Young people speak for themselves Co-operative staff on ... - Enable

L e a d i n g t h e w a y i n l e a r n i n g d i s a b i l i t y 

newslink 

Summer 2011 Issue No:90 

Inside this issue: 

<strong>Young</strong> <strong>people</strong> <strong>speak</strong> 

<strong>for</strong> <strong>themselves</strong> 

<strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> <strong>staff</strong> on target 

to inspire young <strong>people</strong> 

Picking up the pieces 

<strong>for</strong> lifelong carers 

Newslink is also 

available in audio <strong>for</strong>mat

2 

ENABLE Scotland Newslink - Summer 2011 - www.enable.org.uk 

Want to have fun or an exciting adventure as 

well as raise money <strong>for</strong> ENABLE Scotland? 

Win dinner in the sky courtesy of Jamie Oliver’s Glasgow restaurant! 

The next ENABLE Scotland Titan Abseil takes place on Saturday 20th August - with a 

tasty twist! 

Teams of four will take on their fears, with the chance of winning a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: 

a meal <strong>for</strong> their team from Jamie’s Italian restaurant - and eating it at the top of the crane! 

This is a “money can’t buy prize” <strong>for</strong> all those who love their food - or <strong>for</strong> those who like a bit of 

extreme dining! 

Life is a cabaret at our Ball 

What good is sitting alone in your room when you can have a fun-filled evening at 

our Cabaret Ball? Be entertained and dance the night away at the Glasgow Hilton on 17th 

September. Tickets only £75 each or £750 <strong>for</strong> a table of ten. 

For more in<strong>for</strong>mation on any of our events call us on 0141 226 4541 or 

' email fundraising@enable.org.uk


<strong>Co</strong>ntents 

3 

<strong>Co</strong>ntents 

<strong>Young</strong> <strong>people</strong> <strong>speak</strong> <strong>for</strong> <strong>themselves</strong>...............4 

Harm prevention is a priority ...........................6 

Picking up the pieces <strong>for</strong> lifelong carers ......11 

<strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> <strong>staff</strong> on target to Inspire Me...13 

How can the Equality Act help? ....................18 

50 years of Helensburgh 

& District Branch ............................................19 

In memory of Douglas Buchanan and Cathie 

Shapter ............................................................23 

 

Also included with this issue is the 

latest edition of Listen Up! – ENABLE 

Scotland’s newsletter <strong>for</strong> <strong>people</strong> who 

have learning disabilities. 

If you are not online and cannot access any of the 

websites listed please contact ENABLE Direct on 

0300 0200 101. We can post in<strong>for</strong>mation to you. 

Welcome to the 

Summer 2011 

edition of Newslink – 

ENABLE Scotland ‘s 

newsletter. 

Editorial team 

Linda Kerr, Geraldine King, 

Andrew Strong, Keegan Friel 

Thanks also to our contributors: 

Natalie Boyle, Jane <strong>Co</strong>lvil, Anna 

Daniel, Lorna Dewar, Helen Frame, 

Joan Fraser, Lena Gillies, Kathy 

Hunter, Christopher Jackson, Angie 

McCappin, Laura Moore, Brian 

Mulhern, Jen Niven, Peter Scott, 

Nikki Slowey, Sean Wilson, Emma 

Whyte, Jennifer <strong>Young</strong>. 

<strong>Co</strong>py deadline <strong>for</strong> next issue: 

16 September 2011 

Email: marketing@enable.org.uk 

Or write to the address below. 

ENABLE Scotland, 2nd Floor, 146 

Argyle Street, Glasgow G2 8BL 

Registered charity SC009024 

A limited company registered in 

Scotland No: 278976 

<strong>Co</strong>ver photo – Alan Kane and Ross 

Ward, at the CIS Cup semi-fi nal. 

Printed on Edixion Offset which is an 

FSC© Mixed Sources Product group 

from well-managed <strong>for</strong>ests and other 

controlled sources. 

ENABLE Scotland was set up by 5 families in 1954. It campaigns <strong>for</strong> better rights and 

services <strong>for</strong> <strong>people</strong> with learning disabilities and their families in Scotland. It runs a wide 

range of services across Scotland including a membership scheme, an In<strong>for</strong>mation Service, a 

Trustee Service that supports families with planning <strong>for</strong> the future, employment support, short 

breaks, day services, supported living, support at home, and out-of-school care. 

For more in<strong>for</strong>mation contact ENABLE Direct, our customer in<strong>for</strong>mation 

8 helpline on 0300 0200 101 or look at our website www.enable.org.uk 

Tell us your stories 

Has something interesting happened 

to you or someone you support? We are 

collecting stories <strong>for</strong> Newslink, our blog and 

our e-newsletter. Please send any stories 

you have to the marketing team - 

marketing@enable.org.uk 

Newslink comes out 2 times a year. But you 

don’t need to wait <strong>for</strong> all the latest news 

from ENABLE Scotland. You can keep 

up-to-date by following us online at: 

facebook.com/enablescotland 

twitter.com/enablescotland 

www.enable.org.uk/blog

4 


<strong>Young</strong> <strong>people</strong> <strong>speak</strong> <strong>for</strong>


5 

<strong>themselves</strong> 

<strong>Young</strong> <strong>people</strong> got their message across 

loud and clear at ENABLE Scotland’s 

Speak4Yourself! conference in May at 

Stirling Management Centre. 

Funded by the Big Lottery, local groups of 

young <strong>people</strong> have been meeting and working 

together in different parts of Scotland over the 

last four years as well as having lots of fun. The 

conference was planned, developed and hosted 

by the young <strong>people</strong> <strong>themselves</strong> to showcase 

what they have been doing and what they have 

learned. 

