1. health and fitness

n c mpass Carers Point!
Spring 2015
In this issue...
Services Forums The Harbour Carers’ Caravan Activities
Hospital Passports Explained Carers Week Trips
Funded by
Certificate Number 9463
ISO 9001
Follow us
@ncompasscarers
Like us
/ncompasscarers
Telephone: 0345 688 7113
newsletter!
Part of Carers Lancashire
Registered Charity Number 1128809
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
Hello and welcome to the
n-compass Carers Services
Spring Newsletter.
Contents
3
Community Groups
4
n-compass Carers Services
9
Carers Book Corner
10
Carers Health and General
Wellbeing
12
Lancashire Wide Services
14
Useful Telephone Numbers
15
Carers Week and Carers
Courses
In this newsletter you will find a report from one of our
Carers who attended a Lunch for Carers, Charities and
Carer Organisations hosted by the Chairman of Lancashire
County Council. Also information on Carers Allowance –
DWP Digital Service, Reablement, Grandparent Plus and
much more.
16
n-compass Carers Point!
Support Groups
17
Activities and Trips
Enjoy your read.
19
n-compass Health &
Wellbeing Champions
20
Activity Booking Form
Spring is here, the nights are drawing out again and the
trees and plants are beginning to wake from their winter
slumber – a time of new beginnings.
March saw the opening of The Harbour, Blackpool. The
Harbour is a new mental health hospital which was
designed with extensive input from service users and
clinicians. The ethos of the unit is to provide therapeutic care
which is empowering, person centred and needs led, and
focuses on promoting recovery and independence. You can
read a report about the Open Day and information about
the support we are able to offer Carers from East
Lancashire visiting their cared for person in The Harbour on
pages 6 and 7.
The front cover photographs were taken during a recent
Carers trip to Lawrence House Astronomy and Space
Science Centre, see page 18 for a short report.
June sees Carers Week, the UK-wide annual awareness
campaign which is taking place this year from Monday 8th
to Sunday 14th June 2015. All the June Coffee and Chat
Sessions have been arranged to coincide with Carers Week
and will be a little bit different with the opportunity to have a
hand massage and receive a goody/pamper bag.
Asher Beever
Service Lead
n-compass Carers Services
Every care has been taken in the compilation and publication of the content of this newsletter. However, n-compass Carers Point!
will not be held responsible for the content or services provided by any third parties or liable for inconvenience caused as a result of
any inaccuracy or error within these pages.
The information contained in this newsletter is for general information only and does not constitute as advice on personal health or
any other matter. Views expressed in articles do not necessarily represent those of n-compass Carers Point!
Comments, Complaints and Compliments To help us improve our service, if you have any comments, good or bad, please bring
them to our attention. Our complaints procedure is available on request from the service. All complaints are responded to
promptly. If you have any compliments and you feel happy with the service you received please let us know.
2
Have you ever thought about what you could
add to your community?
Perhaps you have an idea for a new group or
club but don’t know where to start?
All it takes is 1 seed…..
We would love the opportunity to support you in developing your ideas and strengthening your
Community; or to support you to become involved in existing groups or clubs in your Community.
For further information and support, please contact Colin Bowman at n-compass on 01253 362140
or email [email protected]
n c mpass
looking towards a brighter future
3 Errigal House, Avroe Crescent
Blackpool Business Park
Blackpool
FY4 2DP
Cancer Community Choir
(start date 11 May)
Lancaster
Craft Group
Fleetwood
Regenda Housing Community Group
Fleetwood
Warblers on t'Wyre
Tel: 01253 362140
Fax: 01253 407473
[email protected]
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
n c mpass
looking towards a brighter future
Friends of St. Annes Palace
St. Annes
Incredible Edible Project
St. Annes
Men in Sheds
St. Annes
Just Good Friends
Lytham
St. Annes &
Fleetwood
Willow Garden Project
Fleetwood
Remind Mental Health Group
Lytham
Arthritis Group
Poulton
Fancy a Pint
Warton
Lunch Club
Poulton
Carers of Citizens with Dementia
Kirkham
Men's Group
Poulton
Anti-Bullying Group
Fylde & Wyre
CHAT Group
Thornton
Fitness Group
Fylde & Wyre
Ballroom Lessons
St.Annes
Autism Support Group
Chill and Chat for the visually impaired
St. Annes
Blackpool,
Fylde & Wyre
Choir
St. Annes
Young Person's Hearing Voices Group
Craft Group
St. Annes
Blackpool,
Fylde & Wyre
3
n c mpass Carers Point!
n c mpass Carers Point! Spring 2015 Newsletter
n-compass Carers Services
4
Part of Carers Lancashire
Carers
Assessments
Peace of Mind
4 Carers
Most Carers have a legal right to a Carers
Assessment of their own needs; through their
assessment Carers have the opportunity to discuss
how being a Carer affects them and highlight any
support which they may need. An assessment can
result in a range of support being offered to Carers
e.g. referrals for a home fire safety check, benefit
check, condition specific Carer support,
modifications to the home or a personal budget.
Through the Peace of Mind 4 Carers service Carers
can be sure that the person they care for is not left
without help and support in the event of an
emergency. Plans are free, provide 24 hour
contingency and up to 72 hours of free care that will
be in place within 1 hour of the plan being activated.
