News and Events
Well Aware’s news and events section is a service for all organisations or groups who are registered users of Well Aware.
To get your event or news item included on this page, just email the following details to info@wellaware.org.uk:
· Your name
· Your organisation or group
· Name/brief description of event or news item
· Date and start/finish times (if an event)
· Where people can find further information (please included name and telephone number, and also an email or website address where possible)
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News and Forthcoming Events
South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group Stakeholder Event Report
The report of the South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group’s (CCG) Stakeholder Event which was held on 11 July can be viewed here: http://tinyurl.com/SGlos-CCG-Report-2012
People and Research South West
The Care Forum is working in partnership with local NHS organisations and universities in the People and Research SW initiative. The aim of the project is to support public involvement in health and social care research. People and Research SW is also here to offer guidance and support if you are looking for information or guidance for your particular research or would like to make contact with other research projects. For more information on training events, networking meetings and other resources, Tel: 0117 328 8809 or email: Catrin.Richards@uwe.ac.uk or see the weblink: http://tinyurl.com/People-and-Research-SW
Personal health budgets to be rolled out
The roll out of personal health budgets has been announced by Care and Support Minister Norman Lamb. A personal health budget is an amount of money given to someone, to help them design a package of care support from clinicians and others, giving them more control over the nature of the treatment provided. Personal health budgets have been piloted at 20 in-depth sites for the last three years, and an independent evaluation of the pilot programme has been published. To view click on the link: www.personalhealthbudgets.dh.gov.uk/Topics/latest/Resource/?cid=8603
Health and Wellbeing in Bristol – a new strategy for Bristol
Health and wellbeing is important to everyone in Bristol, whether they live, work or learn in the city. Nationally, major changes being made to the way health and social care services will be designed and delivered. Locally, a new strategy is being developed by Bristol’s Health and Wellbeing Board. This new Board, set up as part of the national changes, is responsible for drafting a Health and Wellbeing Strategy to meet the local health needs of our city both now and in the future.
Please read the Draft Health and Wellbeing Strategy:
http://tinyurl.com/Bristol-Draft-HW-Strategy
South Glos Living with Dementia Roadshows
These roadshows taking place in diferent venues over the next few months are for anyone recently diagnosed with dementia, their carers or families:
Thursday 23 May 10.30am -1.00pm
Gateway Revival Church, Station Road, Yate BS37 4PH
Thursday 4 July 6.30pm - 9.00pm
Turnberries Community Centre, Bath Road, Thornbury BS35 2BB
Thursday 12 September 2.00pm - 4.30pm
Coniston Community Centre, The Parade, Coniston Road, Patchway BS34 5LP
Tuesday 19 November 10.30am -1.00pm
Kingswood Civic Centre, High Street, Kingswood BS15 9TR
Share Your Experiences of Living with Dementia
Alzheimer’s Society is looking to conduct individual interviews, or focus groups with gay, lesbian or bisexual people who also have dementia, or who care for someone with dementia and any particular barriers you may face in your communities. These will be informal and will take place somewhere that you are comfortable. This is to help with a project to create dementia friendly communities.
The evidence gathered will form the basis of a report which will be launched in the summer of 2013.
If you are a person with dementia, you care for a person with dementia or you work with people with dementia and know of groups or individuals who might like to be involved, please contact Laura Cook, Policy Officer by email: laura.cook@alzheimers.org.uk or Tel: 020 7423 3578
Thornbury Volunteer Centre Silver Jubilee
Activities planned include:
• Photographic competition during volunteers’ week 1-7 June highlighting the breadth of volunteering throughout South Gloucestershire
• Volunteer Fair in Thornbury St Mary Centre on Thursday 4 July, allowing voluntary bodies to raise awareness and recruit new volunteers. Open to all.
Childsafe Clubright Seminar
Childsafe is running a seminar to introduce Clubright Online, a new online child protection resource for voluntary and community groups. It will provide clear guidelines for staff and volunteers who run local groups, help ensure that children and young people are safe in your care, enable you to provide safeguarding information and advice to parents and children and up-to-date information on current and relevant child protection legislation.