And what a lot was on offer to everyone who 

came along to find out more - from street dance 

to drumming, gift posters, presentations and 

workshops. 

The day ended with a speech by one young 

person about what the projects mean to all the 

young <strong>people</strong> who were involved. The current 

funding <strong>for</strong> the projects ends soon and the 

hunt is on <strong>for</strong> other sources to keep the work 

going. All the young <strong>people</strong> took part in a silent 

protest, holding placards with statements about 

the positive effects of the projects and the 

implications if they lost the support. 

The response from the participants – 

including representatives from ENABLE 

Scotland, local authorities, youth organisations, 

funding bodies and the Scottish Government 

was overwhelming. They were astonished at 

how confident the young <strong>people</strong> were and the 

ease with which they spoke. The conference 

was an outstanding success and a great 

achievement <strong>for</strong> the young <strong>people</strong>. 

Jane <strong>Co</strong>lvil, Project <strong>Co</strong>-ordinator

6 


Harm prevention 

is a priority <strong>for</strong> a 

good life 

We were appalled to witness the abuse of <strong>people</strong> who have learning 

disabilities at a care home in Bristol shown on BBC’s Panorama recently. 

Now that the victims of this abuse have been removed to places of 

safety, the priority must be to learn hard lessons and to ensure that other 

vulnerable <strong>people</strong> are not being treated in this way in 21st century Britain. 

Firstly, the importance of robust whistleblowing policies cannot be overestimated. 

Much of the abuse that took place could have been prevented if the 

concerns raised by a senior nurse had been responded to appropriately by the 

care organisation or the Care Quality <strong>Co</strong>mmission which regulated the home. 

There are additional lessons <strong>for</strong> regulators about the assessment of risk in 

services, and how this risk impacts on the inspection regime. There are lessons 

<strong>for</strong> all providers of care and support services about how they ensure their services 

are of good quality and are delivered within an organisation-wide culture of 

respect and dignity <strong>for</strong> all. And there are social lessons about allowing <strong>people</strong> who 

have learning disabilities to live in such large group settings that can encourage 

the kind of institutional behaviour that allowed the actions of <strong>staff</strong> to be tolerated 

<strong>for</strong> so long. 

Now that this abuse has been exposed, it is reassuring to see that the relevant 

authorities, including the Police, are taking robust action against the individuals 

concerned. This too will send a message that the abuse of vulnerable <strong>people</strong> will 

not be tolerated in our society. 

ENABLE Scotland has many strands in place to ensure the quality of our 

services and prevent harm. We have put signifi cant investment into our new 

Practice and Participation Department. All <strong>staff</strong> undertake mandatory training 

and there are clear lines of accountability and reporting procedures. We have an 

open culture that promotes whistleblowing and make this clear to <strong>staff</strong>. There are 

spot checks on the welfare and fi nancial systems of the <strong>people</strong> we support. In 

each area Quality Checkers regularly evaluate our processes and the services we 

provide to ensure our standards are consistent. 

All of this is driven by our commitment to ensure that children and adults 

who have learning disabilities are at the heart of everything ENABLE Scotland 

does. We know we cannot be complacent about the possibility of abuse but 

our Participation Strategy makes clear that all parts of our organisation will 

focus on enabling <strong>people</strong> who have learning disabilities and their families to 

have a good life and to have the opportunity to experience all of the rights 

and responsibilities of citizenship. 

Peter Scott, Chief Executive


campaign news 

7 

Welfare 

re<strong>for</strong>m 

In our last issue we noted our concerns 

about the UK Government’s plans to re<strong>for</strong>m 

Disability Living Allowance (DLA). Since 

then a Government consultation paper has 

outlined plans to replace DLA with the Personal 

Independence Payment and to ensure that all 

applicants have to undergo regular medical 

assessments. The Government’s aim is to 

reduce the cost of this support by 20%. 

In our response to the Government consultation paper (which we have also sent to a number 

of other MPs), ENABLE Scotland asked them to reconsider their proposals, pointing out that the 

original intention of DLA was as a financial contribution to the general extra costs experienced by 

disabled <strong>people</strong>. We also said that having a learning disability is a lifelong condition and that we 

are not convinced of the need <strong>for</strong> continual reassessment. 

You can find a copy of our response at: www.enable.org.uk. 

Medical assessments 

The Government is now asking <strong>for</strong> views on draft rules <strong>for</strong> the regular medical assessments 

that will be introduced with the Personal Independence Payment. The assessment considers a 

series of key activities to identify <strong>people</strong> who have the highest level of need. ENABLE Scotland is 

worried that these proposals rely too heavily upon the medical model of disability which focuses on 

a person’s impairments and do not properly assess the social barriers faced by <strong>people</strong> who have 

learning disabilities. 

This consultation ends on 31 August 2011. If you are concerned about the impact of 

these changes please contact Andrew Strong, Policy <strong>Co</strong>-ordinator, at National Office on 

0141 226 4541 or email andrew.strong@enable.org.uk. 

Challenging negative re<strong>for</strong>m 

ENABLE Scotland is working closely with a number of other organisations including Mencap 

and the Disability Benefits <strong>Co</strong>nsortium in responding to these changes. By strengthening these 

links we can more effectively challenge any re<strong>for</strong>ms we believe will have a negative effect on lives of 

<strong>people</strong> who have learning disabilities. 

