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Have your say on the latest proposals for A641 (Bradford~Brighouse~Huddersfield) scheme   With funding from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), and working closely with Bradford and Kirklees Councils, we have had the …more

Halifax Society for the Blind wish to recruit an innovative and person-centred Activities Coordinator on a permanent contract (£20,952pa pro rata for 25 hours per week). Here’s what their job advert has to say about the …more

The latest eBulletin from Lead the Way, the Halifax-based learning disability organisation, is out. As ever, it’s full of helpful resources for clients and carers, details of organisations that can support you as well as …more

Fresh out is Halifax Society For The Blind’s latest edition of Look Out!, their newsletter. This edition is also produced as a text file for those using screen-reader software, and can be translated into braille or audio on …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

The Clinical Council for Eye Health Commissioning (CCEHC) has published the findings of their recent Impact survey on the commissioning and provision of low vision assessment services in England. The impact of Covid-19 has …more

The House of Commons Health and Social Care Committee have just released a new report, titled “The treatment of autistic people and people with learning disabilities.” Below is the Summary – the full report can …more

Some people love change, however, many people find change hard. As covid restrictions lift there will be people that will relish new opportunities and there will be people who feel anxious about the ‘new normal’, living with …more

HEARTBEAT was founded in October 2006 for people in West Yorkshire who had or were at risk of having a cardiac event. Our aim is to improve the quality of life and the life expectancy of our Members. The Charity, registered in …more

Disability Rights UK work capability assessment factsheet The work capability assessment is very important for universal credit and central to employment and support allowance (ESA). Disability Rights UK’s …more

19/7/2021 News Round-up DPOs call for reinstatement of infection control measures A plethora of organisations, including DR UK, is calling on government to revise new guidance which effectively leaves Disabled Clinically …more

Brought to you by the Department for Work & Pensions 16 July 2021 – Roundup of recent DWP announcements  Coronavirus Roadmap update This week the Prime Minister announced that Step 4 of the Roadmap out of COVID-19 legal …more

This article, from the BMJ explores how the covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on people with learning disabilities across the world. The linked paper by the OpenSAFELY collaborative led by Williamson and colleagues …more

In this extract from a longer piece on the BMJ website about how the NHS’s rush to use digital communications is excluding some patients, there is an examination of the particular issues this throws up for deaf patients. …more

This is an open letter from Calderdale’s leading disability organisations to local/regional politicians, sharing concerns about the ending of Covid-19 restrictions on 19th July. To Tracy Brabin, Mayor, West Yorkshire …more

10 disabled contestants on TV reality and talent shows For more than a decade, disabled contestants have had the opportunity to take part and compete in TV reality and talent shows, with many reaching the finals and even winning. …more

Who this guidance is for? This guidance is for everyone in England who has been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable from coronavirus (COVID-19). This includes those people who have been identified by the NHS as being …more

Government Info: Lifting restrictions on 19 July Read the full guidance here | Read the advice for clinically extremely vulnerable people Most legal restrictions to control COVID-19 will be lifted in England on 19 July 2021. The …more

Coronavirus and clinically extremely vulnerable people in England: 21 June to 26 June 2021. An analysis of clinically extremely vulnerable people in England during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, including their behaviours …more

Disability Horizons, the online disability magazine have partnered with accessible housing specialists Branch Properties for the second year in a row to bring you an up-to-date accessible housing guide to help you find the best …more

Here’s a series of links to Government guidance on getting tested for Coronavirus. They go through to the official information on the Government’s website. Understanding lateral flow testing for people without …more

Roundup of recent DWP announcements  Coronavirus Roadmap update Step 4 of the Roadmap is expected to begin on Monday 19 July. This will be confirmed on Monday 12 July, following a review of the latest data. At Step 4, the …more

Nearly all of the top ten most accessible beaches are in just three counties, according to new research. Keep Moving Care analysed 30 top-rated UK beaches against 10 criteria points – whether the beaches had received a Blue Flag …more

Lockdown easing plans put CEV people back in jeopardy Psychology experts, health professionals and Disabled People’s Organisations are expressing grave concerns about the Prime Minister’s announcement that the majority of …more

There’s reassuring news that vaccines are helping keep people from at risk groups safe from serious illness and death from Covid-19. Those used in the UK as effective at preventing symptomatic disease in the majority of …more

The walking charity, Living Streets, is running a “Cut the Clutter” campaign, calling for local authorities to prioritise clearing footways and pavements through measures including (but not limited to): 1. Banning all …more

