Acts of Parliament & Disabled Facilities Grant
The following are some of the major points included in Acts of Parliament which relate to disability access and care.
The Children’s Act 1989
The Act enshrined the importance of the child being paramount, and under Section 17 of Part III it gives local authorities a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. A child with a disability or a child with a parent who is chronically sick or disabled is included in the definition of a ‘child in need’.
Community Care Act 1990
This Act brought about huge changes in helping people who needed care and support to live in the community with dignity and independence.
Carers Act 1995
This Act recognised the rights of carers but relied upon the service user being assessed. Services were not necessarily offered to a carer. It assessed the carer’s ability to continue to provide care.
Carers and Disabled Children’s Act 2000
This Act recognised the right of a carer to an Independent Carers Assessment and considered the possibility of a carer’s need for services.
Disabled Facilities Grant (Statutory Instrument) 2002
If you or someone you care for and who lives in your property is disabled you may qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant towards the cost of alterations and adaptations to enable the person to remain in their home and be cared for. Grants are given by the local authority under Part I of the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act. It is advisable to seek advice from a qualified person in relation to the work that will need to be carried out.
Disability Discrimination Act 1996-
The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA includes parts I, II and III) and its implementation covers the period from 1996 – 2004. The Act aims to end the discrimination faced by many disabled people. It gives rights to people with disabilities in employment, access to goods and services and allows the government to set minimum standards so that people can use public transport easily.
In part III, service providers may have to consider making permanent physical adjustments to their premises.
Human Rights Act 1998
This act stated that everyone’s right to life shall be protected by law. No one shall be deprived of his/her life intentionally. Included under Article 14 is the Prohibition of Discrimination, stating that the enjoyment of the rights and freedoms set forth in this Convention shall be secured without discrimination on any ground such as sex, race, colour, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, association with a national minority, property, birth or other status.
Several websites give more information about these Acts and Grants:
www.disability.gov.uk
Or you can write to:
The Stationery Office, PO Box 276, London SW8 5DT
0870 600 5522
Advocacy is about being able to speak out about the things that matter to us and having the support that we need to ensure that we are listened to. It is about having choice and control over our lives.
Advocacy Partners is a leading independent organisation which has been providing services to people with disabilities in south west London and Surrey since 1981. It recruits, trains and supports volunteer advocates as well as employing staff, to provide independent representation and to enable people to participate more fully in the community.
For more information contact (between 9am-
Advocacy Partners in Croydon, c/o Heavers Farm Day Centre, 122-
020 8771 6296
giles.frampton@advocacypartners.org
or
Advocacy Partners, McMillan House, 54 Cheam Common Road, Worcester Park, Surrey KT4 8RH
020 8330 6644
info@advocacypartners.org.uk
Self Advocacy Groups
First Friday is a self advocacy group that meets every two months at Heavers Farm
Day Centre,122-
They discuss subjects suggested by members of the group and sometimes have speakers.
If you are interested in joining the group, phone one of the following contacts:
Wayne Bayliss020 8655 3484
Sedley Wilson020 8771 0325
Susan Kabia Smith020 8684 0831
Paul Welch020 8764 8822
Croydon People First is a self advocacy group run by and for adults with learning difficulties. They meet once a month at Cornerstone House, Willis Road, Croydon and new members are very welcome.They discuss issues of concern to their members and sometimes have guest speakers.
Chair:Tim James
Project Manager: Geraldine O’Shea
Contact details:
Croydon People First, St Oswald’s Parish Hall, St Oswald’s Road, Norbury SW16 3SB
Tel: 020 8679 5809
Email: info@croydonpeoplefirst.org.uk
See Local Support Groups for other organisations who may also offer an advocacy service.
To qualify for most Disability Benefits you must satisfy the rules about residence and presence in Great Britain. This generally means that you have been ‘present and ordinarily resident’ in Great Britain for not less than 26 weeks of the last 52 weeks. This is a continuing test. It applies to any day for which you are claiming benefit.
Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
You can claim this Benefit from the age of three months until 65 years. To qualify for DLA you need to prove that you have had the disability for at least three months. There are two elements to DLA: the care component (high, middle and low) and the mobility component(high and low).
If the child has reached 3 years of age and has already qualified for high rate care, you can apply for high rate mobility. If not, you will need to wait until the child is 5 years old to apply for the high or low rate. DLA is not means tested. It is paid regardless of any other income or savings and is not taxable.
Carers Allowance
This is payable to people who care for a minimum of 35 hours per week. The person
you care for must be receiving either the DLA middle or high rate component of care,
or the Attendance Allowance (see below). You can earn up to £79 a week (2004-
If you are over 65 you can claim the allowance, but as it overlaps with the state pension, only the higher of the two will be paid. The Carers Allowance is counted as income and is taxable.
It is advisable to contact the Benefits Helpline for more advice:
0800 882200
Attendance Allowance
If you are ill or severely disabled you can claim this Benefit if you are 65 years and over. It can help you to pay for the extra costs that you incur in looking after yourself.
The allowance comes in two rates: high and low, depending on the level of care support that you need. Mobility is not taken into account for Attendance Allowance. It is not a means tested Benefit and is paid regardless of any savings or other income you may receive. It is not taxable.
Special Rules
If you have a terminal illness you can apply for Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance under Special Rules.
You will need to have a Doctor’s certificate (DS1500) to confirm your condition and your claim will be dealt with quickly, ie within two weeks.
Carer Premium
This is an extra income which is included in the calculations to make up Income Support.
Incapacity Benefit
This Benefit is paid to you if you have a disability or an illness which prevents
you from working. There are two types of Incapacity Benefit: contributory and non-
If you have paid sufficient National Insurance contributions for 3 years prior to your claim, this is classed as contributory.
Non-
If you have any queries of a general nature regarding your benefits, or if you want to find out what benefits you are entitled to, you can call the National Benefits Helpline free on:
0800 882200(Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm)
To find out how your claim is progressing, or which date an Appeal has been set for, you can call:
0845 7123456
If you live in certain areas within the London Borough of Croydon, you may be able to get help from the Croydon Benefits Helpline:
0800 731 5920Mondays, 2 – 7pm
Wednesdays, 11am – 2 pm
Fridays, 9am – 12 noon
Croydon Mencap provides a comprehensive benefit and welfare advice service, including home visits and attendance at Appeal Tribunals.
Contact Terry Aylen, the Family Services Co-
020 8662 9201
terry.croydonmencap@btconnect.com
Council Tax Discounts
There are three types of discount and rebate:
·Discounts for certain households (single occupancy, status disregard)
·Reductions for properties occupied by someone with a disability (disabled relief)
·Rebates for people on a low income (council tax benefit)
Discounts
If there are fewer than two people living in a property, there is a discount of 25% if someone lives alone and 50% if the property is empty. Certain people are considered invisible when calculating how many people live in a property.
For example, carers are ‘invisible’ if they are living with and caring for a disabled
person who is not their spouse, co-
Reductions
Reductions may be available if a property has been externally adapted or if someone needs an extra room because of their disability (for example if a downstairs room has been converted into a bedroom or an additional bathroom). In this case the Council Tax will be calculated as if the property was in the next band down.
Rebates
If you are on a low income you could qualify for Council Tax Benefit. If you receive Income Support, you can apply for a full rebate. If you get Carers Allowance, you may be eligible for extra Council Tax Benefit through the Carer Premium. Single people paying Council Tax and living with someone on a low income can apply for Alternative Maximum Council Tax Benefit (a second adult rebate).
For more details or to challenge a decision contact:
Council Tax Department
London Borough of Croydon, Municipal Offices, Fell Road, Croydon CR9 1BQ
020 8667 8282
croyctax@liberata.com
Carers Contactline/Carers Information Service
Courtyard House, 1d Church Road, Croydon CR0 1SG
020 8649 9339
www.carerscontactline.co.uk
Free confidential advice, information, advocacy and support to all carers in Croydon.
Carers UK
Croydon Carers Centre, 12 Katharine Street, Croydon CR0 1NX
020 8688 7219
Information/advice, telephone helpline, counselling, individual support, support groups, outreach and themed projects, sitting, shopping, newsletter and various therapies.
Croydon Crossroads Ltd
410 Brighton Road, South Croydon CR2 6AN
020 8688 4499
mmilton@croydoncrossroads.freeserve.co.uk
Provides a trained care attendant, allowing the carer free time away from their caring responsibilities.
