The View from Where I Sit

Tag: UK

  • Bills and Benefits

    Money problems always arise while unemployed. You need a job to get work experience and you need work experience to get a job. It doesn’t make sense. Financial plans and budgeting can help you manage your money especially when in debt.

    If you are a wheelchair user facing court, The Skipton County Court is wheelchair accessible for wheelchair users. If you fall into debt while jobless and jobseeking, you can apply for benefits like:

    • Jobseekers Allowance- they help you apply for jobs too.
    • Universal Credit- you also receive assistance in applying for jobs.
    • Council Tax Reduction
    • Housing Benefit and housing advice from Horton Housing
    • Personal Independence Payment

    Organisations that give debt cancellation and Legal Advice

    • National Debtline
    • Citizens Advice Bureau
    • GOV.UK
    • Money Advice Service
    • Turn 2 Us
    • Civil Legal Aid
    • Community Legal Service Fund
    • Shelter

    These organisations can be contacted if you struggle with rent arrears or run the risk of eviction. Many folks think taking out a loan automatically tarnishes your creditworthiness. This isn’t necessarily true. If managed properly, having a loan can actually Improve Your Credit History. By showing that you can responsibly pay off debt, you’re proving to lenders that you’re a safe bet.

    https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=1d00c4ad539dad18b68ea5b991db7212f3dd345eba71a0ee9f86c2cc3b88f509JmltdHM9MTczNjAzNTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=30a9b117-ac51-6ec2-2315-a595ad9a6fc2&psq=does+taking+out+a+loan+help+pay+debts+or+make+it+worse%3f&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cubW9ydGdhZ2Vjb25uZWN0b3IuY28udWsvYmxvZy9kb2VzLXRha2luZy1vdXQtYS1sb2FuLWxvb2stYmFkIzp-OnRleHQ9TWFueSUyMGZvbGtzJTIwdGhpbmslMjB0YWtpbmclMjBvdXQlMjBhJTIwbG9hbiUyMGF1dG9tYXRpY2FsbHkscHJvdmluZyUyMHRvJTIwbGVuZGVycyUyMHRoYXQlMjB5b3UlMjdyZSUyMGElMjBzYWZlJTIwYmV0Lg&ntb=1

    https://purposefulplanning.co.uk/product/budget-planner-notebook/

    https://www.lloydsbank.com/legal/financial-services-compensation-scheme.html

    https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit/how-to-claim

    https://news.sky.com/story/cost-of-living-payment-households-to-start-receiving-second-grant-ahead-of-winter-12996979

    https://www.hft.org.uk/benefits-and-support/pips/

  • The Highway Code

    I just recently found out that it is illegal for wheelchair users to roam the streets without lights.

    The Highway Code is a set of information, advice, guides and mandatory rules for road users in the United Kingdom. Its objective is to promote road safety and applies to all road users including pedestrians, horse riders and cyclists, as well as motorcyclists and drivers. It gives information on road signs, road markings, vehicle markings, and road safety. The Highway Code is essential reading for everyone and aims to promote safety on the road, whilst also supporting a healthy, sustainable and efficient transport system.

    I knew that it was unsafe but I didn’t realise it was illegal. How can it be illegal if wheelchairs are not licensed vehicles? What if wheelchair users don’t have access to lights? What if they are expensive and unaffordable?

    Lights or reflectors can be purchased online through Amazon. They can also be found at any cycling store. So now that we know, let’s abide by the rules!

    https://www.highwaycodeuk.co.uk/

  • Who decides when I die?

    ASSISTED DYING BILL 2024 UK

    I am against this assisted dying . It’s legalised murder. I am completely behind Tani Grey Thompson and her views. Life is to be valued. The Bill is ungodly.

    Murder, in criminal law, is defined as the killing of one person by another that is not legally justified or excusable, usually distinguished from the crime of manslaughter by the element of malice premeditated.

    The penalty for illegal murder is capital punishment.

    Euthanasia

    Euthanasia means “a gentle and easy death.” Not a painful and screaming death.
    What is the reality in hospitals?
    • Doctors offer support systems to help patients live as active as possible until death.
    • Most doctors carry out euthanasia yet still don’t do anything for it to be legalized.

    Voluntary euthanasia sometimes called assisted suicide is where the patients have made it clear that he/she wishes to die and requests help to bring this about. There are many alternative approaches and options.