For more information, to complete a
plan or to review your existing plan
contact n-compass Carers Point! on
0345 688 7113 or email
[email protected]
Time For Me Changes
Many carers have benefited from a Time for Me
grant over the past few years. This was money
provided by Lancashire County Council for Carers to
take a break from their caring role.
The changes required under the Care Act means
that these grants will no longer be available. Local
Authorities must now provide personal budgets to
Carers who are eligible and Lancashire County
Council are honouring this.
To access a personal budget you will need to have a
Carers Assessment, which can be carried out by
n-compass Carers Services. A support plan will be
developed with you and a personal budget applied
for. If you are eligible for a budget, the money must
then be spent on the items agreed in your support
plan.
At this stage, Carers Assessments cannot be
offered by n-compass Carers Services to the
following Carers:
Young Carers (a Carer under 18 years old),
Parent Carers (caring for a child under 17 years old)
For these Carers support will be given by
n-compass Carers Point! to access their
assessment.
For more information or to request a
Carers Assessment contact
n-compass Carers Point!
on 0345 688 7113 or email
[email protected]
Follow us
@ncompasscarers
Like us
Small Groups Fund
The Small Groups Fund can be applied for by Groups
of Carers to set up or support a Carers' support group
or network. The maximum that can be applied for is
£500.
For more information or for an
application form contact n-compass
Carers Point! on 0345 688 7113 or
email [email protected]
Sitting-In Service
The Sitting-In Service engages Volunteers to provide
Carers with a break from their caring role by providing
support to the person that they care for. Volunteers
can offer companionship by taking part in activities
such as listening to music, watching television,
playing board games and chatting. The service is free
and can be provided at a time to suit, including
evenings and weekends, and is dependent on a
suitable Volunteer match.
For more information or to register your
interest in receiving the Sitting-In
service contact n-compass Carers
Point! on 0345 688 7113 or email
[email protected]
/ncompasscarers
Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
Volunteers for the Sitting-In Service
Volunteers are absolutely crucial to n-compass Carers Services. If you are
enthusiastic and have time to give, why not join our team?
The Sitting-In Service is something we would love to offer to all the Carers
who would like this Service. To do this we need more volunteers.
For more information contact Martin at n-compass on 01253 362140 or
email [email protected]
“
“
Would you, a family member or a friend consider volunteering for the ncompass Carers Point! Sitting-In Service? It would involve going to a Cared
For persons home to sit with them while their Carer takes a well-earned
break for a couple of hours. Or leave the Carer to put their feet up while
you take the person they care for out for a walk or to pursue an interest or
hobby. It is purely a companionship service and you would receive full
training. You would be matched with someone who lives near to you so
that you do not have to travel far.
e
y
o
v
ur Say
a
H
Do you access n-compass Carers Services; Carers Point!
and/or the Mental Health Carers Support?
At n-compass we value the thoughts and views of the citizens who
have been involved with us, and have enjoyed the support of
feedback groups for a while now. Their input has taken us from
strength to strength in improving the quality and relevance of our
services.
Carers have been involved at all levels of the organisation,
influencing key decisions in the way our services and the wider
organisation develop. In short these are your Carers Services and we
want you to have the opportunity to shape them.
n-compass Carers Services are now supported by three feedback
groups that meet every other month in North, Central and East
Lancashire and Adult, Parent and Former Carers who have been
involved with n-compass Carers Services are welcome.
For more information or for details on how to become a member of an n-compass
Carers Feedback Group contact n-compass Carers Services on 0345 688 7113 or
email [email protected]
Follow us
@ncompasscarers
Like us
/ncompasscarers
Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
5
n-compass Carers Mental Health Support Service
THE HARBOUR - Open Day 21st Feb 2015
The Harbour is the Lancashire Care
NHS Foundation Trust's innovative
new building which delivers the
Trust's vision of providing 21st Century
Healthcare with wellbeing at its heart.
It provides 154 in-patient mental
health beds for people from across
Lancashire, utilising the latest
technology combined with dedicated
healthcare professionals who provide
high quality, compassionate care for the people who need it. Located just off the M55 in Blackpool at the aptly named
Windmill Rise, The Harbour provides care across four main areas; Functional Acute, Advanced Care, Dementia and
Psychiatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs).
Members of our n-compass Mental Health Carers Support Team were invited to attend the recent Public Open Day event
at The Harbour, to promote the Service and to meet Carers whilst they found out more about the new facilities.
The Open Day was a busy, informal event with visitors able to attend guided tours around several of the new wards, meet
and ask questions of the specialist staff and find out about the wealth of other services and organisations available
throughout Lancashire.
At the n-compass stall, we were able to meet a number
of Carers who were interested in the range of services
that we offer, many of whom asked for referrals to be
made into our support teams. We also had a lot of
interest from visitors who were keen to volunteer
with n-compass and wanted to get involved in the
work that we carry out.
Several Carers also wanted to find out more about our
Carers Forum meetings, as they felt that they had no one
to share their views and opinions with. We described the
new format of the meetings, explaining that each meeting
would have time for Carers to share opinions with other
Carers and seek advice from our Carer Support Team, in addition to presentations with invited speakers and updates on
the latest developments in caring throughout Lancashire.
The Open Day was an ideal opportunity to have a first look at
the 'flagship' facility, and the n-compass staff present
welcomed the chance to have a 'close up' look at the wards,
that include sensory signage, outdoor areas, en suite
facilities in each room and large, comfortable communal
areas. The event also provided a chance to meet with other
organisations that had information stalls and find out more
about healthy diets, advocacy services, community
transport and help with substance addiction.
