Contact us:Head Office: Enterprise House, Enterprise CityMeadowfield Avenue, SpennymoorCo Durham DL16 6JF

Telephone: 0300 005 1213 Text: 07860 017 632Email: admin@dccarers.org Web: www.dccarers.org www.facebook.co.uk/durhamcountycarerssupport @dccarers

Charity No: 1069278Company No: 3534933

Caring MattersYour local charitysupporting carers

February 2018

Kevan Jones, MP& Audrey Vasey, Chairman,at Carers Rights Day Event in Chester-le-Street See Page 3

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Telephone0191 338 5155to see how you can join our

caring workforce and be part

of a team that makes a real

difference to real lives in

your area

Rates of pay up to £7.30 an hour.Full training provided.

Are you(or have you ever been)a Civil Servant? Foryoubyyou are a charity that could help you when life doesn’t feel too good. Foryoubyyou might be able to help with a range of services including covering some of the costs associated with the care you give.

• Bereavement • Residential Care• Financial Problems • Dementia• Long term illness • Emergencies• Balancing work and careEmail: help@foryoubyyou.org.uk Tel: 0208 240 2400www.foryoubyyou.org.uk

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carersuk.org/rights

Looking after someone? Know your rights#CarersRightsDay

/carersuk@carersuk0808 808 7777

Thank you to all that attended one of our events. It was a very successful day in all venues around the County resulting in 20 new Carers registering with our service for support with well over 100 people attending.We held events in Newton Aycliffe, Bishop Auckland, Chester-le-Street, Barnard Castle, Seaham and Consett. Guest information stalls available were Citizens Advice Bureau, Age UK, Welfare Rights, Area Action Partnerships, Credit Unions, Foodbanks, ROAD Health & Wellbeing, local Solicitors, Monkey Money, Fire Brigade, Stroke Association, Alzheimers Society, CISWO, Health Trainers, LGBT project, Kinship Carers with local MPs and Councillors attending.

Friday 24th November 2017

Staff have since been busy dealing with issues raised by individual Carers and offering support to those who registered. Keep your eye open for future events!

Bishop Auckland Chester-le-Street

Newton Aycliffe

We are very happy to announce we have been successful in securing the contract to support Adult Carers across County Durham for the next 5 years. The funding is from Durham County Council, Durham Dales Sedgefield and Easington Clinical Commissioning Group and North Durham Clinical Commissioning Group. This will enable us to continue to identify and support Carers across the County

whilst working with the Local Authority and NHS to ensure the contribution and needs of Carers are recognised. We will also be continuing to fundraise and secure grant funding for specific projects and areas we have identified as needing extra support from our research and recent surveys. Watch this space for more news over the next few months.

Fantastic News!

This newsletter is produced 4 times a year and is sent to over 17,000 supporters. If you have any comments we would very much like to hear from you. If you would prefer to receive the newsletter by email or not to receive it at all please email, telephone or write to us using the details below.Freepost RTXA-HHGH-SAGE, Durham County Carers Support, Enterprise House, Enterprise City, Meadowfield Avenue, SPENNYMOOR DL16 6JF. Telephone: 0300 005 1213. Email: admin@dccarers.orgWebsite: www.dccarers.org Charity Number 1069278. Registered Number Company 3534933

Carers Rights Day

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Support Groups for Parent Carers in County Durham

Look out for information on more support groups in our next edition of Caring Matters!

Barnard Castle Parent Carer Group Now on the second Tuesday of every month, 10am-12noon at the One Point Hub in Barnard Castle, Shaw Bank, Staindrop Road, Barnard Castle, County Durham, DL12 8TD. Parents can contact Sara Carlton for enquiries on 01325 524606.

Pick N Mix Parent Carer Group Offers a helping hand to parents who care for children with a disability or additional needs. Last Friday of each month 10am-12noon (or last Friday of school term when school holidays) at Auckland Youth and Community Centre, 93 Walker Drive, Bishop Auckland DL14 6QL. Email address: picknmix2017@yahoo.com

Sunshine Group A support group for Parents and Carers with children who have additional needs. First Wednesday of every month, 9:30-11:30am at The Hut, Chestnut Grove, Ushaw Moor, DH7 7LJ. Donation of £2 per family. Children welcome and toys available. For information contact Claire Parker on 07496 926336.