What is a disability-confident employer? Nearly every employer claims to be an ‘equal opportunities employer’, but as disabled people, we know that most aren’t – particularly when it comes to disability. Research carried out by …more

LAST CHANCE to take our survey on disability hate crime Our survey on disability hate crime, in partnership with Leonard Cheshire, will be closing this week, so this is your LAST CHANCE to have your say and make your voice heard. …more

Here are details of a new project for disabled adults and children in our area, below is more information and the contact details on how to get in touch. The Sense Virtual Buddying project and Virtual Group Sessions is a great …more

Disability Support Calderdale have be nominated as a finalist at the Yorkshire Choice 2020 Awards in the Local Fundraiser category. This is the citation detailing their achievements: The group from Disability Support Calderdale …more

In addition to pre-booked appointment sessions, the NHS are also running regular walk-in vaccination clinics throughout Calderdale where you do not need to book in advance. They hold these clinics subject to demand and deliver …more

The government has outlined plans to lift the remaining Covid restrictions in England. Most legal restrictions and guidance in England look set to be removed from 19 July. At a Downing Street briefing, earlier this week, Boris …more

https://youtu.be/0anqgIw2Hiw Did you know, Calderdale’s Hebden Bridge GP Group Practice is top of the leader board this month when it comes to making referrals to the Heathier You NHS Diabetes prevention Programme. In May, 49 …more

This survey is being circulated by our friends at the Halifax Society for the Blind. Dear Members, Supporters, Colleagues and Partners, we hope you are well, and getting some sunshine and feeling good about getting out and about. …more

JCVI interim advice: potential COVID-19 booster vaccine programme winter 2021 to 2022 Published 30 June 2021 In the situation where social mixing and social contact return towards pre-pandemic norms, it is expected that winter …more

Welcome to your July e-newsletter. Firstly, a big, big thank you to everyone who supported us in Macular Week. Every year we are overwhelmed by how many of you show your support, in so many different ways. It is so inspiring …more

Conditions such as back pain and arthritis are the biggest cause of morbidity in the UK. But the pandemic has seen primary and secondary care appointments cancelled or held virtually. In the first of a new series on the “new …more

The BBC has set up a new disability team, to include Cbeebies presenter Cerrie Burnell in the role of Disability Ambassador, Kay  Ashton MBE as Creative Diversity Disability Lead, and Nichola Garde as Project Manager of Elevate, …more

Disabled people’s lives ‘devastated’ by Covid – BBC Survey Thousands of D/deaf and Disabled people became more disabled during the pandemic with most losing access to vital medical appointments and necessary routines. A BBC …more

GPs have called on the government to update the official list of covid-19 symptoms after seeing patients shun tests to check their infection status because they don’t believe they have been infected by SARS-CoV-2. They also said …more

Welcome to the latest edition of the Get Yourself Active newsletter from Disability Horizons UK. This is our round up of what the Get Yourself Active team and our partners have been up to during the month of June – and some …more

8 misconceptions about disabled women busted – There are many assumptions and misconceptions about disabled women in our society. Some people think that they are unable to be parents and have a family, that they can’t …more

Our Chair blogs: Disabled people need to be at the heart of the return UK Coaching Week is a campaign to celebrate coaching at all levels in sport and activity. This year’s theme was ‘The Great Coaching Comeback: …more

Thousands of deaf and disabled people across the UK have told the BBC of the devastating impact the pandemic has had on their lives. Most said their disability had worsened and more than 2,400 said routine, often vital, medical …more

We, at Disability Partnership Calderdale, in conjunction with Halifax Society for the Blind, recently ran a Focus Group looking at ‘Improving hospital services for people with sight loss’. We are now ready to share the feedback …more

Below is the introduction and a link to the full content of a report from Healthwatch, looking at the effects of digital exclusion on our interaction with GPs. It appears that people with disabilities are central to this issue …more

In addition to pre-booked appointment sessions, the NHS in Calderdale are also running regular walk-in vaccination clinics where you do not need to book in advance. They hold these clinics subject to demand and deliver …more

England remains in Step 3 The government has announced a 4-week pause at Step 3. Step 3 restrictions remain in place, and you should follow the guidance on this page, which explains what you can and cannot do. It is expected that …more

This is a Time Use Survey from the Government explaining the differences between how people in Great Britain spent their time during coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions in March and April 2020 and March 2021. Main points How we …more

Extra testing makes a difference Calderdale now has the highest testing rate in the Yorkshire and Humber region, with about 1,200 people being tested each day. This is 200 people more per day than the next highest testing council …more

