Latest News

To help more people across the country access peer-led support, the organisation Arthritis Action are now running virtual meetings over the online platform Zoom. During these meetings, you will get the opportunity to share your …more

Have your say on the transformational proposals to provide improvements to Halifax Railway Station. Calderdale Council, in partnership with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, is working to provide improvements to Halifax …more

People in England listed as clinically extremely vulnerable, will begin receiving offers of a coronavirus vaccine this week, alongside people aged 70 and over. Many people with disabilities fall into the groups set to receive the …more

Healthy Minds Calderdale are putting together a series of informative, helpful workshops, designed to assist during the challenging times we’re facing. Their workshops happen over zoom and give the opportunity for all …more

The Cabinet Office, on behalf of the Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, is seeking fourteen new Disability and Access Ambassadors to help to ensure businesses are doing all they can to support their disabled …more

Morrisons continue to offer a doorstep deliver service for people who are self isolating: Their Doorstep Delivery service available to anyone who’s self-isolating, to help them get the groceries they need. Whether …more

Here is a selection of the Government’s latest advice and information on the Covid-19 vaccination. COVID-19 vaccination programme Selection of Documents relating to the new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination programme. …more

There are now many translations available of the recently updated letter from the government to people who are clinically extremely vulnerable. The letter offers a range of advice, information and suggested support sources: View …more

Guidance on shielding and protecting people who are clinically extremely vulnerable – British Sign Language Guidance on shielding and protecting people who are clinically extremely vulnerable – audio Published 21 …more

The Disability Unit at the Cabinet Office is developing a National Strategy for Disabled People. Publication is planned for Spring 2021. To help the Government with understanding the barriers that disabled people face and how to …more

During the lockdown in spring 2020, Active Calderdale surveyed Calderdale residents, and found that 73% of people exercised to manage their physical health and 76% to manage their mental health – it’s really important that we …more

The ACCEPT (Autism Core Capabilities Repository) project South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) are working with Health Education England on a national project to identify and share a range of approaches to …more

UK Research and Innovation have funded a new research project that is looking to find out more about the experiences of people with a learning disability of the coronavirus pandemic. This research is being led by Professor …more

In Calderdale parents and carers have been asking for advice, support and signposting to emotional health and wellbeing support for their children and young people.  In response to that demand Calderdale Council have produced a …more

Our friend Karen Graham, Service Manager at Lead the Way has been in touch with something for our TV diaries. A documentary featuring her son Daniel, is to be broadcast next week. It’s called: “Targeted: the truth about …more

Andrew Pollard has been leading the Oxford vaccine clinical trials in the UK, Brazil, and South Africa. He tells Elisabeth Mahase how the Oxford vaccine came to be, how dosing was worked out, and whether it will stand up to the …more

Do you live with chronic pain or have a long term health condition? This step by step 8 week course from Healthy Minds is designed to help you live a joyful and fulfilling life by lightening the load of living with pain so it …more

Become a Voice for your Community VAC, in partnership with Calderdale Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), offers free training for local people to become Engagement Champions and help people who are seldom heard to have a say …more

The Green Doctors visit around 2000 homes each year across the Yorkshire and North East regions. We help households to save between £100 – 1000 per year on their energy bills through switching and increased energy …more

Here’s the latest newsletter of the British Polio Fellowship – it’s a good insight into their work and the services they can offer – visit their website here: https://www.britishpolio.org.uk Dear Member, I …more

Despite claims that there is not enough evidence that vitamin D supplements protect people against Covid-19, everyone is still advised to take a daily supplement this winter to keep bones and muscles healthy. Free supplements are …more

Government advice on face coverings: When to wear a face covering 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 …more

Not all disabilities are visible – some are not immediately obvious, such as autism, chronic pain, dementia, anxiety, visual or hearing impairment. Living with a hidden disability can make daily life more demanding for many …more

The website lovemoney.com has produced a really useful update on the latest rules, restrictions etc at English supermarkets. Read the full article here. Aldi Stores are usually open up to 10pm every day except for Sundays, when …more

The Government has publishes plans for the largest vaccination programme in British history. At least 2 million vaccinations per week with over 2,700 vaccine sites across the UK Over 200,000 offers of non-clinical support from …more

Here’s an upbeat video from the local NHS reminding us to look after ourselves and to make the best of the New Year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73GIT0qvEuo Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading...…more

