Shropshire Choices Support Finder 2018/19 - Adult Care and Support Services Helping you to make the right choice to remain independent and stay ...
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Shropshire Choices
Support Finder 2018/19
Adult Care and Support Services
Helping you to make the right choice to
remain independent and stay well.
In association with
www.carechoices.co.uk
The Uplands KIND
CARING
Multi award-winning family
owned Care Home F R I E N D LY
The Uplands is your very best choice for care with
nursing in Shropshire. Set in glorious countryside on the EXPERIENCED
outskirts of Shrewsbury, it provides spacious single
en suite rooms with outstanding facilities, and offers the
highest standards of dementia nursing and care for those
PROFESSIONAL
with long term conditions.
• Specialists in end-of-life care, short term respite,
rehabilitation and post-operative care
• Experienced, professional and friendly staff
• Full programme of activities in a true home-
from-home
• CQC rated Good in all standards
• Two dedicated dementia units
‘Attentive caring attitude of nursing and care workers,
compassion and patience demonstrated continually
throughout Mum’s short stay.’ J T, Shropshire
For more information call
01743 282040
arches or come and visit us at:
The Uplands
Care Clayton Way
Bicton Heath
Shrewsbury SY3 8GA
See our consistently high customer reviews at:
www.marchescare.co.uk
The Uplands is owned and operated by Marches Care Ltd, part of the
Marches Care Group.
Welcome from Shropshire Council 4 I care for someone 44
Contents
Areas covered by this Support Finder 6 Carers Support Service 44
Carers Emergency Response Service (CERS) 44
Your health and wellbeing 7
Young Carers 45
Shropshire Choices 7
Healthy Shropshire 7 NHS Carers Direct 45
Social prescribing 9 Resource for those supporting disabled
Let’s talk about the F-Word: preventing falls 10 children 45
Shropshire libraries: Books on Prescription 11 Money Matters 45
In your community 12 Financial assessments 45
Additional income you may be entitled to 46
Safety in your community 14 Managing your Personal Budget 47
Staying safe 14 Paying for your own care 48
Protecting your property 14 Top-ups48
Concerned about abuse? 14 Running out of money 48
Travel and mobility 15 Seeking financial advice 49
Community transport 15 Having your say 49
Concessionary travel schemes 16 Making It Real 49
Social and physical activities 17 Healthwatch Shropshire 50
Inspecting and regulating care services 50
I want to stay independent 18
Customer compliments, comments and
Advice and advocacy support 18
complaints 51
Equipment, gadgets and adaptations 19 How solicitors can help 51
Assistive Technology 19
Useful contacts 52
Assistive Technology checklist 20
Shropshire Choices 52
Your home 21
Finding care in your area 52
Making life easier in the home 21
Local contacts 52
Adult Social Care 24
Care homes and care homes with nursing57
Getting the help you need 25
Want to work as a Personal Assistant in
Let’s Talk Local 25
Adult Social Care? 57
Planning your support 25
Care homes checklist 59
Support options 26
Leaving hospital 27 Care home listings 61
Personal Assistants (PAs) 28 Index69
NHS Continuing Healthcare 28
End of life care 28
All the listings in this publication
Home care agency checklist 30 of care homes, care homes with
Home care providers 33 nursing and home care providers are supplied by
the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and neither
Specialist care and support 39 Shropshire Council nor Care Choices can be held
Learning and physical disabilities and autism 39 liable for any errors or omissions. The information
Sensory Impairment Service 39 contained in this Support Finder was correct
Alcohol/drug misuse 40 at the time of going to print. The inclusion of
Mental health 40 advertisements for homes and agencies in this
Support Finder does not act as an endorsement or
Dementia care 41
recommendation by Shropshire Council.
Residential dementia care checklist 43
To obtain extra copies of this Support Finder, free of charge, call Shropshire Council’s Customer Services on
0345 678 9000 or email shropshirechoices@shropshire.gov.uk
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 3
Welcome from Shropshire Council
Welcome from Shropshire Council
Welcome to the information and advice they need as quickly and
2018/19 edition of easily as possible and speaking to us either via
our annual Shropshire our First Point of Contact, or one of our Let’s
Support Finder, which provides social care and Talk Local sessions is a good place to start.
health information for adults and carers, across
the county. Our Shropshire Support Finder is another way
where people can find information to help
We know and understand how important it is them get the support that’s right for them. This
for people to remain independent and to live Directory is full of support services, voluntary
the lives they want and remain safe and well organisations and community-based solutions
for longer. This is why our priority is to ensure that are available across Shropshire to help you
that you and those who you support, get access or a loved one lead the lives you want as well as
to the right services and activities as soon as maintain or regain independence. It is designed
possible and remain active residents in your to give you help and advice so that you can find
community. your own way to meet any needs for support
and care.
This year has seen some exciting and innovative
projects in adult social care and health, which Our Shropshire Choices website also provides
includes working with digital technology such information about a wide range of sources
as smartwatches, voice-activated devices and of help and support, including independent
messaging apps that can be used or adapted financial information and information about
to support the health and social care needs care homes and housing options. It can also
of vulnerable people. We’ve had a huge help with keeping independent; getting out
demand from volunteers over 65 to take part and about; keeping safe; health and wellbeing;
in a new pilot scheme we’ve launched to test employment and volunteering opportunities
these devices and feedback to date has been and being a carer.
extremely positive.