Calderdale Adult Learning’s range of courses on offer is very varied and inspiring – from practical skills to digital know-how, there’s something for everyone: Download the full 2021-2022 brochure here: …more

Take a look at the events Magpies have planned for the next few weeks. Magpies are Halifax based and support and encourage adults with learning disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. The events run every Thursday throughout July …more

A  new  virtual  group  from  Lead  the  Way  will  help  you  become   more active and  add more exercise in your routine. Meeting every Wednesday at 1pm to share ideas, set targets and celebrate results. There are 15 free …more

Dear Member, We hope you are keeping safe and well. We would like to share some updates happening at The British Polio Fellowship. Office Move When we sold the offices at the Xchange on Wilmington Close, we struggled to find …more

A new initiative to encourage more members of the public to take up sign language as an extra language and skill, is now available locally. The Signs4Life scheme is to help people to communicate and engage with children and …more

Disability groups are urged to respond to the Government’s consultation on Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans for Disabled residents. Disability Rights UK, Leaseholders Disability Action Group and Grenfell Next of Kin have …more

Based on the book by Naoki Higashida, The Reason I Jump tells the stories of autistic children across continents, attempting to explain their non-verbal outlook on life through their sensory perceptions. The film has a limited …more

We are looking for our next Chair of Trustees Since its foundation in 2012 DR UK has significantly grown in profile, influence and reputation. In 2022 we celebrate 10 years of our organisation working together with Disabled …more

Transport For All campaign for better transport access and accessibility for people with disabilities. Though they have a London focus, much of what they cover has a broader relevance. Here’s their latest newsletter. Cut …more

Research from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has found that Disabled people in England are at an  increased risk of death involving Coronavirus (COVID-19). From 24 …more

Staying Well are based in Halifax and work with individuals and communities to help people feel less lonely and isolated. They link people together and help everyone live happier and healthier lives; for longer. Like everyone, …more

BSL video guide on COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting BSL video guide to phase 2 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme BSL video guide on COVID-19 for women of childbearing age, pregnant or breastfeeding BSL video guide on …more

This survey found that carers lost, on average, 25 hours of support a month they previously had from services or family and friends before the pandemic. It also reveals that 72 per cent of carers have not had any breaks from …more

The Safeguarding Children Partnership, Safeguarding Adult Board and Calderdale organisations present Safeguarding Week 2021 to raise awareness about safeguarding children and adults and the importance that safeguarding is …more

We are looking for our next Chair of Trustees Since its foundation in 2012 DR UK has significantly grown in profile, influence and reputation. In 2022 we celebrate 10 years of our organisation working together with Disabled …more

Chief executive of Age UK Calderdale & Kirklees, Lisa Butland looks at Shop-ability aids and advice available at the Halifax shop, close to the Piece Hall https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4HMGSvBnC8 Share …more

Deafblind Awareness Week takes place from 27th June to 3rd July and DeafBlind UK are asking everyone to tell one person about deafblindness! “You don’t look blind” During Deafblind Awareness Week, Deafblind UK …more

You are invited to a ‘Have a go’ Bowling session at Pennine Bowling Club, Organised by Halifax Society for the Blind and Pennine Bowling Club On Tuesday 29th June at 11am At Wellholme Park, Brighouse Have you ever wanted to try …more

Below is a link to download Halifax Society For the Blind’s latest edition of their newsletter, Look Out! In this edition, they share plans for resuming face to face services when the general easing of Covid19 restrictions …more

The lifting of the final covid-19 restrictions in England, scheduled for 21 June, has been delayed by four weeks (until 19 July). The Government says this is to head off the risk of a new wave of covid-19 caused by the delta …more

As we reported in late May, Calderdale Council is extending the opening of some of its public toilets to seven days a week. Full details below. It’s also worth noting that there are a couple of websites that can help you …more

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIOs94YcWHI&t=17s Information in British Sign Language (BSL) about how to contact NHS 111. When you think you need A&E, just contact NHS 111 by phone or online. The NHS will help you right …more

Find out how to do a COVID-19 rapid test at home for yourself (or someone else) and report the results. Rapid tests are only for people who do not have symptoms of COVID-19. Video: how to do a rapid test at home There’s separate …more

Limitless is a new day service for Adults with Learning disabilities, opening in Copley, Halifax in July 2021. They will offer bespoke support for Adults with Learning Disabilities at their facility, set in spacious grounds with …more

