Can Carers Get Holiday Grants?
Being a carer can be an incredibly rewarding job, but this does not mean it is without its challenges. Taking a break from the emotional and physical demands of the role can be invaluable, ensuring individuals can relax and recharge.
As a carer, a holiday might mean holidaying to an inclusive site with the person you care for, or it may mean going somewhere alone – or even staying at home while the person you care for goes on an accessible holiday.
Funding a holiday, whatever this may mean to you, can seem like an impossibility, especially as day-to-day costs mount. However, there are several things you can do to help cover the costs, namely applying for grants designed to support carers and their families.
The Importance of Taking a Break for Carers
Whether it’s an hour, a day or several weeks of holiday, taking a break as a carer has numerous benefits.
A break from the caring role and routine can help carers reconnect with the person they look after as well as other family members or friends.
As a provider of holidays for carers and adults with disabilities, we understand that needing a holiday is not about wanting to get away from those you care for but finding new opportunities to spend time together that is not about caring.
Taking a break or going on holiday can also help prevent feelings of burnout and being overwhelmed. It gives carers a chance to reset and reflect without all the responsibilities of caring affecting them.
Holiday Grants for Carers
There are several places you can seek support when looking to fund a holiday as a carer.
Family Fund
If you are a parent or a carer of a child with a disability or severe illness and are on low income, Family Fund may be able to help with a grant that can go to the cost of a holiday. This is a helpful grant for carers that want to go on holiday as a family.
Your child and family’s eligibility for the grant will be based on a ‘child and young person eligibility criteria’ in line with the social model of disability and a ‘household eligibility criteria’.
There are several holiday-based grants available, covering a number of UK family holiday providers. Along with holiday support, you can also apply for grants to help cover days out, clothing, games, kitchen appliances and more.
Carefree Space
This organisation aims to support unpaid carers with access to short breaks by encouraging hotels and holiday spots to offer their unsold rooms as destinations for those in need of a short break.
Carefree Space’s network of Hospitality and Community Partners helps turn what could have otherwise been a costly stay into a carefree one. There is no charge for the accommodation (although you will have to cover transport and food costs etc), but there is a £25 admin fee (which can be covered by the Community Partners).
The 3H Foundation
For several decades, The 3H Foundation has been providing holiday opportunities for people with disabilities and their carers, ensuring they can find respite. Grants are awarded to low-income households and can be used by carers for a holiday with or without the person they care for.
The awarded grants are generally between £250-£500 and can be used to help cover accommodation, to be paid to the venue directly.
Due to the high number of enquiries, the grant may only be offered to those living in certain areas some years – the organisation recommend frequently checking their website to see if any further funding becomes available.
Carers Trust
Carers may be eligible to apply for the Carers Trust grant, which is accessed through the individual’s local Carers Trust Network Partner.
The grant offers up to £300, which can be used for activities that may benefit the carer, including respite for them and their family. Those wishing to apply for this funding must be at least 16 and be an unpaid carer.
Finding the Right Holiday Grant
Disability Grants is a helpful portal for carers and people with disabilities that compiles various available grants in one place.
You can see their selection of holiday grants broken down into categories, covering holidays for carers, children with disabilities, adults with disabilities, supported holidays and more.
This is a helpful resource for researching and accessing various different grants and other funding opportunities, whether you need support with a holiday or other essentials like equipment, housing and education.
Turn2us also have a charitable grants finder feature on their website, which may prove useful in your search for the right holiday grant for where you are based.
Local Grants & Schemes
If you’re struggling to get a grant, you can also contact your local support services to find out if there are any relevant local grants that could help with the cost of a break or holiday.
Your local social services or carers’ centre should have a good idea of what is available to local residents.
Funding a Trip to Calvert Exmoor
At Calvert Exmoor, we are dedicated to providing exciting, accessible activity holidays that can be enjoyed by people with disabilities and their carers, families and friends.
We are sometimes able to provide funding directly to our guests through bursary money donated by our benefactors. Successful applicants can receive up to 30% off the total cost of your break.
This guide is by no means an exhaustive list of all the holiday grants available for carers, but hopefully, it serves as a place to start for those beginning their grant search.
To find out more about Calvert Exmoor and the work we do, see our blog, which contains guides and answers to many of the questions you may have.
Disability Holiday Grants in the UK
When looking for holidays for people with disabilities, finding the necessary funds can feel like a daunting prospect. At Calvert Exmoor, we understand that costs can rack up when trying to find suitable accommodation and accessible activities for the whole family, but this is by no means insurmountable. Rest assured, you are not alone.
Disability holiday grants can provide the financial assistance you need to enjoy a midweek trip, weekend break, or week-long stay. We delve into some of the questions you may have about disability holiday grants in the UK below.
What Do Disability Holiday Grants Do?
Disability holiday grants offer sums of money to assist those looking to go on holidays that are suitable for people with disabilities. Various trusts, charities and other disability-friendly organisations in the UK offer bursaries or grants.
What Grants Does Calvert Exmoor Offer?
Looking to breathe some of that fresh countryside air? Want to see all the stunning vistas North Devon has to offer? Consider venturing out to Calvert Exmoor for a fun-filled mid-week, weeklong or weekend stay.
