50+ Directory - PDF version 631Kb - Wrexham County Borough ...

Please note the following changes to the inside front cover:In an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire andambulance.The following numbers may also be useful:Police – non-urgent calls:0845 607 1001 (Welsh)0845 607 1002 (English)01492 511265 (Minicom)Police - for home security advice 01978 317031Fire - for free home fire safety check 01978 353876Gas – emergency number: 0800 111 999NHS Direct: 0845 4647Wrexham Maelor Hospital (generalenquiries):01978 291100Dee Valley Water 01978 846946Welsh Water 0800 052 0130Scottish Power and Manweb 0800 400 200Bogus Caller Line 0800 281 141Wrexham County Borough Council:General enquiries: 01978 292000Housing enquiries: 01978 292069Environmental health: 01978 292040

Wrexham 50+ DirectoryWelcomeThe Welsh Assembly Government’s Strategy for Older People inWales highlighted the importance of older people having accurateinformation so that they can make appropriate choices about their lives. Thisdirectory, produced by Wrexham County Borough Council and Age ConcernNorth East Wales is one way we are responding to this challenge.Older people have built up a wide range of experience and skills during theirlives that can be used to help the local community or just have fun! Thisdirectory provides information to encourage and enable you to be more activein society. By increasing your leisure activities, you are also more likely toremain healthier and mentally able as you get older.This printed version provides information in an accessible format andcomplements the ‘Retirement’ section on the Council web site where you canalso download a PDF copy of this document which has the added benefit ofbeing searchable: http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/retirementThe Council’s Strategy for Older People team produces a free quarterlynewsletter full of regional news and the latest campaigns affecting peopleaged 50 and over. To subscribe, free of charge, to future issues, delivered byemail or post, please telephone or write to the details below.Strategy for Older People,Wrexham County Borough Council,Crown Buildings,Chester StreetWrexham LL13 8BGTelephone: 01978 297064Email: ops@wrexham.gov.ukThis Directory is also available in alternative formats such as Large Print andAudio. To request an alternative format, please contact the Strategy for OlderPeople team.Inclusion in this directory does not imply recommendation. Whilst everyeffort has been made to ensure accuracy in this publication, Age ConcernNorth East Wales and Wrexham County Borough Council can accept noliability whatsoever for any errors, inaccuracies or omission or for anymatter in any way with or arising out of the publication of the information.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+3

Wrexham 50+ DirectoryCONTENTSRecreation 9Things to Do................................................................................................ 9 Activity Sessions ............................................................................... 9 Volunteering .................................................................................... 10 Social / Support Groups ................................................................ 10 Adult Learning ................................................................................. 10 Community Development Groups ............................................... 11Places to Go .............................................................................................. 11Other .......................................................................................................... 13Working 15 Back to Work ................................................................................... 15 Tackling Age Discrimination in the Work Place......................... 16 Self-employment ............................................................................ 16Staying Independent and in Control 18Help in the Home ..................................................................................... 19Help Outside your Home ........................................................................ 21Carers......................................................................................................... 22Organising Help........................................................................................ 23 Choosing a Reliable Tradesman................................................... 23 Domestic and Personal Care......................................................... 24Alternative Housing Solutions 27 Modified Housing............................................................................. 27 Retirement/Sheltered Housing..................................................... 27 Care Homes ..................................................................................... 28 Costs.................................................................................................. 29Health & Wellbeing 30 Healthy Living.................................................................................. 32 Treatment......................................................................................... 33 Support ............................................................................................. 35Health Programmes................................................................................. 35http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+4

Wrexham 50+ Directory Exercise ............................................................................................ 35 Accident Prevention........................................................................ 37 Smoking............................................................................................ 37 Alchohol & Drug Abuse .................................................................. 37 Feet.................................................................................................... 38 Eyes ................................................................................................... 38 Diet .................................................................................................... 38 Dental................................................................................................ 39Mental Health Support ............................................................................ 39 Depression ....................................................................................... 41 Dementia .......................................................................................... 41 Other Support.................................................................................. 42Learning Difficulties ................................................................................. 42Local Groups NOT included in the directory ....................................... 42Death & Bereavement 44 Losing A Loved One........................................................................ 44 Support ............................................................................................. 44 Registering a death ........................................................................ 45Support for Disability 46 Independent Living......................................................................... 46 Wellbeing.......................................................................................... 47 Support Groups............................................................................... 48 General Disability Support ............................................................ 48Getting Around 50 Buses................................................................................................. 50 Private Car Schemes...................................................................... 50 Town Centre Access ....................................................................... 51 Group Transport.............................................................................. 51 Driving .............................................................................................. 51 Alternatives...................................................................................... 52 Long Distance Journeys................................................................. 52Financial Help – Claim It, It’s Yours! 54 Regular Payment or Discounts..................................................... 54http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+5

Wrexham 50+ Directory Occasional Payments ..................................................................... 56 Advice and Advocacy ..................................................................... 57 Special Circumstances ................................................................... 58Pensions 58 Additional Pension Payments ....................................................... 59 Work Options................................................................................... 60 Financial Advice............................................................................... 60 Government Protection Schemes for Private Pensions ........... 60Wills 61 Why Make a Will.............................................................................. 61 How to Make a Will......................................................................... 61 Storing, updating or destroying a will........................................ 62Contact Details 63Recreation ................................................................................................. 63Working...................................................................................................... 63Staying Independent and in Control .................................................... 64Alternative Housing ................................................................................. 66Health & Well-being................................................................................. 66Death & Bereavement............................................................................. 69Support for Disability .............................................................................. 69Mobility & Travel Support....................................................................... 70Finances ..................................................................................................... 71The information in this directory covers many of the organisations that olderpeople will need to have contact with. However, many others have not beenlisted, especially with regards to the ‘Health’ and ‘Recreation’ sections,because they are small groups and the contact details change regularly.If you would like details of activities in your area or of all groups providing aparticular sort of activity/service, please request additional information byemailing ops@wrexham.gov.uk or fill out one of the tear-off slips included onpage 5 and return it to the Council’s Strategy for Older People team.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+6

Wrexham 50+ DirectoryPlease say if there are particular interests/issues that you would like moreinformation on or if you would like to know about activities in a certain area.E.g ‘Information sorted by subject’ or ‘Information sorted by area’.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Name:Address:Tel. No:I would like more information on ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………….- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Name:Address:Tel. No:I would like more information on ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………………………….- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -For easy use, the Strategy for Older People address is on the reverse ofeach form however, for safety reasons you are advised to enclose the form inan envelope and copy the address on to it.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+7

Wrexham 50+ DirectoryFor safety reasons, you are advised to enclose the form in an envelope andcopy the address on to it. The addresses are featured here are for easyreference only.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Strategy for Older PeopleWrexham County Borough CouncilGround FloorCrown BuildingsChester StreetWrexham LL13 8BG- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Strategy for Older PeopleWrexham County Borough CouncilGround FloorCrown BuildingsChester StreetWrexham LL13 8BG- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+8

RecreationRecreationParticipation in leisure pursuits and/or voluntary work can havea number of benefits on mental and physical health. For moredetails about preserving wellbeing, see ‘Health & Wellbeing’.Specific interests such as playing bowls, golf, darts or metaldetecting, visiting places of interest, photography, fishing and contributing toenvironmental work are a few among many activities that can achieve many ofthe benefits of structured exercise without officially exercising.Joining an activity club, an organisation, a social community or a team candevelop curiosity into a hobby and provides an opportunity to create newfriendships and lead to activities such as social events and trips. Although asignificant portion of the members in all of the clubs featured in this directoryare over 50, age is often NOT a criterion for membership and members areencouraged to bring younger friends and family to join in the fun, shareexperiences and bridge the generation divide.The council and Age Concern North East Wales have compiled a list ofactivities available to people in Wrexham. The information is separated intocategories that reflect the common link between the members whether it is ashared interest, a shared age, a shared need or a shared venue. Specificcontact details have not been included in the directory because of the amountof groups and the changing nature of the information.The information is comprehensive but not exhaustive. Support organisationsand local libraries also provide information tailored to your location or yourneed. Unless otherwise stated, request more information about activities listedin this section from the council’s Strategy for Older People team.Things to DoActivity SessionsChoose an activity type from:AMATEUR DRAMATICS ARTS & CRAFTS BINGOCARDS / DOMINOS CHESS CHOIR COMPUTINGLESSONS DANCE LESSONS DANCES EXERCISEFIRST AID FOOD & DRINK HISTORY HORTICULTURAL/ GARDENING KNITTING / SEWING LANGUAGELIFELONG LEARNING METAL DETECTING MODEL MAKING /ENGINEERING MUSIC MISCELLANEOUS (LIGHT, MODERATEhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+9

RecreationOR ACTIVE MOBILITY REQUIRED) PHOTOGRAPHY / FILMPOETRY READING, SLIMMING SPORT (ACTIVE OR MODERATEINTENSITY) THEATRE WALKING WRITING.Contact the Strategy for Older People team for the contact details of localgroups organising these activities. You can request information grouped byactivity or by area. E.g. ‘All groups in and around Acton’ OR ‘All AmateurDramatics groups in the borough’.VolunteeringMany people find volunteering provides personal rewards by stimulating thebrain and body, providing an opportunity to utilise life learning and from acontinued sense of contributing to society. The Volunteer Bureau at AVOW(Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham ) can matchvolunteers to opportunities from a wide range of themes including animals,children, learning, befriending, campaigning, sports, environmental etc.The Retired Senior Volunteer Programme (RSVP) aims to encourage olderpeople to get involved in voluntary work. In particular, it offers opportunitiesfor older people to support children at school with their reading.Social / Support GroupsThe members of themed social groups (deaf club etc) can and do offersupport to each other by sharing experiences however support (in variousformats including fund raising or campaigning) is the main objective of supportgroups whereas the prime objective of social groups is to have some fun!Adult LearningKeeping the brain active and enquiring can ‘open closed doors’,enhance lives and help preserve mental health. Informallearning does not include tests and certificates only guidedexercises and access to equipment. Both informal and formallearning opportunities exist in the daytime or evening dependingon the venue which includes colleges, schools, communitycentres and local libraries.University of the Third Age (U3A) groups encourage lifelong learning forpeople no longer in full time gainful employment. The aim is to enable olderpeople to share their knowledge, skills and experience, show their value tosociety and acquire new skills in an informal friendly atmosphere.Mentor Iaith Maelor is a community based venture which aims to develop thehttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+10

Recreationuse of the Welsh language by providing resources and information regardingWelsh medium activities in the County Borough of Wrexham and theopportunity for people of all ages to socialise in Welsh.Contact the Welsh for Adults information line for learning information.Community Development GroupsCommunity projects develop local potential and address local needs while aforum voices the group opinion of its members. Assistance is available eitherto find or set up groups in all areas of the county.For more details of Community Development or Forum opportunities, seethe AVOW web site or contact project coordinators, also at AVOW.Estyn Llaw is a group that supports voluntary or community organisations towork bilingually.Places to GoA huge variety of fish and beautiful countryside makes fishing in Wrexham avery popular past time. Contact the Strategy for Older People team for a listof fishing places in and around Wrexham.Wrexham Tourist Information Centre (WTIC) offers a wide range ofinformation and/or booking services for local and national venues. The WTICstocks free literature on events, activities and places to visit, both locally andthroughout North Wales. It provides information on public transport and offersadvice for visitors with specific needs such as access for people withdisabilities.The Council web site has in-depth information about local, public and privatefacilities on their web site at http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/leisure andhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/tourismSee http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/parks or contact the Council’s ParksDepartment for information about accessibility, facilities, protection groupsand for a calendar of events in any of the council’s town or country parks.Library membership is free and available to anyone living in the county. Onceyou join your local library, you have immediate access to all the resources,facilities, services and activities in all the Council libraries.All libraries have Personal Computers (PCs) and FREE Internet access forhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+11

Recreationpublic use. It is advisable to book in advance in order to ensure that a PC isavailable at the time you wish to visit. Staff may be able to provide basicguidance but tuition is only guaranteed available on scheduled courses.Libraries provide resources and facilities in a variety of different formatsincluding large print, talking books and Braille to cater for a wide range ofneeds. They stock items which reflect the interests of the community and willorder-in items including books (every format), music, journals and languagecourses, if an item is unavailable. Costs vary but are free or minimal, enquireat the time of ordering. A housebound service exists for those who haveproblems visiting the library and mobile libraries serve areas that are morerural. For local library contact details or information about any service, pleasecontact Wrexham library.The Community Services team manages the council bowling greens andtennis courts that are in public parks. Council bowling greens are free ofcharge subject to individual club fixtures and normally open during theafternoon/evening between April and September. Some social clubs haveprivate bowling greens and club teams. There is no booking arrangement orfees payable for the use of Council tennis courts which are open each year onthe 1st April or Easter (if earlier) until the end of September. The North WalesRegional Tennis Centre is an independent club with indoor facilities.Community Centres provide a public focal point for communities and areavailable for hire by individuals or groups. The Council Community Centre Coordinatorwill provide appropriate contact details for any community centre.The nominated contact will be able to give you details of existing groups orhire charges. The AVOW Community Development officer can provideinformation and/or assistance in accessing any funds available for setting up anew group.Social clubs are non-profit making clubs run for the benefit of its membersand their guests who, typically, share common interests. Although the majorityof members tend to be over the age of 50, customers’ ages will be mixed.Many of the clubs arrange regular activities, entertainment and/or seasonalevents for their members including bingo, dances, sing-a-longs, quizzes,meals, raffles, and organists. They offer stimulating agendas from leagueteam sports such as dominoes, darts and snooker. Membership is not usuallyrestrictive despite the inference of club names. The price of membership isminimal, normally reduced for pensioners and is offset by low food and drinkprices.Swimming is free for the Over 60s in Council leisure centres which includeschool premises outside of school hours. Some sessions include freeswimming lessons where possible. All leisure centres offer age relatedhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+12

