2 Useful Websites

Keep in mind The Internet is not a static reference, it is continually evolving. Much of the information is well meaning but not authoritive. Webmasters tinker with their sites, updating information and adding or deleting pages. Changes made to one site may not be reflected in others until someone checks their source of information. Official sites managed by government departments and big organisations will probably be about as up to date as possible, they will have people whose sole job is to check and update the information provided. On the other hand a site created by someone in their spare time can quickly become out of date. Also watch out for the same information being present in two places on the same site, again it is easy for the pages to get out of sync. Many people start a web site with the best of intentions and then lose interest. Unless they actively delete the site out of date information may still be available years later. Look around the web site to see if there is any obvious indication it has been neglected; is there an entry indicating when it was last updated? Does it refer to dates or events as if they are in the future when they happened in the past? If there’s a Forum, when were the last entries and replies? Does the site display the overused ‘Under Construction’ message? Try sending an e-mail to the site; do you get a reply or does your e-mail get returned as “undeliverable”? A tip on using search engines Many of the sites here are searchable. When you enter a phrase, the search engine often looks for each word separately, so searching for Milton Keynes will return results for pages containing the word Milton or the word Keynes. To search by a phrase, try putting the phrase inside quotation marks (“), usually found over the 2 key on the main keyboard (not the numeric pad). Eg.

Instead of Milton Keynes Try “Milton Keynes”

3 Useful Websites

Access www.accessaudit.co.uk Up to date information for business on access to premises, onsite inspection, advice on areas of improvement and on-going help. www.artsline.org.uk The UK's leading disability access website, providing searchable information on over 1,000 arts venues across London including: theatres, cinemas, museums, art centres, tourist attractions, comedy, music venues and selected restaurants. www.cae.org.uk The Centre for Accessible Environments, the UK’s leading authority on inclusive design. An information provider for the providers and the users on how the built environment can best be built to achieve inclusion by design. www.cclondon.com Official London Congestion Charge website with information on the discounts available to Blue Badge holders for the London Congestion Charge. Also includes information on the Emissions Related Congestion Charge proposed for introduction in February 2008. www.direct.gov.uk/disability Government web site related to disability issues. www.directenquiries.com Search engine site locating accessible services and facilities for disabled people. www.disabledgo.info Detailed information on disabled access to hotels, cinemas, restaurants, tourist attractions, pubs, train stations, leisure centres and universities. www.enabledlondon.com Access guide to getting out and about in London, created by people with disabilities. www.goodaccessguide.co.uk Independent directory of services for disabled people, seniors, and anyone whose life is made easier by better access to goods, services and amenities. www.kidsdaysout.co.uk Large directory listing for UK days out, gives indication of wheelchair friendliness. www.nationalrail.co.uk On-line journey planner with information on assistance for passengers with disabilities.

4 Useful Websites

www.nrac.org.uk National Register of Access Consultants. Independent register of accredited Access Auditors and Consultants. The organisation acts as a resource to those seeking advice on making improvements on building works in accordance with the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. www.officiallondontheatre.co.uk Access guide and information to London Theatres with information on assisted performances. www.tfl.gov.uk Official Transport for London website, Includes information on how London is becoming more accessible to disabled travellers. Rough guide to access to London included. www.wheelchairaccess.fsnet.co.uk Website providing useful information concerning access around the UK. The site covers areas such as clubs and pubs, cinemas, places of worship, shopping centres, public transport and holidays in the UK and abroad. www.yourlevelbest.com Searchable listing of pubs and restaurants etc. claiming to be disability accessible. Benefits and Money Matters www.adviceguide.org.uk Official CAB website with information on benefits, employment, tax, civil rights, health, housing etc. www.benefitsandwork.co.uk Provider of information via information booklets, training events and online articles about a wide variety of issues surrounding disability benefits. www.communitycare.co.uk The site provides a wide variety of information including news on disability rights, campaigns, jobs, benefits and upcoming events. It is updated frequently and aimed at community care professionals. www.direct.gov.uk/disability-dla Official government website detailing disability allowance, how to apply, rates and information regarding changes in circumstances.

