Working towards Healthier Communities

Transcription

Working towards
Healthier
Communities
Case studies of voluntary groups working towards
a healthier Durham and Chester-le-Street
October 2013
Chester-le-Street and District CVS and Volunteer Bureau
Durham and Chester-le-Street Health Network
1
Forward
In June 2013 Durham and Chester-le-Street Health Network agreed to commission a
small project to showcase the activity of local voluntary and community organisations
who contribute to the Health and Wellbeing agenda.
These case studies are a mere snapshot of the wide range of organisations who are
actively supporting some of our most disengaged and disadvantaged communities.
These case studies are just the surface of an incredible breadth, depth and diversity
of community action that contributes to physical and mental health, which supports
children and young people, older people and families, that seeks to tackle inequality
and enable self respect, dignity and resilience.
We are acutely aware of the economic environment in which these case studies
have been captured, a time when public sector services are being withdrawn and the
demands upon financially fragile VCS has never been so great.
A week in the VCS can be a long time and its fortunes are ever changing. What we
have captured today may not be sustainable tomorrow and we know that some
organisations are close to closure.
For many of the beneficiaries of those charities, this may be their last “safety net”
and whilst many would survive without that support, the quality of their lives and the
long term costs upon the public sector will be much greater than had we sustained
the original charity.
We hope that these case studies demonstrate the cost effectiveness of a small
investment, by way of savings to the public purse, the leverage achieved in “match
funding”, and above all the impact upon the lives of beneficiaries.
Feisal Jassat
Chair of Durham and Chester-le-Street Health Network
2
Contents
List of VCS groups in North Durham CCG area contributing to health …… 4
Synopsis of organisations featured in this report.……………………………15
Case Studies
Aspire …………………………………………………………………………….19
Breathing Space ………………………………………………………………...24
County Durham Carers Anonymous …………………………………………..28
Drug and Alcohol Self Support…………………...........................................31
Durham and Wearside Sands …………………………………………………35
Durham Community Association ……………..............................................39
Durham County Carers Support ………………………………………………42
Durham Foodbank ……………………………………………………………...46
If U Care Share Foundation ……………………………………………………49
ME North East …………………………………………………………………...54
Chester-le-Street and Durham Mind ………….............................................59
Moving On ………………………………………………………………………..64
New Generation Brass …………………………............................................69
Pelton Community Centre ……………………………………………………...72
RSVP…….. ………………………………………………………………………75
RT Projects ..……………………………………………………………………..79
St.Margarets Centre …………………………………………………………….83
Stonham, Home Group …………………………………………………………86
Ushaw Moor 2-4 Club …………………………………………………………..89
Veterans at Ease ………………………………………………………………..91
Visual Impairment Problem Solving ………….............................................94
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VCS groups in North Durham CCG area contributing to health and wellbeing
The following is an extract from the database of Chester-le-Street and District CVS
of Community Organisations working in the Health and Social Care arena.

Abbey Phab Club

Action for Children (Independent Visitor Project) After Adoption

After Adoption

Age Concern

Age UK

Allington House Community Association

All Saints Church

Alzheimers Society Durham and Chester-le-Street

AMS Holidays

Annfield Plain Community Association

Arthritis Research Campaign

Arthritis Care

Ashdale Road Disabled Club

Aspire

Barnados Fostering and Adoption North East

Beamish Open Air Museum

Beanstalk (Literacy Project)

Bearpark Artists

Bearpark Community Association

Belmont Community Association.

Belmont Parish Hall

Birtley Town Ladies Football Club

Blind Life Durham

Books on Wheels
4

Bournmoor Nursery Group

Bournmoor Parish Council

Bowburn Community Centre

Bowburn and Parkhill Community Association

Bowburn Youth Project

Brancepeth Community Association

Brancepeth Parish Council

Brandon and Byshottles Parish Council

Brandon Carrside Youth Club

Brandon Village Hall

Breathing Spaces

British Heart Foundation

British Red Cross

Brockwell Centre

Bullion Lane Childrens Centre

Burnhope Parish Council

Burnmoor Cricket Club

Burnopfield Community Association

Burnside Resource Centre

Cassop Community Association

Castleside Village Hall Association

Cats Youth Theatre

Centrepoint

Cestria Community Housing Association

Cestria U3A at Chester-le-Street

Chester Moor Community Group
5

Chester West and Central Community Project

Chester-le-Street Air Cadets


Chester-le-Street and District Welfare Committee

Chester-le-Street and Durham City Mind

Chester-le-Street Amateur Rowing Club

Chester-le-Street Blind and Partially Sighted Club

Chester-le-Street Community Association

Chester-le-Street District Scouts

Chester-le-Street Furniture and Fabric Recycling

Chester-le-Street Heritage Group

Chester-le-Street Methodist Church

Chester-le-Street Rugby Club

Chester-le-Street Self Help Group

Chester-le-Street Youth Centre

Children North East

Citizens House

Community Intergrated Care

Contact a Family

Consett and District YMCA

Consett and District Self Support

Consett Churches Detached Youth Project

Cornerstones Centre for the Community

Cosy Club

County Durham Autistic Support

County Durham Care
6

County Durham Carers Anonymous

County Durham Furniture Self Help Scheme

Coxhoe Community Partnership

Coxhoe Village Hall Association

Craghead and Middle Village Hall Association

Craghead Development Trust

Crohns and Colitis UK

Crookhall Community Association

Crossgate Community Partnership

Croxdale Community Centre

Cruse Bereavement Care

CSV RSVP North East

Cuthberts Ladies Group

DASS

Day Trippers

Delves Lane Community Association Consett

Depaul UK (Night-Stop North East in Durham).

Derwentside Domestic Abuse Service

Derwentside Mind

Deter Innovations

DFW Adoption

Diabetes UK ( Durham Group)

Dipton Community Association

Disability Outlook

Disabled Motorist Federation

DISC Gilesgate
7

Dunelm Phab Club

Durham Phab Club

Durham and District Womens Cancer Support Group

DASH Durham Action on Single Housing

Durham Air Cadets

Durham Alliance for Community Care

Durham Amateur Rowing Club

Durham Area Disability Leisure group

Durham Cestria and Gateshead Credit Union

Durham City Area Access for All

Durham City Cricket Club

Durham City Shopmobility

Durham Christian Partnership

Durham Community Association

Durham Community Drop Service

Durham County Badmington Association

Durham County Carers Support

Durham County Cricket Club

Durham County Pre-school Learning Alliance

Durham Deafened Support

Durham Gilesgate Youth Community Centre

Durham Otters Swimming Club

Durham Voluntary Countryside Ranger Service

Durham Wildcats Basketball

Durham Wildlife Trust

Edmonsley Parish Council
8

Edmonsley Village Hall

Empower 2

Esh Winning Community Association

Fence Houses Community association

Framwellgate Moor Community Association

Framwellgate Moor Parish Council

Friends of Chester-le-Street Hospital and Communities

Friends of Lewis School of Dance

Friends of Pelaw Wood

Fulforth Centre

Fyndoune Community College

Garden Farm and West Lane Residents Association

Gateway Wheelers

Gay Advice Darlington/Durham

Gilesgate Community And Welfare Centre

Girl Guiding Chester-le-Street

Girl Guiding Durham

Goals Project

Grandparents Plus

Grange Villa Community Enterprise

Great Lumley Community Association

Great Lumley Friday Club

Great Lumley Parish Council

Great Lumley Toddler Group

Headway County Durham

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People
9

Heel and Toe

Helping Hands Cancer support group

Hilda Park Football Club

High Handenhold Allotments Association

If U Care Share

Independent Age

Intergrating Children

Kelloe Community Association

Kelloe Parish Council

Kimblesworth and Plawsworth Community Association

Kimblesworth and Plawsworth Parish Council

Langley Park and District Community Association

Laurel Avenue Community Association

Leadgate Community Association

Liberty from Addiction

Ludworth Community Association

Lumley Boxing Club

Lumley Football Club

Lumley Parish Council

MAD Productions

ME North East

Meadowfield Community Hall

Medomsley Community Association

Mencap

Mental Health North East

Moorside and District Community Association
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
Moving on Durham

MS Society Durham and District

Muggleswich Parish Council

Muggleswick Parish Hall Community Association

NASUWT Chester-le-Street Riverside Band

National Childbirth Trust

National Osteoporosis Society and Durham Support Group

NEPACS

Nettlesworth Aged Persons Communal Lounge

Nettlesworth Youthie

New Brancepeth Village Hall Association

Newcastle Bank Allotment Association

Newhill Allotment Association

Newton Hall Community Association

No Place Community Association

North East Autism Society

North East Disabled Motorist Club

North Lodge Parish Council

Northern Learning Trust

Northern Pinetree Trust

Opengate Mentoring Project

Ouston Allotments

Ouston Community Association

Ouston Parish Council

Ouston Villagers Association

Ouston and Urpeth Conservation Volunteers
11

Park View Community Association.

Pelaw View Community Group

Pelton Community Association.

Pelton Fell Bowling Club

Pelton Fell Community Partnership

Pelton Housebound Club

Pelton Parish Council

Perkinsville residents Association

Pittington Village Hall

Plawsworth and Kimblesworth Community Association

Rainbow Trust Childrens Charity

Rape and Sexual Abuse Counselling Service

Real Lives Real Choices

Relate North East

Rethink Mental Illness

ROC Solid

Room 4 Durham

Roseberry Toddler Group

RT Projects

Rugby League North East

Sacriston Allotments Association

Sacriston County Cricket Club

Sacriston Community Association

Sacriston Community Victoria Football Club

Sacriston Everymans Club

Sacriston Parish Council
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
Samaritans

Scope (Chester-le-Street)

Service Users Reaching Forward (SURF)

Shadforth Village Hall

SHAID

Sherburn Hill Community Association

Sherburn Hill Residents Association

Shinclliffe Community Association

Shincliffe Parish Council

Shotley Bridge Village Hall

Shotton Community Association

Shotton Parish Council

Society for Disabled Artists (SODA)

South Moor Community Association

South Pelaw Residents Association Mother and Toddler Group

South Stanley Community Association

South Stanley Partnership

SSAFA Forces Help (Durham)

St Barnabas Church Hall and Youth Project

St Bedes Playgroup

St Cuthberts Hospice

St. Margarets Centre

Stanley Community Association

Stanley Town Council

Stonham Housing

Tanfield Lee and District Community Association
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
Tantobie Association for Sport and the Community

