Latest News

Calderdale Council’s Customer First Service is now open and operating from Halifax Central, Brighouse and Todmorden Libraries. If you need help with any council service or have a complaint, then you can now call into the Customer …more

Would you like to improve your health and wellbeing?  Do you feel you need some support to get started?  The Better Living Service can help you do just that!  They support the residents of Calderdale (aged 18+) to lose weight, …more

The National Deaf Children’s Society is offering grants of up to £1,000 to support young deaf people that wish to deliver projects and activities that benefit their lives. Through the Make a Change Fund, young deaf people aged …more

Throughout 2022, Calderdale Council have been preparing Calderdale’s Climate Action Plan. They now have a consultation plan and are looking for comments from key organisations across Calderdale.  The plan is divided into six key …more

The Bradford Clean Air Zone is now in force and everyone is advised to check if their vehicle/s are likely to incur charges. You will need to pay a daily charge to drive in the Bradford Clean Air Zone (CAZ) if your vehicle does …more

This month the government has started automatically extending existing PIP claims awaiting review by up to 12 months. This will happen 35 days before the award end date. The extension provides greater certainty for claimants and …more

To note: Individuals must have received a payment (or later receive a payment) of one of the qualifying benefits for 25 May 2022 to get a Disability Cost of Living Payment. Why are disabled people only receiving £150 when …more

The UK Government is providing £37billion this year to help households combat the rising cost of living. This video explains more about the Disability Cost of Living Payment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CUFGhvbfxWA  …more

Speaking about the access arrangements for Disabled people for Her Majesty the Queen’s Lying-in-State, Disability Rights UK CEO Kamran Mallick said: “Given the decades that have gone into planning the events around the death of …more

DR UK comment on mini Budget Speaking about the Chancellor’s fiscal event, DR UK CEO Kamran Mallick said: “This was anything but a mini-Budget. But with all of the big announcements focused on tax cuts and boosts for business, we …more

Although London-based, and concerned largely with the views of older people, this report looking at the provision of public toilets has relevance for people with disabilities, too, wherever they live. From May to July 2022 almost …more

New regulations for smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are coming into force on 1 October 2022. The rules have been extended so that carbon monoxide alarms must be installed in rooms of a private rented property where there is any …more

There has been a slight rise in burglaries in Calderdale and West Yorkshire Police has a new initiative in force to tackle this crime and make your home safer. “Easy Street” is about informing you how to make your home less …more

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Disabled people have periods – it happens. Some may have easy menstrual cycles whilst others may experience trickier periods, with heavy bleeding, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, anaemia and much more – no matter …more

Scope have free places available on their next Starting Line pre-employment training course starting on Tuesday 27th September. Scope are able to support and work with people with any disability, learning difficulty, mental …more

Let’s get Greener together Greener Together is a new and exciting programme launched in Calderdale to help you get green for a brighter future. Learn Green Skills Professional qualification in landscaping (LANTRA) and Facilities …more

It’s time to nominate a community spirit champion. The Community Foundation for Calderdale host the Community Spirit Awards celebrating the often unsung champions who work in our community, often in extremely challenging …more

This new report from the Nuffield Trust finds that perceptions of care work as low skilled continue to persist, despite the pandemic highlighting just how vital care workers are. In recent years there has been increased debate …more

Whether you want to start breathing easier, feel the energy boost or even have a little more money to spend, there has never been a better time to stop smoking. Remember, it’s never too late to join the thousands of people …more

Memory Lane Cafe is a local community group providing support for people affected by dementia, other memory problems, and isolation. They have regular cafes in Sowerby Bridge (St Paul’s Church) and in Halifax (Maurice …more

Ian Gledhill our local Electoral Outreach Officer will be attending the next Disability Partnership open meeting on Tuesday 25th October. He will give information about the progress of the Annual Canvass of Electors for 2022, …more

Our next Open Meeting will be on Tuesday 25th October 2022. We’d love you to join us for this friendly, sociable get together which is free to attend, includes a free buffet lunch and where you can also claim your travel …more

Guidance published this week for people visiting Her Majesty The Queen’s Lying-in-State at the Palace of Westminster sets out information on accessibility for disabled, D/deaf and neurodiverse people and people with long-term …more

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has introduced a new system to help people over 66 claim for additional support. It took around 40 days for new claims for Pension Credit made between April 1 and July 3 to be processed …more