We hope that our Shropshire Support Finder
We also saw the launch of our first national and Shropshire Choices website provides you
TECH Severn Conference which saw hundreds or the person you care for, with the information
of people and organisations across the county and advice to help you find the support you
and the UK attend to look at how technology need.
can change peoples’ lives for the better. You can
find out more about these exciting projects and You can find out more about
the TECH Severn Conference at Shropshire Choices by visiting
www.shropshire.gov.uk/news www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-choices
We continue to work closely with our voluntary,
community and social care and health partners
to ensure our services are more integrated and Andy Begley
joined up. By working more closely together we Director of Adult Services
can provide a more rounded health and social Shropshire Council
care service for you, in locations near to where
you live. By working together, we can help you Tel: 0345 678 9044
to remain well for longer, without having to Email: firstpointofcontact@shropshire.gov.uk
become dependent on social care and health Web: www.shropshire.gov.uk
intervention in the long-term. First Point of Contact: 0345 678 9044
Email: firstpointofcontact@shropshire.gov.uk
In Shropshire we want people to find the Web: www.shropshire.gov.uk
4 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are a
Shrewsbury | Telford | Wellington | Whitchurch Bridgnorth | Oswestry | Donnington | Newport Market Drayton | Bishop’s Castle Coverage Care Services is Shropshire’s largest independent care provider, operating care homes on a not for profit basis throughout the county mainly for older people.
Areas covered by this Support Finder
Home care providers
n All regions 33
Care home listings
n North Shropshire 61
n Central Shropshire 63
n South Shropshire 67
Care homes with nursing listings
n North Shropshire 62
n Central Shropshire 65
n South Shropshire 68
Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2014
Alternative formats This Support Finder is available electronically at www.carechoices.co.uk. There is
also a Browsealoud option for those requiring the information in the spoken word.
Representing and supporting Care Providers
in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin
We are committed to supporting, developing & promoting the provision
of high quality social care in Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin
To help deliver excellence we:
Work in partnership with
Help individual local authorities, CCG’s and
Keep members updated members with business others, representing members
on legislative, policy systems and regulatory to help shape and develop
and best practice compliance the sector
developments SPIC works in a way that
safeguards those who may need
or use care services and supports
Develop and provide its members to deliver services
Promote the high quality training for
development of staff & Provide a DBS that place people’s rights at the
(pre-employment the care workforce centre of their decision making.
opportunities in the
care sector. check) service
Contact us
Tel: 01743 860011
Email: info@spic.co.uk
SPIC is a not for Website: www.spic.co.uk
profit company
App:
To access information about community groups, clubs, societies, organisations, and much more, visit
the resource directory on www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-choices-directory
6 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are a
Shropshire Choices
Your health and wellbeing
Shropshire Choices • receiving support as a carer;
offers information
• housing advice;
and advice about
adult social care, housing and health. The • how to find local support and social activity
content is designed to allow individuals, carers groups;
and families access to quality local information • how you can be a part of local voluntary and
and provide more choice and control over their community organisations; and
social care and health needs.
• advice on how to remain safe in your
The site has been designed and developed using community.
feedback given by users of services and their
carers to ensure it is easy to use, with the right Please visit the site at www.shropshire.gov.
information to encourage people to self-serve uk/shropshire-choices
and remain well. Shropshire_Choices_Card_Mar17_Final.qxp_Layout 1 29/03/2017 10:07 Page 1
If you have support and/or care needs, care for
someone else, or are planning ahead, Shropshire
Choices has a wide range of information for you, Visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk
covering: 3 Quality local information
Helping you to 3 What’s on and where
make the right
• how to stay independent in your home; choice to remain
3 Find the answers you need
3 Money matters
independent 3 Making your own decisions
and stay well.
• personal care assistants; 3 Helping others
3 Keeping safe
• independent financial advice; For further advice please ring 0345 678 9044
Do you provide a service? Join our Resource Directory.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for news and updates
• options for care and support needs;
Healthy Shropshire
Many of us feel our lifestyles stop smoking specialists, including practice
should be healthier and nurses, midwives, pharmacists and school
Healthy Shropshire has been nurses. The service is available in almost all
designed with this in mind. GP surgeries, as well as many pharmacies,
The aim is to help anyone who wants to make community venues, hospitals and selected
positive changes by providing information on supermarkets, and is very successful. By using
the support available to improve people’s health a combination of stop smoking medicine and
and promoting local health projects, some of specialist help and support from Help2Quit,
which are listed here. individuals are up to four times more likely to
successfully go smoke free than when trying to
Help2Change quit without support.
Help2Change provides free support delivered
by specialist Help2Change advisers in a range Around 1 in 20 adults now uses electronic
of venues, including GP surgeries, pharmacies, cigarettes. Whilst they are not risk free, they are
community venues, hospitals and supermarkets considered to be less harmful than smoking and
in Shropshire. smokers who want to use e-cigarettes to quit
smoking are encouraged to contact Help2Quit.
Help2Quit
Help2Quit is the local stop smoking service in Help2Slim
Shropshire. It offers free support delivered by Maintaining a healthy weight is important for
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 7
good health, as being overweight can increase type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
your risk of developing health conditions including
coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, Stay safe and well this winter
osteoarthritis and some types of cancer. Help2Slim The Stay Well This Winter campaign is a joint
offers free support to help you lose weight and initiative from NHS England and Public Health
keep it off. Advisers support you to make small England and aims to encourage people to take
sustainable changes that fit with you and your precautions and use the right services so they’re less
lifestyle. likely to be admitted to hospital over winter.
