Guide - Alabaster Publishing

Transcription

free
LIVINGeasy
First Edition 2013
from the Golden
Guide team
Disability & Mental Health Support, Northumberland
INSPIRING
INFORMATION
FOR ADULTS
WITH LONG TERM
CONDITIONS.
Brimming with details
of local facilities,
specialist support,
who can help and
how to get in touch.
R
ORDfEree
YOUR OW
YN
COP
Resources for making life easier in your home or out of it
In association with Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust
Do you use social care or health services in
Northumberland? Would you like a say on
how these are run?
We are looking for people who have
experience of using these services or
support someone who does, and have ideas
about how the services can be improved in
the future.
You don’t need to be an expert - you just
need to have an opinion.
We have a number of forums who meet
every two months for two hours in Alnwick,
Ashington, Bedlington, Blyth, Hexham,
Morpeth, and Stannington,
These include
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We’ll pay travel expenses, or arrange
transport to help you to attend.
For more information please contact:
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Tel: 01670 394 493
www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
2013 LIVINGeasy
Disability & Mental Health Support, Northumberland
Welcome...
...to the first edition of LIVING easy, a brand new
directory full of practical information for anyone in
the county who might like a bit of help—either at
home, when out and about, or when travelling.
Gary O’Hare
Executive Director
of Nursing and
Operations,
Northumberland
Tyne and Wear NHS
Foundation Trust
Whether you are living with a long term condition, or
recovering from a hospital stay—whatever your situation,
we hope you will find useful, nuts and bolts information as
well as the inspiration to try new things you may not have
discovered before. And so you can track down exactly
what’s around, we have brought together local, regional
and some national entries, with contact details for them all,
including helplines and websites.
We have been lucky to find generous sponsors who
believe in the importance of information just as much as
we do-so please have a look at their services, and mention
the guide when you contact them. Quite a few of them will
be giving out LIVINGeasy guides too—even more reason to
get in touch!
We would be delighted to have your feedback on this first
issue, so if you would like to comment, please get in touch
at the address overleaf.
We hope you will browse through our new guide to
encourage you to find out, find some help locally and
make life just a bit easier than before!
Heather Alabaster
Editor
3
Partners & Sponsors
Partner
Sponsors
Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS
Foundation Trust (NTW)
t #FMMJOHIBN(ZN
t Blyth Star Enterprises
t Care & Repair Northumberland
Particular thanks to
members of the Long Term
Conditions Forum - the original
inspiration for this guide, who have
given advice, encouragement
and loyal support throughout
the research, development and
publication process.
t Coquet Trust
t Friends Action North East (FANE)
t Healthwatch Northumberland
t Northern Causeway
t Northern Neurological Alliance
(NNA)
t Northumberland Clinical
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t Northumberland County Blind
Association (NCBA)
t Northumbria Healthcare NHS
Foundation Trust, Long Term
Conditions Forum
t Northumbria Police
t Northumbrian Water
t Parkinsons UK
t 5IF-BVOESZ(BMMFSZ
Where to get your free copy
NTW Trust, Northumbria Healthcare, Libraries
and many of the support groups and
organisations listed have copies. Please
ask a care manager, support planner or
community mental health worker for a
copy, or visit your library branch or Patient
Information Centre at St. Nicholas Hospital.
5IF1"-4UFBNBOETPNF(1TVSHFSJFTBMTP
have copies.
By post: for a copy sent to you at home ring
Healthwatch on 01434 600599, or the NTW
Patient Information Centre on 0191 223 2545.
Audio: audio CDs are available to borrow from
larger library branches and Northumberland
County Blind Association 01670 514316.
Braille: copies are available to borrow from
NCBA (above)
Online: visit www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk/
publications
Note on Content Material contained within this book is for general information - and does not constitute advice.
Always consult a qualified adviser on your own personal situation before making any decisions. Content is as
accurate as we could make it but the editor cannot accept responsibility for any inconvenience sustained by
anyone using this book. The guide iswww.alabasterpublishing.co.uk
based on information available in Spring 2013.
Contents
2013
01
Social Life
6
Access... Activities, Hobbies & Sport ...Sports & Leisure Centres... Multi
Activity & Day Centres...Arts & Culture...Holidays & Short Breaks...
Tour Operators.
02
5SBOTQPSU(FUUJOH"SPVOE
28
Mobility Aids & Vehicles... Vehicle Adaptations... Insurance ... Community
Transport Schemes... More on Transport... Bus Travel...Train Travel...
Special Assistance at Airports...Concessionary Fares ...Bus Passes...
Taxi Tokens... Blue Badge scheme.
03
Independent Life
38
Adult Care service...Personal Budgets...Home Adaptations &
&RVJQNFOU%JTBCMFE'BDJMJUJFT(SBOU3FQBJST.BJOUFOBODF
More Help with Independent Living... Care & Carers.
04
Health Support
48
NHS 111...Hospitals ...Dealing with Concerns ...Safeguarding Adults...
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05
Work Life & Money
62
Employment & Training ...Welfare Benefits ...Where to get help and
advice... Pensions... More Help with Finances... Consumer Advice.
06
Quicklist
75
Heather Alabaster, Editor ©2013
For all publishing enquiries please ring 0191 386 5918, or email
[email protected] or visit www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk
Alabaster Publishing,
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Copyright This book is the original work of the writer and publisher, who holds the copyright. Please understand
that we send out printed, audio and electronic copies in good faith that they will not be copied, reprinted,
pirated or altered by anyone else as they are our livelihood. You are welcome to make partial copies for your
own personal use, but should seek permission for anything more. You also need permission if you would like to
download or circulate an electronic copy or add it to a website, please get in touch and ask us. LIVINGeasy
is protected by full copyright status. Alabaster Publishing © 2013
5
2013 edition
-*7*/(FBTZJOTQJSJOHJOGPSNBUJPO
01 SOCIAL LIFE
Here is a selection of places to
socialise, groups and activities
which are disability-friendly or
else specialist groups. If you
can, check the details before
you visit, as timings and venues
do change sometimes.
ACCESS
DisabledGo, 0845 270 4627,
07971 425213 text
www.disabledgo.com
Organisation provides accessibility
information for public amenities,
shops, town centres, restaurants
etc nationwide. It works with
Northumberland County Council
to offer detailed information on
Northumberland venues on its
website. It also carries disability
news, events, discussions and job
vacancies.
Nationwide Access Register,
Inclusive Britain, 01344 360101
www.inclusivebritain.com
Access information for organisations
across the country including
businesses, healthcare, banks, post
6
offices etc. Organisations add their
accessibility information and you can
add reviews or new locations too.
Free Inclusive Britain iPhone app.
Accessible England & National
Accessible Scheme (NAS)
www.enjoyengland.com/PracticalInformation
Accessibility information for travel
and holidays in England, including
accommodation, railway stations,
toilets etc. The NAS scheme awards
symbols to accommodation based
on the accessibility needs of those
with mobility difficulties, or who have
hearing or visual impairment.
See also pages 22-27 for Holidays &
Breaks.
Social Life
ACTIVITIES,
HOBBIES & SPORT
Social Care and Health Information
Points, 01670 536400
http://infopoint.mylibrary.co.uk
Information about activities, facilities
and support for residents is now
available at libraries in Morpeth,
Amble, Berwick, Haltwhistle and at the
information centre in Cramlington.
Specialist workers visit each centre for
two days a week - drop in to see them
for advice, or make an appointment.
Age UK Northumberland,
Rural Access Project,
0845 140 0088
Wide range of groups, activities
and outings from shopping trips
to theatres, museums, tea dances,
sightseeing etc. Covers North
Northumberland for people who are
isolated geographically or socially or
through restricted mobility.
The Roundhouse, Lintonville Parkway,
Ashington, NE63 9JZ
Alan Shearer Activity Centre, West
Denton, Newcastle, NE15 7LU
0191 267 8118
www.alansheareractivitycentre.org.
uk
Fun, therapeutic and sensory
activities for people with disabilities.
Most activities are free, including
giant ball pool, sensory rooms,
hydrotherapy suite, crafts and
music. Live and Learn skills sessions
carry a charge. Book in advance.
Hydrotherapy pool can be hired
Mon – Sat 9.00am – 5.00pm, also
block bookings and parties.
See page 23 for Alan Shearer Short
Break Centre.
Ashington Disabled Club,
Yvonne Anderson, Secretary, c/o 23
Ridgeway, North Seaton, Ashington,
Northumberland, NE63 9TJ,
01670 523806
Social club for people of mixed ages
who have a disability. Meets second
Fri of the month at Northumberland
Close, Ashington for entertainment
and socialising. Occasional trips and
meals out.
0845 140 0088
All their classes are open to anyone
over 50, whether disabled or not.
Exercise, relaxation and holistic
therapies, computer training and art
classes, singing, Zumba and a small
gym.
7
2013 edition
Bell View Resource Centre, 33 West
Blyth & District Talking Newspaper,
Street, Belford, NE70 7QB
CVA, 22 Beaconsfield Street, Blyth,
01668 219220
Fully accessible building offers
day care, as well as activities
from arts and crafts to walking for
health, therapy garden, cardiac
rehabilitation sessions etc. Wheelchair
accessible car (the Bringo) can be
used for social as well as essential
journeys.
NE24 2DP
01670 367293, Val Lockhart
Alternate Wednesdays from 2.30pm.
Volunteers record local newspaper
articles and magazines onto audio
tapes to post to visually impaired
listeners locally. New members
welcome.
Border Links Ltd, 4a Grove Gardens,
Prior Park, Berwick, TD15 2EN
01289 305423
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Foundry Yard, Bellingham
NE48 2DA, 01434 221161,
Brian Turner brian@
disabilityfitness.com
www.bellinghamgym.co.uk
Disability friendly gym run
by instructors experienced
in working with people with
disabilities. They specialise in
rehab training after a stroke.
Pay as you go system offers a
range of fitness programmes
using specialist disability
equipment. Also Martial Arts,
exercise classes, including
seated Yoga/Tai Chi and
wellbeing sessions. Ring in
advance of a first visit.
www.borderlinks.co.uk
Fortnightly drop-ins for people with
learning disabilities for coffee, chat
and events. In Berwick, Amble and
Kelso, with night club in Berwick too.
Successful vegetable box scheme as
well as training and other activities.
Calvert Trust, Kielder Water, Hexham,
Northumberland, NE48 1BS
01434 250232
www.calvert-trust.org.uk/kielder
Multi activity day visits include
archery, climbing, orienteering,
swimming. Also taster sessions e.g.
Water day, Sharp-Shooter day. ring or
check the website for details of these
throughout the year, no pre-booking
required.
See also page 24 Calvert Trust
holidays.
8
Social Life
Castle Morpeth Disability Association,
Florence Hope Club, Parish Hall,
(CMDA), Office 3D, First floor, Austin
St Helen’s Street, Corbridge, NE45 5BE
House, Sanderson’s Arcade, Morpeth,
01434 603239 or 0778 753 7200
NE61 1NS, 01670 504488
www.florencehope.com
Friendly day activity club for people
with dementia, Tues and Thurs 9.30
am - 4.00pm or half day and hourly
options available. Crafts, games,
reminiscing, singing, exercise, day
and afternoon trips out. Lunch and
transport from surrounding area if
required. Self refer or be referred.
www.cmda.org.uk
Charity supports people with
disabilities or sensory loss.
t )FBMUIZ-JWJOH(SPVQGPSPMEFS people has exercise sessions,
one to one or group support,
speakers, trips etc. First Tues
of the month 1.00pm - 3.00pm.
Christie Thompson 01670 504488
t .PSQFUI"SFB1BSUJBMMZTJHIUFE (SPVQ."14
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social events, training, crafts.
First Sat of the month 2.00pm 4.00pm, Ann Purvis 01670 518191.
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a week.
t $PNQVUJOHDMBTTFTBU4UPCIJMM branch.
See also page 29 shop, page 43
handyman, page 64 job search.
Friends Action North East, (FANE) c/o
Ouseburn Farm, Ouseburn Road
(off Lime Street), Newcastle, NE1 2PA
0191 231 4327
www.friendsaction.co.uk
Charity’s one-to-one friendship
mentoring project supports adults
with learning disabilities to develop
skills to overcome barriers to making
friendships and being more active
in their community. Operates in West
Northumberland and you can selfrefer.
Chrysalis Tynedale, Torch Centre,
Corbridge Road, Hexham
NE46 1QS, 07760 124539
www.chrysalis-tynedale.org.uk
Club for people with memory
problems or dementia and their
families. Singing, gardening, art,
indoor golf, socialising. Mon and Wed
afternoons, ring before your first visit.
9
2013 edition
Gateway into the Community,
Community Centre, Gilesgate,
Hexham, NE46 3NP
01434 607653
www.gatewayintothecommunity.
co.uk
Social, leisure and learning activities
for adults with learning disabilities.
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include Choir, Arts, Computers,
Badminton and regular disco.
Also employability skills, personal
development and occasional
outings. Self refer but ring before your
first visit.
Get Together Club, Community
Centre, Links View, North Seaton
Colliery, NE63 0XQ
01670 826563, or 0787 985 8194
Jean Morris
Run by disabled people for disabled
people from Ashington, Bedlington,
Blyth and Cramlington. Bingo, raffle,
speakers, quizzes, crafts, trips out. New
members welcome, including people
with mild mental health problems
and learning disabilities. Mon 9.30am
– 3.00pm.
Groundwork North East, Union Depot,
Front Street, Pegswood NE61 6RG
01670 514876
dry stone walling, gateway making
and transformation of Ashington
woods. Wheelchair accessible
transport available for some projects.
