Disabilit yYNO The award winning newspaper for everyone Vi with an interest £1.40 SEPTEMBER 1996 in disability 13 17 25 33 34 Which school is best How to bust rust on Disability politics Improve the paper — Jobs, friends, for your child? your car and US travel guide and win prizes bargains, breaks Disabled rights are Slowly going places A disabled woman and her husband have won their legal battle against a shipping company which stopped her taking a cruise she had already paid for. Wheelchair user June Tomlin- travel Insurance said Mrs Tom- palsy, forced Air India to back son and husband Arthur, 58, linson could not claim because down after it removed him from from Nottingham, won £1,266 nothing had affected her health a flight. compensation from shipping to prevent her taking the trip. Martin, 26, was banned from firm Cunard at Nottingham Judge Keith Matthewman QC the flight to Bombay from County Court in August. said Cunard had tried to use its Heathrow Airport, unless he When the couple booked the contractual power and muscle travelled with a carer. luxury ten-day cruise, they told to prevent an honest and decent Martin was furious as his Cunard about her disability. She woman, who happened to be in travel agent had told the com- even had a signed medical cer- a wheelchair, from getting what pany about his disability. He sat tificate from her GP saying she she was entitled to. it out at the airport and the air- was fit for sea travel. Mrs Tomlinson said: “It was line eventually put him on a But when they joined the embarrassing and distressing. flight 12 hours later. Cunard Princess liner in Malaga, The apology means a lot. It’s a He is now carrying out volun- staff declared Mrs Tomlinson shame it came so late.” tary work for the charity Action unfit to travel because the 11- Cunard said it would do all it on Disability and Development. hour journey to join the ship had could to make sure the problem “The way I have been treated is made her legs swell. didn’t happen again. disgusting,” he said. The couple were insured for Meanwhile, Martin Fortune, a An Air India spokesman said the holiday, but broker Sure- wheelchair user with cerebral the airline failed to inform Mar- tin that he should be escorted because of his disability. Blind bowler John Sparks has been banned from a sighted bowling Royal Association for Disabil- contest after elderly bowls club members complained of discrimina- ity and Rehabilitation director, tion. The Bleach Green Veterans’ Club said John, 48, could not Bert Massie, said: “These victo- compete, because they could not take part in visually impaired tour- ries are important. naments. They also said that he was too slow. “But disabled people should John, from Gateshead, beat club president Les Archer, 84, in the not have to battle like this. Far same competition last year and said its members were being unfair: better that companies review “I don’t think that they want disabled people taking part in their their policies.” competition. They are living in the past.” NEWCASTLE EVENING CHRONICLE Couple’s sad goodbye BATH LIFTS, SEATS & BOARDS - To enable easy bathing Pro ucts TRAYS, An elderly couple who have savings on home care before cared for in their own house TROLLEYS, been married for 44 years have Nottinghamshire Social Ser- they should at least be in the & CUTLERY been split up and may lose their vices stepped in to meet costs. same care home,” she said. _Tohelpwhen home to pay for care. Now the independent agency An agency has now offered to carrying and Both John Welham and his providing their care is refusing care for the couple at home. eating food © wife Edna, who are 68, had to care for the couple together A spokesperson for social ser- STICKS, FRAMES __ strokes in 1994. and the pair are having their vices said it was considering & WHEELCHAIRS They had already. spent their needs reassessed. this and other options. To encourage mobility John Welham has already been taken into a care home and wife Edna may follow at To assist in rising | the end of August. and support If she does, they will have to sell their house in Barnstone to pay for care. But social services For your FREE COLOUR BROCHURE, please Smiths-Nephew complete the coupon and send to the address opposite. have not confirmed that they NAME Leadership in Worldwide Healthcare can stay in the same home. ADDRESS. Smith & Nephew HomecrLaifmitte d Daughter Eunice Rose is upset Sidings Road, — at her parents’ predicament. LowRmoado Inod. Ersta te, aay Kirkby-In-ANsothtfs.i NeGl17d ,7J Z (= t*E "= “Even if they cannot both be john Welhiaih PcPsssee eceaeeea sssn eee Pe. Ig on 2 |Ja Take Control * F4o F4 . i Sandra Sherlock has! fF 4 A WHOLE NEW WORLD IS OPENING UP FOR SANDRA SHERLOCK FROM EVERTON, WHO PASSED HER DRIVING TEST RECENTLY THANKS TO SPECIALIST TUITION FROM BSM INSTRUCTOR, KEN SHEIL. a Sandra, who has congenital scoliosis, a form of spina bifida, took her lessons in one of BSM’s Vauxhall Corsas which has been fitted with a number of adaptations including hand controls and a steering ball. Admitting to being nervous before starting her lessons Sandra commented, “I really didn’t think I'd have the confidence to learn to drive and found reversing particularly difficult, but my instructor Ken put me at ease straight away and helped me to believe in myself.” Sandra is thrilled about her new found motoring freedom and is already encouraging others to follow her example: “A lot of my friends were waiting to see how I got on”, said a delighted Sandra, “and now that I’ve proved that difficulty with mobility doesn’t prevent you from learning to drive, I am encouraging them to have a go.” Ify ou'd like to follow Sandra's example please contact your local BSM branch free on 0800 700 800 or ify ou'd like more information please call the BSM Mobility Unit on 0181-545 1390. Plus take advantage of the special offer and use the coupon below to claim your first lesson absolutely free. FIRSE OR OUR “ER EE This voucher entitles the bearer to.their first hour of tuition free with a BSM instructor. BSM TERMS & CONDITIONS 1) This voucher may not be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount from BSM. 2) Offer open to new pupils only and only to their first lesson with a BSM instructor 3) One lesson is defined as sixty minutes 4) Standard booking conditions apply 5) Only one voucher per person 6) The offer is only available in mainland UK and is subject to availability. Promoter: The British School of + Motoring Limited, as agent for BSM franchised instructors. BSM instructors operate under a franchise with The British School of Motoring Limited, the largest organisation of its kind in the world. SSSSHSSSSsSSHSsSesSeeeseSeeSseSeseseseseseeeseeoeeeseseeseeeeeeneeoeeeeesd eS ET = TO BE COMPLETED BY BSM BRANCH STAFF %s | The pass m2 asters Branch2) todey's,..::: alt<2e w sma gaaae' e ooin los a osL ae ein ea n4 B“l2 HCCOECHOS HEEHESSHCHSEHHOSHSHAEOSEOHEOTESS