This government guidance is for volunteers and those receiving support from volunteers. Part 1 – Giving Support to Others The most important thing you can do to fight coronavirus is to follow social distancing guidance. …more

UK wide support for jobs We have extended the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme until the end of April 2021. The government will cover the cost of 80 per cent of the wages of furloughed employees for hours not worked – employers …more

for those of you interested in background info on the Coronavirus pandemic, here are the government’s Technical briefing documents on novel SARS-CoV-2 variant. Published 21 December 2020 and Last updated 8 January 2021 …more

Part 1 – Letter Important advice for clinically extremely vulnerable people during the national lockdown On 4 January 2021, the Prime Minister announced a new national lockdown to help tackle the high and rising cases of …more

This statement was released by the Vaccine Deployment Minister Nadhim Zahawi on Sunday 10 January 2021 and it outlines the plans to step up vaccine deployment in the UK in the coming weeks and months. Britons will again be …more

This collection of videos during lockdown 2021 comes from the online magazine for people with disabilities, Disability Horizons. The lockdown means that a lot of us are inevitably getting less exercise. But there are so many …more

This collection of FREE things to keep you entertained during lockdown 2021 comes from the online magazine for people with disabilities, Disability Horizons. With the new lockdown in place across the UK, they’ve headed into …more

Support is in place for Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV) individuals, who must follow separate shielding guidance during the national lockdown. If you’re in this group, you will previously have: Received a letter from …more

On 30 December the four UK chief medical officers announced that the second doses of the covid vaccines should be given towards the end of 12 weeks rather than in the previously recommended 3-4 weeks. BMJ journalists Gareth …more

Here are links to a couple of interesting Government reports into the prioritisation of Coronavirus vaccination Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation: advice on priority groups for Covid-19 vaccination, 30 December 2020 …more

This is the latest release from OFCOM detailing some of the main Coronavirus scam calls and texts currently circulating. 08 January 2021 We have received reports of scam calls and texts relating to the coronavirus, or Covid-19. …more

Due to the current lockdown, services on offer in our libraries have been scaled down. Central Library will continue to open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm. Brighouse, King Cross, Hebden Bridge and Todmorden libraries will …more

NHS Calderdale have announced that more care home residents and vulnerable people in Calderdale will be offered protection against Covid-19, as the new Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine starts to be rolled out to GP-centres. …more

7 January 2021 This is an update circulated to Calderdale’s “Covid-Champions”, people in the community selected to share important information about the pandemic in the local area. General Situation with Covid …more

January is a hard time for many of us and as we face our 3rd National Lockdown people may be struggling more than ever. As dark nights and shivery mornings become the norm Staying Well want to reiterate that no one needs to feel …more

Fraudsters are sending out fake texts offering a Covid vaccine in an attempt to steal personal and financial information, police have warned. Derbyshire Constabulary says that the text offers a link to an “extremely …more

On 30 December the four UK chief medical officers announced that the second doses of the covid vaccines should be given towards the end of 12 weeks rather than in the previously recommended 3-4 weeks. The BMJ’s Gareth …more

So what can you do to keep moving and be active during lockdown. Active Calderdale have put together this advice which might help. At home – You can exercise as much as you like in your own home alone or with your …more

With a third period of lockdown now underway, Calderdale Council continue to offer support to vulnerable people, including those who are shielding again. For all volunteers support enquiries or for any other social care support, …more

The Government has advised all those who are clinically vulnerable and who have previously shielded that they should resume shielding as part of the National Lockdown that commenced on Tuesday 5 January 2021. As yet, the …more

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on 4 January 2021, only children of critical workers and vulnerable children and young people should attend school or college. All other pupils and students will receive remote …more

Do you love to sing? Virtually Well Sung is a new online community singing group that starts on the 15th of January for 8 weeks and you are welcome to join! There are no auditions, no previous experience is needed and you …more

Help the Tourette’s community by signing their petition for better care for those with the syndrome across the council? The more signatures the more likely we (as in the Tourette’s community) are going to get noticed. …more

Calderdale Council have secured additional funding to help families receiving Free School meals, Housing Benefit or Council tax reduction with bills and food over the months of January and February. The Winter Grant is supplied …more

It’s good to see that Community Transport Calderdale are still offering their excellent service around the area – here’s what they posted on their Facebook accountn yesterday – they come highly …more

This is the Government’s advice on what we can and can’t do during the third national Coronavirus lockdown in England, commencing 5 January 2021. It’s a long and detailed document, but there is a shorter summary …more

