WEST HERTFORDSHIRE BRANCH YEARBOOK AND PROGRAMME … · We fundraise to support our activities, and...
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Parkinson’s Local Adviser - Tracey Tucker - 0344 225 3779 WEST HERTFORDSHIRE BRANCH YEARBOOK AND PROGRAMME 2019-2020 INFORMATION AND HELP Website: https://parkinsons-westherts.org.uk Parkinson’s UK Registered Charity No. 258197
Transcript of WEST HERTFORDSHIRE BRANCH YEARBOOK AND PROGRAMME … · We fundraise to support our activities, and...
Parkinson’s Local Adviser - Tracey Tucker - 0344 225 3779
WEST HERTFORDSHIRE BRANCHYEARBOOK
AND PROGRAMME
2019-2020
INFORMATION AND HELP Website: https://parkinsons-westherts.org.uk
Parkinson’s UK Registered Charity No. 258197
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TABLE OF CONTENTS:
FORWARD AND WELCOME 3 THE WEST HERTFORDSHIRE BRANCH COMMITTEE MEMBERS 4 THE WEST HERTFORDSHIRE BRANCH 5 PARKINSON'S WEST HERTS MONTHLY MEETING PROGRAMME 2019/20 6 DETAILS OF MONTHLY BRANCH MEETINGS 7 OTHER EVENTS FOR YOU TO ENJOY 8
PARKINSON’S AWARENESS DAY 11TH APRIL 8 ACTIVITIES ARRANGED BY THE BRANCH 8 EXERCISE CLASSES - FOR FITNESS AND FLEXIBILITY 8 EXERCISE CLASSES IN HEMEL HEMPSTEAD 8 EXERCISE CLASSES IN ST. ALBANS 9 EXERCISE CLASSES IN WATFORD 9
DANCE 10 MOVING WITH MUSIC 10 DANCE FOR PARKINSON’S AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE 10 DANCE FOR PARKINSON'S AT WILLIAM PENN LEISURE CENTRE, RICKMANSWORTH 11 FIND YOUR VOICE 11
SOCIAL AND SUPPORT MEETINGS 12 THE BRANCH WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA 13
WEBSITE 13 A GALLERY OF THE PAST YEAR 14 TRANSPORT INFORMATION 16
TRANSPORT TO BRANCH MEETINGS AND EXERCISE CLASSES 16 WHERE TO FIND HELP 18
HELP FROM PARKINSON’S UK 18 HELP FROM THE NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE 18 HELP FROM SOCIAL SERVICES 20 CARERS’ SERVICES 21 OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES 21 DISABILITY ACCESS AND EQUIPMENT 22 OUR PARKINSON’S NURSES SAY HELLO 23
TAKING CONTROL 25 BRANCH FINANCES 26 MEETING SCHEDULE 2019-2020 28
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Forward and Welcome
FOREWORD
May I welcome you to our Branch Year Book for 2019-20. The West Hertfordshire
Branch of Parkinson’s UK covers the five local authority areas of Dacorum, Hertsmere,
Three Rivers, St Albans and Watford, run by a volunteer committee of members. We
are primarily formed of local people who either have Parkinson’s themselves or are
carers of those who have.
Within the following pages you will find details of Branch Committee members, a
programme of forthcoming monthly branch meetings, various activities and classes held
throughout our area, social and support events, together with other information that we
hope you will find beneficial and useful.
For my part it has been a year of considerable learning having previously had no
involvement with Parkinson’s. For that I am most grateful to all those I have had the
privilege and pleasure to have met and I look forward to meeting more of you in the
year ahead.
For those of you that are undecided as to whether or not to join us, do come along; you
might just enjoy it!
Keith Emmerson
Committee Chairman
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The West Hertfordshire Branch committee members
President Dr. Prasad Korlipara BSc, MB BS, MRCP (UK), PhD
Vice President Dr. Lucy Annett
Chair Keith Emmerson 01442 851235
Vice Chair Vacant
Secretary Gill Green 01727 860140
Treasurer David Jones 01923 251450
Membership Secretary Christine Hall 07811 261071
Speakers’ Secretary, Editor
Yearbook & Newsletter Ruth Herman 07798 853328
Outings, Branch Holidays & Raffles Ruth Venn 01442 399333
Website & Social Media Simon Naylor-Smith 02083 867563
Hemel Hempstead Social Group Ruth Venn 01442 399333
St. Albans Social Group David Stanfield 01727 837295
Watford Social Group Rose de Souza 01923 211612
Committee Member Janet Roberts 01727 853148
Committee Member June Pumford 07809 826360
Disclaimer: To the best of our knowledge all of the information in this yearbook
is accurate and correct but some information may change without our prior
knowledge.
