Darlington

Health & Social CareSignposting Directory

Issue 2

Your local spotlight on Health & Social Carecovers services inDarlington

ContentsContentS

DisclaimerThis Directory has been compiled to signpost primary health and social care providers throughout the DarlingtonBorough.Whilst we have taken every care in compiling this publication, the publishers and promoters cannot accept responsibilityfor any inaccuracies.All listings are supplied via the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and NHS Choices. Neither Healthwatch Darlington norHealthCare Publications can be held responsible for any errors or omissions.All signposting services are up to date as of December 2014.A note on advertising: We offer businesses the chance to reach potential customers via this publication. It is our intention to clearly indicate that anadvertisement is being displayed and no endorsement or approval by the promoters of any product, service or supplier should be implied.

Healthwatch Darlington 1 – 2

Volunteer for Healthwatch 3

Your Voice Counts 4

Healthwatch in the Community 5

Looking Ahead 6

NHS - Know Your Rights! 7 – 8

Free NHS Health Check 9 – 10

Choose Well 11 -12

Personal Health Budgets 13 – 14

Advice on Funding for Social Care 15 – 16

Darlington Lifeline & Telecare Services 17 – 18

GP Surgeries & Hospitals 19

Pharmacies 20

Dentists, Opticians & Hearing 21 -22

Complementary & Alternative Medicine 23 – 24

Recognising Mental Health & Support 25

Are you a Carer? 26

Independent Living at Home 27 – 28

Care in your Own Home 29 - 30

Choosing between Residential, Nursing & Independent Living 31 - 32

Comfortable Living to Rent at Affordable Prices for the Over 50’s in Darlington 33 – 34

Residential Care Costs 35

Residential & Nursing Care 36

Help & Advice 37 - 40

Another quality publication by Healthcare PublicationsIf you require extra copies of this directory or are interested in advertising in future editions

please email Healthcare Publications on admin@healthcarepublications.org or visit: www.hcpublications.org

1

HeALtHWAtCH DARLInGton

Darlington

Who are we?Healthwatch Darlington is a charitable companylimited by guarantee which makes us a totallyindependent organisation. We raise your viewsand opinions on Health and Social Care inDarlington and help make your voices heard. We have a seat on the Health and WellbeingBoard and on the Clinical CommissioningGroup’s (CCG's) Community Council, ensuringthat the views and experiences of patients,carers and other service users are taken intoaccount when making and designing services.

Healthwatch Darlington is representative of ourdiverse communities. Healthwatch Darlingtonhas it’s own Board of Directors which direct itswork and a committee to help steer the activity.

Healthwatch Darlington’s Board and Committee aremade up of volunteers from across the borough.The Board members represent local people’s viewsand experiences at important meetings with healthand social care leaders.

Healthwatch Darlington’s vision and missionfocuses our work on what needs to be achieved toimprove health and social care services for localpeople.

What we do:• Enable local voices to influence the delivery

and design of local health and social care services

• Use local volunteers to gather views and experiences from local people

• Involve and engage local people, putting YOUat the heart of Health and Social Care service decision making

• Enable local people to make informed choices about their own, their families and friends’ health and social care

• Influence the way services are planned, designed, commissioned and delivered

• Have strong relationships with Health and Social Care providers as a critical friend using community views to influence and improve planning and delivery of services

• Provide information, advice and support about local services and signpost to them

Contact Telephone: 01325 380 145

Text: 07525 237723Information and Signposting Freephone: 0808 801 0383

Address: Freepost RTEH-TUCJ-TGCU,Healthwatch Darlington, eVOLution Building,

Church Row, Darlington, DL1 5QD

Email: info@healthwatchdarlington.co.ukLocal Healthwatch

Development Manager: Diane LaxCommunity Participation and

Engagement Officer: Andrea GoldieInformation and Signposting Officer:

Jodie Craggs

Administration Assistant:Jemma Holt

What powers does Healthwatch Darlington have?Healthwatch Darlington can request informationfrom local organisations, commissioners andproviders. They then have 20 working days toreturn the information requested. The trainedmembers of Healthwatch (staff or volunteers) areauthorised to perform ‘Enter and View’. These arepowers to enter publicly funded health and socialcare premises to see and hear the experiences ofpeople who use the service and observe how theservice is delivered.

Healthwatch Darlington has worked very hard tocreate partnerships and collaborative relationshipswith local services and providers, in order todiscuss issues openly and effectively.

No matter who you are,where you live or how oldyou are. You do have avoice, and you have theright for that voice to beheard.

Michelle Thompson BEMChair of HealthwatchDarlington

2

HeALtHWAtCH DARLInGton

Helping you get the best out of your localhealth and social care servicesHealthwatch Darlington is the patient and publicchampion for health and social care services withinthe borough.

Our purpose is to give the people of Darlington astronger voice to influence and challenge howhealth and social care services are providedlocally.

Tell us your views and experiences ofhealth and social care services youreceive such as:• GPs and practices• Dentists• Mental health services• Hospitals• Social care • Community health services• Carers services• Children and young people services

We want to know what you like anddislike, what is good and badWe work on your behalf to ensure your views andexperiences are heard by those who run, plan andregulate local health and social care services. Wesupport various health and social care networks inDarlington and it is here that we voice theconcerns of local people with an aim to influenceand improve services locally.

To find out more visit:www.healthwatchdarlington.co.uk

Get in touch: Tel: 01325 380145Email: info@healthwatchdarlington.co.ukTwitter: @HealthwatchdtonFacebook: Healthwatch Darlington

We want to hear about the treatment and care you have received.

Whether you’ve had a positive experience orthere is room for improvement, have your say on the Healthwatch Darlington website today.You can even leave feedback anonymously.www.healthwatchdarlington.co.uk

1) Have you had a good experience with the health and social care service that you would like to share with us?

2) Do you have a relative or friend living in a Care Home? Are you/they happy with the care they receive?

3) Can you get an appointment with your GP (Doctor) when you need one?

4) Have you had to stay in hospital recently? If so, what was it like?

5) Do you or a relative suffer from a long term illness; are you/they happy with the help and support you/they receive? Positive and negative experiences are all relevant

6) Do you know what services are available andhow to choose the right one when you need urgent care?

Are you a local Darlington resident?Have you used Health or social careservices in the last 12 months?

We can make a difference, but wecan’t do it without your feedback

Your feedback can make a differenceEveryone who uses health and social care serviceshas the right to expect a high standard of care andprovision. In order to help those organisationsachieve these standards, we need your help. That’swhy we actively encourage and welcome yourfeedback.

We will summarise and anonymise your feedbackthen provide it to the organisations that deliverour health and social care services in Darlington,so they can get a clear picture of your experienceswhen using the services they provide. This willhelp them encourage and reward good practice, aswell as identify and rectify any problems you mayencounter. Your voice really could make adifference.

We would like to know about:

You can do this by logging onto our website:www.healthwatchdarlington.co.ukto complete our online surveys or contact theoffice for a paper copy on 01325 380145

3

VoLUnteeR FoR HeALtHWAtCH

Become InvolvedAnyone can become involved with Healthwatch andcontribute to its activities because everyone’sviews matter. You can do as much or as little asyou like – from filling in a survey, attending theoccasional meeting about an issue of personalinterest, signing up as a Healthwatch participant or becoming a Healthwatch Volunteer.

What are Healthwatch Volunteers?Healthwatch Volunteers are participants who actas the voice of the local community. They talk tolocal people about the quality of health and socialcare in their area and are committed to supportingHealthwatch Darlington to improve services. Thisrole is vital for the improvement of local servicesby prioritising the issues that really matter to youin your own area.

Healthwatch Volunteers can undertake as much oras little as they like from a range of specific roles.

Roles of a Volunteer include:• Be the eyes and ears of local people and raise issues of concern

• Make recommendations on how to improve local services

• Tell people about Healthwatch and encourage them to become involved

• Promote Healthwatch events and projects to local people

• Liaise with other people/groups involved with engagement work

• Attend meetings, groups and events as a Healthwatch participant, representing your own views based on personal experience

• Talk to patients about their experiences of using health and social care services

• Visit health and social care providers, as part of our Enter and View portfolio and activity

How to become a Healthwatch VolunteerNo qualifications are needed to become aHealthwatch Volunteer; just a willingness to listenand talk to a range of individuals, having an openmind and a desire to raise the voice of localpeople.

Volunteers who are authorised by HealthwatchDarlington to undertake observations of services(Enter and View) will receive relevant training.Some roles will require a Disclosure and BarringService check (previously CRB check).

You can become a Volunteer by:Contacting Healthwatch Darlington on 01325 380145 or emailing info@healthwatchdarlington.co.uk

We will send you an information pack withadditional information about HealthwatchDarlington. This will include a role description forvolunteers and an application form for you tocomplete and return to us.