Projects for people with dementia:
Blooming Well, natural crafts and
garden project runs at Pegswood on
alternate weeks from May 2013.
Health Walks in Hexham and coming
soon in Morpeth and Alnwick.
Haltwhistle Activity Group, Haltwhistle
Library (during rebuild of Memorial
Hospital)
01434 600599, Jane Coulson
www.adapt-ne.org.uk
Social group Mon and Wed 10.00am
– 2.00pm with arts and crafts, games,
videos etc. as well as lunch. £25 per
day includes transport. Lunch is an
extra £2.50. Pay privately or from your
personal budget.
Hexham Lunch Group, Tynedale
Centre, Haugh Lane Industrial Estate
Hexham NE46 3PU
01434 600500, Jane Coulson
www.adapt-ne.org.uk
Lunch group with an entertainment
activity. Thurs 11.00am – 1.30pm. £10
per day includes lunch, with transport
at an extra cost of £2.00
(within Hexham).
www.northeast.groundwork.org.uk
Outdoor projects with volunteers
including people with disabilities, e.g.
10
Coquet Trust
Coquet Trust has been a registered charity
since 1995, we offer person centred support
packages to children, young people and
adults with a learning disability to encourage
community participation, promote
independence, health and well-being.
We provide:
k
t Regular and reliable staff for session work
t at Yor
A day ou
t Support from a few hours per week up
to 24/7 support including sleepovers
t Personal care
t Short break support
t Additional hours in academic holidays
t Support at home
t Personal budget planning
t Contracts for families using individual budgets
t Staff who work in partnership with other agencies Ice cream at Blyth
Park
t A contribution to staff expenses when
they are with you
t Honest and open communication
t Emergency 24 hour on-call service for
our employees
All our employees undergo rigorous pre-recruitment
checks (including an enhanced CRB) prior to employment.
All our staff take part in mandatory supervision/training.
Additional training is provided when it is relevant to the
service.
IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO DISCUSS YOUR
SUPPORT, PLEASE CONTACT US:
0191 285 9270 Or visit www.coquettrust.co.uk
Or call into our head office; just ask for
Susan or Alison
23/24 Lansdowne Terrace, Gosforth
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 1HP
Registered charity No: 1121062
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Deliverin
Coquet-Trust
CoquetTrust
2013 edition
Mencap Alnwick and District Branch,
Outsiders Club, 0707 499 0808
01670 787537 or 01665 602922
07074 993527 Sex & Disability
www.mencap.org.uk
Leisure group with members from a
wide area. Monthly trips and events
include theatre, disco, bowling, BBQ,
pubs etc. Wheelchair accessible
holiday chalet at Haggerston Castle,
for families of people with special
needs.
Helpline
See page 57 for Mencap’s Learning
Disability Helpline
Taking Part Workshops, access to
local activities and opportunities, see
main entry on page 59.
www.outsiders.org.uk
Club offers self help support,
friendship and dating for people
with physical and social disabilities.
Helpline Mon – Fri, 11.00am – 7.00pm
for calls from disabled people and
health care professionals.
Mind Active, 01670 820461
www.mindactive.org.uk
Monthly community days with lunch,
activities and entertainment for
people with dementia, their families
and friends. Blyth and Bedlington
Station, ring for details.
Parkinson’s UK Northumberland, Tyne
& Wear Active Persons Branch,
07747 023628, Lesley Howett
Wansbeck Disability Forum,
c/o The Toy Library, Station Villa,
Kenilworth Road, Ashington,
NE63 8AA
01670 523539, Karon Cook
www.wansbeckdisabilityforum.com
Activities and outreach sessions at
Stakeford and Bomarsund Welfare
centre first and third Thurs of the
month, 10.00am – 1.00pm.
www.parkinsons.org.uk and
Facebook
Badminton, dance, archery, spinning,
etc. at Westgate Community College
Centre for Sport, Mon 7.00pm –
8.00pm. Also first Sun of the month
at Marriott Hotel, Metro Centre. All
welcome to drop in.
12
Walks with Wheelchairs
www.walkswithwheelchairs.com/
Northumberland
Lists tried and tested walks across the
country suitable for wheelchair users,
with reviews, directions and distances
etc. For Northumberland these are
in Haltwhistle, Low Prudhoe and
Newcastle.
Social Life
SPORT
Borders Wheelchair Curling Club,
Border Ice Rink, Golf Course Road,
Kelso, Roxburghshire, TD5 7SL
01896 823690 Valerie Robertson
www.bordericerink.co.uk
Club runs October to March.
Specialist wheelchairs and delivery
sticks, wheelchair ramp and portable
ramps onto the ice. Coaching events
and occasional competitions.
Cyclops, The Parks Sports Centre,
off Howden Road, North Shields,
Tyne & Wear, NE29 6TL
07974 720002, www.cyclopsnt.org
Cycling for people with disabilities
using adapted or conventional bikes.
Open sessions Wed and Fri 2.00pm 3.00pm or solo or group sessions can
be arranged.
Disabled Golf Association,
01666 503918
www.disabledgolfsociety.com
Organise tournaments around the
country including Northumberland.
Information and help with equipment
for members, with golf buddy service
for competitions.
Gateway Wheelers, 07764 495902,
Brian Milner (Gateshead),
www.gatewaywheelers.org.uk
Cycling for people with disabilities
providing suitable cycles, equipment
and support. Website lists events
throughout the North East. Clubs are
in Darlington, Chester-le-Street and
(BUFTIFBE
Henshaws Society for Blind People,
0191 275 9417
www.henshaws.org.uk/north-east
Blind football, with coaching and
competitions. Also archery, swimming
and gym sessions. Ring for details.
Northumberland County Golf
Partnership, 07726 601724, Regional
Development Officer Jason Budd
www.northumberlandcgp.co.uk
New golf programme to include
people with disabilities expected
to begin in Spring 2013, Check the
website or ring for details.
Northumberland Special Olympics,
01670 814511, Helen Critchlow
www.specialolympicsgb.org.uk
Swimming, football and athletics
training and competition for people
with a learning disability aged 8-80.
Transport available from some areas.
New members and volunteers always
welcome.
13
2013 edition
Pegasus Centre, Tranwell, Morpeth,
NE61 6AF, 01670 518219
www.thepegasuscentre.org.uk
BHS approved centre for novice
and experienced riders. Lessons for
people with physical, mental and
sensory disabilities, as well as ablebodied riders. Dressage competitions
and other events. Hoist available if
required. Also other activities e.g.
Archery.
See also page 56 Horsepower for
Ability.
Percy Hedley Foundation Sports
Academy, 0191 268 7116
www.percyhedley.org.uk
Specialist services for disabled
people with sports academy in
Killingworth. Sports include Boccia,
Wheelchair Basketball, Powerchair
Football and Martial Arts with some
sessions in the community too.
Pine House Hydrotherapy Pool, Pine
House, Park Drive, Hepscott park,
Morpeth, NE61 6QA
Riding for the Disabled, (RDA),
0845 450 7096, Sue Wade
Northumberland region
www.rda.org.uk
Pegasus (above) is a large RDA
centre and can cater for adults.
Smaller groups open for limited
hours, usually for school groups or
individual children. These are at Etal,
Alnwick, Slaley and a Newcastle
group at Westerhope. Contact
Sue for information about riding or
volunteering.
WHEELCHAIR ANGLING
Wheelyboats are adapted
to make them accessible to
wheelchair users and other
disabled people. They are simple
to operate, ring in advance to
hire them.
t 8FTU8BUFS"OHMJOH)BMMJOHUPO
Reservoir, Colwell, Hexham,
0844 736 1442
www.pinehousepool.com
Indoor heated pool for disabled
adults or youngsters with their carers.
Attached to a private house but with
separate access, accessible toilet,
shower and changing, including
adult changing table. Sessions
bookable Mon - Sat. Make an
14
appointment to check suitability
before first visit.
NE46 4TP
01434 681405, John Irving
www.westwaterangling.co.uk
Trout water fly fishing club with
clubhouse, good access and
informal tuition by arrangement.
Ring to book the Wheelyboat three
days in advance of a visit—free of
charge.
Social Life
t -FBQMJTI8BUFSTJEF1BSL
WHEELCHAIR ARCHERY
Kielder Water, Hexham,
NE48 1BT
01434 251000
www.visitkielder.com
Two Wheelyboats to hire for fishing.
Also wheelchair accessible spots
for bank fishing. The annual +BDLJF
Charlton Trout Cup is hosted here,
contact the +BDLJF$IBSMUPO Disabled Anglers Association,
0121 429 6107, Pat Redfern.
t 5XFFE'PVOEBUJPO
www.archerygb.org 01952 677888
There are 10 clubs in
Northumberland, for details visit the
website above or ring. Many are
open to able and disabled people
as long as you can draw a bow and
complete the safety course. Clubs
usually offer coaching, competitions
and recreational shooting with
equipment provided. Here are two
popular ones.
t #FSXJDL"SDIFST+PIO(JMM
01896 848271
01289 388626
www.tweedfoundation.org.uk
Two wheelyboats designed for
salmon angling. Safe and stable
for people in wheelchairs or with
limited mobility and rowed by a
trained boatman. Usable on most
of the main beats on Tweed.
www.berwickarchers.co.uk
t 'POUCVSO3FTFSWPJS3PUICVSZ
NE61 4PL
0845 155 0236 or 01669 621368
Smaller friendly, family oriented
fishery, suitable for disabled
anglers. No wheelyboat but there
is a platform for disabled anglers
on the north shore.
t (SFFO-BOF%JTBCMFE
Able-Bodied Archers,
01670 523574, Graham Baker
www.greenlanearchers.com
Wheelchair Sports and Leisure Club,
The Torch Centre, Corbridge Road,
Hexham, NE46 1QS
0191 236 5787, Isobel Landers
Friendly club for wheelchair users
across the county, Fri 1.00pm –
6.00pm. Free activities include
snooker, bowls, darts, table-tennis,
basketball, kurling, rifle-shooting,
dominos etc. Bar and kitchen. New
members welcome, no need to be
good at sport, just turn up.
15
2013 edition
SPORTS & LEISURE
CENTRES
Most swimming pools have
hoists available on demand,
although some prefer you to ring
in advance, so that staff can
make them ready and arrange
assistance as necessary. Centres
with fitness gyms usually have
some equipment that is suitable
for people with disabilities.
Facilities here are used by the
community as well as residents.
Swimming pool with hoists, disabled
DIBOHJOHBOEUPJMFUT(ZNPQFOUP
all.
Haltwhistle Swimming & Leisure
Centre, Greencroft, Haltwhistle
NE49 9DP, 01434 320727
www.haltwhistleleisure.co.uk
Newbiggin Sports & Community
Centre, Woodhorn Road, NE64 6HG,
01670 532348
Ashington Leisure Centre, Institute
Road, Ashington, NE63 8HP
01670 622130
www.activenorthumberland.org.uk
Disabled Bowls Club.
Blyth Sports Centre, Bolam Avenue,
Blyth, NE24 5BT
(SFFO-BOF%JTBCMFEBOEBCMF
bodied archers meet here in winter.
See previous page.
Ponteland Leisure Centre, Callerton
Lane, Ponteland, NE20 9EG
01661 825441
01670 542222
Falls class.
Concordia Leisure Centre, Forum
Way, Cramlington, NE23 6YB
01670 542222
Granary Leisure Complex, Links Road,
Amble NE65 0SD
www.harpersfitness.co.uk
Riverside Leisure Centre, New Market,
Morpeth, NE61 1PR
01670 514665
www.harpersfitness.co.uk
Rothbury Pool & Gym, Silverton Lane,
Rothbury, Northumberland, NE65 7RJ
01669 622834
01665 710727
www.parkleisure.co.uk/amble-links
16
Social Life
Sporting Club, Cramlington High
School, High Burn, Cramlington,
Northumberland, NE23 6BN
01670 591 970
Swan Leisure Centre,
Northumberland Road, Tweedmouth,
Berwick, TD15 2AS
01289 330603
www.swanleisurecentre.co.uk
MULTI ACTIVITY
& DAY CENTRES
Northumbria Healthcare
01670 536400
Traditional day centres offer art, craft,
music etc and a chance to socialise.
Northumberland’s Adult Social Care
service can advise on these, or if
necessary they may give financial
support through a personal budget,
subject to a financial assessment.
Waterworld, Front Street, Prudhoe,
NE42 5DQ
Age UK Northumberland
01661 833144
0845 140 0088
Pool has beach area for easy access
and wheelchairs for water.
www.ageuk-northumberland.org.uk
They operate day centres for over 50s.
Their Community Dementia Service
operates day centres for older people
with dementia in Amble and Berwick,
transport provided. Self referral or
through care manager.
Wentworth Leisure Centre, Wentworth
Park, Hexham, NE46 3PD,
01434 607080
Wentworth Bowl, 01434 611754,
tenpin bowling centre.
Willowburn Sports & Leisure Centre,
Willowburn Avenue, Alnwick,
NE66 2JH
01665 605030
17
2013 edition
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Let us take the heartache
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A happy relief every laundry day
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Friends Action North East
FANE Champions friendship, raising expectations
and creating opportunities to do ordinary things.