The Government is seeking fourteen new Disability and Access Ambassadors to help to ensure businesses are doing all they can to support their disabled customers. They will join existing Ambassadors who have been helping industry …more

This is Information for eligible adults on COVID-19 vaccination, published by Public Health England Documents COVID-19 vaccination: guide for older adults COVID-19 vaccination: guide for older adults leaflet (print version) …more

The Government has extended the information available about Tier 3: Very High alert restrictions, which currently apply in Calderdale, to include Arabic, Bengali, Gujarati, Hindi, Persian, Polish, Punjabi, Punjabi Shahmukhi, …more

The first UK patients received the Oxford University/AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine on the morning of 4 January 2021. This is the Government’s own press release covering the news: The NHS is the first health service in the …more

“Unequal impact? Coronavirus, disability and access to services” is a new Government report that looks at how the pandemic has affected people with disabilities. We’ve published the introduction below, but you …more

Calderdale Council have secured additional funding to help families receiving Free School meals, Housing Benefit or Council tax reduction with bills and food over the months of January and February. A letter has been sent from …more

Many places in the country are moving into a higher tier on December 31st to control the spread of COVID-19. However, Calderdale will remain in Tier 3 for the time being. We continue to need to do the simple things well to …more

Yasmeen Akhtar, Service Manager – Adult Social Work, has written to us with the outcomes of the recent Consultation on Equitable Charging in Community Care, which we shared with our readers a few months ago: As promised I …more

Originally published on the BMJ website – written by Elisabeth Mahase Author affiliations The new SARS-CoV-2 variant has evoked scenes reminiscent of the early days of covid-19 when much of the world banned travel to and …more

Covid 19 Grab and Go sheet, ‘Be Health Aware’ sessions and more! Self-advocacy specialists Speakup give people with learning disabilities and autistic people a voice, employment opportunities and makes sure that they are valued …more

The Government’s Access to Work grant scheme provides support to help people with disabilities or health conditions start or stay in work. The support offered is based on individual needs, and could include a grant to help …more

We’ve just published a print version of our 2019-20 annual report. It also includes our interim report into our response to the pandemic. You can view and download a pdf version of the report here Share …more

20/12/2020 – an update distributed to local councillors by Calderdale Council This has been another significant week in our response to the pandemic. It began with the wonderful moment that Resham Bi from Halifax became the …more

Contents Meeting friends and family Visiting bars, pubs and restaurants Visiting churches and other places of worship Visiting shops and Christmas markets Attending events, including performances and Christmas lighting ceremonies …more

Latest Government Advice – Updated 19 December 2020. 1. Forming a Christmas bubble Christmas bubbles, support bubbles and childcare bubbles are all different things and have their own specific rules. The rules on Christmas …more

Here are a range of translations of the Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family HTML Making a Christmas bubble with friends and family (large print) PDF, 207KB, 20 pages …more

The National Picture On 17th December, the Government announced that more than 137,000 people in the UK have received the first dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine in the first week of the largest vaccination programme …more

This is the December newsletter from Calderdale Council’s Libraries service: Great News, Our Hub Libraries have reopened. During the 2nd lockdown Central Library has been open for Returns & Collection of pre-ordered …more

Tis the season to be cautious. The flyer available to download below highlights some of the more prominent scams to look out for. Download the 12 scams of Christmas If you are a victim of a scam, report it to Action Fraud …more

The Coronavirus vaccine is now being rolled out in Calderdale and naturally many people have questions about the process and the vaccine itself. Below are a few key bits of information and some frequently asked questions that …more

Thursday 17 December 2020 As part of its promised review of Coronavirus restrictions in England, the UK Government has announced that Calderdale will remain in Tier 3 restrictions until the next review date (expected to be in 2 …more

Christmas is normally a time to spend with family and friends – sharing food, traditions and experiences that give us that Christmassy feeling. Covid-19 means that Christmas 2020 will be very different. But that doesn’t mean you …more

The government have released a list of approved suppliers of private testing kits for coronavirus (COVID-19). The Department of Health and Social Care have said that the private sector (non-NHS) providers published on this page …more

Activity Alliance (previously known as the English Federation of Disability Sport) join members, partners and disabled people to make active lives possible and to challenge perceptions and change the reality of disability, …more

