Welcome to the new look Branching Out

30 Years of Sense Scotland

Staff and Volunteer Awards

Plans for New TouchBases

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Sense Scotland Magazine Summer 2015

Editorial

In this issue we have a sneak peek preview of two new TouchBase centres as well as celebrating 30 years with Sense Scotland. We’ll also share some of the high points from the last few months. We hope you like the new look and hope that you’ll feedback to us with your thoughts and of course any stories or articles you’d like to share in Branching Out.

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Welcome to Sense Scotland

Andy Kerr, Chief Executive

Welcome to our new look Branching Out. What better way to celebrate thirty years of Sense Scotland than giving an old friend a bit of a make-over. So you’ll notice the new colour format which allows us to share some of the great images of what has been happening across the organisation. Expect stories from all corners of Scotland, special features on the people we support and some fantastic resources and information which could be just what you’re looking for.

Above all, we want this to be a lively and enjoyable magazine, which reflects the exciting and vibrant character of Sense Scotland. So take some time to look through this issue, let us know what you like (and don’t like) and don’t hesitate to drop us a line if you’ve got a story you’d like to share.

Contents:

3. New TouchBase Developments

5. Building Relationships

6. Thirty Years of Sense Scotland

8. Disability Agenda Scotland

9. Arts and Community News

10. Feedback

11. What's Going On

Share your stories and news:

communications@sensescotland.org.uk

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Updates from across Scotland

New TouchBases

It’s eight years since Sense Scotland first opened TouchBase Glasgow, a service which has already made a huge impact on the people who use its services every day. So we’re delighted that in our 30th anniversary year we will be starting the development of two new centres:

TouchBase Ayrshire andTouchBase Lanarkshire.

TouchBase Ayrshire will be located in Ardrossan in a building attached to the existing town library. Work has just started on TouchBase Lanarkshire, formerly the Averyon Centre in Hamilton. Staff and the people they support at the centre have relocated to TouchBase Glasgow for the duration of the refurbishment programme. Both centres will include a multipurpose area with space for social activities, music and arts rooms, sensory and quiet rooms and physical activity spaces.

Both centres are due to open in 2016 and we’re delighted that we’re already getting such great support from the most important people in these projects, the young people and adults who will use the resources and their families. A parent whose daughter will use the new TouchBase Lanarkshire centre said:

“I am now very excited about the development, especially the freedom and variety of services it will bring to Lynn and others.”

We'll keep you up to date with the progress and look forward to opening the doors next year on these two fantastic new centres.

Chief Executive, Andy Kerr said:

“This is an especially exciting development for Sense Scotland during the same year we are celebrating our 30th Anniversary. The opening of new services during our celebrations is an indication of our hopes and ambitions for the next 30 years.”

For more information contact:Mairi Morrison, Head of Business DevelopmentPhone: 0300 330 9292Email: mmorrison@sensescotland.org.uk

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Updates from across Scotland

Sensory Bus Tour

Sense Scotland was able to reach out to even more people during the Easter Holidays in April with a Sensory Bus. Hundreds of children and their families enjoyed accessible play, sensory toys and learned more about how we can support families across Scotland. The bus visited Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Fort William, Glasgow, Hamilton and Kirkcaldy. Keep an eye on our website and social media for news of other Sensory Bus excursions.

Staff Awards2015Congratulations to all winners, nominees, professional development & long service recipients. And the winners were:

The Big Idea - One Giant LeapThe Inspiration Award - Anne SutherlandVolunteer of the Year - Martha DewarShop of the Year - GreenockSpecial Recognition Award - Liz CoxChairman's Awardfor Excellence - Coatbridge Housing SupportTeam of the year:Runner Up - TouchBase CaféWinner - Central Region, Alford Relief Team

Big thanks to everyone who worked so hardon the award night.

ASDAN Awards 2015Our ASDAN Awards ceremony was a celebrationof the ambition and talents of the people we work with.Learners fulfilled personal and social developmentthrough an accredited learning programme.Eleven people received awards and were joined by familyfriends and staff. Congratulations to the learners fortheir achievements.

Workright Awards: Alison Hendry, John Gardnerand Lauren McGinn

Towards Independence Awards: Siobhan Kirkwood,Ann Neeson, Sylvia Hutcheon, Ian Johnston,Anne London, Shazia Ali, Amy Woods, Sadia Mohammed

For ASDAN information contact the Learning and Development Team on:Phone: 0300 330 9292 Email: asutherland@sensescotland.org.uk

Coatbridge Housing Support Team

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Absolutely central to Sense Scotland’s support for families are the relationships that we build with them, often over many years and through many transitions. Our Advisory team (which includes Early Years and the Parent Enabler Project: PEP) are often the first point of contact for people who need support for their son or daughter. For Siobhan Murray and her son Aaron this person was Advisory and PEP Worker Laura Houston.

