In this issue, you will find a snapshot of what we have been up to since we relaunched with our new name, the latest venues where you can access our benefits services, information on how to get more active and how to access warm spaces, as well as important information on PIP reviews. |
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A Message from our CEO We are rapidly approaching the end of the year and what a year it has been for us! Twenty years after the charity was first formed, we rebranded and relaunched in April and have had a very successful first six months as Disability Assist. However, we have no intentions of resting on our laurels and aim to help even more people with disabilities across the county. With the colder months upon us, you may find yourself needing help and advice and we are always here to support you, so please get in touch. |
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Six Months as Disability Assist |
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It has been six months since we relaunched as Disability Assist and the time has flown past! While you only get a snippet of what we're up to in these newsletters and across our social media channels, there has been a whirlwind of activity going on behind the scenes to make sure we are reaching even more people and supporting more clients with disabilities across Kent. Read about what we have been up to and our recent successes in the blog post on our website, using the link below. |
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We can help you through the whole process, from filling in the forms to appeals or tribunals where necessary. Our advisor can give you guidance in person and is available to assist you BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Please contact us to book in a session. If you are unable to travel to these locations, please get in touch with us to discuss alternative options. |
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Appointments are available in the following locations: MONDAY TUESDAY 8th November: Asda in Folkestone, 10am - 4pm 22nd November: Tonbridge area so if you are in West Kent and require an appointment, please contact us to arrange a time
WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY |
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Are you waiting for a PIP review? The DWP has confirmed that PIP claims awaiting a review will be automatically extended by ‘up to 12 months'. This will happen 35 days before the award end date. Here's what they say: “The extension provides greater certainty for claimants and in particular help with continuing to access other support, e.g. a blue badge for parking. From 31 October, a letter will be sent automatically to claimants confirming continuing entitlement for up to 12 months. Until then, we will update claimants by text message that their award reviews have been extended and will remain in payment. Anyone needing written confirmation before 31 October can contact the helpline on 0800 121 4433 and we will issue a notification of entitlement. Otherwise, claimants do not need to contact us unless their circumstances change. In line with our usual process, we may review claims before their new end date and if so, will write to claimants to inform them. PIP payments will be received as normal until we complete the review of a claim. If we have not completed the review by the extended award date, we may extend the end date of the PIP award again and will write to claimants to tell them about this." |
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Warm Spaces are being set up to help those who are struggling with the rising cost of energy bills. These are safe and friendly public places where people can go to comfortably spend time reading, studying, chatting with others and meeting new people in their community. Sevenoaks District Council have a Warm Spaces website showing spaces in the area. Our CEO, Sophie is interim chair of the Sevenoaks Access Group and has raised questions around accessibility, availability of Changing Places toilets, and transport to those spaces so we will update you when we get any further information. We will also share information on any websites for other areas around the county as we hear of them. In the meantime, you may be able to find a warm space close to you on the Warm Welcome national database, which allows you to search for spaces with accessible toilets. |
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How about enjoying a free accessible nature experience? Interactive strolls for people with disabilities and impairments, and their carers, are available through Wild with Wheels. It's a great way to benefit from connecting with nature and the landscape of the Kent Heritage Coast. |
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If you are in Dover, GOGA in Action has a programme of events, activities and opportunities for disabled and non-disabled people to be active together. They aim to make activity more inclusive, support people to move more and encourage people to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. |
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Get to know Disability Assist! Each month, we're introducing you to a different member of our team so that you know who you are speaking with when you contact us. This time, it's the turn of our Information Officer, Stephen Saxby. |
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Stephen has worked for Disability Assist since April and previously worked for DISK in Folkestone for 14 years, so he has a wealth of experience and knowledge that can benefit our clients. Most of Stephen's time is spent travelling across the county helping clients to fill in benefit forms. He uses his extensive knowledge to help make the process more straightforward and finds it very satisfying when someone gets awarded benefits that help take some of the stress away. He also enjoys building up a rapport with clients so that they feel more comfortable about coming back to us for further help if required. To relax, Stephen likes doing cross-stich (check out this impressive piece!) and jigsaws and also collects Warhammer, which are small fantasy models. |
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If you would like to find out how we could help you or someone you know, please get in touch with us using the following link or via the contact details below. | | |
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