The Victoria Theatre has teamed up with their Pantomime production company, Imagine Theatre, to bring an online Santa show into the homes of families in the borough this Christmas. Santa’s Christmas Rescue is a 35-minute live …more

Healthy Minds are offering a beginners’ Haiku Poetry Course earlier in the New Year The 3 part Zoom course will see you learn the history and art of the Haiku, how to write one well and then record yours to video which you …more

If you are due to go into hospital for a procedure, you are now required to take a COVID swab test exactly 3 days before the day of your procedure. Here’s a detailed guide to the processes you need to go through, including …more

Calderdale CCG, who commission NHS services in Calderdale, have published the advice below about the imminent roll-out of coronavirus vaccines in the area: We hope to receive supplies of the Pfizer BionTech vaccine over the next …more

Are we really all ready for this first COVID-19 jab? by: Lucy Wilis, blogger for Disability Rights UK The Covid-19: Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine announced last week, marks a new chapter in the UK’s fight against COVID-19, yet there …more

News Round-up   Bereaved families demand immediate Covid-19 inquiry In a letter organised by Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice, some of the UK’s biggest charities and traes unions have joined forces with families …more

Health chiefs, and a coalition of charities, are urging people with long-term health conditions to get the flu vaccine before the virus starts to circulate. Public Health England (PHE) analysis shows 6 in 10 deaths from flu are …more

Self-isolation is essential to reducing the spread of COVID as it breaks the chains of transmission. After reviewing the evidence, the Government has announced that is now confident that we can reduce the number of days that …more

The momentous news that the first covid-19 vaccine had been approved in the UK has prompted questions about how it was authorised and will be delivered. The BMJ spoke to experts to find out the answers How was the MHRA able to …more

Here’s a timely reminder as Christmas approaches that Calderdale Council recently wrote to everyone in Calderdale who has been identified as Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV) to make sure they know where to go if they …more

How would you like to participate in an online choir with other residents from Calderdale? Students of Calderdale College University Centre from the Performing arts degree are working on a community theatre project, wishing to …more

On 11 January the Personal Independence Payment change of circumstances form PIP2(UI) (How your disability affects you) will be replaced with a new form called the AR1UI (How your disability affects you). The new form aligns the …more

This update on the measures to fight Coronavirus in Calderdale was circulated by councillor Paul Bellenger on the Facebook page of the Greetland & Stainland COVID19 Support Group on Sunday 13th December. Paul has been great …more

Calderdale Council have announced that targeted community COVID-19 testing gets underway in Calderdale this week, with a number of schools set to receive rapid tests. Calderdale is in the highest level of restrictions to control …more

An additional 10 Community Safety Wardens have been appointed by Calderdale Council to support the COVID response and work to keep communities safe. The Council’s Community Protection Team, which consists of representatives from …more

Further advice for clinically extremely vulnerable people in Tier 1: Medium – British Sign Language Further advice for clinically extremely vulnerable people in Tier 2: High – British Sign Language Further advice for clinically …more

Guidance for clinically extremely vulnerable people and advice during the Christmas period – British Sign Language Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading...…more

CREW, the cardiac rehab people have started their walks again, which they can do so long as it’s in groups of ‘no more than 6’ – just as they had been doing before lockdown Because of this, they ask you to …more

In common with many organisations, Disability Partnership Calderdale has had to adapt its ways of working to cope with the Covid-19 pandemic. The organisation’s regular meetings are now held using video conferencing …more

Here’s Calderdale Council’s latest advice on the Coronavirus Vaccine (8 Dec 2020), which is largely focused on reassuring recipients of its safety: Calderdale Council Advice: With news about the COVID-19 vaccines …more

This is the NHS’s guidance and information about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine (view it on the NHS website). The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine is safe and effective. It gives you the best protection against …more

This is the government’s latest advice about the Coronavirus vaccine. Although nominally aimed at older people, it is also directly relevant to people who are clinically vulnerable to the virus, including many people with …more

This is how a couple of leading media outlets are reporting this important news as Coronavirus vaccinations begin to be administered in the UK: New Scientist First Pfizer/BioNTech vaccinations will be administered in the UK …more

10 luxurious and original accessible Christmas gifts and ideas Looking for that perfect gift for your disabled friend or loved one this festive season? We’ve rounded up 10 luxurious and original gifts, from high-end …more

Dear learners Enrolment is now open for our spring 2021 courses. Whether you’re looking to learn new skills, gain qualifications or start a new hobby, we have something for everyone at Calderdale Adult Learning. You can gain …more

