v.morrison@bangor.ac.uk.
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Local News
NEW ABLEWORLD MOBILITY STORE OPENS AT JOINER’S SQUARE, HANLEY
THE NEW Ableworld mobility superstore has just opened at Joiner’s Square in Hanley, offering people in Staffordshire even more choice when it comes to their mobility needs.
Ableworld offers a comprehensive range of products for people with mobility needs at a competitive price. Working closely with disability charities, hospitals and social services, along with its highly trained and experienced staff, every customer is given all the advice and information needed to make an informed purchase.
From eating aids to stair lifts, customers can browse the extensive range of products in the easy-to-navigate layout of the store. Fully operational working models for stair lifts and bath lifts are available for customers to try before they buy. The mobility shop also has a range of supports for sports injuries.
“We offer everything from a pill box to a stair lift or hoist,” explains Manager Glyn Taylor
The new Hanley store is the only Ableworld branch to have a dedicated Specialist showroom. This section is for people who require equipment adapted to their personal needs that cannot be bought in store. This section is run by specialist manager Christine Morgan, who has worked for one of Staffordshire’s leading disability organisations. She can discuss any specialist requirements that customers may have and demonstrate the solutions.
The specialist facility is available at all branches by appointment and also via home visits on request. As Ableworld is approved by Wheelchair Services it can accept Wheelchair Vouchers.
The highly trained staff approach every customer with a personal, one-to-one service. Discretion is paramount and the problems, issues and needs of the customer are considered carefully.
It is not just the customer, however, whose needs are considered — any issues the Carer has are also discussed, such as the design and weight of a wheelchair to help them in their caring duties.
Male and female staff members are usually available for customers who have a preference.
The customer service is backed up with a specialist team of staff. As well as specialist manager Christine Morgan, Ableworld also has its own engineers including, Mark Astley. With nine years experience, Mark is able to provide engineering support in the form of modifications, services and repairs. Support is also available with Michelle Wheeler, a registered nurse for 14 years and experienced in hospitals and care homes.
All products come with at least a year’s warranty and a delivery service is offered. Ableworld can also carry out home demonstrations with certain models. Parking is available at the store.
For more information visit the new superstore at Joiners Square on Leek Road, Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, ST1 3HU or telephone 01782 205901.
Carer Support Group
A Carer support group meets on the last Thursday of the month from 2:00pm in ward eighty-five of the City General Hospital.
All Carers welcome.
Contact Sue Brookes for further information on 01782 657032
Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults in Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent
The safeguarding Vulnerable Adults in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Board is a partnership of statutory and voluntary agencies that seeks to ensure that protection is available to safeguard vulnerable adults in a similar manner to that which is available for vulnerable children.
When concerns about possible abuse are raised, these are reported to the local police and/or Social Care agencies who will discuss and agree how the matter will be investigated. In some cases it will quickly become clear that there is no cause for concern but in other situations evidence may appear that shows that physical, emotional, sexual, financial or discriminatory abuse is occurring or neglect may be established.
The purpose of any investigation will be to ensure that the vulnerable person is protected in the short, medium and long term; to support a criminal or disciplinary investigation as necessary; to ensure that other people are also supported through the process (such as Carers or other vulnerable people).
If you are concerned that a vulnerable adult may be the victim of abuse, contact your local Social Care office or if you believe that a crime is taking place, call the police.
If you would like more information about the Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults in Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Board please contact:
Steve Dale– Adult Protection Coordinator, Staffordshire County Council on 01785 278531. Adult.protection@staffordshire.gov.uk
Or
Angela Lightfoot– Safeguarding Adults Coordinator. Stoke City Council on 01782 232396. angela.lightfoot@swann.stoke.gov.uk
Looking for Inspirational Christmas Gifts?