The Central Residents Association

The Dene Community Centre

The Forge

The Grove Community Centre

The Salvation Army

The Story Ladies CIC

The Stroke Association

The Venue

Three Rivers Housing Association

Unwind Pain and Stress Management

Urpeth Parish Council

Urpeth Residents Association

Ushaw Moor Action Group

Veterans at Ease

Victims Support County Durham

Visual Impairment Problem Solving in County Durham

Visually Handicapped and Partially Sighted Club

Waddington Street Centre

Waldridge Fell Village Hall

Waldridge Parish Council

Wear Mencap

Witness Support Service

Witton Gilbert Community Association

Witton Gilbert Mother and Toddler Group

Witton Gilbert Parish Council
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Synopsis of the Voluntary Organisations featured in this report.
Empowering Women
Aspire provides a safe space for women to learn and receive support. It provides a
wide range of classes that enable personal development and confidence building,
promotes employability and empowers women to step-up the health and wellbeing of
their families and wider community.
Happiness/Mindfulness
Breathing Space is a holistic health and wellbeing project serving local
communities, especially those at the margins of society. Based in idyllic countryside
its preventative and recovery methods are designed for adults and children to
experience improvements in self esteem, personal fulfilment and interpersonal
relationships.
Drug and Alcohol (carers)
County Durham Carers Anonymous meets on a weekly basis to provide a non
judgemental, confidential and supportive environment that aims to give cares hope,
strength and courage.
Alcohol / Self Support
Durham Alcohol Self Support (DASS) offers an informal, flexible approach to the
control and use of alcohol, which is a less rigid alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous
with the understanding that total abstinence may not be a realistic option for
everyone.
Self Help
Durham and Wearside Sands is a local branch of Sands the Stillbirth and Neonatal
Death charity offering local support, comfort and understanding for bereaved parents
and their families.
Physical Activity
Durham Community Association is based at Shakespeare Hall in the centre of
Durham. It offers a variety of physical activities including ballroom and sequence
dancing, thai chi, yoga, juggling, ladies keep fit and line dancing.
Alongside the obvious health benefits of physical activity many members enjoy the
social aspect of the classes.
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Carers
Durham County Carers Support aims to improve the health and wellbeing of
carers by providing practical and emotional support, advice and information to carers
and former carers who live in County Durham.
Inequality
Durham Foodbank follows the Trussell Trust model for foodbanks offering
emergency food distribution to local people in crisis in order to restore dignity and
revive hope.
Children and Young people
If U Care Share Foundation was set up by the siblings of a young man who took his
own life. They want to encourage young people to share problems that trouble them.
The main aims of the foundation are Prevention, Intervention and Support after
Suicide.
Disability
ME North East aims to improve the lives of people suffering with ME and CFS, to
enable them to manage their illness and help them achieve the best possible quality
of life, health and wellbeing.
Mental Health
Chester-le-Street and Durham City Mind is a registered charity whose vision is
working towards a better quality of life for everyone in Chester-le-Street and Durham
City experiencing emotional distress.
Young people
Moving On provide advice, support and practical guidance to help young people
aged 16-25 who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless to help them
achieve independence in appropriate accommodation.
Asthma
New Generation Brass provides an opportunity for young people to learn brass and
percussion instruments, targeting wards where children may not otherwise have the
opportunity to learn a musical instrument. The group is open to all who wish to
participate although there is an underlying focus on supporting those with asthma or
autism.
Preventative
Pelton Community Centre offer a range of activities including a gym, dance
classes, stop-smoking drop ins, over 60s club, parent and toddlers and much more.
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The centre aims to be responsive to the changing needs of the community and has
opened a shop selling cheap clothes and household items as well as a community
café offering meals at affordable prices.
Preventative
RT Projects offer creative art courses to members of the local community with a
range of health issues. The benefits of the art courses include improved emotional
resilience achieved through a variety of factors such as meeting and socialising with
others, learning and developing creative skills, receiving appropriate support in a
safe environment and sharing and comparing experiences with others.
Carers
RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme) recruits and supports older
people into volunteering programmes. The project is volunteer focussed and led and
recognises that older people have a wealth of skills and experience much needed by
society. There are a range of projects across the North East although the surgery
transport team, established in 2001 has a particular focus in North Durham. The
scheme supports those who are unable to use public transport. Volunteers collect
patients from their homes and take them to and from medical appointments.
Mental Health
St Margaret’s Centre supports adults of all ages with mental health and other
disabilities. It provides a welcoming therapeutic environment which encourages
individuals to learn new skills in a manner that helps them develop their potential and
ensures that they get access to the services they need.
Housing
Stonham, Home Group provides specialist housing support to people who are
homesless, at risk of losing their home or need support maintaining and improving
their independence. They work with a variety of client groups: people with drug
and/or alcohol dependency; young people, people with learning disabilities and
people facing issues around domestic abuse. Staff have the expertise in working
with the hardest to reach groups.
Older People
Ushaw Moor 2-4 club provides an opportunity for older people to come together on
a weekly basis to enjoy social activities such as crafts, bingo and trips out. Members
benefit from an improved quality of life and a reduced risk of social isolation.
Families
Veterans at Ease aims to help veterans and their families deal effectively and
quickly with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The project works on the basis
of veterans helping veterans. The help given allows them to understand and
17
integrate into civilian life as well as finding full time employment or volunteering
opportunities where appropriate.
Disability
Visual Impairment Problem Solving provides support services and information for
people with sight loss and their carers and families in County Durham and the
surrounding areas in an effort to improve their quality of life and work towards social
inclusion. Over 1,000 service users with sight loss currently receive outreach
services in County Durham free of charge – information, talking newspapers,
driver/escorts to eye clinics, specialist equipment demonstration/loan, befriending
and telephone support.
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ASPIRE
Introduction and Brief History
Date established
August 2012 Aspire, Learning, Support and Wellbeing was set up after the demise
of the Bridge project which had been operating for 27 years and providing services in
Chester Le Street and Durham for 12 years.
 Aspire is celebrating the end of the first year as Winner of Cornerstone of the
Community Award for Chester Le Street 2013
Mission
To provide an extensive range of learning opportunities for communities across the
north east through:
 providing mechanisms to support and enable communities to have access
and to achieve
 supporting local families
 providing opportunities for the involvement of volunteers
Operating Principles/Values
 To promote self esteem and confidence
 To raise the aspirations of individuals and enable them to reach their full
potential.
 To encourage active citizenship
 To remove the barriers to participation
Services Provided
 From our base in Chester-le-Street we provide training/educational
opportunities, support services, health and well being initiatives, volunteering
opportunities and crèche facilities to women of all ages
 Outreach course in Durham for women recovering from substance misuse.
 In reach services for women on Tunstall Ward at Lanchester Road Hospital
Durham and Cherry Knowle hospital Sunderland.
 Externally - Health Improvement training for front line staff, volunteers and
local communities in Sunderland as part of the Health Champions
programme. (mixed groups)
When / how often are they provided?
 On site provision is offered throughout the year on a termly basis 5 days per
week. (Support/wellbeing services throughout the year)
 Weekly outreach courses in Durham
 50 weeks of the year twice weekly for in reach hospital services to women
with acute mental health issues
 Several external training packages run every month including positive practice
within mental health, healthy eating, RSPH accredited health improvement.
19
How / where are they provided?
 From our main centre in Chester-le- Street.
 Durham City
 Outreach at local community centres/Children’s centres.
Impact upon clients. (Quotes from talking boards)
“Feel happier in myself”
“Boosted my confidence and CV!”
“Amazing support, made lots of friends”
“Change your life in 10 weeks does exactly what is says on the tin”
Number of service users.
 Over the last year 542 learning opportunities were accessed and approx 50
support opportunities were accessed on a weekly basis.
 50 women also accessed our cancer awareness day.
Why are the services provided?
 In response to need and to support local issues and the local economy.
 Reduce isolation
 Provide local service for local women
 Access to first step learning
 Access to health and well being information/signposting
 Information advice and guidance
 To offer volunteering opportunities
 Contribute towards the worklesness agenda and improve health
Quality Assurance
Aspire ensures good practice and quality of service by ensuring all staff are suitably
qualified and experienced. We also adhere to external bodies quality assurance
procedures i.e. New College Durham and Royal Society of Public Health as an
accredited centre. We have robust systems in place to monitor and evaluate all of
our provision.
Evidence of need
There has been a rise of 4.2% in the proportion of working age population in the AAP
area claiming `out of work` benefits since 2009.
There is a higher population of older women in Chester-le-Street than in other areas
of England. Aspire provides services for older women.
Aspire is closely aligned with key health and social care challenges. Our service
users come from the most vulnerable, potentially at risk, and harder to reach groups
who face many inequalities.
The work of Aspire contributes to addressing the wider determinants of health. If
engaged at the right time we contribute towards preventing ill health, acting as an
early intervention and keeping people well. We support those with low level mental
20
health needs and also provide a pathway to community activity for women who may
have had more acute mental health needs and are recovering from hospital stays.
Supporting women into training helps them become more in control of their own
future and makes them better equipped to access the job market.
Benefits of your work to health and social care commissioners
Reduce the number of hospital admissions /GP Visits.
Less prescriptions required.
Our services are provided at local level and are open to a wide age range of women.
By raising awareness and giving people the skills to choose and promote healthy
lifestyles we believe we are contributing to the prevention agenda. Working in
partnership with public sector agencies i.e. mental health teams both in primary and
secondary care settings, job centres, drug and alcohol teams, family support
services, many of which refer to Aspire services, creates a pathway for individuals to
access community based services. We support key areas of health improvement,
cancer awareness, mental health, long term conditions, diabetes, CVD, education
and welfare reform.
All of the above have the potential to make people less reliant on traditional medical
led primary care services.
Benefits of your work to service users
Our ethos is about encouraging and empowering. By developing self esteem and
confidence services users are more able to take control of their own lives and that of
their families.
By providing a safe supportive environment for women we are able to encourage
women to get more involved in a friendly, informal way. Women are able to ask
questions, develop their knowledge and skills and become proactive in shaping and
delivering further services. Currently our mature friend (support for older women)
drop in group, emotional well being group and chat `n`craft group are led by
volunteers with lived experience. Women develop a real sense of friendship and
belonging at Aspire. This has a great impact on reducing social isolation.
Other benefits
The women who come to the centre feel a sense of ownership. They are able to
bring their life experience which helps shape and mould the provision. We have a
comprehensive training programme offering personal development, health and well
being courses, IT, arts and crafts, functional skills and more. Having these skills
gives women greater access to the job market. Our crèche also means women with
young children can attend.
Volunteering is also a key part of our work. Our approach is to offer meaningful
opportunities for volunteers which not only helps with their personal development but
is a great support to the project. Our trainers have significant experience in
delivering health improvement courses and we are actively involved in the Cancer
Champions Project. Aspire has a trained volunteer who recently planned and
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delivered an awareness morning about the importance of cervical screening. This
volunteer has now decided to go on to do a teaching certificate. Aspire will continue
to support her throughout her training.
Added Value





2284 volunteer hours over 10 months averaging at 53 hours per week.
Approx. Income 2012/2013 (public sector contracts, grants and
donations, income generation, legacies, gift aid etc.) - £150000
We have received In Kind contributions other than volunteer time from
various professionals including solicitors re. employment contracts, and
financial advice from business support
We have 2 full time paid staff, 7 part time and 18 on a sessional basis.
50% of the women we employ live in County Durham
Way ahead
Short term
 To continue to develop our current in-house learning programme
delivery through New College Durham
 Further develop our external training to include cancer and dementia
awareness
 To support individuals to prevent ill-health and take control of their own
health.
 To continue to act as a sign-posting provider
 To explore ways to increase our in-house health and well being offer.
 Secure funding for volunteer involvement
Medium term
 Increase the offer of health and well being services and support those
with long term conditions
 Develop a mentor service
 Develop a volunteer health champion model
 Extend our current support services (an independent report produced
last year indicated an increase in the need for a confidential listening
service previously delivered by trained volunteers.)
 Develop health and well being services to support those with long term
conditions, mental health issues, health checks, signposting.
Current issues for service users
The need for more drop-in facilities for people with mental health issues
The need for more talking treatments – less prescriptions
More provision for carers including free training i.e. lifting and handling.
22
Contact details
Name:- Janice Rokni
Address:- Aspire House,
Rear of Front Street,
Chester le street,
Co Durham DH3 3AW
Telephone Number:- 0191 3891504
Website:-www.aspire-northeast.co.uk
Email:- [email protected]
23
Breathing Space
Breathing Space became a registered charity in August 2012 and began
operations led by a Project Officer in January 2013.
Mission: A holistic health and wellbeing project serving local communities,
especially people at the margins of society; using local community settings, including
St Michael’s 800 year old church building and idyllic countryside environs for
activities (Informed by Dept. of Health’s ‘Five a day for wellbeing’: Connect, Be
Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give). Its recovery and preventative
methods are designed for adults and children to experience improvements in selfesteem, personal fulfillment and interpersonal relationships.
Operating Principles/Values: Fully inclusive, non-discriminatory, reflecting
Christian principles of Love, Compassion and Service to Others.
Services Provided







Who are the services for? Adults and children from local communities,
especially those who are potentially at risk or at the margins of society.
When / how often are they provided? A variety of activities and events,
some weekly, some monthly and some ‘one-off’.
How / where are they provided? Activities are facilitated and led by Project
Officer and/or volunteers, either in church/community centre setting or
surrounding countryside (e.g. Witton Dene).
Impact upon clients. Largely positive impact but too soon to quantify
accurately because less than six months into operations.
Number of service users. To date, footfall of 400+, including Nature
Detectives (9); Woodland Wellbeing in Witton Dene (22); Arts on Prescription
(9); Mindfulness Walks (15); Brownies and Guides (50 + 15 adults); Reflection
Days (7); Family Fun Trail, Fulforth Dene (25); Concert (85); Open Door
Programme (25); plus initial contact with groups off-site including SHAID (12),
Sure-Start (8) and local school (100+).
Why are the services provided? To enhance community and personal
wellbeing, by facilitating unique, experiential opportunities for the acquisition
and development of personal meaning, self-worth and spiritual connection, via
participation in a range of group activities (utilizing Breathing Space’s
distinctive local resources).
Quality Assurance Broad range of Breathing Space policies and procedures
inform activities designed and risk assessed by Project Officer in partnership
with trustees and volunteers. Written risk assessments are completed for each
activity and volunteers are carefully briefed and prepared. Volunteers and
Project Officer undergo DBS checks and training where necessary (e.g.
Mental Health First Aid and Environmental Education courses) aided by high
skill sets of Project Officer and volunteers based on qualifications and/or
expertise in related areas.
24
Evidence of need for your work
Joint Strategic Needs Assessments (JSNA) for Chester-le-Street and Durham
Districts have identified a wide range of local health and wellbeing needs (including
mental health, e.g. suicide prevention) as supported by local Health Networks (HN)
and Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCG). In 2012, Durham and Darlington PCTs
also recognized the need for local health and wellbeing initiatives utilizing community
assets, and financially supported the development of the Breathing Space project.
The ‘County Durham Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2013-2017’ and ‘North
Durham CCG Clear and Credible Plan 2012/13 – 2016/17’ both reinforce the need
for flexible, preventative and therapeutic interventions at a local level to reduce
health inequalities and maximize quality of life and health outcomes, for a wide range
of conditions in local communities, affecting both children and adults in North
Durham. The current employment and economic difficulties, including high levels of
personal debt and social insecurity, are relevant risk factors affecting the health and
wellbeing of many in our local communities (as confirmed by GPs). Breathing Space
is designed to work in partnership with other organizations to address these issues.
There has been liaison with the Medical Centre and Northern Integrative Health
Practice (NIHP) at Sacriston, plus participation in the Sacriston Health Fair in April
2013.
A number of the ‘Woodland Wellbeing’ participants are part of a recovery
programme.
The Breathing Space profile has been developing and is being seen increasingly by
health and social care commissioners as a positive contributor to local health and
wellbeing. It is currently being considered as a potential partner organization for the
care and support of people with chronic pain and will provide Health Days for County
Durham and Darlington Carers. We hope also to develop our links with NHS funded
Mindfulness Courses, becoming a partner organization.
There are some early indications of improvements in social engagement, enjoyment
of constructive and creative activities, enhanced self-esteem and personal
confidence, development of social support networks and a reduction in social
isolation (e.g. conservation work with the Cyrenians in Witton Dene and the Arts on
Prescription programme at St Peter and St John’s Church, Sacriston, both facilitated
and organized by Breathing Space).
25
Other benefits
Environmental management and improvement work in Witton Dene; promotion of
volunteering (recruitment, induction, DBS checks where appropriate, training needs
assessments, preparation and training where required, deployment and monitoring
etc.); reduction in social stigma of marginalized groups/individuals via their inclusion
in Breathing Space activities, which are regarded positively by the local community.
There has been a heartening level of enthusiasm expressed by certain groups at the
prospect of interacting constructively with the local community.
Added Value



20 volunteers (including nine trustees), providing approximately 60 hours per
week, of volunteer time.
Funding 2013 - 2015: £46,730 (project officer costs – see 1 for sources)
1
PCT Charitable Funds - £16,730;
Durham Diocesan Missionary Fund - £20,000;
Seedbed Trust - £5,000;
Christ’s Hospital at Sherburn - £5,000.
2
£5,000 CDCF/HN funding for a range of health and wellbeing activities
in Durham and Chester-le-Street;
3
£800 - Arts on Prescription funding for eight week Art programme
starting June 2013;
4
£1500 in Breathing Space donations;
5
£175,000 raised for re-ordering church building to make it fit for
Breathing Space activities (various grants, donations and fundraising
involving local community). Totals 1-5 approx. £230,000.
Part time staff 1 who lives in County Durham
Way ahead
Achieve greater access to re-ordered church building (e.g. new roof by midNovember 2013). Hoping to become a Mindfulness Centre and Chanting Centre
(Mindfulness and Chanting groups have had taster sessions) and develop current
Mindfulness Walks.
Provide more conservation work and gardening activities.
Develop connections with Drug and Alcohol rehabilitation services and CBT services
(e.g. Talking Changes) where appropriate.
Run more creative art courses.
Liaise more with NIHP, CCG, Public Health and local Medical Centre/GPs (e.g.
Chronic Pain and Suicide Prevention services).
Develop self-esteem courses, provide regular drop-in services, and explore the
possibility of a ‘Men’s Shed’ via East Durham Trust. Develop links with local schools,
Guides, Brownies, Cubs, Scouts etc. (e.g. via ‘Nature Detectives’, countryside walks
to Beaurepaire etc.) and consider creating singing groups for adults and children to
enjoy.
26
Many participants have experienced difficulty travelling to the Project (especially
those with mobility problems) and some people have found it hard to make a regular
commitment due to conflicting demands on their time.
There is a crucial need for on-going funding of part-time (3 days per week) Breathing
Space Project Officer (post January 2015). There are also needs for on-going
funding of therapeutic activity programmes, plus the development of a pool of skilled
volunteers, involving training in skills and knowledge.
Contact details
Name:- Pam Barmby
Address:- St Michael and All Angels Church,
Coach Lane,
Witton Gilbert,
Durham DH7 6SU
or C/O 32 Friarside, Witton Gilbert, Durham DH7 6RY
Telephone Number:- 07508 471522 or 03333 666 300 (option 3)
Website:- www.durhamnorthteam.org
Email:- [email protected] or [email protected]
Group from Cyrenians working in Witton Dene
27
County Durham Carers Anonymous
County Durham Carers Anonymous is a self help group established in 2011/2012,
formed by individuals who broke away from Liberty from Addiction.
Carers Anonymous is not a registered charity, nonetheless it is governed by a written
constitution and has a bank account in the name of the group which requires at least
2 signatures.
Aim;
To provide a safe space for individuals affected by family members who misuse
drugs and/or alcohol. The group meets on a weekly basis to provide a non
judgemental, confidential and supportive environment that aims to give carers hope,
strength and courage.
Services Provided.
The group meets every Monday 7-9pm at Bullion Hall. On average the group is
attended by 10 carers each week. Outside of meetings members will contact by
telephone those who have been unable to attend or who are facing a particularly
difficult time.
The rationale for this self help group is that carers of drug/alcohol users often find
themselves isolated and unable to talk to others about their circumstances.
For example;
J has two sons with a history of drug use, mental health problems and custodial
sentences. J’s husband is seriously ill and other members of the family do not
understand why J sticks by her sons.
M lost two sons, who after leaving the army committed suicide. M’s daughter died as
the result of long term alcohol abuse.
Evidence of Need.

The level of alcohol use in the area, and in particular use that is more likely to
damage health including binge drinking is above the national average.

Co Durham experience some of the highest rates of alcohol related hospital
admissions in the UK, significantly higher than England.
28

Alcohol specific hospital admissions for young people (under 18) in County
Durham are higher than anywhere else in the North East.

