The Golden

Guide...it’s worth its weight

Packed full of practical information for over 50s, with a wealth of local contacts and who can help if things go wrong

Covers a range of local topics including Money, Health, Care, Leisure and Your Home

New revised edition 2013

Northumberland – in association with Northumberland County Council, Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Age UK Northumberland and ISOS Housing. Advert Golden Guide2012_Layout 1 14/11/2012 09:11 Page 1

Would you like to be more active, but don’t know where to start? Golden Guide Maybe you are worried about a 2013 For Older People medical condition or have not done Hello and welcome to our 2013 edition – it’s any exercise for a long time. overflowing with more information and contacts The Healthy Life Scheme is here to than ever. And because of demand from right help. across the county we’re delighted that an extra thousand copies will be going out this time. Call 01434 613225 for more All our partners are committed to improving the lives of older information. Daljit Lally Corporate Director people in Northumberland. So in our usual roundup of activities, of Adult Services and services there’s more on mental health and social care and Housing provision - a growing number of health support groups, as well as Active Life sessions are for people social groups and clubs for staying in touch. Check out the Ageing Katherine Shearer new to fitness or returning to fitness Acting Chief Well project for some of these. and looking for gentler exercise or Executive Age UK Northumberland To keep in shape through the year have a look at the Leisure as a follow on to Healthy Life Centres – there are new weight management schemes and sessions. Gary O’Hare excellent programmes for you to get active. To keep your finances Executive Director of Nursing and in trim too – there is extra on pensions and benefits with more Look out for the Active Life symbol Operations, sources of help. on our timetables and posters to Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS So we hope you agree that the Golden Guide is a handy way to choose the right sessions for Foundation Trust find advice and practical help and as always we welcome any you. feedback or suggestions for inclusion. Please contact the editor, Keith Loraine Chief Executive Heather Alabaster at the address overleaf with your comments. Isos Housing Ltd. Members: Ask about our FREE More Finally a big thank you to all those who have generously Active Health programme, giving supported the guide by sponsoring pages within it. Take a minute one-to-one activity & nutrition advice to look at their services and please help us by mentioning the guide when you contact them. Quite a few of our sponsors will be giving out Golden Guides too, even more reason to get in touch! Wentworth Leisure Centre 01434 607080 Healthy Life 01434 613225 Prudhoe Waterworld 01661 833144 Willowburn Sports & Leisure Centre 01665 605030 Rothbury Pool & Gym 01669 622834

Excellent Sports & Leisure For All NorthCountryLeisure is supported by Northumberland County Council Registered Charity No. 1075009 3 www.northcountryleisure.org.uk Out and About

PARTNERS AND sponsors Sponsors CONTENTS 2013 Major Partners Grateful thanks to all other loyal agencies too, who have given their Once again the Golden Guide backing and helped enormously by has been very fortunate to find taking sponsored pages. They would love generous support from its partners to hear from you, so please mention the 01 Out and About 6 namely Northumberland County guide when you use their services. Community Projects: Community Centres: Community Groups, Societies and Clubs: Arts & Crafts: Music & Dance: Theatre: Sport & Leisure Centres: Council, Northumbria Healthcare Outdoor Activities: Walking Groups: Lifelong Learning: Northumberland NHS Foundation Trust, Age UK • Alzheimer’s Society Libraries: Volunteering: Working after Retirement: Starting a Business: • Anchor Housing Holidays: Transport: Mobility & Community Transport Schemes Northumberland, Isos Housing and • Bell View Resource Centre 02 Home and Community 42 Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS • Blyth Valley Arts and Leisure • Carers Northumberland Repairs & Maintenance: Home Adaptations & Aids: Low Cost Furnishings: Foundation Trust. Warmth & Energy Efficiency: Home Security: Anti Social Behaviour: Domestic • Care & Repair Northumberland Violence: MPs and Local Councillors • CISWO Not only have they ensured the guide • Councillor Bobby Nixon 03 Health and Wellbeing 54 appears again this year, but their • Fiona Hall MEP Medical Care: Dealing with Concerns: Healthy Lifestyle: Mental Health: contribution has meant we could print • Guy Opperman MP Bereavement: More Health Support Groups • Helping Hands Care an extra thousand copies – going out • Ian Lavery MP 04 Finding Out About Care 68 across the county. • Maltings Theatre & Cinema Support for Carers: Staying at Home with Help: More Help with Independent • NCBA Living: Retirement or Sheltered Housing: Finding a Care Home • NCDN 05 80 Particular thanks to Stephen Corlett • Need Ltd Money Matters and team at the Healthcare Trust, • Newcastle University Help with Pensions: Welfare Benefit Changes: Benefits & Money Advice: More Financial Help: Debt: Tax: Legal Affairs: Consumer Advice Deb Still and Fiona Horsman at Age Changing Age Initiative • North Country Leisure UK Northumberland, Adele Joicey 06 Key Contact Numbers 91 • Northumberland Carers’ Guide and Sandra Good at NTW all of whom • Northumberland Clinical worked patiently to verify information Commissioning Group and help us get to the printers on • Northumbria Healthcare • Northumbria Police time. Also thanks to the tenants of • Ronnie Campbell MP ISOS Housing who once again voted to • SSAFA support the guide. • WRVS Heather Alabaster, Editor © 2013 For all publishing enquiries ring 0191 386 5918 or email [email protected] or visit Note on Content Material contained within this book is for general information – and does not constitute advice. Always consult a qualified adviser on your own personal situation before making any decisions. Content is as accurate as we could make it www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk but the editor cannot accept responsibility for any inconvenience sustained by anyone using this book. The guide is based on information available in November 2013. Alabaster Publishing, The Laurels,

Copyright This book is the original work of the writer and publisher, who holds the copyright. Please understand that we send Sherburn Road, Gilesgate, Durham DH1 2JR out hard copies and electronic copies in good faith that they will not be copied, pirated, altered or reprinted by anyone else as they are our livelihood! You are welcome to make partial copies for your own personal use, but should seek permission for anything more. You also need permission if you would like to download or circulate an electronic copy or add it to a website, please get in touch and ask us. The Golden Guide 2013 is protected by full copyright status. ©Alabaster Publishing © 2013 5 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Out and About

Out and About Community Centres, outings from shopping trips to health Community Groups, awareness or just for fun, e.g. Our selection of clubs, groups and places to Societies and Clubs theatres, museums, tea dances, socialise is expanding all the time. We don’t sightseeing etc occasional men’s trips cover everything – but we think it’s representative Community centres run their own too. Covers North Northumberland of the variety of activities to be found in activities, or hire out space to others. for those who are isolated whether Northumberland. Details were correct at the They often act as outreach venues socially, geographically or through time of writing, but arrangements do change for organisations such as Citizen’s restricted mobility. sometimes, so try to check before a visit. Advice, Credit Union, Health Visitors etc. They usually have internet See also Reaction Independent access, some have a café and most Living Shopping project, page 41 Community Projects have disabled access and toilets. Activities vary and may include arts The Ambler Ageing Well Northumberland and crafts, bingo, drama, slimming, 01665 712929 01670 394400, John Dowswell fitness etc. Call in to find out what is www.theambler.co.uk This programme for older people helps you stay active on offer, and remember that many Amble’s community newspaper. and connected by working with you to provide activities centres are not manned at all times. Get involved as journalist or in and opportunities in response to local interests and production tasks, some familiarity needs. So far this has included ‘Be Healthy, Be Happy” Age UK Northumberland with computers is desirable. Team events, a “Flu Jab Fair” and a study of housing choices. The Roundhouse, Lintonville Parkway, meets Thurs 1.00pm – 5.00pm. Local groups are also developing gardening with different Ashington, NE63 9JZ generations and a code of conduct for bus drivers. Ring 0845 140 0088 Bell View Resource Centre to find out what is happening in your area, or to help start www.ageuk-northumberland.org.uk 33 West Street, Belford, NE70 7QB something yourself. Resource centre offers a wide range 01668 219220 of activities including computers Fully accessible building offers Community Action Northumberland for beginners, singing, exercise, line day care, as well as a range of 01670 517178 dancing, Zumba Gold and there is a activities from arts and crafts to www.ca-north.org.uk small gym. Also a monthly foot care walking for health, therapy garden, If you are involved in setting up a new group or club help clinic, and the Roundhouse café for cardiac rehabilitation sessions etc. with getting started is offered. They support community snacks and light lunches. Wheelchair accessible car (the Bringo) and voluntary groups, their committees and officials and can be used for social as well as can offer advice on funding, buildings, relevant training etc. Age UK Northumberland essential journeys. Offices in Berwick, Alnwick, Morpeth and Hexham. Rural Access Project 0845 140 0088 See also page 72 Home Support Wide range of group activities and scheme.

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Blyth & District Talking Newspaper Men’s Fellowship Rotary North East Older Person’s Forums 01670 367293, Val Lockhart Salvation Army Hall, www.rotary-ribi.org/districts Alternate Wednesdays from Hartford Road West, Bedlington, Members are professional people Groups hold meetings to consider 2.00pm. Volunteers record local NE22 6UK who support community campaigns and sometimes campaign on local newspaper articles onto audio tapes 01670 829356 by fund-raising and events. Regular issues such as transport, health, to post to visually impaired listeners Meets on third Wed of the month, from meetings, often with speaker. All housing etc. locally. Also magazine tapes, new 7.30pm. Women’s Fellowship on first fourteen Northumberland clubs are members welcome. Wed. Also a range of exercise sessions listed on the website with meeting Contact as follows: for over 50s too. times, venues and contact numbers. Fourth Action • Haltwhistle Partnership, 01668 219879 also includes North Men’s Groups WRVS Hub, 0845 266 8906 01434 321242, Ellen Walton Northumberland Womens’ Network Age UK Northumberland www.wrvs.org.uk • Prudhoe Community Partnership, www.nnwn.org 0845 140 0088 WRVS services are coming together to 01661 836668 Social gatherings, workshops, training form community Hubs over the coming • Wansbeck Golden Age Forum, and trips to build self-confidence and See page 7, Rural Access Project months. Services include Community Wansbeck CVS, Karen Cox, skills for older women. Events across Transport, and Good Neighbour 01670 858688. north Northumberland. National Women’s Register (NWR) schemes, as well as Social Centres. Group also has social events 0845 4500 287 (office Mon – Thurs) and newsletter. See also page 28 NCDN www.nwr.org.uk WRVS Social Centres Informal social groups for women Open one day a week to offer activities, See also p57 for health and social Men’s Breakfast (all ages). No campaigns or fund- lunch clubs, information, help filling care forums. Anglers Arms, Weldon Bridge, raising but activities, speakers in forms, understanding benefits Longframlington, NE65 8AX and get-togethers in each others’ etc as well as a chance to socialise. Age UK Northumberland 01665 570660 homes. Groups in Hexham, Morpeth Currently at 6 venues in North and SE 0845 140 0088 David Shipley and Coquetdale. Northumberland with more planned. New forums are being set up across Monthly group includes cooked Ring for details. the county in 2013 for older people breakfast, speaker, occasional Northumberland Federation to help shape services and have their walks and trips. Last Sat of the Women’s Institute See ad on page 27 views heard. Ring Clare Owen-Smith month at 8.30am. 0191 217 0808 or Michelle Muckle if you would like www.thewi.org.uk/northumberland www.northumberlandlife.org to participate. Wide range of courses, campaigns, Website has information on and community work. Around 117 clubs, groups, events and jobs in branches in Northumberland. Northumberland

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Lunch Clubs See page 70-71 for social care support.

Information & Advice service Organised in churches, village halls and Age UK Northumberland community centres, lunch clubs are Day Services Free confidential, impartial and independent advice a popular way to socialise and enjoy 0845 140 0088 a reasonably priced meal. Check with Ten day services offer activity and your local church or community venue. companionship in Amble, Alnwick, Information & Advice service Face-to-face welfare Eight clubs are currently run by Age UK Berwick, Blyth and Seaton Sluice For the over-50s, their families, rights service Northumberland, ring 0845 140 0088 carers and organisations. • Benefit checks for details. Arts and Crafts • Form completion • Welfare benefits, grants Daytime activities if you Alnwick Playhouse • Appeals to tribunal and entitlements are ill or disabled Bondgate Without, Alnwick, NE66 1PQ • Community, residential • Appeals to upper tribunal 01665 510785 and social care • Home visits If you find it difficult to get out to www.alnwickplayhouse.co.uk socialise or attend activities Adult Mat Makers • Housing and home adaptations Open 9am–5pm Care can help put you in touch with first and third Tues of the month • Disability issues and aids Tuesday–Thursday many local opportunities. If necessary from 10.00am • Local leisure, health and 01665 511 571 they may give financial support Playhouse Writers’ Group educational activities through a personal budget (subject first and third Tues from 1.30pm. • Wills, Powers of Attorney, to a financial assessment). Ring Adult Bobbin Lace Makers Care for information on 01670 536400 first Wed from 10.00am. family protection trusts or visit your nearest information point. Stitching Together • Local trader register sewing and embroidery, Thurs Social Care and from 10.00am Open 10am–1pm Health Information Points Dance for Fun Monday–Thursday 01670 536400 for over 50s, Fri 10.00am – 11.00am. 08450 950 150 or 01665 605 707 Information about activities, facilities and support for residents is available Ashington Art Group at libraries in Morpeth, Amble, Berwick, North Seaton Colliery Community Haltwhistle and at the information Centre, 27 Links View, NE63 0XQ, Age UK Northumberland centre in Cramlington. Specialist 01670 856602, E. Taylor workers visit each centre for two days Meets Thurs 6.00pm – 8.30pm a week - drop in to see them or make and Sat 10.00am – 12.00pm. [email protected] an appointment. Exhibitions, demonstrations and www.ageuk-northumberland.org.uk