For groups or individuals who are staying at Calvert Exmoor, we offer disabled holiday bursaries for guests in need of financial assistance. Our bursary funding does not cover travel costs, but instead can help cover a percentage of your total cost for a midweek or weekend stay, currently set up to 30% of your break cost.
If you’ve been the recipient of a bursary previously, don’t worry, you’ll be allowed to apply again after a 12-month period. That being said, please keep in mind that you may not receive the maximum amount again.
What Holiday Grants Are Available for People With Disabilities in the UK?
There is a wealth of disability support for holidays in the UK just waiting to be discovered. The only issue is, with so many options around, it can be difficult to know where to begin.
We suggest hopping online to search for all the opportunities available in your county, as you may be able to find providers in your local area.
To cut out some of the busy work for you, we can suggest a few providers. For example, the Family Fund Grant is a charity that offers grants to carers, guardians or parents raising children under 17 with disabilities and may just be able to save you precious pennies on your holiday!
Another option is Happy Days Children’s Charity, as they provide grants to enable groups and families to go on activity-filled breaks.
For more information, discover who can provide funding for short breaks in the UK to see the full list of providers available.
Do You Have to Pay Back a Disability Grant?
Calvert Exmoor offers bursaries without any expectation of repayment. In the majority of cases, grants are not required to be repaid by most organisations, although it’s worth double checking by getting in contact or browsing the information provided on the website before you commit to anything.
Who Qualifies for a Disability Grant?
In the majority of cases, candidates for disability grants must have mental, physical or comorbid disabilities that affect their everyday living. Eligibility considerations will vary from charity to charity, but we can provide a baseline of the most important factors, such as:
- Nature of the disability.
- Severity of the disability.
- Income of carer/guardian or person applying for a grant.
At Calvert Exmoor, bursaries are assessed on a case by case, individual basis and are completely discreet.
How to Get a Disability Holiday Grant
Most providers of holiday grants for people with disabilities will provide an application form which you can either request or complete and submit on their website. We highly encourage getting in contact before you do this so you can ask your chosen organisation for any further details you may require.
Want to be considered for a bursary at Calvert Exmoor? Please do not hesitate to contact us so you can request a bursary application form.
Deafness and Social Isolation
According to a government survey in 2020-2021, around 3 million people in the UK feel lonely. For people who have severe hearing impairments or are deaf, social isolation and loneliness can, unfortunately, feel like a regular occurrence.
Here at Calvert Exmoor, we provide a range of adventure holidays for people with disabilities and are always working to promote awareness and create a more considerate environment. If you want to broaden your understanding of disability-related issues, learn more with us about what isolation is and why people who have hearing conditions or are deaf can feel this way.
Who Can Experience Feelings of Isolation?
Everyone can feel isolated at some point in their lives as a result of various reasons and situations.
Feeling like you’re not socially accepted can create a sense of unease within yourself. For example, if you have ever felt like you haven’t been adequately understood or acknowledged in a social situation, this can leave you feeling like you are ‘unrelatable’. Eventually, feelings like this can push you away from people if they happen often.
For some people, these feelings of loneliness and misunderstanding can develop into more significant feelings of isolation and, in some cases, contribute to mental health illnesses, such as depression and anxiety.
This can be especially harmful for people who have disabilities, as living in a world where their needs are not considered or viewed as significant can easily lead to feelings of isolation. Furthermore, if people cannot communicate with others in a reliable way, such as through sign language, people can feel very alone and unsupported.
Why Can Deaf People Feel Isolated?
Human interaction and support are aspects of the world which make life more comfortable and enjoyable. However, when the ability to hear and freely express your thoughts to the rest of the world is not consistently possible, this can put people in a position of isolation.
Social Isolation
It is understood that deafness is the third most prevalent disability on the planet. However, due to its lack of ‘visible’ symptoms, the needs of people who have a hearing impairment or are deaf are often overlooked in day to day life.
SignHealth charity has revealed that mental health illnesses such as anxiety and depression are ‘twice as likely’ to affect deaf people in comparison to people without a hearing impairment.
The Skill of Lip Reading
Many people who are deaf or have a hearing impairment rely on lip-reading to remain in conversations with those who can hear. This requires a lot of concentration to ensure they can read the situation visually as well as trying to pick up as much sound as possible. Understandably, this can use a lot of energy.
Feeling Vulnerable
For some people who have hearing impairments or deafness, it can also create feelings of vulnerability. Accessing relevant information can be difficult, causing anxiety, especially in times of emergency.
For example, the stress of making sure you are aware of any emergency alarms despite being unable to hear. These worries can often leave people feeling alone and afraid in an unpredictable world without secure communications.
Supporting People with Deafness or Hearing Impairments
These aspects of social isolation can seem overwhelming, but thankfully, they are significantly reduced with a robust support system and deaf awareness.
The British Deaf Association
Ensuring that the UK has integrated sign language into daily communications is something that the British Deaf Association is passionate about. Much of their work is dedicated to promoting accessible information.
They believe that by spreading awareness of British and Irish Sign Languages, we should be able to achieve equality for deaf people over time, encouraging equal opportunities for everyone. For more information, please take a look at their website.
So now that you know the importance of being supportive, what are some ways you can be more deaf aware?
How Can You Be More Deaf Aware?
Sign language would be an incredibly positive skill to have when communicating with someone who is deaf or has a hearing impairment. If you would like more information about sign language, explore our blog on the different types of sign language in the UK, which provides details on how to access a course.
