Author Archives: Maureen
Technology gave Brain damaged man his ‘speech’ back
Brain-damaged man has ‘speech’ backA MAN left brain damaged by an attack 20 years ago has been given the gift of speech again – thanks to new technology.
Kevin Beverley, aged 55, was attacked in Barnsley town centre when he was in his 30s.
The unprovoked assault left Kevin with severe brain damage, broken bones, and paralysis down his right side.
He was also unable to speak – until being given access to the latest iPad technology which means he can communicate with his family and carers for the first time.
Unpaid Family carers ‘at breaking point’
Family carers ‘at breaking point’
Mencap ambassador Jo Whiley called for help to provide short breaks for carers
The majority of people who care for disabled family members have reached “breaking point”, a charity has warned.
Mencap said that eight in 10 people who care for loved ones with a learning disability feel they do not get the respite or support they need.
Despite the Government allocating funds for carers to have short breaks from their caring responsibilities, the money was not ring-fenced and is being spent elsewhere, the learning disability charity said.
Half the councils across England have cut short break services so carers are not getting any time to themselves, the charity’s report Short Breaks states.
Personal Independence Payment could change blue badge eligibility
Blue badge ‘life line’ could be taken away
February 11, 2013
A mum of two autistic children has condemned plans by the Government which will make it tougher for her to gain a disabled blue badge.
Under new Government welfare reforms the parking concession permits will be linked to a new personal independence payment (PIP) which will replace disability living allowance (DLA) in April.
This has a much narrower criteria for eligibility which will make it increasing difficult for people with autism and their carers to get a blue badge, even those assessed as having mobility needs.
Jo-Anna Dem, 45, of Carsdale Close, Coley Park, fears losing the badge which she claims has been a lifeline in caring for her autistic sons Adama, aged 10, and eight-year-old Gabriel.
