“Where can I
find out about ...?”
Activities,
Services
&
Facilities
for
the
Older
Residents
of
Richmond
upon
Thames
The Consortium is funded by
Contents
Social
Clubs
and
Friendship
Groups
3
Meet new friends, take part in activities and outings
Voluntary
Care
Groups
15
Practical help, especially with shopping and transport
Transport
and
Getting
Around
18
Transport options and discount schemes
Counselling,
Advocacy
and
Advice
22
General advice on many of life’s everyday problems
Patient
Support
Groups
26
Advice and support on medical and emotional problems
Hospitals,
Health
and
Fitness
35
Local hospitals, NHS services and concessions, health and fitness facilities
Leisure
and
Learning
41
Classes and groups, talking books and newspapers, libraries, cinemas and theatres
Respite
Care
and
Services
for
Carers
46
Support for carers and finding respite care
Equipment,
Mobility
and
Appliances
48
Where to get wheelchairs and aids that make life easier
Housing
and
Home
50
Advice about accommodation and remaining at home
Getting
Help
with
Shopping
and
Food
53
Practical help to make things easier for you
Benefits
and
Grants
54
A brief summary of finding out what is available
Social
Services
59
Your first contact for benefits and care
Index
60
Introduction
This directory gives information about the activities, services and facilities available to the older residents of the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. It is intended to be useful not only to older people, but also to their families, carers and friends and to healthcare and welfare professionals.
It is easy for older people to become lonely and isolated, yet there are many clubs, societies and groups that are always ready to give a warm welcome to new members. The directory is especially concerned with helping older people to find out what activities are available, getting out and having fun.
The contents opposite show a number of sections, each dealing with a separate topic. At the back of the directory is an index of all the organisations that feature in the directory.
This directory does not aim to provide all the answers but it does aim to set you off in the right direction!
The Consortium website – www.richmondconsortium.org.uk – is continually updated with details of the activities of
Consortium members and provides information and contacts for other organisations and activities that are relevant to older people. These include leisure and learning opportunities, friendship clubs, advice and counselling services, transport options, independent living at home and more.
We have tried to ensure that the entries for the organisations in this directory and on our website are up to date and that they offer a fair and reputable service, but we cannot accept any responsibility for their accuracy or content. However, please do contact us with any comments or corrections and we will amend our records.
TheRichmondCommunitySupportServicesConsortium
The Richmond Consortium explores the services and activities available for the older residents of the Borough of Richmond upon Thames and forges links between them and the people who can benefit from them. The members represented by The Consortium are all independent charitable organisations that run Social Clubs, Voluntary Care Groups and a day respite care centre. Each one is managed by its own Board of Trustees.
The Consortium also aims to encourage closer relationships between voluntary groups, Richmond Council and healthcare and welfare professionals and participates on several Boards, Committees and Working Groups where it strives to achieve recognition, understanding and solutions to some of the problems faced by its own members and the older community at large.
RichmondCommunitySupportServicesConsortium,
c/o Elleray Hall, Elleray Road, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 0HG. Telephone: 020 8943 1807. Email: [email protected] www.richmondconsortium.org.uk
Allillustrationshavebeenproduced bymembersoftheArtGroupsat SocialClubswithintheBorough.
Social
Clubs
and
Friendship
Groups
Richmond
Consortium
and
Age
Concern
Social
Clubs
and
Social
Centres
If you’d like to meet new friends and have a little extra fun, why don’t you call in to one of the Borough’s social clubs or centres for older people? They will all give you a free trial membership and with full memberships costing less than 50p a week, they are one of the best bargains in the Borough!
If you need someone to help you, carers are very welcome. Members of the RCSSC and Age Concern Richmond upon
Thames manage a number of Social Clubs and Centres for older people. Each one has a warm comfortable area where members can sit and chat over a tea or coffee, read the papers or simply relax. They also host a wide range of activities and organise holidays and days out. The activities vary but include:
Health and Fitness Classes Yoga, Tai Chi & Pilates Massage & Reflexology Bridge & Other Games Bingo and Hoy Indoor Bowls and Skittles Music and Singing Art, Painting & Drawing Dancing Quizzes, Talks & Discussions The clubs and centres also serve a nourishing home cooked lunch or snacks and provide hairdressing, both at a very reasonable cost.
BARNES
BarnesGreenCentre
The Green, Church Road, Barnes SW13 9HE. Telephone: 020 8876 2377.
Website: www.ageconcernrichmond.org.uk Email: [email protected]
Open MondayFriday from 9.00 am – 5.00 pm.
HAMPTON
LindenHallSocialClub
Linden Road, Hampton TW12 2JG. Telephone: 020 8941 2373.
Website: details can be seen at www.richmondconsortium.org.uk Email: [email protected]
Open MondayFriday from 9.30 am – 3.30 pm.
Member of
KEW
TheAvenueClub
St Luke’s in The Avenue, The Avenue, Kew TW9 2AJ. Telephone: 020 8948 8807.
Website: www.kewcommunitytrust.org.uk Email: [email protected] Open MondayFriday from 9.00 am – 3.00 pm.
Member of
RICHMOND
MeadowsHallSocialCentre
Church Road, Richmond TW10 6LN. Telephone: 020 8940 1008.
Website: www.ageconcernrichmond.org.uk Email: [email protected]
SHEEN
SheenLaneDayGroup
This group meets at set times to take part in a variety of activities. Call for an up to date timetable.
Sheen Lane Centre, 74 Sheen Lane, London SW14 8LP. Telephone: 020 8876 1706.
Member of
TEDDINGTON
EllerayHallSocialClub
Elleray Road, Teddington TW11 0HG. Telephone: 020 8977 0549.
Website: www.tfking.btinternet.co.uk Email: [email protected]
Open MondayFriday from 9.30 am – 4.00 pm.
Member of
WHITTON
WhittonSocialCentre
111a Kneller Road, Whitton TW2 7DT. Telephone: 020 8894 4963.
Website: www.ageconcernrichmond.org.uk Email: [email protected].
Open Tuesday and Friday from 9.30 am – 4.00 pm.
MinorityEthnicEldersGroup
111a Kneller Road, Whitton TW2 7DT.
Member of
Telephone: 020 8893 9555. Website: www.emaguk.net Email: [email protected]
OtherSocialClubsandFriendshipGroups
The following pages list many other clubs for older people
including those with learning difficulties or mental health needs. Many churches also organize meetings and social events for older people. For details, contact the churches directly.
HAM
HamFriendsClub(RunbyRBMIND)
The Little House, Ham Close, Ham TW10 7NU.
This is an open access Dropin Centre for people with mental health support needs. Activities include computers and internet access, outings, pool, good food, art and onetoone support. Wheelchair access.
Telephone: 020 8332 7404. Website: www.rbmind.com
Open Monday and Friday, 12 noon 5.00 pm.
HAMPTONHILL
TheGreenwoodCentre
School Road, Hampton Hill, TW12 1QL. Telephone: 020 8979 9662.
www.greenwoodcentre.co.uk
Many local groups hold a variety of social, recreational and educational activities at The Greenwood Centre. The Centre is fully accessible and is open seven days a week from 9.00 am until 10.00 pm. Office hours are from 9.30 am 4.30 pm. For further details, call the Centre or go to the website. The Greenwood Centre is also home to Hampton Hill Nursery School, Art Richmond and is the administrative base for
Hampton and Hampton Hill Voluntary Care Group’s community transport and neighbourhood care projects.
WhiteHouseCommunityAssociationofHamptonHill
45 The Avenue, Hampton TW12 3RN.
Telephone: 020 8979 1884 between 10.00 am and 1.00 pm. www.hamptononline.co.uk/WH.html
The White House is a venue for many social and leisure activities: art, badminton, ballroom dancing, bingo, bridge, drama, embroidery, barbershop singing, karate and more. Lunch is served every weekday and there are discounts for pensioners. Contact the centre for full details of opening times and events. Wheelchair access.