However, if sign language is something you haven’t learnt yet, there are some other tips that the charity Action On Hearing Loss recommends. The tips are based on those individuals who use the skill of lip reading.
Inclusion with Physical Activities
Never underestimate the power of physical communication and touch. Sometimes, the best way to make someone with hearing impairments feel included is by participating in fun physical activities together.
For example, why not explore the adventure holidays for people with hearing impairments at Calvert Exmoor? Activities like cycling, abseiling, or horse riding are excellent ways to get the blood pumping for guests of all abilities!
Address the Person
Ensure the person knows you are addressing them by politely attracting their attention. Avoid doing this from an angle where they cannot see, as this can cause alarm.
Choose a Quiet Setting
If you can, try and communicate in an environment that has minimal noise. If the area is well lit, this is even better.
Make Sure Your Face Is Visible
Ensure your face can be clearly seen so your lips can be read with more ease. When you speak, don’t look away or cover your mouth.
Speak Clearly
Talk how you typically talk but make sure not to rush your speech and check that you are being understood. Try to avoid exaggerated speaking as this can make lip patterns distorted. And remember to look friendly and approachable!
Don’t Move On If You’re Not Understood
If you haven’t communicated effectively, don’t say ‘it doesn’t matter’ and try to move on. Instead, attempt to say it in another way.
Ensure Your Voice is Down
For those who have a hearing aid, a raise in voice can be uncomfortable.
Always Speak Directly to the Person
In a situation where someone may have a sign language interpreter or another form of communication support, ensure you are addressing them and not the interpreter.
Hopefully, we have provided you with some background information on social isolation. Please contact us on our Facebook page if you have any tips or useful information you would like to share with us!
Can Wheelchair Users Ride Horses?
If you’ve ever found yourself searching for “horse riding for disabled people”, you’ve certainly come to the right place.
At Calvert Exmoor, every one of our accessible activities is within reach for people with mobility impairments. All of our activities are adapted to suit the individual needs of every guest, with horse and carriage riding being no exception.
Developing a connection with beautiful animals like horses makes adventuring in the great outdoors that much more enjoyable, and we believe it’s something everyone should get to experience. We share everything you need to know about horse and carriage riding for wheelchair users below.
Can Wheelchair Users Take Part in Horse Riding?
For those who want more physically challenging adventure activities for wheelchair users, horse-based sessions may just be for you!
Ensuring our activities are inclusive for all is part and parcel of what we do; thanks to the adaptive equipment here at our stables, we are able to transfer some wheelchair users safely on to horseback so they can enjoy a gentle ride on one of our lovely stables residents.
Alternatively, for those who don’t want to ride a horse or have very limited mobility, we offer guests the chance to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride around our centre and the reservoir, making for a wonderful experience. Take in the stunning surrounding views Exmoor has to offer and get a breath of fresh air.
Benefits of Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides for Wheelchair Users
We’re sure guests with impaired mobility will find a horse-drawn carriage ride deeply rewarding. Many find equine-based activities incredibly therapeutic, as this activity provides an interactive experience like no other, encouraging the following:
- A sense of empowerment, independence and self-confidence.
- A sense of calm and well-being.
- A mental and physical challenge.
- Improved reflexes.
- Creating a bond between the rider and our lovely ponies.
With gentle temperaments and specialist training, our stable residents love to socialise with our guests and everyone visiting Calvert Exmoor will have the chance to meet our horses and ponies and see how they range in size, from our big Suffolk Punch to our smaller carriage ponies.
In addition, our friendly staff will supervise the sessions, so you can be assured that the experience will be safe and relaxing.
Other Horse-Based Activities
If that wasn’t enough, our sessions also include a range of other horse-related activities! For example, we offer guests the chance to explore our on-site stables and participate in grooming and stable management.
Believe it or not, you can even learn to become something of a horse whisperer! Horses can be somewhat of a mystery, so we’ll teach you how to ‘speak horse’ and understand their behaviour.
Our horse-based activities are available for guests enjoying a mid-week break from Monday-Friday, but for those wanting to enjoy horse-based activities on the weekend, we also offer exclusive Riding Weekends throughout the year, so keep an eye out for these!
Other Accessible Activities for Wheelchair Users in North Devon
For those who want a variety of wheelchair accessible holidays in the UK, adapted carriage and horse riding is but one of many thrilling activities we offer for everyone.
We’re lucky to be located where we are, surrounded by scenic countryside views and land that is rife for exploration. At Calvert Exmoor, you’re never too far from the numerous splendours of the natural world, such as the seaside, woodland trails and rivers that populate the picturesque locations of Devon.
If you’re in the mood for watersports, canoe along the sparkling waters of Wistlandpound Reservoir, or if you want some seaside fun, trek along accessible sandy beaches on a rented wheelchair or mobility scooter. Alternatively, you could observe the various wildlife that dwells in hidden corners of the forests.
As there are plenty of wheelchair friendly trails in North Devon, there’s bound to be something for you to enjoy no matter your level of mobility.
We hope this has given you a good idea of what adventures lie in wait at Calvert Exmoor for all. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have, so please do not hesitate to get in touch!
4 Organisation Tips to Help People with ADHD
The notion of ‘paying attention’ is easier said than done for people with ADHD or ADD. It’s not just about momentous occasions like tests at school or job interviews; even seemingly simple day-to-day tasks require a certain level of concentration in order to get organised.
