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s d e f. o r g . u k ISSUE 41 | SUMMER 2014
OPEN DOOR DISABILITY NEWS AND VIEWS FOR DISABLED PEOPLE ACROSS SCOTLAND
Welcome to the latest issue of Open Door, Scottish Disability Equality Forum's (SDEF) quarterly newsletter. This newsletter brings you the latest news and information from SDEF, Access Panels, Disability Groups and organisations across Scotland.
Disability Take part in our Launch of the Access Roadshow Policy Consultations Panel Network
INFORM POLICY ACCESS PANELS ENGAGE SUPPORT
JOINT WORK
Get in Your Disability, Your touch with
us! Voice, Your Scotland Share your SDEF is a member led organisation so we need to hear
disability news from you, our valued members! with SDEF
Get in touch with us with your disability news by email at [email protected] or by calling on 01259 272064.
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Contents Page No. 2 Contents 3 Convenor's Welcome
Inform 4 -5 Staff Team 6 What We Do 78910 11 12 1 3 -1 4 15 16
1 7 -1 9 20
2 1 -2 8 29
30
31
32 33 34
The Scottish Government / Disability Symposium Tom's Story Equality Internship Programme / SQA Training Course SDEF BILD / Accessible Formats / Access Panel Network Transport Scottish Disability Directory / Accessible Venues Track Cycling Triumph for Laura Stroke Association / Esay Survey Fairway Advocacy
Policy Member Consultations SDEF welcomes increase in Hate Crime Reporting
Access Panel Network Access Panel Updates throughout Scotland Access Panel Training
Engage The British Polio Fellowship Scotland
Support Equality Advisory and Support Services
Joint Work Disabled Access Day 2015 Active4All Living Streets Report
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Convenor's Welcome Welcome to our latest issue of Open Door
2014 has certainly been a busy year so far for SDEF and we are all very excited about the work we're progressing with.
We are currently undertaking a lot of work with policy
consultations and I would personally urge all members to have their say and take the time to complete these. Our team are working hard ensuring
information is shared with members in a fully accessible and inclusive way. As a SDEF
member it is important that you contribute to policy consultations, because your opinion is
what makes us representative of disabled people in Scotland.
This bumper issue also gives you an update of the fantastic work carried out by our
network of Access Panels throughout Scotland.
As always, both staff and Directors of SDEF are available for you to speak to. If you would like to know more about anything that we do please contact our main office
number on 01259 272064, in the first instance and we will be happy to help you.
I do hope you enjoy this issue and I look forward to updating you further in our next issue due out in Autumn/Winter 2014.
Best wishes
Jackie Maceira SDEF Convenor
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Inform Staff Team Susan Grasekamp - Chief Executive Susan works with the team to ensure that SDEF is effective in its aims to promote equality and to reduce barriers to Independent Living. Responsible for the strategic development of the organisation, Susan continues to advance the influence and impact of SDEF and its stakeholders.
You can contact Susan on [email protected] or by calling 01259 272063
Yvonne Wemyss - National Inclusion Officer Yvonne is working on the Sustainability Project, a significant piece of work which will help grow and develop Panels through a large-scale training project, as well as working with panel members and providing practical support where it's needed.
Yvonne can be contacted on [email protected] or by calling 07898 424202.
Morven Brooks - Policy, Information and Communications Officer
Morven is responsible for working alongside other organisations to influence policy, and for delivering our publications and articles.
Morven can be contacted on [email protected] or by calling 01259 272063
Robert Ferguson, Disability Access Officer
Robert's role is to work with Access Panels and the whole of the SDEF team to support panels to develop their strengths and standards.
Robert can be contacted on [email protected] or by calling 01259 272066
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Inform Staff Team Maeve Bain - Office Administrator Maeve is our longest-serving member of SDEF, having started with us almost ten years ago! Maeve is responsible for the administration of our finances, keeping us right on book-keeping and payments, as well as supporting in other areas such as minute-taking and regular Board related duties. Maeve's voice will usually be the one which greets you when you call us!
Maeve can be contacted on [email protected] or by calling 01259 272064
Katrina Watson - Access Administrator As Access Administrator, Katrina provides support to our NIO on the Sustainability Project, but also assists SDEF with much of the IT work on our website and publications, as well as being the main point of contact for panels with their funding applications.
Katrina can be contacted on [email protected] or by calling 01259 272062
Vicky Innes - SDEF Administrator Vicky is the key administrator for the Equality Unit funded side of SDEF (as opposed to Access) and has been invaluable in supporting the organisation through the many changes it has encountered since her appointment. Vicky is the principle administrative support to the CEO, but also works with the full team on activities such as our Access Panel Conference and AGM and other events.