11 Registered charity number 1072394. IDBB290 11/11

IDBB290 Northumberlandd I&A A5 Advert.indd 1 29/11/2011 10:35 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Out and About

trips. New members welcome. Garden Club Hexham & District Photographic Society Wansbeck Art Group Alnwick Town Hall, Market Place Moot Hall, Hexham, NE46 3NH St. Aidan’s Parish Hall, Berwick Writers’ Workshop NE66 1HS 01434 606479, Bob Turner Ashington, NE63 8AD The Maltings Theatre and Cinema, 01665 510603, Geoff Watson www.hexhamphotographic.org.uk 01670 504305, Pat Pierpoint Eastern Lane, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Last Tues of the month from Tues from 7.30pm with talks, Fri 12.30pm – 2.30pm. Painting TD15 1AJ Sept to May, 7.00pm. Speakers assignments, competitions and in all kinds of media with tutorials. 07410 185694, Wendy Scott and demonstrations. exhibitions. Sometimes a waiting Occasional outings and workshops www.berwickwritersworkshop.co.uk Annual membership £2.50 gives list, ring for details. with visiting artists. Ring before first and Facebook discounts in local garden centre. visit to arrange a taster session. New Sociable creative writing sessions Knitting and Crochet Guild members welcome. include screenwriting, plays, novels, Heddon Stitchers Berwick Branch poetry, songs etc. Complete beginners Knott Memorial Hall, Townegate, 01289 303212, Terri Bearhope Wansbeck Writers’ Group as well as published authors welcome. Heddon-on-the-Wall, NE15 0DT Once a month on Sat afternoons, St. Aidan’s Parish Centre, Park Road, Yearly anthology. 01661 853798, Allison Laker ring for details of time and venue. Ashington, NE63 8DZ Mon 1.00pm – 3.00pm. Needlework 01670 860213, Neil Taylor Community Creative Writers, Berwick, and craft group open to all. Regular Minerva Northumberland Ltd Wed 10.00am – 12.00pm term time 01289 305213, Maureen Roper workshops, visits, competitions. 17 Hallstile Bank, Hexham, NE46 3TG only. All abilities, newcomers welcome. Fortnightly meetings for all styles 01434 608222 Weekly theme – fiction, poetry, of writing e.g. Radio and TV, Comedy, Hexham & District Flower Club, www.minervacentre.com memoirs, anecdotes etc. Occasional Romance, Crime, Life stories, The Torch Centre, Corbridge Road, Silk painting and silk-screen printing visits or speakers. Ring before your Children’s etc. Popular distance Hexham, NE46 1QS for over 50s on Fridays. first visit. learning course. 01434 681373, Mrs J. Taylor www.nearea.org.uk Morpeth & District Gardening Club St. Music Cramlington Craft Club Second Mon of the month 2.00pm James’ Community Centre, Wellway, Cramlington Village Community – 4.00pm. Demonstrations, visits, Morpeth, NE61 1BN 20,000 Voices Centre, East Farm Terrace, NE23 1AX workshops. NB More Flower Clubs 01670 503566 D. Patterson Community Arts Centre, 01670 714557, Marina Callaghan in Alnwick, Bedlington, Callerton, Meets fourth Thurs of the month Woodhorn Villa , Woodhorn Lane, Wed 1.00pm – 3.30pm all year. Cramlington, Ellington, Embleton, from 7.30pm, indoors from Sept – May. Newbiggin, NE64 6PY Crafts include embroidery, decoupage, Morpeth, Ponteland, Stocksfield, Speakers and occasional evening 01670 852 445 tapestry, pergamano, quilting, Warkworth. visits during summer. www.20000voices.org patchwork etc. Currently very full Singing sessions, workshops and group, ring for availability of places. Morpeth Model Makers community choirs in many venues 01670 772372, David Gilson countywide. Singing improves Model makers get together to share breathing, posture, exercises the knowledge and exchange ideas. brain and is sociable too. All welcome,

12 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 13 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Isos - supporting you to live although some venues have limited with regular performances. independently and safely accessibility, ring for details. Contact Ray Thompson (conductor) via the Playhouse. Alnwick & District Choral Society, Alnwick South First School, Ashington Folk Club The Avenue, Alnwick, The Miners’ Institute, Institute Road, 01665 830373, Elaine Bowden Ashington, NE63 8HP www.alnwickchoralsociety.co.uk 077916 55739 or 07944 702155, Rehearsals Wed 7.15pm – 9.30pm, Pat and Doug Yeowart get in touch if you would like to www.ashingtonfolkclub.co.uk join. Regular performances with First and third Thurs of the month professional conductor, at Alnwick from 8.00pm – singers, musicians and Playhouse and St. Paul’s Church. poets perform or just listen. All styles and abilities welcome. Alnwick Pipers’ Society Farriers’ Arms, Shilbottle, NE66 2XX Ashington & District Male Voice Choir 01890 771230, George Prentice Ashington High School, Green Lane, or 01665 570221, Di Jevons Ashington, NE63 8DH www.alnwickpipers.co.uk 01670 787222, Peter Hall Fourth Wed in the month from Thurs 7.00pm – 9.00pm. Long- We have a range of supported housing schemes 8.00pm. Some tuition, but classes established choir, annual concert specially designed to meet the needs of older people across the North East. for beginners and more advanced and guest artists. New members players at Rothbury Middle School always welcome, no auditions. From self-contained centrally heated flats, and on Tues evenings. Ring for details. sheltered schemes with communal lounges and Berwick Male Voice Choir laundry facilities, to hundreds of one and two- bedroom bungalows that all come with the support Alnwick Playhouse Methodist Church, Walkergate, you need to live independently. Bondgate Without, Alnwick, NE66 1PQ Berwick, TD15 1XD 01665 510785 01890 818208, Ken Francis Whatever your needs, we want you to enjoy living www.alnwickplayhouse.co.uk www.berwickmvc.org in the comfort of your home for as long as possible and with our support, you can. Community Choir Mon 7.30pm – Wed 7.00pm – 9.00pm. Friendly group, 9.30pm. Emphasis on fun and two annual concerts plus charity informality. All welcome, contact Peter events, varied repertoire. Links and Brown before first visit. visits to Germany and Norway. Concert Band Mon 7.30pm – 9.30pm. All ages play a broad repertoire For more information about how we can help you, please ring us on 0300 300 1505 and ask to speak 14 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk to our older person’s team. www.isoshousing.co.uk

ISO0249_GoldenGuideAdvert.indd 1 08/12/2011 11:27 Doorstep Crime If In Doubt A5 Advert_Doorstep Crime If In Doubt A5 Advert 06/09/2012 09:28 Page 1

2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight

Blyth Valley Samba School 07801 681068, Kevin Maughan KNOCK, KNOCK Victory Club, New Hartley, NE25 0RL www.dandn.org 0191 237 3152 or 07894 428401, Members ring at 7 church towers Keith Blackburn in Northumberland. Practice is one Community percussion group gives evening a week and ring for Sun workshops and performances to service. Mid-Week group goes daytime IN DOUBT all ages including nursery schools, ringing and visitors are welcome. IF youth groups, hospitals etc. Alternate Social events, competitions. Tuesdays. Free and new members welcome with all equipment provided. Hexham Male Voice Choir West End Methodist Church, Cobweb Orchestra Hexham, NE46 3DF KEEp 0788 034 6145 01434 600488, Tom Arthur www.cobweborchestra.org.uk Meets Thurs 7.00pm – 9.00pm. Musicians of all ages and abilities Free concerts for charitable causes. get together to play with professional Friendly, informal group, new members thEm orchestral guidance, no auditions. always welcome. Rehearsals in St James Community Centre, Well Way, Morpeth, NE61 1BN, Longframlington Pipers’ Group out! Tues 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Concerts, in Memorial Hall, Rothbury Road, many areas, wide-ranging repertoire. Longframlington, NE65 8AH, Don’t let strangers into your 0191 259 1752, Gill Sargeant home. Always check their identity Cramlington Folk Club or Bobbie Prentice 01890 7 71230 The Hind, Dewley, Cramlington, www.longframlingtonpipers.org first by ringing the organisation NE23 6DT Wed 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Popular they say they are from. 01670 715106, Keith Taylor friendly group, open to all abilities. If you think a caller is suspicious: www.cramfolk.co.uk Tues from 8.00pm. Guest nights Maltings Theatre and Cinema call 101 and open nights for performers. Eastern Lane, Berwick-upon-Tweed, If you think a crime is being committed: Range includes blues, jazz, singer- TD15 1AJ, 01289 330999 call 999 songwriters. Everyone welcome to www.maltingsberwick.co.uk For crime prevention advice visit us online at: listen or perform, no age limits. Berwick Community Choir N P _ 3 8 6 Mon 7.30pm – 9.30pm www.northumbria.police.uk Durham & Newcastle Diocesan Open Mic/Open Art sessions Association of Church Bellringers, second Sun of the month from 7.30pm.

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See more for Maltings Theatre Tynedale Orchestra Theatre Maltings Theatre and Cinema and Cinema on page 19 School Hall, Corbridge Middle School, Eastern Lane, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Corbridge, NE45 5HY Alnwick Stage Musical Society TD15 1AJ Mid Northumberland Chorus 01434 602306, Fay Winkworth Alnwick South First School, 01289 330999 Morpeth Chantry Middle School, www.tynedaleorchestra.org.uk The Avenue, Alnwick NE66 1UL www.maltingsberwick.co.uk Mitford Road Morpeth, NE61 1RQ, Rehearsals Thurs 7.30pm. Two 01665 710296, Teresa McQuillen Berwick Community Choir 01670 790764, Mike Elphick concerts in Autumn and Spring terms. www.alnwickstagemusical.co.uk Mon 7.30pm – 9.30pm www.midnorthumberlandchorus.org.uk No auditions and always keen to have Tues 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Rehearse from Berwick (Maltings) Chess Club Rehearsals Wed from 7.30pm in term more strings players. September for main show at Alnwick Mon 7.00pm – 9.30pm. time. Classical, folk and seasonal Playhouse in March. All welcome. Berwick BroadCasting Corporation music in large mixed choir. Regular Tyne Valley Big Band Live 40s-style radio plays, third Sun concerts and events. West End Methodist Church, Hexham, Alnwick Theatre Club of the month, 7.00pm. Free but NE46 3DF, 07757 947755, Dave Hignett St. Paul’s RCVA School, South Road, donations welcome. Northumbrian Pipers’ Society www.tynevalleybigband.co.uk Alnwick, NE66 2NU T.A.M.S. – (Third Age Maltings) Chantry Bagpipe Museum, Morpeth, Rehearsals Thurs in term time 6.00pm – 01665 603233, Peter Biggers Join TAMS via the Box Office. Members NE61 1PD, 01670 860215, Julia Say 8.00pm. Traditional and modern repertoire. www.alnwicktheatreclub.co.uk can book free or subsidised seats www.northumbrianpipers.org.uk Rehearse Mon and Thurs from 7.30pm. at Maltings’ performances. TAMS Meets third Sat in the month 2.30pm Wansbeck Male Voice Choir Three annual performances at Alnwick programme includes tea dances, – 5.00pm All welcome including just Hirst Progressive Club, Playhouse, including panto. All singing workshops, fund-raising etc. coming in to listen. Pipes available to hire. Ashington, NE63 0XQ welcome to perform or help backstage For over 50s residents only. 01670 860859, Terry Williamson or front of house. Prudhoe Community Choir Rehearsals Mon 7.00pm – 9.00pm. Phoenix Theatre Stocksfield Baptist Church, Concerts with choral, solo singing and Coquetdale Amateur Beaconsfield Street, Blyth, NE24 2DS Main Road, Stocksfield, NE43 7DU comedy in Wansbeck and Morpeth, Dramatic Society Box Office, 01670 367228 01661 835738, Catherine Edge new members welcome. Jubilee Hall, Rothbury, NE65 7SD www.thephoenixtheatre.org.uk Wed 7.45pm – 9.45pm. Mixed choir 01665 570221, Mike Jevons Musicals, panto and plays over the singing popular and choral pieces, Warkworth Village Choir Rehearse Thurs from 7.00pm. Annual year. All welcome to act, sing or help in reading music helps but not a Memorial Hall, Castle Street, production, street fair, events etc. other ways. Social events and coffee requirement. Annual concert and Warkworth, NE65 0UN Fund-raising nights, all welcome. mornings at the theatre. performances for weddings, charitable 01665 830373, Elaine Bowden groups etc. All ages welcome. www.warkworth.co.uk/ WarkworthChoir.html Mon 7.30pm – 9.30pm. Friendly group with wide ranging repertoire, just turn up to join in.

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Never too late to go online... Ponteland Repertory Society, benefits. Most centres have Over 50s Memorial Hall, Darras Road, sessions offering a range of facilities In a lather with your laptop? In a mess with your mouse? Ponteland, NE20 9NX for a flat rate. These are listed here, Here’s how our Digital Champions 01661 823393, Lynne Henderson but get in touch with centre directly can help! www.pontelandrep.co.uk to find out what else is on offer. NB • How to find information and use Two productions a year, either panto, Details here were correct at the time online services. • Troubleshoot – problems with your play or musical. Ring for details. of writing, but may be subject to mobile or laptop. change. Check in advance. • Safety – protect your information and shop and pay bills safely. Queen’s Hall Theatre Club • Communicate – send emails, West End Methodist Church, Ashington Leisure Centre, Institute use Skype, Facebook and Twitter Hexham, NE46 3DF Road, Ashington, NE63 8HP Interested? 01434 685580, Moya Holmes 01670 532380 Contact Julia on 01668 219879 / 07775 817544 or [email protected] www.queenshalltheatreclub.co.uk www.northumberland.gov.uk Two plays per year, lots of fun, new Agewell Mon 10.00am – 12.00pm, members always welcome. Ring for Tues, Fri 11.00am – 3.00pm, includes rehearsal times. badminton, indoor and outdoor bowls, exercise classes and swimming. Warkworth Drama Group Aquafit Tues 1.00pm – 2.00pm. Zumba, Memorial Hall, Castle Street, Fri 9.45am – 10.45am. Pilates, Wed Councillor Bobby Nixon Warkworth, NE65 0UN 7.00pm – 8.00pm. Indoor bowling rink. Holywell Ward, 01670 760007, Mike Dixon Healthstart scheme. New centre to Northumberland County Council www.warkworthdrama.org.uk open in 2014. Rehearse twice weekly either at Always happy to give advice and assistance – Memorial Hall or Parish Rooms. Blyth Sports Centre, I will help with most problems, small or large. Several productions a year – revues, Bolam Avenue, Blyth, NE24 5BT I work for the residents and no-one else! plays, sketches. All welcome. 01670 542222 www.bval.co.uk Sports and Nifty Fifties Tues, Fri 11.00am You can contact me on: Tel: 0191 237 0976 Leisure Centres – 2.00pm, includes swimming, Email: [email protected] badminton, squash, table tennis and Post: 2 Dene View, Holywell, Whitley Bay, NE25 0LS www.northumberland.gov.uk for small extra charge – gym use or The centres offer a mix of activities Aquafit class. Age Well class for over Or visit the website at www.bobbynixon.mycouncillor.org.uk and classes. Join as a Member to fifties Mon, Wed 11.00am – 12.00pm. for news and views, raising an issue, and how you can help receive discounts for activities, with Yoga Mon, Wed 10.00am – 11.00am, further discounts if in receipt of Zumba, Thurs 11.00am – 12.00pm.

