Advocacy

• Action for Advocacy
  Action for Advocacy (A4A) is as a resource and support agency for independent advocacy schemes.
  
  

Alcohol Issues

• Al-Anon Family Groups UK & Eire
  Al-Anon is world-wide and offers support and understanding to the families and friends of problem drinkers, whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not.
  
  
• Alcohol Concern
  Alcohol Concern is the national agency on alcohol misuse.
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  

Arthritis

• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  

Benefits and Welfare

• Age Concern
  The website for Age Concern has articles and downloadable advice and leaflets.
  
  
• Benefits Agency Enquiry Line (BEL)
  (BEL) is a national helpline giving general advice/information about benefits to people with disabilities, carers or representatives. Alternative formats available e.g. Braille, large print. Leaflet/claim packs sent.
  
  
• Citizen's Advice Bureau (CAB)
  The CAB service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free information and advice from over 3,000 locations and by influencing policymakers.
  
  
• Department of Work and Pensions (DWP)
  

  The Department is responsible for a range of benefits and services for pensioners and people planning pensions.

  Jobcentre Plus provides an integrated service to people of working age. It offers help to people looking to move into work and support for people who can't. Jobcentre Plus also provides a range of services to help employers fill their vacancies quickly. For more information visit: www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

  Pension, Disability and Carers Service comprise of:

  The Pension Service is a dedicated service for current and future pensioners. It provides state financial support to over 11 million pensioners delivered at a national and local level and in partnership with other organisations. It also helps people to plan and provide for retirement.For more information visit: www.thepensionservice.gov.uk

  The Disability and Carers Service supports disabled people and their carers, whether or not they work. It is responsible for delivering Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Carer's Allowance. For more information visit: www.dwp.gov.uk/dcs

  
  
  
• Help the Aged
  Help the Aged publishes a wide range of information sheets and reports that can point you in the right direction on matters from housing choices to benefit entitlements. This section also provides reliable information on the major health conditions that affect older people and advice on how to continue living independently at home.
  
  
• Office of the Public Guardian
  The Office of the Public Guardian supports and promotes decision making for those who lack capacity or would like to plan for their future, within the framework of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
  
  
• The Local Pension Service
  The Local Pension Service is here to ensure that older people on the Isle of Wight are aware of all their benefit entitlements.  If you have any queries or would prefer to make an appointment over the phone please call the Local Pension Service and leave a message on: Tel: 01983 273030
  
  
• The Pension Service
  This Government website provides information about pensions and pensioner benefits, for those planning for the future, about to retire or already retired.
  
  
• TPAS (The Pensions Advisory Service)
  The Pensions Advisory Service, is an independent non-profit organisation that provides free information, advice and guidance on the whole spectrum of pensions covering State, company, personal and stakeholder schemes.
  
  

Campaigning, Promoting and Improving Services

• Action for Advocacy
  Action for Advocacy (A4A) is as a resource and support agency for independent advocacy schemes.
  
  
• Age Concern
  The website for Age Concern has articles and downloadable advice and leaflets.
  
  
• CAT - The Health and Social Care Change Agent Team
  The Health and Social Care Change Agent Team (CAT) was set up in 2002 to help health and social care communities tackle the problem of patients staying in hospital longer than necessary. Since then the remit has grown and the CAT now provides advice and support on a wide range of issues that affect the care of older people including assessment, commissioning and intermediate care.
  
  
• CPA (Centre for Policy on Ageing)
  CPA promotes informed debate about issues affecting older age groups, stimulates awareness of the needs of older people and encourages good practice.
  
  
• Depression Alliance
  Work to relieve and to prevent this treatable condition by providing information and support services. We also campaign to raise awareness amongst the general public about the realities of depression.
  
  
• Help the Aged
  Help the Aged publishes a wide range of information sheets and reports that can point you in the right direction on matters from housing choices to benefit entitlements. This section also provides reliable information on the major health conditions that affect older people and advice on how to continue living independently at home.
  
  
• Independent Living
  Website supporting disabled persons, carers, and professionals.
  