Vicky can be contacted on [email protected] or by calling 01259 272064
Adam Nosal - Intern Support and Development Officer Adam is supporting and developing the Disability Graduate Internship Programme. Read below more about the programme, and of course if you would like to find out how you can get involved, please contact Adam Tel: 01259 272064 or email [email protected]
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Inform What We Do SDEF is involved across a wide range of work, ensuring that the many voices of disabled
people are heard and listened to on a local and national level. We work to bring real
change to the lives of disabled people, to inspire and to motivate others to be inclusive
and informed in their attitude towards disabled people, and to bring the message of
equality to all. You can read more about our outcomes from our website:
http://tinyurl.com/q9ramjb
Inform
We keep informed of new developments in disability news to pass on to our members
EngagementWe speak to members so that we know what the key issues are for
disabled people in Scotland
Policy
We work with our members to influence Scottish Government decisions and policies
Support
We hold events, training and give
practical guidance on disability and access
related issues
Access Panels
We support Access Panels across
Scotland to enable them to reach out to their communities
Joint Work
We work with many organisations on
projects and initiatives aimed at improving
equality
These are just some of the many key activities in which SDEF is involved. You can find out more about what we're doing by visiting our website at www.sdef.org.uk
Better still, why not become a member, it's free! That way, you will be kept informed of disability related news through our printed publication 'Open Door', e-newsletters and
consultations. More importantly you can become involved in what we do, giving us your
thoughts and contributions.
SDEF work to make a difference for disabled people, promoting equality and inclusion across Scotland. Get in touch with us if you would like to know more or get involved.
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Inform The Scottish Government's Commitment to Independent Living The Scottish Government is committed to delivering equality and
human rights for disabled people across Scotland by addressing
independent living.
The rights to independent living are enshrined within the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
(UNCRPD), the Human Rights Act 1998, and the Equality Act 2010.
The UNCRPD is an international human rights agreement written by and for disabled people. It states that disabled people have and should enjoy the same human rights as
everyone else.
Scotland's approach to implementing the Convention complements the Scottish Government's existing work to promote disability equality and independent living for all
disabled people. The recent Disability Symposium was part of this commitment to raise
awareness of the issues facing disables people in Scotland.
Disability Symposium A Disability Symposium was held in Victoria Quay in May to explore
and prioritise issues facing disabled people in Scotland, and to identify
solutions which could be taken forward over the coming year. The
event was co-produced with the Equality Unit of the Scottish Government, Scottish
Disability Equality Forum, Independent Living in Scotland and Inclusion Scotland. The
event was aimed at decision makers across such areas as Health, Transport, Housing,
Tourism, Welfare Reform amongst others. The information gathered will feed into the
Scottish Government's second report for the UN Committee of the UNCRPD and will
guide the work of the Scottish Government over the next year. Your voice counts! So if
you haven't already, please give your opinions on the 'have your say on disability'
website or give us a call to give your opinions over the phone.
www.yoursayondisability.org.uk
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Inform Tom's Story Six months ago this story would have read much differently. It
would have described a gentleman called Tom who, for the last
three and a half years, has ridden the unemployment
rollercoaster, which many people with disabilities are confronted
with on their journey to employment.
After graduating from university Tom found it extremely difficult, continuously being told "thanks but no thanks". As you can
imagine, this forever repeating process must be extremely demoralising and would truly
test the resilience of any person.
Tom reached out to a local supported employment organisation called Intowork and that's where a great support relationship developed between him and Tanya Knight.
Tom came to the realisation that in applying for purely admin roles he was perhaps barking up the wrong tree. He started to look at jobs more aligned with his personal
attributes, as well as his skills. Starting 'from scratch' was hard for Tom. From this, Tom
applied for a number of positions within the Equality Internship Programme. This initiative
provides opportunities of paid employment for disabled graduates within the third sector
and it did just that for Tom. He was offered a number of interviews and was offered 3
posts. The challenge now was trying to decide which role he was most suited to and
interested in and could also offer most in terms of career progression for the future
employment. Six months ago, Tom could never have pictured this ironic scenario!
Today we pick up Tom's story as he is working with Access to Work, an organisation that look to put measures in place so disabled people can access their employment
environment whatever their needs might be.
He is due to undertake a role that he is extremely excited to be involved with and is looking forward to applying and developing his skills; an admirable turnaround and a very
positive conclusion for Tom in the end.
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Inform Equality Internship Programme Scottish Disability Equality Forum and Inclusion
Scotland are working with SCVO (Scottish
Council for Voluntary Organisations) to create and
place internship opportunities within third
sector organisations. This is a fantastic
opportunity for you to apply the skills and learning you have and in turn benefit from the
range of experiences available.
Currently there is a range of exciting paid internships available for disabled graduates throughout Scotland
● Business Development Intern with Play Alloa
● Events Fundraiser with Deafblind Scotland
● IT Intern with Citizens Advice Scotland
and many more opportunities can be viewed from SCVO's website
http://tinyurl.com/m8mklfm
For more information contact Adam Nosal Tel: 01259 272064 [email protected]
SQA Training Course SDEF has also begun work on developing an Inclusive Design training course to become a celebrated SQA awarded qualification. The training course will deliver a number of
modules to include access, building standards, disability equality and awareness,
amongst other modules. We hope that this course, when complete, will provide a
training route for those interested in learning more about inclusive design, from
laypersons to professionals. The modules contained within the course will also be used
to deliver modules for Continuing
Professional Development (CPD) for
those who wish to upskill in a specific
area.
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Inform SDEF BILD As mentioned in past publications, SDEF are working to create an Inclusive Design 'hub' for builders, architects and planning professionals. The website
will include articles, information, schedules, and examples of Good Practice
for shared learning. We are always looking for good ideas to help improve engagement,
and would welcome contributions from members who can provide good examples of
inclusive design in their area.