YOUR GREAT ONLINE RESOURCE
What’s on in your local area
Meeting zone
Interactive community map
You rate venues and facilities
Friendship resources
Website - audio feature
Website - fully accessible
Accessibility information
All of the latest news
For more information
Call: 0191 231 4327
18
Social Life
Ashington Day Care Centre, 8 John
Northern Causeway, 17 Wallace
Street, Ashington, NE63 0SE
Green, Berwick, TD15 1EB
01670 858623, Sharon Scott
01289 356919
www.sja.org.uk
3VOCZ4U+PIO"NCVMBODFGPSPWFS
65s with physical or mental illness or
disability. Shopping scheme, theatre
trips, yoga, sugarcraft, computers
allotment. Open 7 days a week. Also
Berwick Day Care Centre—similar
centre, open 3 days a week.
www.mentalhealthmatters.com
Outreach and floating support for
people with mental health concerns.
Recovery coaching to promote
independent living, also day centre
with social activities, exercise, hobbies
etc. See ad on page 54.
Parkhead Resource Centre,
Ashington, Park Rd, Ashington,
NE63 8EB, 01670 855 561
01668 219220
Day care for older people as well
as new dementia services coming
along in 2013. These are expected to
include a dedicated dementia unit
and outreach service.
www.stcuthbertscare.org.uk
Stimulating educational activities
for adults with learning difficulties.
Also day trips, excursions, socialising.
On referral from Northumberland
Healthcare.
Blyth Star Enterprises, 30 Ridley Street,
Percy Hedley Foundation, Chipchase
Blyth, Northumberland NE24 3AG
House, Forest Hall, Newcastle,
01670 355421
NE12 9QU
www.blythstar.com
Charity supports people with mental
health issues, learning and other
disabilities through supported living
schemes, training and activities
for interest or leading towards
employment. Woodwork, IT, crafts,
catering, admin and finance.
Commercial horticultural unit and a
wood fuel centre - offer training and
work experience.
0191 238 1300
Charity offers specialist services for
disabled people. Day centre.
See also page 42, page 43, page 62
and ad on page 63.
19
2013 edition
Pot-A-Doodle Do, Borewell,
Scremerston, Berwick-upon-Tweed,
Northumberland,TD15 2RJ
01289 307107
www.potadoodledo.com
Activity centre runs arts and crafts
activities for all including people with
physical or learning disabilities—
either as groups or individuals. Also
walks, fishing, wigwam village, café
and farm shop. No steps, disabled
toilets and parking. Open 7 days,
10.00am – 4.00pm.
ARTS & CULTURE
Many places of interest offer
discounted or free admission to
a companion accompanying
a disabled person. This includes
the Theatre Royal and the Sage
(BUFTIFBEBMTPTPNFNVTFVNT
sports venues, cinemas, National
Trust or English Heritage sites.
20,000 Voices, Newbiggin
Community Arts Centre, Woodhorn
Pottergate Centre, Howling Lane,
Villa, Woodhorn Lane,
Alnwick, NE66 1DJ
Newbiggin by the Sea, NE64 6PY
01665 602181
01670 852 445
www.thepottergatecentre.org.uk
Day service for people with learning
disabilities. Newsletter, catering,
gardening, sport, sensory activities
etc. Outreach centres in Amble,
Rothbury and Seahouses.
www.20000voices.org
They run singing sessions, workshops
and community choirs in community
venues. Singing improves breathing,
posture, exercises the brain and
is very sociable. All welcome,
although some venues have limited
accessibility, ring for details.
Self Unlimited, Ponderosa House,
Coopies Field, Coopies Lane,
Morpeth, NE61 1JT, 01670 500 690
www.selfunlimited.co.uk
Support for adults with learning
disabilities includes residential
dementia unit, wide range of
day services and activities and
employment opportunities. Art
therapy, dance, drama, garden club
etc. Self-referrals accepted.
20
Social Life
Audio Book Group, Morpeth Library,
Lawnmowers Independent Theatre
Gas House Lane, Morpeth, NE61 1TA
Co, Swinburne House,
01670 500393, Lynne Riddell
Book discussion group for people with
visual impairment meets monthly on
Thurs 1.30pm - 3.00pm. Occasional
speakers and trips to book festivals.
Swinburne Street Gateshead,
BBC The Ouch! Blog
www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs/ouch/
Blog and internet talk show reflecting
disability life. Add your comments
and listen to the monthly podcast.
Haltwhistle Film Project Co Ltd,
Market Square, Haltwhistle, NE49 OBL
01434 320360 or 07531 384987
NE8 1AX
0191 478 9200
www.thelawnmowers.co.uk
Theatre company run by, and for,
people with learning disabilities.
Dance and theatre workshops,
evening clubs Mon-Thurs, in drama,
dance and music. Places are limited
so book in advance. They tour drama
and host events for learning disabled
people across the region including
evening groups and popular
Krocodile Klubs for 16+. Some day
places too.
www.haltwhistlefp.co.uk and
www.filmable.org.uk
Film production company also runs
training and workshops in film and
animation. Within HFP is FilmABLE a
film production company run by and
for people with learning disabilities.
HFP and FilmAble take commissions
and tour their work widely in the
region.
Northumberland Theatre Company,
(NTC) 01665 602586
www.northumberlandtheatre.co.uk
Based at Alnwick Playhouse NTC tours
shows around the county in smaller
venues such as village halls and
community centres. Look out for their
family Christmas productions with
signer for hearing impaired audience
members. Contact them if you are
interested in booking a show for a
local venue.
21
2013 edition
Seven Stars Theatre Company,
Headway Arts, 21 Quay Road, Blyth,
NE24 2AS, 01670 351962
www.headwayhq.co.uk
Northumberland’s learning disabled
theatre company devise and perform
their own work in theatres and
community venues. New members
are welcome—ring to arrange a
taster day, then join by referral from a
care manager.
Shadowdance, Alnwick Playhouse,
www.disabilityartsonline.org.uk
Online arts journal offers disabled
and deaf artists, performers, filmmakers, writers, and critics a place
to discuss artistic practice. Its
contributors are disabled artists
or writers, or from disability arts
organisations. It also holds a directory
of disabled artists and organisations.
HOLIDAYS
& SHORT BREAKS
Alnwick, NE66 1PG
01665 604459, Joanne Burn or
01665 510785 Box Office
www.alnwickplayhouse.co.uk
Movement, dance and drama for
learning disabled performers. Ring
for dates and times. New members
welcome.
Twisting Ducks Theatre Company,
West Gate Community College, West
Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 9LU
07925 167775
www.thetwistingducks.co.uk
Company creates and performs
drama, music and videos on issues
related to disability. Adults with
learning disabilities can join in
running a TV company, a Theatre
company or a Band. Monthly theatre
night with productions from other
learning disabled companies.
22
There are many companies
specialising in holidays and
travel for people with disabilities.
Here we have listed some of the
better known. If you book through
a travel agent they will check
resorts and individual hotels
for suitable accommodation
and facilities and can organise
special assistance for your
journey.
See pages 35–36 for assistance at
Airports, Bus and Train travel.
Social Life
Help with Holiday Information
Tourism for All, 0845 124 9971
www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-for-
www.tourismforall.org.uk
Information on all aspects of
holidays for disabled people and
older people. Searchable directory
of accommodation, campsites,
accessible attractions, escorted
holidays and foreign travel.
disabled-people
Website lists the services you can
expect from airlines, and other useful
pointers for travellers with a disability.
Disability Rights UK, 12 City Forum,
250 City Road, London EC1V 8AF
0207 250 3222
www.disabilityrightsuk.org
(VJEFUPBDDFTTJCMFIPMJEBZ
accommodation in Britain and
Ireland either in print or on the
website. They also supply keys for
disabled toilets in the National Key
Scheme and a guide to where they
are located in the UK.
See also p6 Accessible England
North Tyneside Coalition of Disabled
People, 0191 296 1437
www.ntcdp.co.uk
The Coalition keeps a database of
holiday and respite care venues. They
can give you information on these,
but act as a signposting service only
and do not make bookings.
ACTIVITY
& RESPITE BREAKS
Alan Shearer Short Break Centre,
0191 267 8128
www.alanshearershortbreakcentre.
org.uk
Short respite breaks for people
with severe physical and learning
disabilities across the North East.
Linked to the Alan Shearer Activity
Centre with free access to its
specialist facilities. Healthcare
professionals, social workers or
independent families can refer guests
or book a short break.
See page 7.
Ricability 0207 427 2460
www.ricability.org.uk
Consumer research charity for older
and disabled people has information
including details of companies
offering accessible holidays. On the
website click Consumer Reports, then
Helpful Organisations, then Holidays.
23
2013 edition
Calvert Trust, Kielder Water, Hexham,
The Beamsley Project, Harrogate
Northumberland,
Road, Beamsley, Skipton, North Yorks,
NE48 1BS, 01434 250232
BD23 6JA
www.calvert-trust.org.uk
Holidays, activity breaks and respite
breaks for people with disabilities,
their families and friends. Centres at
Kielder, the Lake District and Exmoor.
They specialise in outdoor activities
and themed weeks include sailing,
bushcraft, country and western,
pamper week etc.
01756 710 255
www.beamsleyproject.org
Self-catering holiday accommodation
in the Yorkshire Dales for people with
disabilities and their carers. High
quality facilities in the main centre
and adjoining cottage.
Jane Percy House, Brockwell Centre,
Northumbrian Road, Cramlington,
See page 8 for Activity day visits and
drop-in taster sessions.
Disability Snowsport UK, Glenmore
Grounds, Aviemore, Scotland PH22
1QU, 01479 861272
www.disabilitysnowsport.org.uk
Skiing and snowboarding activity
weeks in Scotland, Europe and North
America using adapted equipment.
They cater for any level as lessons are
all one to one.
NE23 1XX
01670 590333
www.disabilities-trust.org.uk
Residential and respite care for
people with physical disabilities.
Activities to build and maintain skills.
Day trips and holidays can
be arranged. On referral only.
Back-Up Trust, Jessica House, Red
Lion Square, 191 Wandsworth High
Street, London, SW18 4LS,
020 8875 1805
www.backuptrust.org.uk
Residential activity courses for people
with a spinal cord injury to increase
independence. Skiing, canoeing,
archery, drama, wheelchair skills and
multi-activity courses. Some take
place in the Lake District.
24
Social Life
Northumberland County Blind Association
Support blind and partially sighted people in Northumberland
Our services include:
Local clubs and support groups, including our newest service ...
SocialEyes Northumberland.
We can support you to visit our lively, independent groups to meet other
partially sighted people locally and join in to choose activities and events.
And see what else we do...
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Ideal for meetings, workshops or training sessions.
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25
2013 edition
Jubilee Sailing Trust , Hazel
Road, Woolston, Southampton
SO19 7GB, 023 8044 9108
www.jst.org.uk
Sailing on one of their two tall ships
includes day or week voyages and
chance to take part in tall ships
races. People with a wide range of
disabilities sail with the Trust and there
may be bursary funding available for
which anyone may apply.
TOUR OPERATORS
2 by 2 African Holidays,
01582 766122
www.2by2holidays.co.uk
Accessible holidays for wheelchair
users or people with impaired
mobility. Range includes safaris,
beach, train and sightseeing holidays.
Accessible Travel & Leisure,
Natural Ability
01452 729739
01434 685777, Kathy Lowe
www.accessibletravel.co.uk
Holidays for less mobile people from
specialist company set up by three
wheelchair users. Nursing care,
equipment hire etc can be arranged.
www.naturalability.org
Supported holidays in a rural setting
with farm and other activities.
See page 65 for training and work
experience.
Percy Hedley Foundation,
Avalon Freedom Holidays,
01423 856589 or 01423 530053
Day and residential adult services
and respite breaks.
www.avalongroup.org.uk
Short breaks and holidays in the
UK or abroad for people requiring
assistance by a trained companion
or supporter.
Vitalise, 0303 303 0145
Disabled Access Holidays Ltd
www.vitalise.org.uk
Short breaks for disabled people and
carers, with 24-hour nursing
care and personal support. At
three UK centres with activities and
excursions. Long-stay places available
at another of their centres.
0845 257 0113 or 0800 622 6000
0191 238 1300
26
www.disabledaccessholidays.com
Hotel and villa holidays specialising
in accessible accommodation. Many
ýJHIUTGSPN/FXDBTUMF(FUJOUPVDIUP
join their email brochure list.
Social Life
The Disaway Trust, email
Vision Hotels
[email protected]
0845 603 0051
www.disaway.co.uk
Charity organises group holidays
with physically disabled people and
volunteer carers. One UK and one
or two foreign holidays run per year
Volunteer helpers travel for half the
cost of the holiday.
www.visionhotels.co.uk
Holidays in their hotels in Devon,
Somerset, Sussex and the Lakes
for people with visual impairment.
Facilities for guide dogs too. Part of
Action for Blind People, (RNIB).
Enable Holidays
See also page 29 Bell View Centre for
tourist wheelchair loans
0871 222 4939
www.enableholidays.com
Specialist tour operator for wheelchair
users, people with limited mobility
and their families and friends.
Accommodation grading system.
Livability Holidays
0845 658 4478
www.livability.org.uk
Accessible UK hotels and self catering
properties. Hotels run entertainments,
excursions etc.
Traveleyes
0844 8040 221
www.traveleyes-international.com
Worldwide holidays for visually
impaired people and sighted
travellers. Sighted travellers claim 50%
discount on the holiday in return for
helping guide other travellers (they
do not act as carers). Travel in small
groups, for adults over 18.
27
2013 edition
02 53"/41035(&55*/("306/%
One of the most important
issues affecting independence
and general wellbeing is the
ability to get out and about.
Here are some organisations
who can help you find suitable
transport or mobility options for
going about your daily life.