We are looking for our next Chair of Trustees Since its foundation in 2012 DR UK has significantly grown in profile, influence and reputation. In 2022 we celebrate 10 years of our organisation working together with Disabled …more

Healthwatch Calderdale would like to hear from people who have experienced delays to health and social care for non-Covid related conditions since March 2020. By completing this 5-10 minute survey, you can help and influence …more

As additional COVID-19 testing and enhanced contact tracing get underway in Calderdale, the Council is reminding people that support is available if they need to self-isolate. One of five big things we can all do to protect …more

First Steps is a project conceived by British Blind Sport to empower and encourage children with a visual impairment between the ages of 3 – 11 years old to develop their early developmental movement skills and to become …more

Get your FREE ticket to Mindvalley Summit to boost your 2021- Education company Mindvalley, a platform our Co-founder Martyn Sibley has used, is hosting a virtual personal growth event with 35+ speakers talking about everything …more

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Calderdale Council have published this update, following an uptick in the number of Covid-19 cases in Calderdale. I contains useful information on testing and other measures in place to contain the outbreak. Additional COVID-19 …more

Deaf or hard of hearing? Aged 11-17? Live in or close to Calderdale? Come and join the Calderdale Deaf Youth Hub for a free and fun-filled day at Another World Adventure Centre. When? 27 June 11am – 1.30pm Where: Moss Farm Ogden …more

June Update Welcome to your June e-newsletter, and happy Volunteers’ Week! A huge thank you to all of our incredible volunteers who have continued to deliver such a valuable service over the past 18 months. This month could spell …more

Touchbase, 4 June 2021 – Roundup of recent DWP announcements  Shared Accommodation Rate changes DWP has implemented changes to the Shared Accommodation Rate that will help thousands of vulnerable care leavers access …more

This is the latest newsletter from the BMJ (British Medical journal). As ever, it draws on a good range of voices and opinions and provides a good overview of the issues of the day (medical and medical-related). The covid-19 …more

Calderdale council have put out an alert that the new more transmissible COVID-19 variant known as ‘Delta’ has been found in Todmorden. This is the advice they are giving their staff in the area and might be equally applicable to …more

Calderdale Council have released their spring/summer Countryside News newsletter for 2021. The newsletter is a great read and full of information on: Volunteering Special places Wildlife Gardening Health and Wellbeing You can …more

Twelve deaf, neurodivergent and disabled artists based across the UK have been commissioned to produce new film and audio works for BBC platforms this summer, which is part of BBC Arts’ Culture in Quarantine initiative. In …more

Disability Horizons vlogger Zec Richardson and TV personality Mik Scarlet are joined this week by George Baker, founder of the Disability Union, to discuss coming out of lockdown. They talk about its effect on disabled people …more

For the third year in a row, Disability Horizons, the online magazine, are working with charity Leonard Cheshire to find out more about disabled people’s experiences with disability hate crime in the UK. Whether online or …more

As we start to come out of lockdown and move towards our new ‘normal’, Disability Horizons. the online magazine, has been reflecting on the last year and how it has affected disabled people. One positive to come out …more

The £1.75 million refurbishment of Elland’s library is nearing completion and it is due to open its doors on Monday 7 June at 10am. Calderdale Council has been busy transforming the building into a welcoming, state-of-the-art …more

These sessions are aimed at family members, unpaid carers, and paid carers from Kirklees and Calderdale area. All sessions are via Zoom and will have lots of resources and additional information Date   Time Session Monday …more

Charges to park at both Calderdale Royal Hospital and Huddersfield Royal infirmary will return on Monday 14th June.  The system used before the pandemic will be re-introduced, with visitors taking a ticket on entry to the car …more

Noticing Nature (Allotment) Monday 14th June, 11.00-12.30pm During such uncertain times, making time to relax and switch off from events out of our control has never been so important for mental health and wellbeing. Using our 5 …more

Making the extra years count: inequalities in disability and dependency with increasing longevity This new report, which draws on research led by Newcastle University and funded by The Dunhill Medical Trust, investigates the …more

More than 50% of people happy to see Covid-19 restrictions lifted in June We asked 171 people from across the UK who have a disability or health condition or know someone who does, how they feel about the easing of all lockdown …more

Places are available to join Magpies; a place to make new friends, learn new skills and create new opportunities for adults with learning disabilities Magpies, based in Halifax, offers a fun and friendly learning environment for …more

Find out how to get help if you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse in this detailed guidance from the Government. If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police. If you can’t speak and are calling …more

The Disability Rights Handbook is now online We are delighted to announce the launch of a new digital version of the Disability Rights Handbook 46th Edition 2021-2022. Created to support remote working, this enhanced version of …more