Ruth Herman - Yearbook Editor
Parkinson’s UK national contact details:
Parkinson's UK
215 Vauxhall Bridge Road, London, SW1V 1EJ
www.parkinsons.org.uk
HELPLINE: 0808 800 0303
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THE WEST HERTFORDSHIRE BRANCH
The West Hertfordshire Branch of Parkinson’s UK covers five local authority areas:
Watford, St Albans, Dacorum, Three Rivers and Hertsmere, stretching from Redbourn
in the north to Elstree in the South, Tring in the West to Harpenden in the East.
The Branch is a lively and friendly one. It consists of local people who are concerned
with Parkinson’s. Most of them either have Parkinson’s themselves, or are carers of
those who have Parkinson’s. The branch committee members are all volunteers.
We are one of the largest local groups and are able to provide a range of activities to
satisfy all tastes and we have put together a range of different activities for 2019-2020.
Hopefully there is something that will appeal to you. Do try these out. There is a small
charge for some of the activities but most offer an initial session free. Many members
just like being able to meet and relax in the company of other like-minded people.
What we provide
Website: https://parkinsons-westherts.org.uk/
Twitter: @parkinsonswh
Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/PDSWestHerts/
We provide a range of activities specially designed for people with Parkinson’s.
We keep in touch with you with our Yearbook and Newsletter. We have an on-line
presence with our website and our social media with a Facebook page and Twitter feeds.
We arrange monthly lunches and twice yearly holidays. We also organise special social
events from time to time where everybody is welcome.
We work with the NHS to provide the most effective ways to treat those with
Parkinson’s
We publicise the work of Parkinson's UK and of our Branch
We fundraise to support our activities, and research into Parkinson's
How to join our Branch of Parkinson’s UK:
If you are already a member of the national society, please contact Christine Hall 07811 261071 and request membership of the Branch. You will then be added to our mailing list and receive our newsletter. When you renew your membership of Parkinson’s UK put "West Hertfordshire" in the box where it says local Branch. No fees are asked for Branch membership. If you are not a member of Parkinson’s UK, ring Christine and you will be put on our mailing for a year, but during that year we do ask you to join the national organisation. Christine has copies of the application form. Membership of Parkinson’s UK currently costs £4 per annum. Please bear in mind possible delay in processing your application.
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PARKINSON'S WEST HERTS MONTHLY MEETING
PROGRAMME 2019/20
DATE EVENT DESCRIPTION
21 February
7.00 pm
AGM
21 March
2.00 pm
Tracy Smith Parkinsons nurse for N. Herts will discuss
positivity in combating Parkinsons
18 April
2.00 pm
Dr Soumit
Singhai
Neuro psychology consultant from the Lister
hospital specialising in motor and non- motor
symptoms
16 May
7.00 pm
Nevil Kidder An insight into singing and its benefits
20 June
7.00 pm
Ays Inal Computer expert Ayse Inal will come and
demystify Social Media for the mystified.
18 July
7.00 pm
Crime spotters How to help the police help us
15 August
7.00 pm
Keith McAdam Music for My Mind. Music can help with
Dementia as this new charity is discovering
19 September
7.00 pm
Mandy
Jackson
Parkinsons nurse for West Herts talking about
going into hospital
17 October
2.00 pm
Robert
Harrington MP
(or his senior staff depending on
Parliamentary business) Making the most of
your MP.
21 November
2.00 pm
Hertswise Sam Balding will talk about the support
available from Hertswise and Age UK
19 December
12.00 pm
Christmas
Lunch
Blue Check Restaurant
2020
16 January
2.00 pm
Del Rivera Del has had Deep Brain Stimulation and will
talk about his experiences
20 February AGM AGM 7.00 pm
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Our aim is to provide a programme covering topics that interest you. If there are any
speakers or areas that you would like to see included, please let Ruth Herman know,
either at a meeting or call 07798 853328.
There is no December meeting. Instead we enjoy a Christmas Lunch. Watch the website
for details or contact Ruth Venn on 01442 399333.
DETAILS OF MONTHLY BRANCH MEETINGS
The Branch meetings are usually on the third Thursday of every month either at 2pm or
7pm. Invited speakers cover a variety of topics from research to practical ways of
living with the day-to-day challenges of Parkinson's. We encourage our speakers to be
interactive, so we hope for keen questioning from members.
Our meetings are held at
The Stanborough Centre
609 St Albans Road
Watford, Herts. WD25 9JL
There are excellent disability facilities and plentiful car parking.
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OTHER EVENTS FOR YOU TO ENJOY
PARKINSON’S AWARENESS DAY 11TH APRIL
Look out for details of activities this year to raise awareness of the condition.