Meanwhile, Lanarkshire ACE launched a petition to the UK Parliament, calling on the 

Government to maintain and protect the level of benefits received by <strong>people</strong> who have learning 

disabilities, autism or Asperger syndrome. Over 3000 <strong>people</strong> signed the petition which also got 

the backing of local Lanarkshire MP Michael McCann and was presented to Iain Duncan Smith, 

Secretary of State <strong>for</strong> Work and Pensions. For further in<strong>for</strong>mation on the petition and to get 

involved, please contact Lanarkshire ACE by emailing lanace@<strong>speak</strong>-out.org.uk. 

Andrew Strong, Policy <strong>Co</strong>-ordinator

8 


campaign news 

Cross Party Group on Learning 

Disability back in business 

The Cross Party Group on Learning Disability at the Scottish 

Parliament has now been re<strong>for</strong>med following the last election. The 

group held its fi rst meeting on 22 June and elected Jackie Baillie, a Labour 

MSP, as <strong>Co</strong>nvenor and Jim Eadie MSP, SNP, as Vice-<strong>Co</strong>nvenor. 

Work is already well underway to ensure that the views of <strong>people</strong> who 

have learning disabilities, parents and carers and the organisations that 

represent them are listened to by the Scottish Parliament. 

Be<strong>for</strong>e the election, ENABLE Scotland kicked off the campaigning by 

holding a learning-disability-related hustings (which is a pre-election debate) 

in Glasgow. We were joined on the day by Jackie Baillie (Labour), Katy Gordon (Liberal Democrat), 

Bill Kidd (Scottish National Party), Andrew Morrison (<strong>Co</strong>nservative) and Martha Wardrop (Green). 

People who have learning disabilities, parents and carers asked them questions on issues ranging 

from education, self-directed support, transport and support <strong>for</strong> older family carers. 

The event also helped to launch ENABLE Scotland’s manifesto <strong>for</strong> the election. This says what 

ENABLE Scotland wants the Parliament to do <strong>for</strong> <strong>people</strong> who have learning disabilities. After the 

election we sent a copy to each new MSP. Over the coming months we will be discussing our 

ideas further with a number of MSPs and Cabinet Secretaries. 

You can find a copy of ENABLE Scotland’s manifesto and briefing paper <strong>for</strong> MSPs 

at: www.enable.org.uk or call ENABLE Direct on 0300 0200 101 <strong>for</strong> a copy. 

' 

Bridging the Training Gap in education 

Responding to issues raised by our <strong>Young</strong> Families Support <strong>Co</strong>mmittee, ENABLE 

Scotland has launched a new campaign calling <strong>for</strong> mandatory training <strong>for</strong> education <strong>staff</strong> about 

learning disability and autism. 

According to Scottish Government statistics pupils who have additional support needs are fi ve 

times more likely to be excluded from school. However, training <strong>for</strong> education <strong>staff</strong> on learning 

disability specifi c topics - such as basic behaviour management strategies and learning disability or 

autism awareness - is not mandatory in any local authority area. 

ENABLE Scotland has launched a new report “Bridging the Training Gap”. It 

outlines our concerns and makes a series of recommendations on how things 

should change. We have also launched a petition calling <strong>for</strong> action from the 

Scottish Government. To date this petition has been signed by over 2,000 

<strong>people</strong>. 

You can find a copy of our report and sign our petition at: 

www.enable.org.uk or call ENABLE Direct on 0300 0200 101 

<strong>for</strong> a copy. The closing date <strong>for</strong> this petition is 12th August 2011.

Nicky has it 

in the bag 


ENABLE Scotland news 

Nicky Sydor, who was supported through ENABLE 

Scotland’s Stepping Up project, was successful in 

obtaining a place on Impact Arts’ ‘Eco Chic Fashion 

Freak’ fashion design course. Impact Arts are one of the 

other ventures funded by the Inspiring Scotland fund (which also 

funds Stepping Up). Nicky was one of only 12 young <strong>people</strong> to 

be allocated a place - after scores of 16-18 years olds from the 

whole of Edinburgh applied. 

Nicky made great progress on the programme and astounded 

them with her creative flair. 

Nicky recently made a handbag out of recycled clothes 

which went on sale at a pop up shop in Edinburgh. This is a 

massive achievement <strong>for</strong> Nicky as she carried out each stage 

independently and now has a finished product that looks great. 

9 

Emma Whyte - Stepping Up 

Deaf Awareness and Sign Language workshop 

A new initiative to encourage employees to take up deaf awareness & sign language is 

now available in Paisley. 

Signs4Life is offering an introductory workshop in deaf awareness and sign language to help 

<strong>staff</strong> to communicate with their deaf and hard of hearing colleagues, service users and clients in 

Paisley on Thursday 15th September at Paisley Library, 68 High Street from 9:30am-12:30pm. 

This local initiative is to help identify barriers that deaf <strong>people</strong> face and explore their culture 

and community but also to encourage inclusion of all <strong>people</strong> with sensory, physical or learning 

disabilities in Paisley . Attendance is strictly by booking only (limited places). 

For more in<strong>for</strong>mation, please contact Fozia on info@signs4life.org.uk 

8 

Learning Disability Week 2011 

Learning Disability Week ran from 20 June to 26 June this year. Working with SCLD and 

Mencap, each day ENABLE Scotland highlighted a different theme which impacted on the lives of 

children and adults with learning disabilities and their families. 

First under the spotlight was Disability Hate Crime 

and how police and the legal system are tackling 

this. On Tuesday, we looked at employment levels <strong>for</strong> 

young <strong>people</strong> and adults who have learning disabilities 

and launched our new employment website <strong>for</strong> young <strong>people</strong> Make the Move (see page 17). 