Accessible Formats SDEF is working hard to provide accessible information to all our
members. Here are a few examples of how we are doing this:
● Documents produced by us are now uploaded to our website in various formats - Word, PDF, Text and Audio
● We have started producing our consultation responses in Easy Read, these can be downloaded from website http://tinyurl.com/krj57co
If you have any suggestions as to how we can make further improvements, we would welcome your feedback, contact Morven Tel:01259 272063 [email protected]
Launch of Access Panel Network SDEF has been working hard behind the scenes to strengthen the
Access Panels' image by forming the 'Access Panel Network'. The new
logo will appear on materials which involve both the Access Panel
Network and SDEF.
The small circles in the logo represent the individual panels which have come together to build a network. We are confident that by using this logo, those we work with will
become more aware of the strength of the Access Panels, what they do and how they
are part of a Scotland-wide network. The logo is designed to be used by the Access
Panels to help identify them as part of this network, this also helps increase awareness of
the panels to the wider public. 10
Inform Transport Here are some key transport issues which you, our
members have flagged up. We are exploring the 'next steps' and
will provide an update in the next 'Open Door'.
Get Better Connected... It is vital that transport systems look towards future needs, the challenges of an older
population and a growing population of varied needs and mobility. Better connections
between transport systems enable disabled people to live, work and travel as they
choose and lead to :
● Increased social and cultural activity, visiting family and friends, events
● Reduce costly 'missed connections', dependence on taxis and overnight stays
(especially in the Highlands and Islands)
● Increase job and educational opportunities through improved commuting
SDEF are working to seek commitment from current rail, bus, train ferry and air transport organisations to improve engagement with a view to achieving more meaningful local
and national connectivity.
Taxi! Taxis are the main means of transport for many disabled people unable to use public
transport. Many Local Authorities have now broadened concessions on taxi stock to
include Hybrid and Electric reducing the number of Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
(WAVs) on the road. However it is still a 'Double Whammy' as school runs reduce
availability of WAVs during the day. Taxi drivers commonly refuse to assist disabled
people without producing an exemption note.
SDEF are looking to work with taxi licensing boards to ensure that a minimum of 20% of wheelchair accessible vehicles are within taxi stock and available at peak times, and to
ensure that adequate training is delivered - and implemented - in providing an
accessible service.
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Inform Unique Scottish Disability Directory launches
UPDATE are delighted to announce the launch their unique and comprehensive Scottish
Disability Directory. The SDD is the only directory
of its kind in Scotland. The touch of a button
provides access to information on thousands of disability organisations and support
groups, both local and national. This reliable, easy to use and regularly updated resource
contains a wealth of information (including information on small local groups that do not
have an internet presence).
Access to the directory is free, and available to all: disabled people, carers, professionals, disability organisations and anyone with an interest in disability issues.
So check it out, and see what they can do for you! http://www.update.org.uk/key.php
T: 0131 669 1600
Are Accessible Venues Easy to Find? Euan's Guide is an accessible website for disabled people and
allows users to post reviews of any venue, anywhere in the world.
Go to Euan's Guide website to share your reviews and rate
venues on their accessibility - www.euansguide.com
Euan's Guide is asking visitors to their website for their experience of accessible venues and how you find out about information on accessible venues.
Please let them know by answering their short survey http://tinyurl.com/pnc597y
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Inform Track Cycling Triumph for Laura The name Laura Cluxton isn't that well known
outside the cycling world, but we have every
confidence it will be in the lead up to the
Commonwealth Games in Glasgow!
The 33 year old visually impaired cyclist, who is part of the Scottish Cycling Performance Team, is a
newcomer to cycling, with less than a year's elite
cycling experience under her belt. Here Laura tells
us about her whirlwind journey cycling journey so far.
"Back in 2009 I was looking for something to do with my time after leaving my job and noticed UK Sport
were looking for people to try out different sports ahead of the Paralympics, so I thought
'why not fill out an application'? I was pointed in the direction of cycling and have never
looked back."
"I had to go through several fitness tests, wattbike tests and even had to try out track cycling for the first time at Newport velodrome in Wales. My first moments on the track
were daunting. I didn't even know anything about a velodrome so I had no clue what to
expect, it felt really, really fast and scary and it took some getting used to but was
enjoyable at the same time."
Laura unfortunately didn't make it onto the UK Sport programme, due to not having enough cycling experience but never had any intention of giving up.
"They told me to keep cycling, so I did! I bought my first tandem bike and for three years I went cycling with my husband."
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Inform Track Cycling Triumph for Laura continued Up until last year, Laura never thought about taking her cycling to the next level but as
soon as the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome opened it was the perfect opportunity to get back
on the track!
"With the help of Fiona Duncan, a Scottish and British Cycling tandem pilot, I managed to
find a pilot to ride with and I really enjoyed it. After
only a few months of training we ended up
competing at the 2013 British Cycling Na-
tional Track Championships in Manchester,
which was my first experience of competing at British National Level, and managed to
clock some decent times."
After only a few months of track cycling and a couple of competitions behind her, Laura was selected for the Scottish Cycling Performance Team in November 2013 where she
was paired with Paralympic athlete and World Cup gold medallist pilot Fiona Duncan.