A big 'thank you' to the many Carers and visitors that came
to say 'hello' to us at the n-compass stall.
6
The Harbour opened officially on 11th March 2015.
Mental Health
Carers’
Support
n c mpass
looking towards a brighter future
Carers’ Caravan
n-compass are supporting Mental
Health Carers registered with
ourselves who are visiting the
person they care for at The
Harbour. We are able to offer the
facility of a static caravan close to
the unit in Blackpool for overnight
stays.
The static caravan accommodation
is situated on a safe and well
established caravan park and there will
be no cost to the Carer. Initially this facility
will only be available to Carers from East
Lancashire including Carers of people with
Dementia who are being cared for at the
Harbour.
To make enquiries about booking the static
caravan call our CHIT line.
0300 303 8700
CHIT
C ARERS
’ HELP A
ND
INFORM
ATION
TEAM
Calls charged at your local standard network rate
For information on the caravan park log onto
www.martonmere.org.uk
n c mpass
looking towards a brighter future
Find out more:
@ncompasscarers
Email: [email protected]
/ncompasscarers
n-compass North West Limited
Registered Office Address
3 Errigal House, Avroe Crescent,
Blackpool Business Park,
Blackpool, Lancashire, FY4 2DP
Tel: 01253 362140
Fax: 01253 407473
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
[email protected]
n-compass is registered in England and Wales as a Registered Charity No.1128809 and as a company limited by guarantee No. 06845210.
Certificate Number 9463
ISO 9001
n-compass offers con fidential services
7
n-compass Mental Health Carers Support Groups
The n-compass Mental Health Carers Support Groups offer Carers and professionals the opportunity to share their
experiences and collectively influence the development of potential new and existing services in the field of mental
health within their locality.
The groups are also an opportunity for Carers and professionals to find out more about support services available both
to Carers and the people that they care for.
Group Details
Central Mental Health Carers Forum - The
Lancashire Archives, Lancashire Record
Office, Bow Lane, Preston, Lancashire PR1
2RE (Please note the change of venue)
12:00pm – 3:00pm
15th June, 17th August, 19th October,
21st December 2015 & 15th February 2016
East Lancashire Mental Health Carers
Forum - Burnley Fire Station, Ormerod
Road, Burnley BB10 3AA
11:00am-2:30pm
10th June, 12th August, 14th October,
9th December 2015 & 10th February 2016
North Lancashire Mental Health
Carers Forum – The Community Room,
Oak Road Sheltered Accommodation,
Garstang PR3 1HT.
10:30am-1:30pm
18th June, 20th August, 15th October,
10th December 2015 & 18th February 2016
Refreshments and a light lunch will be
provided.
Simply come along on the day or for more
information contact n-compass Carers Mental
Health Support Service on 0300 303 8700 or
email [email protected]
Contact Details
8
Carers Help and Information Team (CHIT) line:
0300 303 8700
Email: [email protected]
Text: 07866 004 304
Letter:
n-compass Mental Health Carers Support
Service, 3 Errigal House, Avroe Crescent,
Blackpool Business Park, Blackpool, FY4 2DP
Fax: 01253 407473
Website: www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk/
and go to Carers page
Lancashire Carers
Forum
The Lancashire Carers
Forum meets every
other month and gives
Carers from across
Lancashire the
opportunity to meet
together for consultation
and discussion with other Carers, Carers Support Service staff,
elected Council members, Officers from Adult Social Services
and representatives from the Health Trusts.
The Lancashire Carers Forum is held from10:45am-2:30pm at
Farrington Environmental Education Centre, Sustainability Way,
Leyland, PR26 6LZ.
A light buffet lunch will be provided.
Dates and themes for 2015:
24th June
Dementia
24th September
Mental Health
30th November
TBC – AGM
Simply come along on the day or for more
information contact n-compass Carers Services on
0345 688 7113 or email [email protected]
Carers’
Book
Corner
A Carer's Odyssey: Life as
Mother, Wife, Carer
by Anna Chan
In the first part of A Carer's Odyssey,
Anna Chan describes how she and
her husband Jeff were devastated
16 years ago by the diagnosis of
their daughter Emma's severe
neurological disorder, called Rett
Syndrome. They tried everything
with little success, including a
course of cranial acupuncture in
China. The lack of understanding
and empathy of disabled people in
China is saddening, while the way
in which extended families give
their support is inspirational. Part
two of the book tells the story of
how Jeff became mentally ill and
how Anna had to cope with an
extra burden. It details her battle to
get Jeff's illness recognised and
treated, and her struggle to
understand Jeff and help him
recover. Part three develops the
positive lessons learnt from both
Anna's professional work as a
Carers' Support Worker and Carer
Lead for an NHS trust, and from
Do you have a book which has
helped you manage your caring
role? Let us know and we'll feature it
in the next newsletter.
KORE
The book is available to borrow
from Lancashire Libraries. Items
available for loan can be requested
online, by email, phone or in person
at any library. If you are placing a
reservation please be aware that a
charge, per item of 60p, will be
payable on collection.
The home library service is provided
free of charge if you are unable to
get to a library building because of
your age, disability or ill health. The
home library service offers the loan
of books, audio visual material and
a request service.