MOBILITY AIDS
& VEHICLES
Joint Equipment Loans Service,
Northumbria Healthcare NHS
Foundation Trust, 43 Colbourne
Your GP can refer you for an
assessment of your need for
mobility aids. If you can, view
and try out equipment before
you buy so you know it will be
suitable. A specialist shop will
have expert staff to advise on
maintenance or fit etc. If you
buy from the internet or direct
from manufacturers - find out in
advance what is best for your
needs.
28
Crescent, Nelson Park Industrial
Estate, Cramlington, NE23 1WB,
01670 730595
www.northumbria.nhs.uk
Northumbria Healthcare can supply
equipment on permanent loan to
help you live independently and
safely at home. Range includes
wheelchairs, walking and bathing
aids, specialist furniture such as beds,
chairs, grab rails, alarms, door entry
systems, hoists etc. You will need to be
SFGFSSFECZZPVS$BSF.BOBHFS(1PS
another health professional. They will
assess your needs to find the most
suitable equipment.
If you need a wheelchair for your
job the Access to Work scheme
may provide one. Contact the
Employment Disability Adviser at your
MPDBM+PC$FOUSF1MVT
See page 65.
01668 219220
Wheelchair loan scheme - often lent
to visitors to holiday properties or
camps in the area.
Castle Morpeth Disability Association
(CMDA), Office 3D, 1st Floor, Austin
Disability North, The Dene Centre,
Castle Farm Road, Newcastle,
NE3 1PH, 0191 284 0480
www.disabilitynorth.org.uk
Advice and support service also
demonstrates and assesses specialist
equipment in their Independent
Living Centre e.g. wheelchairs,
walking aids, bed, bathroom and
kitchen equipment, etc. They keep
lists of secondhand equipment
available and will also help you
advertise equipment you may wish to
sell yourself.
See also p 44 for more support
services
House, Sanderson Arcade, Morpeth,
NE61 1NS, 01670 504488
Disabled Living Foundation
www.cmda.org.uk
Their shop sells living aids e.g.
walking sticks, wheelchairs, walkers
etc from stock or from their disability
catalogue. All at cost price with a
try before you buy scheme. Free
wheelchair loan scheme.
0845 130 9177
www.dlf.org.uk
www.livingmadeeasy.org.uk
Useful advice on daily living aids
and products. Helpline, fact sheets,
supplier directory and simple
AskSARA online system guide you to
find items that may be helpful.
Shopmobility scheme
costs £4 per year to join which allows
free use of scooters within Morpeth
Mon – Fri. Book in advance.
See also page 9 activities, page 43
handyman and page 64 job search.
29
2013 edition
Disabled Motoring UK,
National Forum of Mobility Centres,
01508 489 449
0800 559 3636
www.disabledmotoring.org
Campaigns on behalf of disabled
motorists. Free advice service for
members as well as casework service
to help dispute parking charges, fines,
disabled bay abuse etc.
www.mobility-centres.org.uk
Helpline and information on all
aspects of outdoor mobility. Includes
vehicle access and adaptations,
scooters, wheelchairs, driving with a
disability etc. The North East Forum
member is North East Drive Mobility.
Mobility Trust, 0118 984 2588
www.mobilitytrust.org.uk
The trust helps provide powered
wheelchairs or scooters for disabled
people who cannot obtain one
otherwise. Write a letter of appeal
explaining your situation to Mrs Anne
Munn, Mobility Trust, 17b Reading
3PBE1BOHCPVSOF#FSLTIJSF3(-3
Motability, 0845 456 4566,
0845 675 0009 textphone
www.motability.co.uk
Charity’s scheme helps disabled
people lease a car, scooter or
powered wheelchair through a
network of dealers. A disabled person
who doesn’t drive can still apply.
You may be eligible for the scheme
in exchange for part, or all of your
Disability Living Allowance or Personal
Independence Payment.
North East Drive Mobility, Walkergate
Park, Centre for Neuro-Rehabilitation
& Neuro-Psychiatry, Benfield Road,
Newcastle, NE6 4QD
0191 287 5090
www.ntw.nhs.uk/mobility
Personal driving assessments for
people with a condition affecting
their ability to use a vehicle as driver
or passenger. Accredited by the
Forum of Mobility Centres.
Red Cross Equipment Loan,
0191 273 7961
www.redcross.org.uk
Wheelchair and walking frame loans
from depot in Newcastle or Hexham.
Sometimes secondhand wheelchairs
are available to buy. Ring in advance
to make an appointment to visit.
See page 66-67 for changes to DLA.
30
Ricability, 0207 427 2460
National Association for Bikers with a
Charity carries out detailed research
on products for disabled and older
people. Includes choosing a car
or powered wheelchair; vehicle
adaptations, people lifters etc.
Also holds lists of specialist local
and national suppliers and vehicle
converters. Ring for information,
download a report from the website
or request a printed copy.
Disability, 0844 415 4849
PRIVATE HIRE
Insurance is not required to
use a powered wheelchair or
scooter, even if you use it on the
road. But it is sensible to have
cover for accidents and injury
and perhaps theft, breakdowns,
accidental damage etc.
Some commercial companies offer
a hire service for specific items. Find
them in the Yellow Pages, or on www.
yell.com under Mobility and Access
Equipment.
VEHICLE ADAPTATIONS
For an independent assessment of
your adaptation needs, contact the
Forum of Mobility Centres.
See above.
For information on assistance with
financing your adaptations, contact
Motability.
www.nabd.org.uk
(FOFSBMJOGPSNBUJPOJOTVSBODF
licence and legal advice as well as
grants for adaptations of motorbikes
for disabled users. They also loan
learner bikes nationwide for training
and assessment tests.
INSURANCE
0845 0 950 150 or 0845 140 0088
They offer insurance for over 50s
for mobility buggies and scooters
provided they don’t travel at more
than 8mph. This is covered under a
home insurance policy which also
covers third party liability.
See above.
31
IT'S
NEVER
TOO
LATE...
END
DISABILITY
HATE
If anyone hurts or upsets
you or damages your
property because you
have a disability, they are
committing a HATE CRIME.
REPORT TO:
A Safe Reporting Centre
or
Michelle Redfern
Northumbria Police
Community Engagement Officer:
101 ext 69191
British Insurance Brokers’ Association,
The BRINGO, Bell View Resource
0870 950 1790
Centre, 33 West Street, Belford,
www.biba.org.uk
Ring the helpline or find a broker
through their online lists. These
include companies insuring modified
vehicles or motor cycles, and
epileptic motor cover.
NE70 7QB, 01668 219220
Wheelchair accessible car scheme
for essential and social journeys,
driven by volunteer drivers.
COMMUNITY
TRANSPORT SCHEMES
See also page 8.
Getabout Northumberland,
WRVS, 0845 266 8906,
(ring 9.00am – 1.00pm)
or 07834 753387
Adapt (North East),
01434 600599
www.adapt-ne.org.uk
Range of transport schemes for
members, who are isolated by
disability or through living in a
rural area. (Individual membership
currently £2 per year).
Services include Minibus hire, Dial a
Ride, Individual Support Service and
Wheelchair Loan.
Blyth Valley Disabled Forum,
01670 360927
www.blythdisabledforum.co.uk
Fully accessible vehicle for people
who are disabled or who have limited
mobility for social outings, church
services, recreation, etc. Available 7
days.
www.wrvs.org.uk
Volunteer car transport scheme for
regular or one-off trips, shopping,
social, hospital etc. They also have a
wheelchair accessible car but ring
first for details of this.
NEED Ltd (NE Equality & Diversity)
01665 605780
www.needltd.co.uk
Safe, accessible transport across the
region and borders, for organisations
or individuals who are isolated or
without access to conventional
transport or who need a ‘door to
door’ service. Includes Dial-a-Ride
service into market towns from rural
areas, also free Travel Planning for
help with difficult journeys.
33
2013 edition
North Seaton Colliery Community
Red Cross Transport Scheme,
Centre Minibus, 01670 851457
Wheelchair accessible 17 seat
minibus for groups and individuals.
Ring evenings, after 9.30pm if
possible.
0191 273 7961
Northumberland Car Share scheme,
www.redcross.org.uk
North of Tyne scheme covers
Northumberland too. Car or
wheelchair-accessible minibus can
be arranged for individuals or groups
for any journey purpose.
Go Smarter Northumberland Team,
01670 620161, Andy Chymera,
Upper Coquetdale Community
www.GoSmarterNorthumberland.
Transport, 07870 577 667 or
co.uk
Car sharing scheme for one-off
or regular trips, saves money and
reduces your carbon footprint.
Contact the team via the website or
ring for details.
01669 621855
Reaction Independent Living
Watbus Community Transport,
Shopping Project, Wansbeck CVS,
01670 522999
01670 858688, Karen Cox
Scheme to enable people who are
isolated or disabled to travel to the
shops, bank etc. Collects from home
on Tues, Wed and Thurs from different
parts of Wansbeck, Seaton Valley
and Blyth either fortnightly or monthly.
Service runs with volunteers and there
is a cost. Please ring to apply or ask
your care manager.
www.watbus.org.uk
Community transport scheme across
Northumberland for individuals or
groups who are older or who have
difficulty using mainstream transport.
www.ucct.btck.co.uk
Wheelchair accessible 17 seat bus
covers whole area for individual
or group bookings. Regular Friday
shopping trips to Rothbury.
See also page 7 for Age UK Rural
Access Project .
34
MORE ON TRANSPORT
TRAIN TRAVEL
Assisted Passenger Reservation
More on Transport
System, National Rail Enquiries,
Traveline, 0871 200 2233
08457 48 49 50
www.travelinenortheast.info
Information on local fares, times and
routes for bus, coach, train or ferry
travel.
0845 6050 600 textphone
www.gov.uk/transport-disabled
Transport and travel advice for
disabled and less able people
BUS TRAVEL
Arriva, 0844 800 4411
www.arrivabus.co.uk
Check on the day of travel to find out
which services have low floor access.
Mobility scooters must be assessed
for compatibility with bus travel and
be within recommended size limits.
Go North East, 0845 60 60 260
www.simplygo.com
Buses all have low floor access. Their
8IFFMDIBJS(VBSBOUFFNFBOTUIFZ
will call a taxi for you if for some
reason you cannot get on.
www.nationalrail.co.uk
If you need assistance getting on
or off, ring to give National Rail
24 hours notice. They will then
connect you to the train company
to make a booking. Most trains can
accommodate wheelchairs and new
trains have facilities to help sensory
impaired people. The website gives
detailed access information for most
stations. Bear in mind that some train
companies cannot carry mobility
scooters.
Disabled Persons Railcard,
0845 605 0525
0845 601 0132, Minicom/Textphone
www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk
If you have a disability you may be
eligible for a discount amounting to
a third off the ticket price. This also
applies to a companion travelling
with you.
35
2013 edition
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE
AT AIRPORTS
CONCESSIONARY FARES:
BUS PASSES
Special assistance is free and
is arranged by the airline if you
request it when you book. Bear in
mind that airlines can only take
a certain number of wheelchairs
per flight. Try to arrange it 48
hours in advance of travel so
help can be offered at your
destination too. If you haven’t
done this, the airport will still do
the best they can.
0845 600 6400
Edinburgh Airport
TO APPLY/RENEW BY POST
0844 481 8989 enquiries
0131 344 3449 Special Assistance
Help points around the airport
terminal, car parks and drop-off areas
have telephones or help buttons
you can use to request help with
baggage or wheelchair provision. Or
book Special Assistance in advance.
Newcastle Airport, 0871 882 1121
There is a Help Phone in the car park
if you need it, or once inside the
terminal, go to the Special Assistance
desk for help.
36
www.northumberland.gov.uk
Free bus passes for people who are
registered disabled cover off peak
local bus travel throughout England.
In Northumberland disabled pass
holders go free at any time. If you
need a carer with you, apply for a
Companion Card to cover their bus
fare too. For travel into Scotland,
passes may be used on some cross
border routes.
Ring for an application form
and send to Concessionary
Travel, Passenger Transport Unit,
Northumberland County Council,
County Hall, Morpeth NE61 2EF. To
renew it you should reapply, although
those passes that expired on 31
March 2013 are being automatically
renewed. A replacement costs £15 if
you lose it.
TO APPLY/RENEW IN PERSON
Blue Badge Parking Scheme,
Visit one of the Council Information
Centres, taking proof of age,
residency, your disability and a
passport photograph. Your pass
should arrive within two weeks.
Council Information Centres located
in:
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0845 600 6400
National scheme allows parking
concessions for people with severe
mobility problems—whether drivers
or passengers. Badges are issued
for up to three years to people with
permanent disabilities. Apply at a
Council Information Centre.
NB There may be changes to eligibility
for badges as Disability Living
Allowance is replaced by Personal
Independence Payments during
2013.
CONCESSIONARY FARES:
TAXI TOKENS
0845 600 6400
Concessionary scheme for those
receiving certain benefits, without
access to a car, who cannot use
public transport because of disability.
The scheme allows you to buy £50
of tokens per year for £10. Ring for
details or visit a Council Information
Centre for an application form and a
list of taxi firms who accept tokens.
37
About Mental Health
and Disability
One in four adults will experience some
kind of mental health problem at some
point in their lives with mixed anxiety and
depression most common. About one in ten
children have a mental health problem at
any one time and one in five older people
are affected by depression.
(Mental Health Foundation)
One in fifty people have a learning
disability requiring life long support.
(Learning Disabilities Observatory)
Neurological conditions are the most
common cause of serious disability with
ten million people in the UK living with
a condition which has a significant impact
on their lives. (The Neurological Alliance).
About Us
Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS
Foundation Trust is one of the largest
mental health and disability trusts in
England, employing over 6,000 staff and
operating from over 100 sites to provide a
range of comprehensive services including
some regional and national services.