Sunday 10 June 2012 Free Child Protection Awareness Seminars in North Somerset, Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset and Somerset.
Find out more about Childsafe Tel: 01275 816 133 or email:childsafe@avonandsomerset.police.uk
PO Box 37, Valley Road Portishead, Bristol, BS20 8QJ
Culture, Health and Wellbeing – International Conference
Thursday 24 to Saturday 26 June 2013, Bristol.
Find out more and register at: www.culturehealthwellbeing.org.uk
Bristol's Celebrating Age Festival Saturday 29 June 2013
This festival was first set up in 2008 in response to the Bristol Older people’s Strategy. Understanding that Bristol is in many ways a young city with much of its culture and activity orientated towards young people, its vision is to:
• Recognise the positive value of older people and combat age discrimination
• Place older people at the centre of thinking and planning of services
• Actively promote independence and well being rather than just being reactive
• Take a more ‘joined up’ approach to the delivery of services
• Encourage social cohesion across the generations
For further information contact: stella.quinlivan@bristol.gov.uk
RUN FOR THE FUTURE
Every year Bristol Urological Institute and Bristol Rotary organise a family fun run on the Bristol Downs to raise funds and awareness of Prostate cancer in the Bristol area. This year the event is on Sunday 8 September . There is a distinct lack of awareness of prostate cancer within the male population, probably since men tend not to talk about health issues and are often reluctant to visit the GP. This year the charity is offering Prostate cancer awareness talks to local Bristol companies and social groups to raise awareness of Prostate Cancer. To get involved, go to:http://www.shinetogether.org.uk/Run-For-The-Future/run-for-the-future-2013.html
Stop Scams, Stay Safe DVD
The Listening Partnership, a forum group for young disabled people aged 13-25, has created a DVD showing a series of humorous sketches depicting various internet scams, with information on how to stay safe and how to report a disablist hate crime.
The DVD was launched at WECIL’s annual AGM in September. For a copy, email: sarah.howard@wecil.co.uk
Walking Football!
A slower version of the beautiful game, this is suitable for older people, those recovering from injury and anyone who would like to take things at a slower pace. The project is a partnership between Bristol City Football Club and LinkAge who are joining forces to give people aged over 55 the opportunity to strap their football boots on and get back into the game. Contact LinkAge to register interest or to find out more, Tel: 0117 305 2365.
Rethink Mental Illness: Schizophrenia Commission Report
A year ago Rethink Mental Illness set up the Schizophrenia Commission to use the hundredth anniversary of the coining of the term by the Swiss psychiatrist Eugene Bleuler to take stock of the experience of people with schizophrenia and psychosis and make recommendations on what can be done to improve outcomes. The Commission has been chaired by Sir Robin Murray and has drawn together 14 individuals with professional and personal experience of the condition. To view the report click on the link: www.schizophreniacommission.org.uk/the-report/
South Gloucestershire Council Smoke-free Homes Project
As the days get shorter and it becomes colder, smokers may be tempted to stay inside to smoke. The smoke from tobacco contains over 4000 chemicals many of which cause cancer and other serious illnesses. These chemicals are present in all the second-hand smoke released from a cigarette. The illnesses caused by breathing second-hand smoke include lung cancer, respiratory disease and heart attacks in adults, and asthma, glue ear and cot death in babies and children.
For a free smoke-free homes and cars information pack, email: esadmin@southglos.gov.uk or Tel: 01454 868 001.
Asian Health and Care Association serving South Glos
This is a day care centre in the heart of the South Asian communities of Bristol and South Glos serving the South Asian elderly and enabling them to live independent lives. For further information contact Adult Care at South Glos Council Tel: 01454 868 007. The centre currently has vacancies for South Asian Elderly people.