In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in the number of adults diagnosed with ADHD in the UK.
Until recently, ADHD was mistaken as a disorder present only in children, having a knock-on effect of adults being severely under-diagnosed. Some researchers propose that around 75% of adults with ADHD may not even be aware they have it.
In addition, under-diagnosis is magnified for girls with ADHD due to stereotypes of it being a ‘male disorder’, evidenced by the 4:1 split between boys and girls receiving a diagnosis. Studies indicate that this could be due to girls being expected to behave better than boys and hide disruptive traits.
Lack of diagnosis means a lack of treatment, and ADHD can become debilitating without proper treatment. As you can imagine, this only makes it more difficult for people with ADHD to find structure in their lives.
At Calvert Exmoor, our vast experience with neurodivergent guests helps us to understand that getting organised can be difficult for those with ADHD and comorbid conditions. It doesn’t matter whether it’s packing for residential trips or getting ready for the day, we have a few ideas to help.
1. How Music Can Be An Organisation Strategy for People Who Have ADHD
Some ADHD symptoms, such as lack of focus and hypersensitivity to loud noises, can really impact the ability to organise. Thankfully, music can help keep your thoughts in order.
People with ADHD often struggle with concentration because of lower dopamine levels in the brain. Stimulants like caffeine or prescribed medication for ADHD can increase dopamine levels, but so can listening to your favourite music!
That being said, different things work for different people, and the type of music you listen to can be the deciding factor in its helpfulness.
For instance, songs with lyrics can prove troublesome for some as it’s easy to get carried away and start performing a sing-along session instead of carrying out the task at hand. Still, as long as the songs are mid-tempo with a clear rhythm, there’s a chance it will aid productivity.
If music with lyrics ends up being too distracting, here are some alternatives:
Songs in a Foreign Language
Listening to catchy tunes in a language you don’t understand is a surefire way to keep you working to the beat instead of getting caught up in singing along.
Classical Music
Much research has been conducted on the vast benefits that listening to classical music from composers such as Vivaldi, Debussy, Mozart, Bach and so on can provide. It is known as the ‘Mozart Effect’, stimulating the brain to improve problem solving and spatial awareness.
Still, for some, classical music can be a bit too boring. Researchers also found that pop music can sometimes be more effective than classical tunes because younger people enjoy the former more.
It just goes to show that different things work for different people!
Movie or Video Game Score
Original scores from films or video games combine the best of both worlds! Scores composed for big budget movies and games are often orchestral and draw inspiration from classical music to create that ‘epic’ sound.
That’s why popping on completely lyricless music from your favourite piece of media may provide people with ADHD with a familiar and enjoyable experience without being too distracting.
White Noise
White noise can be the most effective option. Something as simple as a fan or the humming noise from a fridge provides steady and repetitive background noise without being too overwhelming.
On the other hand, some people may find background noise extremely grating. You never know until you try!
Needless to say, there are plenty of options to experiment with. So, if you or a loved one struggle with skills necessary for organisation – such as time management and paying attention – try putting on some tunes and work to a beat.
2. Reminders Help People With ADHD With Grooming Habits
For people with ADHD, maintaining good hygiene habits can be challenging when managing ADHD symptoms; it’s not simply a case of laziness!
Brushing teeth, combing hair, showering and so on can feel overwhelming but little reminders can give you gentle nudges to keep your daily routine on track.
Reminders can be done in many ways, for example:
- Colourful posters
- Post-it notes
- Whiteboards
- Alarms
- Phone apps
Having these signs to give you a prompt can be helpful!
The importance of reminders extends to other vital things, such as taking meds or even drinking water. Forgetting to drink frequently occurs for people with ADHD and shouldn’t be taken lightly, as hydration is crucial to keeping your body functioning and healthy.
Phone apps in particular can be a low maintenance and useful method for people who find they need reminders for certain things at specific times of the day.
3. Incorporate Exercise Into Your Daily Routine
To improve executive functioning skills, consider participating in activities that involve routine physical exercise, as this offers the following benefits:
- Developing time-management skills.
- Increasing focus as exercise is another dopamine boosting activity.
- Reducing hyperactivity by providing a healthy outlet through physical stimulation.
- Reducing stress.
- Reducing impulsivity.
Engaging in periodic activities can help make organisation feel a little more natural.
Outdoor Activities for People with ADHD
A daily 30 minute walk is a form of mild exercise that can help reduce ADHD symptoms. The same goes for wheelchair users who use their arm muscles to venture through nature trails.
Getting outside and clearing your mind with some physical activity is ideal for establishing a pattern that’s both enjoyable and easy to stick to.
Jogging
Going for a morning jog can help establish a routine and provide higher intensity exercise for people with ADHD who desire more stimulation.
Yoga
Practising breathing exercises, poses to improve posture and balancing your body can induce mindfulness and a sense of inner peace. Yoga is perfect for people with ADHD who want a lower intensity activity to clear the mind.
Like with jogging, yoga can be done as a group activity or individually – whichever you’d prefer!
