I don’t know what you think about the current lengthy American Presidential campaigns. Their almost daily news reports bombard our screens, promoting their larger than life candidates and their loud views. Whilst tiresome I suppose, at the very least, their electorates will be clear what each campaign stands for. Whereas our own various elections here…
From Government announcements about the “Northern Powerhouse” to local authorities’ own local plans, the word “devolution” appears to be everywhere these days. But what does it actually mean? At its heart, devolution is about bringing decision-making closer to the people it affects. For some years Government has acknowledged that it’s neither cost-effective nor sustainable for…
I have for many years been inspired by the reflections of the Dalai Lama, finding that he brings such great simplicity and perspective when others seem to strive to make life so complex, inhuman and incomprehensible. I recently read that he said when he was asked what surprised him most about humanity, answered: “Man because…
In today’s world I’m still shocked that so much ignorance and mythology still exist surrounding Downs Syndrome so I thought what better way during Downs Syndrome Awareness Week to break some of the myths and demonstrate some of the amazing successes being achieved. The first thing today’s world needs to understand is that Downs Syndrome…
Why IS Matthew Garnett in a psychiatric intensive care unit? The 15-year-old teenager has been locked away since September last year. Matthew has been sectioned and is being held at an NHS PICU 100s of miles from his home making it difficult for his parents to visit. It happened because Matthew was scheduled to have…
This week the shocking news that the NHS continues to fail those most at risk in society has been once more laid bare. Despite five years and promises of billions of pounds and hours of extra staff results for people with mental health problems, has got worse not better; even more worrying there is no…
LOVE comes in all shapes and sizes and we can never be prescriptive about it. In a world where there is so much heartache and every day can be tough for many people, I firmly believe that if anyone has the opportunity for personal happiness they should be encouraged to follow their heart. The days…
On my way back from an exhilarating long walk with my four and two legged friends this morning I popped in to a well-known supermarket to purchase a number of food items I needed for the week ahead. When I arrived at the check-out I met an old school friend who I have bumped into…
Caring though can be a tough job. We especially appreciate and honour the care that family members and loved ones give all year round to the people we serve. It may seem obvious that you would care for a loved one who is vulnerable without question. But we never forget how difficult it can be…
WHAT a fantastic year 2014 has been! Despite the continued pressures and challenges presented by the Health and Social Care profession along with on-going cuts to government funding – we continue to face the challenges head on and provide quality care and support to the people we serve. 2014 has been a year of success…