Recreationdiscounts and tailored fitness classes to provide low or moderate impact andintensity options if required. Sports facilities including badminton and squashcourts are available for hire at some centres. Contact the Council leisureservices department for more information on lessons, facilities and classes inCouncil property or use Yellow Pages for information about private businessesoffering similar options.In addition to holy worship, halls, temples, churches, chapels, synagoguesand mosques are often focal points of community networks supportingindividuals and groups to champion love, respect and consideration for ourfamily, friends and neighbours; feeding our social and spiritual needs.Wrexham Museums and Heritage centres are free to visit and not onlyrecord our local history in permanent and temporary displays, they exhibittouring displays of general interest and also have a range of services andschedules designed to complement other activities including family days out,metal detecting, walking and genealogy. They encourage historical researchand prompt discussion / reflection through guided walks and reminiscenceboxes, which are available for hire, for use in group work with older people.For more information, contact the Wrexham County Borough Museum.OtherThe Children’s Information Bureau provides contact information for servicesand activities relevant to children ranging from local attractions to counsellingservices. They provide the information to children, parents or grandparents.Mudiad Ysgolion Meithrin encourages Welsh-medium education for Welshspeakers and Welsh learners by organising Welsh speaking toddler groups forchildren and their guardians (including many grandparents) to socialise inWelsh.The ‘Community Transport’ information in this directory contains details oftravel assistance available in Wrexham and contact details for the WCBCTransport Co-ordination team. A number of organisations provide detailedinformation about accessibility issues, travel times and ticket options for longdistance travel. See ‘Getting Around’ for their contact details.If you have problems with daily living see the section on Staying Independent& In Control for organised activity.The British Red Cross provides short term loans of mobility equipment. TheDirectGov website has detailed information about disabled travel options. Ifyou have not had a holiday recently and your income is very low or you havehttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+13

Recreationspecial needs, financial help may be available, see ‘Finances’ for occasionalpayments available from the Department of Work and Pensions, SocialServices or independent charities.Ask at the WTIC or see the council web site for a list of theatres athttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/leisurehttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+14

WorkingWorkingPeople can now work either full or part-time beyond State Pensionage. After the age of 60, tax free personal allowances rise andpeople no longer pay National Insurance. People have the optionof delaying State Pension in return for a subsequent increased rate or a oneoff lump sum payment or people can choose to draw the State Pension whilecontinuing to work.You can get a guide with further information about putting off claiming yourState Pension by telephoning the Pension Service or by accessing thePension Service website at http://www.thepensionservice.gov.ukThe DirectGov web site lists all public services in one place and providespractical advice and support to help you into work. Seehttp://www.direct.gov.uk/employmentBack to WorkIf you are aged 50 or over, have been unemployed for six months or more andare available for work, then you can get extra support and training under theNew Deal scheme. New Deal 50 plus provides specific support and advicefor people over 50 to find work. It also offers training and help if you’ve found itdifficult to get a job or work that pays a decent wage. Employment Credit isan additional sum that is paid directly to you for up to a year after finding a job,provided your annual income does not exceed £15,000. You can apply for anin-work Training Grant of up to £1,500 when you get a job through New Deal50 plus. You can use the grant to improve your skills and help you progress orto get a better job.Work- based learning for adults gives you training on the basic skillsemployers are looking for and/or vocational training to help people move intolong term work as quickly as possible. If you want to become self-employed,you may be able to join a course on how to set up your own business. A WorkTrial enables both you and the employer to assess one another's suitabilitywithout commitment. You remain on benefit for the duration of the Work Trail,which can last up to a maximum of 15 days. For more details about how thehelp from the Department of Work and Pensions can help you, contact theWrexham JobCentre.The Learndirect advice line offers free impartial information and advice oncourses, training, apprenticeships, careers, returning to work, and childcare.They can also advise you on paying for your learning.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+15

WorkingJobsfairs give jobseekers the chance to talk directly to employers about theopportunities they have available, and for employers to give out applicationforms or interview potential employees at the event. Jobseeker Direct is aphone service which keeps individuals in touch with the latest job vacanciesand helps people find jobs.Genesis Association Wales helps unemployed people and those underthreat of losing employment, primarily over the age of 40, with employmentissues. They offer free information and advice on training, job seeking andsupport services.Cam Wrth Gam is a subsiduary of Mudiad Ysgolion Meithrin, the mainWelsh-medium early years provider outside the statutory sector. They run atraining scheme for those wishing to work in early years care and educationsettings. Candidates are paid whilst training and the courses include Welshlessons so they are open to Welsh learners.Specific help for people with disabilities is featured in the ‘Disability’ section.Tackling Age Discrimination in the Work PlaceLegislation covering age discrimination in employment and vocational trainingis scheduled to be in place by October 2006. Generally, employers will nolonger be able to recruit, train or promote people on the basis of age.Age Positive tackles age discrimination and promotes the many benefits ofacknowledged good practice by publicising case studies that demonstrate thelower training costs and higher employee retention of employing a mixed ageworkforce that includes older people. Information is available on their web siteand in print.The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) provide adviceand guidance about employee rights at work and age issues.Trade Unions protect their members’ interests at work and campaign for socialjustice. If you experience age discrimination and you belong to a union,contact your union representative. The Wales TUC Learning Servicessupports trade unions in Wales by providing advice and guidance in support oftheir members and helps promote union/employer partnerships in theworkplace.Self-employmentIt is essential that you obtain proper advice before putting your own time andmoney into self-employment. The Jobcentre can advise you about allhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+16

Workingbusiness start-up courses and benefits you can claim to finance whilelaunching your business.The Prince’s Initiative for Mature Enterprise is a not-for-profit nationalorganisation dedicated to helping people over 50 set up in business.Business Link is a good source of information and advice.The Business Development and Enterprise Team offer a New BusinessStarts Programme which includes bespoke training, counselling andmentoring to help an individual prepare themselves for self-employment.Programmes may offer assistance in marketing, financial planning, raising thenecessary funding, taxation etc. Courses are normally held a couple of times amonth, dates and times vary. Some courses are offered during the day,evenings and weekends.Businessline, based at Wrexham Library provides an information service thatserves both business and individual customers. It is part of a well-establishednetwork of business professionals. Network is their new start-up businessclub which was set-up to provide more contact with people starting upbusinesses.HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) has a helpline for the newly self-employedpeople and also produces a free guide ‘Starting Up in Business’.The network of ICT Advisory Services across Wales provides free, impartialadvice for small and medium-sized businesses through the BusinessEnterprise Team. Qualified advisors guide businesses through the process ofselecting and starting to use Information Communication Technologies (ICT).Prime Loans provide loans, information, encouragement and practicalsupport for business start-ups for the Over 50's.Menter a Busnes is involved in developing and delivering a range of specificBusiness Development Programmes aimed at inspiring Young People andWelsh speakers to behave more entrepreneurially and start new businessenterprises.Search for grants, funding and support on the Council web site or contact theBusiness Enterprise team. http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/businesshttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+17

Staying Independent and in ControlStaying Independent and in ControlThe 2004 Audit Commission ‘Older People – independence and well-being’,reports that a sense of independence and well-being lies with people’scapacity to make choices and to exercise control over their lives. This is notthe same as being able to do everything without help.Private business, Social Services, voluntary groups and charities deliversupport systems in Wrexham to help people overcome common problems inorder to remain in their own homes regardless of age or disability. Manysupport schemes can be started by a simple request. Some will need a formalassessment to determine priority and cost. Almost all suggested solutions areoptional.Advocacy services provided by Age Concern North East Wales andWrexham Citizen’s Advice Bureau offer independent help to ensure peopleare aware of all of their options and to make informed decisions.Libraries are focal points for free community information and an importantsource of community news. The provide a self-help material in referencebooks or CDs and on line as well as providing space for local groups toadvertise their contact details and event schedules. See the Council websiteor contact Wrexham library for more information on local services.If you served in the Armed Forces, you may be eligible to exclusive optionsfrom ex-Service organisations throughout the UK. Contact The VeteransAgency for more information and advice. Other charities exist to help peoplefrom other professions. ‘Charity Choice’ provides a categorised internet guideto Charities and non-profit organisations in the UK. If the companionencyclopaedia Charity Choice United Kingdom 2006 is not already availablefrom your local library, they will order a copy for a small fee.If you have reduced Physical Ability then regular movement and a healthylifestyle can sometimes prevent or delay the decrease in physical or mentalfunctionality. See ‘Health & Wellbeing’ for information about preserving wellbeing and for activity programmes.If you have a Low Income, see pages on ‘Finances’ for information on raisingincome, lowering living costs and help paying for equipment, maintenance oralterations.Credit Unions are financial co-operatives owned and controlled by theirmembers. They offer savings and great value loans. The council run a countyhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+18

Staying Independent and in Controlwide credit union or telephone the Credit Unions in Wales FreephoneHotline to find your nearest one.Shelter Cymru is the leading housing and homelessness charity in Wales andworks for the prevention of homelessness, the improvement of housingconditions, and the right of everyone to a safe, suitable and affordable home.Help in the HomeIf you are assessed as needing support by Social Services (or if you alreadyreceive it) you may prefer to organise your own care, which you can tailormore specifically to your personal needs. ‘Direct Payments’ are paymentsavailable in lieu of social service provisions. The Direct Payment SupportService at AVOW can provide information and help you advertise the worklocally, recruit safely and fulfil employer responsibilities legally. They will alsobe able to help find suitable independent contractors.If a person already relies on a lot of help from a family member, a friend or aneighbour because they are ill or disabled, both parties, the cared-for and thecarer, might be entitled to financial help and practical support. Carers canrequest an assessment of their needs from Social Services, as well as for theperson they care for. North East Wales Carers’ Information Service(NEWCIS) is a carer support groups. See ‘Carers’ for more information.See ‘Organising Help’ for information on how to choose and where to findPersonal Care (also known as domiciliary care) providers, Domestic Careproviders (for low cost help for routine tasks such as shopping and cleaning)and sources of advice before choosing trades people for skilled work.Wrexham Care and Repair provides advice and help withrepairs and adaptations for older and/or disabled homeowners and private tenants. Their Handy Person serviceprovides free labour to eligible people over 60 and/or peoplewith a disability for a wide variety of small repairs (but notmaintenance work such as decorating or gardening).For more information about Disabled Facilities Grants andHome Repair Assistance (HRA) Grants or the Council Houseproudscheme to release equity from your home to pay for essential repairs oradaptations, see ‘Finances’ or contact the Council’s Grants Section.Your local library might also have information about releasing equity from yourhome to give you some extra capital or income or they will order specific titlesfor you at a small charge. ‘Using your Home as Capital 2005-2006’ is alsohttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+19

Staying Independent and in Controlavailable from Age Concern. This is a complex area and you should alwaysseek advice.If everyone in a household is disabled or incapable of manoeuvring their binthey may be eligible for Assisted Bin Collection.If you live in a council property, you may find help from the Tenancy SupportService for matters concerning repairs, claiming benefits and discounts or theAssisted Garden Maintenance scheme.Social Services can provide hot meals, for a payment, to people who areunable to cook for themselves, if they are assessed as needing help.Alternatively, Wiltshire Farm Foods deliver frozen meals that can be heatedin a microwave or a conventional oven. Some supermarkets also offer homedelivery which you can order in store or through the internet.Lunch clubs provide hot food and valuable company to older people atminimal cost. Some offer transport for people with restricted mobility. Contactthe Council’s Lunch Club Co-ordinator for details of clubs in each area or forpractical support if you want to set up a Lunch club.Social Services’ Occupational Therapy service provide assessment,support and advice about special equipment to overcome many dailyproblems from walking aids to from installations like stair lifts and hoists orproperty adaptations like permanent ramps, rails and bathroom fittings.For short term requirements, the British Red Cross operates a temporary,medical loan service and can supply wheelchairs and other mobility aids.Telephone communication is now accessible to more people than ever before.BT Age & Disability Action produce a Communications Solution booklet thatlists their range of products designed to overcome problems associated withdisability. Pay as you go, mobile telephones can prove useful in the event ofan emergency. The council operates a community alarm system ‘WrexhamCare Call’ . This system allows you to contact the Emergency Control Centrevia a pendant or wrist strap and ask for assistance when you have a problemsuch as a fall, medical emergency or break-in, 24 hours a day. The service isopen to anyone and rates vary depending on housing tenure.Computers and Internet access provide access to typed, spoken and videostyle communication. Many programmes and web browsers can read text asspeech, are free and can complement other, personal forms of monitoring andcommunication. Computer equipment does NOT have to be ‘state of the art’or ‘high spec’ to perform low demand tasks such as browsing the Internet,http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+20

Staying Independent and in Controlsending emails or writing letters. It is possible to buy older, low specequipment from local, independent retailers or second hand. Internet access isalso available free from all public libraries who also offer sessions to explainhow it works.Every gas and electricity supplier is obliged to offer its vulnerable domesticconsumers a Priority Service Register intended to provide vulnerable peoplewith extra support. For more details, contact your supplier or callEnergyWatch, the independent gas and electricity watchdog. If you smell gasDO NOT create a flame or operate electrical switches, phone NationalGrid.The Wrexham Energy Saving Centre gives advice about eligibilityand assists with applications to grants to improve energy efficiencymeasures and reduce cold-related illness or death and excessivefuel bills.Moderate, practical measures such as adequate window locks, doorchains, door viewing holes and outside lighting can significantly improve thesafety and security of vulnerable people. Safe in the Home crime preventiongrants are available for victims of crime and widow/ers. A selection of crimeand/or safety advice and information is available from the WrexhamCommunity Safety Unit.North Wales Fire and Rescue Service offer a free home fire safety checkand advice service. People who are elderly, disabled, living alone or who havesuffered a recent fire may also qualify for free, risk reducing householdequipment.Help Outside your HomeCommunity Transport schemes address some needs of individuals andgroups when conventional methods are not appropriate. See ‘Getting Around’for detailed information.Social Services can help organise ‘Day Care’ which describes any kind oforganised activity that takes you out of your home during the day. Dependingon income, there may be a charge for the activity. Venues include DayCentres and people’s homes as part of the TRIO programme. Some centresoffer special programmes for people suffering from dementia. Centres areusually open for about five hours in the middle of the day and provide amidday meal with a mixed schedule of events. The range of activities /services varies but can include access to free financial and medical advice orchiropody or hairdressing services at extra cost.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+21