HAMPTONWICK&TEDDINGTON
HamptonWickandTeddingtonOldPeoplesWelfare
Bullen Hall, Bennett Close, Hampton Wick KT1 4AT. Telephone: 020 8977 5176.
A place for older people to meet friends, enjoy themselves, attend special events and go on outings on some Saturdays. Wheelchair access.
Open on Wednesdays from 2.00 pm 4.00 pm.
RICHMOND
CambrianCommunityCentre
Caplan Court, 1 Grove Road, Richmond TW10 6SN. Telephone: 020 8948 3351.
A wide range of cultural, educational, recreational and social activities for all ages.
DolphinIsland
c/o RCVS, 1 Princes Street, Richmond TW9 1ED. www.dolphinisland.btinternet.co.uk
Telephone: 020 8412 7050. Call for details and times of events. A club providing social life and opportunities for people aged between 20 and 59 who find that their age, career, personality, nationality, physical or mental health limits their social life and who need a club that is sensitive to their needs.
VineyardProject(RunbyRBMIND)
Congregational Church Crypt, The Vineyard, Richmond TW10 6AQ.
www.rbmind.com
Telephone: 020 8940 2965.
Dropin centre providing a variety of therapies and activities as well as advice on housing, homelessness, substance misuse and mental health issues. A hot meal is served on Wednesday
evenings and snacks are available at other times. No wheelchair access. Open MondayFriday mornings and afternoons.
Opening times vary, so please call for details.
RichmondSynagogueDayCentre
Richmond Synagogue, Lichfield Gardens, Richmond TW9 1AP. Telephone: 020 8940 3526.
Day centre for Jewish people over 60 years of age. Tea and coffee and a three course lunch. Discussion and debate, musical entertainment and talks. Wheelchair access. Open Thursdays 11.00 am 3.30 pm.
TWICKENHAM
Centre32(RunbyRBMIND)
32 Hampton Rd,
Twickenham TW2 5QB. Telephone: 020 8898 7753. www.rbmind.com
Open access dropin service for people with mental health support needs. Provides onetoone support,
recreational activities, art, counselling, therapies, trips, affordable food, creative and discussion groups.
Wheelchair access. Open Monday Saturday but not Wednesdays. Call for opening hours.
CraneCommunityCentre
The Meadway, Twickenham TW2 6PY. Telephone: 020 8898 8236.
A centre for the local community including bingo nights, yoga classes and lunches. Open seven days a week.
EtnaCommunityCentre
13 Rosslyn Rd, Twickenham TW1 2AR. Telephone: 020 8892 3676.
A Community Centre for residents of East Twickenham and St Margarets. Wheelchair access.
Open MonFri, 10am 12 noon.
AllHallowsTwickenhamMondayLadiesGroup
The Long Room, All Hallows, Erncroft Way, Twickenham: TW1 1DA.
Telephone 020 8894 7573.
Ladies of all ages meet for audiovisual presentations and speakers on many subjects. Meetings are held on alternate Mondays at 8.00 pm excluding August and December.
WHITTON
WhittonCommunityResourceCentre
1 Britannia Lane, Whitton TW2 7JX. Telephone: 020 8898 4949.
Day centre providing educational and leisure activities for people with learning difficulties.
Open Mondays 9.00 am 5.00 pm, Tuesdays 11.00 am 4.00 pm, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 9.00 am 4.00 pm.
WhittonCommunityAssociation
Percy Road, Whitton TW2 6JL. www.whitton.ca.freeuk.com Telephone: 020 8894 4452. [email protected]
Social community activities including bingo, bridge, dress making, floral art, dancing, ballroom dancing and whist. There are also several exercise groups, music and movement classes and the last Friday of the month is a Sixty Plus night.
Open daily 9.00 am 11.00 pm. Wheelchair access.
AgeConcernWhittonRestRoom
Whitton
The Rest Room, Next to Whitton Library, 2 Library Way, Whitton TW2 7BB.
Telephone: 020 8894 5230.
Provides help for older people in Whitton, including running a rest room which provides tea etc for retired people over 50. Summer coach trips, parties. Bingo on Wednesday afternoons. Wheelchair access.
Opening hours: Monday Friday, 10.00 am 12 noon.
In addition, many church halls throughout the Borough are venues for various meetings and activities. Details are usually displayed on the church notice board.
Friendship
Groups
CivilServicePensionersAlliance: Twickenham&District
St Margarets Church Hall, 130 St Margarets Road, St Margarets, Twickenham TW1 1RL.
Telephone: 020 8977 1907.
Represents pensioners' interests to Government and arranges outings, social activities and speakers on topical subjects. Meets on the fourth Thursday of each month from 1.45 pm 3.45 pm. Wheelchair access.
CivilServiceRetirementAlliance:Richmond
Kew Scouts HQ, Station Ave, Kew Gardens, Kew TW9 3QA. Telephone: 020 8948 2608.
Provides opportunities for retired civil servants, their friends and relations (including their widows and widowers) to meet and enjoy lectures and outings. Meetings are held on the last Thursday of the month at 2.00pm. Wheelchair access.
CivilServiceRetirementFellowship:
Telephone 020 8691 7411 for details.
Organises visits, social functions, outings and lunches.
CLAN
Activities at various venues.
www.clansocialgroup.fsnet.co.uk Telephone: 020 8230 8680.
Social club for unattached people from 40 years to over 60.
GetInvolved(RichmondHousingPartnership)
Various venues.
Telephone 020 8404 5076. www rhp.org.uk
This programme includes a very wide range of one day events and short courses which give people over 55 the opportunity to try out new activities and make new friends. Activities are taught by professional tutors, with the emphasis on fun. Among the activities are:
Knit and natter Ceramic painting Poetry writing Card making Short story writing Mosaic making Bingo Exercise & relaxation Cake decorating Painting Music therapy Drawing
Coffee mornings Computer classes ... and lots more! You do not need to live in a Richmond Housing Partnership property to take part in 'Get Involved' but you do need to reserve a place at any classes you would like to attend. For the latest programme of events, contact Tracey Elliott at RHP on 020 8404 5076.
ProbusClub
Lunchtime gettogethers for retired professional and business men and women. Also outings and other events throughout the year. Wheelchair access. Meetings are held monthly.
ProbusClubTeddington&Hamptonmeets on the third Tuesday of each month at Fulwell Golf Club, Wellington Rd, Hampton Hill, TW12 1JY. Telephone: 020 8979 8049.
ProbusClubTwickenhammeets on the second Tuesday of each month also at Fulwell Golf Club. Telephone: 020 8893 8656.
ProbusClubBarnes&Mortlakemeets on the first Wednesday of each month at Templeton House, Priory Lane, East Sheen. Telephone: 020 8876 2714.
ProbusClubRichmondmeets on the third Wednesday of each month at Richmond Golf Club, Sudbrook Lane, Petersham. Telephone: 020 8894 9932.
RichmondFriendshipCentre
Holy Trinity Church Centre, Sheen Park, Richmond TW9 1UP Telephone: 020 8894 2694.
A centre for the over 50s providing social activities, talks,
outings, lunches, rambles, swimming and meetings. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 2.00 pm.
RichmondRetiredTeachers'Fellowship
St Mary’s Church Hall, Church Street, Twickenham TW1 3NJ. Telephone: 020 8230 7796.
The Fellowship meets on the second Tuesday of the month from September to November and from January to March. Outings are arranged during April through to July. All people connected with the educational sphere are welcome.