5 Useful Websites

www.disabilityalliance.org National registered charity with the principal aim of relieving the poverty and improving the living standards of disabled. Site has a wide range of information on tax credits, benefits, disability related campaigns and parliamentary news. www.dwp.gov.uk Official Department for Work and Pensions website providing a huge amount of information regarding benefits for disabled people, employment schemes and information for employers. www.entitledto.com Website providing step by step guide to calculating what benefits an individual may be entitled. www.hmce.gov.uk Official HM Customs & Revenue (aka Tax Office) includes information on VAT exemption and relief for disabled people. www.lasa.org.uk This site is a provider for those given information and advice. Offers training on Welfare Benefits and policy support. Also provides information on software available for training and improved advice systems. www.thisismoney.co.uk News and information on money matters, from the publishers of The Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday. Carers Information www.carechoices.co.uk Care directory publisher with some directories viewable on-line. Can also provide assistance in finding appropriate care services. Has a useful links page. www.carers.gov.uk The site contains Government guidance and regulations affecting carers and details of the Carers Grant. It is aimed at professionals supporting carers. www.carersuk.org Organisation aimed at providing financial, supports and rights information for carers in the UK and campaigning for policy and legislative changes. www.caringmatters.org.uk Main aim is to provide a better standard of life for the elderly and infirmed who have lost touch with family members by locating lost and missing.

6 Useful Websites

www.direct.gov.uk/carers Government website with information on rights, responsibilities and help for carers. Clothing www.able2wear.com Clothing for those with limited mobility and wheelchair users. www.rolli-moden.com/ Clothing and accessories for wheelchair users. (Click on the Union Jack to get the site in English). Driving & Mobility www.dft.gov.uk/access Official government/DfT site. The Department for Transport aims to improve transport provision for disabled people - whether as pedestrians, public and special transport users, or motorists - while also improving accessibility in public places. The site includes driving ability assessments, plus advice on vehicle adaptations and equipment for both drivers and passengers. www.direct.gov.uk/bluebadgemap Official government interactive online service detailing Blue Badge scheme parking bays in 64 cities across the UK. www.fordmagic.co.uk Company provides information for disabled drivers. Operates mobility schemes on a hire basis for disabled drivers. www.mobilise.info Charity which aims to promote and protect the welfare of disabled people and to promote their personal mobility. www.mobility-centres.org.uk Forum of Mobility Centres - comprehensive website providing information and advice for people with a disability who want to start or return to driving. Includes advice the range of aids and vehicle adaptations available for both drivers and passengers and a range of informative factsheets. www.motability.co.uk Motability is an independent not-for-profit organisation, which provides mobility solutions for disabled people.

7 Useful Websites

www.toddsmotorhomes.co.uk Company selling fully adaptable motor homes suitable for disabled users. Employment www.dcs-gb.net The Disability Conciliation Service offers a free, uniquely accessible and empowering alternative to court or tribunal action. www.disabledworkers.org.uk National, searchable database matching the needs of individual customers to a products or services that can be provided by a disabled person. The directory is available to organisations employing disabled people, and disabled people who wish to register their details and skills. www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk Provides a variety of information for Disabled people interested in returning to work via a number of different schemes. www.newdeal.gov.uk Site outlining the governments scheme to get disabled people back into work. (This address will automatically take you to the appropriate JobCentre plus sub site.). www.readywillingable.net Online recruitment bulletin for disabled people. Visitors to the site are able to subscribe and receive details of jobs advertised on the website. www.shaw-trust.org.uk Organisation providing training and work opportunities after being out of paid employment for a long period of time. www.ucandoit.org.uk Charity providing computer training for blind, deaf and disabled people on their own homes. Equipment www.activemobility.co.uk Online shop selling a wide variety of equipment from walking sticks, to wheelchairs and scooters. www.celticware.com Supplier of wheelchair accessories including, cushions, gloves and bags. www.disabledaccessories.com

8 Useful Websites

Online disability equipment warehouse providing a huge variety of equipment including mobility aids, toileting aids, bathing aids, comfort products and household aids. www.dlf.org.uk Disabled Living Foundation website. Useful information and factsheets on equipment. www.goodwillgallery.co.uk Visitors to the site are able to donate goods and services to charity. www.ricability.org.uk/ Publish practical, actionable and unbiased guides for older and disabled consumers based on thorough professional research. www.themobilitymarket.co.uk Website specifically designed for the sale of unwanted, used or surplus Mobility Equipment. Charges may apply for more expensive items and any “want ads”. www.yourable.com Website provides useful information on various aspects of everyday life for a disabled person. Information on equipment hire, accessible holidays. Health advice, employment, motoring, equipment and penpals. Families and Parenting www.ablelink.org Free Internet community where children with disabilities and their parents can meet others in the same situation. www.cafamily.org.uk Extensive information for families of children with Disabilities. Provides advice and support including contacts with other families in similar situations. www.dfes.gov.uk Information on support for Disabled children in education. www.disabledparentsnetwork.org.uk Network of disabled parents offering mutual support and advice. www.dppi.org.uk Provide information and advise to disabled people who are parents, or planning to be parents or their families. www.independentliving.co.uk/disabled-children Information on products useful for disabled children including, mobility products for the home aimed specifically at children, play products and clothing. www.special-abilities.net Special-Abilities.net is an organisation aimed at helping parents of Disabled children in the UK. The site provides a vast amount of information including holiday advice, benefits, sporting activities and much more. www.surestart.gov.uk