Staying Independent and in ControlTo be accepted for Day Care, you need to have a formal assessment of yourneeds. To ask for an assessment, contact Social ServicesCommunity Legal Services (CLS) helps people find legal information andadvice that meet quality standards set by the Legal Services Commission.Where there is a charge you may be eligible for financial support through theCommunity Legal Service Fund (legal aid).A Tenants and Residents Association (TARA) is an organisation formed bylocal people in an area of Council housing. Run by volunteers, it is a ‘collectivevoice’ used to influence Council decisions and protect your environment. Forinformation, contact the council Housing department. The Welsh TenantsFederation has a branch in Wrexham and is an independent groupproviding advice to tenants and community projects about developing localgroups and all aspects of housing needs including neighbour disputeresolution and anti-social behaviour orders (ASBOs). The Wrexham CitizensAdvice Bureau provides free legal advice on all aspects of communityrelations.Together Creating Communities (TCC) brings its member groups togetherto work on a range of issues of concern to them and their communities.Forums exist at various locations around Wrexham County Borough to givepeople over the age of 50 a voice in the planning processes for localisedservices. Representatives of local forums and individuals combine to form theWrexham County Borough Over 50s Forum at county level decisions.You can complain to the Public Services Ombudsman for Wales about thecouncil and/or National Health Service organisations about matters such ashousing, planning, education, social services and health services.CarersIf you are looking after a relative or friend who could not manage without yourhelp, then you are a carer. Getting support, as a carer, is vital to protect bothyourself and the person you care for from negative affects of stress-relatedillness and exhaustion. Registering the dependent relationship can alsoprotect the ‘cared for’ in an emergency. This can be done through the BritishRed Cross which organises the Carers’ Cards scheme.Support options will vary depending on your requirements andthe assessment. It can include training, organised breaks fromcaring responsibilities (respite care) or funding to arrangeprofessional care (see ‘Organising Help’). Respite care optionshttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+22

Staying Independent and in Controlvary. Social Services can offer day care placements for patients in specialistday centres or homes. Alternatively, voluntary organisations such asWrexham Care Association may provide visits to your home, CrossroadsCare Attendant Schemes will provide someone to stay with the person youcare for at your home, giving you the chance to have a break.For the cared-for capable of independent social activity, lunch clubs canprovide a safe environment, good food and a sense of independence; for thecarer, lunch clubs can provide time for their own pursuits.Wrexham Young Carers provides advice, peer group support and fun forchildren and young people with caring responsibilities.If the cared-for requires night or day nursing (wound care etc) or has amedical condition, including incontinence, the carer may need extra,specialised support. If the patient is terminally ill, the carer may need hospicesupport and counselling. Your GP should be able to advise on possible help.For more information, see http://www.direct.gov.uk/CaringForSomeone orcontact Social Services. North East Wales Carers’ Information Service(NEWCIS) provides information and practical support for carers includingsupport services.Organising HelpChoosing a Reliable TradesmanBefore getting any work done, it is advisable to check with local organisationssuch as Age Concern North East Wales to find out if a community projectcan provide the specific service you require or help organise the work or,alternatively, where you might be able to get an approved traders list.If hiring an independent contractor is the only available option, start by askingfriends and neighbours if they can recommend anyone matching theskills you require and ask to see the work.Consumer Direct Wales (CDW) is a telephone and online consumer adviceservice, run by Trading Standards and supported by the Office of Fair Trading.They provide clear, practical, impartial advice to help you find a trader, knowyour rights and sort out problems. The advice and information is free andtelephone charges are priced at local rates. They alsooperate the TrustMark logo. If a firm displays the logo, youknow that a trade association or other certificationorganisation has checked the firm and found that it meetshttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+23

Staying Independent and in Controlrequired standards set by the government.If you have concerns about local traders, the Council’s Trading StandardsDivision have Advisory Officers and Enforcement Officers who will investigateany concern.Domestic and Personal CareIf you need care that involves feeding, bathing, walking, and toileting, it isknown as personal care. It requires special training and more vigorousselection procedures. Personal care for people living in their own homes, who,because of illness, infirmity or disability are unable to provide it for themselveswithout assistance is also known as Domiciliary Care. It is not ‘householdmaintenance’ nor is it ‘Nursing Care’ so staff are not medically qualified.If you only need support for domestic aspects of daily life such asshopping and cleaning, you are unlikely to be eligible for support fromsocial services. Independent agencies provide some options - seeYellow Pages ‘Domestic Services’ category or ask friends andneighbours if they can recommend anyone matching the skillsyou require and take sensible precautions to safeguard yourself andyour property.To access advice and support in obtaining domiciliary care you can contactSocial Services direct or, if you prefer, you can also do so via your familydoctor (GP). They will then consider if you meet their eligibility requirementsand either provide the care you require themselves or arrange for otherorganisations to provide it.Wrexham Social Services can arrange the care you require OR you can opt toreceive Direct Payments and arrange the care yourself. Hiring an employeecarries more legal responsibilities but if you have opted for Direct Payments,the Support Service at AVOW can help you meet any legal responsibilities.They will also be able to help find suitable independent contractors.If you would like to hire a personal assistant but do not qualify for SocialService care you can find some related help from Consumer Direct Wales orthe National Centre for Independent Living, ‘Employers Toolkit’ webpages.The National Centre for Independent Living provides information to aidindependent living online, by telephone, letter or email.All Domiciliary Care providers based in Wales are required by law to registerhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+24

Staying Independent and in Controltheir services with the Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales (CSIW).Agencies based in England register with the Commission for Social CareInspection (CSCI) regardless of where they operate. Both organisationsmonitor and review the service providers annually to protect the safety andwelfare of clients and staff. You can search their web sites to see whatregistered agencies operate in your area and download reports from CSCI orrequest a report from CSIW.Both sites include information to assist the selection process and list keypoints to consider before choosing care but, for those without Internet access,as a brief guide check that the agency holds appropriate insurance to covertheir responsibilities to clients and obligations to workers. Ask how theyrecruit and select Care Workers (references, Criminal Records Bureau check,Protection of Vulnerable Adults check etc.) Find out what training is providedfor the Care Workers, especially those new to the profession and how theymatch care workers to clients to take into consideration, where necessary,gender, personality, temperament, skills, capabilities, knowledge and culturalbackground.The results returned from CSIW & CSCI searches are listed according towhere the agency is located not the areas they cover therefore to access allagencies covering Wrexham Borough County, you may need to search acrossWrexham, Flintshire & Denbighshire on the CSIW site and perform a 20 mileradius search on the CSCI site to find some of the agencies based in Cheshireand Shropshire which serve some of the border areas of Wrexham.Alternatively, the Council has a list of Domiciliary Providers – the list does notfeature every agency option open to people and does NOT provide anyguarantee of service quality. The Social Services Department cannotaccept responsibility for people making private arrangements with anyof these agencies. It does however list some agencies outside the immediatearea who offer specific services such as Welsh speaking care workers andothers that offer specialised care, such as that for people suffering fromsensory impairments.Yellow Pages also lists many of the service providers who operate in the areaunder the category ‘Nurses’ Agencies and Care’ which can then be crossreferenced using the CSIW or CSCI.The Council has produced a leaflet on their web site explaining DirectPayments. Use the address http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/socialservices andfollow the link to ‘Information Leaflets’.The national organisations Age Concern (England) and Help The Aged bothhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+25

Staying Independent and in Controlproduce fact sheets and booklets on a range of issues more likely to affect usafter the age of 50. They provide generic information for people all over Britainwhereas the local branches provide more regionalised ‘signposting’information, helping people to find local services.All of the national information can be accessed from their web sites, bytelephoning their helplines or from their local offices / shops.Age Concern – http://www.ageconcern.org.ukInformation Line - 0800 00 99 66Help The Aged – http://www.helptheaged.org.ukSeniorLine - 0808 800 6565http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+26

Alternative Housing OptionsAlternative Housing SolutionsConsidering options when a house move has become a necessity can lead torushed decisions, missed opportunities and mistakes. Investigating options inadvance and having a plan, in case it is ever needed, could preserve yourfuture sense of well being and your finances.If your needs are short term, it may be possible to arrange a temporarysolution, contact Social Services for advice on short-term stays and specialequipment.The Elderly Accommodation Counsel (EAC) web site provides informationcovering the whole housing & care spectrum. The EAC Advice Line aims tohelp older people make decisions about their housing, care or support in thefull knowledge of what options are open to them, what they cost and how toget access to themFor more information on all housing matters see the Council’s web site athttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/housing or contact the Council HousingDepartment.Modified HousingEstate agents occasionally have properties that are suitable for all needsincluding homes that are adaptable or have already been adapted. Most willnotify prospective buyers of the availability of such property, if requested.There are also a wide range of grants available to help you adapt your houseif your needs change. These are covered in the ‘Finances’ section.Before deciding to move in with relatives, consider practical matters such asdaily living arrangements, privacy, space, and legal or financial implications toall parties. Self-contained annexes (‘granny flats’), which are used bydependent relatives and form part of a single property complex, may beconsidered exempt from Council Tax.Retirement/Sheltered HousingRetirement housing (also known as or Sheltered housing) schemes areusually self-contained, small, rented or leasehold houses or flats supported bya warden who can give some help when needed whilst you retain control ofyour day-to-day life. Most sheltered housing for rent is provided by localcouncils or non-profit making Housing Associations, also called RegisteredSocial Landlords (RSLs). Some Housing Associations restrict occupancy, forexample, to ‘older people’ or ‘people with physical / learning difficulties’.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+27

Alternative Housing OptionsHousing Associations also provide some accommodation for part or outrightpurchase. These are designed to help people on low incomes, or with limitedcapital, to become or remain home owners, through a range of schemes suchas Shared Ownership and Flexible Tenure.Extra Care Housing (or very sheltered housing) is self contained housing torent or to buy, designed with the needs of frailer older people in mind and withvarying levels of care/support available on site. It can sometimes provide analternative to a care home. Supported Housing is accommodation designedto meet the particular needs of people with disabilities (for example, witheverything accessible to someone in a wheelchair).Most private sector retirement housing is purchased at full price on the openmarket, though for people who cannot afford the full market price, otheroptions may be available. Enquire with the scheme operators.Care HomesThere are two types of care homes: residential and nursing homes. Theyprovide living accommodation, meals, help with personal care such asdressing, supervision of medication and companionship. Residential homesgive care during normal short illnesses but do not provide constant nursingcare. Nursing Homes will also provide nursing support from qualified nursingstaff. People diagnosed with dementia may need a care home with anadditional category of registration (DE). These were previously known as EMIhomes.Most care homes offer short term stay or respite care for people who arerecovering from hospital treatment, waiting to move elsewhere, need a breakfor themselves or their carers as well as to people who want to try out a homebefore committing to long term care.The Relatives & Residents Association provides information, advice,understanding and support to individuals about any aspects of entering orliving in residential homes, nursing homes and continuing care in hospitals.All care homes in Wales are registered and inspected by the Care StandardsInspectorate for Wales (CSIW). Inspection reports are available from thehome or CSIW. All care homes in England are registered and inspected by theCommission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI). You can search their websites to see what registered agencies operate in the area and downloadreports from CSCI or request a report from CSIW.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+28

Alternative Housing OptionsCostsCare homes vary in cost. Paying for care yourself will give you more choiceabout the optional provisions and surroundings you receive. People with morethan a specified amount in capital or savings, including the value of theirhome, will have to pay the full care home fees unless other eligible people livein the house. This may mean selling your home to pay for your care home.The Council also has the legal power to include assets in the means testingassessment that they consider to have been subject to ‘deliberate deprivation’,for example if a property been recently transferred to someone else. Youshould seek expert legal advice in this area.If you need help towards the cost of a care home, you must first contact yourlocal social services department and ask for an assessment of your needs.You are also advised to contact the social services department if there is anychance you may need financial help towards the cost of fees in the future.If you are paying your own care home fees, you should apply for theAttendance Allowance. People with very high nursing or medical needs mayqualify to have their care fully funded by the NHS under the Continuing Carecriteria. Contact the North East Wales NHS Trust for information. The LocalHealth Board may also contribute to Nursing Home fees.The Nursing Home Fees Agency (NHFA) provide advice and informationincluding rights to state funding, local authority charging and assessmentprocedures, health authority responsibilities, benefits and legal matters.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+29

Health & WellbeingHealth & WellbeingHealth is worse in Wales than in many other parts of Britain. Someof the main causes of ill-health can be prevented. Cancers, heartdisease, and diabetes, for example, are all influenced by the waywe live.Doctors want to give the best care possible, but to do this theyneed your help. Take advantage of a number of health checks which may beavailable through your GP. They may include checks for high blood pressure,diabetes or blood cholesterol. Check your GP practice leaflet or discuss thiswith the practice nurse.If you are over 65 you can receive an annual free flu jab and an occasionalfree jab against pneumonia. Ask your health practice for information or callNHS Direct.If you are over 75 and have not needed to see a member of the practice teamfor a year or more, you can ask for an appointment to discuss your generalhealth or any health concerns you have. If for medical reasons you would findit difficult to visit the practice, you should be offered a home visit.Breast Test Wales provides screening every three years for women betweenthe ages of 50 and 70. Between these ages you will be invited to attend.However, over the age of 70 you have to request to be screened every threeyears.Women between the ages of 50 – 64 are invited every five years for cervicalcancer screening and from 2006 men and women between the ages 60 – 69will be invited to bowel screening every two years.The Council Health Promotion team promotes initiatives and information toencourage safe and healthy living amongst older people. This includesaccident prevention advice. Contact them for information on local projects.Alternatively, the council’s web site has a section dedicated to healthinformation at http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/health.RNID’s Breaking the Sound Barrier scheme offers a five minute hearing testover the telephone. The facility is free and call costs are charged at localrates.Vision Support’s team of community-based support workers and volunteerbefrienders visit people with vision problems in their own homes on a regularhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+30