It is only with your support that HealthwatchDarlington can make a difference to the quality oflocal services.

Anyone can apply to become a HealthwatchVolunteer, however if you wish to take a less activerole you can sign up to receive regular updates andnewsletters.

Darlington

Everyone in Darlington isaffected by Health andSocial Care services;Healthwatch Darlingtonensures that people are atthe heart of these servicesrather than simply therecipients. It is a privilegeto be a Board member ifthis fantastic initiative.

Bonnie DaviesHealthwatch Darlington

4

YoUR VoICe CoUntS

“No decision aboutme, without me”

Your Voice Counts and HealthwatchDarlington believes that . . . We believe in the power of the collective voiceof patients, carers, families, friends and thepublic to make things better.

Our work is driven by the ambition to develop astrong and thriving organisation for the peopleof Darlington.

We lead by example - we are independent,constructive, transparent and inclusive.

We work collaboratively with those who can addvalue to our role as consumer champion.

To achieve this, we need the support andinvolvement of volunteers to help us to contact,engage with and give support to members of ourcommunity.

This is how you fit in. You know yourneighbourhood. You have relatives, friends,neighbours, colleagues and a whole network ofcontacts whom you could ask for their viewsabout how to influence and improve health andsocial care for everyone.

You will also have knowledge, skills, abilitiesand interests that could help HealthwatchDarlington achieve its aim of improving thehealth and well-being of your community.

What you’re saying quality public

helping A&E ease support doctorsfriendly waiting health long-term

improvements good happy patient

You might:• love meeting and talking to new people• enjoy helping out and organising events and activities

• want the chance to represent the interests of your friends, your family and your community

• know a lot about a particular illness or condition, or of using a particular service

• have good computer skills• have a flair for designing publicity materials• want to learn more and gain new skills

Make that Difference TodayYou can become a participant in HealthwatchDarlington – all you need to do is register yourinterest.

As a participant, we can contact you directlywith news and information on local issues.

You will have the opportunity to take part inprojects and community forums as well as todirectly receive information.

Your knowledge and advice may be sought onparticular issues.

Participants form a vital link between theHealthwatch Darlington Board and the widerpublic.

If you have an interest in and care about yourlocal health and social care services and want tomake sure they are as effective as possiblereflecting the real needs of people who usethem, we need you! We have lots ofopportunities to get involved through ourvolunteering programme.

Being a Board member forHealthwatch is a greatprivilege. It affordsopportunities to learn and togive - to learn moire of theimpacts of legislation andpolicy on the people ofDarlington and to givesupport for Health and Socialcare issues that we learnabout through Healthwatchcontacts with individualsand groups in ourcommunity.

Liz McAllister - Vice ChairHealthwatch Darlington

5

HeALtHWAtCH In tHe CommUnItY

Darlington

Gathering your viewsOver the summer months, Healthwatch Darlingtonin partnership with the Clinical CommissioningGroup (CCG) visited you in your local communities.We held four events over July and August in asupported living setting, and three church halls.During those events, many of you visited us to tellus about your experiences of health and socialcare. You came along to speak to the Chair or ChiefOfficer of the CCG and told us your ideas forimprovements going forward.

We have been to local Colleges to speak toChildren and Young People and informed them ofwhat we are doing and how they can be involved.At a recent market day Healthwatch hosted a stalland included a children’s lucky dip to help usgather the feedback of young children. We foundout what they thought of their appointments withtheir GP, what they liked and what they dislikedand asked them to tell us how things could bebetter.

What have you told usYou have had lots of positive things to say aboutyour local services and have been confident inexplaining to us some areas for improvement.

Consulting with the PublicThrough our membership, our social networking,events, promotion and engagement HealthwatchDarlington have consulted with or giveninformation to approximately 5886 members of thepublic over the last 12 months.

Darlington Organisations TogetherAs well as supporting established networks inDarlington (Darlington Aging Well Network,Darlington Learning Impairment Network, andMental Health Network), Healthwatch Darlingtonhost a collaborative meeting which brings togethermany voluntary and community sectororganisations to gather feedback, discussworkstreams and share good practice.

E-bulletinHealthwatch Darlington now produce an e-bulletinwhich is delivered to many people, organisations,businesses and stakeholders from the public,private and voluntary sector. If you would like tobe added to the mailing list for this bulletin pleasecontact the office and we will make sure youreceive all updates.

6

LookInG AHeAD

Over the coming months HealthwatchDarlington will continue to be out in thecommunities of the borough listening tolocal people’s views and experiences ofhealth and social care services.We are going to be visiting:

• The university/colleges and schools to listen to young people

• Social and community groups to listen to services users

• Local hospitals to talk to patients

• Libraries and community centres to listen to the general public

PostcardsOur postcards will be in local venues to give youthe opportunity to give us the overview of yourrecent experiences of Health and Social care in theborough.

We will be asking you to complete the followingquestions:

• As a young person I want . . . • My ideal healthcare would . . . • My ideal social care would . . . • What worries me is . . . • It would be a good idea if . . . • As a patient, carer, service user or staff member, I want . . . • If I could change anything it would be . . . (OR)• Tell us about the last time you used Health and Social care services in Darlington . . . • What was the name of the service?• Did you think of it?• Would you recommend the service to your friends and family? Why?

You can answer these questions in many localvenues at our access points, local events or on ourwebsite.

All sentences completed will be entered into aprize draw, which will be drawn every twomonths.

Healthwatch Darlingtonis a great organisationwith wonderful staffand volunteers. Wehope to ensure thepopulation of Darlingtonget the health andsocial care which they deserve.

Ian GrovesHealthwatch Darlington

7

nHS - knoW YoUR RIGHtS!

You have the right to expect your NHS to assessthe health requirements of your community and to commission and put in place the services tomeet those needs as considered necessary, and inthe case of public health services commissioned bylocal authorities, to take steps to improve thehealth of the local community.

You have the right, in certain circumstances, to goto other European Economic Area countries orSwitzerland for treatment which would beavailable to you through your NHS commissioner.

You have the right not to be unlawfullydiscriminated against in the provision of NHSservices including on grounds of gender, race,disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, belief,gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity ormarital or civil partnership status.

You have the right to access certain servicescommissioned by NHS bodies within maximumwaiting times, or for the NHS to take allreasonable steps to offer you a range of suitablealternative providers if this is not possible.

You have the right to be treated with aprofessional standard of care, by appropriatelyqualified and experienced staff, in a properlyapproved or registered organisation that meetsrequired levels of safety and quality.

You have the right to expect NHS bodies tomonitor, and make efforts to improve continuously,the quality of healthcare they commission orprovide. This includes improvements to the safety,effectiveness and experience of services.

You have the right to be treated with dignity andrespect, in accordance with your human rights.

You have the right to have any complaint youmake about NHS services acknowledged withinthree working days and to have it properlyinvestigated.

You have the right to discuss the manner in whichthe complaint is to be handled, and to know theperiod within which the investigation is likely to becompleted and the response sent.

You have the right to accept or refuse treatmentthat is offered to you, and not to be given anyphysical examination or treatment unless you havegiven valid consent. If you do not have thecapacity to do so, consent must be obtained from aperson legally able to act on your behalf, or thetreatment must be in your best interests.

Everyone has the right to information andeducation about how to take care of themselvesand what they are entitled to within the healthand social care system.

Healthwatch Darlington helps individuals to gainaccess to, understand, and use information topromote and maintain good health and make thebest use of local services and care support.

We can:• Explain your rights and what standards to expectfrom services

• Help you find out about funding for health & social care

• Help you to access services and find your way through care ‘pathways’ – find the right service for you

• Put you in touch with Support Groups, Voluntary and Community Organisations

• We can register your concerns and provide information on making complaints

• Pass on your reports of excellent services and care

• If you need advocacy we can refer you to the Independent Complaints Advocacy (ICA)

You have the right to receive NHS services free ofcharge, apart from certain limited exceptionssanctioned by Parliament.

You have the right to access NHS services. You willnot be refused access on unreasonable grounds.

8

You have the right to be given information aboutthe test and treatment options available to you,what they involve and their risks and benefits. You have the right of access to your own healthrecords and to have any factual inaccuraciescorrected.

You have the right to privacy and confidentialityand to expect the NHS to keep your confidentialinformation safe and secure.

You have the right to be informed about how yourinformation is used.

You have the right to request that yourconfidential information is not used beyond yourown care and treatment and to have yourobjections considered, and where your wishescannot be followed, to be told the reasonsincluding the legal basis.

