Are people up for a disabled people's / carers group on the Forum? [Archive]

pavlo1969

26-04-2007, 22:29

i am up for this, i would love to be in this group as a user.

also, to cover issues dealing with diabetes. i have a lot of experience with hospitals, medical conditions associated with diabetes ect, because i have it and just about everything associated with diabetes, from leg to kidneys and through to my eyes and a few other problems.

i am willing to brush up on the few things i may not know.

even if it only helps one person i would feel a big achievement.

i am 37(not a lot of people have the problems i have at this age) i think i can guide younger people to go the right way because if i had done the right thing in the first place, in stead of been daft and listened to doctors ect, i am sure i would not have been as bad as i am know.

i do hope this group goes a head, i think it will be very good and might go a very long way.

there isn't many groups or help for people in my situation, at my age.

Moonbird

26-04-2007, 22:40

This is a brilliant idea, count me in :thumbsup:

purdyamos

26-04-2007, 23:42

Pooch_1

27-04-2007, 01:04

it would be good to get some professionals in your group who you would be able to ask their advice , i work for social services as an adviser and i would be happy to provide any information if you needed it.

I have good experience of working with people with challenging behaviour, Cerebral Palsy, Learning Disabilities, mental health illnesses and Alzheimer's Disease. I have worked in the private, public and NHS sectors. I Trained and received a certificate in Health and Safety at Sheffield College, and carried out H&S risk assessments and inspections within the NHS.

If I can be of any help, PM me :)

tricia888

27-04-2007, 05:42

I have Parkinsons Disease which is usually associated with elderly people.I have had this since I was 38 I am now 52. It will be good to beable to see if there are others like me in the forum so that we could discuss matters and perhaps help one another

Ms Macbeth

27-04-2007, 06:24

Pooch_1

27-04-2007, 06:55

Pooch_1

27-04-2007, 07:04

This would feel terribly ironic, as I was scapegoated and rejected by another forum group that I was highly involved with, precisely because of ignorance and judgements about my disability - (in the same ball-park as mojo1, but without any carers.) Sometimes the internet has been the only support I have had, and I've taken a lot of flack for trying to be open and honest on the forum about mental health issues. Having somewhere where people could feel comfortable discussing various disabilities in a ringfenced space, offeringg support and advice with less opportunity for the trolls to lob brickbats would be welcomed by many, I feel.

I am very sorry to hear about this, and as you say, the biggest fault with society is ignorance about disabilities and mental health issues, especially those who have never encountered it in their own family or social circles. I doubt very much that you will be rejected or turned away by this group :)
I hope you find this group helpful :) Good Luck.

Pooch_1

27-04-2007, 07:06

hennypenny

27-04-2007, 07:26

My mom had both hips replaced, before I reminded her what she was entitled to. Some old folk are put off by the forms, or where actually to get the forms from.

It is not just old folk who are put off by the forms - I have had the DLA forms and incapacity benefit forms waiting to be filled in for over a year. The trouble is that when I feel ill enough to feel it is reasonable to fill them in, no way can I cope with doing it, and when I feel well enough to fill them in it doesn't seem fair to claim. I have Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia (plus other bits and pieces not working to specification) and my daughter has Chronic fatigue and Chronic Pain syndrome.

I also cared for my mum before she died, and now have my dad and sister living nearby who both need a certain level of support.

I think a non-judgemental, supportive forum would be great :)

Pooch_1

27-04-2007, 07:44

It is not just old folk who are put off by the forms - I have had the DLA forms and incapacity benefit forms waiting to be filled in for over a year. The trouble is that when I feel ill enough to feel it is reasonable to fill them in, no way can I cope with doing it, and when I feel well enough to fill them in it doesn't seem fair to claim. I have Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia (plus other bits and pieces not working to specification) and my daughter has Chronic fatigue and Chronic Pain syndrome.

I also cared for my mum before she died, and now have my dad and sister living nearby who both need a certain level of support.

I think a non-judgemental, supportive forum would be great :)

Hi, You really need to get those forms filled in and start to get the benefits that you are entitled to. The money can be put to better use in your pocket than in the governments.

willygab

27-04-2007, 07:45

good idea im up for it

barnsleybroker

27-04-2007, 08:10

pavlo1969

27-04-2007, 08:22

pattricia

27-04-2007, 08:30

andco

27-04-2007, 08:36

dont know whether/not it's been mentioned earlier (& with 3 pages I'm not trawling through it) but it should put an end tio the trolling some people receive because with it's own forum mods the sensitivities involved with this very serious issue should become more easily controlled.

medusa

27-04-2007, 08:41

Well, it looks like quite a few people are up for this, so I will email Geoff and see about getting it up and running. I should hopefully be able to provide a fair bit of information to people, as I work in the "system" - I'm a bit rubbish on welfare benefits, but there seem to be a few people on the Forum who know their stuff. Thanks for all the responses.

I'd also like to hear by PM from anybody who would have enough of an interest in the potential group (and is able to give a little time) to act as group leader if this group was to go ahead.

I'd be looking for 2 people who were prepared to visit the group daily, ideally who could combine together to take a little look at the group a few times a day, and who could contribute to threads and keep the group moving and regulated.

No group is going to get off the ground without group leaders, so please let me know if you're interested or if you'd like some more information.

gneighbour

27-04-2007, 11:37

Hennypenny just contact your nearest Citizen's advice centre and they will send someone round to fill in the forms with you. As even the government's own advertising campaign put it: it's yours!

Gangan

27-04-2007, 12:47

Although I have no need for this at the moment - who knows! I think this is such a good idea. Anything that gives support and information to people who may be disadvantaged by 'normal' society gets my vote.

No one knows if in the future,at any moment in time, one could be affected personally,or have relatives that are suddenly in need of care or assistance.
It would be good to have information and support available from various sources.:thumbsup:

happyhippy

27-04-2007, 18:46

As discussed in the care homes thread, it can be very useful to get information and opinions about local services, groups, etc. Are enough people interested in setting up a specific group on the Forum to discuss this and support each other?

Count me in too. I've spent most of my working life in disability welfare rights, and I'm more than willing to help.

If nothing else, Sheffield is the largest place in the country which doesn't have an advice centre which is specifically geared up for ALL people with disabilities (something which I'm trying to address).

I think this is a tremendous idea.

happyhippy

27-04-2007, 19:08

Hennypenny just contact your nearest Citizen's advice centre and they will send someone round to fill in the forms with you. As even the government's own advertising campaign put it: it's yours!

Lots of CAB's don't do home visits; lots of local advice centres don't either. Many won't represent at tribunals; some specialise in certain areas; many have odd opening hours.

It's not always as simple as 'contact the CAB', though they do a good job.

Hennypenny, if you're having real difficulty with the forms, and you can't get to an advice centre, then as a last resort (and these people are very helpful), call the Benefit Enquiry Line on 0800 88 22 00. They can help you complete the forms over the (free)phone, and/or explain some of the questions in a different way.