Health & Wellbeingbasis to enable them to remain independent for longer.Health Challenge Wales is the national focus of efforts to improve health andwell-being through preventative action. Their free action pack includesinformation on Smoking, Food and Fitness, Accidents and injuries, Alcoholand other substance misuse, Infections, Mental health and well-being.Keep Well This Winter is a regular, seasonal campaign providing informationand support to people aged 65 to help them keep well through the wintermonths. For more information contact Age Concern North East Wales.Figures from the Health Protection Agency show that, among women aged45 to 64, rates of chlamydia rose by 177 per cent, between 1995 and 2003.Cases of gonorrhoea among women in that age group rose by 249 per cent.For free and confidential advice on contraception, family planning or sexualhealth issues contact the Maelor Hospital or speak to your Doctor.Message in a Bottle is a scheme coordinated by the Council’sHealth Promotion Team. It provides a plastic bottle to keep in thefridge for emergency services to store with vital details including nextof kin, illnesses, allergies etc. Message in a bottle can be obtainedfrom Pharmacies, Libraries, District Nurses and Doctors Surgeries.Incontact is a leading national organisation that provides information andsupport to people with bladder and bowel problems, their carers and healthprofessionals that look after them. See their website or contact their freehelpline. The N.E. Wales NHS Trust Continence Service also providesinformation over the telephone and in print. They have a housebound serviceand will attend meetings to promote self-help and treatment.The Caia Park Healthy Living Project aims to improve the health and wellbeingof the residents of Caia Park by raising awareness of health relatedissues and life styles and by providing opportunities for them to interactsocially, keep agile and have fun at the same time.The Coal Industry Benevolent Trust is a registered charity providing supportand financial assistance for serving employees, ex-employees and theirfamilies covering a range of personal difficulties including death as a result ofan industrial accident, death as a result of the industrial diseasepneumoconiosis or death on colliery premises. They also provide assistancewith hospital costs linked to industrial accidents and hardship grants.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+31

Health & WellbeingHealthy LivingOlder adults stay happier and healthier when they have emotional supportfrom friends and family. Those who feel lonely and isolated tend to be morephysically and mentally frail. See ‘Recreation’ for social activities that can alsogenerate friendships, fun and mutual support.Exposure to a few minutes of sunlight increases vitamin D levels in the bodyand improves bone strength and general health. The National OsteoporosisSociety helpline provides information about prevention, diagnosis, treatmentand support. It is staffed by a team of nurses who are experienced inosteoporosis and bone health.There are a few significant hormonal changes with age, most notably thelevels of the oestrogen and progesterone in women and testosterone in menfall causing a mix of physical and mental changes including the menopause.Your doctor can advise on ‘coping mechanisms’, prescribe treatment and/orcheck for medical conditions, as considered appropriate.Generally, although nutritional requirements do change with age, the generaldietary guidelines still apply. Diet is a contributing factor to: high levels ofcholesterol, poor wound healing, anaemia, about one third of all cancers,Parkinson’s and similar degenerative diseases, depression and obesity whichcan lead to stroke, coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis.Eye sight tests can also detect a number of diseases at an early stage whenthey can be effectively treated. Good eye sight is vital for safety.Minor problems caused by compromised foot care can lead to discomfortwhich can lead to accidents. People suffering from diabetes are of greater riskfrom infection due to reduced sensation in their feet. This means you may notbe aware of problems unless you examine your feet regularly.Moderate exercise twice a week can help to prevent physical problems bylowering blood pressure and improving stamina, muscle strength, flexibility,suppleness, balance and co-ordination. Some of the health benefits includereducing the risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, obesity and stroke.Exercise has also been shown to stimulate the production of blood vessels inthe brain making people more alert and less likely to suffer some mentalhealth problems. It’s estimated that men who take moderate exercise have a17 per cent lower risk of Parkinson’s disease than inactive men. Clinical trialshave shown that exercise programmes can help people with depression andsome forms of exercise can help to reduce anxiety.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+32

Health & WellbeingIt is also believed that keeping mentally active can protect mental health andhobbies such as crosswords, chess, cards and scrabble can help preventdecline. See ‘Recreation’ for the types of activity groups in the area.187 people over the age of 65 are admitted to hospital every day because ofan accident at home. Better physical and mental health can significantlyreduce in the likelihood of home accidents.For more information on schemes and programmes tailored to preventaccidents and promote activities such as giving up smoking, drinking less,eating well or exercising more, see ‘Health Programmes’.Age Concern Cymru produce a series of Ageing Well leaflets with titlesincluding ‘Physical Activity – Just one step away’, ‘Emotional health & Wellbeing’,‘Making the most of your retirement’, ‘You and your Doctor……workingtogether’, ‘Out & Healthy – Well-being information for older lesbians, gay menand bisexuals’, ‘Men’s health……mission impossible?’, ‘How safe is yourhome?’, ‘A smile for life’, ‘Its never too late to give up smoking’, ‘Fit foot steps’,‘Staying focused’, ‘Eat well, age well’. Phone for up to 5 free leaflets.Help the Aged have a range of free leaflets dedicated to specific issuesavailable from their Wrexham charity shop. These include Bladder and Bowelweakness, Fitter Feet, Healthy Bones, Keeping Mobile, Shingles, ManagingYour Medicines, Better hearing, Better Sight.TreatmentGPs have discretional authority to refer patients to a range of practicalsolutions including exercise programmes, special equipment and propertyadaptations via Social Services. Alternatively, if people feel they can notmanage at home, they can refer themselves to Social Services who maycontact their GP as part of their assessment process.Community (District) Nurses can give advice and information about medicaland physical problems such as managing continence, stoma care, coping withfits or handling special medicines. To receive services from a CommunityNurse you must have a referral from your GP.If you are aged 60 or over and living in Wales, you are automatically entitled tofree prescriptions, dental examinations and sight tests. You may also be ableto get help with other charges including travelling costs to and from treatment,if you have a low income. If you are unsure about entitlement you can call thePrescription Pricing Authority (PPA) Patient Services or read leaflet HC11‘Help with health costs?’ which is available from pharmacies, some doctors’http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+33

Health & Wellbeingsurgeries and main post offices. If you have a lot of medication, it may becheaper for you to buy a pre-payment certificate to cover any prescriptioncharges in a set period. An application form for a pre-payment certificate canbe picked up in your local community pharmacy.From April 2006, NHS Dental treatment will use one of 3 standard chargesdependent on the treatment required and regardless of the number of visits.Repairs to dentures will remain free of charge. If you lose or damage yourdentures beyond repair, it will cost to replace them. For more information, or tobe included on a NHS dentist waiting list contact the Wrexham Local HealthBoard. You can obtain a list of NHS dentists, emergency dental clinics for unregisteredpatients, doctors, pharmacies, chiropodists and opticians in yourlocal areas.NHS hospitals should give priority to war disablement pensioners for anytreatment of problems resulting from the wars. Tell your GP and hospital if youare a war pensioner to make sure you get priority treatment. Other benefitsmay be available, contact the Veterans Agency for more information.NHS Direct Wales is a telephone service, provided by nurses who giveconfidential health care advice and information or information about localHealth Services. They also have a list of practices that offer home visits to thehousebound. For information about Wrexham Maelor seehttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/hospitalIf you are not happy with the NHS service you receive you should contact theClwyd Community Health Council. They organise public and patientinvolvement projects and their web site contains topical information includingMRSA advice.Every adult with mental capacity has the right to agree to or refuse medicaltreatment. To make your advance wishes clear you can use a living will.You don’t need to involve a solicitor to make a written living will and there isno set format, but some organisations have produced templates. You can alsoget help from solicitors specialising in mental health or community care theMind Legal Advice line, your care co-ordinator, doctor, advocacy service ororganisations like Citizens Advice Bureau.Nightingale House Hospice provides palliative care which concentrates oncaring, not curing. It provides medical care, pain management, and emotionaland spiritual support for people with life limiting illness caring for patients,friends and family.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+34

Health & WellbeingSupportMany people rely on significant support from family, friends or neighbours tomanage. Many of the ‘carers’ struggle to mange without realising there is helpavailable. See ‘Carers’ for carers’ support services.Home From Hospital is scheme for people who are being discharged fromhospital. Trained volunteers complement the help provided by Social andCommunity Health workers. Ask ward staff to be referred or contact WrexhamBritish Red Cross who also provide a medical loan service for short termmobility needs.Wrexham Women’s Aid offers information, support and a refuge on requestfor women and their children who have suffered physical, mental and/orsexual abuse.Health ProgrammesThe Council Health Promotion and Education department provides adviceand guidance about health promotion initiatives within the County Borough.ExerciseYou don’t have to join an exercise class to keep physically active, evenditching the remote will help but joining an exercise class or localactivity group can be an opportunity to make new friends and givesyou confidence that exercising safely and effectively.Daily walking in parks and open spaces is a great way to improveyour health & fitness and being out in 'green space' is proven toreduce stress levels. The Council web site provides detailedinformation about walking options. The ‘Healthy Walks in andaround Wrexham's Country Parks’ booklet is available from the WrexhamTourist Information Centre (WTIC) and contains 7 walks that start from theCountry Parks. If you have limited mobility, the Council’s Countryside Servicescan advise on the suitability of routes. The Council’s Archaeology Servicehas information on all archaeological sites in the County Borough. The servicealso arranges lectures and guided walks for individuals and organisations.All general public swim sessions at Council leisure centres are now free tothe over 60s during term time with some sessions especially targeted to alsoencourage people aged 50 – 60 to join in with reduced rates. Where they areavailable, swimming lessons are also free but need to be booked in advance.For more information contact your local Council leisure centre or the Councilweb site at http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/leisurehttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+35

Health & WellbeingGroundwork Wrexham & Flintshire co-ordinate a number of organisedwalks in different locations around the County Borough as part of the 'Walkingthe Way to Health’ programmes. The locations include places ofenvironmental or historical interest. The Urbanwalks programme has shortwalks designed to encourage workers in Wrexham town, around the Maelorhospital and the Wrexham Industrial Estate to use their lunchtimeproductively.Ordnance Survey "Explorer" Maps numbers 256, 257, 255 and 241 coverfootpaths, bridleways and byways across Wrexham and the surroundingareas. Follow them and you will encounter the finest landscape and mostfascinating heritage in the county borough. To report any issue on a recordedpublic right of way phone the Public Rights of Way Section or if there is anissue with footways, pavements or any other path in an urban area, telephoneGrounds Maintenance and Street Cleaning.A number of independent groups also exist including the Wrexham RamblersAssociation, the Wrexham Rambling Group and GO50. The BBC NorthEast Wales web site features details of self led walks heritage trails & furtherwalks submitted by local people.The British Trust For Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) GreenGym is aunique health programme that exercises its participants in the countryside oropen spaces in conservation activities such as tree planting, creating schoolnature areas, hedgelaying, fostering rare plants & animals, restoring ancientdownland and constructing dry stone walls, fences, gateways & stiles.The opportunity to join Exercise sessions for the over 50’s is now availableat all of the Council’s leisure centres. If you require any further information,please contact the Community Cardiac Health Development Officer.The Council's Health Promotion team has produced a new booklet ‘Let's GetMoving’ designed specifically to help frail older people to become more activeat a level suitable for their needs. The book forms part of the Moving MoreOften scheme which encourages older people to become more physicallyactive.Active Age Active Feet, organised by Age Concern North East Walesrecruits volunteers to lead gentle physical activity classes in fun and gamesusing parachutes, balls and a variety of other equipment.For a copy of the Wrexham Cycle Route Map around the town centre, callthe Council Highways Department.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+36

Health & WellbeingAccident PreventionMost common accidents that occur in the home are slips, trips, falls, burns,scalds and accidental poisoning. In addition to maintaining your health it isimportant to consider your immediate environment and your footwear. See theCouncil web site health section or contact the Accident Prevention team formore details.The Sure Feet community falls prevention project has been co-ordinated byAge Concern North East Wales. The programme recruits volunteers to providehelp and support to older people who may be at risk of falls.The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA) is involved inthe promotion of safety and the prevention of accidents in all areas of life - atwork, in the home, and on the roads, in schools, at leisure and on (or near)water. See their web site or phone for information.Smoking106,000 people in the UK die every year from smoking related diseases and,over the last 4 years, 86 people in North Wales have died, or were injured, asa result of a fire caused by cigarettes.To help people choose a smoke free environment, the Council hasdeveloped a Smoke Free register. This symbol is displayed in allaccommodation and eating establishments in Wrexham whichprovide a smoke free service.For further information about giving up smoking or joining the Smoke Freeregister, contact the Council Health Promotion Team. ‘Stopping SmokingMade Easy’ is a booklet available free of charge from GP surgeries and localhealth promotion units.Contact the Smoking Cessation Service for more support options and localcontacts or phone the NHS Smokers Helpline.ASH, STUB and QUIT are national organisations that provide informationabout the effects of smoking and lots of help to give up, including thetechniques of people who succeeded.Alchohol & Drug AbuseContact your GP or Social Services to access help from the Drugs andAlcohol Team.CAIS is an independent charity with centres throughout North Wales. Theyhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+37

Health & Wellbeingaim to help anyone concerned about their own or someone else's drinking ordrug taking.Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share theirexperience, strength and hope with each other to help them solve theircommon problem and to help others to recover from alcoholism. Al-AnonFamily Groups provide a confidential helpline for anyone living with someoneelse's alcoholism. You can ring them to speak to someone who understandsor for details of a nearby Al-Anon meeting. Talk to Frank provides freeconfidential drugs information and advice 24 hours a day or if you are deaftext phone FRANK.FeetChiropodists provide foot care, treating things like bunions, corns andingrowing toenails. You may be entitled to chiropody treatment on the NHS ifyou suffer from these conditions.EyesSome local opticians have special discounts available to people over 60,download the details from the Council web site or contact the Strategy forOlder People team.DietThe Community Dietician can provide nutritional guidance and information. Ifyou are overweight, see your GP who may be able to refer you to the FreshStart scheme, providing subsidised access to the Council’s gyms and/or anutritionist.Lighten Up Tighten Up is a free weight management and lifestyle changeprogramme combining diet, exercise and behavioural education to helpgroups of individuals lose weight and make long lasting changes to theirlifestyle. Contact the Maelor Hospital dieticians.The Food Standards Agency is a UK-wide, government department,providing advice and information on food safety, nutrition and diet catering fora number of circumstances and ages. Visit their web site or telephone them torequest a booklet from a small range of publications including ‘EatWell’, ‘Menand Food’ or ‘Eating for later life’.The British Nutrition Foundation is a scientific and educational charity whichpromotes the well being of society through the impartial interpretation andeffective dissemination of evidence-based nutritional knowledge and advice.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+38