Deaf Experience Limited (DEX) have funding up to April 2023 to offer one to one support to any deaf young person aged 16 – 25 living in Kirklees. Here’s what they say about the offer: This could include transition support …more

What’s on at the popular The Space community hub in Rastrick…more

Vita Health Group works in partnership with the NHS to provide mental wellbeing services to support local residents in various districts throughout the UK, including Calderdale. Here’s what they have to say about their …more

There’s a Seated Exercise class at Hipperholme Christ Church every Tuesday. Active Rainbow come to Hipperholme Christ Church every Tuesday morning to offer seated exercise sessions! This is a very friendly class and they …more

The link below takes you to the Disability Sport section on Calderdale Council’s Sports Services website giving details of current programmes & sessions along with other relative information and ‘access’ information at …more

The next Cycle for Health course in Halifax is enrolling, details as below;  Where: Spring Hall Athletics Track, Huddersfield Road, Halifax, HX3 0AA When: Saturday 2pm – 4pm Start Date: Saturday 24th September Cycle for Health is …more

The Disability Partnership Calderdale ( DPC ) Engagement of Self Employed Development worker To be engaged for 16 hours per week. Annual contract value £32,785 for 33 hours per week pro-rata Actual contract £15,895 per annum. ( …more

Spooky Shibden What dark and macabre secrets does Shibden Hall hold? What phantoms and beasts hide in the dark woods? Join us on Friday 28th October, for a walk through the narrow and shadow-filled rooms of haunted Shibden as you …more

How are energy companies supporting customers? With the rising cost of energy prices affecting millions of people, the online magazine Disability Horizons investigated how some of the main energy companies are proposing to …more

DPOs write to Prime Minister The Disability Poverty Campaign Group (DPCG) is a coalition of countrywide disability charities and relevant organisations. It was launched in January of this year and is led by DPOs, (Disabled …more

As the nights start drawing in it is time to think about the security of your home. Simple things like leaving a light on when you are out can reduce your chances of being a victim. Checking the security of the perimeter of your …more

We received 3-year funding from the ‘Reaching Communities’ National Lottery Fund to deliver our work from March 2019 to February 2022. Our Annual Report looks back at the third of those three years and the work we have done. DPC …more

This article was prepared by the Macular Society and contains many good tips, especially if you have a visual impairment. Many people living with sight loss already face additional, unavoidable costs. So, when the country is …more

September Update Welcome to your September e-newsletter. Next week we’ll be joined by renowned experts from the world of macular research who will share with you the latest developments and discoveries being made by our amazing …more

Adult All Ability Kurling was launched back in May at Heath United Reform Church in Halifax. It’s now well established and going strong, but there’s always spaces for new players – below is the flier with all …more

Calderdale Adult Learning ran a huge range of educational course for adults. They also have an outstanding range of courses to support and enable you to achieve your full potential at work, in supported employment, if you have a …more

Great news – buses are getting cheaper! From Sunday 4 September, you can travel for less thanks to the introduction of “Mayor’s Fares” across the region, as the Mayor of West Yorkshire, Tracy Brabin, helps ease the cost of …more

The Government has confirmed that the £150 disability cost of living payment will be paid automatically from 20 September, with the vast majority of those eligible expected to receive their one-off payment by the beginning of …more

Our sister organisation, Calderdale Forum 50 Plus, publishes a really interesting monthly newsletter aimed at providing key local information, plus features and advice for older people and their relatives and carers, who live in …more

Here’s the latest of DEX’s excellent free events.…more

Citizens Advice survey shows millions will be in energy bills debt New analysis from Citizens Advice shows 1 in 4 (24%) people in the UK won’t be able to afford to pay their energy bills in October, based on current forecasts. …more

Britain is facing its biggest cost of living challenge in decades. Citizens Advice has seen more people coming to them for help with crisis support, energy problems and not having enough money to make ends meet than ever before. …more

Celebrating Our Stars The hard work and dedication of Calderdale Council staff, volunteers and local partner organisations was celebrated at the annual Our Stars awards ceremony earlier this month. The event, at the Shay Stadium …more

West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership Mental Health, Learning Disability and Autism programme is looking at developing some resources and information for neurodivergent children and young people. By neurodivergent, we are …more

Since 2019 Able Community Care has given out, free, almost 80,000 ‘DO NOT KNOCK’ door stickers to older and disabled people who do not wish to answer the door to strangers. Able Community Care is a nationwide, live-in care …more