Children’s Services
Diagnosis
Advances in screening and diagnosis have led to many people being aware that their unborn child may be born disabled. However, this is not always the case as many forms of learning disability are not detectable either during pregnancy or for some time after the baby is born.
The usual pattern of contact with health services following delivery involves Midwifery then Health Visitor services and your family GP. If there are any concerns about the child’s health or development, they are often referred to other health professionals for further assessment or advice, such as a paediatrician, physiotherapist, speech and language therapist, or clinical nurse specialist for children with special needs, for example.
Social services are also able to offer advice and support if your child has needs that are not related to their health. They can be contacted at the Initial Contact Service based at Taberner House (020 8686 4433), who will advise if your child is eligible for any type of service or special equipment.
Other agencies and voluntary groups who might be able to offer support and guidance and practical assistance are listed under Local Support Groups & Organisations or National Organisations.
Also, you can phone Croydon Voluntary Action (CVA) to find out more about voluntary
and parent-
020 8684 3862
Crystal Centre for Children’s Services
This is the base for a number of health services for children including audiology, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and physiotherapy. Referrals for assessments can be made by a health professional such as the child’s GP or health visitor.
020 8274 6854
Social Services – for Children with Disabilities
Can be contacted at:
Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 2BA
020 8686 4433
www.croydon.gov.uk
Through the Children’s Services Division of Social Services, the Council provides support to promote and safeguard the welfare of children in need.
Section 17 of the Children Act 1989 defines children in need as follows:
·He/she is unlikely to achieve or maintain – or to have the opportunity of achieving or maintaining – a reasonable standard of health or development without the provision for him/her of services by a local authority under this part;
·His/her health or development is likely to be significantly impaired, or further impaired, without the provision of such services;
·He/she is disabled.
The Services for Children with Disabilities comprises an Assessment and Child Care Team, Resource Team and a residential respite unit at Calleydown. Croydon offers a range of services for children/young people with a disability who meet the eligibility criteria.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for one of the above services, a child/young person must:
·Be living within the borough of Croydon;
·Be under 18 years old;
·Have a permanent and substantial disability and be assessed by a social worker from the Assessment Team of the Services for Children with Disabilities, as being in need of one or more of these services.
Disabilities include learning, physical and multiple disabilities (which may include health needs). It excludes unrelated emotional, behavioural and mental health difficulties. Any child/young person who appears to be eligible will be assessed, but only those who are considered to meet the necessary criteria can be offered support.
Once a child/young person is accepted as eligible, there may be a waiting period because services are allocated according to need and availability.
Services might include one or more of the following:
·Short breaks (home based) where a child/young person visits the carer’s home for a few hours or for an overnight stay
·Domiciliary care where a carer visits the home of the child/young person
·School holiday schemes and a Saturday Scheme
·Calleydown (a local residential unit providing day care and overnight stays)
·Special placements (in cases where none of the above services are appropriate or sufficient)
·Support via an independent agency or Direct Payments
Occupational Therapy Services
Services for Children with Disabilities works in close co-
Occupational Therapy Services are based at:
47 St James Road, Croydon CR0 2UR
020 8684 4254
Child Protection
If Social Services are told by anyone that a child or young person (from newborn babies to 17 year olds) is at risk of or is actually experiencing significant harm, the law states that they must make enquiries.
Everyone in the community has a responsibility to protect children, and members of the public are encouraged to report an incident if they think a child is at risk. Professionals who work with children – for example teachers, health visitors and doctors – have a duty to report suspected abuse or neglect to Social Services.
Enquiries are then carried out by staff from the Assessment, Child Care, Children’s Disability or Leaving Care & Independence sections, and in some cases they need to work with specially trained police officers. The initial aim of the enquiry is to establish whether a child is suffering or is likely to suffer ‘significant harm’.
If you suspect that a child is at risk contactSocial Services – Children’s Services Division on:
020 8686 4433
Or if it is an emergency phone the Police on:
999
Other agencies to contact for advice are:
NSPCC
Weston House, 42 Curtain Road, London EC2A 3NH
0800 800 5000
www.nspcc.org.uk
Barnados
Tanners Lane, Barkingside, Ilford, Essex IG6 1QG
020 8550 8822
www.barnardos.org.uk
Childline
Studd Street, London N1 0QW
0800 1111
www.childline.org.uk
Children’s Disability Register
What is it for?
The Register is a list of children who have a disability and who receive – or may one day need to use – services from Health, Social Services, Education or voluntary organisations. It helps the Council plan local services for disabled children and young people, eg leisure activities, short breaks, etc, and is a contact point for important milestones such as transition to adult services.
Who can register?
You can register your child if he/she is under 18 years old and has a disability.
No one has to register, but parents of all children with a disability are encouraged
to as it helps plan services for the future. When you register, you can choose to
leave out certain questions if you wish. If you are the parent or guardian of a disabled
child you can fill in the registration form. If you are a disabled young person aged
16-
Who sees the information?
The Register is kept on a computer. It contains statistical information – figures only with no names – and is given to organisations who ask for it. Personal information can be given only to certain people in Health, Education or Social Services who need to know it.
For further information contact:
Register Services, Orchard Hill, Fountain Drive, Carshalton, Surrey SM5 4NN
020 8770 8254
register.services@swlondon.nhs.uk
www.registerservices.nhs.uk
Children’s Information Service provides information about child care providers, childminders,
day nurseries, nursery schools, out-
They can be contacted at:
Children’s Information Service,
10 Katharine Street, Croydon CR9 1JU
0845 1111 100
childcare@croydon.gov.uk
Croydon Parent Partnership Service
is a statutory educational service for parents/carers and schools as prescribed by the Special Education Needs Code of Practice 2001. They particularly support parents/carers (and those with a legal responsibility) of children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities.
The CPPS aims to provide information and advice that is independent, neutral and confidential on all aspects of Special Educational Needs/Disabilities, the SEN framework and local education policy.It can also help parents/carers to resolve disagreements, and provides information on local mediation, the Disagreement Resolution Service and the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal.
For more information contact:
Croydon Parent Partnership Service
Strand House, Nursery Road, Croydon CR7 8RE
(NB This service may move in the future)
020 8656 6551
croydonpps@btconnect.com
www.croydonpps.org.uk
Sure Start is an organisation which brings together both statutory and voluntary agency workers, and the local community, to promote and secure healthy development and learning opportunities for young children under four and their families.
It does this by providing a wide range of services in partnership with local parent and community groups, and particularly seeks to engage those families who do not currently access services because they are experiencing difficulties.
For more information contact:
The Programme Manager,
89 London Road, Croydon CR0 2RF
020 8649 8441
Portage and Early Childhood
Portage can begin when a child is a few months old and support can continue until the child enters an educational placement. The Portage Worker visits the child’s home weekly and works with the parent. The Portage checklist is used to establish a baseline of the child’s current abilities.
Portage teaching breaks down tasks and skills into small steps so that they can be made into daily activities and provide appropriate learning activities.
Early childhood support is offered to children who are referred during the year before they are due to enter nursery or reception class. It can provide a block of up to six weekly visits to assess the child and give educational advice to parents, as appropriate. This service can be accessed through the Special Educational Needs Support Service (see below).
Special Educational Needs Support Service (SENSS) is part of the Integrated Support Service consisting of teachers, nursery nurses and specialist teaching assistants who have a wide range of qualifications and experience of working with pupils with special educational needs.
The service can be contacted at:
Davidson Professional Centre, Davidson Road, Croydon CR0 6DD
020 8656 6551
senss@croydon.gov.uk
Special Needs Schools in Croydon
·St Nicholas, Old Lodge Lane, Purley CR8 4DN
·Redgates, 489 Purley Way, Croydon CR0 4RG
·Bensham Manor, Ecclesbourne Road, Thornton Heath CR7 7BR
·Priory, Tennison Road, South Norwood SE25 5RR
·The Link, 138 Croydon Rd, Beddington CR0 4PG
Rutherford School – an independent school for children aged 2-
Contact the Garwood Foundation for more details:
020 8681 0460
Croydon Opportunity Pre-
South Norwood020 8654 3975
Selsdon020 8651 4760
Croydon Community Childminding Networks
Network Childminders care for children with additional needs and are part of a nationally recognised quality assured scheme approved by the National Child Minding Association (NCMA), the Department of Education and Skills and Ofsted.