  
• Mental Health Foundation
  

  The website of the Mental Health Foundation outlines the charity's work in research, policy, service development and service user involvement. The site offers information and publications to download on research, good practice in services and on mental health problems and key issues.

   

  
  
  
• National Care Forum
  Formed in 2003, but built on 10 years experience as the Care Forum, we are rapidly becoming the leading voice in our sector, representing the views and concerns both of carers and those we care for. We promote the benefits of the not-for-profit model of care services provision, to local and national government, as well as consumers and other health care bodies.
  
  
• Patients Association
  The Patients Association is a charitable organisation providing patients with an opportunity to raise concerns and share experiences of healthcare. Through our Helpline, correspondence and research we learn from patients the issues that are of concern and work towards improving the healthcare we all receive.
  
  
• RADAR (Royal Assoc. for Disability and Rehabilitation)
  RADAR is an organisation of disabled people that campaigns and provides information on disability issues.
  
  
• S.P.R.I.N.G.
  

  Special Parkinson's Research Interest Group (SPRING)

  An action group to accelerate research to find a cure for Parkinson's disease.

  
  
  
• SANELINE
  

  SANE is a national mental health charity which aims to raise awareness of mental illness and campaign to improve services and initiate and fund research into the causes of serious mental illness through its research centre. Information and emotional support is also provided to anyone affected by mental illness via the helpline, SAVEline and by e-mail, via SANEmail.

   

  
  
  
• The Neurological Alliance
  The Neurological Alliance is a collaborative forum of over 60 charities. The Alliance campaigns for the highest standards of care and service for the 10 million people with a neurological condition in the UK.
  
  

Carers

• Al-Anon Family Groups UK & Eire
  Al-Anon is world-wide and offers support and understanding to the families and friends of problem drinkers, whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not.
  
  
• Alzheimers Society
  

  The UK's leading care and research charity for people with dementia, their families and carers.

   

  
  
  
• At Dementia
  This website aims to provide user-friendly information about assistive technology for people with dementia.
  
  
• British Geriatrics Society
  The purpose of the site is to make available information which would be of use to its members, carers and organisations, who might have an interest in geriatric medicine/gerontology or the care of the older person.
  
  
• Carers Direct (NHS Choices)
  

  Carers Direct is a section on the NHS Choices website, dedicated to carers with information on:

  • Guide to caring
  • Money and legal issues
  • Work and study
  • Your wellbeing
  • Young carers
  • Carers lives
  
  
  
• Carers UK
  Carers UK provide information and advice to carers and campaigns on their behalf.
  
  
• Caring about Carers
  Department of Health's information website about issues that affect carers, including services and benefits that carers may be entitled to.
  
  
• Direct.gov (Advice for Carers)
  Information and advice for carers.
  
  
• DISC (Dementia Information Service for Carers)
  Advice and information for carers of older people with dementia.
  
  
• For Dementia
  Telephone or e-mail advice and support for family carers, people with dementia and professionals.
  
  
• Independent Age
  Advice and information for older people, their families and carers. Advice Line 0845 262 1863
  
  
• National Care Forum
  Formed in 2003, but built on 10 years experience as the Care Forum, we are rapidly becoming the leading voice in our sector, representing the views and concerns both of carers and those we care for. We promote the benefits of the not-for-profit model of care services provision, to local and national government, as well as consumers and other health care bodies.
  
  
• Office of the Public Guardian
  The Office of the Public Guardian supports and promotes decision making for those who lack capacity or would like to plan for their future, within the framework of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
  
  
• Princess Royal Trust for Carers
  The Trust exists to make it easier for carers to cope by providing information, support and practical help to carers. The national network of over 100 independently-managed Carers Centres across the UK.
  
  
• The Relatives & Residents Association
  The Relatives & Residents Association exists for older people needing, or living in, residential care and the families and friends left behind.
  
  

Carers Further Information and Reading

• Careinfo.org
  "Our mission is to provide the long-term care sector with the information it needs - and if we can't provide it ourselves, we'll point you in the right direction."
  