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Concordia Leisure Centre, Forum Way, Newbiggin Sports Riverside Leisure Centre Sporting Club Cramlington, Cramlington, NE23 6YB & Community Centre New Market, Morpeth, NE61 1PR within Cramlington Learning Village 01670 542222, Woodhorn Road, NE64 6HG 01670 514665 grounds, Highburn, NE23 6BN www.bval.co.uk 01670 532348 www.harpersfitness.co.uk 01670 542222 Age Well for over 50s Mon 11.00am www.northumberland.gov.uk Young at Heart gentle exercise class www.bval.co.uk – 3.00pm, Wed 10.00am – 2.00pm. Join as a social member to access for over 40s, Mon, Wed 10.30am – Badminton, tennis courts, fitness, table Includes swimming, keep fit and the clubs here. Over 50s Mon 2.00pm 11.30am. 50+ and Disabled swim tennis, netball, pitches, cricket nets aerobics, use of gym and all courts. – 4.00pm, Over 55s Thurs 2.00pm session Wed 6.30pm – 7.30pm. 50+ available to hire. Open in school holidays, Age Well Circuits Fri 10.00am – – 4.00pm. Sequence dancing with swim Fri 2.30pm – 4.00pm. Aquafit weekends and evenings in term time. 11.00am. Zumba Mon, Wed 11.00am instruction Sat 7.00pm – 9.30pm. Mon 6.45pm – 7.30pm,Thurs 6.30pm – – 12.00pm. Carpet Bowls subject to Zumba Tues 7.15pm – 8.15pm, Wed 7.15pm. Zumba Mon 9.15am – 10.00am, Swan Leisure Centre availability. Badminton Mon 10.15am 10.00am – 11.00am, Thurs 8.00pm – Fri 7.00pm – 8.00pm. Reduced rate Northumberland Road, Tweedmouth, – 12.00pm. Walking Club Mon at 9.00pm. Pilates Sat 10.30 – 11.30am. for fitness suite Mon – Fri 9.30am – Berwick, TD15 2AS 10.00am. Healthstart referral scheme. 4.30pm. Healthstart scheme. 01289 330603 www.teesactivelimited.co.uk See Healthy walks page 26 Northburn Sports and Rothbury Pool & Gym Fit for Life low intensity workout, Tues, Community Centre Silverton Lane, Rothbury, Thurs 11.00am – 12.00pm. Aquafit Haltwhistle Swimming & Leisure Crowhall Lane, Cramlington, NE23 3YP Northumberland, NE65 7RJ Mon 9.15am – 10.00am, Tues, Thurs Centre, Greencroft, 01670 714154 01669 622 834 7.00pm – 8.00pm. Aqua Health Thurs Haltwhistle NE49 9DP www.bval.co.uk www.northcountryleisure.org.uk 3.00pm – 4.00pm. Mind, Body & Soul, 01434 320727 Zumba Tues 1.00pm – 2.00pm. Active Life gentle exercise Mon combines yoga, pilates and tai chi, www.haltwhistleleisure.co.uk 3.00pm – 5.00pm, Thurs 10.00am Thurs 7.00pm – 8.00pm. Zumba range Young at Heart Tues 10.00am – Ponteland Leisure Centre – 12.00pm. Aquafit Mon 7.30pm – of times ring for details. Indoor bowls. 12.00pm, Fri 9.30 – 11.30. Includes Callerton Lane, Ponteland, NE20 9EG 8.15pm, Wed 9.30am – 10.15am. badminton, table tennis, carpet bowls 01661 825441 Waterworld and free refreshments. Pilates Wed www.leisureconnections.co.uk Seahouses Sports & Community Centre Front Street, Prudhoe, NE42 5DQ 6.00pm – 7.00pm. Mixed carpet bowls Young at Heart gentle exercise class, Stone Close, Seahouses, NE68 7YW 01661 833144 Mon 1.30pm – 3.30pm. Outdoor pool Fri 11.00am – 12.00pm. Aquafit Mon, 01665 721868 www.northcountryleisure.org.uk opens Easter ring for details. Healthy Wed 9.30am – 10.30am. Pilates Tues www.seahouses.org Active LIfe pool sessions may include Life referral scheme. 10.30am – 11.30am. Zumba Tues Centre has outdoor and indoor bowls, aquafit, netball, synchronised 9.30am – 10.30am. Healthy Life kurling, badminton, tennis courts swimming, Thurs 9.00am – 10.00am, referral scheme. available to book by arrangement. Tues 1.00pm – 2.00pm, Wed 9.00am – 9.30am and 7.30pm – 8.30pm. Active Life exercise sessions Mon – Thurs 10.30am – 11.20am. Zumba Gold Fri

22 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 23 Advert 1 print v3.pdf 1 20/11/2012 09:33:32

Out and About

10.30am – 11.25am. Pilates Mon, Wed Wheelchair Sports and Leisure Club 11.30am – 12.30pm. Healthy Life The Torch Centre, Corbridge Road, referral scheme. Hexham, NE46 1QS 0191 236 5787, Isobel Landers Wentworth Leisure Centre Friendly club for wheelchair users Wentworth Park, Hexham, NE46 3PD across the county, Fri 1.00pm – 01434 607080 6.00pm. Activities are free and include www.northcountryleisure.org.uk snooker, bowls, darts, table-tennis, Active LIfe Badminton Mon, Fri basketball, kurling, rifle-shooting, Page 26 BVAL – ad supplied 10.00am – 12.00pm. Active Life dominos. Bar and kitchen. No need to Aquafit Wed, Fri 2.05pm – 3.00pm. be good at sport to join, just turn up, Active Life Exercise to Music Mon, all welcome. C Wed, Fri 10.15am – 11.15am. T’ai Chi M Wed 10.00am – 11.00am, 7.00pm – Weight Management

Y 8.00pm. Pilates Tues, Thurs 10.50am

CM – 11.50am,Thurs 12.00pm – 1.00pm. Momenta programme Zumba Gold Mon 2.00pm – 3.00pm. 07703 540192 Nicole Rowley MY Healthy Life referral scheme. www.discovermomenta.com CY Educational weight management CMY Willowburn Sports & Leisure Centre, course at leisure centres county- K Willowburn Avenue, Alnwick, NE66 2JH wide. Classes focus on good nutrition, 01665 605030 physical activity and the role the mind www.northcountryleisure.org.uk plays in how and why you eat, making Active LIfe Wed 1.00pm – 4.00pm, Fri you more likely to sustain weight loss 10.00am – 1.00pm, includes swimming, long term. Ring for details and to see if badminton, table tennis, fitness. T’ai the course is suitable for you. Chi Tues 10.30am – 11.45am. Line Dancing Wed 2.00pm – 4.00pm, Fri 9.30am – 11.30am. Pilates various times through the week, ring for details.

25 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Out and About

Outdoor Activities – Northumbria Ramblers Association Bell View is a charity supporting www.northumbriaramblers.org.uk Walking groups older people to live independently Website gives details of times and in North Northumberland. Northumberland Health Walks venues, otherwise contact as below: Our facilities & services include: • Community Resource Centre – café with internet access, groups and Blyth Valley Walkers: groups in • Alnwick, Linda Law, 01665 575633 activities, meeting rooms, accessible gardens, community transport scheme. Cramlington, Blyth, Seaton Sluice • Berwick, Serena Dean, 01289 388668 • Fresh and frozen meal delivery service • Day Care Centre – wide range of activities and outings, and Seghill. • Hexham, Ros Blaylock 01434 604639 assisted bathroom, specialist outreach service. Central Walks: groups in Ashington, • Morpeth, Margaret Siggens • Register of trained care workers covering North Northumberland. Morpeth, Newbiggin, Widdrington. 01670 518031 • Volunteer led ‘Home Support’ scheme providing short term For any of these groups contact 07860 • Ponteland, Colin Braithwaite, low level community support. • Luncheon clubs 504763 or 01670 532348 Vanessa 01661 822929 Burgess, www.bval.co.uk • Short Walks group (6 miles or less), If you would like a FREE copy of our services portfolio, please contact Bell View on 01668 219220, or email [email protected] or call in to David Moore 0191 285 2925 Bell View Resource Centre, North Northumberland 33 West Street, Belford, North Country Leisure Walking for Health Northumberland NE70 7QB 01665 511494 or 511495 www.wfh.naturalengland.org.uk www.northcountryleisure.org.uk Walk England Groups in Alnwick, Amble, Belford, www.walkengland.org.uk We’re growing... Berwick, Hadston, Rothbury, Seahouses, Wooler. Other outdoor activities include Look out for our Archery, Nature Club, Cycling, Northumberland Hub West Northumberland Sailing, Riding as well as sports WRVS services are coming together and growing fast. In our hub will be North Country Leisure such as Tennis, Cricket, Golf and • Community Transport – countywide 01434 613227 Bowling can be found on the website • Good Neighbour scheme – odd jobs, friendship, helping out Groups in Allendale, Bellingham, at www.northumberlandlife.org or • Information and practical advice Corbridge, Wark, Haltwhistle, Hexham, in the Yellow Pages directory. Look out for our Social Centres Prudhoe and Stocksfield. Come and socialise once a week with us – we have See also page 31 for outdoor lunch, activities, outings, help and information on hand volunteering opportunities – it depends what you ask us for! Find us in: Alnwick | Ashington | Bedlington | Berwick | Hexham | Rothbury | Stocksfield | Wooler with more to follow... Ring 0845 266 8906 to join in the fun! www.wrvs.org.uk

26 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 27 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Fiona Hall MEP Lifelong Learning University of the Third Age, (U3A) www.u3a.org.uk Lib Dem MEP for Pursue an interest, or study for a Organisation for retired people is specific qualification, there is a wide called a “University” although no the North East range of classes available locally for qualifications are required and none informal or more targeted learning. are awarded. Branches run their own special interest groups, using Northumberland Adult Learning Service the expertise of members. Popular It’s easy to contact Fiona... 01670 622119 groups include art, music, genealogy, www.northumberland.gov.uk/adultlearning philosophy, science, architecture, Courses run across the county, either foreign travel and many more. for fun, or to gain qualifications. Some Groups in Northumberland are as follows: are free, others have concessions. Some extra support for people with • Alnwick, 01665 575552 disabilities. Courses include: Science, www.nru3a.co.uk/northumberland/ Maths, Construction, Car maintenance, alnwhome.html Cookery, Health and Wellbeing, • Ashington, 01670 221924 Languages, Alternative therapies, • Berwick-upon-Tweed, 01890 781400 Gardening, Lip reading and many more. www.berwicku3a.org.uk Enrol throughout the year. • Mid-Northumberland (Longhirst) 01670 512238 Northumberland Community www.mid-northumberland-u3a.org.uk Development Network, (NCDN) • Morpeth, 01670 518416 It’s easy to contact Fiona... 01668 219879 www.u3asites.org.uk/morpeth www.ncdn.org • Ponteland, 01661 871042 By post: They offer training and support for www.nru3a.co.uk/northumberland/ 55a Old Elvet, Durham, DH1 3HN individuals and groups who want to pontsite/pont.htm have a voice and be active in their • Prudhoe, 01661 832020 By email: community. They offer learning www.nru3a.co.uk/northumberland/ opportunities, mentoring and prudhoe.html [email protected] encourage peer support. They can • Tynedale (Hexham), 01434 632913 help with fundraising or development www.tynedaleu3a.org.uk By phone: of community groups and their digital • Wooler, 01668 281408 0191 383 0119 champions help people become www.wooler.org.uk confident with IT. www.FionaHall.org.uk 28 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Out and About

WEA Northeast learning courses as well as those Memory Boxes are loaned to groups Age UK Northumberland 0191 212 6100 at local centres. free of charge from Morpeth. Activities 0845 140 0088 www.wea.org.uk may include author visits, courses, www.ageuk-northumberland.org.uk Adult learning classes in centres The National Extension College (NEC), local history talks, craft sessions. Volunteers are always welcome to across Northumberland. Subjects 0800 389 2839 Membership is free, with small support the wellbeing of older people include Family Trees, Arts, Maritime www.nec.ac.uk charges for loan of items such as DVDs in the community. Wide range of History, Coastal Recycling, Forensic Courses from GCSEs and A’ levels & CDs. projects and services, get in touch science, Astronomy, Gardening, etc. to Management, Book-keeping, for details. Childcare training. Website lists opening times, contact The Roundhouse, numbers and services for each library, Volunteering Northumberland, Age UK Northumberland, Lintonville Open College of the Arts or ring as above. Wansbeck CVS, 107-109 Station Road, Parkway, Ashington, NE63 9JZ 0800 731 2116 Ashington, NE63 8RS 0845 140 0088 www.oca-uk.com Volunteering 01670 858688 www.ageuk-northumberland.org.uk Home study arts courses e.g. www.volunteeringnorthumberland.org.uk Age UK’s resource centre offers a wide photography, musical composition, Volunteering is a rewarding way to The team develop and support range of activities including courses creative writing, art etc. No entry support a worthwhile cause using volunteering across the county. on computers for absolute beginners. requirements, support for disabled skills you already have, or learning Contact them to find volunteering students, some bursaries. Student new ones. Meet people, find new opportunities for yourself, or if you See page 7 for main entry finance available. challenges and have structure to your want to find volunteers for your day. It can be a good first step into organisation. Distance Learning and Northumberland employment. Support and training is Open Learning Libraries offered by all organisations. Prudhoe and District Volunteer Centre, Spetchells Centre, Front Learning by post, radio, television 0845 600 6400 general Opportunities in Northumberland Street, Prudhoe NE42 5AA or email allows you to decide the 01670 500391 Information Service have included work with children, 01661 839470/01661 836668 content of a course and how long www.mylibrary.co.uk young people, disabled people, Contact the centre for volunteering you want it to take. Northumberland has 34 Branch animals, heritage, befriending, opportunities in and around the area. libraries, 3 Mobile libraries and a gardening, admin work and The National Careers Service Home Library Service for housebound trusteeships. Contact your local www.do-it.org.uk 0800 100 900 customers. The library is a hub for centre for an appointment, or visit for lists of opportunities nationalcareersservice.gov.uk entertainment, events, information their websites for volunteering www.volunteering.org.uk Telephone, internet and face to and provides fiction, non-fiction, large opportunities. for general information face advice on careers, vocational print & audio books; CDs, DVDs, online and recreational courses, retraining resources, computers & internet and funding. Covers distance access. Music sets, play sets and

30 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 31 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Out and About

REACH State Pension counts along with 0207 582 6543 earnings as taxable income, and Ian Lavery MP for Wansbeck says: www.reachskills.org.uk earnings after pension age may As we get older and our priorities change it’s useful to Reach finds opportunities for skilled affect benefits such as Pension have a guide like this to help us find out about things, or solve day to day problems. volunteers to use their professional, Credit, Housing Benefit or Council managerial and business experience Tax Benefit. Consult the Pension So I am delighted to recommend this excellent little within the voluntary sector. Service if this may be a problem. book - full of ideas and advice for improving our quality of life wherever in Northumberland we live.