Here’s the latest newsletter from Disability Rights UK, dated 3 December 2020 A message from our CEO Today is the International Day of People with Disabilities. This is a UN-sanctioned day to draw awareness to people with …more

December Update After what has been an extremely challenging year for everyone, we are delighted 2020 is coming to a close with some positive news about a coronavirus vaccine. There is now real hope that we will be able to …more

The Government have produced a detailed guide to how to form a bubble with friends and family over the Christmas period. We’ve reproduced it in full below. there are also a range of translations of this advice, plus an easy …more

The Disability Horizon’s online lifestyle magazine is always a good read and they have a very well tought- out online shop too. One of our favourite parts of the shop is the reviews section This week their reviewer, Zec …more

This update from the local police includes some good tips on deterring burglars, plus there’s more crime-related advice and tips below: Burglaries can increase during the longer darker nights in the autumn and winter …more

On 2 December 2020, the first COVID-19 vaccine for the UK, developed by Pfizer/BioNTech, has was given approval for use, following a thorough review carried out by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). …more

This document was published by the Government on 2 December 2020 and sets out the priority order for people to receive the Covid-19 vaccination in the UK. This is a lengthy document, but for those simply interested in the current …more

The Government has published advice for Care Homes on how to manage the visits of families of residents and how to manage meet-ups outside Care Homes for those able to manage them. Although detailed and intended primarily for …more

Ability Not Disability is a dedicated channel to provide easy to follow, inclusive fitness opportunities for adults and children with SEN/ALN. This project was designed and delivered by Community Fitness Network and Cando Hub. …more

Calderdale NHS CCG have put together this very comprehensive guide to the support you have available should you have mental health or other concerns. Feeling concerned or overwhelmed by the news around coronavirus (COVID-19) is …more

Citizens Advice Calderdale is working hard to keep people warm this winter. They are offering the following services: We want clients to create a happier, healthier home with energy saving tips. – We are seeing an average saving …more

If you’ve been keeping an eye on local Coronavirus infection rates, you will have been relieved to see that they are falling quickly, following a peak early in November. Meanwhile, we should all continue to do everything we …more

Here’s a handy poster which explains what you can and cannot do in an area in Tier 3 of local restrictions from 2 December. Calderdale is in Tier 3, so this poster applies to our area. Share this:TwitterFacebookLike …more

Here is the latest version of the letter from the government to people who are clinically extremely vulnerable. It’s full of useful advice and information on getting support. Letter to clinically extremely vulnerable people …more

We are all interested in the upcoming Coronavirus vaccines. It’s natural to feel anxious about the details of how and when we will receive the vaccine. Below is a link to a document circulated to various health …more

The latest Lead the Way e-Bulletin is out with lots of information for young people with learning disabilities and for their parents and carers. Topics covered in this edition include the flu jab and hate crime, with links to …more

This update is from Calderdale Council’s Healthy minds initiative and is focused on young people: For information, advice and signposting on emotional health and wellbeing services please go to …more

Memory Lane Cafe have been in touch with this update about their imminent re-opening: We’re delighted to announce that, after having suspended our cafes during the National Lockdown, we will reopen again in December. …more

The Department for Work and Pensions’ Attendance Allowance (AA) review processes are reverting to previous arrangements, after changes were made in response to COVID-19. The first customers to be affected will be those …more

Social Security Advisory Committee:  have the DWP’s Covid-19 support measures been effective? The Social Security Advisory Committee (SSAC) has published a detailed report reviewing the effectiveness of the temporary social …more

Our friends at ACDAF have just released their new promo postcard – download a copy here ACDAF postcard or view it below: Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading...…more

Disability Rights UK’s Get Yourself Active team have been working together with Sense and Durham University on a research project. The aim of this project has been to find out how disabled people have been staying active …more

You will be able to see how full the next bus is at hundreds of stops across West Yorkshire following an upgrade to information displays. Bus passengers using Arriva, First and Transdev services are now able to know the capacity …more

The Department of Health and Social Care’s is offering a free 4-month supply of vitamin D supplements to support general health, and in particular bone and muscle health. The offer is aimed at anyone who is clinically extremely …more

The Government has published a scientific paper on how to reduce the chances of transmitting Coronavirus whilst in your own home or the homes of other people. It’s extremely detailed, but worth a read if you want to know a …more