Between 2007-2009 in County Durham 114 men and 75 women died from
alcohol specific causes.
(Population Health Profile. Public Health Epidemiologist Jan 2012).
Problematic drug/alcohol use can have a wide range of negative impacts upon family
life including, domestic violence, loss of trust due to behaviours such as theft from
family members by the user, manipulative behaviour by users means that close
family are often left feeling suspicious of motives.
This is the only self help group for the carers of drug/alcohol users in County
Durham.
Benefits of work to health and social care commissioners.
Living with drug/alcohol users can be highly stressful and lead to a sense of
powerlessness within a relationship. The group seeks to offer a positive intervention
thereby reduce the levels of depression that might otherwise be experienced.
Benefits to service users.
Individuals in this environment often feel very isolated. This group supports people to
re-build their self confidence, their capacity to trust others, build new friendships and
support networks and enable a sense of social inclusion.
Added value.
The group has an annual turnover of approx. £1,500 which includes room hire, public
liability insurance etc. The group has recently received a grant of £1,500 from
Cestria Community Housing Association to cover costs in 2013/2014.
Way ahead.
Promotion of this group is via posters distributed to GP surgeries, community venues
and word of mouth. The maximum number of people attending self-help meetings at
anyone time is 15. Above this number the group recognise that a second weekly
meeting would need to be established. The majority of carers who attend are from
the North Durham area.
At this time the group has no plans to expand.
29
Current issues;
There are no emergency detox services available. Currently all detox is based on a
planned approach which can take up to 5 weeks, during this time alcohol/drug users
may well have returned to old habits. The group believes that emergency detox may
address the needs of users and reduce the risk of suicidal/harmful behaviour.
Contact details.
Please contact via:
Chester-le-Street & District CVS and Volunteer Bureau
The Volunteer Centre
Clarence Terrace
Chester-le-Street
DH3 3DQ.
E-Mail; [email protected]
30
Durham Alcohol Self Support
Introduction
Durham Alcohol Self Support (DASS) was established in March 2011. Our mission is
to promote alcohol self support in County Durham. It is a peer support group for likeminded individuals with the sole objective of supporting each other in issues relating
to alcohol misuse.
Service Provided
DASS would describe itself as a self support group and not a service provider.
We offer an informal, flexible approach to the control and use of alcohol, which is a
less rigid alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous as we understand that total
abstinence may not be a realistic option for everyone. We offer weekly meetings at
community venues plus 24/7 telephone support where necessary.
Mondays
Tuesdays
Wednesdays
Thursdays
Fridays
B.A.A.S.S. at The Four Clocks, Bishop Auckland
DASS at Shakespeare Hall, Durham City
DASS at The St Margaret’s Centre, Crossgate, Durham City
DADDS at Citizens Hall, Consett
NAASS at Pioneering Care Partnership, Newton Aycliffe
CLASS at St Cuthbert’s Parish Hall, Chester-le-Street.
We have 70+ members and a management committee made up of 5 people as well
as 10 helpers. Numbers vary as the individual`s recovery progresses and they move
on (or revert back to their old ways).
Several of our members have found fulltime employment; others now volunteer in
other organisations. Many continue to be abstinent whilst others are able to control
their intake at reasonable levels. A number of our members have/are taking
vocational training through community based providers.
Evidence of need
Northern Echo Extract - 1st June 2012
‘Region tops national league for booze-related hospital admissions
Eighty thousand people were admitted to hospital for alcohol-related reasons in the
North-East last year, an annual increase of more than 7,000.
The newly-released statistics mean that the region has again topped a national
league for alcohol-related hospital admissions.
The total North-East figure of 80,700 alcohol-related hospital admissions during
2010-11 was an increase of 7,300 on the previous year’s total. It was the highest per
head of population, with 2,597 per 100,000 North-East residents needing hospital
31
treatment for alcohol-related issues compared to 1,335 admissions per 100,000 in
the South.’
One of the commissioning functions is to reduce alcohol related hospital admissions
in the County.
DASS has been recognised by commissioners as playing an important role in the
overall recovery agenda in County Durham.
DASS works very closely with the Community Alcohol Service (CAS). CAS offer
professional help to those in the early stages of recovery but cannot offer long term
support. DASS offers the longer term follow-up and support that CAS is unable to
provide but that many people desperately need in order to make a long term
recovery.
Alcohol related deaths in the north east are significantly higher than the England
average; alcohol misuse is a root cause of ill health. The main consequences are;
liver disease, cancer, stroke, hypertension and deaths from injuries related to alcohol
accounts for around 14% of all accidental deaths.
Our members have seen an improvement in their health and a reduction in the
ongoing damage caused by alcohol abuse. This has in turn led to a reduction in
hospital admissions and ultimately alcohol related deaths.
Members also experience a better quality of life through their involvement in
diversionary activities such as educational courses and fitness activities including
horticultural therapy at St Margaret`s Centre and light exercise at Maiden Castle
courtesy of Durham University.
The recovery process often repairs much of the damage that alcohol misuse causes
to family relationships.
Other benefits
DASS offers training courses to its members via St Margaret’s Centre. They include
IT, horticultural activities and local history. It is hoped to increase the number of
options depending on member’s particular interests over the forthcoming year.
Reduction in alcohol abuse is normally expected to lead to a fall in crime rates and
antisocial behaviour.
32
Added Value.

The management committee are the only volunteers at this time. It is
estimated that between them they give 200+ hours on a weekly basis.

Our income is approximately £8000. As a result of receiving grants from
County Durham Community Foundation and DUCKs our budget for 2013/14 is
considerably higher and will enable us to set up and support our new groups.
IN-kind contributions
Community Alcohol Service (CAS) provide support.
Durham City CVS contributed a huge amount of support until its recent closure. This
included drawing up the constitution, assistance with funding applications, gaining
charitable status, supply of accounting software and auditing application, driving the
minibus and more.
The Whitehouse (DACC) for the supply of their minibus free of charge and driver
over the last twelve months.
The Durham Rural County Council has recently assumed the role the responsibilities
of Durham City CVS and is giving advice on funding applications.
NHS – Change 4 Life Healthy Eating and Health Checks (Cholesterol BMI etc)
Way ahead
Open new weekly meeting venues in Easington/Peterlee and a third in Durham
City. June 2013 saw the start of weekly meetings in Chester-le-Street.
To continue to offer and develop a wider range of diversionary activities to fill the gap
left by alcohol.
The situation will be reassessed later this year particularly with the respect to the
formation of new groups.


Particular concern has been voiced by the majority of members (but not all) of
the lack of understanding and in some cases support shown by their GPs.
It is also felt that alcohol abuse issues related to mental health issues, and vice
versa (i.e. ‘Dual Diagnosis’) is applicable to many members but not always
properly addressed by some members of the medical profession. It’s often too
easy to blame everything on alcohol.
33

DASS operates on the understanding that many people benefit from support
whilst making genuine efforts to overcome their alcohol problems. There is a
concern that a number of support programmes which receive government
funding have a condition that it is abstinence based. This excludes people who
may otherwise benefit from the excellent facilities on offer. It is a policy which is
not in the interest of many who are trying to control their addiction.
Contact details
Name:-
John Soppett
Telephone number:- 0191 3885673
Address:- C/o Chester-le-Street & District CVS and Volunteer Bureau
The Volunteer Centre, Clarence Terrace, Chester-le-Street. DH3 3DQ
34
Durham and Wearside Sands
Durham and Wearside Sands was established in January 2008 as a local branch of
Sands, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Charity
It was formed to offer local support for bereaved parents and their families. The
group is run on a completely voluntary basis and our simple aim is to offer support,
understanding, comfort and most importantly, a listening ear.
At a local level we support the Aims of National Sands



support anyone affected by the death of a baby;
work with health professionals to improve the quality of care and services
provided to bereaved parents and their families;
promote changes in antenatal practice and fund research that could help to
reduce the loss of babies' lives.
Services Provided
The death of a baby is a devastating experience. The effects of grief can be
overwhelming and parents, their families and friends can be left feeling dazed,
disorientated, isolated and exhausted.
It can be hard to take in information, to make decisions or to imagine how you are
going to cope. At Sands there are people who understand what it's like because
many of us have been through this experience ourselves, and we are here to help
offer support and information when you need it. We are not trained counsellors, just
fellow parents that understand the sheer enormity of what has happened and hope
we can help in some way either now or in the weeks or months to come. The subject
of stillbirth and infant death is often thought to be taboo and it was thought that
parents were best left alone. We believe that parents need an opportunity to express
all of the emotions and feelings that result from the death of their child. We are there
to offer support in the early hours and days as well as throughout the difficult journey
that we are all travelling.
We support anyone who is affected by the death of a baby including those long ago
bereaved who may also require assistance in tracing a grave.
We also hold adhoc support meetings for parents going through the next pregnancy.
We have also held ‘Plant and Remember’ events where we sell flowers such as
forget-me-nots as a fundraising event
We hold a monthly support meeting (3rd Monday of the month, St Barnabas Church
Hall, Bournmoor) which is very informal and provides an opportunity to share
experiences. We understand that not everyone wants to talk and some prefer to just
sit and listen in a "safe" environment.
35
Group discussions often split into smaller discussions and many people who attend
feel a benefit from simply realising that they are not alone.
People in the group are often at different stages of loss and can often offer practical
suggestions of things they have done or ways that they have coped, such as
investigation into their baby's death and conception following loss.
There is a large range of literature and information available at the meetings which
can be borrowed by group members. It is difficult to access books about babyloss in
general bookstores and the library is well used.
We have books to help younger children understand the loss of their sibling or
relative too.
Email support is also offered by our befrienders.



Number of service users.
Varies monthly however averages 12
All befrienders have completed 2 day Sands befriender training and some have
completed basic counselling certificates and listening skills training. Befrienders
also attend advanced befriender training with Sands when they have 1 years
experience.
As the following facts demonstrate stillbirth and neonatal death are a harsh reality
which is not going to go away overnight. As there is little or no NHS support for those
affected by the loss of a child our support group and the work Sands does to reduce
the risk of stillbirth and neonatal death will always be needed.
17 babies die every day in the UK (11 are stillbirths, 6 are neonatal deaths) over
6,500 baby deaths a year - the equivalent of 16 jumbo jets crashing every year with
no survivors.
Ten times more babies are stillborn than die of cot death every year in the UK.
The stillbirth rate has remained almost unchanged for the past 10 years. (CMACE)
The UK has one of the highest stillbirth rates when compared to similar high income
countries. (The Lancet Medical Journal, Stillbirth Series, April 2011: Britain ranked
33rd out of 35 similar countries, i.e. second from bottom).
1 in every 200 babies is stillborn in the UK
1 in every 300 babies born in the UK dies in the first four weeks of life
For over half of all stillbirths the cause remains unexplained. These babies are born
perfectly formed, with no clear reason why they died. We need to understand what is
causing these deaths.
The majority of unexplained stillbirths are in pregnancies that were previously
considered low risk. We need better ways to identify babies who are at risk.
1 in 5 stillborn babies are much smaller than they should be, yet we have no good
method to detect these babies in the womb and act to deliver them before they die.
Stillbirth is when a baby is born dead after 24 completed weeks of pregnancy
36
Neonatal death is when a baby is born alive but dies within the first 28 days of life
We liaise with local hospitals and attend the MSLC (maternity services liaison
committee) when we can.
Durham Sands offer training to those who come into contact with bereaved families.
There is a one day workshop which is offered to outline the Guidelines for
Professionals published by Sands.
UHND (University Hospital of North Durham) have had two study days and feedback
has been extremely positive.
We also encourage contact from students and have attended a study day at the
University of Teesside.
Our befrienders have also attended Health visitor meetings.
We offer talks and literature to GP surgeries free of charge.
It may be the only opportunity for them to come into contact with other bereaved
parents.
They can connect with others and know that they are not going through the
experience alone.
Sands produces literature which helps fathers, family and friends, other children,
grandparents, sexual problems after stillbirth and neonatal death, returning to work
for the employee, employers information to help with the return to work of an
employee.
We have an extensive library which users would not usually have easy access to
which cover the next pregnancy, biographies, and specific conditions
We can signpost users to other relevant organisations e.g. TAMBA (Twins and
Multiple Birth Association) who have a bereavement service for the families of
multiples, ARC (Antenatal Results and Choices) to those families who have to make
heartbreaking decisions after their 20 week scan.
Added Value
We currently have 6 Active befrienders (including 2 male) who all live in Co Durham
and regularly attend meetings and answer emails as required
Our attendance on MSLC helps to update maternity services to relevant guidance
and campaigns
In 2012/2013 we received voluntary donations of approximately £4K.
Way ahead

Continue with the provision of training for midwives and staff who come into
contact with bereaved families based on the Sands Guidelines for
Professionals 2007. This workshop has been offered to all maternity units in our
area and costs approx £400
37




Provision of training for midwives and medical photography staff to enable them
to capture photographic memories confidently approx £700
To provide volunteers with appropriate training and supervision as required
Continue to provide support literature to parents and medical professionals e.g.
GPs, community midwives and maternity units (leaflets cost up to £1.50 each )
To initiate a support group to help bereaved families in South Durham / Teeside
area as currently there is not a Sands support group between Durham and York
Contact details
Please contact via:
Chester-le-Street & District CVS and Volunteer Bureau
Clarence Terrace
Chester-le-Street
DH3 3DQ
Website:- www.durham-sands.org
38
Durham Community Association
Durham Community Association was established in January 1948. The aims of
the association are:To promote for the benefit of the inhabitants of the Durham City area by associating
with local voluntary organisations in an a common effort to advance education and to
provide facilities in the interest of social welfare for recreation and leisure time with
the object of improving the conditions of life.
Services Provided
The association provides a variety of activities including physical activities as
follows:Line Dancing – Tuesday and Thursday afternoons.
Ladies Keep Fit – Wednesday evening
Ballroom and Sequence Dancing – Monday evening
Tai Chi – Monday afternoon
Jugglers – Monday morning
Yoga – Tuesday morning
All of the classes are well attended and attract a range of ages.
Evidence of need
County Durham has some of lowest physical activity participation levels in the
country which is reflected in the array of health inequalities within the county.
Fortunately Durham Community Association is in great demand for physical activity
classes. We currently have approximately 200 people attending classes.
We offer very competitive prices which is vitally important if we want to attract those
people on lower incomes who would benefit the most from a more physically active
lifestyle.
There is evidence to suggest that physical activity can help prevent the risk of
chronic disease. It is also established that those people who experience the worst
health in society are likely to be the least active. Durham City District experiences
inequality in health, income and access to services.
The Physical Activity Strategy for County Durham aims to encourage more people to
participate in regular physical activity regardless of age, gender, ability or
affordability. Durham Community Association is based in Shakespeare hall in the
centre of Durham and is very accessible by local transport. Apart from the obvious
benefits of participating in physical activity, many of our members benefit greatly
from the social aspect of the classes. There are a growing number of older people
who are at risk of becoming isolated both within the city centre area as well as the
39
outlying villages. Our association offers an affordable and accessible range of
activities which contribute to the health and wellbeing agenda.
We feel it is important not only to recruit but to retain our members. To do this we
offer a range of activities aimed at a variety of ages, abilities and gender. They are
provided by trained staff and are carried out on a weekly basis. Most of our physical
activity sessions are social; ending with a friendly cup of tea or with organised social
events.
Our yoga classes are particularly popular with the over 50 year olds. Feedback has
highlighted how beneficial yoga is in terms of balance, strength, stamina and
relaxation. These are all elements which contribute to maintaining activities of daily
living.
Our dance classes are important as we do not experience the high drop out rates
that some exercise programmes for older people do. This is because dance is
enjoyable and sociable. It is inclusive and everyone can take part. Many of our
members say that it almost makes them feel young again!
Other benefits
Other benefits apart from those directly linked to health and wellbeing are
volunteering, making a contribution to the local community in terms of supporting the
CA, making friends and gaining a sense of ownership which often motivates people
to become more involved.
Added Value