First Friday of the month 10-11.30 am

Term Time only

Dawdon Community Centre, Queen Alexandra Rd, Seaham, SR7 7NH. Opportunity to meet and get support from other parents and share experiences. Free to attend. For more information contact Susan

Do you have a child with autism or going through the diagnostic

process and need some support?

Parent Support Consett Run by Gemma O’Heffe Second Monday of the month 10am-12noon, £2 entry Consett Cricket Club, Hope Street, Consett, DH8 5TS

Parent Support Peterlee Run by Clair Black Second Monday of the month 10am-12noon, £2 entry Oakerside Community Centre, Oakerside Drive, Peterlee, SR8 INR All year round except during 6 week Summer Holidays. For more information, please contact Michelle Abbs or Laura Younger atlittletreasures18@gmail.com Facebook page – search “Little Treasures autism group”

Support Groups for ParentCarers in County Durham

Impartial savings advice offered to County Durham residentsFree and impartial advice is now available for County Durham residents wishing to save money on their energy bills. Durham County Council’s ‘Managing Money Better’ service has been introduced, in partnership with the Prince Bishops Community Bank, to provide free budgeting and monetary advice for all residents in the county. The service can help by assessing fuel needs, finding more competitive tariffs and helping consumers switch suppliers, as well as offering debt advice. To apply for the Managing Money Better scheme, contact Durham County Council’s Warm Homes Team on 03000 268 000.

on 07502 020 192 or Dawn on 07796 695 583

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DUN-N-DUSTED North EastRubbish Removals

info@dunndusted.org0191 581 1004• Domestic

• Commercial• Asbestos Removals• Green Waste•House&OfficeClearance

• Wheelie Bin Emptying Service• Hazardous Waste Removed• Small Demolition Work

Carers Pop-inHealthworks Paradise Lane, Easington.If you are a Carer and have mental ill health yourself, or you are supporting someone with mental ill health – or both, then the Carer Pop-in is an opportunity for you to get some additional support for yourself. 9.30am to 11.30am on the First Friday of every month. February 2nd / March 2nd / April 6th / May 4th/ June 1st / July 6th/ August 3rd / September 7th / October 5th / November 2nd / December 7th If you aren’t able to Pop-in you can call me on 0191 5006011 or email karen.wilson@dccarers.org Mental Health Carer Support and Development Worker - East Durham.

Easter Treat

If you live in East Durham and are supporting someone with mental ill health, or have mental ill health yourself, then there is a treat in store for you! Take some time out for yourself, meet other Carers, enjoy a holistic therapy treatment, some creative therapy and lunch! Tuesday March 20th 2018, 9.30am - 2.00pm Blackhall Community Centre, Heselden Road, Blackhall TS27 4LGThere is no charge for this event. Book early as places are limited.

Name ............................................................................

Address .........................................................................

.....................................................................................

.............................. Postcode .........................................

Contact number .............................................................

Email ................................... .........................................Do you have any dietary Requirements:-Vegetarian / Gluten free / other -Please indicate

....................................................................................Freepost Plus RTXA-HHGH-SAGEDurham County Carers SupportEnterprise House, Enterprise City, Meadowfield Avenue, SPENNYMOOR DL16 6JF Please complete and return no later thanFriday March 9th 2018 If you have any questions please contact Karen Wilson on 0191 5006011 or emailkaren.wilson@dccarers.org

#

Could this article go close to Easter Treat Event please.Carers Pop-in

Healthworks Paradise Lane EasingtonIf you are a Carer and have mental ill health yourself, or you are supporting someone with mental ill health – or both, then the Carer Pop-in is an opportunity for you to get some additional support for yourself.

9.30am to 11.30am on the First Friday of every month February 2nd / March 2nd / April 6th / May 4th/ June 1st/

July 6th/ August 3rd / September 7th / October 5th / November 2nd / December 7th

If you aren’t able to Pop-in you can call me on 0191 5006011

Or

Email karen.wilson@dccarers.org

Mental Health Carer Support and Development Worker – East Durham

Information Course For Carers Of People With DementiaThis course has been specifically designed for Carers of people living with a dementia type illness or memory problems. The course is delivered by NHS staff over 6 weeks at Auckland Park Hospital. The course starts on Wednesday, 28th February and runs every Wednesday, between 10.45 until 12 noon, ending on Wednesday, 4th April. Each session looks at a different topic including: Coming To Terms With Memory Loss, Falls/Mobility, Incontinence/Personal Care, Medications and Dementia.Carers who have attended in the past have said ‘the information given has helped them greatly in their Caring role and they have gained valuable peer support from other Carers on the course’.If you would like to attend this course please contact Carole Gibson on 01325 524603 or email carole.gibson@dccarers.org