Each Childminder accesses further training on an ongoing basis to meet the needs
of individual children as well as for their own personal development. They also receive
regular visits from their co-
These support visits (about every 8-
Only childminders who are part of a Network can apply to become accredited and be eligible to draw down Educational Funding for any 3 and 4 year olds in their care.
Network Childminders can access a toy library and sensory room; use the equipment
lending scheme and many other resources. They also have their co-
Outings and other events are held throughout the year giving opportunities to meet other childminders and their children, and are always open to parents.
For more information please contact:
Claire Treacy,
Childminding Networks Development Officer
020 8239 4485
or the Children’s Information Service
0845 1111 100
Respite
Crossroads provides a service for children who may not already be receiving a service, and parents/carers can self refer by contacting:
Croydon Crossroads Ltd, 410 Brighton Road, South Croydon CR2 6AN
020 8688 4499
marie@croydoncrossroads.freeserve.uk
Treetops is a small scale children’s play centre run by Croydon Mencap providing
after-
Contact the Play Centre Manager directly on:
020 8688 3263
Or the Croydon Mencap Office:
60-
020 8662 9201
croydonmencap@btconnect.com
www.croydon.cswebsites.org
Also, see Leisure as some of these activities provide a break for carers.
If you need a Chiropodist (foot care specialist) you can make the arrangements yourself by contacting them directly; many chiropodists advertise in the local directory.
However, if you do need help, you can either speak to your GP or contact the Chiropody Service at:
12-
020 8274 6318
or
020 8274 6319
Transport or home visits can sometimes be arranged.
Colleges and Careers
Connexions is a service providing information, advice and support for all 13-
Young people with Special Educational Needs can continue to receive help from Connexions up to their 25th birthday, should they require it.
The service allows young people to access information, support and practical help by linking up many different agencies and services to help them make important decisions which affect their lives.
Connexions Croydon Centre,
112-
Open:Monday to Thursday, 9am – 5pm
Friday, 10.30am – 5pm
020 8401 0301
croydoncc@prospects.co.uk
National Bureau for Students with Disabilities (SKILL) is an organisation which provides
opportunities and support for students with disabilities in post-
0800 328 5050
Croydon College offers part-
A week-
For further information contact:
Croydon College, College Road, Croydon CR9 1DX
020 8686 5700
info@croydon.ac.uk
www.croydoncollege.com
Carshalton College – also runs courses for students with special needs
Nightingale Road, Carshalton, Surrey SM5 2EJ
020 8544 4444
cs.carshalton@ac.uk
www.carshalton.ac.uk(go to What can I study? then Skills for life)
Customer Services Open:Fridays, 8.30am – 4.30pm
Mondays–Thursdays, 8.30am to 7.30 pm
CETS (Continuing Education and Training Service) provides information, advice, guidance and support for adults with learning disabilities who would like to join a CETS course. CETS offers a range of courses particularly designed for adults with a learning disability, many of which are accredited, as well as the opportunity to join in the main programme of courses. The service works closely with group homes and individuals.
If you are new to CETS, contact Learner Support to make an appointment with the Learner
Support Co-
Contact (between 9am–4.30pm):
Learner Support Disability, South Norwood CET Centre, Sandown Road, South NorwoodSE25 4XE
020 8656 4863
bonnie.tandy@croydon.gov.uk
www.cets.co.uk
Community Learning Disability Team(including Care Management)
The Joint Community Learning Disability Team (JCLDT) is a team of staff from a range of professional backgrounds who support adults with a learning disability, and their carers, living in Croydon.
The team is made up of staff from both Croydon Social Services and Surrey Oaklands NHS Trust working together to ensure people’s needs are met:
Adult Placement Officers, Care Managers, Independent Living Officers, Community Learning Disability Nurses, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Dieticians, Art and Music Therapists, Physiotherapists, Speech and Language Therapists.
The aim of the JCLDT is to ensure that adults with learning disabilities living in Croydon (and those from Croydon living elsewhere) receive the essential health and social services required to maintain their health and live free from abuse, unacceptable risks and neglect of basic needs, in liaison with other professionals.
People are eligible for assessment by the JCLDT if:
1.They are over 18 and a Croydon resident; and
2.The person has a learning disability which was present before the age of 18, as defined by a recognised assessment such as:
a)A psychological assessment;
b)A Statement of Education Needs;
c)Medical diagnosis of condition; and
3.As a result of the learning disability, the person has significant functional restriction in capacity for independent living which may include severe restricted capacity in one of the following activities:
Self care, communication and language, mobility, accessing mainstream services, accessing a support network, social functioning.
To make a referral for any of the services provided by the Team, you can phone or write to:
JCLDT, Rees House, 2 Morland Rd, Croydon CR0 6NA
020 8239 4441/2
An initial assessment will then be arranged to ensure that eligibility criteria for the appropriate services are met, and to identify needs.
If your need is urgent, telephone Taberner House on:
020 8686 4433
Carers’ Assessments
If you provide a substantial and regular amount of care for a relative, partner or friend, or you have parental responsibility for a child with a disability, you have a legal right to request a Carers Assessment.
There are two Acts which you may wish to refer to: The Carers Act 1995 and the Carers and Disabled Children’s Act 2000.See Acts of Parliament section
The Department of Health’s carers website has a wealth of information including the leaflet A Carer’s Guide to a Carers Assessment which can be downloaded in Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, Greek Gujarati, Punjabi, Somali, Turkish, Urdu and Vietnamese, as well as English.
www.carers.gov.uk
For general information on Carers Assessments, visit the website:
www.croydon.gov.uk
If you are a carer and want to have an assessment, contact the JCLDT on:
020 8239 4441/2
Independent Living Fund
If your needs or those of the person you care for have not been fully met after the assessment, it may be possible for Social Services to refer the case to the Independent Living Fund. This national fund pays for extra care for people aged 16 to 65 with very severe disabilities.
0845 601 8815Mon–Thurs, 9am-
Friday, 9am–4pm
Older Carers
Advice, support and information for older carers of people who have a learning disability available from:
Christine Rickells, JCLDT (Monday – Wednesday)
Rees House, 2 Morland Road, Croydon CR0 6NA
020 8239 4200
christine_rickells@croydon.gov.uk
Christine is a Care Manager and arranges assessments, reviews and appropriate services for the person with a learning disability, and reports back to social services management about issues and service needs of older carers.
Local organisations should let her know if they have any issues concerning older carers.
Community Nurses
Community Learning Disability Nurses are members of the Joint Community Learning Disability Team. They provide a specialist nursing service to adults with a learning disability living in the borough.
Examples of the services they offer include:
·Health needs assessments, developing specialist interventions to meet identified health needs and monitor their efficacy;
·Assess behaviour that challenges, design and support the implementation of behavioural guidelines;
·Monitor and support clients with mental health needs;
·Support for parents with learning disabilities;
·Co-
·Offer advice, support and education to clients, carers and other professionals.
The Community Nurses accept direct referrals from clients, carers or others. Referral details can be gained from the JCLDT team at:
Joint Community Learning Disability Team
Rees House, 2 Morland Road, Croydon CR0 6NA
020 8239 4441/2.
Complaints
All organisations – whether private, voluntary or statutory – should have a Complaints Procedure.
If you wish to make a complaint or a suggestion about a particular service, organisation or person, you should ask the organisation concerned for a copy of its Complaints Procedure.
This document will describe how it will deal with your complaint – which could be informal or formal – and will set out specific timescales within which it has to respond. Each organisation has its own procedure.
If after going through the complaints procedure carried out by the organisation you are still not satisfied with the conclusion, you have the right to contact an external body which will be named within the Complaints Procedure.
If your complaint is about Social Services, and you have gone through their complaints procedure, you can complain to the Local Government Ombudsman. The Ombudsman can investigate complaints where there has been maladministration such as unreasonable delay, or failure to follow proper procedures. You can do this up to 12 months after the incident.
Contact the Advice Line on:
0845 602 1983
Counselling
Crusein Croydon
020 8916 0855
For bereavement counselling and support/social groups.
Off the Record – Youth Counselling
72 Queens Road, Croydon CR0 2PR
020 8251 0251
Free counselling for young people aged 14-
Croydon Drop In
132 Church Street, Croydon CR0 1RF
020 8680 0404
Free confidential counselling for people aged 11–25. Phone for advice and information
The Joint Community Learning Disability Team (JCLDT) can also put you in touch with the appropriate counselling agency.