With the recent increase in the energy price cap and our new Prime Minister being revealed next week, this is an exceptionally worrying time, particularly if you have a disability, something that already raises the cost of …more

Research by the Guardian Newspaper has found that the poorest areas are losing out most from local authorities’ deep cuts. Anna Denham, Programme Manager at Get Yourself Active said: “the decline of these spaces, …more

Here are ten great tips to help you reduce your gas and electricity consumption at home. With the latest increase in the energy price cap coming this October, how do you decide the best and easiest ways to cut your energy …more

Andy Street: “I want to see these Games deliver a lasting legacy” This year’s Commonwealth Games were described as the most inclusive Games to date. We all enjoyed the brilliant showcase of sport, watching so many elite …more

We’ve been working with the NHS to spread the word about how to choose the correct NHS service. At our most recent Open Meeting, we gave a detailed presentation looking at this issue, with an additional focus on warm …more

Yorkshire Water is introducing a hosepipe ban on 26 August 2022, following a very dry Spring and Summer. From 26 August 2022 the following activities are prohibited: Watering a garden using a hosepipe Cleaning a private …more

Here are some more great holiday/bank holiday links from the online magazine Disability Horizons. Make the most of this Bank Holiday weekend with their wide range of travel and holiday articles. You can discover: 5 accessible …more

A new free service starting in September from Age UK.  …more

The disability lifestyle magazine Disability Horizons has nominated 11 disability podcasts to listen to. Here’s their first choice. There’s a link to the other ten at the bottom on the page. Access All: Disability …more

You may have been going to the shop, to study or walking back from work and found yourself feeling unsafe. There might be a street in your area which does not have adequate lighting when it gets dark or there may be an abandoned …more

Keep your house cooler in summer and warmer in winter with fully funded attic room insulation, delivered by Calderdale Council in partnership with Eclipse Energy and Better Homes Yorkshire There are limited spaces available for …more

A new service, which will go live next week and be run by DWP, will allow internet service providers to verify – with customers’ permission – whether they are in receipt of a relevant benefit and therefore eligible for extra …more

The Health Adjustment Passport (HAP) is now available on GOV.UK and can be used by those with a disability or health condition to help identify what support and changes (known as reasonable adjustments) they may need when they …more

From 1 April 2022 to 1 April 2023, the Government has introduced a temporary change to Fuel Direct to protect claimants given unprecedented energy prices. During this period, energy suppliers can no longer request new deductions …more

Disability Partnership Calderdale is looking for up to four new trustees to join our committee and help with the running of an organisation that is growing rapidly. As a trustee, you will join us for our monthly trustee meetings, …more

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s project with The King’s Fund, ‘Transforming Pharmacy Practice’, is building a vision for the role of pharmacists and pharmacy teams, to be published at the end of this …more

Kane Irish Dance Group, who are based in Huddersfield are looking to form a regular Saturday lesson that is inclusive for all. they have a young blind girl who has recently joined them. Check out her latest video on YouTube …more

The government is planning to offer another COVID-19 booster vaccine to these groups of people this autumn: residents in a care home for older adults and staff working in care homes for older adults frontline health and social …more

Although only 34% less than the long-term average, rainfall since March has been low enough to mean that Yorkshire Water is putting a hosepipe ban in place from 26 August 2022. During the ban the following activities are …more

We have received the following letter asking for feedback on proposed work to repair the footbridge at Halifax Railway Station. It looks like the process will involve shutting the footbridge and replacing it with a temporary …more

Covid and racism commission launched DR UK Chief Executive Kamran Mallick is to chair a commission exploring the Covid pandemic’s impact on Disabled people and the additional impact of systemic racism which a coalition of …more

Accessibility is about more than just ramps and grab-rails. Based on research with deaf and disabled people, a new blog on https://shapingourlives.org.uk/ uncovers some of the key access and support needs that people need to live …more

Deaf and hard of hearing people are being encouraged to share their thoughts on the standards of care they receive at GPs, dentists, hospitals, and care homes, with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). CQC is particularly keen to …more

Healthy Minds, the local mental health organisation have come up with a great selection of free days out in and around Calderdale to keep you occupied this summer and autumn. Shibden Park Shibden Estate is one of West …more

Over the summer Together Housing will be visiting some of our neighbourhoods so residents can find out more about their services. At the Together Housing trailer you can speak to their Neighbourhoods, Repairs, and Welfare …more