The Accessible Calderdale Project aims to develop and improve access and inclusion in Calderdale.  They are looking for people from the disabled community who want to join their focus groups and have a voice around the issues …more

Information Released 28/05/2021 by Calderdale Council Calderdale Council is extending the opening of some of its public toilets to seven days a week. Since public toilets across Calderdale were closed for safety reasons during …more

This is the latest newsletter of the Activity Alliance, who work for equality in sport for people with disabilities. Activity Alliance News Welcome to May’s newsletter. This edition features our new strategy, Achieving …more

The most recent phase of easing restrictions began on 17 May. Here’s a quick guide to the main points: The general advice is to carry on working from home if you can, keep the precautions, and if you develop symptoms, …more

Check out the latest tips articles and reviews on the Disability Horizons Shop, including: 4 ingenious ways to use grip tape to give you a better grip on anything portable urinals and sick bags that will be invaluable when …more

In one way or another, Covid-19 has impacted all of our lives. But living through the pandemic with a disability has been an even bigger struggle for many. It’s not all negative though – in many ways, the pandemic has molded the …more

Here’s the latest newsletter from Calderdale’s museums: Shibden Hall is open! Shibden Hall reopened on the 17 May and is open again to visitors 7 days a week. All tickets must be booked online in advance and we look …more

If you’re on the waiting list for a planned care procedure, or if you have a close connection with an adult or child who is waiting, West Yorkshire and Harrogate Health and Care Partnership would love to hear from you. They want …more

This Press Release is from Hebden Bridge Disability Access Forum, supported by Halifax Society for the Blind and Disability Partnership  Calderdale. Disabled people in Hebden Bridge and throughout Calderdale are stepping up their …more

A common problem for many disabled motorists is not being able to park at their desired destination. The major complaint is that the disabled bays are all occupied with cars not displaying a Blue Badge. Disabled Motoring UK run …more

We are delighted to announce the launch of a new digital version of the Disability Rights Handbook 46th Edition 2021-2022. Created to support remote working, this enhanced version of our flagship publication is an essential …more

A new study by PHE shows for the first time that 2 doses of the COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective against the B.1.617.2 variant first identified in India. Vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic disease from the B.1.617.2 …more

Metro have released details of some changes to bus and rail timetables that took place on Saturday 15 May 2021 and Sunday 16 May 2021. New timetables are now available to view online. Please check before you travel to see if your …more

Dear Member, We hope you are keeping well and have been able to enjoy some normality as lockdown restrictions ease. We have now updated our Covid-19 and Polio information and this can be found published on our website through the …more

What surge testing is Surge testing is increased testing (including door-to-door testing in some areas) and enhanced contact tracing in specific locations in England. It involves testing of people who do not have any symptoms of …more

The Great British Spring Clean is back and is looking for your support to help tidy up the British landscape!  Our outdoor spaces have been increasingly important to us during the past year. It’s our turn to show our …more

This is the Government’s advice for people wanting to apply for or renew their blue badge. Check your eligibility and apply for a Blue Badge. You can also use this service to reapply for a Blue Badge. You can apply for …more

Queen’s Speech fails to deliver on social care, democracy, building and employment The Queen’s Speech, effectively the Government’s current ‘to do’ list, has failed to deliver on Boris Johnson’s pledge to “fix the crisis in …more

Do words like debt, balance, finance, budgeting confuse you? Would you like to take charge of your money for good? The Noah’s Ark Centre in Halifax have put together a two half-day course that will show you exactly how you …more

HSB Activities Walking Group news Thanks to everyone who showed an interest in a walking group and gave feedback about what sort of walks you might like.  We are looking into partnering with other groups who already go out …more

Let’s Talk Tokyo: an Evening with Adam Hills and ParalympicsGB To mark 100 days until the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, this Thursday 13th May, Adam Hills will be hosting a virtual event called Let’s Talk Tokyo: An Evening with …more

Below is a link to download Lead the Way’s ebulletin for May. A couple of the events mentioned in it are coming up very soon, so please hurry if you need to attend. May Bulletin About Lead The Way For anyone anyone over 18 …more

This new BSL provides information on COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting. This video is available to download. The COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting leaflet is available to download. Paper copies are also available to …more

Here’s the latest BSL video on the Coronavirus vaccine – the information it includes is on phase 2 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme. The COVID-19 vaccination: a guide to phase 2 of the programme leaflet is …more