4. How a Trip to Calvert Exmoor Can Help People With ADHD
At Calvert Exmoor, qualified coaches lead every activity and have a wealth of experience instructing people with a wide range of disabilities and needs including ADHD. Friendly and approachable, they will ensure that everyone feels safe and included in our range of activities, such as the following:
Archery
Archery is another low intensity activity, providing a rejuvenating and stimulating sensory experience. The motion of drawing back the string of the bow, holding then firing an arrow can be a meditative and calming process, encouraging patience and attentiveness which are required skills when you need to get organised.
Challenge Course
A great way to encourage organisation is a challenge course as this involves teamwork to solve problems in a way that’s fun and engaging. Problem-solving activities are an excellent way to challenge people who have ADHD and strengthen cognitive abilities, which is vital for organisational skills.
Orienteering
Orienteering involves learning how to navigate a map so our guests can explore the trails surrounding Calvert Exmoor. This activity is a fantastic way of promoting self-determination and organisational skills.
We hope this has given you some guidance on how to manage ADHD symptoms when getting organised. If you’re eager for disabled activity holidays in the UK that can provide accessible recreational activities, head out to Calvert Exmoor for a range of fun outdoor adventures.
The Different Types of Sign Language in the UK
For those unfamiliar with sign language, it is not uncommon to assume that there is only one universal signing system. However, this is not the case. It is believed that anywhere between 138 to 300 distinct forms of sign language are currently used worldwide.
Here at Calvert Exmoor, we understand how vital different forms of communication are for human connection in general. No matter your level of ability, learning about sign languages could be life-changing for many people.
Why is Sign Language Important?
Sign language is a language system used mainly by those who have hearing impairments or are deaf. It is essential that this form of communication exists as people with hearing impairments can experience social isolation due to their disability.
Unlike the spoken word, where verbal speech is the main form of interaction, sign language uses the below as the primary ways of communicating:
- Body language
- Gestures
- Facial expressions
Other Ways of Including People With Hearing Impairments
As mentioned above, people with hearing impairments often experience significant isolation. Communication through touch and sight are key aspects of inclusion and can be explored in other ways than sign language.
For example, at Calvert Exmoor, we offer many accessible activities for deaf and hard of hearing guests that provide excellent opportunities for interacting with sense of sight or touch. Some of these opportunities include:
- Adaptive cycling
- Horse riding
- Zip wiring
Guests can expect a focused, attentive approach from our fully-qualified instructors during their stay. Many more exhilarating and deaf-friendly activities are available to encourage social inclusion for a loved one.
Why Are There So Many Forms of Sign Language?
Similar to verbal language, ways of accessible communication develop within cultures and groups of people unique to the area they live in. Therefore, these interactions will be different between communities.
Most sign language systems don’t align with the spoken languages of the environment and tend to be separate language systems.
A good example is the difference between American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL). Both the spoken languages of these communities are the same in that they verbally speak in English, although minute differences exist, for example, the difference between sidewalk and pavement.
However, ASL and BSL share some significant differences as they are in different areas of the world.
How Sign Language is Developed
It is not unusual for sign language to advance from a ‘parent sign language’. An example that highlights this can be found in the similarities between ASL and French Sign Language (LSF).
Despite the geographical distance, they bear resemblance due to the introduction of the ‘methodical sign system’ produced in France during the 18th century. Laurent Clerc, a French teacher who was deaf, shared this system with American deaf education and created what is now known as the American School for the Deaf.
Regional Variations of Sign Language
Similar to accents in spoken language, accents and dialects also exist within sign language. As sign language is more of a secluded form of communication, there tends to be a considerable variation between regions. This is especially prevalent in Britain, where sign language varies between towns and cities across the country.
What Forms of Sign Language Are Used in the UK?
Below are the most common forms of sign language used in the UK. As previously mentioned, different regions will slightly differ according to their dialects.
- British Sign Language (BSL)
- BSL taught through spoken Welsh
- Irish Sign Language (ISL)
- Sign Supported English (SSE)
- Makaton
We go into more detail about these variations below.
British Sign Language (BSL)
The type of sign language used the most in Britain is British Sign Language, also known as BSL. Research in 2011 suggested that BSL is used by around 151,000 people in favour of other sign languages.
According to the BSL website, BSL has its own syntax and grammatical structure unrelated to the English spoken language.
In 2003, the government officially regarded BSL as a minority language after a thorough campaign. As a result, according to the BSL website, awareness of deaf communications has increased, and BSL is recognised in the same way other minority languages are, such as Welsh and Gaelic.
If you want more information about British Sign Language, the BSL website provides further guidance and support. You can also discover how you can take a course in BSL.
Influence in Wales
A more recent advancement is a project by Mudiad Meithrin in Wales, which is prepared to teach young students BSL through the spoken language of Welsh as opposed to English.
Irish Sign Language
Also known as ISL, Irish Sign Language is mainly used in the Republic of Ireland but is also exercised in Northern Ireland. BSL is also commonly used in Northern Ireland.
ISL tends to have similarities to French Sign Language but has a bit of inspiration from BSL too. Like BSL, it doesn’t bear a resemblance to spoken English or Irish.
However, an intriguing aspect of ISL is its gendered sign language. Due to some male and female schools being separate in Ireland, ISL has diverged into two different sign languages.
There is heavy debate within Irish deaf communities regarding the dominance of men’s sign language, and, like with most forms of language, it is likely to evolve.