Email: asiandaycentre@hotmail.co.uk
Website: http://www.wellaware.org.uk/organisations/152-asian-health-and-social-care-association
Refresh your Cycling Skills in South Gloucestershire - FREE Course
South Gloucestershire Council's road safety team is inviting adult cyclists to refresh their cycling skills to help promote safety on local roads. The team has also commissioned a video to encourage people who think they are already good cyclists to think again.
To book adult cycle training courses contact Tel: 01454 868 449 or go to:http://www.southglos.cycletms.com/
The team's video, entitled Keep Calm and Cycle On, can be viewed online at http://bit.ly/WlEZfY
HealthWatch England
Healthwatch England, the new national, statutory consumer champion for health and social care in England, was launched on 1 October. For more information, see: www.dh.gov.uk/health/2012/10/healthwatch-england-launched/
Getting out and about. The key to better health?
A recent research project conducted at University of Bristol has revealed that one of the best things that older adults can do to maintain good health is to get out and about more. Now the University of Bath is launching a project in Bristol to try and encourage just that.
Project ACE (Active, Connected, Engaged Communities) is launching a search for 100 older adults (65 yrs+) in Southmead, Henbury, Brentry, Stockwood or Hengrove, and 25 volunteer buddies (60 yrs+), to test the ACE approach to improving health in older adults. If you, or someone you know, would like more information about taking part in project ACE, either as a participant or a volunteer buddy, please contact Dr Janet Withall Tel: 01225 385449 or email: j.withall@bath.ac.uk or send your name, address and telephone number to Dr Janet Withall, Department of Health, University of Bath, Bath, BA2 7AY.
Weekly Art Courses for People with Mental Health Needs
In partnership with Kumiko Community Arts, WECIL's mental health project is running 3 x free 5 week art courses for anyone who identifies as having a mental health need.
At each session there will be 2 course facilitators (from Kumiko Community Arts), Amber from WECIL and peer support volunteers. Contact Wecil for further information or to book a place by email: mentalhealth@wecil.co.uk or Tel: 0117 961 7729.
PAs or support workers welcome, just let WECIL know at time of booking.
The Art of Cooking: From the Kitchen to the Studio
A fun, free art session inspired by cooking and kitchen objects for groups of adults with additional needs. Funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund. To book a free 2 hour session for your group email: Lindsey_Braidley@bathnes.gov.uk or call Lindsey on Tel: 01225 477 757.
Recovery Education Course
FREE course intended for people who use mental health services and people with experience of mental health issues. Its aim is to develop practical tools to support recovery within a supportive environment.
Bristol course at The Greenhouse, Hereford Street, Bristol, BS3 4NA
For more information or to book, contact Tanya Logan, Peer Support Officer, Second Step, email: tanya.logan@second-step.co.uk or Tel: 0117 909 6630.
South Gloucestershire course at The Park Centre, High Street, Kingswood, South Glos, BS15 4AR
The course includes a lot of exercises, trying things out and being a bit creative. All participants will receive workbooks and the course will include some note taking and reflecting on your learning.
The course is FREE to all, but people are asked to cover travel expenses and provide their own lunch.
If you are interested in participating please contact Stefano Manfredi on Tel: 0117 909 6630 or 07730 656 904 or email: Stefano.Manfredi@second-step.co.uk
Red Cross Healthy Homes Project
Do you know someone living in South Glos or Bath & North East Somerset who would benefit from help to stay warm and prevent falls, fire and social isolation this winter? If so, contact the Red Cross Healthy Homes team on Tel: 0117 301 2611 or email: H&SCWAG@redcross.org.uk to arrange a home visit.
Red Cross Home from Hospital
The British Red Cross Home from Hospital Service runs in both Bristol and South Gloucestershire to support vulnerable adults settling back home after a stay in hospital, helping to prevent readmission. Referrals can be accepted for anyone over 18 needing short-term, low-level care and support. It provides practical help and signposting to ongoing support. It also offers companionship for up to six weeks post discharge. People can self-refer within two weeks of discharge from hospital.
