Disabled Living

Tag: Kidz to Adultz

  • Kidz to Adultz and Redbank House Exhibit at Disability Awareness Day (DAD)

    Kidz to Adultz and Redbank House Exhibit at Disability Awareness Day (DAD)

    Kidz to Adultz Exhibitions and Redbank House  (part of Disabled Living) are thrilled to be exhibiting at Disability Awareness Day (DAD). We look forward to promoting our services at this online event and will be located on stand M5.

    Disability Awareness Day (DAD) is recognised as the largest annual event of its kind in the world. Due to COVID-19, the 29th event will be held virtually online via www.dadvirtual.org.uk it is totally free, and goes live at 10am on Sunday 25th October. A week of free, complimentary workshops will also be available the following week between Monday 26th till Friday 30th. The website will remain available online for the year ahead.

    DAD is a ‘pan disability event which promotes a culture that focuses on what disabled people can-do’. Event Co-ordinator Dave Thompson MBE DL co-founded the organising charity Warrington Disability Partnership (WDP) in 1991 and the annual DAD event in 1992. Held in a tented village on the grounds of Walton Hall and Gardens Warrington, DAD provides a wide range of features including information, advice and guidance on products and services, a sports zone, a performing arts marquee, and entertainment for all. It has inspired similar events in over a dozen countries worldwide including Cameroon, Gibraltar, Uganda, Thailand and India, and has attracted special guests including members of the Royal Family and Ministers for Disabled People. The Royal Air Force have also supported past events with flypasts from the Red Arrows and WWII Dakota’s. WDP was presented with the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services in 2006 in recognition of DAD’s Army of volunteers who ensure the show runs smoothly.

    In 2019, the event was supported by dozens of businesses, statutory and voluntary service providers including over 100 disability charities, with more than 25,000 visitors attending on the day. Over 600,000 people have attended past events, and charities have not only raised awareness about what they do, they have also raised over £1million for good causes.

    What to Expect

    This year, over 200 virtual exhibitor stands have been booked, as well as an impressive line-up of performers in the Arts Marquee, with 2018 Britain’s Got Talent winner, Lee Ridley, best known as Lost Voice Guy, heading the bill. Plus over a dozen organisations will be promoting a wide variety of inclusive sports and activities such as scuba diving, cycling, wheelchair rugby and basketball, dance, angling and Tai Chi.

    DADV2020 is dedicated to the memories of two members of the DAD team who have sadly died of Coronavirus, Peter Ives and Colin Whitfield, who together contributed nearly 50 years of voluntary work to DAD and WDP.

    Exhibitors from across the region, the UK and as far afield as Israel and Australia will be showcasing their products and services including disability and age related support groups, health and social care, mobility and independent living equipment, education and employment, independent living options, magazines and exhibitions, arts, crafts and activities, sports and leisure, welfare benefits advice, housing and supported accommodation, rail travel, police and hate crime, and performing arts.

    Tony Brown, Managing Director at Expanse Learning Group the event principal sponsors, said “We are all excited about the potential impact of DAD Virtual. Here at Expanse we learn from other organisations who are delivering education and support to young disabled people, and we love to share our achievements across the industry. DAD Virtual provides us with the platform to do both.

    The event has been supported by United Utilities, Warrington & Halton NHS Teaching Hospitals FT Trust, Police & Crime Commissioner for Cheshire, Active Cheshire and the Coronavirus Community Support Fund, distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund, thanks to the Government for making this possible.

    Disability Awareness Day (DAD) is an event organised by the Warrington Disability Partnership (WDP)

    Warrington Disability Partnership is an internationally recognised and award winning user led registered charity founded in 1991. With a team of nearly 50 staff and over 200 volunteers, WDP offers 28 mobility and independent living services in and around Warrington, Liverpool and North Wales, including two Centres for Independent Living and two Shopmobility services.

  • Playtime for Children with Disabilities

    Playtime for Children with Disabilities

    This post has been written by Special Kids all about the senses that children with disabilities develop during playtime.

    When you think about childhood, you probably think about the nostalgic memories of days spent playing with dolls, building blocks, and jigsaw puzzles. A magical time where your imagination was able to run riot while you developed skills such as problem-solving. For some of us, playtime was likely to be random – no set time, toys, or routine; however, children with disabilities, are likely to prefer structure when playing. Why not set play time aside for your child to fit into their existing routine?