You have the right to choose your GP practice,and to be accepted by that practice unless thereare reasonable grounds to refuse, in which caseyou will be informed of those reasons.

You have the right to express a preference forusing a particular doctor within your GP practice,and for the practice to try to comply.

You have the right to make choices about theservices commissioned by NHS bodies and toinformation to support these choices.

You have the right to be involved in discussionsand decisions about your health and care, includingyour end of life care, and to be given informationto enable you to do this. Where appropriate thisright includes your family and carers.

You have the right to be kept informed of progressand to know the outcome of any investigation into your complaint, including an explanation of theconclusions and confirmation that any actionneeded in consequence of the complaint has beentaken or is proposed to be taken.

You have the right to take your complaint to theindependent Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman or Local Government Ombudsman, ifyou are not satisfied with the way your complainthas been dealt with by the NHS.

You have the right to make a claim for judicialreview if you think you have been directly affectedby an unlawful act or decision of an NHS body orlocal authority.

You have the right to compensation where youhave been harmed by negligent treatment.

You have the right to choose the organisation thatprovides your NHS care.

With all the changes to health and care servicesit’s not always clear where you should go to reportan urgent issue, to make a complaint, or forfurther information.

Healthwatch Darlington can help you find the rightservices to suit your needs through our Information& Signposting Service.

We cannot give you advice or make specificrecommendations but we can help you make aninformed decision in finding the right health andsocial care service whether it is provided by theNHS, the Council, a voluntary or communityorganisation.

Contact Us:Office telephone:01325 380 145

Information and signposting:0808 801 0383

Write to us at: Freepost RTEH-TUCJ-TGCU, HealthwatchDarlington, eVOLution Building, Church Row,Darlington, DL1 5QD

Email us at: info@healthwatchdarlington.co.uk

Visit our website: www.healthwatchdarlington.co.uk

nHS - knoW YoUR RIGHtS!

9

FRee nHS HeALtH CHeCk

Everyone is at risk of developing heartdisease, stroke, diabetes, kidney disease,and some forms of dementia. The goodnews is that these conditions can oftenbe prevented – even if you have a historyof them in your family. Have your freeNHS Health Check and you will be betterprepared for the future and be able totake steps to maintain or improveyour health.Why do I need an NHS Health Check?We know that your risk of developing heartdisease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease,and dementia increases with age. There are alsocertain things that will put you at even greaterrisk.

These are:

• Being overweight

• Being physically inactive

• Not eating healthily

• Smoking

• Drinking too much alcohol

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

Both men and women can develop theseconditions, and having one could increase your risk of developing another in the future.

• In the brain a blocked artery or a bleed can cause a stroke

• In the heart a blocked artery can cause a heart attack or angina

• The kidneys can be damaged by high blood pressure or diabetes, causing chronic kidney disease and increasing your risk of having a heartattack

• Being overweight and physically inactive can lead to type 2 diabetes

• If unrecognised or unmanaged, type 2 diabetes could increase your risk of further healthproblems, including heart disease, kidney disease and stroke

Who is it for?

The NHS Health Check scheme isavailable across Darlington.If a person is aged between 40 and 74 and hasn’talready been diagnosed with heart disease,diabetes, kidney disease, or had a stroke, theymay be invited by their GP for the NHS HealthCheck by letter, text or they may be offered theNHS Health Check when they are at their GP foranother reason.

Helping you prevent heart disease, stroke,diabetes, kidney disease and dementia

10

FRee nHS HeALtH CHeCk

Even if you’re feeling well, it’s worthhaving your NHS Health Check now.We can then work with you to lower yourchances of developing these healthproblems in the future.

What happens at the check?This check is to assess your risk of developing heartdisease, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease,and stroke.

• The check will take about 20-30 minutes

• You’ll be asked some simple questions. For example, about your family history and choices which may put your health at risk

• We’ll record your height, weight, age, sex and ethnicity

• We’ll take your blood pressure

• We’ll do a simple blood test to check your cholesterol level

What happens after the check?We will discuss how you can reduce your risk andstay healthy.

• You’ll be taken through your results and told what they mean. Some people may be asked to return at a later date for their results

• You’ll be given personalised advice on how to lower your risk and maintain a healthy lifestyle

• Some people with raised blood pressure will have their kidneys checked through a blood test

• Some people may need to have another blood test to check for type 2 diabetes. Your healthprofessional will be able to tell you more

• Treatment or medication may be prescribed to help you maintain your health

Questions you may have

Why do I need this check? I feel fine!The NHS Health Check helps to identify potentialrisks early. By having this check and followingthe advice of your health professional, youimprove your chances of living a healthier life.

But don’t these conditions run in the family?If you have a history of heart disease, stroke, type2 diabetes, or kidney disease in your familythen you may be more at risk. Taking action nowcan help you to prevent the onset of theseconditions.

I know what I’m doing wrong. How can the doctor help me?If you would like help, we will work with you tofind ways to eat healthily, reach your healthyweight, be more active, cut down your drinking, orstop smoking.

If I am assessed as being at ‘low risk’,does this mean I won’t develop theseconditions?It is impossible to say that someone will or won’tgo on to develop one of these conditions.But takingaction now can help you lower your potential risk.

Will everyone have this check?This check is part of a national scheme to helpprevent the onset of these health problems.Everyone between the ages of 40 and 74 who hasnot been diagnosed with the conditions mentionedwill be invited for a check once every fiveyears. If you are outside the age range andconcerned about your health, you should contactyour GP.

Helping you prevent heart disease, stroke,diabetes, kidney disease and dementia

11

CHooSe WeLL

Feeling poorly?For many people, the hospital’s accident andemergency department can seem like the bestplace to go for any illness or injury, but often youcan get more appropriate care from other services.How much do you know about the other options? Will you make the right choice if you, or a memberof your family, need urgent health care,treatment, or advice?

Self Care The first thing to consider is ‘self care’ – thissimply means taking care of yourself. Forexample, there isn’t anything GPs can do to treatcolds and other viruses - the best prescription is toget plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids.

For a number of minor illnesses or injuries, homecan be the best place for you. So, make sure youalways have the basics at home, such asparacetamol, cough and cold remedies and a nitcomb.

As well as these, it is recommended that you havea well stocked medicine cabinet that includes thefollowing:

• Antiseptic• Plasters• Antihistamines• Anti-diarrhoea tablets• Indigestion remedies• A thermometer• Crepe bandages

Pharmacy Pharmacists are available without an appointmentand can advise on most minor illnesses. Visit forhelp with coughs, colds and sore throats,diarrhoea, the ‘morning after pill’, warts andverrucas, nits, and much more.

Most people know that a pharmacy deals withprescriptions, and offers a range of medicines andfirst aid equipment, but you might not realise thatall of Bolton’s pharmacies offer privateconsultation rooms, and you can be seen therewithout an appointment.

Pharmacists are able to offer expert advice withthe confidence of years of professional training;either offering help there and then, or telling youthe best place to go for further care. Many ofBolton’s pharmacies are open late and atweekends, and they are often the most suitable placefor help, advice and treatment of minor issues.

There are over 70 pharmacies in Bolton, soeveryone should have one within easy reach ofwhere they live.

Your Family Doctor GPs are highly trained and skilled medics who candeal with your complex, ongoing and urgentconditions.

They will offer same day access for ill children. GP surgeries are the only places that hold all yourhealth records, meaning their doctors can make aninformed decision straight away, based on yourindividual history.

People sometimes say that it is hard to get anappointment with a doctor at short notice, butBolton doctors always prioritise urgent conditions.Many GPs now offer telephone appointments,where appropriate.

Practice nurses can also help with many healthproblems, so you may be offered an appointmentwith them instead.

Out of HoursThe care and assistance available from a GPdoesn’t end at 6.30pm. Through the night and atweekends, an out of hours service providestelephone advice and face-to-face appointmentswith a doctor where needed.

If you need a GP when your practice is closed, callthe practice and the GP out of hours number willgiven out on the answer machine.

Accident and Emergency As the name suggests it’s for serious and lifethreatening conditions only, such as suspectedstrokes, heart attacks or serious injuries.Unnecessary visits to A&E cost the NHS around£500m each year, as well as making it harder fordoctors and nurses working there to see patientswith life threatening conditions.

A&E only holds your history of hospital visits, theydon’t have access to your family doctors’ records.

When you go to A&E, if the staff there feel there isa more appropriate place to get the best care, youwill be redirected to that service.

Unnecessary visits to A&E not only add to the strainon hard working A&E staff, but also reduce theresources available to treat those who needspecialist emergency care, which could mean theydon’t get essential treatment quickly enough.