SalvationArmyLadiesMeeting
Salvation Army Hall, 27 Church Road, Teddington TW11 8PF. Tel: 020 8977 9318.
Ladies meeting each Wednesday at 2.00 pm. Wheelchair access.
StStephensChurchLunchClub
Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2PD.
Telephone: 020 8892 5258. www.ststephens.org.uk
A older peoples’ club meeting on the first and third Mondays of each month. Transport can be provided.
TeddingtonGroup
Various venues. Tel: 020 8398 7612.
The group organises up to ten social activities a month for single people aged over 45. Wheelchair access at most venues.
TeddingtonWomen'sLunchClub
The Lion (Stable Room) 27 Wick Road, Teddington TW11 9DN. Telephone: 020 8977 4965.
The club meets on the second Wednesday of each month (not July) for lunch and to listen to speakers on a variety of topics. Wheelchair access.
TwickenhamGreenBaptistChurchGroup
5052 The Green, Twickenham TW2 5TU. Telephone: 020 8898 2194.
A small fellowship group with a big welcome to Monday afternoon fellowship and a lunch club for the elderly.
TwickenhamGroup
Various venues. Telephone: 020 8755 2841.
A social activity group for single people aged between 40 and 60. Activities include walks, games evenings, meals out, pub evenings and theatre trips. Most venues have wheelchair access.
VineyardLunches
Various venues.
For further information, please telephone 020 8892 6831. Almost every Sunday, a Vineyard Lunch is held at a church in the Borough of Richmond upon Thames. These lunches are primarily for local homeless and vulnerable people, all of whom are welcome. The full programme of dates can be seen at www.richmondconsortium.org.uk
Voluntary
Care
Groups
The Borough's Voluntary Care Groups are there to provide practical help to elderly people who are unable to get help from family, friends or neighbours. This help includes door to door transport to GP surgeries, clinics and hospitals,
prescription collection, transport to local shops or even doing the shopping. Some groups can also help with everyday household tasks such as putting up shelves or handrails, light gardening and changing fuses in electric plugs etc. The groups do not however undertake housework or cleaning. (See also in the House and Home section)
The groups all operate in specific parts of the Borough. Voluntary Care Groups always need volunteer drivers and helpers as well as people to take part in befriending an activity in which The Consortium and its members are
becoming increasingly involved. This involves specially trained volunteers visiting people, usually in their homes, to provide company or to help resolve a variety of problems or issues If you have a few hours to spare, do get in touch with one of these groups.
Barnes,MortlakeandEastSheenScheme FiSH
www.fishhelp.org.uk
Helpline (9.00 am 12 noon on weekdays): 020 8876 3414. FiSH Busline: 020 8876 3765
Office Telephone: 020 8876 3335
HamandPetershamSOSScheme
Telephone: 020 8948 1090.
Telephone staffed MondayFriday, 10.00 am 12 noon. (answerphone at other times).
Member of
Member of HamptonandHamptonHillVoluntaryCareGroup
www.greenwoodcentre.co.uk Telephone: 020 8979 9662.
The office hours are 9.30 am 4.30 pm Monday to Friday. The Greenwood Centre, where the Group is based, is open from 9.00 am 10.00 pm every day.
KewNeighbourhoodAssociation
www.kna.org.uk
Telephone: 020 8948 8054.
Open Monday to Friday, 10.00 am 12 noon.
RichmondGoodNeighbours
Telephone: 020 8332 9741. Email: [email protected]
Open Monday to Friday, 9.00 am 12 noon. Answerphone at other times.
TeddingtonandHamptonWickVoluntaryCareGroup
Open Monday to Friday, 9.30 11.30 am. Telephone: 020 8943 3112.
TwickenhamHelpaNeighbourInDistressScheme (HANDS)
Telephone: 020 8891 3346.
Open Monday to Friday, 9.30 am 12.30 pm.
WhittonNetwork
Telephone: 020 8775 1336.
Monday to Friday, 9.30 am 12 noon. Email: [email protected]
Member of
Member of
Member of
ContacttheElderly
www.contacttheelderly.org Telephone: 020 8892 7714.
Aims to alleviate the acute loneliness often felt by elderly, frail and housebound people who do not have many friends or family living nearby.
HamptonHillOldPeople'sWelfare
Greenwood Centre, School Road, Hampton Hill TW12 1QL. Telephone: 07973 453 298 or 020 8979 9662.
Support and friendship for older people in Hampton Hill.
HamptonStRaphaelClub
All Saints Church Hall, The Avenue, Hampton TW12 3RN. Telephone: 020 8979 1312.
Gives help to disabled or housebound people in Hampton and Hampton Hill and organizes outings, day trips and summer holidays. Meetings are usually held from 2.00 4.00 pm on the second Wednesday of the month.
Transport
and
Getting
Around
The Borough has a number of schemes and services designed to help you get around. In addition, a number of national organisations run schemes giving good discounts to older people. These schemes are administered by The Accessible Transport Unit.
TheAccessibleTransportUnit(ATU)
c/o Disability Action and Advice Centre, 4 Waldegrave Road, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 8HT.
Telephone: 020 8831 6312 / 6191 / 6097.
www.richmond.gov.uk/accessible_transport_unit
The ATU administers the following schemes for older people and people with disabilities. Contact them for full details.
TheFreedomPass/TravelPermit(administeredbyATU)
Residents of the Borough with restricted mobility and every permanent resident aged over 60 is entitled to a Freedom Pass. This gives free travel on London buses, tubes and trains as well as half price travel on national coach services and local river services. Call 020 8831 6312.
TheSuperShopperBus(administeredbyATU)
This collects people from their homes and takes them to a supermarket. The bus runs every two weeks and takes people to Tesco in Isleworth or Sainsbury's in North Sheen. If you are unable to use public transport while carrying shopping and have no private transport available, you may qualify for this free service. Call 020 8831 6097.
LondonTaxicardScheme(administeredbyATU)
This allows people with long term or permanent disability to travel in licensed black cabs at a reduced fare.
RichmondTaxiVoucherScheme(administeredbyATU)
People with mobility difficulties can apply for vouchers which may be used to pay for journeys with nominated taxi and minicab companies. This scheme is sometimes available for people with temporary mobility problems.
Call 020 8831 6094 for details.
BlueBadgeScheme(administeredbyATU)
These enable people with permanent severe walking difficulties to park free at meters and in designated areas and give limited ability to park on yellow lines. Call 020 8831 6096 for details.
DialaRide
Telephone: 0845 999 1 999 or 020 7394 5800. www.tfl.gov.uk/dialaride
This is run by Transport for London and the distinctive red minibuses can accommodate wheelchairs. You need to be a member of DialaRide to use the service and trips must be booked in advance. For details telephone 0845 999 1 999. The Dial a Ride Travel Assistance Scheme gives disabled Londoners advice on planning a journey and can help them gain the confidence to make more use of public transport by providing someone to accompany them the first few times they use a low floor bus, accessible tube route or overground train service.
TransporttoSocialClubs,HospitalsandShoppingetc
Your General Practitioner may be able to arrange transport to and from hospital appointments.
The Social Clubs can sometimes provide transport to and from your home. Contact the Club Managers for details see page 3. There are a number of local Voluntary Care Groups that
provide transport for shopping trips, dental and medical appointments. For details, see page 15.
SeniorCoachandRailCards SeniorRailcard
Telephone: 08457 48 49 50. www.seniorrailcard.co.uk
If you are aged over 60 you can save a third on most rail fares in the UK. You can collect an application form from railway stations or apply online. You will need to supply a document proving your age such as a passport, NHS card or birth
certificate.
SeniorDiscountCoachCard
Call National Express on 08705 80 80 80. www.travel.susu.org
This card gives reductions of up to 30% on standard fares and is available to people aged over 50.