Mental Health Awareness Week takes place from 10 to 16 May 2021. Here’s a new Office For National Statistics (ONS) report looking at Coronavirus and depression in adults, Great Britain: January to March 2021. It includes …more

Available to download below is a very useful supportive services guide for victims of domestic violence or abuse. If you need help, care and advice, there’s an organisation for you to call. Download Directory of Support …more

Welcome to your May Macular Society e-newsletter. It is great to hear that so many of you have now received your second vaccine and as restrictions ease across the UK we hope you have enjoyed some precious, much missed, time with …more

Here’s the latest Roundup of recent DWP announcements  New 24-hour payment service launched by Child Maintenance Service  A new 24-hour automated service is available for parents and employers to make Child Maintenance and …more

Met Police officer fired after assaulting black child with learning disabilities A 17 year-old who was an inpatient at a mental health unit was repeatedly struck by a Metropolitan (Met) police officer and had CS spray used on her …more

This is the latest update from the Disability Horizons disability lifestyle website. We’ve started a new video series called Disability Horizons TV. Twice a month we’ll be publishing a new video, which we’ll …more

Welcome to the Get Yourself Active April Newsletter Spring is definitely in the air! Welcome to the latest edition of the Get Yourself Active newsletter.  This is our round up of what the Get Yourself Active team and our partners …more

   Activity Alliance Newsletter April 2021 Welcome to April’s newsletter. This edition features the latest Active Lives Survey and COVID-19 response. Latest Activity Alliance and ukactive CEOs’ joint call for …more

The Council’s latest newsletter is out and we’ve got the main stories below: Coronavirus – Keep Up the Good Work As more services and activities start to reopen in line with the Government’s step-by-step roadmap …more

A prototype of the first accessible pregnancy test has been unveiled by the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) to help blind and visually impaired women know their results privately for the first time. In a campaign …more

Keeping Well At Home is a great advice leaflet produced locally to give people advice on everyday life that will help them live healthily and with purpose – download the full leaflet here Below is an example of the …more

Cook Together, Share Together, Lead the Way’s new project will give people with learning disabilities in Calderdale all the skills needed to cook healthy meals in their own homes. They will provide support with shopping …more

Northern Powergrid are the people who manage the electricity network that powers everyday life for more than 8 million people across 3.9 million homes and businesses in the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire. They …more

Government refuses to start public inquiry into Covid as PM accused of saying let the “bodies pile high” The government has told the families of those who have suffered bereavement through Covid that “an inquiry now is not …more

The UK will roll out a covid-19 booster vaccine at the beginning of autumn in order to protect the most vulnerable ahead of winter, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has announced. As part of this, the government’s …more

Have you ever considered joining the Research Institute for Disabled Consumers (RiDC)? Being part of the panel can be a rewarding experience. Depending upon the research they are commissioned to do, panel members can get involved …more

In a new article on the Disability Horizons’ website, writer Zubee Kibria challenges these perceptions to help the Asian community understand that having a disability should not be seen as negative, but to support and treat …more

Charity Leonard Cheshire is encouraging people with disabilities to take part in a superhero-inspired event, full of sports-based activities as well as sensory. This is a fully inclusive event and people with a range of …more

Using direct payments during the coronavirus outbreak: full guidance for people receiving direct payments and personal assistants Who this document is for This document is aimed at people of all ages ‒ children, young people and …more

Adults infected with covid-19 three weeks after receiving one dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech or Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine were 38-49% less likely to pass the virus on to their household contacts than people who were unvaccinated, a …more

Healthy Minds Calderdale are offering you a 10 week wellbeing course. Learn how to look after your health and wellbeing through the practice of Yoga. The course is for all levels, you don’t need to have done Yoga before, …more

Evenbreak is a new jobs website that exists to solve a couple of big problems – here’s what it’s all about by the people at Evenbreak: Employers told us they struggled to attract disabled candidates.  And …more

Covid-19 vaccines: how they work and who is eligible if you have a disability or chronic illness is a regularly updated feature on the Disability Horizons website The first three Covid-19 vaccines – Pfizer/BioNTech, …more

By Elisabeth Mahase At the start of the covid-19 pandemic the UK government failed to reach up to 800 000 clinically extremely vulnerable people who had been added to the shielding list, meaning they could not get support such as …more

News Round-up Grenfell Tower fire is ‘a landmark act of discrimination against disabled and vulnerable people’ Lawyers involved in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry into the 2017 fire which killed 72 people have described it “as a …more