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Carer Survey Results95% of Carers surveyed would recommend Durham County Carers Support service to othersIn July and August 2017 we asked Carers to tell us what they think about our service. 803 people took time to complete the questionnaire and we would like to say a big thank you to those who shared their thoughts with us. It is very important to us that we continue to improve our service by listening to your views. Over 88% of Carers stated that they are satisfied with the service we provide and that 95% of Carers would recommend our service to others and find the service accessible. 83% said the service meets their needs. We have used the feedback to identify areas we needto develop and improve on. Winner of the prize drawer was Ms A Davey whohas been sent a £100 M & S Voucher.The results of the survey are highlighted below

Age range of Carers

Gender of Carers taking part

• 20% of Carers responding cared for a child and 80% were caring for adults.

• 661 Carers care for 1 person, 109 Carers care for 2 people, 20 Carers care for 3 per people and 12 Carers care for 4 or more people.

Main need or disability of the person cared for

Employment Status

We are particularly keen to support Carers who are employed or who want to return to employment and so we asked what support would help with this. Here are some of the answers;•CV writing•Training Courses / Grants for Learning / Volunteering

Opportunities•What part-time jobs are there out there•Care for the Cared For / Aids and adaptations for Cared

for•Funding for childcare•Help to maintain physical and mental health•Information on childcare•Benefit Advice•Employer information packs / Training to employers on

Carer Awareness•Transport•Training others about Autism / children with special

needs to feel confident to leave children•Information on services such as ironing, cleaning,

cooking / Help maintaining home•Information on the Rights of Working Carers•Advice on becoming self-employed / grants for buying

tools•Counselling / Emotional Support / Getting time out •Support outside of working hours

Continued opposite . . .

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Carer Survey Results continued.We asked which other services should we be providing? A number of Carers asked for the services we already provide, for example how to get aids and adaptations, benefit advice, access to breaks and respite and advice on other services. Other feedback included requests for;• Evening and Weekend support• More courses, activities and workshops• Support around what happens when the

carer can no longer care• Help with ‘fighting’ other services that

aren’t good enough• Activities / support over holidays• Support for siblings of disabled child• Campaign work

Concerns for the future - Over 50% of Carers told us their main concerns for the future were their own health deteriorating, the person they care for health deteriorating and concern that they will no longer be able to care. 31% were concerned about their financial situation and 16% were concerned about not being able to continue in employment, education or training. 27% were concerned about their mental health getting worse over time. We will use all the feedback gathered when planning how the service develops and it will help us focus on areas that need additional funding and resources in the future. A huge thank you to everyone who

Funding for Personalised Carer support holidays, driving lessons, netbooks and courses

Name: ..............................................................................................

Address: ...........................................................................................

.............................................. Postcode: ...........................................

Telephone Number: ...........................................................................

What would you like to apply for? ....................................................... FREEPOST RTSU-LJRT-HZBE,Durham County Carers Support,Enterprise House,Meadowfield Avenue,Spennymoor, Co Durham DL16 6JF

Durham County Council - NHS Personalised Carer Support Fund may be able to help you take a break from your caring role. You could learn to drive, gain a qualification, or access the internet through a netbook or laptop. If you would like to check your eligibility and apply for a break either ring 0300 005 1213 or return the form below using our FREEPOST address.

Over the past 12 months we have arranged lots of different and sometimes unusual breaks for Carers such as; Spa days, cinema & theatre vouchers, garden furniture & equipment, sporting equipment & memberships, ironing & cleaning services, arts & craft materials, horse riding lessons, guitar lessons & respite care.

What previous applications have said:“ Excellent service, someone to stay with my husband for the hour while I was

out was a tremendous help”“ Lovely women, very talkative, gave me advice and a deep tissue massage

and very relaxing - thank you”“ Crafting really is a diversion from everyday problems” “ I can become very impatient with my partner, mostly when I feel tired. The netbook focuses my mind on other things and helps me to be calmer.”“ The enormous financial burden that paying for driving lessons would have put

upon us would have been too great to carry.”“ I did enjoy the break and I think it did me good. People have said I am

dealing with things a bit better since my return.”