“I only just got involved with Sense Scotland about a year ago and already they have helped so much,” explained Siobhan.

Initially Laura helped the family apply for funding from Caudwell Children to purchase an outdoor accessible buggy, which then led to the family being invited to take part in a series of outdoor sessions. The Discover Me sessions, in partnership with TCV Scotland involved several families across the country. These outdoor family play sessions promote health and wellbeing of children and families through increased contact with the natural world. And since first meeting Laura, Aaron’s world has opened up.

“He has also participated in workshops including arts, music and movement. These give Aaron a chance to do activities that he wouldn't normally get to do. He’s joined the Out and About group and goes every Saturday afternoon. It gives Aaron the chance to socialise outwith school. I look forward to Aaron having lots more fun, support and help from Sense Scotland in the future.”

And it’s not just Aaron who has had new experiences, Siobhan has attended several Family Workshops at TouchBase Glasgow including LoveCraft, music and dance sessions. So it can all start from one meeting. By focussing on individual needs and aspirations, we believe anything is possible for the people we support.

Find out more by contacting our Advisory team:

advisory@sensescotland.org.uk

or by phone: 0300 330 9292

Building Relationships

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“Toni’s really come out of her shell and is learning to explore through music. We hope that Toni is able to live as independent a life as possible.”Sandra on daughter Toni, 2006

“Sense Scotland has developed a position of being a pressure group for the rights of disabled people.”Neil Farquharson, parent and Trustee, 2008

“If it hadn’t been for Sense Scotland coming in, he wouldn’t be where he is today.”Ann on son Ross’s support in Ayrshire, 2012

“On my first night when I was on my own I thought this is a great feeling. This is me now doing my own things, being independent.”Ewan on moving into his own home in Dundee, 2012

“It was great crossing the river and walking in the water.I like to do a lot of adventurous things; I am in other words an action man!”Murray on his DbI Outdoor Network experiences, 2013

“Countless disabled children and their families, who are supported by Sense Scotland, will have their lives transformed by this unique resource."Sir Terry Wogan at the launch of TouchBase Glasgow, 2007

“Cheryl and Sense Scotland have shown us what a wonderful world it is when we work and communicate with one another."Roy Cox, Chairman, Sense Scotland, on his daughter, June 2015

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"As we celebrate our 30th year working with the wonderful people we support and their families, we want to reflect on the inspiring journey that started in 1985 when a group of families got together to secure a brighter future for their sons and daughters.”

Andy Kerr, Sense Scotland Chief Executive, 2015

“I look back at my involvement with Sense Scotland with gratitude, pleasure and immense admiration for the enormous hard work that so many people give to Sense Scotland.” Mary Countess of Strathmore, January 1995

“The reason I am happy is because she is happy.She has blossomed into a happy confident, funny person.”Belle on daughter Shireen’s support, 2000

“He’s got a better social life than we have! He’s much more settled now when he comes home. He’s much happier and we have quality time with him now at home.”Sheila on son Stephen’s supported livingon Skye, 2009

“Out and About has made such a difference to Zamam’s life. He is a very happy and contented little boy when he is there.”Sumira on son Zamam, 2002

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“Toni’s really come out of her shell and is learning to explore through music. We hope that Toni is able to live as independent a life as possible.”Sandra on daughter Toni, 2006

“We’ve been to nearly all the Christmas and Halloween parties. It’s geared for children with special needs. Chloe can participate all the time, she’s not left sitting at the side.”Lorraine on daughter Chloe, 2008

“I can’t imagine our lives without Sense Scotland. They have truly been there every step of the way and have never let us down.”Catherine on support for daughter Sara, 2014

“The most important thing was that it wasan organisation based around families.”Lesley on son Jamie, 2009

“It was great crossing the river and walking in the water.I like to do a lot of adventurous things; I am in other words an action man!”Murray on his DbI Outdoor Network experiences, 2013

“She says‘…I’m going to see my friends in Sense…’ it’s lovely. I’m so glad that she got in here because I knew that this was the right place for Danielle.”Marie on her daughter’s friendships, 2014

“I look back at my involvement with Sense Scotland with gratitude, pleasure and immense admiration for the enormous hard work that so many people give to Sense Scotland.” Mary Countess of Strathmore, January 1995

“The reason I am happy is because she is happy.She has blossomed into a happy confident, funny person.”Belle on daughter Shireen’s support, 2000