Valid until 31st December 1997. eeecoeessceoe Disabilitynow September 1996 News 3 Loan puts Stop press Cost of loving « dogs on South Cheshire Health Author- ity has agreed to a reassessment of the needs of Brian Parker at the spot the Royal Hospital for Neu- rodisability in London, after threatening a major cut in his care package (DN August). Guide Dogs for the Blind Associ- ation is reviewing its operations Giles wins therapy after it emerged that the charity Giles Penman, the four-year-old had given out 60 cheap loans to with cerebral palsy, who lost staff totalling £1.7 million. out on his occupational therapy This included £280,000 to when his family moved from director general Julian Oxley London to Bristol, will now get for a house in Upper Basildon. his treatment. (DN August). He still owes £40,000, having sold his old home for £240,000. Parking review An association spokesperson Drivers and pedestrians are defended its actions. She said being asked to comment on the charity had moved its head new measures to tighten up the | “You couldn't afford her = she belongs to Guide nous for the Blind!” office from Windsor to Reading orange badge scheme. Living centre at risk and had helped Mr Oxley, who The Government plans to earns £68,000 a year, move overhaul road traffic regula- closer to work. tions which would require It insisted that most loans had badge holders to produce gone to help highly-trained staff badges on request for inspec- A Disabled Living Centre Manager Pat Shutter said if council has indicated that its relocate. tion. It would be an offence to (DiC ntaces eclosureyar the the council lost, the centre next grant will probably be cut. “We are confident that the refuse to produce the badge. Government wins a planning would be stuck for another suit- Director of the Disabled Liv- association’s use of its donors’ DN’s national survey of the appeal to sell its three-acre site. able building in Bristol. “It ing Centre Council, Tony money is efficient and effec- orange badge scheme, pub- The Bristol centre at Fish- would be a shame to pull it Travis, said: “It would be scan- tive,” said association chairman lished in June, found ponds was set up two and a half down — it’s in good condition.” dalous if it closed.” John Robertson. widespread abuse. years ago to give advice and Bristol was one of the last big He added that the Govern- But Jill Allen-King, of the Consultation ends 1 November. show equipment. cities in the country to get a ment had been obstructive and National Federation of the Bristol City Council blocked a DLC and it was the first user-led had not helped the centre. | Blind, called for more blind Tel: 0171-271 4800 Government bid to sell the site centre, run by disabled people. “Many of the 41 centres in the people from the federation to for residential use last year, but Ms Shutter said about 7,000 country are having funding be included in the Guide Dog Disability NOW the Government appealed in people had come in for advice problems as well. Association’s decision mak- July. The result of the inquiry since it opened. Royal Association for Disabil- ing. “They can do this, but guide should be known this month. The centre is also facing finan- ity and Rehabilitation director, dog users struggle to get grants | Published by Scope, 12 Park Crescent If the council wins, a local cial problems. After the aboli- Bert Massie, said: “These cen- to build dog toilet areas,” she London W1N 4EQ charity, Bristol Council for Dis- tion of Avon City Council and tres are vital if we are to have said. Editorial: 0171-636 5020 abled Adults, plans to buy the its replacement with four uni- effective community care and The charity has assets of £146 Fax: 0171-436 4582 building and rent it out to the tary authorities, the centre has the Government is simply not million and provides help to Minicom: 0171-436 9914 DLC and other groups. had to ask each for grants. One providing the money for them.” about 4,500 people each year. Editor Mary Wilkinson Assistant Editor School place costs dear Helen Gregory HOW TO CHOOSE A Reporter Rod Hermeston Features/Production A five-year-old blind girl faces a for the Blind in Merseyside — Assistant Alison Miller POWERCHAIR OR SCOOTER weekly 260-mile round trip to 130 miles from her home in Lin- Editorial Assistant/ Secretary Hayley Kerr school by taxi because her local colnshire. Lincolnshire County Design Consultant education authority claims it Council will pay her £20,000 New, free booklet explains and guides, Nigel Tuckett cannot find a school place any annual travel costs. ensuring that you make the right decision CIRCULATION nearer her home. A council spokesman said the- Manager Karen Bresloff The girl will be a weekly cost was justified as it met her Considering buying a of questions that you will Deputy Manager boarder at the Liverpool School educational needs. mobility vehicle in the next want to ask before you Helen Crow few months? Then you make your mind up, giving Assistant Davina Long Tel: 0171-383 4575 should know about a new, you all the information providing ADVERTISING free advisory booklet before you make the Richard Gresham, Kingslea information which will undoubtedly important choice. Press Ltd, 12 Dock Offices, and advice on help you to make the right Surrey Quays Road, London SE16 2XU Tel: 0171-252 disability issues decision. Get all the facts. Produced 1362 Fax: 0171-237 8019 ‘hibitiont o be held at by the Mobility Matters TYPESETTING The easy to read booklet Network of mobility Banbury Graphics, Suite 10, Gateshead stands contains all the answers specialists “The In’s and Borough House, Marlborough International Stadium you need to make sense of Out’s of buying a mobility Road, Banbury, Oxon OX16 8TH Tel: (01295) 272722 Wednesday 16th OCTOBER 10-a 5.m00p m what can be a complicated vehicle” is available now, affair. It tells you about all free of charge. All you have PRINTING Thursday 17th OCTOBER 10-a 5.m00p m CV Litho, Banbury, Oxon and the different models to do is simply call our 24 Challenge Print Management Friday 18th OCTOBER 10-a 2.m30p m available, how they work, Hour Booklet Request Tel: (01604) 787633 what happens when they Line on 0990 134 130 or DISTRIBUTION For more information contact Disability North: go wrong and the best way write to Mobility Matters, MMC, Octagon House, White Castle Farm Road, Gosforth J Supported by to go about buying a Dept DN9, Freepost Hart Meadows, Ripley, Wok- Newcastle upon Tyne NE3 1PH_ BritishGas ing, Surrey GU23 6HR scooter or powerchair. NHO170, Kettering, NN14 ISSN 0958-4676 Tel:0191 284 0480. Home Energy 6YA. A booklet will be NORTHERN The views expressed in Disability Now woes fe ELECTRIC “The In’s and Out’s of sent to you within 14 days are not necessarily those N or of Scope. Minicom No. 0191 285 7261 ed buying a mobility vehicle” from one of the Mobility Copyright © 1996 Scope BUSINESS PRESS Disability