Winter can be seriously bad for our health but there
NHS Health Check a number of things you can do to keep you and your
The NHS Health Check programme has been family well this winter. Visit
developed to prevent heart disease, diabetes, stroke www.healthyshropshire.co.uk/topics/stay-well-
and kidney disease. If you are between 40 and 74 this-winter for tips.
years old and are not already diagnosed with one of
these conditions, you will be invited by your GP once Top tips to stay safe and well include:
every five years to have a check to assess your risk. If
• Get your flu jab – Cold weather can be very
necessary, you will be given advice to help reduce or
harmful, especially for people aged 65 or older:
manage your risk of disease.
it weakens the immune system, increases blood
pressure, thickens the blood and lowers body
Healthy eating
temperature, increasing risks of high blood
Maintaining a healthy diet provides you with the
pressure, heart attacks, strokes, and chest
energy and nutrition you need. It improves your
infections.
physical and mental health and wellbeing and
provides protective health benefits against a range • Keep warm – It is important to keep warm in
of health conditions including heart disease, stroke, winter as it can help to prevent colds, flu and
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8 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are a
more serious health problems. Heat your home to webpage offers a host of advice for people young
at least 18°C (65°F), if you can, you might prefer and old, to help keep cool and hydrated throughout
your living room to be slightly warmer. Try to keep the hot weather. Visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/
active when you’re indoors, get up and move stay-safe-and-well-this-summer
about and try not to sit still for longer than an
hour at a time. Also, wear several layers of light The top ways for staying safe when the heat arrives
clothes, as they trap warm air better. are to:
• Feeling unwell – If you start to feel unwell, even • look out for others, especially older people,
if it is just a cough or cold, don’t wait until it gets young children and babies and those with
more serious, get help from your pharmacist. underlying health conditions;
Pharmacists are fully qualified to advise you on
• close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep
the best course of action, and the sooner you
indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be
get advice from them, the better. They can also
cooler outdoors than indoors;
advise on the best medicines to help get you and
your family through the winter. • drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic
and caffeinated drinks can make you more
• Don’t forget your prescription – If you’ve
dehydrated;
been prescribed medication, don’t forget to
pick up your prescription before the holidays • never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle,
start. Many GPs and pharmacies will close over especially infants, young children or animals;
Christmas.
• try to keep out of the sun between 11.00am and
• Health advice – If you do need help when your 3.00pm;
GP surgery or pharmacy is closed, call NHS 111 or
• take care and follow local safety advice if you are
visit www.nhs.uk to be directed to a local service
going into the water to cool down;
that is open.
• walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat
• Look out for other people – We can all do with if you have to go out in the heat;
a little bit of extra help and support at times. If
someone you know is feeling unwell or may need • avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the
some support during the cold weather, ask to see day;
if they need any practical help.
• wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes; and
Stay safe and well this summer • make sure you take water with you if you are
Shropshire Council’s stay safe and well this summer travelling.
Social prescribing
What is social prescribing?
Social prescribing is designed to support people with How does it work?
a wide range of social, emotional or practical needs. Individuals are referred to a social prescriber who
It is a way of enabling GPs, health and social care will work with them to discuss their health and
professionals, the voluntary sector and other partners wellbeing. Together they will come up with a plan of
such as job centres and pharmacies, to refer people action that refers them to community activities that
to a social prescribing adviser. can make them feel happier and healthier.
The scheme is evolving in Shropshire and is Who can benefit?
currently available in a number of GP practices and You can benefit from the scheme if you are are:
community centres, with plans to roll out across
the county. • caring for someone who can’t manage without
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 9
your help;
• feeling lonely or socially isolated;
• wanting to change your lifestyle, for example
giving up smoking or losing weight; or
• living with a long-term health condition.
For more information on
Help2Change programmes,
NHS Health Checks and practices delivering
the services, visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/
shropshire-choices/staying-independent/my-
health
Let’s talk about the F-Word: preventing falls
If you have a fall
Tell your GP or other health professional if you
fall. Be sure to discuss the fall with your GP or
other health professional, even if you aren’t hurt.
Most of us will have fallen at some time in our lives. Many underlying causes of falls can be treated or
For many, particularly younger people, the fall will corrected.
be nothing more than a bit embarrassing. For others,
a fall can be startling and upsetting. As we get older, The following tools have been developed to help
falls can become more common and the effect of you. Search on the Shropshire Council website or
the fall on our lives can become more serious. access them though your local library.
Preventing falls Falls assistant
Falls are not inevitable and there are lots of practical • take an NHS-approved check to understand what
and simple steps you can take to reduce your risk of may be putting someone at risk of a fall;
falling. This includes ‘fall proofing’ your home, taking
• what to do to reduce each risk; and
regular exercise, keeping well and seeking further
advice and support when necessary. • key exercises to improve mobility, gait and
balance.
There are also things you can do to reduce the harm
caused by falls, such as looking after your bones and Mobility and balance
making sure help can be summoned quickly if you do Watch a simple video to see how
have a fall. someone getting in and out of a
chair can indicate their need to
Having a falls risk assessment and making practical improve their strength, gait and balance.
day-to-day activity and lifestyle changes can
help you identify, assess and reduce your risk of Strength and balance exercises for healthy ageing
falling; improve stability and maintain or improve Easy to follow exercise instructions to improve
independence and wellbeing. overall strength and balance.
Falls prevention is about enabling you to regain your Fall Check Home Safety
confidence and live as independent and full a life as An easy to use, interactive check of common
possible. hazards in the home that might cause a fall.