  
• Carers Direct (NHS Choices)
  

  Carers Direct is a section on the NHS Choices website, dedicated to carers with information on:

  • Guide to caring
  • Money and legal issues
  • Work and study
  • Your wellbeing
  • Young carers
  • Carers lives
  
  
  

Complaints

• C.Q.C (Care Quality Commission)
  The single, independent inspectorate for all social care services in England. (CQC) provides a searchable database of care homes and care services.
  
  
• Local Government Ombudsman
  The Local Government Ombudsmen investigate complaints of injustice arising from maladministration by local authorities and certain other bodies.
  
  

Continence Issues

• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• The Continence Foundation
  Personal and confidential advice is easily available if you ro someone you care for has a problem of bladder or bowel control. We are not only here for people who would call themselves "incontinent". Leakage from the bladder is all too common, especially if you laugh, sneeze or exercise ("stress incontinence").
  
  

Counselling

• SANELINE
  

  SANE is a national mental health charity which aims to raise awareness of mental illness and campaign to improve services and initiate and fund research into the causes of serious mental illness through its research centre. Information and emotional support is also provided to anyone affected by mental illness via the helpline, SAVEline and by e-mail, via SANEmail.

   

  
  
  

Dementia

• Alzheimers Society
  

  The UK's leading care and research charity for people with dementia, their families and carers.

   

  
  
  
• At Dementia
  This website aims to provide user-friendly information about assistive technology for people with dementia.
  
  
• Carers Direct (NHS Choices)
  

  Carers Direct is a section on the NHS Choices website, dedicated to carers with information on:

  • Guide to caring
  • Money and legal issues
  • Work and study
  • Your wellbeing
  • Young carers
  • Carers lives
  
  
  
• DASN International (Dementia Advocacy and Support Network)
  A worldwide organisation by and for those diagnosed with dementia; working together to improve our quality of life.
  
  
• DISC (Dementia Information Service for Carers)
  Advice and information for carers of older people with dementia.
  
  
• For Dementia
  Telephone or e-mail advice and support for family carers, people with dementia and professionals.
  
  
• Kingshill Research Centre
  The Kingshill Research Centre aspires to improve 'quality of life' for patients and carers by producing high quality research information for use in the development of new treatment alternatives.
  
  
• Mental Health Foundation
  

  The website of the Mental Health Foundation outlines the charity's work in research, policy, service development and service user involvement. The site offers information and publications to download on research, good practice in services and on mental health problems and key issues.

   

  
  
  
• MIND
  

  Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. We work to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress.

  Mind info line: 0845 766 0163

  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• Office of the Public Guardian
  The Office of the Public Guardian supports and promotes decision making for those who lack capacity or would like to plan for their future, within the framework of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
  
  
• Pictures to Share
  Pictures to Share C.I.C. is a not-for-profit publisher dedicated to providing attractive and enjoyable illustrated books that can be enjoyed by older people even those with disabilities such as Alzheimer's Disease, dementia or confusion, which prevent people from enjoying traditional books, magazines and television.
  
  
• SANELINE
  

  SANE is a national mental health charity which aims to raise awareness of mental illness and campaign to improve services and initiate and fund research into the causes of serious mental illness through its research centre. Information and emotional support is also provided to anyone affected by mental illness via the helpline, SAVEline and by e-mail, via SANEmail.

   

  
  
  
• The Pick's Disease Support Group
  The Pick's Disease Support Group includes: 1. Dementia with Lewy Bodies; 2. Front temporal Dementia including: Frontal Lobe; Degeneration, Pick's Disease and Primary Progressive Aphasia; 3. Alcohol Related Dementia; 4. Corticobasal Degeneration.
  
  

Dementia Further Information and Reading

• Alzheimer's Disease International
  (ADI)is the umbrella organisation of Alzheimer associations around the world.
  
  
• Alzheimer's Europe
  A non-governmental organisation aimed at raising awareness of all forms of dementia through coordination between Alzheimer's organisations in Europe, as well as organising support to the sufferers of the disease and their carers
  
  
• Alzheimer's Society (Information on Drug Treatment for Dementia)
  Information about drug treatments for Alzheimer's disease - Aricept, Exelon, Reminyl and Ebixa
  
  
• Alzheimer's Society Reading List
  A pdf document with guidance of suggested reading material and other useful resources such as DVD's and activity packs for carers and professionals
  
  
• Cognitive Stimulation Therapy
  (CST) is a brief treatment for people with mild to moderate dementia.
  