Email Karen Skeats, Service Co-ordinator: hfhbristolsouthglos@redcross.org.uk or Tel: 0117 941 5041.
National LGB Substance Use Research
The Lesbian & Gay Foundation is undertaking a national piece of research that may be of interest to you or your group. "Part of the Picture" is a 5-year collaboration between The Lesbian & Gay Foundation and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan). It is the largest survey of LGB substance use ever undertaken.
This is the fourth year of data collection. The Lesbian & Gay Foundation hopes to widen its network of respondents to ensure that diversity within the LGB population is represented. The survey is completely confidential and anonymous, and can be accessed at: www.partofthepicture.co.uk
LGBTQ Emotional Wellness Programme Mental Health Support Group
Due to the success of the established group that meets on Monday evenings at Windmill Hill City Farm there is now also a new group meeting in Easton on Saturday afternoons.
Monday evenings 7.30pm - 9.30pm at Windmill Hill City Farm, Philip St, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4EA
Saturdays 2.30pm – 4.30pm at The Media Room, Kebele Community Co-operative,
14 Robertson Road, Easton, Bristol BS5 6JY
For further information please contact: info@lgbthealthforumbristol.co.uk
Domestic Violence Leaflet in 12 Languages
There are new leaflets available from the Home Office, in 12 languages, developed with Southall Black Sisters to cover 'honour'-based violence, female genital mutilation, forced marriage, dowry abuse, domestic and sexual abuse, and having no recourse to public funds. Download them here: www.homeoffice.gov.uk/publications/crime/3-steps-escaping-dv/
Carer of Adults Survey
A sample of carers known to South Gloucestershire Council was surveyed in the autumn of 2012. This was the first year of an annual national survey run by The Information Centre for Health and Social Care. The overall results will be shared with the Department of Health (DoH) and the Care Quality Commission (CQC), as well as being used to help improve local services. Results will be available in Summer 2013. For more information, email the Assistant Planning & Partnerships Officer, Community Care and Housing Department: Susan.Cooper@southglos.gov.uk
Carers' Support Groups 2013
Rethink runs carers' support groups in partnership with Avon and Wiltshire Partnership (mental health services) in various parts of Bristol on different days and times. All groups are co-facilitated by Margaret Price (Rethink) and a member of staff from AWP. For more information Tel: 0117 903 1803 or mobile: 07918 162 523.
Siblings Support Group
A group for carers over 18 years old who have brothers and sisters affected by mental illness. For more information email: rethinksiblingsbristol@gmail.com or Tel: 07542 706 502.
Free Therapeutic Group for Carers run by The Harbour
This group, funded by Macmillan Cancer Support, will start early in 2013 and will meet weekly over a period of six months in central Bristol. The group will be open to anyone caring for someone with cancer or another life-threatening illness. It will offer a supportive environment to help understand feelings and that people are not alone.
Free Breast Cancer Therapeutic Group - run by The Harbour
This group, funded by Macmillan Cancer Support, will start early in 2013 and meet weekly over a period of a year. People experience breast cancer in different ways: some might feel isolated, others overwhelmed with anxiety and thoughts about the future. It can be hard to talk to family and friends. This therapeutic group helps people to recognise that they are not alone and offers an opportunity to explore and understand feelings in a safe and supported environment.
For more information on either of the above or to make an initial 1:1 assessment, please contact The Harbour on Tel: 0117 925 9348 or email: info@the-harbour.co.uk
South Gloucestershire Community Transport
The main community transport groups in the area – Four Towns & Vale Link based in Thornbury, Kingswood community transport and Yate, Sodbury and District community transport have each been allocated one new car by South Gloucestershire Council. The vehicles have been customised to carry a wheelchair user and one or two other passengers to help improve access for older and disabled residents to facilities such as doctors surgeries, dentists and social activities. All the vehicles can be driven by community volunteers without the need for a special driving licence – making them more user-friendly and more efficient than minibuses. Community transport groups are always on the lookout for volunteers to help improve the service they can offer their customers. All volunteers are provided with relevant minibus driver awareness training.
