The West Lothian Approach to supporting independence and keeping well in your community Table of Contents

2 Introduction 4 Health & Well-being 30 Crime & Community Safety 35 Housing 43 Transport/Travel 49 Community Life & Leisure 56 Training & Employment 59 Care & Carers 62 Counselling 66 Advice & Advocacy 75 Debt Advice 79 Income Generation/Pensions/Benefits 84 Services to Promote and Maintain Independence 87 Sensory Impairment

Keeping well in your community 1 Introduction

West Lothian identifies with the re-focusing on the role of public services and promotion of the sharing of responsibilities. West Lothian has decided to encourage and promote this by developing a document of this nature to make it easier for people to find out what is on offer for themselves or for a person they are caring for.

At the 2001 Census, there were 1.1 million individuals aged 60 and over in Scotland. The picture for West Lothian from the 2001 census demonstrates that, 25,800 lived in West Lothian. Those aged 60 and over comprise 16.2 per cent of the West Lothian population, substantially below the Scottish figure of 21.1 per cent. Thus West Lothian has a relatively young population compared with Scotland as a whole. However, the projected rate of increase of the older population in West Lothian is the highest in Scotland. Between 2004 and 2024, those aged 60 and over will increase by 72 percent in West Lothian, compared with only 39 per cent in Scotland as a whole. This tells us that West Lothian will face proportionately greater challenges in its care provision compared with the rest of Scotland in coming decades. Access to services is becoming increasingly determined by eligibility criteria. In 2009 the Scottish Government and COSLA introduced the National Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria sits alongside other current relevant policy, including, for example, improving and sustaining the well-being of older people and the strategic shift towards early intervention and prevention for all adults.

Eligibility criteria are a method for deploying limited resources in a way that ensures that those resources are targeted to those in the greatest need, referred to now as individuals with critical and substantial needs. This will pose some challenges to councils on how to respond to those individuals who do not currently have high needs and present with lower level need now referred to as moderate or low needs. Re-ablement, Early Intervention and Prevention are key areas for supporting people to continue to live independently.

In recognition of this West Lothian has decided to develop an overarching approach /strategy to improve independence and well-being and to ensure that those people identified with ‘moderate’ and ‘low’ needs are supported to live within the community for as long as possible. This means looking further than at physical problems and promoting well-being through a range of service which includes health, social care, housing, information and advice, leisure activities and employment.

Keeping well in your community 2 Key Priorities/Areas of Activities

The long-term vision for West Lothian is set out in the many strategic planning and development documents that cover the following service areas: o Older People o Dementia o Learning Disability o Mental Health o Physical Disability

The guiding principles of which are: o Inclusion o Respect o Choice o Independence o Sharing o Involvement

Key priorities for West Lothian include: o A greater emphasis on personalised or individualised services and a move to increased service user/ carer responsibility and control over their care and support provision o The maximization of independence and capacity – including improving employment and social opportunities o A focus on shifting the balance of care more towards community and home-based care o A move towards outcomes focused approaches and frameworks in service commissioning and delivery o A focus on rehabilitation and re-ablement to be delivered as locally as possible.

For some time a key priority for West Lothian has been re-ablement.

Our definition of re-ablement:

“Re-ablement is a time limited intervention that supports you and/or your carer to achieve set goals that support you in maximising your independence and community involvement whilst reducing reliance on traditional form of social care support”.

The approach focuses on re-abling people so that they achieve their potential in terms of a stable level of independence with the lowest appropriate level of ongoing support or care. From 2011 onwards there will be a review and re-design of the current re-ablement services to optimise the capabilities of all adults.

This document contains information on what we think is important for you to know and is designed for: o people aged 16 or over who live in West Lothian o people who are not currently getting health and social care services.

Keeping well in your community 3 Health and well-being

Keeping Well – Mental Health Well-being Eating for Health Physical Activity Foot Health Preventing Falls Occupational Therapy Oral Health Sexual Health Keeping Well in Winter Mental Health Self Harm & Suicide Bereavement Addictions/Substance Misuse Community Pharmacies NHS Inform Libraries & Health Information

Keeping well in your community 4 Health and wellbeing

Keeping Well – Mental Health Well-Being

Mental health affects every area of our lives. Mental health means our ability to enjoy life and cope with its challenges. Recent research suggests that mental health consists of two dimensions: o positive mental health (mental well-being), for example life satisfaction, positive relationships with others and purpose in life; o mental health problems (mental illness or disorder, psychiatric morbidity), for example depression and anxiety.

What does mental health mean to you? Does it make you think of someone who has a mental health problem like depression or schizophrenia? Or does it make you think of that very personal quality which describes the way you think and feel about yourself, your experiences, your confidence, your resilience and sense of control over your life?

Good mental health is therefore much more than the absence of mental health problems. Everyone feels down or under stress from time to time. Apart from the normal ‘ups and downs’ of daily life, many people face extra problems, perhaps having no job, nowhere permanent to live, not enough money, they feel lonely or are constantly arguing with their partner. Pressure is normal and is the result of the demands life places on us. Some stress can be good for us, giving us energy to deal with these elements. But too much or too little pressure can lead to stress. What is stressful to one person may not be to the next - it all depends on how we deal with things.

There are lots of things you can do to improve mental well-being and help prevent mental health problems in the first place. There are also plenty of things you can try if you (or those around you) do encounter problems.

Here are some top tips to help you feel good everyday: o Keep in touch as much as you can with friends and loved ones o Talk about your feelings with people you trust o Be as active as you can be o Eat a variety of foods and drink in moderation o Listen when others talk about their feelings o Do something for YOU (not to impress others) o Take a break! o Do something creative o Do something that helps you feel good about yourself.

Keeping well in your community 5 Eating for Health

Ensuring that you have a healthy, balanced diet is an important step towards good health for all people. Good health is essential for leading a full and active life.

The word ‘diet’ is often used to describe an eating plan that is intended to aid weight loss. However, diet really refers to the food that a person eats during the course of a day or a week. The more balanced and nutritious your diet is, the healthier you can expect to be.

A balanced diet means eating the right amount of foods from all the food groups. No single food contains everything the body needs, so it is important that your diet is varied.

Eating a balanced diet can: o increase your life expectancy by keeping your heart and body healthy o prevent many long-term illnesses o help maintain a healthy body weight .

Diet and Health as we get older

The rate at which we age, become frail or disabled is influenced in part by our genetic make up. However, what we eat, stress levels, mental well being, alcohol use, smoking and physical activity also influence the rate of ageing. In addition to this, outside factors like our social well being, involvement in local community activities or groups, hobbies, family and social circles all play an important part in maintaining physical and mental resilience and enjoyment of life.

Many of us will remain well as we get older, but as we age we all undergo changes in our bodies. Disorders affecting our digestive system, heart and circulation, kidneys, brain and nervous system become more common. Our sight, hearing, ability to smell and taste things may also deteriorate.

As we age we also see changes in body composition and in metabolism. Bone loss accelerates and muscle weakens, causing increased risk of bone fractures. We tend to lose muscle and our proportion of body fat increases. These changes all happen at different rates in different people and none of us are the same but the risks are as we get older we have more episodes of ill health that can take longer to recover from, that is why it is important to maintain our health by keeping active and eating a balanced diet.

A healthy diet is important and is a diet based on breads, potatoes, and other cereals and is rich in fruits and vegetables. A healthy diet will include moderate amounts of milk and dairy products, meat, fish or meat/milk alternatives, and limited amounts of foods containing fat or sugar.

Eatwell Plate© Crown copyright 2007 Food Standards Agency

Keeping well in your community 6 The amount of energy we expend decreases with age, however as we get older the energy we need to carry out activities actually increases, so maintaining a good diet, with sufficient calories is important. It is normal for people to eat less as they get older, but at low levels of calorie intake, less food is eaten and there is an increased risk of levels of essential nutrients becoming low.

Many of the problems seen in older people are due to poor diet. One of the concerns is that many older people are not eating enough to maintain good nutrition and studies have shown that they are getting less than the required amount of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamins C, B and D. For older people being underweight and poorly nourished is a greater risk to health than being overweight.

There are many things that can also affect your appetite that may cause you to eat less. Problems such as, ill health, depression, loss of taste and smell, poorly fitting dentures, the medication you are on or constipation can all impact on what you eat.

Poor appetite can be helped by; o eating small meals or snacks frequently rather than 1-2 large meals o increasing physical activity, as this will make you feel hungry o avoiding cooking strong smelling foods o eating your favourite foods o avoid going long periods between eating.

Fibre and Fluids

Problems associated with constipation are more common in older people and can affect your quality of life, particularly if your mobility is poor.

Poor diet, including not drinking enough fluids and lack of exercise are two of the major causes of constipation. Try and make sure your diet is high in fibre e.g. lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, wholegrain cereals and wholemeal breads and ensure you drink plenty of fluids.

Problems such as poor bladder control can make people avoid drinking too much, however this will only exacerbate the problem and cause dehydration which can lead to increased risk of urinary track infections, loss of appetite, headaches and increased constipation.

We should be aiming to drink at least 1.2 litres of fluid a day = 8 glasses. Water is the best fluid but drinks such as soft drinks, diluting juice, fresh fruit juice, soups, jelly, tea and coffee etc. all count and can have their own benefits, for example fresh fruit juice will provide vitamin C and count towards 5 a day and soup will give added fibre.

Beware though! Drinks such as tea, coffee and alcohol are all what we call a diuretic. In other words this will make you want to go to the toilet. So try and ensure you have a good mix of drinks.

Keeping well in your community 7 Vitamin D

Vitamin D and calcium are very important for bone health and work together in our bodies. We get all the vitamin D we need from a reaction that happens in our skin when it is exposed to sunshine. Unfortunately as we get older we tend to go out less, may be house bound or have mobility problems and we tend to wrap up more to keep ourselves warm when we do go out, so our skin has less exposure to the sun. This results in a deficiency in vitamin D which can affect our bodies’ ability to process calcium.

Aim to try and get outside during the good weather for about ½ hour or more (don’t forget your sunscreen!) every day. Why not try going on one of the many organised ‘Put your west foot forward’ walks here in West Lothian? For more details contact [email protected]

Vitamin D can also be found in margarines and sunflower spreads, oily fish such as pilchards, tuna, canned salmon or sardines and eggs but often the amount we eat is not enough to make up the amount we require.

Calcium

One of the most common disorders among older people especially women is osteoporosis (loss of minerals which cause thinning and weakening of the bones) Additional calcium in old age can help to increase bone mass in some older people.

Remember a good intake of vitamin D is required to ensure the absorption of calcium.

Sources of calcium: Milk and milk products, yoghurt, cheese, custards, milk based puddings, pasta, and biscuits. Canned pilchards, sardines, and salmon (soft bones)

Iron

Iron is an essential part of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the red blood cells. A deficiency in iron will cause anaemia.

In older people the gut may not be as effective at absorbing iron as in younger people and therefore the iron needs to be in a form that is readily absorbed. The iron in meat offal and oily fish is the most readily absorbed. The iron in cereals, pulses and vegetables tend to be more difficult to absorb but absorption is enhanced if vitamin C is present at the meal.

Sources of Iron: Liver, kidney, red meat, oily fish, pulses and nuts.

Keeping well in your community 8 Vitamin C

Vitamin C has an important role in preventing disease and maintaining good health. Low vitamin C intakes are associated with susceptibility to pressure sores and infection. Vitamin C can also help the absorption of dietary iron and intakes of vitamin C have been positively associated with iron status in older people.

Intakes of vitamin C decrease with age and energy intake. Those elderly with poorer appetites are most at risk of deficiency.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that is sensitive to cooking, preparation and light. Fruit and vegetables need to be prepared as close to cooking time as possible and cooked for as little time as possible.

Sources of Vitamin C: Fruit and fruit juices, potatoes and other vegetables are all good sources, drinks fortified with vit C (blackcurrant juice, squashes etc).

Zinc

Zinc plays a major role in the functioning of every organ in the body. It is needed for the normal metabolism of protein, fat and carbohydrate and is associated with the hormone insulin which regulates the body’s energy.

It is also involved in the immune system, the use of vitamin A and in wound healing. Levels of Zinc among older people have been found to be below recommended levels.

Sources of Zinc: Liver, kidney, lean meat, corned beef, whole grain cereals, canned sardines, nuts, eggs, milk and pulses.

Keeping well in your community 9 Eating on a budget

Household income can reduce, due to a number of factors, for example you may have retired from work, decided to work part time, taken on the role as a carer or have become unwell and are no longer able to work.

Food is the most flexible part of our household budget and when money is tight and mortgage, rent, fuel bills, credit cards etc all still have to be paid, it often means our food bills are cut. This can lead to a poorer diet and an increase in the health risk associated with this.

Here are a number of things you can do to help yourself eat better on a budget: o Know your local shops and markets and buy cheaply - Find sources of cheap but good food as close to the route you take from home to work or school as possible. Find out if there is a local community food co-op close to you. If you have access to the Internet you can compare supermarket prices and find out where is the cheapest to shop. o Don’t go shopping when you are hungry- This may seem quite simple, but shopping while you are hungry can make you spend more money and you tend to buy foods that you don’t need! o Tinned, dried and frozen food- don’t forget items such as beans and pulses, tinned, frozen or dried fruit and vegetables. They are still full of nutrients and can be cheaper to buy. Tinned tomatoes are cheap and a great store cupboard item and lentils are filling, nutritious, cook quickly and can be added to most dishes. o Buy starchy foods in bulk- Rice, pasta and bread are quite cheap and filling and can be very healthy especially if they are wholegrain. o Look for offers on fresh meat and fish... Fresh meat and fish can be the most expensive items in our shopping basket, so also look out for protein alternatives such as beans, lentils, Quorn and eggs. Some of the cheapest fish around is actually very nutritious. Tinned fish like mackerel and sardines are full of oils, which are good for our hearts and brains.

Plan a menu for the week- Planning a menu will help you budget o If you have a freezer, use it- If you have a big enough freezer, you can try to cook all your left over vegetables in stews or soups and freeze it. This can be very handy for when you do not have time to cook later. o Avoid expensive take-away and ready-meals- Convenience meals can be expensive and have high amounts of fat, sugar or salt. This is usually to compensate for ingredients that are not so fresh. These meals can eat into your budget and are not as nutritious as foods which have been freshly canned or frozen or are fresh. o Look at labels- Look at what you are getting for your money. If it contains lots of sugar, salt and fat you are being short-changed! o Local projects- there may be projects in your local community that will help you to buy cheaper nutritious food or help you to learn to cook more healthily. Food Co-ops and ‘get cooking’ groups.

Contacts and further information: o ‘Get cooking’ project - Community Health Development officer ‘get cooking’. www.getcooking.org o Health Improvement Team - Tel: 01506 775626 o CFINE – Food coops - www.eatwell.gov.uk o www.healthyliving.gov.uk

Keeping well in your community 10 Physical Activity

There is growing evidence of the importance of physical activity for everyone, especially as people grow older. This includes the immediate and long-term physiological, psychological and social benefits in maintaining mobility, flexibility and independence.

Research demonstrates the benefits to health and well-being of any form of physical activity. Physical activity can play an important part in risk reduction and prevention of diseases and can also assist in keeping people mentally well.

Health benefits o It is never too late to start taking better care of your body, and we all benefit if we become more active. Regular physical activity strengthens the heart and lungs, reducing blood pressure levels, and helping to cut the risk of many conditions including heart disease, stroke, cancers and diabetes. o It has a significant impact on positive mental well being. o It also maintains and increases muscle strength and bone density, which is particularly important as these both decline with age. Increased muscle strength reduces the risk of falls. Loss of bone density can lead to osteoporosis, which leaves the bones brittle and more likely to fracture. o More recent evidence suggests that being active enough for health reduces the risk of developing dementia and can delay the progress of dementia. It can also reduce depression, stress and anxiety.

SO what are you waiting for!!

Being active enough for health

Even those who have long term conditions, like arthritis or diabetes, can be active and reap the benefits, provided that they take things slowly and consult their GP for advice first. If you have a medical condition or are over 60, or haven’t exercised for a while, it is a good idea to speak to your doctor before starting, or go to West Lothian Leisure1 and ask for their specialist help. West Lothian Leisure has sites across all of West Lothian and offers a huge range of different activities.

West Lothian Leisure and NHS Lothian also run a project called Ageing well for people over 50 2 who would like to become more active. Again a wide variety of activities are offered including Tai Chi and Dancing. An Ageing Well Coordinator runs lots of different activities including Tai Chi and Dancing to keep people active as well as having a social outing and most importantly FUN! email: [email protected] Web address: www.westlothianleisure

1 West Lothian Leisure provides community, educational, cultural and sporting opportunities for all ages. 2 NHS in partnership with Xcite @ West Lothian Leisure, the project is involved in activities which encourage physical health, mental health and well-being.

Keeping well in your community 11 Of course you don’t have to go somewhere special to be active enough for your health. Being physically active 5 days every week for half an hour over the course of the day can be enough to make all the difference!!

You can do this by gardening, walking, cleaning windows, washing cars, climbing stairs doing ‘specific exercises (including seated) in your house. So long as you feel warmer and a bit out of breath for 10 minutes 3 times a day that’s all you have to do”!

Of course you can do more strenuous activity if you wish such as tennis, rambling etc. o Why not join one of West Lothian’s Led Health Walks? Walking is an ideal way to start or maintain your levels of physical activity o It’s free and you don’t need any special equipment. o It’s accessible to all regardless of age, income, location and ability o It’s an excellent opportunity to socialise o Walking can easily be incorporated into our daily lives o It can be enjoyed safely with a low risk of injury.

Put Your West Foot Forward is West Lothian’s local walking project offers led health walks in 9 different parts of West lothian. Trained volunteers become Health Walk Leaders and ensure everyone in attendance gets a health walk, regardless of their age or ability. A health walk can be described as a purposeful walk which you undertake on a regular basis to improve your health. You can learn more about your local area, meet other people and you will soon start to feel healthier. Currently walks run from Bathgate, Broxburn/Uphall, Craigshill, and Armadale, Linlithgow, Livingston, Winchburgh and Fauldhouse.

Green Gym operates in West Lothian twice a week and offers people the chance to be active while gardening.

Contacts and further information: o To find out more contact Health Improvement Team email: [email protected] Tel: 01506 77 5626 o For West Lothian walking and cycling maps please also contact HIT as above.

West Lothian exercise referral scheme First Steps to Health allows clients to be ‘prescribed’ free tailor made activities in partnership with West lothian Leisure see your GP or health professional for more information.

Keeping well in your community 12 Foot Health

Feet are the most active part of your body. Proper foot care is essential to healthy painless feet and should be as much a part of your daily routine as brushing your teeth! It’s never too late or too early to start caring for your feet and there’s a lot you can do for yourself. If you have diabetes consult a chiropodist/ podiatrist for a full check up and advice.

TOP TIPS o Wash your feet every day in warm soapy water (don’t soak them, as this can destroy the natural oils) and dry thoroughly especially between the toes. o Change your socks / tights daily. o Wash your socks and towels at a high temperature. o If your skin is dry, apply moisturising cream all over the foot, except for between the toes. o Wear well fitting leather shoes that allow your feet to ‘breathe’ or wear open toed shoes or sandals that allow air to circulate around your foot. ( Synthetic shoes to end to make feet hot and sweaty). o Use a pumice stone or smooth foot file frequently to remove hard skin. o Trim your toe nails regularly. Cut straight across, not too short and not down the sides as this can lead to in-growing toenails. o Keep feet warm and dry and exercise to improve the circulation and prevent chillblains. o Athletes foot (a fungal infection) can cause an itchy rash, sore and broken skin between the toes and sometimes a dry scaly rash with tiny blisters on the sole of the foot. It can easily be treated with Athletes foot cream and by keeping feet clean and dry.