Sign Supported English (SSE)
Sign Supported English (SSE) is not a language on its own. The signs used are the same as those used in BSL. However, the signs are expressed in the same grammatical order as spoken English.
The key use of SSE is to accompany the learning process of those who have hearing impairments and are learning English grammar as well as sign language.
Why is Makaton Important?
Makaton makes use of graphic symbols, hand signs and spoken language as support for those who may need assistance with communication or have learning difficulties. It could assist the learning development of someone who has down syndrome, a neurological disorder or language impairment, for example.
We actually have more guests who use Makaton than we do BSL at Calvert Exmoor, so our staff have training in and experience with this unique method of communication.
If you require more information about the adventure breaks we offer and are interested in our holidays for deaf adults, please feel free to contact us on 01598 763221 or email us at exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk.
How Do Outdoor Activities Support People with Alzheimer’s?
It’s distressing to see a loved one begin to act differently and lose track of precious memories. However, the challenges that come with people living with Alzheimer’s or dementia don’t have to mean the end of exciting adventures.
The benefits of spending time outdoors have been well documented as rejuvenating mental and physical health, which is why it’s so important that people with Alzheimer’s or dementia experience activities out in the open. Engaging in outside adventures like bushcraft or having a leisurely cycle through the woodlands of Exmoor can provide many with a calming yet exciting experience.
At Calvert Exmoor, we specialise in providing safe, fun and accessible holidays for dementia and Alzheimer’s related conditions, designed for everyone no matter their level of ability.
Outdoor Activities for People with Alzheimer’s
We understand how integral structure is for people with Alzheimer’s, so we schedule our activities to provide routine. Routine and the physical challenges our activities provide are immensely valuable for reducing cognitive decline and promoting balance and strength.
Some of the best activities for dementia and Alzheimer’s include:
- Horse-riding
- Bushcraft
- Archery
- Sailing
- Cycling
All these activities and more are suitable for individuals with Alzheimer’s.
One day you might spend time whizzing around the scenic landscape of Exmoor, past sun-dappled woodlands and the tranquil waters of Wistlandpound Reservoir on our adaptive bikes. The types of bikes available are wheelchair front-loaders, recumbent bikes, hand cycles and side-by-side tandems.
Another day, you could get to know our horses and drive a horse-drawn carriage with guidance from expert riding instructors or get in touch with the surrounding flora by learning bushcrafts.
Support at Every Stage of Alzheimer’s
Whether it’s early, middle stage or late stage Alzheimer’s, we make our activities accessible for all.
Some may think that creating new experiences is pointless if memory loss is severe, but just because someone suffers from memory issues doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy positive experiences and adventures.
Emotional memory is still very much present; people with Alzheimer’s will remember how you make them feel, even if they don’t recall specific details.
The help we offer individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia is only made possible with your assistance. Please think about supporting us however you can to guarantee we can continue our work in helping to enrich the lives of our guests.
Group Connection & Mental Health
No matter what stage of Alzheimer’s, getting to experience an activity with a group offers significant benefits for improving mental health. Our guests get the opportunity to establish solidarity when facing fun adventures and overcoming challenges together, which bolsters a real sense of achievement.
Establishing connections via group activities is very therapeutic and necessary as mental health issues are prevalent for people with this condition, especially in the early and middle stages. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, around 40% of people with Alzheimer’s struggle with depression.
They suggest that, after seeking out professional help, natural treatments are also incredibly beneficial. For example:
- Regular exercise, especially in the morning
- Celebrate successes no matter how small
- Schedule things and keep a routine
- List activities that they enjoy
- Inspirational activities as a form of nurture
- Support groups for those who want to take a more active role in seeking help
As you can see, a combination of routine, physical exercise, group support and activities all contribute to improving the quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s.
Nature & General Well Being
Research has shown that spending time around some natural scenery is an excellent form of stress relief. For example, green exercise helps:
- Improve cognitive ability and keep the brain active
- Lower blood pressure
- Boost your mood
Outdoor adventures are the ideal balance of relaxing and energising.
A residential trip to Calvert Exmoor entails an experience packed to the brim with fun activities. If you would like to learn more about our accessible holidays, please contact our expert team.
Self-Care Goals to Assist People with Autism
Autism is often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). When it comes to understanding autism, it is important to remember that autism is considered a spectrum, and encompasses a range of disorders or experiences rather than just one. Consequently, each individual who has autism has different levels of sensory sensitivity.
With years of experience providing autism friendly holidays, at Calvert Exmoor, we cater to a broad spectrum of needs and understand how important it is that people with autism create and achieve self-care goals.
As such, we’ve created some helpful tips for those who would like to introduce self-care goals to an autistic person’s routine. In this blog, we aim to share these.
Why Are Goals Important For People with Autism?
Setting goals, whether big or small, can act as a motivational tool. It is a way to make changes accessible by implementing little lifestyle habits that are easy to repeat.
Having goals can open up more opportunities to gain greater independence in certain aspects of our lives as they offer us a sense of control. Lots of small goals over time can encourage us to make changes beyond what we would have previously thought possible.
Introducing Self-Care Goals
Some individuals who have autism can find organisation challenging. Using prompts and breaking down tasks into manageable steps can help introduce initially difficult tasks to someone who has autism.