10 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are aLocal strength and balance classes for everyday life increase core strength, strengthening your
Elevate classes are designed to muscles to help maintain posture and balance.
be safe, beneficial and most of
all, enjoyable. They are delivered At the start of the class, you will complete simple
by local, experienced instructors with accredited tasks with the instructor, for example measuring
qualifications. the amount of time you take to walk to a chair and
back. These tasks are then completed at the end
What are the proven benefits? of the programme to help the instructors suggest
Classes are aimed at people aged 65 and over who the next step for you.
feel a bit unsteady on their feet to improve their
strength, balance and co-ordination. The classes You can refer yourself to Elevate. Call the Elevate
can be delivered in both a seated and standing team directly on 01743 297191 or find full details at
position. You may feel a bit off-balance, or at risk www.energizestw.org.uk/refer-request-a-class
of a fall. Taking part in classes has shown to boost
For more information on health and
confidence and independence – both in and
wellbeing in Shropshire, visit
outside of the home.
www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-choices/
staying-independent/my-health
The instructors are specially-trained to help
Shropshire libraries: Books on Prescription
Shropshire’s libraries are a mine of information when while the e-book and e-magazine service gives you
it comes to helping you to look after your health. access to a wide range of publications in your home
All branches offer a wide range of self-help books completely free of charge.
on various conditions, and free use of computers
to access websites and the Shropshire Community Carers may be eligible for a carer’s ticket which
Directory. will make them exempt from late returns fines and
allow access to free audiobooks and free standard
Reading Well Books on Prescription helps you to DVD rental.
understand and manage your health and wellbeing
using self-help reading on a wide range of topics, For more information about staying healthy with
such as mental health for young people and adults, Shropshire libraries or to ask about a concessionary
dementia and long-term conditions. or a carer’s ticket, visit your local library or go to
www.shropshire.gov.uk/libraries
Libraries also offer sociable daytime activities, such
as reading groups, Knit & Natter and the popular For more information on health and
Time to Listen. The free Home Library Service for wellbeing in Shropshire, please visit
housebound customers is a great way to have www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-choices/
books, audiobooks and DVDs delivered to your door, staying-independent/my-health
SEARCH FOR CARE
IN YOUR AREA
With so many providers to choose from, where do you start?
www.carechoices.co.uk
• Find care providers quickly and easily • Search by location and care need
• Information on care quality • Links to inspection reports
• Additional information, photos and web links • Brochure requests
www.carechoices.co.uk
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 11In your community
In your community
Shropshire Council aims to build positive Local activities within Shropshire are also
communities by encouraging families and promoted to encourage children of all abilities
individuals to be independent, active and social to get active and socialise, where they can learn
within their local community while remaining new skills and make new friends.
healthy and safe for as long as possible.
For more information about family services,
Many community-based professionals and call 01743 254400, email earlyhelp@
voluntary organisations are working together to shropshire.gov.uk or go to www.shropshire.
make sure you, your family and friends can find gov.uk/early-help/practitioners/the-
information on services near you. To find out early-help-offer-provision-of-early-help-
what is available in your area, visit services/family-information-service
www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-choices-
directory Shropshire Rural Community Council (RCC)
Shropshire RCC is a local charity and
The Voluntary and Community Sector membership organisation which
Assembly (VCSA) helps people who live and work in
The VCSA brings together a Shropshire to make life easier and
diverse range of voluntary and more manageable for themselves and for their
community sector groups and community.
organisations to maximise energy,
ideas and resources to provide a strong collective It is committed to making Shropshire a great
voice. The VCSA aims to improve representation place for everyone to live, no matter what
of voluntary, community and social enterprise challenges they face, and has a strong track
organisations and build partnerships with public record for delivering a wide range of quality
and private sector organisations to meet the services and local projects, often working in
needs of local groups and communities. partnership with other organisations.
Joining the VCSA is free. To download For more information on the services
a membership form or to access the Shropshire RCC provides, call 01743 360641,
information pack, including eligibility email info@shropshire-rcc.org.uk or visit
criteria, visit www.vcsvoice.org/ To contact www.shropshire-rcc.org.uk
the VCSA, call 01743 258521 or email
vcsassembly@shropshire.gov.uk Age UK Shropshire Telford and Wrekin
Age UK Shropshire Telford
Shropshire Family Information Service (FIS) and Wrekin has many services
Shropshire FIS provides free offering companionship and
information and advice on all support for older people to prevent isolation
aspects of family life. From and loneliness. For example, volunteers can
expecting a baby, to having young children or visit you in your own home, providing a listening
teenagers, the FIS can support parents, carers ear and confidential support whilst going
or any other family member. for walks, playing games, watching a film or
sharing hobbies. Alternatively, they can provide
Its online directory provides information on local a regular telephone call or accompany you to
and national organisations offering advice and social activities in your neighbourhood, helping
support on some of the issues or concerns any you build friendships and sharing experiences.
family may encounter, including a wide range
of information for parents of children with They can also provide a wide range of activities
disabilities or additional needs. to support you to stay well and socially active.
12 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are aThere is something for everyone, with reading prescription or simply offer a little bit of company.
groups, craft classes, community choirs, exercise The service is a volunteer organisation which
groups and dance classes. The service works with enriches the lives of older people and their families
an array of clubs, such as Shrewsbury Walking across Britain.
Football Club, Severnside Bowling Club and even
the Shropshire Theatre Organ Trust. It also supports For more information, call 01743 240271 or visit
over 30 lunch clubs and has a regular programme of www.royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk
guided walks.
Gusto
For more information and additional services, call Organised through Shropshire Rural
01743 233123, email enquiries@ageukstw.org.uk Community Council (RCC), Gusto is a
or visit network of active people who meet
www.ageukshropshireandtelford.org.uk regularly and enjoy participating in
activities together. These include social events like
The Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) theatre trips, cycling, dog walking, going to the
The RVS Good Neighbours Service cinema and meeting for lunch or fine dining, cocktail
helps older people by offering evenings, photography and art classes.
practical advice, support and
friendship and aims to prevent social Members can also become a host for any activities
isolation and act as a pre-emptive step to keep they enjoy and want to share with others.
those who are vulnerable out of hospital. RVS can
provide a lift to a lunch club, getting your shopping, For further information, call 01743 360641,
transport to attend an appointment (eg doctors, email info@shropshire-rcc.org.uk
hospital, or hairdressers). RVS can collect your or visit www.shropshire-rcc.org.uk
To find out what is available in your community, visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/
shropshire-choices-directory
Providers,
missing out on
online referrals?