ACTIVITIES ARRANGED BY THE BRANCH
The branch arranges and provides a range of different activities, which include various
forms of exercise, voice and speech sessions, movement and dancing sessions, and
outings that everyone can enjoy together.
There is something that will appeal to everyone. Do try these out if you can.
EXERCISE CLASSES - FOR FITNESS AND FLEXIBILITY
There are four sets of exercise classes held regularly in Watford, Hemel Hempstead and
St Albans. The range of exercises is specifically chosen so that those with Parkinson's
get maximum benefit. Anyone with Parkinson’s, friends and family members are
welcome. You may go to whichever class suits you, and to as many as you want. The
benefit of taking part in these classes can include:
They keep us fit and flexible
They strengthen muscles and keep us walking well, as well as helping balance.
They stop us getting into bad physical habits.
They help hearts and breathing and speech.
They are also great fun and give the members friendship and support.
EXERCISE CLASSES IN HEMEL HEMPSTEAD
Where: The Sport Centre In St. Johns Road Hemel Hempstead,
When: Thursdays, 11.00am – 12.00 noon
How much: £3.50, payable on the door.
Mobility and Balance Class
Where: Grove Hill Community Centre Henry Wells Square HP2 6BJ
When: Mondays 12.15 - 1.15
How Much: £3.50 Per Person
Contact: Ruth Venn, 01442 399333
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EXERCISE CLASSES IN ST. ALBANS
Where: Highfield Park Centre, 59 Russet Drive, St Albans AL4 ODB
When: Wednesdays, 11.15-12.30pm. Phone before 10am on the day of the class if you
plan to attend
How much: £4.00. Payable on the door
Contact: David Stanfield (01727 837295) or [email protected].
EXERCISE CLASSES IN WATFORD
Where: Woodside Leisure Centre, Horseshoe Lane, Garston, Watford WD25 7HH
When: Tuesdays, 10.30-12.00 noon
How much: £2.15, payable on the door
Contact: Mike Peaker 01923 820395
DO YOU ENJOY SWIMMING?
If so, why not join the Salmon Disabled Swimming Club
Swim every Saturday from 4-5.30pm at Westminster Lodge, St. Albans.
Annual fee £5.
Details from Chris Bowles 07956340720
www.salmon-club.org.uk
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DANCE
Music helps the brain to find new pathways to get round the blockages to movement
that are experienced in Parkinson’s. The dance classes combine dance with exercise to
develop coordination and balance, and improve cognition. The classes are designed to
be fun so there is no pressure to perform, only do what you are comfortable doing. The
real challenge is to leave a class without feeling better than when you arrived. Chatting
with friends, laughing over too many left feet and the thrill of sometimes getting it
right make these classes unmissable. For general information on the benefits of dance
go to danceforparkinsonsuk.org
MOVING WITH MUSIC
This class is run by Lucy and Sarah, both qualified ballet teachers who also teach a
whole range of other dance styles. It is supported by the West Hertfordshire Branch of
Parkinson’s UK. All of the exercises are choreographed and often linked to storytelling
and expression.
Where: Greenwood Park Community Centre,
Tippendell Lane, Chiswell Green, St Albans, AL2 3HW
When: Weekly during term time, Tuesdays 11.45-13.15.
How much: £5 per session, pay on the door.
Dates can change so don’t forget to check that the class is running on the specified
date if you want to come. For further information contact David Stanfield on 01727
837295 or email [email protected]..
DANCE FOR PARKINSON’S AT THE UNIVERSITY OF HERTFORDSHIRE
The Dance for Parkinson’s classes are a fun way to keep those muscles moving and also
enjoy a cup of tea and a biscuit when you relax afterwards.
This is not Strictly with gruelling routines and fearless lifts and spins. The hour long
class is run by Meryl Kiddier, an experienced Ballroom and Latin teacher, and organised
by the branch in collaboration with the Dance Psychology team at the University of
Hertfordshire. The class is suitable for a range of abilities, and more importantly, no
dance experience is necessary. After each session there are tea and biscuits and we all
sit and have a chat.
The classes run every Friday morning during term time, 11am - 1pm, on the de Havilland
Campus at the University of Hertfordshire. Each session is £7, including refreshments
and bringing someone along (such as a partner). No booking in advance needed, just
come along. First time attending the class? Join us and enjoy the dance.
Contact us by Email: [email protected] or the branch website.
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DANCE FOR PARKINSON'S AT WILLIAM PENN LEISURE CENTRE,
RICKMANSWORTH
This is a joint dance for Parkinson's initiative between Three Rivers District Council
and the JK Dance Academy.
Where: William Penn Leisure Centre, Shepherd's Lane, Rickmansworth WD3 8JN
When: Weekly sessions on Thursdays during term-time at 12.30 pm
How much: £3 per session and carers go free. The idea is that you can just turn up on
the day. However, it would be worth checking on 01923 776611 to confirm that the
classes are running on the day you want to go.