Contact them on:020 8239 444½
Croydon Mencap
Croydon Mencap is a local society affiliated to national Mencap but is independently run by a Board of Directors. It is a registered charity and raises its own funds. It works with people at a local level providing activities and advice in a variety of ways:
·Benefits and Welfare Advice
·Children’s Play Centre
·Charity Shop
·Daytime Activities
·Saturday Social Club and Sports Club
·Monday Evening Social Club
·Youth Club
A variety of social and fundraising events are organised throughout the year and
a bi-
To contact Croydon Mencap:
Croydon Mencap,
60-
020 8662 9201
croydonmencap@btconnect.com
www.croydon.cswebsites.org
Daytime Activities
Daytime activities in Croydon are currently undergoing many changes, as some large
Day Centres are being replaced by smaller Resource Bases and community-
Resource Bases and Day Centres provide the following:
·Day support for adults with a learning disability
·Community-
·Community Support Workers support individuals to access community opportunities.
·A base for people to meet and talk to a keyworker.
They are based at:
The Peter SylvesterResource Base (9am – 4pm)
11 Bramley Hill, South Croydon CR2 6LX
020 8688 9305
paul.wallingford@croydon.gov.uk
ACA, 90 Central Parade, New Addington CR0 0JB
Heavers Farm Day Centre
122-
020 8771 1321
Cherry Orchard Day Centre
171 St James’s Road, Croydon CR0 2BY
020 8689 2625
Leslie Park
60-
020 8662 9201
Based at Croydon Mencap, Leslie Park provides daytime activities for younger aged adults, both on and off site. Referrals through the Joint Community Learning Disability Team.
There are also a number of private providers of daytime activities.
For more information and referral call the Joint Community Learning Disability Team (JCLDT):
020 8239 444½
You can access dental treatment through a local NHS dentist of your choice, but if you have any problems, you might wish to contact one of the special Dental Clinics in Croydon.
There are several clinics across the borough which you can be referred to by first contacting:
Community Dental Services Headquarters,
Thornton Heath Health Centre
61a Gillett Road
Thornton Heath
CR7 8RL
020 8684 3160
For dental emergencies outside office hours (6.30-
020 8401 3443
Direct Payments
What are Direct Payments?
Direct Payments are cash payments that enable people to buy for themselves services that would otherwise be arranged directly by the Social Services Department. With this option, community care service users will have more independence, choice and control over their care arrangement.
Who can have Direct Payments?
Direct Payments can be offered to all people aged 18 and over; this includes unpaid carers, parents/ parental guardians of a disabled child, 16 and 17 year olds with a disability who are:
·Receiving (or about to receive) community care services
·Willing and able to manage such payments (independently or with assistance)
What can Direct Payments be used for?
Direct Payments can be used to purchase personal care or help with domestic tasks inside and outside the home, eg dressing/undressing, having a shower or bath, preparing a meal, doing housework, going shopping, going to college, etc.
At present, Direct Payments cannot be used to purchase equipment or day care services.
Can you get Direct Payments and Services?
Yes, you can have money to buy some help yourself, and still receive other services in the usual way.
If you choose Direct Payments you will be responsible for arranging the services yourself.
·If you choose to employ someone directly to assist you, you will have specific responsibilities as an employer but you will be offered professional advice and support to help you fulfil your obligations.
·If you choose to use a Care Agency to provide all the services you require you will not have to employ your own staff and you will be offered advice when choosing a suitable agency.
·You will need to open a separate bank or building society account into which the payments will be made; keep financial records and submit regular returns to the Council.
You can contact the Direct Payments Support Service who can provide information about direct payments when you are considering the different service options. The Service can assist you in the initial stages and offer support as and when advice, information and training are required.
The Service can be contacted at:
Direct Payments Support Service
CVA, 97 High Street, Thornton Heath CR7 8RY
020 8683 5906
cva@library.croydon.gov.uk
Domestic Violence
f you are a victim of domestic violence and need help and support, the following agencies may be able to help you:
Crime Stoppers has a confidential hotline for members of the public to pass on information anonymously:
0800 555 1111
Domestic Violence Co-
020 8604 7012
Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Helpline
020 8239 8845
Emergencies
If you are a carer and are suddenly taken ill, you may need immediate support for your son/daughter for whom you are the main carer.
If you find yourself in this kind of situation, contact Taberner House 24 hours a day on:
020 8686 4433
and ask for the Duty Manager, Learning Disability Services
If you are calling out of office hours, ask for the Emergency Duty Team.
If it is a major emergency and you need help immediately, phone the Emergency Services on:
999
Employment
Each Job Centre Plus has a Disability Employment Advisor (DEA) who has experience of meeting the requirements of disabled people seeking employment. The DEA will establish any training and work preparation requirements, as well as identifying potential employers.
The local officers can be contacted at:
Croydon Office
17-
020 8700 8369
gerry.mcguire1@jobcentreplus.gsi.gov.uk
Thornton Heath Office
72 High Street, Croydon CR4 8YY
020 8918 5695
anju.noel-
Purley Office
24 Whytecliffe Road South, Purley CR8 2YU
020 8700 8269
jill.kindynis@jobcentreplus.gsi.gov.uk
Other agencies who may be able to help you are:
Status Employment
6 West Way Gardens, Shirley, Croydon CR0 8RA
Contact:Robert Elston
020 8655 3344
info@statusemployment.org.uk
Status Employment offers a supported employment service helping people with disabilities
to find and retain paid jobs. Time is spent getting to know the person individually
before beginning the job search, and help with CVs is provided together with mock-
Croslink/Crosfield
3 Imperial Way, Croydon CR0 4RR
Contact:David Wright
020 8255 5468
Crosfield provides paid employment in light industrial work for people with disabilities. Anyone interested in working there needs to be referred by a Disability Employment Advisor based at a Job Centre. For further information phone Crosfield.
The Shaw Trust
95 Westminster Bridge Road, London SE1 7HR
020 7960 2480
www.shaw-
Local Contact, based at Croydon College:
Phil Carter – 020 8633 1554
The Shaw Trust is a national charity that provides training and work opportunities for people who are disadvantaged in the labour market due to disability, ill health or other social circumstances.
New Directions
c/o Cherry Orchard Centre, 171 St James’s Road, Croydon CR0 2BY
020 8689 2625
Eye Testing
If you have difficulty in arranging an Eye Test at your local opticians, you can telephone the Primary Care Trust service on:
020 8274 6333
This service can provide you with details of optician practices who offer a home visiting service.
Alternatively you can contact the Joint Community Learning Disability Team (JCLDT) on:
020 8239 444½
If you have any large items of furniture you no longer need, there are several furniture projects operating in Croydon who may be able to help you. They can usually arrange to collect items from you, which they will then sell to raise funds for community projects, or pass on to vulnerable people who may be setting up in their own accommodation.
Cherry Orchard Furniture Project
171 St James’ Road, Croydon CR0 2BY
020 8689 2625
The Community Furniture Project
13a Mayo Road, Croydon CR0 2QP
020 8689 9490
Mind Furniture Project
020 8768 1222
If you have any smaller items to dispose of, charity shops are usually happy to take good quality items for sale in their shops.
Contact Croydon Mencap Charity Shop on:
020 8656 8703
(formerly Croydon Sutton & District Spastics Society)
The Garwood Foundation provides a range of services for both children and adults with disabilities.
These include:
Rutherford School – an independent school for children aged 2-
The Bramley Hill Centre – a day centre for adults 18+ with severe and multiple disabilites providing them with a place to work and the opportunity to develop their individual skils and abilities.
Jean Garwood House – a residential home for 14 adults with severe and multiple disabilities. Three of the residents share an independent living training flat wich is used as a stepping stone for independent living in the community. Jean Garwood House also provides respite care for one person at a time.
Welfare Support Service – an independent support service for children and adults with disabilities, their families and carers.
The Garwood Foundation,
1a Melville Avenue, South Croydon CR2 7HZ
020 8681 0460
admin@garwoodfoundation.org.uk
Health
NHS Direct – 24 hour telephone service
0845 4647
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
NHS Direct is a confidential telephone service which you can phone if you are feeling unwell and need advice from a nurse, or for health advice and information. They can also tell you where to find your nearest doctor, pharmacist, dentist or support group.