“That was the perfect place for him.Brian came on in leaps and bounds since he came through there.”Jean on son Brian’s move to Overbridge in 1987

“Out and About has made such a difference to Zamam’s life. He is a very happy and contented little boy when he is there.”Sumira on son Zamam, 2002

“I think it was good memories coming over here at weekends.”Gerard talks about Ardlui respite, 2012

“Amanda has gone from being someone who kept her head down, arms folded and unsure of the world around her, to someone who has become … able to express herself.”Amanda’s mum about her arts sessions, 2011

“It’s nice to see those transitions. I’ve seen him grow from a wee boy to a young man.”Beverley, who supports Matthew,Glasgow, 20123

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This is what we want

the UK Government to do

to make life better for

disabled people

Easy Read

In the lead up to May’s General Election the Disability Agenda Scotland (DAS) coalition, of which Sense Scotland is a member, asked all political parties to commit to delivering real change for disabled people. In their manifesto, 'A Million Votes Count: Our Vision for an Equal Future', they outlined ten key steps that the new Westminster Government must take to ensure equality for disabled people and their families.

DAS also hosted a General Election Hustings at TouchBase in Glasgow, chaired by broadcaster Shereen Nanjiani.

The election may have taken place, but DAS continues to influence public policy and legislation and promote a better understanding of the diverse experiences, needs and aspirations of disabled people.

You can download a copy of 'A Million Votes Count' here: www.disabilityagendascotland.org.uk/home/das-2015-manifesto

If you would like to contact DAS you can email:DAS@samh.org.uk Telephone: 0131 516 6812Follow on Twitter: @DAScotland

One Giant Leap GraduationOur One Giant Leap group made us very proud as they celebrated their graduation on 5th June. It was a night filled with memories, smiles and many laughs!

CEO Andy Kerr, joined by Trustees Gary Simpson and Isobel Allan, kicked off the evening with the presentation of certificates to commemorate the achievements of the group. During the awards, Music Tutor David McCluskey and the Junk Orchestra entertained the audience and played a songwritten specially for One Giant Leap.

The graduates and their families enjoyed a disco and the chance to get photos taken together. Guests included the local community Police officers and the Strathgryffe Motorcycle Club alongside the regular contributors and supporters of One Giant Leap.

The Big Lottery funded programme has been running for five years and has been very popular with young people and their families. This critical transition stage is a time when our families and young people need our support and we are delighted at the range of skills that have been developed, together with the enthusiasm for learning that can be seen amongst participants.

Disability Agenda Scotland

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Community Garden Open DayA group of green fingered gardeners gathered together at our plot in Bellahouston Demonstration Gardens for a community day in June. It was a chance for a wide range of groups who garden at this fantastic site to get together and display their work, which included accessible raised beds, sensory planting and the reveal of a new Sense Scotland sculpture.

Spirits weren’t dampened despite grey skies…as one of the regular gardeners Aaron said about the project:

“It looks amazing. I love to be out with the others.”

Electrifying performances at launchThe Uncover/Discover exhibition which ran from April to June at TouchBase Glasgow was a wonderful showcase of the wide variety of creative work made by artists supported by Sense Scotland. It was also a chance for everyone to reflect on projects and share experiences with one another. This took an exciting turn at the launch event when a number of performers, unprompted, took to the stage to perform with the TouchBeats music collective. A high point was when Dylan took the place by storm with a passionate performance of his own songs, backed by the band.

You can listen to Dylan's music here: www.soundcloud.com/sense-scotland

To find out more about Arts email: arts@sensescotland.org.uk

Dancer still drawing the crowdsPremiered at the Arches in 2013, Dancer, a collaboration betweenIan Johnston, Gary Gardiner and the late Adrian Howells, has continued to tour and delight audiences across Britain. This partnership with Sense Scotland Arts and the Arches, explores Ian and Gary’s love of dance and music. So how did Ian initially show his love of dance and music?

“I was dancing in the music room and everybodyloved it.”

His dad, Ian added: “He enjoys all the activities here. Ian’s obviously involved in dance and music and all those things. So for this quiet young lad that came to Sense Scotland all those years ago this has been a great experience.”

But don’t just take our word for it, Herald Dance critic Mary Brennan summed up the show in a four star review as: “…a tender yet intense collaboration by Ian Johnston, Gary Gardiner and Adrian Howells, that challenges our assumption that words are how we best express ourselves.”

Gary and Ian are already planning their next piece, so we’ll keep you informed about this production when it arrives.