With a new age of internet shopping and with Christmas just around the corner, take the hassle out of shopping whilst at the same time supporting your local Carers Association at no extra cost, by visiting www.buy.at/northstaffscarersassociation
Over 100 retailers are accessible through the webshop including Tesco, Asda, Next, Amazon, Play.com and many more. So if it’s a DVD that you’re looking to buy; your Christmas groceries; or even a holiday for that special person in your life, visit www.buy.at/northstaffscarersassociation
Each time you make a purchase on line through the above webshop, you will automatically earn money for us but at no extra cost to yourself. It really is that simple. HAPPY SHOPPING!!
Call North Staffs Carers Association on 01782 834836
Are you caring for someone with Dementia?
The North Staffs Alzheimer's Carer Support Group has launched a new support group within the Moorlands. The group will enable Carers of people with Alzheimer's/Dementia to receive information and support, along with the opportunity to meet with other Carers in a similar situation. The new Moorlands group will meet on the second Wednesday of the month from 7:30pm-9:30pm at Weaver House, Cheadle.
In addition to the new Moorlands Group, there is also a Carer Support Group that meets on the last Thursday of the month from 7:30pm-9:30pm at Burslem Day Centre.
For further information contact:-
Burslem Support Group– Contact Doris on 07760261288 or Pat on 08740717803
Cheadle support Group- contact Janet on 01782 275120 or Liz on 01538 487530
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News from NSCA
Carers’ Café Launch
The Carers’ Café launch was held at the Hope Centre in Hanley during October. There was an excellent turn out, with a total of 31 carers and 26 professionals. It was good to see so many agencies that support users and Carers attend the launch.
The Carers that came along to the Café had the opportunity to receive information from other organisations including Age Concern, Approach, Beth Johnson, The Alzheimer’s Society, Changes and many more. The Carers also received a relaxing hand massage, and a goodie bag to take away.
The feedback from the Carer Café was very positive and comments from carers included-
- Good information provision
- Opportunity to chat to other Carers who are caring for someone with Parkinson’s Disease
- Putting Carers first and recognising them.
- Meeting other Carers and being in the company of others.
- Having all the services in one place and having a cuppa and a break.
The next Carers Café is to be held on 7th December, in Cheadle at St Giles Catholic Guild Hall, Charles Street, Cheadle.
The Café will be running from 09:30am-12:30pm and it will be great to see as many Carers as possible at the event. There will be Goodie Bags for Carers to take away and Complementary therapies for all…
If you are a Professional and are interested in having a display board at the Carers’ Café, please contact Julie Hammersley on 01782 834836.
Carers’ Christmas Party
Dust off those dancing shoes and grab those flares and celebrate Christmas ‘60’s style’.
Join us for a night of fun, laughter and entertainment on Wednesday 12th December from 7:30pm-11:00pm at Birches Head Club, Oak Street, Birches Head.
The theme for the evening will be the 1960’s and entertainment will include a disco and for those budding pop-stars amongst us, a chance at Karaoke. A buffet will be provided for your enjoyment and there will be a prize for the best fancy dress costume.
Tickets are allocated on a first come first served basis so don’t miss your chance to join the party of the year. Contact Peter Shepherd on 01782 834836.
Unfortunately the Association can not pay for taxis or sitting services
Volunteer Project Update
What a busy summer! I would like to take this opportunity to thank ALL of our volunteers for the hours that they have given freely to the Association. Since the project started at the beginning of March this year, the volunteers have given over 624 hours of their precious time. The help that you have given to every project within the Association has been invaluable and we are ALL very grateful. Many thanks- you are all wonderfully generous!
There has been a steady increase in the number of new volunteers and the grand total currently stands at thirty. Many of our volunteers perform regular tasks for the Association, with a large proportion taking part in administration duties. However there are many other volunteering opportunities that people can get involved with including supporting staff on the big yellow bus and taking part in outreach opportunities. If you are interested in volunteering for North Staffs Carers Association contact Sue Cartwright for further details on 01782 834836.
Support and Outreach Service
Hello Everyone,
The past few months have been extremely busy and there have been a few changes within the information office.
We have four Carer Support workers; Sharon, Lisa, Tracy and Simon who are all eager to assist you with your caring role, whatever that may be. Tracy is our specialist Mental Health Carers Worker, who works with Carers in the City and County.