If you would like more information on these dance classes, call 01923 776611.
FIND YOUR VOICE
Find Your Voice is a singing class that exercises the voice, lungs, and brain. People with
Parkinson's often develop problems with their speech, and singing can help increase the
volume and range of the voice, as well as improving articulation, breathing, and posture.
Classes start with a vocal and mental warm-up, followed by the singing of well-known
songs from different eras and musical genres.
Where: Greenwood Park Community Centre, Tippendell Lane, Chiswell Green,
St Albans, AL2 3HW
When: Usually first and third Fridays in the month, 12.15 to 1.45 pm.
Dates: Check on the Parkinsons West Herts website
How much: £2.00 per session, pay on the door.
Dates can change so don’t forget to check that the class is running on the specified
date if you want to come. For further information contact David Stanfield on 01727
837295 or email [email protected]..
THE LOUD CROWD
The Loud Crowd is a ‘Self Help’ speech group open to anyone with a speech difficulty
linked to Parkinson’s; following an assessment by a Speech & Language Therapist.
They will live in West Herts, and will want to get together with other ‘Loudies’ to
practice and to support each other.
The Loud Crowd is now more varied, as people with speech difficulties due to
Parkinson’s can ask to join following advice from a Speech Therapist. Supporting and
motivating each other can bring plenty of fun and creativity into keeping up the practice.
Where: Greenwood Park Community Centre in St Albans.
When: 2nd Monday of each month, from 2.00 p.m to 4.00 p.m
See the website for more details.
For any queries, contact Anna Farrer on 01442 212426 or email
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Social and Support Meetings
Hemel Hempstead Social and Support Meetings
There is a Monday Morning Get Together and Activities Group in Hemel Hempstead.
The group meets twice a month for coffee, refreshments, board games, indoor curling,
Nintendo Wii and more. All are welcome: people with Parkinson’s, carers and friends
and family.
Where: Grove Hill, Community Centre, Henry Wells Square, Hemel Hempstead HP2
6BJ.
When: 2nd and 4th Monday in the month 10.30am – 12.00
How much: £2.00, payable on the door.
For more information contact Ruth Venn on 01442 399333
St Albans Social and Support Meetings
These are usually held on the last Monday of the month but please check the dates for
exceptions. Each month there will be a topic of interest, education or entertainment
followed by time to exchange news, relax and chat over refreshments. Any member of
the Branch and any person with Parkinson’s and their friends or family will be very
welcome.
Where: YMCA Highfield Park Centre, 59 Russet Drive, St Albans, AL4 0DB.
When: Last Monday in the month 1.45 – 3.45pm.
No meeting in December.
For more information contact David Stanfield on 01727 837295
or email [email protected].
Watford Social and Support Meetings
This group meets once a month for coffee, chat, information exchange, mutual support
and fun activities! All people with Parkinson's, their families, carers, and friends are
very welcome.
Where: Asda Community Room, Asda superstore, St Albans Road, Watford (near the
rear of the store opposite the customer service desk).
When: On the 2nd Friday of the month 10.30 - 12.30pm.
For more information, contact Rose de Souza on 01923 211612 or email
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The Branch Website and Social Media
WEBSITE
The website is a wealth of information and combined with Facebook and Twitter keeps
you up-to-date with events, branch meetings and news.
The website adjusts to fit your screen size, so if you have a mobile phone or iPad you
will notice that the menu button moves to the top right hand side of the screen. If you
scroll down the homepage you will see sections to easily access more information about
activities, meetings, calendar events, exercise classes and help pages. The calendar
image links directly to the current month, so click on it to see upcoming events.
Towards the bottom of the
homepage there is a section
for Latest News and Events.
This will show any recent
posts, so click on it to read
the full article. If you would
like to get involved, send
photos or write an article on
the website just drop me an
email.
Facebook and Twitter
Social media is a great way
to keep informed about the
latest news. I share articles of
interest to our members and
people with Parkinson’s.
Similarly, I retweet news
about developments and events on Twitter.
Web: http://parkinsons-westherts.org.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ParkinsonsWestHerts
Twitter: @parkinsonswh
Email: [email protected]
Simon Naylor-Smith
Website & Social Media
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A gallery of the past year
Clockwise: Occupational Therapists; Dr Will Young; Fundraising at Waitrose;
Santa and Ruth Venn; The Chair and the Mayor; Audrey Naylor’s Garden;
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Clockwise: Quiz night; Darcey Bussell teaches John the waltz; Christmas Lunch in
Turkey and Tinsel; Dancing at Hatfield; Janet takes part in film for Parkinsons UK;
Support group in Watford
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TRANSPORT INFORMATION
TRANSPORT TO BRANCH MEETINGS AND EXERCISE CLASSES
If you need help getting to the Branch Meetings, Exercise Classes or to any of
the social and support meetings, the Herts County Council website gives
useful guidance on what is currently available at www.hertfordshire.gov.uk
Some of the options that you can use are outlined in this section.