RSVP Jobcentre Plus If you are from Wansbeck and have something you (Retired and Senior Volunteer Programme) 0845 604 3719 would like to discuss, or a particular problem I can 0191 389 1155 regional office www.gov.uk help with, contact me as follows: www.csv-rsvp.org.uk They carry lists of vacancies and can Ian Lavery MP, Constituency Office Recruits volunteers over 50 for advise on finding work, training and Tel: 01670 852494 Fax: 01670 818262 various projects, e.g. telephone benefits available. Local branches Email: [email protected] befriending, knitting (trauma teddies, are in Alnwick, Ashington, Bedlington, Ian Lavery MP, House of Commons, London SW1A 0AA Or make an appointment to attend my regular constituency Surgery blankets, clothing). Berwick, Blyth, Cramlington, Hexham and Morpeth and the contact telephone Working After number is the same for them all. Retirement Jobseeker Direct Guy Opperman MP If you wish you may carry on 0845 60 60 234 Member of Parliament for the Hexham Constituency working after reaching State Pension 0845 60 55 255 textphone I enjoy my time working as one of your local MPs here in Northumberland. In particular I enjoy being age. You can work while still taking www.gov.uk able to help local residents who may need a helping your pension, or defer claiming it Telephone service and website also hand to solve a problem, or some advice on issues to be paid a larger amount later have details of local vacancies and such as benefits, bus passes or elderly care. on. You may be able to have the can advise on how to apply. If you have any concerns and want to get in touch deferred amount as a tax-free lump please do not hesitate to do so. You can contact sum. Once you reach pension age ACAS me by letter, email or phone, or else arrange an appointment at one of my regular surgeries. Or feel you pay no National Insurance and 0845 747 47 47 & 18001 08457 474747 free just to have a word if you see me in the street. you are likely to pay less income tax Text Relay service when you are over 65.You are still www.acas.org.uk entitled to the national minimum Impartial advice on all areas of Guy Opperman MP 1 Meal Market, Hexham, wage for any paid work you do employment relations, including age Northumberland, NE46 1NF House of Commons, London, SW1 0AA discrimination. 01434 601420 [email protected]

32 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 33 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Out and About

Pay and Work Rights helpline TrilogE 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London Concessionary Fares: Bus Passes 0800 917 2368, Thomas Muckle Buildings, EC1V 8AF 0845 600 6400 0800 121 4042 text phone Bridge Street, Rothbury, NE65 7SG 0207 250 3222 (formerly Radar) www.northumberland.gov.uk Government helpline to give advice on 01669 620 506 www.disabilityrightsuk.org. Free bus passes for people of pension employment rights. [email protected] Guide to accessible holiday age or who are registered disabled www.triloge.org.uk accommodation in Britain and Ireland cover travel on local buses anywhere Starting a Business Friendly team offer business support either in print or on the website. They in England. In some areas you may across Northumberland for people supply keys for disabled toilets in the only travel after 9.30am but older Business Link Helpline in rural areas who run a business National Key Scheme and a guide to people in Northumberland can use 0845 600 9006 or want to start one. One to one and locations across the UK. them from 9.00am Mon – Fri, all day at www.gov.uk group sessions, mentoring, training weekends and bank holidays. Information on business planning, and practical help. Also help with job Saga finances, marketing etc. seeking including CV and interview 0800 096 0089 (brochure request line) Disabled pass holders go free at any skills and job tasters. www.saga.co.uk time, any day. If you need a carer to Prince’s Initiative for Mature Holidays Specialists in holidays for over 50s travel with you, apply for a Companion Enterprise in the UK and abroad. Card to cover their bus fare too. You will 0845 862 2023 or 020 3137 8525 Local travel agents need acceptable proof to confirm your www.prime.org.uk As well as arranging coach trips, Tourism for All condition. Dedicated to helping people over 50 cruises, sightseeing, special interest, 7a Pixel Mill, 44 Appleby Road, Kendal, set up in business, support, training long stay or action holidays travel Cumbria, LA9 6ES Pass not for use on Tyne & Wear Metro and networking events. agents can arrange wheelchairs, 0845 124 9971 or local train services. For travel into preferential boarding and help www.tourismforall.org.uk Scotland, check with the County TAEN with luggage at airports if you Charity offers information on all Council. (The Age & Employment Network) have mobility problems. They aspects of holidays for disabled 020 3033 1507 will also check hotels for suitable people and older people. Searchable To Apply by Post www.taen.org.uk accommodation and facilities. directory of accommodation, Ring for an application form and Campaigns for better opportunities for campsites, accessible attractions, send to Concessionary Travel, over 50s. Not an employment agency Enable Holidays escorted holidays and foreign travel. Northumberland County Council, but they can signpost individuals to 0871 222 4939 Hadrian House, Market Street, organisations that will help directly. www.enableholidays.com www.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/ Hexham, NE46 3NH. If you lose your Specialist tour operator for wheelchair TravelHolidaysAndBreaks pass a replacement costs £15. (Free if Also see pages 87-88 for advice on users, people with limited mobility and Website lists the services you can your pass is stolen and you can supply legal issues. their families and friends. expect from airlines, and other useful a crime number.) tips for travellers with a disability. Disability Rights UK Transport

34 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 35 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Out and About

To Apply in Person Blue Badge Parking Scheme Ronnie Campbell MP Visit one of the council Information 0845 600 6400 Blyth Valley Constituency Centres, taking proof of age (birth National scheme allows parking certificate, passport) and residency, concessions for people with severe Office hours: your disability (if applicable) and mobility problems – whether drivers or Mon-Thurs 9am-5pm a passport photograph. Your pass passengers. Badges cost £10 and are Fri 9am-3.30pm should arrive within two weeks. issued for up to three years, to people with proof of permanent disability. Ronnie now has monthly surgeries in the Blyth Valley area on a Saturday. Check local press for Council Information Centres located in: To apply, contact the Council as above. details or contact the office where staff will be If your badge is about to expire, get in able to assist. • Greenwell Lane, Alnwick touch, as no reminders are issued. Ronnie Campbell MP • Wansbeck Square Ashington NB There may be changes to eligibility Blyth Valley Constituency • Front St. West, Bedlington for badges as Disability Living 42 Renwick Road Blyth Tel: 01670 363050 • Wallace Green, Berwick Allowance is replaced by Personal NE24 2LQ Fax: 01670 355192 • Keel Row Centre, Blyth Valley Independence Payments in April 2013. Email: [email protected] • Forum Way, Cramlington • Hadrian House, Hexham, Mobility Schemes • 28 Bridge Street, Morpeth • Avenue Rd, Seaton Delaval Motability Stuck without transport? 0845 456 4566 Want some help to get out and about? Concessionary Fares: Taxi Tokens 0845 675 0009 textphone NEED’s community transport can get 0845 600 6400 www.motability.co.uk you there. Scheme for anyone receiving certain Charity leases cars, scooters and benefits, without access to a car powered wheelchairs through a If you or your group have no transport, or are isolated, and who cannot use existing public network of dealers. You are eligible or just need a personal service we can help. transport because of disability. You if you receive the higher rate of the Our fleet of safe and fully accessible vehicles offer can buy £50 worth of tokens per mobility component of Disability Living a door-to-door-service to suit your needs including year for £10. Ring for details or visit Allowance or War Pensioners’ Mobility regular or one-off trips. We run right across the North East and Borders region. And if you have a special a Council Information Centre for an Supplement and may apply even if journey we can help with planning that too... application form and a list of taxi firms you don’t drive yourself. Ring for more who accept tokens. details and an information pack. Call us on 01665 605780 to find out what we can do for you. NEED Ltd, (NE Equality & Diversity) See also page 82 changes to DLA Alnwick Fire Station, South Road, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 2PA www.needltd.co.uk

36 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 37 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Ask for our free home safety assessment to help trips and redu acccidentse slips, within the home, and National Forum of Mobility Centres Useful Transport to improve 0800 559 3636 Numbers home security. www.mobility-centres.org.uk Handyperson Service Helpline and information sheets Traveline A partially free service for older and vulnerable people on all aspects of outdoor mobility. 0871 200 22 33 Includes vehicle access and www.travelinenortheast.info Work which helps prevent Other core work is Extra non essential work falls and accidents is free charged at £10 per visit is charged at £24 per hour adaptations, scooters, wheelchairs, Information on local fares, times and and includes and includes and includes driving with a disability etc. North routes for bus, coach, train or ferry travel. East Forum member as below • change light bulbs, • changing tap washers • flat pack furniture, Transport Direct • hang curtains, • door handles • cat flaps • take down light shades North East Drive Mobility www.transportdirect.info Walkergate Park, Centre for Neuro- Includes national journey planner Rehabilitation & Neuro-Psychiatry, using a range of transport options as Tel: 01670 851952 Benfield Road, Newcastle, NE6 4QD well as route comparisons, car park Email: [email protected] 0191 287 5090 lists, cycle routes, cheaper rail fares www.ntw.nhs.uk/mobility etc. Internet only. Personal advice and driving and passenger assessment service National Rail Enquiries helps you retain or regain your 08457 48 49 50 independence if you have a condition 0845 60 50 600 textphone affecting your ability to use a www.nationalrail.co.uk vehicle. Refer yourself or be referred. Accredited by the Forum of Mobility Community Transport Centres. Schemes www.gov.uk/en/disabledpeople/ motoringandtransport Adapt (North East) Transport and travel advice and 01434 600599 information for disabled and less able www.adapt-ne.org.uk people. Range of transport schemes for members, who are isolated by See also page 64 and page 73 disability or through living in a rural wheelchairs area. Individual membership currently £2 per year. Services include Minibus hire, Dial a Ride, Individual Support Service and Wheelchair Loan.

38 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 39 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Out and About

Blyth Valley Disabled Forum NEED Ltd (NE Equality & Diversity) Also see page 7 for Age UK Rural Watbus Community Transport 01670 360927 01665 605780 Access Project 01670 522999 www.blythdisabledforum.co.uk www.needltd.co.uk www.watbus.org.uk Fully accessible vehicle for people who Need specialises in services for older Reaction Independent Living, Community transport scheme across are disabled or who have limited or people and people with disabilities. Shopping Project, Wansbeck CVS Northumberland for users who are restricted mobility for social outings, Safe, accessible transport across 01670 858688, Karen Cox older or who have difficulty using church services, recreation, etc. the North East and Border region for Scheme for people who are isolated mainstream transport. For individuals organisations and individuals who or disabled to travel to the shops, or groups. Also cycle trip scheme. The BRINGO are isolated, or without access to bank etc. Collects from home, with Bell View Resource Centre, conventional transport or require a volunteers to help. Runs from different 33 West Street, Belford, NE70 7QB ‘door to door’ service. Includes Dial-a- parts of Blyth, Wansbeck area and 01668 219220 Ride service into market towns from Seaton Valley, usually Tues, Wed and Wheelchair accessible car scheme rural areas, also free Travel Planning Thurs but may be either fortnightly or for essential and social journeys, for help with difficult journeys. weekly. Ring to apply or ask your care driven by volunteer drivers. manager. See also page 73 for more services See also page 5 and ad on page 36 Red Cross Transport Scheme 0191 273 7961 Getabout Northumberland North Seaton Colliery Community www.redcross.org.uk 0845 266 8906 Centre Minibus North of Tyne scheme covers (ring 9.00am – 1.00pm) 01670 851457 Northumberland too. Car or or 07834 753387 Wheelchair accessible, 17 seat wheelchair-accessible minibus can be www.wrvs.org.uk minibus for groups and individuals. arranged for individuals or groups for WRVS volunteer car transport scheme Ring evenings, after 9.30pm if possible. any journey purpose. for regular or one-off trips, shopping, social, hospital etc. Known for its Northumberland Car Share, Upper Coquetdale Community friendly volunteers who offer useful Northumberland County Council Transport advice too. They also have a wheelchair 01670 624115, Sarah Rowell 07870 577 667 or accessible car but ring first for details www.northumberlandcarshare.com 01669 621855 of this. Car sharing scheme for one-off or www.ucct.btck.co.uk regular trips, saves money, carbon Wheelchair accessible 17 seat bus See also page 9 for WRVS footprint, and time. Participants share covers whole area for individual Social Centres the cost of petrol. Register online to be or group bookings. Regular Friday given a match for you either as driver shopping trips to Rothbury. or passenger.