With over 1,000,000 page views annually,
www.carechoices.co.uk can help you
reach local care seekers
FREE WEB
Call us on 01223 207770 ADVERT
DESIGN
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 13Staying safe
Safety in your community
The Council wants to make sure residents in • Hate crime – any criminal offence
Shropshire feel safe and secure in their own committed against a person or property
communities and know where to go if they which is motivated by an offender’s hostility
need help. There are various ways of protecting or prejudice towards someone. Hate
yourself and you should report any issues you crime can be reported by dialling 999 if
may be experiencing, including: it is an emergency or 101 for non-
emergencies.
• Scams – schemes to con you out of your
money. They can arrive by post, phone call, • Anti-social behaviour – defined as acting
text message or email, or from someone ‘in a manner which causes or is likely to
coming to your home. Visit your local Citizens cause harm, alarm or distress’. It can be
Advice branch, call the Advice Line on 0844 reported to the police by dialling 101 or
499 1100 or go to www.citizensadvice.org. through Shropshire Council’s reporting line
uk/consumer/scams/spotting-a-scam on 0345 678 9020.
Protecting your property
You can do simple things to improve your secured at all times.
home security. Don’t leave side gates open or
unlocked and make sure you shut any accessible
For more organisations which offer support,
windows overnight or if rooms are unattended.
visit
Don’t leave ladders outside and store any
www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-
garden tools securely. Keep hedges trimmed
choices/shropshire-choices-
and low so they don’t provide cover for burglars
directory
and keep spare keys properly concealed and
Concerned about abuse?
Safeguarding adults who are at risk of abuse or • sexual abuse;
neglect
• discriminatory abuse;
Safeguarding means protecting an individual’s
right to live in safety, free from abuse and • neglect and self-neglect;
neglect. Living a life free from harm and abuse
is everyone’s human right. We all need to act as • domestic abuse;
good neighbours and citizens to look out and • modern slavery; and
care for one another and to stay safe.
• organisational abuse.
If you find someone is being abused, please
speak to a professional who will be able to help, Abuse can happen in many different settings,
like the police, a doctor or someone supporting including:
the adult affected.
• someone’s own home;
Abuse can take many forms, including: • a care home;
• physical abuse; • a hospital;
• financial abuse; • a day centre; and
• psychological abuse; • public places.
14 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are aAbuse can be carried out by many different 0345 678 9040. This number is for emergencies
people, but it is usually someone who is known only.
and trusted. It might be a:
• family member; If you need to report a crime, please ring 101.
If you are in immediate danger, contact the
• partner or neighbour; police on 999. For more information, visit www.
• care worker; shropshire.gov.uk/adult-social-care/where-
can-i-get-help/concerned-about-someone
• volunteer; or
• friend. If you have concerns about the standards or
application of regulations in a care home, you
If you have any concerns about a person’s safety, should contact The Care Quality Commission.
it is important you speak to someone you trust Tel: 03000 616161
who will talk through your concerns and agree Email: enquiries@cqc.org.uk
the best way forward with you. Web: www.cqc.org.uk
Write to: Citygate, Gallowgate,
If you need to tell Shropshire Council, please ring Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4PA
0345 678 9044. If you need urgent help from
Shropshire Council outside office hours, please More information about the Care Quality
phone the Emergency Social Work Duty Team on Commission is on page 50.
Travel and mobility
Travel and mobility
Being active plays an important part in maintaining
For more information, visit
your independence and community transport is
www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-choices/
available to encourage this and prevent isolation.
getting-out-and-about/my-
This section provides information on services to
travel
help you get out and about in your community.
Community transport
Shropshire Community Transport Consortium North Salop Wheelers
Shropshire Community Transport A community transport minibus service
is run by independent charities and providing accessible, affordable
voluntary organisations working to transport to isolated people within
support local people by providing North Shropshire.
door-to-door transport throughout Shropshire.
The service is available for those who have no The ring-and-ride service is accessible for young
access to public transport or who find it too people and the elderly, and covers rural villages
difficult. It also helps groups and individuals to around Wem, Whitchurch, Market Drayton and
get to events and activities such as the theatre, Telford on a weekly basis.
sports, music, WI and social groups. The service is
fully accessible for wheelchair users. The minibus is also available by arrangement for
hospital and doctor appointments, excursions,
For more information, call 07772 964517, email clubs, societies and youth groups.
info@shropshirecommunitytransport.org.uk
or visit www.shropshirecommunitytransport. For more information, call 01948 880037 or
org.uk visit www.northsalopwheelers.co.uk
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 15 The Friendly Transport Service Oswestry Dial-a-Ride
A community-based organisation Tel: 01691 671571
providing transport for rural Email: info@qube-oca.org.uk
communities in and around the
neighbouring towns of Broseley and Much Wenlock Ring and Ride Church Stretton
in Shropshire. A friendly door-to-door service, Tel: 01694 720025
reliable for people who don’t have alternative means Email: ring.ride@mayfaircentre.org.uk
of transport or who have other difficulties in getting
out. Helping you to attend local clubs, non-profit- All Shropshire Mobility
making groups, meetings and other social events and A vehicle adaptation company
day trips. Individual membership is £5 a year. based near Shrewsbury. All
Shropshire Mobility started over
For more information, call 01952 881145, 15 years ago and has built good working relationship
email info@friendlybus.co.uk or visit with all major adaptation companies and provides
www.friendlybus.co.uk a fully-equipped demonstration workshop and has
three service vans for mobile fitting. They can help
Other useful community transport contacts if you need adaptations to a vehicle to enable you to
drive, such as hand controls or pedal modifications.