Grenfell inquiry hears final testimony The Grenfell Tower Inquiry held its final evidence sessions last week. DR UK continue to campaign on the implementation of Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) and encourage …more

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) was making some progress in increasing national participation in sport and physical activity until the impact of the pandemic reversed these gains. However, it needs to …more

Calderdale Council has announced plans for three new Changing Places toilets to be installed in the borough, improving facilities for those with severe disabilities or complex needs. As part of the Changing Places programme, a …more

Disabled people’s voices need to be valued and prioritised in the planning and delivery of health and care services. This long read sets out the findings of research carried out by The King’s Fund and Disability …more

Disability charity Sense has launched a new Activity Finder to help you find and register for local sports and physical activity opportunities. sense.org.uk/scheduled-activities/  …more

Dealing with money related matters can be off-putting, but there is lots of support for you on Calderdale Council’s website. Below is a list of the sections of information that are available to help everyone, with lots of …more

A local Long-Covid peer support group has been set up. The poster below includes contact details to help you get involved.…more

A new role which could help transform eye care services for people living with macular disease and other sight conditions, has been appointed by NHS England. Louisa Wickham, who is the medical director at Moorfields Eye Hospital …more

Here are some tips to help you focus on your response to the Cost of Living crisis. These are from an excellent article on the Inclusion London website. They support over 70 Deaf and Disabled Organisations working across every …more

These are the latest announcements by the Government on the Cost of Living Crisis and its response. Pension Credit Cost of Living Payment eligibility  Pensioners in receipt of Pension Credit will automatically be paid the Cost of …more

Free Taster Day! Want to find out more about the Mind The Gap Academy with their new one day per week performing arts course for adults with learning disabilities and/or autism. They’re holding a free Taster Day on Tuesday 16 …more

Disability Horizons, the online magazine, has voted Bridlington, on the Yorkshire coast as one of it’s five recommended accessible UK holiday destinations. Here’s what they had to say about the town: Ah, Bridlington. …more

The government has announced plans that will require all new homes to have entrance level step-free access and other accessibility features as a minimum requirement. The changes proposed by the Department of Levelling Up, Homes …more

Heat rash is uncomfortable, but usually harmless. Symptoms include small, raised spots, mild swelling and an itchy, prickly feeling. Here is advice on how you can treat or prevent heat rash yourself: …more

The current hot weather isn’t to everyone’s liking. If you are struggling with the heat, here are a few tips to help you stay cool. How to Stay Cool Stay out of the heat: keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm if …more

Some excellent tips on prevention, coping with heat and identifying things like heatstroke can be found on the following sites. Heatwave: How to Cope in Hot Weather NHS website Beat the Heat Gov UK website…more

The RNIB offer free practical and emotional support to help people with sight loss deal with increasing financial pressures. People with sight loss are entitled to financial support to help with the extra costs associated with …more

The latest RNIB newsletter is available to be read in full here It covers a wide range of subjects – here are the main stories, with more information on all of them available via the full newsletter, linked above. : RNIB …more

Come along for a cuppa & a friendly chat, make new friendships The group is also looking for new ideas and activities. Regular activities will include: – Kurling – Dominoes – Pool table (free) – Table …more

Building the right support for people with a learning disability and autistic people is the name of a new action plan from the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). Here is a summary of the plan and a link to the full …more

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This ONS report looks at disabled people’s experiences with activities, goods and services, UK: February to March 2022 It is the result of qualitative research exploring disabled people’s experiences with private sector …more

Around 70,000 people in England employ a personal assistant (PA), usually through taking a direct payment or personal health budget. A new report by Think Local Act Personal looked at the experiences of people who employ a PA of …more

Water. It’s wonderful stuff. It falls from the sky, flows through rivers and miles of pipes to your tap. It’s there when you need it, so you never give it a second thought, but we all need to use it carefully to make sure there’s …more

The first results from Census 2021 were published on Tuesday 28 June 2022. This information includes population and household estimates at local authority level rounded to the nearest 100, statistical bulletins, a report on the …more

The town of Elland is to receive a big funding boost as it works towards a more sustainable future. More than £30m is on its way to make sure that Elland, West Vale and the surrounding area are places where people feel safe, …more