"Initially when I joined the Scottish Cycling team I had loads of doubts in my head and wondered if I was good enough, especially to compete for Scotland at the
Commonwealth Games, but over the past couple of months I have learnt so much in
such a short space of time and my track times have been getting better and better. I feel
so lucky and it seems everything is now clicking into place. Competing at a home
Games is a reality. It's a once in a life time chance to compete for Scotland on home soil,
in front of a home crowd so I hope to make the team and win a medal."
After taking up the sport by chance and with only four months on the Scottish Cycling Performance Programme, Laura piloted by Fiona has now managed to achieve her
qualification times for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
You can follow Laura on Twitter @pixielaurac
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Inform Stroke Association Report reveals people dismiss mini-stroke as 'just a funny turn' Too many people are dismissing the signs of a TIA or mini-stroke
as 'just a funny turn' according to a newly published report by the
Stroke Association. The 'not just a funny turn' report showed that
over a third of people (37%) having a mini-stroke thought it was a 'funny turn' and only one
in five people (22%) experiencing symptoms of a mini-stroke rang 999.
A TIA is a warning sign that a person who is at risk of a stroke could cause them considerable harm. By spotting the symptoms early and having rapid access to specialist
services, thousands of people a year could avoid the serious consequences of stroke.
Andrea Cail, Director of the Stroke Association, explained: "The greatest risk of having a
major stroke is within the first few days after a mini-stroke. However, for many people it
doesn't feel like an emergency because the symptoms are brief or mild. Too many
mini-stroke patients delay calling 999 when their symptoms start and instead choose to
book a GP appointment or visit their optician for advice because of their visual
symptoms. The symptoms of a stroke or mini-stroke usually come on suddenly. Other
symptoms, sometimes associated with TIA, can include weakness or numbness on one
side of the body, loss of vision or blurred vision in one or both eyes, memory loss,
confusion or a sudden fall." To find out more, please visit www.stroke.org.uk/tia
eSAY Survey The eSAY project produces annual statistics about adults with learning
disabilities known to local authorities in Scotland. This information is
collected on behalf of the Scottish Government and is derived from local
authority administrative data. We would be grateful if you could
complete the survey and give your opinions on the usefulness, format
and publication of the statistics. This survey aims to increase user
engagement with existing users of eSAY and to raise awareness of the value of the
statistics among those who don't currently use them. You can find the survey here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3NQNMQ9
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Inform Fairway Advocacy Broadening access to Independent Advocacy Independent Advocacy safeguards people who are vulnerable and discriminated against. It enables people who need a stronger voice by helping them to express their own needs
and make their own decisions. The independent advocate is there to help individuals get
the information they need so they can make real choices about their circumstances. The
key aspect of Advocacy is a process of supporting and enabling people to:
● Express their views, wishes and concerns ● Access information and services
● Defend and promote their rights and
responsibilities
● Explore choices and options
● Speak on behalf of people who are unable to do so for themselves
● Express their own needs and make their own decisions
● Empower those in need of advocacy concerning present issues to develop the
skills and confidence to advocate for themselves when addressing future issues
Fairway Advocacy is a registered charity and was established in May 2013 to deliver Independent advocacy for those with neurological conditions, including acute brain
injury, thus filling a gap highlighted in several Health Board Advocacy Plans. Fairway has
canvassed widely amongst organisations and their service users and has demonstrated
a clear compelling need for this service. On this evidence funding was granted by the
Robertson Trust to provide such services to those in West Central Scotland. Fairway
Advocacy uniquely, has both personal and professional knowledge of neurological
conditions and is the only advocacy organisation nationally to have this specific remit.
For further information and for service users referral we can be contacted by telephone, email or through our website: Tel 01413576911 Mobile: 07415652525
Policy
Member Consultations We regularly consult with our members on Scottish Government consultations. As a membership organisation it is important to us that we know what you think about policy
issues which matter to you. We have a number of consultations live at the moment,
please see details below. You can also download our consultation briefings from our
website at http://tinyurl.com/ozrxcej
The Scottish Independence Bill Closing date: 28 September 2014 We would appreciate your comments on this Scottish
Government consultation on an interim constitution for
Scotland. The purpose of the Bill and consultation
paper is to facilitate as wide and open a debate on the
constitution of an independent Scotland as possible.
Our briefing paper can be downloaded from our website
- http://tinyurl.com/o5jjwu9
The Welfare Funds (Scotland) Bill Closing date: 17 August 2014 The Scottish Welfare Fund, which has been delivered by local authorities on a voluntary
basis since April 2013, provides day-to-day living expenses to
those on low incomes who are in crisis as well as providing
essential household items to those in need. The Bill will place
a duty on local authorities to maintain a welfare fund, which will
allow this local safety net to continue.
Our briefing paper can be downloaded from our website http://tinyurl.com/pgz3q2g
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Policy
Mental Health (Scotland) Bill Closing date: 17 August 2014 SDEF recognises the technical nature of
some of the changes proposed in this
consultation.
We believe, however, that the overall number of responses will be limited by the consultation document's complicated drafting, the lack of
an easy-read version and the failure to explain, or provide a glossary.
As a result, only the very determined or professionally trained are likely to understand and respond to this consultation. This is a shame as many of the proposals are important
and will have relevance to a range of people with mental ill-health, their carers and family
members.