    For example:
    • People refusing medical treatment even if that treatment is required to save their life.
    • Advanced decision such as stopping the life support machine.
    • The patients refuse the attempting of resuscitation orders (CPR).

    Arguments For
    • The right of the individual to choose should be paramount. So long as the patient is articulate, and his or her intent is clear beyond doubt, there need be no further questions.
    • Many people think that each person has the right to control his or her body and life and so should be able to determine at what time, in what way and by whose hand he or she will die.
    • Human beings should be as free as possible. Unnecessary restraints on human rights are a bad thing.
    • Human beings are independent biological entities, with the right to take and carry out decisions about themselves, providing the greater good of society doesn’t prohibit this. Related to this is a firm belief that death is the end.
    • The right to life is not a right simply to exist.
    • The right to life is a right to life with minimum quality and value.
    • Death is the opposite of life, but the process of dying is part of life.
    • Dying is one of the most important events in human life.
    • Dying can be good or bad.
    • People have the right to try and make the events in their lives as good as possible, so they have the right to try to make their dying as good as possible.
    • If the dying process is hostile, people should have the right to shorten it, and reduce the excruciating discomfort.
    • If an animal had a life threatening illness, the vet thinks the kindest way to treat the animal would be to put it to sleep. Therefore if Euthanasia happens with animals then it should happen with humans too.
    • Six out of ten adults (60%) would only want comfort care at the end of their lives, although just 3% had made their treatment wishes clear in an advanced decision.
    • Fewer than two in ten people (14%) would want medical intervention- with less than one in ten (8%) people wanting full medical intervention at the end of life.
    • A survey found that a large majority (75%) of the British population think that legislation on Euthanasia should be amended to allow some degree of assisted suicide. Just over two thirds (67%) think that doctors in particular should have the legal power to end the life of a terminally ill patient who has personally given a clear indication of wanting to die.
    • This argument goes that since euthanasia will continue to take place, even though it’s illegal, it would surely be better to make it legal and regulate it to minimize abuse.
    • A Medix survey in the UK in 2004 found that 45% of doctors understood that their colleagues actively helped their patients die.
    • Vulnerable patients might be better protected than they are at present if there were set procedures and rules that had to be followed for euthanasia.
    • A patient who feared that they were under pressure to decide in favour of euthanasia would be able to gain help and support by initiating the formal procedures involved in regulated euthanasia – something that they cannot do now.
    • People have an explicit right to die.
    • A separate right to die is not necessary, because our other human rights imply the right to die
    • Death is a private matter and if there is no harm to others, the state and other people have no right to interfere
    • It is possible to regulate euthanasia.
    • Allowing people to die may free up scarce health resources.
    • Euthanasia happens anyway.
    • Euthanasia satisfies the standard that moral rules must be universal.
    • Euthanasia happens anyway.
    • Is death a bad thing?

    Arguments Against
    • Euthanasia would not only be for people who are “terminally ill.”
    • Euthanasia can become a means of health care cost containment.
    • Euthanasia will become non-voluntary.
    • Euthanasia is a rejection of the importance and value of human life.
    Dignity in Dying is a campaign that supports Euthanasia. They also have famous patrons who share their views of supporting this campaign. These patrons include Jo Brand who is a comedian, Sir Patrick Stewart who is a famous British actor.

    • Euthanasia has already been legalised in these countries:

    Oregon- 2001

    Belgium- May 2002

    Luxembourg- February 2008

    The Netherlands- 2002

    This bill contradicts the Equality Act 2010, which gives everyone the right to life. It’s all about affirming and defending human dignity, and the right to life of every human being.

    Hi, MPs voted on 29 November on an extreme Bill that, if successful, will introduce a dangerous assisted suicide law. This Bill is being rushed through Parliament. It was only published at 10pm on 11 November, giving MPs and the public barely two and half weeks to scrutinise the Bill before it goes to a vote. It’s vital that MPs hear from us now, showing that there are many who oppose this extreme and harmful change from being rushed into law – a change that would put countless vulnerable lives at risk. You can help stop this from happening by contacting your MP now using this simple tool: https://righttolife.org.uk/9ly4.

    I just emailed my MP, and it took less than 30 seconds!