The Minister for Disabled People, Chloe Smith, has launched recruitment for the British Sign Language Advisory Board. Published: 18 July 2022 Launch follows BSL Act recognising BSL as an official language in England, Scotland and …more

Government rejects calls for cost of living £650 to be given to all on disability benefits The government has rejected calls to extend the £650 one-off cost of living payment to people on disability benefits as well as people on …more

Hundreds of thousands of Disabled people are having to wait for £300 million of vital support because of delays to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) applications, according to new analysis from Citizens Advice. Citizens Advice …more

Over eight million households on means-tested benefits will automatically get the first Cost of Living payment instalment of £326 from this month. This means that, combined with other support, millions of low-income households …more

Heat rash is uncomfortable, but usually harmless. Symptoms include small, raised spots, mild swelling and an itchy, prickly feeling. Here is advice on how you can treat or prevent heat rash yourself: …more

Have a go day – Tenpin Bowling 22nd July 10.00 12.00 –  if you are interested in coming along, meeting new people and enjoying a fun and competitive game of bowling.  Get in touch with Tina at the Halifax Blind Society on …more

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xX_fgvud_CI&t=1s You may have noticed that in the last decade, flooding in Calderdale has been worse than ever before. Worryingly, this is a pattern that is also being seen across the …more

Millions of people on means-tested benefits will receive the first of two Cost of Living Payments totalling £650 from 14 July 2022, as part of a £37billion government package to help families with cost of living pressures. The …more

The headlines are full of facts and figures about how many of us are being plunged into fuel poverty as the cost of living sky rockets. But nobody is joining the dots to see exactly who these people are. A huge majority of people …more

Disabled people make up nearly half of the most deprived working-age adults in the country Important new research examining the living standards and health of working-age Disabled people and disability benefit claimants in the UK …more

Some excellent tips on prevention, coping with heat and identifying things like heatstroke can be found on the following sites. Heatwave: How to Cope in Hot Weather NHS website Beat the Heat Gov UK website…more

Please find below a link to the public website covering the huge project of reconfiguration of Calderdale and Huddersfield’s hospital services https://www.cht.nhs.uk/future Key Highlights Both hospitals sites will provide …more

Our next Open Meeting will be on Tuesday 23rd August 2022. We’d love you to join us for this friendly, sociable get together which is free to attend, includes a free buffet lunch and where you can also claim your travel expenses! …more

V-Recruitment is a specialist agency providing Support Workers for deaf people in the Yorkshire and Humberside region. Because they employ Support Workers who can communicate fluently and clearly in British Sign Language (BSL), …more

This information in sign language is about the sign language team/service at Calderdale Council, signed by Pauline Connolly. (a transcript of the video is available below it). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtHIXJL6YTQ&t=2s …more

The current hot weather isn’t to everyone’s liking. If you are struggling with the heat, here are a few tips to help you stay cool. How to Stay Cool Stay out of the heat: keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm if …more

Over the past few years, writer and editor Emma Purcell has been running a petition to make audio descriptions available on all films, TV shows and streaming services. So far, it has reached almost 3,500 signatures, but it needs …more

Alongside the disability community supporting each other, another vital tool in conquering full inclusion is having non-disabled people support and advocate as an ally to disabled people. Here, disability blogger Dax shares a …more

The Accessible Calderdale Disability Access Forum (ACDAF) is a user led group of people with all disabilities and who live in Calderdale. It is a very diverse group with ages ranging from 20-92 years! They represent learning …more

Here’s some of the highlights from the latest newsletter from Healthy Minds – read the full edition here Our Arts & Crafts for wellbeing group is back! Every 2nd and 4th Thursday each month, 12.30 – 2pm at …more

The national charity and leading voice for disabled people in sport and activity, Activity Alliance, releases the latest Annual Disability and Activity Survey. It shows slow progress in engaging more disabled people after the …more

NHS Calderdale CCG Ends NHS Calderdale CCGs annual statement of involvement has now been published.  This report provides an overview of the engagement and consultation activities that have taken place over the past year from 1 …more

Unfortunately there are still some dog owners who act irresponsibly and do not clean up after their dog. You can report offenders to Calderdale Environmental Health by going online They can take action in relation to complaints …more

Welcome to your July newsletter. Firstly, thank you for all your support across Macular Week 2022. Together we succeeded in raising funds for vital research and awareness of macular disease and the impact it has on so many of our …more