  
• Dementia Care Matters
  We are an independent team specialising in working with organisations and their staff in developing Dementia Care Services & Mental Health Services for Older People.
  
  
• Huntingdon's Disease Association
  We provide information and advice to families, friends and health care professionals whose task it is to support Huntingdon's Disease families.
  
  
• MemoryClinic.com
  Memoryclinic.com provides information about memory impairment, the common causes of memory impairment, details of memory clinic services and currently available treatments for memory failure.
  
  
• Practical Memory Institute
  Resource site pertaining to memory issues.
  
  
• The Neurological Alliance
  The Neurological Alliance is a collaborative forum of over 60 charities. The Alliance campaigns for the highest standards of care and service for the 10 million people with a neurological condition in the UK.
  
  

Depression

• Depression Alliance
  Work to relieve and to prevent this treatable condition by providing information and support services. We also campaign to raise awareness amongst the general public about the realities of depression.
  
  
• Mental Health Foundation
  

  The website of the Mental Health Foundation outlines the charity's work in research, policy, service development and service user involvement. The site offers information and publications to download on research, good practice in services and on mental health problems and key issues.

   

  
  
  
• MIND
  

  Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. We work to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress.

  Mind info line: 0845 766 0163

  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• SANELINE
  

  SANE is a national mental health charity which aims to raise awareness of mental illness and campaign to improve services and initiate and fund research into the causes of serious mental illness through its research centre. Information and emotional support is also provided to anyone affected by mental illness via the helpline, SAVEline and by e-mail, via SANEmail.

   

  
  
  

Diabetes

• Diabetes UK
  

  Diabetes UK is the largest organisation in the UK working for people with diabetes, funding research, campaigning and helping people live with the condition.

  We have over 170,000 members. We work for people with diabetes, their carers, family and friends. We represent the interests of all people with diabetes by lobbying the government for better standards of care and the best quality of life.

  
  
  
• Diabetes.co.uk
  

  This website provides information about:

  • types 1 and 2 diabetes
  • diabetes symptoms
  • diabetes treatments
  • health manegement
  
  
  
• eatwell.gov.uk
  

  This is a Food Standards Agency website which provides information about:

  • healthy diet
  • keeping food safe
  • food labels
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  

Equipment

• At Dementia
  This website aims to provide user-friendly information about assistive technology for people with dementia.
  
  
• Essentialaids.com
  Online shop for daily living aids. We would be grateful if you could use e-mail in the first instance - this will allow us to respond in the most efficient way possible.
  
  

Exercise and Mobility

• Balance Training
  A website to promote balance with simple exercises.
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• Walking for Health
  

  Walking for Health (WfH) encourages more people to become physically active in their local communities.

  We support the largest network of health walk schemes across England, offering regular short walks over easy terrain with trained walk leaders.

  WfH walks are free and particularly aimed at people who don’t take much exercise.

  
  
  

Falls Prevention

• At Dementia
  This website aims to provide user-friendly information about assistive technology for people with dementia.
  
  
• Balance Training
  A website to promote balance with simple exercises.
  
  
• Independent Living (Advice for Preventing Falls)
  Advice on falls prevention from the Independent Living Site.
  
  
• NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excelence)
  Assessment and Prevention of falls guidance. In PDF format.
  
  

Fibromyalgia (FM)

• FibroAction
  FibroAction is a dynamic national charity (registered charity number 1125957) that was created because a group of people felt that raising awareness of Fibro in the UK was essential to the future wellbeing of everyone with the condition.
  
  
• Fibromyalgia Association UK
  Fibromyalgia Association UK is a registered charity administered by unpaid volunteers. The majority of volunteers are also fibromyalgia sufferers who work extremely hard, despite their condition, in order to forward the cause of fibromyalgia.  FMA UK was established in order to provide information and support to sufferers and their families.
  