Up next was the lack of support <strong>for</strong> older carers to plan <strong>for</strong> emergencies (see page 11 <strong>for</strong> more 

in<strong>for</strong>mation about this project). On Thursday our focus turned to children and younger families and 

the need <strong>for</strong> better training on additional support needs <strong>for</strong> teachers in all schools, giving a boost 

to our Bridging the Gap petition to make this a reality. 

The Week was rounded up by a call <strong>for</strong> individuals to get the right support to live life they way 

they want. ENABLE Scotland works with many young <strong>people</strong> across Scotland who tell us they 

want the freedom to try different things, take risks and learn from them. 

You can find in<strong>for</strong>mation about all the Week’s events on our website at: 

www.enable.org.uk 

8

10 


What’s On 

…in the next few months 

SEPTEMBER 

14 & 15 September 

Naidex Scotland 

Scotland’s only homecare, disability and 

rehabilitation exhibition. Touch, test and 

compare the latest products to aid independent 

living. 

In: SECC, Glasgow 

From: 10am-4pm 

<strong>Co</strong>st: Free if you pre-register at 

' 

www.naidex.co.uk/enable or 

Tel: 0844 5888076 

30 September - 3 October 2011 

Hear our voices! 

The European Plat<strong>for</strong>m of 

Self-Advocates will have a 

big conference. 

Inclusion Europe 

Self-advocates from all over Europe will 

come together to talk about their lives and 

rights. 

OCTOBER 

20 October 

Ability Fest 

Exhibition promoting opportunities <strong>for</strong> disabled 


In: Thistle Hotel, Glasgow 

From: 10am-4pm 

<strong>Co</strong>st: Free if you pre-register at 

For more in<strong>for</strong>mation 

www.abilityfest.org.uk 

' Tel: 01563 822255 

A date <strong>for</strong> 

your diary 

Saturday October 29 

ENABLE Scotland National 

AGM 

Venue – to be confirmed 

All workshops will have self-advocates as 

<strong>speak</strong>ers. 

For 3 days, we will talk about our 

experiences. 

We will come up with some messages <strong>for</strong> 

politicians and decision-makers. 

8 

You can find out more and 

register at: www.self-advocacy.eu 

Please, register as soon as 

possible <strong>for</strong> the conference 

because the number of places is 

limited. 

NOVEMBER 

12 November 

Helensburgh Branch 50th 

Anniversary auction 

Charity auction and branch 50th celebrations. 

In: Victoria Halls, Helensburgh 

From: All day 

<strong>Co</strong>st: Free if you pre-register 

For more in<strong>for</strong>mation contact: 

' Joan Fraser, Tel: 07793149507


11 

Picking up the pieces 

<strong>for</strong> lifelong carers 

Last year the Scottish Government released their long-awaited Carers Strategy, 

“Caring Together”. In November 2010, representatives of ENABLE Scotland met with the previous 

Minister <strong>for</strong> Public Health, Shona Robison MSP, to talk about the experiences of lifelong carers 

whose dependents with learning disabilities still lived at home with them. 

“Planning <strong>for</strong> 

emergencies is like 

making a will – knowing 

it is the wise thing to 

do and doing it are two 

different things.” 

The Scottish Government has now asked us to 

find out what local authorities do to help carers plan 

<strong>for</strong> emergencies and how siblings can support the 

emergency planning process. 

On 14 July 2011, we held an event, Picking up the 

Pieces, to find out what emergency planning <strong>for</strong> carers 

is happening across Scotland and how successful this 

has been. This event was held in partnership with a 

number of other organisations, including Shared Care 

Scotland, South Lanarkshire <strong>Co</strong>uncil, Alzheimer Scotland 

and MECOPP (Minority Ethnic Carers of Older People 

Project). Almost 100 family carers and <strong>staff</strong> from local 

authorities, health boards and voluntary agencies came 

along to share in<strong>for</strong>mation and a report, containing 

recommendations, will be published later this year. The day was chaired by Alex Russell, <strong>for</strong>mer 

Chairperson of ENABLE Scotland, and presentations were given by Claire Pearson of South 

Lanarkshire <strong>Co</strong>uncil and Louise Morgan of the Princess Royal Trust <strong>for</strong> Carers. Key themes which 

emerged from the discussions were the importance of a consistent approach across the country, 

the need to make carers aware of the services which exist, making sure emergency planning is

12 


“It was great to share with other carers 

and professionals the worries and concerns 

about what would happen to our loved 

ones when we were ill or no longer able to 

provide our current level of care.” 

fully developed as part of carer’s assessments, and widening access to and awareness of carer’s 

assessments as carers do not always identify <strong>themselves</strong> as such. 

We also want to <strong>speak</strong> with sibling carers of <strong>people</strong> with learning disabilities across Scotland 

and we will be holding focus groups in early autumn to hear their views. 

If you would like a focus group to be held in your area or want to tell us 

what you think please contact Kathy Hunter on 0141 225 1651 or 

email kathy.hunter@enable.org.uk 

Grants available <strong>for</strong> family carers <strong>for</strong> breaks 

Thanks to funding from the Scottish Government and 

Shared Care Scotland’s Short Breaks Fund, ENABLE 

Scotland has some small grants to disperse to family carers who 

are living with and caring <strong>for</strong> a relative at home in certain parts 

of Scotland – Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Moray, Dundee, Angus, 

any part of Ayrshire, Dumfries and Galloway, or Scottish Borders. 