Digital Poverty Alliance calls for action to combat digital exclusion A coalition of charities, private and public sector organisations is calling for a concerted effort to tackle digital poverty in a new evidence review which …more

Homeowners and landlords in Calderdale could be eligible for new FREE energy upgrades to their homes. The information below has been circulated by Calderdale Council. Residents in the area have already had free attic room …more

In October 2020, the ‘Sport England Active Lives Coronavirus Report’ (Oct 2020) showed that the pandemic disproportionately impacted disabled people’s activity levels. And that we experienced a larger increase in inactivity …more

Latest data for Calderdale, up to 27 June 2022: 430,498 Vaccinations administered to date to Calderdale residents of which 119,182 first boosters/ 3rd doses (data source: Vaccinations in Calderdale | Coronavirus in the UK …more

https://youtu.be/E0CBnJlxrig Please choose the right service for your needs Self Care Many minor issues like coughs, grazes and sore throats can be treated at home Pharmacy Medical advice and treatment for things like colds, …more

Mr Dave Manning from The Fire Prevention Service gave a fascinating talk on fire safety to our 28 June 2022 Open Meeting. He covered a huge range of topics, including Safe & Well visits, where they visit those at most risk …more

Disability Partnership Calderdale’s Malcolm Kielty shares his remarkable personal story as a person with a disability, with particular emphasis on the part that sport has played in his life. https://youtu.be/E1WVKXIA7JQ…more

Contact HSB Call HSB’s office: 01422 352383 Email: info@halifaxblindsociety.org.uk Write: 36 Clare Road, Halifax, HX1 2HX Website: http://www.halifaxblindsociety.org.uk Halifax Society for the Blind CIO is a registered charity (No …more

Do you or someone you care for receive a Direct Payment from Calderdale Council? Are you interested in finding out more about Direct Payments? Why not join the Calderdale Direct Payments User Group for their next online meeting. …more

More than eight million households across the whole of the UK will get a cash payment of £650 to ease cost of living pressures. The first instalment of £326 will be paid from 14 July, and the eligibility date for the second …more

News Government promises a ‘New Deal for Renters’ After a three-year wait, the government finally released its New Deal for Renters, the fairer private rented sector White Paper, last week. 1.7 million Disabled people in the UK …more

Station plans on the right track Plans are on track to improve Halifax Rail Station and the surrounding area, with feedback from a recent consultation being used to shape the project. The £30million-plus project, which is being …more

The Healthy Holidays Calderdale Programme is back for the Summer! Free places are available at Summer holiday clubs across the Borough for children aged 5-16 eligible for benefits-related free school meals. Bookings go LIVE on …more

Join a new weekly walking group for adults with learning disabilities run by Lead the Way. When: Every Wednesday at 1pm Where: Meeting at the Kings Centre Coffee House, Park Road, Halifax HX1 2TS…more

If you have a Learning Disability and would like to apply please find attached a role description and application form. Application Form / Job Description This is a voluntary role and you will need to be able to attend in person …more

June 2022 Calderdale NHS’s Clinical Commissioning group is still encouraging everyone eligible for a Covid vaccination to take the opportunity to protect themselves and others from coronavirus. Latest data for Calderdale, …more

Vita Health Group works in partnership with the NHS to provide mental wellbeing services in Calderdale. VitaMinds is a talking therapy service designed to support individuals by providing the tools needed to get things back on …more

https://youtu.be/4QzMWIWRZhY Health leaders in West Yorkshire are encouraging unpaid carers to make contingency plans for the person they look after in the event of an emergency through the ‘Message in a Bottle’ initiative. …more

Here is a link to an important new petition to Parliament, to: “Implement the Grenfell Tower Inquiry (Phase 1) recommendation to put a legal obligation on building owners and managers to implement Personal Emergency …more

A new app called 999 BSL was released on the 17th June 2022 which allows users to make free calls to UK emergency services through a BSL interpreter. What is 999 BSL?  999 BSL is a service that connects you to British Sign …more

About Calderdale Dementia Hub The Calderdale Dementia Hub is a partnership between Community Links and Age UK Calderdale & Kirklees and offers an information and advice service for anyone of any age diagnosed with dementia, …more

Disabled drivers are facing long delays in processing driving licence applications by the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA). The backlog for motorists with medical conditions has risen by 65% in 12 months. Drivers must …more

DR UK marks Grenfell fire anniversary by highlighting broken promises on PEEPs The Times published a letter from DR UK and two partners urging the Government to legislate for personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs). We joined …more

