People with learning disabilities need friends

October 23, 2014   Carers, Featured Article, learning difficulties

Contributing to society and being part of a community increases dignity and independence

The most important thing we can do as an organisation is to hear first-hand from those we support. That’s why Brandon Trust launched its first annual 100 Voices conference four years ago, bringing together as many of the people we support as possible.

Over those years we have discussed some of the most pressing issues they face; such as accessing transport, securing meaningful employment and the ugly but undeniably pressing issue of hate and mate crime.

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Vulnerable people in rural areas at risk from big changes in care

October 21, 2014   Carers, Featured Article, Older care, Social care

New legislation has been described as the biggest shake-up in the care system in more than 60 years.

By Western Morning News  |  Posted: October 21, 2014

 Ann McClements and Ken Crawford, of Devon Senior Voice, take a look at what it will mean.

Vulnerable people and their carers will be put in control of the support they receive when the first part of The Care Act 2014 comes into effect next April. It will also cap the amount anyone will have to pay.

Devon Senior Voice (DSV) – the voluntary forum for older people – has keenly followed its various stages and is focusing on the Act for the next six months, explaining the changes to all our members. We have recommended to all branches that they explore and discuss the implications.

The two core principles that run through the Act are personalisation and wellbeing.

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The future for health and social care

October 21, 2014   Carers, charities, Featured Article, Social care

Almost a third of Social Enterprise UK members operate in health and social care, often involved in some of the most innovative and pioneering work

  • Nick Temple, business and enterprise director, Social Enterprise UK
  • Guardian Professional,
    Plymouth, where social enterprises have contributed to a dementia hub. Photograph: Andy Fox/Loop Images/Corbis

As the recent party conferences and Scottish referendum have proved, health and social care are at the centre of political attention – and will be crucial in general election campaigns. This is with good reason: we are in a period of challenges where health services are concerned. Many NHS trusts are already significantly in deficit, and the strain is beginning to show across the country.

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