There are 26 volunteers mostly made up of group leaders from the CA who
form the management committee.
The annual income as on 31st December 2012 was £48,000. This included
grants, awards, income from room hire, subscription and donations.
Paid staff. 3 part time
Way ahead
As with many Voluntary organisations our main aim is to keep the organisation
financially viable, maintain the building and attract more volunteers.
40
Although it is apparent that organisations such as ours contribute greatly to the
health and wellbeing agenda, in order to flourish and remain accessible, affordable
and continue to serve our communities we rely on financial support from outside
bodies.
Contact details
Name:- David Linley (FTTB)
Address:- c/o Durham Community Association,
Shakespeare Hall,
North Road,
Durham City.
DH1 4SQ
Website:- http//www.durhamca.org.uk
Email:- [email protected] .uk
41
Durham County Carers Support began on 1st July 2012 following a merger of 5
former Carers Centres based on former local government boundaries. Each of these
had been established for at least 13 years in their own right.
Mission Statement
Durham County Carers Support aim to improve the health and wellbeing of Carers
caring for someone in County Durham by providing practical and emotional support,
advice and information.
Aims











Identifying and engaging with hidden and hard to reach carers.
Empowering carers by ensuring they have the knowledge and skills they need
to make informed choices in their lives to sustain and improve their health and
wellbeing and that of the person they care for.
Enhancing wellbeing via effective initial assessment and individual support
planning
Maximising access to specialist support by effective internal and external
referral
Improving carer awareness and understanding of the issues amongst
professionals at operational and strategic levels.
Increasing independence by promoting access to self-help opportunities and
skills
Effective use of multi-agency working to maximise the support available.
Ensuring locally accessible and outreached access to Carer Support services
across County Durham.
Analysing service gaps and unmet need and developing services to meet
these.
Ensuring our workforce is equipped with the skills needed to deliver the service
in the most cost effective way through training and support.
Analysing the monitoring and evaluation of the service to ensure outcomes are
achieved and using this evidence to shape the on-going development of the
service.
42
Services Provided
We support adults who have a caring role for a relative, friend or neighbour who
cannot manage without their help due to disability, illness, addiction or frailty.
We operate five days a week throughout the year and offer visits and activities out of
office hours.
We cover every part of County Durham and the majority of our support is delivered
via home visits, office visits, telephone and email contact. It is mainly one to one
information and advice but we do have around 20 support groups and offer a range
of courses, information events, and social activities to encourage peer support.
We currently have 9655 carers registered with the service.
We are a network member of the Carers Trust and abide by their quality assurance
standards. Our staff are all well qualified in the fields they operate and receive
ongoing training, supervision and support. We have around 100 volunteers
supported by 2 Co-ordinators who offer training support and supervision to them.
At the last census in 2011 over 60,000 adults identified they had a caring role. Also
many people do not realise they are carers as they see themselves as a wife,
partner, son etc. There is much evidence of the need for support to ensure carers
are given the information and advice they need to make informed choices and are
fully involved with the care of the person they care for. The evidence shows that with
this support their health and wellbeing improves and they are able to sustain their
role for longer. The Carers Trust recently produced a report around commissioning
carers services which demonstrates the national evidence and research.
See this link
http://www.carershub.org/sites/default/files/carers_hub_toolkit_for_commissioners.pd
f
Supporting carers is proven to improve their health and wellbeing and prevent a
breakdown in the caring role. There is a huge body of evidence in the Carers Hub
Toolkit see the link above. The Royal College of GPs have been working in
partnership with the Carers Trust and produced research and resources that further
show the benefits of support.
We carry out outcome focussed questionnaires with carers when they first come into
contact with the service and again 6 months after. These consistently show an
improvement in knowledge, reduced isolation and knowing who to go to for advice.
We also gather case studies and have examples of the difference we make to
peoples incomes, health and wellbeing.
43
Other benefits
We employ 38 staff the majority live in County Durham. We have over 100
volunteers who support us and again they are local people. We offer ongoing
training, supervision and support to all of them. We are a local service that people
trust and engage with often supporting the most vulnerable and hard to reach carers
and their families.
Added Value
115 hours volunteering per week, (including trustee time)
Approximately 1 million income from all sources this year
38 paid staff, 26 full time, 32 live in County Durham.
Way ahead
Improve links with CCGs as 50% of our contract is with the CCG. Continue to
highlight the health benefits to carers and their families of the support we offer.
We currently have a Lottery bid for additional support for Parent Carers as our
current contract only allows us to offer them very limited support due to funding.
We are focussing on support for carers around the welfare benefit reforms as this is
what they tell us they are most worried about and most need support with.
In the medium term we need to look at other sources of income generation so we are
not so dependent on contracts.
Carers need to be fully informed and involved with service delivery and
developments and we can facilitate this through our service. The main issues
effecting carers are around welfare reforms and changes in services. They need to
be fully involved and a respected partner in the care of the person they care for. We
support them to understand confidentiality issues but there are still many instances
where carers need information in order to properly support their caring role. The
Care Closer to Home agenda is commendable but often means the carer takes on a
complex and strenuous caring role for longer and in more difficult circumstances
than ever before. They need to be included in the solutions and planning of these
new initiatives in order to measure the impact and find solutions to the practical
issues they will face.
44
Contact details
Jenni Wood, Chief Executive
Claire House
Victoria Road
Barnard Castle
DL12 8HW
01833600570
[email protected]
www.dccarers.org
45
Durham Foodbank
Durham foodbank was established in September 2011, with emergency food
distribution starting in October that year. The foodbank follows the Trussell Trust
model for foodbanks, aiming to provide emergency food for local people in crisis and
through this restore dignity and revive hope. Durham foodbank is one of eight
projects hosted by Durham Christian Partnership.
Services Provided
Emergency food is mostly accessed through Distribution Centres, of which there are
13 across County Durham. Both Durham and Chester-le-Street have Distribution
Centres, which open for 3 sessions a week, based in churches and community
centres. Foodbank users are referred by partner organisations including Citizens
Advice Bureau and Job Centres. Anyone who is in a crisis situation and cannot
afford food can be referred to the foodbank. Users receive enough food to last 3
days, the food in the parcel is packed to a set list that aims to be nutritionally
balanced. This food acts as a short term safety net whilst a longer term solution is
put in place. In June 2013, 192 people accessed the foodbank in Chester le Street
and 156 people in Durham. Since starting in October 2011, over 800 people have
accessed the foodbank in Chester le Street and 1880 people in Durham. Volunteers
receive training and ongoing support on how to deal with different circumstances
they encounter. Client experiences are monitored through feedback forms, which
are also provided to referrers.
The graph below shows the increase in the number of people fed by the foodbank
since October 2011. This reflects the increasing need for emergency food provision
by our partner agencies.
Total foodbank
1200
1000
800
600
400
Jun-13
May-13
Apr-13
Mar-13
Feb-13
Jan-13
Dec-12
Nov-12
Oct-12
Sep-12
Aug-12
Jul-12
Jun-12
May-12
Apr-12
Mar-12
Feb-12
Jan-12
Dec-11
Nov-11
0
Oct-11
200
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Access to free, nutritionally balanced food is good for the general health and well
being of service users.
The immediate benefit for service users is the provision of emergency food allowing
them to feed themselves and their families. Feedback from service users has shown
that they value being listened to by volunteers at the Distribution Centres, providing
them with the opportunity to unburden themselves to someone offering a listening,
caring ear. Volunteers can also signpost service users to other agencies and
support networks relevant to their situation.
Other benefits
We have a large volunteer team volunteering across the county. Within that team we
have volunteers who have volunteered at the foodbank as a way of increasing their
confidence, meeting new people and gaining new skills. This has had a positive
impact on their general health and well being.
We work closely with the probation service and housing charities who house young
people recently released from prison. Emergency food provision has prevented
young people from shoplifting food and risk a return to custody.
Added Value
We have over 200 volunteers across the County, with volunteer time ranging from 2
hours – 10 hours per week.
Income for past 12 months:
£7800: Grants, Area Action Partnerships (AAP),
Councillors; Members Initiative Funds
£6600: Fundraising
£14000: Personal Donations (irregular)
£2300: Regular income (personal donations)
All our food is donated by members of the public – a total of 89 tonnes since 2011.
Durham Christian Partnership employs 2 members of staff directly involved in the
foodbank: a part time Development Worker and a full time Administrator. These
members of staff spend 20% and 80% of their time on the foodbank project
respectively. From September we will be employing a full time foodbank Project
Manager.
47
Way ahead
Plans that your group may have for the remainder of 2013/2014(short term) and
2014-2016(Medium Term)
Our short term plans are to employ a foodbank Project Manager and improve the
accessibility of emergency food by opening further distribution centres.
Our medium term plans are to increase the quantity and quality of support, advice
and signposting available at distribution centres, integrating another of Durham
Christian Partnership’s projects, Durham Money Advice Centre, with the foodbank to
provide service users with access to budgeting help and training.
Current issues for service users that you would like commissioners to be
aware of when planning future service delivery
Many service users contact the foodbank having first contacted many different
agencies for help and support who have referred them on to other agencies. This
can result in service users being extremely anxious by the time they contact the
foodbank.
Contact details
Name:- Naomi Stevens
Address:- 3 Fram Well House, Framwellgate Peth, Durham, DH1 5SU
Telephone Number:- 0191 303 7559
Website:- www.durhamfoodbank.org.uk and www.durhamcp.org.uk
48
If U Care Share Foundation
If U Care Share Foundation (IUCSF) was set up in 2010 after the tragic death of
Daniel O'Hare, aged 19 years, to suicide. Like 75% of young men that take their own
lives, Daniel had no previous history of mental health problems. Originally set up by
Daniels brothers Matthew & Ben and cousin Sarah (aged 10, 5 & 13 years). They
wanted to encourage young people to "share" problems that troubled them, in the
hope of preventing 1 family enduring a similar experience.
IUCSF’s main aims are:

Prevention

Intervention

Support after Suicide
Services Provided
Prevention – IUCSF deliver an Emotional and Mental Health (EAMH) workshop to
Secondary schools throughout Co Durham, aimed at 14 years and above. This
workshop was developed with input from a focus group made up of young people
and a group of professionals (including PSHE teachers). EAMH identifies why
emotional and mental health is a priority in a young person’s life, the implications of
having poor mental health and the importance of seeking support before crisis.
Where possible, IUCSF also signposts to support available internally and
externally of the learning environment.
In the past academic year, this has been delivered to 1891 young people and 69
teachers in schools in County Durham. (total of 4000 young people since its
introduction in 2010). This was funded by NHS Co Durham CAMHS Commissioning
Group which ceased in the new transition to Public Health. IUCSF also provided
bespoke training to 180 Students from Universities throughout the area, which was
funded through the Big Lottery.
Intervention – IUCSF have qualified staff to deliver ASIST (Applied Suicide
Intervention Skills Training) and YMHFA (Youth Mental Health First Aid) along with
other bespoke training. Since March, IUCSF has delivered 10 YMHFA courses,
throughout County Durham, for people who have contact with or work with young
people aged 11 -18 years. Attendees learn how to spot potential triggers and how to
identify a young person that may be experiencing mental health problems. 100
people have been trained and a further 4 courses are planned before the end of the
year. This was funded by NHS Co Durham CAMHS Commissioning Group.
Support After Suicide (SAS) - service provides one on one practical and emotional
support for people affected/bereaved by suicide. In December 2012, IUCSF received
SAS funding for 2 days/week for a period of one year. The total number receiving
support is 21 since the service was introduced to two days a week. Previously a one
day per week service supported a further 44 people over a two year period.
49







In 2011 there were 6,045 suicides in the UK (4,552 - males and 1,493 –
females).
The suicide rate was significantly higher in 2011, compared with 2010 (11.8
and 11.1 deaths per 100,000 population respectively), and was the highest
rate since 2004.
In 2011 the suicide rate was highest in the North East at 12.9 deaths per
100,000 population. The year on year figures for Co Durham had already
passed the 2012 figure for deaths in June 2012.
A study in 2009 outlined that the cost to economy of one suicide to be over
£1,450,000.
Suicide is now the leading cause of premature death in males aged 15-35
years and 75% of these males have no prior contact with mental health
services.
The need to train at grass roots level in communities is needed more than
ever.
We do not yet know the implications of the social and economic decline.
The charity sits on various committees and has representation at national level on
groups such Advisory Group for National Suicide Prevention Strategy, the All Party
Parliamentary Suicide Prevention Group (which meets quarterly in Westminster). It
has also representation on local Prevention Task force and Children and Young
Person’s Mental Health Committee for NHS Co Durham.
The risk of suicide is heightened when a person has been touched by the death of a
loved one to suicide. The SAS service IUCSF provides, offers support to those
struggling to come to terms with the death, in a number of ways:

1:1 listening service

Alternative therapies – massage therapies, boxing, gym, art-based therapies.

Signposting to other agencies/organisations for specialist help
Since inception the SAS service has supported 176 people at risk of suicide. The
positive result from this is that they are all still living!
The EAMH workshops encourage young people to talk and ‘share’ issues that may
worry them while breaking down the barriers and stigma around poor mental health.
IUCSF also signposts to the support networks available, encouraging the young
people to seek help earlier.
Intervention training provides practical training for individuals seeking to prevent the
immediate risk of suicide and YMHFA is intended to save a young person’s life by
recognising and acting upon indicators of mental health issues in young people.
Bearing in mind the statistics given above and the overall cost of one death by
suicide, the services offered by IUCSF around prevention and intervention are
helping to reduce suicides and therefore costs.
50





IUCSF offers a unique service, specialising in suicide prevention and support.
Staff/volunteers include ‘T-Shirt wearers’ (people who have been touched by
suicide) and so have first-hand experience of issues and emotions these
people face on a day to day basis.
IUCSF has vast knowledge of suicide and the issues around it.
IUCSF offer a 1:1 listening service and counselling from an external provider if
required
Individuals and families are seen in a friendly, calming and non-clinical
environment
IUCSF also offers various other services, including:

Housing advice

Attending inquests

Signposting to various appropriate support networks

Advice on inquest procedures

Advocacy

Supported in TAC meetings

Painted scene of death within home

Placed in voluntary roles

Emotional support

Access to printed materials: Help is at Hand, The Road Ahead

Attend funerals

Cookery lessons
Other benefits
IUCSF are based in the heart of the community, in the community centre, which
means it not only supports individuals and families but it also supports the centre
through the use of the gym and café for our families.
A number of IUCSF fundraising events take place in the Community Centre, bringing
the community together.
Added Value
Being a small charity 3 full time + 3 part time staff we regularly call upon a team of ad
hoc volunteers/drivers. The volunteers include a very experienced and committed
board of Trustees (11), some of whom have experienced a “loss by suicide”. Their
skill, dedication and drive direct the charity and its members. IUCSF also has a
team of 16 youth panel members, aged 14–24 years, who provide an up to date
understanding of the needs of young people. The majority of IUCSF
staff/volunteers/youth panel live in Co Durham
51
Service for bereavement - funded two days a week by NHS Co Durham & Darlington
(approx. £155000) however the majority of funds come from the Big Lottery (for next
4 years).
Each local authority contract is for one year only -two of these are coming to term
and have not yet been re-commissioned.
The Premier League and LFE have agreed for IUCSF to deliver the EAMH
programme for the 13/14 season, providing an additional income. They also plan to
develop the training that we have provided to “House Parents”.
IUCSF has received support through fundraising, generally from people who have
been touched by suicide, and who have engaged with IUCSF services and seen the
difference. We cannot provide our service and run on private donations alone. For a
two year period IUCSF ran as a constituted group on a voluntary basis however we
could not have survived or developed on this basis. In kind support from a renowned
North East solicitor has also proved invaluable to our charity.
Way Ahead
Big Lottery funding has allowed IUCSF to take work beyond Co Durham throughout
the North East and to deliver services in areas that were previously untouched due
to lack of funding.
IUCSF has a developed a new 1 day prevention training programme which will be
developed and piloted over next year, with the long term plan for delivery to
“community members/champions”. It is imperative that as many people as possible
become aware of the problem of suicide and through the delivery of this new training
more will become confident in suicide prevention and support of people touched by
it.
IUCSF plans to offer bespoke suicide prevention training to adults and young people
in County Durham, however funding isn’t guaranteed and we are unaware at present
whether we will receive funding beyond 2014.
IUCSF work in Partnership with the Premier League and League Football Education,
nationally, delivering EAMH to young apprentices, who are under immense pressure
to achieve at a very young age. IUCSF has worked with some of biggest Clubs
including Manchester City and United and local Clubs Sunderland, Newcastle and
Middlesbrough.