NHS Walk-
020 8666 0555
Mon–Fri, 7am–10pm
Sat, Sun & Bank Holidays 9am–10pm
Primary Care Trust (for community health services)
Knollys House, 17 Addiscombe Rd, Croydon CR0 6SR
020 8274 6000
GPs
You need to register with a local GP in order to access basic health care. If you have a problem in doing so, or if you need general advice, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
020 8274 6333
There are three other contact numbers for PALS which you can access if you need help or advice, depending on which service you are using:
020 8401 3210Mayday Hospital
0800 731 2864South London and Maudsley Trust (SLAM)
01372 204191Surrey Oaklands
Learning Disability Nurses can also offer support and advice. See Community Nurses section.
Hospitals
If you have gone into hospital, the Joint Community Learning Disability Team may not know you have been admitted, but social workers at the hospital will liaise with the Team when you are due to leave, should you need ongoing support at home.
People leaving hospital should have a hospital discharge plan which includes:
·The name of a specific member of staff at the hospital who is responsible for checking that the patient is discharged properly.
·Details of any support, help, equipment or adaptations which are to be set up before discharge, and information about who is responsible for their provision.
·Details of any contacts to be made to community health services, eg GP, District Nurse, Social Worker/Care Manager.
If you are a carer of someone being discharged from hospital, you should be given at least 24 hours notice before they are sent home. If you are not happy with the way the person you care for is to be discharged, you can contact the PALS service (numbers above).
Mental Health
Although this Guide is primarily aimed towards people with learning disabilities we know that some people with learning disabilities also experience mental health difficulties at various times in their lives. In the first instance you may want to talk things over with your GP, who should be able to advise you on who else to contact, if necessary.
Or you may choose to seek advice from the Joint Community Learning Disability Team (JCLDT). They may suggest a referral to the Team’s psychiatrist.
Contact the JCLDT on:
020 8239 4441/2
Other useful contacts:
MIND in Croydon
26 Pampisford Road, Croydon
8668 2210
The Mental Health Foundation
Containers House, 9th Floor, 20 Upper Ground, London SE1 9QB
020 7803 1100
www.mentalhealth.org.uk
TheMental Health Foundationis a leading UK charity working in mental health and learning disability, pioneering research and community projects. It aims to improve the support available for people with mental health issues and learning disabilities.
Sexual Health and Relationships
From time to time you may feel that you need help or support with your personal life or relationships. Talking things over with your friends or family could help, but you may wish to speak to someone privately, outside your immediate circle of friends or family.
If so, you can contact the JCLDT on:
020 8239 4441/2
and they can put you in touch with the most appropriate agency, for example Community Nurses.
They can also offer advice about sexual health screening and family planning.
Also there are some voluntary organisations who may be able to offer you advice or support, depending on your particular need.
A useful website to visit is:
www.publications.doh.gov.uk/disabledguide
(then go to personal & sexual relationships)
This Department of Health website now incorporates SPOD, which was an organisation providing information and counselling on sex, personal relationships and disability.
Sexual Health Information Line
0800 567 1233
Respond
3rd Floor, 24-
This a national organisation providing a range of services to victims and perpetrators of sexual abuse who have learning disabilities. It also provides training and support to those working with them.
Respond Helpline0808 808 0700
www.respond.org.uk
Community Continence Advisor can give information and advice, or arrange an assessment.
Parkway Health Centre, Parkway, New Addington, Croydon CR0 0JA
01689 842554
Holidays
A lot of hotels and rented holiday properties now have facilities for people with disabilities. There are also some who specialise in providing supported holidays and a few are included below:
Trevanion House, Cornwall
Provides a complete package of supported activities for adults with a learning disability
01208 814903
www.trevanion.co.uk
·Variety of day trips and evening activities, suggested and chosen by guests
·Registered with the Commission for Social Care
·Most guests visit us independently and can be met from the station or airport
Bond Hotel, Blackpool
Specialises in holidays for people with special needs, learning and physical disabilities and the elderly
01253 341218
www.bondhotel.co.uk
·Level access throughout
·50 bedrooms with level access showers
·Nightly entertainment
·Minibus collection and return service
Bond Holiday Homes
Marton Mere Holiday Village, Blackpool
·Specially designed caravans for people with disabilities, up to 6-
·Indoor pool
·Amusement arcade
·Live entertainment every day and evening
Please note that we cannot recommend these holidays. This is for information only.
Holiday Care is a Croydon-
Holiday Care, 7th Floor, Sunley House, 4 Bedford Park, Croydon CR0 2AP
0845 124 9971
info@holidaycare.org
www.holidaycare.org.uk
Housing
The range of options available in Croydon are summarised below and described in more detail in the publication Leaving Home, Moving On: Housing Options for People with Learning Disabilities in Croydonwhich can be obtained by contacting:
Charles McArdle,
Service Development Manager/Learning Disabilities
020 8239 4362
charles.mcardle@croydon.gov.uk
But how do I find out what is right for me.........?
It is important that you think about what sort of housing you will need (for example, do you want to live on your own or share with other people?) and whether you will need support:
If you think that you will be able to live independently, with the support of your family and friends, then you should get a Housing Application Form from Croydon’s Housing Department so that you register the fact that you need accommodation. You should include any information about having a learning disability on this form as this may mean you are given some priority as being vulnerable under the Housing Act. There are quite long waiting lists for housing but registering as early as possible will help.
To get a form and find out more about your options you can contact:
The Housing Register Team
020 8686 4433 ext. 65412 or 63893
If you feel you will need support then it is important that you have your needs assessed by a care manager from the Joint Community Learning Disability Team. The care manager will work out with you what level of support you will require and what type of housing and support package will best suit your needs, and will also help you to fill in Housing Application Forms etc.
Joint Community Learning Disability Team
Rees House, 2 Morland Road, Croydon CR0 6NA
Duty Team
020 8239 4446/7
The main housing and support options that you may want to choose from are summarised below:
Registered Care (regulated by the Commission for Social Care Inspection)
Registered Care Homes are generally larger than group homes (see below) and can have
twenty or more residents, although many are much smaller with typically three to
nine residents. Personal care and full board are provided, and there’s usually 24-
A list of the registered care homes accredited with Croydon Council is available from:
The Social Services Contract Unit
020 686 4433 ext 62807
and the Inspection Reports are available on the Commission for Social Care Inspection web site:
020 8256 6430
In an Adult Placement Scheme (sometimes called ‘adult fostering’), the local authority
supports and supervises families who provide a place in their own home, some of which
are registered. Someone less disabled may be in supported lodging in an adult placement
scheme, where they rent a room or bed-
The Croydon Adult Placement Scheme can be contacted on:
020 8686 4433 ext. 63516
Supported Housing takes many forms – it means any type of housing and support which is not a registered care home. Although not inspected and regulated in the same way as registered homes there are systems for checking that these services are safe and of good quality:
·support agencies which provide personal care are registered with and inspected by the Commission for Social care Inspection
·there is a Supporting People Team in each local authority which is responsible for monitoring the quality of supported housing schemes
·the social and health care staff from the local learning disability team continue to support and review people who take up places in supported housing schemes
Group Homes (or shared housing) are usually smaller than registered care homes, with three or four people sharing. Support staff either visit regularly, or are there during the day and sometimes also overnight as well. People who live there have tenancies and may do their own shopping, cooking and housework, with help from staff.
Cluster Units, either on one site (like sheltered housing for older people) or occasionally
spread across a neighbourhood. Support staff are usually on hand and there may be
shared facilities such as a laundry and communal lounge. This type of housing is
often suitable for people who want to live more independently than in a home but
still have some support. Flats or bed-
Individual Placements/RentingMore people with learning disabilities are now renting
properties from local authorities, housing associations, or private landlords and
receiving “outreach” support -
More information from:
Charles McArdle, Service Development Manager
020 8239 4362
Inspection & Monitoring (CSCI)
Inspections and monitoring are now carried out by CSCI (Commission for Social Care Inspection)
What does it do?
All residential homes are registered with CSCI and are therefore inspected by the Commission on a regular basis. Adult Placement providers are also inspected by CSCI.