9 Useful Websites

Government programme to deliver the best start in life for every child, bringing together, early education, childcare, health and family support. www.workingfamilies.org.uk General site for working parents with specialist information for parents of disabled children. www.wowusa.com American website aimed at children in wheelchairs. Includes games, links to penpals, pictures and publications available to order. General Information www.bcodp.org.uk Official website for the UK Disabled People’s Council (formerly British Council of Disabled People), the only national umbrella organisation democratically set up by disabled people to represent their interests at national level. Site contains a variety of information including Activate, a monthly newsletter that is also available audio format. www.direct.gov.uk Official government portal for information on a wide range of topics including state benefits, disability, independent living, disability rights; information for carers including carers’ assessments, support service and money matters. www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople Official government website with links to information on benefits, Housing and disability rights. www.disabilitynow.org.uk Wide range of information related to disability, covering a variety of issues including news and events, mobility, equipment and jobs. www.disabledinfo.co.uk Collection of articles on variety of topics of interest to disabled people. www.equalityhumanrights.com Equality and Human Rights Commission (Formerly Disability Rights Commission), official website. Provides a wide variety of information concerning the well being of disabled people in the UK. Information provided on areas such as employment, your rights, publications and reports etc. www.spinaltimes.org American website aimed at providing motivational information to spinal cord injured people information. www.ukselfhelp.info Information on a variety of topics including self help groups and helplines. Health and Medical www.bmjjournals.com Variety of medical journals online. Providing information on all aspects of medical care. www.coloplast.co.uk Commercial site for specialist supplier of Stoma Care, Wound Care, and Continence care products.

10 Useful Websites

www.craighospital.org One of the top rehabilitation centres in the world, this website includes some useful information on a variety of topics including pressure relief, exercise, incomplete sci, etc. All information is freely downloadable. www.csp.org.uk The Chartered Society of Physiotherapy website with information and contact details. www.health6.com Comprehensive health directory with links to a wide range of useful sites. www.hollister.com Commercial site. Specialists in products for ostomy and continence care. www.incontact.org UK organisation for people affected by bladder and bowel problems. www.lofric.co.uk Commercial site from “Astra Zenica” with information and advice for people with urinary problems and bladder disorders. Split into five sections: Adults, Teens, Parents and Children and Community. The sixth option is a home delivery service called “Select”. www.manfred-sauer.co.uk Commercial site for comprehensive range of unique continence products including leg bags, urinary sheaths and condoms. www.medlineplus.gov US National Library of Medicine website providing useful information and links to other health information sites. www.medtronic.com/exploringspasticity American website providing extensive information on spasticity. www.nhs.uk Official NHS website offering advice on all aspects of medical and healthcare. www.womens-health-concern.org Aims to help educate and support women with their healthcare by providing unbiased, accurate information, a range of useful factsheets and telephone and email counselling service. Holidays www.abletogo.com Company provides information about accessible accommodation in the UK. Membership to the site is free and entitles you to a number discounts and offers on travel and accommodation. www.accessatlast.com Website providing a wide range of information on accessible accommodation around the UK, Ireland and America. www.accessiblebarcelona.com AccessibleBarcelona provides services for disabled people so that they can have a hassle free city break in this thriving city. www.accessibleeurope.com