12

13

PeRSonAL HeALtH BUDGetS

Personal Health BudgetsPersonal health budgets are being introduced bythe NHS to help people manage their care in a waythat suits them. They have been piloted in anumber of places across England and, from April2014, anyone receiving NHS continuing healthcare willhave a right to ask for a personal health budget.

What is a Personal Health Budget?A personal health budget is an amount of money tosupport your identified health and wellbeingneeds, planned and agreed between you and yourlocal NHS team. The aim is to give people withlong-term conditions and disabilities greater choiceand control over the healthcare and support theyreceive. Personal health budgets work in a similarway to the personal budgets that many people arealready using to manage and pay for their social care.Together with your NHS team (such as a GP) youwill develop a care plan. The plan sets out yourpersonal health and wellbeing needs, the healthoutcomes you want to achieve, the amount ofmoney in the budget and how you are going tospend it.

You can use a personal health budget to pay for awide range of items and services, includingtherapies, personal care and equipment. This willallow you more choice and control over the healthservices and care you receive.

You don’t have to change any healthcare orsupport that is working well for you just becauseyou get a personal health budget, but if somethingisn’t working, you can change it.

Who can have a personal health budget?The first group to be able to ask for a personalhealth budget, from April 2014, will be peoplegetting NHS continuing healthcare, which is NHS-funded long-term health and personal careprovided outside hospital. Local NHS organisationswill be free to offer personal health budgets toother people if they think an individual willbenefit. It is the Government’s long-term aim, tointroduce a right to a personal health budget forpeople who would benefit from it.

Can I have a personal health budget aswell as a personal budget for social careand support?Yes. If you already have a personal budget for careand support from social services and your NHSteam agrees, you can also have a personal healthbudget and ask for both to be combined.

Do I have to have a personal healthbudget?No. If having a personal health budget does notwork for you, your local NHS will provide the careyou need as it has always done.

What is the difference between apersonal health budget, a personalbudget, an individual budget and a direct payment?A personal health budget is for your NHShealthcare and support needs.

A personal budget is for your social care andsupport needs.

An individual budget includes your social care andsupport needs plus other funding, such asindependent living.

A direct payment is one way of managing thesebudgets, where you get the cash to buy the agreedcare and support you need.

Key points• Personal health budgets should help people get a better service from the NHS. They should not make things worse.

• You do not have to have a personal health budget if you do not want one.

• You should have as much control over decisions as you want.

• NHS and social care organisations should work in partnership with you and with each other.

• If you are not able to have a personal health budget, you can still speak to your NHS team about how your needs can be met in another way that is more personal to you.

14

BefriendingWe all need someone to talk to, but notall of us are lucky enough to have someone.

Age UK Darlington’s ‘Rely on Me’ befriendingscheme came about as a direct result of demand.More and more calls were being received bylonely and isolated older people who justwanted someone to talk to.

Our service is a simple one; our volunteers offercompanionship on a weekly basis, be it at home,in sheltered accommodation or in a care home.Would you like to make somebody’s day?

Call Sharon Vasey on:

01325 362832or visit: ageukdarlington.org.uk

15

ADVICe on FUnDInG FoR SoCIAL CARe

If someone isn’t eligible for free care from theNHS, their main source of support will be socialservices. In this case, there are rules thatdetermine whether or not they have to make afinancial contribution. These rules vary dependingon whether the care is provided in a care home orin their own home.

Local authority community careIf you or the person you're looking after hasdifficulty with their personal care, they shouldconsider getting support from social services byhaving a community care assessment of theirneeds.

Your income (including any benefits) and capitalwill be taken into account when calculatingwhether you have to pay anything towards the care that you or they will receive.

In some cases a person may have a mixed packageof care, including some that is NHS-funded andsome that is provided by social services, for whichthey may be charged.

Normally, an assessment is carried out before aservice can be provided by the social servicesdepartment of a local authority. However, if theservices are needed urgently, the local authoritycan provide a service without carrying out theassessment.

The local authority uses the community careassessment to decide whether a person needs acommunity care service and, if they do, whether it can be provided by the local authority.

The assessment considers what types of servicesare needed by the person being assessed.

A wide range of services could be needed, fromaids and adaptations in the person's own home tocare workers or residential care.

Where there are disputes about the process of theassessment or the care plan, there are ways thatdecisions can be challenged. For more informationon challenging decisions, speak to your localHealthwatch team.

The local authority is obliged to carry out acommunity care assessment when they becomeaware that someone may be in need of communitycare services. This may mean that an assessment is offered even if you or the person you look afterhave not specifically requested one.

Direct paymentsIf you are assessed as needing community careservices and qualify for social services funding,they must offer you direct payments as an option.

If someone isn't able to manage their own directpayments, it's possible for another person tomanage the direct payments on their behalf.

Direct payments are part of a move towards‘personalised’ social care so that people have more choice and control over the support they get, letting you choose and buy the services youneed yourself, rather than having it arranged foryou by social services.

It's important to know that if you receive a directpayment to pay a care worker or personalassistant, you become an employer and have legalresponsibilities.

Direct payments can be made to:• Disabled people aged 16 or over (with short or long-term needs)

• Disabled parents for children’s services

• Carers aged 16 or over (including people with parental responsibility for a disabled child)

• Elderly people who need community care services

Choosing direct paymentsThe choice of direct payments is voluntary. If youdecide to have direct payments, you can changeyour mind about this at any time. If you no longerwant direct payments, contact your local socialservices and ask them to arrange services instead.

It's possible to try direct payments by asking socialservices for a direct payment for some of yoursupport while you continue to get your othersupport directly from social services.

Direct payments can only be spent on things thatwill meet the assessed needs of the person gettingthem. If you spend a direct payment on somethingthat doesn't meet your needs, social services canrecover the money from you.

Everyone who gets support from social servicesshould have their needs reassessed at least once a year.

To contact your Local Authority Departmentfor an assessment, to be re-assessed or forfurther information please call01325 346200.

16

Care ServicesWe provide a wide range of services withthe highest level of care.

We have Day Care at Bradbury House, where weoffer a great day out, with a varied activityprogramme delivered by our qualified careteam. We also offer:

We are Care quality Commission registered, andour services are open to a wide range of people who are 50+, including customers with dementia,stroke and other disabilities.

For more information call on:

01325 741495or visit: ageukdarlington.org.uk

• Respite Day Care• Dementia Care• Bathing/Showering

• Shopping• Light Housework• Nail-Care

17

DARLInGton LIFeLIne & teLeCARe SeRVICeS

24 hour help at the touch of a button with professionalresponse staff, able to attendyour home in an emergency or an unexpected event.

Lifeline ServicesMany people wish to live alone but often worryabout unexpected accidents or the need forsome immediate help in the home.

Lifeline is a Darlington service which allows youthe freedom to live independently, secure in theknowledge that help is there if you need it, 24hours a day, any day of the year, at the push of a button.

We can make a differenceOur service and technology devices are tailoredand discreet to suit your individual needs. Offeringa FREE Key holding service with all our products.

We will respond to your calls, either viathe equipment or by sending our LifelineResponse Officers to your home.

Darlington Lifeline & Telecare can be of benefit to:• Older, frail or disabled people or those temporarily unwell after perhaps an operation

• People who have been discharged from hospital and need to be able to get help at home if needed

• Vulnerable people of any age living alone

• Reassurance to partners, family and carers of people with dementia, medical conditions or disabilities be that physical, mental or sensory

Darlington Lifeline & Telecare can:• Raise an alarm in case of a fall or emergency

• Raise alerts for floods, smoke, carbon monoxide

• 24-hour reassurance for family and carers

How do Lifeline & Telecare Work?You can push the pendant button yourself or thetelecare devices automatically raise an alert. Thisactivates theLifeline Unit anduses yourtelephone line toautomatically dialthe local DarlingtonControl Room.Trained operatorsanswer these calls24/7 and you canhear their voicesand talk to them.

An immediateresponse isarranged that isappropriate to your needs. Whether family,friends, carers, emergency services or one of ourown Life line Response Officers, you can be safein the knowledge that someone will come to yourhome straight away if they are needed.

To benefit from the service all you need is a phoneline and modern electric plug socket. This range oftechnology offers extra independence and peace ofmind. Pictured overleaf are some of our mostpopular devices, however, many more areavailable. To find out more - it is as simple as atelephone call.

Darlington Lifeline & Telecare service is asimple, cost effective and unobtrusiveway to help anyone, of any age, tomaintain independence and getemergency help at home when needed.

Simply call 01325 388508

18

DARLInGton LIFeLIne & teLeCARe SeRVICeS

How much will it cost?There is a small weekly charge that we feel offersexcellent value for money.

What do I do next?If you would like to know more about Lifelineservices and products, or to arrange a noobligation, free demonstration in your home.