If you have foot problems you can make a self-referral to the Chiropody and Podiatry Department for a check up. Ask for a referral form at any Health Centre reception desk.

Preventing falls

Falling at home or outside can not only result in serious injury, it can also undermine self-confidence.

There are some steps that can help to prevent such accidents from happening. o Taking regular weight-bearing exercise can strengthen joints and muscles, and improve balance, making a fall less likely. o Keeping feet healthy and wearing the correct shoes will also reduce the risk of falls. o Review your home safety – avoid risks like standing on stools or chairs, use non-slip bathmats, and ensure rooms are well lit. o Having regular eye tests will also help to ensure you stay safe.

Visit the following sites for more information: o Ageing Well: www.westlothianleisure.com o Take Life On: www.takelifeon.co.uk o Help the Aged: www.helptheaged.org.uk o Age Concern:www.ageconcern.org.uk

Keeping well in your community 13 Occupational Therapy

Through illness, disability or ageing, people may be prevented from doing things they want or need to do in their every day lives. For example, getting dressed, having a shower, going to work or undertaking a favourite hobby. An occupational therapist can help people to learn new things, adapt materials or equipment, or suggest possible changes to the way that people live and work.

The occupational therapists in West Lothian are based at various locations, with most staff employed by either the council’s social work department, or the NHS. However, as the shared key priority, the two services work very closely together to maintain the Occupational Therapy provision for individuals of all ages in West Lothian.

Community Occupational Therapy We can visit you to discuss what your problems are and how we can help you solve them. It may take more than one visit to complete the assessment. Most of the equipment and adaptations are provided free of charge. Funding of major adaptations is dependent on the ownership of the property.

Self selection Self selection is a service that provides people with direct access to a range of equipment. This includes small items of equipment, handrails and grab rails. The person is provided with this equipment without the need for a full Occupational Therapy Assessment.

How to refer Children and Adults under 65 years of age - Tel 01506 282252 Adults over 65 years of age - Tel 01506 776700 Self-selection - Tel 01506 775608

Oral Health

Teeth are used for smiling, eating and talking so it’s important we look after them. Tooth decay can be avoided, by brushing, flossing, mouth rinses and choosing your diet carefully.

TOP TIPS o Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste o Spit don’t rinse o Replace your toothbrush every 3 months o Try to avoid sugary food and drinks especially between meals. (Lots of drinks have hidden sugar so check the labels!) o Visit your dentist regularly for check ups. o At bedtime it’s important that only water is taken until the morning.

Keeping well in your community 14 Sexual Health

Sexual Health is an important aspect of an individual’s overall health and well-being. If you have concerns or worries you can contact your G.P. and/or there is a number of places you can get help with specific issues. A variety of health promotion clinics and other services are held throughout health centres in West Lothian for registered patients. These include clinics in well man, GUM (genito-urinary medicine) and family planning. These services are carried out by a doctor and/or other qualified medical staff working from the practice. Anyone can make an appointment at a family planning clinic.

Matters you can get information about are: o All contraceptive methods discussed and organised o Pregnancy testing and advice o Testing and advice on STIs - Sexually Transmitted Infections o Breast examination and advice on common problems o Basic testing and advice for infertility o Basic advice on PMS - Pre Menstrual Syndrome o Basic advice on gynaecological problems like heavy periods o Cervical smear testing.

Your nearest clinics are:

Bathgate Primary Care Centre Linlithgow Health Centre

Whitburn Road 288 High Street Linlithgow Bathgate Thursday afternoons 2pm-3.45pm Monday evening 5pm-6.30pm Appointments: please phone 01506-670044 Tuesday mornings 9.30am-11am Appointments: please phone 01506-630771 Whitburn Health Centre 1 Weavers Lane Whitburn Bathgate Young People’s Clinic Every Wednesday evening 5pm-6.30pm Bathgate Primary Care Centre 1st and 3rd Wednesday morning of the month Whitburn Road Bathgate 9.30am-12noon Friday afternoon 1.30pm-3.30pm Appointments: please phone 01501-740719 Appointments: This is a young person’s drop-in clinic for those under 20yrs

Howden Health Centre by St John’s Hospital Livingston 2nd and 4th Thursday evenings of the month 6pm-7.30pm and every Friday morning 9.30am-11am Appointments: please phone 0131-332-7941

Keeping well in your community 15 West Lothian GUM Clinic

Sexual health clinics are sometimes known as genito-urinary medicine (GUM) clinics. At most GUM clinics you can make an appointment for a general check up, which also include tests for a range of STIs (sexually transmitted infections). GUM clinics can provide contraceptive advice, including free emergency contraception. They can also offer advice and counselling on a range of sexual health issues, and provide support if you’re having an HIV test, or if you have been diagnosed as HIV positive. o This clinic runs twice a week and is situated in Howden Health Centre at St John’s Hospital, Livingston. It sees people both with and without an appointment. o Clinic times are Monday 6 – 8 pm and Friday 1.30 – 3.30 pm o Walk in mainly - please attend at the beginning of the clinic (people without appointments are seen on a first come first in, first seen basis - people that cannot be seen that day are triaged and urgent cases are seen). o Appointments can also be given (e.g. for repeat screening, vaccinations) and these are usually held in the last part of the clinic. You do not have to be referred by your doctor – you can arrange an appointment yourself.

Contacts and further information: o Tel: 01506 464668 (answer machine out with clinic hours) o www.nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk/ourservices/gum/whatdo/other.asp

Keeping well in your community 16 Emergency contraception

There are community pharmacists who are part of the EC72 scheme within Lothian, offering free emergency contraception to young people aged 14 to 25 years. It is useful to phone the pharmacy to check that a pharmacist is available that day to offer the service. CCARD free condom provision: www.ccard.org.uk

Bathgate Family Planning West Lothian College Bathgate Primary Care, Whitburn Road The Hub, Street Building Bathgate EH48 2SS Almondvale Crescent, Livingston Tel: 0131 332 7941 Tel: 01506 427 606 Opening times: Fri 1.30pm-3.30pm Opening times: Mon-Fri 9am-3pm (or on Additional services: contraception, emergency demand) contraception, pregnancy testing West Lothian Connected Boghall Community Health Centre NHS Health Desk, Unit 16a Elizabeth Drive, Boghall, Bathgate Almondvale Centre, Livingston Tel: 01506 466 647 Tel: 01506 777 664 Opening times: Tue 11.50am-1.50pm Opening times: Wed 12pm-2pm Additional services: pregnancy testing Thu & Fri 2pm-4pm

Chill Out Zone West Lothian Youth Action Project 7 Gardners Lane, Bathgate EH48 Eliburn Community House Tel: 01506 652 436 33 Aller Place, Eliburn, Livingston Opening times: Tel: 01506 461 588 Mon 4.00-5.00 & 6.30-8.30 Opening times: Mon 4pm-6pm Tues 4.00-6.00 & 6.30-8.30 Thu 4pm-6pm, Fri 2pm-8pm Wed 4.00-6.00 & 6.30-8.30 Thur 4.00-5.30 & 6.30-8.30 West Lothian Youth Action Project Fri 2.00-4.00 Streetwork service-call to arrange Tel: 0774 816 3312 Howden Health Centre Opening times: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Howden Road West, Livingston Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat 7pm-10pm Tel: 01506 423 800 Opening times: Tue & Thu 9am-5pm Carmondean Health Centre Carmondean, Livingston EH54 8PY LGBT Youth West Lothian Tel: 01506 836675 Eliburn Community House Opening times: Wed 3.30pm-4.30pm 33 Aller Place, Eliburn, Livingston (term-time only) Tel: 0131 622 2266 Opening times: Alternate Thu 7pm-9pm Whitburn Health Centre Weavers Lane, Whitburn Strathbrock Partnership Centre Tel: 01506 446647 18a Main Street, Broxburn Opening times: Mon 12.30pm-1.45pm Tel: 01506 446 647 Opening times: Thu 12pm-2pm Additional services: pregnancy testing

Keeping well in your community 17 Edinburgh Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre

Local rape crisis centres provide emotional and practical support, information and advocacy to anyone affected by sexual violence. The abuse may have happened recently or in the past. They offer a safe and non-threatening environment where you can talk freely and in confidence about what has happened. All centres provide an initial service to men and boys. For some centres, this involves initial signposting to other support services. Others provide ongoing support to both women and men. Your local centre is in Edinburgh and they cover city of Edinburgh and the Lothians. You can contact them on the following numbers and they can tell you more about what they can offer in your area.

Edinburgh Women’s Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre 1 Leopold Place, Edinburgh, EH7 5JW Office: 0131 557 6737 Helpline: 0131 556 9437 email: [email protected] Web: www.ewrasac.org.uk

The Domestic Abuse Service (DAS)

The Domestic Abuse Service was set up in Feb 2007 to provide a specialised service to women and children who are experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse. The service was primarily offered to children. The majority of children referred to DAS come through West Lothian’s domestic abuse multi agency screening group, specific agency referrals or self referrals. The DAS has a team comprising three full time children’s workers, one of whom is shared with West Lothian Women’s Aid (WLWA); and 2 full time women’s workers, one with a remit to work with women from minority populations; and the other working with women having substance misuse issues. A variety of services are offered including individual and group work that provides support, advocacy and advice.

West Lothian Council Domestic Abuse Service West Lothian Civic Centre Howden South Road, Livingston EH54 6FF Tel: 01506 281035 email: [email protected]

West Lothian Women’s Aid

Scottish Women’s Aid is the lead organisation in Scotland working towards the prevention of domestic abuse. An important aspect of their work is ensuring that women and children with experience of domestic abuse get the services they need both from local women’s aid groups and from the agencies they are likely to contact.

West Lothian Women’s Aid 92 Ivanhoe Rise, Dedridge, Livingston EH54 6HZ Hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-3.30pm and Friday 10am-1pm Phone: 01506 413721. Fax: 01506-462533 email: [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 18 Keeping well in winter

During the cold winter months, it is especially important to look after your health.

The following tips may help: o Keep warm by dressing in several thin layers of clothing in natural fibres like cotton or wool, or fleecy synthetic fibres, rather than wearing one thick layer. o Insulate your home against draughts. Ensure your heating system is working properly. Try to keep the temperature of your home at 21° during the day. o Eat well and stay active to keep warm and to boost the immune system against illness. o Stay safe when you are out, and wear non-slip, flat shoes or boots. Try to avoid taking risks in wet or icy weather. o Speak to your GP’s surgery about having a flu jab, and keep some over-the-counter medicines at home in case you do come down with a cold or flu. o Remember to tell a friend or relative if you are feeling unwell. o Contact the advice shop in Bathgate for an energy check for your home and to make sure you have all the benefits you are entitled to. (See page 37 for contact details).

Dietetics and nutrition

We are based in outpatient department one at St John’s Hospital in Howden, Livingston. We also offer services from health centres, and when necessary, we can make home visits.

Contact our main office for information and advice on appointments. Tel: 01506 523 174. You can be referred to the service by your general practitioner (GP), hospital consultant or other health professional.

When you have been referred you will receive a letter asking you to phone or write to us to arrange an appointment. At your first visit we will spend some time finding out about your background, your lifestyle and your eating patterns.

Keeping well in your community 19 Mental Health Problems

One person out of every four people will experience a mental health problem in the course of a year. Mental Health problems can be severe for those people who have a physical disability or who have a sensory impairment. People can and do recover from even the most serious and long-term mental health problems. Recovery is a unique and individual experience: no two people’s recovery experience will be identical. The majority of people with mental health problems seek treatment and support voluntarily through their GP or other source such as Breathing Space3 .

A small number of people with mental disorders, dementia, or learning disabilities require support and protection under certain legislation e.g. The Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) 2000 Act or The Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003. Some of these people require to be detained in hospital so they can receive support, safety, and treatment. The first of its kind in Scotland, the West Lothian Council Adults with Incapacity and Mental Health Officer (AWI & MHO) Team was set up to address the legislative demands arising from both of these pieces of legislation. MHOs are social workers with a requisite level of experience and training in mental health work who undertake the duties laid out in the legislation.

The Mental Health and Treatment Act specifies that the Council has a duty to protect Adults (people over 16) who have lost capacity (the ability to act, understand, or retain the memory of decisions). The Council, via MHOs, applies for Intervention Orders (one off statutory authorisations) or Guardianships (ongoing authorities to make decisions) in relation to Welfare or Financial matters. The legislation also requires that they undertake an investigative function, into allegations of neglect, exploitation or harm against those who do not have or have lost capacity.

Under the AWI Act, MHOs carry out assessments, usually at the request of a doctor, regarding the need for compulsory detention in hospital. The MHO considers alternatives to detention and, where necessary, consent to statutory detention. MHOs also offer advice to a range of agencies, professionals, carers, and service users and: o advise anyone with an interest in the welfare of an Incapable Adult; o provide training to staff, users or carers re the law relating to AWI and mental disorder; o provide statutory reports on request to solicitors in respect of Guardianship applications; o provide support and advice at Adult Protection Case Conferences; o provide statutory support and supervision to people who are authorised to act as Welfare Guardians and Powers of Attorney.

Contacts and further information: o AWI & MHO Team on 01506-771887

3Breathing Space is a free and confidential phoneline service for any individual, who is experiencing low mood or depression, or who is unusually worried and in need of someone to talk to.

Keeping well in your community 20 Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are a common problem; however they often go unnoticed, undiagnosed or untreated. Many myths surround eating disorders, the most popular being that they only affect young women and can be easily dealt with.

Types of eating disorders include; o Anorexia o Binge eating o Bulimia Nervosa o Overeating.

People with eating disorders have an unhealthy attitude towards food, difficulty controlling how much is eaten, and making unhealthy choices about food that damage their body.

While it’s true that eating disorders are most common in teenage girls, 10% of cases affect men. It can develop in middle age and can affect people with physical disabilities and sensory disabilities. Eating disorders are often blamed on social pressure to be thin, as young people in particular feel they should look a certain way. Causes are often more complex, and at times may reflect underlying psychological issues.

Problems with food can begin when eating is used to cope with feelings, such as: o boredom o anxiety o anger o loneliness o guilt.

Controlling what is eaten can become a way of controlling difficult emotions or coping with painful situations. There is unlikely to be a single cause, but various factors leave people feeling unable to cope.

These can include: o difficult family relationships o problems at work/school/university o bereavement o sexual, physical or emotional abuse o stress o physical disabilities o low self-esteem o sensory disabilities.

Recovering from an eating disorder can take a long time and it’s important that the person wants to get better. The support of family and friends is very valuable. Specialist care can help to deal with underlying psychological causes and physical effects. There are also support and self-help groups, and personal and telephone counselling services that can help.

Contacts and further information: o For more information please contact your GP. If you need medical advice when your GP practice is closed, please contact NHS 24 on 0845 24 24 24.

Keeping well in your community 21 Self harm and Suicide

Self harm Self harm is a behaviour and not an illness. People self harm to cope with distress or to communicate that they are distressed. It can give a form of relief from overwhelming feelings and pressures. Some people think that self harming is ‘just attention seeking’. This attitude does not take into account that the person who self harms is experiencing real distress. They experience real difficulties coping with and talking about their emotions. Because of this, these emotions can build up and overwhelm them. Self harm can seem like the only thing that will make these emotions go away or to feel something different, or because it’s the only thing they can think of doing to cope. This may be the aspect of self harm most puzzling to those who do not self harm.

Being someone who self harms or being a person close to someone who self harms is tough. Understanding why someone close to you hurts himself or herself can be very difficult. Not being able to stop someone hurting himself or herself or seeing someone bleeding or injured can be very distressing. Therefore people will experience all kinds of feelings about self harm including fear, anxiety, frustration, anger and helplessness and worry.

Self harm can affect anyone. It is a lot more common than people think. The Mental Health Foundation estimates that around 1 in 130 people self harm. It is difficult to get exact numbers for a number of reasons. Firstly self harm is often a secret problem; many people who hurt themselves will do so privately for a long time before letting anyone know about it. Secondly sometimes when people do seek help, the self harm is seen as a suicide attempt and not as deliberate self harm, therefore accurate data isn’t available.

Most people would think of cutting when they think of self harming. The reality is that self harm describes a wide range of behaviours that people do to themselves that are considered to be harmful but usually do not kill.

This can include: o cutting with razors, knives or sharp objects o picking at skin o overdose of medication o pulling hair o burning yourself o hitting yourself with your fists or something else o scratching which results in bleeding or welts o punching walls or objects to hurt yourself.

There are a number of different treatment approaches, depending on what is causing the problem. Treatment often involves individual and family work. The real purpose of treatment is to first deal with the underlying mental health problem so that people are more able to cope when distressed and less likely to self harm. Individuals learn how to cope with overwhelming and difficult feelings, which lead to self harm. They are taught effective problem solving skills such as relaxation, stress management and how to deal with intrusive thoughts. If the person has an underlying problem (such us dealing with trauma in their background, depression or anxiety) this will also need treatment. Families often need help to allow them to best support the person they care for who self harms.

Examples of appropriate treatment may include: o Psychological Treatments: CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy) and PST (Problem Solving Therapy) o Medication: anti-depressants, mood stabilisers and anti-psychotics o Peer Support and Self Help Groups o WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan).

Keeping well in your community 22 Suicide

Suicide is a rare event; however in Scotland, it is one of the main causes of death among young people. Suicide is a complex issue, often caused by a combination of factors and circumstances including, but not limited to, mental illness, poverty, substance misuse, social isolation, loss, relationship difficulties and workplace problems. Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy - whatever the person’s age. One suicide represents lost life, lost talent, lost creativity, a lost mother or father, brother, sister, son or daughter, and a wound that does not easily heal in those who are left behind. In Scotland in 2008, 834 people in Scotland lost their lives to suicide or suspected suicide. More than two people, on average, died every day. Of these deaths 75% were men.

Awkwardness, denial, secrecy and avoidance are common, creating major obstacles to people getting help. This stigma and lack of understanding can also prevent people more generally discussing what they can do to make suicide prevention everyone’s business. There is a great need to raise awareness and improve understanding of suicide as a major public health problem that is largely preventable. Serious talk about suicide does not create or increase risk, it reduces it. The best way to identify the possibility of suicide is to ask directly. Open talk and genuine concern about someone’s thoughts of suicide may be a source of relief for them and are often key to preventing the immediate danger of suicide.

Similarly, stigma can make it more difficult for people who have lost a loved one from suicide. It may prevent them from telling others the cause of death, and often, people who know of someone who has been bereaved by suicide don’t quite know how to react. Bereavement from suicide should be treated in the same way as any other loss but we need to recognise it may bring with it many other additional feelings for those affected. The grieving process maybe longer and more complex than in other forms of bereavement but as with all grieving processes it is different for different people.

Contacts and further information: o Samaritans: 08457 909090 or [email protected] o Breathing Space: (M-T 6pm to 2am); F-M 6pm to 6am) or www.breathingspacescotland.co.uk o For suicide prevention skills training contact Health Improvement Team 01506 775626 or [email protected] or www.chooselife.net o For further info on self harm please contact: National Self Harm Network on www.nshn.co.uk or 42 Street 0161832524 or local GP service.

Keeping well in your community 23 Bereavement

How you respond to a death or a bereaved person will be very individual and personal. All of these feelings are normal: o fear o sadness o longing o guilt o shame o anger o memories o let down o numbness.

Feelings can be very strong and frightening. It can feel as if you are losing control or ‘going mad’, but for most people the feelings become less intense over time. Many people find that crying can give relief, but it is also common to have other responses, such as a desire to be alone.

Contacts and further information: o Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland on 01738-444178; o Samaritans on 08457-909090 or at www.samaritans.org.uk; o Breathing Space on 0800-838587 (6pm-2am) or at www.breathingspacescotland.co.uk

Addictions/Substance Misuse

Addictions/Substance Misuse influences people at every stage of their lives and has a direct impact on their health and well-being.