11 Useful Websites

Pool of European travel experts who specialise in accessible tourism services for those with special needs. Organise city breaks, cruises, tours etc throughout Europe. Also provide aids and equipment rental. www.accessibletravel.co.uk Holiday company who will take care of every detail for your holiday. Provide accessible properties in Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Italy and Florida www.access-travel.co.uk Hire out accessible properties for holidays abroad. Provide information on Travel Insurance and Flight booking. www.allgohere.com The directory of UK hotels and other hospitality-related services which are disability-friendly and can be used by disabled or able bodied people. www.blagdon-farm.co.uk Disabled accessible self-catering cottages in Devon. Swimming pool situated within the Farm grounds, bar and restaurant also situated within the grounds. www.canbedone.co.uk Tourist Company who are able to arrange specified requests for accessible accommodation and equipment. www.directenquiries.com (was www.radarsearch.org). On-line accommodation search for disabled people. www.enableholidays.com Specialist tour operator for wheelchair-users, people with limited mobility, their families and friends. All the properties we feature have been personally audited by an experienced Enable Holidays’ auditor. www.epic-enabled.com/ Provide organised holidays in South Africa for disabled people. www.goodaccessguide.co.uk Online guide to life, leisure and mobility. www.grooms-shaftesbury.org.uk (Formerly two charities – John Grooms & The Shaftsbury Society) Provides wide range of general disability information as well as operating a specialist holiday company and The John Grooms Housing Association. The Association owns properties throughout England and Wales. www.holidaycare.org.uk National Charity which aims to provide a wide range of information to the Disabled traveller about accommodation, tourist attractions, and respite care both in the UK and abroad. www.ineedaholidaytoo.com Offering wheelchair accessible holidays in France, enabling the disabled traveller to holiday in style and comfort. www.matchinghouses.com Established for disabled people who house-swap for their holidays. www.tourismforall.org.uk Charity providing information to people with disabilities and older people in relation to accessible accommodation and other tourism services.

12 Useful Websites

www.tourismtrade.org.uk General information on the Tourism Industry in the UK including the National Accessible Scheme and how businesses need to be making their properties more accessible to comply with the Disability Rights Act. www.travel-quest.co.uk Specialist travel directory listing accessible accommodation and activities in the UK, US, Europe & world-wide. www.vitalise.org.uk Vitalise (formerly Winged Fellowship) is a national charity providing short breaks, respite care and other services for disabled people, visually impaired people, and carers. Housing www.accessible-property.org.uk The Accessible Property Register provides a full list of accessible homes for rent or sale. The site includes an ‘Access Calculator’ to assess the accessibility of a property and a selection of accessible holiday accommodation. www.anchor.org.uk Provide a service to older and disabled homeowners across England, helping with repairs adaptations and improvements so that they can remain in safety, security and warmth. www.housingnet.co.uk Comprehensive information on Housing Associations throughout the UK, with a search facility to locate associations in a specific area. www.mobilityfriendlyhomes.co.uk Disabled people in the UK looking for property to buy or rent may like to log onto this website which gives information on mobility friendly houses and flats. Properties listed will either be accessible (check the site’s definition on this) or will contain fixed equipment or adaptations. www.transhouse.info Organisation providing short-term transitional accommodation for Spinal Cord Injured people following discharge from hospital. Independent Living www.csci.gov.uk/ Commission for Social Care Inspection. All agencies providing personal care have to register with CSCI, who will carry out regular inspections. Individuals can search for agencies by inputting their postcode. www.ncil.org.uk Resource on Independent living, social services and employment schemes for the Disabled. Personal and Relationships www.bacp.co.uk

13 Useful Websites

This is the central body covering counselling and psychotherapy in the UK. Find a therapist in your area or ensure that a therapist you are considering consulting is registered with them. www.disabledunited.com The meeting place for disabled people. Friends, dating, on-line chatroom, jokes, games and puzzles. www.enabledalready.com Specialised website for finding suitable partners; mainly aimed at disabled people but non-disabled people are welcome too. www.outsiders.org.uk Outsiders offers support and opportunities to make new friends and perhaps find love and romance. www.whispers4u.com Online dating and friendship for people with disabilities. www.yourable.com Find Penpals within the ‘Community’ section of this disability site, and chat in the forums and discussions. Spinal Cord Injury www.arabspine.com Special website for Arab speeking people in this country or abroad. The site has been developed by Firas Sarhan, a former staff member at Stoke Mandeville NSIC. Free registration is required. www.aspire.org.uk National charity that purchase equipment for individuals, provide personal development training courses and short-term housing. Also research into technology suitable for spinal cord injured people. www.backuptrust.org.uk Back-up gives opportunities and support for spinally injured and able bodied people to experience outdoor activities together. www.sisonline.org Official website for Spinal Injuries Scotland. Provides wide amount of information on Spinal Cord Injuries, equipment, centres etc. www.spinal.co.uk National organisation offering support to those living with a spinal cord injury through a wide range of services. Free Adviceline available. www.spinalcordinjury.co.uk Information site on spinal cord injuries, including existing spinal injury charities, centres and spinal units worldwide. www.spinalnet.co.uk Information website containing information on Spinal Cord Injuries for patients and relatives, with advice on financial matters. www.spine-inc.com/glossary/r/related-conditions.htm Useful information on back conditions, site is linked to some proprietary medications which may not be available or licensed in the UK.

