Community Care's CareSpace

Book Now availiable In the UK and EU !!

Norrms — Sat, 26 May 2012 10:21:00 GMT

Hiya, I AM SO EXITED !!!!! I have just been informed that my latest book "Silent Voices, My Battle with Alzheimers Continues" is FINALLY availiable in the UK !! No more Shipping Charges from the States, so now all my friend`s in the UK and Europe can buy the paper back!!! Its been such a long time coming!!!! Thank you all for being so patient, I hope you all enjoy it, please let me know, and PLEASE pass on to ALL your friends and Internet connections, Buy it for your friends , its all in a good cause !! Just click on the lnk !! all our love, a very exited Norrms, Elaine and family xxxxxxxx
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Silent-Voice%60s-Battle-Alzheimer%60s-Rages/dp/1463761538/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1338021274&sr=1-2

The ten year plan

hownottodosocialwork — Thu, 24 May 2012 17:30:16 GMT

What every person needs is a ten year plan to work towards, a plan which sets out clearly step by step your actions that need to take place to affect change and also improve outcomes. Ten years? [wow] what a long time, I can barely set out a plan for Read More......(read more)

Poll: Are you working over the Diamond Jubilee?

The Social Work Blog — Thu, 24 May 2012 10:05:59 GMT

Loading... If you are working, let us know how you feel about it in the comments section. Read More......(read more)

#socialcare60: nominate your top social care tweeters

Mad World — Wed, 23 May 2012 15:59:47 GMT

Twitter is a great way for social workers to share experiences, let off steam, and get the latest on all things social care. Who do you recommend your fellow social care professionals follow? Amid the current jubilee hype we want to celebrate something Read More......(read more)

To tweet or not to tweet? How social workers can use social media

Mad World — Wed, 23 May 2012 11:36:55 GMT

Whether it be through forums , Facebook or tweeting , more and more social workers are using social networks to help their day to day practice. But what should we be wary of when posting online? At ComCare Live last week, social workers Victoria Hart Read More......(read more)

What you should know about the CPD switchover

The Social Work Blog — Wed, 23 May 2012 10:57:36 GMT

When the register of social workers in England transfers to the Health Professions Council (HPC) on 1 August, changes will be made to how your continuing professional development (CPD) is monitored and assessed. Here is a quick summary of what I learned Read More......(read more)

Interview for YPSS

NQSW100 — Wed, 23 May 2012 09:24:00 GMT

I have an interview for a YPSS social worker which includeds a group exercise, written and then a formal interview, had anyone had a simlar interview that could give me some tips on what they might ask and what the group exercise might include?

Thanks

Interview

NQSW100 — Wed, 23 May 2012 09:24:00 GMT

Thanks

Three reasons why adult social work is vital in the current climate

Mad World — Tue, 22 May 2012 12:20:03 GMT

Social work's roots in social justice and human rights makes the profession vital in the current climate of Government cutbacks and health service shake-ups, writes social worker B.Edwards*... I'm proud to be a social worker. Why? In a large part Read More......(read more)

Secret`s and Lies

Norrms — Mon, 21 May 2012 14:33:00 GMT

SECRETS AND LIES
Sometimes I sit here and evaluate my life living with Dementia so far and how we have dealt with it. Sometimes it’s a good outcome, sometimes not; it depends on my mood I think! There is one thing, no matter what I think about, is the Secrets and Lies that’s connected with this awful illness dementia. I think that’s why I campaign as hard as I do, because the more I learn, the more questions there are, this is what I mean.
Secret`s
When I was first told I had Dementia I was advised to “Use it or lose it” and sent on my way!! If I had just been diagnosed with Cancer or HIV would they have said the same? What were they holding back? What SECRETS did they hold about this disease? As time went on I realised that not only was there nothing in place for somebody like me aged just 50yrs old with this kind of diagnosis but nobody talked about it openly?? WHY NOT? Was that a SECRET too? All I learned about this awful disease I learned via the computer but here are something’s I had to find out as time went on.
1, sometimes when I walk into the room and see my Angels face, drawn with worry and trying to figure out the best way forward for the future, what am I suppose to say? Do I say I am sorry? Do I pretend I haven’t seen her? Do I lie to her and say everything will be ok when quite clearly its not going to be? Nobody told me this would happen!
2, Never having lied to any of my grandchildren, when they ask “Grandad, are you going to die soon?? How do I answer that one? How do I look them in the eye and say “Not to worry, I am not going anywhere “ How do I look at their wonderful innocent faces and tell them that I might not be here to see them grow up, or see them married and have children of their own? Nobody told me this would happen?
3, When my Angel holds me so tight and whispers “What am I going to do without you?” How do I answer her? How do I calm her fears and trepidation? Nobody told me this would happen!
4, The nightmares, the hallucinations, the constant pressure of always being in the wrong, getting nothing right, dates, times, remembering holidays and places I have been!! WHY DID NOBODY TELL ME THIS WOULD HAPPEN??
ALL THESE SECRETS AND MORE!!!
WHY ARE THESE THINGS NEVER DISCUSSED??
LIES
Well, where do I start??
1, It’s only an Age related disease? Err excuse me????
2, it’s contagious? Yes some people walk away from me as if I have the Bubonic plague.
3, I don’t LOOK LIKE I have dementia?? Please explain to me “What does somebody “look like “with dementia.
4, it’s no use talking to him/her as she/ he won’t understand you?? Please tell me how do you know that?? When did you pass your degree in matters of the mind?
5, Just dress them in anything, they won’t know ?? Again, how do you know this??
6, A member of my family has a “Touch “of Dementia, that’s just like saying my sister is a “Touch Pregnant!!!
7, Dementia comes on suddenly!! NO IT DOESNT!!! Its actually a Critical chain of events that lead up to the later stages, its just all about becoming aware of the signs.
8, and the biggest one of all, its all about losing YOUR MEMORY!!
NO ITS NOT!!!
It’s about losing your lifestyle skills, your ability to walk properly, to talk properly, to count money and understand the simple tasks of life which you wouldn’t normally give a second thought to. Its about putting the milk in the oven and the hot cup of coffee in the fridge!!