This could include things such as:
- Washing
- Getting dressed
- Brushing teeth
- Brushing hair
- Packing a bag
- Making their bed
How to Achieve Self-Care Goals
As previously mentioned, splitting tasks into smaller steps will help them become more manageable. There are a range of ways you can approach this, including:
‘Forward Chaining’
‘Forward chaining’ is a method that The National Autistic Society has recommended. This process involves teaching a skill by breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps, helping to achieve the overall aim.
For example, when brushing your teeth:
- First, take the toothbrush
- Next, rinse the toothbrush with a little bit of water (this step may be an area of debate!)
- Then put a ‘pea-size’ amount of toothpaste on the toothbrush
- Then a drop of water (again, debatable!)
‘Backward Chaining’
Again, this is a method suggested by the National Autistic Society, except this implements the task steps by working from the last step backwards.
Maintain a ‘Sensory Record’
As you try to introduce small goals, we recommend keeping a diary of the reactions caused by certain tasks or scenarios. By taking note of these occurrences, the process can be reviewed and adapted in the future to accommodate the triggers of unease and uncertainty discovered by these records.
A gentle, sensory experience with toys may help ease some symptoms of anxiety and provide relief from overstimulation.
Using Pictures
An excellent way to implement new things, especially for children, is to use illustrations. Leaving pictures as reminders will prompt them to follow the procedure displayed.
For example, the National Autistic Society has suggested putting a diagram, or list, in the bathroom which demonstrates the steps when brushing teeth. You can use pictures found online or create your own.
Prompts
The National Autistic Society suggests that using a mixture of physical, gestural and verbal prompts can help people remember the order they need to accomplish the breakdown of tasks.
Physical Prompts
As the name suggests, this form of prompt is done by accompanying the person as you complete the activity.
For example, holding the toothbrush together and squeezing toothpaste onto it.
Gestural Prompts
This is where you can pretend to do the task to prompt them to follow through with the action. For example, miming brushing your teeth as they brush their teeth in real life.
Verbal Prompts
A verbal prompt is when you remind the person of the next step by saying it to them. For example, ‘rinse the toothbrush and put it in the holder.’
Use Calendars
In order to help schedule these priorities, providing a calendar is a handy tool for people to refer to and act as a reminder.
Be Motivational
To encourage people to achieve their goals, keep it motivational! One of the more successful ways of doing this is through praise. No matter what the task, even if it may seem very minimum, an achievement is an achievement and should receive lots of praise.
By knowing what the person appreciates, you can make the encouragement purposeful to the individual. This may be through verbal praise or a small gift, for example.
Mental Health
If you ever notice a decline in a loved one’s self-care routine, this could indicate underlying issues concerning their mental health. This could be anything from anxiety or depression to forms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
If you feel this may be the case, the National Autistic Society recommends contacting the Autism Helpline, where they can direct you further on the most suitable procedures to take.
Autism Friendly Activities at Calvert Exmoor
Here at Calvert Trust Exmoor, we offer accessible activities for people with autism and a range of other disabilities. We love to encourage all our guests to achieve their ambitions and intend to help those who want to set goals while staying with us.
For example, why not give archery a try? This activity offers a pleasant sensory experience for people with ADHD and/or autism, allowing our guests to unwind and gain a sense of accomplishment.
We take great pride in our certified instructors, who encourage independence when supervising activities by using physical, gestural and verbal prompts.
Daily timetables ensure there is a set routine for our guests. We also encourage using our social areas, where guests can meet and support one another before and after sessions.
Our facilities are tailored to assist all kinds of disabilities; for people with autism, we provide a sensory room that contains various receptive toys.
The wide range of adaptive activities and support we provide is only made possible with your help, so please consider supporting us however you can to ensure our guests can continue to feel empowered and confident during and after their stay with us.
Hopefully, the tips mentioned in this blog will offer some helpful pointers for accomplishing self-care goals! If you have any other recommendations, we would love to hear about them on our social media channels like Facebook!
If you would like more information about the Devon activity breaks we offer and are interested in booking a holiday with us, please feel free to contact us on 01598 763221 or email us at exmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk.
Fundraising Ideas to Support Disability Charities
It cannot be overstated just how important fundraising is for disability charities in Devon. Without the support of people who truly care, we wouldn’t be able to provide the inclusive outdoor adventure activities available at Calvert Exmoor.
If you want to contribute to our valuable work or any other charities close to your heart, but don’t know where to begin, we’ve compiled a few fundraising ideas that can help support disability charities.
What Fundraising Allows Calvert Exmoor to Do
At Calvert Exmoor, we’re dedicated to enabling people with disabilities to experience accessible and exciting outdoor activities.
We believe that learning, behavioural, sensory or physical disabilities do not hinder people from participating in activities that are challenging and fun, it’s merely a matter of adapting to individual needs. Some of our activities include:
- Abseiling
- Archery
- Canoeing
- Challenge Course
- Crate Stack
- Cycling
- Zipwire
Our guests get the chance to experience these activities and many others. In addition, we provide tasty meals and accessible accommodation to ensure everyone’s stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
These services are immensely valuable to a wide range of people. For example, our adaptive cycling enables wheelchair users to experience the thrill of whizzing along our cycling tracks, and people with autism benefit hugely from spending time outdoors.
We do all of this without government funding, meaning we depend upon your support to continue what we do at Calvert Exmoor and enrich the lives of everyone no matter their level of ability.