The Inspection Reports are available on the Commission for Social Care Inspection web site:
If you are concerned about any aspects of care that either you or someone you know is receiving, you may contact CSCI who will instruct the appropriate local authority to investigate your concern:
020 8256 6430
Interpreting Services
Health Services
The NHS in Croydon provides interpreting services in more than 50 languages, including
British Sign Language, for patients who are non-
If you, or someone you know, needs this service, tell a member of NHS staff and they will make the arrangements.
If you are using the NHS Direct telephone service, tell the person on the line which language you speak, and an interpreter will be connected to the line within a few minutes.
0845 4647
Social Services
If you need help in accessing the services in this Guide, please ask an English-
020 8686 4433 / 020 726 6000
Leisure and Sport
If you are going out and about in Croydon and would like to know which shops, restaurants,
pubs, etc are ‘disability-
The Leisure Link Forum meets twice a month at the Town Hall, Katharine Street, Croydon.
Leisure Link aims to support people with learning disabilities to:
·Increase their range of leisure interests
·Participate more fully alongside others
·Have the same opportunities and access to leisure as everyone else.
Leisure Link’s objectives are to:
·Establish the leisure needs of people with learning disabilities and identify gaps and duplication in the existing provision of leisure opportunities;
·Explore difficulties around accessibility and look at ways of overcoming barriers;
·Ensure that people are made aware of leisure opportunities and that information is presented in a way that is easy to read and understand, eg through the newsletter;
·Identify transport, safety and risk issues and explore solutions.
The bi-
or by contacting the Editor at:
Leisure Link, c/o Cherry Orchard Day Centre, 171 St James’s Road, Croydon CR0 2BY
020 689 2625
naomi.blackwell@croydon.gov.ukor
andrew.slegg@croydon.gov.uk
Social Clubs
Action Space
For information on a variety of art, music, drama and video activities contact:
020 7209 4289
nichola@actionspace.org
Croydon Contacts provides supported leisure activities for young people aged 11-
For more information contact:
Croydon Contacts,
Cornerstone House, 14 Willis Road, Croydon CR0 2XX
020 8665 0984
croydoncontacts@cornerstonehouse.org.uk
Croydon Mencap runs clubs for different age groups and abilities:
·Saturday Social Club (twice a month)
·Saturday Sports Club (once a month)
·Evening Social Club (weekly)
·Youth Club (weekly)
For more information contact Croydon Mencap at:
60-
020 8662 9201
croydonmencap@btconnect.com
www.croydon.cswebsites.org
Debbie’s Club
A social club for young adults with learning disabilities, providing music, dance, entertainment, cooking, crafts, games and other activities.
The club is held at St John’s Church, Bensham Manor Rd, Thornton Heath on Wednesday evenings, 7–9pm.
Contact:Myrtle Richards
020 8684 4808
myrtlerob@aol.com
Diamond Riding Centre
Woodmansterne Road, Carshalton SM5 4DT
If you are interested in horse riding, contact the office Monday to Friday, 9am and 5pm. There is a high demand for places so you may be put on a waiting list.
020 8643 7764
Heart n Soul isan arts organisation led by people with learning disabilities. Among other activities, they regularly hold a disco – The Beautiful Octopus Club – at Croydon Clocktower, Katharine Street, Croydon.
Booking Office at the Clocktower – 020 8253 1030
For more information contact:
Heart 'n Soul, The Deptford Albany, Douglas Way,
London SE8 4AG
020 8694 1632
info@heartnsoul.co.uk
www.heartnsoul.co.uk
Magpie Dance
Magpie Dance is an inclusive group of dancers with and without learning disabilities
who work with artists, giving performances and under-
If you would like further details about dance classes, workshops or performances, please call:
Avril Hitman020 8467 3331 or
John Cutting020 8657 0558
They now also have a Youth Group targeted at the 16-
If you would like more information about the youth group, contact:
David Nurse01245 475770 or
07813 855036(mobile)
The Phab Club
A club for people with physical and learning disabilities.
Dering Place, Croydon CR0 1DT
020 8760 0361
Sports Partnership
The Croydon Sports Partnership promotes and provides sports opportunities for young people and adults with special needs. The Partnership runs beginner, intermediate and advanced swimming clubs and a weekend sports club during term time for young people aged 8–19 years.
During holiday periods, the RAP schemes take place also for young people aged 8–19 years, and these offer the chance to try a wide variety of sports including swimming. For adults there is the opportunity to join established athletics and cycling clubs.
For more information contact:
Pearl Sethna, Sports Development Officer, Disabilities, Croydon Sports Partnership, Croydon Clocktower, Katharine Street, Croydon CR9 1ET
020 8760 5592
Swimming Club
The Enterprise Swimming Club is run for adults with learning disabilities and is held at Purley Swimming Pool on Friday evenings.
Contact:Miss K Prosser
020 8644 4851
Local Support Groups and Organisations
The following are local support groups or Croydon branches of national organisations.
Aspergers Syndrome Support Group (Croydon)
31 Baring Road, Croydon CR0 7DD
020 8662 0184
Meets regularly to share news and views and generally offer support to one another. Meetings often have speakers, and are held at The Link Primary School, 138 Croydon Road, Beddington.
British Red Cross – First Aid Training Courses
0870 170 9110
www.redcross.org.uk/faw
Croydon venue – 47 Coombe Road, Croydon
Runs a range of First Aid training courses including basic, childcare, workplace, skills update/refresher courses, and training for trainers.
Citizen’s Advice Bureau
Strand House, Zion Road, Thornton Heath CR7 8RG
020 8684 2236
Information and advice service, drop in sessions and some pre-
Croydon Crossroads
410 Brighton Road, South Croydon CR2 6AN
020 8688 4499
marie@croydoncrossroads.freeserve.uk
Provides respite and short breaks for carers.
Croydon Contacts
Cornerstone House, 14 Willis Road, Croydon CR0 2XX
020 8665 0984
croydoncontacts@cornerstonehouse.org.uk
Provides supported leisure services for young people (11–18s) and adults with special needs.
Croydon Mencap
60-
020 8662 9201
croydonmencap@btconnect.com
www.croydon.cswebsites.org
Offers benefits and welfare advice, daytime activities, social clubs, children’s centre and charity shop
Croydon Neighbourhood Care Association (CNCA)
Central Hall, Davidson Lodge, Freemasons Road,
Croydon CR0 6PD
020 8662 1000
www.neighbourhoodcareincroydon.org.uk
CNCA is the umbrella body for local neighbourhood care groups across the borough, each of which is autonomous and provides a variety of services to meet the needs of its local community.
Croydon Playcare
Gingerbread Corner, Grenaby Avenue, Croydon CR0 2EG
8683 3322
Provides inexpensive childcare facilities, including a nursery, breakfast club, after school club and holiday club.
Croydon Voluntary Action
97 High Street, Thornton Heath CR7 8RY
020 8684 3862
cva@cvalive.org.uk
www.cvalive.org.uk
CVA is the Council of Voluntary Service for the Borough of Croydon, serving as the umbrella organisation for voluntary and community groups. It provides information, practical services, support and training, and aims to promote and develop effective voluntary action and community activity within the borough.
Open 9am – 5pm
Disability Croydon
St Oswald’s Parish Hall, St Oswald’s Road, Norbury SW16 3SB
020 8764 8822
info@disabilitycroydon.org.uk
www.disabilitycroydon.org.uk
Provides information, advice and advocacy to people with disabilities in Croydon, including:
·Support for community projects and social enterprises run by people with disabilities;
·An alternative format service – large print, tape, disk or Braille translations;
·Members bi-
·RADAR keys for accessible toilets;
·Professional advocacy;
·Themed open meetings on disability issues;
·Disability equality training and access consultancy;
·Training in assistive computer technology.
Downs Syndrome Support Group
26 West Hill, Sanderstead CR2 0SA
020 8651 6198 – Daphne Jones (Croydon)
020 8642 3720 – Shirley Quemby (South London)
Face to Face
Based at Home Start – 020 8667 0207
Offers a free one-
Open 9am – 4pm
The Garwood Foundation
1a Melville Avenue, South Croydon CR2 7HZ
020 8681 0460
admin@garwoodfoundation.org.uk
www.garwoodfoundation.org.uk
See Garwood Foundation section for details
Heshima
72 Coxwell Road, Upper Norwood, SE19 3AF
020 8771 0907
Provides child and family support, a drop-
Home Start
Wallis House, 42 South Park Hill Road, South Croydon CR2 7DU
020 8667 0207
Offers free support, friendship and practical help to families with at least one child under five. Families are visited regularly in their own homes by volunteers who have all had experience of parenting.