West Lothian’s Tobacco, Alcohol & Drug Partnership (TADP, formerly known as West Lothian DAT) is a multi-agency strategic and operational partnership which seeks to identify and co-ordinate local action and priorities on tobacco, alcohol and drug use.

TADP are also responsible for commissioning interventions to reduce substance misuse as well as to improve the physical and psychological well-being of those involved in the harmful use of tobacco, alcohol and drugs.

Tobacco Tobacco is one of the most widely used drugs in West Lothian and is the one which causes significant preventable harm. Smoking also presents health risks through second hand smoke (passive smoking). The smoking ban launched in 2006 has gone some way towards tackling tobacco use, however further developments are needed if we are to achieve communities free from smoking related harm.

TADP aim to encourage and support all smokers who wish to stop. We recognise that people who get help to stop smoking are more likely to succeed than those who try without support. There are a comprehensive range of services to help people to stop smoking available within West Lothian. These include Nicotine Replacement Therapy on prescription (through GPs or direct from Pharmacies), and both one to one and group support (which can be accessed via GPs).

Keeping well in your community 24 Alcohol Alcohol consumption has significantly increased in Scotland and alcohol industry sales figures suggest that Scotland has the eighth highest alcohol consumption level in the world.

Alongside this increased level of consumption there has been a marked increase in alcohol related harm. In the last seven years West Lothian has seen a 30% increase in the number of alcohol-related discharges from hospital, and alcohol-related deaths are at an all-time high.

We recognise that not all alcohol consumption is problematic however there are times when people engage in risky and harmful drinking which can cause them and their families concern. In these circumstances they might wish to seek support or advice to make changes to their drinking behaviour or on some occasions they may need more specialist input. West Lothian TADP is committed to ensuring that individuals or families who need assistance relating to alcohol use can get the right support appropriate to their needs.

Drugs Drug use is a major problem in all areas of Scotland with profound effects on individual well-being and society as a whole. The TADP brings together several strands of local work directed to tackling drug use in West Lothian, but its primary remit is in ensuring that services are available for everyone who is affected by drugs.

Contacts and further information: o West Lothian Tobacco, Alcohol and Drug Partnership on 01506 281073 and 01506 2810744

Keeping well in your community 25 Community Pharmacies

As part of the Healthcare team, Community Pharmacies can be found on the High St, in community sites, next door to GP surgeries and in some supermarkets. Here you will find not only advice on prescription and over the counter medicines but also a wide range of services. The Pharmacist is one of few Healthcare Professionals you would not normally need an appointment to see. Pharmacists are experts on medicine, how they work in the body and how they interact with each other.

All community pharmacies in Scotland are able to offer: o A stop smoking service. If you are exempt from prescription charges, this service can be offered free of charge. As a patient you would see one of the pharmacy team each week for up to 12 weeks and be issued the appropriate product on a weekly basis. o Sexual Health Services. The pharmacist can prescribe emergency hormonal contraception if he feels it appropriate or refer to another healthcare professional if he/she feels it necessary. As a patient you would have a consultation with the Pharmacist and certain details recorded. o Minor Ailments Scheme. This is a service whereby a Pharmacist can prescribe medication for minor ailments such as constipation, hay fever, athletes foot etc to save time for patients waiting on an appointment with their GP. You must be registered with a pharmacy in order to participate in this service. o Run out of prescription medicine? Rather than contact NHS24 your first port of call should be your local Pharmacy. Dependent on the medication, and circumstances your Pharmacist may be able to supply you with your medication. o Some Pharmacists are able to offer your medication dispensed in a monitored dosage box (tablets dispensed into blisters one for each time and day of the week). This will vary from Pharmacy to Pharmacy and will be assessed for patient suitability. o Recently being introduced is the Chronic Medication Service. This is a service whereby as a patient you would register with your pharmacy and your pharmacist reviews your medication giving advice on for example, best times to take your medicine. The details of the consultation are recorded as part of you ‘patient record’ so that the Pharmacist can review with you regularly.

Keeping well in your community 26 There are 35 Community Pharmacies in West Lothian.

Armadale Gordons, 3 Ochilview Square 01501 730748 Lloyds, 21 West Main Street 01501 732637 Bathgate Lloyds, 23 King Street 01506 630806 Alliance, 62 George Street 01506 655487 Boots, 26-30 George Street 01506 652682 Lloyds, Bathgate Primary Care Centre 01506 631601 Blackburn Alliance, 7/9 Sycamore Walk 01506 652378 Broxburn Boots, 10-12 East Main Street 01506 852648 Graeme Pharmacy, 24-26 Goschen Place 01506 854644 Lloyds, Strathbrock Partnership Centre 01506 771757 East Calder Lindsay & Gilmour, 173 Main Street 01506 881935 Fauldhouse Lindsay & Gilmour, Blackfaulds Place 01501 770143 Co-op, 2 Main Street 01501 770243 Linlithgow Boots, 72-74 High Street 01506 846371 Lloyds, 286 High Street 01506 670280 Livingston Alliance, The Mall, Craigshill 01506 432504 Morrisons, Dedridge Road North 01506 462003 Boots, Almondvale Centre 01506 436997 Lloyds, 157 Nigel Rise, Dedridge 01506 461732 Howden Health Centre 01506 430161 Deans, 6 Main Street 01506 411570 Morrisons, Carmondean Centre 01506 430449 Lloyds, Murieston 01506 465030 Pumpherston McCann, 27 Uphall Station Road 01506 432153 Stoneyburn James White, 67 Main Street 01501 762274 Uphall Lindsay & Gilmour, 5 West Main Street 01506 857516 West Calder MacBride, 34 Main Street 01506 871164 Lindsay & Gilmour, 6 Northfield Court 01506 871232 Whitburn Alliance, 12 West Main Street 01501 740168 Alliance, Whitburn Health Centre, Weaver’s Lane 01501 742641 Winchburgh Village, 2 Main Street 01506 890313

Keeping well in your community 27 NHS inform A new national health information service for Scotland launched by NHS Scotland

NHS inform provides the public, patients and carers with a wide range of quality assured health information online at www.nhsinform.co.uk, over the telephone at 0800 22 44 88 (between 8am and 10pm) and in the future, face to face.

Bringing together a wealth of national and local health information that already exists across the NHS and other sectors, NHS inform provides a single trusted resource for patients and members of the public. The service has been developed by NHS Scotland in association with NHS partners and a range of voluntary sector stakeholders, who have been working closely to bring this information together, in one place.

The site features elements such as: o An updated and expanded Health A-Z o Commonly asked health questions o Links to local information across Scotland o Dedicated information on health and welfare topics including Scottish Backs, Health Rights and more o Behind the headlines feature – looking at the health issues making the news and the truth behind the claims o Health in My Language – a portal to translated information about health and health services in Scotland.

Among the many partners involved in developing NHS inform are Macmillan Cancer Support, Minority Ethnic Carers of Older Peoples’ Project (MECOPP), the Scottish Consortium for Learning Disabilities and a range of other voluntary sector partners. NHS partners include NHS 24, NHS Education for Scotland (NES), Health Scotland, local Health Boards and NHS Choices.

Contacts and further information: If you have any questions about NHS inform or would like more copies of our information materials, please contact the NHS inform team at [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 28 Health Information and Libraries

Community Health and Care Partnership The CHCP manages a substantial range of NHS and council services including: community care, personal care, residential care, continuing care, mental health, general practitioner, dental, optician, pharmacist, district nursing, health visiting, five of the allied health professions, children’s services, learning disabilities and physical disabilities.

Contacts and further information: o Contact us at westlothianchcp.org.uk o Telephone CHCP enquiry line: 01506 282930 (Monday-Friday, 9am - 4pm)

Books on Prescription This initiative allows people to access good health information via their libraries. There are many books now available on mental health issues such as anxiety, panic attacks etc and other topics are being added dependent on need. You don’t have to have a prescription to access the books and information but sometimes a professional can recommend certain reading to support any individual or family members.

Macmillan Cancer Support at Carmondean Library This service hosted in Carmondean Library is run by a specialist nurse and volunteers. It offers information for anyone affected by cancer.

Contacts and further information: o Carmondean Library Drop-in sessions with Nurse Tuesday 10am-12pm and 4pm-6pm Thursday 1.30-3.30pm and 5pm-7pm Friday 9.30-11.30am Tel: 01506 777602

Keeping well in your community 29 Crime and Community Safety

Keeping Safe – Adult Protection Keeping Safe – Community Safety Home Safety Visit Doorstep Crime (Bogus Callers) Cold Calling Control Zones

Keeping well in your community 30 Crime and Community Safety

Keeping Safe - Adult Protection

An “adult at risk” of harm is defined as a person aged 16 or over who may be unable to protect themselves from someone harming them, or from exploitation, self harm or neglect because of a disability, mental disorder or illness or physical or mental infirmity.

Harm can be caused by anyone and take place anywhere.

Possible signs of harm to people may include: o An unexplained debt or non-payment of bills for services; o Another person using the adult’s possessions, bank account or property without his or her informed consent; o An unexplained deterioration of health or appearance; o People being anxious or afraid; o Pressure by others to have someone moved into or taken out of care; o Hostile or unkind behaviour by a person; o The “adult at risk” not receiving appropriate care, which would protect them from harm; o Domestic violence; o Unexplained or unusual injuries.

The Adult Support and Protection Act is about achieving a balance between respecting people’s rights and taking action where necessary to support and to protect them. It should help individuals to live their lives as they wish by ensuring support is provided when they need it, and provide the means to protect “adults at risk” of harm.

West Lothian Council is clear that everyone has a right to be safe. “Public Protection” is a core activity. Whilst the concept of Child Protection has been in existence for many years now, recent years have seen the introduction of Multi-agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA) to ensure agencies work together to protect our community from those sexual and violent offenders who may still pose a risk after being convicted. Similarly, the introduction of multi-agency guidance, local procedures, and new legislation has significantly increased the profile of Adult Protection.

The Adult Support and Protection (Scotland) Act 2007 provides ways to offer support and protection to certain adults (and their carers) who may be at risk of harm or neglect. It is also intended to fill gaps left by The Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act 2000 (which provides means to protect those with incapacity, for example through financial and welfare guardianship) and The Mental Health (Care & Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003 (which provides powers and duties in relation to people with mental disorder, including those who are subject to ill-treatment or neglect).

Keeping well in your community 31 Staff from West Lothian Council, NHS Lothian and Lothian and Borders Police are committed to working together to protect “adults at risk”. West Lothian Council have a duty to inquire and investigate cases where harm is known or suspected. Council officers/social workers have powers to visit and interview people, to arrange medical examinations and to examine records. They must also consider whether there is any need for advocacy or support services. Various Protection Orders, albeit time-limited, are available empowering local authorities to assess, remove, or ban individuals to protect people from harm.

Adult Protection concerns in West Lothian can be reported via the following telephone numbers: o 01506 776 700 (for people aged 65+); o 01506 282 252 (for people aged 16-64); o 01506 281 028/9 (for all enquiries outwith office hours).

Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse can be broadly defined as a form of gender-based abuse which “can be perpetrated by partners or ex-partners and can include physical abuse (assault and physical attack involving a range of behaviour), sexual abuse (acts which degrade and humiliate women and are perpetrated against their will, including rape) and mental and emotional abuse (such as threats, verbal abuse, racial abuse, withholding money and other types of controlling behaviour such as isolation from family or friends).”

West Lothian Council has had a long-standing commitment to preventing and eradicating violence against women. The council firmly locates domestic abuse, and other forms of violence against women, within the context of women’s inequality in society. West Lothian works from the Scottish Government’s gendered definition of domestic abuse. There is recognition that domestic abuse can affect men statistics show that compared to women this is a smaller number.

West Lothian Domestic Abuse Service The Domestic Abuse Service was set up in Feb 2007 to provide a specialised service to women and children who are experiencing or have experienced domestic abuse. The service was primarily offered to children. The majority of children referred to DAS come through West Lothian’s domestic abuse multi agency screening group, specific agency referrals or self referrals.

The DAS has a team comprising three full time children’s workers, one of whom is shared with West Lothian Women’s Aid (WLWA); and 2 full time women’s workers, one with a remit to work with women from minority populations; and the other working with women having substance misuse issues. A variety of services are offered including individual and group work, provide support, advocacy and advice.

Contacts and further information: o The West Lothian Council Domestic Abuse Service can be contacted on 01506-281055.

Keeping well in your community 32 Keeping Safe – Community Safety

Home Safety Visit At Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service, we’re doing our best to stop fires in the home by offering free Home Safety Visits across the Lothian and Borders area. During the Home Safety Visit, fire fighters, who work in pairs, will advise you on Fire Safety matters. The fire fighters will also stress the importance of having a working smoke alarm and will supply and fit, free smoke detectors, complete with ten year batteries, if you need them.

Follow these simple, inexpensive tips to prevent fires in your home. o Fit a smoke alarm and test it regularly o Take care when cooking o Plan an escape route and make a bedtime check o Don’t overload sockets o Cigarettes – put them out, right out o Use candles carefully.

Contacts and further information: o The service is both free and confidential and available to everyone. To arrange a visit, or for any information on Fire Safety: phone free on 0800 169 0320

Doorstep Crime (Bogus Callers) Doorstep crime is committed when a criminal poses as a ‘cold caller’ and often targets homes where the home owner lives in an affluent area or is clearly vulnerable or known to live alone. Cold Calling is when someone calls at you door uninvited and usually because they want to sell you something for example home improvement companies.

Bogus Caller Tactics Most criminals are very experienced or form part of an organised criminal fraternity and can be men, women or children and often work in pairs. These criminals either trick the householder on the doorstep to gain entry, sneak into their home, or walk in uninvited and when confronted by the home owner, try to deceive them with a false story. They may offer to check something within their property or carry out work to repair something they claim requires to be fixed as a way of taking money from householder. The result can be devastating with work being left unfinished, poorly carried out or not even started. Often, excessive amounts of money are demanded and often in a threatening way.

There are various tactics that are used by bogus callers/criminals to deceive the householder.

The criminals may pose as the following: o Officials from the water, gas, or electricity services o Employees from the council or other services like ‘home help’ o A person in need of help o Someone who knows you, e.g. “I’m your neighbour’s nephew” o a workman or trader e.g. gardener or roofer o Someone collecting for charity.

In extreme cases people have lost their life savings, or have had to move into residential care as a result of being repeatedly targeted by these criminals.

Keeping well in your community 33 Police are issuing the following advice on how to deal with cold callers:

Police advice o Keep front and back doors locked; fit a door chain, and use it; o Only deal with callers by appointment; always ask for identification and check it carefully o Do not pay for any goods or services in cash, and don’t keep large sums of money in the home.

Further advice o If you’re not expecting a call, don’t answer it. o If you think a caller is bogus, or you feel threatened or unsafe, please contact police immediately. o Put a notice in your window saying doorstep callers are not welcome. o People knocking at the door saying that you need repairs shouldn’t be entertained. Just say thanks but you don’t deal with doorstep callers and close the door.

Impact These crimes are serious because of the impact they have on the victim’s life chances not only depriving them financially but robbing them of their trust and confidence. As a result, victims of bogus caller crimes are two and a half times more likely to die in the two years after these crimes than average. The criminals involved in also have no hesitation in using violence, are highly organised and trade intelligence on victims.

Cold Calling Control Zones Cold Calling Control Zones encourage communities to be proactive to prevent bogus caller incidents.

Police and Trading Standards in West Lothian have sought community support to extend Cold Calling Control Zones throughout West Lothian and have encouraged communities with a history of bogus caller crime or where community intelligence indicates that bogus caller criminals are targeting residents to set up zones.

Although the Zones have no statutory basis their existence serves as notice that cold calling is not welcome in the area with residents encouraged to look out for any instances of criminal activity in relation to doorstep callers, and report them to the Police in much the same way as a Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

Some zones have street signs however as the scheme grows new zones will be provided with ‘red card’ window stickers which tell callers that they are not welcome at the address. The central philosophy behind Cold Calling Control Zones in West Lothian is to raise awareness of the problem and prevent incidents by encouraging residents not to deal with any doorstep callers. To date there are fifteen established Cold Calling Control Zones with the prospect of more in the future.

Contacts and further information: o Anyone with any information on bogus callers should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or Crimestoppers in confidence and complete anonymity on 0800 555 111.

Keeping well in your community 34 Housing

Housing Information & Advice Housing Needs Service Moving into Health Team Supported and Sheltered Housing- Council Housing Home Safety Service Occupational Therapy Care and Repair

Keeping well in your community 35 Housing

Housing Information and Advice

Housing Information and advice is available to anyone in West Lothian, who has a housing related problem or query – whether a council tenant, an owner/occupier, a lodger, living at home, privately renting, a housing association tenant or even a landlord.

You can get general financial, housing or legal advice where appropriate including general housing advice and assistance. Information or advice is available on any housing problem including: o Homelessness/homelessness prevention o Your housing options o Information and advice on managing debt o Mortgage arrears o Rent arrears o Repairs and improvement grants o Disrepair o Housing Benefit/other benefit entitlements o Discrimination or harassment o Relationship breakdown and your housing rights/options o Help to allow you to stay in your own home, such as support, aids to daily living or adaptations o Your rights with respect to the legal process of eviction o Mortgagers’ rights under the Mortgage Rights (Scotland) Act 2001 and Mortgage to Let Schemes

Sometimes all that is needed is an explanation of services that are available and how to access them. In more complicated situations you may need to speak to someone in depth about a housing problem. This will usually involve a confidential interview with a Housing Needs Officer or a specialist adviser. A private interview will take place with you to discuss your situation, and a friend or representative can accompany you if you wish. Home visits can be arranged by appointment if you are unable to get to one of the local offices.

Information and advice about any housing issue or problem can be sought by: o Visiting a Local Council Office o Phoning the Customer Service Centre on 01506 775000 anytime (open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week). o emailing [email protected] o Going online to: www.westlothian.gov.uk and click on ‘Housing’.

Keeping well in your community 36 Office locations and hours of business: Offices Opening hours Mon,Tues,Thurs Opening hours Wed Opening hours Fri Ability Centre 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-3pm 8.30am-4pm Armadale 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-3pm 8.30am-4pm Bathgate 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-3pm 8.30am-4pm Blackburn 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-3pm 8.30am-4pm Broxburn 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-4pm 8.30am-4pm Fauldhouse 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-3pm 8.30am-4pm Linlithgow 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-4pm West Calder 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-4pm West Lothian Connected 8.30am-5pm 10am-5pm 8.30am-4pm Whitburn 8.30am-5pm 8.30am-3pm 8.30am-4pm

Independent advice is available from the council’s Advice Shop. This free service has specialist advisors who can assist with Welfare Benefits, Housing, Energy Advice and Money Advice. These advisors will help you to claim any Welfare Benefits you are entitled to, negotiate with landlords, mortgage lenders and creditors on your behalf, or provide you with advice or assistance on energy domestic uses, any grants available and billing issues.

Contact details and information about the Advice Shop opening hours

Advice Shop Unit 9, Waverly Industrial Estate, Waverly Street, Bathgate Tel: 01506-776444 Opening hours Mon, Tues, & Thurs: 9am-5pm Opening hours Wed: 9am-1pm, Opening hours Fri: 9am-4pm

Open session at the Advice Shop Wednesday 9.00am 1.00pm On occasion they may be able to assist the person in finding an independent mediation provider. This can sometimes be a helpful way of dealing with an issue; this involves a mediator (someone who does not take sides, but whose job is to help both parties find a solution to the problem). The parties in dispute, and not the mediator, decide what will happen in terms of any agreement made.