Face-to-face assessments for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) claimants will resume from 12 April 2021 in England and from 26 April in Scotland and Wales. Face-to-face assessments for Work Capability Assessments …more

Not a lot of people who have a sight disability are aware that they may be entitled to Blind Person’s Tax Allowance. If you are blind or severely sight impaired you may qualify for this allowance. If you were to qualify it …more

Blue Badge applications are one of many services affected by the pandemic. However, it appears that things are getting back to normal. You can apply for a blue badge or renew your existing blue badge online, uploading any …more

Here’s the latest blog from the National Deaf Children’s Society, which looks at their “Keep it clear” campaign, which aims to make sure deaf children aren’t disadvantaged by the use of face coverings in …more

Sense Active have partnered with Great Britain’s national mapping agency, Ordnance Survey, to ensure Sensory Walks are easily discoverable via their OS Maps App, as part of our Sport England funded project ‘Sense, Active …more

Calderdale Council are now actively recruiting more volunteers to our Citizens’ Panel – ‘Talkback’. If you live in Calderdale, are over 18 years old (Council employees included) and can spare some time to help answer their …more

On Thursday 6th of May 2021 there are Calderdale-wide elections to vote for Local Government Councillors. This year for the first time, Calderdale will be voting for a Combined Authority Mayor. In some areas there will also be …more

Calderdale Council’s public toilets are be available as follows, from Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am – 4.30pm: Parks: Calder Holmes Park (Hebden Bridge) Centre Vale Park (Todmorden) Manor Heath Park (Halifax) People’s Park …more

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Muslims across the UK will be observing the holy month of Ramadan, this excellent short video provides guidance on how to celebrate Ramadan safely.  The video covers: 1 Can I have the vaccine whilst I’m fasting? 2 What happens if …more

If you have an age, health or disability reason for not wearing a face covering: you do not routinely need to show any written evidence of this you do not need show an exemption card This means that you do not need to seek advice …more

There are some places where you must wear a face covering by law, unless you are exempt or have a reasonable excuse (see When you do not need to wear a face covering). It’s always worth keeping up to date with this advice, …more

Some of the rules on what the Government say you can and cannot changed on 12 April. Many restrictions remain in place. You must not socialise indoors with anyone you do not live with, unless you have formed a support bubble with …more

The latest Government Coronavirus and the social impacts on Great Britain report is out. It is based on the Indicators from the Opinions and Lifestyle Survey covering the periods 31 March to 4 April and 7 April to 11 April 2021 …more

Here’s the Government’s complete range of information for shielding and protecting people defined on medical grounds as extremely vulnerable from COVID-19. Although shielding officially ceased at the beginning of …more

Last week the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) announced that it planned to increase the number of Disability Employment Advisers (DEAs) by 315, taking the total number of DEAs up to 1,115. DEAs play a crucial role in …more

The RNIB is campaigning to increase the provision of tactile strips on rail station platform edges. This follows the tragic death last year of Cleveland Gervais, who fell onto the rail tracks at Eden Bridge station and was struck …more

Disability Passport is a new app that gives disabled people a quick, easy and trusted way to identify themselves and their needs to places like shops and venues. Currently, there is no single recognised, validated and accepted …more

Stroke is the largest cause of disability in the UK and the fourth biggest killer. In West Yorkshire and Harrogate, around 3000 people a year have a stroke with two thirds of stroke survivors left with some form of physical, …more

Calderdale’s Staying Well team are looking to recruit new Volunteer Telephone Befrienders! If you are friendly, chatty and would like to give some time to make a regular call and brighten someone’s day then this is the …more

The Women and Equalities Committee published its Report Unequal Impact? Coronavirus, disability and access to services: full Report (HC 1050), on 22 December 2020. The Women and Equalities Committee is appointed by the House of …more

We’ve heard from Deaf Ex Mainstreamers (DEX) that they are starting their Calderdale Deaf Youth Hub again on Monday 26th April. The key details are below: Remember, their YouTube channel is great for BSL versions of latest …more

As part of Disability Horizons’ 10th birthday celebrations, the disability organisation asked their community of readers what they’d like to see improve or change for disabled people in the next 10 years. Ideas include better …more

Some of the rules on what you can and cannot changed on 12 April. From 12 April: non-essential retail can reopen personal care services such as hairdressers and nail salons can reopen, including those provided from a mobile …more

From the ONS (Office For National Statistics) In February 2021, among people aged 16 years and over in Great Britain: A larger proportion of disabled people (78%) than non-disabled people (69%), said they were worried (very or …more