Call: 01325 388508 or e-mail us atwww.darlington.gov.uk/lifelineservices

Falls DetectorWill sense if you fall andautomatically alert us. Wewill get help to you quickly.

These can be carried withyou around the home and inyour garden (within 50metres). In an emergencysimply press the alarmbutton and a message issent directly to the LifelineControl Centre.

Flood DetectorWill alert you and us when abath or sink is overflowing.

Smoke DetectorWill alert you and us ifsmoke or fire is detected inyour home. Your house issafe even when you are notin it.

Exit AlertWill detect and alert us if adoor is opened, and canhelp should a person be atrisk of wandering.

Bed SensorWill alert you and us if aperson does not return totheir bed. This couldindicate a fall has occurred.

Examples of Lifeline & Telecare Equipment:

19

GP SURGeRIeS & HoSPItALS

Surgery Address Telephone

HospitalPostcode Address Telephone

How do I find a surgery?Most surgeries operate a fairly strict catchment area system, and only those who live within the area maybe able to register. This isn't to be awkward, but ensures a GP can visit a person at home in an emergency inreasonable time.

How do I register?This is straightforward and far easier than most people realise. Simply take your NHS medical card along toyour chosen surgery. You will then be asked to sign a registration form. Not all NHS trusts issue medicalcards. If you don't have one, the receptionist will give you form GMS1 to fill in. Once you've completed andreturned the forms, your local NHS will transfer your medical records to your new surgery and write to youto confirm your registration as a patient with the surgery. Many surgeries ask a new patient to attend a‘registration medical’ that checks your general health.

What if I have a complaint or concern about my GP or Practice?First raise it with the staff member concerned or the Practice Manager. It may just be an issue of poorcommunication. Ask at your practice for a copy of their Complaints process to follow. If you are not happywith how they respond to your concerns then you can write to NHS England and they will allocate someoneto look into your complaint.

Write to: NHS England, PO Box 16738, Redditch, B97 9PT. Tel: 0300 311 22 33 Email: england.contactus@nhs.net

If you want to help improve services in your GP practice you can join a Patient Participation Group. Ask at the practice for details of how to join yours.

Postcode

Data correct with NHS Choices - December 2014

20

PHARmACIeS

Surgery Address TelephonePostcode

Data correct with NHS Choices - December 2014

Make sure you have repeat prescriptionsIf you or someone you care for requires medicines regularly, make sure you order and collect repeatprescriptions in good time to ensure you or your family have enough medicine to last i.e. weekends, Bankholidays and breaks away. Many of the calls to out of hours health services are for emergency repeatprescriptions when people have run out of their medication - a situation that could be avoided with someforethought and planning. By thinking ahead for your regular medication you are helping our busy out ofhour’s doctors and nurses. If you have the symptoms of a cough, cold, or think you’ve got the flu apharmacist is the best place to go, as they can usually provide you with the help and information you needon the spot. They can also offer help with healthy living issues such as losing weight or giving up smoking.

What if I have a complaint or concern about my Pharmacy or Pharmacist?Any complaint to go through the NHS complaints procedure needs to be made either to the practice directlyor to NHS England. Any other concerns about a pharmacist 'fitness to work' should be made via GeneralPharmaceutical Council.

You can contact the General Pharmaceutical Council, either by email: concerns@pharmacyregulation.orgor by post: Raising a concern, General Pharmaceutical Council, 129 Lambeth Road, London SE1 7BJTel: 020 3365 3603

For opening times and NHS SERVICES available from your Pharmacy Please scan the QR code with your smartphone or visit: www.nhs.uk

21

DentIStS, oPtICIAnS & HeARInG

Dentist Address TelephonePostcode

Optician Address TelephonePostcode

Hearing Centre Address TelephonePostcode

Data correct with NHS Choices - December 2014

22

NHS DENTAL CHARGESBand 1 course of treatment

£18.50 This covers an examination, diagnosis

(eg X-rays), advice on how to prevent futureproblems, a scale and polish if needed, andapplication of fluoride varnish or fissure

sealant. If you require urgent care, even ifyour urgent treatment needs more than oneappointment to complete, you will only need

to pay one Band 1 charge.

Band 2 course of treatment£50.50

This covers everything listed in Band 1above, plus any further treatment such asfillings, root canal work or if your dentist

needs to take out one or more of your teeth.

Band 3 course of treatment£219.00

This covers everything listed in Bands 1 and 2above, plus crowns, dentures and bridges.

23

ComPLementARY & ALteRnAtIVe meDICIne

• Slipped discs• Leg pain and sciatica• Pain or problems with hip, knee, ankle and foot joints

• Pain or problems with elbow, wrist and hand joints

• Fibromyalgia

HomeopathyHomeopathy is used for an extremely wide rangeof health conditions. Among the most commonconditions that people seek homeopathictreatment for are:

• Asthma• Ear infections• Hay fever• Mental health conditions, such as depression, stress and anxiety

• Allergies, such as food allergies• Dermatitis (an allergic skin condition)• Arthritis• High blood pressure

OsteopathyOsteopathy is a way of detecting, treating andpreventing health problems by moving,stretching and massaging a person’s muscles and joints.

Conditions commonly treated with osteopathy:

• Lower back pain• Neck pain• Shoulder pain• Arthritis• Problems with the pelvis, hips and legs• Sports injuries• Problems with posture caused by driving, work or pregnancy

HypnotherapyHypnotherapy is a type of complementarytherapy that uses hypnosis, an altered state ofconsciousness.

When might it be helpful?

• Irritable bowel syndrome• Losing weight and quitting smoking• Skin conditions• Anxiety, pregnancy and childbirth

If you're thinking about whether or not touse a complementary or alternativemedicine, the first step is to learn asmuch as possible about the treatment.

The availability of complementary andalternative treatments on the NHS islimited. Some, such as acupuncture, maybe offered by the NHS.You should find out:What is the evidence that this treatment is safe foryou to take? For example, Ginseng has beenassociated with higher blood pressure and may beinappropriate if you already have raised bloodpressure (hypertension).

If you are using complementary or alternativemedicine to treat a health condition - what is theevidence that the treatment works for yourcondition?

AcupunctureThere is no one health condition or set ofconditions that acupuncture is meant to treat.Instead, Acupuncturists use the treatment for anextremely wide range of health conditions.

Sometimes, patients combine acupuncture withconventional treatments that have been prescribedby a GP or Hospital Consultant. If you are beingtreated by an Acupuncturist for a health condition,it is advisable to discuss this with your GP.

Acupuncture is often used to treat musculoskeletalconditions (of the bones and muscles) and painconditions, including:

• Headache and migraine• Chronic pain - including neck and back pain• Joint pain• Dental pain• Post-operative pain• Post-operative nausea and vomiting

ChiropracticChiropractic treatments are often used formusculoskeletal conditions (affecting themuscles, bones and joints).

Conditions commonly treated by chiropractorscould include:

• Lower back pain• Neck pain• Shoulder pain and problems

24

25

ReCoGnISInG mentAL HeALtH & SUPPoRt

Mental health, emotional wellbeing and resilienceis all about how we cope with what life throws atus. It concerns the way we feel about ourselves,conduct relationships, handle stress or deal with loss.

Good mental health and resilience arefundamental to good physical health, relationships,education and work, as well as being key toachieving our potential.

Mental health factsAt least one in four people experience adiagnosable mental health problem in any oneyear, and one in six experiences this at any one time.

• More than half of those with a common mental health problem have both depression and anxiety.

• There are approximately 570,000 people with dementia in England, a figure that could double in the next 30 years.

• Nearly 850,000 children and young people aged five to 16 years have a mental health problem – about 10% of the population. Fewer than one in 10 accesses treatment.

Common mental health problems such as anxiety,depression, panic disorders, phobias and obsessivecompulsive disorder can cause great emotionaldistress, and can affect how you cope with day-to-day life and your ability to work.

Less common conditions, such as psychosis, canmake you experience changes in thinking andperception severe enough to significantly alteryour experience of reality. These conditionsinclude schizophrenia and affective psychosis, suchas bipolar disorder, and can have the same lifelongimpact as any long-term physical condition.

Admitting you are struggling does not mean youare "mentally ill", that doctors will automaticallyput you on medication, or you will have toimmediately tell your employer you are mentallyunwell. Many issues can be managed without thehelp of a GP by using the variety of sources of helpnow available, whether it's through books, localorganisations or online.

Even if you need professional help, there arechoices you can make along the way. Mental illnessis treatable and, with appropriate support andtreatment, people do recover. Many move on withtheir lives and are able to care for their family,contribute to the local community, and get backinto employment or training.