To contact the Library Service call
0300 123 6703 or log on to
www.lancashire.gov.uk/librariesand-archives
KORE Therapy
®
Specialists in Treating Musculo-Skeletal,
Digestive and Emotional Issues
FinSpa is situated in the heart of
Poulton-Le-Fylde and offers our clients
a unique pampering experience from a
range of indulgent treatments.
Who’s caring
for the Carer?
Relax the mind, body and spirit;
Reiki
Back, neck and shoulder massage
Indian Head Massage
Hopi Ear Candling
Reflexology
Crystal Reflexology
Available on Wednesday and Saturday
with Holistic Therapist Karen
We’ve been established for over 25 years
supporting people suffering from back
pain to sleep problems and depression.
Our professional complementary medicine
team and award winning Academy is here
to help you.
If you’re suffering, contact us now for the
care and support you need.
Situated at:
FinSpa, 1a Queens Square, Poulton-Le-Fylde FY6 7BW
For appointments or information on any of the treatments
contact FinSpa 01253 899950
2a Leach Lane, Lytham St. Annes, Lancashire. FY8 3AP
Home visits may be arranged in some circumstances
01253 728035
30min Back, Neck & Shoulder Massage
now £12 for Carers with
15min FREE Reiki session
Email: [email protected]
www.koretherapy.com
Follow us
@ncompasscarers
Mention this advert and receive a
10 Discount
%
Like us
Advertisement
Advertisement
some heart-warming and inspirational accounts of great
achievers who have suffered or do
suffer from physical or psychological disabilities.
/ncompasscarers
Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
9
n c mpass Carers Point! Spring 2015 Newsletter
Carers’ Health & General Wellbeing
10
Is the person you care for going
into hospital or has frequent
admissions to hospital?
HOW CAN WE HELP?
Complete a Hospital Passport to
assist you as a Carer and the
person you care for have a better
experience within hospital settings
High Blood Pressure
It's thought that around 30% of people in England have
high blood pressure, and many don't even know it.
Though more than half of them are over 60, a large
number are younger. Could you be one of them?
What is the
Passport?
The Passport is a booklet that will enable you to
inform hospital staff of relevant, accurate
information on the person you look after so the
right help is given. The Passport will be
particularly helpful if the cared for
person/patient has communication difficulties.
The Passport will also give you the opportunity to
inform staff of your caring role, the support you
are able to provide to the cared for person whilst
in hospital and identify what support you will be
able to offer to the cared for person after
discharge.
How does it work?
Carers complete the Passport adding
information, comments and suggestions about
the needs of the cared for person/patient in the
three sections. The red section is for 'must know'
information, amber section for 'important'
information and green section for 'helpful'
information. The Passport stays with the patient
while they are in hospital, enabling all health
professionals access to the information
contained in the Passport.
How can I get hold of
one?
Contact n-compass Carers Point!
on 0345 688 7113
or email [email protected]
High blood pressure is common and often has no
symptoms.
Check your blood pressure
High blood pressure is often referred to as a "silent killer"
and the only way to know if you have it is to have your
blood pressure checked. Health professionals such as
nurses, pharmacists and GPs can check your blood
pressure with a simple test.
If this check shows raised blood pressure, you may be
given a blood pressure kit to take home so you can
monitor your blood pressure throughout the day. This
will confirm whether you have consistently high blood
pressure.
High blood pressure increases your risk of having a
heart attack or stroke, but there are things you can do to
lower your blood pressure.
KEEPING BLOOD PRESSURE HEALTHY
Exercise
Do at least 30
minutes of exercise
five times a week,
such as walking,
dancing, cycling, or
swimming. If you're
not used to exercising,
don't start too quickly.
Talk to your doctor about how much exercise will suit you,
and build up slowly.
continued>>
Follow us
@ncompasscarers
Like us
/ncompasscarers
Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
Healthy Eating
A healthy, balanced diet will help reduce your blood
pressure. A healthy diet includes eating:
Fruit and vegetables are good for health, whether
they're fresh, tinned, frozen, dried or in juice.
Lose Weight
Exercising and eating healthily will help you lose
weight. Obesity increases your risk of high blood
pressure, so it's important to be a healthy weight.
less salt
less saturated fat
five portions of fruit and vegetables a day
Limit Your Alcohol Intake
Aim to eat no more than 6g of salt a day. Don't add salt to
food. Read food labels when you're shopping, to help you
buy healthier foods. Many foods – including breakfast
cereals, bread and soup – contain added salt.
The recommended healthy limits for alcohol are:
no more than three to four units a day for men
no more than two to three units a day for women
Saturated fat is found in butter, ghee, lard, meat pies, fatty
meat, sausages, cakes, biscuits and food containing
coconut oil or palm oil.
One unit of alcohol is roughly half a pint of regularstrength lager or a 125ml glass of wine.
How To Use Left-Overs Safely
Love Leftovers
Rising shopping bills have led to some people ignoring
basic food safety advice in a bid to save money and make
their meals go further, according to a survey.
· Don't throw out your leftovers: they can be
tomorrow's lunch.
· Cool leftovers as quickly as possible, ideally within 90
minutes (splitting into smaller portions can help).
Then cover and refrigerate.
· Use leftovers within two days and reheat till steaming
hot.
· Don't reheat leftovers more than once.
More than 30% of the 1,900 people who took part in the
survey admitted to ignoring "use by" dates and relying on
“smell and look” when deciding if food was safe to eat.