For more information about community transport visit:http://tinyurl.com/SG-Community-Transport or Tel: 01454 868 004
South Gloucestershire Independent Advisory Group
The group has an advisory role to South Gloucestershire Police on how they can best serve members of the community and under-represented groups within South Gloucestershire.
The IAG is independent from the police. It is made up of representatives of the community and speaks for the community. South Gloucestershire IAG would like representatives from all groups, particularly minority groups, so all voices can be heard. The IAG is one way in which you can indirectly inform the police of any form of crime or injustice that has been made against a member of your community. As a member of the IAG, you can be the spokesperson for your community or group.
For more information about the IAG or if you are interested in joining, contact the independent Chair, Amarjit Singh, email: amarjit.southglos.iag@gmail.com or Chief Superintendent Sarah Crew, South Gloucestershire Police Commander, email: sarah.crew@avonandsomerset.police.uk or Tel: 0117 9286000
Personal Assistant Induction & Training in South Glos.
A personal assistant (PA) is employed by people who receive direct payments to provide them with support in the way they prefer. South Gloucestershire is planning to run an induction course for personal assistants who will be starting work, with regular short welcome sessions. These will provide information and guidance to new personal assistants and cover the PA Network and courses available. Employers will also be encouraged to join the welcome sessions. A longer induction course will be held 3 to 4 times per year to give a more in-depth introduction to the PA role and responsibilities. As part of the induction course we have developed a guide for Personal Assistants. To receive a copy or for details of PA induction training please call Tel: 01454 862 356.
Help for Older and Disabled People to Get Online
A new three-year initiative in Bristol will help local people access the internet, learn new skills and find out more about computers and technology. The project, call Get IT Together, is focused on helping older people and individuals with disabilities gain basic IT skills. Sessions are tailored towards the learners’ own personal interests and are delivered by friendly, approachable tutors.
Should you be interested in attending a course, or becoming a volunteer tutor, please write to Get IT Together, Room 404, The Council House, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TR. Alternatively, you can contact Project Coordinator, Marius Jennings on Tel: 07785 462 568 or email: marius.jennings@citizensonline.org.uk
‘www to work’ Jobseeking Sessions and Internet Course
The Vassall Centre, Gill Avenue, Fishponds, Bristol BS16 2QQ
The Vassall Centre is offering free jobseeking sessions, internet classes and lunchtime ‘drop ins’. Find out more: http://toworkbristol.org/wordpress/
To book onto sessions people should email: lucyr@vassallcentre.org or phone 0117 965 2619 and leave a message which contains clear contact details.
Jobseeking Sessions are Tuesdays 2.30-4.30pm in the Vassall Centre (apart from individual careers guidance sessions).
South Gloucestershire Deaf Association
South Gloucestershire Deaf Association (SGDA) holds a number of regular sessions each month including:▪ Hard of hearing coffee morning (third Tuesday) ▪ British Sign Language users coffee morning (last Tuesday) ▪ Pension and benefit sessions (last Friday) ▪ Also every Thursday a member of the Occupational Therapy team from South Gloucestershire Council can assist with equipment needs. To contact, Tel: 01454 316 460, email: enquiries@sgda.co.uk or the mobile phone/SMS number is: 07812 177 929.
Pilot Reablement Service
Brunelcare, South Gloucestershire Council and NHS South Gloucestershire are working in partnership on a pilot reablement service. This free service will help people who have been in hospital to re-establish the everyday skills needed for daily living and will also help to find voluntary services, to help with areas of people's lives such as social activities and transport. The aim is to provide a stepping stone to independence, allowing people the time, encouragement and support needed to help regain lost skills, learn new skills and gain as much independence and quality of life as possible whilst remaining in their own homes. The service will support 20 people each month who have been discharged from Southmead hospital. To find out more, contact the project manager Rebecca Harrold on Tel: 01454 868 228 or email: rebecca.harrold@southglos.gov.uk