As a member of SDEF, we would welcome your comments on our response below. We would also welcome any comments you have on the consultation. We will then
collate your responses and add to our final response paper.
Our briefing paper can be downloaded from our website - http://tinyurl.com/mxdcdnn
Become a member today!Join our many members whoinfluence policy in Scotland
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Policy Community Empowerment (Scotland) Bill
If the Community Empowerment Bill is to benefit communities, it must be provided in a language which is
accessible to all. Currently, the information within the Bill
is high level, containing jargon and concepts which
would not be understood by the general public. This
must be changed if communities are to gain benefit from
the Bill.
The way in which a request is assessed must also be reviewed. In the draft Bill, it is proposed that the public
service authority will decide whether a request will
provide significant benefit to the community. Whilst the community applicants can show
how a request might improve outcomes in health, regeneration, social or environmental
wellbeing, the impact of request can only truly be felt by the community. It is therefore
vital that the decision-making process involved disabled people from the outset.
What happens if a request is rejected? There is currently no right to appeal, and this must be reviewed if there is to be a fair process from beginning to end.
The bill is a start to ensuring that communities can participate more readily in decisions which affect them, but must be fully transparent and allow for those affected to make
informed contributions in a meaningful way. This is why the process of engagement
itself should be part of the plan. True co-production requires a willingness on all sides to
take into account the needs of others to contribute fully.
Our consultation briefing paper can be downloaded from our website - http://tinyurl.com/p5ns7xz
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Policy SDEF welcomes increase in Hate Crime Reporting Equalities Secretary Shona Robison and Community Safety
Minister Roseanna Cunningham, met with LGBT and
disability organisations in Glasgow on Friday 13 June to
hear what members reactions were to the release of this
year's hate crime figures. These figures showed a 12%
increase in the reporting of disabled hate crime.
Robert Ferguson, Disability Access Officer for Scottish Disability Equality Forum, said:
"We have long felt that disability hate crime has been hugely under reported, which is why our program of working with Police Scotland is so important. Using this program,
local Access Panels get free training from Police Scotland allowing them to be
recognised as 3rd party hate crime reporting centres.
SDEF welcome any rise in reporting figures, albeit we recognise that there is still a long way to go and a lot of work to do to make those figures truly reflective of the problems
suffered by disabled people.
Disabled people suffer from discrimination every day, and the fact that more hate crimes are being reported mean that the reporting system is finally becoming more user friendly
and more disabled people feel able to report incidents. This means that disabled people
can report incidents in an environment they are comfortable in, and feel secure in doing
so.
The rise in reporting figures shows why it is so important to have these centres, to increase the number of ways hate crime can be reported. We look forward to working
with Ministers and Police Scotland to promote this."
If you would like further information about Disability Hate Crime Reporting, please contact SDEF Tel: 01259 272063.
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Access Panel Network
Access Panels are groups of volunteers who work together to improve physical access and wider social inclusion in
their local communities. SDEF offers support and training
opportunities to help them operate efficiently, link together
as a network and learn from each other.
The following pages give an update on the great work the Access Panels are achieving throughout Scotland.
Renfrewshire Access Panel Tel: 07747036028 Email: [email protected] Renfrewshire Access Panel has been very busy and has now moved into new offices.
We are also working on a new logo for the Panel. As well as having the Third Party Reporting centre here we are also busy with lots of new projects for the panel.
We are working with Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park on access statements for all their venues as well as working with
Renrewshire Council and St Mirren Football Club.
We are also starting a large training programme with the Panel in the near future.
If you would like to contact Renfrewshire Access Panel to become a member or find out more about the work we are doing, please contact us at:
10 Falcon Crescent Paisley PA3 1NS Tel: 07747036028 Email: [email protected]
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Access Panel Network
Falkirk Area Disability Access Panel - FADAP Tel: 07730447212 Email: [email protected] Denis Shovlin (FADAP member and SDEF
Director) looked delighted as he proudly carried
the baton on his mobility scooter. The
Commonwealth mascot, Clyde, even joined him for
the journey through the streets of Larbert on 24 June
2014. Denis was nominated by a friend
through his local Community Council. Denis
says "this opportunity was truly a wonderful
experience for me and I will remember this for a long
time to come".
West Dunbartonshire Access Panel Tel: 01389 382 067 Email: [email protected]
West Dunbartonshire Access Panel has recently agreed with their
local council to train their new Asset Management Officer and also
update the grading for all the audits of all the council buildings in
West Dunbartonshire.
They are meeting over the coming weeks with the project staff and planners from NHS to start on the new care home in Dumbarton. This is a long term project that
includes a further two care homes, one in Clydebank and one in Alexandria followed by a
brand new Health Centre in Clydebank.
They will also be announcing a new coalition in West Dunbartonshire in the next couple of months. This coalition will be made up from a lot of disability organisations and
Carers Groups as well as older people. They have already held an initial meeting and it
went really well, so watch this space for real exciting news.
22
Access Panel Network
Angus Access Panel Tel: 01307 465161 Email: [email protected]
The Angus Access Panel is delighted to announce this
year's winners of the Young People's Competition 2014 is
Maddie Farquhar.
This year's theme was Disabled People and Shopping and Maddie's entry was chosen from over 60 entries from
Angus schools and youth groups.