TeaFan

27-04-2007, 19:27

If nothing else, Sheffield is the largest place in the country which doesn't have an advice centre which is specifically geared up for ALL people with disabilities (something which I'm trying to address).

happyhippy: In that case, you might want to look out for the report which is due out around June about the setting up of a Centre for Independent Living in every local authority area. I don't know whether welfare rights advice is planned to be part of the set-up, but it might be. I think it's the Office of Disability Issues that's doing the report.

TeaFan

27-04-2007, 19:29

It is not just old folk who are put off by the forms - I have had the DLA forms and incapacity benefit forms waiting to be filled in for over a year. The trouble is that when I feel ill enough to feel it is reasonable to fill them in, no way can I cope with doing it, and when I feel well enough to fill them in it doesn't seem fair to claim. I have Chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia (plus other bits and pieces not working to specification) and my daughter has Chronic fatigue and Chronic Pain syndrome.

I also cared for my mum before she died, and now have my dad and sister living nearby who both need a certain level of support.

I think a non-judgemental, supportive forum would be great :)

You can get great guidance on the DLA application from http://benefitsandwork.co.uk. You might have to subscribe, but it's well worth it (you could share a subscription with someone else perhaps)

happyhippy

27-04-2007, 19:33

happyhippy: In that case, you might want to look out for the report which is due out around June about the setting up of a Centre for Independent Living in every local authority area. I don't know whether welfare rights advice is planned to be part of the set-up, but it might be. I think it's the Office of Disability Issues that's doing the report.

Yes, I'd heard about it through DIAL, but cheers for the reminder :thumbsup: . There are lots of places which deal with specific disabilities, but for 'general' disability advice there is nothing in Sheffield anymore.

Applegrim

27-04-2007, 20:04

Hi everyone, if this takes off I feel we can all benifit at some time,it may not be happenning to you now, but sooner or later it will affect us all,I've had more than my fair share, and coming on here from time to time has seen me through some bad times.
I already have a question,when we hear of care in the community what does it mean? Is it we'll care for you at home if thats where you want to be, or is it we'll care for you at home but if you cost us too much you will go into a home whether you want too or not?

pattricia

27-04-2007, 20:07

Betty Boob

27-04-2007, 20:34

You have got my vote, i'm a carer to my partner who has a disability :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Applegrim

27-04-2007, 20:38

Yellowrose

27-04-2007, 20:48

I would be interested too. I have a disability and have been on other specialist forums to discuss things like dla, home adaptations, treatments etc. Its always worth comparing notes, especially with someone local.

pattricia

27-04-2007, 20:50

Well he's in hospital, they have done an MRI scan, rib x-ray, hip x-ray they are still treating him for the infection which is very worrying, but the dementia is the worset I've ever seen him.There seems to be a lot of talk about permanent residency in a home, and I'm very confused as this has never been in the plan.

Take each day at a time, applegrim.I went through the same thing with my mum. One word of advice. DONT let them discharge him until hes much better. Keep him in as long as you can. Keep us updated on here will you ?

TeaFan

27-04-2007, 22:22

I already have a question,when we hear of care in the community what does it mean? Is it we'll care for you at home if thats where you want to be, or is it we'll care for you at home but if you cost us too much you will go into a home whether you want too or not?

The policy in Sheffield (well, in older peoples services) used to be that social services would pay for up to 35 hours a week at home. If you needed more than that, you had to top up from your own money, or you had to go into residential. I have a feeling that the 35 hour limit has been reduced - not good:( They really should be upfront about it, and you should ask them if you want to know what the deal is.

happyhippy

28-04-2007, 00:06

Could I just say that given the sensitive nature of this (intended) area, that one of the reasons for its existence would be to keep trolls away?

I've lost count of the times when I've had to explain various bits of legislation to people who don't understand ..

At least if there is an area where disability/caring issues, and for that matter, Sheffield disability/caring matters could be discussed in peace, then we (and we know who we are - not all disabled, or carers too) can do it without trolls.

There will always be the odd one, but ..

Tony

28-04-2007, 03:30

Ladies, Gentlemen this is a nice idea, sorry if I've missed it, but please drop Geoff a line. You know the email addy.

Pooch_1

28-04-2007, 09:35

Ladies, Gentlemen this is a nice idea, sorry if I've missed it, but please drop Geoff a line. You know the email addy.

Hi Tony,
It is in fact being dealt with and all in hand :) :) Medusa has passed all the details on to Geoff, but I am sure that you are aware of that now :)

snippysnoo

28-04-2007, 11:12

Pooch_1

28-04-2007, 12:36

:) :) :) This would be great for carers and the cared for. I work during the day with adults with learning disabilities and have been caring for my husband who has motor neurone disease for the last nine years, I would be more than happy to share experiences and any advice/tips that I have picked up along the way. Good luck in geting this started.:) :) :)

Thank You, :) and yes we are hoping that if the group gets started that it will be a place for advice and to share experiences with others, away from the main forum.

craftyone

28-04-2007, 13:11

regarding the benefits and help filling forms, if you are over 65 the pensions service will make a home visit to check you are getting all the benefits you should. if you are under 65 visit the cab or any advice center and they would be able to help you . also there are many tenancy support schemes running around the city , they are fantastic and will help you claim for any thing you need. social services dont deal with benefits but they will point you in the right direction.

pavlo1969

28-04-2007, 18:29

Dozy

28-04-2007, 23:32

Age Concern Sheffield - http://www.ageconcernsheffield.org.uk/articles.php?ref=34 can also help with claiming benefits.

Dozy

craftyone

29-04-2007, 16:46

This is only a thread, not actually the group and it is already working, so i can't see the group failing:):)

i think you misread my post. i did not mention anything about failing , i am aware its not the group and it is only a thread.

Pooch_1

29-04-2007, 18:22

The policy in Sheffield (well, in older peoples services) used to be that social services would pay for up to 35 hours a week at home. If you needed more than that, you had to top up from your own money, or you had to go into residential. I have a feeling that the 35 hour limit has been reduced - not good:( They really should be upfront about it, and you should ask them if you want to know what the deal is.

My sister-in-law receives care for 2 hours a day every day, and has to pay half towards the cost. Pretty disgusting when you read the councils care charter.

miniminch

29-04-2007, 18:49

At least if there is an area where disability/caring issues, and for that matter, Sheffield disability/caring matters could be discussed in peace, then we (and we know who we are - not all disabled, or carers too) can do it without trolls.

What about disabled trolls?:suspect:

pavlo1969

29-04-2007, 20:25

i think you misread my post. i did not mention anything about failing , i am aware its not the group and it is only a thread.

sorry you thought id misread your post, you misread mine, i was talking generally how your post will have already helped someone before the group has started.

i think its a case of cross wires, everything i said was good, probably could have put it better, sorry!