Waiting times when talking therapies are required

Access issues to other therapies

Transition problems from CAMHS to Adult services
52
Contact Details
Shirley Smith
If U Care Share Foundation
Great Lumley Community Centre
Front Street
Great Lumley
Chester le Street
DH3 4JD
Tel: 0191 387 5661
Website: www.ifucareshare.com
Email: [email protected]
53
ME North East
ME North East became a registered charity in July 2000. From a small group of
volunteers with an income of £12,000 pa we have developed a professional
organisation delivering help and support to our 1750 members with an income of
£145,000 pa.
Our purpose is to improve the lives of people suffering with ME, to enable
them to manage their illness and help them to achieve the best possible
quality of life, health and well-being.
We operate with the support of a formal CFS/ME medical advisory panel, with highly
trained staff and excellent quality standards.
Services Provided
We provide a personalised service to members, all of whom have a diagnosis of
ME/CFS. NHS services provide limited adult outpatient services in clinical settings,
leaving those housebound severe patients without support. Durham NHS is the only
locality that provides a dedicated service for young people, but with limited resources
do not meet demand.
We provide a full-time service, with some evening and week-end cover. We operate
across the North East region and North Cumbria. We provide; a telephone helpline
for members and carers, a home visiting service to identify a personal care plan to
enable optimum support. Following NICE guidelines, we support members to
manage their illness, health and well-being. We support and advocate with welfare
benefit claims, medical assessments, appeals and tribunals. We support young
people to remain in education, and liaise with schools and home education services
to monitor their progress.
We support the network of local self-help groups, we host conferences and
workshops, and arrange regular social get-togethers for members of all ages. We
provide counselling, yoga classes and therapeutic treatments. We produce regular
newsletters for adults and young people, and encourage volunteering in a variety of
ways to enable social inclusion, reduce isolation, and improve confidence.
Regular evaluation highlights the positive impact on service users. Our recent survey
showed 95% of members found our services very helpful, the support with welfare
benefits being 100% supported.
We have a staff team of 5 with qualifications in Occupational Therapy, Counselling,
Yoga, Neuro Linguistic Programming and Welfare Benefits Advice.
54
Evidence of need
Lack of understanding, the stigma attached to ME, the reluctance of GP’s to
diagnose this disease, or to acknowledge its existence, together with the absence of
any dedicated NHS services for this patient group led to people having to look after
themselves, and to help one another.
DoH prevalence rates suggest at least 12,000 people with ME in this region (2,000
are young people). ME North East were a critical partner in the planning and
development of dedicated services in this region, working with NHS providers to
secure pump-prime funding to establish clinical services back in 2005. Therapy
services have been operating in five localities since that time. However with budgets
being eroded and staff vacancies not being filled, the future of dedicated services for
ME is uncertain.
We have moved forward in so far as many more GP’s are now more informed and
are prepared to diagnose ME/CFS. There are a number of consultants who are
prepared to specialise in this area, resulting in increased demand for our help and
support beyond the diagnostic and traditional treatments of pain and sleep
management. We provide a one stop shop and a holistic approach based on our
member’s needs and aspirations.
Benefits to health and social care commissioners
To date we have not formally validated the benefits of our work to health and social
care commissioners. However we are aware from internal monitoring and evaluation,
our support, advocacy and practical help benefits statutory care providers in a
number of ways.




Reduced number of emergency hospital admissions – panic and anxiety
attacks occur regularly leading to people making unnecessary emergency
trips to A&E. We speak to many callers in crisis and are able to reduce their
fears and anxieties by talking them through their present circumstances.
Notwithstanding that we would direct people to NHS services if we were
unable to control the situation.
Delivering our help and services undeniably reduces the number of visits to
GP surgeries, as many people are presenting with symptoms common to ME,
that, particularly with recently diagnosed patients can be very frightening.
Our specialised CBT counselling service reduces the demand on NHS mental
health services
Supporting people with welfare benefit applications, medical assessments,
appeals and tribunals, not only helps the individual but their carers also. This
process is very stressful and can have a major health impact, particularly with
ME as stress is known to exacerbate symptoms which can lead to major
relapse.
55
Benefits to our service users
These people have nowhere else to go. ME North East staff team provides someone
to talk to who has an understanding of their condition
They have someone readily available who is prepared to listen and empathise when
times are tough
They have someone they can talk to about the multitude of symptoms they
experience – some scary and distressing.
The have someone who can help with management techniques and coping
strategies.
They have someone who will help them with their entitlements to welfare benefits, to
help complete the forms, to support and advocate through the process of medical
assessments, help to gather evidence and reports to present to appeals and
tribunals.
Benefits to young people include, help with energy management, sleep, stress and
anxiety issues. Help with schools, teachers, tutors and education welfare officers. By
liaising with these people we can help young people maintain a level of mainstream
education wherever possible, help to engage home tuition services where required,
and help with re-integration when health improves.
There are huge benefits for those who use our counselling and therapy services,
engage in our social activities, get involved in volunteering and share good practice
between one another.
Other benefits
Being unable to continue with regular life, work and activities, many of our members
have taken up arts and crafts, and hidden talents have emerged. We encourage
people to come together to share and show their products and this has proven to be
an ideal opportunity for social interaction and continued links with one another.
Added value
We have approximately 40 volunteers who help in a variety of ways as and when
health allows, and when need arises, averaging around 15 hours per week.
Approximate income for 2012/13 - £145,000
We receive no statutory funding
Main funders Children in Need and The Big Lottery Fund
70%
Other smaller grants
12%
56
Sponsored events and fundraising
12%
Voluntary Donations
3%
Gift Aid
3%
We currently have 5 staff; 3 full-time and 2 part-time. Four staff members live in
Durham.
We have recently secured 12 days working time from a Business Support Officer to
prepare ourselves for contracting.
The way ahead
We continue to rely heavily on grant making trust and foundations, which has
supported us since 1999. The level of funding available through this route is
reducing, most especially because of the exceptionally long term support funders
such as the Lottery and Children in need have provided to ME North East.
We recently received a further two years funding from Children in Need but with a
30% reduction in funds from times past. Our 5 year grant from The Big Lottery
expires at the end of 2013. We are in the process of applying for continuation funds
for 2014-18, and as this pays for 1.2wte as well as 33% of our overheads, we are
heavily reliant on success. The future is bleak.
Issues Commissioners should be aware of
Current issues are historical and on-going – the lack of recognition of ME/CFS, the
stigma attached to this illness. Difficulties in getting help and support from busy GPs,
who either won’t acknowledge the illness, or simply don’t know what to do.
Recognising there is no cause, no cure, and no simple diagnostic test is problematic,
and diagnosis by exclusion is usually the route GPs will take. Patients are reluctant
to visit the surgery, but the symptoms presenting are often complicated and
frightening.
The limited therapeutic services presently available are insufficient to give on-going
support and help to this patient group.
57
Contact details
Jennifer Elliott,
Chief Executive ME North East
Bullion Hall,
South Approach,
Chester le Street,
Durham DH2 2ES
0191 3892222
www.menortheast.org
[email protected]
58
Chester-le-Street and Durham City Mind
Chester-le-Street and Durham City Mind established in 1979 is a registered charity
and company limited by guarantee. Services are provided across Chester-le-Street
and Durham City communities to people who are experiencing or have experienced
mental distress.
Our Vision
We work towards a better quality of life for everyone in the Chester-le-Street and
Durham City communities experiencing emotional distress.
Services Provided
Counselling and Psychotherapy
Primary Care Counselling - Adults – from 16 years.
Access all Areas
Community based mentoring programme - support and mentoring to overcome
isolation and mental health problems – over 1300 clients seen annually.
Community Discharge Project
Support to patients prior to discharge from acute psychiatric care – in partnership
with TEWV NHS Foundation Trust, Greater Durham CAB and Derwentside Mind.
Advice and Information
Help-line open 10.00a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday – Thursday.
months dealt with 3362 calls
– In the last twelve
Crisis Listening
Support for those in immediate crisis, over the phone and face to face.
The Haven Group
Meets each Wednesday. - Resident artist supports clients - over 20 people attend
aged 30- 100 years.
Bereavement by Suicide Support Group
Therapeutic group support from two counsellors - currently have 12 members who
meet on the first Wednesday of each month.
Also provide one to one therapy for those able to travel to one of our bases.
Young People’s Text Helpline
Service developed by young people for young people.
Rapid Response Suicide Prevention Service
Referral from Crisis and Access Teams for clients with suicidal ideation to a
specialist counselling service. In partnership with IAPT service, Derwentside,
Hartlepool and Darlington Mind organisations.
59
Education and Training
Mental Health First Aid, ASIST, SafeTALK suicide prevention training and specialist
designed events.
All of the above therapeutic intervention services have been established as a result
of in-depth analysis of need and demand. We implement robust audits of all services
based on both qualitative and quantitative methodology.
We ensure via our policies and procedures that all staff and volunteers meet the
demanding roles required of our clients, the organisation, and our commissioners.
Our quality assurance methods include:
National Mind - Level II of the Mind Management in Mind Quality Standards

Investor in People

Approved Provider with the Mentoring and Befriending Foundation

Quality standards in relation to ICT Security. Recognised by TEWV NHS
Foundation Trust.
We utilise a range of methods to enable us develop our business plan and the
delivery of services. These methods range from in depth research, regional and local
audits and reports in relation to health and social care and of evidence-based
methods. We ensure that evidence of need is collected from our clients, those of our
partners and of their clients.
The following provide examples of reports utilised:•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
County Durham Joint Commissioning Strategy for Adults with Mental Health
Needs 2009-2013, Durham County Council Adults, Wellbeing and Health and
NHS County Durham
AAP Chester le Street and Durham City Statistical profiles
County Durham Joint Strategic Needs Assessment
CCG North Durham Clear and Credible Plan
County Durham Partnership, County Durham Sustainable Community
Strategy (SCS) 2010-2030
Durham County Council Health Improvement Plan 2010-2013
Regional Director of Public Health; North East Public Health Strategy ‘Better
Health Fairer Health’ (2008)
County Durham Alcohol Harm Reduction Strategy
2010/11 Annual Report of County Durham and Darlington NHS Joint Health
and Well-Being Strategy
The following three services provide examples of benefits:Rapid Response Service – established in 2010 this service has to date supported
385 clients throughout County Durham. The findings from exit audits show that there
60
have been no deaths from suicide throughout that period of any client engaged in the
service.
Counselling, Crisis Listening and Access all Areas – during 2012 we supported
2,472 clients; each client completed a Quality of Life measure (WHO Approved)
clinical depression (PHQ9) and anxiety (GAD7)scales.
The findings show that on exit clients were –
•
More hopeful for the future
•
Aware of community resources to help them
•
More able to make positive changes to their life
•
Less isolated
•
More able to manage personal difficulties
The PHQ 9 Depression scale showed that on exit clients had moved from an
average of 20 to 8 (severe: 20-27)
The GAD 7 Anxiety scale showed that on exit clients had moved from an average of
15 to 7 (severe: 15-21)
Our experience shows that many clients greatly reduce their need for GP support,
including prescribing a range of drugs; clients also stop or reduce their need for
contact with other statutory services.
The following feedback has been received from clients
‘The support you have given me has been far greater than any medication’.
‘I would not have been here without all the caring, kindness and support you all gave
me’.
‘Thank you for all your patience I could not have got through it without you’.
‘Your support has shown us that there is hope at the end of the tunnel’.
A national survey conducted by Mind ‘Your Experience in Mind’ demonstrated that
clients benefited from our services as a result of certain factors including the concept
of building recovery:



Finding and maintaining hope
Re-establishment of a positive agenda
Building a meaningful life
Taking responsibility and control
61
Other benefits
We maintain a stance of delivering a Recovery Model whereby our message to
clients is that recovery is possible given the right support. The pathway we have
developed in recovery includes our clients (or users) being given the opportunity to
act as volunteers. The basis of this approach is to provide for volunteers to act as
role models and motivators.
Additionally we provide high quality training and support which has enabled many of
our volunteers to move on to higher education or into employment.
Added Value
Employ 10 paid staff –
8 counsellors and 2 psychotherapists
2 specialists in business team
4 volunteer counsellors and 20 volunteers in support roles
Approximately 30 volunteers. The roles of volunteers include the following:Board members
Advisors
Trainee counsellors
Mentors/befrienders
Administration
ITC support
Legal advice
Value of volunteers £24,960.00 per year (£10.00 per hour, 50 hours per week x 50
weeks).
Income
Total Income £309,200 (2012/2013)
Sources;
NHS
45%
Lottery
32%
Income generation
17%
Donations
2%
Free professional advice 4%
Way ahead
Our business plan sets out our approach to the future of the charity. Key factors in
maintaining the charities stability include-:
Short term

Generating income to establish reserves
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




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Establishment of a clear short term action plan showing risk to charity and the
means to mitigate risk
Maintaining a quality service
Developing and implementing robust methods of audit for all services to show
value for money
Developing staff to maintain quality service
Enter into dialogue with commissioners and funders in regard to future
developments
Improve the newly leased property in Durham City
Medium term

Establish a clear action plan based on the agreed business plan in developing
proposals of those services which are deemed appropriate for our community

Make application to commissioners and charitable funders

Continue to improve quality standards

Ensure that our financial risk is mitigated and that reserves reach a level
which supports future needs

Ensure that dialogue with commissioners and funders is maintained

Ensure that dialogue continues with our partners agencies and links with other
community activities





The importance of maintaining a level of support from the 3 rd sector which
enables users rapid access to the right support in the right place
Enable mental health services to recognise the value of work, volunteering,
education, housing support, benefit needs, engaging in the community and
physical health
The difficulty users are experiencing in regard to Welfare Reform
Improving pathways into services external to Mind
Involving users in decision making – the new commissioning structures
appear complex and hinder opportunities
Contact details
Name:-
Helen McCaughey – Chief Executive
Address:- Chester-le-Street and Durham City Mind
27 The Close East, South Pelaw, Chester-le-Street DH9 0HN
Telephone Number:Website:Email:-
0191 3883411
www.clsmind.co.uk
[email protected]
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Moving On
Moving On is based in Durham City and is a registered charity and company limited
by guarantee.
We provide advice, support and practical guidance to help young people aged 16-25
who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless to help them achieve
independence in appropriate accommodation.
Our aim is to break the cycle of youth homelessness in County Durham.
By delivering our vision, we aim to contribute considerably to improving the health
and well-being of young people so that they become less vulnerable and give them
the opportunity to improve life chances.
Services Provided
Our services are for 16-25 year olds living in County Durham except peer education
which is delivered to primary school age children from 5 upwards.
Community Outreach Housing Advice - locations throughout County Durham
(Monday-Friday 9-5pm)
Pre-Tenancy Support - (Monday-Friday 9-5pm)
Floating Support - Tenancy Support in Durham City and outlying areas (MondayFriday 9-5pm) delivered in partnership with Durham Homestay. Supports young
people up to 2 years.
Counselling - for 16-25 year olds (Monday 10-4pm)
Homeless Peer Education Workshops - to schools and young people’s groups
(As requested)
Food starter packs - limited to Moving On service users (As required)
Free laundry service - for Moving On service users (As required)
2012-2013 service user statistics
The average time a young person is supported-10 months
Advice & guidance clients- 227
Pre-Tenancy Support clients- 85
Floating Support clients- 54
Employment & training clients- 103 of which 52 secured full time employment
Lifeskills & group work clients- 39
Peer Education Workshop participants- 92
Counselling clients- 10
We employ well qualified and suitably trained staff to deliver housing related services
and rely on a dedicated team of experienced volunteers to support our work. We
gather and monitor service user and volunteer feedback every quarter through KPI
scorecard and regular service reviews and external audits to ensure quality of
64
services. We also have maintained Investors in People and Investing in Children
quality standards for the last 10 years.
Evidence of need
We have 15 years of experience and evidence to support young people in housing
need in County Durham through preventative services. Homelessness is often a
hidden problem which can affect family relationships, physical and mental health and
well-being which in turn has a massive cost implication on primary support services
and can be reduced significantly with effective early intervention.
Service user feedback and statistics from the previous year indicate the evidence of
need to continue our work.
Up until December 2012 we ran a Lifeskills and group work course every week
aimed at teaching young people the necessary skills for independent living and
engagement with sport and community involvement.
We have demonstrated great successes with this preventative model over the past
three years however our funding was significantly cut for the paid worker role from
full to part time then further reduced so that we currently do not have the capacity to
run the Lifeskills modules or deliver group work, a problem that we are hoping to
rectify by actively looking to secure new sources of funding.
Collaborate Durham is a partnership between Durham Action on Single Housing
(DASH), Moving On, Single Homeless Action Initiative in Derwentside (SHAID) and
Waddington Street Centre. The organisations have worked very closely since 2007.
Our joint aim is to promote independence and well-being by providing
opportunities and supporting recovery.
As a partnership we are stronger working together and better able to move forward
through difficult economic times and legislative changes. We want to create an
environment where we can provide mutual support to each other, learn together,
grow together and improve together.
We believe this model is the best way forward and the benefits can be seen by
Health and Social Care Commissioners through improved partnership working.
We want to use our collective strength and passion to:


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Provide holistic services to meet the needs of individual clients who are
homeless, at risk of homelessness or have a mental health problem;
Be more responsive to the needs of the individual clients who access the
services using the unique talents of the Collaborate Durham partners and coordinate any aspect of additional support required from other organisations;
Raise awareness to tackle the stigma, discrimination, vulnerability, isolation
and loneliness experienced by our service users.
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Service User Story
“If it wasn’t for Moving On I don’t know where I would be!”