  
• UK Fibromyalgia
  UK Fibromyalgia, is resource web site with infromation on the condition, research news, medication, claiming benifits nutrician, exercise and an online web forum.
  
  

Health and Wellbeing

• DIAL UK
  A national organisation for a network of 140 local Disability Information and Advice Line services (DIALs) run by and for disabled people.
  
  
• eatwell.gov.uk
  

  This is a Food Standards Agency website which provides information about:

  • healthy diet
  • keeping food safe
  • food labels
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  
  
  
• Institute for Complementary Medicine (ICM)
  The (ICM) is a UK registered charity that was formed in 1982 to provide the public with information on all aspects of the safe and best practice of Complementary Medicine through its practitioners, courses and research.
  
  
• MIND
  

  Mind is the leading mental health charity in England and Wales. We work to create a better life for everyone with experience of mental distress.

  Mind info line: 0845 766 0163

  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• NHS Direct
  

  NHS Direct is at the forefront of 24-hour health care - delivering telephone and e-health information services day and night direct to the public. Although the organisation started out in 1997, it has been growing and changing over that time, most noticeably since April 2004.

   

  
  
  
• Practical Memory Institute
  Resource site pertaining to memory issues.
  
  

Health Information

• Diabetes.co.uk
  

  This website provides information about:

  • types 1 and 2 diabetes
  • diabetes symptoms
  • diabetes treatments
  • health manegement
  
  
  
• eatwell.gov.uk
  

  This is a Food Standards Agency website which provides information about:

  • healthy diet
  • keeping food safe
  • food labels
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  
  
  
• Net Doctor
  Advice and information on many health conditions.
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• NHS Direct
  

  NHS Direct is at the forefront of 24-hour health care - delivering telephone and e-health information services day and night direct to the public. Although the organisation started out in 1997, it has been growing and changing over that time, most noticeably since April 2004.

   

  
  
  
• Parkinson's UK
  The Parkinson's Disease Society offers information advice, and support for people with Parkinson's and their families and carers.
  
  
• Patient UK
  

  Comprehensive, free, up-to-date health information as provided by GPs to patients during consultations.

   

  
  
  
• Water for Health
  Information and advice about hydration in older persons.
  
  

Healthy Eating and Diet

• Diabetes.co.uk
  

  This website provides information about:

  • types 1 and 2 diabetes
  • diabetes symptoms
  • diabetes treatments
  • health manegement
  
  
  
• eatwell.gov.uk
  

  This is a Food Standards Agency website which provides information about:

  • healthy diet
  • keeping food safe
  • food labels
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  
  
  
• Food Standards Agency
  Advice and information on healthy dietry needs for the older person.
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• Water for Health
  Information and advice about hydration in older persons.
  
  

Hearing Impaired

• RNID
  Advice and information regarding hearing related issues.
  
  

Heart disease

• eatwell.gov.uk
  

  This is a Food Standards Agency website which provides information about:

  • healthy diet
  • keeping food safe
  • food labels
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  

Homecare, Housing and Homes

• C.Q.C (Care Quality Commission)
  The single, independent inspectorate for all social care services in England. (CQC) provides a searchable database of care homes and care services.
  
  
• Help the Aged
  Help the Aged publishes a wide range of information sheets and reports that can point you in the right direction on matters from housing choices to benefit entitlements. This section also provides reliable information on the major health conditions that affect older people and advice on how to continue living independently at home.
  
  
• Independent Age
  Advice and information for older people, their families and carers. Advice Line 0845 262 1863
  
  
• The Relatives & Residents Association
  The Relatives & Residents Association exists for older people needing, or living in, residential care and the families and friends left behind.
  
  

Kidney cancer

• Kidney Cancer Support Network
  

  The Kidney Cancer Support Network has been created to help kidney cancer patients, families and freinds join together and offer information, advice and friendship to each other, either by registering on our Support Network Map or by posting news and views on our patient forum.