The survey was commissioned by the Food Standards
Agency (FSA) to highlight the growing concern over food
poisoning caused by food leftovers.
A food label's "use by" date is the
most important guide to whether
food is still safe to eat because
many harmful germs are odourless
and therefore impossible to detect.
Wednesday
Tuesday Leftovers
“It's tempting just to give your food
a sniff to see if you think it's gone
'off',” says Bob Martin, a food safety
expert at the FSA.
Monday
Monday Leftovers
“But food bugs like E. coli and
salmonella don't cause food to
smell off, even when they may have grown to dangerous
levels. So food could look and smell fine but still be
harmful.”
'Best before' and 'use by':
· Food with a "use by" date goes off quite quickly. It can be
dangerous to eat after this date.
· Food with a "best before" date is longer-lasting. It should
be safe to eat but may not be at its best quality after this
date.
Follow us
@ncompasscarers
The fridge and freezer
Like us
/ncompasscarers
Wednesday
You may be able to freeze food up
until its "use by" date.
· Check the packaging to see if it's
suitable for freezing.
· Freeze your leftovers. Wait until
they've cooled before you put
them in the freezer.
· Always defrost leftovers
completely, either in the fridge or
in the microwave.
· Cook the food within 24 hours of
defrosting until steaming hot and
do not refreeze.
· Make sure your fridge
temperature is below 5C.
“Making the most of the food we buy is increasingly
important to us all, especially with ever tighter
household budgets,” says Emma Marsh, from the Love
Food Hate Waste campaign.
“But we're still unnecessarily wasting 20% of the food
we buy. LoveFoodHateWaste.com has hundreds of
tips, recipe ideas and inspiration to help everyone
waste less and save more.
Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
11
n c mpass Carers Point! Spring 2015 Newsletter
Lancashire Wide Services
12
Carers Allowance
DWP Digital Service
The Carers Allowance Digital Service is a simpler, clearer
and faster way to make a claim for Carers Allowance or to
report a change of circumstances. Since it went live, the
Service has been used by some 150,000 Carers and they
have provided the Department for Work and Pensions
(DWP) with some excellent feedback about using the
facility
Some benefits of the service include:
- Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Your claim arrives immediately at the Carers Unit once
submitted
- Can be used on a mobile phone or tablet
- Has significantly less questions than the paper claim
- Does not require a signature or password
- Has mandatory questions to ensure you provide the
information needed to help pay your claim quickly
- Has helpline numbers and help text if carers need to
clarify questions
- Does not need to be printed or saved
- Is available in Welsh
What happens after the claim is submitted?
Once your claim is submitted, the Carers Unit will start
processing the claim and will write to your cared-for
person to let them know a claim by someone caring for
them has been made.
CarerSmart is the first club of its kind and is
launched by Carers Trust, giving the UK's seven
million Carers a chance to save money on a
range of products and services whilst they
continue to provide care.
Carers will be able to save money on a range of
products by getting cash back in numerous high
street stores as well as discounted rates on
energy bills, insurance renewals and lifestyle
activities, such as the gym, the cinema, days out
and travel. They will also have access to free legal
advice. As part of Carers Trust, Carers can also
find out more about both local and online
services to support them in their caring role.
The uniqueness of the club means that Carers
right across the UK can benefit. You will be able to
use an online calculator to work out how much
you could potentially save and this could be as
much as £600 per year.
The CarerSmart club is free to join.
To register visit www.carersmart.org
How long will it take to make the claim?
The DWP currently regularly review the questions that
they ask to ensure they are only asking you to provide
information that they need to process your claim. As a
consequence, the time taken to complete a digital
application is reducing and is currently around 26
minutes.
“I decided to have a look at the member energy
area. The process took me around 10 minutes
and I was advised that by switching providers I
could save around £360. Lots of provider options
were mentioned.”
What if the carer needs to take a break whilst making
the claim on line?
You will not be “timed out” of the on line application for 90
minutes, once you have started to complete the digital
claim form. This means you should be able to take a
break and then return to complete it later.
“I thought this sounded great until I realised I have
to have a card for each retailer, which you have to
load in advance. This means if I join 10 stores and
put £10 on each (not a lot to some I know) but this
means I have to load £100 onto the cards before I
can shop and save anything.”
A couple of reviews:
What if you need help?
There are help guides to clarify questions and eligibility
questions.
Where can you access this service?
Carers can access the digital service at:
www.gov.uk/apply-carers-allowance
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Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
Reablement
Personal Advisor Service
Do you require any help, information or just someone to
talk to? Age UK Lancashire has a local Personal Advisor
who can telephone or visit you at your convenience. This is
a free service.
Reablement is a non-means tested specialist service
provided by Lancashire County Council that assists
people who may have experienced any of the
following to relearn some of the skills they may have
lost and regain confidence in the home:
Ÿ a stay in hospital, a rehabilitation unit or a stay in a
We can offer assistance with:
Ÿ Social activities and befriending.
Ÿ Practical support and activities for people living with
dementia/memory problems.
Ÿ Aids and adaptations for your home.
Ÿ Practical and emotional support for people who have
been bereaved.
Ÿ Help in the home including shopping, cleaning and
laundry
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
Ÿ
care home
a temporary illness or permanent disability
a fall at home
a crisis at home
a change in circumstances relating to care
The reablement service is provided by care staff who
support people in their own home and local
community to:
Ÿ regain skills and confidence in completing
Ÿ Welfare and benefits.