#

Don’t forget to ‘like’ our Durham County Carers Support Facebook page which we use to share useful advice and information:https://www.facebook.com/durhamcountycarerssupport/

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Durham County Council UpdateAvoid costly equipment mistakes Durham County Council’s Equipment Advice Service have a wide range of items for you to try including a stairlift, bathing aids and equipment to help with dressing, cooking and dining. Staff offer free impartial advice and guidance to help you choose the right product for your needs, saving you £££s by avoiding costly mistakes. Appointments are available between 10am and 3pm, Monday to Thursday.To book, call 03000 265 667, email equipmentadvice@durham.gov.ukor text 07880 044 719. The service also offers advice and information over the phone or by email.

Care and Support Pathways Care and Support Pathways are day services for adults with complex needs. They offer a warm, welcoming atmosphere and provide excellent resources. Wherever possible and appropriate, they support people to do

everyday things in the community, just like everyone else. All Pathways locations have specialist equipment to deliver lively and enriching therapeutic and multi-sensory activities including hydrotherapy, rebound therapy,

posture care, positional changes using specialist equipment, Reiki, visual, auditory and tactile stimulation and a Magic Carpet sensory learning tool. View a new video about the service at www.durham.gov.uk/pathways and if you think Pathways is for someone you care for, speak to their care coordinator to check if their assessed needs meet the criteria for this service. If so, you can ask to visit your local Pathways.

Samsung smartphones just got easy to useStats show that almost half of over 50s in the UK struggle with smartphones. But if you have given your old phone to a loved one or were about to then help may be at hand. British company Zone V has teamed up with Samsung to offer downloadable software and hard cases that make smartphones much easier to use.In simple terms, the smartphone becomes very easy to read and use without losing any of its power. To find out more and save 25% visit http://btplc.com/inclusion/ProductsAndServices/Helpfulaccessories/ZoneVSimplifyyoursmartphone/index.htm

Safeguarding adults Every day vulnerable adults suffer ill treatment or abuse. There are different types of abuse. This can be physical, verbal, sexual, or financial. It can happen at home, in care settings, or in public. Sometimes people suffer because they are not given the care that they need. If you are concerned about a vulnerable adult call Social Care Direct Tel. 03000 26 79 79.

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Durham County Council UpdateDo you have unwanted equipment on loan?Medequip lends equipment on behalf of Durham County Council and the NHS to people who are ill or disabled to help with their nursing, social and rehabilitation care. If the person you care for has been loaned equipment which they no longer need or use then why not arrange for Medequip to pick it up so it can be loaned to someone else who needs it. To request a collection simply contact Medequip on 01325 524 531.

Locating support just got easier! Locate is Durham County Council’s online resource to find care and support information and advice, providing personalised results through a choice of filtering options.Following months of development with other local authorities and our system provider the search function on Locate has been improved. The improved search should mean the results are impacted less by common words used in search terms and therefore bring the results you are most likely to want towards the top of the results list. Don’t forget Locate has a section specifically for carers? It lists organisations and services that can help support you in your caring role. Whether you’re looking for information on products or services, short breaks, support groups or social activities visitwww.durhamlocate.org.uk

Council tax discounts for severely mentally impaired people Did you know that your council tax bill could be reduced if anyone living in your home is severely mentally impaired? This includes people who suffer from illnesses such as Alzheimer’s, Multiple Sclerosis,

Parkinson’s or other similar conditions and those with severe learning difficulties. Those living alone don’t pay any council tax at all, while those living with another person - often their carer - qualify for a 25% reduction. If someone has moved out of their home permanently to receive care in a hospital, a residential care home or a supported housing scheme / hostel, they may also be entitled to a discount or exemption on their property. To apply complete a Council Tax Discount Application - Severe Mental Impairment form. Your doctor will need to complete the certificate included in the application form.You can download the form atwww.durham.gov.uk/counciltax If you need help or assistance to apply contact Durham County Council on 03000 26 4000 or email counciltax@durham.gov.uk

Missing out on your favourite magazines? Do you enjoy reading magazines but can’t always get to the library or a bookshop? Or do you care for someone with the same problem? Did you know Durham County Council libraries offer a service called RBdigital which allows anyone with a library card to read a selection of over 100 magazines online for free. RBdigital is available from your home computer and there are also a wide variety of apps available for mobile devices, so you can read magazines on an iPhone, iPad, Android, and Kindle Fire. To access RBdigital, go to Library Online and click on the eBooks & eMagazines link to access the latest emagazines on RBdigital.All you will need is your library card number. Visit durham.gov.uk/libraryonline for more information on how to join if you aren’t already a member.