SECRETS AND LIES, EVERY ONE OF THEM, with a lot more besides.
My dear friends, until these secrets and lies are stopped, until the truth comes out about this awful disease and until each and every one of us stand up and shout`s that enough is enough!! We will struggle to overcome something we are in the dark about. No more should we hide in the shadows and whisper about Dementia. No more should those of us who have this disease be looked at as if we have two heads!! And no more should this disease be the Silent Enemy! Because I for one will not go quietly and will campaign long and hard until there are no more SECRETS AND LIES, Just
TRUTH AND HONESTY !!

#cclive 2012: the online discussion in full

Mad World — Fri, 18 May 2012 17:34:59 GMT

Here's what topics dominated the Twittersphere at Community Care Live. Click on any of the keywords to see what was discussed... Read More......(read more)

Top tweets from Community Care Live 2012

Mad World — Fri, 18 May 2012 16:44:11 GMT

[<a href="http://storify.com/andymcnicoll/community-care-live-2012-the-highlights" target="_blank">View the story "Highlights from #cclive 2012" on Storify</a>] Read More......(read more)

College of Social Work and BASW look set to merge

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 18 May 2012 16:26:18 GMT

A quick (or should I say vague?) update on the situation with the College of Social Work and British Association of Social Workers (BASW). Those following me on Twitter during Community Care Live this week may have noticed this tweet: "Anne Mercer Read More......(read more)

Involving service users in social work regulation

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 18 May 2012 15:58:10 GMT

The General Social Care Council has published its report Involving people who use services and their carers in the work of the GSCC 2010-12 . Earlier this week, the report's author, David Rowland, told Community Care why service users must be allowed Read More......(read more)

Funding the assessed year for new social workers

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 18 May 2012 14:28:52 GMT

It sounds suspiciously like the assessed and supported year in employment (ASYE), which is due to come into effect for newly qualified social workers in England this September, will not receive any government funding . To be clear, I'm basing this Read More......(read more)

A striking image of social work & young peoples' views of care

Mad World — Fri, 18 May 2012 12:47:41 GMT

What do looked after young people, and the social workers that support them, feel about the care process and mental health services? A striking set of images from a recent report from mental health charity YoungMinds offers a fascinating insight. As part Read More......(read more)

On the receiving end: how I went from social worker to service user

Mad World — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:11:42 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE In this guest post mental health social worker Mike Bush says he's learnt a lot by experiencing mental health services from the other side... In November 2000, while working as a mental health social Read More......(read more)

To survive?

hownottodosocialwork — Sun, 13 May 2012 09:21:43 GMT

A quick survival guide to social work, don’t you just love the idea that you could open a book and then it will tell you the answers that you need to be able to get through the complexities of social work practise on any given day. Okay I am a little Read More......(read more)

Coming Soon near you ???

Norrms — Sat, 12 May 2012 16:30:00 GMT

Do you think your Local TV /Radio staion and all your friends could set something like this up where you are ??? Please like our page/ Share with all above mentioned, please ask them to the "Like " our page, , and let us know if you want any information , very best wishes, Norrms and family ( i was diagnosed with Dementia aged just 50yrs old, now 54yrs old)
https://www.facebook.com/PlantingMemories?ref=ts

Overwhelmed by constant changes in social care?

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 11 May 2012 15:44:15 GMT

Alan Fisher is director of care at Supported Fostering Services, a charity and independent fostering provider, and a British Association for Adoption and Fostering trustee. Here, he tells Community Care how it feels to be a manager dealing with the endless Read More......(read more)

Social work and a different approach to housing clients with complex needs

Mad World — Fri, 11 May 2012 15:06:26 GMT

Should clients with complex needs be blocked from getting independent housing until they have 'clinically recovered' from mental health issues or are abstinent of drugs or alcohol? At ComCare Live next week ( register for free here if you haven't Read More......(read more)

How your feedback is shaping our live debates

Mad World — Fri, 11 May 2012 12:23:49 GMT

On Monday (14 May) at 7pm we'll be hosting our second social work practice dilemmas live online debate. This time looking at child protection & social networking ( full details here ), and, based on your feedback from our first event, we're Read More......(read more)

The Horrors of Last night

Norrms — Thu, 10 May 2012 15:24:00 GMT

Last Night`s
Horror Show
The feeling of emptiness within my mind about an hour or so before going to bed was not a good sign. I sat there; quiet and unresponsive to all and whatever was going on, God only knows what was on the television, but to bed I went, 9pm as usual, accompanied with my headphones on listening to Palm FM.
I love any type of music but I kept changing radio stations as I was convinced I didn’t like anything I was listening to, and found myself becoming more agitated. Around ten PM my “Angel” Elaine came in and we tried to settle down moments later. In what seemed “Nano” seconds to me (But actually an hour or so), the Horror Show “started.

Images of people seemingly going about their business flickered across my eyes, cars, buses, planes and trains ploughed through the ni...ghtmare with ease, taking everybody and everything with it and I found myself screaming warnings, shouting at the top of my voice and my arms flaying about windmill like! My legs ran as hard as they could so I could try and warn people of the oncoming tragedy but they just turned to lead as I strained to put one foot in front of the other.
The outcome I will not write about, but needless to say it wasn’t a happy one. In my dream I just looked on in horror and screamed as loud as I could, if I am honest with myself it’s not a sound I have ever heard before and if I did I would say it wasn’t human. I have tried to re-enact the sound but I am physically unable to. My angel held me tight, dried my tears and the beads of sweat from my face and settled me down again for the night. Within minutes it had started again!!