40 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 41 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Home andOut Community and About

Home and Community cannot do electrical or plumbing work; Home Adaptations roofing repairs; decorating; gas appliance Running a home as efficiently as possible and maintenance. Non essential work is If you need adaptations to your helping achieve a safe community sometimes charged at £24 per hour. home – such as installing a stairlift, needs a little support. Here are some schemes, bathing adaptations, wheelchair ramp services and contacts to help things along. CMDA etc, you can arrange this privately by Handyman and Gardening service hiring or buying equipment. If you are 01670 504488 a tenant your landlord may arrange www.cmda.org.uk adaptations, or you may be eligible for Repairs & Maintenance Free service for over 60s, disabled or partial or full financial help through low income residents in South East the Disabled Facilities Grant. In either Age UK Northumberland Handyman and Gardening service Northumberland. They fit curtains, case you should contact Adult Care to 0845 140 0088 shelving, flat pack furniture, and other arrange an assessment of your needs www.ageuk-northumberland.org.uk small jobs. Seasonal gardening service – by an occupational therapist. This can Indoor and outdoor service includes decorating, cleaning - ring to be added to the list. They also run be helpful even if you intend to pay windows, patios, paths, gutters. Also fitting handrails, locks, a Community Repaint Scheme, where yourself. bolts, smoke alarms, assembling furniture. Garden service donated unused paint is redistributed to includes maintaining lawns, borders, hedges, fences, path others who can use it. Disabled Facilities Grant laying etc. Registered with Trading Standards and all staff are police cleared. Council or Social Housing Tenants: This Council grant is available to disabled, Repairs and Gardens older or vulnerable owner-occupiers Blyth Star Enterprises The Council or Housing Providers or private tenants subject to a means 01670 855130 or 07764 939189 maintain their own properties. Some test. Once the occupational therapist’s www.blythstar.com help with garden maintenance for older recommendations have been approved Charity runs gardening service in Blyth and Wansbeck areas, people who cannot do the work and have then Care & Repair Home Improvement including maintenance, tidying, supplying bedding and hanging no-one to do it for them. The schemes Agency facilitate the rest of the process. baskets. vary, there may be a charge and possibly a waiting list for gardening. Ring your Care & Repair Northumberland, Care & Repair Northumberland, Handyperson Service, housing provider for details. 01670 851844 01670 851952 The agency works on behalf of the DIY & small repairs are carried out for disabled and older Council to give practical help with people. Home safety assessments are free and work which home adaptations through delivery helps prevent falls is free e.g. change light bulbs, fix curtain of Disabled Facilities Grants. rails, fasten loose carpets etc. Other essential work costs £10 per visit e.g. install shelves, fit locks, change tap washers. They

42 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 43 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Home andOut Community and About

Equipment for crockery etc. Free (or very low cost) grants and schemes to save fuel costs, have non-working central heating and/ Independent Living delivery and collection of donations. e.g. Warm Home Discount takes £130 or poor insulation. Open Tues and Fri 9.00am – 3.00pm. off your electricity bill if you qualify. Adult Care Winter Fuel Payment Helpline 01670 536400 Revive Furniture Northumberland Warm Zone 0845 915 1515 Where necessary, Adult Care can Unit 16D, Cowley Road, Blyth 01670 356642 0845 601 5613 textphone arrange equipment to help with Industrial Estate, Blyth, NE24 5TF 01670 356624 Lisa Oxley (Benefits www.gov.uk/winterfuel independent living – which is usually 01670 368665 Advice Officer) For anyone of qualifying age – born free, as well as alarm sensors to www.reviveenterprise.co.uk www.warmzones.co.uk on or before 5 July 1951 for winter alert people who can help if you Low cost furniture for people on low Practical advice on improving the 2012-13. For winter 2013-14 you have an accident. incomes or benefits. Take proof of warmth of your home and increasing must be born before 5 Jan 1952. If you benefit to register. Beds, wardrobes, energy efficiency. Service may change receive certain benefits you are paid See also pages 70-72 for Staying sofas and chairs, dining suites, no early in 2013 ring for details. automatically, otherwise you must at Home with Help electrical equipment. Open Mon claim. Ring for advice on eligibility and – Thurs 9.00am – 4.30pm. Free Oil CAN how to make a claim. Low Cost Furnishings collections and deliveries to many 01670 500812 areas, but donated furniture must www.ca-north.org.uk/oil Home Security Core Furniture have fire safety labels in order to resell. Countywide bulk-buying scheme for The Tynedale Centre, Haugh Lane heating oil, operated by Community Emergency calls Industrial Estate, Haugh Lane, Warmth and Energy Action Northumberland. The scheme 999 Hexham, NE46 3PU Efficiency brings consumers together to make For any situation which has become 01434 607509 the most of joint buying power which dangerous or where a crime has just Furniture donated is restored and Energy Saving Trust achieves greater savings to pass on to been, or is about to be, committed. sold on at low cost. Also white goods 0800 512 012 customers. and some electrical equipment. Open www.energysavingtrust.org.uk Northumbria Police to all Mon – Thurs 9.30am – 4.00pm, Impartial advice and technical Warm Front Scheme 101 Friday close at 3.30pm. Free collection information to help save energy and 0800 316 2805, www.northumbria.police.uk of donated furniture, small charge for reduce fuel bills. 0800 072 0156 textphone Use this number for all non- deliveries. www.gov.uk/warmfront emergency concerns, enquiries and Home Heat Helpline Government grant for heating and information. Re’Nu’ It 0800 33 66 99 insulation improvements. Currently St. Thomas Close Workshops, 0800 027 2122 textphone up to a maximum of £3500 or £6000 Northumberland Fire Alnwick, NE66 1DJ www.homeheathelpline.org.uk for oil systems (Dec 2012). Available & Rescue Service 07792 175827 Advice on making your home more to private tenants or owner-occupiers www.northumberland.gov.uk Furniture, electricals, bedding, energy efficient, also information on who receive certain benefits and who Ring 999 for ALL emergencies.

44 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 45 About Mental Health and Disability Our Services

One in four adults will experience some operating from over 100 sites to provide a The Trust offers a wide range of community Join us and become a kind of mental health problem at some range of comprehensive services including and inpatient services for children, adults Foundation Trust member point in their lives with mixed anxiety and some regional and national services. and older people with mental health Why not join the Trust and be one of over depression most common. About one in ten problems, including substance misuse; 12,000 public members and 6,000 staff children have a mental health problem at We support people in the communities together with learning disability and neuro- members who represent the communities any one time and one in five older people of Northumberland, Newcastle, North rehabilitation services. we serve. are affected by depression. Tyneside, Gateshead and Sunderland, (Mental Health Foundation) working to deliver care and support to Details of some of our local services are As a member you will: people in their own homes and from included in the main body of the Golden One in fifty people have a learning community and hospital based premises. Guide. A complete guide to services is • Receive regular information disability requiring life long support. available to download through our website about the Trust (Learning Disabilities Observatory) Our vision is ‘to improve the well-being and an NTW app for the iPhone is now • Give your views on our plans and of everyone we serve through delivering available from the Apple Store. how we can make things better Neurological conditions are the most services that match the best in the world’. • Get involved, if you wish, in issues common cause of serious disability with For more information that interest you ten million people in the UK living with Our Hospital sites include about the Trust and • Elect people to the Council of a condition which has a significant impact Governors which will help run the Trust, • St George’s Park, Morpeth our services: telephone on their lives. (The Neurological Alliance). • Northgate Hospital, Morpeth • Stand as a Governor yourself. • St Nicholas Hospital, Newcastle 0191 213 0151 About Us • Walkergate Park, Newcastle or visit www.ntw.nhs.uk To find out more about becoming a Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS • Ferndene, Prudhoe member contact Wendy Pinkney, Foundation Trust is one of the largest • Cherry Knowle Hospital, Sunderland Membership Manager on 0191 2232468 mental health and disability trusts in • Monkwearmouth Hospital, Sunderland or visit the website at www.ntw.nhs.uk England, employing over 6,000 staff and and look at the ‘get involved’ section.

Shining a light on the future 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight

We all cherish our independence, but if you are living alone, Fire Safety Advice Cold Callers the risk of accidents, falls and illness is always a worry. 0800 731 1351 Advice on fire safety in the home from You should never respond to the Community Safety Academy or unexpected callers offering building Join Valley Care and your from any fire station. They recommend work, repairs or a service etc. If you a smoke alarm on each level of need maintenance work doing, always call will always be answered your house, which should be tested check with two or three reputable regularly. Advice also on specialist firms to arrive at a fair price for the job. alarms for hearing-impaired residents. • 24 hours, seven days a week Also see page 87-88 for advice on across the county Gas Emergency Contact Number legal issues and page 75 for personal • Simple to use 0800 111 999 alarm systems. • Simple to install - works www.nationalgrid.com/uk alongside your own telephone Emergency 24 hour number if you Anti-Social Behaviour • Specialist contact centre suspect a gas leak, or escape of other fumes, or unexplained loss of supply, You should still ring 999 when there • Qualified staff who respond promptly or gas pressure problems. Local is immediate danger or you witness a to emergencies and enquiries engineers will attend free of charge crime taking place. to make the property safe, but do not Telecare gives carers and their families Margaret’s daughter said: carry out repairs. Community Safety Team peace of mind. Additional sensors link to 0845 600 6400 the basic alarm and then automatically “The telecare system means mum can Bogus Callers Ring them with concerns about a contact Valley Care. live in her own home, it’s given her safety issue, or anti-social behaviour confidence and makes her feel good Crime Prevention Advisers, in your area. They help with noisy Margaret uses Telecare services. about herself and about everything.” Northumbria Police, 101 neighbours, vandalism, harassment She is 89 and lives alone, but has Advice on making your home secure and fly-tipping and other local early stage dementia. Valley Care is Northumberland County through locks, lights, alarms and problems. Housing Association Council’s community alarm service sensible precautions. They warn that tenants can contact the Tenancy Margaret was given a pendant alarm, delivering county wide community alarm you should not allow any unexpected Enforcement team through the detectors for falls and smoke, an extreme and Telecare services to all its residents. temperature sensor and medication For more information contact caller into your home, ask them to call Housing Association number. prompt dispenser. another time and have someone with you as even identification can be faked. Disability Hate Crime 077 477 581 81, Michelle Redfern Northumbria Police 101 (non-emergency enquiries) Call Valley Care on

48 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 01670 827100 49 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight

www.northumbria.police.uk Action on Elder Abuse Response Line A crime motivated by the victim’s 0808 808 8141 disability is a disability hate crime. In www.elderabuse.org.uk Northumberland there are now Safe Information and support for victims, Reporting Centres in 20 community or others with concerns. Deals with Elder Abuse happens venues. They are listed on the website, physical, psychological, sexual and or ring to find your nearest. You can financial abuse and neglect. Physical | Verbal | Sexual | Financial | Psychological | Neglect also contact Michelle directly, or ring the police who will take action. Grace Northumberland (Tyneside Rape Crisis), Domestic Violence and 0800 035 2794, helpline Safeguarding Adults is everyone’s Abuse 0191 222 0272 referrals www.tynesidercc.org.uk/gracehtm business. See it, Report it! Safeguarding Adults Helpline and free individual www.northumberland.gov.uk counselling sessions across If someone you know is at risk of being Northumberland for women survivors abused or neglected contact the of sexual violence. If you suspect a neighbour, police if there is immediate danger. friend or family member is Otherwise ring Adult Care on 01670 Men’s Advice Line being neglected or abused 536400. Outside office hours ring the 0808 801 0327 Emergency Duty Team on 0845 600 www.mensadviceline.org.uk or you need help yourself... 5252. Helpline for male victims of domestic abuse. Mon – Fri 10.00am – 1.00pm Call Adult Services Cease24 and 2.00pm – 5.00pm. 01665 606881, Alnwick 01670 536 400 (Calls are confidential) or 01670 360182, Blyth, SixtyEightyThirty www.enough.me.uk 01434 60 80 30 Emotional and practical support www.sixtyeightythirty.com For outside office hours and for domestic abuse victims, not Supports women in Northumberland at weekends call 0845 600 5252 counselling. who experienced domestic abuse at any time in their lives, regardless of age, religion, culture etc.

50 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk www.northumberland.gov.uk/safe Golden Guide Nland CCG ad copy_Golden Guide Nland CCG ad 27/11/2012 11:23 Page 1

2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Making a real difference to Victim Support MPs in Northumberland 0845 30 30 900 national helpline patient care 0845 277 0977 or 0191 281 0491 local Contact your MP at the constituency victim care centre office, or attend one of their surgeries Schemes and new initiatives undertaken by NHS Northumberland www.victimsupport.org.uk - held in local venues, either by Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are starting to make a difference Supports victims of crime, including appointment, or on a drop-in basis. to patient care. CCGs are the organisations that will take over from domestic abuse and anti social Or write to them at: The House of primary care trusts and will be responsible for the planning and behaviour, whether or not reported to Commons, Westminster, London purchasing of NHS services for local people from April 2013. the police. SW1A 0AA The CCG has made a simple test available for local patients who are WHAC Berwick: suffering from bloating and chronic diarrhoea without weight loss. Women’s Health Advice Centre), 1 Sir Alan Beith, 01665 602901 Patient Kenneth Tweddle of Blyth, had endured chronic problems with Council Road, Ashington, NE63 8RZ 54, Bondgate Within, bloating, cramps and diarrhoea. He made an appointment at the 01670 853977 Alnwick, NE66 1JD town’s Waterloo Medical Group and was offered a test to check for www.whac-online.co.uk [email protected] evidence of bowel inflammation. The results were all clear for any Confidential counselling for domestic serious complications, but Kenneth had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). violence and other issues. Blyth Valley: Ronnie Campbell, 01670 363050 Another scheme to be introduced focuses on those See page 67 for main entry. 42 Renwick Road, Blyth, NE24 2LQ frail, elderly patients who are at highest risk of [email protected] hospital admission. Dr David Shovlin, West locality lead for the CCG, said: “A register of the highest- Hexham: risk frail elderly patients will be developed and held Guy Opperman, 01434 601420 in each GP practice. Patients will be identified 1, Meal Market, Hexham, NE46 1NF through a variety of different ways including whilst [email protected] in hospital, on discharge from hospital, in the

community and in general practice. Wansbeck: Ian Lavery, 01670 852494 7, Esther Court, Wansbeck Business Park, Ashington, NE63 8AP “Certain patients will be given a special assessment before being [email protected] discharged from hospital and dedicated teams will work with other agencies to make sure these patients receive the care they need.”

Clinicians commissioning healthcare for the people 52 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk of Northumberland 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Health and Wellbeing

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Out of Hours Care • Morpeth Cottage Hospital • North Tyneside General In this section we have tried to reflect the range Northern Doctors Urgent Care • Wansbeck General of services and advice providers available. The 0300 123 4343 support group list grows longer, but if you belong 0300 123 1932 textphone OTHER Hospitals to a group we should include, please let us know. www.northern-doctors.org If you need a doctor outside surgery • Haltwhistle Hospital, hours ring this number and not your (currently Ward 1 at Hexham during own GP. A clinician will ring back and rebuild), 01434 655405 may give medical advice over the • Rothbury Community Hospital, phone or an appointment to attend an 01669 620555 Medical Care Out of Hours Centre, or else a doctor • Newcastle General, RVI, Freeman may visit you at home. The service can and Dental Hospitals 0191 233 6161 NHS Direct arrange transport if this is a problem. • Sir GB Hunter Memorial Hospital, 0845 46 47 Service operates Mon – Fri 6.30pm – 0191 220 5953 www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk 8.00am and 24 hours at weekends and Confidential 24 hour helpline and online enquiry service. all Bank Holidays. 0844 811 5522 or 0191 213 0151 can Staffed by health professionals who do not diagnose, both be used for: but advise on practical matters e.g. symptoms, drug Out of Hours Centres • Northgate Hospital, side-effects, dental queries etc. Helpline and website • Ferndean Hospital have contacts for local health services including doctors, Centres are in Alnwick, Ashington, (formerly Prudhoe Hospital) dentists, opticians and pharmacies. NB During 2013 the Berwick, Hexham, North Tyneside • St. George’s Park telephone number will change to 111. and the RVI. You will be given an • St Nicholas Hospital appointment in advance so do not just Finding a GP, Dentist, Optician or turn up. Dental Care Pharmacy Hospitals For dentists taking on NHS patients, Ask NHS Direct, or contact or for emergencies if you have no NE Primary Care Services Agency 0844 811 8111 is the telephone dentist, please call NHS Direct on 0191 275 4200 number for the following hospitals: 0845 46 47. For out of hours treatment www.nefhsa.nhs.uk call the Out of Hours service on 0300 • Alnwick Infirmary 123 1933. NB: You cannot turn up for • Berwick Infirmary treatment at the hospital unless you • Blyth Community Hospital have been referred through the Out of • Hexham General Hospital Hours service.