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Mental Health Information WorkshopsThese FREE one day workshops are being delivered in partnership with TEWV (Tees, Esk & Wear Valley) Mental Health Trust. They will be of particular interest to anyone caring for someone with mental ill health or Carers who have mental ill health themselves.The workshops are being held in two venues:Thursday, 1st March 10am-4pmLanchester Road Hospital, Durham, DH1 5RT.Monday, 12th March 10am-4pmWest Park Hospital, Darlington, DL2 2TSThe workshops will look at various topics including:• Mental Well Being / Mental Ill Health• Stress & Anxiety• Depression• Bi Polar Disorder• Schizophrenia• Stress & Vulnerability (We can discuss other conditions if requested by the

group, depending on time restrictions, e.g. OCD, Eating Difficulties, PTSD, Personality Disorder, Self Harm)

• Sections of the Mental Health ActTea and coffee will be available but lunch will not be provided. You can either bring your own packed lunch or food can be purchased in the cafeteria at each venue.If you would like to attend one of the workshops please contact Carole Gibson on 01325 524603 or email carole.gibson@dccarers.org

All material published in Caring Matters, including adverts, editorials, articles and all other content is published in good faith. Durham County Carers Support accepts no liability for any errors or omissions and does not endorseany companies, products or services that appear in this publication. This publication is available in alternative

formats and large print. To let us know your requirements, please contact 0300 005 1213.

We All Have Mental HealthConferenceFriday 9th March, Leechmere TrainingCentre, Sunderland.Sunderland People First are working with Time to Change, an organisation that campaigns to change how we all think and act about Mental Health. They would like to invite you to their regional ‘We All Have Mental Health Conference’. The conference is aimed at people with Learning Disabilities and Autism and their Carers and will provide an opportunity for people to discuss some of the important issues around Mental Health. There will be a range of activities and workshops which they hope will provide a relaxed atmosphere for people to share experiences and find out about good support. They want to use these experiences to change how others think and talk about Mental Health across the region. To find out more or book your place please contact Sunderland People First on 5214123 or visit the websitewww.sunderlandpeoplefirst.com

Autism Strategy ImplementationStakeholder EventDurham County Council would like to invite people 16+ with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Parents/Carers to our next Autism Strategy Implementation Group Stakeholder event to discuss Autism Services and the Autism Strategy within County Durham.This is an opportunity to raise concerns/issues and offer feedback which will be taken to the Autism Strategy Implementation Group within the council.

Monday 12th February 2018 - Individuals with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder are welcome to attend at 1.30pm-2.30pmParents/Carers are welcome to attend at 3pm-4pmThis event will be held at Committee Room 1B County HallFor more information please contact Sue Garrett 0191 5006030 or email susan.garrett@dccarers.org

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Durham County Carers Support50:50 Club (formerly known as the 500 Club Lottery)We’ve changed the name to help show how the funds are allocated.50% of the funds raised per month is given back out to 3 lucky winners, average prizes are:1st £107 2nd £70 3rd £35Joining the 50:50 Club gives you the opportunity to support our FREE counselling for Carers and gives you a very good chance of winning a monthly prize. 50% of funds raised will be used to support our FREE counselling service to Carers Our Counsellors create a comfortable non-judgmental environment that is characterised by the counsellor being genuine, displaying empathy and having an acceptance of the person regardless of circumstance. The result is that the client gains better coping skills and confidence through various techniques. If you require any information about this service please contact Andrea Emerson on 0191 5006010 or email andrea.emerson@dccarers.org

#Lottery Registration Number LOT142 Charity Number 1069278

50:50 Club MembershipApplication FormCarers’ 50:50 Club MembershipPlease complete in BLOCK CAPITALS

Name ...................................................................

Address ................................................................

............................................................................

.................................... Postcode ..........................

Telephone .............................................................

Email ....................................................................

We would prefer payment by Standing Order but are happy to accept cash or cheque. Please note if you are paying by cash or cheque you must join for a minimum of 1 year (£12). Please make your cheque payable to: Durham County Carers Support and return this completed membership application form to: Durham County Carers Support, Enterprise House, Meadowfield Avenue, Spennymoor, DL16 6JFMinimum stake is £1 per month, but remember, the more stakes you take, the more chance you have of winning!