Transport Options when you can’t drive
Had to recently give up driving and don’t have anyone to give you a lift?
There are various options open to you other than just getting taxis or struggling
with buses. Here’s a reminder of some of them. You can find more details
about many of these via the Herts County Council Website
www.hertfordshire.gov.uk
Dial a Ride – is available to residents of Hertfordshire who have a permanent
disability. They can provide a door to door service between the hours of 9 am
and 4.30 pm and for each person they charge £1.90 for the first mile and 45p per
mile thereafter. You can ring 01992 556771 to register.
Community Car Schemes
There are a number of other local community car schemes around the area who
provide volunteer drivers to provide a door to door service for local people who
are elderly /disabled and who charge just running/petrol costs per mile for
example:
Watford Community Car Scheme 01923 216955.
Bushey and Oxhey Care : 0208 950 3330
Hertsmere Community Transport 020 8207 5055
Community Action Dacorum Community Transport service 01442
212888
Non-Emergency Patient Transport: Call 03300 535695 8am to 8pm
Monday to Friday for advice and information about transport to
Hospital or Health appointments
Taxi Vouchers for St Albans Residents – available from St Albans District
Council for St Albans City and District resident who have a permanent disability
but do not have regular access to a car.
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Bus Pass
Bus passes are available for older persons who have reached the state pension
age for women (even if you are a man!) and there is also a disabled persons’ bus
pass if you meet certain criteria. You can apply via www.hertfordshire.gov.uk
or call 0300 123 4050. Application packs are also available from your local
library or district/borough council office.
Branch Taxi Fund
The Branch can assist with the cost of a taxi for you to attend a Branch activity,
if you are unable to find transport elsewhere. However, members who request
help with the cost of transport should first check whether assistance is available
from Herts County Council or any of the other sources listed in the Transport
section of the Branch Yearbook. If help is not available from elsewhere,
members may apply for a transport subsidy. Requests for a subsidy can be made
by speaking to any member of the Committee. Committee members may
authorise and pay travel expenses, but they should notify the treasurer
accordingly and receipts should be provided. In all cases the amount claimed
must be reasonable.
Blue Badge Parking Scheme
Those who have disabilities can apply for a Parking Scheme Blue Badge. You
can use the badge not only in your own car but also if you are being given a lift
in someone else's car. Ring Health & Community Services on 0300 1234042 for
an application form or to renew an existing badge. Alternatively, you can
download an application form from the Herts County Council web site
www.hertfordshire.gov.uk
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WHERE TO FIND HELP
HELP FROM PARKINSON’S UK
Parkinson’s UK Helpline
Phone 0808 800 0303 or email: [email protected]. Expert nurses and helpline
staff can provide impartial information about all aspects of Parkinson’s, including the
taking of medications and claiming benefits. You can call them for free from Monday
to Friday 9am to 7pm, and on Saturday from 10am to 2pm.
Parkinson’s UK Information Resources
Parkinson’s UK have a huge range of free booklets, DVDs and fact sheets about all
aspects of Parkinson’s. These can be downloaded directly from their website
www.parkinsons.org.uk. Alternatively paper copies can be ordered by calling 0845 121
2354 or emailing them at [email protected]
Parkinson’s Local Adviser
Our Parkinson’s Local Adviser is Tracey Tucker, who covers West Hertfordshire. She
can provide confidential one-to-one information and signpost people to local services.
She can also give assistance in completing forms, if you need it. To contact Tracey, you
can phone on 0344 225 3779 or email her at [email protected]
HELP FROM THE NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE
Your GP
Your first point of contact for repeat prescriptions and concerns about your general
health. They can also make referrals for any appropriate clinician or service, such as
dietitians, speech-therapists, continence-nurses and counselling as well as District
nurses.
NHS 111 Service
Dial 111 for urgent but not emergency medical enquiries and for GP out-of-hours
service.
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The Hertfordshire Neurological Service
Based in Langley House, 696-698 St. Albans Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD25
9FG. There are two Parkinson’s Specialist Nurse based here together with
physiotherapists, occupational therapists, a dietician and a clinical psychologist who are
all experienced in dealing with the needs of people with Parkinson’s. Call 01923 299100
for enquiries if you have been seen before. If you have not been seen before please ask
your GP or other health professional to refer you there.
See page 23 for a brief article written by Helen Newstead with an update on the nursing
service provided by Langley House.