54 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 55 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Health and Wellbeing

Also see page 56 for help with dental you or else advise on making district only, but hoping to expand Help with Health Costs and other health costs an appointment. across the county soon. 0845 850 11 66 www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk NHS Health Trainers See also p 7 for Age UK’s foot care Northumberland LINk Most NHS treatment is free for over 01670 784 198 sessions. (Local Involvement Network) 60s, including prescriptions, hearing One to one advice to help you plan and 01434 600599 aids and sight tests. Where there implement healthy lifestyle choices, Dealing with Concerns www.northumberlandlink.org.uk are costs, e.g. for glasses, dental including diet, keeping fit, smoking, A network of local people and treatment and travel to and from alcohol consumption etc. They run If things go wrong speak directly to the groups who influence change and hospital, you may apply for assistance groups such as weight loss and weight people providing your service, which is improvement in health and social if you are on a low income or in receipt management and can signpost you on often the best way to resolve problems. services in Northumberland. Get in of certain benefits. to other services and support groups. If you need help to do this ask a family touch to join. NB This will change to They operate across Northumberland member or friend or see below for more Healthwatch during 2013. Prescription Prepayment Cards (PPC), in various locations. assistance. 0845 850 0030 Northumbria Healthcare www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ppc Pharmacy Service Adult Social Care Services Adult Care Forums If you will have to pay for four Comments, Compliments and 01670 394400, John Dowswell prescriptions within three months, Pharmacists advise on treatment for Complaints Team A range of forums meet regularly across or fourteen within twelve months, it minor ailments and illnesses, can 01670 628888 the county to discuss community may be cheaper to buy a PPC. This review medicines and give support Contact the team to compliment, health and social care services, and means you pay a certain amount in with new medication. If you receive complain or share concerns about how to make the most of life! Contact advance and are then covered for free prescriptions the pharmacist may your services. You can also write to as above for details and to get involved. unlimited prescriptions for either be able to treat you without having Adult Services and Housing Group three or twelve months. to see the doctor first. Other services Comments, Compliments and PALS Service may include tests for cholesterol, Complaints, FREEPOST RLTX-LBXU- (Patient Advice and Liaison) blood pressure, blood glucose, flu jabs, SHBS, County Hall, Morpeth, NE61 0800 032 02 02 dosage aids etc. 2DEF (No stamp required) Email: [email protected] Podiatry Service Confidential support for patients, Age UK Northumberland their families and carers. General Good footcare helps keep you steady Advocacy Service information, advice and problem- on your feet to prevent falls. The 0845 140 0088 or 0772 074 0988 solving about NHS care, including service gives self-care advice, help with Confidential, free service for over hospitals, GPs, Dentists, Optometrists toenails, skin problems, foot pain, or 50s who would like help to express and Pharmacists. They can refer you help if you have diabetes, arthritis or their views, access services and have on to other agencies if necessary. medication concerns. Your GP can refer their rights upheld. Currently Berwick

56 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 57 Health and Wellbeing

Stopping Smoking Berwick (Tues, Wed, Thurs), 01289 356 908 Northumberland Hexham (Tues, Wed, Thurs), Stop Smoking Service 01434 655 715 01670 813135 Smokers are up to four times more Drinkline, 0800 917 8282 likely to quit using support from Confidential NHS helpline. local NHS stop smoking services. Free friendly support is available Escape Family Support throughout Northumberland including 01670 544055, office some pharmacies. Ring to find out 07702 833944 24 hour helpline what is available in your area. www.escapefamilysupport.co.uk Support for alcohol or drug problems GP or Practice Nurse in Northumberland. Confidential Some GP practices have a nurse counselling, complementary therapies, trained to help people stop smoking. respite breaks, diversionary activities Ring to make an appointment. and family support. Self refer or be referred by a GP or other professional. NHS Smoking Helpline 0800 022 4 332 MENTAL HEALTH www.smokefree.nhs.uk We’re investing in our services Information, specialist advisers and Community Mental Health Teams across Northumberland to free Quit Kits. A good first point of contact for a mental health concern (e.g. deliver world-class care for you: Alcohol, Medication or depression, memory problems, Drugs Problems anxiety) is your GP or other health professional. If appropriate you will In Cramlington – The Duchess of In Morpeth – we’re working with NHS North Addictions Services Northumberland be referred to your local Community Northumberland started work on our of Tyne on the new Morpeth NHS Centre Community based service to enable Mental Health team for treatment, or Northumbria Specialist Emergency Care recovery for people with alcohol or they may be able to visit you at home. Hospital which will treat the most seriously ill In Berwick – we’ve identified a preferred or injured patients site for our new purpose-built hospital drugs problems. Self-refer by ringing To find out about their services contact direct to: Northumberland Tyne & Wear NHS In Ashington – we’re improving Wansbeck In Haltwhistle – work is underway on Foundation Trust on 0191 213 0151 General Hospital by providing more our integrated health and social care Blyth Valley, 01670 396 310 services and giving patients greater scheme in partnership with Northumberland Ashington, 01670 844 610 privacy and dignity County Council

59 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight

Age UK Northumberland Community Dementia Services Dementia Service 0191 213 0151 0845 140 0088 Inpatient and community services for Day centre service for older people older people. Referral by care manager, with dementia, in Amble and Berwick, GP or mental health team. Ring for transport provided. Person centred more details. approach in a safe and caring environment. Mind Active 01670 820461 Alzheimer’s Society Monthly community days with lunch, 0845 300 0336 national helpline activities and entertainment for www.alzheimers.org.uk people with dementia, their families Advice and support for people with and friends. Bedlington Station and dementia and their carers may include Blyth, ring for details. support groups, individual support, courses on understanding dementia etc. Mind Infoline 0300 123 3393 Berwick, 01289 303143 www.mind.org.uk Blyth, 01670 366123 National information line dealing Morpeth , 01670 511159 with all aspects of mental distress, Hexham, 01434 607318 including where to get help, treatment and advocacy. Contact (Morpeth Mental Health Group) Ltd See also page 88 Mind Legal Advice line 7 Grey’s Yard Oldgate, Morpeth, NE61 1QD Northumberland Talking Therapies 01670 510652 Service (IAPT), IAPT 0300 123 4502 www.contactmorpeth.org.uk Free, confidential service supports Drop-in centre and café supports adults in Northumberland suffering members with mental health mild to moderate mental health problems and their carers. Self-help problems such as depression and groups, counselling, events, outings. anxiety. IAPT offers a range of short Open Tues, Wed, Thurs 10.00am – term talking therapies. Self refer or 4.00pm Fri 10.30am – 3.30pm. Social be referred by a health or social care evening Fri 7.00pm – 9.00pm. professional.

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Patient Information Centre Bereavement Upper Coquetdale Bereavement Age UK Northumberland 0191 223 2545 Visiting Service Friendship Line [email protected] Bereavement Service 01669 620339 0845 140 0088 www.ntw.nhs.uk/pic Hospice Care North Northumberland, Susan Bryce at Rothbury Surgery Free service to make friendly, Wide range of self-help guides on Castleside House, 40 Narrowgate, www.gov.uk/death prearranged, weekly telephone calls mental health issues such as abuse, Alnwick NE66 1JQ Information on registering a death, to lonely, socially isolated older people anxiety, depression, hearing voices, 01665 606515 funerals, financial affairs, wills. across Northumberland. Offers regular sleeping problems etc. Ring the centre www.hospicecare-nn.org.uk contact, reassurance and information. or download from the website. Website Home visits by volunteers in North More Local Support also holds local directories of services Northumberland area. A listening ear Groups & Schemes Age UK Northumberland, on mental health and disability service, not counselling. No need for Health and Wellbeing Project support groups, black and ethnic previous contact with the Hospice to Action on Hearing Loss 0845 140 0088 minority groups, and information for use the service. (formerly RNID) Helps to improve health and wellbeing carers. Reiver House, Staithes Lane, of older people with a range of physical Cruse Bereavement Care Morpeth, NE61 1TD activity classes. Sessions run in local Samaritans 0844 477 9400 01670 513606 venues across the county; including 0845 7 90 90 90 www.cruse.org.uk www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk zumba, pilates, circuits, Qui Gong, www.samaritans.org Support groups for people with exercise to music. Also falls prevention, 24 hour emotional support if you are Macmillan Bereavement Service, hearing loss, in Berwick, Alnwick, weight management/healthy eating etc. in despair or just need to talk. Northumberland Belford, Morpeth, Mickley and 01670 855533 Haltwhistle includes help with hearing Berwick Heart Support Group Veterans’ Wellbeing Assessment and Information and support service as aid usage. Home visits on referral from 0774 664 2270 Liaison Service (VWALS) well as home visits by volunteers. No health professional. www.berwickheartsupport.co.uk 0191 441 5974 need for a link with Macmillan or a or email: [email protected] bereavement through cancer to use Age UK Northumberland Blyth Valley Disabled Forum New service offers a single point of the service, but you must be referred Advice Service Disability Centre, 01670 364657 access to support the mental health by a health professional. 0845 0950 150 or 01665 605707 Home Care Centre 01670 360927 and wellbeing of veterans and their Telephone advice for over 50s, their www.blythdisabledforum.co.uk families. At an initial assessment families, carers and organisations, Advice on all disability issues, full housing, welfare and employment Mon – Thurs 10.00am – 1.00pm. welfare rights service, home care issues are also considered so that Welfare Rights face to face casework support on referral. veterans receive support in these service Tues – Thurs 9.00am – 5.00pm. areas as well. Contact the team directly or be referred by a health or See ad on page 10 social care professional.

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Castle Morpeth Disability Association, Contact The Elderly (CMDA), Office 3D, 1st Floor, 01434 672110 Coal Industry Social Austin House, Sanderson Arcade, www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk Welfare Organisation (CISWO) Morpeth, NE61 1NS Social afternoons of tea and chat Did you, or your partner, work in the Coal Industry? 01670 504488 in a family home for over 75’s who Among the services offered by CISWO are: www.cmda.org.uk are isolated and unable to get out  Confidential home visiting service. Information and advice as well as a without help. Transport provided.  Benefits advice and assistance with applications. shop selling living aids, free wheelchair Free service. Get in touch for details  Practical and emotional support at times of difficulty. loan scheme, handyman service, job of your local group.  Access to funds for those facing financial hardship*. search help and they run a Healthy  Advice on disability issues and mining related illnesses.  Therapeutic holidays*. Living group and a Blind and Partially Grandparents Association * (subject to eligibility criteria being met) Sighted group. 0845 434 9585 www.grandparents-association.org.uk For further information about us or to access our services please contact us: See page 43 for new handyman and Helpline gives advice on non-contact, By post: 6 Bewick Road, Gateshead Tyne & Wear NE8 4DP gardening service. caring for grandchildren and welfare By telephone: 0191 477 7242 benefits. Website: www.ciswo.org.uk Charity Registration No: 1015581 Central Palz, Seaton Park Medical Group, Norham Hearing UK LINK Road, Ashington, NE63 0NG 0300 111 1113 01670 842021 07526 123255 sms/text Therapies, counselling, social groups, [email protected] Northumberland County transport for patients with life- www.hearinglink.org Blind Association limiting illness and carers in Central Information and support for people DO YOU LOOK AFTER SOMEONE... Supporting blind and partially sighted Northumberland. On referral from GP, with hearing loss. because they’re ill, disabled or frail? people in Northumberland nurse or care manager. Operates Wed You’re not alone. An estimated Our services include: and Thurs only. Multiple Sclerosis Society 36,000 carers in Northumberland • Clubs & support, including our 0808 800 8000 National helpline provide unpaid care for a partner, latest SocialEyes groups relative or friend. • Rehabilitation Community Multiple Sclerosis Team 07581 460207 Alnwick • Information, advice and support 0191 287 5130 01890 751717 Berwick Carers Northumberland works to • Transcription improve the lives of carers like you. Information, advice, therapy and 01661 834196 Hexham • Home visiting We offer information, a listening ear, a • Awareness training support from diagnosis onwards. 01670 858939 SE Northumberland chance to socialise, and a voice for • Volunteering opportunities Ring to refer yourself. www.mssociety.org.uk carers in decisions affecting them • Specialist equipment Advice, support and meetings. Berwick Call us on 0844 800 7354 Why not give us a ring to find out more offers Outreach and Therapy service at Email: [email protected] 01670 514316 www.ncba.org.uk Visit: www.carersnorthumberland.org.uk Berwick Infirmary, ring for details. NCBA, Reiver House, Staithes Lane, Morpeth, NE61 1TD

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Northumberland Cancer Support Group Parkinsons UK Stroke Association 2nd floor, Education Centre, Hexham 0808 800 0303 national helpline 0303 30 33 100 national helpline General Hospital NE46 1QJ www.parkinsons.org.uk 01670 840408 01434 230458 0844 225 3608, Information & Support www.stroke.org.uk www.northumberlandcancersupport- Worker - Northumberland Stroke clubs, or Speech after Stroke group.co.uk 0844 225 3604 - Branch and Volunteer clubs, in Alnwick, Berwick, Blyth, Meets Tues 7.00pm – 10.00pm. Ring in Support Officer can put you in touch Hexham, Morpeth, Cramlington and advance or just turn up. with local support groups across Bedlington Station. Self referral or via Northumberland. GP or speech therapist. National Osteoporosis Society 0845 450 0230 Regional Communication Aid Service Wansbeck Disability Forum Newcastle group, Mea House, 0191 287 5240 The Toy Library, Station Villa, Ellison Place, Newcastle, NE1 8XS Specialist electronic assistive Kenilworth Road, Ashington, NE63 8AA 0191 281 4058, Barbara Purvis technology service for people with 01670 523539 or 01423 779662 Jill Beaumont communication difficulties or speech www.wansbeckdisabilityforum.com www.nos.org.uk impairment. Ring to refer yourself. Information and support includes Local branch meets in alternate meetings, outreach sessions and months on the second Tuesday of St. John Ambulance Northumbria, activities. Also a reporting point for the month at 2.00pm. Talks, medical Listening Support, victims of hate crime. updates and events. Ring for details. 0191 256 7070 www.sja.org.uk WHAC (Women’s Health Advice Centre), Northumberland County Blind Confidential listening support and 1 Council Road, Ashington, NE63 8RZ Association, (NCBA) Reiver House, information for anyone with a long 01670 853977 Staithes Lane, Morpeth, NE61 1TD term health problem and their carers. www.whac-online.co.uk 01670 514316 Mon – Thurs 10.00am – 3.00pm with Counselling and support for women www.ncba.org.uk answerphone at other times. includes physical and mental health Information, advice and support as and wellbeing, bereavement, divorce, well as specialist rehabilitation, clubs, confidence, debt, and more. support groups, home visiting service, including Sight on Sight Service. Also Sightline telephone peer support service, transcription, low vision equipment demonstrations.