This time I will not recall what happened as it was very personal, but also very real. What I can say is during this night terror I actually said to myself “This must be a dream and not true, it can’t be!!” I was actually dreaming within a dream, a first for me and very worrying!!! Once again the outcome was horrendous and once again my Angel and saviour were there to help me and calm me down.
As I awoke, eventually, at break of dawn I have never been so relieved to the rays of daylight streaming through our windows. Elaine’s hand immediately stretched out looking for mine as she whispered “Are you ok Norrms? Are you getting up now? I Whisper back “yes” and gently kissed her on the cheek, she looked so tied and yet so grateful to at least get a little interrupted sleep without my agonies of the night disturbing her, for an hour at least.

Never before have a described the contents of my dreams but I do believe that we have to talk about these things because it could be your partner/loved one, relation that is going through the same as me. I hope you don’t mind me sharing a snapshot of last night, and please believe me when I say it was only a snapshot, but hopefully it will help some understand what people with DEMENTIA have to endure sometimes, even though they don’t talk about it.
Love to you all, Norrms and family xxxxxxxx

Who Will Listen to us ??

Norrms — Wed, 09 May 2012 10:03:00 GMT

VIDEO MESSAGE FROM ME
Hiya, please take a look at this as this is my reply to yesterdays press release by the Dept of Health which was headed "Transforming Lives" if you want to google it, i commened on it yesterday and promised a video, here it is xxxxx
http://youtu.be/AbiHS3OeueQ

Interview: Social work award winner Kelly Hicks

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:49:57 GMT

Entries are now open for the 2012 Social Worker of the Year Awards . Here, Kelly Hicks, winner of last year's award for adult services, tells Community Care why she favours independent social work practices and how fishing helps her to unwind after Read More......(read more)

Dementia care and the power of music

Mad World — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:31:02 GMT

One of my friends sent me this video a couple of days ago and it really moved me. It reminded me of the joy that my grandad, who sadly passed away a few years ago after having alzheimers, got whenever my gran played him his favourite tune - Mozart's Read More......(read more)

How to handle difficult conversations: top tips

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 08 May 2012 10:29:01 GMT

Like most people, I struggle with having difficult conversations - especially that hot feeling you get when you know you have to bring up something that is likely to upset the other person. Perhaps, as a social worker, you get used to it over time. But Read More......(read more)

Interviews!

hownottodosocialwork — Fri, 04 May 2012 20:08:50 GMT

Today has been a weird end of a weird week, and did anybody notice how fast the week went? But it is important for me to reflect on what could be important for me. Having been in post for two years I have been having itchy feet for some time, looking Read More......(read more)

Ex-social worker elected as mayor of Liverpool

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 04 May 2012 15:51:09 GMT

Joe Anderson has had quite a career: he's been a pub owner, social worker, leader of Liverpool Council - and today he became the first directly-elected mayor of Liverpool. The Labourite won by a pretty comfortable margin, according to media reports Read More......(read more)

How to improve social work practice placements

The Social Work Blog — Wed, 02 May 2012 15:48:30 GMT

This morning the General Social Care Council released a report on employers' views of social work practice placements . Reassuringly, it seems most employers recognise the importance of supporting social work students through their studies (although Read More......(read more)

'Prejudice against clients': an aspect of social work burnout?

Mad World — Wed, 02 May 2012 12:17:06 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 So the verdict is in on service users' experiences during the first year of the Time to Change campaign to combat mental health discrimination. At points it makes uncomfortable Read More......(read more)

What to expect from the social care register transfer

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 01 May 2012 17:02:20 GMT

The Health Professions Council (HPC) has created a page for social workers on its website , giving a timeline of events up to and beyond the transfer of the social care register in England. The HPC will write to social workers with more information about Read More......(read more)

Gathering the data

hownottodosocialwork — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:34:24 GMT

Time is really running short now with just under four weeks left to gather my data and analysis what I have found in a meaningful way to write up in just 8000 words! I have not been sitting in a blind panic since I last wrote about my research, and the Read More......(read more)

How read-aloud groups can benefit social workers & clients

Mad World — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:35:32 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE Reading is often seen as a solitary activity, but social workers, clients with mental health conditions and children in care, are among those reaping the benefits of read-aloud groups that get staff and patients Read More......(read more)

Children are the future!

hownottodosocialwork — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:17:47 GMT

One of the great joys of Social Work is that you can never be right, well at least that’s how it appears or portrayed by the media. And in a blog post by Abe Laurens in the ‘not so big society’ titled ‘Shine a light’ illustrates Read More......(read more)

Do you know how many social workers there are?

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:41:20 GMT

Source: The future social worker workforce: an analysis of risks and opportunities , Centre for Workforce Intelligence, March 2012 Illustration by Monkey Business Images/Rex Features Read More......(read more)

Is it ever acceptable to date a former service user?

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:08:37 GMT

Last week, we asked visitors to communitycare.co.uk whether it was ever acceptable for a social worker to date a former service user. The poll, which was open to members of the public, received 393 responses. Around two-thirds (63%) said it was never Read More......(read more)

Supervision and CPD: catch up on the latest

The Social Work Blog — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:10:17 GMT

Community Care Live 2012 is fast approaching (19 days to go) and to help you get the best out of it, we are collecting together some background information for each of the main sessions. (If you haven't already registered to attend the free two-day Read More......(read more)

How did you rate our 1st social work practice dilemma debate?