North. Serving disabled people throughout the North. RegRisateyey er etd CNh arity No. 514733 also arms you with a series Matters local Distributors. Disabilitywow September 1996 Box nightmare Gay man > wins right is finally over to adopt The mother of an epileptic girl A homosexual man has won who was forced to live in a box the right to adopt a severely dis- for four months has vowed to abled boy. , help other parents get proper For the past 18 months, the support from social services. man and his male partner have Kathy Brain, 13, has severe looked after the five-year-old epilepsy, cannot walk or talk who is deaf, speech impaired and can injure herself by bang- and has mobility problems. ing her head, unless she is in a In July, the Court of Session in padded room. Edinburgh overturned an ear-: Leicestershire Social Services lier court decision which pre- built an open-topped padded vented the 34-year-old nurse wooden box for Kathy while from adopting him. they decided what to do. Lord Hope said it would not Mother Linda said Kathy was is make sense to remove the boy in the 6 x 6ft box nearly all day, Boxed in: Kathy Brain from a caring environment which upset the whole family. where he was settled. Top dog: Minnie, a Collie cross Spaniel bitch, won the Best Disabled “You wouldn’t put a dog in his wife have not had respite And in Dorset, a couple who Dog event which was held in Eastbourne in July. Minnie had her leg there,” she said. care since December and Linda were warned they could lose amputated after being hit by a train earlier in the summer, but owner Social services finally padded claimed social services even con- their disabled foster daughter Dean Wicks, 11, from Westham in Sussex, says she is still full of life Kathy’s bedroom in May but sidered using the box for Kathy unless they gave up smoking, and coping well. MARK DIMMOCK her parents had to take out a while they had a break. have been told they can keep her. loan from the authority to pay “After our struggle, I want to Dorset Social Services had Measles link to Crohn’s for extra construction work. help any parents facing similar said they would prefer the ten- John Kershaw, divisional man- problems,” she said. year-old girl to be in a smoke- Government plans to give Study Group (IBSG), says ager at social services, said: Social services now plans to free setting. She has cerebral booster doses of the measles more research is needed into “There were a number of pro- install “a “padded area in‘ a palsy and mild asthma. vaccine to pre-school children the consequences of using the cesses which had to be gone respite care centre in Melton In July a fostering panel in may increase the risk of the vaccine. through. We have now supplied Mowbray. Dorchester said that she should inflammatory bowel condition His team has suggested that it something at a quality which is stay with the couple short- OBE for Paddy Crohn’s disease, according to a could have trebled the incidence acceptable to them.” term. stomach expert. of Crohn’s in children. Willliam Brain said the family Paddy Masefield, who has ME, Robin SeQueira, director of From October, all children But Dr Huw Jenkins, consul- had been battling to get the has been awarded an OBE for Dorset Social Services, said: offered the pre-school booster tant pediatrician at the Univer- right provision for years. He and services to the arts. “The fostering panel under- for diphtheria, tetanus and sity Hospital of Wales in standably recognised that the polio, will also be offered the Cardiff, who has headed a sepa- ATOn foster parents are offering measles, mumps and rubella rate study, has warned against warmth and care for a very (MMR) vaccine. speculation. needy child.” RAVEL Dr Andrew Wakefield, of the “There is only a possible link Shoppers Royal Free Hospital School of which is worth investigating,” Medicine Inflammatory Bowel he said. lose free Warm Winters at Cool Prices PARENTS for CHILDREN parking Hotels, self catering apartments and villas in the Algarve, JASCINTA (DoB 6.5.83) Portugal. All holidays specially designed to meet the needs of disabled people. Transfers by fully adapted minibus or Jascinta is 13 years old and came to this Disabled shoppers have lost standard taxis. Special rates for standard or fully adapted car country from Nigeria when she was 2 years their free parking spaces in the hire. Current rates for winter 96/97 from only £210. old. She is tall and slim and physically, she Arndale shopping centre in appears older. Luton. Jascinta walks well but with a slight stoop Call the specialists The centre used to offer free and tends to move around a lot rather than Assistance Travel Service Ltd parking to orange badge hold- sit in one place. on tel: 01708 863198 ers but is now charging them For no clear reason, Jascinta is not able to or write to: 60p for two hours, in line with talk. However, her carer says that once you ATS Travel, ATS House, 1 Tank Hill other shoppers. get to know her, she makes her needs and wishes well understood. Road, Purfleet, Essex RM16 1SX Luton Council, which oper- Attending a special school for children with learning disabilities, ated the car park until recently Jascinta looks forward to school and is gradually learning to be more ATS Travel are retail agents for ATOL holders and ALL our holidays are FULLY BONDED accepting of other children. with a pay and display system, Jascinta sometimes goes through periods when she wets herself and, had been able to subsidise at times, has shown obsessive behaviour, such as regurgitation or LS charges for disabled people. repeatedly watching the same video. Her behaviour is by no means The Disabled The Arndale centre recently consistent but manageable, particularly if Jascinta believes her carers Drivers Association took over the car park and cen- are consistent and firm. tre manager Brian McFarland Jascinta usually gets on best with adults who she sometimes “winds defended the decision, as he The UK organisation for disabled drivers and passengers OFFERS : up”, thereby attracting the wrong sort of attention herself. said it did not receive a subsidy, The things Jascinta enjoys most are going on outings, swimming, 50 years He said: “There are 63 wider relaxing at home, video, tv, music and she would like a family that parking spaces for disabled peo- could offer her these sort of activities. experience dealing with mobility problems of the disabled. ple, out of 2,500, and we have If you would like to know more about Jascinta, please contact: improved access with ramps PRAVINA GULABIVALA or BARBARA KELLER For further details contact and have added two extra toilets our Information Officer Parents for Children for disabled people.” 