The NHS Confederation* has published a new report looking at the unequal impact of Covid-19: investigating the effect on people with certain protected characteristics This report maps existing research into Covid-19 inequalities …more

Various Calderdale organisations are promoting Safeguarding Week 2022 (20-24 June) to raise awareness about safeguarding children and adults and the importance that safeguarding is everyone’s business. This virtual Safeguarding …more

Our next Open Meeting will be on Tuesday 28th June 2022. We’d love you to join us for this friendly, sociable get together which is free to attend, includes a free buffet lunch and where you can also claim your travel expenses! …more

Airport inaccessibility – a report by Disability Right UK There has been a growing number of incidents involving Disabled passengers being left waiting for assistance in disembarking airplanes recently. A Disabled woman was …more

News No Government progress five years on since Grenfell Next Tuesday – 14th June 2022 – it will be five years since the fire at Grenfell tower. At the time of the fire, the guidance for Disabled residents was to ‘stay put’, and …more

Doctors have seen several cases of Meningitis in Calderdale recently. The most important thing you can do if you feel or see the signs, is get to hospital as quickly as you can. Tell the hospital you think you’ve got signs of …more

New research could lead to a treatment for both wet and dry AMD: Scientists at The University of Manchester have identified those who are at risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), based on their genes, and …more

The Great Get-Together Charity Gala is in Crow Wood Park, Sowerby Bridge. We’ll have a stall on the day. Why not pop by and say hello. It runs from 11am till 4pm. More Info: Charity run: 2022 GGT Burner Cake …more

The UK’s Minster for Disabled People, Chloe Smith, delivered the UK statement at the 15th Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on 14 June 2022. (Transcript of the …more

Disability Horizons, the online magazine has a new feature looking at accessible holiday spots in Europe – below is the intro, with a link to the full article: Europe is filled with accessible holiday destinations to fit …more

Anyone who doesn’t pay their council tax through direct debit will need to apply for their £150 rebate through the council website here: Introduction: Calderdale Council. Halifax Opportunities Trust are holding some drop-in …more

Following the success of Mental Health Awareness Week, for this year’s Loneliness Awareness week (13-17th June 2022), the Department for Digital Culture, Media and Sport is continuing to encourage people to ‘Lift …more

Disability Support Calderdale have received the Queens Award for Voluntary Service. The charity will receive a glass crystal award, a framed certificate personally signed by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 11 and an invitation for …more

The next Deaf EXperience (DEX) FREE event for deaf young people aged between 11 and 17 who live in West Yorkshire is on Friday 17th June. They will be going bowling and for food at Hollywood Bowl in Bradford. I have attached a …more

Health leaders in West Yorkshire are encouraging unpaid carers to make contingency plans for the person they look after in the event of an emergency. To mark Carers Week (6-12 June 2022) West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership …more

There are still approximately 500 people coming forward for their vaccine every week in Calderdale alone. It’s never too late to get a COVID-19 vaccination. If you haven’t had a first or second vaccination, or a booster, book an …more

Lead the Way, the Halifax-based learning disability support organisation send out a monthly newsletter. Their June newsletter is now out. You can view it on our website  https://bit.ly/3MLyiTj  or you can download a copy here: …more

Inclusion North are hosting a zoom meeting about Reaching out to Families on Friday 17th June 10:30am-12pm for family carers supporting relatives with a learning disability, autistic people and neurodiversity. For further info …more

He’s a short video we shot at our Jubilee Garden Party last week – we hope everyone who attended enjoyed the day as much as we did! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZK4KpwY1GI…more

The World Health Organization has published a new global report on assistive technology. The report presents evidence on the global need for and access to assistive products and provides a series of recommendations to expand …more

This is a new petition by the National Deaf Children’s Society. Sign Petition Here You can view this petition in British Sign Language here. We’re a group of deaf young people from across the UK, aged between 15 and 19, and we’re …more

Healthwatch Kirklees has launched new card and lanyard to help identify carers in hospitals, clinics and health settings For the start of Carers Week (June 6-12) Healthwatch Kirklees has announced a new initiative to make sure …more

Mind the Gap’s industry leading Academy training is coming to Calderdale from October 2022. They are running a new one day per week performing arts course for people with learning disabilities and/or autism over the age of 18 at …more

