Still Game (our service user group) recently decided that, in order to promote the services of Ceartas and to continue to break down barriers to advocacy, it would be good for us to have a presence in the local KHCC.    Therefore, on Tuesday 7th May, Staff, Volunteers and those who use the services of Ceartas spent the afternoon at the KHCC in Kirkintilloch. We hope that those who were there yesterday will be more aware of Ceartas and have a better idea of the support and information we can provide to people who are facing various changes, challenges and decisions.   Thanks to those who gave up their time to do this and also to those who passed by and picked up information. 

ABI Cafe took place again on Thursday 3rd May with everyone making preparations for the ABI Seminar on 17th May.   The Group thought about what things they hoped that people would get out of the day.  They hope that people will understand more about the long term effects of brain injury, eg memory loss, change of lifestyle, etc.  They hope that professionals will understand more about the effects of brain injury, eg epilepsy.  They want people to understand that it's often a hidden disability which can cause frustrations and misunderstandings.  They want more people to know where to get help, info and advice on brain injury – especially once they are discharged from hospital. 

We also asked those who came to ABI Cafe what they thought of the service.  One encouraging comment seemed to sum up the importance of this group . . . "We have found out more info about access to support agencies for ABI in the last 30 mins than we have in the last three years since the stroke happened."  (Lorraine)

Everyone is looking forward to the Seminar being run by Ceartas and Headway on 17th May and hopes that it will indeed raise awareness of ABI in the area.  ABI Seminar, Thursday 17 May from 2-4pm, McGregor House, 10 Donaldson Cres, Kirkintilloch.  Book by phone 0141 775 0433 or by emailing pthomson@ceartas.org.uk

Our Still Game (service user group) met on Tuesday 1st May and really enjoyed meeting the new staff at Ceartas as well as celebrating Nicola's birthday (her 21st of course!).   They appreciated hearing from Karen about the dementia advisory clinics which Ceartas are involved with.   The group are looking forward to the first Advocacy Info Cafe on 14th June from 2-4pm in Kirkintilloch Baptist Church Coffee Lounge – this is open to the public so feel free to 'drop-in'.  Some of the group are also going to be at the Info Stand in the KHCC on Tues 8th May from 2-4pm if you want to pop along.  BIG THANKS to Anna, our social work student who has been helping the group to record their 'Journey Through Ceartas' – we're going to miss you!   Our new Info Worker, Roy spent time getting to know the group and explaining how he'd like to work with them to develop Ceartas info leaflets, etc.   Still Game members hope to link with Universal Comedy later in the year to do a taster session about using comedy to express themselves and increase their confidence.   They are also looking forward to a visit from the Scottish Independent Advocacy Alliance in August so they can look at welfare reform and how the current cuts are affecting them.   Some fun plans include a trip on the Seagull Trust Barge in July and a Ceilidh in November . . . with Richard still trying to decide which lady he wants to bring!   HUGE THANKS to all Still Game members from the Board and Staff at Ceartas . . . you're a great bunch and we're overwhelmed with your support and enthusiasm to help us continue to develop our services!

STILL GAME MEMBERS . . . HARD AT WORK!

THURSDAY 17 MAY 2012 from 2-4pm

ACTION FOR BRAIN INJURY WEEK 14-20 MAY 2012

Ceartas Advocacy and Headway Glasgow are planning an Acquired Brain Injury Seminar on Thursday 17 May from 2-4pm in the Auditorium at McGregor House, 10 Donaldson Cres, Kirkintilloch, G66 1XF.   The Key  Speaker will be Prof Tom McMillan, Professor of Clinical Neuropsychology at the Institute of Health and Wellbeing.  He will speak about this hidden disability, the clinical effects, the prevalence of brain injury and potential discrimination.   The seminar aims to raise awareness of acquired brain injury locally and is suitable for those directly affected, carers, the public, those working in Health, Social Work and Voluntary Sector organisations.  Ceartas and Headway will give information about the work they are doing with people who have abi and there will be infomation available from other organisations as well.  The Seminar is free, but booking is essential.  To book call Pam Thomson at Ceartas on 0141 775 0433 or email on pthomson@ceartas.org.uk

For further details click here:  ABI Seminar – POSTER.

Still Game members Sheila and John met with two Ceartas Staff Members, Pam & Gemma and one of our volunteers, Claire to plan for a “Ceartas Ceilidh” later in the year.   It is hoped this event will raise awareness of Ceartas and the advocacy work that they do.  This will be held on Friday 30 November at 7.30pm in the Park Centre, Kirkintilloch.   As it is St Andrew’s night, as well as Ceilidh dancing, there will be a mix of music, games and fun.    Thanks to Sheila and Claire for finding out about possible venues and to John for his ideas for the night.  As we hope this will be a family event, the group feel there should be no alcohol.  Soft drinks and a buffet will be provided.   Tickets priced £3/individuals or £5/family will go on sale later in the year.  This event is open to everyone so please support support Still Game and Ceartas by coming along to this night which looks like being great fun!!   To reserve your ticket, contact Pam on 0141 775 0433.