    Playtime allows for the exploration and development of the senses; children with disabilities can quickly become overwhelmed by the senses; the structure can help to ease discomfort.

    Creativity

    Ah, painting, who didn’t enjoy creating mini masterpieces when they were kids? Painting,
    drawing, and creating things with playdough can help children become comfortable with
    different textures as well as developing their knowledge of colours and shapes. Art based
    activities allow your child to express their feelings and imagination which can help to make
    sense of the world around them and communicate their understanding of it.

    Problem solving

    Problem solving is a crucial skill to develop throughout childhood and adult life; activities that encourage this skill make it fun and engaging rather than challenging and confusing. Take the classic jigsaw puzzle; all the pieces have to fit a certain way. Although jigsaws are an excellent way to solve a problem, it is useful to play with things such as building blocks too, as this can show your child that there are more ways than one to solve problems as there isn’t always a strict way to build or not to build something.

    Sound

    Sound doesn’t have to be overwhelming for children with disabilities; it can be soothing.
    Whether this is something familiar such as music from the TV shows your child watches
    or a bedtime nursery rhyme. Why not make music a part of play time? Children’s glockenspiels can be an excellent way for your child to experience sound while
    improving memory by learning a song.

    children's soft butterfly toy

    Comfort

    We all want our child to feel as comfortable as possible. When learning new things and
    developing skill comfy clothing is essential. Think about it, none of us would get into bed wearing uncomfortable clothes such as jeans; we would wear pyjamas, so why should this idea of comfy clothing not be a part of day to day life for your child? Our Wonsie’s and bodysuits are great for playtime – not only are they made with soft, non-irritable material, they are also stretchy so that movement is effortless. We have a range of products for different needs; not only do we stock clothing, we also offer accessories, bibs, and bedding. We believe that quality is paramount. All of our products are designed with care.

    Raising awareness and providing solutions

    Since 2014, we have had the fantastic opportunity to be a part of the Kidz Exhibitions. They have created an environment that is both welcoming and supportive. Through their several yearly events, they provide a platform to raise awareness for children with various disabilities, and we are proud to be a part of it. We’ve met so many new people at their events who keep coming back and are pleased to say that we will be exhibiting at Kidz to Adult North this year on Thursday 8th November. And we can’t wait to showcase our new and existing range.

    We are delighted to have been given the opportunity to guest blog for Kidz to Adultz North. And to say thank you, we invite you to check out our adaptive clothing range and use the code NEWCUST10 for a discount. Why not sign up to our newsletter too for updates and offers.

  • 4 Amazing Years in the Kidz to Adultz Team at Disabled Living

    4 Amazing Years in the Kidz to Adultz Team at Disabled Living

    This post has been written by Billy Coleman. Well, where to begin about telling you all about my 4 amazing years at Disabled Living and being a member of the Kidz to Adultz Team? It all began when I certainly couldn’t grow the beard I can today!

    Below are a few reasons why I love working at Disabled Living.

      • Organising the Kidz to Adultz Events
      • The hype you get when travelling down on the train, setting up the events and waiting for the doors to open for the children, general public and health care professionals.
      • Seeing the Children smiling and taking part in the activity areas, craft area and expressing their ideas in the innovation hub
      • The work memories you take from travelling to the events e.g. Jo picking up the wrong case on the train, myself nearly ending up in Newcastle instead of coming back to Manchester.
      • Finally getting a pitch view room after the 4th year of visiting the Ricoh Arena.
        That little rewarding nap I enjoy on the train home after knowing you and your team have organised another successful event!
      • The progression and skills I have been taught and progressed within the years of working here.
        • Working hard to get the best possible prizes for each event. The excitement I get when receiving the prizes for the events and ringing the successful winners.
        • Working with all the members of staff here at Disabled Living and exhibitors at the events.
        • Entertaining everyone in work with my hilarious jokes and lovely singing.
        • Dressing up as John Travolta in Grease at the 1950’s Disabled Living Tea Dance.
        • Being the Product Demo model every Wednesday. My favourite being wearing an aged suit and looking like RoboCop.