Contacts and further information: o Shelter. Tel: 0808 800 4444. www.scotland.shelter.org.uk o Citizens Advice Bureau/Citizens Advice Direct. Tel: 0844 848 9600. www.citizensadvicedirect.org.uk o National Debtline. Tel: 0808 808 4000. www.nationaldebtline.co.uk/scotland

There is also the option of consulting a local solicitor; their details are available in the local phonebook/ yellow pages. The legal aid system in Scotland provides free or subsidised legal assistance for individuals who cannot afford to pay for it themselves. Advice and assistance may be provided by a solicitor on any matter of Scots Law, subject to a test for financial eligibility carried out by a solicitor. The Scottish Legal Aid board can provide more information about the legal aid system, for more details please check their website www.slab.org.uk or call their helpine 0845 122 8688.

Keeping well in your community 37 Housing Needs Service

West Lothian Council has a duty to assist anyone who believes they may be homeless or threatened with homelessness. The Council recognises that being homeless can be a very upsetting and distressing experience and aims to offer you a service that will provide the best solution to your housing problems. You don’t have to be living on the street to be homeless - even if you have a roof over your head you can still be without a home. You are homeless if you have no permanent/secure accommodation, or you have accommodation but are unable to live in it. This may be because you don’t have any rights to stay where you live or your home is unsuitable for you.

If you are homeless or think that you will become homeless in the near future you should contact the Housing Needs Service straight away for advice. Please do not wait until you do not have anywhere to stay – we may be able to prevent you becoming homeless.

Ways to contact us:

If you are roofless (no where to stay that night) Visit in person to any of the local offices during office hours. o Bathgate CIS, Edinburgh Road, (opposite the Fairway), Bathgate o Lomond House, Beveridge Square, Almondvale, Livingston o Strathbrock Partnership Centre, East Main Street, Broxburn o Whitburn CIS, East Main Street, Whitburn

If you are not roofless but want to speak to an advisor in person, please phone the CSC number below and make an appointment for one of the following offices: o Bathgate CIS, Edinburgh Road, (opposite the Fairway), Bathgate o Blackburn Connected, Mill Centre, Blackburn o Lomond House, Beveridge Square, Almondvale, Livingston o Strathbrock Partnership Centre, West Main Street, Broxburn o West Lothian Connected, Almondvale Centre, Livingston o Whitburn CIS, East Main Street, Whitburn

If you are under 21 years old: Lomond House, Beveridge Square, Almondvale, Livingston

By Phone: The Customer Service Centre (CSC) 01506-775000 Open from 8am-10.30pm, giving you easy access to highly trained advisers. After office hours (in an emergency) when offices are closed please phone 01506-775000

By email: [email protected]

Referral from another agency You may also be involved with another agency that may refer you to us, e.g. Social Work.

Keeping well in your community 38 Moving Into Health

This is a service that aims to improve and maintain the health and well-being of people experiencing homelessness, by providing interventions to improve their health and linking them to mainstream health services.

The team liaises between health and housing services to promote streamlined communication and early intervention, which may prevent further deterioration of health and contribute to homelessness prevention.

The ideology which supports the health team within housing needs is the ability to assess and determine ways to reduce impacts of poor health on people managing to sustain/access tenancies. Concurrently the service looks at supporting mainstream health to work with housing to address the impact of housing need on health.

The team offers a holistic health assessment. Physical health difficulties that require intervention will be immediately passed on to Primary Care, with the permission of the service user. Mental Health difficulties will be assessed by the team and flexible, tailor-made interventions negotiated.

Who can access the service? o Anyone based in West Lothian

Referral process: o Self-referral o Referrals from Homeless Services, Social Work, Voluntary Organisations, Health and/or Housing

Contacts and further information: o Lomond House, Beveridge Square, Livingston EH54 6QF Tel: 01506-775905 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm

Keeping well in your community 39 Supported and Sheltered Housing - Council Housing

The council manages five sheltered housing complexes for older people in West Lothian. The council also has nomination rights to sheltered housing complexes provided by housing associations.

Sheltered housing offers one bedroom and bedsit accommodation and includes a range of facilities including, laundry, assisted bathroom, large communal area. Tenants have the services of a Sheltered Housing Officer and are connected to careline who offer a 24 hour emergency service. The Sheltered Housing Officer is normally on duty between 9.00am & 5.00pm Monday to Saturday.

You can apply for sheltered housing if you are: o 60 years old or over o If you do not live in West Lothian, you must be retired or within one year of retirement – and have close family ties with West Lothian.

Your can apply for Housing with Care if you are: o 60 years old and over o Be receiving 12 hours of care/support identified through a formal Community Care Assessment by Social Work Services

Contacts and further information: o Sheltered Housing Officer. Tel: 01506-773743 o Customer Service Centre. Tel: 01506-775000.

HomeAid

HomeAid West Lothian has been in existence since 1996 it is a not for profit voluntary organisation that exists to recycle used furniture, and to support members of the West Lothian community who face social and economic exclusion.

The project provides at low cost and in many cases free essential furniture and white goods requirements for people who have been homeless and are taking up tenancies and with the assistance of HomeAid are looking to make the transition from homelessness to a home-making situation. They also provide replacement items to people on low income who don’t have the funds to buy new; this can often prevent individuals getting into debt.

In addition to providing furniture and white goods the project benefits the environment through the recycling and redistribution of second hand furniture and household items. Shop open to the public for the sale of furniture, charity shop for fundraising, referral system, uplift furniture donated by the public, refurbish white goods, and export old furniture.

Contacts and further information: o 12-14 Gideon Street, Bathgate, West Lothian EH48 4HD Shop hours: Mon-Fri 10am - 4pm email:[email protected] Tel: 01506-652230 Out of hours answering machine 01506-636059

Keeping well in your community 40 Home Safety Service

The Home Safety telecare service has now been in operation in West Lothian for 10 years. The service provides telecare equipment and support to over 3,700 homes supporting frail elderly and vulnerable people to remain longer in their own homes.

The telecare equipment provided consists of an enhanced core package of pendant, lifeline, flood detector, smoke detector, movement sensor and CO detector if required. It is programmed to suit the individual customer’s circumstances. Additional specialist equipment is also available considering assessed risk, for example, epilepsy sensor, bed sensor or door sensor. Equipment is linked to West Lothian Careline call handlers who contact emergency support, carers and report faults. The Home Safety service provides support, information and advice for customers in the use of all equipment provided and they respond to alerts in particular as part of the 24-hour falls response procedure.

The Home Safety Service can be applied for by, or on behalf of, anyone who is considered to be vulnerable at home. There is no charge for this service but a working telephone landline is essential.

Research has shown that having Home Safety Service technology installed can make a considerable difference to the length of time people can remain at home in their community, because it helps manage assessed risks and gives additional peace of mind for the people themselves and their relatives and carers. The Home Safety support staff are experienced in the use and programming of telecare equipment and provides an individualised assessment service and ongoing support in the use of the technology.

Contacts and further information: o Home Safety Service team for an application pack or more information by calling 01506 771770

Keeping well in your community 41 Care and Repair

Care and Repair West Lothian is a free and confidential service available to owner-occupiers and private tenants who are over 60 years of age or who have a disability. The service offers independent advice and assistance to help people repair, improve or adapt their homes and they meet with clients in the comfort of their own homes, in familiar surroundings often with family and close friends in attendance.

Care and Repair West Lothian also operates a small repairs service and this aims to provide older and disabled people with practical help and advice in undertaking small repairs and jobs around their home.

The service is open to owners and tenants provided you meet the following criteria: o you are over 60 years of age or Registered Disabled o you are temporarily incapacitated, e.g. recovering from and operation o you are currently in hospital awaiting discharge.

It should be noted that in all cases people would not be eligible for assistance if there were a household member under the qualifying age who was able to do the work. There is no charge for labour costs; however, if any materials have to be purchased, the client will be responsible for meeting the cost.

The types of jobs done are wide and varied. Typical repairs include small joinery jobs, changing light bulbs, moving furniture and replacing batteries in smoke detectors. In terms of home improvement works and adaptations, we can provide assistance by preparing specifications; acquiring prices from approved contractors; applying for grants or loans which may be available for the works and managing the works through to completion.

Contacts and further information: o Care and Repair West Lothian. Tel: 01506-424148 email: [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 42 Transport / Travel

Community Transport Discount cards Older People – bus passes On demand transport Carlink Service Disabled People Transport Services Lothian Shopmobility Parking for Disabled People Safe Journey Card

Keeping well in your community 43 Transport / Travel

Community Transport

Community Transport aims to provide a flexible range of transport services and entitlements across West Lothian including council, hospital, taxi, charity and assistance to use your own. We hope the following information will prove useful.

Discount cards

National entitlement card for 16-18 year olds and full-time volunteers aged up to 25 Residents of West Lothian who are aged 16-18 are now eligible to receive a National Entitlement Card which gives discounts of 33% on adult single fares on most bus routes in Scotland*, and a voucher to get a free Scottish Youth Railcard to allow a one-third discount on off-peak rail journeys. Application forms are available at West Lothian Connected, council information offices, libraries and secondary schools.

A passport-sized photograph, suitably endorsed by someone other than a family member, and is in full- time professional employment, is required with proof of age and residence. Full-time community service volunteers aged 19-25 are also eligible for an entitlement card.

* No reductions are available on secondary school special buses which already have a reduced single fare of 60p.

Contacts and further information: o West Lothian Travel Concessions on 01506 775291 / 775287

Older people - bus passes

Bus and Rail Travel Permits Anyone who is permanently resident in West Lothian and who is either: aged 60 and over will qualify for a National Entitlement Card granting free travel at all times on all bus services (except premium fare night buses, tours and excursions) throughout Scotland and to Berwick upon Tweed or Carlisle. Reduced rate travel (£1.00 flat fare) on local rail services at off peak times in West Lothian and to Edinburgh, Falkirk and North Lanarkshire is available, as well as half fare off peak travel between West Lothian and East Lothian or Glasgow.

A companion permit is also available for anyone registered blind, on high or middle rate Disability Living Allowance, in receipt of attendance allowance or a letter from a care/residential home certifying that the entitlement card holder cannot travel alone. Application forms are available from West Lothian Connected, Council Information Offices or libraries - a passport sized photograph is required and appropriate proof. Please note that National Entitlement Cards are printed outwith West Lothian and then posted out so applicants should allow at least 14 days for processing.

Contacts and further information: o West Lothian Council Customer Services. Tel: 01506 775000 email: [email protected].

Keeping well in your community 44 On Demand Transport

TAXICARD If you are unable to use ordinary buses you can apply for a Taxicard which entitles you to receive a discount of up to £3 on a maximum of 104 trips a year.

You may qualify if: o Registered Blind (please include a copy of your letter from Visual Impairment Services) o In receipt of Disability Living Allowance (High Rate Mobility Component or High Rate Attendance Allowance). Please forward a copy of your letter from the Benefits Agency. o In receipt of what was pension’s mobility supplement. Please forward official letter confirming award. o Permanent user of a wheelchair. Please give details where supplied from. o In possession of Blue Badge issued by West Lothian Council. Please give badge number and expiry date. o Age 85 or over and has a severe walking difficulty. Please supply proof of age. o Suffering from dementia (must be certified by hospital authorities). o Suffering from a terminal illness affecting mobility (must be certified by General Practitioner or hospital). o Suffering from certain neurological disorder, such as motor neuron disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or strokes which result in the applicant being unable to walk without stopping, being in severe discomfort or requiring help from another person. This must be confirmed by either the hospital authorities or General Practitioner. o Suffering from agoraphobia, as certified by Community Psychiatric Nursing Service (CPNS). A letter of endorsement from the CPNS is also required.

Contacts and further information: o Tel: 01506 775 289

Carlink Service

Certain rural areas and neighbouring communities in West Lothian are linked by a special low-cost taxi service called Carlink. The service, subsidised by the council, is operated by Glenn’s Private Hire and Topcars Taxis and runs to places where buses do not operate. It links people in rural areas into the nearest towns, allowing visits to health and sports centres, shopping, and work or leisure trips and connects to bus and rail routes. Anyone wishing to travel to or from rural areas is eligible.

Contacts and further information: o Public Transport, County Buildings, High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7EX. Tel: 01506 775288. Fax: 01506 775265. Glenn Private Hire. Tel: 01506 500578. Topcars Taxis. Tel: 01506 444444.

Keeping well in your community 45 Disabled People

Dial-a-Ride and Dial-a-Bus Services These services are available to those unable to use normal bus services, and are operated by Handicabs on behalf of West Lothian Council. Dial-a-Ride offers a door to door service, 7 days a week for pre booked local travel. Fares are approx 20p a mile with a £2.80 boarding charge, whilst the Dial-a-Bus service operates Monday to Friday between most areas of West Lothian and the major shopping centres at Livingston, Bathgate and Linlithgow at a flat fare of 80p. To reserve places and for further information contact Handicabs on 01506 633953.

Disabled people - bus passes Anyone who is permanently resident in West Lothian and who is in receipt of any of the following: o High rate of mobility component of Disability Living Allowance o High or middle rate component of DLA o Attendance Allowance o Veterans Agency award letter conforming receipt of mobility supplement o Forms DVLA V11 or DLA 404 - disabled taxation class or D206 D235 D220 or NS 57 revoking driving licence o Disabled Blue Badge o Registered blind o Registered as profoundly deaf o Letter confirming admittance to hospice o A letter from the Hospital Consultant if applying on the grounds of suffering from a progressive degenerative disorder .... will qualify for a National Entitlement Card offering free travel at all times on all bus services (except premium fare night buses, tours and excursions) throughout Scotland and to Berwick upon Tweed or Carlisle. Reduced rate travel (£1 flat fare) on local rail services at off peak times in West Lothian and to Edinburgh, Falkirk and North Lanarkshire is available, as well as half fare off-peak travel between West Lothian and East Lothian or Glasgow. A companion permit is also available for anyone registered blind, on high or middle rate DLA, in receipt of attendance allowance or a letter from a care/residential home certifying that the entitlement card holder cannot travel alone.

Application forms are available from West Lothian Connected, Council Information Offices or libraries - a passport sized photograph is required and appropriate proof. Please note Cards are printed outwith West Lothian and then posted out so applicants should allow at least 14 days for processing.

Disabled people - disabled taxi cards If you are unable to use ordinary buses you can apply for a Taxicard which entitles you to receive a discount of up to £3 on a maximum of 104 trips a year.

You may qualify if: o Registered Blind (please include a copy of your letter from Visual Impairment Services) o In receipt of Disability Living Allowance (High Rate Mobility Component or High Rate Attendance Allowance). Please forward a copy of your letter from the Benefits Agency. o In receipt of what was pension’s mobility supplement. Please forward official letter confirming award. o Permanent user of a wheelchair. Please give details where supplied from. o In possession of Blue Badge issued by West Lothian Council. Please give badge number and expiry date. o Age 85 or over and has a severe walking difficulty. Please supply proof of age. o Suffering from dementia (must be certified by hospital authorities).

Keeping well in your community 46 o Suffering from a terminal illness affecting mobility (must be certified by General Practitioner or hospital). o Suffering from certain neurological disorder, such as motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis or strokes which result in the applicant being unable to walk without stopping, being in severe discomfort or requiring help from another person. This must be confirmed by either the hospital authorities or General Practitioner. o Suffering from agoraphobia, as certified by Community Psychiatric Nursing Service (CPNS). A letter of endorsement from the CPNS is also required. o Disabled people - personal transport - motability scheme.

Dial-a-Ride Handicabs’ Dial-a-Ride service offers a door-to-door public transport service for people with limited mobility. Handicabs are specially adapted vehicles which can carry a combination of wheelchair users and other passengers. The service operates seven days a week.

Eligibility: The service is available for people who are: elderly; infirm; or disabled and other residents in West Lothian.

Dial-a-Bus service These services are available to those unable to use normal bus services, and are operated by Handicabs on behalf of West Lothian Council. Dial-a-Ride offers a door to door service, 7 days a week for pre booked local travel - fares are approx 20p a mile with a £2.80 boarding charge, whilst the Dial-a-Bus service operates Monday to Friday between most areas of West Lothian and the major shopping centres at Livingston, Bathgate and Linlithgow at a flat fare of 80p.

Contacts and further information: o To reserve places and for further information contact Handicabs on 01506 633953. Other Sources Concessionary travel information leaflets Dial-a-Ride leaflet.

Lothian Shopmobility Lothian Shopmobility provides a free wheelchair and scooter lending service to enable people with disabilities and limited mobility the means to shop and use facilities with the maximum amount of independence. To be eligible to use the service you must have temporary or long term limited mobility. To register for the service or for further information contact the above number.

Contacts and further information: o Tel: 01506 442744 Unit 95, Almondvale Centre Livingston, EH54 6HS

Parking for Disabled People West Lothian Council recognises that people with disabilities often have difficulty in carrying out their everyday activities because they cannot find convenient parking. The council has introduced a number of measures to help you park nearer your home and public places. To qualify for all disabled persons’ parking facilities you must be a Blue Badge holder. Information about the Blue Badge Scheme and an application form can be obtained from Council Information Services or by phoning Concessionary Travel on 01506 775287.

Keeping well in your community 47 Residential Disabled Persons’ Parking Places The council can provide a marked disabled persons’ parking place on the road near your home. To qualify, you must be a blue badge holder and have a suitable vehicle registered at your address. However, sometimes the council may not be able to provide a parking bay, even though you meet the criteria, because of local planning or traffic considerations.

The Scottish Parliament recently introduced new legislation aimed at making all disabled persons’ parking bays enforceable by the police. If we are able to provide a parking bay near your home, the following will then happen: o We will arrange to mark the bay on the road in the location agreed with yourself. This should happen within six weeks of confirming your application has been successful. At this stage, the bay is NOT enforceable. o We will then start the legal procedure to make the bay enforceable. This will involve advertising our intention to make the bay and inviting objections. If any objections are received, this will delay the process. o If there are no objections, we will finalise the legal process and erect a sign at the parking bay. At this point, the bay becomes legally enforceable by the police and you must display your blue badge at all times when parked in the bay. This can take up to 9 months from confirming your application is successful.

If you wish to apply for a residential disabled persons’ parking facility, please download from West Lothian website and return to Transportation, West Lothian Council, County Buildings, High Street, Linlithgow, EH49 7EZ. You need to include: o A photocopy of your blue badge. o A photocopy of your vehicle registration document (V5 or log book). If you have a Motability car, please contact Motability on 0845 4564566 for a copy of the vehicle registration document. Currently these are provided free of charge. o Alternatively, you can contact Customer Services on 01506 775000 for advice and an application form.

Safe Journey Card

Stay safe on board with a First Safe Journey Card Safe Journey Cards have been designed specifically with the needs of many of our customers in mind. If you have a fear of falling on the bus you’ll find this a great help. With a First Safe Journey Card you can privately let the driver know what sort of help you need and they’ll wait for you to reach your seat safely before driving off. Just show the Safe Journey Card to the driver when you get on the bus with your pass or ticket. There are several versions of the Safe Journey Card from which you can choose the one that best suits your particular needs. In addition, on the reverse of the Safe Journey Card there is a section you can fill in which allows you to give details to the driver of your destinations. www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/aberdeen/bus_access/safe_journey_card/

Keeping well in your community 48 Community Life and Leisure

Community Capacity Building Getting Involved/Having your Say Community Advice Leisure Clubs, Groups, and Societies Arts and Entertainment

Keeping well in your community 49 Community Life and Leisure

Community Life and Leisure

This category contains information and advice on community life and leisure, for example leisure services and activities, education services, and learning opportunities and advice and information on looking after our countryside and wildlife.

Community Capacity Building

Community capacity can be seen as the capacity of the people in communities to participate in actions based on community interests, both as individuals and through groups, organisations and networks. In doing so it actively seeks to support residents to engage with events and activities within their local communities.