Winner of the 5-7 year old age group - Daniel Booth Woodlands Primary School Winner of the 8-10 year old age group - Darcie Bartle .Carlogie Primary School
Winner of the 11-13 year old age group - Maddie Farquhar, Kirriemuir
East Renfrewshire Access Panel Tel: 0141 638 3025 Email: [email protected] East Renfrewshire Access Panel has recently been working on the
following:
● Inputting into plans for a new medical centre which will open
n e x t y e a r.
● Helping the local council with plans for a new, inclusive, £270,000 children's playground which has just opened in our flagship public park.
● Assisting a councillor with a disabled access issue in a local restaurant. We inspected the premises and prepared a report with our recommendations. We
sent this to the proprietor and the councillor, who commented "That's excellent.
Thank you so much."
We're also pleased to report that we now have two enthusiastic new members who are currently getting up to speed with what we're about.
23
Access Panel Network
Lochaber Disability Access Panel Tel:01397 706044 Email: [email protected] Improving 'Groundbreaking' Protocol
The eight area Access Panels that make up the Highland Council have been working to expand their involvement and promoting good practice in improving their protocol. They
have reached an agreement to input their advice and comments on planning applications
before decisions are made.
This agreement is known as the "Planning Protocol". The essence of the Protocol is a commitment by the planners to work closely with the Access Panels, on a case by case
basis. All planning applications for new developments that involve access by the
general public, changes of use of buildings, and new outdoor environments, to make
these developments disabled friendly and accessible to all.
The Highland Panels now have a real say in the decision-making process and Maurin MacDonald, a member of the Lochaber Panel and Vice-Convenor of SDEF, said "we are
indebted to the Council planners for their ready willingness to involve disabled people in
the process of decision-making. No one is in a better position to give advice on disabled
access requirements than disabled people themselves. Decisions that are based on
sound inclusive design principles will also benefit the population as a whole and in
particular the elderly, infirm, parents with prams, and others suffering temporary injuries
or disabilities".
Copies of the Planning Protocol can be obtained from Claire at
[email protected] or from
Malcolm MacLeod, Head of Development
Management at Highland Council at
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Access Panel Network
Caithness Disabled Access Panel Tel: 01593 721467 Email: [email protected] At a meeting of the Caithness Disabled Access Panel it was brought
to our attention about a Chemist in Wick that disabled people were
having problems getting access to.
The staff were being uncooperative about answering the door, being rude about disabled people within their hearing and notices were
obstructing the door view.
Our chairperson went and discussed all the problems with the owner, pointing out what was happening. The owner listened to the advice and promised to make changes.
The owner of the chemist immediately bought and installed a bell, removed the notices from the door, used the private room more for consultations and added a notice advising
a ramp was available. He did everything he could do, which was a fantastic
improvement.
At the next meeting we heard from the same lady. She had rung the bell, and had waited 5 minutes for someone to come and open the door, she said she had been
waiting, and the comment was I can't just drop everything and come and open the door
for you!
We have a reporter from the local newspaper who attends our meetings and wanted to look into this. The result was the chemist phoned and asked to come along to the next
meeting apologised to everyone involved, promised he would now speak and educate
the staff.
To end this story, staff training on disability awareness had taken place and the chemist is now a happier place for the public and staff! And there is now a delivery service! We
believe here in Caithness that you should be polite to people when you ask them to
change their long held practice, explain what it is like to be disabled, and educate them
rather that agitate them, and it always helps to have a local reporter at your meetings!
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Access Panel Network
North Ayrshire Access Panel Tel: 01505 503300 Email: [email protected] The North Ayrshire Access Panel
(naap) has continued to do routine
inspections of planning & building
warrant applications. Keeping
owners, architects and others
aware of the need to provide good
accessibility in their premises. We
have representation from the
Councils Building Standards and
Roads department present at our meetings dealing with the regular issues that come up.
We are now looking at the possibility of holding our monthly meetings at one of the many secondary schools within our area. This move could be useful in developing a
relationship with younger people, probably 5th & 6th year pupils.
Two members of the panel are taking up the opportunity for Access Panel training programme run by SDEF.
We are always keen to attract new members to the panel, if you are interested then please contact us for further information. [email protected]
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Access Panel Network
Inverness Access Panel Tel: 01463 717624 Email: [email protected]
The panel is very busy at present, with various projects occupying our time. At present we have a membership of approximately ten members (All volunteers), of
whom five take an active part in the work of the panel.
We continue to provide a consulting service to the Inverness Building Control Department, dealing with specific access issues on many projects. In total these will
amount approximately thirty to forty projects per year, and we believe that Building
Control appreciate our involvement. One issue which affects users well beyond our
area is the provision of accessible toilets within Raigmore Hospital. The estates
department of NHS Highland are arranging a meeting with Building Control and
ourselves, and we hope to have positive action in the very near future.
The Inverness Access Panel has existed since early in 1982; thirty two years of effort. It has taken a long time to carve a place for ourselves in the city, but we continue to try.