A warm welcome is also extended to our new team leader, Simon who is settling in very well, and to Dianne, our Carer Liaison Officer, who has now taken over the role of managing our busy office.
As of the 1st November 2007 the team will be known as “SUPPORT and OUTREACH SERVICE” or "S.O.S.” for Carers.
During the past few months we have provided support to over 125 new Carers, ranging from intense emotional support to basic benefit information. As a team we have managed to secure over £132,000 in benefits for Carers. In Staffordshire we continue to give on the spot information, and our Outreach vehicle will be going out and about over the next few months. You may be able to come along and get information or speak confidentially to one of our outreach support workers.
You can call us on 01782 834836 for details of locations or if you have any concerns or just need a listening ear we are waiting for your call.
Take care
Simon, Lisa, Sharon and Tracy
THE CARERS’ LINK PROJECT CELEBRATES ITS 7TH BIRTHDAY
It’s incredible to think that the first Carers’ Information Files went out in October 2000!
In April of that year, a fledgling Link Team got together with Health and Social Care staff to look through hundreds of leaflets and compile the original Files. These went to GP surgeries and Social Care Offices and the Team set out to recruit their first Link Contacts.
In March 2001, the Project was officially launched at the Britannia Stadium. This day will be long remembered, not just because of the widespread enthusiasm for the Project, but because it snowed and snowed and snowed….! Nothing daunted, the Project braved the storm and went from strength to strength. At the end of 2001, the Files made their way onto hospital wards and a long held dream came true – a complete information service for Carers.
To celebrate their 7th birthday, the Files have been updated to provide a wealth of information in an easy to access format. The Link Contacts continue to provide a valuable support service to Carers and the Link Team works with professionals, and the local community, to ensure Carers get the information they need.
Thank you to everyone who has helped with the Project and to those of you who have been with us from the beginning – Happy Birthday!
The Carers Link Team
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Emotional Wellbeing Project
Reiki Training For Carers in Newcastle and Moorlands
There has been a huge interest in Reiki Training and we appreciate that some of you have been patiently waiting for an opportunity to take the training. The next course set for December is already fully subscribed so a further session will take place in the New Year, those of you that have already registered your interest will be offered a place on this course. If you have not already expressed an interest in this training and you wish to be involved please contact me for the New Year course!
Learning to say NO!
The fourth workshop based around self-esteem and to develop assertiveness is Learning to Say No and will take place on Wednesday 5th December at a venue in Leek. The session is 2 hours in duration and places are limited to 20.
Complementary Therapy Course
As part of Staffordshire County Councils Adult & Community Learning Service, there will be an opportunity for Carers in the Newcastle & Moorlands area to attend a short course. This is designed to help you increase your knowledge of complementary therapies including Aromatherapy & ways of using essential oils, learning practical massage techniques, Indian Head Massage and Reflexology. This course will take place in the New Year.
Complementary Therapy Voucher System
A reminder to Carers in the Newcastle & Moorlands areas that you can access a course of complementary therapies via our voucher system to have Reflexology, Reiki, Aromatherapy Massage, Indian Head Massage, Hopi Ear Candling and also Body Detox therapy. Don’t be shy, please take the opportunity to experience these wonderful sessions.
To refer someone to the Carers Emotional Wellbeing Project, contact Nicola Brough on 01782 831617.
Bare Foot Boogie
Fundraising event on behalf of NSCA
Saturday 1st December 2007
Dancing 8.00 - 11.00pm
Tickets: £5 in advance/ £6.50 on the door
Venue: Biddulph Town Hall, High Street, Biddulph, Stoke-On-Trent, ST8 6AR
Would you like to take part in this wonderful experience, a chance to communicate in movement rather than words. We all have our own rhythm and this is a chance to find it or flaunt it!
Be free to dance and express yourself by moving as you like, to a wide range of world music. it is about BEING! It's a chance to dance like nobody's watching.
You can move in your own space, dance individually, or you may cross paths and interact with fellow dancers.