Ÿ Information on how to access care.
Ÿ Practical support in the home following discharge
from hospital.
everyday tasks and activities such as making
meals, washing and dressing, shopping and
getting out
Ÿ
Ÿ support to gain new skills to help manage in the
Ÿ Home and car insurance
home
We aim to help anyone over 50 living in Lancashire to lead
valued and fulfilling lives.
Ÿ
Ÿ help avoid unnecessary admission to hospital, or
long term residential care
Ÿ
Ÿ help people to get back on their feet after a stay in
Please call our Customer Service Line: 0300 303 1234
and ask for the Personal Advisor in your district or email
[email protected]
Ÿ
Ÿ ensure equipment or telecare is provided to help
Visit our website www.ageuklancs.org.uk to find out
more about what we do and the services available.
Ÿ
Ÿ put people in touch with other services that can help
hospital
people live independently
such as Help Direct
Grandparents Plus
Grandparents Plus is the national charity which
champions the vital role of grandparents and the wider
family in children's lives – especially when they take on the
caring role in difficult family circumstances. They do this by:
Lancashire County Council provides the service for up
to six weeks, free of charge.
For more information contact:
0300 123 6720
or email [email protected]
· Campaigning for change so that their contribution to children's wellbeing and care is valued and understood
· Providing evidence, policy solutions and training so that they get the services and support they need to help children
thrive
· Advising and supporting grandparents and wider family members to ensure they have access to a holistic service,
offering them professional advice, information and casework support; and by ensuring that they can have a voice
and help each other, especially when they are caring for children who are not living with their parents.
· Advising, informing and supporting professionals to develop good kinship care practice and advising employers
about how they can respond to the needs of their ageing workforces.
To find out more about Grandparents Plus, contact 020 8981 8001 or email: [email protected]
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Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
13
Z
Useful Telephone Numbers
NEW NUMBER Social Services Customer Service Centre (24 hours)
Emergency Duty Team
(5.00pm – 8.45am weekdays, 24 hours weekends and bank holidays)
n-compass Advocacy Service
n-compass Carers Point! part of Carers Lancashire
n-compass Mental Health Carers Support Service
Age UK Lancashire
Alzheimer's Society
Arthritis Care
Barnado's Lancashire Young Carers Service
British Red Cross (support, transport, mobility aids and wellbeing)
Carers UK Advice Line
Cancer Care (advice and support)
CEA Card*
Citizen’s Advice Bureau - Fylde
Citizen’s Advice Bureau - North Lancashire
Citizen’s Advice Bureau - Wyre
Help Direct
0300 123 6720
0845 602 1043
0345 013 8208
0345 688 7113
0300 303 8700
0300 303 1234
0300 222 1122
0330 2020 358
01254 504 930
01772 707 300
0808 808 7777
01524 381 820
www.ceacard.co.uk
01772 682 588
01524 400 400
0344 245 1294 / 0300 330 0650
0303 333 1111
(help and advice with finances, health, employment and accessing services in the community)
Motor Neurone Disease (advice, practical and emotional support)
Mental Health Help Line
Multiple Sclerosis
NHS 111 Service
NHS Carers Direct (confidential information and support)
Samaritans
The Silver Line (advice and support for older people)
Welfare Rights
Welbeing and Mental Health Helpline
Attendance Allowance Helpline
Carers Allowance Unit
Disability Benefits Helpline
Job Centre Plus
Personal Independence Payment (PIP) Helpline
Special Education Needs Disagreement Resolution Service
State Pension Enquiries
08457 626 262
0500 369 000
020 8438 0700
111
0300 123 1053
08457 909 090
0800 470 8090
0300 123 6739
0300 222 5931
0345 605 6055
0345 608 4321
0345 712 3456
0800 055 6688
0345 850 3322
0800 064 4488
0800 731 7898
Fylde Borough Council
Lancaster City Council
Wyre Borough Council
01253 658 658
01524 582 000
01253 891 000
*CEA Card - One year cinema pass for the Carer at £6.00
14 Follow us
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Telephone: 0345 688 7113
X
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
Monday 8th to
Sunday 14th
June 2015
Carers Week is a UK-wide annual awareness campaign
which is taking place from Monday 8th to Sunday 14th
June 2015.
It is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring,
highlight the challenges carers face and recognise the
contribution they make to families and communities
throughout the UK.
This year the focus is on Building Carer Friendly
Communities. Communities which support carers to look
after their loved ones well, while recognising that they are
individuals with needs of their own.
Look for us out and about celebrating carers during
Carers Week 8th – 14th June 2015:
We will have an information stand in the foyer of
Morecambe Library on Thursday 11 June from 10am
to 1pm.
There should also be stands and information for other
Carers organisations, so please come along.
Similarly, we will be at Fleetwood Library, North Albert
Street on Tuesday 9th June from 10am to 12 noon.
Also see over the page for details of our special June
Coffee and Chats where we would like to thank Carers
personally.
Lancashire Adult Learning
- Residential Courses for Unpaid Carers
Alston Hall College,
Alston Lane,
Longridge, PR3 3BP
These breaks are a valuable
opportunity for Carers to relax and
take a well-deserved break, with
meals and accommodation
included for a cost of £54.20 per
person.