DisabledPersonsRailcard
Telephone: 0191 218 8103.
www.disabledpersonsrailcard.co.uk
If you have a disability you may be able to buy a Disabled Persons Railcard. This generally gives you a 33% discount on many rail fares and one adult may accompany you at the same discounted price. To apply for a Disabled Persons Railcard, you need to complete the application form in the booklet ’Rail Travel for Disabled Passengers’ (available from stations) or on the website.
RailCards
These are available to everybody. They give a discount on national rail fares. They are available from railway station ticket offices.
...andwhenyouareoutandabout... DisabledPersonsToiletKeys
An accessible toilet key is available for disabled people. Send a cheque for £3.50 together with a note to say the key is for the use of a disabled person.
Contact RADAR, 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, EC1V 8AF.
Advocacy,
Counselling
and
Advice
If you are asked to go to a meeting, fill in forms or simply need advice or help with something, there are many advocacy
services ready to help you. You will also find that council officers from the appropriate department can offer advice. Some of the Voluntary Care Groups, including Barnes, East Sheen and Mortlake FiSH, Hampton & Hampton Hill VCG and Kew Neighbourhood Association provide befriending services that aim to provide supportive, reliable relationships to help people to manage their everyday life (For details, see page 15).
AgeConcernRichmonduponThames
Meadows Hall, Church Road, Richmond, Surrey TW10 6LN. Telephone: 020 8940 1008.
Visit www.ageconcernrichmond.org.uk for details of all services.
AgeConcernFirstContact
Telephone: 020 8408 8170 between 10.00am and noon. A telephone advice line offering advice and information on a variety of subjects including welfare benefits, care at home, residential care and local health services.
AgeConcernAdvocacy
Telephone: 020 8940 9309.
A one to one support service for anyone living in a residential or nursing home and for people in the community with
memory loss. The service also supports and protects people suffering from or at risk of abuse.
AgeConcernFinanceSupportProject
Telephone: 020 8940 8306.
Help for people whose finances are in a muddle, accessing cash for housebound people from banks and building societies and assisting the Council with the recovery of arrears in domiciliary or care home fees.
WelfareBenefitsAdvice:see page 54.
HelptheAged
207221 Pentonville Road, London N1 9UZ. Telephone: 020 7278 1114.
This national charity also publishes many leaflets on subjects ranging from benefits and pensions to housing and health.
HelptheAgedSeniorLine:Make a free call to 0808 800 6565 for impartial advice on welfare benefits, home and residential care, disability benefits, housing options and more.
Several voluntary organisations operate advocacy services and these are listed below. For counselling relating to specific medical conditions and a listing of patient help and support groups, please see the section ‘Support Groups’ on page 26.
AdvocacyPartners
5561 Heath Road, Twickenham TW1 4DU.
Telephone: 020 8892 6559. www.advocacypartners.org An advocacy service for adults with learning difficulties. Open by appointment.
CommunityLegalServiceDirect
Legal help and information about benefits, debt, education and whether you qualify for Legal Aid.
Telephone: 0845 345 4345.
EthnicMinoritiesAdvocacyGroup
111a Kneller Road, Twickenham TW2 7DT.
Member of
Telephone: 020 8893 9444. www.emaguk.net
Advice and support for black and ethnic minority residents of all ages who face racial harassment, discrimination or other issues. Open Monday Friday 9.00 am 5.00 pm.
RichmondAdvocacyforMentalHealth
Telephone: 020 8744 9251. www.kag.org.uk
RichmondCounsellingandPsychotherapyService
Raleigh Road United Church, Raleigh Road, Richmond TW9 2DX.
Telephone: 020 8948 7881. www.richmondcounselling.org
Onetoone low cost counselling from volunteer counsellors and psychotherapists for those seeking support or advice.
RichmondForumforOlderPeople
95 Wordsworth Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 1EP. Telephone: 020 8941 2878.
The local branch of a national campaigning group representing older people at a local and national level. Local meetings with speakers on specialist topics are held regularly and the group consults with local MPs and Councillors.
RichmondLegalAdviceService
1st Floor, 1 Princes Street, Richmond TW9 1ED. Telephone: 020 8891 2105. www.rias.org.uk
Provides initial legal advice on problems. The advice and assistance is provided free of charge by legally qualified volunteers. Open on Wednesday evenings at 8.00 pm.
StStephensChurchDropinCentre
Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2PD.
Telephone: 020 8892 5258. www.ststephens.org.uk
Drop in centre for people with emotional, material or spiritual need. Open on Thursday evenings from 7.00 pm 9.00 pm.
Soldiers,Sailors,AirmenandFamiliesAssociation
c/o RCVS, 1 Princes Street, Richmond TW9 1ED. Telephone: 020 8878 1916. www.ssafa.org.uk
Richmond branch of the national charity helping serving and exserving men and women in need including dependants, widows and widowers. One day's paid service in the forces is all that is required to be eligible for financial or material assistance.
VineyardProject Adviceproject
Richmond Royal Hospital, Richmond Healthcare Hamlet, Kew Foot Road, Richmond TW9 2TE.
Telephone: 020 8940 7628. www.rbmind.com
A confidential short term (up to 16 weeks) counselling service aiming to provide help and support to people with mental health needs. Call to arrange an initial consultation.
For further details of the many facilities and social activities provided by the Richmond Borough Association for Mental Health, please call 020 8772 5687.
CitizensAdviceBureaux
Free, impartial and confidential advice and information on a number of topics including consumer complaints, eligibility for grants and benefits and housing. Details of opening times are shown in public libraries and at www.rcabs.org.uk
Ham The Health Centre, Ashburnham Road, Ham TW10 7NS.
Telephone: 020 8940 2501.
Hampton White House Community Centre, The Avenue, Hampton TW12 3RN. Telephone: 020 8941 8330.
Barnes Castlenau Youth Centre, Stillingford Road, London SW13 9AQ.
Telephone: 020 8941 8330.
Richmond Linfield House, 26 Kew Road. Richmond TW9 2NA.
Telephone: 020 8940 2501.
Sheen Sheen Lane Centre, Sheen Lane SW14 8LP. Telephone: 020 8876 1513.
Twickenham 61 Heath Road, Twickenham TW1 4AW. Telephone: 020 8892 5917.
Support
Groups
These organisations may be able to help you with advice, information and support related to specific problems, circumstances or conditions.
Abuse
DomesticViolenceandAbuse
Abuse can take many forms and all of them are unacceptable. The commonest forms of abuse are physical abuse, neglect, financial abuse, sexual abuse, racial abuse and psychological or emotional abuse often involving threats of harm or
abandonment or blame and controlling behaviour.
If you are subjected to abuse or suspect a vulnerable adult is being abused, the first priority is to ensure that the individual is safe. If immediate help is needed, dial 999 and ask for police. Then contact social services and speak to a duty social worker or care manager.
Social Services: 020 8891 7971.
The Richmond Out of Hours Service can be contacted on 020 8744 2442.
Action will be taken to ensure the vulnerable adult is protected in the future. Where a criminal offence has been committed the police will be informed.
Usefulcontactsincasesofsuspectedabuse RichmonduponThames
PoliceCommunitySafetyUnit Telephone: 020 8247 8090
SocialServices: Telephone: 020 8891 797 Outside office hours: Telephone: 020 8744 244
ActiononElderAbuse Telephone: 080 8808 814
AgeConcernRichmond
AdvocacyforElderAbuse Telephone: 020 8940 930
HelptheAged Telephone: 0870 770 328
EthnicMinoritiesAdvocacyGroup Telephone: 020 8332 291
NationalCareStandardsCommission Telephone: 020 8254 495 This body is responsible for inspecting all residential and
nursing homes in the borough. They have the power to investigate reported incidents of abuse.