Dozy

29-04-2007, 21:56

What about disabled trolls?:suspect:

I, for one, would be delighted to disable any troll I came across.

Dozy

purdyamos

29-04-2007, 22:30

I, for one, would be delighted to disable any troll I came across.

Dozy

:clap: :clap:

Pooch_1

29-04-2007, 23:12

What about disabled trolls?:suspect:

There will be no trolls, if there are, then they will be disabled Pronto .. End Of :)

andco

30-04-2007, 04:05

My sister-in-law receives care for 2 hours a day every day, and has to pay half towards the cost. Pretty disgusting when you read the councils care charter.

Ther council's care charter is something of a misnomer which their staff forgot to read.

Pooch_1

30-04-2007, 07:23

Ther council's care charter is something of a misnomer which their staff forgot to read.

You can certainly say that again, I doubt if they even know about it :hihi:

andco

30-04-2007, 08:35

You can certainly say that again, I doubt if they even know about it :hihi:

I was just trying to be polite :) however on reflection I think they get given a 10-day induction course to ensure council staff dont implement it for cost-saving purposes or is that too cynical

Jan39

30-04-2007, 10:06

Pooch_1

30-04-2007, 11:48

I think this is a brilliant idea, I cared for my Son for over 15 years, and Dialised him at home for 4 of those years,as he needs got progressively worse, I couldn't spare the time to attend carer's groups, unfortunately he died three years ago, he would have loved this forum, and I'm sure I would have benefited from such a forum.

I am sorry to learn about your son Jan, my deepest sympathy to you and yours. There is nothing stopping you from being a part of this group, I am sure that your experiences would be of help to others in a similar situation. Please feel free to visit us when the group is up and running :)

JayneRay

30-04-2007, 14:53

I think it is a great idea as a carer I would welcome this.

Pooch_1

30-04-2007, 15:22

I think it is a great idea as a career I would welcome this.

Hi ourjs, watch this space for the opening of the group, and you will be more than welcome to join us :)

PCInfield

01-05-2007, 11:02

Sorry I'm late picking up on this thread.I've cared for my mother for 19 years,count me in.

Pooch_1

01-05-2007, 11:30

Sorry I'm late picking up on this thread.I've cared for my mother for 19 years,count me in.

Hi,
No problem, please keep an eye on this space for the opening of the group.
I hope that it will be of benefit to you. :)

Pooch_1

05-05-2007, 13:36

I was just trying to be polite :) however on reflection I think they get given a 10-day induction course to ensure council staff dont implement it for cost-saving purposes or is that too cynical

Sorry about the delay answering this one andco ........ No you are quite right actually, I made a web site for a day hospital I worked at, and put loads of information on it about what carers were entitled to from the council and social services, I was asked to remove it by our resident social worker, on the grounds that there was no funding available. I told the SW that, that was their problem, and not mine, and that the article was staying on the website. I couldn't see the point of having the website if information was going to be witheld.

andco

06-05-2007, 05:57

Sorry about the delay answering this one andco ........ No you are quite right actually, I made a web site for a day hospital I worked at, and put loads of information on it about what carers were entitled to from the council and social services, I was asked to remove it by our resident social worker, on the grounds that there was no funding available. I told the SW that, that was their problem, and not mine, and that the article was staying on the website. I couldn't see the point of having the website if information was going to be witheld.

Hiya pooch_1 - So why doesnt that surprise me? :P Perhaps we could have a link to your article so that people on here who are carers or support workers can have access to this information as well.

Pooch_1

06-05-2007, 06:05

Hiya pooch_1 - So why doesnt that surprise me? :P Perhaps we could have a link to your article so that people on here who are carers or support workers can have access to this information as well.

Once the group is up, all the links and articles will be available. :)

rjperrelli

06-05-2007, 14:24

It think it is a great idea and would like to be part of it.

Pooch_1

06-05-2007, 14:39

It think it is a great idea and would like to be part of it.

Hi. Keep an eye on this space for when the group opens rjperelli, you will be more than welcome to become a part of the group. :)

Pooch_1

11-05-2007, 09:47

:wave: Hello :wave: Any newcomers to SF/people who missed this thread previously who would be interested in this group, please add your comments. :) :thumbsup:

BrainThrust

11-05-2007, 09:53

I think this is an amzing idea. count me in.

Wilf

Disabled Students Officer,

Manchester Metropolitan Students' Union

medusa

11-05-2007, 10:03

I have had an amazing 12 people volunteer for the role of GL for this group so far, and have strongly recommended this group to Geoff as being one with a really great potential for local support.

There may well be a delay whilst setting up of the group comes up the 'to do' list, but I'd lay odds that it will happen with the level of support that has been shown.

Pooch_1

11-05-2007, 10:57

willygab

11-05-2007, 12:23

Its got to go ahead there is loads of support for this fingers crossed

Rich

11-05-2007, 13:07

haystack

22-05-2007, 22:16

A support forum seems a good idea... getting information easily when you want it is difficult. Knowing how to get a service and how to get the right support can make a world of difference to a carer. Let's go for it.

Dozy

22-05-2007, 22:29

Pooch_1

22-05-2007, 23:14

Maybe once it's set up, we could have "group nags" where we inundate people like First Buses with complains about the way they treat people in wheelchairs.

http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=218246

We might be able to get the beggers to improve the service.

Dozy

Would be a good idea to liase with other disability groups as well when this one gets up and running, and do a lobby of the transport people en masse, and arrange for calendar and the star to be there as well.

Plain Talker

23-05-2007, 08:06

there is already, a disability group, locally, whose focus is transport, and access to transport.

I'm part of that group, and we liaise closely with transport providers, such as bus companies, the Supertram, and the train station, occasionally a representative from the local taxi association attends. We have support from the City Council and the PTE (Passenger Transport Executive).

checknumber

23-05-2007, 09:03

its a marvelous idea , would help a lot of people who are to shy to come forward and claim whats theres by right

Jeerumba

23-05-2007, 12:29

I would also be interested in joining. I work as a disability adviser at a University (not in Sheffield although I live in Sheffield and have contacts in both universities' disability teams). I'm also involved with DASS (Deaf Advice Service Sheffield).
Hopefully I would be able to give useful advice on education and support for deaf people in Sheffield.

hennypenny

23-05-2007, 15:36

medusa

23-05-2007, 16:01

Please can I make a comment to everyone contributing to threads asking about possible interest groups on the forum?

None of the groups need you to join as a member (with the exception of the writers group as the stories are affected by copyright issues)- they are open access to all forum users and you can contribute to the discussion threads as and when you feel it appropriate to do so.

This thread (and similar ones about possible photography and musicians groups) is only to gauge support before the group is set up.

Rich

23-05-2007, 16:16

its a marvelous idea , would help a lot of people who are to shy to come forward and claim whats theres by right

And even if you do stand up and be counted, there's still the matter of the fact that in many cases the forms might as well be in Chinese for all you can understand them :loopy:

I speak from experience there.