41 Southgate Road The Disabled Drivers Association Motoring expert Dave Allcock London N1 3JP Ashwellthorpe, Norwich, NR16 1EX said: “This is happening all over Tel: 0171-359 7530 Tel: 01508 489449 Fax: 01508 488173 the country and, unfortunately, Charity Reg No. 280259 Registered Charity No. 254544 Registered in Cardiff No. 897405 is the price you have to pay for wanting equality.” DisabilityNow September 1996 News 5 are plan slammed |!nsurance firm uses Cp excuse Government proposals to over- The Government has also pro- from social services. haul the long-term care system posed that people could take a It highlights language difficul- have been slammed by a Con- smaller initial pension, while ties, cultural and religious dif- servative-dominated committee keeping money in reserve to pay ferences and a lack of translated An insurance company wants of MPs. for long-term care later. The information as key reasons for to charge Bob Findlay 75 per The proposals are designed to report says this would only discontent. Many did not want cent extra on his policy pre- help people avoid having to sell work for a few rich people. to be seen as scrounging. mium — just because he has their homes to pay for care, by However Health Secretary “We hope the report’s findings cerebral palsy (cp). allowing people to match state Stephen Dorrell claimed the will influence organisations Bob, from Birmingham, is cover with private insurance. report had endorsed many of providing services,” said deputy chairman of the British Council A new report by the Com- the Government’s policies. general manager Les Bright. of Disabled People. He applied mons Select Committee for Mervyn Kohler, head of public © As DN went to press, Help for an income protection policy Health Long-term Care: Future affairs at the charity Help the the Aged was threatening court with PPP Lifetime Care and was Provision and Funding (third Aged, said neither the Govern- action against Sefton Council in shocked to discover he would report){ says media and public ment or the committee was tak- Merseyside, unless it paid for have to pay more. speculation over a_ possible ing the lead on the issue: “We the care home costs of 47 pen- His building society’s finan- funding crisis because of an need a clear agenda so that peo- sioners. cial advisor worked out the Shocked: Bob Findlay aging population, is “based on ple can plan for the future.” The pensioners all have assets package which would have unsound evidence, or Meanwhile a report by the of less than £10,000 and should meant a premium of £15.23 a that would put me off work.” indeed...downright alarmist.” charity Counsel and Care, be entitled to have their care month. But when PPP received PPP spokesman Paul Bennett It also says: “We deprecate the More than Black and White’, paid for in full, but the council his medical records, this was said cerebral palsy was judged Government’s failure to provide says many elderly people from says it cannot afford to pay. increased to £26.65. to be a high risk factor when costings of its various options. ethnic minorities do not always Bob said: “They did not spec- working out premiums. “Until such costings are pro- get the support they need from ¢£11.50, from tel: 0171-873 ify what the problem was when “This policy pays out on vided, the taxpayer is being their families and often have 0011 I queried the increase, but I inability to perform due to ill- invited to sign a blank cheque.” difficulty in asking for support *£6, from tel: 0171-485 1550 went back to the financial advi- ness. sor. He made enquiries and told “Cp has the capacity to cause Phone me it was because of my cp. recurrent periods of disability.” “?’m very mobile and I’ve Scope insurance expert, Chris never had anyone query the Richfield, said: “The company perk impact of cp on my life before. is wrong to make such sweeping “I sometimes get tension in judgements. Cp has varying my neck muscles, but nothing degrees of disability.” cut off Mobility cuts take effect early Disabled people in the London The Government has gone It means that those receiving borough of Lambeth are losing ahead with plans to cut Mobil- the mobility component of Dis- a council-funded perk which ity Allowance without debate in ability Living Allowance will paid their telephone rental the Commons. lose it if they go into an NHS charges. Many disabled people were hospital or community home But the Royal Association for sent letters informing them that for more than four weeks. Disability and Rehabilitation the change would take effect on The issue may not be debated (RADAR) is challenging the 31 July. until October. move. It says the council is acting unlawfully because no-one has been re-assessed. John Keep, head of the inde- pendent living unit at RADAR, said: “The local authority must Geronimo! Gary Osborne, of Singleton, West Sussex, a wheelchair have assessed people as needing user with cerebral palsy (cp), free-falls 10,000 feet from an aeroplane a telephone and had decided to to raise £130 for Scope and cancer research. Instructor Clemm fully meet their needs by pro- Quinn (top) makes sure Gary has a safe landing. John Guppy, of viding rental charges. Bognor Regis, who also has cp, made the jump too. SCOPE “If the council has not re- assessed them, it is acting HEADWAY NATIONAL HEAD INJURIES ASSOCIATION unlawfully.” In collaboration with Cate Heath has epilepsy and THE BRAIN INJURY REHABILITATION TRUST diabetes, and is one of those who will lose out. Present ‘SEXUALITY AFTER HEAD INJURY’ She said: “I’ve had the charges paid for me since 1989, which 28th October 1996 has really helped. “T’m very annoyed that the at the council can now do this, as Royal Society of Medicine there are a lot of disabled peo- 1 Wimpole Street, London ple, some of them elderly and A conference to explore the variety of issues of sexuality after head dependent on the telephone, injury. The issues discussed are not simply sexual disorders such who will be badly affected.” as disinhibition but sexual identity and gender problems together A council spokesman said: with the relationship difficulties arising when one partner has “We had to make a lot of cuts in become disabled. our budget, and deciding what Cost £95.00 should go was very difficult. (to include refreshments and lunch) “We used to pay for people’s For further details contact Diane Fecowycz Stannah telephone installation and Headway National Head Injuries Association Stairlifts rental charges if they were dis- 7 King Edward Court, King Edward Street, Nottingham NG1 1EW abled, but we can now only pay Tel: (0115) 924 0800 Fax: (0115) 924 0432 Post to: Stannah Stairlifts Limited, Dept 8699, FREEPOST, SA344, Andover, Hants SP10 3SD. for the line installation.” Disabilitynow September 1996 Shoppers at Tesco’s Beaumont Leys store in Leicester are finding In brief their weekly shop can cost more than they budgeted for — if they take up disabled people’s parking spaces (Jet). The clamp-down at the store means some motorists are finding their A good policy cars are clamped and they are being forced to pay a fine to charity. Shoppers who