This is the Government’s advice on Coronavirus restrictions over the Christmas period. Some restrictions are eased (notably meeting other people in Christmas Bubbles), whilst others remain in force. Meeting friends and …more

This is the rather lengthy advice from the Government on how many people you can meet and under what circumstances, during the Christmas period. The festive period is an important time for many people of all faiths and none who …more

More Info: Christmas Restrictions / The 3-Tier System Explained From the morning of Wednesday 2 December Calderdale will be under Covid restrictions in the Tier 3 (very high alert) category for England. Here are the key points of …more

Join Happy Valley Pride for a special panel session looking at mental health from an LGBTQ+ perspective on the 2nd December from 7 – 8.15 pm on Facebook. As we approach the festive period, find more about how to improve your …more

An NHS England video exploring the flu vaccine and why you should ignore the many rumour and fake news items telling you not to take it: https://youtu.be/0NbP-G7g414 Share this:TwitterFacebookLike this:Like Loading...…more

The four Physical Impairment National Disability Sports Organisations (NDSO) have released a large selection of links and information to support community members. These are impairment specific traditional, online and video …more

Here are the key details of the Government’s planned easing of social restrictions that will allow friends and loved ones to reunite over the Christmas period and the advice they offer to help make it as safe as possible. …more

Filling up the car is one of the biggest challenges for disabled drivers. But its also a challenge for petrol stations to help, sometimes they have people available, but sometimes they are single manned and can’t help for …more

Winter 2020 Welcome to the Professional’s Update from Deafblind UK. If you have any feedback about this email, or if there is anything specific that you would like to read about then please contact us. Online training We …more

With the nights drawing in and lockdown still in place with the potential that it may be extended, more people may come to experience loneliness. According to the BBC, Lockdown loneliness has reached record levels. The numbers of …more

Emma Gavillet from Scope Starting Line services in Calderdale has been in touch – she has a Starting Line course, which shall be commencing from the beginning of January 2021. She currently has 5 spaces left on this course, …more

Local restriction tiers: what you need to know Below are details from the government of the local restriction tier system that will be in place from Wednesday 2 December, including what you can and cannot do in each tier. This …more

Later today (Monday 23 Nov), the Government is expected to announce a return to the “three tier system” when lockdown ends on 2 December. Details – What You Can Expect While parts of the tier system will be …more

On Thursday 19 November Calderdale council hosted a COVID-19 LIVE Q&A on Facebook, looking at how we can all help to bring Calderdale’s infection rate down to the national average. Below is a video recording of the full …more

Disability Rights UK weekly newsletter – Friday 20 November 2020 An invitation from our CEO Over the past few months, we have been meeting with people from across the UK. People of all ages, from all backgrounds, with all …more

Calderdale Council has written to everyone in Calderdale who has been identified as Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV) to make sure they know where to go if they need any advice and support. If you have been told by the NHS …more

This guidance is for clinically extremely vulnerable people, with additional information to help protect you from coronavirus (COVID-19). Everyone in England, including those who are clinically extremely vulnerable, is required …more

Here are links to the latest advice for people who buy care and support through a direct payment, as well as local authorities, clinical commissioning groups and those who provide care and support. Documents Guidance for local …more

Please view the following important message from Calderdale Council about controlling the spread of coronavirus. We all need to play our part in reducing the spread of the virus. There are three big things that we can all do to …more

A new short film released by the government shows how coronavirus lingers in enclosed spaces, and how to keep your home ventilated. Watch the video (no subtitles) Watch the video (with subtitles) Research shows that being in a …more

Since April Different Strokes, the charity that supports younger stroke survivors, has focused on developing new online resources.  While local groups have not been able to meet, they have continued to offer support in many other …more

A nice “good news” story emerged this week. We were recently asked by a Halifax Social Worker if we could help out one of her clients, Stella, an asylum seeker, who has mobility issues and was struggling to get …more

In August Disabled Motoring UK asked the public to help us with our Baywatch Campaign by completing a survey on their parking experiences over the past 12 months. The results have now been calculated. This year they had the …more

Are you worried about your energy bills? It’s estimated that average households will use 15% more energy during this lock-down period, and more energy usage means high bills. Citizens Advice Calderdale has an Energy Advisor ready …more

November Update Welcome to the Macular Society enewsletter. We hope you are all keeping well in what is still a very difficult time for everyone. As England goes into national lockdown and coronavirus restrictions continue to …more