   

  
  
  

Lasting Power of Attorney

• Carers Direct (NHS Choices)
  

  Carers Direct is a section on the NHS Choices website, dedicated to carers with information on:

  • Guide to caring
  • Money and legal issues
  • Work and study
  • Your wellbeing
  • Young carers
  • Carers lives
  
  
  
• Office of the Public Guardian
  The Office of the Public Guardian supports and promotes decision making for those who lack capacity or would like to plan for their future, within the framework of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
  
  

Legal Advice

• Citizen's Advice Bureau (CAB)
  The CAB service helps people resolve their legal, money and other problems by providing free information and advice from over 3,000 locations and by influencing policymakers.
  
  

Medication Information

• Alzheimer's Society (Information on Drug Treatment for Dementia)
  Information about drug treatments for Alzheimer's disease - Aricept, Exelon, Reminyl and Ebixa
  
  
• Electronic Medicines Compendium
  The electronic Medicines Compendium (eMC) provides electronic Summaries of Product Characteristics (SPCs) and Patient Information Leaflets (PILs).
  
  It provides information on thousands of licensed medicines available in the UK.
  
  The eMC is continuously updated with new and revised SPC and PIL information which, after approval by the licensing authorities, is submitted directly by pharmaceutical companies.
  
  
• Medicine Guides
  An initiative developed in partnership with NHS Direct - as part of the Medicines Information Project - which aims to provide people with information about medicines, conditions and the different treatment options available.
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• Patient UK (Information about Medicines)
  Provides over 800 leaflets regarding specific medicines and drugs.
  
  
• X-PIL
  X-PIL ensures that patient information leaflets (PILs) supplied with medicines are accessible to everyone, including those with sight problems.
  
  

Motor neurone disease (MND)

• build-uk.net
  

  build-uk.net - Building a motor neurone disease network for the UK

  This site is for people affected by motor neurone disease (MND), that means people who:

  • live with MND
  • care for someone with the condition
  • have a family member or friend with MND
  • work in health or social care services

  The forum can be used to contact others with a similar interest in MND - to decide what information and services should be provided, to tell people what you want and to share what you know. We have recently added a voting page and a chat room to communicate with others and let your views be known.

  
  
  
• Motor Neurone Disease Association
  

  The Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association is the only national organisation in England, Wales and Northern Ireland dedicated to the support of people with MND and those who care for them.

  The MND Association is a charity working to help people with MND secure the care and support they need, while promoting research into causes, treatments and a cure.

  
  
  

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

• MSdecisions.co.uk
  

  This site has been created with funding from the UK Department of Health as an independent source of assistance and advice. It can help you in two different ways:

  • First, it will help you to decide whether or not to embark on a course of treatment with Beta Interferon or Glatiramer Acetate. These are disease modifying drugs which may alter the progression of your MS
  • Second, it will also help you to make up your mind which of the drugs currently available would be best for you, if you do decide to go ahead
  
  
  
• Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre
  The Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre (MSRC) is a proactive and innovative charity, passionately committed to supporting anyone affected by Multiple Sclerosis through access to unbiased information and advice. Our approach is to encourage individuals to make choices that are appropriate to their daily lives, empowering them to maximise their potential
  
  
• Multiple Sclerosis Society
  The MS Society is the UK's largest charity for people affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
  
  We are a membership organisation but provide services to all.
  
  
• Multiple Sclerosis Trust
  
  The MS Trust is a UK charity, providing information for anyone affected by multiple sclerosis, education programmes for health professionals, funding for practical research and campaigning for specialist multiple sclerosis services.
  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  

Older Persons

• Action on Elder Abuse
  (AEA) works to protect and prevent the abuse of vulnerable older adults.
  
  
• Age Concern
  The website for Age Concern has articles and downloadable advice and leaflets.
  
  
• British Geriatrics Society
  The purpose of the site is to make available information which would be of use to its members, carers and organisations, who might have an interest in geriatric medicine/gerontology or the care of the older person.
  
  
• Carers Direct (NHS Choices)
  

  Carers Direct is a section on the NHS Choices website, dedicated to carers with information on:

  • Guide to caring
  • Money and legal issues
  • Work and study
  • Your wellbeing
  • Young carers
  • Carers lives
  
  
  
• CPA (Centre for Policy on Ageing)
  CPA promotes informed debate about issues affecting older age groups, stimulates awareness of the needs of older people and encourages good practice.
  