TAKING CARE OF THE
CARER: ASTRONOMY
Friday 15th- Sunday 17th May 2015
For more information please contact
Helen Pass or Jill Hurst on 01257 516347
or [email protected]
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THREE DAY COURSE
subject to be confirmed
Wednesday 17th - Friday 19th
June 2015
Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
15
n c mpass Carers Point!
Wesley’s Coffee Bar
groups
Meet and chat with other Carers and take a break
from your caring role. Speak to an n-compass Carers
Point! worker and take the opportunity to find out
about our services and other support available in
your area.
Carers Week this year is 8th – 14th June 2015
and all the June Coffee and Chats will take
place within that week. To mark Carers Week
we would like to offer you the opportunity to
have a hand massage and to receive a small
pamper/goody bag whilst at the Coffee and
Chat.
Please note that all the June Coffee and
Chats will take place in the second
y
week of the month.
Goodg
a
B
Themes of the Month:
The Themes of the Month are continuing to go down
well. Carers had the opportunity to share their
experiences and tips around each theme and take
some materials away with them. In February, for
example, these materials included information about
opportunities for taking up yoga, some Mindfulness
exercises to try at home and opportunities for
meditation in your lunch hour! For the next Themes of
the Month see below:
May 'Gardening'
June 'Carers Week - Building Carer
Friendly Communities'
July 'Local History’
Park Hill Road, Garstang, PR3 1HF.
10:00am - 12:00noon
Thursday 7th May 2015
th
Thursday 11 June 2015
nd
Thursday 2 July 2015
Silverdell Café & Bookshop
61 Poulton Street, Kirkham, PR4 2AJ.
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Thursday 7th May 2015
th
Thursday 11 June 2015
Thursday 2nd July 2015
The Cornerstone
Sulyard Street, Lancaster, LA1 1PX.
10:00am - 12:00noon
th
Friday 8 May 2015
Friday 12th June 2015
th
Friday 10 July 2015
Burnside Garden Centre
New Lane, Thornton-Cleveleys, FY5 5NH.
10:00am - 12:00noon
th
Wednesday 13 May 2015
th
Wednesday 10 June 2015
th
Wednesday 8 July 2015
Bay View Garden Centre
Mill Lane, Bolton-le-Sands, LA5 8ET.
10:00am - 12:00noon
Wednesday 27th May 2015
th
Wednesday 10 June 2015
nd
Wednesday 22 July 2015
**NEW VENUE**
The Sanctuary
12-14 Heysham Road, West End,
Morecambe, LA3 1DG.
1:00pm - 3:00pm
th
Tuesday 19 May 2015
Tuesday 9th June 2015
st
Tuesday 21 July 2015
Support Groups
when and where...
Please note that whilst n-compass Carers Point! do our best to print accurate information, times, dates and venues may be
subject to change so you are advised to check on our website or call before attending.
16
Take a break from your caring role and enjoy some activities and trips with other Carers. Don’t be concerned
about attending on your own, all Carers will be made to feel welcome.
Please complete the Activity Booking Form and return to n-compass Carers Point! to reserve a place on any
of the activities offered below.
Theatre Trips
Opera Boys
Lancaster Grand Theatre,
Saint Leonard's Gate, Lancaster LA1 1NN
Friday 17th July at 7.30pm
The UK's finest classically trained young voices
combine in a powerhouse of vocal harmony to
deliver stunning blend of music ranging from Opera
to Pop, and everything in between.
Operatic arias and classical favourites from
'Nessun Dorma' to 'Time to say goodbye 'are mixed
with showstoppers from 'Les Miserables' and
'Phantom' right through to 'Jersey Boys'. The show
also features brand new classical arrangements of
modern day pop hits, all performed in The Opera
Boys inimitable style.
With beautiful vocal
arrangements , spectacular close part harmony
and a great line in humour, The Opera Boys perform
wonderfully entertaining show not to be missed!
A Concert for Chrisites
Lowther Pavillion, Lowther Terrace, Lytham FY8 5QQ
Thursday 9th July at 7.30pm
Team Christies present their 3rd biannual Musical
Theatre Extravaganza in aid of The Christie Hospital.
Having raised upwards of £10,000 in previous years,
this next production promises to be bigger and better
than ever before.
Featuring 22 invited professional theatre performers
from around the North West alongside the trademark
vitality of the Fylde Stage Academy children, this show
includes exerts from: Frozen, Charlie and the
Chocolate Factory, Mamma Mia, Top Hat, Jersey Boys
and MORE.
Pottyroo's Ceramics and Crafts
Big Storage, Unit A0003, Northgate, White Lund
Industrial Estate, Morecambe LA3 3PA
(From Asda turn onto White Lund, 200 yards on the left
Big Storage. Park at the back of Big Storage. Pottyroo's
Ceramics is opposite Bookers)
Wednesday 20 May from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm
Pottery Painting
Visit the studio and paint a lovely piece of pottery:
ornaments, plates, mugs, vases, money boxes etc.
Glazey Days
6 The Esplanade, Fleetwood. FY7 6DL.
Thursday 14 May from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Price £10.00
Full payment required to secure booking
Visit the studio and paint a lovely piece of pottery: a
large tile, breakfast bowl, mug, plate etc
Price £10.00
Full payment required to secure booking
@ncompasscarers
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Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
n c mpass Carers Point! Spring 2015 Newsletter
Price £11.50
Full payment required to secure booking
Price £16.00
Full payment required to secure booking.
