Calling families affected by suspension of benefits when disabled child hospitalised
Contact a Family is looking for families whose children have had their Disability Living Allowance (DLA) suspended after a stay in hospital.
At present DLA regulations state that if a child under 16 is in hospital for more than 12 weeks their DLA payments are suspended. For young people aged 16 and over the payments are suspended after only four weeks.
This can impact on a parent’s entitlement to continue getting Carers Allowance.
Contact a Family thinks this is wrong and we are gathering evidence from families about the effect of this benefits rule, to highlight the issue and push for change.
Claire Pimm, Director of Policy and Communications, said: “Children who have long-term health needs are often in and out of hospital and this puts tremendous pressure on their families. It is wrong that they are financially penalised at such a difficult time.
“If your child’s DLA has been suspended after a stay in hospital please do get in touch. We would like to gather as much evidence as possible so that we can highlight this issue and encourage change in the regulations.”
Telephone: Elaine Bennett on 020 7608 8741 or e-mail: elaine.bennett@cafamily.org.uk
Inspire - The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Award for Young People
'The Diana Memorial Award celebrates the fantastic achievements of ordinary people who do ordinary things. Through their activites they display all the values that we should aspire to - valour, compassion, imagination, teamwork, sacrifice, public spirit and private endeavour in equal measure.' Rt Hon. Gordon Brown.
The Diana, Pricess of Wales Memorial Award is a UK-wide, inclusive Award, which recognises and celebrates the innate qualities - courage, compassion, commitment and selfless duties for others - of young people aged 12 to 18 demonstrated through their contribution to and impact on their schools, communities and society.
Diana Awsrd holders have achieved so much, often against the odds, and have changed lives, schools and communities through their activities. They are young people who have been brave or have overcome immense personal difficulties and tragedies, as well as young carers, fundraisers, peer mentors, campaigners and students who make a profound contribution to their schools and fellow students. The list is endless.
What the Award does.
A Diana Award nomination fulfils the requirements of Every Child Matters (Childrens
Bill). It promotes two main ingredients that are essential to life
• Celebration
• Encouragement
It allows organisations to celebrate their pupils' achievements and encourages
their pupils to continue to make a difference to the lives of others.
Award Categories
The award is given to young people aged 12-18 whose activities fit into any
of these categories
• Youth Participation or volunteering
• Selfless service to others
• Showing outstanding qualities in overcoming adverse circumstances (This
should include an element of helping or inspiring others)
What will you receive for the Award?
Each individual Award Holder will receive a certificate and a lapel pin. The
organisation also receives a certificate to mark its involvement in the Award.
All members of the group receive a certificate stating they they are members of
the group and the group will also receive a shield to mark their achievement.
In addition, all Award Holders and organisations will receive newsletters and
the chance to be involved in the Diana Young Ambassadors Programme. This fantastic
new programme aims to develop the skills, confidence and experience of award holders
to enable them to become young leaders and community entrepreneurs. Through involvement
in the programme they will have the opportunity to be Ambassadors and to represent
the award the UK.
Please contact HAVCO or visit the Diana Award website for more information and a nomination form.
Citizen Advocacy
"Supporting people with learning difficulties to control their own lives"
What is Citizen Advocacy?
A citizen advocate supports their partner in making their dreams and wishes heard.
A citizen advocate can be there when things change in your life.
A citizen advocate offers long term support.
A citizen advocate is not paid.
Volunteers wanted in the Havering area!
If you have a few hours to spare every few weeks, you could become a citizen advocate
and offer your support to someone with a learning disability in Havering. All
citizen advocates receive training and support. Some of their volunteers are busy
people with jobs and families of their own. Just a small amount of time can make
a great deal of difference to someone with a learning disability.
If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a citizen advocate please
get in touch with
Julie Sherlock directly on 07984 168455
Or at People First (Havering) - tel: 01277 204801 - Email: info@pfirst.co.uk
Registered Charity No: 1054169
C/o This Charming House, 24 Weald Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4SX