Mad World — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 09:15:47 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Last night saw the launch of our live social work practice dilemmas online debate series. We kicked things off with a debate over the complex issue of judging mental capacity, and Read More......(read more)

Violence against social care workers: a rant

The Social Work Blog — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:19:21 GMT

Our annual special report on violence against social care staff is out now and, this year more than ever, I'm appalled by the stories. A social worker thrown down the stairs while pregnant, leading to the loss of her baby? One stabbed with a garden Read More......(read more)

Five things I learnt about social work last night

Mad World — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:58:24 GMT

Photo: Flickr Stew Dean Last night I attended Confidence and competence - an event organised by recently qualified social worker Zoe Betts for her fellow NQSWs and social work students. The night saw some great talks from Victoria Hart, a mental health Read More......(read more)

Letter to Munro: Social workers still suffer in private

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:01:36 GMT

Eileen Munro, your report on social services was the first breath of fresh air our profession had felt for some time, writes a local authority children's social worker based in England . You could see clearly that we are drowning in paperwork and Read More......(read more)

Social work dilemmas live: panellist's first thoughts

Mad World — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 09:25:37 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Tomorrow at 7pm we're hosting the first of a series of live online discussions debating social work practice dilemmas . Our first event focuses on the story of Jackie, a 64 Read More......(read more)

BBC Panorama looks into Maria Worroll abuse case

The Social Work Blog — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 17:08:04 GMT

Keep an eye out for Panorama's undercover report tonight on the Maria Worroll abuse case, which we reported on last week . Apparently Fiona Phillips looks into the CQC's and the care home provider's role in preventing such attacks on elderly Read More......(read more)

"Planting Memories" campaign 2012

Norrms — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 15:23:00 GMT

This is the link to our new page "Planting Memories" its been designed by my great friend Lyn Richards so people who want to join in with this years Dementia awareness day campaign Theme "Planting memories" can do, and raise much needed funds for the Lewy Body`s Society. Please visit us, "LIKE US" and tell us how you will help to "PLANT A MEMORY" for this years DAD day, love, Norrms and family xxxxxxxx
https://www.facebook.com/PlantingMemories

Mission Work Experience

hownottodosocialwork — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 10:40:42 GMT

When you were younger or if you are young did you ever have a dream? That when you left school you would enter into the job of your dreams! My Granddad was in the airforce as part of his national service and my fondest childhood memories involved going Read More......(read more)

Day Centre opening

Norrms — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 14:05:00 GMT

Hello all, words fail me at this news,yes even me LOL, for those of you who have facebook, please take a look at this and please please, if you can attened, please turn up on the day and support this wonderful openimng of a very much needed resource. For those of you who live overseas, please know i am so grateful for all your support and friendship and it gives me so much pleasure to share this with you, very best wihes, Norrms and family xxxxxxxxx

https://www.facebook.com/ajax/sharer/?s=2&appid=2305272732&p[]=1389655454&p[]=3666314

Down with the Titanic

hownottodosocialwork — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 18:55:13 GMT

Have you ever heard your practise described as that of the Titanic? Maybe you are thinking, that’s not so bad! After all, at the time the titanic was advanced ship of its time, fitted with Luxury and built for speed. I know that is being extremely Read More......(read more)

Why I struggled with my first job in adult services

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 16:41:40 GMT

After finding it difficult to secure my first frontline social work position - due to my 'lack of experience' - I was chuffed to be offered a job as a care manager in a complex care team* within adult services, writes social worker Zoë Betts Read More......(read more)

Digital stories & autism: helping people 'see beyond the disability'

Mad World — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 11:44:31 GMT

So yesterday I flagged up Louis Theroux's documentary on autism. The programme, available on iPlayer , is a powerful use of video by a journalist to explore the issue. But what about the potential for clients and social workers to tell their own stories Read More......(read more)

New BBC series explores autism & dementia care

Mad World — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:44:18 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Picture: BBC Tonight sees the start of a new two-part series from documentary maker Louis Theroux focusing on two issues familiar to many in the social work - autism and dementia Read More......(read more)

Video: what it's like to be a children's social worker

The Social Work Blog — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:08:16 GMT

My colleague Simeon stumbled upon this and other videos by Neath Port Talbot's social workers on YouTube . Worth a watch if you've got a couple of minutes; it gives a good sense of what it's like working in local authority children's services Read More......(read more)

Thinking of joining a social work academy?

The Social Work Blog — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:42:35 GMT

Fifteen new recruits joined Hertfordshire Council's academy for newly qualified social workers (NQSWs) this week. The academy's in its fourth year now and seems to be going well (if anyone has any evidence to support this/to the contrary, let Read More......(read more)

Testing the waters on regional pay for social workers

The Social Work Blog — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:55:52 GMT

As I said in my first blog post upon returning to Community Care , I'm still not sure where I stand on the question of introducing regional pay to the public sector. However, it is interesting to find out that, of the 114 social workers who responded Read More......(read more)

Say hello to the new 9 to 5 manager

The Social Work Blog — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:05:14 GMT

Social work has always relied on staff being prepared to do over and above what they are contracted to do, writes former local authority director Blair McPherson . But I have noticed an interesting new phenomena emerging in the public sector: managers Read More......(read more)

Social work dilemmas: live online practice debates to launch

Mad World — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 09:47:55 GMT

Social work throws up plenty of complex cases, but few simple answers. Sharing experiences on difficult scenarios can prove an invaluable, and often lively, way of discussing how to approach tricky cases. That's why Community Care is launching a series Read More......(read more)

Reforming frontline social work: N. Ireland v England

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 09:45:17 GMT

Northern Ireland's social work strategy makes some sound recommendations, recognising that improvements to services will only come about if the workforce is properly supported. So let's compare it to the Social Work Task Force's proposals Read More......(read more)

What do you want Community Care to cover?