The Council in conjunction with a number of other agencies / organisations seeks to build local community capacity wherever possible. There are a wide range of options available for people to access locally. A good starting point for checking what might be available being the local libraries which are listed below. West Lothian has 14 community libraries providing a variety of services with something for everyone. There are also two mobile libraries which will visit outlying areas of West Lothian.

Library membership is open to anyone who lives, works or has an interest in West Lothian. All that is needed to join is two forms of identification, one of which must include you name and address. There is no minimum age to join and it is FREE to borrow books and to use the computer.

Almondbank Library (Craigshill) 01506 777500 Armadale Library 01501 678400 Bathgate Library 01506 776400 Blackburn Connected 01506 776500 Broxburn Library 01506 775600 Carmondean Connected ( Deans) 01506 777602 East Calder Library 01506 883633 Fauldhouse Library 01501 770358 Lanthorn Library ( Dedridge) 01506 777700 Library Headquarters 01506 776336 Linlithgow Library 01506 775490 Pumpherston Library 01506 435837 West Calder Library 01506 771630 Whitburn Library 01501 678050

Local Community Centres and Churches are also a wealth of information as to what’s happening locally.

The Council web site also contains extensive information regarding what is happening in local communities throughout West Lothian. Go to www.westlothian.gov.uk/localgroup/ for comprehensive details of what is happening in your area.

Keeping well in your community 50 Getting Involved/having your say

A number of opportunities exist for adults and older people within West Lothian to have their say and influence the development, design and delivery of the services they receive. To become a member of a forum you need to be someone who has a direct experience and be willing to share your views and want to help make improvement to local services.

There are various ways in which local people in West Lothian can get involved. Listed below are useful contact details:

Senior Peoples Forum The purpose of the forum is to provide an opportunity for the Council and local senior people to act in partnership in reviewing and addressing the future challenges we jointly face. In particular, the forum will seek to identify and harness the experience, opinions and desires of senior people offering them an opportunity to express their views on a wide range of issues

Contacts and further information: o Tel: 01506 281069 or email [email protected]

Physical Disability Forum Present the range of views from individuals about living with a disability and the way service delivery affects each of them. Promote inclusion – Forums can suggest ways that other service users might be involved and engaged in the service planning and monitoring.

Contacts and further information: o Tel: Andrew Baird on 01506 774043 or email: [email protected]

Access Committee The West Lothian Access Committee aims to increase the awareness of the person’s needs, abilities and aspirations of disabled people in relation to design and development processes.

Contacts and further information: o Tel: Andrew Baird on 01506 774043 or email: [email protected]

Public Partnership Forum The Public Partnership Forum is made up of individual members of the public, patients, carers and existing community and voluntary groups. The Core Group meets every six weeks and these meetings are open to anyone who wishes to attend. We have been set up to help: o Inform you about existing services and any proposed changes taking place in local health and community services o Help consult with the community about how to improve local health and care services o Provide opportunities for members of the community to raise issues about health and care services that are important to them o Involve local people in the planning and decision making process concerning health and care services.

Contacts and further information: o Tel: Julie Cassidy on 01506 771883 or email: [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 51 West Lothian Learning Disability Forum The West Lothian Learning Disability Forum is a well established group which contributes to the development of good quality Learning Disability services in West Lothian. The group plays an important part in stakeholder consultation, discussion and review connected to service planning in this area. The Forum primarily focus’s on adults services, contributing to the further development of best practice and joint working in this area.

Contacts and further information: o The Forum meets on a quarterly basis, for further information contact: Paul Weddell at [email protected]

Ace Advocacy ACE Advocacy started in April 2003, providing citizen advocacy, group advocacy and self-advocacy support to people with learning disabilities. ACE Advocacy also supports the collective advocacy group, Our Voice Our Choice (OVOC). This group meets regularly and has an active membership, which are currently now over 80 individuals. Representatives of OVOC are supported as full members of the West Lothian Learning Disability Forum. In addition to the support provided to the Our Voice, Our Choice, the group supports service user involvement in other key planning activities / service reviews in this area.

Contacts and further information: o ACE Advocacy, 28 Heatherbank, Ladywell Livingston EH54 6EE Tel: 01506 444 330 Fax: 01506 444 535 email: [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 52 Community advice

The Communities Team The Communities Team facilitates Locality Planning and supports young people, families and older people to participate in community and council forums. We also ensure the Voluntary Sector is informed of council policy and has the opportunity to shape service development. The Team have a particular focus on Closing the Opportunity Gap. (Closing the Opportunity Gap is the name of the Scottish Government’s Strategy to tackle poverty and disadvantage in Scotland.)

Locality Planning The aim of Locality Planning is to ensure people and communities in West Lothian are genuinely engaged in the decisions made on public services which affect them and to develop a commitment from organisations to work together, not apart, in providing better and more responsive public services.

Young People Alongside the voluntary sector and other council services, the Communities Team works with young people to help them learn about the decision making process and encourages them to take an active part in these processes through, e.g. involvement in youth forums or pupil councils.

Families The Communities Team works in partnership with other early years services to support parents and carers of pre-school children to have an active role in the planning of early years services within their communities.

Older People The Communities Team works with older people to ensure services are developed to meet their needs by promoting a caring community, building relationships and promoting active and fulfilling lives.

Adult Learning Opportunities Community Learning and Development offer a wide choice of learning opportunities for adults based in local community centres across West Lothian. These include non-certificate and certificate courses and range from Computers for the Terrified, Crèche Training, and Basic skills, Courses about Money Matters, English as a Second or Other Language, Stress Awareness.

Voluntary Sector The Communities Team aims to build the capacity of the voluntary sector by working in partnership to build better communities in West Lothian. The Team provides funding, advice and training, promoting a sustainable social economy.

Contacts and further information: o Communities Team West Lothian Council www.westlothian.gov.uk www.getonlineandlearn.com Telephone Freephone: 0800 121 4695

Keeping well in your community 53 Leisure clubs, groups and societies

Find out where and when the groups in and around West Lothian meet. Information on arts groups doing everything from Scottish country dancing to film making.

Other activities can be found in your local community centre. Contact them for the most up-to-date information. For the telephone number of your local community centre contact Teresa on 01506 776493. There is a 50+ Network who have details of a range of activities for older people. Tel: 01506 635510.

Locations and activities are detailed in the Community Resource Directory attached (Appendix 1).

Arts and Entertainment

West Lothian offers a wealth of opportunities to enjoy and take part in arts. West Lothian Council’s Arts Services delivers a continuous programme of arts events and activities in the redeveloped Howden Park Centre and at other venues across West Lothian. It supports and develops all aspects of the curriculum in schools and provides instrumental music lessons during, and out of, school hours. West Lothian’s voluntary arts groups provide opportunities to take part in everything from film to quilt making, jazz to weaving in local communities. Arts Services administers an arts grants scheme available to these groups and to individuals. West Lothian Council spends in the region of £1.5million a year on arts services aiming to make the arts an integral part of community life in West Lothian.

Arts Services is made up of Arts Development, Arts Education Services and Instrumental Music Service. The Howden Park Centre and Community Arts News Brochures gives information on the current season of performances, classes and events.

The Arts Directory gives contact information for a broad cross-section of arts organisations, companies and individuals.

Contacts and further information: o Howden Park Centre, Howden, Livingston, West Lothian, EH54 6AE Telephone: 01506 773858 email: [email protected] Opening Hours: 9am - 9pm Monday - Sat Bistro Opening Hours: Monday 10am - 3pm, Tuesday to Saturday 10am - 9pm Sunday 11am - 5pm

Keeping well in your community 54 Arts Development

Arts Development is part of Arts Services and provides a programme of arts activities in the community to encourage everyone to get involved. This part of Arts Services works with professional arts companies, organisations and individuals to provide projects, performances and arts events at Howden Park Centre and other venues across West Lothian. The staff also arrange for artists in all disciplines to provide workshops, classes and courses. Partnership projects are developed for target groups to make sure that the service reaches people and groups that are least likely to take part.

As well as administrating the council’s arts grants scheme which gives grants to individuals and groups, Arts Development staff work to support and develop the huge range of voluntary arts organisations in West Lothian to maximise their impact in the community.

Arts Development is also working to improve arts facilities and venues in West Lothian delivering the council’s three venue arts strategy which has already achieved major refurbishment of the Regal Community Theatre in Bathgate, redeveloped Howden Park Centre and the Burgh Halls in Linlithgow.

Keeping well in your community 55 Training and Employment

Access 2 Employment West Lothian College Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian

Keeping well in your community 56 Training and Employment

Access2employment

Employment advice Access2employment provides West Lothian residents with help and information on finding work as well as training and educational opportunities. The service is delivered by a team of skilled Employment Advisers in various locations throughout West Lothian.

Access2employment works in partnership with several organisations including Jobcentre Plus, Skills Development Scotland and the Voluntary Sector Gateway to ensure that West Lothian residents receive the help required to move them out of unemployment and into work.

Access2employment offers a wide range of services including: o Guidance on CV preparation o Help with application forms o Interview techniques advice o Access to the latest vacancies and job search resources o Advice on local training opportunities o Free access to computers o Information on funding to help you move into work

Contacts and further information: o access2employment on 0800 032 9768, text JOBS to 60777 or email: [email protected]

West Lothian College The college believes in partnership and values its relationships with other colleges, universities and the business community and works in partnership with them to promote lifelong learning. The portfolio of the college reflects the requirements of employers and our wider communities, building upon the unique features of the West Lothian economy.

The Basic Skills partnership between West Lothian Council and the College helped to establish 10 Community Learning Centres in West Lothian. These centres aim to develop skills of local training practitioners in using a series of on-line vocational training materials.

Contacts and further information: o Almondvale Crescent, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 7EP Telephone Main Reception: 01506 418181 Information Office: 01506 427605

Keeping well in your community 57 Voluntary Sector Gateway West Lothian

West Lothian Council works in close partnership with the voluntary sector as the new interface between West Lothian’s Community Planning Partners and the Voluntary Sector; the Gateway has three core objectives: Capacity Building for the Voluntary Sector, Volunteer Development and Social Enterprise Development.

The Gateway also: o Co-ordinates volunteering projects that support West Lothian’s communities o Provides information and advice on issues such as: funding, governance, training, legal structure, start up, staff and volunteer recruitment, monitoring and evaluation, and networking. o Delivers a variety of learning and skills development courses o Organises networking events and represents the Voluntary Sector at local and national forums

Contacts and further information: o 36 – 40 North Bridge, Bathgate, West Lothian EH48 4PP Telephone : 01506 650111 email: [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 58 Care and Carers

Advice and help for Carers Carers of West Lothian Flexible Respite

Keeping well in your community 59 Care and Carers

West Lothian has over 18,000 carers, although some do not see themselves as one. If you look after someone who is ill, frail, disabled, or unable to cope, then you are a carer and have a right to a carer’s assessment. If you are looking for further information, there are a number of sources for help and advice available.

Advice and help for carers

A carer qualifies for support if; you are the main or only carer, you have regular contact with the person, the cared for person would be at risk if you were unable to provide support, you require support to continue in your caring role.

The purpose of the assessment is to look at the support you provide and determine your needs as a carer. It takes into account all your own commitments - family, work, study, housing, social life, leisure activities, your age, health, and any support already in place.

Practical support available includes: o Information about housing, equipment and adaptations o The home safety service which offers technology like flood/heat detectors, wandering devices, home security and careline support o Welfare benefits advice o Respite care and short breaks from caring o Who to contact in an emergency o Local carer’s support centres o Help with the support you provide o How to arrange a needs assessment for the person you are supporting.

To apply for an assessment contact any of the following: Livingston Social Work Centre 01506 282252 Bathgate Social Work Centre 01506 776700 Broxburn Social Work Centre 01506 775666

Keeping well in your community 60 Carers of West Lothian

Providing Support, Information and a Voice for Carers in West Lothian Carers of West Lothian is a carer led voluntary organisation and charity that aims to provide support, information, a voice for carers and to work with others to ensure a better quality of life for all carers. A carer support worker can provide information and support on a wide range of carer’s issues such as entitlement to benefits, respite care and holidays, or be there as a listening ear.

They will send you an information booklet, a comprehensive guide to services in West Lothian. They will also add you to their mailing list to receive a free quarterly newsletter for carers.

Contacts and further information: o Carers of West Lothian, The Princess Royal Trust Carers Centre, Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn, EH52 5LH Centre Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00am to 3:00pm Tel: 01506 771750 Fax: 01506 858882 email: [email protected] There should normally be someone at the Carers Centre at these times should you wish to phone or drop in.

Flexible Respite

Our Flexible Short Break Scheme is one of a number of options available to people with dementia living at home being supported by an informal carer.

Eligibility to access the scheme is determined via social work assessments to determine the needs of the person with dementia as well as their carer. When the necessary criteria are met under this scheme a ‘respite account’ may then be opened on behalf of the individual with dementia.

The ‘respite account’ thereafter operates in a similar fashion to a bank account, with an agreed sum of money being lodged within the account by the council. The carer who is best placed to know the needs of the individual being cared for is then able to go ahead and organise the type of short break they deemed most appropriate at a time and location of their choice. The council who holds and administers the respite account will thereafter on receipt of the invoice from the short break provider of choice draw funds down from the individuals respite account to cover the cost. Thus giving the individuals concerned choice, flexibility and control over the short breaks they receive without the administrative burden of having to produce a detailed account of expenditure as is the case when money is made directly available to them.

Anyone wishing to discuss the possibility of setting up a respite account or wishing further information should contact the following numbers during normal office hours Monday to Friday:

If the person with dementia is aged 65 years or more phone 01506 776700 and speak to the Duty Officer.

If the person is below 65 years of age contact 01506 775666 and speak to the Adult Duty Officer.

Alternatively if there is already an allocated social worker they may be contacted direct.

Keeping well in your community 61 Counselling

Samaritans Relationships Scotland Rape Crisis Scotland Carers of West Lothian Cruse Breathing Space

Keeping well in your community 62 Counselling

Counselling is a two-way relationship, in which the counsellor listens to whatever you want to say, in confidence and without making judgments. Counsellors are not supposed to give advice, but they may ask questions or challenge you in ways which may help you to look more carefully at some of the assumptions you may have taken for granted. Usually you will have regular sessions, for an hour or slightly less, each week or every two weeks. The aim of counselling is to help you understand yourself better and come to terms with what has happened to you. The following agencies offer counselling services:

Samaritans

Samaritans is a confidential emotional support service for anyone in the UK and Ireland. The service is available 24 hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide.

If you live outside of the UK and ROI, visit www.befrienders.org to find your nearest helpline. Volunteers offer support by responding to phone calls, emails and letters. Alternatively people can drop in to a branch to have a face to face meeting.

Across the UK you can call Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 for the price of a local call. In the Republic of Ireland call 1850 60 90 90.

You can also email Samaritans at [email protected], write to Chris, PO Box 9090, Stirling, FK8 2SA or if you are deaf or hard of hearing use the single national minicom number 08457 90 91 92.

The service is offered by 17,000 trained volunteers and is entirely dependent on voluntary support. There are 201 branches of Samaritans in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Relationships Scotland

Relationships Scotland is a new Scottish Charity created by the merger between Relate Scotland (previously Couple Counselling Scotland) and Family Mediation Scotland, providing counselling, mediation and family support across Scotland.

Relationships Scotland’s role is to support and develop an accessible network of these services for families experiencing transition, separation and conflict. Realistically, many people may not know what services are available to them at any stage in their relationship difficulties, so the ‘one door’ option can provide vital help when things seem to be in crisis.

For information on Relationships Counselling in Lothian please call our National Office on the following number: 0845 119 2020

Keeping well in your community 63 Rape Crisis Scotland

Rape Crisis Scotland provides a national rape crisis helpline for anyone affected by sexual violence, no matter when or how it happened. The helpline is open from 6pm to midnight, 7 days a week, and offers free and confidential initial and crisis support and information. The helpline can also put you in touch with local rape crisis centres or other services for ongoing support. The helpline offers a mincom service for deaf or hard of hearing people, and can arrange for language interpreters if your first language is not English.

Contacts and further information: o If you have been raped or sexually abused or are supporting someone else who has, you can contact Rape Crisis for help and information. It doesn’t matter whether this happened recently or a long time ago. You can phone our helpline any day between 6pm and midnight free on 08088 01 03 02 to speak to someone in confidence.

Carers of West Lothian

Being a carer can be the most fulfilling thing you ever do, it can also be the most stressful. Many carers put all their energies into caring and sometimes forget that they too might need support. That support can come in many ways, all carers are different. Some might find support in talking to other carers; others might find it helpful to talk through their situation on a one-to-one basis with someone who is not involved in their situation. Going to see a counsellor can be a positive way of getting things off your chest and helping you to see things more clearly. Whatever your caring situation, it is important to remember that there will be times when you need support as well. There are various ways of finding a counsellor, your doctor or social worker may be able to organise this for you. Alternatively there are many groups, which offer counselling in the Lothians.

Contacts and further information: o Free Counselling Services Vocal Carers Centre 8-13 Johnstone Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2PL. Tel: 0131 622 6666. A confidential, professional counselling service which is free to all carers. Appointments can be arranged through Carers of West Lothian. Help is available with sitter and travel costs in some instances.

Cruse

Everyone experiences bereavement at some stage of their life, the death of a parent, a loved one, a friend or a child. The feelings of grief can overwhelm us at the time, but we work through them and come to terms with our loss. Our lives will never be the same again, things have changed. Sometimes though, the feelings, perhaps of despair or guilt or sheer loneliness, may overwhelm us and we need to seek help. Cruse Bereavement Care promotes the well-being of bereaved people and enables anyone bereaved by death to understand their grief and cope with their loss. As well as providing free care to all bereaved people, the charity also offers information, support and training services to those who are looking after them. National Phoneline: 0845 600 2227

Keeping well in your community 64 Breathing Space

Breathing Space is a free and confidential phoneline service for any individual, who is experiencing low mood or depression, or who is unusually worried and in need of someone to talk to.

What service does Breathing Space provide? o A free, easily accessible and confidential listening service in which callers may be offered advice, guidance and support underpinned by empathy, warmth and understanding. o A signposting service into other statutory or voluntary agencies empowers callers and provides a stepping stone for them to access local services. o The advisor database is updated regularly, ensuring that where necessary, callers can be referred to organisations and agencies best suited to their particular needs.

Who is Breathing Space aimed at? o Breathing Space specifically, but not exclusively, targets young men who are experiencing difficulties and unhappiness in their lives. The focus is to provide skilled assistance at an early stage and prevent problems escalating. o Those living with mental health problems and those experiencing emotional distress. o Family members, partners and friends who are concerned about their own well-being and that of people they care about.

Contacts and further information: o Monday-Thursday 6pm-2am Friday-Monday 6pm Friday – 6am Monday Telephone Number 0800 83 85 87.

Keeping well in your community 65 Advice and Advocacy

Council Customer Services Citizens Advice Bureau Local Library Human Rights Freedom of Information Equality and Diversity Disability and Equality Act 2010 Getting Legal Help Advocacy

Keeping well in your community 66 Advice and Advocacy

Advice covers a wide range of topics and helps you take the first steps in sorting out all kinds of problems. It can be difficult to get good advice when you need it however here are some services that can help you.

Council Customer Services

Customer Services is at the heart of West Lothian Council providing fair and equal access to all Council services through our Customer Service Centre (CSC) and Council Information Service (CIS) offices. A main aim of Customer Services is to provide a proactive approach to resolving all enquiries from the public at first point of contact. If we are unable to do this then we will escalate the enquiry to the appropriate service area for resolution. Customer Services staff are highly trained to deal with all types of enquiries from booking a free bulky uplift to revenues and benefits.