RichmondAdvocacy Telephone: 020 8892 655
AdvocacyPartners Telephone: 020 8892 655
PublicConcernatWork Telephone: 020 7404 660 A legal advice organisation which can be contacted by those working with older people without breaching any terms of employment or duty of confidentiality.
Addiction
AddictionSupportandCareAgency
23 Lower Mortlake Road, Richmond TW9 2LL. Telephone: 020 8940 1160.
www.addictionsupport.co.uk
AlcoholicsAnonymous
There are numerous support groups active in the Richmond area. For a full list of meeting times and places, visit the website or telephone the central switchboard.
Telephone: 0845 769 7555 or 020 7833 0002. www.alcoholicsanonymous.org.uk
Back
Pain
RichmondBackPainGroup
137 Lyndhurst Avenue, Twickenham TW2 6BH. Telephone: 020 8894 0912.
Self help group for people of all ages with back pain. Runs hydrotherapy and Pilates sessions. Meetings are announced in a newsletter published 3 to 4 times each year.
BackCare
16 Elmtree Road, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 8ST. Telephone: 020 8977 5474. Helpline: 0845 130 2704. www.backcare.org.uk
Provides information and support to reduce the financial and social impact of back pain.
Bereavement
CruseBereavementCare
c/o RCVS, 1 Princes Street, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1ED. Telephone: 020 8876 0417.
www.crusebereavementcare.org.uk
Cruse Bereavement Care exists to promote the wellbeing of bereaved people and to enable anyone bereaved by death to understand their grief and cope with their loss. Cruse provides counselling, support advice and information.
Disability
RichmondAID
The Disability Action and Advice Centre (DAAC) 4 Waldegrave Road, Teddington TW11 8HT. Telephone: 020 8831 6080.
www.richmondaid.org.uk
Richmond AID is a confidential advice and information service for disabled people, their families, friends, carers and
professionals.
The organisation helps those in the Richmond upon Thames area and offers advice on any aspects of disability including benefits, form filling, holidays, medical health and mobility. This is a unique service run by volunteers who are either disabled or have direct experience of disability.
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 11.00 am 4.00 pm.
Mental
Health
MencapRichmond
342 Richmond Road, Twickenham TW1 2DU. Telephone: 020 8744 1923.
www.richmondmencap.org.uk
Supports, represents, campaigns and provides services for people with learning disabilities, including coffee mornings, holiday scheme, independent living scheme, social centre, residential holidays for adults, and other projects plus welfare support and information for service users and family carers.
MindinRichmond:Counselling,ActivitiesandSupport
Richmond Royal Hospital, Richmond Healthcare Hamlet, Kew Foot Road, Richmond TW9 2TE.
Telephone: 020 8772 5664. www.rbmind.com
A confidential short term (up to 16 weeks) counselling service aiming to provide help and support to people with mental health needs. Call to arrange an initial consultation.
TheTuesdayClubis open on Tuesday evenings between 7.00 pm and 9.00 pm for activities and snacks and has
computers with internet access. Telephone 020 8772 5687 for details.
For further details of the many facilities and social activities provided by the Richmond Borough Association for Mental Health, please call 020 8772 5687.
Other
conditions
including
Stroke,
Parkinson’s
Disease,
Altzheimer’s,
Cancer,
Diabetes
and
Pulmonary
Disease
Alzheimer’sSociety
88 Queens Road, Twickenham TW2 4ET. Telephone: 020 8892 7799.
www.alzheimers.org.uk
This society provides information, advice and support to carers of people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
BeatingBowelCancer
Various venues.
Telephone: 020 8892 5256.
Support group for patients and their families.
BreatheEasy
95 Wordsworth Road, Hampton TW12 1EP. Telephone: 020 8941 2878.
Informal social meetings on the last Wednesday of the month for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
BritishHeartFoundation
You can contact the Twickenham branch of this national charity on 0208 892 7226 or 01372 388430. Head Office: 020 7935 0185.
Cancerlink(Richmond)
10 Broom Lock, Teddington TW11 9QP. Telephone: 020 8943 1578.
Help for cancer sufferers and their families, friends and carers.
DiabetesUK(RichmondandTwickenham)
17 Crane Way, Twickenham TW2 7NH. Telephone: 020 8898 4485.
Information for people with diabetes and its complications.
IntegratedNeurologicalServices(INS)
Kew Baptist Church, 2 Windsor Road, Kew TW9 2EJ. Telephone: 020 8940 7662.
www.ins.org.uk
Therapeutic and social support group for people affected by neurological conditions such as stroke, MS, and Parkinson’s Disease. INS is run by a team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists and social workers.
MovingOn:SouthWestLondonStrokeClub
2 Acacia Road, Hampton, Middlesex TW12 3DS. Telephone: 020 8979 5877.
www.stroke.org.uk
Social stroke club offering survivors and their carers a chance to talk, share views, gain emotional support and enjoy themselves. The club organises outings, entertainment, exercise and regular meetings. Wheelchair access.
Parkinson'sDiseaseSociety
Kneller Social Club, 111a Kneller Rd, Whitton, Twickenham, TW2 7DU.
Telephone: 020 8898 5430.
Provides help with welfare and information. Organises outings and social meetings that include speakers.
Vision
and
Hearing
MacularDegenerationSociety
Vestry Hall, 21 Paradise Road, Richmond TW1 1SA. Telephone: 020 8332 0917.
Meetings are held on the last Tuesday of the month
RichmondAssociationfortheBlind
Evans House, 107 Marsh Road, Pinner HA5 5HQ. Telephone 020 8423 9503 or 0845 8308 0480. www.aftb.org.uk
Works throughout Richmond to provides advice, support and computer training for people with visual impairment.
TwickenhamClubfortheBlind
United Reformed Church Hall, First Cross Rd, Twickenham TW2 5QA.Telephone: 020 8287 7076.
Meetings every Thursday between 2.00 pm and 4.00 pm.
TwickenhamHardofHearingClub
United Reformed Church Hall, First Cross Rd, Twickenham Green TW2 5QA.
Telephone: 020 8384 0615.
Provides information, lip reading instruction, social evenings, table tennis, pool and
general support for people over 50.
TheCouncilSensoryImpairmentTeam
Telephone: 020 8487 1760. The team works with sensory impaired people to enable them to enjoy more equal access to and
participation in everyday community life.
VisuallyImpairedSocietyofRichmond(VISOR)
c/o Disability Action and Advice Centre, 4 Waldegrave Road, Teddington TW11 8HT. www.visor.org.uk
Telephone: 020 8831 6074 or 020 8780 5301on Wednesdays between 10.00 am and 3.00 pm.
VISOR offers advice and support as well as organising social events, outings, sports and computer training.
Call for details and times of meetings and social events.
Other
Useful
Organisations
VictimSupport
1 Princes Street, The Square, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1ED.
Telephone: 020 8948 7010. Victim Supportline: 0845 30 30 900. www.victimsupport.org.uk
Trained volunteers help residents cope with the effects of crime by providing confidential support and information to victims of crime and to witnesses attending local courts.
IntermediateCareTeam
Telephone: 020 8714 4060.
A group of health and social services professionals who are there to support you at home as an alternative to going into hospital or to help you get home from hospital sooner. Their aim is to help you to regain your full independence.
Hos
pitals,
RowanOrganisation
Rowan House, Lime Tree Courtyard, Main Road, Ratcliff Culey CV9 3PD.
Telephone: 01827 718972. www.therowan.org
This national organisation provides disabled people with access to information, services and resources in order to increase their opportunity for independence and enable them to make
informed choices about their future. However, much of the advice is equally applicable to the able bodied.
The website has a very comprehensive list of organisations concerned with disability, health and rehabilitation as well as many other topics of relevance to disabled and older people.