14 Useful Websites

Sport and Activities www.bdfa.net The British Disabled Flying Association arranges specially organised flying days for the disabled. www.disabilitysport.org.uk National pan disability organisation that helps provide opportunities to disabled people to take part in sports. www.efds.net The national body responsible for developing sport for disabled people in England, working closely with the five National Disability Sports Organisations recognised by Sport England. www.getkidsgoing.com National charity which gives disabled children and young people the opportunity of participating in sport. www.londonsportsforum.org.uk Registered Charity promoting the sporting interests of disabled young people and adults in the Greater London area. www.nabd.org.uk National association of bikers with a disability website. Offering information on joining the association events and assistance with adaptations. www.pararallying.com Opportunity for disabled drivers to drive a fully adapted car, instructed by a professional rally driver. www.riding-for-disabled.org.uk National association providing disabled people with the opportunity to take part in riding and carriage driving. www.thefa.com and www.thefa.com/TheFA/Equality/ Information includes football opportunities nationwide for Disabled people. www.wheelpower.org.uk Provides information on the promotion of sporting opportunities for disabled people. Travel & Transport www.adaptedcarhire.co.uk Specialist in the hire of vehicles for use by disabled drivers and passengers or those with mobility issues. Offer vehicles with left foot accelerators, push/pull hand controls and wheelchair accessible vehicles. www.centraltrains.co.uk Information on the carriage of wheelchairs and scooters on central trains as well as details on station accessibility. www.dptac.gov.uk/door-to-door Comprehensive information on all aspects of travel and transport. Young people www.after16.org.uk

15 Useful Websites

Website aimed at young people with a disability and their parents. Provides advice on what opportunities and services will be available when they leave school. (At the time of writing, some of this site was still under construction). www.whizz-kidz.org.uk Charity that helps disabled children with customised mobility equipment, training, advice and life skills. www.youth-action.org.uk Membership organisation that aims to support and develop range of youth volunteering projects across England. www.youthinformation.com Website aimed at young people, provides information on employment, further education, family and relationships etc. www.connexions-direct.com Confidential information and advice on issues such as careers, drugs, contraception etc. for young people aged 13-19 years. www.skill.org.uk Official website for the National Bureau of Students with Disabilities. Provides information on Post-16 education and training towards employment. www.aheadweb.org Association for Higher Education Access and Disability in Ireland, North and South. Aim to promote full access to and participation in third level education for students with disabilities in Ireland. Site provides information on access within higher education institutes and information on grants and financial matters. www.bbc.co.uk/ouch/ BBC website magazine providing information and articles on up-to-date disability issues. Also has a message board. www.prospects.ac.uk Career information website bringing students, graduates and recruiters together.

Disclaimer This factsheet has been prepared by SIA and contains general advice only which we hope will be of use to you. Nothing in this factsheet should be construed as the giving of specific advice and it should not be relied on as a basis for any decision or action. SIA does not accept any liability arising from its use. We aim to ensure the information is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, but please be warned that certain areas are subject to change from time to time. Please note that the inclusion of named agencies, companies, products, services or publications in this factsheet does not constitute a recommendation or endorsement by SIA.

Revised July 2009

17 Useful Websites

About SIA

The Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) is the leading national user-led charity for spinal cord injured (SCI) people. Being user led, we are well placed to understand the everyday needs of living with spinal cord injury and are here to meet those needs by providing key services to share information and experiences, and to campaign for change ensuring each person can lead a full and active life. We are here to support you from the moment your spinal cord injury happens, and for the rest of your life. For more information contact us via the following: Spinal Injuries Association SIA House 2 Trueman Place Oldbrook Milton Keynes MK6 2HH T: 01908 604 191 (Mon – Fri 9am – 5pm) T: 0800 980 0501 (Freephone Advice Line, Mon – Fri, 11am – 1pm/2pm – 4.30pm) W: www.spinal.co.uk E: sia@spinal.co.uk Charity No: 1054097

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18 Useful Websites

Please support SIA SIA relies on fundraising, donations and gifts in wills to provide services that help spinal cord injured people rebuild their lives. With your help, we can provide the right support to spinal cord injured people and their families and friends so they can enjoy a full and independent life after injury. Your donation today will go towards changing someone’s life. I would like to give: £15 £20 £53 other amount £…………. Method of payment

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