When you need support, it's not always a straight forward task finding where to go and who to contact. So we're here to help.
We've compiled a list of contacts for useful organisations, shops and charities that can help you find what you need - whether it's practical help with care, hiring mobility vehicles, or national advice on disability living. There's even a talking newspaper service for County Durham.
Take a look below to find the support you need. If you know of other organisations that you'd like to see listed, then let us know at info.durhamcityaccessforall@gmail.com
Please note: due to the Covid 19 pandemic some of the information such as opening times and services may not be available. Please check ahead before making arrangements.
Durham Shopmobility
Shopmobility is a scheme which hires out motorised scooters, manually operated and power assisted wheelchairs. Situated on the Level 1 Car Park, Prince Bishops Shopping Centre, it offers short and long term hire, repairs and valeting, and even runs excursions for people with mobility problems.
Phone: 0191 386 8556
Website: www.durhamshopmobility.co.uk/
Opening hours: 9am-4pm Monday to Saturday
Email: durhamshopmobility@talktalkbusiness.net
AccessAble
AccessAble - formerly called DisabledGo - provides detailed information about venues' disability access, meaning that you can plan your trip with confidence.
Website: www.accessable.co.uk/
Email: hello@AccessAble.co.uk
Durham County Council Social Care
You can find a variety of help and support on the Durham County Council Social Care section of their website, including help for carers and getting your care needs assessed.
Website: www.durham.gov.uk/careandsupport
Locate
Locate is Durham County Council's portal for putting people in touch with local services in their community.
Website: www.durhamlocate.org.uk/
County Durham Talking Newspaper
The County Durham Talking Newspaper provides a regular, free service for people with sight loss, recording local news stories and features from the region's press. The team of 18 - all volunteers - includes editors, readers, technicians, despatchers, trustees and administrators.
The stories they read and record include planning decisions, court cases, village events, regular columnists, amusing snippets and nostalgia pieces. They also serialise local autobiographies, as well as recording audio at big events such as the Durham Miners Gala.
Sources include The Northern Echo, Durham Advertiser, Sunday Post, Teesdale Mercury, Sunderland Echo, Darlington & Stockton Times, Sunday Sun and the Sunday Post. Recordings are posted out on CDs and USB sticks.
To become a listener, call Alice Severs on the number below.
Website: cdtn.org.uk
Phone: 0191 384 8102
100 Best Blogs for Disabled People and Carers
Stairlifts Reviews has compiled a list of the best blogs aimed at disabled people and carers. They cover topics such as living with a disability, dealing with the challenges of ageing, and caring for a loved one with mobility issues.