    Please make sure to share with a friend after emailing your MP – every share is crucial to help us defeat this Bill.

    https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2l7m6r55do

    https://righttolife.org.uk/

    http://www.dignityindying.org.uk/assited-dying.html.

    https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/assisted-dying-bill-law-passed-mps-tanni-grey-thompson-b2656170.html?fbclid=IwY2xjawG4IglleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfpn6mIPKMva9cCa21z2w20Mm-nSiaOVg3P2wFYGhyoGX_gLvAP8gyb5Pg_aem_zRNkQNJ1C1NsVh5U4JuBoQ

    https://www.britannica.com/topic/murder-crime

  • Why do you think so many people associate mobility aids with weakness and incompetence?

    Some people see mobility aids as a sign of weakness, that people have given up. Well these people are wrong. I know for me my mobility aids are in fact aids of freedom. Just look at what I have achieved this last year and continue to do. I have and I still am exploring places I never thought possible.

    However, it may indicate dependence not independence.
    Unfortunately because they haven’t been taught better.

    I remember when I was against using an electric wheelchair in college, because it didn’t require me to use my upper body strength. I felt that the college was underestimating my strength. I thought it would make me lazy too. I absolutely love them now!

    It’s been great to have the ability to do so much more now than my body would allow.
    Unfortunately because it’s been the “norm,” and there hasn’t been a lot of awareness to prove otherwise. I always try to change people’s perspectives but there are still people who still don’t understand until it’s explained to them or they see it for themselves.

    This is the one reason I would like to start posting more, but, social media is sometimes not used for the greater good, rather than people just wanting to be “influencers.”
    It’s on because you could technically count glasses as a mobility aid.

    Alternatively, aid and glasses are usually associated with competence or being smart. In other cases, it’s a sign of high intelligence.


    Let’s flip the script and start telling able bodied peole that their legs (or other parts) must be such an obstacle for living a meaningful life.

  • Why do we need to celebrate disability twice a year?

    Disability History Month is observed in October, while Disability Pride Month takes place in July. Let’s explore the reasons behind each:

    Disability History Month (October):

    • Purpose: Disability History Month aims to raise awareness about the historical context, achievements, and challenges faced by people with disabilities.
    • Origins: It began in the United Kingdom in 2010 and has since spread to other countries. The choice of October is significant because it includes World Mental Health Day (October 10) and International Day of Disabled Persons (December 3).
    • Focus: During this month, educational institutions and organizations highlight disability-related history, activism, and advocacy. It’s an opportunity to learn about disability rights movements, legislation, and the contributions of disabled individuals.

    Disability Pride Month (July):

    • Purpose: Disability Pride Month celebrates the identity, resilience, and achievements of people with disabilities. It’s a time to embrace pride and self-acceptance.
    • Origins: Disability Pride was initially celebrated for a day in 1990 in Boston, USA, coinciding with the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. It gained recognition as a month in 2015.
    • Symbolism: The Disability Pride Flag features vibrant colors representing various disability experiences and needs. For instance:
      • Red: Physical disabilities
      • Gold: Neurodiversity
      • White: Non-visible and undiagnosed disabilities
      • Blue: Emotional and psychiatric disabilities
      • Green: Sensory disabilities
      • Charcoal background: Protests against ableism
    • Importance: Disability Pride Month promotes visibility, counters ableism, and encourages celebration within the disabled community. Allies also play a crucial role in raising awareness.

    Pride in general is in July for the LGBTQ+ community. There are different pride celebrations for different sectors within the community also which include those with disabilities. Like there’s also black pride in August for people of colour.

    Is a flag needed?

    Do you think this is patronising?

    Both months are important. Both months contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society, recognizing the diverse experiences of people with disabilities. Both months show a level of intersectionality.

     https://livingmadeeasy.org.uk/about-us/news-and-events/disability-pride-month

  • Disability Awareness and Educational Curriculum

    Do you think disability awareness should be more commonly taught in schools?

    Here are five reasons why I believe it should be part of the educational curriculum:

    1. Promotes Inclusion and Acceptance: Teaching disability awareness helps students understand and appreciate the diversity of abilities and experiences among their peers. This promotes an inclusive environment where everyone feels accepted and valued.
    2. Reduces Stigma and Prejudice: Education about disabilities can challenge and change negative stereotypes and misconceptions. By demystifying disabilities, students are less likely to develop prejudiced attitudes and are more likely to treat everyone with respect.
    3. Fosters Empathy and Compassion: Learning about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities can cultivate empathy and compassion in students. This can lead to more supportive and understanding peer relationships.
    4. Prepares Students for Real-World Diversity: The world outside of school is diverse, and students will inevitably encounter individuals with disabilities in various contexts throughout their lives. Understanding disability helps prepare students to interact positively and effectively with people of all abilities.
    5. Encourages Advocacy and Allyship: When students are educated about disability issues, they are more likely to become advocates for disability rights and allies to people with disabilities. This can lead to broader societal changes and improvements in accessibility and equality.