Adam8

23-05-2007, 16:21

I was very disapointed - she did not seem to have any understanding of Chronic fatigue or ME and kept making references to it as a mental health problem rather than a physical problem. We didn't get my invalidity benefit form filled in and I felt like something scraped off her shoe by the end of the session :(

It is wonderful that advice centres are manned by volunteers, but there should be some sort of check that they are up to date, ME has been accepted by the WHO as a valid medical condition and no longer has any of the stigma it used to have attached to it, but obviously not in this lady's eyes.

Clearly, hennypenny's experience at the advice centre was unsatisfactory - no one should leave such a centre feeling bad. But in my experience, people with CFS/ME take a highly ideological line about the condition and stereotype anyone with a different opnion as being hostile or lacking understanding. The WHO classification of diseases is actually quite complicated and elements of CFS/ME are classified as both neurological and psychological conditions. So I think that saying that ME "has been accepted by the WHO as a valid medical condition" isn't very helpful really. Is hennypenny suggesting that psychological or psychiatric conditions are somehow invalid?

For an interesting discussion, see: http://www.spiked-online.com/Articles/00000002D3B6.htm

katkin100

23-05-2007, 16:51

hennypenny

23-05-2007, 17:24

Clearly, hennypenny's experience at the advice centre was unsatisfactory - no one should leave such a centre feeling bad. But in my experience, people with CFS/ME take a highly ideological line about the condition and stereotype anyone with a different opnion as being hostile or lacking understanding. The WHO classification of diseases is actually quite complicated and elements of CFS/ME are classified as both neurological and psychological conditions. So I think that saying that ME "has been accepted by the WHO as a valid medical condition" isn't very helpful really. Is hennypenny suggesting that psychological or psychiatric conditions are somehow invalid?

Hi Adam

You talk about stereotyping, and yet stereotype everyone with ME in the same sentence:huh:

The WHO classification is unusual in that it is in two different classications, post viral fatigue leading to Chronic fatigue or ME is classified in section G93, other disorders of the brain, and also CFS (neurasthenia) is classified under section F48.8 other specified non psychotic mental disorders. I would say both of these are valid medical conditions, wouldn't you? I know that there has been a lot of blurring between the two, but in my case I have been diagnosed with the post viral fatigue, with the viruses responsible being identified.

Of course I am not saying that psychological or psychiatric conditions are invalid, what I am saying is that I am well dischuffed at someone taking my neurological disorder and grilling me about depression, or implying that I am in some way trying to get a benefit when not "really" ill! I do assure you and her, that if I could continue with my job, which I love, I certainly would do so!

happyhippy

23-05-2007, 18:42

i'm visually impaired so I'd definitely be interested in a disability group on this forum.

Hennypenny - don't give up, you are definitely entitled to apply for DLA and IB. Perhaps their is an organisation dedicated to ME/CFS who could offer you advice on how to fill in the forms? You could also try visiting the BBC disability website, www.bbc.co.uk/ouch. There is a message board on there and I know there are other people with CFS and fibromyalgia who post there.

Some advice I would offer about filling in the forms is to think about the days when you are most ill and how that effects you. Perhpas when you are having a bad day make a note of how you are feeling and what problems you encounter so that when you are feeling better and ready to fill in the form you can refer to these to remind yourself. It might also be good idea to fill in the form with the help of a friend or relative who knows you and your disability well, a problem shared is a problem halved and they might think of things you haven't though of. It's also a good idea to make a photocopy of the form when its completed and keep it, this makes it a lot easier if you have to fill it in again in the future.

Bits of good, and (I'd say) not so good advice there. Firstly, hennypenny, you are entitled to send in the forms, but not neccessarily entitled to the benefits. I know that sounds astonishingly patronising, but sometimes the difference gets blurred.

As far as Incapacity Benefit (or Income Support, if you don't have enough NI contributions in the last two years) is concerned, for the first 26 weeks, all you need to back up the original claim form are sick notes. After that period, you'll be sent a 'review' form; an IB50 (is this the one you took to the advice centre?). This is much more specific, and you need to describe your day-to-day life.

Remember this benefit is about being unable to work, not having a disability.

As for DLA, to the uninitiated, it's a cow to complete, but a good point made by katkin is to think of 'bad' days. They're the important ones. What's the point in saying that you can do things, when often, you can't?

DO NOT get a friend or relative to fill in bits, ESPECIALLY the parts which say "Statement from someone who knows you well"; always get a GP or consultant, or some medic to do them. Get a relative or friend's help, of course, just don't let them fill in parts. The reason is that a decision maker will always take medical evidence (you may get a visit from a doctor before a decision is made about entitlement to DLA) over that of a friend, or relative, no matter how well meaning. It's the biggest mistake people make when completing DLA/Attendance Allowance forms.

Writing a few notes as a reminders, and getting a photocopy are both very good bits of advice. Maybe try another advice centre, as if you need further help, such as appeals or tribunals, they'll know much more about you.

Good luck!

green-veggie

23-05-2007, 20:13

Joining this thread very late. Just wanted to say I think it's a great, nay a brilliant idea!!!

I am a carer of my 4 year old daughter who has Cerebral Palsy and I too am severely disabled. I've been in a wheelchair for almost 25 years. My disability has deteriorated considerably and I can hardly move. i get more or less 24 hours care at home with Direct Payments and the ILF (Independent Living Fund) .

I'm usually upbeat about my disability and have been involved in disability work - like rights, peer support or campaigning - since I was a teen. Now at 42 I'm pretty low and have depression too. I'm finding it all very hard.

But my passion is disability equality. I also understand how hard it is to be a primary carer. It breaks my heart to think my daughter may go through some of the hard times I've gone through.

I would love to be part of an online group that supports each other.

Pooch_1

23-05-2007, 20:43

Here Are some useful documents to download, for Incapacity Benefit and DLA. I was saving these until the group was up and running, but it seems that they are needed now.

Incapacity for work and mental health (http://www.bhas.org.uk/freeguides/incapacityforwork.pdf)
A guide to the personal capability assessment

Claiming Disability Living Allowance (http://www.bhas.org.uk/freeguides/dla-adults-mentalgrounds.pdf)
A guide for adults experiencing mental health problems: Last updated: April 2007

Claiming DisabilityLiving Allowance (http://www.bhas.org.uk/freeguides/dla-adults-physicalgrounds.pdf)
On physical grounds for adults: Last updated: April 2007

Claiming Disability Living Allowance (http://www.bhas.org.uk/freeguides/dla-child-physicalgrounds.pdf)
On physical grounds for children under 16: Last updated: April 2007

Claiming Disability Living Allowance (http://www.bhas.org.uk/freeguides/dla-child-mentalgrounds.pdf)
On mental health grounds for children under 16: Last updated: April 2007

NOTE: If you use any information from these documents, please put into your own words, do not copy word for word as Dr's and DWP use these documents, and they will realise that they have been copied, and this could adversely affect your claim.