Paul left the army as the result of personal issues following a tour in
Afghanistan and was left suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, low
confidence and poor communication skills.
Following the breakdown of his relationship, he ended up on the streets living
out of his car for a number of weeks.
He came to a Moving On drop-in for housing advice; his immediate priority
was to find temporary accommodation.
With our guidance and support, Paul regained his self-respect, we helped
secure supported accommodation with DASH and he then enrolled and
completed a Prince's Trust course.
Paul regularly attended Moving on Lifeskills sessions and achieved
certificates in money management, cooking on a budget, confidence building,
first aid and attended many social activities.
Paul has also volunteered at Moving On to deliver the Peer Education
programme across County Durham to tell other young people about his
personal experience of homelessness.
Over the course of 18 months he has seen a massive improvement in his
mental health, is now socialising with new friends, enjoying life and got
engaged at our Cathedral sleep out!
Other benefits
The young people we support often lead chaotic and traumatic lifestyles so we aim
to provide guidance to support them into making positive lifestyle choices when the
time is right for them. Many come to us lacking aspirations and see no means to
improve their life or become involved in community projects.
By accessing Moving On services they are guaranteed to receive honest and
accurate advice for their circumstances and assisted to find suitable volunteering
placements through links with other CVS organisations and training providers which
will help them make the transition to employment or make informed choices to go
back into or continue with education.
By bringing a degree of stability and meaning into their lives, we have demonstrated
this to have a massive impact on reducing offending/re-offending and risky behaviour
of those already in the Criminal Justice System or on the verge of entering into it.
Staff and volunteers have often acted as mentors to troubled young people who
come to us for help and we have been able to see the benefits of this directly by
lowering incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour.
66
Added Value.
We invest quality time in our volunteer opportunities through dedicated role profiles
for recruitment via an application and informal interview process to assess suitability.
All volunteers and new Directors complete an induction programme before starting at
Moving On and receive continuous support during their time with us.
We currently have 5 volunteers averaging approximately six hours per week each in
varied roles such as counselling, administration, finance/accounts and IT/Social
Media support. The majority of our volunteers have been with us for at least two
years. We have 8 Directors who oversee the governance of Moving On with a variety
of experience.
The organisation is funded through a mix of grants, statutory income and by
fundraising through sponsorship of events such as the annual sleep out at Durham
Cathedral or adopting a charity partner each year such as Sainsbury’s and
Soroptimists.
Income 2012/2013- £276,398
We do not access much assistance through in kind contributions although last year
we applied to Akzonobel (Dulux) and were successfully chosen for our office to be
decorated and new flooring donated free of charge which made a big difference and
improved our welcoming environment.
6 full time paid staff
Way ahead
Due to a reduction in services and a change in management structure our plans for
the remainder of the year are to identify a suitable bid writer to submit various
applications in an attempt to secure further funding to re-start our Lifeskills/group
work and recruit for a peer education coordinator to oversee the preventative
education.
Longer term we would like to secure and retain funding for our floating support and
advice services which are essential for our service users. We would also like to
explore the possibility of funding a Business Development Manager role to take
Moving On forward by developing new partners and diversifying income streams and
social investment models.
A large increase in young people coming to us with mental health issues has an
impact on their ability to effectively sustain a tenancy and lead productive lives. In
response we recruited a trained volunteer counsellor who has worked with 10 such
young people in the past year and had some tangible positive effects on their
emotional wellbeing.
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Around 75% of the young people we support have become homeless through family
relationship breakdown and we have found there is a distinct lack of family mediation
services in the county to support this significant issue.
In response to figures on incidents of suicide and self-harm in young males across
County Durham, Collaborate Durham has responded by securing CREE funding in 4
venues through East Durham Trust on behalf of the Public Health Department to
develop non clinical support group for men in North Durham based around the
concept of Community Recovery. The need for this type of support in Durham is
growing.
Contact details
Name:- Andrew Cowan
Address:- 2 Red Hill Villas
Durham
DH1 4BA
Website:- www.movingondurham.org.uk
Photo celebrating National Volunteer Week with a mixture of staff, volunteers
and service users.
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New Generation Brass
New Generation Brass was established as a registered charity in July 2007 (formerly
known as Ouston, Pelton and District Brass Band). The charity seeks to provide an
opportunity for children and young people aged 7-18 to learn brass and percussion
instruments, targeting deprived wards where children may not otherwise have the
opportunity to learn a musical instrument.
The group is open to all who wish to participate although there is an underlying focus
on supporting those with asthma or autism.
Services Provided
A paid tutor and volunteer work in the following schools
West Pelton Primary School (12-1 Thursdays)
Roseberry Primary school (12-1 Fridays)
Roseberry Comprehensive School (9-11 Fridays)
Pelton Community School (1-2 Fridays)
Ouston Infants school (10.30-12 Fridays)
Ouston Juniors School (3.30-4.30 Fridays)
Chester-le-Street CofE School 2-3 Fridays)
As well as St Pauls Church West Pelton (Monday evenings and Saturday mornings)
Bronchial Boogie –Bullion Lane Surestart /one point (4-6 Mondays) this class is
solely for children with asthma.
In total 95 children are engaged in the programme.
Both tutors hold degrees in Music and Creative Arts and a specialist nurse is
attached to activities to monitor and support children with asthma and their families.
Learning a musical instrument has demonstrable cognitive benefits for children
including improving memory, reasoning and organisational skills.
Being a member of a band fosters team building, communication and friendship.The
focus on brass means that we are able to promote a sense of local heritage amongst
a new generation of children.
There is evidence to show that musical instruments that require breathing techniques
can have a positive impact on asthma.
“Inspiratory muscles can be trained to become stronger and
strengthening them yields a dramatic cessation of asthma symptoms. “
Clinical Investigations, Inspiratory Muscles: Influence of Gender and Inspiratory
Muscle Training on the Perception of Dyspnoea in Patients with Asthma.
Paltiel Weiner 2002 cited in International Trumpet Guild 2009

Asthma prevalence in North Durham has worse health outcomes than England
and North East.
(Page 115 North Durham CCG. Clear and Credible Plan 2012-2017).
69

Improving the health and reducing the number of unplanned admissions for
young people with chest infections or breathing problems is identified as a CCG
priority for 2013/2014.
(North Durham CCG Prospectus. 23rd May 2013)
Reduce the number of medical interventions including GP visits and prescriptions
required by children and young people who participate and have asthma.
Improved breathing techniques of all participants may increase physical activity
levels and posture leading in some cases to increase in height.
Reduction in rates of school absenteeism due to asthma attacks.
Participants are taught a range of breathing exercises alongside other skills such as
reading music understanding different styles of music etc. In the case of Bronchial
Boogie the focus of support is the breathing exercises with more intensive monitoring
and evaluation by the specialist nurse so that we can measure the impact of classes.
Instruments provided in the bronchial boogie classes are geared towards need for
example using miniature trumpets rather than full size.
Students are encouraged to pursue excellence and to date we have supported 25
children to achieve grades 1-5 of the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music.
For many children participation gives rise to confidence building, sense of
achievement and a sense of belonging. For those with asthma where attacks can be
debilitating this is especially important.
Other benefits
Participants take part in concerts in the local community including older people care
homes thereby promoting better intergeneration relationships in the community and
challenging negative stereotypes of young people by older residents.
Added Value
The organisation involves 5 volunteers with an input of approx. 25 hours per week.
Based on a notional value of £12 per hour over 40 weeks per annum this equates to
£13,500.
Schools currently provide their facilities for free to this group which based on a 30
week year at £10 an hour room hire fee is an in-kind donation of £3,000.
The group currently operates on an annual turnover of approx. £12,000 per annum
most of which is generated through membership fees and grants from charitable
trusts. This enables the employment of a specialist nurse and a sessional music
tutor.
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The group owns a range of brass musical instruments which are used in the above
classes. These have been purchased through grants from such bodies as Coalfields
Regeneration Trust and Lottery monies.
Way ahead
The group are currently exploring whether there are options to expand this work to
include both adults with depression and adults with asthma.
The group would like to see sustained funding of the Bronchial Boogie classes in
particular with a possible role for GP’s to refer children and young people diagnosed
with asthma for support. We have struggled to evaluate the longer term effectiveness
of this work because of the stop start approach to funding
Contact details
Name:- Norman Walker
Address:- c/o Chester-le-Street & District CVS and Volunteer Bureau
Clarence Terrace
Chester-le-Street
DH3 3DQ
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Pelton Community Centre
Introduction and Brief History.
Pelton Community Centre opened in 1973 to facilitate educational, training and
leisure activities for the people of Pelton and surrounding area.
Service provided
The building is open 9am - 9pm Mon-Fri
9am-3.30 Saturdays and occasional Sundays.

The building is open to all ages from across the community with a particular
emphasis upon those that are disadvantaged.

Gym. A fully equipped gym opened in May 2012, and accessible MondaySaturday as per building opening hours. Users are supported by a team of
specially trained volunteers.

Room 14 is a purpose built Youth centre comprising, dance studio, hair
and beauty salon, IT suite, girls room chill out area, arts and craft room
and kitchen.

Outdoor Play Area. - Attached to the building for use by toddlers and young
children.

The remainder of the building is used for a wide range of activities including;
Stop Smoking drop-ins
Martial art Classes
Bingo
Over 60’s groups
Bowls
Pilates
Dance Classes
Parent and Toddler Groups.

850 people take-up activities within the building each week.
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Evidence of need
Figures relate to the Middle Super Output Area (MSOA) Pelton and Grange Villa.

Pelton and Grange Villa have relatively low life expectancies when compared to
both other parts of County Durham and England.
Figures for 2006-2010
Male Pelton Grange Villa 73.0.
Female ..
..
..
79.8
County Durham 76.9
..
..
80.9
England 80.9
..
82.3

In June 2012, 6.0% of the working age population were in receipt of JSA.
(compared to 3.8% for England and Wales). This was the second highest level
in Chester-le-Street. 25.4% of those claimants (65 people) had been in receipt
of JSA for more than 52 weeks.

Fuel poverty. 22.1% of households are described as in fuel poverty in 2010.

Based on Department for Education 2011 results, the MSOA has the lowest
level of attainment at key stage 2 (age 10-11) in English and Maths at 65.7%
compared to Chester-le-Street at 79.7%, with only 44% of students achieving
5* A – C G.C.S.E.’s (inc Maths and English) at the local secondary school, in
contrast to Chester-le-Street District (65.5%).

31.5% of adults identified as obese.

29.8% of adults smoke.

31.3% of adults binge drink.

19.1% of adults eat healthily.
(Source; County Durham JSNA-2011)
Benefits to Commissioners

Reduce the incidence of anti-social behaviour in the community and thereby
the impact this has upon victims who may feel intimidated in their own homes,
leading to stress and depression.

Reduce the incidence of smoking and obesity.

Promote self confidence, social inclusion, build skills and networks to enhance
individual opportunities and employability support family life and community
cohesion.
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Benefits to Service Users.
The community centre aims to be responsive to the changing needs of the local
community. In response to Welfare reform the building has developed an in-house
shop selling cheap clothes, toys and household items, since residents may be
unable to afford bus fares into the town. The building has also opened a community
café which aims to offer meals at affordable prices.
Added Value.

Paid staff 6.5 FTE, all of whom live within 6 miles of the Community Centre.

27 active volunteers providing approx. 105 hours of time per week. (105 x 50
weeks x £7.00) value £36,750 p.a.

Income 2012/2013; £172,436. This includes income generation through room
hire and fundraising events, grants from Parish Council and Charitable trusts.
Way ahead.
Pelton Community Centre has developed a schedule of capital works including

Improved reception area

Extension to the Gym

Improved toilet facilities (which are now 40 years old)
All of which will require additional fundraising.
The centre has recently undertaken a survey of local residents and users and
identified the following areas for development

Adult learning/Evening classes

Drug and alcohol awareness

Support to individuals impacted by welfare reform, noting that families are
struggling to put food on their table, manage their debts and bills as well as pass on
education and knowledge to their children.