    Here’s to the future

    I am now off on new adventures! I’ll be coaching/goalkeeping coaching in New England, America for 8 months which was too much of a great opportunity to possibly turn down.

    Finally, I just want to thank everyone at Disabled Living for giving me this fantastic opportunity. I wish everyone all the very best and I’ll be sure to stay in touch! My work here is complete… (drop the mic).

    Thank you to Billy for being part of our Kidz to Adultz team over the last 4 years. We wish you the best of luck in your future.

  • University Doesn’t Have to be a Challenge…

    University Doesn’t Have to be a Challenge…

    The following is a guest blog by AskJules, who are exhibiting at our Kidz to Adultz Middle event this year in March. This blog post will discover facts that you may not have known about AskJules along with their advice for those with a disability who are starting a new term at university.  

    Whilst the excitement of Freshers’ Week may help to suppress the anxieties of living independently for the first time, as the party dies down and reality kicks in – the stresses of university life can also begin to sink in.

    But there’s no need to panic, help is at hand. Chris Benoit-Pool, co-founder of AskJules, offers some guidance and advice on adapting to these changes and the key decisions which can make the difference in ensuring a successful university experience.

    AskJules is a family business, created in 2008 when Chris’s mother Julie Pool helped his younger brother Oliver, who suffers from Spinal Muscular Atrophy, to leave home and go to University. With Julie’s support Oliver has achieved true independence and enjoyed the full student experience. He lived independently in a lively student area of Manchester and employed his own team of PAs, who provided his 24/7 care and student support. He has recently started a PHD in London, where he lives with his girlfriend and two children.

    To view the full post please visit our Kidz Exhibitions blog.

  • The Story of Vicky and Paul’s Little Miracle with Angelman Syndrome

    The Story of Vicky and Paul’s Little Miracle with Angelman Syndrome

    This Story of the Month is based on a young boy called Sebastian, who attend our Kidz to Adultz North event in November 2017 with his parents. His mum (Vicky) gives her insight along with dad (Paul) about their journey of seeing their little boy grow up with Angelman syndrome.

    Please can you tell us a bit about you and your family?

    We have two sons, Sebastian who is 11-years-old and Harrison 8-years-old. Sebastian was born in 2006 after a very bumpy pregnancy with lots of hospital stays for hyperemesis. Once he was born he had feeding and sleeping problems. He suffered from reflux, which led to him being admitted into Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital at 6-weeks-old for feeding issues. They put a camera down his throat but it revealed nothing.

    However, they found he had sleep apnoea. We were scarily given training in baby resuscitation and Sebastian was placed on a monitor and under a paediatrician until 11-months-old. During this stressful time we had health visitors tell us we were ‘bad parents’ as he wasn’t gaining weight. They accused us of neglecting him because he wasn’t talking and at one point they tried to question family members about our parenting capacity. Sebastian has always been loved, cared for and protected.

    Can you tell us about Sebastian’s condition?

    Sebastian and Simpsons

    When we finally met the physiotherapist, little did we know that when she walked in she knew exactly what condition Sebastian condition was. She insisted we see another medical professional and referred us to a paediatrician in the community who assessed him. After the second appointment we agreed to a blood test. A month passed and we were told that it was something to do with Chromosome 15. It was very apparent that Sebastian had something called Angelman syndrome. We figured this from his delayed mile stones, his non existent language,  and his facial shape and sleep patterns (or lack of).

    We were absolutely heart broken

    But as a first time Mum and a woman who had historically been told she couldn’t have children, we didn’t see Sebastian as being any different. He was still the same little miracle they handed to us when he was born – a beautiful 18 month old who was bright, bubbly, and so very innocent, who had only just learnt to sit up although very wobbly.

    Sebastian scooby doo group photo

    Another month had passed and we were sat in a paediatrician’s office awaiting confirmation it was Angelman syndrome. She confirmed it was Angelman syndrome, a rare condition caused by the gene UBE3A on Chromosome 15 where it’s either deleted, mutated or replaced by two copies from the paternal side (father) in the brain. We were relieved yet still very sad; someone was telling us that our perfect son wasn’t so perfect. She told us that Sebastian could have seizures, struggle to learn to walk and may never utter a recognisable word. We were also told that he may have absolutely no danger awareness.