Monthly or Annual Standing OrderYour Bank Name ..........................................................Bank Address .................................................................................................... Postcode ................................Account Name .............................................................Account No.: ................. Sort Code ................................Please send this completed form to:Durham County Carers Support,Enterprise House, Meadowfield Avenue, Spennymoor, Co Durham, DL16 6JF oremail it to: Jacqui.coulson@dccarers.org

Please debit my account and pay:Durham County Carers SupportAcc. No. 20132424 Sort Code 60-83-01The sum of .............................................................On the (start date) ..................................................And then on the same day (please tick):Monthly Annually Signed ....................................................................Date .......................................................................

Previous WinnersNovember 20171st Prize – Peggy Farley2nd Prize – Irene Carr3rd Prize – Geoff TaylorDecember 20171st Prize – Raymond Fail2nd Prize – Mary Hunter3rd Prize – June SavageJanuary 20181st Prize – Carol Mackenzie2nd Prize – Fred Pole3rd Prize – Nigel William Haddock

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What is Universal Credit?Universal Credit (UC) is a new means-tested benefit that provides help to those who do not have enough money to live on. Like all means-tested benefits UC is not taxable. UC will replace all of the following “Legacy” benefits:

• Income Support• Income-based Jobseekers Allowance (becomes “New

style JSA”)• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance

(becomes “New style ESA”)• Housing Benefit• Working Tax Credit• Child Tax Credit

The migration process for existing claims will begin in 2019 and should be completed in 2022 according to the latest updates. This may be subject to change as Full Service roll-outs continue. UC is an “Evolving Benefit” You will not be automatically changed to Universal Credit at this time, only when your existing benefit claim has certain changes. This change may be things like starting work, being in work and having an increase or a reduction in hours, becoming a Carer and making a “top up” claim from another benefit (previously Income Support or Housing Benefit) For more information, and to see the support available n your area visit https://www.durham.gov.uk/universalcredit or speak to Jobcentre Plus staff in your local office.

When will Full Service UC come into my area?Introduced in October and December 2017 in these areas:-Seaham JCP - Peterlee JCP - Bishop Auckland JCP - Consett JCP - Crook JCP - Stanley JCP The following Jobcentre Plus Offices will become Full Service in June 2018Chester le Street JCP - Durham JCP - Newton Aycliffe JCP - Spennymoor JCP

Our Welfare Benefits Development Worker Sam Stimpson is running a drop in session for any Carers who may have questions regarding the role out of Universal Credit.Wednesday 18th April, 10.30am-12noon at Durham Clayport Library, Millennium Place, Durham City, DH1 1WA.

Drop InSession

Fulfilling LivesA free event for people with learning disabilities and their CarersThursday 31st May 2018 between 10 and 1pm at New College DurhamFulfilling Lives helps to show what is available throughout the North East. The event promotes the following information and advice for visitors:• Social zone – this area promotes what support

groups are available in our region. It also gives advice and ideas, places to visit and things to do.

• Carers zone – this area is dedicated to advise Carers what help and support is available.

• Help and advice zone - for people with learning disabilities and their Carers, for example advice in welfare benefits.

• Training and employment zone – where we encourage businesses to show what training and employment opportunities are available for people with learning disabilities.

• Police and Neighbourhoods zone – on staying safe and reporting crime.

• Health zone - latest information on improving your health.

For more information about the event please contact the Learning Disability Parliament on 03000 265521

The first thing he asks is“What do I have to do today?” “We need to go to the Post Office” I say, “To send your Christmas cards away.” “How much will I have to pay?” I assured him we will draw whatever is needed and a little more.

He puts on his coat and hat, Then pauses to ask after that, “Where are we going?”I tell him again. We go out of the door and then he asks“What do I have to do today?” “I’ll tell you on the way.”

As we walk along the street, Several times more I have to repeat ‘Where we’re going and what for, that the money we need we will draw’. But still he asks, all the way, “What do I have to do today?”

Linda Taylor, Carer

“What Do I Have To Do Today?”

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Carers registered with Durham County Carers Support can on production of their Carers Discount Card be issued with a free THRIVE Card that enables them to accompany the person they care for free of charge. Any swimmer who requires care and support whilst swimming, whether they are an Aqua learn member or a general swimmer, are allowed to take up to two card holding Carers at any one time in the pool with them. The THRIVE card also enables carers to get a 35% concession if they were wanting to swim without the person they care for.