RichmondCouncilforVoluntaryService(RCVS)
1 Princes Street, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1ED. Telephone: 020 8255 8500.
www.richmondcvs.org.uk
The RCVS strengthens voluntary and community organisations in the Borough by offering a range of services and support to help them to improve their own services. The RCVS also
manages the Richmond Volunteer Centre where volunteers are matched to opportunities within the voluntary sector.
Hospitals,
Health
and
Fitness
Hospitals
with
an
Accident
&
Emergency
Department
or
a
Minor
Injuries
Unit
WestMiddlesexHospital,Isleworth
Twickenham Road, Isleworth TW7 6AF. Telephone: 020 8560 2121.
KingstonHospital
Galsworthy Road, Kingston upon Thames KT2 7QB. Telephone: 020 8546 7711.
CharingCrossHospital
Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF. Telephone: (020) 8846 1234.
TeddingtonMemorialHospital(NHSWalkInCentre)
Hampton Road, Teddington TW110JL.
Telephone: 020 8714 4090. (Not open 24 hours a day.
QueenMary'sHospital MinorInjuriesUnit
Roehampton Lane, London SW15 5PN. Open daily 8.00 am 8.00 pm.
Telephone: 020 8487 6499.
Other
Hospitals
CasselHospital
1 Ham Common, Richmond TW10 7JF.
Telephone: 020 8237 2922. Eves: 020 8940 8181.
BarnesHospital
South Worple Way, London SW14 8SU. Telephone: 020 8878 4981.
StJohn'sandAmyandHouseHospital
Strafford Road, Twickenham TW1 3AD. Telephone: 020 8744 9943.
NHS
Services
PatientAdviceandLiaisonService(PALS)
This service offers patients information about NHS services. Kingston Hospital: Telephone: 020 8934 3993.
Richmond & Twickenham Primary Care Trust: 020 8973 3111. SW London & St George’s Mental Health Trust: 020 8682 5915. West Middlesex Hospital: Telephone: 020 8321 6260.
NHSDirect
Telephone: 0845 4647.
NHS Direct is a 24 hour confidential telephone helpline staffed by qualified nurses. They have access to interpreters in several languages.
HealthInformationfromSocialServices
Call 020 8891 7971 for general information or visit www.richmond.gov.uk.
GeneralPractitioners
Your GP and Practice Nurse will provide general medical advice as well as managing and treating illnesses. Your GP practice can also help you to get special support at home.
If you are not registered with a GP, you should contact the Primary Health Agency on 020 8973 3000. They will tell you where to find your nearest GP practice and how to register.
Dentists
For help in finding an NHS dentist, please contact PALS on 020 8973 3111 or the Primary Care Agency on 020 8335 1400. They will also be able to advise you which local dentists offer home visits to people who are unable
to get to a dental surgery. If you have a low income, you may be entitled to free dental treatment. Ask your dental surgery for a form when
Opticians
The PALS service can help you find a local optician who offers NHS treatrment. Call PALS on 020 8973 3111.
FreeEyeTests
These are free to everyone aged over 60 and for people who suffer from diabetes or glaucoma, have a family history of glaucoma or are registered blind or partially sighted.
Contact any optician You may also be able to get some help towards the cost of glasses.
VisitingOpticians
If you are unable to visit an optician without help, you will be entitiled to Home Eye Care from the Outside Clinic.
For details, contact the Outside Clinic: Freephone 0500 295 245.
LowVisionAids
These are available free to anyone who is registered with a low vision clinic as being partially sighted. Contact your GP for details.
FootCare
Podiatry and chiropody is available on the NHS but only on referral by your GP. Most private foot care practitioners will visit patients in their homes. For listings of local private practitioners, see the Yellow Pages or Thompsons Directory.
SpecialFootwear
If this is needed because of disability, two or more pairs can be provided free. Contact your GP.
HearingAids
These are free for everyone who needs one. Contact your GP.
ContinenceAdvice
The NHS continence service focuses on the prevention of incontinence through treatment and, when appropriate, management For information, call the Continence Service on 020 8714 4093 or 020 8714 4086.
PharmaciesandPrescriptions
Your local pharmacist can give you advice on many symptoms and medicines. This is free and no appointment is necessary.
If you are aged over 60, you will receive prescription medicines free of charge. Many local pharmacies will deliver prescription medicines to your home. Ask your local pharmacy.
Freeprescriptions
These are free for everyone over 60 and for anyone with a disability that prevents them from going out on their own. You may also qualify for free prescriptions if you have certain medical conditions, a physical disability or are on a low income. The Health Cost Advice Line can provide you with further information. Call on 0845 850 1166.
FallsPrevention
If you have had a fall, feel unsteady or are afraid of falling, discuss this with your GP or healthcare professional. You can then be referred to a Falls Clinic or to Falls Prevention Classes where a specially trained tutor teaches you gentle movements to strengthen your legs, arms, back, ankles and pelvic floor muscles. Classes are held in several locations around Richmond including Teddington Pools in Vicarage Road, Whitton
Community Centre in Kneller Road and the Workhouse Gym in Grove Road Richmond Hill. Call 020 8891 7445 or 020 8891 7782 for more information.
Health
&
Fitness
Clubs
and
Groups
The Social Clubs and Centres in Richmond all hold classes specifically designed for older people. See page 3
for details. Other local organisations and facilities include:
FitnessLeague
Greenwood Centre, School Rd, Hampton Hill TW12 1QL. Telephone: 020 8979 7460 or 020 8979 9662.
Safe exercise for women of all ages. A less vigorous exercise group for older men and women also meets on Thursdays between 3.00 pm and 4.00 pm. Wheelchair access.
RichmondAdult&CommunityCollegeFitnessClasses
Telephone 020 8843 7921 or 020 8439 8980. www.racc.ac.uk
RACC run special exercise classes for older people who are new to exercise or are recuperating from injury. The Active Living Programme includes classes such as Back Care, Exercise for those with Breathing Problems, Cardio Care, and Chairbased exercise.
Sports&FitnessCentres
There are five Councilmanaged Fitness Centres in Richmond upon Thames and all offer fitness classes suitable for older people. There is also a hydrotherapy pool at Teddington, which is particularly good for people with joint or back problems.
Hampton Sport & Fitness Centre Telephone: 020 8255 1116 Shene Sports & Fitness Centre Telephone: 020 8878 7578 Teddington Pools & Fitness Centre Telephone: 020 8977 9911 Teddington Sports Centre Telephone: 020 8977 0598 Whitton Sports & Fitness Centre Telephone: 020 8898 7795
In addition, the Social Clubs all hold regular exercise classes, including gentle chair exercises. (see page 3)
DouglasBaderSportsCentre
Queen Mary's Hospital, Roehampton Lane London SW15 5PN. Telephone 020 88487 6039.
www.disabledgo.info
Purpose built sports centre for disabled people with a modern sports hall and wellequipped gym. Qualified staff are on hand to advise. It is not necessary to be a member to visit.
TheWorkhouseGym(CambrianCentre)
1 Grove Road, Richmond Hill, TW10 6SN. Telephone: 020 8332 1102.
Falls Prevention Class: Monday: 2.00 pm 3.00 pm. Contact: Gill Williams.
OtherGymsandHealthClubs
Some local gyms and health clubs offer special rates for older people when they use the facilities outside peak times.
See Yellow pages or Thompson Directories for listings.
SwimmingPools
The Borough has two outdoor and two indoor pools. All have wheelchair access to the pool itself and Teddington Pool is equipped with a hoist for pool access. If regular swimming would benefit your health, you may be eligible for a Swimming Pass. These are issued by the Sports Development Team at the Department of Education, Arts and Leisure at Regal House, London Road, Twickenham TW1 3QB.