The Neurological Service also runs a Self-Management Programme that can be a very
efficient way of getting information to help you manage and plan how you deal with the
shock of diagnosis and then any physical, emotional or practical issues that might arise.
STABLE (Staying Active with Big Limb Exercises)
The Herts Neurological Service also provide this programme aimed at improving
movement and flexibility. It is run on a group basis with 8-10 people at a time, once a
week over an eight week period and is run jointly by physiotherapists and Occupational
Therapists.
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) for Herts Community NHS Trust
(HCT)
PALS provides an informal and confidential service to help respond to concerns or
complaints that you may have about the services provided by HCT – who run the
Hertfordshire Neurological Service. You can contact them on 0800 011 6113 or email
them at [email protected].
WEST HERTS HOSPITAL TRUST
(Watford General, Hemel and St Albans Hospitals)
The Hospital Trust now also has a Parkinson’s Specialist Nurse, Mandy Jackson who
sees both inpatients and outpatients. See page 24 for a brief article written by Mandy
with an update on the work that she does.
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HELP FROM SOCIAL SERVICES
Adult Care Services (ACS)
Call 0300 123 4042 to request an assessment for:
Equipment and adaptations to the home
Care package – day visits by carers e.g. help with showering or dressing
Day Care Centres
Respite care
Home finder service to source places in care homes
Carer’s assessment and carer’s grants
N.B. Some services are subject to financial assessment
Herts Help
A county-wide single point of access to listen and support you to find the help you need
and put you in touch with organisations that can help. To contact them, telephone 0300
123 4044 or [email protected] Provides information on services available and
coordinates referrals to the Community Navigator scheme for face to face support.
Herts Help Hospital Service
A new service, now provided through Herts Help, specifically aimed at providing
practical and emotional support to people being discharged from Hospital. They provide
short term support and care at home and help to find longer term support services. Same
number as above – 0300 123 4044.
Disability Benefits
Attendance Allowance (for those over pension age) and Personal Independence
Payment (for those under pension age) – these are non-income-related benefits payable
to people with a disability. For forms and enquiries call:
Attendance Allowance: 0800 731 0122
Personal Independence Payment: 0800 917 2222 (new claims)
0800 121 4433 (enquiries)
Carer's Allowance 0800 7310297
Eligibility for Carer's Allowance is complex – seek advice from Parkinson’s Local
Adviser Tracey Tucker or Citizen’s Advice before claiming. If you are not eligible for
Carer’s Allowance you may qualify for Carer’s Credit which will prevent gaps in your
National Insurance record.
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CARERS’ SERVICES
Carers in Herts: 01992 586969 provides information to carers and runs workshops,
regular meetings and a Carers’ Passport discount scheme. www.carersinherts.org.uk.
E-mail: [email protected]
The Red House, 119 Fore Street, Hertford SG14 1AX
Breakaway for Carers: 01442 454280 free sitting service to provide a break for carers
in Dacorum. St Albans and Watford. Check
Crossroads Care: Dacorum and St Albans 01462 455578; Watford, Three Rivers and
Hertsmere 0208 9051158. Free sitting to provide a break for carers.
OTHER SUPPORT SERVICES
Age UK Hertfordshire
Information Line 0300 345 3446.Offering a range of services, including hospital
discharge support, help in the home, a handy-person scheme and befriending services.
Hertswise
A new service across Hertfordshire for people living with dementia, low level memory
loss or mild cognitive impairment and their friends, families and carers. They provide
information and advice, activities and groups, one to one support and carers support
groups. Call 0300 123 4044 Mon – Fri 8am to 6pm
MIND
MIND offers mental health support, including for carers. If you are in Dacorum and
Watford/Three Rivers and Hertsmere, you should contact Herts MIND Network on
02037 273600. If you are in St Albans and Harpenden, contact MIND in Mid Herts on
01727 865070
Disability Rights UK
Disability Rights UK works to create a society where everyone with current experience
of disability or health conditions can participate equally as full citizens. Contact their
office on 0330 995 0400 from Monday to Friday, between 10.00 and 12.30pm and 1.30
and 4.00pm (not a help line), or via their website: http://www.disabilityrightsuk.org or
email [email protected].
The following helplines are recommended by Disability Rights UK
Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) – Tel: 0808 800 0082
Personal Budgets Help Line –0330 995 0404.
Citizens Advice
You may also find help by simply contacting your local Citizens Advice. Visit
www.citizensadvice.org.uk to find your local office.
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DISABILITY ACCESS AND EQUIPMENT
Herts Action on Disability
This is based at the Woodside Centre, The Commons, Welwyn Garden City, Herts,
AL7 4DD. 01707 384260 www.hadnet.org.uk. This excellent centre provides:
A showroom of equipment for all disabilities which can be tried and tested. There
is also an online shop.