Do you have diabetes? Or do any of your friends or family have diabetes? Have you heard or read anything about diabetes and Covid-19? Having diabetes does not mean you are more likely to get Covid-19. You are no more likely to …more

Here’s an interesting article from the BMJ website, which looks at the risks of falls whilst wearing a mask and looks at how best to avoid them, making some really insightful points about how we balance along the way: …more

Disability Rights UK E-News Round-up – 13/11/20 71% of disabled people believe lives adversely affected by pandemic Many disabled people are understandably proud of the work that was done by so many to secure the Disability …more

If you do need to travel on public transport, then please help protect yourself and others by following these safety guidelines: • Wear a face covering unless exempt and carry hand sanitiser • Maintain social distancing • Pay …more

This great Christmas shopping feature is from the online magazine, Disability Horizons. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas everywhere you scroll, which is a sign that it’s time to find some accessible Christmas gifts for …more

The Government has published an updated scientific paper on the role of children in transmission of COVID-19. It looks at the risks for children, young people and those they come into contact with. View on Government Website TFC: …more

Below is the content of a letter that the government has sent to clinically extremely vulnerable people, updating them on the current Coronavirus restrictions and offering a range of advice on staying safe. There are also …more

This report looks at the social impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on disabled people in Great Britain. This release uses two waves of survey results covering 24 September to 4 October 2020 and includes indicators …more

The Disability Partnership Calderdale AGM 2020 will be held at 5.30pm on Tuesday 24th November 2020 via the online ZOOM video system. Voting at the AGM is limited to members of the Disability Partnership, who will already have …more

If you are affected by any aspect of Domestic Abuse, Calderdale Staying Safe team can help. They provide free, confidential advice for anyone over 16 who lives in Calderdale and they also help put you in touch with relevant …more

It’s great to see DEX, who visited one of our open meetings last year, reaching out to provide more support. Here’s their latest communication: We at DEX think it is really important for deaf young people to be able …more

Support to Work is a free online and telephone support programme for disabled people in England and Wales, who are looking for paid work. This is not a face-to-face service, so may not be right for everyone. Eligibility Support …more

The BMJ is reporting that the NHS has published an agreement to enable general practices to start delivering a covid-19 vaccine from as early as next month. A new directed enhanced service (DES), published 10 November, says …more

This news item has just popped up on the BBC Yorkshire News Website (10/11/2020) Updated – Government announcement of the same news Rapid coronavirus tests to be rolled out in Yorkshire Priority groups are to benefit from …more

Here’s a round up of the reaction to news that a vaccine may very soon be available for Covid-19, followed by a more analytical piece by the BMJ. The BBC Who will get the vaccine first and when can you have it? Have we …more

How you can safely expand the group of people you have close contact with during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. National restrictions began in England on 5 November Find out about the new restrictions and what you can and …more

You can find out more about this topic on our Face Covering exemptions page. This is the Government’s latest advice on face coverings – the advice explains when to wear a face covering, exemptions from wearing one, …more

The latest Lead the Way eBulletin is out with helpful resources for clients and carers, organisations that can support you and information on their online sessions. Download Lead The Way November 20 eBulletin Share …more

6 November 2020 Roundup of recent DWP announcements  Universal Credit – Minimum Income Floor for the self-employed The Minimum Income Floor (MIF) for self-employed Universal Credit (UC) claimants will remain suspended until …more

This is the latest Disability Rights UK Newsletter, 09/11/2020 DR UK AGM and Annual Conference: much more than the annual reports and accounts Join us from midday until 4pm on Wednesday 25 November for our Annual General Meeting …more

The BMJ (British Medical Journal) puts out a weekly digest of its main news and articles from the previous week. It’s a good source of information if you are looking for an overview of current medical debate and opinion …more

The Great Minds project; a partnership between West Yorkshire & Harrogate Integrated Care System (ICS) and State of Mind Sport, will look to deliver initial sessions for Men of Calderdale online that will include sessions …more

Calderdale NHS have launched a very useful new “GP Appointment Hub” on their website, where you can quickly find the details of your local GP Surgery and book an appointment. Working alongside the NHS app (download …more

The disability lifestyle website Disability Horizons has published an excellent guide to the BBC’s marking of this important anniversary. One in five of us is disabled and across the programmes, disabled people will tell …more