Health & WellbeingIt provides detailed information on all aspects of diet and nutrition includingfood labelling.DentalNHS Direct has a list of practices that offer home visits tothe housebound.Mental Health SupportMental health is a state of psychological well-being whichincludes having positive relationships with others, apurpose in life and personal growth and acceptance. Oursense of well-being is also influenced by environmental factors such as familylife, meaningful occupational activity and an active social life. Positiveexperiences in all these encourage and promote our sense of self-acceptanceand self-esteem.Stress is a factor which can impact upon our sense of well-being and ourability to function effectively. Major life events such as death, divorce, movinghouse and illness are all significant stress factors, as well as other majorimpacts such as poverty, extreme hardship, loss of employment or loss ofrole. Improving our ability to cope with adversity, will increase our sense ofcontrol on what is happening to us and enable us to have positive mentalhealth.Biological factors may also determine or contribute to our sense of well-beingand ability to function from day to day. In such situations, medication can helpto improve well-being and contribute to promoting self-esteem. If you areworried about any aspect of your mental health, see your doctor. Medicationcan often restore balance and reduce associated symptoms. Wheremedication is not possible or appropriate, GP referral can help access supportto enable sufferers to continue to live independently.Mental illness can affect behaviour, emotions and thinking, therefore it isimportant to get help while you are confident of your judgment that “somethingisn’t quite right” rather than allowing your judgment to become altered with thepossible advance of an illness. In the first instance, contact your GP if you areconcerned about your mental health.Wrexham Social Services and North East Wales Trust provide a range ofspecialist services through their Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs’)including assessing people suffering from enduring mental health problemsand provide help and support to individuals and their family to cope withhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+39

Health & Wellbeingserious mental illness. The Community Mental Health Team for the Elderly(CMHTE) which is a multi-disciplinary team specialising in helping peoplesuffering from serous mental health or from a dementia related illness. Theteam are able to provide a range of specialist services including assessingpeople and providing specialist advice and arrange domiciliary support. Toaccess the specialised support, contact Social Services for an assessment ofneeds.The Community Advice and Listening Line provides advice, informationand emotional support for anyone concerned about their own or another'smental health.First Access is a joint initiative between the North East Wales Trust andWrexham Social Services for people between 18 and 65. They providesupport and care to adults living in the Wrexham County area who havecommon mental health problems e.g. stress, anxiety etc.Unllais provides comprehensive information on mental health issues. Their bimonthlynewsletter, the North Wales Mental Health News, provides the latestnews on mental health services throughout North Wales and their websiteincludes a database of services across the region including self-help groups,community mental health teams, mental health service user groups, nationalorganisations, helplines and more.MIND is a national organisation providing information and support. Theycampaign to improve policy and attitudes and, in partnership with WrexhamMIND, develop local services to make it possible for people who experiencemental distress to live full lives, and play their full part in society.Rethink is the largest severe mental illness charity in the UK. They arededicated to improving the lives of everyone affected by severe mental illness,whether they have a condition themselves, care for others who do, or areprofessionals or volunteers working in the mental health field. Hafal is a welshmental health charity affiliated to Rethink. It has three supported housingprojects in Wales including one in Wrexham.The Standing Ground helpline is a support service for adult survivors offinancial, sexual, physical, emotional or psychological abuse providingliterature, sign posting information and courses for people in North Wales.Reflections aim to improve members' own understanding of mental healthissues and press for user involvement in the management of mental healthservices.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+40

Health & WellbeingWrexham Advance, part of Brighter Futures, provides advocacy andrepresentation to people affected by mental health problems. They help obtainthe services and information individuals require to manage their condition.Brighter Futures is an independent forum for people affected by mentalhealth difficulties to express their views on all mental health issues. Theirdrop-in and resource centre offers a range of therapeutic and leisure activities.DepressionBe aware of the signs of stress in yourself and others. The first step to treatdepression is to get a complete physical check-up because depression maybe a side effect of another medical condition. Most people improvedramatically with treatment which does not always have to include medication.The Wales Rural Stress (Wrexham) Mental Health Helpline provides a free,confidential telephone service, providing support and practical help, asrequired to rural Wales.Isolation is a well known trigger for depression, see ‘Recreation’ for recreationideas and ‘Getting Around’ for Community Transport schemes to help get youthere.Finding practical solutions to persistent problems can help limit depression.Advocacy services provided by Age Concern North East Wales andWrexham Citizen’s Advice Bureau can help you solve many of yourproblems.DementiaDementia describes the symptoms that occur when the brain is affected byspecific diseases and conditions, including Alzheimer's disease and stroke.Symptoms of dementia include loss of memory, confusion and problems withspeech and understanding.The Alzheimer's Society web site and national helpline provides information,advice, support and referrals to anyone with concerns about Alzheimer'sdisease or about any other form of dementia. Locally, the Wrexham branchoffer individual and group support.Dementia in Wales is an information service aimed at providing informationon all aspects of dementia care, research and services, to interestedprofessionals working in Wales.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+41

Health & WellbeingOther SupportSevere mental illness that has been medically assessed as such, is adisability and a lot of the help listed in the ‘Disability’ section will also berelevant.Learning DifficultiesThe Social Services Community Learning Disability Team offers a serviceto adults with learning disabilities who meet the agreed eligibility criteria.Interventions are aimed at promoting the health, social care and well-being ofthe individual to pursue as independent a life as possible as a valued memberof their community.The Wrexham County Forum for Learning Disabilities is an independentorganisation. It ensures services meet the needs and choices for people witha learning disability, represent its members’ views and establishes ways ofcommunication between families, voluntary organisations, statutory agenciesand the general public. Their web site contains local news and events fordisabled people and their carers.The Wales Learning Disability Helpline is a free call, 7 days a week, 365days a year, providing support and information independently.Keyring is a charity providing a unique and proven model of communitysupported living for people who have learning disabilities and who want theirown place with support.Local Groups NOT included in the directoryThere are many more local groups known to the Council’s Strategy for OlderPeople team which are not be included in this directory due to limited spaceand a need to frequently update information. The groups are categorised by 3main types to identify the different types of support that is available. Thedefinitions overlap and more than one list can be requested.Support groups - people who share medical conditions share theirexperiences to help others and offer support at a personal level.Social groups - members may share a medical condition but the primeobjective of the group is to have fun.Organisations - support people indirectly, providing information and/orequipment, coordinating schemes, raising awareness or raising funds etc.If you want to check that a group is included in the lists or if you want tohttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+42

Health & Wellbeingrequest a copy of the lists, contact the Strategy for Older People team.Please request information about these groups by emailingops@wrexham.gov.uk or fill out one of the tear-off slips included on page 5and return it to the Council’s Strategy for Older People team (address onreverse of form).http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+43

Death & BereavementDeath & BereavementLosing A Loved OneEven when someone dies after a long illness, death can be a shock. We canprepare our loved ones’ recovery by considering in advance and ideallytogether, the practical and emotional consequences. See ‘Wills’ forinformation on why and how to write a will.Help The Aged produce a booklet freely available from their charity shop onBereavement issues, including the process of events following a death,including circumstances when a coroner is involved. The Council web sitecontains detailed information about Bereavement including the fees andcharges for services and space at Wrexham and Gresford Cemeteries orPentrebychan Crematorium in the ‘Life Events’ section.SupportMany people find practical and emotional help in meeting and talking to otherpeople who have already experienced and survived the death of a loved one.CRUSE offers support and information for people affected by a death,including one-to-one counselling, information and advice. The Samaritansprovide confidential telephone support any time of the day or night to thoseexperiencing despair, distress, suicidal feelings or just needing someone totalk to. MIND offers information, support and advice on a whole range ofmental health issues, including depression.If your husband or wife paid into a pension scheme through his job, or he orshe paid into a personal pension scheme, you may be entitled to receive awidow or widower's pension from the scheme, contact the OccupationalPensions Advisory Service (OPAS). If your husband or wife's death wasdue to an illness or injury for which he or she was getting a War DisablementPension, you may be entitled to claim a War Widow's or War Widower'sPension. Contact the Veterans Agency.Contact Social Services to arrange to have an assessment if you think youwill not be able to manage the daily routine alone or contact the WrexhamCommunity Safety Unit if you think you need extra safety features to helpyour peace of mind such as a community alarm or additional locks, doorchains and outside lighting.If your spouse dies before you reach pension age and has paid sufficientNational Insurance contributions, you may be entitled to BereavementPayment, Bereavement Allowance or Widowed Parent’s Allowance. Ifhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+44

Death & Bereavementyour spouse dies after you reach pension age and you are receiving statepension, you may be entitled to an increase based on the National Insurancecontributions your husband or wife paid. Widows or widowers can also inherita percentage of the SERPS pension that their spouse previously received.Contact the Department for Work and Pensions for more information.Organ Transplants enable about 2,700 people to take on a new lease of life inthe UK every year. Organs are only removed for transplantation after a personis certified dead. If you want to give life when you die, discuss your wisheswith those closest to you and join the NHS Organ Donor Register.Registering a deathEvery death in England and Wales must be registered in the district in which ittakes place within 5 days of the date of death. Registration of a death inWales may be made in English or Welsh. The bereaved may need more thanone copy of the death certificate, e.g. for the will or for settling insurancepolicies, pension claims or investments. A charge is made for additionalcopies. Only the Coroner can give permission for a body to be moved out ofEngland or Wales. This permission has to be obtained at least four daysbefore the body is to be moved. Permission must be obtained whenever thefuneral is to take place outside England or Wales.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+45

Support for DisabilitySupport for DisabilityThis section covers information only relevant to people with a disability.However, all of the information in the rest of this directory is pertinent topeople with disabilities and people should read each section carefully.DirectGov, the government site that lists all public services in one place, hasinformation about all aspects of dealing with disability athttp://www.direct.gov.uk/DisabledPeopleThe Council web site has a list of localised help in the section ‘Life Events,Dealing with a Disability’ and other useful links athttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/links/links_disability.htmThe BBC have an online disability magazine featuring news, information andstories from celebrities with a disability at http://www.bbc.co.uk/ouchIndependent LivingSocial Services have special services including theHearing Impaired and Visually Impaired Servicesthat provide support and promote systems which willenable a person to attain maximum independence andto adjust to their disability physically, emotionally,intellectually or socially.The Council has developed ‘An Accessibility Guide to Wrexham TownCentre’ listing amenities and facilities such as toilets and drop kerbs. Forinformation on this and other travel options for disabled people includingCommunity Transport schemes, Motability and the Blue Badge disabledparking scheme, please see ‘Getting Around’.The Wrexham Disability Forum aims to improve the quality of life for peoplewith disabilities and to secure equality for all. They produce regular newsletters and can help people find the particular support they need.Wrexham Access Group promotes physical access to transport, publicplaces and buildings and access to information.A selection of disability equipment can be tested for suitability at the NorthWales Resource Centre. For advice or information on equipment that istailored to specific illness or disability, contact an appropriate local supporthttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+46

Support for Disabilitygroup or the National body. If there is nothing available to overcome particulardifficulties, the charities REMAP and DEMAND build special equipment tomeet ‘one-off’ needs. North East Wales Remap Panel aims to relieve andrehabilitate disabled people by promoting the use of technology to meet theneeds of such persons and by providing or assisting in providing specialisedequipment designed to enhance the integration of disabled persons into thecommunity.If you are looking for work, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP)has a range of special schemes. Some are aimed at encouraging employersto overcome concerns, some help people find their first job while others helppeople prepare for a return to work after a long absence. Broker Cymru findswork for disabled people through Jobcentre Plus. Contact a DisabilityEmployment Adviser at Wrexham Jobcentre for more details and otherspecialist support on employment issues.RADAR National Key Scheme (NKS) provides special keys for registereddisabled people to unlock and use public disabled toilets around the UK. Keyscan be purchased at a non-profit making charge from RADAR.Disability Now is the UK’s leading national disability newspaper and isdelivered free to those receiving means-tested benefits. Phone them for a freesample copy.Working Links is a national company that specialises in helpingdisadvantaged people into sustainable work.WellbeingThe Disability Sport Cymru Development programme assists individuals,schools, clubs or other organisations that want to help provide a disabilitysport in their community, whether through coaching or volunteering. To seewhat disabled sports are on across the county see the Council website athttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/disabilitysport or contact the Disability SportCymru Development Officer.To encourage more people with disabilities to participate in sports andphysical activity sessions, the Council run a Disability Access to Sport andHealth (DASH) scheme. DASH cardholders are allowed to use all the facilitiesat purpose built council leisure centres at all times for half price with anaccompanying adult (or carer) permitted free access with the card holder. Toqualify for a DASH card, applicants must be eligible for certain disabilitybenefits. For more information, contact the Disability Sport Cymruhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+47

Support for DisabilityDevelopment Officer.The Council has been making paths more accessible by taking out stiles andleaving gaps where possible, or replacing the stiles with gates. If you know ofa path where local people would benefit from such changes please let thecouncil Countryside Services department know.‘Disabled Access to the Countryside’ is a booklet compiled by GroundworkWrexham and Flintshire listing details of eight countryside locationsaccessible to more severely disabled people. It includes detailed informationabout the amenities and information about public transport or communitytravel options. Copies are available on the Council web site, fromGroundwork, the Council or Wrexham Tourist Information Centres.The Hearts and Minds, Pedal Power Project is managed by GroundworkWrexham & Flintshire. Based in Alyn Waters Country Park, it aims to makecycling accessible to children and adults with a variety of disabilities byarranging daily bike riding sessions on special bikes and hand cycles, on apurpose built tarmac circuit. All rides are free, fully supervised withinstructions given. A variety of bikes will be offered to suit most needs withhelmets, gloves and rainproof jackets provided.Walking North Wales web site provides information on North Wales walksand all-abilities trails.Support GroupsSupport groups provide regular personal contact with people who shareconditions and experiences. Contact the Strategy for Older People team forup to date information or contact the AVOW Community DevelopmentOfficer for help and information on starting a new group.General Disability SupportIf you are looking after a relative or friend who could not manage without yourhelp, you are a carer. North East Wales Carers’ Information Service haveproduced a carers pack that lists support services and provides detaileddescriptions of the financial help that is available to disabled people and theircarers.Wrexham Young Carers offer help, information and support to young peopleunder 18 whose lives are restricted by the need to take responsibility for aperson who is chronically ill, disabled, is affected by a mental health problemhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+48