The grants are to help family carers and the persons they care <strong>for</strong> to achieve a break from the 

stress of caring – and can be used in flexible ways. Some carers might want to use the money to 

take a few days away while their loved one is being cared <strong>for</strong> elsewhere. Other families might use 

the money to spend some relaxing time together that gives everyone in the family a boost. 

We have only a limited amount of funding. The grants are targeted towards older family carers 

or those who have very limited respite or whose health is under stress. However, we welcome 

applications from any family carer who could do with a break. Applications will be processed by 

Friday 5th August and any money awarded must be spent by 31st December, so could be used <strong>for</strong> 

an autumn break if you are successful. 

For an application <strong>for</strong>m and more in<strong>for</strong>mation go to www.enable.org.uk or 

call ENABLE Direct on 0300 0200 101. 

'


The <strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> Group Charity of the Year partnership 

13 

The Thyme Team – <strong>Co</strong>mmunity impact team 

<strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> 

<strong>staff</strong> on target to 

Inspire Me 

Shetland 

Great news from our Charity of the 

Year partnership with The <strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> 

Group. Since its launch in January 2011, it has 

now raised £270,000 towards our Inspire Me 

programme that will work with young <strong>people</strong> 

with learning disabilities across Scotland. We 

are half way through our Charity of the Year 

partnership and more than halfway towards 

the fundraising target of £500,000. And with 

over 429 stores visited, our partnership is 

growing in strength each day. 

Shawlands 

Skye 

Brodick 

Launching the Charity 

of the Year partnership

14 



Stewart 

Financial 

Management 

Ltd and guests 

M74 Walk 

<strong>Co</strong>mmunity Impact Team 

Forth Road 

Bridge walk 

<strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> <strong>staff</strong> throughout Scotland have 

turned their hand to a variety of fundraising 

events, from abseiling off the Titan Crane and 

the Montrose Viaduct to walking on the new 

extension of the M74 or tee-ing off in a <strong>Co</strong><strong>operative</strong> 

golf event at Westerwood Golf Club. 

From book sales to Tea with Me parties some 

stores are already exceeding their targets 6 

months into the partnership. <strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> <strong>staff</strong> 

are supporting events in high numbers including 

80 <strong>staff</strong> walking over the Forth Road Bridge <strong>for</strong> 

ENABLE Scotland. 

A young man called Jamie from the Portree 

store, Isle of Skye, raised £994 by shaving 

off his hair, beard and even his eyebrows <strong>for</strong> 

ENABLE Scotland. What a trans<strong>for</strong>mation! 

During Learning Disability Week the <strong>Co</strong><strong>operative</strong> 

invited ENABLE Scotland to raise 

awareness during the Royal Highland Show. 

ENABLE Scotland was part of the <strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> 

Village which welcomed over 120,000 <strong>people</strong> 

over the course of the 4 days to fi nd out more 

about the charity partnership. On the 24th 

June all the stores in Scotland took part in a 

dress-up themed day called Carnival Capers. 

Tea with Me at <strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> 

Funeral Care, Dundee



15 

ENABLE Scotland Wanderers 

Walk <strong>for</strong> Scotland, 

Galashiels 

Staff sported loud summer shirts and shades, 

encouraged customers to take part in store 

raffl es and other fundraising activities. And 

have you spotted Cadbury Twirls on sale at 

<strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> Food Stores? Three pence from 

each Twirl bar sold at <strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> Food 

Stores be<strong>for</strong>e 2 August 2011 will be donated to 

ENABLE Scotland and Mencap. 

On the 3rd of July, 40 Zumbees took part 

in a mass Zumbathon in Clarkston. On the 24 

July a regional 11-a-side football tournament 

took place in the home ground of Stirling 

Albion. Each week more and more events are 

being added to the calendar and the next 6 

months will be back-to-back fundraising all over 

Scotland. 

All of this ef<strong>for</strong>t will go towards supporting 

young <strong>people</strong> with learning disabilities through 

the Inspire Me programme. In Scotland this will 

be led by Jane <strong>Co</strong>lvil, Project <strong>Co</strong>-ordinator, who 

will engage with young <strong>people</strong> with learning 

disabilities in our local areas and give them the 

chance to build their confi dence and learn new 

life skills through workshops, events, training 

and community impact projects. 

Irene, Ballahulish 

<strong>Co</strong>mmunity Impact team, Big Garden 

Zumbathon, Clarkston <strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong>

16 



Tea with Me, Dalry 

CIS Cup Final mascots 

Titan Abseil 

CIS Cup draw 

Fiona, Ross, Anna and I are really grateful <strong>for</strong> your continued support. With lots of key 

fundraising events still to happen we are confi dent that we will achieve the £500k target. So 

please, if you live near your <strong>Co</strong>-<strong>operative</strong> store or are simply passing through a town and spy one 

– I would be so grateful if you could pop in to say hello and thank you. I know a lot of <strong>staff</strong> and 

members are doing this already – but just keep us posted so we can update our records. 

Jen Niven - <strong>Co</strong>rporate Relations Manager 

<strong>Co</strong>mmunity Impact team, Garden Warriors


17 

Dundee links 

with Lithuania 

Last year, Rima Kirsaite from Lithuania, wrote 

to ENABLE Scotland seeking some penpal links. 

We put her in touch with the Link Club, one of 

ENABLE Scotland’s branches in Dundee. Earlier this 

year, Lorna Dewar, Branch Secretary, told us what 

happened next. 

“We wrote to Rima as a club, telling her about Dundee and our club, including some pictures 

and photos. 