The THRIVE card can be issued free of charge to Carers holding the Durham County Carers Support Discount Card at any of the pools listed above. For pool times: www.durham.gov.uk/swimming

Carers Discount Card• Spennymoor Leisure Centre• Newton Aycliffe Leisure Centre• Freemans Quay Leisure Centre• Woodhouse Close Leisure Centre• Chester le Street Leisure Centre• Teesdale Leisure CentreThe above pools offer discounts for Carers.

The biggest half marathon in the world

Sunday 9 September 2018We have 10 places available, if you are interested inbuying a place please email: jacqui.coulson@dccarers.org

Distance: Half Marathon

Registration fee: £75

Fundraising pledge: £200

All funds raised for Durham County Carers Support are used to support Carers living in County Durham and Darlington.

RecommendAutismRecommendAutism is a new Facebook group set up by a local parent who has a son with Autism. It is a place where individuals, parents and carers in the north-east can recommend products, people or services which have been found to be particularly autism-friendly. We can also request recommendations from other members, whether this is for resources to help with social stories, weighted blankets, babysitters, music teachers and opticians - the list is endless! We only allow positive reviews as the business has no right of reply but we do allow constructive suggestions on how a product or service can be improved, which can then be relayed to the business concerned. We also promote businesses which employ people with autism, and we advertise products and services provided by self-employed individuals on the spectrum, including a young barber, a dreadlock specialist, a blacksmith, a computer repairman, and a young self-taught artist from Prudhoe selling her original designs on cards and other merchandise. Many of these individuals have struggled with the traditional workplace in the past, and are now trying to earn a living, some of them with help from a social enterprise. We are keen to hear from others, and to promote their business. Early feedback is that people are finding it very helpful and we are keen to reach as many people as possible. A strong voice will help us to make many more businesses autism-friendly, so please visit RecommendAutism and join up today.

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As you sit by the fireOne cold winter’s nightFeeling the aches and painsThat old age you seem to acquire

It’s time to relax, perhaps have a napA sip of wine, it tastes just fineAs we reminisce of days gone byAnd wonder how quick time does fly

Memories to pursue of places in timeWhere the weather is always fineAnd everyone is kindAnd people like wine, get better in time

Where angry words don’t existAnd nothing ever goes amissWhere everyone’s in loveAnd happiness is bliss

Where dreams come trueAnd the sky’s always blueWhere angry words are fewAnd tears are too

Where friends don’t lieAnd no one ever says goodbyeWhere no one sighsAnd there’s no need to cry

Welcome to this worldIt’s still in your mindYou had it once, you can againIt’s yours to find, relax and rewindTo a different world, to a world that’s kind

The sweet memories of a world gone byWhere once we lived, loved and criedAre still in your mind, they have not diedThey are just waiting for you to find

Happiness is a state of mindThat you have to search and findDon’t let the angry vibes control youSmile, laugh, be happy, be kind

Face the world, not with a frown, with a smileIt won’t happen overnight, it may take a whileDon’t worry, take your time, rememberTo be happy isn’t a crime!

Poem written by one of our carers,Mr Norman Kellett of Willington

National Digital Parent Support ServiceAre you a Parent Carer?Do you need help or support in the evening or at the weekend?The newly developed National Digital Parent Support Service provides digital and telephone support for Parent Carers as they face issues or challenges which are impacting on their day to day lives. The areas of support may include, but are not limited to, parenting, education, disability and additional needs, hardship and isolation. Parents will be able to access the service by calling the dedicated Freephone helpline, using the text messaging service or by email. They will be offered support appropriate to their needs from Virtual Parent Befrienders, Virtual Volunteer Counsellors or Virtual Expert Volunteers. The service is available 6pm-10pm, Monday to Friday and 10am-1pm, Saturday and Sunday.Free Parent Helpline: 0808 802 0222Text: 07537 404 282Email: NDPSS@family-action.org.uk

Do you support someone with a learning disability and behaviour that challenges in County Durham?On the 29th November 2017 lots of services and commissioners got together at County Hall to talk about an approach to supporting people with behaviour that challenges called Positive Behavioural Support or PBS for short. PBS is the best way of supporting people with behaviour that challenges and we wanted to find out about the quality PBS in Durham. There were approximately 70 people who came along and whilst it was a really positive day lots of people commented that there were not any family carers present despite us inviting some. Everyone at the event was committed to trying to improve PBS for people with a learning disability and recognised that it’s really important to hear the views and experiences of families carers if we are going to achieve this. In Durham there is now a person who is employed to support local services to improve the quality of PBS. Her name is Melissa Beard, Melissa and colleagues would be really keen to meet with family carers to talk about this and how we can include family carers in the future development. Please contact melissa.beard@nhs.net if you would like to know more.