Parents in Partnership, Croydon
26 West Hill, Sanderstead CR2 0SA
020 8651 6198
daphne-
A network of parents of children with special needs, working with all agencies involved with their families.
Parent to Parent
Waterside Centre, 26 Avenue Road, South Norwood SE25 4DX
07976 912915
A support group offering information and support to parents of a child/young person
with a disability/special needs, in a friendly relaxed environment. Under-
Race Equality Partnership Croydon
020 8688 8122
An independent voluntary organisation funded by Croydon Council and the Commission for Racial Equality. It aims to challenge racial discrimination and promote equal opportunity in the borough. If you feel that you have been treated differently or abused because of your race, you can call them for assistance and support.
Shrublands in LeaF House
25 Shrublands Avenue, Shirley CR0 8JD
020 8777 1855
Arranges support services for families with young children.
Sickle Cell/Thalassaemia Centre
316-
020 8251 7229
Counselling, information, advice, screening and support to clients and their families/carers.
Welcare
1 Ramsay Court, Church Street, Croydon CR0 1RF
020 8688 5151
Family support services for unsupported parents and their children.
What’s New!
Based at Cornerstone House, 14 Willis Road, Croydon CR0 2XX
Contact:Anita DavidsonMobile: 07976 912 915
Organisations in Croydon linking together to support families with a disabled member. A call to What’s New! will direct you to the most appropriate services.
Mencap
Mencap is the leading national charity working with and for people with a learning disability and their families and carers. It campaigns for equal rights and greater opportunities, and challenges attitudes and prejudice. It provides advice and support to meet people's needs throughout their lives. It also runs several Mencap Homes throughout the country.
A network of more than 1,000 Local Societies are affiliated to the national body, and are supported at district level by the Community Support Teams.
The regional Community Support Team seeks to improve the daily lives of people with a learning disability by supporting the national campaigns and by developing an active network of local groups and individual members. The team comprises three Support Officers for local groups in London, two District Development Officers and a Gateway Award and Leisure Officer.
To contact Regional Mencap:
Royal Mencap Community Support Team,
1194 London Road, Norbury, London SW16 4DN
020 8765 8400
martin.read@mencap.org.uk
www.mencap.org.uk
To contact National Mencap:
Mencap, 123 Golden Lane, London EC1Y 0RT
020 7454 0454
information@mencap.org.uk
To contact Croydon Mencap:
Croydon Mencap,
60-
020 8662 9201
croydonmencap@btconnect.com
www.croydon.cswebsites.org
See Croydon Mencap section for more information.
National Organisations and Helplines
The following are national charities/organisations, helplines and other useful contacts.
ASBAH (Association for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus)
42 Park Road, Peterborough PE1 2UQ
01733 555988
info@asbah.org
www.asbah.org
Offers advice and information to individuals with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus and their families. It has a network of area advisers covering most of the country and works with around 50 local associations.
Asian Child Protection Helpline
0800 096 7719
A helpline run by the NSPCC
Asian Health Agency
Suite B, Fairfield Works, Fairfield Road, Hounslow TW3 1UZ
020 8538 7703
Aspergers Syndrome
See The National Autistic Society
Asthma UK
Providence House, Providence Place, London N1 0NT
020 7226 2260
www.asthma.org.uk
Asthma Helpline – 0845 701 0203
Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm
The National Autistic Society
393 City Road, London EC1V 1NG
020 7833 2299
Autism Helpline – 0845 070 4004
Monday to Friday, 10am–4pm
nas@nas.org.uk
www.nas.org.uk
ADHD UK Alliance (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
c/o Contact a Family, 209-
020 7608 8700
info@adhdalliance.org.uk
Helpline – 0808 808 3555
Local Co-
British Institute of Learning Disability (BILD)
Campion House, Green Street, Kidderminster,
Worcestershire DY10 1JL
01562 723010
enquiries@bild.org.uk
www.bild.org.uk
An organisation committed to improving the quality of life for people in the UK with a learning disability.
Carers Advice Line – 0345 573 369
for the cost of a local call
Carers UK
20-
020 7490 8818
info@carersuk.org
Helpline – 0808 808 7777
Wednesdays & Thursdays, 10am–12 noon & 2–4pm
Childline – 0800 1111
The Children’s Trust
Tadworth Court, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 5RU
01737 365000
Provides specialist care for severely disabled children, many of whom have complex health needs.
Contact A Family (CAF)
209-
Helpline – 0808 808 3555
www.cafamily.org.uk
Produces a comprehensive directory of specific conditions, rare disorders and family support groups.
Cruse Helpline – 0870 167 1677
Bereavement counselling
Cystic Fibrosis Trust
11 London Road, Bromley BR1 1BY
020 8464 7211
enquiries@cftrust.org.uk
www.cftrust.org.uk
Helpline – 0845 859 1000
Diabetes UK Helpline – 0845 120 2960
Downs Heart Group – 01525 220379
Downs Syndrome Association
The Langdon Down Centre, 2a Langdon Park, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 9PS
0845 230 0372
The Dyspraxia Foundation
8 West Alley, Hitchin SG5 1EG
01462 454986
admin@dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk
www.dyspraxiafoundation.org.uk
Eating Disorders Helpline – 0845 634 1414
Mon-
Youth Helpline – 0845 634 7650 (18s & under)
Mon-
www.edauk.com
Epilepsy Helpline – 01494 601 400
Joseph Rowntree Foundation
The Homestead, 40 Water End, York YO30 6WP
01904 629241
www.jrf.org.uk
Carries out research in partnership with academic institutions.
King’s Fund
11-
020 7307 2400
www.kingsfund.org.uk
The King's Fund is an independent charitable foundation whose goal is to improve health, especially in London.
Leonard Cheshire Foundation
30 Millbank, London SW1P 4QD
020 7802 8200
info@lc-
Residential homes and family support service for people in their own home.
Mencap
123 Golden Lane, London EC1Y 0RT
020 7454 0454
information@mencap.org.uk
www.mencap.org.uk
Mencap Helpline – 0808 808 1111
Mencap – Golden Lane Housing
0161 888 1203
enquiries@glh.org.uk
Provides ordinary housing to enable people with learning disabilities to live successfully within the community.
MIND Information Line – 0845 766 0163
www.mind.org.uk
National Missing Persons
Helpline – 0500 700 700
NSPCC
Child Protection Helpline – 0808 800 5000
National Music and Disability Information Service (Sound Sense)
Sound Sense, 7 Tavern Street, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1PJ
01449 673 990
www.soundsense.org
info@soundsense.org
Sound Sense is the UK development agency for community music.
National Eczema Society – 0870 241 3604
Parentline Plus – 0808 800 2222
A confidential free helpline for parents/carers.
Public Guardianship Office(formerly the Public Trust Office)
Archway Tower, 2 Junction Road, London N19 5SZ
0845 330 2900
www.guardianship.gov.uk
Includes the Court of Protection. Advises on financial affairs of people with a learning disability.
RADAR (Royal National Association for Disability and Rehabilitation)
12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London EC1V 8AF
020 7250 3222
www.radar.org.uk
radar@radar.org.uk
Promotes change by empowering disabled people to achieve their rights and expectations, and by influencing the way disabled people are viewed as members of society.
The Ravenswood Foundation
Ravenswood Village, Nine Mile Ride, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6BQ
01344 755550(Contact David Lonsdale)
A horticultural centre specialising in working with people with learning disabilities.
RNIB (Royal National Institute for the Blind)
105 Judd Street, London WC1H 9NE
020 7388 1266
www.rnib.org.uk
Helpline – 0845 766 9999
RNID (Royal National Institute for the Deaf)
19-
Textphone – 0808 808 9000
RNID Information Line – 0808 808 0123
www.rnid.org.uk
Scope (formerly The Spastics Society)
6 Market Road, London N7 9PW
020 7619 7100
Helpline – 0808 800 3333
www.scope.org.uk
The national Cerebral Palsy charity
Sickle Cell Society
54 Station Road, London NW10 4UA
020 8961 7795
Helpline – 0800 001 5660
UK Sports Association for People with a Learning Disability (UKSA)
Ground Floor, Leroy House, 436 Essex Road, London N1 3QP
0870 770 2464
UKSA is the national charity supported by UK Sport which co-
Values Into Action (VIA)
Oxford House, Derbyshire Street, London E2 6HG
020 7729 5436
www.viauk.org
VIA campaigns for the right of people with learning disabilities to lead ordinary lives in the community. It carries out research, provides information and advice, runs conferences and training for people with learning disabilities.