On 27 May the Chancellor announced a package of support worth over £15bn to help households with the rise in the cost of living. This package is in addition to the over £22bn announced previously, with government support for the …more

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New Inclusion 2024 education hub to improve future PE experiences The new Inclusion 2024 inclusive education hub launched in May. Education practitioners across England will have access to all the essential resources for …more

Venue: Heath United Reform Church, Free School Lane, Halifax HX3 0DW – fully accessible. On the 574 and 577 bus routes. More Info: 07966038926 / disabilityroadmap@gmail.com When: Mondays 11am – 1pm (excluding Bank …more

10 disabled scientists you should discover The representation of disabled people across various fields is on the increase except for one – science. While the representation of disabled scientists has increased, many still …more

1.6 million Disabled people have complex needs – new report Over one in ten Disabled people in the UK has complex disabilities according to new research published by the national disability charity, Sense, which shows for the …more

What are the key organisations that make up the NHS? And how can they collaborate with partners in the health and care system to deliver joined-up care? Watch this King’s Fund animation to find out. …more

As part of Volunteer Week 2022, Halifax Society For The Blind will be holding a Volunteering Open Day on Tuesday 7th June, between 10am and 2.30pm, at their new premises (7 Southgate, Halifax). This event is not just about their …more

Here’s a busy 5 days at the Halifax Minster, celebrating the Queen’s Jubilee!…more

A warm welcome to your May newsletter, full of all the latest updates from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People. This week is Deaf Awareness Week, a week dedicated to raising awareness of deafness and supporting those who are deaf or …more

Disability In The Spotlight Britain’s Got Talent 2022 is in full swing and the 15th series has featured even more amazing auditions from performers with disabilities. Dance troop Born To Perform secured the golden buzzer with …more

Calderdale Council have a really useful page on their website looking at money, benefits and financial support. Dealing with money related matters can be off-putting, but there is lots of support for you. Visit the …more

Find out what is happening with Making Space Calderdale, the dedicated Carers Wellbeing service in their latest newsletter! You will find carer aimed support groups old and new, information on their volunteering opportunities, …more

Carers Wellbeing Service would like to invite carers (and the person(s) they care for) to dress from their favourite decade and join them for an afternoon of singing and dancing to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee, Carers Week …more

Calder Crocs is the UK’s first mixed ability racketball team. Their first session will be taking place at the Old Crossleyans squash club on the 25th of June. http://www.facebook.com/caldercommunitysquash …more

Start Date: Saturday 28th May Where: Springs Hall Athletics Track, Huddersfield Road, Halifax, HX3 0AA Time: 14:00 – 16:00 Cycle for Health is delivered over 12 weeks and free to access. Delivered as a 2 hour session, once per …more

Active Calderdale are gathering information on physical activity habits, and opinions on how the local area can influence people to be more active. They’ll use this information to make sure that their work targets the people who …more

Disability employment gap persists despite new statistics The government has announced that over one million more Disabled people are in employment compared to five years ago according to the latest ONS (Office for National …more

DWP publishes plan: Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System  This week, the Government published Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System, which sets out the Department for Work and Pensions’ plan to tackle the growing challenge posed …more

The Government are inviting people to apply to become a chair of one of their 9 Regional Stakeholder Networks, helping to ensure disabled people’s voices are heard throughout England. Full Details Here…more

NHS Calderdale CCG is undertaking a mapping exercise to understand what insight we have of peoples experiences of services that provide support around mental health, neurodiversity, autism and learning disabilities. This includes …more

So-called “social tariffs” can provide a safety net for eligible households who might be struggling to afford their broadband or phone services. As we all know, broadband and mobile providers offer customers a wide …more

Disability charity Scope have free places available on the next Starting Line pre-employment training courses. They have both online and face to face courses that will be delivered in Leeds and Manchester (venues tbc but likely …more

Calderdale NHS are still encouraging everyone eligible for a Covid vaccination to take the opportunity to protect themselves and others from coronavirus. Latest data for Calderdale, up to 5th May 2022: 427, 937 Vaccinations …more

Vi Cruz is running Arts & Craft For Adults With Learning Disabilities at Todmorden College. Learn about ART and how to make it – including painting, paper mache, printmaking and origami. Feel proud of your achievements. …more

Healthwatch Kirklees & Healthwatch Calderdale have released a small series of videos aimed at helping local people to get the most out of their pharmacies. The videos each address a different subject and help explain the …more