Contact
Clare Formeman, Centre Manager
Pelton Community Association, Front Street, Pelton, DH2 1DE
Telephone 0191 3700726
email; [email protected] www.peltoncommunitycentre.co.uk
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RSVP
RSVP was established in Chester-le-Street in 1993 under the umbrella of the
national body Community Service Volunteers. Retired and Senior Volunteer
Programme (RSVP) recruits and supports older people into volunteering projects
across the North East region with a particular focus on North Durham, Teesdale and
Wear Valley. Volunteer focussed and led RSVP recognises that older people
have built up skills and experience during their lifetimes which are much
needed by society.
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School Volunteering. 181 volunteers are placed in over 100 primary schools
across the region. Volunteers support young children in school curriculum
activities such as ICT, gardening, literacy skills and out of school clubs such as
art and crafts
Knitting. 148 volunteers, mostly volunteering at home, some have joined knit
and natter clubs including one in Annfield Plain, which meet weekly.
Volunteers knit; blankets, baby clothes, trauma teddies which are then
distributed to local retirement homes, NEPACS (North East Prison After Care
Service), local dog shelters and the Salvation Army to distribute to Russia,
Lithuania and Croatia, primarily to orphanages or areas struck by natural or
man-made disasters.
Teleconferencing Book Club.
In partnership with Durham Libraries, books are delivered to housebound
“volunteers” including the blind and partially sighted.
Once a month a volunteer facilitator will bring a group of 6 “volunteers” together
via teleconferencing to talk about the book received and agree the book for
next month. 3 groups are currently operating in Derwentside, Chester-le-Street
and Durham City.
RSVP covers the cost of telephone bills. The book club participants also host
regular events with guest authors.
Telephone Befriending – All recipients are described as volunteers, many of
whom are socially isolated.
Region-wide, involves 47 individuals, 21 of whom are from Chester-le-Street.
Friends in Deed. Volunteers visit patients in Chester-le-Street hospital who
would otherwise receive no visitors. This scheme has declined in recent years
due to hospital administration re police clearance and lack of support for
volunteers. This is disappointing given the real impact upon health and well
being that this scheme can evidence.
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Services provided
The surgery transport scheme was established in 2001 to support those who are
transport disadvantaged that is no access to own transport and unable to use public
transport or private hire. GP’s refer patients to the surgery transport scheme using
“ambulance criteria”.
28 surgeries are involved in this scheme; Chester-le-Street, (6 GP surgeries)
Deerness Valley (8 GP surgeries) Derwentside (6 GP surgeries).
In Chester-le-Street, Derwentside and Durham 21 active volunteers with 3 volunteer
co-ordinators provide delivery.
Patients are collected from their homes and taken to medical appointments
including GP’s, podiatry, nurse, dietician etc. Drivers will wait for the patient and
then drive them back home. Patients are encouraged to give a donation which
contributes to volunteer expenses.
In 2013/2014 public health have continued the grant funding previously provided
through the PCT for this project. (£50,000 pa)
In 2012/2013
2357 patients were supported in North Durham with 2892 journeys (a journey
is defined as to and from a medical appointment).
Benefits of your work to commissioners
An independent evaluation was commissioned by the PCT in 2012. The study
identified that for every £1 invested in the surgery transport scheme £3 of savings
are created to the NHS.
(An evaluation of Two Volunteer Driver Health Appointment Schemes in County
Durham, Sheila Moorcroft and Andrew Myers.
Research for Tomorrow, Today August 2012)
This same report identified that patients are; more likely to attend medical
appointments and are less anxious knowing that transport is in place.
Evidence of need
GP’s make referrals based on their assessment of patient needs.
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Benefits to service users
“I am 84 and a widower living on my own. Last June I was diagnosed as having
mouth cancer. I was asked by the consultant at James Cook Hospital
Middlesbrough to tell him of my decision re type of treatment. My GP told me that he
would make my decision known to the consultant but the day before I was due to
return I had heard nothing from the hospital so I spoke to my GP who confirmed the
hospital did want to see me. However, I was without transport and asked whether he
could arrange something for me. He said it was late in the day but he would try.
Within an hour I had a call from a member of the Surgery Transport Scheme who
told me they would be picking me up the following day. It was the first time I had any
knowledge of this group, although on other occasions I had had hospital drivers take
me to Darlington.
My treatment, starting in late September, involved attendance at James Cook 5 days
a week for five weeks. I therefore approached my newly discovered driver group.
They kindly set up a roster amongst themselves and in the event arrangements were
made for me to be taken each of the 25 days of the course, each visit involving a
round trip of 100 miles. I had appreciated that parking at the hospital was a problem
and I therefore asked the Radiotherapy Departments whether they could arrange for
my treatment to be scheduled for early in the day to give my volunteer drivers the
best chance of finding a parking space whilst they waited for me. They kindly
responded with a treatment schedule on which the appointments were mostly set for
between 8.30 and 9.00 in the morning. This meant that my drivers would have to
pick me up at 7.30am and indeed would have to leave their homes at around
7.15am. I therefore approached them with some trepidation, but they readily agreed
to these times without reservation. In consequence I was delivered back home by
10.00 to 10.30am. I am pleased to report that I am recovering from my treatment but
I have no doubt that this has been largely due to the service provided by the
volunteer drivers, without whose help I have no doubt that I would have been unable
to stay the course.
I would like to point out that all the drivers were retired professional people whose
motives were entirely altruistic. I thoroughly enjoyed their company which I looked
forward to and which helped me get through the ordeal. You will appreciate that no
price could be placed on this aspect. At the outset it was indicated to me that it was
common for passengers to make a donation to the services, and I elected to
subscribe £20 per trip. This I could afford and I wondered what happened when
someone was not in my enviable position. I was told that the service to them would
be unaffected.
Other Benefits
Volunteers in the Surgery Transport Scheme are all men, aged 50 – 89. In an
independent evaluation 85% of volunteers said that they felt better in themselves as
the result of volunteering, through remaining active and helping others.
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Added Value




In 2012/2013, RSVP secured a further £7,000 from charitable trusts and private
donations.
21 volunteers who provide an average of 8 hours per week driver time, 50
weeks of the year. (£7,00 per hour) value; £58,800.
Volunteer Coordinators (x 3) at 12 hours per week x 50 weeks per year (£9.50
per hour) £17,100.
Total volunteer contribution; £75,900 per annum
Events – RSVP host regular events (approx. 2 per annum) bringing clients and
volunteers together. During the course of these events RSVP will promote key
health and safety messages for older people such as raising awareness of door
step crime. On average 60 people attend.
RSVP produce 2 newsletters per year sent to 1042 volunteers and their clients.
Way Ahead

There are GP surgeries that would like to join this scheme however, RSVP
cannot expand the scheme without additional resources.
RSVP working in partnership with Chester-le-Street & District CVS and
Volunteer Bureau have been funded through Health Network monies to
undertake a 1 year pilot project. This offers clients of the Surgery Transport
Scheme the opportunity to receive supported transport to participate in either
local volunteering or social activities. This project derives from the observation
that many of the Surgery transport clients have few opportunities to get out of
the house other than for medical appointments.
Contact details
Angela Forster/Ashleigh Gibson
RSVP,
The Volunteer Centre,
Clarence Terrace,
Chester-le-Street, DH3 3DQ
Telephone: 0191 389 1155
email:
[email protected]
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RT Projects
Date established; 2007
AIMS
1) The promotion, preservation and protection of good mental and
emotional health through the provision of art projects and courses.
2) The advancement of education of the public in the creative and visual
arts by the provision of educational courses, facilities and other
support.
Services Provided

Our beneficiaries include people with MS, dementia, vision impairment, hearing
loss, physical and mental limitations and learning disability. We also work with
children, LGBT, minority ethnic and many other groups considered to be
socially, or physically isolated such as carers, people in financial difficulty, and
people who have been bereaved by suicide.

We run various projects for various different service users; an individual will
typically access our service one or two half days per week.

In house projects run from our Open Art Surgery at Mill House Court,
Gilesgate, Durham City. Outreach courses run from various settings across the
county including care homes and community centres.

Impact upon clients; Service users overcome isolation through engagement
in regular social interaction, develop skills through their engagement in creative
activity, have increased access to information on issues around mental health
including links to other organisations and services, develop the emotional
resilience to combat deteriorating mental health.

Number of service users;
200 per year
Quality Assurance
The project team are qualified teachers and expert in a range of artistic media and
have access to a wide range of technical skills. We have a proven track record of
delivery for example our Art for Wellbeing programme reached 450 people between
February 2010 and May 2011.
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The benefit of taking part in meaningful creative activity is well documented. Many
research studies have found that individuals at risk of experiencing mental health
problems benefit greatly from accessing activities which are carefully designed and
sensitive to individual need e.g. Dept of Health ‘Mental Health, Social Inclusion and
Arts: Developing the Evidence Base’ 2007, and ‘Report of the Review of Arts and
Health Working Group’, 2007.
Feedback from over 1,000 service users who took part in the ‘Arts for Wellbeing’ pilot
programme in 2010-2011 revealed that the benefit of improved emotional resilience
is achieved through a variety of factors such as meeting and socialising with others,
learning and developing creative skills, receiving appropriate support in a safe
environment and sharing and comparing experiences with others.
We know first hand that there is a need for our provision because we have a waiting
list of individuals wishing to access our services. We also have beneficiaries who
have ‘moved on’ and cite our service as being integral to their ‘recovery’, as well as
individuals who access our services and no longer rely on pharmaceutical treatment
to control their depression and anxiety.
RT Projects work addresses the mental health improvement strategy for County
Durham.
“Mental Health is "the emotional and spiritual resilience which enables us to enjoy life
and survive pain, suffering and disappointment. It is a positive sense of wellbeing
and an underlying belief in our and others' dignity and worth. It is influenced by our
experience and our genetic inheritance." (World Health Organisation)
Good mental health is essential in accessing the choices and support which enable
us to live happy, healthy lives. Mental Health Improvement is fundamental to
achieving a range of national and local health and social priorities from obesity,
sexual health and teenage pregnancy, to adult skills and employability.
Having good mental health is essential if our communities are to be able to access
and reap the benefits from improved services in these areas.”
RT Projects work incorporates the 'Five Ways to Wellbeing', a set of evidence-based
actions to improve personal wellbeing the result of a research project by the New
Economics Foundation, commissioned by The Foresight Mental Capital and
Wellbeing project. Doing five simple actions on a regular basis can improve our
mental wellbeing.
These actions are: Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give.
80
Benefits to service users include:






Improved emotional resilience
Improved self confidence & self esteem
Enable people with dementia and their care-givers to develop a new means of
communication,
Development of new skills
Reduced dependency on pharmaceutical remedies for depression and anxiety
disorders
Improved access to employment opportunities, access to other local services
and resources
Other benefits

Increased opportunities for volunteering

Improved skills and confidence in assisting people with mental health problems
using creative activities.
Added Value

We have 8 regular volunteers who each volunteer an average of 4 hours per
week. Some provide one to one support for participants on creative projects
and others offer skills such as administration, computer programming, graphic
design, marketing etc.

Approx Income 2012/2013
Grant Income
Donations
Sales (Artwork, Materials)
Contracts
Activity Fees
Other
Total Income

£46445
£700
£1214
£4511
£1715
£393
£54978
3 part time paid staff
Way ahead
RT Projects is continuing with our current projects which include:

‘Men’s Shed’ which aims to directly impact upon male suicide rates in
County Durham,
81




‘Art ForMS’ to improve emotional resilience for people with multiple sclerosis
and their carers,
‘Make Your Mark’ to provide an opportunity for personal expression for people
with a learning disability.
‘Painting Memories’ to improve communication for people with dementia and
their families.
‘Colour Your Life’ Arts on Prescription programme for County Durham.
We are developing our programme to include an open access art studio to be used
by service users on a drop in basis 2 days per week.
Many service users need the regularity and security of a permanent resource.
People who access our service are experiencing very difficult life changing
circumstances such as progressive illnesses or dealing with suicide of a loved one. It
takes considerable time to engage in the whole process of recovery, from initially
developing the confidence to actually contact the service, to then making a
commitment to attend, and then overcoming the hurdle of having to talk to new
people which can be overwhelmingly difficult. Developing trust in a new environment
is a long process which needs to be managed sensitively and slowly.
Contact details
Name:- Emma Beattie
Address:- The Open Art Surgery, RT Projects, 23 Mill House Court, Gilesgate,
Durham, DH1 2JJ.
Telephone Number:- 0191 384 9745
Website:- rtprojects.org.uk
82
St Margaret’s Centre
St Margaret’s Centre was set up in 1991 and for over 20yrs has gone about its
business unassumingly, without attracting attention. The centre supports adults of all
ages with mental health and other disabilities. It provides a welcoming therapeutic
environment which encourages individuals to learn new skills in a manner that helps
them develop their potential and ensures that they get access to the services they
need.
Services Provided
The overall aim is of improving the quality of people’s lives in as many ways as
possible. In order to do this people need to attend to their wellbeing and welfare.
We at St Margaret’s assist our service users to do this by delivering a range of
interventions and activities which allow them to participate on a level suitable to their
ability in order to maintain a healthy balance lifestyle.
One of the key aims of the centre is to develop a therapeutic work setting which will
motivate people to regain their confidence and self esteem which in turn can aid the
possibility of them returning to work or proceed to further training.
Our interventions include: Education/training, group activities, social activities, and
individual recovery plans, one to one support, self management programmes
covering areas of Anxiety, Depression and Stress.
The centre has a workshop and allotment offering: furniture restoration and repair,
carpentry and joinery skills, finishing and upholstery, horticulture, healthy eating,
crop rotation, physical exercise. We also offer craft sessions including creative art
and design, rug making and quilt making.
Alongside these skills we offer volunteering opportunities, literacy and numeracy,
mindfulness, information advice and guidance.
The centre offers places for 30 people per day, with a dedicated professional team of
3 full time staff, 2 part time staff, along with 3 sessional workers and 9 volunteers.
There is an enormous amount of evidence relating to the state of the mental health
of the population of the UK which points to the need for improvements in service and
priorities.
The most recently published “Policy Making Mental Health Services more Effective
and Accessible” (H.M.Gov 25 March 2013 ) identified mental health as being the
largest cause of disability in the UK and as a result the need to prioritise mental
health putting it on par with physical health. The World Health Organisation predicts
that by 2020 depression will be the second leading cause of disability worldwide and
stresses the need for greater accessibility to services in particular psychological
83
therapies and, the requirement to reduce the mental health problem and make it a
priority for the new National Health Service Public Health England.
The government policy report “No Health without Mental Health” (2012) outlines six
key strategies for better mental health, specifically that people will have a positive
experience of care and support. The overall aims are twofold:
- to improve the mental health and wellbeing of the population and keep
people well.
- to improve outcomes for people with mental health problems, through high
quality services that are equally accessible to all.
The Joint Strategic Needs Assessment for County Durham highlights a key action to
improve mental health: “develop and implement programmes to increase resilience
and wellbeing through practical support on healthy lifestyles”
Quantifying the extent of mental health problems in the population is very difficult
due to the complex nature of mental health and that a lot of it is hidden. It is,
however, well recognised that there are a number of indicators of mental health and
that certain social and health inequalities can both be the result of and can be
caused by mental health problems.
Many of the risk factors for mental illness are linked intrinsically to deprivation.
County Durham has some of the most deprived areas and Public Health indicators
suggest the North East has above average rates for:

common and severe mental health problems

the lowest% of people with mental health issues in employment

the highest claimant rate for incapacity benefits for mental health issues (396
per 100,000 compared to 263 average for England )
St. Margaret’s centre offers a range of effective interventions and support that treat
people as individuals recognising their diverse needs, encourages personal
development and supports people to achieve their full potential.
At St Margaret’s centre we provide a choice of opportunities for people with mental
health and learning difficulties to access employment, training, voluntary work,
community activities and mainstream further education. The programmes on offer
help motivate people to regain their confidence and self esteem. The success rate
depends on the capability and progression rate of the individual. The work of SMC
reduces the need for admissions to hospital as well as helping with the recovery of
service users currently in hospital.
84
Other benefits
St Margaret’s Centre is embarking on preventative programmes aimed at primary
care. These include self-management courses covering low mood, anxiety and
moods swings to name just a few.
We are also encouraging volunteering opportunities throughout the centre
as well as community based educational courses.
Added Value
We currently have 9 volunteers giving an average of 60 hours over a week.
There is an amount of flexibility to the commitment each volunteer makes to the
service and on many occasions have given their time freely to assist in other
activities around the centre.
Approximate income for 2012-2013 was £220,000.00 this was made up of a SLA
with the local authority, educational courses, fundraising events and donations
Paid staff. 4 Full time and 2 Part time
Way ahead
The current plans for SMC (2013-2014) are to develop the self-management
programmes. The longer term plans are to obtain a shop where we would encourage
other charities to utilise the facility. Expand our training and educational programmes
to the wider general public.
Making access to services less complicated. Reducing or eliminating the financial
assessments.
Contact details
Rob Chatwin
St Margaret’s Centre
The Old School
Priory Orchard
Margery Lane
Durham
DH1 4QJ
0191 384 8100
stmargaretscentre.co.uk
[email protected]
85
Stonham, Home Group
Stonham provides specialist services customised to local needs. With over 500
services around the country, Stonham is England’s largest provider of housing and
support, helping over 20,000 people every year.
In the North of Durham, Stonham has two floating support services: Derwentside
Homestay and Durham and Chester-le-Street Homestay. Stonham Durham and
Chester-Le-Street Homestay works in partnership with Moving On, Dash and SHAID
on behalf of Durham County Council.
These services alone provide support for up to 210 clients at any one time and also
offer waiting list support for those who need help/advice whilst waiting to come on to
the service and also offers drop ins within Probation and Treatment Centres.
The service works with people for up to two years and aims to provide a range of
support services for people who are homeless, at risk of losing their home or need
support maintaining and improving their independence. We work with a variety of
client groups: people with drug and / or alcohol dependency; Young People, people
with Learning Disabilities; people having issues around Domestic Abuse etc. We
work hard to engage chaotic clients and our staff have expertise in working with the
hardest to reach.
Most of our work takes place within disadvantaged neighbourhoods that often
display concentrations of ill health and make high demands on the resources of the
NHS and other local services. With preventative work and early intervention
Stonham works hard to improve the health and wellbeing of the whole area.
Conditions in disadvantaged localities could include: poor housing (Homelessness,
overcrowding, disrepair), high unemployment (low incomes, job insecurity, young
people: not in education; employment or training- NEETS), environmental issues
(Anti Social Behaviour, petty crime, pollution, noise), increase in substance misuse;
poor educational levels and isolation all these could result in ill health, depression
and anxiety. All of the support Stonham offers is focused around these areas and
we focus on achieving positive outcomes in: Health; Housing; Finance; physical
health and wellbeing, Meaningful Use of Time and Participation.
An example of client support is shown below using our client Michael’s story (name
changed).
Michael was 35 years old and was referred into the service by Chester-Le-Street Job
Centre, at which time he was street homeless. Michael had a number of support
needs and he led a chaotic lifestyle because of this the assessment was completed
with Michael over a period of three weeks.
We worked with Michael to support him to:
86

Attend appointments with Housing Solutions. Housing had provided Michael
with support previously and as he had left his last property in the area with
damages; they would not offer him any further service. We sourced an
application for Cestria Housing Association, Three Rivers and Durham Key
Options but due to his anti social behaviour and housing history, he was
suspended from all housing registers.