We are looking for volunteers to join our panel. If you are interested in promoting full social inclusion in Inverness, then please contact us
Tel: 01463 717624 or email: [email protected]
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Access Panel Network
Berwickshire Access Panel Tel: 07413 007 576 Email: [email protected] The Berwickshire Access Panel was formed at a
meeting on 30 April 2014, attended by over 20
people. Panel members bring a wide range of
experience and skills to the establishment of the
Panel, as well as links to other organisations, such as the Scottish Borders Council, local
community councils and various voluntary organisations. The Panel is keen to build on
previous work to improve access in the Berwickshire area, such as the successful
campaign to have a ramp at the Royal Bank of Scotland in Duns.
The Chairperson of the panel is Kym Bannerman and the Secretary is Lisa McGrath. The Panel is currently meeting every 6 - 8 weeks, at times and in venues convenient to the
members.
The panel has a membership of 18 at present but is keen to attract new members. The email address for anyone interested in joining the Panel is [email protected].
Calling All Access Panels Share the achievements of your Access
Panel, let everyone know the fantastic work
you are doing and encourage new
members to join your panel.
Submit your stories to: Morven Brooks T: 01259 272063 E: [email protected]
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Access Panel Network
Access Panel Training latest update The first phase of the training programme is now complete and was a huge
success. A total of 30 Panels and 60
members attended the training and
have told us it was extremely helpful and
informative. Feedback also tells us the members found the training relaxed and friendly,
which is great to hear!
Members said they valued the training, they learned a lot and appreciated the opportunity to network. They really enjoyed the opportunity to build relationships, share
ideas and seek support on finding solutions for some of their local issues.
SDEF would like to thank those who participated - you were fabulous trainees!
So what next? Phase 2 (Intermediate) started in July. We are really excited about Phase 2 and looking
forward to meeting the delegates again. In Phase 2 we will concentrate on the areas
where members have told us they need more support and expand on the subjects talked
about in the Introductory Phase 1.
Dates for the Intermediate Events have been posted to our new Access Panel Network Facebook Events Page. If you're a Facebook member why not pop in on our new
Access Panel Network Page and Like us to keep up to date with what's happening.
www.facebook.com/AccessPanelNetwork
Contact: Katrina Watson Tel: 01259 272062
Email: [email protected]
Programme information: http://tinyurl.com/kdkzdca 29
Engage The British Polio Fellowship - Scotland New Development Officer for The British Polio Fellowship in
Scotland, Tara Anderson, speaks openly about the
organisation and the inaccurate perceptions surrounding
Polio and Post Polio Syndrome.
The British Polio Fellowship is the largest UK charity dedicated to supporting and empowering thousands of people in the UK
living with the late effects of Polio and Post Polio Syndrome
(PPS). In Scotland the estimated number of Polio survivors is
between 6,000 and 10,200. We provide information, welfare and
support to those living with the late effects of Polio, to enable
them to live full, independent and integrated lives.
Pat Leyden Secretary, Scottish
Regional Council BPF
We need to raise awareness across the board about those living with the late effects of Polio and PPS. Why? Because in general people think Polio is a disease of the past!
Whilst certainly no new cases have been recorded in the UK since 1984, by assuming
Polio is yesterday's problem; those people who acquired the disease prior to that date
are immediately consigned to the history books too, even though they will be living with
the late effects of Polio and possibly PPS.
I'm frequently told by members, that a myriad of people including younger healthcare professionals have limited or no understanding of the late effects of Polio and PPS. This
anecdotal feedback was backed by the findings of a governmental, Scottish Medicines
and Scientific Advisory Committee Working Group (SMASAC) on Post Polio Syndrome
and late effects of Polio in 2011, with one of their recommendations being to 'raise
awareness of PPS amongst health professionals and Polio survivors.' because 'Patients
may continue to experience varying levels of knowledge of PPS and the late effects of
Polio amongst healthcare professionals they deal with'.
For more information visit www.britishpolio.org.uk or get in touch with Tara at
Support
Equality Advisory and Support Services The Equality Advisory Support Service (EASS) is a FREE national helpline which provides advice and
support to individuals who believe that they have been
discriminated against or that their human rights have b e e
n b re a c h e d .
The helpline can support you in resolving an issue of discrimination in one of two ways: ● By giving you an action plan to follow or
● Writing to an organisation on your behalf in order to resolve the matter.
The helpline's primary aim is to resolve an issue informally without going to a court or tribunal. We understand that there are circumstances where this may be unavoidable.
We also work with a number of local and national partner organisations and we will work with them in order to get the best possible resolution to your issue.
There are a number of ways in which you can get in touch: Call us it's FREE,(even from a mobile): 0808 800 0082
By email and live web chat through our website: www.equalityadvisortservice.com
If you prefer to write to us then you can do so via our freepost address: FREEPOST EQUALITY ADVISORY SUPPORT SERVICE FPN4431
There are also a number of success stories available on our website if you would like more information on how we have assisted individuals in resolving their issue.
Discrimination can and does impact a person's ability to be an active member of society, and therefore fulfil their true potential. Don't suffer in silence - give the EASS a call.
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Joint Work Disabled Access Day Campaign Announces 2015 Launch Date The organiser of Disabled Access Day, an initiative that aims to
get disabled people and their friends and families to explore
somewhere new together, has announced today that it will
launch on Saturday 17 January 2015.
Disabled Access Day, sponsored by lead partner EuansGuide.com, is about getting out and discovering new places,
people and activities.