Mobility centre which offers driving assessments and instruction
The Disabled Living Foundation - AskSARA
The DLF provides advice on independent living. Their helpline is 0300 999 0004 and
website is at www.livingmadeeasy.org.uk where they have a wealth of resources
including a useful online tool called AskSARA which will help guide you to find
solutions for your own particular needs.
NKS Access by Disabled People to Public Toilets
The National Key Scheme (NKS), also known as the RADAR scheme, offers
independent access by disabled people to public toilets. You can purchase a key from
various places including Age UK and Disability Rights UK (numbers above). Residents
of Watford can get one for free in the Customer Services Centre in the Town Hall
Shopmobility
Hemel Hempstead 01442 259259, Watford 01923 211020, St Albans 01727 819339
Wheelchair Provision
Hertfordshire Wheelchair Service, Welwyn Garden City 0333 2340303. You can be
referred for an assessment for the provision of a free wheelchair by your GP or other
Healthcare professional.
The Red Cross can provide a free wheelchair loan for a temporary period of up to 12
weeks. Visit their website www.redcross.org.uk or call 0344 871 1111 (Monday to
Friday 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.) for your nearest centre.
23
OUR PARKINSON’S NURSES SAY HELLO
Helen Newstead and Louise Bradburn
Hello, Welcome to the West Herts Parkinson’s Nurse Community Team. A lot has
changed in the service in the last year. After working on my own for a period of time
covering the entire community patient caseload for the county I have now been joined
by Tracey Edgar and Louise Bradburn.
Some of you may have met Tracey in the last year, unfortunately she was only on loan
from East and North Herts and once Louise is up to speed she will be returning to her
own patch, I appreciate all that she has done this year and without her support, we
would not be where we are now with a significantly reduced waiting list. Last year
Mandy Jackson moved from community Parkinson’s nursing to become the Watford
General Parkinson’s Nurse and some of you may have encountered her on the hospital
wards or in her clinics run at Watford, Hemel and St Albans.
So with the West Herts Community Team now at full strength (albeit a little more
training) we hope to be offering the following for our community patients.
Clinics run at Langley House on a Monday and Wednesday by appointment only with
me, and hopefully later this year in St Albans. Louise will be able to offer home visits
to people who are truly housebound or patients that are currently in residential and
nursing homes. Telephone support and self-referral for an appointment or home visit
can be obtained by contacting Langley House on 01923 299100. Please note when
calling the service that there can be up to a three working day response as Louise and I
will be with other patients, either in clinic or in the community. We do ask that you
only access one Parkinson’s Nurse Service at a time, so if you are accessing Mandy’s
service in the hospital bases for clinic appointments then please contact Mandy for
support and follow up. Always remember your GP remains your first port of call if
you are unwell.
So here’s to a New Year of Parkinson’s Nursing.
Helen
24
Hello, I am Mandy Jackson the Parkinson’s Specialist nurse for West Herts Hospital
NHS Trust, which manages Watford, Hemel and St Albans hospitals.
I have been working hard Since September 2017 setting up the service.
My role is split into two, seeing all inpatients that have Parkinson’s and seeing out
patients in clinic and then following them up regularly, if needed.
Firstly, my aim is to make sure that any person that has Parkinson’s who is admitted as
an inpatient to Watford General gets their medication on time, every time which can
be a problem! Any one that has a diagnosis of Parkinson’s should be referred to me on
admission to the hospital. I check that their Parkinson’s medication is prescribed as
they take it at home. I label the medication chart with a GIOT (Get it on Time) sticker
and ask the nursing staff to put the times the person takes their medication on the
nursing hand over and make the staff aware of the importance of this.
I hold three Parkinson’s nurse led clinics a week, at Watford, St Albans and Hemel
Hempstead Hospitals. These clinics are for people with Parkinson’s who are under the
care of a neurologist in the Trust. I see people in between their appointments with their
neurologist, so that they get seen a lot more regularly.
My clinic appointments are one hour long. I am there to give advice, if needed, about
everyday things that will help improve an individual’s quality of life. I also make a lot
of referrals to different services that someone with Parkinson’s may need, such as
Wellbeing, bladder and bowel service, physiotherapy, speech and language therapists,
and of course to Parkinson’s UK.
If you are under the care of a neurologist at West Herts NHS trust you can self-refer by
either telephone or email. My contact details are mobile 07388 376012 or email
Finally, I would like to say that I absolutely love my role as Parkinson’s Specialist
nurse and I am passionate about helping people with Parkinson’s making sure that they
get the best possible care and advice, either as inpatients or out patients. I am here to
help.