use disabled people’s spaces have to pay £25 or £50 to Brent Council in London is” have the clamp removed, depending on how long they have been looking for people living of there. working in Brent to help The money raised is falling however, as more people find out about develop policies on disability the fines and obey the rules, but £1,000 has already been raised for and mental health care. local disability charities. Fifteen people are needed to As part of the campaign to keep the 34 spaces free, store manager sit on the council’s Disabilitie Nick Smith is now planning to erect a sign saying: “You have and Mental Health Consulta-~ pinched a disabled person’s parking space. Do you want their dis- tive Committee which provides ability too?” ROGER BUSHBY a forum for disabled people. Tel: 0181-937 1234 Parking perk Orange badge holders in Liver- No matter how willing, all carers need to recharge pool will be involved in a pilot their batteries from time to time and respite care is scheme allowing them to park an opportunity for carers to take a break from the responsibilities of caring for a disabled relative. their cars in a pedestrianised area. At Queens Court we believe that those who are cared for deserve a holiday too! And so we do our best to But Liverpool police have ensure their stay is as comfortable and refreshing as voiced concern over the plan for possible. Lord Street as they say the orange badge scheme is open to abuse. The local traffic warden co- ordinator in the area has— reported that more than 100 badges have been taken from Write, telephone or fax for an information pack or return the inappropriate users. coupon to our FREEPOST address (no stamp required): Queens Court offers first class respite care or Care Link, FREEPOST 647, 10-12 Promenade, Southport, PR8 1BR. Winning Wales convalescence in pleasant informal surroundings TEL: (01704) 545050 Fax: (01704) 545200 The National Lottery Charities . Qualified nursing staff and resources are on hand Board in Wales has awarded twenty-four hours a day to meet the needs of all our £53,000 in grants to 18 charities. (PLEASE COMPLETE COUPON IN BLOCK CAPITALS) pno6 § guests. They are the first awards to be Holiday breaks can be taken with or without the NAME (Mr., Mrs., Miss etc.) made under the Board’s Small guest’s regular carer; in either case, our aim is to ADDRESS Grant Scheme. ensure the change of routine is beneficial to both. Cash hand-outs include” £5,000 which is being given to— the Memorial Hall in Whitland- Care Link to provide toilet facilities for Queens Court Residential Care and Nursing Home, disabled people, and £4,000 for 487 Abergele Road, Old Colwyn, Colwyn Bay, LL29 9AE Carers for Disabled Holidays to— Tel: (01492) 516732 Fax: (01492) 513427 fund a holiday for disabled peo- | ple and their carers. Working group The New Volkswagen Caravelle Disabled people who have suc- cessfully tackled barriers to_ by Invatravel Conversions employment are needed to con- INVATRAVEL tribute their experience to a CONVLASIONS study being carried out by Scope in Wiltshire. : The Living Options team in~ Swindon is doing an employ- ment feasibility study which aims to identify innovative work- | ing opportunities in the area. Tel: (01793) 542074 Housing service The National Disabled Persons Housing Service has set up its national office at Brunswick Various options of wheelchair access available on this super new model, including: House, Deighton Close, * underfloor electro-hydraulic lifts Wetherby, West Yorkshire LS22 7GZ. Tel: (01937) 588580. * hydraulic lowering rear suspension with spring assisted alloy ramp Holiday help * manual ramps, etc The Holiday Care Service has Disabled driver options for full independence. compiled a directory of infor- Prices start from £15,500 on the road excluding all taxes from which mation sheets featuring respite care accommodation at more disabled users are exempt. than 2,000 establishments Contact Paul Cassidy or David Reid, tel: 01704 506608, APPROVED CONVERTER OF throughout the UK. Fax: 01704 506607. 66 Knob Hall Lane, Southport PR9 9QSs. THE VOLKSWAGEN CARAVELLE RANGE Four first class stamps per sheet, tel: (01293) 774535 Disabilitynow September 1996 News 7 Toilet trouble Anger over pool closure A disabled woman is furious This was then locked on the secured Diane’s release. after getting stuck in the toilet inside, but when Diane came to A Railtrack spokesman said at Kings Cross station for leave, she could not operate the the station had had problems nearly two hours. lock and got no response from with drug users getting hold of Diane Hyatt, 52, who has the panic button for one and the keys. Combination locks on Disabled people in Bath are osteo-arthritis and epilepsy, three-quarter hours. the inside and outside of the fighting a council decision to says she was a virtual prisoner “It was a really awful experi- door had been installed in an close their local swimming in the toilet for disabled people, ence and it was lucky I did not attempt to prevent this. She said pool. as no one came to her help have a fit,” she said. the inside lock had now been The small, warm pool at the when she repeatedly pressed the “IT screamed and banged on removed. Bath Leisure Centre was refur- panic button. the door which made my left “The lock on the outside has bished in April and re-opened Diane, from Stevenage, was hand swell up. I even had a been moved further down to as a fun pool for children, on the way to meet her cousin cigarette in the hope that the make it more accessible.” which the protesters say means when she popped into the toilet smoke alarm would go off — She denied there was a prob- disabled people can no longer and was let in by a guard who which it didn’t.” lem with the panic button: “It use It. had to unlock a combination Eventually another passenger was working and no one heard The height and temperature lock on the outside of the door. was let into the toilet which it? of the pool have been lowered which they say puts it out of Benefit Protester: Susan Charles bounds and means that many BRISTOL EVENING POST people’s health is failing due to a lack of water therapy. “If Bath is the leading spa shake-up Bath and North East Somerset town in this country, why is it Council has offered to raise the unable or unwilling to provide on way temperature in the main pool remedial spa facilities to its resi- once a week but campaigner dents?” Susan Charles, who has a spinal Ms Charles and fellow cam- injury, says this is not effective. paigners hope they can per- A major shake-up in the way She believes at least 500 other suade the council to make benefits are paid to unemployed disabled people in the area are improvements to the work. people will come into effect on losing out. If this fails, she hopes to 7 October, with worrying impli- “At 3ft, the new pool is too encourage them to upgrade a cations for disabled people. shallow and not