We support people in the communities
of Northumberland, Newcastle, North
Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland,
working to deliver care and support to
people in their own homes and from
community and hospital based premises.
Our vision is ‘to improve the well-being
of everyone we serve through delivering
services that match the best in the world’.
Our Hospital sites include
s St George’s Park, Morpeth
s Northgate Hospital, Morpeth
s St Nicholas Hospital, Newcastle
s Walkergate Park, Newcastle
s Ferndene, Prudhoe
s Cherry Knowle Hospital, Sunderland
s Monkwearmouth Hospital, Sunderland
Our Services
The Trust offers a wide range of community
and inpatient services for children, adults
and older people with mental health
problems, including substance misuse;
together with learning disability and neurorehabilitation services.
Join us and become a
Foundation Trust member
Why not join the Trust and be one of over
12,000 public members and 6,000 staff
members who represent the communities
we serve.
Details of some of our local services are
included in the main body of the Golden
Guide. A complete guide to services is
available to download through our website
and NTW appS ARE now AVAILABLEFORTHE
I0HONEANDFOR!NDROIDDEVICES
As a member you will:
s
s
s
about the Trust and
our services: telephone
0191 213 0151
or visit www.ntw.nhs.uk
s
s
Receive regular information
about the Trust
Give your views on our plans and
how we can make things better
Get involved, if you wish, in issues
that interest you
Elect people to the Council of
Governors which will help run the Trust,
Stand as a Governor yourself.
To find out more about becoming a
member contact Wendy Pinkney,
Membership Manager on 0191 2232468
or visit the website at www.ntw.nhs.uk
and look at the ‘get involved’ section.
Shining a light on the future
2013 edition
03 INDEPENDENT LIFE
Having the right kind of support
and suitable modifications
at home can make all the
difference to someone living
independently. Contact Adult
Social Care whether you
expect any help or not, as they
offer a range of support and
may come up with advice
and new solutions to suit your
circumstances.
ADULT SOCIAL CARE
SERVICE
01670 536400
www.northumberland.gov.uk/
socialcare
The Adult Social Care service, funded
by Northumberland County Council,
can help people who need short
term help following a health crisis or
accident, and also people who need
longer-term support. Carers are also
supported as they are entitled to
have their own needs assessed.
See also page 7 Social Care and
Health Information Points.
40
SELF-DIRECTED SUPPORT
& PERSONAL BUDGETS
If you need longer-term support,
there are self-directed support
arrangements designed to make sure
you stay in control. If you are assessed
as needing it, you will be offered a
personal budget which you can use
to make arrangements in the way
that best suits you.
You can either manage the money
yourself or ask an organisation
to handle the administration for
you. Or you can opt to have Adult
Social Care arrange support such
as help from a home care agency,
attendance at a day centre etc. Even
if you are not entitled to a personal
Independent Life
budget, you can still receive advice
and information about social care
services from Adult Social Care, ring
as above.
Costs for Support at Home,
Charges Helpline 01670 622891
Most people contribute at least part
of the cost of support. You usually
pay the hourly rate of £12.84 up
to a maximum charge of £251.75
per week for support at home. The
level of contribution depends on
your income and savings following
a financial assessment. Charges
current up to April 2013.
HOME ADAPTATIONS
If you need adaptations to
your home—such as installing
a stairlift, bathing adaptations,
wheelchair ramp etc, you can
arrange this privately by hiring
or buying equipment. If you are
a tenant your landlord may
arrange adaptations, or you
may be eligible for partial or
full financial help through the
Disabled Facilities Grant. In
either case you should contact
Adult Social Care to arrange an
assessment of your needs by an
occupational therapist. This can
be helpful even if you intend to
pay yourself.
Care & Repair Northumberland,
01670 851844
The agency works on behalf of
to give practical help with home
adaptations through delivery of
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See also page 42 for Handyperson
service and ad on page 45.
DISABLED FACILITIES GRANT
This means tested Council grant
is available to disabled, older or
vulnerable owner-occupiers or
tenants. Once the occupational
therapist’s recommendations have
been agreed then Care & Repair
Northumberland can manage the
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process, help find any extra finance
required, assist you to choose a
contractor and manage the project.
EQUIPMENT FOR
INDEPENDENT LIVING
Where necessary, Adult Social Care
can also arrange equipment to help
with independent living—which is
usually free, as well as alarm sensors
to alert people who can help if you
have an accident.
41
2013 edition
EMERGENCY ALARM SYSTEMS
If you are concerned about safety at
home, you can be connected to a
community alarm service so you can
call for help. This can be as simple
as wearing a watch or pendant with
an alarm button. Landlords may offer
this service automatically, but it is
available for residents in any kind of
housing.
TELECARE
Telecare extends the basic alarm
system by adding various sensors for
an extra charge. There are detectors
for falls, floods, gas leaks, or even
unusual patterns of movement e.g.
where someone may have become
confused. Telehealth’s automated
system alerts you when medication
is due and will alert staff if it has not
been taken. Contact Adult Social
Care for details, or ring one of the
following:
Valley Care
01670 827100
alarm and Telecare service.
Age UK Personal Alarm
0800 011 3846
Callsafe
0845 21 707 21
www.callsafe.org
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Trust.
REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE
Blyth Star Enterprises,
01670 855130 or 07764 939189
www.blythstar.com
Charity runs gardening service in
Blyth Valley and Wansbeck areas,
including maintenance, tidying,
supplying bedding and hanging
baskets.
and ad on page 63
Care & Repair Northumberland,
Handyperson Service, 01670 851952
DIY & small repairs are carried out
for disabled and older people.
Free home safety assessments and
work which prevents falls is free e.g.
change light bulbs, fix curtain rails,
loose carpets etc. Other essential
work costs £10 per visit e.g. fit locks,
change tap washers. Non essential
work is charged at £24 per hour, e.g.
Cat flaps, flat pack furniture. They
cannot do electrical, gas, plumbing
or roofing work or decorating.
www.ageuk.org.uk/alarm
42
Independent Life
(CMDA), Handyman service
01670 504488
www.cmda.org.uk
Free service for people with
disabilities, low income families
or over 60s in South East
Northumberland. They fit curtains,
shelving, flat pack furniture, inflate
wheelchair tyres and other small jobs.
They also run a Community Repaint
Scheme, where donated unused
paint is redistributed to others who
can use it.
shop, page 43 handyman and page
64 job search.
MORE HELP WITH
INDEPENDENT LIVING
Age UK National Advice Line,
organisations. Welfare rights face to
face casework service Tues – Thurs
9.00am – 5.00pm.
Azure Charitable Enterprises,
Kielder Avenue, Beacon Lane,
Cramlington, NE23 8JT, 01670 733966
www.azure-charitable.co.uk
Shared living support in the charity’s
own houses for people with learning
or physical disabilities. Also outreach
support for people in their own
homes.
See also page 62 for work and
training schemes.
Bell View Home Support Scheme,
01668 219220
Volunteers offer basic short term
support to provide practical help and
social contact.
0800 169 6565
www.ageuk.org.uk
Wide range of information guides
and factsheets on care, including
paying for a care home, finding help
at home, housing, personal budgets
etc.
Age UK Northumberland Advice
Service, 0845 0 950 150 or
01665 605707
Telephone advice Mon – Thurs
10.00am – 1.00pm for over 50s,
their families, unpaid carers and
Blyth Star Enterprises,
01670 355421
www.blythstar.com
Charity supports people with
mental health issues, learning and
other disabilities. Its supported
living scheme offers bedsit
accommodation and independent
living with support.
and ad on page 63
43
2013 edition
BT Communications Help
Disability Rights UK
0800 800 150
0845 026 4748
www.bt.com/includingyou
If you have hearing, sight, dexterity,
speech or mobility impairment
BT offer help including specialist
equipment e.g. text or hands free
phones, speech amplification etc,
and services such as sign language
communication, bills in Braille or
audio. Their Try Before You Buy scheme
runs at NCBA in Morpeth where you
can try out phones and accessories.
Advice on direct payments, including
individual budgets, funding from
social services in relation to the
care needs of the disabled, general
advice on employing personal
assistants. It does not give information
about claiming benefits.
See page 58.
Useful advice on daily living aids
and products through helpline, fact
sheets, supplier directory and website.
Coquet Trust, 0191 285 9270
www.coquettrust.co.uk
Support at home for those with
learning difficulties by referral, but you
can book outreach support in the
community yourself.
Disability North, The Dene Centre,
Castle Farm Road, Newcastle,
NE3 1PH
0191 284 0480
www.disabilitynorth.org.uk
Advice on independent living as well
as benefit claims, representation at
appeals, rights to services, housing,
holidays, mobility and access etc. A
separate service demonstrates and
assesses specialist equipment e.g.
wheelchairs, walking aids, bathroom
and kitchen equipment etc.
44
Disabled Living Foundation
0845 130 9177
Northumbrian Water Extra Care
Scheme, 0845 717 1100
www.nwl.co.uk
The scheme is for people who may
need extra support or have special
requirements. They give advance
warning of any planned water
supply cuts. If there’s an unplanned
interruption they prioritise you and will
bring bottled water out. You may
be eligible for an alternative charge
scheme if you have to use large
amounts of water—for a particular
medical/health condition and you
are on certain benefits. Ring to
register on the scheme
Independent Life
HANDYPERSON SERVICE
A partially free service for older and vulnerable people
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Work which helps prevent
falls and accidents is free
and includes
Other core work is
charged at £10 per visit
and includes
Extra non essential work
is charged at £24 per hour
+VAT and includes
change light bulbs,
hang curtains,
take down light shades
changing tap washers
door handles
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Tel: 01670 851952
45
2013 edition
Northumbria Supported Living
Service, Leonard Cheshire Disability,
Bradbury Court, Thornhill Road,
Ponteland, NE20 9NU
01661 867610, Jan Young
northumbriasupportedliving@
lcdisability.org
www.lcdisability.org
Specialist accommodation, care and
housing related support for adults
with physical, sensory or learning
disabilities. Their domiciliary care
service can offer round the clock
support. And they run a nurse-led
service at home too. Ring for details
or to refer yourself.
CARE & CARERS
Bell View (Belford) Care Workers
Register, 01668 219220
Directory of trained care workers
available to work in rural North
Northumberland.
01670 364657, Disability Centre
01670 360927, Home Care Centre
Advice on all disability issues, home
care support on referral.
See also page 68 welfare benefits
advice.
Reaction Independent Living
Shopping Project, Wansbeck CVS,
Carers Northumberland,
01670 858688, Karen Cox
Scheme to enable people who are
isolated or disabled to travel to the
shops, bank etc. Collects from home
on Tues, Wed and Thurs from different
parts of Wansbeck, Seaton Valley
and Blyth either fortnightly or monthly.
Service runs with volunteers and there
is a cost. Please ring to apply or ask
your care manager.
0844 800 7354
46
www.carersnorthumberland.org.uk
Advice and support for all
adult carers, including those in
employment or seeking work. Support
groups, skills development, Carers
Emergency Card and access to small
grants for carer breaks. Information
Line Mon-Fri 10.00am - 2.00pm and
first and third Tues of the month
5.30pm - 7.30pm (answerphone at
other times). Carer Support Workers
based in Ashington, Belford and
Hexham work throughout the county.
Independent Life
Carer’s Allowance Unit
UKHCA (UK Home Care Association)
0845 608 4321
0208 661 8188
0845 604 5312 textphone
www.ukhca.co.uk
Lists of local providers of care at
home with a code of practice.
www.gov.uk/carers-allowance-unit
Information on eligibility and claims
for Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s
Credit, though they cannot help filling
in forms.
Carers UK, Advice Line,
0808 808 7777
www.carersuk.org
Helpline Wed and Thurs, 10.00am
- 12.00pm and 2.00pm - 4.00pm.
Practical advice on carer’s rights,
making the most of your money,
juggling work and care etc.
Employment, Nursing
& Home Care Agencies
Find private care services in the
Yellow Pages directory. Look under
Home Care Services or Nurses’
Agencies & Care Agencies.
First Stop Care Advice
0800 377 7070
www.firststopcareadvice.org.uk
www.housingcare.org
Detailed information on specialist
accommodation that offers support
and/or care. Also advice on making
choices as well as a directory of
services for those opting to stay at
home.
47
2013 edition
04 HEALTH SUPPORT
Here we have listed a range
of health organisations, from
hospitals to local support
groups and charities. We aimed
for a representative selection
—but if we have missed out
any that are important to you,
please let us know for inclusion
next time.
Support groups generally offer
assistance through information
and advice or offer individual
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be run by volunteers, if you get
in touch please be aware that
it could be their home number
you are calling.
NHS 111
HOSPITALS
NHS 111 and out of hours help, 111
This service has replaced NHS
Direct as well as the Out of Hours
service. Ring 111 if you urgently need
medical help or advice. But if it’s a
life-threatening situation you should
call 999.
0844 811 8111 is the telephone
number for the following Hospitals:
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48
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Health Support
Other Hospitals:
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(currently Ward 1 at Hexham
during rebuild), 01434 655405
t 3PUICVSZ$PNNVOJUZ)PTQJUBM 01669 620555
t /FXDBTUMF(FOFSBM37*'SFFNBO
complain or share concerns about
your services. You can also write to
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Comments, Compliments and
Complaints, FREEPOST RLTX-LBXU-SHBS,
County Hall, Morpeth, NE61 2DEF.
(No stamp required.)