Mandy
25
TAKING CONTROL
The West Herts Branch –
Helping you to help yourself
Helping us to help each other
Self-management is an important part of living well with Parkinson’s. With
growing demands on the NHS and sometimes long waiting times for referrals,
it is important that, where we can, we take control of facing the challenges of
life with Parkinson’s. There are self-management courses all run locally
which give us the tools and information to set our own priorities make
informed choices about our care.
Physiotherapists are overstretched and there are long waits for appointments
and treatments. We can’t wait and so it’s important to build our own fitness
and flexibility routine into our week. To help you do this, the local branch
supports a variety of ‘classes’ based around the needs of people with
Parkinson’s and hopefully with something for everyone.
Why not sign up for a local Parkinson’s exercise group with a Parkinson’s
trained teacher. If you are a bit unsteady on your feet a chair yoga class might
be right for you. If you are a little more nimble you might enjoy Moving with
Music or Dance for Parkinson’s. While you only had a few sessions with the
speech therapist you could keep up your voice exercises at Find Your Voice
or The Loud Crowd.
26
BRANCH FINANCES
The branch accounts are managed in accordance with Parkinson’s UK rules and
also comply with Charity Commission regulations. They are audited when
required. Money is raised by direct fundraising and quite large amounts come
from donated sources such as in memoriam collections. Our supporters raise
money from sponsored events. In addition, quite large institutions such as
supermarkets help us by allowing collections on their premises. We have
collecting tins placed in premises such as hotels which continue to raise useful
amounts. We run regular raffles which raise a significant amount towards our
assets.
We make a charge for most of our activities but this is kept to an affordable level
by subsidies from the group central funds. The holiday events receive help
towards their cost. We run social events which are enjoyed by those attending
and these generally yield useful amounts for our other activities. The whole day
collections at supermarkets and other businesses yield significant amounts for
our central funds but these take a lot effort from a small group of dedicated
supporters. More help would be gratefully received.
If a donation is made by cheque it is important to use the full title of the branch
in the payee line: "West Hertfordshire Branch Parkinson's UK" ("West
Herts. Parkinson's" is usually accepted) as otherwise the money will go to
Parkinson's UK rather than to local funds. The cheques should be passed to the
branch treasurer at meetings or you can telephone 01923 251450 to obtain a
postal address.
Alternatively, you can donate direct to the branch account at:
Barclays Bank, High Street, Watford
Account number: 10687251 Sort code: 20-91-79
The treasurer can also be contacted by E-mail:
David Jones - Treasurer
27
Many Thanks
Throughout 2018 our branch has received a lot of support from
individuals, organizations and our own members. It is quite humbling to
see the breadth of support from individuals and institutions. A small
selection is shown below.
The customers and staff of Waitrose Berkhamsted
The customers and staff of Tesco Hemel Hempstead and Tring
The ASDA foundation
The members of Potton End Church and St Thomas’ URC
The customers and staff of the Midland Hotel Hemel Hempstead
The University of Hertfordshire
Audrey Naylor for opening her garden, June and Graham Pumford
Abbots Langley Cricket Club
Philip Hobbs, Charlotte Lawson and Fleetville Harmony for their
fund-raising efforts
Mandy Jackson (Parkinson’s Nurse) who ran the marathon
The family and friends of the late Betty Potton, Roger Fudge,
David Rance, Pasquale Volpe, Mike Godfrey, Peter Cook.
David Jones - Treasurer
28
MEETING SCHEDULE 2019-2020
21 March
2.00 pm Tracy
Smith Parkinsons nurse for N. Herts will talk about
the positivity in combating PD
18 April
2.00 pm
Dr Soumit
Singhai
Neuro psychology consultant from the Lister
hospital specialising in motor and non- motor
symptoms 16 May
7.00 pm
Nevil
Kidder
An insight into singing and its benefits
20 June
7.00 pm
Ays Inal Computer expert Ayse Inal will come and
demystify Social Media for the mystified.
18 July 18
7.00 pm
Crime
Spotters
How to help the police help us
15 August
7.00 pm
Keith
McAdam
Music for My Mind. Music can help with
Dementia as this new charity is discovering 19 September
7.00 pm
Mandy
Jackson
Parkinsons nurse for West Herts talking
about going into hospital 17 October
2.00 pm
Robert
Harrington
MP
(or his senior staff depending on
Parliamentary business) Making the most of
your MP. 21 November
2.00 pm
Hertswise Sam Balding will talk about the support
available from Hertswise and Age UK
19 December
12.00 pm
Christmas
Lunch
Blue Check Restaurant
2020
16 January
2.00 pm
Del Rivera Del has had Deep Brain Stimulation and will
talk about his experiences 20 February
7.00 pm
AGM AGM
Our aim is to provide a programme covering topics that interest you. If there are
any speakers or areas that you would like to see included, please let Ruth Herman
know, either at a meeting or call 07798 853328.