Fundraising is the lifeblood of charities like Calvert Exmoor, so please consider supporting us as that money goes directly to our guests.
Disabilities don’t mean an end to fun and adventure. With proper assistance, there’s no limit to the number of things you can achieve.
What You Can Do to Help Raise Money for Charity
The best part about fundraising is that you can do anything you want! Community-led or independent, there are no strict rules in place so feel free to create a challenge that suits you.
If you’re stuck for ideas, we have some suggestions for you.
Take a Look at Our Events
At Calvert Exmoor, we would love to help you get involved in fundraising. Take a look at upcoming events so you don’t miss out!
Get Physical
No matter your level of ability, physical challenges are an excellent way of drumming up interest! People love to see someone push themselves and achieve.
Whether you want to hike, run a marathon, cycle, or wheel, try exerting yourself beyond your usual routine. Or maybe a football tournament is more your speed?
We’ve had all sorts of people raise money for Calvert Exmoor. A family, a stroke survivor and even a local chef, proving you can be an everyday hero!
Bake Sale
Simple to do and tasty, a bake sale is something friends and family can easily get involved with. It’s hard to turn down a homemade treat so this is an excellent way of garnering support.
Sell, Sell, Sell
If you have a lot of unwanted or unused items building up in your household, consider having a good spring clean and auctioning them off. Who knows? Maybe your knick-knacks will find a new home.
Raise Funds from Home
Thanks to social media, you could raise money from home. Even before COVID, the internet was an innovative way for people to create online events, but now more than ever, streaming platforms like Zoom enable you to connect with people in a unique way.
You could show off a talent or attempt something out of your comfort zone if you’re not afraid of getting silly. Activities such as karaoke, dance challenges, virtual murder mysteries, or streaming video games are just a taste of what you can achieve online — the possibilities are endless!
If you believe that people with disabilities deserve to enjoy challenges just as much as non-disabled people, then please consider donating or fundraising for a good cause.
Here at Calvert Exmoor, we are passionate about ensuring children and adults can participate in a range of accessible adventure activities and enjoy their stay with us to the fullest. If any of our activities sounds like something you or someone you know would love, get in touch with the Calvert Exmoor team today.
How Do We Make Our Activities Accessible?
Nobody likes to be left out. That’s why we are deeply invested in providing engaging, safe, and most importantly, inclusive indoor and outdoor activities to improve your quality of life.
At Calvert Exmoor, we understand the need for varied and dynamic activities that are accessible to people of all abilities.
If you’re looking for activities in Devon for people with disabilities, this will give you some information on how we provide accessible opportunities for the whole family.
How Do We Make Our Activities Accessible?
Calvert Trust is supportive of a wide range of disabilities, accredited by the National Access Scheme for the following:
- Hearing-impaired guests.
- Visually impaired guests.
- Older, less mobile guests.
- Part-time wheelchair users.
- Assisted wheelchair users.
- Independent wheelchair users.
Specialist Equipment
We have designed our equipment to suit all abilities, meaning that no one gets left behind when it comes to fun activities.
Our riding school features hoist facilities, we have a pontoon for watersports, adaptive paddle grips, bow supports for archery, and climbing supports.
Accommodation
Where you rest is just as important as where you play. After activities are finished, you can retreat to our accessible accommodation and get that well-earned rest. Features include:
- Mattress elevators.
- En-suite level entry shower rooms.
- Shower chairs.
- Electric doors and lifts.
- Widened doors and corridors.
- Menvicall alarms.
- Commodes.
- Bed blocks.
- Overbed pole hoists.
- Manual and electric hoists.
- Trembler pads.
Qualified Instructors
You’re in safe hands with our qualified instructors on board to help you get the most out of your experience.
Your instructor will be there for the majority of your stay, allowing a great opportunity for some one-on-one interaction.
They will lead you through a structured programme of activities that are designed to be safe and enjoyable for a broad spectrum of abilities.
What Accessible Activities Do We Have?
We have a varied assortment of activities for the whole family to enjoy no matter your age. Take a look below:
Accessible Abseiling
This activity is one of our most popular for a reason.
At first glance, it may seem an impossible feat. But we don’t believe in the impossible at Calvert Exmoor.
As previously mentioned, our specialist equipment allows wheelchair users to participate in abseiling. You control the speed with the rope in your hands, and anyone who needs assistance with that part will be helped by our instructors.
Here’s more on why a disability shouldn’t stop you from abseiling to your heart’s content.
Wheelchair Horse Riding
Wheelchair horse riding is a thrilling and irreplaceable experience.
For those who can’t mount a horse, we provide a wheelchair-adapted horse-drawn carriage so you can take the reins on this adventure.
Wheelchair horse riding is an example of how we can adapt such an exciting activity to be suitable for the needs of everyone. This activity allows individuals who use wheelchairs to feel self-assured and independent.
Bushcraft Activities
Access to rural landscapes tends to be rarer for many people with disabilities. Our bushcraft sessions are adapted for a spectrum of disabilities to enjoy the process of lighting a fire, telling stories, and making crafts out of available woodland materials.
If you’d like to explore more accessible activities, have a look at everything you need to know about accessible cycling to get the most out of your experience at Calvert Exmoor.
We deliver unforgettable disabled friendly holidays in the UK, so if you’re interested, don’t hesitate to get in touch!