Customer Service Centre (CSC) The CSC mainly deals with all telephone, email and online enquiries from members of the public and is based in Livingston. The CSC lines are open from Monday - Friday, 8am - 10pm thereafter a number of staff are on-site to deal with emergency calls. The CSC lines are also open from 10pm on Friday to 8am on Monday for emergency calls relating to noise, homelessness, repairs to council houses, roads, street lighting and environmental health.

The payments line (council tax, rent and service accounts) is open from Monday - Sunday, 8am - 10pm. Our main Customer Service contact number is 01506 775000; however there are other direct numbers for specialised services as follows: Anti Social Behaviour 0800 801 331 Pupil Placement 01506 281867 Comments and Complaints 0800 328 5143 Revenues and Benefits 01506 776800 Gas Servicing 0800 100 3353 Roads and Street Lighting 01506 776 200 NETS and Land Services 0800 616 446 Textphone for hard of hearing 01506 454427 Payments 01506 775050

If you require to contact us outwith normal working hours (08:00-22:00) and you have an emergency 01506-630288 or 01506-631240. These numbers are in operation from 22.00 on a Friday until 8:00am on a Monday including public holidays.

Keeping well in your community 67 Council Information Service (CIS) The CIS deals with all face to face enquiries and have 7 dedicated offices (see below) spread throughout West Lothian. These offices provide access to all Council Services along with payment facilities for rent, council tax, etc. Our office locations are listed below along with facilities available and the office opening hours.

Armadale CIS West Lothian Connected 1/3 East Main Street Almondvale Centre Livingston (payments facility and municipal bank available) (payment facility available) Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu – 8:30-5:00pm Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu – 8:30-5:00pm Wed- 8:30-3:00pm, Friday- 8:30-4:00pm Wed – 10:00-5:00pm, Friday – 8:30-4:00pm Sat – 9:30-2:30pm Bathgate CIS 5/9 Edinburgh Road (payments facility available) Whitburn CIS Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu – 8:30-5:00pm 5 East Main Street (payment facility available – Wed- 8:30-3:00pm, Friday -8:30-4:00pm please note the payment facility closes 30 minutes earlier than the office closing time ) Broxburn CIS Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu – 8:30-5:00pm Strathbrock Partnership, 189a West Main St, Wed –8:30-3:00pm, Friday -8:30-4:00pm Broxburn (payments facility available - closed between 13:00-14:00 daily) Blackburn Connected Opening hours: Mon, Tues, Thu – 8:30-5:00pm Mill Centre. (Integrated service with Library Services Wed- 8:30-5:00 pm (closes at 3:00pm every 2nd Wed) dedicated CIS ) Friday-8:30-4:00pm Opening hours: Mon,Fri– 9:00-5:00pm Wed-9:00-3:00pm, Thu – 9:00-7:00pm Linlithgow CIS Sat-9:30-12:30pm County Buildings High Street (payments facility available- closed between 12:30-13:30 daily) Carmondean Connected Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu – 8:30-5:00pm Deans Livingston Wed – 10:30-5:00pm, Friday – 8:30-4:00pm Opening hours: Mon-Fri –9:00-6:00pm Tue-Thu -9:30-8:00pm, Wed – 10:00-6:00pm West Calder CIS Sat-9:30-1:00pm 24-26 East Main Street (payments facility available – payments closed between 13:00-14:00 daily) Fauldhouse Partnership Centre Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu – 8:30-4:00pm Lanrigg Road, Fauldhouse Wed- 10:30-5:00pm, Friday – 8:30-4:00pm CIS are available via tele-talk.video link

Keeping well in your community 68 Citizens Advice Bureau

West Lothian Citizens Advice is an advice agency giving free, confidential and impartial advice and information and assistance. Advice includes debt counselling, welfare benefits, legal issues, employment, consumer concerns and housing matters. Citizens Advice can help you with form and application-filling, as well as letting you know what benefits you could be entitled to.

Contacts and further information: o Citizens Advice Bureau Suite 7, Sheil House, Sheil Walk, Craigshill, Livingston Tel: 01506 432977 email: [email protected] Access: mornings (except Wed) drop in, appt. or phone, Afternoons: appt or phone only. Mon, Tues and Thurs Wed Friday 10am-12.30pm 10am-12.30pm 10am-12.30pm 1.30pm-4pm Phone only 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Local Library

Your local library offers information on a wide range of topics including money management, legal information, business and consumer advice (see page 50, Community Life and Leisure, for contact details of libraries in West Lothian).

Human Rights

‘Human rights’ are the basic rights and freedoms that belong to every person in the world. The rights in the Act mean that no one should treat you in an inhuman or degrading way, no matter what the situation. Some people call human rights common sense. Others see them simply as good manners. At their most basic human rights are about how we treat each other. As a result they are particularly important for some of the more vulnerable or less powerful in our society, such as people in care, young children or people with learning difficulties.

They give you the right to privacy and to enjoy your family life. They uphold the choices you make in many important areas, such as who to associate with or the freedom to express your beliefs. And because the rights in the Act specifically recognise that we are not just individuals, but live in a democratic society, both yours and other individuals’ rights are balanced against the wider needs of the community you live in.

To find out more about human rights, what the law says, what each area of protection means, and how human rights affect our public services and institutions -

Contacts and further information: o email: [email protected] Telephone: 0845 604 5510 All our helplines are open from 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday, except on Wednesdays when they are open from 9am–8pm.

Keeping well in your community 69 Freedom of Information

Everyone has the right to request information held by public sector organisations under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.

The FOI gives you the right to ask any public body for all the information they have on any subject you choose. Unless there’s a good reason, the organisation must provide the information within 20 working days. You can also ask for all the personal information they hold on you.

Everyone can make a request for information – there are no restrictions on your age, nationality, or where you live. You can ask for any information at all - but some information might be withheld to protect various interests which are allowed for by the Act. If this is case, the public authority must tell you why they have withheld information.

If you ask for information about yourself, then your request will be handled under the Data Protection Act. Scotland has its own Freedom of Information Act, which is very similar to the England, Wales and Northern Ireland Act.

Public sector bodies covered by the Act The Act applies to public bodies including: o Government departments and local assemblies o local authorities and councils o health trusts, hospitals and doctors’ surgeries o schools, colleges and universities o publicly funded museums o the police o non-departmental public bodies, committees and advisory bodies.

How to make a request Write to (or email) the public body and include: o your name o an address where you can be contacted o a description of the information that you want.

To help the public body find the information, give as much detail as possible. For example, say ‘minutes of the meeting where the decision to do X was made’, rather than ‘everything you have about X’. All public authorities must manage their information in accordance with a publication scheme which describes the ‘classes’ or ‘kinds’ of information held (such as minutes or reports).

Contacts and further information: o www.ico.gov.uk/for_the_public/official_information/how_access.aspx

Keeping well in your community 70 Equality and diversity

Equality is relevant to us all. Addressing discrimination and promoting equality are everyone’s core business. We want a West Lothian in which all people and communities have a say in their future and an equal opportunity for health, safety, education, fulfilling work, and a high quality of life. West Lothian Council has published an integrated equality scheme – which reflects our commitment to promoting equality and eliminating discrimination as well as fulfilling our statutory duties under legislation. The key focus of the equality function is to support and advise council services on the requirements of equality legislation and internal policies and procedures related to equality. In addition, the function promotes the development of best practice around both equality and diversity issues across the organisation, with a view to mainstreaming the agenda into everything that we do as a council.

Contacts and further information: o email: [email protected]

Disability and the Equality Act 2010

From 1 October 2010, the Equality Act replaced most of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). However, the Disability Equality Duty in the DDA continues to apply.

Equality Act 2010 The Equality Act 2010 aims to protect disabled people and prevent disability discrimination. It provides legal rights for disabled people in the areas of: o employment o education o access to goods, services and facilities including larger private clubs and land based transport services o buying and renting land or property o functions of public bodies, for example the issuing of licences.

The Equality Act also provides rights for people not to be directly discriminated against or harassed because they have an association with a disabled person. This can apply to a carer or parent of a disabled person. In addition, people must not be directly discriminated against or harassed because they are wrongly perceived to be disabled.

More information about the Equality Act, and how you can obtain copies of the Act, can be found on the Government Equalities Office website. http://www.equalities.gov.uk/equality_act_2010.aspx

Contacts and further information: o If you have any questions about the Equality Act and how it affects you please contact us at [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 71 Getting Legal Help

Legal aid allows people who would not otherwise be able to afford it to get help for their legal problems. We can provide funding to help people who qualify to get legal advice and “representation” (where a solicitor puts their case in court). o To find out more about legal aid civil legal assistance helps people to get legal advice and “representation”, in civil cases o Criminal legal assistance helps people who have been charged with a criminal offence to get legal advice and “representation”.

Civil legal assistance includes advice and assistance and civil legal aid. Similarly, criminal legal assistance is advice and assistance and criminal legal aid. To find out if you qualify, or where to find a legal aid solicitor or order our leaflets you can also call our Legal Aid Helpline.

Contacts and further information: o Legal Aid Helpline: 0845 122 8686. It is open 7 days a week 7am to 11pm. *Please note that we do not provide legal advice. Calls are charged at local rates.

Advocacy

We all need an advocate at some time in our lives. It helps to have someone around to make a difficult phone call, someone who can help write a letter or someone to go with you to a difficult meeting. Advocacy is speaking up for, or acting on behalf of, yourself or another person. The other person is often receiving a service from a statutory or voluntary organisation.

Advocacy can help service users to: o make clear their own views and wishes; o express and present their views effectively and faithfully; o obtain independent advice and accurate information; o negotiate and resolve conflict.

Some people aren’t clear about their rights as citizens, or have difficulty in fully understanding these rights. Others may find it hard to speak up for themselves. Advocacy can enable people to take more responsibility and control for the decisions which affect their lives.

What the person says and wants is the most important thing. Advocacy enables individuals to do more for themselves and lessens their dependency on other people. Advocacy should help people to make informed choices. An advocate must ensure the service user is making real choices based on good quality information.

Keeping well in your community 72 Older People’s Advocacy

Advocacy support for older people in West Lothian is provide via EARS Advocacy. EARS is an independent advocacy service based in Edinburgh but with dedicated advocates located in West Lothian. Their advocates are trained and experienced and undertake both individual and collective advocacy.

The services they offer cover the following groupings: o Older People [65+] Living in the community o Older People [65+] in both hospital and residential care

Contacts and further information: o Referrals to EARS can be made direct to them on 0845 607 0129, email: [email protected] Address: Forecort Business Centre, Ashley Place, Edinburgh EH 6 5PX or through your social worker.

Physical Disability Advocacy

Advocacy support for people with physical disability and/or an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) aged 16 and over in West Lothian is provided via EARS Advocacy. EARS is an independent advocacy service based in Edinburgh but with dedicated advocates located in West Lothian. The advocates are trained and experienced and undertake both individual and collective independent advocacy.

Contacts and further information: o Referrals to EARS can be made direct to them on 0845 607 0129, email: [email protected] Address: Forecort Business Centre, Ashley Place, Edinburgh EH 6 5PX or through your social worker.

Learning Disability Advocacy

Advocacy support for people with a learning disability in West Lothian is provided via ACE Advocacy. The project began in 2003 and continues to be funded jointly with NHS Lothian. The service provides citizen advocacy, group advocacy and individual-advocacy support.

Advocacy services are offered to all service users at times of change or transition, either on an individual basis or collectively. The service prioritises support during adult / child protection investigations or interventions under AWI or Mental Health legislation.

Referrals are made direct to Ace Advocacy from: o individuals o carers or relatives o council staff o other agency staff

The service is available for 50 weeks a year, five days a week.

Contacts and further information: o Ace Advocacy. Tel: 01506 444330

Keeping well in your community 73 Mental Health Advocacy

The Mental Health Advocacy Project provides a free and confidential service for people living with a mental illness (aged between 16 and 65) living in West Lothian. The service is independent of all other mental health services, meaning they can act on an individual’s behalf in a way that is completely free of contact with other agencies and services. Much of the work undertaken by the Mental Health Advocacy Project relates to the Mental Health (Care and Treatment) (Scotland) Act 2003. Advocates aim to provide mental health service users with the opportunity to take control over their own lives by assisting them to exercise choice based on their needs and wishes to have their views heard.

They can assist individuals to deal with: o care and treatment; o housing issues; o benefits issues; o employment issues; o legal issues.

Contacts and further information: o The Mental Health Advocacy Project Tel: 01506 464173 Fax: 01506 464247 email: [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 74 Debt Advice

Are you in Debt Crisis? Top Tips for getting out of debt Free debt counselling agency contacts

Keeping well in your community 75 Debt Advice

Are you in debt crisis?

Many people face a financial crisis at some time. Most debt problems are easy to solve. Others need professional assistance. The best way to deal with your financial problems is to admit to them and take control before they get out of hand.

There are two ways to deal with problem debt, and which is right for you depends on whether you’re in what is called debt crisis or just have worrying or large debts.

What counts as debt crisis depends on who you ask, but the definition is when you can’t afford to make the minimum repayments on all debts or meet all necessary outgoings. Therefore even if your debts are big, if you can service them – even at the minimum level - you’re not in debt crisis and different ways to resolve them are available.

Top Tips for getting out of debt:

1. Work it out It sounds obvious, but there’s no point in trying to sort out existing debts if you’re going to keep adding to them. The most important thing to do is to ensure you’re not borrowing any more. How you tackle your debt obviously depends on the size of the debt and its proportion to your monthly income. For some, simply making a few sacrifices, such as cutting back on the morning coffee run and using the money to pay off a credit card, will suffice, but in more serious cases more drastic action is required.

2. Budget Actually writing on paper what you earn against what you spend is the easiest way of sorting out what you can and can’t afford, and the only way of coming up with a reasonable estimate for your weekly or monthly spending. Add up all your income – salary, benefits and whatever else might reach your account each month – and subtract from it your rent or mortgage payments, bills and other necessities, and you’ll be left with the amount you have for spending or saving each month. Use this process to also check whether you are on the correct tax code and are owed any Government benefits or tax credits that you are not currently claiming. It is important to be honest with how much you spend each month, but also realistic. There are free on-line tools to help you form a realistic picture of your disposable income. See where you can trim your budget, such as cutting down on the nights you go out, and be strict.

3. Don’t keep it to yourself Over a third of people with debt problems hide it from their partners. One of the main steps to sorting out your debt problems is admitting they exist to anyone that may be affected and following this up with action.

4. Tackle priority debts List your debts, then decide which are the most urgent. Those that carry the harshest penalties for default must be dealt with first. Mortgage arrears, for example, will eventually result in losing a home.

Keeping well in your community 76 5. Speak to creditors Although it can appear daunting, speaking to a creditor about repayment difficulties is by far the better option than avoiding the issue. Lenders are experienced in helping customers that have run into financial difficulties and will attempt to help if you are struggling with repayments. The same applies to utility companies. There are several grants and subsidies available to customers that struggle to pay energy bills so speak to your supplier to see if they can help.

6. Avoid just paying the minimum repayments on credit cards Although it is better to repay the minimum than nothing at all, in reality you are treading water and playing into the card issuer’s hands. Card companies have been forced to put warnings against paying just the minimum balance on their statements and with good reason. It would take 15 years to pay off the £3,000 balance on a 14.9% APR card if only the minimum payment of £90 was made. You would nearly halve that time if you paid an additional £60 a month. Despite fees, there are still competitive 12-month interest free balance transfer deals around that are preferable to paying the lender’s standard card rate.

7. Contact the right people Daytime TV is full of adverts from debt management companies telling you that they can help transform your debt into manageable chunks. What they don’t tell you about is the high level of fees and interest they charge for the privilege. Reputable organisations, such as PayPlan or the Citizens Advice Bureau, or a debt charity such as National Debtline will not only help you for free, but can also help reduce your level of debt. They negotiate with lenders on your behalf to work out a manageable budget based on how much you can realistically afford to repay. Many lenders are open to negotiation as they would prefer to get some of the money they are owed back than for the debtor to declare themselves bankrupt and lose the lot.

7. Debt Counselling Many people are nervous about going to a debt counsellor but they’re not judgmental –just to help you sort the problem.

8. How to deal with debt collectors If you are being pressurised or harassed by debt collectors there are steps you can take to address the situation. All debt collectors must be licensed by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). To find out if a firm is permitted to carry out debt recovery, call the watchdog on 08457 22 44 99. Under the OFT’s guidelines, debt collectors must contact debtors only at reasonable times and at reasonable intervals; must not pressurise debtors to pay in full, in unreasonably large instalments, or increase payments when they are unable to do so; must not make threatening statements or gestures or disclose or threaten to disclose debt details to third parties unless legally entitled to do so.

The Credit Services Association (CSA) has a code of practice to which members must adhere. See www. csa-uk.com or call 0191-286 5656 to request a copy. Get advice: If you are being plagued by debt collectors. The Citizens Advice Bureau will give you advice for free and, once you are clear on your rights, you should have much more confidence in addressing the demands of debt collectors.

Keeping well in your community 77 Contacts and further information: o Free debt counselling agency contacts Consumer Credit Counselling Service (CCCS): As well as a full debt service, CCCS provides extra support to vulnerable people e.g, help with completing forms or with benefit checks. Link: www.cccs.co.uk Tel: 0800 138 1111 Citizens Advice Bureau: Free, confidential and impartial debt advice service. Link:www.adviceguide.org.uk or visit your local CAB centre (see page 95 Advice and Advocacy for local numbers).

Free online debt help tools The Consumer Credit Counselling Service’s Debt Remedy tool suggests what action to take based on your circumstances. It takes about 20 minutes to complete and is completely free and anonymous. Go to https://debtremedy.cccs.co.uk

Keeping well in your community 78 Income Generation / Pensions / Benefits

List of Organizations who are able to provide support, advice and information on income/ pensions/ benefits Welfare Benefits West Lothian Credit Union West Lothian Financial Inclusion Network Energy Advice

Keeping well in your community 79 Income Generation/Pensions/Benefits

Within West Lothian there are a number of non profit organizations who are able to provide support advice and information on the income/benefits/pensions that individuals may be entitled to. This list is not exhaustive and does not intend to identify preferred organisations.

Carers of West Lothian Description: Provides information, support and a voice for unpaid carers. Contact: 01506 771750 email: [email protected] www.carers-westlothian.org.uk

Scottish Helpline for Older People Description: Helpline for older people and their carers or those who work with older people to find out information, can answer questions about community care, tax, pensions, benefits and many other issues. When: Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm. Contact: 0845 125 9732

SeniorLine Description: UK wide phone service for older people and carers giving advice on Welfare Benefits. When: Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm except public and bank holidays. Contact: 0808 800 6565 email: [email protected]

Benefit Enquiry Line (Department of Work & Pensions) Description: Gives confidential advice on benefits available to vulnerable and older people can complete forms over the phone. When 9am – 5pm Monday - Friday. Contact 0800 88 22 00

Pension, Disability and Carer Service Description: Offers home visits for benefit checks and to help with completion of claim forms for people aged 60 years and over. Contact: 0845 60 60 265

Mental Health Foundation in Scotland Description: website offers wide range of useful information relating to mental health – is not able to offer advice on individual mental health problems. Contact: www.mentalhealth.org.uk/about-us/scotland

Direct Gov Description: website offers wide range of information on access to public services Contact: www.direct.gov.uk/moneytaxandbenefits/benefits

Turn 2 Us Description: a non-profit organisation & can help you with benefits advice Contact:www.turn2us.org.uk/advice

Keeping well in your community 80 Help the Aged Description: Find out about benefits for disabled older people including disability living allowance, incapacity benefits, industrial injuries benefits, war pensions Contact: www.helptheaged.org.uk

Disability West Lothian Description: a campaigning and information group for people with disabilities in West Lothian Contact: www.dwl.demon.co.uk

Welfare Benefits

Benefit health checks West Lothian Council is offering you the chance to find out everything you need to know about your entitlement to welfare, in the form of a free and completely confidential Benefits Healthcheck.