Mad World — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:38:22 GMT

Simple question really: what would you like to see Community Care cover and investigate? I ask because I'm new to ComCare and I'd like to make things as relevant to frontline social workers as possible. I'll mostly be covering mental health Read More......(read more)

A rise in numbers!

hownottodosocialwork — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 15:02:12 GMT

“The family courts body received 10,199 new applications between April 2011 and March 2012, a 10.8% rise on the same period last year.” (Community Care). There is no shock here [sadly] and no surprise either. I say this because after reading Read More......(read more)

Time and Tide

Norrms — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 10:42:00 GMT

Time and Tide
As they say, Time and Tide waits for no man, and how true is this? Thing is, unfortunately, until they find a cure, neither does Dementia of any type.
In just this last month I have had my medication upped once again , three times now in as many months (More or less) and also have had my “Crash Mat” delivered last week which now resides next to our bed to stop me hurting myself during my night terrors and falls from bed. Now, even the most optimistic person will have to admit this is not a good sign.
As I sat there last night on the edge of my bed, my feet just touching the “New Mattress” it suddenly hit me that this thing on my floor wasn’t there a few weeks ago. The amount of tablets I had just taken has almost doubled in the last few months and by powers of not so amazing deduction, this meant I had slipped into a later stage.
GOD I HATE THIS DISEASE!!
My mind wandered back to Christmas just gone, and all the hopes and dreams I had for the future, only to be smashed within three months by this GOD AWFUL ILLNESS!! It’s no use kidding myself, I am getting worse, I can’t hide it any more (And people with Dementia are very good at that!!) The evidence is here right in front of me!
I have also noticed lately that more people are asking me to repeat what I have said as they don’t quite understand me; this was also a common trait in the early stages of my illness before they gave me meds to combat it.
June Brown AKA actress “Dot Cotton “once said, Lewy Body`s is the worst disease of all , “It’s not just having it, its knowing you have it as well” and how right she was. I can see with my own eyes that things are getting worse, I can see the tears welling up sometimes in my “Angel” Elaine’s eyes as I do something yet again that is “Out of the ordinary” or I have forgotten something for the tenth time!!
MY GOD WHEN WILL THIS EVER END!!!
Where will this end? Nobody knows, when will they find a cure? Nobody knows that either, but there is one thing I do know
I AM NOT GIVING UP JUST YET!!
Just this week I launched the “GROWING MEMORIES “campaign, please contact me if you want to know more, and I also have another idea “Up my sleeve” to raise awareness which will hopefully not only help those with this awful illness but also their loved ones and carers as well. But I do need to know, if ever I am asking to much, please please tell me as I will “Reign it in a bit” as Elaine always says LOL

So, the fight goes on my friends
THANK YOU FOR YOUR NEVER ENDING SUPPORT
LOVE NORRMS AND FAMILY XXXXXXXXXXXXX

Does anyone actually GET local govt pensions?

The Social Work Blog — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 15:52:57 GMT

Another day, another confusing message about the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). This time, the Taxpayers' Alliance (a supposedly non-partisan pressure group) claimed councils across the UK had a combined pensions deficit of £54bn in 2010 Read More......(read more)

Social work & journalists: sometimes it's good to talk

Mad World — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 14:00:37 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 Social workers are understandably Read More......(read more)

Careers advice for aspiring children's social workers

The Social Work Blog — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:44:56 GMT

Back in November I wrote this piece on the Children's Social Work Matters campaign , a joint recruitment initiative between the 15 local authorities in Yorkshire and Humber. According to the campaign organisers, over 200 CVs have been submitted since Read More......(read more)

Research Diary (half way through)

hownottodosocialwork — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 15:21:14 GMT

Have you ever wondered how-for long periods of time nothing appears to be happening. Then, just when you are unaware, relaxed everything hits you at once. This of course never really happens in social work, because the case loads are to high-and even Read More......(read more)

Half of women kept awake due to work stress

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 15:01:14 GMT

This has been sitting on my desk all day, much to the amusement of my colleagues. However, look beyond the attention-grabbing headline and hopefully you'll see why I ripped it out of the Metro this morning. Sadly it wasn't because I planned to Read More......(read more)

Mind CEO tells of 'growing sense of injustice' over government's Work Capability Assessments

Mad World — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:53:02 GMT

Normal 0 false false false EN-GB X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 All is not well with welfare, particularly the coalition's controversial work capability assessments (WCA) programme. Last week Paul Farmer, chief executive of mental health Read More......(read more)

Have you paid to join the College of Social Work?

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 12:47:06 GMT

The College of Social Work revealed before the Easter holiday that it aims to sign up a third of all social workers in England as fee-paying members by March 2015 . We asked readers whether they had already signed up or if they intended to in the future Read More......(read more)

NEW NHS WEBSITE

Norrms — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 12:54:00 GMT

Hiya, this is an article in todays Guardian about the website i helped with and advised on. My friend Richard Gleaves explains why its here and how we hope it will be rolled out all over the country, i hope so as i think it could help so many, best wishes, Norrms and family xxxxx

http://www.guardian.co.uk/public-leaders-network/blog/2012/apr/04/transparency-nhs-story-behind-data