Support for Disabilityor substance misuse.Contact a Family provides help and advice for families who care for childrenwith any disability or special needThe Veterans Agency can access special support that is restricted to thosepeople who have previously served British in armed forces on a range ofissues including mental health.The Emergency Duty Service provides an emergency Social Work servicefor people including older people, people with mental health issues ordisabilities, families, carers and friends who are worried or concerned eitherabout themselves or somebody else in an unexpected situation that arises outof normal opening hours (Monday to Thursday 5 p.m. to 8.30 a.m. / Friday toMonday 4.30 p.m. to 8.30 a.m). Situations that might justify an out of hourshome visit are those where a child or vulnerable adult is at risk fromimmediate significant harm, the carer of a vulnerable person is suddenlyunable to provide care because they have been taken ill or a person needs anurgent Mental Health Assessment.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+49

Mobility & Travel SupportGetting AroundA sense of isolation, dependency and depression is especially commonamongst people who have restricted mobility. As well as the obvious benefitsof increased social contact, there are many other affects including improvedbalance and circulation, increased energy levels, and reduced stiffness whichcan lead to an improved sense of well-being and fewer household accidents.BusesGenerally, for single passengers, buses are the cheapest, most convenientpublic transport option for local travel. A number of bus operators exist inWrexham. The Council’s Transport Co-ordination team do not operate busservices but do manage bus stop and bus station operations. They canprovide operator, bus and timetable information for services covering thewhole Wrexham area. In addition, regional timetables can be ordered bytelephoning BusLine or collected from the BusLine offices in the King StreetBus Station, Wrexham during office hours.The Concessionary Travel Scheme provides free passes for residents ofWrexham County Borough who are aged sixty and over or with certaincategories of mental or physical disability. The passes provide holders, and insome instances a companion, with free bus travel throughout Wales and forsome journeys into England. Further information and application forms contactBusLine.The Taxibus scheme operates in rural areas of West, South & East Wrexhamto provide people living in certain areas with taxi links to the nearest bus stopat the cost of a bus fare.The Wrexham Shuttle bus service provides a direct bus link to the WrexhamIndustrial Estate for pre-registered users of the scheme living in the Borras,Acton, Rhosddu and Garden Village areas of Wrexham. Leaflets are availablefrom the Bus Station on King St.Private Car SchemesThe Women’s Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS) provide two social carschemes for elderly and disabled people in rural areas where there is limitedpublic transport. The services are free to the user and the schemes operate inThe Maelor (including Bangor, Overton, Penley and, Hanmer) and GlynCeiriog (including Llanarmon DC, Glyn Ceiriog, Dolywern and Pontfadog).http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+50

Mobility & Travel SupportThe Chariotts Community Transport scheme operates a small fleet ofmodern, wheelchair-accessible vehicles across all Wrexham County Boroughavailable to members of the scheme who have difficulty using public transport.‘Walk in Chariotts’ provides similar assistance to those with a lesser degree ofmobility impairment. Users pay an annual membership fee and per mileage forjourneys.Town Centre AccessThe Wrexham Shopmobility scheme is based at Wrexham Bus Station. Theservice operates a fleet of manual and electrically powered wheelchairs andscooters for use by anyone with mobility problems. Full training will beprovided. The service is free of charge but donations gratefully received.The Council has developed accessibility guides for Wrexham town centre.The guides contain a comprehensive list of amenities plus everything fromtoilets to drop kerbs and walkways etc. The guides are available on thecouncil’s web site or from Wrexham Tourist Information Centre.Group TransportLocated within different areas of the County Borough, there are a smallnumber of council minibuses available for hire to non-profit making groups.Apply to the Council Group Transport department.DrivingThe law requires drivers renew their licence on reaching the age of 70, andevery three years thereafter. If you are a new or worsening sufferer fromcertain medical conditions including any heart condition, epilepsy anddiabetes, you must inform the DVLA. An information leaflet 'What you needto know about driving licences' (D100), contains the list of medicalconditions and is available from the Post Office. More information is availableat www.direct.gov.uk/motoringSome problems caused by medical conditions, medication, reduced physicalfunction or slowed mental reaction can be overcome with appropriaterefresher training and inexpensive equipment. Contact The Department forTransport’s Mobility Advice and Vehicle Information Service (MAVIS) orThe North Wales Mobility and Driving Assessment Service for free,practical advice on driving, transport and outdoor mobility. Assessmentservices may incur charge.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+51

Mobility & Travel SupportThe Motability scheme gives disabled people who receive thehigher rate mobilityHigher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance or the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement the opportunity toown or lease a car to use, as a driver or passenger, at anaffordable price. Nominated drivers may be friends or relatives,and parents or carers can apply on behalf of a child aged three years andupwards. Powered wheelchairs and scooters can also be financed through thescheme.The Blue Badge Scheme (previously the Orange Badge Scheme) is anational arrangement of parking concessions for drivers and passengers whoare over the age of 80 or with qualifying disabilities. To request a badge,contact Social Services.AlternativesSome groups help members who have restricted mobility by offering lifts,organising taxi shares or by using Group Transport options. If you need helpto attend a group, ask them if they can help. The physical and mental healthbenefits of regular activity are enormous, even at a small charge.Contact the Elderly have volunteers who provide the transport for the elderlypeople who live alone to attend a monthly tea and chat in a different host'shouse. Charities such as The Red Cross offer help overcoming mobilityproblems in specific circumstances (e.g. the Home From Hospital scheme).Most ‘Hackney (black) Cab’ type taxis are wheelchair friendly with a wheel-onramp and adequate space inside the cab for a wheelchair. Some taxi firmsoperating in Wrexham County Borough have at least one Hackney cab andothers have tail-lift vehicles which can also be hired for single use, atadditional, proportionate cost. See ‘Yellow Pages’ for more details.Some local shops or national supermarkets offer delivery services for goodsthat are bought on their premises or ordered from home over the telephone,fax or Internet. See ‘Yellow Pages’ for more details.Long Distance JourneysMost companies offer a variety of discounted travel options including agerelated passes (usually for people over 60). However it is worth rememberingsome other cards also provide discounts for travelling companions (e.g.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+52

Mobility & Travel Supportfriends or family travelling together, wheelchair users or people registered asvisually impaired plus one companion). In addition, seasonal offers and/oradvance bookings can provide cheaper options.Traveline Cymru provide impartial timetable and journey planning informationabout all public transport services - buses, coaches, trains, ferries and planesin Wales including how to get to the stop from which you need to travel. It alsoprovides National rail and coach timetables for the whole of the UK. TheTraveline Cymru Disability travel line provides additional information onaccessibility issues and fares for disabled travellers and their companions.Gopher can provide specific, detailed route plans, with all the informationneeded to make journeys in North Wales using public transport. The Gopherservice is available using their web site or by telephone.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+53

FinancesFinancial Help – Claim It, It’s Yours!More than two million pensioners are living below the poverty line, yet£2.5billion of age related benefits are lying unclaimed in government coffers.Many people do not realise they are eligible to receive support, in particular,people caring for a close relative. Others find the system is too complicatedand others don’t like to ask for help, despite the support they have given andcontinue to give to society. Many don’t realise how much better off they canbe through additional discounts that they can get when they have claimed abenefit. Some benefits listed in this section are not available if there is a limitor condition on your entry into Great Britain.Regular Payment or DiscountsDepartment for Work and Pensions (DWP)The DWP provides support to jobseekers and pensioners. DWP divisionsinclude: JobCentre Plus provides help for people of working age who haveno or low income due to unemployment illness, disability or caringresponsibilities; The Pension Service pays state pensions (including pensioncredit for pensioners on a low income) and helps people to plan for retirement;The Disability and Carers Service (DCS) supports disabled people and theircarers.For detailed information on Pensions please see ‘Pensions’.Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC)HMRC pay Child Tax Credit to qualifying people responsible for at least oneyoung person who normally lives with them and Working Tax Credits toqualifying people on low pay who are employed or self-employed and for morethan 16 hours a week. The form ‘WTC1, Child Tax Credit and Working TaxCredit’ is available online or can be requested from the Tax Credit Enquiryline. Contact an independent advocacy service for personal assistance inconsidering or making a claim.Wrexham County Borough CouncilHousing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit are local authority awardsavailable to reduce housing costs of people on a low income. One formchecks entitlement for both benefits. It is available for collection from theCouncil Housing department in Wrexham Town Centre or by phoning thehttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+54

FinancesCouncil Tax department. Entitlement to housing benefit is used as a criteria todetermine costs for discretionary support from the Supporting Peopleprogramme.Council tax discounts (for people who live alone, are carers or havemodified their homes because of a disability) require separate forms.Department of Health (DoH)The DoH provides help with or exemption from some NHS charges. Peoplecan get help on age or medical grounds or by being in receipt of certainbenefits or tax credits. The leaflet HC11 details the qualifying criteria and thehelp available. It is available online or from the DH publications order line,Jobcentre Plus offices, NHS hospitals and some NHS practitioners.Other SourcesAnyone who has served in the UK Armed forces and their widows, widowersor dependants, may be entitled to help with pensions, health, employment andother payments. For more information call the Veterans Agency Helpline.If you become permanently unable to work because of illness, you may startgetting your preserved pension before you reach 60. The War Pensioners'Welfare Service (WPWS) exists to provide advice, guidance and practicalhelp about War Disablement Pensions, War Widows pension and WarWidowers pension.Some charities offer regular or one off financial help to older people on lowincomes. Charity Choice provides a categorised comprehensive internetguide to Charities and non-profit organisations in the UK. If the companionencyclopaedia Charity Choice United Kingdom 2006 is not already availablefrom your local library, they will order a copy for a small fee.The Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) protects some workers from somecompany pension schemes that have run out of money. If you (or yourdeceased spouse’s/civil partner’s) scheme has already been wound up, youcan phone or check the FAS website to see whether the FAS already know ofyour scheme and whether it qualifies for assistance. You can also ask for thebooklet ‘The Financial Assistance Scheme – a guide for individualpension scheme members (FAS P1)’.Please see ‘Pensions’ for more information on protecting funds using the ThePension Protection Fund, The Pensions Advisory Service and ThePensions Regulator.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+55

FinancesIf you think you may have an old pension, but are not sure of the details, ThePension Tracing Service can usually help by tracing it for you.Occasional PaymentsThe Social Fund (administered by JobCentre plus) provides grants and loansto people in need in certain circumstances. These include community caregrants, budgeting and crises loans, funeral costs, cold weather and winter fuelpayments.There may be statutory or discretionary grants available from the Council tohelp you fund repairs, adaptations or home improvements including DisabledFacilities Grants and Home Repair Assistance (HRA) Grants. Some ofthese grants/services are restricted to people who are over 60 or those whoare disabled or chronically sick.If minor home adaptations are required because of a disability or healthcondition, the most efficient route to access mandatory grants may be throughSocial Services, while the Care & Repair scheme may be more appropriatefor finding discretionary help with more substantial repairs required by homeowners to enable older people or people with a disability to live independently,in comfort and security.If you are a council tenant and you need help to manage your home andgarden you may find help from the Tenancy Support Service in your area.The Coal Industry Benevolent Trust is a registered charity providing supportand financial assistance for serving employees, ex-employees and theirfamilies covering a range of personal difficulties including death as a result ofan industrial accident, death as a result of the industrial diseasepneumoconiosis or death on colliery premises. They also provide assistancewith hospital costs linked to industrial accidents and hardship grants.The Home Energy Efficiency Scheme (HEES) is a grant scheme designedto make vulnerable homes warmer, more energy efficient and more secure. Itis available to people in receipt of (some) benefits who are also aged 60 orover or lone parent families or disabled or chronically sick. Phone the HEEShelpline to request further information and an application form.The Health Through Warmth (HTW) scheme is designed to tackle fuelpoverty (a description of households that need to spend more then 10% oftheir income on fuel to heat the home adequately) prevent cold-relatedillnesses and excess winter deaths. Help can be accessed by a referral from ahttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+56

FinancesHealth Visitor and people can also be referred through the Warm Walesscheme currently running in Wrexham, or by any trained referrer. HTW canassist people in hardship but who do not qualify for HEES by accessingdifferent charities for funding for grants towards heating.The Warm Wales scheme, run by the North Wales Energy EfficiencyAdvice Centre (EEAC) in Wrexham is offering large reductions on insulationmeasures for every household in the Wrexham area, by visiting every home inWrexham County Borough over the next three years. People on certainbenefits and/or fuel poor may be entitled to have the work done for free.The Wrexham Energy Advice Centre run by the Council, Warm Wales andthe North Wales EEAC can provide information about the Warm Walesscheme and assist applications to funds from ‘Health Through Warmth’ and‘HEES’ at any time. For more information, phone North Wales EEAC or dropin at the Wrexham Energy Advice Centre in Chester Street, Wrexham.The Safe in the Home scheme is a referral service for people who have beenvictim of crime or suffered the death of spouse / partner. It awards grants topay for the installation of safety equipment. For further information, contact theCommunity Safety Liaison Officer, Wrexham Eastern division.Northern Marches Cymru runs programmes funded by the Welsh AssemblyGovernment and the European Union. The programmes are intended todevelop and regenerate the environmental, cultural, economic and socialvitality of our rural communities in the immediate and long term.For further information, including a list of grants available from independentsources, please see the Council web site or contact the Council Grantsdepartment.Advice and AdvocacyThe National Debtline telephone service and Wrexham Citizen’s AdviceBureau (CAB) drop in service both offer free, confidential and independentpersonalised assistance to enable people to resolve debt problems.For self-led guidance, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP),DirectGov and the Council web sites provide comprehensive coverage of allbenefits, and entitlements. Many DWP guides including ‘A Guide to Benefits[MG1]’ are also available at the Wrexham Jobcentre Plus.Age Concern (England) and Help the Aged both produce leaflets abouthttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+57