The service is available to everyone – whatever the circumstances e.g. o a new tenant o caring for someone o a lone parent o struggling to pay bills o on a low income o claiming benefits but the person’s circumstances have changed.

If you are interested in the service, you’ll be offered a private appointment with a benefits expert from the Advice Shop. Your adviser will ask a few simple questions about your circumstances and from this will be able to tell you about any extra income you may be entitled to. This service will tell you about every benefit available to you in one contact – there’s no need to go chasing around different agencies for information. In short, it is a unique opportunity to get a complete check of your full eligibility for benefits.

It would be helpful if you could bring your: o benefits books o wage slips o details of rent o details of council tax o any other financial details you think might be relevant, e.g. details of savings.

The service is free, easy to access and completely discreet. Any information you provide will be held in the strictest confidence, and will not be disclosed to any third parties.

If the person is interested the local Customer Service Centre should be contacted for an appointment with a specialist adviser. If the person is unable to visit the office please contact 01506 776444 and they will either collect the information by phone or arrange for someone to call at the person’s home.

Keeping well in your community 81 West Lothian Credit Union

A Credit Union is a financial co-operative, owned by members and run by volunteers, to provide savings accounts and affordable loans to members. All credit unions are non-profit organisations.

Credit Union members must be part of the “common bond” - have something in common, for example living or working in the same area. Everyone who lives or works in West Lothian is eligible to join at least one credit union. Members must be 16 or older (minimum age 18 for loans), but all the local credit unions offer junior savings accounts from birth upwards, and there is no upper age limit.

Your savings are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. If anything happened to the credit union, you would receive 100% of your savings back up to £50,000.

Contacts and further information: o Janet Mundy of West Lothian Credit Union Forum or any of the three credit unions operating in West Lothian - Blackburn, Seafield & District; Livingston and Capital. Blackburn Seafield and District Credit Union Blackburn Connected, 10 Sycamore Walk, Blackburn EH47 7LQ Tel: 01506 650198 email: [email protected] www.bsdcreditunion.co.uk Capital Credit Union 18-19 Waverley Industrial Estate, Bathgate EH48 4HY Tel: 01506 776226 email: [email protected]

West Lothian Financial Inclusion Network

WLFIN stands for West Lothian Financial Inclusion Network which has been borne out of a national initiative to try to ensure that people in the community are not excluded from the community for financial reasons. We try to help individuals in an indirect way. We provide the “thinking”, if you like, and sometimes assist with finance, to the local organisations who in turn will help you as an individual.

Financial inclusion covers many different things for different people. For instance, some people find it difficult to manage money, and our partners such as the Advice Shop, Citizens Advice Bureau and credit unions can assist in this area. Some people know their money handling and budgeting skills are poor and our partner Adult Basic Education can help.

Other partners cover issues directly affecting young people, elderly people, housing, young mothers, the benefits system, employment issues, banking and many more. If you think you have an issue where finance is involved we can help to steer you in the right direction

Contacts and further information: o Janet Mundy. Tel: 01506 633222 David Coia. Tel: 01506 445859

Keeping well in your community 82 Energy Advice

West Lothian Council Energy Advice offers free, confidential and impartial advice on all fuel related issues, to all residents of West Lothian whether they are council or private tenants or homeowners.

They can deal with a variety of issues including: new tenant advice, heating use, payment methods, cutting down your fuel bills, insulation measures, billing problems and energy efficiency grants.

They can negotiate on the person’s behalf with their fuel supplier and if they have been caught by surprise with a large fuel bill, they can help arrange suitable payment plans and/or investigate the cause for them. They are also available to give talks and training to community groups and organisations on all domestic fuel related issues and can also carry out home visits.

Contacts and further information: o West Lothian Energy Advice FREEPOST EH3217, Bathgate, West Lothian EH48 0BR FREEPHONE 0800 834 672 email: [email protected] Opening hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays: 9.00-5pm Wednesdays: 9.00am-1.00pm, Fridays: 9.00am-4.00pm

Keeping well in your community 83 Services to promote and maintain independence

West Lothian Community Equipment Store Food Train Flexible Respite - Re-ablement Service

Keeping well in your community 84 Services to Promote and Maintain Independence

West Lothian Community Equipment Store

The West Lothian community equipment store is a jointly funded service between West Lothian Council and the West Lothian division of NHS Lothian.

We provide for all ages. Access to our service is by professional assessment or, for a range of simple equipment, by self-assessment or recommendation by members of the public. All West Lothian residents have access to this service.

Our service exists to supply a range of equipment which enables individuals to remain independent within the community, or nursed within their own homes. A delivery service for the supply of incontinence products is also based at the store.

Contacts and further information: o Equipment service 01506 523335 Incontinence service 01506 523339 Fax number for both services 01506 523336 If you require any information on self assessment please call John Leyden on 01506 522196.

Food Train

This service commenced in September 2010. Its purpose is to provide a shopping service for older people who for whatever reason are unable to shop for themselves. Via a network of local volunteers and close partnership working with local food outlets shopping lists are collected, shopping orders are then made up in store, collected and delivered directly to the home. Assistance can also be given with putting shopping away if necessary.

This service is not means tested nor does it require an assessment from social services prior to be able to access it. Older people themselves, families, and professionals are all able to request the service.

The benefits are obvious in supporting older people to remain at home and live as independently as possible. Access to healthy food produce is readily available. There is also regular contact with the volunteers concerned thus reducing the potential for loneliness and isolation.

There are of course, also benefits to be gained from volunteering with no age limit being identified for the volunteers. To request access to this service or express an interest in volunteering telephone: 01506 654360.

Keeping well in your community 85 Flexible Respite

Our Flexible Short Break Scheme is one of a number of options available to people with dementia living at home being supported by an informal carer.

Eligibility to access the scheme is determined via social work assessments to determine the needs of the person with dementia as well as their carer. When the necessary criteria are met under this scheme a ‘respite account’ may then be opened on behalf of the individual with dementia.

The ‘respite account’ thereafter operates in a similar fashion to a bank account, with an agreed sum of money being lodged within the account by the council. The carer who is best placed to know the needs of the individual being cared for is then able to go ahead and organise the type of short break they deemed most appropriate at a time and location of their choice. The council who holds and administers the respite account will thereafter on receipt of the invoice from the short break provider of choice draws funds down from the individuals respite account to cover the cost. Thus giving the individuals concerned choice, flexibility and control over the short breaks they receive without the administrative burden of having to produce a detailed account of expenditure as is the case when money is made directly available to them.

Contacts and further information: o Anyone wishing to discuss the possibility of setting up a respite account or wishing further information should contact the following numbers during normal office hours Monday to Friday: o If the person with dementia is aged 65 years or more phone Bathgate 01506 776700 and speak to the Duty Officer. o If the person is below 65 years of age contact Broxburn 01506 775666 and speak to the Adult Duty Officer o Alternatively if there is already an allocated social worker they may be contacted direct.

Re-ablement Service

The Scottish Government has set out a clear strategy for the way in which social care services should be delivered. The Government publication, ‘Changing Lives’ sets the context of putting people at the heart of the delivery of services.

Within West Lothian we are further developing our outcome focused approach when assessing service users’ needs with staff working in partnership to build and develop the individual’s own ability and potential to maximize and sustain their independence. Our Re-ablement service is central to this approach as it seeks to identify and build upon the individual’s capabilities via the learning or relearning of skills which will allow the individual to continue to live as independently as possible for as long as possible. In brief, the Re-ablement Service will help people to continue to live as independently as possible within their own home and community. For some it will mean adapting to a very different way of working moving from ‘doing to or for’ people, to ‘ enabling people to do it for themselves’.

To access this service a social work assessment is required.

Keeping well in your community 86 Sensory Impairment

The Sensory Support Service

Keeping well in your community 87 Sensory Impairment

The Sensory Support Service

The Sensory Support Service (formerly The Sensory Resource Centre) is based in the grounds of St.John’s Hospital in Livingston and provides advice, information, support and equipment for people who are Deaf, Deafened, Hard of Hearing, experiencing sight loss (either partially sighted or blind) or who are Deafblind (experiencing dual sensory loss).

The service is delivered by social work staff from both West Lothian Council and Deaf Action. The Deaf Action worker is a BSL (British Sign Language) user. The service can visit people in their own homes and assist with obtaining support based on an assessment of need. The service can also refer to specialist services for assessment and provision of equipment or mobility training.

There is a drop-in Duty Service for BSL (British Sign Language) users every Tuesday at the Sensory Support Centre, 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

Contacts and further information: o Sensory Support Service, St.John’s Hospital, Howden, Livingston, EH54 6PP Tel. (Voice and Minicom) - 01506 774490 Text - 07867651196 email - [email protected] o Vision Support West Lothian, a group of local people who are blind or partially sighted and who meet regularly socially and who also campaign for local services [email protected] o Royal National Institute for the Blind, a national organisation www.rnib.org.uk o Action For Blind People, a national support and campaigning group www.actionforblindpeople.org.uk o Deafblind Scotland, for those with a dual sensory loss www.deafblindscotland.org.uk (new window) o Royal National Institute for the Deaf www.rnid.org.uk (new window) o Deaf Action, for support of deaf, deafened and hard of hearing people in the Lothians www.deafaction.org (new window) o Disability West Lothian, a campaigning and information group for people with disabilities in West Lothian www.dwl.demon.co.uk (new window) o Lawn Bowling Group, for blind and partially sighted people locally email: [email protected]

Keeping well in your community 88 Appendix Community Resource Directory

Community Resource Directory

Index

2 Armadale

3 Bathgate

4 Blackburn

4 Blackridge

5 Broxburn

6 Dechmont

6 East Calder

6 Ecclesmachan

6 Fauldhouse

6 Kirknewton

7 Linlithgow

9 Livingston

11 Mid Calder

11 Philipstoun

11 Polbeth

11 Stoneyburn

12 Torphichen

12 Uphall

13 West Calder

13 Westfield

14 Whitburn

14 Winchburgh

14 National & Area Wide Provision

Provision Within Specific Geographical Areas

Community Resource Directory 1 Provision within specific geographical areas

Armadale

50+ Activities Group Armadale Parish Church (Armadale Community Centre) (Academy Street) Description: Outings to places of interest, Description: Friendship Group demonstrations, speakers and quizzes. When: Alternate Mondays 7.30pm When: 1st Thursday of the month 10am – 12pm Contact: 01501 733950 Contact: 01506 730708 Methodist Church Armadale Sunshine Club & Dancing (East Main Street) (Armadale Community Centre) Description: Range of activities including a Description: Social Club for retired persons includes women’s interest group, monthly outreach lunch dancing. and chat, craft group, men’s lunch club. When: Every Monday dancing 1.30 – 3.30pm When: Contact for details Contact: 01501 678511 Contact: 01324 715852

History of Armadale Association Armadale Cooperative Women’s Guild (Methodist Church Hall, East Main St.) (Goth Lounge Main Street) Description: records history of Armadale in addition Description: varied activities including topical to talks and slide shows from visiting speakers. discussions, trips, guest speakers etc. When: 2nd Tuesday of the month 7pm – 9pm When: Tuesday 7pm Contact: 01506 678400 Contact: 01501 731045 email: [email protected] Tuesday Women’s Interest Group Armadale & District Homing Society (Methodist Church Hall) (Club Hut 85 South Street) Description: Women’s group for the over 50s, visit Description: Races and shows pigeons places of interest, invited speakers, handicrafts When: Friday 6pm and Saturday 1pm April – When: Alternate Tuesday 2pm – 3.30pm Craft Club September meets alternate weeks. Contact: 01501 732228 Contact: Nil available

Colinshields Court Description: Card making / Art Class When: Tuesday 10am – 12md (under regular review call to confirm details) Contact: 01506 880197

Armadale Inter-Church Discussion Group (Methodist Church East Main St) Description: Ecumenical discussion group on all matters of general interest relating to the Christian faith. Thursday 7.30pm Contact: 01501 730956

Community Resource Directory 2 Bathgate

West Lothian 50 + Network Bathgate Swimming Pool (Linbar House North Bridge Street) Description: Aquafit uses water resistance to Description: Groups, classes, leisure activities improve fitness and muscle tone suitable for all Contact: 01506 635510 ages and abilities email: [email protected] When: Monday & Tuesday 6.30pm- 7.30pm, [email protected]/plusntw Tuesday & Friday 9.15am – 10am. Contact: 01506 774670 NSF (West Lothian) Carers Support Group Description: Group of carers of people suffering from Bathgate Community Centre mental illness meet informally to support each other. (Marjoriebanks Street) Contact: 01506 842723 Description: Old time and social dancing taught to all ages Bathgate Bridge Club When: Thursday 1.30pm – 3.30pm (E.U. Church Hall, Marjoribanks Street) Contact: 01506 775151 Description: Encourages people to take up bridge and enjoy playing the game Boghall Parish Church When: Thursday 6.45pm (Elizabeth Drive Bathgate) Contact: 01506 655362 Description: Wide programme for all ages e.g. talks, www.bathgatebridgeclub.org.uk videos, demonstrations When: 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at British Beermat Collectors Society 7.30pm Sept- April (Venue variable) Contact: 01506 654107 Description: view new mats, auctions older mats When: Variable phone to confirm Royal British Legion (50 North Bridge Street) Contact: 01506 631339 Description: Offers comeradeship, social activities. email: [email protected] When: 11.30am – 3.30pm and 6.30pm – 11.30pm Contact: 01506 635336

Community Resource Directory 3 Blackburn

Young at Heart W.S.S.C. (Blackburn Community Centre) (Blackburn Community Centre) Description: Range of activities and demonstrations Description: Women only meet to socialise, have such as Tai Chi, keep fit, line dancing, card making, invited guest speakers flower arranging etc When: Wednesday 7pm – 9.30pm (closed for When: Tuesdays 10am – 11am (closed for summer summer recommences Sept) recommences Sept) Contact: 01506 656821 Contact: 01506 636224 Bowling Group Young at Heart (Blackburn Community Centre) (Blackburn Community Centre) Description: carpet bowling Description: Meet for coffee / tea When: Tuesdays and Thursdays 1pm – 4pm (closed When: Tuesdays 11am – 11.30am for summer recommences Sept) Contact: 01506 636224 Contact: 01506 630379 mobile 07796886098

OAP Group Blackburn Reading Group (Blackburn Community Centre) (Mill Centre Blackburn) Description: Guest speakers, demonstrations, social Description: Group meets in library to have a light- meeting. hearted chat and review of a chosen book. When: Fortnightly on Mondays 6.30pm – 9.30pm Contact: 01506 776500 (closed for summer recommences Sept) Contact: 01506 656920 (new contact being sought)

Blackridge

Blackridge & District Model Flying Club Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (Heights Rd Flying Site. Blackridge) (Craig Inn Centre) Description: Adults and juniors interested in Description: Gathering of women of all ages – building and flying radio controlled model aircraft demonstrations and speakers on a arrange of When: most evening and weekends topics, crafts, collections, cookery etc. Contact: 01506 630093 When: 2nd Monday of the month, 7pm www.bdmfc.org September – April Contact: 01506 751456 Time Out Art Class (Craig Inn Centre) Description: Art class using oils, acrylics and watercolours When: Tuesday 6pm – 9pm Contact: 01501 753660

Community Resource Directory 4 Broxburn

Senior Citizens Bingo Broxburn Machine Knitting Club (Strathbrock) (Strathbrock) When: Wednesday 1.30pm – 3.30pm Description: Club teaches use of knitting machines Contact: 01506 771733 – machine available When: Tuesday 7.30pm – 9.30pm Homes Gardens Contact 01506 852989 Description: Yoga / Seated exercise to music When: 11am – 12md (kept under review call to Broxburn Fellowship Hour confirm details) (Hopehall, Greendykes Road) Contact: 01506 880197 Description: Christian Felowship meetings. When: Monday 2pm – 3pm October – April Broxburn Sports Centre Contact: 01506 853008 Description: Line dancing for beginners and intermediate level St Johns Cantius & St Nicholas RC Church When: Monday 12md – 1pm (beginners) (West Main Street) 1pm – 2.30pm(intermediates) Description: hosts various recreational and social Contact: 01506 775690 clubs in adjoining Canon Hoban Hall. When: contact for details Broxburn Sports Centre Contact: 01506 852040 Description: Gentle exercise for older people When: Tuesday 10am – 10.30am, Thursday 10am – Scottish Women’s Rural 10.45am (Broxburn Bowling Club) Contact: 01506 775690 Description: Provides varied activities for women of all ages e.g. guest speakers, demonstrations, varied Broxburn Swimming Pool outings. Description: Aquafit uses water resistance to When: Second Monday of the month improve fitness and tone suitable for all ages and September – May at 7pm abilities Contact: 01506 857540 When: Tuesday 6.45pm – 7.45pm Contact: 01506 775680 Broxburn Bowling Club (West Burnside) Broxburn Book Club Description: Bowling (Library West Main Street) When: 12noon – 11pm Description: Group meet once a month to discuss Contact: 01506 856375 their chosen novel. When; Monthly Buchanan Park Bowling Club Contact: 01506 775600 (Greendykes Road) Description: Bowling Royal Scottish Country Dance Society When: Contact for details (Canon Hoban Hall) Contact: 01506 507030 Description: Country dance classes When: Thursday 7.30pm – 9.30pm Contact: Nil available

Community Resource Directory 5 Dechmont

50+ Art Group (Dechmont Community Hall) Description: Art classes, painting and drawing for leisure. When: Wednesday 1.30pm – 4pm Contact: 01506 857154

East Calder

East Calder Sports Centre East Calder Book Group Description: Gentle exercise for older people (Library, Main Street) When: Friday 10am – 11am Description: Meets to discuss chosen novel Contact 01506 883340 When: One Thursday a month Contact: 01506 883633 Camcorder Group (Community Education Centre, Main Street) East Calder Needlecraft Club Description: Involves various aspects of video work (Community Education Centre, Main Street) When: Tuesdays 7pm – 9pm Description: Members enjoy range of needlecraft, Contact: 01506 491559 including embroidery, knitting, crochet and patchwork. When: Thursday 7pm 9pm Contact: Just come along

Ecclesmachan

Over 50s Leisure Club ET Scottish Country Dance Group (Village Hall) (Village Hall) Description: leisurely and gentle activities Description: Scottish Country dancing and basic for over 50s ceilidh dances When: Wednesday 2pm – 4pm When: Monday 7.30pm – 9.30pm Contact: 01506 857726 Contact: 01506 500457

Fauldhouse

Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (Salvation Army Hall) Description: Women’s social club provides a programme of speakers and demonstrations. When: 1st Monday of the month at 7.15pm excluding January, June, July August. Contact: 01501 771924

Kirknewton

Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (Church Hall) Description: social, recreational and educational activities for women. When: 2nd Thursday of the month at 7.30pm Contact: 01506 880241

Community Resource Directory 6 Linlithgow

Camera Club Linlithgow Link Voluntary Group (Springfield Community Education Wing) (St Michael’s Hospital, Linlithgow) Description: See web site for full programme Description: Offers transport service for older people When: Tuesday 7pm – 9pm unable to use public transport, plus befriending Contact: 01506 847455 service, twice yearly outings www.linlithgowcc.org When: Monday – Friday 9.30am – 12.30pm Contact: 01506 845137 Come Dancing email:[email protected] (Low Port Centre) www.linlithgowlink.org.uk When: Monday & Friday afternoons 2pm – 4pm Contact: 01506 775390 Linlithgow Leisure Centre Description: Aquafit – uses water resistance to Exercise to Music improve fitness and muscle tone. Suitable for all ages (St Michael’s Church Hall) and abilities When: Tuesday 9.30am – 10.30am When: Monday 6.30pm-7.15pm, & 10.45am – 11.45am Tuesday 10am-11am, Thursday 10am-11am email: [email protected] Contact: 01506 775440