Pooch_1

23-05-2007, 20:47

duckweed

23-05-2007, 21:36

Pooch_1

23-05-2007, 22:15

Pooch_1

23-05-2007, 23:30

I have the problem that though I am sufficiently disabled to have the mobility component I am not part of the 'disabled community'. I don't see my doctor often. Haven't seen a social worker for years. I care for 3 children and look after the home with my husband. He doesn't like to be termed carer. So we miss out on any info, changes in law etc.. Maybe people could reccomend places with good access, holidays they've enjoyed etc. It's not my carer that needs respite care its me that needs a respite.

Accessible Holidays and Destinations for the Disabled. (http://www.apparelyzed.com/wheelchair-traveller.html)

Choice Care Services (http://www.choicecareservices.co.uk/activityholiday.htm)

Caravan Site Finder (http://www.caravan-sitefinder.co.uk/features/disabled/)

Travel, Holidays and Breaks Contacts. (http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Dl1/Directories/UsefulContactsByCategory/DisabledPeopleContacts/OrganisationsAndCharities/DG_10014894)

Visit Britain (http://www.visitbritain.com/VB3-en-gb/default.aspx)

Carewell Holidays (http://www.carewellholidays.co.uk/)

Travel Quest (http://www.travel-quest.co.uk/tqdisability.htm)

Disability Travel (http://www.reiswijs.co.uk/specialists/pwd/pwd.html)

Young Disabled on Holiday (http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/26739638/)

Disability Now (http://www.disabilitynow.org.uk/living/travel/index.htm)

Holidays For All (http://www.holidaysforall.org.uk/)

Just Click on the links for Info ............
Cheers.

andco

28-05-2007, 23:06

exmrbd

29-05-2007, 05:39

its a marvelous idea , would help a lot of people who are to shy to come forward and claim whats theres by right

Great Idea:thumbsup: I look after a 91 year old granny

tricia888

29-05-2007, 07:49

After being encouraged to on here I finally went to see an advice worker today. I was very disapointed - she did not seem to have any understanding of Chronic fatigue or ME and kept making references to it as a mental health problem rather than a physical problem. We didn't get my invalidity benefit form filled in and I felt like something scraped off her shoe by the end of the session :(

It is wonderful that advice centres are manned by volunteers, but there should be some sort of check that they are up to date, ME has been accepted by the WHO as a valid medical condition and no longer has any of the stigma it used to have attached to it, but obviously not in this lady's eyes.

Hello hennypenny, I am sorry that you were treated in the this way.

I have Parkinsons disease. I do not have the tremor(shaking) I have the rigidity.This means that on a good day I show no physical symptoms.Therefore I found it extremely difficult to get my Disability living allowance.

I tried to claim twice and a doctor came to my home to assess me. She had a copy of the form which I had sent in. After asking me to climb the stairs 3 times and then looking into my eyes and then asking me if I was capable of making myself a sandwich she left. She never gave me chance to tell her that I can only make it to the loo in the night by crawling on my hands and knees and that if I stand too long I feel that I will fall and panic.
Eventually I tried again by this time my condition had got worse. This time no doctor called but I did have a phone call from the DLA asking me why I crawled to the loo in the night and not in the day.I told them to please phone my consultant at the hospital. I now receive what I claimed for.

Parkinsons Disease is a brain disorder( lack of Dopamine produced by the brain cells to carry movement orders from the brain to muscles) and it is most associated with the elderly.I was 38 when I started with it and I believe it is getting more common in younger adults. There is no cure but the research is being carried out continuously.

The claim forms are very difficult to fill in by yourself so if anyone out there needs any friendly advice please PM me

Each disabled person requires different things to make their lives easier.

Plain Talker

29-05-2007, 08:40

Adam, Hennypenny, I've just recieved my copy of this month's Disability Now magazine, and in it, there's an interesting article about ME/ CFS, and the long-needed reclassification of ME as a PHYSICAL illness, not Psychological.

Too many doctors still believe that ME/CFS is a psychiatric condition, when the fact is, it's a physical condition, which can have psychological effects, as can any long-term conditions which create stress to live with.

hennypenny

29-05-2007, 10:06

Hi PT

That sounds interesting. Have they actually reclassified CFS yet, or are they simply discussing the need to do so?

Plain Talker

29-05-2007, 16:09

duckweed

29-05-2007, 16:13

Hi Henny Penny I have chronic M.E. I have extra symptoms due to damage caused by the drugs they gave me because they refused to recognise it was not a psychiatric disorder. You need a sympathetic G.P. A good GP can get you contact with sympathetic helpers.

hennypenny

29-05-2007, 16:21

hennypenny

29-05-2007, 16:22

apparently, henny, there is a new definition, (this is what I am led to believe from this article) which comes from work by expert Dr Byron Hyde, at the Nightingale Research foundation, in canada.

He's separated ME from CFS, in his classifcation and is defining ME as a Brain Injury.

I'm a bit annoyed, as the article is in Disability Now, and DN normally has articles which are accessible via the net, but :rant: not in this case. :roll: had it been, I could have posted the linky.

PT

Thanks for that PT :)

It is interesting that he has separated CFS and ME, as everything I have read seems to be putting them together as different names for the same thing.

I think I might have to go and buy a copy of Disability Now!

Rich

29-05-2007, 16:30

Plain Talker

29-05-2007, 16:46

you aren't dragging the thread away, Rich,

The thing is most GPs tend to specialise in only one, maybe two areas outside general practice needs.

So, a doctor might have an interest in children (Paediatrics) or older people (geriatrics), or perhaps women and family planning, or even minor surgical procedures... but not in conditions like Learning disabilities, or conditions like Autism or Aspergers. They certainly would not be able to specialise in every area, so they specialise in interest areas. They have a broad spectrum, generally, (sort of an "overview") and then more, and deeper learning, in the area they specialise in. You cannot be intensive about every subject, unfortunately.

tricia888

29-05-2007, 16:57

Kashul

29-05-2007, 20:38

Guys, do anyone of you know anything about adjustable beds ? I want to get one for mum but dont know much about them....Any advice would be appreciated.

dkhank

29-05-2007, 22:53

YES I AM! I have lupus and fibromyalgia - both are a disability! so yes I am all for it.

Pooch_1

29-05-2007, 23:56

Guys, do anyone of you know anything about adjustable beds ? I want to get one for mum but dont know much about them....Any advice would be appreciated.

Hi Kashul, here are a few links you can click on to find information and pricing for Electric/Automatic beds. These links will help you to decide which bed is best for your mum.