Financesfinancial assistance and have general help lines. Help the Aged leaflets canbe collected from their Wrexham charity shop.The benefits and financial support structure is very complicated. Financialgains from one source can sometimes lead to losses elsewhere so pleaseseek personalised assistance (Advocacy) from trained professionals. Freeadvocacy services are available from independent agencies including AgeConcern North East Wales, the Wrexham Citizen’s Advice Bureau and theVeterans Agency.The Council Welfare Rights Unit Advice Line gives advice on benefits tomembers of the public by the telephone.Special CircumstancesIf you are unable to work, have high living expenses because of specialcircumstances or have specific problems, dedicated service groups canprovide tailored information and help.If you are looking after a relative or friend who could not manage without yourhelp, then you are a carer. North East Wales Carers Information Service(NEWCIS) can provide information for carers or for people who require careon sources of financial, emotional and practical support.If you are have difficulty paying your rent or mortgage, Shelter Cymru may beable to help.PensionsThere are three key types of pension scheme: a State Pension; a personalpension; and a company (occupational) pension.You can claim basic State Pension from State Pension age, currently 65 formen and 60 for women (rising to 65 by 2020). It is split into two main parts:basic State Pension and additional State Pension. State pensions can now bepaid directly via into bank, building society or post office accounts. You canalso have your UK State Pension paid whilst living abroad. For moreinformation, contact the International Pension Centre.Everyone is entitled to differing amounts of pension depending on theirNational Insurance (NI) contributions. You can request a State pensionforecast from The Pension Service if you live in the UK and are more than10 days away from State Pension age. You can also choose to delay yourhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+58

Financesclaim to a state pension and get a higher weekly amount or take the option ofa one-off taxable lump sum instead.The Pensions Service which is part of The Department for Work andPensions (DWP), produce a series of leaflets explaining pension options inmore detail.‘A Quick Guide to Pensions’ (QG1) includes brief information about thetypes of pension in the context of planning for pensions and consideringcircumstances that might affect pension entitlement.‘A Guide to Your Pension Options’ (PM1 or PM1W for Welsh version)focuses more on the different types of pension.If you are of working age, you need to ensure that you pay enough NationalInsurance contributions. People who are unable to work, or receive lowearnings, because they care for a child under 16 or a sick or disabled personcan claim Home Responsibilities Protection (HRP) to protect their basicState Pension. More details are available from the Pension Service in theleaflet ‘How to protect your State Pension if you are looking aftersomeone at home (CF411)’. Self-employed people are responsible for payingsufficient National Insurance Contributions (NIC) directly to HM Revenue &Customs. If you are living abroad, you can get information on tax and NICliabilities from The Centre For Non Residents.The DirectGov web site lists which public services all in one place has asection dedicated to all aspects of retirement and pensions within its sectionfor people over the age of 50 at http://www.direct.gov.uk/Over50sAdditional Pension PaymentsAnyone who has an injury or illness caused as a result of service in HerMajesty’s Armed Forces or in the Second World War, may be entitled toadditional help from The Veterans Agency under the War Pension Schemeor The Armed Forces Compensation Scheme (AFCS) . Bereaveddependents may also qualify. Claimants may also be entitled tosupplementary allowances and special help for Medical Treatment.Pension Credit was introduced in October 2003 and has two distinct parts.‘Guarantee Credit’ provides support for people aged 60 and over who live inthe UK, are on a low income and without substantial savings. ‘Savings Credit’provides a dividend for people aged 65 or over who have a higher incomebecause of savings, investments, or other income, such as an occupational orprivate pension or an annuity, if their total income is below a set figure.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+59

FinancesMany people who were financially assessed before October 2003 for IncomeSupport may now be entitled to money not previously available. If you are notsure whether you could get extra help from Pension Credit it can do no harmto claim anyway. Even a small payment can entitle claimants and theirdependents to help with other support including Housing Benefit andCouncil Tax Benefit.Divorced or widowed people may be able to use their former spouse’s recordto get a pension or increase their pension. Eligible people over the age of 80with little or no State Pension can receive a non-contributory pension calledOver 80 Pension. All pensioners over 80 receive an extra 25p a week.For more information on all benefits including age related payments and NHSentitlements please see the DWP web site.Work OptionsYou can continue to work either full or part-time after you've reached StatePension age and still claim your State Pension. At State Pension age, you nolonger pay National Insurance Contributions and anyone over the age of 65with a taxable income below a set limit qualifies for an increased personalallowance. Contact the Wrexham Tax Office to make sure you get increasedtax free personal allowances as you near State Pension age, to find out whatincome is taxable or to claim a tax refund if you think you have been payingtoo much tax.Financial AdviceRecent changes (introduced in April 2006) allow people to: save substantialsums in their pension more quickly and with more tax relief; to draw pensionwhilst working; and to invest in property as part of their pension fund. Thereare many more effects to consider so it is worth revaluating any financialadvice given prior to that date.The Financial Services Authority is the independent regulator set up byGovernment to look after the financial services industry and protectconsumers. They provide up to date, impartial advice on financial planningusing professional services. Advice agencies, such as Citizens AdviceBureaux and debt counselling agencies, sometimes provide free generaladvice on money matters.Government Protection Schemes for Private PensionsIf you or a deceased spouse/civil partner were a member of a work pensionhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+60

Financesthat has been wound up has left you without the income you expected, youmay be entitled to financial help from the Financial Assistance Scheme.If a scheme you or your deceased spouse/civil partner belong (or used tobelong) to is being wound up, check the Pension Protection Fund website tosee if the scheme has gone through notification and qualification, or ask thetrustees of your scheme.If you have a query or problem with your pension scheme, you should start bycontacting the scheme trustees who are responsible for running the scheme. Ifthis does not resolve the problem, use the pension scheme’s official ‘disputeresolution procedure’. If you are still not satisfied with the response, youreceive you can contact The Pensions Advisory Service.If you believe your scheme may not be complying with pensions’ legislation,you can report the scheme to The Pensions Regulator.Use the Pension Tracing Service to trace an old, work pension scheme thatmay owe you payments.WillsWhy Make a WillThere are many reasons for making a will. Many people thinkthat everything always goes to their wife, husband or partner ifno will exists but in some circumstances, only a portion of the estate will passto the spouse and they may even be forced to sell the family home to payrelatives money they're entitled to by law. Friends and partners that are notmarried or in a civil partnership might not be able to inherit anything.Without a will and where there are no known surviving blood relatives, all ofthe estate could pass to the crown to be sold at auction when you could givemoney to the many charities that rely on bequests to continue their good work.Individuals that are in a marriage or civil partnership without a will, lose onepartner’s inheritance tax free allowance. This could mean giving £110,000 tothe tax man, as inheritance tax (2006 figures). There are a number of ways ofavoiding inheritance tax through writing a will but it is important to getprofessional advice.How to Make a WillA 'home made' will is undoubtedly the cheapest way to make the will but it canprove much more costly if it is not legally proven, validly signed and covershttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+61

Financesevery eventuality and law including those relating to inheritance tax and localauthority powers to reclaim deliberate ‘deprivation of assets’.Free legal advice and assistance for will-making may be available under theLegal Help scheme to people whose income and capital are below certainlimits and who satisfy other non-financial requirements such as being aged 70or over or having certain disabilities.The Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) may be able to offer suggestions onlocal solicitors including those that participate in the Legal Help scheme.Libraries may have a copy of the Solicitors’ Regional Directory.Alternatively, many trade unions offer free will writing services for theirmembers; pre-printed forms for straightforward instructions are available fromstationers and charities and books for sale or available from the library canprovide guidance on how to draw up a will.Many other businesses and national organisations including Age Concernand Help the Aged provide similar services and many use solicitors to writethe wills. However, it should be noted that will writing firms are not regulatedby the Law Society so there are few safeguards if things go wrong.Age Concern provides a will writing pack, which is sent free of charge andwithout obligation or Help the Aged provides a Legacy Advisor service withhome visits and without obligation to leave the Charity a legacy or to make adonation.Storing, updating or destroying a will.Once a will has been made, it should be kept up to date, taking into accountany change in your relationships, kept in a safe and you should tell yourexecutor(s), close friends or relatives where it is. For a fee, you can deposit awill at the Principal Registry of the Family Division of the High Court, aDistrict Registry or Probate Sub-Registry. Please note you will need to attendan appointment to provide a signature.You must destroy a will with the clear intention that it is invalidated. A simpleinstruction alone to an executor to destroy a will has no effect. If the will isdestroyed accidentally, it is not revoked and can still be declared valid.http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+62

Contact DetailsContact DetailsAll numbers are telephone numbers unless otherwise denoted by a letter:F denotes a FAX number; Tx denotes a TEXT PHONE number; M denotes aMINICOM number; W denotes a phone number operating a WELSHlanguage line.RecreationAVOW (Association of Voluntary Organisations in01978 312556Wrexham ) – http://www.avow.orgArchaeology Service (Wrexham) 01978 317979Children’s Information Bureau - helpline 01978 292094Community Centres officer 01978 297443Council Community Services (Parks)01978 292043http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/parksLibraries (Wrexham)http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/libraries01978 292090F: 01978 292611Estyn Llaw 0800 9177 969Leisure, Libraries & Culture Department (Wrexham) 01978 297423Mentor Iaith Maelor01978 36379165 Regent Street, Wrexham LL11 1PFMudiad Ysgolion Meithrin 08000 11 22 33Museums & Heritage Centres (Wrexham)http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/heritage01978 317 970F: 01978 317 982North Wales Regional Tennis Centre 01978 265260Retired Senior Volunteer Programme (RSVP) 01978 356629Social Serviceshttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/socialservices01978 267000M: 01978 261173Strategy for Older People (Wrexham)01978 297064http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/retirementUniversity of the Third Age (U3A) 01978 297064Welsh for Adults information line 0871 230 0017Wrexham Tourist Information CentreLambit Street, Wrexham LL11 1AY01978 292015F: 01978 292467WorkingAdvisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Servicehttp://www.acas.org.ukAge Positive - http://www.agepositive.gov.uk0845 7474747http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+63

Contact DetailsBusiness Development and Enterprise Team 01978 366366Businessline 01978 292092F: 01978 292633Business Link0845 600 9006www.businesslink.gov.ukM: 0845 606 2666Department of Work and Pensions - http://www.dwp.gov.ukGenesis Association Wales01978 366111 (day)HM Revenue & Customs - Helpline (for newly selfemployed& to request guide)http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/startingup01978 750024 (eve)08459 15 45 15Jobseeker Direct 0845 6060234Learndirect - advice line0800 100 900http://www.learndirect.co.ukMenter a Busneswww.menterabusnes.co.uk02920 467400F: 02920 467401Mudiad Ysgolion Meithrin / Cam wrth Gam 08000 11 22 33New Deal 50 plus – information line 0845 606 2626Tx: 0845 606 0680(The) Pension Servicehttp://www.thepensionservice.gov.uk0845 60 60 265W: 0845 60 60 275Tx: 0845 60 60 285TxW: 0845 60 60 295Prime Loans0800 783 1904http://www.primeinitiative.org.ukPrince’s Initiative for Mature Enterprise 0800 783 1904Wales TUC Learning Services (North Wales) 07747 775 393Wrexham JobCentrehttp://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk01978 203400Tx: 01978 203441Staying Independent and in ControlAge Concern North East Wales 08450 549969Anti-social behaviour 24 hr confidential hotline 01978 292029Assisted Bins 01978 292044British Red Cross 01978 725204BT Age & Disability Action 0800 919 591Care and Repair (Wrexham) 01978 268120Care and Repair, Handy Person (Wrexham) 01978 364661Care Call Community Alarm Service (Wrexham) 01978 367900Care Standards Inspectorate for Wales (N.E.Wales) http://www.csiw.wales.gov.uk01352 707900F: 01352 707905Charity Choice – http://www.charitychoice.co.ukhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+64

Contact DetailsCitizens Advice Bureau (Wrexham)01978 364639http://www.citizensadvice.org.ukCommission for Social Care Inspection0845 015 0120http://www.csci.org.ukTx: 0845 015 2255Community Legal Services (CLS)0845 345 4 345http://www.clsdirect.org.ukCommunity Safety Unit (Wrexham) 01978 317031Consumer Direct Wales / Trustmark08454 04 05 06http://www.consumerdirect.gov.ukW: 08454 04 05 05http://www.trustmark.org.ukM: 08451 28 13 84Council Housing Dept.01978 315300http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/housingCouncil Housing Repairs 08000 855 808Credit Union (Wrexham County) 01978 266843Credit Unions in Wales - Freephone Hotline 0808 1 45 45 50Crossroads (Wrexham County) 01978 310373Direct Payment Support Service at AVOW01978 350123http://www.avow.org.ukEnergyWatch08459 06 07 08(Type Talk service: 18001 08459 06 07 08)North Wales Fire and Rescue Service (Wrexham)01978 353876– home check enquiries.NB. In the event of a FIRE, phone 999Grants Section01978 292045http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/grantsWrexham Over 50s Forum Co-ordinator 01978 312556Library (Wrexham)01978 292090http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/librariesF: 01978 292611Lunch Club co-ordinator 01978 267000National Centre for Independent Living020 7587 1663http://www.ncil.org.ukNationalGrid (formerly TRANSCO)0800 111 999http://www.nationalgrid.com/ukNorth East Wales Carers’ Information Service01978 310414(NEWCIS)Public Services Ombudsman for Wales01656 641 150http://www.ombudsman-wales.orgShelter Cymru01978 353649http://www.sheltercymru.org.ukF: 01978 317900Social Services (inc. Occupational Therapy)01978 267000http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/socialservicesM: 01978 261173Tenancy Support Service 01978 315439The Veterans Agency 0800 169 2277http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+65