Telephone: 020 8831 6133.
Pools on the Park (Richmond) Telephone: 020 8940 0561 Teddington Pools & Fitness Centre Telephone: 020 8977 9911 Hampton Pool Telephone: 020 8979 9933 Details of all pools can be found at www.richmond.gov.uk
CompanionCycling
The Stockyard, Bushy Park, TW12 2EJ.
Tel 020 8979 6061 (when companion cycling is in progress). If there is no answer, call 07961 344 545.
Based in Bushy Park Stockyard, this organisation enables a person with special needs to share a specially designed two seater cycle with an able bodied person and enjoy the pleasure and health benefits of cycling. All sessions need to be booked in advance.
Leisure
and
Learning
There are many opportunities in the Borough for older people to learn new skills or participate in formal or informal courses and education. For details visit your local library.
Information on leisure and learning in the Borough of Richmond Information is also available from the the
Department of Education, Arts and Leisure at Regal House, London Road, Twickenham TW1, 3QB.
Telephone: 020 8831 6133.
Many SocialClubsandFriendshipGroupsoffer leisure activities. For further details, see the section that starts on page 3.
Cinemas
and
Theatres
All these cinemas and theatres have a loop system for the hard of hearing and most can accommodate wheelchairs.
RichmondOdeon: Telephone: 020 8940 3040 6 spaces for wheelchairs.
OdeonStudio(Richmond): Telephone: 020 8332 6435 2 spaces for wheelchairs.
RichmondFilmHouse: Telephone: 020 8332 0030 1 space for a wheelchair.
RichmondTheatre: Telephone: 020 8940 0088 4 spaces for wheelchairs .
OrangeTreeTheatre(Richmond): Telephone: 020 8940 3633 9 spaces for wheelchairs.
HamptonHillPlayhouse: Telephone: 020 8410 4545 2 spaces for wheelchairs
and two more spaces with advance notice
ComputerClasses
Older people are sometimes reluctant to embrace computers, the web and email. But when they do become 'Silver Surfers', the whole world is literally at their fingertips! Richmond Adult Community College runs special courses for mature learners. Contact details are shown on the facing page.
AgeConcernruns a number of computer courses especially for older people. Call 020 8940 1008 for details.
AllRichmond'slibrarieshave free internet access and staff are on hand to help people who are inexperienced internet users. From time to time, each library runs special classes for internet and email beginners. Local Library Telephone numbers are: Castlenau 020 8748 3838 Heathfield 020 8894 1017 East Sheen 020 8876 8801 Kew 020 8876 8654 Ham 020 8940 8703 Richmond 020 8940 0981 Hampton 020 8979 5110 Teddington 020 8977 1284 Hampton Hill 020 8979 3705 Twickenham 020 8892 8091 Hampton Wick 020 8977 1559 Whitton 020 8894 9828
TheRichmondHousingPartnership's'Get Involved' scheme runs computer classes for residents and non residents of its properties in the Borough. For details, call 020 8404 5076.
TheSocialClubsfrequently run computer courses designed especially for older people. See page 3 for details.
CouncilLeisureCard
Leisure Card Office: 020 8831 6106.
www.richmond.gov.uk/leisure_card or search for ‘Leisure Card’. Richmond Council's Leisure Card entitles you to discounts and special offers at a variety of the Borough’s sports centres, restaurants, shops, theatres and historic houses. A large number of venues and services welcome the Leisure Card. You can pick up one up from your local library or sports centre or call the Leisure Card Office on 020 8831 6106.
KewGardens
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Road, Kew. Telephone: 020 8332 5655.
www.kew.org.uk
This world famous garden has a wheelchair friendly Discovery Bus which takes visitors around the gardens and greenhouses.
Libraries
In addition to lending books, CDs and DVDs. the local libaries have reading groups and events for readers. Details are available from the libraries (see opposite for the locations).
HouseboundLibraryService
If you are housebound or unable to call in to your local library, this service can collect and deliver books, audio books, videos, CDs and DVDs. The service is organised through your library but there can be a waiting list.
RichmonduponThamesAdultandCommunityCollege
The Clifden Centre, Clifden Road, Twickenham TW1 4LT. The Parkshot Centre, Parkshot Road, Richmond TW9 2RE. Telephone for both centres: 020 8891 5907.
www.racc.ac.uk
Many different courses are available and there are
TalkingBooksandNewspapers ListeningBooks
12 Lant Street, London SE1 1QH. Telephone: 020 7407 9417. www.listeningbooks.org.uk
This is a postal audio book service for people who cannot read or hold a book due to an illness or disability. There is an annual membership fee.
RichmondTalkingNewspaper fortheBlind
4 Walpole Place, Teddington TW11 8PL. Telephone: 020 8890 8260.
A free weekly talking newspaper service for local blind and partially sighted people. Articles include news from local papers and other sources.
RNIBTalkingBookService
PO Box 173, Peterborough PE2 6WS. Telephone: 08457 62 68 43.
www.rnib.org.uk
This provides a library service to blind and partially sighted people and over 12,0000 titles are available.
A charge is made for the service.
UniversityoftheThirdAge(U3A)
Various venues usually private houses Telephone: 020 8994 1650.
www.u3a.org.uk
U3A is a learning cooperative of older people that enables members to share educational, creative and leisure activities. There are no examinations and you do not need qualifications to enroll. Meetings and courses at private houses. Meetings are generally held on the last Tuesday of each month within the Borough. Wheelchair access is usually limited.
WhistDrivesfortheover60s
Mondays from 2.00 pm 4.00 pm:
All Saints Church Hall, The Avenue, Hampton and
Tuesdays from 2.00 pm 4.00 pm:
St Francis de Sales Church Hall, The Crypt, St. Francis de Sales Church, Hampton Hill.
Telephone for details: 020 8979 9725.
Whist drives are also held at the Whitton Community Association (see page 10).
WorkersEducationalAssociation(WEA)
Telephone: 020 8940 2873. www.wea.org.uk
This provides access to a wide range of educational opportunities and courses. There are no formal entry
qualifications and courses often involve visits to exhibitions, galleries and museums.
Fees are relatively low and there are concessions for pensioners. For further information on courses available in this area, visit the website or call 020 8940 2873.
Respite
Care
and
Services
for
Carers
Member of Homelink
c/o St Augustine's Vicarage,
Hospital Bridge Road, Twickenham TW2 6DE. Telephone: 020 8255 1992.
Homelink gives carers a day's respite knowing that the person they look after is receiving care of the very highest standard. Homelink is a nurseled day respite care centre for adults. Clients have an individual care plan and a health monitoring programme is carried out for preventative care.
Qualified nurses and trained staff and volunteers take care of a variety of healthcare needs including changing dressings, monitoring blood pressure and, where appropriate, blood sugar levels. Other services include continence care and showering.
Homelink also provides hairdressing, chiropody, reflexology, aromatherapy and exercise and mobility programmes as well as games and activities and entertainment from visiting musicians and dancers. Lunch is served daily and coffee and tea are
available throughout the day.
Clients are usually referred by their GP, healthcare or welfare professionals or other voluntary organisations, but you can call the Nurse Manager directly if you wish.
CrossroadsCare(Richmond)
4 Waldegrave Road, Teddington TW11 8HT. 020 8831 6088.
www.crossroads.org.uk
This organisation aims to relieve stress in families where a family member is being cared for at home by providing a homebased respite service to prevent the need for admission to hospital or residential care.
RichmondCarersCentre
5 Briar Road, Twickenham TW2 6RB. Telephone: 020 8867 2380.
www.carers.org/richmond
Part of the Princes Royal Trust for Carers network, this Centre provides support and information for carers with a regular newsletter, support groups, events, breaks and referral to other voluntary and statutory organisations.
