Active Independence secures funding to help support local Disabled People through the Covid-19 pandemic

Active Independence has received a share of £1.5m National Emergencies Trust (NET) funding to support grassroots Disabled Persons Groups to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

This grant will enable the Active Independence to support to Disabled People and PAs by:

  • expanding our Advocacy Service throughout South Yorkshire and surrounding areas – helping people with anything from disability benefits to Blue Badges, housing and care issues.
  • promoting our Personal Assistance Register for employers looking for PAs and PAs searching for work across the region
  • updating and developing online Training Programmes to support people to employ PAs safely.
  • expanding our confidential PA Support Service offering advice and guidance to PAs across the county
  • provide up-to-date news and support around Covid-19

A recent report by the BBC into the impact of the pandemic on the lives of disabled people, highlighted how many feel as if they have been “forgotten”. Many have struggled to access essential care and support services, have lost jobs and income and experience decreasing physical and mental health and well-being.

Barbara Booton, Project Manager for Active Independence said:

“This grant gives us the opportunity to support more disabled people to get the services and welfare entitlements they need in everyday life. Disabled people and those who care and support them can feel isolated and often don’t know where to turn. Our skilled advocates and PA support worker can help. We all have lived experience of being disabled or are a carer so we understand what people are going through. We listen, help people sort through their issues and help them get back on track. No issue is too little or too small!”

98 DPOs across the UK have received confirmation of successful funding bids of up to £25,000 to deliver COVID-19 emergency support to disabled people at grassroots, local levels.

Andrea Brown, CEO of Disability Action NI, said:

“We are delighted to be able to fund a range of projects that will enable disabled people to connect with others, get advice on their income, and have choice and control over their lives.”

For more information contact Barbara on 07917 607730 or email her at   info@activeindependence.org.

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