  
• Help the Aged
  Help the Aged publishes a wide range of information sheets and reports that can point you in the right direction on matters from housing choices to benefit entitlements. This section also provides reliable information on the major health conditions that affect older people and advice on how to continue living independently at home.
  
  
• SAGA
  The SAGA Group focuses exclusively on the provision of services to those who are 50 and over.
  
  

Parkinson's Disease

• Carers Direct (NHS Choices)
  

  Carers Direct is a section on the NHS Choices website, dedicated to carers with information on:

  • Guide to caring
  • Money and legal issues
  • Work and study
  • Your wellbeing
  • Young carers
  • Carers lives
  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• Office of the Public Guardian
  The Office of the Public Guardian supports and promotes decision making for those who lack capacity or would like to plan for their future, within the framework of the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
  
  
• Parkinson's UK
  The Parkinson's Disease Society offers information advice, and support for people with Parkinson's and their families and carers.
  
  
• S.P.R.I.N.G.
  

  Special Parkinson's Research Interest Group (SPRING)

  An action group to accelerate research to find a cure for Parkinson's disease.

  
  
  

Protection of Vulnerable Adults

• Action on Elder Abuse
  (AEA) works to protect and prevent the abuse of vulnerable older adults.
  
  

Respiratory Conditions

• British Lung Foundation
  The British Lung Foundation is the only UK charity working for everyone affected by lung disease. We focus our resources on providing support for people affected by lung disease today; and work in a variety of ways, including funding world-class research, to bring about positive change, to improve treatment, care and support for people affected by lung disease now and in the future.
  
  
• eatwell.gov.uk
  

  This is a Food Standards Agency website which provides information about:

  • healthy diet
  • keeping food safe
  • food labels
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  

Self Directed Support and Personalised Budgets

• Carers Direct (NHS Choices)
  

  Carers Direct is a section on the NHS Choices website, dedicated to carers with information on:

  • Guide to caring
  • Money and legal issues
  • Work and study
  • Your wellbeing
  • Young carers
  • Carers lives
  
  
  
• Department of Health (DoH)
  Providing health and social care policy, guidance and publications for NHS and social care professionals
  
  
• Department of Work and Pensions (DWP)
  

  The Department is responsible for a range of benefits and services for pensioners and people planning pensions.

  Jobcentre Plus provides an integrated service to people of working age. It offers help to people looking to move into work and support for people who can't. Jobcentre Plus also provides a range of services to help employers fill their vacancies quickly. For more information visit: www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk

  Pension, Disability and Carers Service comprise of:

  The Pension Service is a dedicated service for current and future pensioners. It provides state financial support to over 11 million pensioners delivered at a national and local level and in partnership with other organisations. It also helps people to plan and provide for retirement.For more information visit: www.thepensionservice.gov.uk

  The Disability and Carers Service supports disabled people and their carers, whether or not they work. It is responsible for delivering Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance and Carer's Allowance. For more information visit: www.dwp.gov.uk/dcs

  
  
  
• Directgov
  

  The official government website for citizens. Easy access to the public services you use and the information you need, delivered by the uk government.

   

  
  
  
• General Social Care Council (GSCC)
  The General Social Care Council is responsible for setting standards of conduct and practice for social care workers and their employers, for regulating the workforce, and for regulating social work education and training. The GSCC is a Non Departmental Public Body
  
  
• Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
  The HSE website provides advice and information on Health and Safety issues including assessing and managing risk.
  
  
• Helen Sanderson Associates
  Has a wealth of support planning ideas, tools and templates
  
  
• HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
  

  HMRC is responsible for collecting the bulk of tax revenue, as well as paying Tax Credits and Child Benefits, and strengthening the UK's frontiers. This website has information and advice for both employers and employees.

  08457 143 143 (employer helpline)

  
  
  
• In Control
  In Control is a grass roots organisation championing the development of Individual Budgets.  The in-control website has advice and fact sheets relating to self directed support. If you are an individual directing your own support you can use the resources free of charge, this extends to those assisting you such as friends, family and brokers etc.
  