& Dental Hospitals 0191 233 6161
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0191 220 5953
0844 811 5522 or 0191 213 0151
can both be used for
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(formerly Prudhoe Hospital)
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DEALING WITH
CONCERNS
If things have gone wrong speak
directly to the people providing
your service. This is often the best
way to resolve problems. If you
need help to do this ask a family
member or friend or see below
for more assistance.
Advocacy Service
0845 140 0088, Jane Cater
Confidential, free service, across
Northumberland, for over 50s who
would like help to express their views,
access services and have their rights
upheld on any issues. Particular focus
on helping people facing financial
distress or fuel poverty.
Disability Hate Crime,
Northumbria Police, 101
(non-emergency enquiries)
www.northumbria.police.uk
A crime motivated by the victim’s
disability is a disability hate crime. In
Northumberland there are now Safe
Reporting Centres in 20 community
venues, listed on the website or ring
for more information.
See also ad on page 32
Adult Social Care Services,
Comments, Compliments and
Complaints Team
01670 628888
Contact the team to compliment,
49
2013 edition
Equality Advisory & Support Service
(EASS), FREEPOST Equality Advisory
Support Service FPN4431
0800 444 205, 0800 444 206
textphone
www.equalityadvisoryservice.com
Advice on discrimination and human
rights issues. Includes disability and
age discrimination.
PALS Service (Patient Advice and
Liaison), 0800 032 02 02
Confidential support for patients,
families and carers. Information,
advice and problem-solving
about NHS care includes hospitals,
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Pharmacists. They can refer you to
other agencies if necessary.
SAFEGUARDING ADULTS
www.northumberland.gov.uk/safe
If someone you know is at risk of
being abused or neglected contact
the police if there is immediate
danger, or Adult Social Care on 01670
536400. Outside office hours contact
the Emergency Duty Team on
0845 600 5252.
See also page 49 Disability Hate
Crime.
50
CHARITIES, SUPPORT GROUPS
& SERVICES
Action on Hearing Loss (formerly
RNID), Reiver House, Staithes Lane,
Morpeth, NE61 1TD
01670 513606
www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk
Support groups for people with
hearing loss, in Berwick, Alnwick,
Belford, Morpeth, Mickley. Also dropins county wide for hearing aid
support.
A.D.D.E.R. (Action for Dystonia,
Diagnosis, Education and Research),
0191 477 7700
www.actionfordystonia.co.uk
Age UK Northumberland Community
Dementia Service, 0845 140 0088
Day centre service for older people
with dementia in Amble and Berwick,
transport provided, safe and caring
environment.
Friendship Line
0845 140 0088
Weekly telephone call for
isolated or lonely older people in
Northumberland. Also Phone a Friend
scheme.
Health Support
Introducing NHS Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group
Led by family doctors and other clinicians, NHS Northumberland Clinical
Commissioning Group are responsible for the planning and buying of
Northumberland healthcare.
What we will do
We are ensuring that you as patients will be put at the heart of the health service
and are building upon the work that has previously been done. As healthcare
professionals, we will be able to make decisions on your behalf to ensure that we
deliver the best possible care, both in terms of quality and safety.
To ensure a local focus is maintained and because of the different needs of
people across the county, we have formed four locality groups. These are based
on the geographical locations in Northumberland and are called North, Central,
Blyth Valley, and West.
How you can get involved
We are really keen to hear your views on healthcare in
Northumberland and want to work with you to make sure
that healthcare services are more responsive to your needs
as patients.
If you would like to get involved, the easiest way is to
join your Patient Participation Group by speaking to your
Practice Manager at your local GP practice.
To find out more about us visit our website:
www.northumberlandccg.nhs.uk
Dr Alistair Blair
Chief Clinical Officer
51
2013 edition
Alzheimer’s Society,
Berwick
0300 222 1122 national helpline
Berwick Infirmary, Day Room,
www.alzheimers.org.uk
t #FSXJDL
t #MZUI
t .PSQFUI
01289 331559, Doris McGlinchey
Meets third Mon of the month
4.30pm – 6.00pm.
t )FYIBN
Many new services are being
developed over the coming months,
including drop-in sessions for support
and information, support for carers
and dementia café with socialising
and activities, please ring for details.
Wansbeck
Wansbeck General Hospital,
Education Room 6
[email protected]
Meets last Tues of the month
6.00pm – 8.00pm.
At Home in the Community Ltd,
Anxiety UK,
0191 228 8300
0844 4775 774
www.athome.uk.net
Residential homes for adults with
learning disabilities in Haltwhistle,
Prudhoe and Hexham, also help
developing enabling care packages.
www.anxietyuk.org.uk
Helpline, telephone therapy, penpal
service, web therapy and chat room
for people with anxiety disorders and
phobias.
Brainbox, Disability North, The Dene
Arthritis Care, 0808 800 3050
$FOUSF$BTUMF'BSN3PBE(PTGPSUI
www.arthritiscare.org.uk
National helpline, advice,
publications to download. Branches
offer support, information sharing,
usually a speaker and are very social
- new members welcome, ring in
advance or else just turn up.
Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 1PH
0800 012 4027
www.brainboxsupport.org.uk
Counselling and listening service
for brain injury survivors and their
families. For young people and adults.
Alnwick
Anchor Housing, Church Lane,
Bailiffgate, NE66 1NP
01665 603935, Ruth Dobbie
Meets first Wed of the month
(except May) at 7.00pm.
52
Health Support
British Heart Foundation,
Community Mental Health Teams,
0300 330 3322
Northumberland Tyne & Wear NHS
0774 664 2270, Berwick support
Foundation Trust
group
0191 213 0151
For a mental health concern e.g.
depression, memory problems,
BOYJFUZWJTJUZPVS(1PSPUIFSIFBMUI
professional. If appropriate they will
refer you to the Community team for
treatment and may be able to visit
you at home.
www.bhf.org.uk
Central Palz, Seaton Park Medical
Group, Norham Road, Ashington,
NE63 0NG
01670 842021
Therapies, counselling, social groups,
transport for patients with lifelimiting illness and carers in Central
/PSUIVNCFSMBOE0OSFGFSSBMGSPN(1
nurse or care manager. Operates
Wed and Thurs only.
Changing Lives North of Tyne,
Momentum North East, Forth Banks
House, Skinnerburn Road, Newcastle,
NE1 3RH
0191 232 0234
www.momentumscotland.org
Interest groups and activities for
people with acquired brain injury
and other neurological conditions.
New groups coming along in
Northumberland and Newcastle, ring
for details.
Contact, (Morpeth Mental Health
(SPVQ
-UE(SFZT:BSE0MEHBUF
Morpeth, NE61 1QD
01670 510652
www.contactmorpeth.org.uk
Drop-in centre and café supports
people with mental health problems
and their carers. Self-help groups,
counselling, events, outings. Open
Tues, Wed, Thurs 10.00am – 4.00pm,
Fri 10.30am – 3.30pm. Social evening
Fri 7.00pm – 9.00pm.
See also page 64 for Job Coach and
vocational programme.
53
2013 edition
Making a difference: Your Voice - Your Views - Your Life
If you can tell us what you need to live well...
then you can help us improve services
What we do
At NNA, we provide a voice for people with brain
or spine injury, from a condition such as Parkinson’s, MS, Huntington’s, motor neurone disease or
stroke, or through accident.
We get results right on our doorstep
We encouraged the RVI to install a bleeper
system to improve waiting at MS clinics. We
published a directory for GPs to direct patients
to support, and we’re working on improving
accessibility at local hospitals.
We work with HealthWatch, NHS specialists, local
authorities, GPs and Commissioners across the
North East to campaign for better services. We do
this by finding out what people need to help them
and offer a way to have their voices heard. We also
direct people to the best help for them locally.
Come and join us
If you have a neurological condition and would
like to help improve the services that matter to
you, we would love to hear from you.
Kate Bowman . Northern Neurological Alliance 0191 242 1337 or 0191 478 5959 x 205 (Sight Service)
c/o Sight Service . Bensham Hospital
Gateshead . Tyne & Wear . NE8 4YL
www.northernna.org.uk
EKZd,ZEh^tz ϭϳtĂůůĂĐĞ'ƌĞĞŶ͘ĞƌǁŝĐŬ͘dϭϱϭ
For adults with a range of complex needs, including mental health problems and
ůĞĂƌŶŝŶŐĚŝƐĂďŝůŝƟĞƐ͘tĞǁŽƌŬǁŝƚŚƉĞŽƉůĞĨƌŽŵŶŽƌƚŚEŽƌƚŚƵŵďĞƌůĂŶĚ͘
ZĞĐŽǀĞƌǇŽĂĐŚŝŶŐ^ĞƌǀŝĐĞ
ͻ Our service allocates a personal
Recovery Coach who will work with you
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ͻ KƵƌĐĞŶƚƌĞŽīĞƌƐĂĐƟǀŝƟĞƐƚŽĞǆƉůŽƌĞ
ǇŽƵƌůĞŝƐƵƌĞŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚƐ͕ǀŽĐĂƟŽŶĂů
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ͻ
ͻ
KƵƌŇĞǆŝďůĞŇŽĂƟŶŐƐƵƉƉŽƌƚ can help
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tĞĂůƐŽƉƌŽǀŝĚĞƉĞƌƐŽŶĂůĂƐƐŝƐƚĂŶƚƐ to
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WĂǇŵĞŶƚƐ͘
KƵƌƐĞƌǀŝĐĞƐĂƌĞĂĐĐĞƐƐĞĚƚŚƌŽƵŐŚǇŽƵƌĐĂƌĞŵĂŶĂŐĞƌŽƌ
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dŽĮŶĚŽƵƚŵŽƌĞƉůĞĂƐĞĐŽŶƚĂĐƚƵƐŽŶϬϭϮϴϵϯϱϲϵϭϵ
ǁǁǁ͘ŵĞŶƚĂůŚĞĂůƚŚŵĂƩĞƌƐ͘ĐŽŵ
54
Health Support
Coping with Cancer North East,
Fibromyalgia Association UK,
0191 280 5610
0844 887 2444
www.copingwithcancer.org.uk
Counselling for groups or individuals
either face to face or by telephone.
Complementary therapies for
patients. Covers Northumberland and
Tyne & Wear.
0844 887 2450, FMA UK Welfare
Coquet Trust, 23-24 Lansdowne
Terrace, Gosforth, Newcastle NE3 1HP,
0191 285 9270
www.coquettrust.co.uk
Charity helps people with
learning disability become more
independent through supported
living, and encouraging community
participation.
See also ad on page 11
Diabetes UK Careline, 0845 120 2960
01325 488606, Regional office
www.diabetes.org.uk
(SPVQTNFFUNPOUIMZJO#FSXJDLBOE
Tynedale, ring for details.
Epilepsy Society, 01494 601 400
0191 252 0504,
07834 655989, Dee Moore,
Benefits Helpline
0844 887 2433, Angela Campbell
NE Coordinator
www.fmauk.org
www.fibromyalgia-newcastle.co.uk
National helplines, information packs
and online support forum. Newcastle
support group meets third Mon of
the month at The Oxford Centre, West
Farm Avenue, Longbenton, NE12 8LT
from 12.30pm - 2.45pm. Speakers
on varying topics range from pain
clinic to alternative therapies. They
share information, enjoy socialising,
refreshments and raffle. New
members very welcome, ring in
advance or just turn up.
Friends Action North East,
(FANE) 0191 231 4327
One-to-one friendship mentoring
project. For adults with learning
disabilities.
See page 9 and ad on page 18.
NE Manager
www.epilepsysociety.org.uk
National helpline, online forum and
campaigns. Locally trained volunteers
offer support in clinics, schools and
health centres. Volunteers welcome.
55
2013 edition
Headway, 0808 800 2244
In Good Hands, Deafblind Support
www.headway.org uk
Project,
www.headwaycn.org.uk and
0191 410 2201, Linda Scott
www.headwaytynedale.com
www.in-good-hands.org
Project offers training and support for
people affected by deafblindness in
later life.
0191 283 4562 or 0776 6666 015
Alastair White
Advice and support for those
affected by brain injury. Branches
in Ashington, Hexham and Berwick
may offer outings, drop-ins and
information.
Hearing Link, 0300 111 1113
07526 123255 sms/text
[email protected]
www.hearinglink.org
Information, specialist services
and social contact for people with
hearing loss.
Horsepower for Ability, 01665 574727
www.horsepowerforability.com
Specialist physiotherapy service uses
the movement of horses to help
people enhance their movement
ability.
Huntington’s Disease
Association, 0151 331 5444
0191 373 1709, Dee Boyd
Lifespan, 01434 673777
www.lifespanteam.org.uk
Counselling, therapies, befriending,
sitting service for carers, bereavement
support for people with chronic
conditions or life-limiting illness and
their families.
Lifetime 01434 344090
www.lifetime-memorymag.co.uk
Magazine-style resource for people
with memory problems or dementia.
Puzzles, stories, reminiscing.
ME North East, 0191 389 2222
www.menortheast.org
(FOFSBMBEWJDFTVQQPSUXJUICFOFåUT
tribunals etc. Home visits.
Cramlington branch,
078775 26627, Sue Dennis
Coffee and chat, information,
advice on treatment etc.
NE Care Adviser
www.hda.org.uk
Branch and support group meet
weekly in Newcastle. Emotional
support, social events, signposting.
Ring for details.
56
Health Support
Mencap, Learning Disability Helpline,
Multiple Sclerosis Society,
0808 808 1111
0808 800 8000
www.mencap.org.uk
www.mssociety.org.uk
See page 12 for Alnwick branch and
leisure activities.