How your GP can help You should make an appointment to see your GP ifyou've been feeling depressed for a few weeks oryour anxiety is having an impact on your daily life,such as stopping you from going to work orshopping.

Mental health services are free on the NHS, butyou will usually need a referral from your GP toaccess them.

Support and advice for people living with mental illness.

Tel: 0300 5000 927 (Mon-Fri, 10am-2pm)www.rethink.org

Information on child and adolescent mentalhealth. Services for parents and professionals.

Tel: Parents' helpline 0808 802 5544 (Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm)www.youngminds.org.uk

Promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems.

Phone: 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm)www.mind.org.uk

Confidential support for people experiencingfeelings of distress or despair.

Tel: 08457 90 90 90 (24-hour helpline)

www.samaritans.org.uk

26

ARe YoU A CAReR?

A carer is anybody who looks after a familymember, partner or friend who needs help becauseof their illness, frailty or disability. Many carersdon't see themselves as carers and it takes carersan average of two years to acknowledge their roleas a carer. It can be difficult for carers to see theircaring role as separate from the relationship theyhave with the person they care for, whether theyare a parent, son, daughter, sibling or friend. Theysimply may think of themselves as a friend orfamily of the person they care for. It is because ofthis that they often don’t realise there is helpavailable to them as well. Such as how they canget assessments, direct payments, home care,housing adaptations or funding for short breaks andrespite.

Some carers can suffer from poor health becauseof the demands of their caring role. For example,back pain can result from lifting or moving theperson being cared for. It may also be difficult tomaintain a healthy diet and exercise routine whilecaring.

Without the right support, being a carer can be anextremely stressful role.

• Ask for help: We all need help from time to time and carers are no exception. Help is out there, you only need to ask!

• Know your rights: It sounds simple, but knowingwhat you’re entitled to and what support is available can help a great deal.

• Tell your GP: Your GP practice can record that you are a carer to ensure you get your annual flu vaccination and additional support as a carer.

• Get an assessment: This can sound a little daunting at first, but ensuring that you and the person you care for get a assessment of your needs through the Local Authority can give you access to a whole host of additional practical help and support.

• Be a little selfish! We all need time to ourselves, but it’s particularly important for carers. This could be as simple as setting some me time aside for a relaxing bath or a night out.

Carers Direct helplineCall the Carers Direct helplineon 0300 123 1053 if you need

help with your caring role and want to talk tosomeone about what options are available to you.

If you are busy at certain times of day, you cansend us a message to ask us to call you back forfree at a time that is convenient to you. Thehelpline is open from 9am to 8pm Monday toFriday, and from 11am to 4pm, at weekends. Thehelpline is closed on bank holidays. Calls are freefrom landlines and mobiles within the UK.

InformationThe helpline advisers can give you information tohelp you make decisions about your personalsupport needs and the needs of the person you'relooking after.

This information includes assessments, benefits,direct payments, individual budgets, time off andmaintaining, leaving or going back to work oreducation.

The helpline staff will tell you how to complain ifanything goes wrong with any of the services youuse or put you in touch with your local authority orNHS services.

Local and specialist helpOur helpline advisers can put you in touch withspecialist national or local sources of help,including social care, healthcare and self-helpnetworks and resources.

The Carers Direct helpline doesn't provide personalfinancial, medical or legal advice and doesn'tprovide casework, advocacy, representation,counselling or emotional support. But our adviserscan help you get in touch with people who doprovide these services.

27

InDePenDent LIVInG At Home

Suggestions for making life easy: General adaptions:• Lowering or replacement of high wallhung cupboards

• Additional storage space in kitchen• Lowering of cooker mains switch• Level access shower• Overbath shower• Provision of non-slip/tactile surface• Provision of storage space for wheelchair• Ramps• Grab rails• Special baths• Special toilets• Step in shower• Widening doors for wheelchair access• Ground floor showers & W.C’s• Bedroom extensions• Hardstandings• Major internal re-arrangements• Stairlifts• Vertical through floor lifts• Outdoor lighting

Around one in five adults in the UK isdisabled, and more than 1 million ofthose live alone. With the right supportand facilities, leading an independent lifewith a physical or learning disability isnow more achievable than ever.

Aids and Adaptations If you or a member of your family has difficultyliving in your home due to a long-term illness ordisability, you may be able to get help by adaptingyour home to better meet your needs. You canapply to your local council for a disabled facilitiesgrant. The grant helps you adapt your home tomake it suitable for a disabled person. Dependingon your income, you may need to pay towards thecost of the work to the property.

You could get a grant from your council if youare disabled and need to make changes to yourhome, for example to:

• Widen doors and install ramps• Improve access to rooms and facilities - eg stairlifts or a downstairs bathroom

• Provide a heating system suitable for your needs

• Adapt heating or lighting controls to make them easier to use

How can I find out more about the aidsand adaptations that would help me?

Contact your local authority on 01325 346200about what difficulties you are having at home.They will send an occupational therapist to carryout an assessment and provide advice on whichequipment or housing adaptation needs suit youbest.

28

29

CARe In YoUR oWn Home

Home care isn’t for everyone but frequent visitsfrom carers and a few home modifications canhelp you retain your home comforts andindependence.

Receiving care in your home is an increasinglycommon alternative to staying in hospital ormoving into a care home.

Depending on your needs, you can receive helpand support that allows you to stay in your ownhome as long as possible. Not only do you avoidany upheaval and stay in familiar surroundings, itcan also be a more economical alternative toresidential care.

How much you have to pay will depend on:• Your health and mobility• What level of help and support you require• The value of your assets

What home care services are available?• Regular visits from home care workers to help with daily tasks and personal care

• Meals delivered to your home• Equipment and home modifications to help with mobility and accessibility, such as getting in and out of the bath, and getting up and down stairs

• Personal fall and panic alarms that are monitored around the clock

• Support for health needs, such as incontinence• Day care and transport to take you there• Gardening and handyman services

If you only need a few hours help a day and yourhouse can be adapted to your needs, care at homemay be the most practical and cost-effectivesolution.

Your local authority may pay some or all the costs, but you might also have to pay for all the servicesyourself. Make sure you claim all the benefits you’re entitled to – Attendance Allowance and Disability LivingAllowance (or Personal Independence Payment) are the most common.

Carers Address TelephonePostcode

Data correct with CQC - December 2014

30

31

CHooSInG BetWeen ReSIDentIAL,

There are many types of residential care homesavailable. These include permanent care homesfor older people, homes for younger adults withdisabilities and homes for children. They may beprivately owned or run by the voluntary sectoror local authorities. You may want to consider indetail the many options for residential carebefore you make a decision.

Older peopleCare homes for older people may provide personalcare or nursing care. A care home which isregistered to provide personal care will offersupport, ensuring that basic personal needs, suchas meals, bathing, going to the toilet andmedication, are taken care of. In some homesmore able residents have greater independenceand take care of many of their own needs.Someresidents may need medical care and some carehomes are registered to provide this. These areoften referred to as nursing homes. Some homesspecialise in certain types of disability, forexample, dementia.

Adults aged 18-65There are also residential care homes that providecare and support for younger adults with, forexample, severe physical disabilities, learningdisabilities, acquired brain injury, progressiveneurological conditions or mental health problems.Care can be provided for adults with more thanone condition and some homes have expertise inproviding care for adults with alcohol or drugdependency. These homes offer permanentresidence or provide care for a temporary perioduntil the adult is able to live independently ormove to a different type of accommodation.

32

nURSInG & InDePenDent LIVInG

Choice of accommodationThe law says that where the local authority isfunding accommodation it must allow the personentering residential care to choose which carehome they would prefer. Social services must firstagree that the home is suitable for the person’sneeds and that it would not cost more than theywould normally pay for a home that would meetthose needs. If the person chooses to go into amore expensive home, a relative or friend may be able to ‘top up’ the difference in cost.

Choosing a care homeCare homes may be arranged through the localauthority but many people will want to arrangethem independently. It is a good idea to visitseveral homes before making a choice. Make sure you spend enough time in each home to get a good idea of what it is like.

Respite and short term staysResidential care home stays don't necessarily haveto be permanent. Temporary stays can be arrangedfor respite care (in which you take a break fromcaring for somebody else), or as a trial periodbefore a permanent stay.

What your choices areA list of all nursing and residential care homeswithin your locality can be found on the followingpages. Every care home in England must beregistered with the national regulatory body Care Quality Commission (CQC). They inspect eachcare home on a regular basis and write aninspection report for you to read. It is advisable toread this report before making a final decision.