warm enough derelict spa pool in the city. Those looking for work will for many people like myself Council leisure services direc- get Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) who need hydrotherapy at least tor, Robbie Hazelhurst, said instead of Unemployment Ben- three times a week. If |d on’t get people with disabilities would efit or Income Support. it, |c an’t walk,” she said. be no worse off. Income Support will still be tt ey “Heating up the big pool “We have made the pool more paid to those who cannot work, Practice makes perfect: Minister for Disabled People, Alistair Burt, doesn’t work and there is no accessible as the pool starts for example, some disabled peo- (right) and Lord Henley, Minister for Education and Employment, other pool in the area to use from a beach.” ple and carers. (left) launch the Codes of Practice which relate to the Disability Dis- apart from hydrotherapy pools He added that the pool was Like Unemployment Benefit, crimination Act. Keeper Andy Hallsworth and his owl Max look on at the local hospitals which cost not designed as a hydrotherapy JSA will be paid for only six at London Zoo, which was commended for its friendly service to dis- more, and are too warm for pool and was for public swim- months before it becomes abled people. ALISON MILLER some. ming. means tested. People who have not made —_———- The enough National Insurance DANAID contributions will go straight on to this means tested bene- Comfort fit. Pauline Thompson, director of the Disablement Income Group, is worried that disabled people WHEELCHAIR with savings of more than £8,000 could take longer to find new jobs, and could be Easy to operate penalised by the means test after Adjustable - no tools required. six months. Simple, elegant design “Disabled people will be - choice of colours. severely disadvantaged if they Posture support. do not find work within the Pressure sore relieving design. first six months,” she said. She was also concerned that Elevating footrests. people who had failed the Optional equipment includes: den already toughened test for Inca- Electric tilt & pacity Benefit (which replaced recline Invalidity Benefit and Severe Headrests Disablement Allowance _ last Table The ‘Royale’ is a new addition to the Newton range of powered Pomme}ls wheelchairs. The compact and easily foldable design of the year) might fail to meet the Harnesses wheelchair is equally at home indoors and with 200mm castors, tougher rules for JSA because Body & side supports rear wheel traction and kerbclimber, outdoors. The Royale's high Available Only From their disability still restricted Optional Five Year Guarantee. manouverability, smooth comfortable ride and high specification them. ¢ Competitively Priced. sets a new standard in its class. Additional seating options are These new rules were designed e Power driven option available available to upgrade this wheelchair to even higher standards. from September. MN (i Return the coupon below to Newton Products to ensure that unemployed peo- Garretts Green Lane Birmingham B33 0SQ for further details: ple were seriously looking for Phone 0115 911 0316 AIDS work. for brochure/information or write to: The Benefits Agency has Comfort Aids, 24/26 Glasshouse Street, Address insisted that the rules will be Nottingham, NG1 3LW. OR CALL THE SALES HOTLINE: 0121-785 0355/6 slacker for disabled people. Disabilitynow September 1996 8 News Airbourne pligh t |M P claims disabled refugees lose out A family is asking an airline to show compassion so their dis- Disabled refugees in Britain cials appear not to know thei abled son can fly to New could be losing benefits due to own regulations,” Mr Gran Zealand in comfort. Nigel and Nicky Faulkner, of mistakes made by the Benefits said. “I am demanding that th Horley in Oxfordshire, are tak- Agency. Benefits Agency does a trawl o ing their six-year-old son Tottenham MP Bernie Grant all similar cases to ensure othe: fears hundreds of refugees are errors are corrected.” Thomas, who has cerebral palsy, on the 24-hour flight to missing out after one of his con- Claude Moraes, director o: visit Nigel’s family. stituents, a Sri Lankan man the Joint Council for the Wel. Thomas has great difficulty with one hand, was told his Dis- fare of Immigrants, said many relaxing and sleeping and has ability Living Allowance would refugees around the country} jerky movements. To sleep he Thomas makes the trip as line carried a lot of disabled be withdrawn. were in distress. has to lie flat. Nigel’s father is ill. people, but could not afford to Mr K Kanapathypillai, 39, “Disabled refugees are espe However Air New Zealand “T can’t believe that Air New give free seats away. who has lived in Britain for six cially vulnerable,” he said has told the family that if they Zealand has never come across “No other airline would do years with his wife and young “These people do not know want to let him do this safely, this before.” this either, it’s not as if we are child, has exceptional leave to what they are entitled to.” the only option is to buy The Royal Association for being unfair. We have done our remain in Britain. This means Mr Moraes said the Govern: another seat, costing £600. Disability and Rehabilitation best to be accommodating for he is entitled to benefit which he ment was taking advantage o: Nicky Faulkner said they (RADAR) has taken up the case the family.” has received since 1995. The the situation by not giving then could not afford the extra cost and is urging the airline to make Ms McKay said the airline had Benefits Agency reviewed his enough information. and that, instead, Thomas special arrangements. offered to try and fit Thomas’s case in June but later repealed “They are waiting for peopl would have to lie across them. Air New Zealand spokesper- special car seat into the aero- the decision. to be thrown into chaos before “Tt’s very important for us that son, Claire McKay, said the air- plane instead. “T am shocked that these offi- acting.” A disabled -activist has been Coma is prosecuted for throwing coloured water at the Depart- not so ment of Health during a protest over Incapacity Benefit in June (see left). clear cut At Bow Street Magistrates Court in London, Barry Shau- fler admitted criminal damage Almost half of the people and was given a two-year con- thought to be in a persistent ditional discharge. vegetative state may have been Barry, who is visually impaired, misdiagnosed says a study. must also pay £500 compensa- Specialists at the Royal Hospi- tion to the Government as well tal for Neurodisability in Lon- as £50 costs. don, led by Dr Keith Andrews, He said: “There was no mali- found that 17 out of 40 patients cious intention —I just wanted to had been wrongly diagnosed as show how unfair it was. I’ll be being in a coma. struggling to find the money.” These people were able to BMROEONRTE communicate with buzzers and some could spell out