Mind Infoline, 0300 123 3393
Mind Legal Advice, 0300 466 6463
www.mind.org.uk
Information line deals with all aspects
of mental distress. Mind Legal advice
service deals with issues relating
to the Mental Health Act, Mental
Capacity Act or Equality Act.
MND Connect (Motor Neurone
Disease Association), 08457 626262
www.mndassociation.org
National helpline. They have limited
funds to award grants for financial
support in certain cases.
07581 460207, Alnwick
01661 834196, Hexham
01670 858939 SE Northumberland
Advice, support and meetings.
National Autistic Society, (NAS)
0808 800 4104
Newcastle Resource Centre
0191 229 6020 or
07884 117 741, Deborah Garland.
www.autism.org.uk
Information and support for anyone
in the north east affected by autism.
Support, social groups and training.
NAS Hexham branch, 07786 856379
Information and parent meetings, run
by volunteers.
National Osteoporosis Society,
MS Research and Relief Fund,
0845 450 0230
(MSRRF), Benmar House,
Newcastle group,
Choppington Road, Stobhill, Morpeth,
Mea House, Ellison Place,
NE61 2HX, 01670 505829
Newcastle,NE1 8XS
www.ms-researchandrelief.org
Practical help for those with MS and
their families. Free services include
massage, therapies, personal fitness.
(SBOUTGPSFRVJQNFOUSFTQJUFPS
services where these cannot be
funded elsewhere. Outreach in
Berwick and Hexham.
0191 281 4058, Barbara Purvis or
01423 779662, Jill Beaumont
www.nos.org.uk
Local branch meets in alternate
months on the second Tues of the
month at 2.00pm. Talks, medical
updates and events. Ring for details.
57
2013 edition
Northumberland County Blind
Northumberland Talking Therapies
Association, (NCBA), Reiver House,
Service (IAPT), 0300 123 4502
IAPT offers a range of short term
talking therapies for adults in
Northumberland suffering mental
health problems such as depression
and anxiety.
Staithes Lane, Morpeth, NE61 1TD
01670 514316
www.ncba.org.uk
Information, advice and support
as well as specialist rehabilitation,
clubs, support groups, home visiting
service, including Sight on Sight
Service. Also Sightline telephone peer
support service, transcription, low
vision equipment demonstrations.
Volunteers welcome.
See ad on page 25.
Northumberland Cancer Support
Parkinsons UK, 0808 800 0303
www.parkinsons.org.uk
0844 225 3608, Information & Support
Worker Northumberland
0844 225 3604 Branch and Volunteer
Support Officer can put you in touch
with local support groups across
Northumberland. See ad on page 18.
Group, 2nd floor, Education Centre,
Hexham General Hospital NE46 1QJ
Patient Information Centre,
01434 230398
0191 223 2545
www. northumberlandcancersupport
[email protected]
group.co.uk
Meets Tues from 7.30pm. Ring in
advance or just turn up.
www.ntw.nhs.uk/pic
Self-help guides on mental health
issues such as abuse, anxiety,
depression, hearing voices, sleeping
problems etc. Ring as above or
download from the website. Local
directories for mental health and
disability support groups, black
and ethnic minority groups, and
information for carers also available
online. See ad on centre pages.
Northumberland Recovery
Partnership, (NRP) 01670 396303
New, single-entry drug and
alcohol treatment service for
Northumberland. Recovery-orientated
support options include an
abstinence-based day programme.
Self-refer or be referred by a
professional. Partnership involves
Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS
Foundation Trust, The Cyrenians and
Turning Point.
58
Health Support
Samaritans, 08457 90 90 90
Tourette’s Action, 0300 777 8427
www.samaritans.org
24 hour emotional support for those
in despair, or who just need to talk.
Textphone 18001 0300 777 8427
TA North East and TA TLC (Tourettes
Lifelong Care), 07725 819866 or
[email protected]
St. John Ambulance Northumbria,
Julie Collier
Listening Support,
www.tourettes-action.org.uk
Information, support, groups and
events.
0191 256 7070
www.sja.org.uk
Confidential listening support for
anyone with a long term health
problem and their carers. Mon - Thurs
10.00am - 3.00pm with answerphone
at other times.
Stroke Association, 0303 3033 100
01670 840408 regional office
www.stroke.org.uk
Stroke clubs, or Speech after
Stroke clubs, in Alnwick, Berwick,
Hexham, Morpeth, Cramlington and
Bedlington Station. Self referral or via
(1PSTQFFDIUIFSBQJTU1FFSTVQQPSU
service in Blyth.
Veterans’ Wellbeing Assessment and
Liaison Service (VWALS)
0191 441 5974 or [email protected]
Supports the mental health and
wellbeing of veterans and their
families as well as housing, welfare
and employment issues too. Self-refer
or be referred by a health or social
care professional.
Taking Part Workshops,
0191 262 1808
www.takingpartworkshops.org.uk
Organisation helps people take part
in creative, active, educational or
social activities through links with
(1TDIBSJUJFTBOEMPDBMQSPWJEFST*O
Northumberland they are improving
wellbeing for people with dementia.
59
2013 edition
DISABILITY FORUMS
& NETWORKS
These groups offer members
a voice for issues to be raised
and concerns expressed.
Some promote the welfare
of disabled people through
meetings, consultations and
events, working alongside other
bodies to achieve change.
Others provide specific services
for disabled people to access.
They all gather information and
feedback on local issues and
welcome new members and
volunteers.
Healthwatch
(formerly Northumberland LINk)
0845 388 0042
www.healthwatchnorthumberland.
co.uk
A network of local people and
groups who influence change and
improvement in health and social
care services in Northumberland.
Ring for details and see back cover
for more information.
Long Term Conditions Forum,
Northumberland, 01670 394527,
Michele O’Brien, Adult Services,
Blyth NE24 2BU, 01670 360927
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Trust
(SPVQPQFOUPUIPTFXJUIBMPOHUFSN
health condition, carers and
professionals involved in health and
social care in Northumberland.
Members discuss issues, influence
decisions on services and share
ideas. Bi-monthly meetings, ring for
details.
See ad on inside cover.
Blyth Valley Disabled Forum, Eric
Tolhurst Centre, 3-13 Quay Road,
Blyth NE24 2AS, 01670 364657
Home Care Centre, Stanley St,
See also page 33 transport, page 46
care, page 68 benefits advice.
Castle Morpeth Disability Association,
NE61 1NS, 01670 504488
www.cmda.org.uk
shop, page 43 handyman, page 64
job search.
60
Health Support
Mental Health North East (MHNE),
North Tyneside Disability Forum,
0191 492 8235
Shiremoor Centre, Earsdon Road,
www.mhne.co.uk
Campaigns to improve service
provision, events and training.
They promote good practice and
partnership working.
Shiremoor, NE27 0HJ,
0191 200 8570, Minicom: 2008572,
www.ntdf.co.uk
Northumberland Disability and Deaf
Network, (NDDN) Adapt NE, Bluebird
Newcastle Disability Forum,
House, Haugh Lane Industrial Estate,
The Dene Centre, Castle Farm Road,
Hexham, Northumberland NE46 3PU
Gosforth, Newcastle NE3 1PH,
01434 600599
0191 285 4556 or
www.adapt-ne.org.uk and Facebook
0191 274 1414, Alison Blackburn
group
www.ndf.org.uk
Wansbeck Disability Forum, c/o The
Northern Neurological Alliance
Toy Library, Station Villa, Kenilworth
(NNA), Bradbury Centre, Bensham
Road, Ashington, NE63 8AA
Hospital, Gateshead, NE8 4YL
01670 523539, Karon Cook
0191 478 5959 ext 205 or 204
www.wansbeckdisabilityforum.com
www.northernna.org.uk
+PJOUIFJS/PSUIFSO/FVSPMPHJDBM
Voices group to be consulted and
help improve services. Members are
those with a neurological condition,
families, friends, carers, voluntary
organisations, charities or those with
relevant services. See ad on page 54.
Hate Crime.
North Tyneside Coalition of Disabled
People, Room P174, North Tyneside
General Hospital, Rake Lane, North
Shields, NE29 8NH
0191 296 1437
www.ntcdp.co.uk
61
2013 edition
05 WORK LIFE & MONEY
Many people with long
term conditions can find
employment or return to work
with the right support. Here
are some organisations to
approach for advice on this,
as well as others who can give
money and consumer advice
to help you keep an eye on
your finances and spend wisely.
EMPLOYMENT
& TRAINING
Blyth Star Enterprises, 30 Ridley Street,
Blyth, Northumberland NE24 3AG,
01670 355421
Azure Charitable Enterprises, Kielder
Avenue, Beacon Lane, Cramlington,
NE23 8JT
01670 733966
www.azure-charitable.co.uk
Charity runs businesses to provide
employment and training for people
with disability, including a printing
service, garden centre and nursery,
landscape and lawn services.
Programmes for 16-25s, and older
adult age groups. By referral only.
www.blythstar.com
Charity supports people with mental
health issues, learning and other
disabilities through supported living
schemes, training and activities.
Woodwork, IT, crafts, catering,
cleaning, admin and finance.
Also a horticultural unit, garden
maintenance service, Woodfuel
Centre and cafe.
See main entry on page 19,
also pages 42 and 43
See also page 43 independent living
62
Blyth Star
Enterprises
Are you or someone you care for experiencing low mood,
mental health issues or learning disabilities? We are a local
charity and provide a range of supports that you can access
LIVING SUPPORT
DAY ACTIVITIES
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EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT
,I\RXDUHORRNLQJIRUZRUNRUQHHG
DKHOSLQJKDQGWRJHWVWDUWHGZH
PD\EHDEOHWRKHOSZLWKRXUUDQJH
RIWUDLQLQJRSWLRQVZRUNH[SHULHQFHDQG
HPSOR\PHQWVXSSRUW
,I\RXZDQWWR¿QGRXWPRUHDERXWRXUVHUYLFHVKRZ\RXFDQDFFHVVWKHP¿QG
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SOHDVHYLVLWRXUZHEVLWHDWwww.blythstar.com or ring us at 01670 355421
Registered charity no:519443
2013 edition
Henshaws Society for Blind People,
Newcastle Centre, Room 25, Heaton
Complex, Trewhitt Road, Newcastle,
NE61 1NS
NE6 5DY
01670 504488
0191 275 9417 or 0191 265 3031
www.cmda.org.uk
They can help develop employability
skills, CV writing and job search.
www.henshaws.org.uk/north-east
Charity offers courses to improve
confidence and skills for visually
Impaired adults, themed around
Independent Living, Health, Money
and Communications. Some courses
are accredited, can help gain
employment and may offer a work
placement. Refer yourself or be
referred.
Changing Lives North of Tyne,
Momentum North East, Forth Banks
House, Skinnerburn Road, Newcastle,
NE1 3RH
0191 232 0234
www.momentumscotland.org
For people with acquired brain injury
and other neurological conditions.
Vocational programme including
skills training, job coach and access
to work service. Northumberland
residents may self refer or be referred.
Daybreak, Network House, Acomb,
Hexham, NE46 4SA
01434 608118
www.daybreakcentres.co.uk
Charity offers training, work
experience and activities for
adults with learning disabilities at
centres in Hexham, Newcastle and
Consett. Training is geared towards
employment and includes café and
hospitality, horticulture, IT, creative and
magazine production, independent
living and hobbies. Transport
provided.
64
Hextol Foundation, Vine
Terrace, Broadgates, Hexham,
Northumberland, NE46 1NT,
01434 605253
www.hextol.org.uk
Opportunities to work and workbased training for volunteers with
MFBSOJOHEJTBCJMJUJFT+PCTJODMVEF
gardening, decorating, catering and
packing, all based in Hexham. Selfrefer or be referred by other services.
Work Life & Money
Jobcentre Plus 0845 604 3719
Margaret’s Fund, P.O. Box 135,
www.gov.uk
Make an appointment with the
Disability Employment Adviser in your
local branch. They help find work
or training options, signpost you to
benefits advice and assess whether
you will be better off in work. If you
need equipment to make your job
easier the Adviser will help you apply
for these through the Access to Work
scheme.
Buntingford, SGll 2XJ.
Job Seeker Direct, 0845 60 60 234
Minerva Northumberland Ltd,
0845 60 55 255 textphone
17 Hallstile Bank, Hexham, NE46 3TG,
www.gov.uk
Telephone service and website also
have details of local vacancies and
advice on how to apply.
01434 608222
Learning First, Chevyside, Yetholm
Place, Newbiggin Hall, Newcastle,
NE5 4EB
email [email protected]
Charity gives grants to women in
financial need and who are in ill
IFBMUI(SBOUTBSFNBEFGPSEJTBCJMJUZ
aids, convalescent holidays, extra
heating, clothing etc. They do not
help with debt relief, repairs or
alterations. Applications must be
made through a care worker, hospital
or other charity.
www.minervacentre.com
A college environment, for students
with or without learning disabilities
to learn painting, pottery, design,
photography etc. Exhibitions and
fun activities as well as NVQ & City &
(VJMETRVBMJåDBUJPOT
0191 286 0077
www.learningfirst.org.uk
Training, skills development,
employability courses and
qualifications across a range of
subjects for people with learning
disabilities, brain injury, mental health
problems etc. Also runs specialist
advocacy service.
Natural Ability
01434 685777
www.naturalability.org
Charity offers training and work
experience in land based skills and
animal husbandry for adults with
learning or other disabilities or mental
health problems.
See page 26 holidays.
65
2013 edition
Northern Pinetree Trust, Pinetree
Percy Hedley Foundation
Centre, Durham Road, Birtley, Co
Employability Project, 0191 281 7532
Durham, DH3 2TD
Regional project works with
employers to find placements and
work experience for disabled people.