Sleeping (or Not) with Lewy Body`s Dementia

Norrms — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 08:46:00 GMT

Sleeping (Or Not)
With
LEWY BODY`s

As I start to write this its 6.32am, been out of bed for a while now, been awake off and on since 4am. Elaine has taken the washing down to the laundry, done the polishing and I am on my second drink of the day. It’s quiet in our house at the moment, a lot quieter than it was a few hours ago when screams pierced the night air and the nightmares came thick and fast.
This is just another night living with Lewy Body`s.
As soon as I closed my eyes last night the dreams came and went. Images of people’s faces, young, old, happy, distorted flashed in front of my eyes as if my dreams were being put on Fast Forward. Horrific pictures of terrible things burnt into my memory so much so I can remember every detail the day after. During the day I get flashbacks of these happenings which drag me even further into the mire of Depression.
So cruel is this disease of Dementia that it takes away my happy memories and replaces them with those I try to forget!! In my dream state, in the corner of me eye I see a shape coming towards me fast, I try to run but my legs turn to lead, whatever it is gets closer and closer until I feel myself lashing and kicking out, screaming, yet no noise emerging from my lips.
And yet, as I awake, the noise coming from my vocal chords strains at my throat and the scream reverberates around our small bedroom, bouncing off the walls. Elaine is holding me in a vice like grip, and gently begins to rock me as my body shakes and heaves up and down with breathlessness. The rest of the night is not really sleeping. I drift from dream to dream, jumping, twitching, kicking my legs and talking in my sleep yet making no sense. Elaine is by my side, she`s not really sleeping either, just lying there listening to me and making sure I am ok and survive the night terrors that plague me.
Then, as dawn breaks, there doesn’t seem any point in staying in bed any longer. So here I am, telling you my story, as I have before. When will this story ever end? I do not know, but the point is this story must be told and must be shared, because if it isnt told, how will we ever learn? Please don’t pity me, this is my lot, these are the cards I have been dealt, and every morning I wake up and sit down here on this computer is another day I will fight as hard and for as long as I can to raise awareness about this awful illness dementia. I only wear one hat, it doesn’t bother me which kind of dementia it is, Alzheimer’s, Lewy Body’s Vascular, the point is that one day we see a cure for all types of Dementia.
And I for one will not rest until that day comes, even if I could!!!!!!!!!
Norman Mc Namara
Diagnosed at aged 50, now 54years old, tired but still fighting

Vulnerable trainee social workers, regional pay

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 17:13:02 GMT

So I'm back at Community Care after a three-month stint writing about aviation (don't ask) and it's time to catch up on what has been happening in my absence. Here are a few things that have caught my attention so far: Reports emerged late Read More......(read more)

Socialworkhelper.com Social Work of the future!

hownottodosocialwork — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 20:45:43 GMT

its not often that I get asked to review websites, mainly though I am asked to review pathway plans, care plans or assessment of needs or Core Assessments. So I write this with a little bit of excitement, and nervousness not only with the worry of the Read More......(read more)

Western Morning News

Norrms — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

Hiya everybody, please share this link as it will show the world that even people with this awful disease can try and make a difference, and when you see the photo of me, underneath if you click on the arrow it shows you another one, this newspaper is delivered all over the South west of the Uk, great coverage for awareness raising xxxxxxxxx
http://www.thisisdevon.co.uk/Norms-battle-loneliest-disease-entire-world/story-15667477-detail/story.html

Continuing Professional Development

hownottodosocialwork — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:11:42 GMT

For me it is the time of the year when I am asked to complete my appraisal and the appraisals of my staff. Which, is interesting as this week I have also attended my wife’s graduation ceremony in social work. In the back of my mind as I watched Read More......(read more)

One cut to many?

hownottodosocialwork — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 19:15:25 GMT

Sometimes when the phone is ringing, and two different clients waiting in reception wanting to see you urgently, and your manager is wanting more updates on your out of county placements and the latest pathway plan urgently. The heat in the office is Read More......(read more)

Me, My Dementia and the Prime Minister David Cameron

Norrms — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 14:08:00 GMT

Well, here`s the proof that together we can really make a difference. (I am on the left to the Prime Minister with hands clasped) After years of camapaining for more funding for research into this awful disease, (and PLEASE dont let us forget all those who have fought long and hard before i was diagnosed) This was a meeting we had with the Prime Minister just before he went on stage to announce that the funding into Alzheimers will go up to about 66million ££££££££££s !!!!!! It was a historic day in the Dementia world and one i was very proud to be asked to. Just beofre that i had been interviewd on stage by Angela Rippon who i have to say is one very nice lady. Please remember, the work doesnt stop here as we discussed Dementia Friendly communities and how we can make all cities and towns ect a better place for people with this illness to live.
...
It was agreed with the PM (Cant believe i am writing this) that we WILL NOT just put stickers up all around town/cities announcing that we are Dementia friendly unless some sort of Dementia Aware training is in place first. Do you remember in the 80s when townd called themselves "Nuclear free ? AS IF !! it was a fiasco and we dont want to go down that route!"! So please my friends remember, this is just the beginning , but what a beginning, and please remember this is in memory of all those lost already to this disease and those living with itt now, THE FIGHT GOES ON !!!
Best wishes, Norrms and family xxxxxxx

LINK TO PICTURE
This is the moment i sat round the table with David Cameron PM, Andrew lansley, Paul Burstow (out of picture) Alaistair Burns and other Ministers discussing Dementia in the UK INCREDIBLE DAY
http://www.flickr.com/photos/number10gov/6871485616/in/photostream

MA Social Work interview (Leicester 2012) HELP!!!!

JDhillon — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 12:57:00 GMT

Hi Guys,

I have been invited to an interview at Leicester in May and I am so nervous, I had my first ever interview at Nottingham but didnt get through so the pressure is on, If there is anyone who has any tips or info on what to expect I would appreciate it very much.

JEssie

PLEASE HELP!!! :D

Difficult and Challenging

hownottodosocialwork — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 17:13:24 GMT

A critical time for all young people is in their late teens, understanding who you are is often a complicated task on its own. For some not knowing where you have come from or if you are a separated child from another country this process becomes even Read More......(read more)

Please feel free to use this when rasing awareness, Norms xxxxxx

Norrms — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 15:43:00 GMT

World Social Work day, can it kick start positive change?

hownottodosocialwork — Tue, 20 Mar 2012 20:23:08 GMT

On World Social Work Day 2012, I find myself reflecting on Social Work practise. From all over the globe other professionals are engaging with Social Work on a daily basis. And in a recent conversation with a social worker from Nigeria I found Read More......(read more)

What Palestinian social work taught me

The Social Work Blog — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 00:00:43 GMT

To mark this year's World Social Work Day (20 March) Community Care asked consultant, trainer and BASW member Guy Shennan to tell us about his recent trip to see how social work operates in Palestine. Last autumn I went to Palestine with fellow BASW Read More......(read more)

On The Edge

Norrms — Sun, 18 Mar 2012 16:09:00 GMT

On The Edge

At about seven o clock last night things started to get a little hazy. It’s been a long hard week because my heart failure has kicked in again and my breathing has been atrocious. I was back on the oxygen last night even before bed time so I knew with this, three nights of screaming and shouting and becoming more forgetful during the day, it wasn`t a good mix!!