We’re always seeking feedback and of course enquiries form the people we support, so this is your page. Please send us any letters, comments or even questions you may have about resources, information or advice.Let's start things off with some recent feedback we’ve had:

EventsArthur Cowie from Lochaber Disability Access Panel wrote to us about a recent Partners in Communication event (more about the event in the next issue):

“It was an excellent event, both in the formatting and way the Sense Scotland staff looked after all the delegates. It was refreshing to attend an event which is focused entirely on the users.”

Social media

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Feedback

Please send letters, enquiries or anything you’d like to share to:

communications@sensescotland.org.ukThe wee pie things!

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2015

Saturday 25th July, 11am - 3.30pm Family Festival of FunLochore Meadows Country Park, Fife Fully accessible family event with activities for children and adults including sailing, buggy rides, music sessions and falconry.

Friday 31st July, Friday 12 noon - 4pm - Summer SensationsTouchBase, Glasgow Mini music festival showcasing new music created through the Creative Scotland funded 'Soundwaves' project. All welcome.

Thursday 13th August, 7pm - Cinema and 50s/60s Disco Night, featuring "Summer Holiday", TouchBase Glasgow Our relaunch means now you get 2 events in one night. Tickets £3.50 - Please note support is not provided

Tuesday 1st September, TouchBase Ayrshire Open Day11am-1pm and 2 - 6pmA chance to visit the new centre as work is about to start and discover facilities that will be available. Contact: mmorrison@sensescotland.org.uk

Thursday 10th September, 7pm - Cinema and 'Grease' Disco Night, TouchBase Glasgow Tickets £3.50 - Please note support is not provided.

Saturday 12th September: 2pm-5pm Swap shopsArta, Walls Street Glasgow Swap your way to a new wardrobe and raise funds for Sense Scotland. Tickets: £10

Sunday, October 18 Forth Rail Bridge, Freefall AbseilAbseil S.A.S style from the iconic landmark. Only 30 places for this unique experience. Sponsorship Target: £175

Saturday 28th November: 2pm - 5pm Swap shopsArta, Walls Street Glasgow Another chance to swap your way to a new wardrobe and raise funds for Sense Scotland. Tickets: £10

Friday 4th December…all day! - Where's your hat at? Wear your winter woolly hats all day around the office, in school or just about the house. Donate just £1 to take part in the day.

Sunday 13th December, 10am Reindeer Run 5kBellahouston Park, Glasgow Our First Annual Reindeer Run. 5k entries get antlers and a goodie bag for all of their hard work. Toddler Dash open to kids on the day! Sponsorship Target: £50

2016Friday 18th March, Easter Bonnet Ladies Lunch29, Royal Exchange Square, Glasgow - Drinks Reception and Lunch Get together and have some fun at our Easter Bonnet Lunch. Individual tickets - £50 per person Table of ten - £500.

For information on Fundraising events visit: www.sensescotland.org.uk/fundraising/fundraising-events

For all other events email:communications@sensescotland.org.uk or phone: 0300 330 9292

What’s Going On?

FamilyFestivalof Fun

Sense Scotland is a company limited by guarantee, registered in Scotland No. 147570. Registered Scottish charity No. SC022097

We are committed to help you get the most out of life.

To find out more about how we can support you:

Call: 0300 330 9292 Email: yourchoice@sensescotland.org.uk Visit: www.sensescotland.org.uk

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Sense Scotland Regional Offices

AberdeenThe GatehouseQuarry RoadNorthfieldAberdeenAB16 5UUPhone 01224 695510Fax 01224 789945

DundeeSangobeg House,1st Floor4 Francis StreetDundeeDD3 8HHPhone 01382 883520 Fax 01382 825727

GlenrothesOffice 7,Castleblair Business CentreFullerton RoadQueensway Industrial EstateGlenrothesFifeKY7 5QRPhone 01592 752005 Fax 01592 751121

GlasgowTouchBase GlasgowSense Scotland 43 Middlesex Street GlasgowG41 1EEPhone: 0300 330 9292 Text: 0141 418 7170

@SenseScotland

SenseScotlandCharity

info@sensescotland.org.uk

We need a break...

To find out more visit:www.sensescotland.org.uk/what-we-do/support/taking-a-short-breakor contact Fundraising at TouchBase Glasgow phone 0300 330 9292email fundraising@sensescotland.org.uk

Are you an existing Sense Scotland family with a child or young person already supported by us?

Funding is available to support children and young people who use Sense Scotland services.

Short breaks at our Rosneath caravan are now available for families with children up to the age of 21.

To make a regular booking for the caravan contact Natasha Gordon:phone 0300 330 9292email ngordon@sensescotland.org.uk

ISSN 1358-5282