0191 492 8215 or 0191 492 8219
www.northernpinetreetrust.co.uk
Free business training for people
with disabilities who wish to become
self-employed. Access to business
funding if eligible. They work across
Northumberland and the north east.
Northumberland Horticultural Service
www.northumberland.gov.uk
t 4MFFLCVSO)PSUJDVMUVSBM5SBJOJOH
Unit, West Sleekburn Farm,
Bomarsund, Bedlington NE22 7AD,
01670 530111
t )PSUJDVMUVSBM4LJMMT6OJU)FQTDPUU
Park, Morpeth, NE61 6NF,
01670 511560
t 5ZOFEBMF)PSUJDVMUVSBM4FSWJDF SEEdS, Foundry House, The Oval,
Bedlington, NE22 5HS
01670 536511
Northumbria Healthcare Foundation
Trust Supported Employment Service
supports people with learning
disability, physical disability or mental
health issues. They support clients to
develop skills to find voluntary work or
employment. Self refer, or be referred
by care managers or disability
employment advisers.
WELFARE BENEFITS
Ridley Hall, Bardon Mill, Hexham,
NE47 7BP
01434 344933
Training and work experience in
horticulture for people with learning
disabilities or mental health problems.
On referral from learning disability
care management team, but visitors
welcome, ring to arrange a visit.
66
We give brief information here
on some of the major changes
taking place in the welfare
system. These were correct at
the time of writing (Spring 2013)
but may be subject to change
so please contact the advisers
listed for further details, or check
online at www.gov.uk/financialhelp-disabled
Work Life & Money
Incapacity Benefit, Income Support
paid because of illness or disability,
Severe Disablement Allowance.
These benefits will be phased out by
2014. If you get any of these you will
be reassessed to see if you can get
Employment and Support Allowance
instead. You will not be affected if you
reach pension age by 6 April 2014 or
if you are already on ESA.
Universal Credit (UC)
This is a new single payment for
people who are looking for work, or
on a low income. Beginning in 2013 it
will gradually replace: income-based
+PCTFFLFST"MMPXBODFJODPNF
related Employment and Support
Allowance, Income Support, Child
Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits and
Housing Benefit. The amount of UC will
depend on your circumstances.
Personal Independence Payment
(PIP) www.gov.uk/pip
PIP is the new benefit that from April
2013 - 2016 is gradually replacing
Disability Living Allowance for
disabled people aged 16 to 64. You
will be assessed based on help you
need because of your condition and
the impact it has on your life. PIP is
not means-tested, it’s tax free and you
can claim it whether you’re in or out
of work. You can spend the money as
you choose.
The DWP will contact you between
Oct 2013 and 2016 to invite you to
make a claim for PIP. If you do not
claim your DLA will end. If you are 65
or over on 8 April 2013 you will not
need to claim PIP but will stay on
DLA as long as you are still eligible. If
you turn 65 after 8th April, you will still
need to make a claim for PIP.
WHERE TO GET HELP
& ADVICE
Age UK Northumberland Advice
Service 0845 0950 150
www.ageuk.org.uk/northumberland
Telephone advice Mon - Thurs
10.00am - 1.00pm. Advice for
over 50s, their families, carers and
organisations. Welfare rights face to
face casework service Tues - Thurs
9.00am - 5.00pm.
Benefit Enquiry Line, 0800 88 22 00
0800 24 33 55 textphone
www.gov.uk/benefits-adviser
Information for people who are ill or
disabled and their carers. They can
arrange a call back to help complete
claim forms over the phone, although
expect a waiting time of 1-4 weeks for
this service.
67
2013 edition
01670 364657
Confidential, impartial interview offers
a full welfare rights benefits service.
Advice on benefits, help completing
forms, support for tribunals and
accompanied representation at
tribunals. Home visits for people with
limited mobility.
t "MOXJDL
Valuation Offices, off Wagonway
Rd, NE66 1QL.
Also at Amble and Seahouses.
t #FSXJDL
5XFFE4USFFU5%/(
t #MZUI&SJD5PMIVSTU$FOUSF
01670 369082
3-13 Quay Road, Byth NE24 2AS
also at Seaton Delaval and
Cramlington.
Carer’s Allowance Unit, 0845 608 4321
0845 604 5312 textphone
www.gov.uk/carers-allowance-unit
Information on eligibility and claims,
but they cannot help filling in forms.
t %BXO$"#
Tower Buildings, Oldgate, Morpeth,
NE61 1PY.
Also at Hadston and Ponteland.
Citizens’ Advice Bureau, (CAB)
www.adviceguide.org.uk
www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Advice on debt, benefits, tax, housing,
consumer and other issues. Branches
open for limited hours and may offer
appointments, drop-in sessions and a
telephone advice service, although
they all differ.
t 8FTU/PSUIVNCFSMBOE
01434 605254
$PNNVOJUZ$FOUSF(JMFTHBUF Hexham, NE46 3NP.
Also at Prudhoe and Haltwhistle.
t 8BOTCFDL
Disability Living Allowance and
Attendance Allowance Helpline,
Your local branch will also know
where sessions run in other
community venues. All branches are
wheelchair accessible.
08457 123456
08457 224433 textphone
www.gov.uk/disability-benefitshelpline
Deals with claims and queries.
Disability North
See main entry on page 44
68
Appointment line 01670 522008
89-91 Station Road, Ashington,
NE63 8RS.
Work Life & Money
Disability Rights UK, 12 City Forum,
250 City Road, London EC1V 8AF,
0207 250 3222
0800 328 5050, Disabled Students
Helpline
They deal with benefits queries for
students only, but you can buy their
Disability Rights Handbook for
detailed guidance on benefits and
other services.
JobCentre Plus,
0800 055 6688 new benefit claims
0800 023 4888 textphone
www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus
They deal with benefit claims for
people of working age. Ring to make
a new claim and they will take your
information over the telephone, then
BTLZPVUPWJTJUZPVSOFBSFTU+PCDFOUSF
Plus. You can also make a claim
online.
PENSIONS
The Pension Service,
0845 60 60 265
0845 731 7339 textphone
www.gov.uk/dwp
(FOFSBMFORVJSJFTBCPVU1FOTJPO
Credit, State Pensions etc. If they
cannot help directly they will refer you
to the correct department.
DWP Visiting Northumberland,
0845 60 60 265
www.gov.uk/dwp
If you are unable to access DWP
services by telephone or online then
you may be able to have an officer
visit you at home. They will help
complete forms for all the benefits
you are entitled to. They can refer you
to other services if necessary.
Pension Credit Application Line,
0800 99 1234
0800 169 0133 textphone
The Pensions Advisory Service (TPAS),
0845 601 2923
www.pensionsadvisoryservice.org.uk
Independent organisation provides
information on all aspects of
pensions, whether state or private.
69
2013 edition
MORE HELP WITH
FINANCES
CISWO (Coal Industry Social Welfare
Organisation), 0191 477 7242
www.ciswo.org.uk
Help and advice on benefits,
pensions and in some cases financial
support if you meet the eligibility
criteria.
HMRC Taxes Helpline
0845 300 0627
0845 302 1408 textphone
www.hmrc.gov.uk
Advice on any tax issue, e.g. codings,
tax after retirement, claiming tax back
etc.
HMRC National Insurance Helpline,
0845 302 1479
National Debtline, 0808 808 4000
Step Change Debt Charity
(formerly CCCS), 0800 138 1111
www.stepchange.org
Confidential counselling, budgeting
and money management advice for
anyone worried about debt.
Disability Law Service, Ground Floor,
39-45 Cavell Street, London E1 2BP
020 7791 9800
Minicom: 020 7791 9801
www.dls.org.uk
Charity run by disabled people gives
free legal advice for disabled and
deaf people, their families and carers
in certain areas of law. These are
%JTBCJMJUZ%JTDSJNJOBUJPO(PPETBOE
Services; Welfare Benefits; Community
Care (social services); Employment.
70
www.nationaldebtline.co.uk
Free, confidential, self-help advice
about debt. Counselling and
telephone support.
Taxaid, 0845 120 3779
www.taxaid.org.uk
Charity gives free tax advice for
people who cannot afford a
professional adviser. Line open
Mon – Fri 10.00am – 12.00pm.
Royal British Legion
08457 725 725 Legionline
0191 495 9510 local branch
www.britishlegion.org.uk
Financial and welfare help for exservice members and families.
Work Life & Money
Service Personnel & Veterans’
Agency, 0800 169 2277
0845 140 0088
0141 224 2709 regional welfare
They give independent advice and
can refer you to local and regional
places to hire or buy equipment
closest to where you live .
service
www.veterans-uk.com
Help with welfare problems, including
benefits, pension claims and
compensation. Also supports inservice personnel.
SSAFA Forces Help
01665 576 756, Major Brian Finlayson
0800 731 4880 Forcesline
www.ssafa.org.uk
Financial, emotional or practical help
for those with a forces connection.
Turn2Us, 0808 802 2000
www.turn2us.org.uk
Charitable service helps people
access grants, benefits or other
financial support.
British Healthcare Trades Association
020 7702 2141, www.bhta.net
Trade association for healthcare
and assistive technologies, including
mobility, rehabilitation and homecare
products. They help regulate
the industry and will advise on
complaints about their own member
companies. Members follow a code
of practice approved by the Trading
Standards Institute.
Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline,
0845 404 05 06. For textphone dial
18001 before the helpline number
CONSUMER ADVICE
Assistive aids and equipment
can be purchased from
specialist shops, via the internet
and mail order and increasingly
from retailers such as B&Q,
Halfords and Argos. But it is
crucial to seek expert advice on
the suitability of products and to
try these out wherever possible.
See page 29 for centres where you
can try out equipment.
above. www.adviceguide.org.uk
Impartial advice on goods and
services, your rights and help with
making a complaint. Covers gas
and electricity, postal services,
faulty goods, shoddy workmanship,
dishonest traders, scams, online
shopping, personal finance. If
necessary they will refer your
problem to Northumberland’s Trading
Standards service who handle more
complex queries.
Or contact your local Citizens Advice
Bureaux see pages 68 for contact
details.
71
2013 edition
Disabled Living Foundation,
0845 130 9177
www.dlf.org.uk
Impartial advice on all kinds of
equipment via their helpline,
factsheets and online. The AskSara
tool on both websites is a step by step
guide to help you identify equipment
or services to suit your own personal
circumstances.
Ricability, 0207 427 2460,
020 7427 2469 textphone
Consumer research charity for
older and disabled people carry
out product testing to give detailed
product information including
choosing a car/powered wheelchair;
specialist vehicle adaptations;
buying a stairlift; home adaptations;
holidays; easy to use mobile
phones/TVs etc. Ring for information,
download a report from the website
or request a printed copy
72
Work Life & Money
The
Golden
Guide
Northumberland.
Overflowing with hints, tips and information about daily life.
Every year a brand new edition keeps you up to date and it’s free!
The Golden
Guide
...it’s worth its weight
‘The Golden Guide’s
great - you’ve got
everything at your
fingertips’
‘I absolutely love the
Golden Guide; I use it all
the time.’
‘A wonderful resource to
have in your home,
a little bit of peace of
mind to have on hand.’
PACKED FULL OF
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
for over 50s, with a wealth
of local contacts and who
can help if things go wrong
‘Everyone I’ve ever given
it to has praised it.’
COVERS A RANGE
OF LOCAL TOPICS
including Money, Health,
Care, Leisure and Your Home
‘Golden Guide is
absolutely excellent we use it such a lot.’
NEW REVISED
edition 2013
NORTHUMBERLAND – in association with Northumberland County Council,
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation
Trust, Age UK Northumberland and ISOS Housing.
'PSBGSFFDPQZPGUIF(PMEFO(VJEFTFOUUPZPVCZQPTUSJOH"HF6,
Northumberland on 0845
0950150 or visit your library branch or ask a
Care Manager.
73
2013 edition
NOTES
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74
06 QUICKLIST
Adult Care Service Northumberland ..................................................................... 01670 536400
Carers Northumberland .................................................................................................0844 800 7354
Disability North ......................................................................................................................0191 284 0480
Healthwatch Northumberland ..................................................................................0845 388 0042
+PCDFOUSF1MVT .......................................................................................................................0845 604 3719
Long Term Conditions Forum Northumberland .............................................. 01670 394527
NHS 111 (formerly NHS Direct & Out of Hours service) ...................................................... 111
Northumberland County Council ...........................................................................0845 600 6400
Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust................................0191 213 0151
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust ............................................0844 811 8111
Northumbria Police general enquiries .......................................................................................... 101
PALS Service (Patient Advice & Liaison) ............................................................ 0800 032 02 02
Pension Service................................................................................................................... 0845 60 60 265
Important Note on Telephone Numbers
Sometimes telephone numbers are in the process of change and a
new number cannot be established before we go to print. Where this
has happened, please continue to use the old one, to be redirected as
appropriate when you call.
75
Healthwatch Northumberland is the
new consumer champion for health
and social care.
It helps people who have concerns,
questions or comments about these
services in the county.
Healthwatch Northumberland has real
LQÁXHQFHDVLWLVDPHPEHURIWKHORFDO
Health and Wellbeing Board. The board
helps make sure that the right services are
provided for local people and are well run.
If you need Healthwatch Northumberland’s
KHOSWRÀQGLQIRUPDWLRQRUPDNHD
complaint ring 0845 388 0042.
If you want to be a supporter,
be kept up to date or become
a volunteer go to www.healthwatchnorthumberland.co.uk

Guide - Alabaster Publishing

Transcription

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