Today we received a box containing lots of interesting things, including a book of pictures of 

Lithuania, lots of postcards, chocolate, photos and a beautifully written letter. It was very exciting 

<strong>for</strong> our members to receive a parcel from so far away and we are now thinking about what we 

might send back.” 

Make the Move 

into work 

 

Make the Move is an 

exciting new website from 

ENABLE Scotland, funded 

by the Nominet Trust, which 

is aimed at young <strong>people</strong> with 

learning disabilities who want 

to make the move from school 

or college into work. 

The website supports the 

work of our Stepping Up and 

Transitions to Employment 

projects but is a resource <strong>for</strong> 

any young person who wants 

to know more about the world 

of work and what’s involved. 

Make the Move today to 

www.makethemove.org.uk

18 


Q: How can the Equality Act help if you care <strong>for</strong> 

someone who is disabled? 

A: You may have heard about the Equality Act 2010. This Act simplifi es discrimination law 

by bringing together the law related to discrimination on the grounds of race, disability, gender, 

religion, sexual orientation or age. 

The new law protects you against discrimination or harassment if you are caring <strong>for</strong> a disabled person: 

• When you shop <strong>for</strong> goods 

• When you ask <strong>for</strong> services 

• When you get services 

• When you use facilities like public transport. 

The previous law already protected you from discrimination and harassment at work. 

Now, <strong>for</strong> example, an employer cannot refuse to give you a job because they think that you will 

take too much time off to care <strong>for</strong> your disabled child. Another scenario would be a person being 

refused entry to a club because they are with someone who has a disability and the doorman 

thinks that this does not suit the club’s image. The new law does not allow this. 

The Equality Act also protects you from harassment because you are looking after a disabled 

person. Harassment is unwanted behaviour related to disability. Someone could be harassing you 

even if they do not mean to or do not realise they are doing so. An example of harassment could 

be overhearing a shop assistant making rude remarks to her colleagues about wheelchair users 

when you are trying to buy something with your daughter who uses a wheelchair. 

If you think you have been discriminated against, the Equality and Human Rights 

<strong>Co</strong>mmission helpline can give you more in<strong>for</strong>mation about your equality rights 

and what you may be able to do about it. Call 0845 604 5510 or check their 

' 

website at: www.equalityhumanrights.com 

Laura Moore, Solicitor 

Nellimeg and her things – 

a limited rare edition by Alasdair Gray 

Nellimeg Hind is a woman from Glasgow who lives with her family 

and has a range of special needs, including learning disabilities. The 

renowned Scottish writer and painter Alasdair Gray has been a close family 

friend <strong>for</strong> many years, and has collaborated with Nellimeg to produce this 

special record of aspects of her life. 

This small book is mostly made up of images that capture Nellimeg’s 

character, friends and family. It gives a very positive impression of how 

she has contributed to the lives of so many. Alasdair Gray’s pictures are 

characteristically vivid, original, and full of feeling. The book costs £10 and 

is being sold in aid of the Glasgow Branch of ENABLE Scotland of which 

Nellimeg and her family have been members <strong>for</strong> many years. 

To order a copy, contact Glasgow Branch on 0141 332 7420 

or visit their website at: www.enableglasgow.org.uk 

8


19 

50 Years of Helensburgh 

& District Branch 

These two pictures, taken nearly 40 years apart, sum up what Helensburgh & District 

Branch of ENABLE Scotland has to celebrate in its 50th Anniversary year. They also 

illustrate something about the loyalty and friendship of volunteers in the lives of <strong>people</strong> and families 

touched by learning disabilities. 

Both show happy holiday makers enjoying a volunteer-supported break with friends. Those in 

the picture from the ‘70s and the <strong>people</strong> in the photo from 2010 joined many more in a celebration 

of Helensburgh Holiday <strong>Co</strong>nnections at a Ceilidh in Glasgow on 7th May 2010. The Branch 

anniversary celebrations continued with a 2-day event during Learning Disability Week around 

the theme of “Helensburgh & District’s Hidden Talent”. Day 1 involved topical workshops and 

networking opportunities <strong>for</strong> 150 <strong>people</strong> including some from other ENABLE Scotland connections 

from Argyll, Cumbernauld, and Glasgow. 

Day 2 involved fun and fundraising including the Annual Learning Disability Week <strong>Co</strong>ffee 

Morning, a Fancy Dress 5-Decade <strong>Co</strong>nga and a Dates ’n’ Mates Disco. 

Joan Fraser said: 

“I think we can safely say that we are approaching our next 50 years with a great sense of 

a loyalty and an enviable local legacy founded by Jean Jahoda and Rachel Buchanan to make 

sure that our local learning disability and volunteer community will thrive and continue to achieve 

together <strong>for</strong> the next 50 years”

20 


A big 

thank you… 

…to all our supporters. 

In these tough times <strong>for</strong> 

all charities we really 

appreciate the ef<strong>for</strong>ts of 

everyone who takes on a 

challenge <strong>for</strong> us and gives 

us time, money or back-up. 