Help My Mobility (http://www.help-my-mobility.co.uk/index.asp?Page=Adjustable%20Beds&OVRAW=Adjustable%20Beds&OVKEY=adjustable%20bed&OVMTC=standard) Dolphin Lifts (http://www.dolphinlifts.co.uk/beds.html) Adjustomatic (http://www.adjustamatic.co.uk/) Co-op Bed Shop (http://www.coopbedshop.co.uk/products/ProductList.asp?groupCode=ELEBED&topGroupCode=ELECTR&qtype=2) Laybrook (http://www.laybrook.com/?gclid=CMmYmtrHtIwCFQJLQwodNB-cRw) HSL Chairs (http://www.hslchairs.com/style4.asp?model=Beds&page=beds1.asp&DCSJumpGUID=FEWS2_DCS_Jump_42c73ea8-0d3f-4591-9335-fc78a771dcb5&_$ja=tsid:413|ckid:FEWS2_DCS_Jump_42c73ea8-0d3f-4591-9335-fc78a771dcb5)

Good Luck in finding the right one for your mum. :)

happyhippy

29-05-2007, 23:57

Guys, do anyone of you know anything about adjustable beds ? I want to get one for mum but dont know much about them....Any advice would be appreciated.

Depends on her age and problems. Are you wanting help with the cost of one?

Pooch_1

29-05-2007, 23:58

YES I AM! I have lupus and fibromyalgia - both are a disability! so yes I am all for it.

Hi dkhank, welcome to the group, please keep an eye on this thread for when we move to our own disability/carers thread within SF. :)

Pooch_1

30-05-2007, 00:06

happyhippy

30-05-2007, 00:11

My GP Doctor Ledingham is good, but as good as he is he admits that he knows almost nothing about autism and/or aspergers.

This seems to be a recurring thing though, that aside from specially train pyschologists etc, the normal every day Doctors don't know about this kind of thing.. Is it the fault of the teaching Colleges? Or the fault of the Government for not making it widely known about? Or is it perhaps a bit of both?

Apologies for dragging the topic away from PT and Henny's discussions.

It's far from dragging the topic away mate. As you well know(!), the nature of autism, Asberger's Syndrome, etc., is difficult for a lot of people to understand. The same goes for GP's, who, while knowing you as a patient, can't assess you on a regular basis, or keep tabs on how you're doing.

As I see it, the REAL problem is that trained staff can't be on hand, which is frustrating, for a GP almost as much as you. GP's know about stuff like Asberger's Syndrome, but there's little a GP can do; there are other groups you can talk to, but there's always here too!

That's why a safe sounding board is important.

Kashul

30-05-2007, 07:06

Thanks guys, Had a good look around those sites and found one on another site at an amazing price, plus we get the VAT back !!! Cool !!

Now she will be comfy bless her xxx

hennypenny

30-05-2007, 09:10

Hi hennypenny, you may find this site (http://www.cfs-me.co.uk/index.htm) of interest to you. It is hosted by Dr David Mason Brown, a specialist in ME.

Thanks Pooch :)

That looks really interesting, I have bookmarked it for when the brain fog reduces enough for me to make sense of it.

barnsleybroker

30-05-2007, 09:16

Hi Duckweed

Sorry to hear you have had problems :(

My GP is actually very good, and diagnosed Fibromyalgia and Chronic fatigue straight away, then sent me to the rheumatology department where I got a formal diagnosis. They have also sent me to the CFS clinic at Fairlawns, who are very good. I think that was why the attitude of the advice worker took me aback so much, I thought it was now generally accepted as a phsyiological condition by the majority of professionals. She did say she hadn't been in contact with anyone with ME for a few years, so I think she was just out of date.

A woman in Brighton died last year, and the coroner gave the cause of death as M.E., which bolsters the case for it being classified as a physiological condition. Unfortunately, there are still many medical professionals who want to class it as a psychological condition. I suspect that this is in no small part due to their feelings of impotence in the face of M.E.
They still don't know what causes it, still have no reliable treatment, and they consider themselves to be the experts. So it must feel more comfortable and convenient to label it a psychological condition.
People still (sadly) need to keep pointing out the evidence for it being a physiological condition.

Plain Talker

30-05-2007, 09:48

A woman in Brighton died last year, and the coroner gave the cause of death as M.E., which bolsters the case for it being classified as a physiological condition. Unfortunately, there are still many medical professionals who want to class it as a psychological condition. I suspect that this is in no small part due to their feelings of impotence in the face of M.E.
They still don't know what causes it, still have no reliable treatment, and they consider themselves to be the experts. So it must feel more comfortable and convenient to label it a psychological condition.
People still (sadly) need to keep pointing out the evidence for it being a physiological condition.

that is a very interesting comment, BB...

I have a friend who has had ME for longer than I have, and I've been ill with it for 14 yrs. She is absolutely convinced that there is a genetic component to ME, where certain folk are more susceptible to contracting it.

(I personally believe it's a combination, of that, plus environmental links, too)

This friend's mother had ME, and the friend fought, unsuccessfully to have ME listed on her mothers death certificate, as at least a contributory cause of death, if not the main cause. (this was a few years ago, when ME was barely recognised at all)

barnsleybroker

30-05-2007, 09:56

Found the link the Brighton story here http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/5112050.stm

Pooch_1

30-05-2007, 10:54

Thanks guys, Had a good look around those sites and found one on another site at an amazing price, plus we get the VAT back !!! Cool !!

Now she will be comfy bless her xxx

Glad you got sorted out, thanks for the feedback. :)

Pooch_1

30-05-2007, 10:55

Thanks Pooch :)

That looks really interesting, I have bookmarked it for when the brain fog reduces enough for me to make sense of it.

You are very welcome, thanks for the feedback. :)

Pooch_1

30-05-2007, 10:58

Found the link the Brighton story here http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/5112050.stm

Hi BB, where ya been?

duckweed

04-06-2007, 13:16

I spoke to the doctor in the Royal Free who originally recognised M.E. He felt there was definitely a genetic component. He felt it was an auto immune response gone haywire caused by a coxsackie virus. It can't be only genetic because although I have heard of families having it, it generally only hits one person. My M.E developed when I lived in Glasgow but my family weren't there so I can't say whether others would have been susceptible. There were several hundred people in the area who got M.E at the time. Anyway this doctor said that if you had asthma, rheumatism, eczema or other allergic illnesses in the family it made you susceptible. A few people I've known have died of M.E, usually heart problems. Thankfully its quite rare.

Pooch_1

04-06-2007, 15:16

duckweed

04-06-2007, 20:36

Hiya duckweed, thanks for the feedback, and yes, thankfully the heart problem with ME is rare.

Did you get chance to check out the holiday sites I posted for you here?
http://www.sheffieldforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=209544&page=6

If so, could you let me know if any were any good for you? Thanks.

I did but nothing really like I had in mind. I would just like a quiet time with no meals to worry about. Trouble is we can only afford self-catering holidays and my husband only knows two meals beside microwaving ready meals. I went away on my own to York for a couple of days once and the peace was lovely but it was very tiring and I had to use taxis a lot as I couldn't take my electric scooter.