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Carers Discount CardThe County Durham and Darlington Carers card, developed in partnership with Darlington Borough Council, NHS County Durham and Darlington and Durham County Council, recognises and rewards the support Carers provide to their neighbours, friends and family.The Carers Card is available to any Carer registered with Durham County Carer Support. Visit our website for the Full Directory, http://www.dccarers.org/carers-card.htmlHere is a selection of businesses that are offering discounts to Carers- If you haven’t got a card contact us for more information.

Sam Zair’s Café provides a 10% discount onfood and drink in the Café

10 Fore BondgateBishop AucklandCounty Durham

DL14 7PF01388 602559

Byte me Provides a 10% discount on repairs.

10 Lambton TerraceCragheadStanley

County DurhamDH9 6EB

07807 174740

Cared for receive the concessionary rate which applies to adults and which is £7-60 depending on Purchase, Other group members may receive

alternative discounts if they are any of the following: over 60; students; unemployed

or in receipt of disability allowanceNear Cowshill, Upper Weardale

County Durham DL13 1AR01388 537505

Trimmers offer’s a 10% discount WithSelected Stylist by Appointment only

156 Newgate StreetBishop AucklandCounty Durham

DL14 7EJ01388 602001

Woven provides a 10% discount in-store.

21 Elvey BridgeDurham

County DurhamDH1 3AA

0191 3741002

Lilly Laundry Provides 10% discount whichis not available on dry cleaning.

9 Greta RoadOff Green LaneBarnard CastleCounty Durham

DL12 8LJ01833 631 177

Restaurant & CaféSam Zair’s Café

TechnologyByte Me

Museum Killhope Lead

Mining Museum

Hair and BeautyTrimmers Hair

Design

Clothing Woven Gentlemen’s

Outfitters

Cleaning & Laundry

Lily Laundry

Carer’s Discount Card

The County Durham and Darlington Carers card, developed in partnership with Darlington Borough Council, NHS County Durham and Darlington and Durham County Council, recognises and rewards the support Carers provide to their neighbours, friends and family.

The Carers Card is available to any Carer registered with Durham County Carer Support. Visit our website for the Full Directory, http://www.dccarers.org/carers-card.html

Here is a selection of businesses that are offering discounts to Carers- If you haven’t got a card contact us for more information

Arts and Crafts Crafters Companion One of the Leading craft Supplies in the area Crafters Companion Supports the Carers Card with a 10% discount and online Code available Unit 1 Horndale avenue Aycliffe business park Newton Aycliffe County Durham DH5 6DR 01388 663304

Hair & beauty Imago Beauty and Holistics Imago Provides a 20% discount on Mon/tues/wed 9-5 on facials and Holistic ritual (which is hot-stones, facial, reflexology and massage all in one treatment) 40-41 Front Street Shotley Bridge Consett County Durham DH8 0HQ 01207 592640

Designed & Printed by Newton Press, Blue Bridge Centre, Newton Aycliffe, Co. Durham DL5 6DSTel. 01325 300212 - www.newtonpress.net

30 - 31 Bondgate, Darlington DL3 7JJ 01325 46330347 - 49 Main Street, Shildon DL4 1AF 01388 772671

Email: hackettandbaines@btconnect.com

ELECTRIC RISE RECLINERSby Sherborne and

Celebrity with5 years warranty.

Other brands include:Vale Bridgecraft

and Cotswold Chair Company

with2 year warranty.

Over 30 in stock for immediate delivery.

Manual recliners and settees to match.

A large selection of high seat chairs, occassional

furniture and accessories.Prices to suit all pockets by a company established in 1898.

30 - 31 Bondgate, Darlington DL3 7JJ 01325 463303

Park outside and shop at leisure or aselection can be brought to your door

ELECTRIC RISE

A large selection of high seat

furniture and accessories.Prices to company established in

A large selection of high seat

Prices to company established in

ELECTRIC RISE RECLINERSby Sherborne and

Celebrity with 5 years warranty.Other brands include: Vale Bridgecraft

and Cotswold ChairCompany

with 5 years warranty.

Over 30 in stock forimmediate delivery.

Manual recliners andsettees to match.

A large selection of high seatchairs, occassional

furniture and accessories.Prices to suit all pockets by a

company established in 1898.

Big size Menswear 2X - 8Xnow in stock at Shildon.