66 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 67 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Northumberland Family Finding out about care and Friends Carers’ Guide In Northumberland as elsewhere, changes are continuing to improve the care system and give Are you providing help and support to more control to those eligible to receive it. You a relative or friend who has a disability, will find many of the contacts listed here will help you understand the new arrangements, explain a physical or mental illness, is frail, your rights and show you where to find support. or has alcohol or drug related problems?

Support for Carers

Carers Northumberland, 0844 800 7354 Northumberland Family and www.carersnorthumberland.org.uk Friends Carers’ Guide will help you Countywide support for carers as individuals or groups to think about the impact caring has on includes regular meetings with other carers, skills your own life and help you find solutions. development, emotional/listening support, emergency planning and small grants for personalised breaks. If you provide regular care to someone you may have the Carer Support Workers in Belford, Hexham and Ashington right to: give local support. Information Line, Mon-Fri 10.00am – 2.00pm and on first and third Tues of the month 5.30pm – • ask for an assessment of your 7.30pm (answerphone at other times). own needs • apply for Carers Allowance Carer’s Emergency Card • request flexible working arrangements If unexpected events should happen e.g. car breakdown, this card offers peace of mind that the person you care and more... for will be looked after until longer term arrangements can be made. The card shows only a 24-hour telephone number and a unique reference that activates instructions given in advance by the carer. Contact Carers Northumberland to register. For a free copy of a Carers Guide call 01670 394527 68 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk Also available from your care manager or from Carers Northumberland 2013 edition The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight

Carer Support Fund The National Careline Small grants, up to £150, to help carers 0800 0699 784 take a break from caring that might www.thenationalcareline.org Home Care service praised otherwise be difficult because of family financial circumstances. Available Staying at Home We’re delighted to reveal the Care Quality Commission to carers registered with Carers with Help Northumberland. feedback on our Home Care Service following their Adult Care service unannounced inspection: Carer’s Wellbeing Check 01670 536400 This self-assessment helps you think www.northumberland.gov.uk ‘Without exception, people told us they were treated about your own health, how your The Adult Care service, funded by respectfully and that their privacy and dignity was caring role affects your life and how the County Council, can help people maintained as far as possible.’ to make things easier. Available from who need short term help following health and social care professionals or a health crisis or accident, and also About our Home Care service contact Carers Northumberland. people who need longer-term support. Delivered by caring, well trained Carers are also supported as they Carers’ Helplines are entitled to have their own Home Care Attendants, our needs assessed. adaptable service is available to Carer’s Allowance Unit local people who would like help 0845 608 4321 Self-Directed Support at home. 0845 604 5312 textphone and Personal Budgets It can include: www.gov.uk If you need longer-term support, Eligibility details and how to claim there are self-directed support • Help with bathing, dressing and Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Credit. arrangements so you stay in control. other personal care If you are assessed as needing • Escorted enabling and Carers Direct Helpline it, you will be offered a personal carer support 0808 802 0202 budget which you can use to make www.nhs.uk/carersdirect/ arrangements in the way that best • Help with getting up or going ‘ I get good care… they do everything suits you. to bed they can to help me’ Carers UK, Advice Line • Shopping or escorted shopping 0808 808 7777 You can either manage the money www.carersuk.org yourself or ask an organisation to handle the administration for you. Or you can opt to have Adult Care For more information, call 01670 784 800 or email arrange support such as help from [email protected]

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a home care agency, or help getting assessed. Contact Care and Repair on Workers Register, of trained care NEED Ltd (NE Equality & Diversity) out of the house. Even if you are not 01670 851844 for more information. workers available to work in rural 01665 605780 entitled to a personal budget, you can North Northumberland. www.needltd.co.uk still receive advice and information See page 43 for Disabled Facilities Grant Services for people with disabilities about social care services from Adult Disability North and older people include help with Care, ring as above. More Help with The Dene Centre, personal budgeting and finding Independent Living Castle Farm Road, appropriate services. Also training Costs for Support at Home Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE3 1PH in accessibility for organisations Charges Helpline Age UK National Advice Line 0191 284 0480 and health training for health 01670 622891 0800 169 6565 www.disabilitynorth.org.uk professionals. For NEED’s community Most people contribute at least part www.ageuk.org.uk Advice and support on independent transport see page 40 of the cost of support. You usually Wide range of information guides and living including housing, holidays, pay the hourly rate of £12.84 up to factsheets on care, including paying mobility aids and equipment around Nursing and Home Care Agencies a maximum charge of £251.75 per for a care home, finding help at home, the home. Also advice on benefit Find private care services in the Yellow week for support at home. The level of housing options, personal budgets etc. claims, representation at appeals, Pages directory. Look under Home contribution depends on your income rights to services etc. Ring in advance Care Services or Nurses’ Agencies & and savings following a financial Age UK Northumberland Information of a visit, or to make an appointment Care Agencies. assessment. Charges current up to and Advice Service, 0845 0950 150 or with a specialist independent living April 2013. 01665 605707 therapist or benefits adviser. Reaction Independent Living, Shopping Project Equipment for See main entry on page 63 and Independent Age Wansbeck CVS Independent Living ad on page 10 0845 262 1863 Advice Line 01670 858688, Karen Cox 0191 236 5039 regional branch Scheme to enable people who are Where necessary, Adult Care can Age UK Northumberland, www.independentage.org.uk isolated or disabled to travel to the arrange equipment to help with Home Care Services Information and advice for older people, shops, bank etc. See main entry on independent living – which is usually 0845 140 0088 their families and carers. For members page 41. free, and also alarm sensors to alarm Provides personal care at home either who are lonely or socially isolated they sensors in case you have an accident on behalf of Northumbria Healthcare, can offer visits from a volunteer. Also Red Cross Equipment Loan if you have an accident. through a care manager or privately. care advice – see page 78. 0191 273 7961 switchboard www.redcross.org.uk They can help with applications for the Bell View Home Support Scheme Wheelchair and walking frame loans Disabled Facilities Grant, and advice 01668 219220 from depots in Newcastle or Hexham. and support for carers, who have a Volunteers offer basic short term Sometimes secondhand wheelchairs right to have their own needs support to provide practical help and are available to buy. Ring in advance to social contact. They also keep a Care make an appointment to visit.

72 www.alabasterpublishing.co.uk 73 HelpingSixth Edition Hands The Golden Guide...it’s worth its weight Finding OutOut About and About Care Community Care Professional and friendly Out and About Emergency Alarm Age UK Personal Alarm care at home Systems 0800 77 22 66 Listed here is a selection of clubs, societies and www.ageuk.org.uk/alarm places to socialise in Northumberland. It is not an What we offer If you are concerned about safety at exhaustive list, but representative of the kind of home, especially falls or accidents, Callsafe • Personal care and medicationactivities prompt to be found in the County. Details were you can be connected to a community 0845 21 707 21 • Home help and laundrycorrect at the time of writing, but arrangements do alarm service so you can call for help. www.callsafe.org.uk • Shopping and meal preparationchange sometimes, so try to check before a visit. This may be by wearing a pendant with Part of the Johnnie Johnson • Companionship and support an alarm button. For tenants in older Housing Trust. • Overnight services and holiday help people’s housing the landlord may • Friends and family relief offer this automatically, but services MEALS Village Halls & are available for residents in all kinds What to expect from us Community Centres of housing. Bell View Resource Centre, Belford 01668 219220 Dignity and Respect On offer is a rangeFlexibility of activities for all ages. Centres run Telecare Fresh and frozen meal delivery service Our Care Workers will treat you with We are commited to offering their own events, or hire out rooms to others. Join in Telecare extends the basic alarm around the local area. care, politeness and respect at all times. a responsive service wherever regularly, or just occasionally. Activities vary according to system by adding various sensors for possible. This may include visits Continuity demand and facilitiesat weekends, available. Examplesbank holidays, include: an extra charge. There are detectors Copper Kettle Café If we cannot send your usual Care early mornings, evenings or in for falls, floods, gas leaks, or even 7 Town Centre, Lintonville Terrace, Worker, we will let you knowTea in Dances advance urgent situations.Luncheon Clubs unusual patterns of movement e.g. Ashington, NE63 9UN and ensure you know the Bingoname of the Bowls where someone may have become 01670 815568 replacement worker. Drama PunctualityBadminton confused. The automated system Hot meals freshly cooked at the café Art or Craft ClubsYour servicesOver are provided50s or over within 60s club alerts you when medication is due and and delivered around Ashington, Confidentiality Adult Education the days andComputers times specified on your will alert staff if it has not been taken. Guidepost and Stakeford. Something Our Care Workers will not Whistdivulge Drives Care Plan. If Slimmingthere were Clubs any unforseen different every day for older people details of your personal circumstances,Keep Fit change you wouldKnit ‘n’ be Natter notified and Contact Adult Care Service for and people with disabilities, no need unless you would be at risk otherwise. alternative arrangements made. Highland/Salsa/Ballroom Dancing details on 01670 536400, or ring for referral. one of the following: Centres may host visits from others e.g. Citizen’s Advice Meals with Care, WRVS All staff are fully trainedworkers, withhealth enhancedvisitors, church CRBservices checks Some have a café Valley Care 0845 266 8906 and most have disabled access and toilet facilities. 01670 827100 www.wrvs.org.uk Contact us on Northumberland County Council alarm Freshly cooked meals delivered 01661 843839 Stocksfield,To find out what is on offer call in to the centre when it is and Telecare service. weekly in Stocksfield area. WRVS 01670 797946 Blyth,open. 01670 Bear in mind 320909 that many Haltwhistle centres have no telephone or hoping to expand this service to other areas over the year. www.helphands.co.ukare not manned at all times.

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Over 65? Suffering from Retirement or Age UK AIMS service Sheltered Housing 0845 600 2001 an illness or disability and www.ageuk.org.uk/home-and-care struggling to manage Bungalows, bedsits and flats to National helpline gives impartial rent from the local authority and housing advice for anyone living at home? housing providers. Usually with in, (or providing), sheltered housing. There are many people who need a little alarm system, often with warden Helps with problems, disputes and extra help to continue living safely in their support and communal facilities complaints. For general queries ring own home but cannot afford to pay for it. e.g. laundry, lounge. the Advice Line on 0845 169 6565. Attendance Allowance could be the answer… Northumberland County Council EAC First Stop Care Advice 0845 600 6400 0800 377 7070 What is it? Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust www.northumberland.gov.uk www.firststopcareadvice.org.uk in partnership with Northumberland County Council want to make sure residents are aware of the support they are Contact them for housing advice www.housingcare.org entitled to. Attendance Allowance is financial help for and options whether you live in Detailed information on specialist people who have extra costs because of their long term public or private housing. accommodation that offers support health problems or disability.

and/or care. They have lists of You don’t need to be receiving any help from social Northumberland Homefinder sheltered housing and care homes services, it isn’t taken off other benefits, and it doesn’t 0845 600 6400 across the country, along with advice matter how much your pension or savings are. It is paid at one of two weekly rates, £51.85 or £77.45 (until April www.northumberlandhomefinder.org.uk on making choices as well as a 2013), and is based on the help a person needs rather Housing allocation service for directory of services for those opting “I would encourage than their condition. Northumberland will give you to stay at home. as many people as What can I spend it on? It’s entirely up to you. Some information and tell you how to apply. possible to see if they people use it to pay for things like taxis so they can go out Shelter Housing Advice Helpline are eligible for this to visit friends or go to the shops. Many use it to heat their 0808 800 4444 benefit as it really homes or for someone to help them at home and others buy equipment to help them manage everyday tasks. www.shelter.org.uk does make such a National helpline Mon – Fri 8.00am – positive difference to To find out more about 8.00pm, Sat, Sun 8.00am – 5.00pm. my standard of living. Attendance Allowance please visit Typetalk calls welcome. I also use it to pay www.gov.uk/attendance-allowance for transport to local or call the Department for Work and events, and to pay for Pensions helpline on a cleaner once a week.” 0800 88 22 00 For independent advice call the Northumberland Citizens Advice on 0844 4111 309 or Age UK Advice line on 08450 950 150

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Shelter North East Finding a Care Home Carers Direct See page 73 for befriending service. 1-2 Blackfriars Court, Dispensary 0808 802 0202 Lane, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, NE1 4XB Care homes may be run privately or www.nhs.uk/carersdirect www.northumberland.gov.uk 0344 515 1601 by charities or housing associations. Care home options explained. Details Website lists care homes in If you are on a low income you may All are registered and inspected of services and standards for all CQC Northumberland with their quality be eligible for face to face specialist regularly. Some provide nursing registered care services, residential ratings. Enter ‘Care Homes’ in the advice on housing, benefits and care and some do not. If you need and nursing care homes. search box to bring up the list.’ debt. Make an appointment for the financial help to move to a care Newcastle office Mon – Fri, or for the home the Adult Care Service will EAC First Stop Care Advice www.payingforcare.co.uk outreach session on Fridays only at assess you. If you have specific 0800 377 7070 Information on long-term care and Blyth CAB. nursing requirements your care may www.firststopcareadvice.org.uk how to pay for this. be partly funded by the NHS, or if www.housingcare.org your primary need is for health care Advice on all care issues e.g. housing, you may be eligible to have your types of care, legal and financial care wholly funded by the NHS. matters relating to housing and care, home adaptations etc. Care Quality Commission 03000 61 61 61 Independent Age [email protected] 0845 262 1863 Advice Line www.cqc.org.uk 0191 236 5039 regional branch Regulates adult health and social www.independentage.org.uk care services. They hold lists of Advice for older people, their families care services, hospitals, dentists etc and carers on community care, with results of quality inspections. housing with care and care in a home. They do not advise and cannot take up individual cases. If you have a serious concern about someone’s welfare they will signpost you to the relevant authority.