As the day drew on I was becoming more agitated and loud! We were in Newton Abbot yesterday to get me a new suit and shoes for next week’s conference in London and all was well until mid afternoon. Elaine nudged me gently twice, smiled and asked me to keep my voice down. I of course couldn’t tell any difference but I knew was only helping me. I could feel a pressure building up inside my head, (Never a good sign) and it’s just like having High Blood pressure but without the dizziness.
As we arrived home things seem to settle a bit but as the night went on the only way I can explain it is a feeling of being there, but not being there?? Being “with it” and yet not understanding what was going on around me? I know I must have watched TV last night as we do every night, but I couldn’t tell you what a watched!! And so to bed.

Actually going to bed is a complete mystery to me as it is most nights and yet once there, the “NIGHT TERRORS” come thick and fast. This is such a cruel disease!! I can’t remember going to bed but I can remember every horrific detail of my night terrors, right up to the minute the train was just going to run me over and I rolled violently to one side and landed with such a heavy thump on our bedroom floor.
Elaine was out of bed like a shot, it was as if she hadn’t been to sleep and was expecting something like this to happen. I struggled so much getting my bearings and surroundings and shouted for help a good two minutes after it actually happened. One of the things that did come to light and shouldn’t surprise anyone, including me, was because of my weight we had major problems getting me off the floor. I could see the look of frustration, worry and hurt in my Angels eyes and I don’t want her to ever struggle like that again.

So tomorrow, 19th March 2012 will be a turning point in my life regarding my weight! I fight heart failure and Dementia every day of my life, I have given up smoking years ago, so why do I struggle so much with my weight?? I really don’t know, but not anymore!!! Eventually, Elaine managed to get me back into bed but it was a very long time before we both dropped off. I knew Elaine was worrying about me as I could hear her breathing in the dark and as myself, I think it was the shock that kept me awake for a while.
This disease as I have said before, is like no other, everybody who has this all have completely unique differences. Some are very similar yet so different in ways. Please, can everybody remember the saying I learned such a long time ago,

ONCE YOU HAVE MET ONE PERSON WITH DEMENTIA!!

YOU HAVE MET ONE PERSON WITH DEMENTIA!!

As for me, the falls mattress will be on order tomorrow, until then a quilt will be on the floor and all the bedroom furniture has been rearranged. Looks very mish mash but safety has to come first.

FOOTNOTE.

You may have won this round Dementia Demon, but if we have our way, it will be the last one you win!!!!!

Voting for USA ALTY Award now closed

Norrms — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 14:56:00 GMT

Well my friends, this is the blog that started it all off, and all the comments that followed after writing it.. From what my wonderful friends have told me i was over 1,500+ votes ahead at the time of vote closing but will have to wait until 20th March for Final Confirmation. Although there is no prize "Per Say" the "Fisher Research Centre New York "who i wrote the blog for are a huge concern and hopefully it will show all over in the USA as well as here in the Uk and hopefully worldwide that there is life after a diagnosis and you can still achieve things even when you think your life is at its worst, thank you doesn`t seem anywhere near enough, but THANK YOU ANYWAY, ALL OUR LOVE, NORRMS ELAINE AND FAMILY
http://www.alzinfo.org/02/blogs/fight-life

Change and Hope?

hownottodosocialwork — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 13:12:05 GMT

If every day was the same life would quickly become boring. In social work this is one certainty you can guarantee, that every day will bring something new and exciting. But with this comes a lot of pressure and responsibility that would be expected when Read More......(read more)

American Blog Award

Norrms — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 11:00:00 GMT

Voting closes today, please vote even if you have voted before, i am the only British person in the running in the American Award, also the only peron with a diagnosis of Dementia, thank you so much, Norrms and family xxxxxxx
http://assistedlivingtoday.com/best-alzheimers-blogs/

Am I ready to move on?

hownottodosocialwork — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 20:51:37 GMT

Working in a looked after children’s team working with young people preparing to leave care, I was not surprised to read in my daily Community Care e-mail this article on Care Leavers. Although it does not surprise me, it does worry me and whether Read More......(read more)

All Good news

Norrms — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 10:30:00 GMT

Now this really is something to celebrate !! xxxxx

All Good News xxxxxxxxxxxx
http://www.palm.fm/p/news/local/devon-county-council-to-discuss-improvements-to-dementia-care

Workshop

hownottodosocialwork — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 17:00:43 GMT

It is easy to forget something when the majority of your week is a blur of chaos and tension. however, this week I did find an interesting e-mail asking whether I would be interested in running a workshop on ‘Equality and Diversity’ Read More......(read more)

feeling drained

hownottodosocialwork — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 18:40:19 GMT

Its one of those weeks again when despite everything you do, you still find it hard to feel like you have achieved anything meaningful. At the moment it feels like having sole responsibility of painting Golden Gate Bridge on your own. Knowing once you Read More......(read more)

Research diary March 2012

hownottodosocialwork — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 17:44:46 GMT

As part of a research project it is often useful to keep a diary or journal, I do not have a diary but thought how about writing posting my thoughts here. Hope you do not mind? The formal learning part of this module is scarily going past quite fast, Read More......(read more)

A dementia prayer

Norrms — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 12:14:00 GMT

A prayer
For Dementia

Oh dear Lord, hear my prayer,
And show me that you really care,
Trouble is I can’t remember,
All my prayers for you to tender,
Will this matter, on the day,
When we meet, what will you say?
If I didn’t have dementia
I would recall my holy Venture,
If I don’t pray, from time to time,
Remember that my minds not mine,
Please forgive me, as you know,
No matter what, I love you so,

