalyst Stockton-on-Tees in Safer Culture North East have organised a safeguarding training session with some further information as follows:

Understanding Safeguarding for Voluntary and Community Organisations

This online session is aimed a volunteer led organisations and community groups.

It will cover:

The importance of having a safeguarding policy

Understanding your responsibilities for safeguarding within your organisation

What to include in your safeguarding policy

Thursday 17th December 2020 5.00 pm – 6.30 pm.

Bookings are through  via the Eventbrite link below:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/understanding-safeguarding-for-trustees-tickets-132403445269

Once a booking has been confirmed then participants will be sent a Zoom link to access the session.

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

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.

CPS - Who are we?

13th August 2020

“Have you ever been affected by hate crime?  Ever wondered about why some HATE CRIMES make it to court and some don’t?  Do you want to know what the Crown Prosecution Service actually does?

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) are holding an online Q+A / Who We Are session on Tuesday 18th August 5:30 – 6:30pm.  They would love you to dial in and be part of it.  Contact Andrew Allison on 07384 797779 or Andrew.Allison@darlington.gov.uk to book a place.

If you’d rather e-mail your question and get it answered without taking part, you can do that too!  Just let DAD know your question and we’ll get the answer for you.”

 

Covid19 Testing

26th May 2020

Testing is now open to any member of the public with Covid 19 symptoms by visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus or calling 119 to book a test.  

Independent Living Film Project

06th May 2020

Independent Living Film Project Calling all Deaf and Disabled People – tell us why Independent Living matters to you! – DPAC

 

Direct Payments Help Line

30th March 2020

We know that this is a very worrying time for disabled people, particularly Direct Payment users.

We are putting in a range of support to be able to continue to support Direct Payment users at this time. If you use a Direct Payment and live in Darlington, Middlesbrough or Redcar and have concerns or queries our Independent Living Advisors and Lead Workers are available to support you by telephone and email.

You can contact us on 01325 360524 or 01325 489999 or email directpayments@darlingtondisability.org

Please be aware we are experiencing high numbers of call and queries at the moment so please be patient but we will respond to all.

 

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

Daily Updates Coronavirus

13th March 2020

Daily updates about the Coronavirus

There has been lots of information on the News about Coronavirus.

This easy read information tells you more about what Coronavirus is, how you get Coronavirus, the symptoms and what you should do if you think you have Coronavirus.

You can find daily updates on the Government website https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

or you can find more information on the NHS website https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

These updates are not easy read so you may need some support to read the information. Link to an easy read version https://inclusionnorth.org/coronavirus-easy-read-information/

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.