To check up-to-date information on the Nursing andResidential care homes within your locality visitwww.cqc.org.uk

Choosing between residential care andindependent livingSocial services normally encourage younger adultswho they assess for support to be as independentas their circumstances allow. The care plan foradults with disabilities will consider whatindependent tasks they can carry out and how theycan be helped to achieve more. Even if adults havevery severe disabilities their needs are reviewedfrom time to time to check whether residentialcare or a very high level of support is stillappropriate.Supported living may be an option foryounger adults. This allows people to liveindependently in the community but with basicsupport. The support offered includes help withsetting up a home and managing finances, andassistance with cleaning and shopping. For olderpeople there are various alternatives to residentialcare. These include sheltered housing and extracare housing schemes, which offer independencewith an increased level of care and support. Formany people there is also the choice of livingindependently at home with community caresupport.

Temporary stays can give you flexibility whencovering unexpected events, such as:

• Palliative care (which manages or reduces pain) after a hospital stay or illness

• Support for newly disabled people and their carers• Enabling someone to continue living independently if they live alone and suddenly require care

• Giving someone a chance to try potential future homes

33

With newly refurbished apartments andstylish contemporary communal areas,the Council has accomodation locatedacross the Borough, ideal for anyone over50 looking to live independently with theadded peace of mind of help and adviceat hand when needed.Committed to providing quality accommodation,the Council has over recent years, modernised thecomplexes in a £15m project. The work includedthe complete rebuild of Linden Court, in Hurworth,and Dinsdale Court, in Middleton St George, andextensive remodelling of others.

The accomodation offer a range of warm andwelcoming apartments or bungalows with largewell looked after communal gardens and acomprehensive maintenance programme. Mostapartments are cleverly designed with mobility inmind and have features to help such as levelaccess showers and a lift to upper floors. AIIapartments have a manager support service andare linked to the Council's Lifeline 24-hour alarmsupport system for help at the touch of a buttonfor added peace of mind and security.

This housing offers the chance of easy livingthrough thoughtful design and offers discreetsupport while still ensuring that individuality andchoice is high - people enjoy living comfortablywithin quality, safe and lively surroundings.

Each complex has communal areas such as elegantlounges, hair salons, laundries and coffee bars.These vibrant areas are used for social activities ,including entertainment evenings, luncheon clubs,Get Everyone Motivated (low level exerciseclasses), coffee mornings and much more.

Meet the ManagerThis housing is a lifestyle choice and all complexeshave a Manager who is there to meet and greet,offer advice and support, see you on a regularbasis, join in the social activities and deal with thegeneral running of the building.

"It's like having an extended family. It's great tosee how people are doing and we're here to helpif needed. I know many people and their familieswelcome this discreet support – knowing lovedones are looked out for makes a hugedifference."

Vanessa Tully, Manager at Dinsdale Court,Middleton St George, with residents

Comfortable Living to rent at Affordable

Linden Court, Hurworth - Offering new accommodation with peace of mind

34

Find Out MoreIf you would like more details about living in one ofour complexes, or would like to have a lookaround, either for yourself or for a relative or afriend, please call 01325 388830.

Our website www.darlington.gov.uk/shelteredAccommodation also has details about eachcomplex including the number of apartments,communal facilities, events and activities andManager support available.

Rents are from £85 a week and include chargessuch as water, service and support so no need toworry about costly repairs. Charges vary dependingupon apartment type. Housing Benefit is availableto help with paying rent for those eligible.

All vacant properties are advertised on theCompass Choice Based Lettings website and atCustomer Services at the Town Hall. Call 01325388542 for more advice on housing options in theBorough along with details of council homescurrently available to rent.See our website www.darlington.gov.uk/compass

Prices for the Over 50’s in Darlington

“I have no regrets moving into Dinsdale Court. Ifeel safe and secureand never feellonely. There isalways plentygoing on, youcan either joinin or be on yourown. We havegreat support

from our SchemeManager who isalways there for us.”

Betty Cochrane,Dinsdale Court

Enjoying life in our housing

“I wondered if I was doing the right thing givingup my three-bedroomed house to move here. Itis the best move I have ever made. There isalways something to do and trips away if youfancy. Even if I won the Lottery, I wouldn't movefrom here."

Lorna Clasper, Dinsdale Court

We have developments at:Branksome Hall (Branksome)

Dinsdale Court (Middleton St George)Linden Court (Hurworth)Rockwell House (Springfield)

Roxby Court (Near Geneva Road)Ted Fletcher Court (Haughton)Windsor Court (Cockerton)And many more . . .

Why choose to live in our accomodation?

• Changes in your health have affected the enjoyment of your existing home

• Friends and family no longer live nearby

• You have recently been through a bereavement, or spend alot of time alone and would like more company

• The area you live in may no longer feel safe

• Following retirement your income may have changed

• Your garden and property maybe too large and costly to maintain and keep well heated or costlyrepairs are needed

• Stairs now difficult to manage

• Or, you may just wish to release the capital from your home to spend on your happy retirement

35

www.ageuk.org.uk

www.carersuk.org

www.findmegoodcare.co.uk

www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

www.societyoflaterlifeadvisers.co.uk

ReSIDentIAL CARe CoStS

In some cases the residential care needed by theperson you're looking after may be paid for by theNHS under the NHS continuing care scheme. Thecare may also be provided free of charge becauseit is 'intermediate care'. It may be free because theperson you're looking after has previously been amental health inpatient. If this is the case, theservices are funded under the Mental Health Act.

Residential care is also free if the local authoritycould charge but decides not to do so. This canoccur if the stay in residential care is onlytemporary (normally less than eight weeks), or ifthe residential care is for a child. If none of theabove applies, the person you're looking after willbe given a financial assessment. This is also knownas a means-tested assessment. They will berequired to give information about their incomeand capital. There are rules that determine howincome and capital are treated. Some types,including benefits, can be disregarded. Thefinancial assessment will work out how much theperson you're looking after will be expected tocontribute towards the cost of their care home fees.

Owning PropertyThere are rules that explain how the property ofthe person you're looking after will be taken intoaccount In some cases it can be disregarded, this isthe case if a partner is still living in the property.

The capital limit for residential care is £23,250.Local authorities will investigate if they believethat the person you're looking after hasdeliberately reduced their capital to avoid payingcare home fees. There is a scheme called thedeferred payment scheme which allows someonewho goes into care to keep their property and stillget help from the local authority with paying carehome fees. The local authority recovers the feesfrom the proceeds when the property is sold. Thisscheme can also be used if there is a delay inselling a property.

Self-fundersAfter the means-tested assessment, the personyou're looking after may receive a decision thatthey will have to pay their own care home fees.People paying their own fees are referred to asself-funders. Self-funders will still receive adviceabout the arrangements for residential care. Oncea self-funder's capital reaches £23,250 the localauthority is responsible for helping out with thecare home fees. This will require another assessment.

Get personal advice on care fundingThe cost of care and support is likely to be a long-term commitment and may be substantial,particularly if you opt for residential care. If you ora member of the family need to pay for care in acare home, it’s important to seek advice tailoredto your individual needs.

The cost of your care will vary depending on itstype, intensity, specialisation, location andduration. For example, a place in a residentialcare home will cost hundreds of pounds a week.Decisions that have such financial implicationsshould be made with advice and only afterconsidering the costs of alternatives.

For example, the cost of a care home needs to beweighed against the cost of care and support thatmay help you remain in your existingaccommodation.

The costs of long-term care can be significant andhow you may wish to arrange to pay for it is a bigfinancial decision for most people. Cost can varyacross the country and different care homes willcharge different amounts based on the level ofcare needs, the quality of the accommodation, orthe area of England it is in.

Few of us will have the income or ready access tothe cash to pay for their ongoing care needs. Oftenpeople find that they need to sell or remortgagetheir home to pay for care or enter into an equityrelease scheme. Before taking such significantfinancial steps it is advisable to get properindependent financial advice. For advice on self-funding care, visit the Money Advice Service or theSociety of Later Life Advisers. You may also havepreviously arranged an investment or insuranceplan to fund your care. Again, it is worth takingindependent advice on these potentially significantfinancial arrangements.

Find out more about paying for care on thewebsites of:

36

ReSIDentIAL & nURSInG CARe

Residential Homes Address TelephonePostcode

Nursing Homes Address TelephonePostcode

Data correct with NHS Choices - December 2014

Parkinson's UK provides a free, confidential, information advice and signpostingservice for people with Parkinson's and their families and carers in Darlington.Benefit advice including help with form filling, arranging aids and adaptations andoffering emotional support are just some of the services provided by MargaretHunter, your local Information and Support Worker. The charity also has a group inDarlington which meets monthly to offer friendship and support to everyone livingwith Parkinson's and their families and carers.Self referrals or referrals from carers or family members and from GP's, SocialServices or other organisations are all welcome.