Firewalk with Me 

Nearly 40 supporters of ENABLE Scotland got fired 

up <strong>for</strong> the challenge of a lifetime – walking across 40 feet 

of burning coals to celebrate Burns Night. They raised an 

incredible £5,000 in sponsorship be<strong>for</strong>e their two hour 

‘Learn or Burn’ training prepared them <strong>for</strong> the moment of 

truth. Impressively, every single person managed to step 

out onto the burning ground and walk the full length with 

head held high, and a crowd gathered in St Enoch Square 

cheered them on. It was so good we’ll be doing it again 

next Burns Night. Pre-register now at enable.org.uk 

Ladies Lunch 

What do you call a room full of 130 ladies, 130 handdecorated 

cupcakes and a troop of breakdancers? It’s 

no joke, this was our third annual Ladies Lunch, and this 

year we were lucky to enjoy the luxurious surroundings of 

29 Private Members Club and raise nearly £11,000. Along 

with the Cupcake Raffle, where the lucky winner took home 

a year’s Membership of the exclusive 29 Club, our most 

popular auction item was a spa break <strong>for</strong> 3 at Cameron 

House which included three bracelets donated by ROX. 

The most memorable moment of the day was Handbags 

at Dawn, where 20 ladies took part in a musical handbags 

with the chance of grabbing a J <strong>Co</strong>nran or a Radley bag – 

think of the moment where the bride throws the bouquet at 

a wedding, and add dancing and 20 flying handbags. Jojo 

Sutherland, our comedienne compere <strong>for</strong> the afternoon, 

ended up with one of our designer bags, crediting her sharp 

eye <strong>for</strong> detail as her method to victory. A fantastic afternoon 

filled with fundraising, breakdancing, champagne and cake 

– thank you to everyone who came along and we’ll see you 

next year! 

Sportsman’s Dinner 2011 

ENABLE Scotland <strong>Co</strong>rporate friends gathered in Airth 

Castle to celebrate our second annual Sportsman’s Dinner. 

Guests enjoyed a sparkling drinks reception, a sumptuous 

meal and football tales and banter from <strong>speak</strong>ers John 

McKelvie and Jimmy Nicholl. <strong>Co</strong>mpanies such as, TSG, 

<strong>Co</strong>mmsworld, Stewart Financial Management Ltd, CALA 

Homes East, CALA Homes West, Mason Evans Partnership, 

Scott Davidson and Allied Vehicles showed their support 

by participating in the prize draw, silent and grand auction 

– raising an amazing £15,200 on the night. A sincere thank 

to all our guests and Stephen McLeod, CEO Aurora Hotel 

Group <strong>for</strong> their continued support.


communities and branches news 

21 

My Story: Brian Mulhern 

I visited my 

MP in London 

I really enjoy watching the news, and take 

a great interest in politics. Over the years, I got 

to know my MSP Margaret Curran really well 

and spoke to her about my local community. 

Last year, I was invited by her to the Scottish 

Parliament. 

While I was there, Margaret told me that she would be standing as a candidate to become my 

MP <strong>for</strong> the Westminster Parliament and if she got elected she would invite me down to London <strong>for</strong> 

a tour of the Houses of Parliament. 

She was elected as my MP last May and I went down <strong>for</strong> my promised tour of Westminster on 

Friday 4th March 2011. I travelled by train and stayed at a hotel just across the River Thames from 

the Houses of Parliament. After breakfast, my support worker and I went <strong>for</strong> a short walk. We saw 

the horses guard and Downing Street. We went <strong>for</strong> a walk around St James’ Park. We then made 

our way to the Houses of Parliament, past Westminster Abbey. 

I saw the hall where politicians are interviewed on TV, and went outside to the terrace, on the 

banks of the River Thames. I had some photos taken with Margaret and we went inside <strong>for</strong> lunch. 

Sadly, I couldn’t see the debating chamber, as there was Parliamentary business going on 

there. I did buy some postcards to send to my friends and family from the Westminster shop. 

I really enjoyed my trip to Westminster, and will continue to keep an active interest in both 

local and national politics. I will keep both my MP and my new MSP busy working <strong>for</strong> my local 

community! 

Brian Mulhern - Baillieston, Glasgow 

Mary enjoys a break away 

This is Mary Gray at the Treehouse Restaurant in 

Alnwick which she visited on a recent holiday to Berwick- 

Upon-Tweed. 

It had been 25 years since Mary went on holiday with her 

sister and mum to Blackpool. We were unsure if Mary would 

miss being away from her home and family but our concerns 

were short lived as she settled in remarkably well. She was so 

excited throughout the week and said on a number of occasions 

that she was having “a ball”. 

It was a real pleasure to share this holiday with Mary and we 

are sure that it will be the start of many more breaks in the future. 

Helen Frame/Angie McCappin - North Lanarkshire Services

22 


communities and branches news 

Oscar <strong>for</strong> Best Buddies 

The work of Best Buddies Edinburgh has been recognised by 

Edinburgh University Students Association who awarded a ‘<strong>Co</strong>mmunity 

Action’ Oscar to the group. 

Student leader Charlie Websper said: 

“We were up against Amnesty International and the Fair Trade Society who were also shortlisted 

<strong>for</strong> the award, so we were very proud to win!” 

Best Buddies is an international initiative to help <strong>people</strong> with learning disabilities find friends. It 

started in America and matches students with individuals who have a learning disability. People 

then do everyday things together like going to cinema, shopping or just chatting on the phone. 

People who join Best Buddies can also meet up with others and go to out together in a group. 

There are Best Buddy programmes in nearly 60 countries around the world. ENABLE Scotland 

supports students at Glasgow and Edinburgh Universities to be involved in Best Buddies. 

Students also volunteer at local clubs and our branches in Edinburgh and Glasgow are benefiting 

from the time that students are committed to being involved. 

For more in<strong>for</strong>mation Best Buddies contact kathy.hunter@enable.org.uk 

Or visit www.bestbuddies.org 

8 

My Story: Sean Wilson 

Sean’s placement was 

part of a partnership 

between his school and 

ENABLE Scotland’s 

Stepping Up project 

funded by Inspiring 

Scotland. 