We ask that a respectful interaction be the basis and foundaton amongst participants.
General Information
Ages welcome from 18 to 88
Non-alcoholic & non-smoking event
Bare foot or socks only
Light refreshments included
For further information and tickets contact Nicola Brough on 07960 946853 or email:nicola@nicolabrough.com
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County Chat Line
Very often Carers say, “I shouldn’t complain, there are other people who have problems greater than mine.” That’s not true. In our view, Carers are all very special people on an equal footing. However, I will share with you the unique additional caring duties of an amazing lady. Sharon, who cares for her 92-year-old Nan; sometimes over a 24-hour shift (you’ve all been there) also cares for around a dozen additional needy little lives. Her residence is known as a ‘Safe House’ for various species of exotic birds. When I first met Sharon on a home visit I was introduced to Baxter, an African Grey parrot. He walked towards me singing Elvis Presley’s ‘Blue Suede Shoes’! A real character and there were many more to come.
Sharon is part of a national network of dedicated Carers for the charity Bird Line UK which was set up in 1992 by Gary Wilcox. Did you know that keeping a bird in a cage albeit fed and watered is not enough to provide a decent existence for them? Interaction, a sense of routine and belonging, are essential for their mental wellbeing. Yes, they can suffer badly from depression and a clear sign is a featherless bird. Bird Line U.K. Carers nurse their ailments and injuries, restore their confidence and then find carefully vetted homes to start a new life.
I have a number of Carers on my register who, as well as parrots, keep various Amazons, Macaws, Cockatoos and even the odd Galahs, so any problems, I’m able to pass on expert advice all by courtesy of Sharon. Through chatting with so many Carers’ I’ve become a bit of an ‘armchair expert' on many subjects – you could say I learn it all ‘parrot fashion’!!
“Well done” to everyone associated with Bird Line U.K. If you or anyone you know would like to become a ‘Safe House’ or give a home to any of their feathered friends, they’d love to hear from you. Their telephone number is 0845 094 1785 for more information.
Enjoy the festive season and don’t let any of this put you off your Christmas roast!
Until next time…. Take very good care.
Margaret
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News from the Young Carers Department
Hi from the Young Carers Forum,
The Forum has been very busy organising the conference day and the Christmas trips. We have also just applied for funding from the Youth Opportunity fund again so that the Forum can continue next year. We will let you know the outcome.
There is still the opportunity for those Young Carers who haven’t already applied to the emergency fund to receive money towards essential items such as school and college equipment. If you would like to apply you can download a form from the website or contact the Young Carers Department on 01782 831619.
Any professionals who would like to come and talk to the forum can contact us via the Young Carers Department, we would love to give you our views on things which affect Young Carers living in Stoke on Trent.
That’s all for now from the YC Forum.
Hello from the Young Carers Department
We hope you all had a great summer and enjoyed the little bit of sunshine that we had! We were very busy here in the Young Carers Department organising and running the summer trips. We visited Cannock Chase, Drayton Manor Park and Cadbury World and also held two sports days. We hope you all had lots of fun on your trips– as we certainly did.
A bit of staff news for you. We say farewell to our Saturday workers, Katy, Chris, Caroline and Alison. We wish them all the very best in their future careers. We would also like to welcome to the team Emma, Tracy and Nicki.
Finally we congratulate Sarah on her pregnancy– not too long to go now!
That’s all for now folks….until next time.
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Carers Rights Day 2007
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Tracy, our very own Mental Health Carers worker, took her copy of CLAN to Egypt. In between hectic visits to the famous pyramids and temples, Tracy took time to catch up on the latest news from North Staffs Carers Association.
Whether you are away on a day trip or a far away paradise, CLAN can be the perfect read. 
Monday. I’m in the office, which the Link Team shares with the Information Officer and the two intrepid ladies who arrange all those relaxing massages. With seven of us in the office, it gets pretty busy. I get a call from the Practice Manager at a local surgery who wants me to speak at her staff meeting. This gives me a great opportunity to tell them about what Carers do, the problems they face and how practice staff can help.