  
• Mencap
  Mencap is the voice of learning disability. We are an individual membership organisation, with more than 500 affiliated groups. Everything we do is about valuing and supporting people with a learning disability, their families and carers.
  
  
• National Centre for Independent Living (NCIL)
  NCIL is a National support, advice and consultancy organisation that aims to enable disabled people to be equal citizens with choice, control, rights and full economic, social and cultural lives. This website is designed to be a resource on independent living, direct payments and individual budgets for disabled people and others working in the field who may find it useful.
  
  
• Volunteering England
  Volunteering England (VE) is the national volunteering development agency for England, committed to supporting, enabling and celebrating volunteering in all its diversity
  
  

Sight Impaired

• Vitalise
  Vitalise is a national charity providing short breaks and other essential services for disabled people, visually impaired people and carers. We offer inspirational opportunities for volunteers through one of the largest, most diverse volunteer programmes in the UK.
  
  
• X-PIL
  X-PIL ensures that patient information leaflets (PILs) supplied with medicines are accessible to everyone, including those with sight problems.
  
  

Social Activities

• Walking for Health
  

  Walking for Health (WfH) encourages more people to become physically active in their local communities.

  We support the largest network of health walk schemes across England, offering regular short walks over easy terrain with trained walk leaders.

  WfH walks are free and particularly aimed at people who don’t take much exercise.

  
  
  

Specialist Support Groups

• Parkinson's UK
  The Parkinson's Disease Society offers information advice, and support for people with Parkinson's and their families and carers.
  
  
• The Pick's Disease Support Group
  The Pick's Disease Support Group includes: 1. Dementia with Lewy Bodies; 2. Front temporal Dementia including: Frontal Lobe; Degeneration, Pick's Disease and Primary Progressive Aphasia; 3. Alcohol Related Dementia; 4. Corticobasal Degeneration.
  
  
• The Relatives & Residents Association
  The Relatives & Residents Association exists for older people needing, or living in, residential care and the families and friends left behind.
  
  

Staying Independent

• Centre for Accessible Environments
  This organisation can give information over the phone on building design for people with disabilities and can supply fact sheets.
  
  
• Essentialaids.com
  Online shop for daily living aids. We would be grateful if you could use e-mail in the first instance - this will allow us to respond in the most efficient way possible.
  
  
• Help the Aged
  Help the Aged publishes a wide range of information sheets and reports that can point you in the right direction on matters from housing choices to benefit entitlements. This section also provides reliable information on the major health conditions that affect older people and advice on how to continue living independently at home.
  
  
• Independent Living
  Website supporting disabled persons, carers, and professionals.
  
  

Stroke and TIA's

• Different Strokes
  A Charity Set up by Younger Stroke Survivorsfor Younger Stroke Survivors
  
  
• eatwell.gov.uk
  

  This is a Food Standards Agency website which provides information about:

  • healthy diet
  • keeping food safe
  • food labels
  • obesity
  • diabetes
  
  
  
• NHS Choices
  

  NHS Choices is a comprehensive information service that aims to put you in control of your healthcare.

  The service is intended to help you make choices about your health, from lifestyle decisions about things like smoking, drinking and exercise, through to the practical aspects of finding and using NHS services when you need them.

  It draws together the knowledge and expertise of:

  • the National Library for Health,
  • the Information Centre for Health and Social Care,
  • the Healthcare Commission and many other organisations.

  And since the integration of the online arm of NHS Direct in October 2008, NHS Choices provides a single public "front door" to all NHS online services and information through the country’s biggest health website.

  
  
  
• The Stroke Association
  

  The Stroke Association is the only UK wide charity solely concerned with combating stroke in people of all ages. It funds research into prevention, treatment and better methods of rehabilitation, and helps stroke patients and their families directly through its Rehabilitation and Support Services.

  These include Communication Support, Family and Carer Support, information services and welfare grants. We also campaign, educate and inform to increase knowledge of stroke at all levels of society, and we act as a voice for everyone affected by stroke.