The Wolfson Centre
Mecklenburgh Square, London WC1N 2AP
020 7837 7618
Independent assessment of communication and mobility needs.
Person Centred Planning (PCP)
What we want to do….
ØGive everyone in Croydon the chance to learn about person-
ØHelp people develop the skills needed to make person-
ØGive people with a learning disability the opportunity and support to develop their
own person-
ØMake sure that people with a learning disability in Croydon have power and control in their own lives;
ØDevelop a culture where everyone is free to challenge what and how things are done.
How will we do this?
ØThrough the PCP ‘Let’s Do It’ Group, working closely with Croydon’s Learning Disability Partnership;
ØBy providing a varied programme of person-
ØBy making sure that person-
How do I find out more?
ØInformation on PCP training in Croydon can be obtained by contacting Stephanie Cattermole at Social Services Learning and Development Unit on 020 8686 4433 ext. 62965
ØSupport and information on PCP in Croydon can be obtained by contacting Andrew Slegg, who is based at:
Peter Sylvester Centre, 11 Bramley Hill, South Croydon CR2 6LX
Tel:020 8688 9305Fax: 020 8666 0468
Email:andrew.slegg@croydon.gov.uk
Practical Help
A variety of specialist equipment is available if you have difficulty with daily living skills. Many items are free, and available through the occupational or physiotherapy department of the health service.
The Disabled Living Foundation has a helpline which offers advice on what equipment may be needed to enable you to live more independently. It also provides training for health workers and a comprehensive database on what equipment is available:
0845 130 9177
www.dlf.org.uk
Croydon Staying Put is a Home Improvement Agency for elderly, disabled or vulnerable people. It gives advice on improving or adapting your property to enable you to stay in your own home, and also on safety issues.
They can be contacted through:
Environmental Services, Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3BT
020 8760 5505
staying_put@croydon.gov.uk
BT customers who have a chronic long-
The service safeguards your line free-
0800 800 150
Other telephone companies may have similar schemes.
Disability Equipment Register
National register of used disability equipment. Also publishes a monthly subscription
magazine to enable people to buy and sell on a one-
01454 318818
www.disabilityequipment.org.uk
Respite (Adult)
In order to access Adult Respite Services provided by Croydon Social Services, you need to contact JCLDT.
See Community Learning Disability Team section.
The options for Respite are:
Overnight respite stays at
Heather Way and Craignish
Domiciliary Support – someone to come and sit in your home, or to take out the person you care for.
Direct Payments – these can be given to the individual for him/her to buy the services
that he/she chooses to have, which may not be traditional respite-
Also, see Leisure as some of these activities provide a break for carers.
You may also self-
Crossroads provides trained support workers who will either sit with or take out the person you care for in order to give you, the carer, a break.
Currently Crossroads provides short breaks for carers, where a support worker can provide a break of between two hours to two weeks. This service is free to the carer as it is presently funded through the Carers’ Grant.
In April 2005 Croydon Crossroads is working in partnership with McMillan Cancer Relief
to provide respite care to carers in situations where the cared for person has a
life-
Croydon Crossroads Ltd,
410 Brighton Road, South Croydon CR2 6AN
020 8688 4499
marie@croydoncrossroads.freeserve.uk
Surrey and Borders Partnership
Surrey Oaklands House, Coulsdon Road, Caterham CR3 5YA – Tel:01883 383838
Geoffrey Harris House, Coombe Road, Croydon CR0 5RD
Tel: 020 8760 0604 Fax: 020 87605132
Provides day services and social care for people with learning disabilities.
Open 9.30am -
Contact the Manager: Rosie Field
Transition
The Social Services Transition Team supports young people with disabilities moving from Children’s Services to Adult Services, encouraging a smooth transition into adulthood.
The service works with young people aged 14-
For more information contact (during office hours):
Transition, Services for Children with Disabilities,
3rd Floor, Fell Road, Croydon CR2 9BA
020 8686 4433 ext 63608
www.croydon.gov.uk
Also see section on Colleges and Careers
Transport and Travel
The London Taxicard scheme offers Londoners with a mobility impairment reduced fares in black cabs. To qualify you must have a long term or permanent illness or disability which prevents you from using or significantly limits your use of pubic transport.
The scheme is not available to people who suffer temporary disabilities, for example a broken leg.
The cabs in the scheme carry ramps and are accessible to wheelchair users. The Taxicard may be used for any type of journey, for example shopping, visiting friends or GP appointments. It should not be used for hospital appointments, as the health authority should provide transport for these.
Your Taxicard can be used anytime, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, subject to taxi availability and trip limits. The number of Taxicard trips is currently being reviewed.
For further information contact:
ALG TEC Taxicard, New Zealand House,
80 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4TZ
020 8314 8300 or 020 7484 2929
Freedom Passes
The Freedom Pass allows free travel on public transport in the Greater London area. It is available to people under retirement age who are registered disabled with the local authority.
Contact:
The Travel Service, Social Services Department, Taberner House, Park Lane Croydon CR9 2BA
020 8686 4433
Rail Travel Assistance
Assistance with travel arrangements, such as checking accessibility, changing platforms, etc.
08457 484950
www.nationalrail.co.uk
Croydon Accessible Transport Scheme (CATS)
Voluntary organisation offering minibuses to voluntary and non-
Contact:
Alan Voder or Rosalyn Jackson for more details
020 8683 1800 or
020 8665 0861
Dial a Ride (South London area)
45 Weir Road, Wimbledon SW19 8UG
020 8879 5023
www.tfl.gov.uk
Provides a pre-
Motability
This scheme assists disabled people and their families to become more mobile by helping them use the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance.
Contact:0845 456 4566
Blue Badge Scheme
This scheme allows people with severe mobility problems to park nearer to their destination.
To apply, or for further information contact:
The Travel Service, Social Services Department, Taberner House, Park Lane Croydon CR9 2BA
020 8686 4433
Some private taxi cab firms provide a service for people with a disability, such as:
Computer Cabs
www.computercab.co.uk
Lady Cars
49 Shirley Road, Croydon CR0 7ER
020 8655 1918
For more information on a range of transport issues, visit the Disabled Person’s Transport Advisory Committee website at:
www.dptac.gov.uk
Voluntary Work
The Croydon Volunteer Centre works to promote volunteering in the community, particularly with socially excluded groups.
The Centre aims to:
·Advise potential volunteers and match them up with one of over 400 volunteering opportunities in the borough;
·Give ongoing support to volunteers
·Carry out health checks and offer advice to placement organisations;
·Recruit young people aged 16-
The Centre has a Volunteer Development Officer who can give talks to disadvantaged groups and offer extra support.
Open:Drop-
Appointments Daytime and Tuesday evening
Croydon Volunteer Centre
2a Garnet Road, Thornton Heath CR7 8RD
020 8684 2727
volunteer@cvalive.org.uk
www.volunteercentrecroydon.org.uk
Wills and Legal Issues
It is very important to make a will, but leaving money to someone with a learning disability may change their entitlement to benefits. Seek advice from a solicitor or other agency offering legal advice.
For advice about wills and other legal issues contact:
Mencap Legal Service,
123 Golden Lane, London EC1Y 0RT
020 7454 0454
information@mencap.org.uk
The Disability Law Service provides free advice on setting up a will or trust for disabled people, their families and carers.
Disability Law Service,
Ground Floor, 39-
020 7791 9800
www.dls.org.uk
Local solicitors who are familiar with drawing up wills for people with learning disabilities and their parents/carers include:
Gower & Stevens
Surrey House, Surrey Street, Croydon CR9 1XZ
Contact:Elizabeth Williams
020 8680 2200
Exclusively Wills Ltd
Varnister House, 43 Robin Hood Way, London SW15 3PW
Contact:Rosemary Slatter
020 8408 0836
www.ewltd.com
Ormerods
Green Dragon House, 64-
Contact:Mary Ryan
020 8680 5575
www.ormerods.co.uk
This is for information only; we are unable to recommend particular firms.