Pooch_1

05-06-2007, 15:00

hennypenny

06-06-2007, 06:44

I did but nothing really like I had in mind. I would just like a quiet time with no meals to worry about. Trouble is we can only afford self-catering holidays and my husband only knows two meals beside microwaving ready meals. I went away on my own to York for a couple of days once and the peace was lovely but it was very tiring and I had to use taxis a lot as I couldn't take my electric scooter.

Hi Duckweed,
Haven caravan sites usually have a caravan which has been made disability friendly, and the prices are not too bad off peak. (Or collect the Sun vouchers for a very cheap hol :)) I know the holiday centre entertainment may not be to everyones taste, but it is possible to have a holiday there without visiting the entertainment. The centres usually have a choice of cafes at reasonable prices for when you don't feel like cooking.

I have been on these sites with disabled friends and have found them very accomodating, eg, setting up an electric point for my friend to recharge her electric scooter etc.

It is unfair how much more expensive it is for disabled people to have a holiday. We go to a home educators festival every year, camping on a big site, and last year my friend and her family came with us. She and her son both need electric scooters. Community transport to the site alone cost her more than our entire holiday :(

duckweed

06-06-2007, 09:51

Pooch_1

06-06-2007, 13:19

Thanks I might consider the Blackpool option. I have a niece that goes there a lot and enjoys it. I went to University not that far away. On a clear day we could see the tower. Caravan sites are generally self catering. I've been on a couple but I got very tired. I have had one or two good family holidays but without meals and good access they tire me out.

I know what you mean duckweed, you end up needing a holiday to get over the holiday. I hope Blackpool is for you, but as hennypenny says, haven do provide caravans for people with disabilities, and they have quite a few sites dotted around the country.

willygab

08-06-2007, 12:12

i have been prescribed MST was just wondering if anyone knows side effects and how long it takes to work
thanks for reading.

Pooch_1

10-06-2007, 18:07

i have been prescribed MST was just wondering if anyone knows side effects and how long it takes to work
thanks for reading.

Hi willygab, The best person to ask abot side effects would be your Doctor, or, pharmacist.

andco

11-06-2007, 20:43

have you tried googling Autism/Aspergers? There are simply loads of websites out there.

willygab

11-06-2007, 20:51

Hi willygab, The best person to ask abot side effects would be your Doctor, or, pharmacist.

hi yes i know it is but i would have liked someone who has had first hand experiance of them.
but thaks all the same.

Pooch_1

12-06-2007, 10:42

hi yes i know it is but i would have liked someone who has had first hand experiance of them.
but thaks all the same.

Hi willygab, While I appreciate what you would have liked, medication affects people differently, whilst it may be good and effective for some, it may have the opposite effect on others. I can list side effects here, of which, you may get all or none of them. It is always best to discuss treatments and medications with your professional healthcare provider, as they know your medical history.

Jeerumba

12-06-2007, 12:30

Sorry if I'm being thick - but what is MST?

willygab

12-06-2007, 12:31

hi its morphine

Jeerumba

12-06-2007, 12:34

Ah - thanks! Can't really help you with that one...

pavlo1969

22-06-2007, 00:58

i have been prescribed MST was just wondering if anyone knows side effects and how long it takes to work
thanks for reading.

Everyone is differant, but i find it works very quick, its ok. Side effects i find when it wears of is dizzy spells and when i get up i feel sick.

hope it helps.

pavlo1969

22-06-2007, 01:01

Can anyone help?

Who is the best person to go to about shops, supermarkets ect....when they are not wheelchair user friendly?

Pooch_1

22-06-2007, 02:10

Can anyone help?

Who is the best person to go to about shops, supermarkets ect....when they are not wheelchair user friendly?

Hiya pavlo, you may find this website of interest to you Welcome to The United Kingdom's Disabled People's Council (UKDPC) (http://www.bcodp.org.uk/)

Pooch_1

22-06-2007, 02:35

Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (c. 50)
1995 Chapter 50 - continued

21. - (1) Where a provider of services has a practice, policy or procedure which makes it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled persons to make use of a service which he provides, or is prepared to provide, to other members of the public, it is his duty to take such steps as it is reasonable, in all the circumstances of the case, for him to have to take in order to change that practice, policy or procedure so that it no longer has that effect.

(2) Where a physical feature (for example, one arising from the design or construction of a building or the approach or access to premises) makes it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled persons to make use of such a service, it is the duty of the provider of that service to take such steps as it is reasonable, in all the circumstances of the case, for him to have to take in order to-

(a) remove the feature;
(b) alter it so that it no longer has that effect;
(c) provide a reasonable means of avoiding the feature; or
(d) provide a reasonable alternative method of making the service in question available to disabled persons.
(3) Regulations may prescribe-

(a) matters which are to be taken into account in determining whether any provision of a kind mentioned in subsection (2)(c) or (d) is reasonable; and
(b) categories of providers of services to whom subsection (2) does not apply.
(4) Where an auxiliary aid or service (for example, the provision of information on audio tape or of a sign language interpreter) would-

(a) enable disabled persons to make use of a service which a provider of services provides, or is prepared to provide, to members of the public, or
(b) facilitate the use by disabled persons of such a service,
it is the duty of the provider of that service to take such steps as it is reasonable, in all the circumstances of the case, for him to have to take in order to provide that auxiliary aid or service.
(5) Regulations may make provision, for the purposes of this section-

(a) as to circumstances in which it is reasonable for a provider of services to have to take steps of a prescribed description;
(b) as to circumstances in which it is not reasonable for a provider of services to have to take steps of a prescribed description;
(c) as to what is to be included within the meaning of "practice, policy or procedure";
(d) as to what is not to be included within the meaning of that expression;
(e) as to things which are to be treated as physical features;
(f) as to things which are not to be treated as such features;
(g) as to things which are to be treated as auxiliary aids or services;
(h) as to things which are not to be treated as auxiliary aids or services.
(6) Nothing in this section requires a provider of services to take any steps which would fundamentally alter the nature of the service in question or the nature of his trade, profession or business.

(7) Nothing in this section requires a provider of services to take any steps which would cause him to incur expenditure exceeding the prescribed maximum.

(8) Regulations under subsection (7) may provide for the prescribed maximum to be calculated by reference to-

(a) aggregate amounts of expenditure incurred in relation to different cases;
(b) prescribed periods;
(c) services of a prescribed description;
(d) premises of a prescribed description; or
(e) such other criteria as may be prescribed.
(9) Regulations may provide, for the purposes of subsection (7), for expenditure incurred by one provider of services to be treated as incurred by another.

(10) This section imposes duties only for the purpose of determining whether a provider of services has discriminated against a disabled person; and accordingly a breach of any such duty is not actionable as such.

Source HERE (http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1995/95050--c.htm#19)

happyhippy

22-06-2007, 02:54

Can anyone help?

Who is the best person to go to about shops, supermarkets ect....when they are not wheelchair user friendly?