If you would like further information, please contact: Margaret HunterParkinson's UKInformation & Support Worker - Darlington & County Durham (excluding EastDurham & Derwentside) • Tel: 0844 225 9827 Email:mhunter@parkinsons.org.uk • Web: parkinsons.org.uk

37

HeLP & ADVICe

Darlington Mind provides a range of health and social care services for peopledealing with depression, anxiety and a range of mental health issues. We providefree access to Emotional Resilience Courses, Monthly Support Groups and AngerManagement (through GP referral).

Call us today for further information, advice and support on 01325 283169 or e-mail us at contactus@darlingtonmind.comAlso check out our web-site at www.darlingtonmind.com

Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers provide a free, independent andconfidential service to people aged 50 and over, and to their family, carers and friends.

We can provide information and advice on most subjects.If we are unable to dealwith your enquiry, we will refer you to someone who can.

We can help with• Benefits • Housing • Health • Residential and daycare provision• Direct Payments and help at home • Affordable warmth • Consumer and legalissues • Social and personal problems • Access to local services • Advice isavailable at our office in Beaumont Street by appointment Monday to Friday.

If you can't make it to our wheelchair accessible office, please call us. We are happy to carry out home visits where required.1 Beaumont Street, Darlington, CO Durham DL1 5SZ

Opening Times: Monday to Friday 9.30am – 3.30pm.

Tel: 01325 357345 • Email: advice@ageukdarlington.org.uk

St Teresa’s Hospice provides free care and support to the people of South Durhamand North Yorkshire. We do this via a range of services to support people with alife-limiting illness, and to support their direct carers and other family members.

Our Services include: • 24 hour availability • Day Therapy • Hospice at Home• In-patient Unit • Family Support & Bereavement Service • A range of complementary therapies

T: 01325 254321 • E: enquiries@darlingtonhospice.org.ukvisit www.darlingtonhospice.org.uk • facebook.com/stteresashospice

38

Family Help provide a holistic package of support including refuge accommodationfor single women and women with children, and a confidential help-line for all.

Family Help Darlington CIO • Domestic Abuse Help Line • Tel: 01325 364486Email: familyhelp@btconnect.com • Website: www.darlingtonrefuge.org.uk

If you are concerned that you, or a friend or family member, may have a problemwith alcohol or drugs, there is support available. Local recovery treatmentservices provide appropriate and confidential help, advice, treatment and supportfor those with substance issues and also their families and carers.

For over 18's, the Connected Recovery Service is based at The Gate, Northgate on 01325 267230. For under 18's, SWITCH is at Beaumont Street on 01325 267240.

DISC provide an intensive housing related floating support and housing adviseservice for people living in Darlington who have been assessed as having complexmental health problems. To access support individuals need to be over 16, have mental health problemsdiagnosed by a suitably qualified practitioner and willing to engage in support.The individual must have direct housing responsibility or be actively seekingaccommodation and in need to 7-10 hours support per week.

Contact details – DISC, Sapphire House, IES Centre, Newton Aycliffe DL5 6DSTel: 01325 731160

Trained Employment Consultants provide information, advice and guidance tounemployed residents of Darlington who are looking for support to develop skillsand move into employment.

Support could include: CV, interview skills, confidence building sessions, funding for training, one to onejob-search support.

Contact Morrison Trust in 01325 387700 / info@morrisontrust.org.uk for moreinformation and eligibility details.

We are a Voluntary and charitable organisation led by Disabled peopleWe exist to promote independence and choice.We support disabled people and carers through the provision of services, supportand information by tackling issues local and nationally.

Contact:20-22 Horsemarket, Darlington DL15PT • Tel: 01325 489999Info@darlingtondisability.org • Web: wwwdarlingtondisability.org

HeLP & ADVICe

Victim Support is the national charity for people affected by crime. Our servicesare free, confidential and available to everyone, whether or not a crime has beenreported to the police.

Contact Victim Care Unit on 0845 2770977 Mon – Fri 8am – 8pm and Sat 9am – 5pm

39

The Darlington and District Talking Newspaper is a local voluntary organisationproducing weekly recordings, containing news items from The Northern Echonewspaper, plus a magazine section providing local road and pavement reports,What’s On items and many other articles, to the visually impaired listeners in theDarlington area. We also record the forthcoming Civic Theatre production and thelocal ‘Talking Together’ magazine.

For more information please contact us on 01325 465101www.darlingtontalkingnewspaper.co.uk • Email dtnewspaper@btconnect.comThe Darlington & District Talking Newspaper, PO Box 14, Echo Buildings, Priestgate, Darlington, DL1 1NF

Starting point provides support to people who are caring for a friend or familymember who is experiencing problems with drug or alcohol misuse. It offers thefollowing services: A Support Group to address isolation, help with GPappointments, knowledge of treatment systems, help in accessing treatment andCarer Assessments and links to Regional and National Carer Support Groups.

Telephone Tony Pendlebury on 01325 346 201

The 700 Club delivers services to those who are homeless or at risk of becominghomeless in the Borough of Darlington. Services include Supported HostelAccommodation for Individuals and Couples Aged 18+, Housing Related FloatingSupport for those aged 16+ with substance misuse problems. These are LocalAuthority commissioned services and are accessible through Darlington’s Key Pointof Access. We operate a Bond Guarantee Scheme (Bridge2Home) that, free ofcharge, facilitates the movement of the financially excluded into the privaterented sector. Finally, the Lodge, is a facility, modeled on a bed and breakfast thatoffers immediate, very short term, accommodation to those who have nowhereelse. Costs of placement are met by the referring agency. We work withindividuals, couples and family units through the different services we offer, andhave particular skills for working with those with drug, alcohol and dual diagnoses,street homeless, people with mental health problems and prison leavers.

700 Club Head Office, The Grange Centre, Grange Road, Darlington, DL1 5NHTel: 01325 366397 • Email: 700club@700club.org.uk

Part of the British Lung Foundation, Breathe Easy Darlington provides local supportand companionship to those with respiratory disease along with their friends,relatives and carers. We have regular meetings, visits from health professionals,trips, speakers and often just relax together. Members also have access to anexercise class run by a respiratory nurse specialist.

• Having friends who understand your limitations and frustrations, your wheeze and your cough can be a great relief.

• Being able to talk to health professionals and having access to information and advice can be a huge benefit.

• Our group also tries to campaign to improve the care of those with respiratory problems in our area.

We are a local group for local people. Please contact us on: 07858 615154where you can leave a message and we will be pleased to get back to you.

HeLP & ADVICe

40

People and Families Information Support provides information and advice toenable people in Darlington to find out about Childcare, education, leisure,activities, Support for children with special educational needs or disabilities andadult social care Information is held on the People’s Information Point directory

www.darlington.fsd.org.uk or contact: Freephone: 0800 9172121

The Darlington Macular Disease Society is an entirely volunteer-led service,established in 1999. Essentially it is a self-help group for those suffering from anyeye condition that affects the central vision by damage to the macula (a smallarea of the retina at the back of the eye). The society provides information andpractical support for those with the condition so they can make the most of theirremaining vision. This group provides an invaluable service to the visuallyimpaired, elderly community of Darlington, many of whom have lost theirpartners. Members of the organisation lack opportunities for social interaction andthe monthly meetings provide a lifeline of support. The group plan day trips andoutings as often as possible, however because of their age and disabilities thegroup have difficulty in raising their own funds. Our grant allowed the group tooffer educational trips for its members, involving meetings with other MacularDisease Societies in and around the area. It also helped towards the cost oftransport, as many of the members felt unsafe using public transport as theireyesight isn’t good enough.

For further information please contact: Darlington Macular Society, 11 Granton Close, Darlington, DL3 8BJTel: 01325 462911Email k.suggett@talktalk.net

We provide education and training in catering to adults with learning disabilitiesthrough our community cafe. We promote enterprise opportunities for people withlearning disabilities and give people with learning disabilities the opportunity togain appropriate qualifications. We make volunteering a worthwhile and rewardingactivity and hopefully, a stepping stone to employment.

Contact us on 01325 300688 or email valhutchinson2@aol.com Cafe JJ’s, Clifton Community Centre, Clifton Road, Darlington, DL1 5EE

The Darlington Bipolar UK Support Group belongs to the national network of localgroups run by Bipolar UK. Bipolar UK support groups offer: Peer support throughgroup discussion Useful information Social activities Guidance on managing moodswings Group meetings are friendly, confidential and informal. They are open toall individuals affected by bipolar, including those with a diagnosis, those pre-diagnosis, their family members, friends and carers.

Darlington Bipolar UK Support Group, Church Row, Darlington, DL1 5QDTel: 0845 434 9791 • darlington@bipolarukgroups.org.uk

HeLP & ADVICe