Helpful Hints from World Parkinson’s Day 2021
Virtual Telephone Appointments
Over the past year during lockdown many things as we know it have changed including medical appointments which have now become the norm either via virtual or telephone and although we are now very slowly returning to some sense of normality these types of appointments are here to stay for some time yet so here are a few tips to get the best out of your virtual appointment.
- Find the best telephone number for you to be called on for video.
- Find somewhere comfortable to sit.
- Use hands free if possible, helps with writing.
- Have your prescription with you.
- Has anything changed?
- Plan. What questions to ask. Write down.
- What troubles you.
- Don’t focus on too many different problems at one time, concentrate on what you think is the most urgent so that the medical team can help you to the best of their ability and then move on to the next.
It’s your appointment, be prepared so they can give you the best help possible.
Remember to look after yourself, physical as well as mental health.
Next Clothing
has teamed up with PD UK to produce two T-Shirts for men and women (£20 each) and a tote bag (£5) for sale. 100% of the cost will go Parkinson’s UK.
Branch AGM 2021
The branch’s Annual General Meeting was held (via Zoom) on 23rd February.
Minutes of the meeting can be read here, together with the Chair’s report and the Financial report.
NHS Patient Transport Services Survey
Online Survey: Service Users and Carers – have your say on Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services.
Click this banner to download details of the survey:
Longer Respite Care Opportunity for 2021!
Your committee is very much aware of the on-going burden placed on our members’ Carers. We had agreed earlier last year to use some of the remaining Legacy money to fund some longer respite care provision. We are now ready to launch the scheme that will enable some Carers to have a well-earned break – a few days, perhaps, or even a whole week – during 2021.
The offer is for up to £1,500 towards an individual’s care. A budget, enabling around five or more members to benefit, has been set aside for this and grants will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Requests (no more than one per person!) can be put in for a share of the budget from 1 February 2021. If your application is successful, there is no need to make use of it immediately. For instance, you may already have something planned for later in the year or simply want a break in the warmer weather.
It will be your responsibility to find a suitable respite placement, either with a care home or by a care organisation offering overnight care in your own home. It should be from a recognised home or agency, not an informal arrangement. Before applying, you should have identified a suitable provider and have registered your interest with them. You do not need to have paid a deposit at this stage.
We hope very much that some of you will take up this offer. If you wish to discuss further, with no commitment, then please contact Myra Newnes-Smith on 01483 422440 or email mnsmith@guildfordparkinsons.org.uk
Myra can also send you more details and a simple application form to complete.