Open Monday to Friday during normal business hours.
HolidaySupport
If you need support at home or you are a carer looking after someone at home, you may be entitled to respite care when you or your carer needs a break or is going on holiday. To benefit from this you need to contact your Social Services Care Management Team (see page 59). A care manager will then make an assessment and offer an appropriate service or Carers Vouchers redeemable against services from a list of care services.
CarersAllowance
Call 020 8891 7971 or the Benefit Enquiry Line: 0800 88 22 00. You can apply for this taxable benefit if you spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone who receives Attendance Allowance or Disability Living Allowance.
Equipment,
Mobility
and
Appliances
AidstoDailyLiving
Several items are available on free loan from Social Services or via your GP.
There are a number of local shops and distributors specialising in products for the disabled, including wheelchairs and
scooters.
VAT is not generally payable on equipment which has been specially designed or adapted for use by people with special needs.
AdditionalAids
80 Whitton High Street, Whitton TW2 7LS. Telephone: 020 8755 0022.
www.aamobility.co.uk
A range of daily living equipment including wheelchairs, scooters, riser recliner chairs, commodes, bathlifts, grab rails, walking aids and stairlifts.
LocalMobilityLtd
Telephone: 0800 073 0472 (FREEphone). www.localmobilityltd.org.uk
Mail order and internet distributor of a range of mobility and independent living equipment.
Opt4Mobility
9 11 The Causeway, Teddington TW11 0HA.
Telephone: 0800 1955 803 (free call) or 020 8943 8890. www.opt4mobility.com
Opt4Mobility supplies disability aids and mobility products, including automatic beds, customised armchairs, bathing, riser chairs, scooters, stairlifts, wheelchairs and other helpful aids and equipment. Wheelchairs are also available on hire.
WheelchairHireandSecondHandPurchase FreeWheelchairs
Manual and electric wheelchairs are available free for long term use. Your GP, consultant or therapist can refer you to the Wheelchair Service at Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton. Telephone: 020 8355 2716.
WheelchairPurchaseVouchers
Telephone: 020 8355 2716.
If you prefer to buy a chair, you can obtain an NHS voucher up to the value of a standard chair. This voucher can be used in part payment for a higher specification chair. Apply for these vouchers via Queen Mary’s Hospital, Roehampton (see above).
WheelchairHire
This is available from the Red Cross. Telephone: 020 8971 5601.
SecondHandEquipment
The Richmond AID newsletter and website carries
advertisements for private sales of second hand wheelchairs and other specialist equipment for the disabled.
Disability Now, the monthly magazine of Scope, also has a small advertisement section.
Telephone: 020 7636 5020. www.disabilitynow.org.uk
Motability
Citygate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road London. SE1 9HB. www.motability.co.uk
A charity that helps people receiving the higher rate mobility component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to buy a vehicle. The car scheme: Telephone 0845 456 4566.
Housing
and
Home
Homelessless SPEAR:
Helpforthehomelessandthoseatrisk ofhomelessness
55 Heath Road, Twickenham TW1 4AW.
Telephone: 020 8288 6506. www.spearlondon.org
SPEAR is a local charity working with homeless people. SPEAR operate a 12bed hostel, an outreach and tenancy support service, a rent deposit scheme and a team working with people who have drug and alcohol problems.
CouncilHousing
All council housing in Richmond borough is looked after by
RichmondHousingPartnership(RHP), 52 London Road, Twickenham TW1 3RS. Telephone: 020 8404 5500. www.rhp.org.uk
However, the council may still be able to find you a place either through RHP or another housing association in the borough. Call the Housing Needs and Allocation team on 020 8891 7049.
ShelteredHousing
This is a scheme whereby eligible people rent a flat with a warden who either lives on site or visits on a daily basis. Contact the Richmond Council Housing Needs and Allocation Team on 020 8891 7872.
Residential&NursingHomes
The most common reason for people choosing to go into residential or nursing home care is because they can no longer be looked after or managed at home.
If you think you need to go into a residential or nursing home, the first thing to do is to be assessed by Social Services. Even if you will be paying for your own care, it is advisable to let Social Services know because you may need help with future funding.
SupporttoHelpYouRemainatHome
The council's general objective is to help people to continue to live at home for as long as this is practical. One of the main reasons that people decide to leave their home is that they feel they cannot cope. The Benefits, Grants and Concessions section (page 54) gives details of help available by the provision of carers or the means to pay for them.
If you need support to live in your own home, you may be eligible for home care. This can be for:
PersonalCare such as having a bath, getting dressed, getting in and out of bed, using the toilet.
PracticalCare such as housework, shopping and laundry.
This care is provided by a private home care agency, monitored and approved by the Council. Help in your home can be
provided through care agency staff or in the form of a direct payment to enable you to make your own arrangements. RUILS can help you to manage these payments (see page 55).
If you need support to enable you to continue living at home, contact your local Social Services Care Team (see page 59). They can also provide you with lists of private agencies.
You could also approach your local Voluntary Care Group. (See page 15)
Grantsforhomerepairsormodifications
The following details relate to discretionary grants and services which may be available to help repair or adapt a home and enable people to remain in their homes for longer.
The Housing Grants Department will advise you on what type of grant you may be eligible for and how to apply for it. Telephone them on 020 8891 7974 or 7436.
HomeImprovementAgency
Advice from the Council on repairs, improvements and adaptations to help you live at home and information about grants and loans. Call 020 8891 7436.
CarelineEmergencyAlarmsandSensors
Telephone: 0845 600 7413. www.richmond.gov.uk
Richmond Council's Careline Service provides emergency panic buttons and a range of smoke, gas, fire and other sensors. These are monitored 24 hours a day, enabling people to live safely, securely and independently at home.
SpecialistEquipment
Occupational therapists can help you live independently in your own home by offering specialist equipment suited to you and organizing adaptations to your home that can help you get on with your daily activities as comfortably and safely as possible. To arrange an assessment by an occupational therapist, contact your local Social Care Team (see page 59.)
TheHandypersonService
Telephone: 020 8943 3265.
www.ageconcernrichmond.org.uk
Handypersons in this scheme will undertake small jobs in the homes of people over 60 and people with a disability.
SPADE:AGardeningServicefortheDisabled
Richmond Aid Disability Action and Advice Centre, 4 Waldegrave Road, Teddington TW11 8HT.
Telephone: 020 8831 6070. www.richmondaid.org.uk
Richmond SPADE can help disabled people to keep their garden in order by cutting grass, pruning, weeding and raking up leaves etc.
Getting
Help
with
Shopping
and
Food
SuperShopperBus
Call the Accessible Transport Unit on 020 8831 6097. www.richmond.gov.uk
This bus collects people from their homes and takes them to a supermarket. The bus runs every two weeks and takes people to Tesco in Isleworth or Sainsbury's in North Sheen. If you can’t use public transport while carrying shopping and private
transport is not available, you may qualify for this free service.
MealsonWheels
Contact Social Services. Telephone: 020 8891 7971. www.richmond.gov.uk and search for ‘meals on wheels’ These are available following assessment by Social Services. Frozen meals are delivered on a regular basis. If you are unable to heat the meals up yourself, hot meals can be delivered.
WiltshirefarmFoods
Frozen readymade meals delivered to you. Call 0800 773 773.
ShopMobility
Level 2, Eden Car Park, Union St, KingstonuponThames. Telephone: 020 8547 1255.
www.thebentallcentreshopping.com
Shop Mobility will let you have a wheelchair to go round the shops and Bentall Centre in Kingston. Electric wheelchairs, electric scooters and manual wheelchairs are all available.
OnlineandTelephoneShopping
Many local supermarkets will take orders over the telephone or via their websites. Waitrose can arrange for a member of staff