The campaign is asking the 11.6 million disabled people in the UK and their friends, families and carers to visit somewhere that they have never been before. This can range
from local places such as coffee shops and cinemas, to somewhere further afield for
example famous British tourist attractions.
The campaign will be looking to partner with well-known venues, retailers, third sector organisations, and corporate businesses, in order to motivate as many people as
possible to get involved.
Through partnering with organisations, Disabled Access Day aims to highlight the best accessible businesses in Britain for disabled people, and showcase the commercial
value that can be yielded from the custom of millions of disabled people in this country.
Kiki MacDonald, Co-Founder at EuansGuide.com, commented: "We're very proud to be the lead sponsors for Disabled Access Day. Promoting good disabled access is at the
core of what we do, so this campaign is close to our hearts. We hope many people get
involved with the initiative, and feel inspired to see a part of the country they've never
seen, or engage in activities that they don't typically do."
Interested parties should email [email protected] to find out about getting involved.
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Joint Work Active4All We are delighted to welcome on board our new sponsor for 'Open Door' - Active4All.
Active4All, set up in 2005, aims to develop facilities and activities for people with disabilities and also those from deprived
communities.
Since its conception, nine years ago, Active4All has evolved and expanded to comprise a much broader set of aims and objectives, which are realised mostly under the trading
name Yooz. Yooz was set up as a project in 2009 to raise funds for the charity. Yooz has
grown into an exciting social enterprise that focuses on the environment, education and
increasing peoples' employability.
The project is based in Bellshill, which is one of Scotland's most deprived areas; diverting waste from landfill by providing a collection service for Construction
Companies, charities, councils etc. Yooz is the largest Re-Use Centre in the UK
specializing in construction material re-use, manufacturing goods and products which are
both innovative and unique to Scotland.
They are committed to providing workplace opportunities for individuals who are disengaged, disadvantaged and / or marginalised within their communities; with a
particular focus on young and long-term
unemployed and those suffering from physical or
mental ill-health.
If you would like to find out more about Active4All, please contact them athttp://www.active4all.info
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Joint Work SDEF urge all Local Authorities to make streets accessible and inclusive for disabled people A recent report published by Living Streets states that most Local
Authorities in Scotland have not made any apparent link between
their equality duties and their policies with respect to public
spaces.
The report called 'Accessible Streets for All?' highlights which Local Authorities include statements in their equality outcomes about making their streets and public spaces more accessible to disabled
people and others with mobility difficulties.
SDEF welcomes the report as a positive step in promoting good practice across Scotland's 32 Local Authorities. Susan Grasekamp, Chief Executive Officer, said: "We urge Local Authorities to
make that commitment towards adopting a more inclusive approach to public spaces. Scotland is
rightly proud of its innovative architecture, commerce and green spaces but consistently fails to
make the connections with adequate accessible streets and walk-ways for all to enjoy. Help is at
hand: Local Authorities can link with their local Access Panel for guidance and support in promoting
better access in their areas"
Robert Ferguson, SDEF's Disability Access Officer added: "This is a great opportunity for local Access Panels and Living Streets to work together. We are looking to set up a pilot scheme with a
couple of Access Panels and Living Streets to carry out Community Street Access Audits in their
local area, to highlight the economic as well as social advantages of truly accessible town centre."
Penny at Living Streets added: 'Living Streets wants to ensure that pedestrians of all ages and abilities are able to make the most of their streets and public spaces. Accessible and inclusive
streets are important for us all, delivering wider economic, social and health benefits for our
communities, and we are encouraged that a minority of local authorities in Scotland have included
accessible streets within their equality outcome statements. We look forward to working closely with
SDEF and local access panels to support local authorities to take necessary action to deliver
accessible street for everyone.'
There are local authorities leading the way with their equality duty, however, many more need to follow.
The report is available from Living Streets Tel: 0131 243 2646 http://tinyurl.com/qyc32eg
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Our Sponsors Scottish Disability Equality Forum is grateful for the generosity of its sponsors and their ongoing support as we work together toward achieving the goals of the organisation.
If you are interested in sponsoring our magazine 'Open Door', please complete our online registration form - www.sdef.org.uk/index.php/our-sponsors Alternatively, please
contact Susan Grasekamp, Chief Executive for further information on
Open Door is published by
Scottish Disability Equality Forum Office 1/7, The e-Centre Cooperage Way Alloa FK10 3LP Tel: 01259 272064 Fax: 01259 272065
SDEF is Registered in Scotland as a Company Limited by Guarantee with Charitable Status Charity Number SC031893, Company Number SC243392
Open Door is available in alternative formats on request
Any comments made in any contributed articles do not necessarily reflect the policy or the views of SDEF.
Scottish Disability Equality Forum is funded by the Scottish Government
Connect with us
www.sdef.org.uk Scottish Disability Equality Forum @SDEForum
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Have Your Say on Disability
Make Your Voice Heard!
We would like to know what you think about what has changed for you as a disabled person and what needs to change to make life better.
By completing a short national survey, you can add your voice to help shape the future of a fairer and more inclusive Scotland.
Visit the website below to make your voice heard! www.your-say-on-disability.org.uk
www.your-say-on-disability.org.uk Other formats are available from the website or by emailing [email protected]
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