For in<strong>for</strong>mation 

about any of ENABLE 

Scotland’s services call 

ENABLE Direct on 

0300 0200 101. 

I have just finished attending Abercorn School and I 

will be moving onto Anniesland <strong>Co</strong>llege to study the Access 

to Sports <strong>Co</strong>urse. When I was at school, I went on placement 

to Cadder Housing every Tuesday <strong>for</strong> 18 months. This was 

something I really enjoyed as it gave me real experience of what 

it is like to be in a busy workplace and to work with different 


While on my placement I assisted in lots of different tasks. 

I helped to clear out gardens, dig up bushes and clear debris 

away and put it into the back of the van. I also helped to maintain 

the flat closes and paint the ceilings and walls of the houses if 

they need refreshed. My placement was really useful in that it has 

given me a much better understanding of what it is like to work a 

full day in this type of work. 

My communication skills have improved. I have learned how 

to work with other employees and I have been able to work 

independently and follow instructions. All of these skills will help 

me to impress future employers when I go <strong>for</strong> an interview as I 

will be able to show I have the skills and qualities needed to be 

able to fit into different work settings. I intend to apply to join the 

army after I complete my course and I know all of the skills I have 

gained will be really useful <strong>for</strong> me.


23 

In memory of… 

It is with sadness we mark the recent passing of two members who 

have made a great contribution to ENABLE Scotland over the years. 

Douglas Buchanan 

Douglas Buchanan, Chairperson of ENABLE Scotland’s Helensburgh Branch, died 

aged 57 on 4th March 2011. The Buchanan family have had a close association with ENABLE 

Scotland since the birth of Donny, Douglas’ younger brother, who was born with Down’s Syndrome 

in 1956. Douglas was the second son of William and Rachel Buchanan and carried on their 

legacy – particularly Rachel’s whose passion and determination <strong>for</strong> disabled <strong>people</strong> to have the 

same life chances as others is legendary across Scotland. Douglas did not enjoy the best of 

health - having undergone years of home dialysis and four kidney transplants – but that did not 

stop him championing the cause of <strong>people</strong> who have learning disabilities. Running an ENABLE 

Scotland branch is not easy – Douglas did so with optimism, a quick wit and a tremendous sense 

of humour. 

Although Douglas was able to host the beginning of Helensburgh Branch’s 50th Anniversary 

year, he did not live to see the celebrations and activities that he had been so involved in planning 

come to fruition - something that would not have happened without the hard work of him and 

many others over the years. 

Cathie Shapter 

Mrs Catherine Shapter (known as Cathie), who 

died aged 91 on 3rd May 2011, was the last of 

the five founding members of ENABLE Scotland. 

In 1944 Cathie had a son, Johnny, who had Down’s 

syndrome. Cathie, like many other parents of children 

who had disabilities, was made to feel ashamed. Years 

later she wrote “had there been a Society such as 

ours, a place where I could have gone, not <strong>for</strong> pity or 

sympathy but <strong>for</strong> understanding help and guidance my 

approach would have been quite different”. 

On the 28th February 1954, fi ve sets of parents of 

disabled children came together in Cathie’s living room 

and hatched the idea of a Scottish organisation to 

campaign <strong>for</strong> services to help them and their children. 

They placed an advert in Glasgow’s Evening Times 

asking <strong>for</strong> parents to attend a meeting. Over 350 <strong>people</strong> turned up, travelling from all across 

Scotland, and a movement was born. 

Nearly 60 years later, the organisation Cathie helped <strong>for</strong>m has 4,500 members, 55 local 

branches, employs nearly 2,000 <strong>staff</strong>, supports thousands of children, young <strong>people</strong> and adults 

who have learning disabilities and is still at the <strong>for</strong>efront of campaigning <strong>for</strong> the rights of <strong>people</strong> who 

have learning disabilities. That is quite a legacy to leave.

ENABLE Scotland’s new website – 

keeping you updated online all the time 

ENABLE Scotland has an exciting new website – packed full of news, stories of 

achievements by children and adults who have learning disabilities and lots of updated in<strong>for</strong>mation. 

There are sections <strong>for</strong> families, professionals, members and adults with learning disabilities. You 

can get the latest in<strong>for</strong>mation, news, views and find out about our campaigns online at any time. 

Check it out at: www.enable.org.uk 

Talk to ENABLE Direct on 

0300 0200 101 

ENABLE Direct is a new helpline <strong>for</strong> <strong>people</strong> with learning 

disabilities, their families and carers throughout Scotland. 

It can give <strong>people</strong> the in<strong>for</strong>mation they need to access the services and 

support that’s just right <strong>for</strong> them. It links <strong>people</strong> into our local services as 

well as providing advice on a wide range of issues – from finding a local 

support group to getting exemption from council tax or how to decide 

about guardianship. 

ENABLE Direct aims to give <strong>people</strong> the in<strong>for</strong>mation they need or to 

signpost them to the right source. 

Open Monday – Friday from 9am – 5pm, it has a lo-call number 

0300 0200 101 (calls charged at local rates) to make it easy <strong>for</strong> <strong>people</strong> to 

call from any part of Scotland. 

You can also email enabledirect@enable.org.uk 

If there’s something you want to know about learning disabilities 

or about ENABLE Scotland’s services then call ENABLE Direct on 

' 0300 0200 101.

Young people speak for themselves Co-operative staff on ... - Enable

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