There's provision under the Disability Discrimination Act, but it has to be 'reasonable'.

That can be interpreted in a myriad of ways. Have you a specific instance, not mentioning any premises directly, of course?

willygab

22-06-2007, 07:13

Everyone is differant, but i find it works very quick, its ok. Side effects i find when it wears of is dizzy spells and when i get up i feel sick.

hope it helps.

thank you for your reply

pavlo1969

22-06-2007, 17:55

There's provision under the Disability Discrimination Act, but it has to be 'reasonable'.

That can be interpreted in a myriad of ways. Have you a specific instance, not mentioning any premises directly, of course?

Got a few!

1, in a certain supermarket, when a checkout is shut they put an alarmed barrier halfway across, so when you squeeze through the open one you set the alarm of, which is the last thing you need when there is enough people staring at you.

2, Same sort of thing in 2 other supermarkets. They put displays or stock in the middle of the isles that you cannot get through or you can but you take your knuckles of. Also i was in the supermarket the other day and i could not get down the isle because stock they were filling shelves with was in the way. When i approached a member of staff and told him, he replied (with a bad attitude) "what do you want me to do with them"

Pooch_1

22-06-2007, 18:13

Got a few!

1, in a certain supermarket, when a checkout is shut they put an alarmed barrier halfway across, so when you squeeze through the open one you set the alarm of, which is the last thing you need when there is enough people staring at you.

2, Same sort of thing in 2 other supermarkets. They put displays or stock in the middle of the isles that you cannot get through or you can but you take your knuckles of. Also i was in the supermarket the other day and i could not get down the isle because stock they were filling shelves with was in the way. When i approached a member of staff and told him, he replied (with a bad attitude) "what do you want me to do with them"

Hi pavlo, If the store is stocking their shelves, then unfortunately there is not a lot you can do about that. It is an inconvenience I know, but you can always turn round and go up another aisle to where you want to be, but if an item you require is near where the stock is in the center of the aisle, get a staff member to get the item for you.

Where they make a display in an aisle, making it difficult or impossible to get past, ask to see the store manager, and explain your difficulties at getting past these displays. If you get no satisfaction, then contact their head office, as these in store displays are normally planned by someone at head office, who have no clue about disability awareness. A friend of mine who uses an electric wheelchair, used to run into these displays and demolish them, the store he uses soon got the message. ( I am not advising you to do this though). Have a word with the store manager, Good Luck.

Douglas J

22-06-2007, 18:49

Can anyone help?

Who is the best person to go to about shops, supermarkets ect....when they are not wheelchair user friendly?

Me, I suppose!

OK - I'm not promising to be "the best", but my job at the Law Centre is to do cases under the Goods & Services bit of the DDA. Give me a ring next week if you want (273 1888 ) - or PM me if you can't.

Plain Talker

22-06-2007, 20:10

Got a few!

Snippitty

When i approached a member of staff and told him, he replied (with a bad attitude) "what do you want me to do with them"

... I don't think you'd have got them to fit! ;) ;) :wink: :lol:

I tend to overestimate the amount of space I have if aisles are blocked, and tend to take stock with me as I try to get past.

I have to admit, if stuff does fall over, I shrug, I say "Whoops, sorry!" and think "Well, if they'd have given a bit of thought to access, that would not have happened!" :wink:

Bonny

22-06-2007, 22:52

Pooch_1

23-06-2007, 00:11

... I don't think you'd have got them to fit! ;) ;) :wink: :lol:

I tend to overestimate the amount of space I have if aisles are blocked, and tend to take stock with me as I try to get past.

I have to admit, if stuff does fall over, I shrug, I say "Whoops, sorry!" and think "Well, if they'd have given a bit of thought to access, that would not have happened!" :wink:

:hihi::hihi: Sounds like you know my friend PT :hihi::hihi:

Pooch_1

23-06-2007, 00:22

Supermarkets can be a right nightmare, but I've usually found the staff to be really helpful when asked. What bugs me is when they have crates/boxes of food or whatever on the floor (on display, not shelf stacking) meaning it's impossible to get near enough to the shelf or display to reach the stock. Also, stock so high up it can't be reached.

Have you ever parked in the Debenhams car park at Meadowhell? The disabled and parent/toddler parking leads up to the few doors that don't open automatically and to make things worse there's two sets of doors close together. I've mentioned it a couple of times - as well as the lack of space between some of the clothes rails.

Another thing to watch out for in a lot of shops are those where they have long pointed metal rails with hardly any stock on them, they always push the stock to the back, leaving a difficult to see rail waiting to poke your eyes out. I've gone along pulling the stock to the front of the rail to make them more easily visible, only to have shop assistants push the stuff back again :confused:

Have a talk to this guy Bonny, he may be able to do something about the supermarket putting boxes in front of shelves, and maybe Debenhams as well. As for the access at Debenhams end, have you tried parking at Sainsbury's, lots of Disability parking there, automatic doors and electric scooter hire as well. The guy to contact is :-

Douglas J: OK - I'm not promising to be "the best", but my job at the Law Centre is to do cases under the Goods & Services bit of the DDA. Give me a ring next week if you want (273 1888 ) - or PM me if you can't.

happyhippy

23-06-2007, 03:02

Hi pavlo, If the store is stocking their shelves, then unfortunately there is not a lot you can do about that. It is an inconvenience I know, but you can always turn round and go up another aisle to where you want to be, but if an item you require is near where the stock is in the center of the aisle, get a staff member to get the item for you.

That's right. It's part of their normal working patterns, but staff should always help you.

Where they make a display in an aisle, making it difficult or impossible to get past, ask to see the store manager, and explain your difficulties at getting past these displays. If you get no satisfaction, then contact their head office, as these in store displays are normally planned by someone at head office, who have no clue about disability awareness. A friend of mine who uses an electric wheelchair, used to run into these displays and demolish them, the store he uses soon got the message. ( I am not advising you to do this though). Have a word with the store manager, Good Luck.

<fx: sniggers>

Direct action, as pointed out, is not always the best way forward, even if it is fun! To be more serious, the DDA in this instance is more to do with access and safe exits, than getting round a place, although if it's unsafe (such as pointy rails), I'd actually advise using H&S regs rather than DDA, if it got to a point where an action would be taken.

I agree that a quiet word to the manager from a valued customer would be appropriate.

duckweed

24-06-2007, 21:40

I have tried talking to managers about restricted access but to no effect. You would think it would make sense that the wider aisle was always open but in my experience it is very rarely open. Curries in Chesterfield road have continually blocked aisles despite my complaints. John Lewis toyshop has a step which makes it difficult to get in despite they having leaflets about service to disabled customers. Clothing shops are a nightmare as the rails make it impossible to manoevure round. If I had to complain about the shops with limited or no access I would spend all my time doing so. Maybe we can name and shame the worst shops and then ask the disability discrimination people to take it up.

Pooch_1

25-06-2007, 00:40