Healthwatch Calderdale and Healthwatch Kirklees is the local, independent watchdog and a voice for people using NHS and social care services. Among its aims is to listen to the views and experiences of Calderdale and Kirklees …more

What you need to know The coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is having an impact on everyone’s daily lives, as the government and the NHS take necessary steps to manage the outbreak, reduce transmission and treat those who need …more

Would you like to find out how to save money on your energy bills? Citizens Advice Calderdale are here to help you keep yourself warm during the coming winter months. During lockdown our energy costs will increase, just as we’re …more

NHS England had produced a couple of short Flu videos for people with learning disabilities/their family/carers? There is one aimed at directly people with learning disabilities https://youtu.be/eZ1vDai8u5o   There is also …more

Here’s a good, simple poster from the Council highlighting your priorities in the prevention of the Coronavirus, released to coincide with the start of the lockdown period on 5 November 2020. Share this:TwitterFacebookLike …more

Here are the key points of the government’s advice to people who are clinically extremely vulnerable to Coronavirus during the new lockdown period, commencing 5 November 2020 – read their advice in its full form here. …more

This advice from the NHS includes a Coronavirus update. Whilst still unsure whether vitamin D can help fight or prevent the virus, it’s clearly a good idea to take a supplement for your general health during the winter …more

Important Service Update You will already know that the government has announced new national restrictions for England from this Thursday (5th November). This email is to explain what this will mean for the service offered by …more

Updated advice for November 5 Lockdown onwards Who this guidance is for? This guidance is for everyone in England who has been identified as clinically extremely vulnerable. If you are in this group, you will previously have …more

In the effort to tackle the spread of Coronavirus, as of Thursday 5th of November the whole of England will be entering new restrictions/lockdown. Once the new national restrictions have been approved by parliament, they are …more

Debs Harkins, Calderdale Council’s Director of Public Health gives us an overview of Coronavirus’s spread in the area. With an estimated 1 in 40 people in Calderdale currently with the virus, there a simple things we …more

This is the information published by the Government  on 1 November 2020, detailing the new national restrictions, including what they mean for working from home and business closures, why they are being introduced and the …more

We’re pleased to see that our friends at the Victoria Theatre have been given funding to secure their short term future – here’s what the Council’s website has to say about the award: The Victoria Theatre …more

Calderdale’s kind communities are uniting in their shared ambition to end child hunger in the borough for good. In response to national calls to extend free school meals beyond term times, organisations and individuals across …more

Worldwide more than 41 million people have now been infected with SARS-CoV-2 and over a million people have died. But what makes this virus so difficult to control, and why are some people more at risk than others? Elisabeth …more

Did you know that there are some 600 approved mental health apps available on prescription. In the past six months, prescriptions for such apps have increased by 6,500 per cent. Now, hundreds of people a day are downloading a …more

Thanks to a tip off from one of our members, Teresa, we’ve found a local supplier of lip reading masks. These are obviously a huge help if you are speaking to someone who relies on lip reading. Teresa kindly supplied an …more

International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) is held on 3 December each year. IDPwD is a United Nations’ observed day celebrated internationally. It aims to increase public awareness, understanding and acceptance of …more

Funding from the Coronavirus Community Support Fund, distributed by The National Lottery Community Fund, has helped us secure support for people in Calderdale who are at risk due to the Coronavirus. Advancement of Community …more

You can use the Calderdale Council website to get support during the Coronavirus pandemic, plus find out how to get support for someone who is vulnerable. How to get help If you or someone you know needs extra support during this …more

There’s a really useful “easy read” guide for people who are particularly vulnerable to Covid-19. It’s a great way to refresh you memory of the priorities as you go about your everyday life. Easy Read …more

The next term’s Arts and Crafts sessions by Healthy Minds are announced and you are welcome to join. No experience is necessary, just the willingness to have a go in a friendly, supportive environment. Mon 2nd Nov          …more

If you need a change of scenery and the opportunity to really relax, Sandpipers might just be the answer. The Sandpipers centre overlooks Southport’s calming Marine Lake to give you a real escape from the every day. Enjoy the …more

The University of Oxford coronavirus vaccine that is currently being trialled has been found to produce an immune response in people over the age of 55. The results are encouraging because older people are at an increased risk of …more

Mark Burns-Williamson OBE, West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has launched his latest ‘Community Conversation’ survey, inviting residents across West Yorkshire to share their views on the impact of Covid-19, police …more