letters. Adoptive families are needed for People in comas are unaware Ease walking difficulties and simplify travel Archie (02/02/93) and Aaron (29/12/93) with Britain’s most compact folding lightweight of their surroundings and make wheelchair. only reflex responses, although they can breathe on their own. The team found that 65 per cent of those misdiagnosed were visually impaired or blind, making it impossible for them to blink when threatened, or follow objects with their eyes — Just look at these features - two traditional tests. ® Lightweight - weighs under 30lbs REMPLOY The findings raise a moral ® Simply folds to ultra compact size Archie and Aaron are brothers of white European/Asian ®@ Folding armrests ease side transfer Healthcare dilemma for families applying ® Puncture free Polyaire rear tyres to the courts to allow doctors to origin. They need separate families with experience of @ Finger adjustable footrests remove the feeding tubes from disability, who can accept uncertainty about their future ® Attractive durable paintwork i development and have the time and commitment to help ® Self propelled version relatives in coma. them achieve their full potential. Both boys have available. The debate was ignited in developmental delays and may have learning difficulties. 1992 when the House of Lords ruled that doctors could allow Archie is making good progress, his mobility and sight are Tony Bland to die after he was good, but so far he has not developed speech and his Sfuelln dd etfaoirl s! left in a persistent vegetative behaviour at times can be demanding. state, following the Hillsbor- Aaron’s needs are complex. He had limited vision and ough disaster. although he is making progress he is severely delayed. “One of our main findings is that the vegetative state is If you live within 1.5 hours driving time of Hertfordshire extremely rare and difficult to and would like to learn more, please Post Code diagnose,” said Dr Andrews. contact: Janet Holmes, Social Worker, fA REMPLOY He is calling for multi-disci- Hertfordshire Social Services, Permanent Healthcare plined tests to identify the state. Families Team, 16 Warren Park Road, JNuobritlheeu mbInedr.l aEnsdta teN,E 6A3s hi8nUgEt on At present there are up to Bengeo, Hertford SG14 3JD, tel: 01992 Hertfordshire Tel 01670 813718 Fax 01670 851990 1,500 people in Britain who 509437. have been diagnosed with the condition. DisabilityNow September 1996 International news 9 Cm |A xe falls on |Rights on the line Violence on the up Helios fund The European Commission is tunities for Persons with Dis- Violence against disabled peo- calling on member states of the abilities, it calls on countries to ple in the European Union is on European Union to adopt a remove the social barriers faced the increase. rights-based approach to dis- by disabled people. A report by the European Dis- ability. “They don’t have the power to ability Forum, which gives an A Europe-wide programme The Commission has put for- enforce this unless we get a overview of small national sur- which gives support to disabil- ward a resolution on rights for clause in the Treaty of the Euro- veys, says crimes often go unre- ity programmes will be axed in adoption by the council, which pean Union, but this is a positive ported because people fear they 1997, is made up of ministers from step,” said Rachel Hurst, chair- will not be taken seriously. The European Commission individual countries, who have person of Disabled People’s They also often fear reprisals. has also proposed to halve the the final say over decision mak- International European Region. The report highlights one budget for smaller schemes ing in the Union. The communication also national survey which showed which will replace it, to just And following a proposal by includes concrete proposals, that disabled people were three £5.4 million. Padraig Flynn, Commissioner such as getting a coherent times more likely to be the vic- The Helios programme began with responsibility for Employ- approach to employment issues tims of crime than able-bodied in 1992 and gets its funding ment and Social Affairs, it has by 1997, on which the Commis- people. from the European Union. issued a “communication” out- sion is taking action. Half of them had experienced Germany is opposed to fund- lining its ideas and plans. In line The Commission — hopes some form of violence or har- ing such programmes because it Richard Howitt MEP with the United Nations’ 1993 money will be made available rassment in the year leading up feels social policies should be resolution on Standard Rules from the £4.9 billion Structural to the report. decided by individual states. European Parliament, accused for the Equalisation of Oppor- Fund. The report, which is free of The European Parliament, the European Commission of charge, defines violence as which has the final say over not trying hard enough to ranging from physical abuse to budgets, has now proposed to face up to individual govern- HOLIDAYS inappropriate medication. retain funding for smaller ments. for DISABLED replacement schemes at £11.7 “The British are just as bad as Tel: (00 32) 2 738 0600 million using an alternative the Germans on this, but it also method which has no legal shows that disabled people are Canada’s time warp basis. Britain is challenging this pretty low on the Commission’s PEOPLE Disabled people in Canada still type of funding. list of priorities and not even face discrimination ten years Arthur Verney, development worth fighting for.” Flights from London, Manchester, after the country passed civil worker with Disabled People’s Meanwhile, Britain is urging Birmingham & Glasgow to rights legislation. International European Union European leaders to exclude a The Canadian Human Rights Committee, said: “It’s a catch- disability discrimination clause Amsterdam, Dublin, Paris, Florida, Majorca, Act of 1985 made it illegal to 22 situation. We have both a from the revised Treaty of the Costa Almeria, Tenerife & Algarve, discriminate against any group, legal basis for funding and a European Union (TEU). Gites and canal cruisers in France. including disabled people. more informal source, neither At the moment governments Winter ’96 holidays in Norway But the Canadian Human of which we can use.” ~ are leaning towards the inclu- Accessible Accommodation Guaranteed. Rights Commission (CHRC) Helios provides funding to sion of a clause on gender and Annual Report 1995 says that promote good practice in hous- racial equality but not for age, “reasonable accommodation” ing, employment, education disability or sexual orientation. is still not being made to meet and training. Mr Howitt warned that the the needs of disabled people. Richard Howitt MEP, who is Labour party line was uncer- Access Travel (Lancs) Ltd. 16 Haweswater Ave, Meanwhile, government fig- co-president of the All Party tain and that it “had not made a Astley, Lancs