High Street Help Centre Linlithgow Leisure Centre (Cross House Linlithgow) Description: Gentle exercise for older people Description: Provides information plus contacts e.g. When: Wednesday & Friday 9.30am – 10.15am, care and age concern, loneliness, bereavement . Contact: 01506 775440 email: [email protected] www.helpcentre.org.uk Linlithgow Ramblers (Linlithgow Cross Meeting Point) Linlithgow & Linlithgow Bridge Pensioners Assoc. Description: All levels of walks including short strolls (Linlithgow Bowling Club) on local paths Description: half hour talk, tea, entertainment e.g. When: Saturdays / Sundays and some Wednesdays film show, musical entertainers, sing-a-long Contact: 01506 842504 When: 4th Tuesday of month 7pm – 9pm (transport provided) Low Port Art Group Contact: 01506 842 103 (Low Port Centre, Blackness Road) Description: Amateur self-help group, occasional Low Port 50s Plus Group workshops and tutors (Low Port Centre) When: Tuesday 7pm –9pm Description: leisure and recreation including walks, Contact: 01506 845805 visits to gardens, castles and geological sites. When: Sunday fortnightly 12noon – 7pm Drawing and Painting Classes Contact: 01506 844802 (Low Port Centre) Description: As above Link Abbeyfield Support Group When: Wednesday 7.30pm – 9.30pm, (Abbeyfield House Linlithgow) Friday 9.30am – 11.30am and 12- 2pm Description: Group for senior citizens who are usually Contact: 01506 825115 lonely, housebound or require stimulation. When: 2.15pm – 4.25pm Contact: 01506 845137

Community Resource Directory 7 Sangschule 50+ Come Dancing (Linlithgow Academy Staff Room) (Low Port Centre, Blackness Road) Description: get together to sing folk music from Description: Tea Dance Scotland and other countries. When: Monday & Friday 2pm – 4pm When: Wednesday 7.30pm – 9.30pm Contact 01506 775390 Contact: 01506 843592 www.angelfire.com/folk.sangschule Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (Chalmers Hall, Main Street) St Michaels Parish Church Choir Description: Talks, demonstrations, craft classes, (Adam Room, Cross House) outings and social events Description: Choir rehearses regularly for secular When: August – April 4th Wednesday of the month concerts, fundraising events and social events. at 7.15pm When: Thursday 8.15pm 9.30pm Contact: 01506 843731 Contact: 01506 842188 Linlithgow Floral Art Club Linlithgow Scotch Hop (Linlithgow Rose Club, Braehead Road) (Venue variable) Description: Demonstrations in the art of flower Description: Scottish dancing for all arranging When: Contact for details When: 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm Contact: 01506 845698 September – May Contact: 01506 842590 Linlithgow Scottish Country Dance Club (Chalmers Halls) Linlithgow Aquarist Society Description: As above (Burgh Halls, The Cross) When: Friday 7.45pm – 10.15pm (break for tea) Description: Regular meetings to discuss fish keeping www.linlithgowscdc.org skills, talks, videos, slide presentations and visits. When: Every 2nd Wednesday at 7.30pm Green Park Weavers (2 Green Park Cottages) Springfield Carpet Bowls Description: Tapestry and off loom weaving group (Springfield Community Education Centre) When: Wednesday 2pm – 4pm When: Tuesday 2pm-4pm September – June Contact: 01506 670165 Contact: 01506 847455

Linlithgow & District Embroiderers Guild (Hutted Unit, Low Port Centre) Description: Talks, demonstrations, visits to exhibitions and practical sessions. When: 4th Wednesday of the month 7.15 – 9.30pm Contact: 01506 845227 www.embroiderersguild.com

Stitch ‘N’ Bitch (Bonsyde Public House, Linlithgow) Description: Knit, crochet and needlework When: 1st and 3rd Monday of the month Contact: 01506 670207

Community Resource Directory 8 Livingston

Dedridge Retired Men’s Club Deans Community High School (Lanthorn Community Centre) Description: Range of classes including 50+ keep fit, Description: Indoor carpet bowls pottery, painting & drawing, cake decoration, pilates. When: Tuesday 1pm – 4pm When: Day and evening classes Contact: 01506 777707 Contact: 01506 497090 email: [email protected] Dedridge Good Neighbour Network (Lanthorn Community Centre) Friends of Almond Valley Description: Visiting, befriending, transport to shops (Heritage Centre, Millfield, Livingston Village) etc plus wide range of social activities, lunch club. Description: Support centre operation by assisting Contact: 01506 416137 with care of animals, restoration and maintenance etc. email: [email protected] When: Daily 10am – 5pm Contact: 01506 414957 Deans Senior Citizen’s Club www.almondvalley.co.uk (Livingston Station Community Centre) Description: Pensioner’s social club with dominoes Bridge Club and bingo, two coach trips per year plus Christmas (Bankton Mains Bowling Club, Muireston) party. Description: Play bridge and socialise When: Mondays 2pm – 4pm When: Wednesday 7pm September – April Contact: 01506 494612 Contact: 01506 430989

Muireston 50 + Group Chess Club (Muireston Village Hall) (Harvester Public House, Knightbridge) Description: Talks, discussions, occasional craft Description: Play chess and hold competitions demonstrations, outings and walking groups. When: Monday 7pm – 11pm When: Tuesday 2pm – 4pm Contact: 01506 430989 email: [email protected] or [email protected] Bankton Chess Club (Langthorn Community Centre, Dedridge) Lunch Club Description: Play Chess (Livingston Baptist Church Dedridge) When Friday 6.45 – 9pm Description: Lunch Club for older people in Contact: 01506 496501 Dedridge and Muireston areas www.banktonchessclub.com When: Thursday 12 noon Contact: 01506 415831 Livingston Leisure Centre email: [email protected] Description: Gentle exercise for older people When: Monday 9.30am-10am, Wednesday and Livingston High School Adult Classes Friday 9am – 9.30am Description: range of adult classes including card Contact: 01506 775440 making, floral arts, digital photography, computing etc. When: Day and evening classes Contact: 01506 439631

Community Resource Directory 9 Livingston Leisure Centre Lanthorn Reading Group Description: Aquafit uses water resistance to (Lanthorn Library) improve fitness and muscle tone is suitable for all Description: Discuss books and have tea and a chat ages and abilities When: 1st Thursday of the month 6.45pm – 8pm When: Monday, Wednesday & Contact: 01506 777700 Friday 9.45am-10.45am email:[email protected] Monday & Thursday 6pm – 7pm Contact: 01506 775440 Crafting Mad Card Making Club (Ability Centre) Craigswood Sports Centre Description: Club for those who love card making Description: Gentle exercise for older people and want to get together When: Thursday 9.30am – 10am When: Monday 7pm – 8pm Contact 01506 775870 Contact: 01506 414398 www.crafting-mad.co.uk Livingston and District Art Club (Lanthorn Community Centre) North Barn Quilters Description: Gathering of people interested in (Carmondean Community Centre) painting, drawing, handicrafts, to socialise and Description: Patchwork share advice. When: 4th Monday of the month 7.30pm – 9.30pm When: Tuesday and Wednesday 7pm – 9pm Contact: 01506 495531 Contact 01506 777707 Royal British Legion Livingston Camcorder Club (Craigshill Masonic Club) (Craigs Farm, Craigshill) Description: Comeradeship of ex service men and Description: Self help group to improve us of women camcorder and equipment. When: Last Wednesday of the month 7.30- 9.30pm When: Every fortnight on a Wednesday at 7pm Contact: 01506 410325 Contact: 01506 432772 Scottish Women’s Rural Institute Livingston Camera Club (Craigspark Pavillion) (Crofthead Farm Community Education Centre) Description: Holds talks, demonstrations, films on Description: For beginners and the experienced travel, handicrafts When: Monday 7.30 – 10pm When 2nd Wednesday 7pm – 9pm Contact 01506 775991 Contact: 01506 439888 www.livingstoncameraclub.co.uk.com West Lothian Bonsai Group Livingston Choral Society (Almond Valley Heritage Centre) (Music Room, St Margaret’s Academy) Description: Teaches how to look after bonsai trees, Description: Group of amateurs singing Scottish styling and repotting workshops. folk songs, medleys, Africana and jazz When: 1st Thursday of the month 7.30pm – 9.30pm When: Friday 7pm – 9pm Contact: 0771 3484001 Contact 07931 672353 www.scottishbonsai.org

Buffalo Mountain Western Dancers Deans Bowling Club (Newyearfield Community Centre) (2 Main Street, Deans) Description: Learn easy line dances and socialise When: April – September When: Tuesday 7pm – 8pm Contact: 01506 413789 Contact 01506 419578

Community Resource Directory 10 Mid Calder

Cunnigar House Mid Calder Camera Club Description: Computer Class (Institute Hall) When: Tuesday 2pm – 3pm (kept under review, call Description: For all ages and abilities with a to confirm details) common interest in photography Contact: 01506 880197 When: Wednesday 7.30pm from September – May Contact: 01506 882616 Choral Highland Ladies Choir www.midcaldercameraclub.org.uk (Kirk of Calder) Description: Cover a wide variety of music When: Wednesday – 7.30pm – 9pm Contact: 01506 880029

Philipstoun

Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (Village Hall) Description: Social and educational group for women. Varied speaker, whilst drive, charity coffee evening and bus trips. When: 2nd Tuesday of every month 7pm – 9.30pm Contact: 01506 834360

Polbeth

Polbeth Walking Group Polbeth Bowling Green (Polbeth & Hartwood Church) (Limefield Park) Description: do local walks When: April – September When: Every Sunday at 1.15pm Contact: 01506 871937 Contact: 01506 870380 www.polbethwalkinggroup.diinoweb.com

Stoneyburn

Lunch Club Stoneyburn Bowling Club (Community Centre Stoneyburn) (39 Main Street) When: Tuesdays and Thursdays 11.30am – 1.30pm Description: Bowling, plus lounge, plus hall and Contact: 01501 762515 social events When: Daily April – September Contact: 01501 763091

Community Resource Directory 11 Torphichen

Senior Citizens Group West Lothian Archers (Torphichen Kirk) (Torphichen Community Centre) Description: Dominoes, scrabble, activities and Description: Practice and teach field archery outings. When: Friday 7pm – 10pm When: Tuesday 2pm – 4pm January to June & Contact: 01506 830063 September to December www.westlothianarchers.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk Contact: 01506 652174 Torphichen Reading Group Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (Venue variable) (Torphichen Primary School) Description: Discuss selected book each month Description: Social gathering of ladies – crafts, When: Once a month at 7.30pm contact for details speakers, participation in baking and cooking (if Contact: 01506 633991 desired) plus outings to places of interest. When 1st Thursday of the month at 7.15pm Torphichen Kirk Dance Club Contact: 01506 631909 (St Johns Hall) Description: Social dancing for all ages When: 7pm – 9pm alternate Saturdays Contact: 01506 651185

Uphall

Sunshine Club The Guild (Uphall Community Centre) (Strathbrock Church Hall) Description: Bingo, spring and autumn day trips, Description: Varied programme of talks, discussions pantomime visits and other outings. and social evenings for Christian education and When: Thursdays 1pm – 3pm fellowship When: Alternate Tuesdays at 7.50pm South Church Fellowship www.strathbrockparish.net (Uphall South Church) Description: varied programme of talks, discussions Scottish Women’s Rural and social evenings (Uphall Community Centre) When: Alternate Wednesdays at 7.30pm Oct to Mar Description: Varied programme of arts, crafts, talks Contact: 01506 854520 and various outings www.uphallsouthchurch.com.uk When: 2nd Monday of month, 7pm – 9.30pm September – May Contact: 01506 853891

Community Resource Directory 12 West Calder

Fifty Plus Dance Club Dickson Court (West Calder Community Centre) Description: Art Class Description: Sequence dancing plus tea for over When: Thursday 2pm -3.30 pm (may be subject to 50’s. change, call to confirm details) When: Friday 1.15pm – 3pm Contact: 01506 880197 Contact: 01506 871278 Calder Craft Club After Lunch Club (West Kirk – Church Hall) (West Calder Community Centre) Description: Social gathering of crafters Description: Meet friends over bowling, tea and a When: Tuesday 10am – 12.30pm and last Monday chat. of the month 8pm – 10pm When: Tuesday 10.30am – 12md Contact: 01506 870162 Contact: 01506 871278 www.caldercraftclub.co.uk

West Calder Bridge Club Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (West Kirk of Calder Hall) (Harburn Village Hall) Description: Play Bridge and socialise Description: Varied programme – craft work, guest When: Tuesday 6.45pm – 7.30pm speakers, outings Contact: 0131 333 1936 When: 2nd Monday of month 7.30pm – 9.30pm [email protected] except June, July and August Contact: 01506 873032 West Calder Model Flying Club (Flying site south of West Calder) West Calder Bowling Club Description: Offers training and recreational flying, (Harburn Road) events and competitions When: Monday – Friday 6.30pm – 11pm, Saturday When: Saturday and Sunday weather permitting and Sunday 12noon – midnight Contact: 01506 857455 / 07761 645644 Contact: 01506 871680 www.modelclub.org

Westfield

Scottish Women’s Rural Institute (Bridgehouse Community Hall) Description: Social, educational recreational activities for women When: 1st Wednesday of month at 7.30pm except for July and August Contact 01324 861318

Community Resource Directory 13 Whitburn

50 + Keep Fit Class Whitburn Leisure Centre Description: Dance steps plus stretching exercises Description: Gentle exercise for older people to improve flexibility When: Tuesday 9.30am – 10.15am When: Tuesday 10am – 11am (tea 11am – 11.30am) Contact: 01501 678070 Contact: 01501 743034 email: [email protected] Whitburn Adult Reading Group (Whitburn Library) Scottish Pensioners Association Description: Meet to discuss chosen novels, chat (Burgh Halls Whitburn) and have tea Description: Social evenings, visiting entertainment, When: Contact for details raffles, bingo, two bus trips per year and a Contact: 01501 678050 Christmas party. When: Every 2nd Monday at 7pm August to Old Time Dancing December and January to May (Whitburn Community Education) Contact 01506 633224 Description: Old time dancing (mainly ladies over 50 years) When: Wednesday 1.30pm – 3.30pm Contact: 01501 743034

Winchburgh

Winchburgh Art Club Winchburgh Bowling Club (Winchburgh Community Education) (Craighton Place) Description: Painting, drawing. Tuition provided When: Contact for information intermittently Contact: 01506 890345 When: Thursday 9.30am – 11.30am

National & Area Wide Provision

Carers of West Lothian Contact The Elderly In Scotland Description: Provides information, support and a Description: Small group of volunteers with cars voice for unpaid carers. collects older person and meet for a chat over tea Contact: 01506 771750 in volunteers home. email: [email protected] When: One Sunday per month in the afternoon www.carers-westlothian.org.uk www.contact.the.elderly.org.uk

Volunteer Centre West Lothian Scottish Helpline for Older People Description: promotes, supports and develops Description: Helpline for older people and their volunteering throughout West Lothian carers or those who work with older people to When: Monday – Friday 9am 0 4.30pm find out information about community care, tax, Contact: 10506 650111 pensions, benefits and many other issues. www.vcwl.co.uk When: Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm Contact: 0845 125 9732

Community Resource Directory 14 SeniorLine Chest, Heart and Stroke Scotland Description: UK wide phone service for older people Description: Advice line staffed by specialist nurses and carers giving advice on Welfare Benefits. provides confidential advice on all aspects of chest When: Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm except public heart and stroke illness. and bank holidays. When: Monday – Friday 9.30am – 12.30pm Contact: 0808 800 6565 & 1.30 – 4pm email: [email protected] Contact: 0845 077 6000 www.helptheaged.org.uk email: [email protected] www.chss.org.uk Dementia Helpline – (Alzheimer Scotland) Description: Talk to someone re concerns you have Depression Alliance Scotland about your own or others memeory, provides Description: Offers information and support to information, emotional support and a listening ear individuals, their families, friends and professionals When: 24 hour service working with people who have depression. Contact 0808 808 3000 When: 10am - 2pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and www.alzscot.org Friday Contact: 0845 123 23 20 Alzheimer Scotland email: [email protected] Description: Provide free publications and www.dascot.org information for people with dementia and their carers as well as local information Dementia Services Development Centre When: 9am – 4.30pm Monday – Friday Description: Provides library and information Contact: 0131 243 1453 (office) service at Stirling University is open to the public email: [email protected] and offers reading lists, an online catalogue, book loans and photocopies of journal articles (charge Breathing Space for copying and postage) Description: Listens, offers advice and information When: 9am – 4pm Monday – Friday to anyone feeling down or depressed. Contact 01786 467740 When: Monday – Thursday 6pm – 2am www.dementia.stir.ac.uk Friday – Monday 6pm – 6am Contact: 0800 83 85 87 Mental Health Foundation in Scotland www.breathingspacescotland.co.uk Description: website offers wide range of useful information relating to mental health – is not able to Benefit Enquiry Line offer advice on individual mental health problems. (Department of Work & Pensions) www.mentalhealth.org.uk/about-us/scotland Description: Gives confidential advice on benefits available to people with dementia and carers, can The Stroke Association complete forms over the phone. Description: Call or email for information, practical When 9am – 5pm Monday - Friday advice or someone to talk to about stroke and how Contact 0800 88 22 00 to cope with life after a stroke. When: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Pension , Disability and Carer Service Contact: 0845 303 3100 Description: Offers home visits for benefit checks email: [email protected] and to help with completion of claim forms for www.stroke.org.uk people aged 60 years and over. Contact: 0845 60 60 265

Community Resource Directory 15 Shared Care Scotland West Lothian Scottish Heritage Society Description: Provides information, advice and (Regal Community Theatre Bathgate) details of the types and availability of short breaks When: 1st Tuesday of month at 7.30pm (respite care) available throughout Scotland, has Contact: 01506 652174 database so can undertake tailored searches based on specific requirements. West Lothian Family History Society When: Monday – Friday 9am – 4.30pm (Library Headquarters Blackburn) Contact: 01383 622462 Description: Promotes the study of family history throughout West Lothian Community Equipment Store When: 1st Tuesday of the month 7pm Sept – June Equipment to aid independence at home or in the Contact: 01506 464157 community: www.wlfhs.org.uk email: [email protected] Tel: 01506 523335 West Lothian History & Amenity Society (Venue variable in West Lothian) Sensory Resource Centre Description: holds meetings with talks and lectures email: [email protected] on variety of subjects based on local and Scottish Tel: 01506 774490 history. When: Monthly March – May and September – Samaritans December 3rd Wed at 7.30pm When: 24 hour helpline Contact: 0131 221 9999 West Lothian Drug and Alcohol Service email: [email protected] Description: Information and resource centre www.edinburghsamaritans.org available to public as well as counselling and support. Deaf & Hard of Hearing Support Group When: Monday – Friday 9.30am – 4.30pm Description: socialise, support and advice about plus 24hr ansaphone equipment, information on deaf / hard of hearing Contact 01506 430225 issues, contacts and links to other organisations. Contact: 0800 7311831 Support Group for Men with Prostate Cancer email: [email protected] (McMillan Centre St John’s) When: 7pm – 9pm Jan/March/May/Aug/Oct Adult Learning Centre Contact: 01506 845981 or 01506 842487 Description: Offers a wide range of courses in a range email; [email protected] of community centres throughout West Lothian. www.prostatescotland.org.uk Contact: 01506 7763333 Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm email:[email protected] www.getonlineandlearn.org.uk

Community Resource Directory 16