    We had gone into the appointment with a support worker / portage worker to help us deal with the news. Her first comments were,

    You’ll never be able to go for a meal or do anything normal again.

    Needless to say, she wasn’t working with our little family long. From then onwards we decided that Sebastian would have every opportunity life had to give. At two-years-old Sebastian started with seizures which took years to control and on numerous occasions was in status epilepticus, a prolonged seizure where he was seizing both during being awake and  sleeping. He lost a lot of the skills he’d already learnt and had numerous hospital stays.

    9 years later

    Sebastian with triathlon medal

    Sebastian triathlon photo 2

    Fast forward 9 years, Sebastian has made lots of independent steps. His seizures have become more controlled, with 1:1 help Sebastian attended mainstream nursery and loved every minute being with his little friends. At 3-years-old, Sebastian became a big brother to Harrison, who Sebastian adores and loves to cuddle endlessly. He was a page boy at our wedding and with help walked down the isle.

    Sebastian became a Beaver, a Cub, and now he’s now a Scout. He has been on a ‘wish’ holiday with Caudwell Children charity to Florida, a holiday we never thought Sebastian could cope with. And we plan to take him back one day.

    More recently he took part in a super triathlon with his dad to raise money for Caudwell Children charity and Wheels for All. He has been home-schooled and now attends a special needs high school. He’s hardly seen in his wheelchair. There always seems to be something exciting going on there and he’s happy and healthy and loves all of his teachers. He has started using his iPod for communication (mainly for asking for chocolate and telling us he loves us but it’s a start!) And it was only recently that, he muttered that all very important word, ‘Mum’.

    An inspiring journey

    Mickey Mouse and Sebastian

    Sebastian loves life and he loves being in the middle of everything, he has a naughty streak and a loving side. He loves his iPad, YouTube and everything all 11-year-olds love. He’s a typical boy doesn’t want to have a bath or doesn’t want to eat his greens! He sees no evil and has an energy that spurs you on. He makes you a better person and a better parent to help him be all he can.

    Life for us may not be normal but on our journey we have met the most astounding and inspiring people. We’ve lost friends who were scared and didn’t understand. But more importantly, we’ve made new life long friends who are travelling on that same ‘may not be normal life journey’. We thought we were alone but we weren’t.

    Nobody is alone, they just need to find the right support and discover people who are on that same journey.

    If you would like to feature your story on Disabled Living’s blog please get in touch with us via email: info@disabledliving.co.uk

    You might also like to read: ABA Therapy for Autism 

  • 3 Benefits of Small Charity Week

    3 Benefits of Small Charity Week

    Small Charity Week is celebrated during 19 – 24 June 2017 and brought to us by The Foundation for Social Improvement (FSI). This year, we are proud to be participating at Disabled Living.

    Small Charity Week is supported by Provident Financial Group (PFG), and the Provident Good Neighbour Community Programme as well as being sponsored by JustGiving – the simple way to donate and fundraise online since 2011.

    This awareness week aims to promote the sector of charities that there are in the UK to show recognition, value, and support to those who participate.

     

    Charity

    There are many charities across the UK, all of which support their own causes. This is why we would like to participate, to be part of the charity community that is raising awareness of what Small Charity Week do and how it helps charities like us.

    This year Disabled Living are celebrating 120 years of providing services and we aim to support people to maintain independence and improve the quality of their life.

    Disabled Living has an excellent reputation for the quality of services which include:

    My wife and I recently spent a morning at your centre. We were guided expertly by the occupational therapist who took a great deal of trouble explaining the pros and cons of stair lifts

    Mr B D – Altrincham

    The 3 Benefits of Small Charity Week

    1. They play an active part on social media to encourage others to learn more about the small charities that are in the UK. Their social campaign reaches thousands of people and that’s something that needs to be celebrated.

    2. They allow any small charity in the UK to participate and celebrate the diverse community of charities that are supporting a wide range of different sectors.

    3. They bring charities together that people may not have heard of before and help to promote their brand awareness. Learning more about these charities enable us to realise just how many charities participate in Small Charity Week.

    We have two more blogs coming up for Small Charity Week so stay posted!

    How does Small Charity Week benefit you? Tell us on Twitter or Facebook. 

Disabled Living