M29 7BL. Tel: 01942 888844. ures show that spending on Disablement Group of the clear commitment”. employment for disabled peo- ple has fallen by $12 million despite the National Strategy THE ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT for the Integration of Persons TVS BRACE with Disabilities having $159 million to spend over a five-year period on disability pro- FOR ARTHRITIC KNEES grammes. TELESCOPIC VALGUS (KNOCK KNEE)/VARUS (BOW LEG) SUPPORT US genetic law New Jersey has passed the most he primary function of the brace is to align or comprehensive law protecting straighten the limb, which may have deformed to a genetic information in the bow or knock knee position, due to weakness of the United States. joint. This is usually caused by an arthritic condition, Under the Genetic Privacy Act resulting in pain or undue aching when standing or employers cannot turn down walking. The brace gives full freedom of leg movement someone’s job application if and in many cases helps with hyperextention, where they refuse a genetic test. the knee allows the leg to bend to the rear. It is also illegal to gather, Making wheelchair accessible keep, or disclose someone’s genetic information without transport affordable their written permission. It also offers protection to Sy people seeking life or disability insurance, limiting how much genetic information can be * 3 used in determining premiums. Knock Knee (Vaigus) Before Knock Knee (Valgus) After Knock Knee (Valgus) Before Knock Knee (Vaigus) After Send for the latest colour brochure A cy NHS No mine ban ®AZy |E098 Contact Peter Scullion or John Adair The Lewis Reed Group The United Nations has failed to agree to a ban on landmines, Manufactured and Supplied by 474 Woodchurch Rd., Prenton, Birkenhead, Wirral, leading to estimates that 80,000 ST. CLARE ENGINEERING LTD (MEDICAL DIVISION) Merseyside L43 0SE Fax: 0151 608 9393 people will become disabled 0151 608 9933 Unit 4, Hollybrook Road, Shirley, Southampton, Hampshire SO1 6RB before it is discussed again in Telephone 01703 510770 Fax 01703 510772 five years’ time. Disabilitvywow September 1996 Games first Double blow Britain’s male and female goal- The first UK Pan Disabili ball teams managed a remark- Athletics Championships took able double in June — by both place in Birmingham in June. _, finishing last in the game for More than 250 British and for- blind people, at an interna- eign athletes with physical, tional event on home territory learning and sensory disabilities in Gravesend. took part in the competition. Spain won the men’s tourna- John Nethercott, of Wales, ment while the United States of and Purificacion Santamarta, of America took the honours in Spain, won the male and female the women’s event. athlete award. Poles apart: Poland shot their way to victory in the European Football Championship for players with learning disabilities in June. But the Poles faced stiff competition in the final of the championships, which were held in Leicester. The highly skilled Belgian team took the lead with a lightning strike from Olivier Lambeau early in the first half. A thrilling volley from Marek Prosowski brought it back to level pegging. The final score was 4-2. Ten teams took part in the contest. England finished in eighth place, and the Scottish team finished seventh. ROCK KITCHEN HARRIS Golfer is in seventh heaven @y ; ( § ie s Wl Australian golfing ace Geoff Canada and Michael Horsley For the third time, the Nicholas won the British Open from Derby. women’s title went to Canadian A mountainous task: Jon Amos climbed 3,000ft up the Great Gable Amputee title for the seventh He fought off a 90-strong field Zdenka Kitagawa, a below- peak in the Lake District— in a wheelchair. Jon, 38, from Bitton’ consecutive time in July. from Canada, Denmark, the the-elbow amputee, who fin- who is paraplegic, managed the climb in just over nine hours, helpec Nicholas, a below-the-knee USA, England, Scotland and ished two strokes ahead of Ada by a team of Hull prison officers. They raised £3,500 for the British l amputee, built on a first Wales, to take victory in the Myers. Weightlifting Association of the Disabled, but managed to brea | round lead of four strokes to Endolite-sponsored —_tourna- Zdenka has won the Cana- Jon’s wheelchair in the process. Jon said: “I don’t believe anyone ha win the second round 19 ment at Staverton Park nine- dian Amputee Open Ladies’ | ever managed to climb a mountain in a wheelchair in this country strokes ahead of joint runners stroke — golf course in Championship’ three times | before. It was desperately dangerous but you have to do outrageou! up Robert McDermott of | Northamptonshire. since 1990. stunts like this to get any publicity.” i H Unique to xperience the magnificent range WHEELCHAIR of wheelchair access vehicles AG CESS from the Widnes Car Centre VEHICLES and discover just how enabling they are and how comfortable travelling can be. HOME DEMONSTRATIONS AVAILABLE The RENAULT TRAFIC VERSA offers well All conversions subject to proven practicality and reliability. Just look around and it Appendix B of “RELIEF won't be long before you see one driving by; such is the popularity of these vehicles. Choose from the 2.2i Petrol at £12,895 or 2.1 Diesel at £13,195. FROM VAT” as amended in the 1993 Acts. Including The NISSAN VANETTE VERSA is the newest in our range and offers an outstandin g combination of style, comfort and design innovations for th delivery, number plates wheelchair passenger. Priced at £12,895 for a 2.3 Diesel with power steering. ‘ 3 He and assumes exemption from road fund license. T1h.9e DiResEelN AatU £L1T0, 69E5 XoTr Ra A1 .4: VPEeRtrSoAl ,a t > £a1l 1t,h1o9u5g.h the smallest in our fleet. , off offers a “b“ib ig vehicilcel”e ” rangran. e of design features to make t i j epe erienMceee! , : 15 sled amen ania an MOTTABIALITLiaY IFIN ANCE Available e iin n eietithhe r unlleaedaedde d petrol I or diesel versions. J l = = 2 _ . e ME 1“choicce omfomru nniutrysi ntgr ahnosmpeosr,t cahnadr iftaambillei eso rgaalinkies.a tions, , St A S Ci Ci b Sg Speci COMFORT PACKW éhtions includ sunroofs; | he latest exciting addition to our range is the new\ <y 'e nwood RDS security stereo/radio cassette Ve rsa Cab - W Watch out for these Wheelchair with S4 espneakheras, reaamdo tie econetrol soenice a larm, Fri° endly Taxis° after January ‘96 and if your locai l RENAULT A eine os taxi ae hasn’t ordered one yet, show them this ad. SYotability ‘Winea s ae pe | They'll quickly see how they can have the edge over their bf ae Lane,W idnes, Cheshire, competition if they can supply the needs of the vast Contact Howard Samuels for a Tel: 0151 420 2000 wheelchair users market. Don’t struggle - demand a full information pack. Fax: 0151 495 1382 Certificate Number FS 33479 wheelchair friendly taxi. Prices from £16,300 on the road. Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm DisabilityNow September 1996