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Money matters Future Pension Centre New Pension Claims The Pension Service, Tyneview Park, 0800 731 7898 If you are close to retiring or have already Whitley Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, After receiving your statement ring to retired, you will be keeping an eye on your NE98 1BA have your pension application form financial position. A bit of planning and the 0845 3000 168 filled in for you over the phone. right contacts will help you achieve the best 0845 3000 169 textphone income you can. Our suggestions here can www.gov.uk/pensions The Pension Service find you the best place to get advice. Apply online for a Pension Statement PO Box 6, Gateshead, NE92 1BF or ring direct. They will take your 0845 60 60 265 details over the phone and post your 0845 60 60 285 textphone statement out in around ten days. www.gov.uk/pensions Help with Pensions It is an estimate of your pension total Ring with all general enquiries about at the time of request, based on pension credit, direct payments, The State Pension age is currently 65 for men and between National Insurance contributions. It checking on a claim etc. If they cannot 60 and 65 for women, depending on their date of birth. From is not an exact forecast of the actual help directly they will refer you to the Dec 2018 until 2020 the State Pension age for both men and amount you will get when you reach correct department. women will increase to 66. State Pension age. Pension Credit Claims What you get depends on the number of years of National HMRC National Insurance Helpline 0800 99 1234 Insurance contributions paid during your working life – 30 0845 302 1479 0800 169 0133 textphone years for a full basic State Pension. If eligible, you may buy www.hmrc.gov.uk For queries about entitlement, missing years of contributions to boost the total. Or you may Pension Claims applications, change of circumstances qualify for NI credits if you have been unable to pay regular etc. contributions e.g. whilst raising a family or as a carer. The Pension Service contact you three to four months before you reach Pension Tracing Service You may have other entitlements too, or an occupational or State Pension Age. Two months 0845 600 2537 personal pension. Even with these extra amounts you may before your birthday get back in touch Can help trace schemes you may still qualify for Pension Credit – a top up benefit for those to make your claim. You can defer have paid into and lost touch with. with modest pensions and savings. If you only receive basic your pension to get a higher weekly State Retirement Pension you should always ask about amount or one-off lump sum payment Post Office Card Account Helpline, Pension Credit even if you have savings. For an estimate of (minimum 12 months for lump sum). 0845 722 3344 what you are entitled to contact: www.postoffice.co.uk Simple account for receipt of pensions, benefits or tax credits only. Offers plastic card and pin number for cash

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withdrawal at any branch. replace Disability Living Allowance Benefits and consumer and other issues. Branches for disabled people aged16 to 64.You Money Advice open for limited hours and may offer TPAS (The Pensions Advisory Service) will be assessed based on help you appointments, drop-in sessions and 0845 601 2923 may need because of your condition Age UK Northumberland telephone advice, although they all differ. www.pensionsadvisoryservice.org.uk and the impact it has on your ability to Information & Advice Service Some CAB Branches also have their own Information on all aspects of pensions, live independently. If you are 65 or over 0845 0950 150 websites giving further information. whether state or private. before 8th April 2013 you will not need or 01665 605707 to claim PIP but will stay on DLA as Alnwick, 01665 604135 DWP Visiting, Northumberland long as you are eligible. See main entry on page 63 and Valuation Offices, off Wagonway 0845 60 60 265 ad on page 10. Rd, NE66 1QL also at Amble and If you cannot access DWP services Incapacity Benefit, Income Support Seahouses. by telephone or online then you paid because of illness or disability, Benefit Enquiry Line may be able to request a home Severe Disablement Allowance. 0800 88 22 00 Berwick, 01289 332186 visit. The officer can help fill in the These benefits will be phased out by 0800 24 33 55 textphone or 0844 411 1309 forms for benefits such as State 2014. Jobcentre Plus will inform you www.gov.uk/benefits-adviser 5 Tweed Street, TD15 1NG also at Pension, Pension Credit, Winter Fuel, when you will be reassessed using the Information for people who are ill or Belford, Seahouses and Wooler. Attendance Allowance, Disability Work Capability Assessment to see if disabled and their carers. They will Living Allowance, Bereavement you can get Employment and Support call you back to help complete any Blyth, Eric Tolhurst Centre, Benefit, Council Tax, Housing Benefit. Allowance instead. necessary forms by phone. 0844 411 1309 They will also refer you to other 3-13 Quay St, Byth NE24 2AS also services if necessary. Universal Credit (UC) Carer’s Allowance Unit at Seaton Delaval & Cramlington. This is a new single payment for 0845 608 4321 Welfare Benefit Changes working age people who are looking 0845 604 5312 textphone Dawn CAB, 0844 411 1309 for work, or in work but on a low www.gov.uk/carers-allowance-unit Tower Buildings, Oldgate, Morpeth, NE61 Here is brief information on some income. Beginning in 2013 it will Information on eligibility and claims, 1PY also at Hadston and Ponteland. of the major changes happening gradually replace: income-based but they cannot help fill in forms. in the welfare system. These were Jobseeker’s Allowance, income Wansbeck 01670 818360 correct as we went to press but may related Employment and Support Citizens’ Advice Bureau, (CAB) Appointment line 01670 522008 be subject to change so please keep Allowance, Income Support, Child 0844 411 1309 Advice Line 89-91 Station Road, Ashington, in touch with advisers listed here for Tax Credits, Working Tax Credits and Northumberland NE63 8RS. further details and updates. Housing Benefit. www.adviceguide.org.uk – advice and information West Northumberland, 01434 605254 Personal Independence Payment (PIP) www.citizensadvice.org.uk – Community Centre, Gilesgate, www.gov.uk/pip information about your local CAB Hexham, NE46 3NP also at Prudhoe From April 2013 PIP will gradually Advice on debt, benefits, tax, housing, and Haltwhistle.

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Disability Living Allowance and More Financial Help Attendance Allowance Helpline SSAFA Forces Help 0845 712 3456 CISWO (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families 0845 722 4433 textphone (Coal Industry Social Welfare Association Est. 1885) www.gov.uk/disability-benefits- Organisation) Whether you left the services yesterday or helpline 0191 477 7242 over sixty years ago, we have a network of Deals with claims and queries. www.ciswo.org.uk volunteers and professional staff to help service Help and advice on benefits, pensions men and women and their families. JobCentre Plus and in some cases financial support if 0800 055 66 88 you meet the eligibility criteria. SSAFA Forces Help - How we Help People Our volunteers act as knowledgable and confidential friends, very often working with veterans 0800 0 23 48 88 textphone and their families, including widows and widowers. www.gov.uk Elizabeth Finn Care Financial Help Sometimes we simply give support and advice, but in Benefit claims for people of working 0800 413 2200 (24 hours) many cases our help includes drawing together a package of financial help: age are made via JobCentre Plus. Ring www.elizabethfinncare.org.uk to make a new claim and they will take Charity gives grants to people from • From service benevolent funds your information over the phone, then some 120 occupational backgrounds. • From other charities ask you to visit your nearest Jobcentre Also part of Turn 2 Us. • From financial grants Plus. You can also make a claim online. • By obtaining appropriate state benefit Turn2Us Confidential Support Line: 0800 731 4880 Money Advice Service 0808 802 2000 for support, assistance or just a listening ear 0300 500 5000 www.turn2us.org.uk or, email the website at: www.ssafa.org.uk www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk Helps people access grants, benefits Family Escort Service Volunteers accompany service families and Free unbiased advice. Guidance on or other financial support. dependants travelling to, from and within the UK who have compassionate retirement plans and budgeting as well needs, or who would find public transport difficult. as financial products e.g. Insurance, Royal British Legion Northumberland Branch Run by volunteers from the President to our savings options, annuities etc 08457 725 725 Legionline caseworkers, we have divisions in: Alnwick, Ashington, Berwick upon Tweed 0191 495 9510 local branch Blyth, Hexham and Morpeth Pension Credit Claims www.britishlegion.org.uk 0800 99 1234 Financial and welfare help for To contact them, do not hesitate to call me on 0800 169 0133 textphone ex-service members and families. 01665 576 756 or email [email protected] Major Brian William Finlayson, Northumberland Branch Don’t delay - call us Registered Charity number 210760

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Service Personnel & Veterans’ Agency self-help advice about debt. Telephone Tax Help for Older People, (TOP) Legal Aid 0800 169 2277 counselling and support. 0845 601 3321 or 01308 488066 0141 224 2709 www.taxvol.org.uk Depending on the type of case, you regional welfare service Step Change Debt Charity Confidential tax advice for people with may apply for financial help if you www.veterans-uk.com 0800 138 1111 a household income of under £17,000 meet certain criteria although you Help with welfare problems, www.stepchange.org (after tax), who are close to 60 or older. may still be asked for a contribution. including benefits, pension claims Confidential counselling, budgeting Help with PAYE codes, tax returns etc Ring the Community Legal Advice and compensation. Also supports and money management advice for and they may liaise with HMRC on your helpline (above) to find a local in-service personnel. anyone worried about debt. behalf. solicitor who participates in the scheme. SSAFA Also see page 83 for Citizens Advice Legal Affairs 01665 576 756, Major Brian Finlayson Bureaux. Disability Law Service 0800 731 4880 Age UK Legal Service 39-45 Cavell Street, London, E1 2BP confidential support line Tax 0845 685 1076 020 7791 9800 www.ssafa.org.uk www.ageuk.org.uk 020 7791 9801 textphone Financial, emotional or practical help HMRC Taxes Helpline Age UK service in partnership with a www.dls.org.uk for those with a forces connection. 0845 300 0627 legal firm. Free initial consultation, Free legal advice for disabled and deaf 0845 302 1408 textphone then if you wish to proceed they will people and their families and carers Debt www.hmrc.gov.uk tell you the costs and carry out the in certain areas of law: community Advice on any tax issue, e.g. Tax codes, work by post and telephone. care (social services); welfare benefits; DAWN Advice tax after retirement, refunds etc. employment; disability discrimination 0300 303 1931 Community Legal Advice (as regards goods and services, not www.dawnadvice.org.uk HMRC National Insurance Helpline 0845 345 4 345 housing or education). Confidential advice on debt problems. 0845 302 1479 www.gov.uk/community-legal-advice In some cases they assist with the Free advice from a specialist legal Legal Ombudsman negotiation process. Advice also on HMRC Probate, Inheritance Tax, adviser if you are eligible. They cover 0300 555 0333 housing, benefits, fuel tariffs and fuel Trusts and Deceased Estates Helpline benefits and tax; debt; housing; www.legalombudsman.org.uk debt. They run a family law practice 0845 302 0900 employment; education and family Independent, impartial and free and are members of the Community law. They carry out a short financial service to investigate complaints Legal Advice service. Taxaid assessment to see if you are eligible against lawyers, including solicitors, 0845 120 3779 and if not they will signpost you to barristers and legal executives. National Debtline www.taxaid.org.uk someone else who can help. 0808 808 4000 Free tax advice for people who cannot www.nationaldebtline.co.uk afford a professional adviser. Line Charity gives free, confidential, open Mon – Fri 10.00am – 12.00pm.

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Mind Legal Advice Line Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline silent calls, scam calls or genuine 0300 466 6463 0845 404 05 06 market research – only direct selling www.mind.org.uk www.adviceguide.org.uk calls. Register by phone or online. Use Legal information and general advice Impartial advice on goods and the exact web address – as there are on mental health related law, covering services, your rights and help with scam sites using similar names which mental health, mental capacity, making a complaint. Covers gas will charge you. Register for MPS community care etc. and electricity, postal services, online or write to Direct Marketing faulty goods, shoddy workmanship, Association, DMA House, 70 Margaret Solicitors for the Elderly dishonest traders, scams, online St, London, W1W 8SS. 0844 567 6173 shopping, personal finance. www.solicitorsfortheelderly.com Which? Independent organisation whose Or contact your local Citizens 01992 822800 members specialise in issues Advice Bureaux see page 83. www.which.co.uk affecting older people e.g. wills, care Campaigning consumer association. home contracts and funding advice, Ricability Subscribe to the magazine for gifting property etc. They offer home 0207 427 2460 consumer information and online visits, documents in large print and 0207 427 2469 textphone access to their Which Local service take time to ensure clients properly www.ricability.org.uk listing recommended local tradesmen. understand all the issues. Members Consumer research charity for older Subscribe to their Legal Department in Alnwick, Berwick, Haltwhistle and and disabled people provides free, for telephone help with consumer law Newcastle. unbiased product reports. Topics and other issues. include: specialist vehicles and See also page 56 Age UK Advocacy wheelchairs; buying a stairlift; home and page 86 Dawn Advice. adaptations; easy to use mobile phones etc. Consumer Advice Preference Service Helpline for Age UK Advice Unsolicited Mail and Telephone Calls 0800 169 65 65 0845 703 4599 www.ageuk.org.uk 0845 070 0707 TPS registration line Free factsheets on the website or by www.mpsonline.org.uk and post on consumer issues, TV Licences, www.tpsonline.org.uk Telephones etc. Or ring for information Free official service helps stop - open 7 days. unsolicited sales or marketing calls. TPS cannot stop recorded messages,

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NOTES Key Contact Numbers

Adult Care Service 01670 536400 Age UK Northumberland 0845 140 0088 Age UK Northumberland Advice Line 0845 0950 150 Citizens’ Advice Bureau 0844 411 1309 Community Legal Advice 0845 345 4 345 NHS Direct 0845 46 47 Northumberland County Council Customer Contact Centre 0845 600 6400 Northumberland, Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust 0191 213 0151 Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust 0844 811 8111 Northumbria Police general non-emergency enquiries 101 Out of Hours Medical Service 0300 123 4343 PALS Service 0800 032 02 02 Pension Service 0845 60 60 265 Samaritans 0845 7 90 90 90

Important Note on Telephone Numbers Sometimes numbers of agencies or service providers listed in the guide are in the process of change and cannot establish their new number before we go to print. Where this has happened, please continue to use the old one, to be redirected as appropriate when you call.

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We are looking VOICENorth, a panel of help researchers understand how volunteers interested in ageing people can live active, healthier, for people to help research are advising the longer lives. us work out: Changing Age team at Newcastle We have over 1,000 members Why do we age? University and are looking for and are looking for more people new members. to take part. There are many How do we age? VOICENorth seeks to harness ways to volunteer including How can we make people’s views, ideas, experience taking part in focus groups or it better? and expectations of ageing to assisting in research.

If you are interested in finding out more or joining us, please email: [email protected] or call us on 0191 248 1288 You can find out more about the Newcastle Initiative on Changing Age and Newcastle University’s world class research on ageing at: www.ncl.ac.uk/changingage