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Activities & Outreach
Activities and Trips
17
Trip to the
Lawrence House Astronomy and
Space Science Centre,
Fleetwood
The Centre offers people of all ages and levels the
chance to do some astronomy and provides
opportunities to become enthralled and enthused with
this amazing science. A group of Carers went to find out
more.
The session was delivered by astronomer Dr Nick Lister
and was a fascinating insight into our galaxy and
galaxies beyond. We first sat in the lecture theatre and
learnt about the planets making up our solar system,
found out some fascinating facts and discovered some
of the science used to find out all this amazing
information. We then went into the Planetarium where
we made ourselves comfortable on beanbags and as
the lights went down were introduced to the night sky. It
was stunningly beautiful and atmospheric and Nick
continued to tell us more interesting, wonderful facts,
figures and stories. As one Carer in the group, Elizabeth
Dobson, said “What an incredible journey lead by a
fantastic man. He was incredibly enthusiastic and
managed to talk about some complex ideas in an
understandable way. Everyone enjoyed it and we got to
hold a piece of the moon! It was well worth the effort of
going.”
Chairman's Lunch
Carl and I were nominated by n-compass Carers Point! to attend the Chairman's
Lunch for Carers of people living with Dementia on Tuesday 10th March 2015. The
Lunch was hosted by the Chairman of Lancashire County Council, County Councillor
Kevin Ellard.
The Lunch took place in the beautiful Assembly Rooms, County Hall, Preston. We were
joined by about 40 other Carers from around Lancashire, Charity Officials, Councillors
and of course the Chairman.
We were told that it would be a lovely meal and we were certainly not disappointed.
On arrival we were offered a choice of tea, coffee, wine or a soft drink before we
moved into the Assembly Rooms. The Chairman then gave a small speech thanking
us all for attending and for the invaluable service we all provide by caring for our
families and loved ones.
We had a very pleasant afternoon exchanging experiences with other Carers; some
funny and some sad, whilst enjoying an excellent five course meal.
I would encourage anyone who gets the opportunity to attend one of these events to
do so – you will not regret it.
Susan Bailey – Carer
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Telephone: 0345 688 7113
www.ncompassnorthwest.co.uk
Health and
Wellbeing
Champions
n c mpass
looking towards a brighter future
Your chance to improve your health
and that of those around you
Would you like to make a positive difference to the
health and wellbeing of yourself, your family,
neighbours, work colleagues and the community
where you live and work? Or do you know someone
who would?
If so we would like to invite you/them to attend a
training course which will support you/them to get a
level 2 qualification and become part of our network
of Volunteer Health and Wellbeing Champions.
Following the training you/they can use their
knowledge and skills to encourage others to look after
and improve their Health and Wellbeing. This may
include topics such as stopping smoking, being more
active, eating well, and generally being more aware
of healthy lifestyle choices.
If you/they would like to know more we offer regular
awareness sessions. To arrange attendance, or to
discuss involvement in more detail, please contact our
Services Support Team by telephone on 01253 362140
(Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm)
Or by email to
[email protected]
Health and Wellbeing Champions can also help
people access the NHS services that they may need.
There will also be an opportunity to get involved with
community based events and with the evaluation of
the project.
19
Activity Booking Form
Activities can be accessed by Carers and former Carers who are registered with us at n-compass Carers Point! Carers from across
North Lancashire can access any activity although please note transport is only provided when stated.
If you wish to attend any of the activities below please tick the appropriate box and return this form to FREEPOST RRUJ-ABCZ-TEUE,
n-compass Carers Point!, 3 Errigal House, Avroe Crescent, Blackpool Business Park, Blackpool, FY4 2DP.
You should receive confirmation in writing that you have booked a place.
Please make cheques payable to 'n-compass North West Ltd.'
TICK
I would like to be contacted by Colin
(n-compass Community Development Officer) regarding Community Groups
I would like to be contacted by Martin
(n-compass Volunteer Co-ordinator) regarding Volunteering for the Sitting-In Service
I would like to be contacted regarding becoming a Health and Wellbeing Champion
EVENT
DATE & TIME
Pottery Painting
Glazey Days
6 The Esplanade, Fleetwood FY7 6D
£10.00 - Full payment required to secure booking
Thursday 14th May 2015
1:00pm – 3:00pm
Pottery Painting
Pottyroo's Ceramics and Crafts
Big Storage, Unit A0003, Northgate,
White Lund Industrial Estate, Morecambe LA3 3PA
£10.00 - Full payment required to secure booking
Wednesday 20th May 2015
1:00pm – 3:30pm
Theatre Trip
A Concert for Chrisites
Lowther Pavillion, Lowther Terrace, Lytham FY8 5QQ
£11.50 - Full payment required to secure booking
Thursday 9th July 2015
7:30pm
Theatre Trip
Opera Boys
Lancaster Grand Theatre, Saint Leonard's Gate,
Lancaster LA1 1NN
£16.00 - Full payment required to secure booking
Friday 17th July 2015
7:30pm
TICK
Book by: Friday 8th May 2015
Book by: Friday 8th May 2015
Book by: Friday 22nd May 2015
Book by: Friday 22nd May 2015
All Carers need to state an Emergency Contact.
Your Name
20
Contact Number
Their Number
Emergency Contact Name
One-off payment of £
attached
Produced by ZPQ Designs - Lancashire. 01253 728088
Please make any activity suggestions here.