Bridgnorth Community Transport
Tel: 01746 768539 For more information, call 01743 790879 or visit
Email: bridgnorthcombus@btconnect.com www.allshropshiremobility.co.uk
Dial-a-Ride Bishop’s Castle
Alpha Automatic School of Motoring
Tel: 01588 638350
Driving tuition specialising in automatic disability
Email: dial.a.ride@hotmail.co.uk
and specific needs with adapted vehicle for
Dial-a-Ride Shrewsbury hand controls, left foot accelerator and infrared
Tel: 01743 450270 lodgeson’s secondary controls. Tuition is also
Email: manager@shrewsburydialaride.org.uk available for older driver assessments, returning
to driving courses, adaptation, familiarisation and
Ludlow, Clun Valley and Corvedale rehabilitation after illness or accident.
Tel: 01584 700907
Email: ludlowtraveller@shrewsburydialaride. For more information, call 01743 240283 or visit
org.uk www.alphaautomaticshrewsbury.co.uk
Concessionary travel schemes
If you are eligible for a state pension or have a incapacitated, for example people who are
disability, you can apply for free or reduced travel by recovering from surgery.
applying for one of the concessionary travel schemes
below which are administered by Shropshire Council. To check your eligibility or to apply or renew your
blue badge, download the appropriate application
Blue Badges form or contact the Customer Service Centre on
This scheme provides those with 0345 678 9014.
disabilities a variety of parking
concessions, such as free parking Railcards
or being able to park closer to a destination. A railcard will give you discounts on rail fares, online
or from a staffed railway station. There are several
The badge is for passengers and drivers. Badges schemes for passengers with different needs,
will not be issued to those who are temporarily including carers.
16 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are aTo buy your card online, find out about ticket years old or for those with a disability. For more
prices or get help planning your journey, information, call 0345 678 9088.
call 0800 022 3720 or email
customer.relations@nationalrail.co.uk To find out if you are eligible
for one of the schemes and
Bus passes how to apply or for more travel and mobility
information, visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/
A concessionary travel scheme run by Shropshire
shropshire-choices/getting-out-and-about/
Council offers free or discounted travel on
my-travel
local public transport for those who are over 63
Social and physical activities
Social and physical activities
Whether you take up a sport or hobby, join a Managing these spaces requires huge effort
community group, or just meet up with friends, and manpower and Outdoor Partnerships relies
having a social life plays an important role in heavily on volunteers contributing their time.
keeping healthy, active and well. Whatever your Volunteering with Outdoor Partnerships is a
age, being physically and socially active can help great way to stay fit and engage with other like-
you lead a healthier and happier life and helps to minded individuals, as well as helping to keep
combat loneliness. outdoor spaces and access to the countryside
open for all to enjoy. To find out more about
People who do regular physical activity have Outdoor Partnerships or how you can get
a lower risk of age-related illness and many involved with volunteering, visit
chronic diseases. Being active also boosts your www.shropshiresgreatoutdoors.co.uk
mood which helps to improve your mental
health and strengthens your immune system. Energize Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin
Energize is the County Sports
Healthy Shropshire, see page 7, can help find Partnership for Shropshire,
the type of activity that works best for you, in Telford and Wrekin. It works with
line with your abilities and what you enjoy. It a number of organisations to enable everyone
can also find ‘start up’ Active4Health activities, to have access to sport and physical activities,
including exercise on referral programmes, whatever their level of interest or ability.
walking groups and exercise classes in local
areas. Energize believes in encouraging and motivating
people to give different sports and activities
For more information, call 0345 678 9025 a go and offers a wide range of services and
or go to www.healthyshropshire.co.uk information to achieve this.
www.shropshirechoices.org.uk/myhealth
For more information, call 01743 297191,
Outdoor Partnerships email info@energizestw.org.uk or visit
Being active outdoors is shown to greatly www.energizestw.org.uk
benefit people’s physical and mental wellbeing
and there is no better place to do this than Inclusively Fit Project
in Shropshire’s great outdoors. Shropshire A project which supports isolated, inactive people
Council’s Outdoor Partnerships team manages who would like to be more socially active in their
and maintains a large part of Shropshire’s community. The project encompasses a Buddy
outdoor space, including two country parks; the Programme using volunteers to encourage
Mere at Ellesmere and Severn Valley country confidence and motivation to try something
park at Alveley; 24 countryside and heritage new, providing a person-centred approach to
sites; and 5,600km of rights of way. overcome barriers.
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 17Loudwater Studio
Social and physical activities continued
Reader’s story
Darren has been with the Loudwater Studio is an arts,
Inclusively Fit Project for 18 crafts and sound-recording
months. He first got involved studio situated Ludlow.
as he wanted to take part in It assists everyone in their general health
an activity. Since then, he has and wellbeing and offers the opportunity
become a volunteer Buddy for people of all abilities to get creative in
working with people one-to-one to help build any way. Studio staff regularly work with
their confidence. He also supports a local people with visual impairments, complex
group, I Can 2, which provides activities for disabilities and adults with learning difficulties,
children with disabilities and has now gained supporting them to actively take part in
a paid role with them. Darren has come a long creative fun.