Norrms
Diagnosed with Dementia 4 years ago
xxxxxxxxxxxx

Still working on work

hownottodosocialwork — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 17:02:13 GMT

Would I want to be young again, I wonder? It amazes me every year we hear that the GCSE grades are getting better because the exams are becoming easier. Yet, does this really say what is happening. In my experience I have been fortunate enough to have Read More......(read more)

Dementia care

Norrms — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 14:05:00 GMT

Hiya , this is a Dementia Unit close to where we live (Approx 16 miles) and i was lucky enough to be asked to do some training at Lucerne House. This is without a doubt one of the best Dementia Units i have come accross, well done all my Friends at Lucerne House, Exeter, Devon,
Norrms xxxxxxxxx

http://youtu.be/EJV5b6oRbOg

Return to Sender

Norrms — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:50:00 GMT

Return to Sender

I know your name, I swear I do,
It’s on the tip of my tongue,
Sorry, what did you say?

I’ve known you for “HOW LONG?”
Your face is so familiar,
But no name comes to mind,
Please can you remind me?
If you`ll be so kind,
God! I hate dementia,
And all that it entails,
I sit here, head in hands
As my memory fails,
Will I ever remember?
How things used to be,
Who you actually are,
And what you mean to me?
I see sorrow on your face,
And tears are in your eyes,
To me you look so sad,
Then I hear your cries,
Please give me a smile,
So I can remember,
Then I will smile too,
And return it to the sender

Norrms and family xxxxxxxxxxx

future changes

How not to do Social Work — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 10:08:00 GMT

There is one thing that I can say about social work, and that is you never really know what direction you could be going in. What I mean is that working in a Local Authority you are always subjected to the effects of budget cuts, and in all the years Read More......(read more)

Stress management for social workers: resources

The Social Work Blog — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 13:08:51 GMT

by Mark Drinkwater, mental health social worker and Community Care practice adviser Video resources Coping with stress Stress Coping with redundancy Mental health: a selection of videos by NHS Choices Doing good feels good - Action for Happiness The importance Read More......(read more)

12 stress management tips for mental health social workers

The Social Work Blog — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 17:25:57 GMT

by Mark Drinkwater, a mental health social worker and Community Care practice adviser 1. Identify the cause of your stress The first step is to identify the cause of your stress . Take a few deep breaths and try to think about what is making you feel Read More......(read more)

Can I assess who is a child still?

How not to do Social Work — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 17:31:00 GMT

Its an interesting time working with children. I have recently put myself forward for a research project and as it has to be relevant to my work place and my employers. I have decided to look at the thorny subject of age assessments. Probably a bad idea Read More......(read more)

EASY TARGETS ??

Norrms — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 16:35:00 GMT

EASY TARGETS ??

Hello everybody, i have pondered about writing this one for a few days now but have decided to anyway, and hope when you have read it you will understand why i have and how it wont apply to everybody.

As the title says "EASY TARGETS" Is that what people with Dementia are ?? Sometimes,because we get the time wrong or the day wrong, even the year wrong !! LOL does that mean that everything we say is WRONG? do people just become complacent and presume whatever is said by someone who has this awful disease is distorted in such a way they need correcting all the time ? And more importantly "DO WE need correcting all the time? or sometimes should you just let it ride? mmm, food for thought me thinks !

More importantly how are we percieved by the public ? I ask this and i will explain why. Recently we had our photograph`s taken (everybody in the Torbay Dementia leadership group, and all with our consent) with the idea of having posters in and around Torbay showing people we are just everyday people with everyday lives who live locally, and ALSO to advertise

WHAT WE DO TO HELP PEOPLE AS A LEADERSHIP GROUP.

Of course we had to run it past (Those that should not be mentioned) in London who answered the e mail request with this response

QUOTE "

"There was some discussion on the ethics of widely distributing the photos of declared vulnerable adults in their own community. This sounds a bit risk averse but there are lessons to be learnt from children’s agencies who do not allow this. There have been incidences of targeting and I believe that when someone consents to agree to undertake this kind of local promotion that we may have to raise this issue with them and advise that by agreeing, they know they may be recognised. Other areas have decided not to proceed and to use the generic posters instead"

UNQUOTE
.
Now i would like to draw your attention to firstly "This is a national Dementia Charity who quite happily produces posters of people with Dementia on their "Remember The Person " posters ALL over the world !!

Secondly, and you can only IMAGINE my very heated opinion (to say the least) on this part of the E mail above

QUOTE

"This sounds a bit risk averse but there are lessons to be learnt from children’s agencies who do not allow this"

UNQUOTE"

CHILDRENS AGENCIES????? AM I SEEING THINGS ???? ARE WE WITH DEMENTIA TO BE TREATED AS CHILDREN ????

Just to point out that i am actually the youngest person in the group at the tender age of 54years old!!

Now, if this kind of attitude, fence building and Bias is comming from a MAJOR organisation i am at a complete loss what to add to this mail, please please let me have your views on this and i promise i will pass your comments on to the relevant people and make sure they have your views on this as well, best wishes, Norrm`s and family

Outside interests and evidence-based practice: Building resilience in mental health social work

The Social Work Blog — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 17:01:40 GMT

by Victoria Hart, an approved mental health professional and social worker One of the most important skills a social worker learns in practice is resilience. It is not a matter that can easily be taught. Everyone has different ways of learning and extending Read More......(read more)

Is happiness the key to stress management for social workers?

The Social Work Blog — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:59:56 GMT

by Mark Drinkwater, a mental health social worker and Community Care practice adviser Recently I've been compiling some materials on stress management and have come across some useful resources emanating from happiness research. This growing area Read More......(read more)