18/03/21 Are direct payments working the way they should be? Informed by the experiences of people with direct payments during the Covid-19 pandemic, this report looks at how they could work better, what the issues are and how …more

Halifax Society for the Blind (HSB)are asking, Have you experienced Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS)?  CBS is a common condition among people who have lost, or are losing, their sight.  It causes people to see things that aren’t …more

From the BMJ Website Investigations by EU and UK regulators into reports of unusual blood clots after receiving the Oxford-AstraZeneca covid-19 vaccine have concluded that these are a “possible” and “extremely rare” side effect. …more

The Centre for Social Justice’s Disability Commission’s detailed submission to the National Strategy for Disabled People consultation, Now is the Time, has been released. Summary This year (2021) will mark 26 years since the …more

UK housing laws must be strengthened to ensure that new builds are suitable for Disabled people. The latest calls come in a letter to The Daily Telegraph from charity chiefs, including Disability Rights UK CEO Kamran Mallick, as …more

Take a look at the upcoming courses and regular workshops and groups from Healthy Minds Calderdale. For the present everything is run over zoom with joining instructions emailed before the sessions. Workshops, Courses and Groups …more

Now that the Census date has passed, official Census branded letters are being sent to people who have not yet completed their Census. Census field officers may also be used and may knock on doors offering help and encouragement …more

Everyone in England will be able to access free, regular, rapid coronavirus (COVID-19) testing from 9 April 2021, the Government has announced. Everyone in England, including those without symptoms, will be able to take a free …more

This is the Government’s latest information on the Access to Work scheme, which aims to help more disabled people start or stay in work. Changes to Access to Work during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak Read …more

This Government guidance is for anyone who provides unpaid care, such as friends or family, to adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults. It has been updated in line with the latest easing of lockdown regulations. The …more

The government has released new public transport hate crime data which shows that anti-disability hate crime is on the rise on public transport in the UK The data shows that between 2014 and 2016, the numbers of disability …more

The Government’s Department For Work and Pensions (DWP) has announced that, “in line with the latest public health guidance and adhering to strict safety protocols”, it is to begin reintroducing face-to-face assessments for …more

Research by disability charity Scope has found that 75% of Disabled people do not want to stop shielding. Shielding officially ended on 31 March, but many Disabled people have fears that they will not be able to return to safe …more

Heath Campus – Update After exceptionally challenging times over the past year, we are delighted to announce that we can welcome some of you back to classes at Heath Campus after the Easter break.  We will also continue …more

Here is the latest ebulletin from Lead the Way which as usual incudes lots of useful information and links. Click on the image to download the pdf newsletter. Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading...…more

Welcome to our March Newsletter Welcome to the latest edition of the Get Yourself Active newsletter from Disability Rights UK!  This is our round up of what the Get Yourself Active team and our partners have been working on over …more

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has advised the government to prioritise people for the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine who are over 16 and living with adults who have weakened immune systems, such as …more

Coronavirus and clinically extremely vulnerable people in England: 18 January to 30 January 2021. This is a Government report which offers analysis of clinically extremely vulnerable people in England during the coronavirus …more

Here are Healthy Minds Calderdale’s latest Workshops, Courses & Groups running for the period April – June 2021 To book or for further details: Email: Nicky@healthymindscalderdale.co.uk Or call: 01422 345154 For wider …more

Calderdale Council put out a regular e-zine newsletter about their bin collections and waste management. The latest edition, which includes bin collection days/date over Easter and May bank holidays, plus full details of what you …more

This is the regular newsletter from the Halifax Society for the Blind. Find out more about them and sign up to the newsletter and many of their activities via their website. Welcome to the March edition of the Halifax Society for …more

Some of the Government’s Coronavirus rules on what you can and cannot do change on 29 March. However, many restrictions remain in place. You must not socialise indoors with anyone you do not live with or have formed a …more

The UK Government has launched a plan to prevent, mitigate and respond to the mental health impacts of the pandemic during 2021 to 2022. Here’s their brief introduction to the plan, along with a link to the full document. …more

Disability Rights UK’s Newsletter – 26 March 2021 Government continues to fail Disabled election candidates Questions have been asked this week in the House of Lords about why there isn’t a Government fund to support …more

A blind woman has won a legal case which secures fundamental promises of changes to how the Government communicates with people during the pandemic. Sarah Leadbetter, who is registered blind, was due to have a judicial review …more

Almost four years after the Grenfell Tower fire in which 72 people died, including Disabled people, the Government has still not implemented the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations relating to the safety of Disabled people in …more