way, overcoming severe anxiety along with
other barriers he faced due to autism. Call 01584 877272 or email
loudwater@visionhomes.org.uk
For more information or to make a referral,
To find out what is available in your community,
call 01743 297193 or email inclusivelyfit@
visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-
energizestw.org.uk
choices/news-and-events
If you are a provider wanting to add your information to the Shropshire Choices Directory, please
contact us at shropshirechoices@shropshire.gov.uk
I want to stay independent
I want to stay independent
Shropshire Council aims to encourage and
support individuals to remain independent in
their community for as long as possible. If you
have concerns about remaining independent in
your home, there are options you can explore
to help you remain safe, secure and warm. For
more information visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/
shropshire-choices/staying-independent
Advice and advocacy support
Peer Counselling Advocacy Services (PCAS) Taking Part
Shropshire PCAS helps adults Taking Part is a group of people
with any disability maintain their with learning difficulties working
independence. Independent together to help people speak
advocates support vulnerable people with up for themselves. Taking Part
disabilities to make informed decisions and encourages people with learning
choices. Advocates can also support people difficulties to have more choice, know their
through adult safeguarding, offering long-term rights, be included in society and have the
help and support to improve their wellbeing. chance of leading independent lives.
For more information, call 01691 658008, For more information, call 01743 363399,
email simon@shropshirepcas.co.uk or visit email takingpart@takingpart.co.uk or visit
www.shropshirepcas.co.uk www.takingpart.co.uk
18 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are aShropshire Independent Advocacy Service Health meetings, psychiatrist appointments
(SIAS) and other services to help provide independent
SIAS supports adults aged 18 and information and enable people to make a choice
over who are experiencing mental for themselves.
health issues in Shropshire, Telford
and Wrekin. SIAS can support For more information, call 01743 361702,
people on medical appointments and general email enquiries@siasonline.org or visit
meetings. It can also attend Community Mental www.siasonline.org
Equipment, gadgets and adaptations
Equipment, gadgets and adaptations
There are various gadgets and aids available going unnoticed. In addition, they can provide
to support independence and wellbeing. reassurance to carers who are concerned for their
Used correctly, they can go a long way to help loved ones and/or feel that they are struggling to
prevent certain conditions from worsening or cope and continue in their caring role.
Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology is the term for specialist blood pressure and other vital signs can allow
items which encourage and support vulnerable professionals to make efficient and effective
individuals to remain safe and independent decisions. Telehealth can monitor blood glucose
within their own homes for as long as possible. levels, cardiac arrhythmia and lung functions, to
Shropshire Council offers a range of Assistive name a few. If you would like more information
Technology and equipment, from standalone about Telehealth, speak to your local GP. Or, if
Assistive Technology to its Telecare service. the person requiring the service is in hospital,
speak to the medical team responsible for
Standalone Assistive Technology is equipment their care. Shropshire Council does not provide
which is designed to provide support to an Telehealth technology at this time.
individual without the need for a connection
via a telephone line. Standalone equipment Useful organisations
can be as simple as a specialised bath plug or
as complex as digital monitoring systems which Careline
allow carers to see, hear and speak to a person Careline is a 24-hour alarm service, which is
from another room. connected to your home through an alarm unit
linked to your telephone line. 24/7 monitoring
Telecare uses telephone lines and wireless centre in is manned by friendly and helpful
sensors to ensure peace of mind within the operators, ensuring peace of mind and helping
home by linking to a call centre, which is you to live independently in your own home.
automatically alerted, for example if you might For details, contact 0345 863 8323 or visit
have had a fall or if the oven has been left on. www.independencetrust.co.uk/our-services
Telecare items can range from a simple falls
Telmenow.com
alarm or memory reminders to a domestic
Telmenow.com provides technology to support
system which monitors a person’s wellbeing
independent living. For carers and the people
whilst at home.
they care for, it specialises in providing access
to technology and services which can increase
Telehealth provided by Health
independence and allow people to enjoy life
Telehealth technology can assist in diagnosing
the way they want to. For more information,
and monitoring health conditions. A home
visit www.telmenow.com
unit to measure and monitor temperature,
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 19Assistive technology checklist © 2018 Care Choices Ltd
We suggest you consider the following questions before buying any assistive technology. If you are in any doubt
about what technology might help meet your needs, you can contact your council or visit www.asksara.org.uk
You can download and print this checklist at www.carechoices.co.uk/checklists
Suitability Will it need to be installed by a professional?
Does the equipment support your specific Can the retailer provide you with training in
needs? using the equipment?
Are you willing to use it?
Reliability
Will it fit into your everyday life and routine?
Will it work if you have pets or live with other
Have you tried a demo of the equipment?
people, e.g. could someone else set off a sensor
Do you understand what the equipment is for? alarm by accident?
Do you need to take it with you when you Have you read reviews of the particular piece
leave the house? Is it transportable? of equipment you are looking at? Consider
these before making your purchase.
Does the equipment have any limitations
that would make it unsuitable for you? Can you speak to someone who already uses it?
Will it work alongside any assistive technology Does it require batteries? Find out how often
you already have?
they will need changing and whether the
equipment will remind you to do this.
Usability
Is it durable? If you might drop it, is it likely
Is a simpler piece of equipment available, to break?
e.g. a pill case rather than an automated pill
dispenser?
Cost
Does the equipment need a plug socket, and
will its wire cause a trip hazard? Do you know how much it costs?
Is it easy to use? Can you read/hear it clearly Will you need to pay a monthly charge?
and are any buttons big enough for you?
Are there alternative solutions that might
Are you able to use it? Are there any aspects be free?
you don’t understand?
Is there a cost associated with servicing the
Is it portable? equipment?