    This is the View from Where I Sit!!!

  • Siblings and families of disabled children

    In light of Disability Pride Month, I felt that this topic was important to share. I have found this subject to be true in my personal life and family. There are always complaints about personal hygiene and wheelchair maintenance on a daily basis. This is also challenging for the parents.

    Many disabled children have a close relationship with their siblings, but spending extra time together over the holidays can sometimes lead to difficulties between them.

    In preparation for the Summer holidays, here are some suggested ways of responding to common issues that siblings may experience — but you’ll find much more advice in our Siblings Guide. https://ow.ly/iVyW50SrMiP

    Our guide also has information about what it’s like to have a disabled sibling, sources of support for siblings who are struggling to cope, and helpful tips from parent carers who have “been there” before.

    Read more here: https://ow.ly/QM7n50SrMiO

    https://contact.org.uk/help-for-families/listening-ear/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1QnM45ArHisbgKILRn3q7bTyP4sxIufj6dpe5fOvPlVrOBfwFvjLs5_JU_aem_tkMigjz5IowHOtqQxaMcRQ

  • July is Disability Pride Month

    Did you know July is disability pride month?

    Here are eight reasons why Disability Pride Month is important and worth sharing:

    1. Celebration of Diversity: Disability Pride Month celebrates the diversity within the disabled community. It emphasizes that people with disabilities are an integral part of the community and society, contributing in varied and meaningful ways.
    2. Awareness and Education: This month raises awareness about the challenges and discrimination faced by people with disabilities. It provides an opportunity to educate others about disability rights and the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in all areas of life.
    3. Empowerment: Disability Pride Month empowers individuals with disabilities to take pride in their identity. It encourages self-acceptance and dismantles internalized ableism, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
    4. Advocacy and Change: Celebrating Disability Pride Month helps to promote advocacy and drive change. It draws attention to the need for policies that protect the rights of people with disabilities, ensuring they have equal opportunities and access to resources.
    5. Visibility and Representation: The month serves to increase the visibility and representation of people with disabilities in media, politics, and public spaces. This visibility helps to dismantle stereotypes and stigmas associated with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive society.
    6. Most of all, it makes us feel seen and heard.
    7. It boosts self esteem.
    8. I just see it as another way to amplify our voices!

    This is The View from Where I Sit!!!

  • Disability Pride Month: 10 Perks Of Being A Disabled Person

    Even though having a disability has its pressure, it isn’t all that bad. There are some benefits that come with having a disability.

    Being disabled does come with many challenges and barriers but on many occasions. It does have its benefits and advantages. This Disability Pride Month, I’m going to share 10 perks of being a disabled person.

    1. Free parking
    2. Free and discounted carer tickets
    3. Theatre touch tours
    4. Assistive technology
    5. Extra time in exams
    6. VAT exemption
    7. Free prescriptions and dental treatment
    8. Discount on TV licence
    9. Not witnessing gruesome scenes in TV/films
    10. Carrying bags on my wheelchair

    This is The View from Where I Sit!!!

  • Outside the Box Cafe

    It’s Learning Disability Week at Outside the Box Cafe in Ilkley. They’re celebrating inclusivity with their OTB Print Group’s fantastic artwork!

    The talented members created beautiful postcards based on the theme of Passage for the Ilkley Arts Secret Postcard Auction, which took place over the weekend of 7th – 9th June.

    Outside the Box cafe is run by a local charity, Ilkley Community Enterprise Ltd, who are dedicated to community action, supporting people who have a learning disability and to re-investing any profits they make back into our local community.

    Outside the Box is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

    They offer a range of services designed to support and uplift those with learning disabilities:

    • Skill-building workshops to enhance confidence and independence
    • Inclusive employment opportunities, fostering a supportive workplace
    • Community engagement activities to build connections and friendships

    Supporting individuals with learning disabilities isn’t just about meeting needs—it’s about recognising and nurturing their potential. Join them in making a difference and help them to create a more inclusive world!

    https://www.outsidetheboxcafe.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2zIUGZZEZzY86rqhB5wS-MAEeIcTqST4pVKvn2w03uMiHaQhEwbYkjk0k_aem_jDNktFDz4Kmsy0XjGxXesA