Contact Detailshttp://www.veteransagency.mod.ukTogether Creating Communities 01978 262588Trading Standards Division (Wrexham)http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/tradingstandards01978 296060F: 01978 290961Welsh Tenants Federation – Wrexham branch 01978 355440Wiltshire Farm Foods0800 773 773http://www.wiltshirefarmfoods.comWrexham Care Association 01978 356642Wrexham Energy Saving Centre01978 298372Unit 1, People’s Market, Chester Street, WrexhamWrexham Jobcentre 01978 203400Wrexham Young Carers 01978 265527F: 01978 263600Alternative HousingCare Standards Inspectorate for Wales (N.E.01352 707900Wales) http://www.csiw.wales.gov.ukF: 01352 707905Commission for Social Care Inspection0845 015 0120http://www.csci.org.ukTx: 0845 015 2255Elderly Accommodation Counsel - advice line020 7820 1343http://www.housingcare.orgHousing Department01978 315300http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/housingNorth East Wales NHS Trust 01978 725130Nursing Home Fees Agency - Care advice line0800 99 88 33http://www.nhfa.co.ukThe Relatives & Residents Associationhttp://www.relres.org.uk020 7359 8136F: 020 7226 6603Health & Well-beingAccident Prevention (Wrexham)01978 297063http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/healthAdvance (Brighter Futures) 01978 354737Age Concern Cymru - http://www.accymru.org.uk 029 20 431 555Age Concern North East Wales 08450 549969F: 01352 757084Al-Anon Family Groups 020 7403 0888Alcoholics Anonymous (Wrexham contact)01244 659759http://www.alcholics-anonymous.org.ukAlzheimer's Society – helpline0845 300 0336http://www.alzheimers.org.ukType phone: 1800 108 453 000 336http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+66

Contact DetailsAlzheimer's Society (Wrexham) 01978 356707Archaeology Service (Wrexham) 01978 317979(ASH) Action on Smoking & Health - http://www.ash.org.ukBBC North East Wales - http://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/northest/sites/walksBreast Test Wales 01492 860888Brighter Futures -Drop-in centre, Belmont Road,01978 313560Partnership House, Egerton Street, WrexhamBritish Nutrition Foundationhttp://www.nutrition.org.uk020 7404 6504F: 020 7404 6747British Red Cross (Wrexham) 01978 725204British Trust For Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) 01978 261538Caia Park Healthy Living Project 01978 364712CAIS 01978 367030Citizens Advice Bureau (Wrexham)01978 364639http://www.citizensadvice.org.ukClwyd Community Health Council0845 226 7292http://www.clwydchc.org.ukF: 01978 346870Coal Industry Benevolent Trust 01709 728115F: 01709 839164Community Advice and Listening Line (Wrexham) 0800 132737Community Cardiac Health Development Officer 01978 317697Community Dietician (Wrexham) 01978 727159Countryside Services (Wrexham) 01978 763140Dementia in Wales 02920 336073Department of Health 0800 555 777First Access 01978 356703GO50 08450 549969Ground Maintenance and Street Cleaning 01978 292043Groundwork Wrexham & Flintshire 01978 363555Hafal (Wrexham) 01978 355783Health Challenge Wales 0845 606 4050Health Promotion and Education (Wrexham) **01978 297063**Health Protection Agency – http://www.hpa.org.ukHelp the Aged – Seniorline (helpline)http://www.helptheaged.org.uk0808 800 6565Tx: 0800 26 96 26Highways Department (Wrexham) 01978 291770Incontact – http://www.incontact.org 0870 770 3246Keyring, P.O. Box 2172 Wrexham LL13 0WH - http://www.keyring.orgMaelor Hospital, Croesnewydd Road, Wrexham01978 291100LL13 7TDMIND – http:www.mind.org 0845 766 0163Mind Legal Advice line 020 8519 2122MIND (Wrexham) 01978 366155http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+67

Contact DetailsN.E. Wales NHS Trust Continence Service 01978 311496National Osteoporosis Society - helpline 0845 450 0230NHS Direct Wales0845 46 47http://www.nhsdirect.wales.nhs.ukNHS Smokers Helpline0800 169 0 169http://www.givingupsmoking.co.ukNightingale House Hospice 01978 316800F: 01978 316807North East Wales NHS Trust 01978 725130Prescription Pricing Authority (PPA) 0845 850 1166Public Rights of Way Section (Wrexham) 01978 292057QUIT - http://www.quit.org.uk 0800 00 22 00Ramblers Association (Wrexham) 01978 362253Reflections User Group (Wrexham) 01978 860707Rethink - National Advice Service call020 8974 6814http://www.rethink.orgRNID, Breaking the Sound Barrier 0845 600 5555Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents029 2025 0600http://www.rospa.comSmoking Cessation Service 0800 085 2219Social Services (inc Community Learning DisabilityTeam) http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/socialservices01978 267000M: 01978 261173Sports Development (Wrexham) 01978 297366Standing Ground 0845 602 3694Strategy for Older People (Wrexham) 01978 297064STUB - http://www.stub.org.ukTalk to Frankhttp://www.talktofrank.com0800 776 600Tx: 0800 917 8765The Food Standards Agency (Wales)02920 678999http://www.food.gov.ukUnllais North East01352 752471http://www.unllais.co.ukVeterans Agency - helpline 0800 169 2277Vision Support (Wrexham)01978 353200http://www.visionsupport.org.ukWales Learning Disability Helpline 0808 8000 300Wales Rural Stress (Wrexham) Mental Health 01978 366206Wrexham County Forum01978 264146http://www.wrexhamcountyforum.org.ukWrexham Local Health Board01978 346500http://www.wrexhamlhb.wales.nhs.ukWrexham Rambling Group 01978 841773Wrexham Tourist Information Centre (WTIC) 01978 292015http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+68

Contact DetailsF: 01978 292467Death & BereavementCouncil web site ‘Life Events’ - http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/life-eventsCRUSE (Wrexham) 01978 365029Cruse Bereavement Care (national careline)0870 167 1677http://www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk/Department for Work and Pensions (changed0845 600 30 16circumstances line) - http://www.dwp.gov.ukHelp The Aged (Wrexham charity shop)01978 3113375a, Trinity House, Trinity St, Wrexham, LL11 1NHHM Coroner for North East Wales, Marbel House, Overton Arcade,High Street, Wrexham, LL13 8LL.MIND (Wrexham)01978 366155http://www.mind.org.ukNHS Organ Donor Register0845 60 60 400http://www.uktransplant.org.ukOccupational Pensions Advisory Service (OPAS)0845 601 2923http://www.opas.org.ukSamaritans (Chester & District)01244 377999http://www.samaritans.orgSocial Services01978 267000http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/socialservicesM: 01978 261173Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide (SOBS) 0870 241 3337Veterans Agency – helpline0800 169 2277http://www.veteransagency.mod.uk/Wrexham and Gresford Cemeteries01978 842104SuperintendentWrexham Register Office 01978 292027Support for DisabilityAVOW Community Development Officer01978 317098http://www.avow.orgBroker Cymru 0800 38 97036Contact a Family0808 808 3555http://cafamily.org.ukCountryside Services (Wrexham) 01978 763140DEMAND01923 681800http://www.demand.org.ukF: 01923 682400Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) – http://www.dwp.gov.ukDirectGov - http://www.direct.gov.uk/disabilityDisability Now Newspaper 0845 120 7001http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+69

Contact DetailsM: 020 7619 7332Disability Sport Cymru Development Officer (Wxm)01978 317696http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/disabilitysportF: 01978 317614Groundwork Wrexham & Flintshire 01978 363555JobCentre (Wrexham)01978 203400http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.ukTx: 01978 203441North East Wales Carers’ Information Service01978 310414(NEWCIS)North Wales (Disability) Resource Centre01745 582 632Glan Clwyd Hospital, Bodelwyddan, DenbighshireRADAR National Key Scheme (NKS)020 7250 3222http://www.radar.org.ukM: 020 7250 4119REMAP (North East Panel)01244 532631http://www.remap.org.ukSocial Services (inc. hearing +/or visually impaired) 01978 267000http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/socialservicesM: 01978 261173Social Services - Emergency Duty 01978 264358Strategy for Older People (Wrexham)01978 297064http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/retirementVeterans Agency – helpline0800 169 2277http://www.veteransagency.mod.uk/Walking North Wales01758 760532http://www.walkingnorthwales.co.uk/access.htmWorking Links - http://www.workinglinks.co.uk 0800 917 9262Wrexham Access Group 01978 356702Wrexham Disability Forum 01978 262955Wrexham Young Carers 01978 265527Mobility & Travel SupportArriva Trains Wales, Journey Care Line 0845 300 3005Tx: 0870 4100 355Arriva Trains Customer Services 0845 6061 660Blue Badge scheme (via Social Services)01978 267000http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/socialservicesBritish Red Cross (Wrexham)01978 725204http://www.redcross.org.ukBusLine, King Street bus station 01978 292064Chariotts Community Transport 01978 312888Concessionary Travel pass (free bus) 01978 292037Contact the Elderly (North East Wales)01492 530031http://www.contact-the-elderly.orgDVLA – Drivers’ Enquiry Line 0870 240 0009http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+70

Contact DetailsGopher – http://www.askthegopher.com 0870 608 6070Group Transport (minibuses) 01978 50 51 55Mobility Advice and Vehicle Information Service(MAVIS) – http://www.dft.gov.uk/access/mavis01344 661000F: 01344 661066Motability Customer Services 0845 456 4566National Express 08705 80 80 80National Express Disabled Persons Travel 0121 423 8479Tx: 0121 455 0086North Wales Mobility and Driving AssessmentService01745 584858F: 01745 535042Taxibus 01978 297130Traveline Cymru, ‘Travelling with Disability’Information on rail, bus and taxi accessibility029 2038 2563M: 0870 241 2216Women’s Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS) Social01978 297132CarWrexham Shopmobility 01978 292065M: 01978 262601Wrexham Shuttle information / bookings 08708 50 51 55Wrexham Tourist Information CentreLambit Street, Wrexham LL11 1AY01978 292015F: 01978 292467FinancesAge Concern (England) – (for factsheets)http://www.ageconcern.org.uk0800 00 99 66Age Concern North East Wales 08450 549969F: 01352 757084Care and Repair (Wrexham) 01978 268120F:01978 268121Centre For Non Residents (tax issues) 0845 070 0040Centre For Non Residents (NI issues) 0845 915 4811Charity Choice – http://www.charitychoice.co.ukCitizens Advice Bureau (Wrexham)http://www.citizensadvice.org.uk01978 364639Coal Industry Benevolent Trust01709 728115http://www.ciswo.org.ukF: 01709 839164Community Safety Liaison Officer 0845 6071002Council Tax Benefit01978 292031http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/counciltaxDepartment for Work and Pensions (DWP) - http://www.dwp.gov.ukDWP Benefits Enquiry Line (general) 0845 600 30 16DWP Benefits Enquiry Line0800 88 22 00(Disability and Carers Service)Tx: 0800 24 33 55http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+71

Contact DetailsDepartment of Health (DoH) - http://www.dh.gov.ukDirectGov - http://www.direct.gov.uk/MoneyTaxAndBenefitsEnergy Saving Centre (Wrexham)01978 298372Unit 1, People’s Market, Chester Street, WrexhamFinancial Assistance Scheme (Pensions)0845 601 99 41http://www.dwp.gov.uk/fasTx: 0845 601 99 42Financial Services Authority - helpline0845 606 1234http://www.fsa.gov.ukTx: 0845 730 0104Grants Section01978 292045http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/grantsHealth Through Warmth 0800 316 28 15Help the Aged – Seniorline (helpline)0808 800 6565http://www.helptheaged.org.ukTx: 0800 26 96 26HM Revenue & Customs – http://www.hmrc.gov.uk 0845 300 3949Plas Gororau, Ellice Way, Wrexham LL13 7YYHome Energy Efficiency Scheme (HEES) 0800 316 28 15Housing Benefit01978 292033http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/housingInternational Pension Centre +44 191 218 7777JobCentre (Wrexham)01978 203400http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.ukTx: 01978 203441National Debtline0808 808 4000http://www.nationaldebtline.co.ukNorth East Wales Carers’ Information Service01978 310414(NEWCIS)North Wales Energy Efficiency Advice Centre0800 512 012(EEAC)Northern Marches Cymru 01978 298381F: 01978 365743Pension Service - for all DWP pension related informationhttp://www.thepensionservice.gov.ukPension Credit – help line 0800 99 12 34Tx: 0800 169 01 33Pensions Direct – information line 0845 301 3011Tx: 0845 301 3012Pension Protection Fund – http://www.pensionprotectionfund.org.ukPension Tracing Service 0845 6002 537Tx: 0845 3000 169Pensions Advisory Service (OPAS)0845 601 2923http://www.opas.org.ukPensions Regulator –020 8867 3297http://www.thepensionsregulator.gov.ukShelter Cymru 01978 353649http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+72

Contact Detailshttp://www.sheltercymru.org.uk F: 01978 317900Social Services01978 267000http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/socialservicesM: 01978 261173State Pension forecasts 0845 3000 168Tx: 0845 3000169Tax Credit Enquiries line (HRMC)0845 300 39 00http://www.hmrc.gov.ukW: 0845 302 1489Tenancy Support Service01978 315439http://www.wrexham.gov.uk/housingVeterans Agency – helpline0800 169 2277http://www.veteransagency.mod.uk/Warm Wales 0845 026 1135War Pensioners Welfare Service (Wrexham) 01978 316555Welfare Rights Unit Advice Line01978 298254http://wwwwrexham.gov.uk/socialservices (followlink)Winter Fuel Payment - helpline for people NOT in 0845 915 15 15receipt of benefitsTx: 0845 601 9942Wrexham Registry Office01978 292027Ty Dewi Sant, Rhosddu Road, Wrexham LL11 1NFhttp://www.wrexham.gov.uk/50+73