Notes
20 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are aYour home
Take a look at the suggestions on pages 22 and 23 Council, call the First Point of Contact team on
for ideas of equipment and adaptations that could 0345 678 9044 and ask for an occupational therapy
help you live at home for longer. There might be a assessment. The occupational therapy assessment
simple fix to help you stay independent. If you are will identify your needs and advise you on what may
a tenant and rent your home, it is always advised help you to maintain your independence within your
to initially contact your landlord for advice when home. Alternatively, for more information about
considering adaptations in your home. useful gadgets and adaptations, go to
www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-choices/
Local handyman services are available to help staying-independent/useful-gadgets
install any adaptations you might need, and a home
improvement agency could be useful if you’re Disabled Facilities Grant
considering more major works. Visit Following an occupational therapy assessment, you
www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-choices/ may be able to apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant
staying-independent/my-home for more through private sector housing to help you with
information. minor or major adaptations to maintain your safety
and independence. For more information on the
To find out if you are eligible for support from the grant, visit www.gov.uk/disabled-facilities-grants
Making life easier in the home
Over the next few pages you will see illustrations might affect you? Can they be resolved using the
of the main living areas in a home, together with advice given? If you do require any further information
information for identifying any issues and how to set about sourcing products, grants, or getting an
about resolving them. Have a look at the rooms and assessment, please call Shropshire Council’s First
information. Can you identify any problems which Point of Contact team on 0345 678 9044.
www.carechoices.co.uk
SEARCH FOR CARE
IN YOUR AREA
With so many providers to choose from, where do you start?
• Find care providers quickly and easily • Additional information, photos
• Search by location and care need and web links
• Information on care quality • Brochure requests
• Links to inspection reports
www.carechoices.co.uk
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 21Making life easier at home
If you’re having difficulties with everyday tasks at home, these simple solutions could make life easier and keep
you independent. These are a starting point; other solutions are available which might better suit your needs.
Finding it difficult to get in and out of chairs? Try Do you forget to take your tablets? Try making
putting a piece of hard board under the seat base. a note of when you’ve taken them, or buy
Alternatively, buy chair raisers, a higher chair or an an automatic pill dispenser or pill box. If you
electric riser chair. Also try taking regular gentle struggle to open your medicine, you can ask your
exercise. pharmacist for advice on alternative packaging
that could make it easier for you.
If you can’t reach your windows, could you move
furniture out of the way? Ask someone to help if Can you reach everything in your cupboards? If
you need to move heavy furniture. There are also not, try a handi-reacher or rearrange your kitchen
tools for opening and closing windows. so the things you use most are within easy reach.
Struggling to keep warm/cool? Consider a fan If you are having problems with preparing food,
or heater. Is your house insulated? Are there any consider buying ready-chopped options or try a
draughts? You may also be eligible for the winter chopping board with spikes. There are also long-
fuel payment from the Government. Visit handled pans, teapot tippers and lid grippers that
www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment could help. Palm-held vegetable peelers or a food
processor might be a solution and meal delivery
If you have trouble using light switches, think services are also available.
about replacing your switches for ones that are
easier to use. Consider handi-plugs or light switch Is eating and drinking becoming difficult? Large
toggles, or there’s even technology available handled cutlery could help, or non-slip mats for
so that you can turn your lights on and off using the table. Lightweight cups and mugs with two
speech. handles could also be a solution.
Use subtitles if you can’t hear the TV, or buy Using taps can be made easier by fitting tap
wireless headphones. Do you need a hearing aid? turners. You could also consider changing to lever-
Request an assessment from your Council. style taps which might be easier for you to use.
Handled plug Chair raisers Chopping board Level indicator Teapot tipper
22 Se a rch f or ca r e a t www. ca re c h o i c e s .c o .u k t o fi n d s u p p o r t i n y o u r are aMore information on staying independent and ideas to help you live at home can be found online at
www.carechoices.co.uk/independent-at-home/ There is also information on making larger adaptations
to your home.
If moving whilst in bed is a problem, have you If it’s hard to hold your toothbrush, try a
thought about using an over-bed pole? You might toothbrush gripper. You might also benefit from
also want to buy a pillow raiser or change your having an electric toothbrush or sitting on a stool
bedding so it’s lighter. while brushing your teeth.
Is it becoming difficult to get dressed? If so, You might like to buy a raised toilet seat, or a seat
specially adapted clothing is available, or you with a built in support frame if it’s hard to use your
could buy a long-handled shoe horn, a dressing toilet. Flush lever extensions are also available.
stick or a button hook. If you are having a lot of
difficulty, consider home support, see page 26. Has it become more difficult to wash? Items are
available, like long-handled sponges and flannel
Clocks are available with large numbers or lights straps. You could also consider a slip resistant
if you can’t read the time in bed. You can also buy bath mat, grab rails, a half step to help you get in
clocks that speak the time. and out of the bath or a bath or shower seat. Tap
turners can also be used in the bathroom.
If you are finding it harder to read in bed,
consider an e-reader that allows you to change
the font size. Some also have integrated lights. For more information on technology that could
Look for bedside lamps with a step-on or button make your life easier, contact your Council
switch if yours are difficult to use. for an assessment. They might refer you to an
occupational therapist (OT) or you could contact
Do you struggle to get in and out of bed? an OT privately. Search online for OTs near you.
You could learn new ways of moving around,
purchase a leg lifter or a hoist or install grab rails Tel: 0345 678 9044
for support. Seek advice about these options. Email: firstpointofcontact@shropshire.gov.uk
If the bed is the issue, you could buy an electric Web: www.shropshire.gov.uk/shropshire-
adjustable bed or raise the bed to the right height. choices/staying-independent/my-home
Grab handles Bed table Hand rail Hand trolley Tap turners
For additional local information and support, visit www.shropshirechoices.co.uk 23You can also read
