Catch up. :-)

Hello again. Sorry it's been so long, life has been trying to get in the way, and almost succeeding.

Managed to qualify for my DLA so all the paperwork was worth it. I did however miss one small tick box in my blue badge application so of course I have re-do the entire thing. Joy. I wonder how they get away with it all, I'd I did that in my day job - retail? no you haven't given me the exact change your not having the product. Can't imagine we would stay open that long!

I have finally started looking at different careers though, something sitting down instead of a very physical retail. I am not going to be able to do for much longer. I have started looking into office based, and started looking at re-training and have great news of haggling!! I've just applied for a distance learning course, which I was origionally quoted £945 for, but having spoken to them, and pointed out that I was there on he recommendation of a reliable client of theirs, they reduced it to £200 if I paid by dd, or just £145if I paid in one go. :-) bargain, love it.


But whilst I am sharing my good news, I am also going to share my frustrations with you. I Have been back on my walking stick for the last week or so, and I must have been asked about 15times "so what have you done?" as they assume that I've had an accident. Whilst I appreciate their concern, it leaves me in a situation - how to explain 10years of disabily? Or simply lie? I usually end up making a generic "I'm clumsy and I tripped" which often leaves the missis rolling sheer eyes at me, and often gettin quiet frustrated! She works with adults and young people with disabilities. And gets very frustrated when people feel the need to lie or hide their disability.


She has recently had a brilliant interview with a local disability charity, who were so impressed with her enthusiasm and passion that they have offered her a job - but haven't said what. They want her to create her role - to see what she can bring to the table. We'relaying around with things like working with a group of 6 adults with various disabilities, traveling around schools teaching kids about both pyschial and mental disabilities? Or possibly opening up a clinic specialising on profound and complex learning disabilities? Arg the possibilities are endless. Any suggestions?

Hope your all having a great week. :-) happy travels. :-) xx

What a kerffulle!!

A new frustration I have come across recently is the "proof" of disability needed - for even minor discounts. I appreciate that there are people who don't use the system correctly, but I had to show my doctors note (which depressingly I carry around for just such purposes!) to a insolent, minimum wage paid 16y old, In order to get 50p off the entrance to a museum.

Now I know for 50p, I could have not shown the details of my condition and paid full price, but that is not the issue! There hasn't been a disability "register" in a few decades, maybe longer. There has to be A better way of doing this? My local swimming pool said that I could bring in my blue badge - but not all disabilities qualify for a blue badge, at least in my county. What happens then??

There should be a wrist band scheme - one that your doctor signs you a note for. Simply stating yes they / you consider you to have a disability, which you could show too trained, compassionate and respectful person - who could then issue a band/keyring/item which could be a nationwide guide of who does and who doesn't apply?

But until then - shops, tourist attractions, events and private companies take note!! You will gain more, if you allow those of us with disabilities in on discounted rates with no hassle, embarrassment or fuss, then you would if you stuck to your "proof only" discount policy. I assure you - the majority of the nation is decent, and it will work in both our favours I assure you!!

I'll keep you posted about good/bad entry issues I find along my way. Happy travels! X

Travel Benefits!

Today I have started the search for cash saving Benefits regarding travel. You may well be aware of some of these, but I wanted to be sure that we all had access to the information!

Any person registered disabled, visually impaired or several more categories, qualify for free bus travel in their local area! As I tend to prefer pen and paper so I have ordered a claim back, but for those that are more tech-savvy you can apply over the Internet, or phone/text phone. Link is below. :-).

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/TravelAndTransport/Publictransport/BusAndCoachTravel/DG_10036264


I also came across the site for a disabled persons rail card which offeres any one with a disability a discount for both themselves and a companion! This can also include first class, so book ahead and combine with this card should mean a great start to any days out or holidays taken! Link is below.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/MotoringAndTransport/PublicAndCommunityTransport/DG_4001063

Happy travels!

Hello all. :-) I decided to write this blog on advice from my friends. Sitting one day putting the world to rights (as all good friends do, over a nice bottle of red!) I was ranting about my disability and the issues I come across and the lack of a easy, concise website with all the information in one place! Going on the government website, only talked about the government issues and schemes, but I wanted to know more about the day to day issues - who gives discount, who doesnt, where I can park, where I can't - and all the other bits inbetween!


So here I am, sharing with you any great/poor service I receive, any great company's and any poor ones, and of course any money saving discounts or benefits I find!! I am - as my URL states, dignified and proud. I am proud of who I am, the Friends and life I have made for myself - and the fact that my "packaging" is damaged should be neither here nor there!

This will also be a site for those without disabilities, to show you that you don't have to be on trend with all the "correct" pc buzz words, and use a dictionary of alien words. You just need to see the person first. Notice that we too, have a sence of humour!

So here is to a more relaxed, respectful way forward, where people are people and friends laugh. Dignified and proud. :-)