We contacted a private Landlord who had a property available in Grange Villa.
We arranged to view the property; it had carpets, blinds, a three piece suite &
fridge so Michael could move in almost immediately. Michael decided to take
the property. We applied for Grants and Michael was awarded money towards
household items.

We made arrangements to complete Housing Benefit forms to ensure that
Michael could afford the property. Michael was entitled to full Housing Benefit.
We wrote a supporting letter to request Housing Benefit be paid direct to the
landlord.

Michael continued to be chaotic and difficult to engage however we reviewed
his support plan and because Michael’s housing situation was much better, he
agreed to be referred into the Alcohol Team. We supported Michael with his
appointments at the Alcohol Service until he was confident in attending them
himself. Michael started to become less chaotic and miss fewer
appointments.

Michael is successfully managing his tenancy and he is attending the Alcohol
service appointments as required and is now having access visits with his
young son.
As seen in the example above we are committed to preventing homelessness and to
find innovative solutions to enable people to live independently. We support
individuals by listening to clients and accumulating small changes which in turn
improve the atmosphere in the neighbourhood.
We offer 1 -1 support, advice and guidance as well as client involvement and group
participation activities; increasing knowledge, positive wellbeing, confidence and self
esteem.
We refer and register clients to other services relevant to their support needs
increasing health awareness and prevention, resulting in a development of people’s
independent living skills which helps them to better manage their own
circumstances; using primary care facilities rather than secondary.
By focusing on clients holistically our support can help reduce homelessness,
offending behaviour, unemployment, health inequalities, chaotic lifestyles and
admissions of known individuals to hospital as well as reduced arrests related to
alcohol/substance misuse.
87
Contact
Zara Kelly, Senior Services Manager
Home Group, Mercury House
Belmont Business Park, Durham DH1 1TW
Telephone; 07545733300
[email protected]
www.homegroup.org.uk
88
Ushaw Moor 2-4 club
The Ushaw Moor 2-4 club was established in May 1997 in response to the need for
social activities for older people in Ushaw Moor and the surrounding area. The
founding members were older people themselves and part of St Joseph’s church
community. The main aim of the group is to provide an opportunity for older people
to come together on a weekly basis to enjoy social activities and make new friends.
Services Provided
The group meet in St. Josephs Church hall every Tuesday from 2 – 4pm. The group
welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds. Although the members are
predominantly older people this is not exclusive. There are currently 60 people
regularly attending the session at which afternoon tea is provided, a game of bingo,
socialising with each other and making new friends. The members make a small
weekly contribution which covers room hire costs and allows for other activities such
as an annual summer trip, Christmas party and occasional special events depending
on available funds.
The club has been in existence for 16 years and has been popular throughout. Until
recently there was a waiting list of people wanting to join however, a similar group
has recently been set up which is helping to meet the need of a growing number of
older people in the area. Feed back from our members highlights the importance of
the group in terms of well-being and independence.
Our service is aimed at any older person (over 50). We believe we are contributing to
the improvement of facilities and activities for older people. We are well aware of the
benefits of regular social contact both from a health and a community safety aspect.
For a number of our members this is the only opportunity they have to meet with
their peers and would otherwise feel isolated and lonely. Ushaw Moor, New
Brancepeth, Brandon and Esh Winning are all in the top 20% IDM for health and all
have a high ratio of older people, which is on the increase. Research shows that the
elderly are the highest risk group for suicide, and health experts warn of the impact
of mental ill health on physical well-being. It is estimated that up to 17% of elderly
people living in the community suffer from depression yet most of it goes undetected
and untreated. There is evidence to suggest that being involved in a social activity
has a positive impact on a person’s mental health. Someone experiencing good
mental health is in a better position to think about their lifestyle i.e. healthy eating,
exercise, stopping smoking etc. It also impacts on the ability to remain independent
for longer.
89
The primary benefit is to provide an outlet for older people to socialise and improve
their quality of life and well-being thus keeping them from experiencing loneliness
and possible depression. Our summer trip is very much appreciated. A lot of our
members are not mobile and would rarely or never have the opportunity to visit
places of interest in the region. Again, we provide a Christmas party which is vitally
important to those members who don’t have family around during this time.
Other benefits
The group is run by volunteers all of whom are older people themselves. This level of
involvement helps them to stay active and gain a sense of worth and place in the
local community. Alongside the regular weekly session the volunteers also bake,
shop, organise outings, guest speakers and parties for the benefit of the club. A user
led initiative such as ours, where older people are in control, is more likely to have
credibility with other older people. Being involved in our own destiny helps build a
richer and more vibrant community in which older people play their full part as
citizens. The group is well known in the area and has good links with the local
school. The children often help at the sessions during school holidays and at harvest
festival. The group has a regular visit from an Occupational therapist who assists
members when necessary.
Added Value
There are currently 8 volunteers who between them work for 32 hours.
Our income this financial year is £1231 which has been raised by membership fees
and a weekly raffle. We received a grant of £800 from CDCF/Mid Durham AAP to
cover the cost of our rent for 8 months. This has allowed us to spend some of our
funds on a summer trip.
Way ahead
The group will continue to provide a weekly session as well as organise a Christmas
party. Due to the grant we received this year our funds will allow us to organise a
summer excursion in 2014.
There is a lot of evidence to support the need for locally based social groups that are
accessible and relevant to elderly people. These types of groups vary in the activities
they provide based on the needs and desires of the members involved. Nonetheless,
they all contribute to the quality of life and well-being of older people and are in many
cases an essential part of a persons ability to remain healthy, happy and
independent within their own community. As we prepare for the growing number of
older people living longer it is vitally important that society is ready to meet the
challenges and opportunities this will bring.
Contact detailsName: Joyce Scanlon Address: - c/o St Josephs RC Church
Ushaw Moor Telephone Number: - 0191 373 0878
90
Veterans at Ease
Veterans at Ease was established in September 2010
Our mission is to help veterans and their families deal effectively and quickly with
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Operating Principles; Veterans helping Veterans
Services Provided







Who are the services for? Veterans and their direct family members
When / how often are they provided? 5 days per week office hours and
sometimes outside these depending upon individual circumstances and
needs
How / where are they provided? Durham office, Jarrow Office and at
Beneficiaries homes as required
Impact upon clients. Very positive, and the help allows them to understand
and integrate into civilian life as well as finding full time employment where
appropriate.
Number of service users. 55
Why are the services provided? Currently there is a specialist gap
within the NHS
Quality Assurance. Training of Staff with an accredited
(UKCP) training organisation, plus the experience of beneficiaries as they are
helped and come on board as a therapist after training.
The scale of the problem is huge. Research undertaken in 2010 by the Community
Veteran Mental Health Pilot - Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust,
found 30% or more of veterans in the North East are likely to be suffering from
PTSD. A survey by Sir James Knott Trust (2011) found that 50% of veterans in the
NE were suffering mental health problems. The Centre for Military Health Research,
Kings College, London estimate there are 312,000 ex service personnel living in the
NE - using the 30% figure this indicates 90,000+ veterans in the region suffering
from PTSD.
This problem obviously has a massive impact upon an even larger number of
people when you take into account the veterans family members.
91
The Centre for Economic Research (2007) calculated the economic cost of adult
depression and anxiety (including PTSD) as £12 billion a year – 1% of national
income. Their methodology for Cost-Benefit Analysis of Psychological Therapy
shows that every veteran helped off benefits and back to work provides a cost
benefit to society and the exchequer of £5300.
We have helped 53 veterans over the last 2 years with numbers increasing monthly
as we grow. This includes family members who are able to get back into full time
work because the help we have given the veteran means they no longer need to
receive so much carer support.

Freedom from mental suffering.

The ability to think straight enough to gain full time employment and interact
with their families again instead of “being a burden”.

Being confident enough to go out into their communities and partake in local
events and start new hobbies etc.
Other benefits
All of our beneficiaries be they veterans or family members become volunteers for
the charity and some even gain full time employment with us.
Added Value

We have 653 volunteers including trustees. They do a variety of hours over
the course of a year but on average approximately 80 hours each over the
year.

£125k pa from Big Lottery, approx. £20k in donations from the public and
fundraising events

3 Full Time Paid staff
Way ahead
We are looking to expand in the North East in the short term with a longer term
view of expanding outside the North East of England.
92
There are a considerable number of professional services in the 3rd Sector who
would welcome official recognition of the work they are doing and more financial
support so that they remain at the cutting edge of providing specialist services.
Contact details
Name:- Garreth Murrell
Address:- Alington House, 4 North Bailey, Durham, DH1 3ET
Telephone Number:- 07584056181
Website:-www.veteransatease.org
From left to right
John Taylor Therapist and Events Co-ordinator, Mandy Robinson Admin Officer,
Garreth Murrell CEO and Founder of Veterans at Ease
93
Visual Impairment Problem Solving in County Durham
Introduction
Established 1987 as South Durham Society for the Visually Handicapped.
Extended remit to cover the whole county as the County Durham Society for the
Blind and Partially Sighted. Rebranded and incorporated as Visual Impairment
Problem Solving in County Durham 2012 to provide support services and
information for people with sight loss and their carers and families in County
Durham and the surrounding areas in an effort to improve their quality of life and
work towards social inclusion.
Services provided
Over 1,000 service users with sight loss currently receive outreach services in
County Durham free of charge – information, talking newspapers, driver/escorts to
eye clinics, specialist equipment demonstration/loan, befriending and telephone
support. Talking newspapers and befriending are weekly services, telephone
support is a monthly service, other services on request. In the year ending 31st
March 2013, 10,368 instances of support were provided. All activities provide
practical support and information to improve service users’ quality of life and work
towards social inclusion, delivered by trained staff and volunteers.
We are accredited by the Mentoring and Befriending Foundation and are working
towards PQASSO accreditation.
Evidence of need
In 2012, 437 users were surveyed to check current services against need and to
test development ideas. 45.6% of respondents said they would not know where
else help could be sought if the charity did not exist. Prioritisation of current
services was as follows, from most to least important:
Providing information/signposting
Free loan of audio equipment
Talking Newspapers
Transport to eye clinic appointments
Demonstration of specialist daily living equipment
Phone support
Befriending
Visual impairment awareness training
94
Computer mentoring was rated the least important, and given the low take up has
been discontinued. We now signpost people to a local group.
Benefits to Health and Social Care Commissioners
Our services support the Joint Health/Wellbeing Strategy Delivery Plan 2013-2017
to improve quality of life, independence, care/support for people with long term
conditions and protect vulnerable people from harm.
As sight loss is
predominantly age-related/degenerative, and as almost half our service users are
over 80 years old, our services support North Durham Clinical Commissioning
Group’s Priorities of addressing holistic needs of the changing age profile of the
population, especially in the key area of mental health. There is very little other
long-term support for elderly blind people in County Durham, many of whom live
alone and cannot travel independently.
Benefits to service users
Our services fill a gap in provision in County Durham that other organisations do
not provide for elderly blind people, the majority of whom have other age-related
health problems/disabilities and live on low annual incomes (under £10,000). As
cuts are made, personalisation and reablement introduced, services rationed and
more reliance placed on signposting to internet self-help, our users are becoming
even more marginalised. Information, practical help and support provided by our
volunteers in the local community enable our users to remain independent, also to
feel less lonely and isolated, essential to health and wellbeing.
Other benefits
We work to reduce our impact on the environment, by recycling, using energy
efficiently, pairing local volunteers with users to reduce mileage. Staff and
volunteers are fully trained by the organisation and many volunteers go on into
employment, after gaining experience and confidence. Blind volunteers provide
visual impairment awareness training to outside organisations, which not only
raises awareness of issues affecting blind people, but also improves the
confidence and self-esteem of our volunteers.
These presentations also
encourage people in the wider community to understand the importance of regular
sight checks and the life limitations imposed by avoidable sight loss.
Added value
We have 83 volunteers, including trustees, who each spend an average of one or
two hours a week volunteering. Our income for 2012/2013 was £215,791 which
included a transfer of £115,559 from the County Durham Society for the Blind and
Partially Sighted. This income also included funding from Durham County Council
via a service level agreement, membership subscriptions, a small legacy, grants,
95
donations, recording income, community fundraising and gift aid. We receive free
professional help and support from several voluntary sector infrastructure
organisations. We have three paid staff, two full-time and one part-time, all of
whom live in County Durham.
Way ahead
We are using reserves to ensure that we can support our service users from 1st
April 2013 to 31st March 2014 due to the termination of our service level
agreement with Durham County Council. We are currently reviewing our services,
funding strategy, staffing levels and office location for 2014-2016.
Current issues for Service Users
Information should be provided in accessible format including large print, Braille
and audio format. It may be necessary for a member of staff to be available to
read out information, fill in forms etc. Service users’ records should be flagged to
identify their special needs due to their individual sight loss and regularly reviewed
to take account of the degenerative nature of sight loss. Service providers’ front
line staff should be trained how to guide and direct a blind person as a minimum
requirement.
Contact details
Linda Curtis,
Chief Executive Officer,
Visual Impairment Problem Solving in County Durham,
4 Red Hill Villas,
Durham City DH1 4BA.
0191 386 6511
www.cdsbps.co.uk
[email protected]
96
About Us
Chester-le-Street and District CVS and Volunteer Bureau is an umbrella
body working with voluntary and community organisations to promote a
strong, effective and independent voluntary sector.
Contact us
For more information about voluntary and community groups providing
health and care services in North Durham CCG area, contact:
Belinda Lowis
Chief Officer
[email protected]
0191 387 1192
Volunteering England
Quality Accreditation
Chester-le-Street & District CVS and Volunteer Bureau is a Company Limited by Guarantee,
Registered in England and Wales. Company No. 4046498. Registered Charity No. 1084105.
Reg Office: The Volunteer Centre, Clarence Terrace, Chester-le-Street, Co Durham. DH3 3DQ
Website: www.chesterlestreetcvs.co.uk
[email protected]
Email: [email protected]
or [email protected]
97

Working towards Healthier Communities

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