The Horizon Centre
Swingbridge House
Bathpool, Taunton
TA2 8BY

Tel: 01823 330093

katherine.pratt@acaciatrng.co.uk

Acacia Training is part of Somerset Care Ltd. We provide NVQ training, and also care statutory and management training. We have figures for work –based learners who have a difficulty or disability, but not for all staff that we train, as we also train with external organisations.

Mark Road
Minehead
TA24 5BJ

Tel: 01643 709701

brianwatwest@aol.com

Accessible Transport West Somerset is a registered charity set up to provide accessible transport for elderly, disabled and socially /rurally excluded groups in Somerset as well as individuals within West Somerset. Our transport enables then to access shops, health services, leisure activities, work, educational training, sporting activities and generally participate fully in their communities. We are particularly pleased to offer all groups and individuals, registered with us FREE TRANSPORT providing they hold a current Somerset travel pass.

Active Assistance has provided 24 hour live-in support for the physically disabled since 1992. We specialise in supporting children + adults with a spinal cord injury. We also assist people with neurological and other long term conditions. Our team of highly motivated specially trained Live-in personal care assistants (PAs) enable our clients to live at home and lead an independent and active life.

www.activeassistance.com

Adult Learning & Leisure

Block B, County Hall
Taunton
TA1 4DY

Tel: 01823 355933

pgibbons@somerset.gov.uk

Adult Learning & Leisure provide learning opportunities within the community. Courses are arranged in a variety of accessible venues across the county. Subjects vary from first step learning such as “Make Your Experience Count” through a range of computer and craft courses to GCSEs. Disability project workers can offer support for all learners with a disability who indicates their needs when enrolling.

Call now and find a new challenge! www.learnsomerset.co.uk

Age Concern

Mansfield House
26-28 Silver Street
Taunton
TA1 3DJ

Tel: 01823 423496

info@ageconcernsomerset.org.uk

Working with and for older people in Somerset and North Somerset. Services include Information and Advice Officers and Outreach, Advocacy, including mental health advocacy, crime and accident prevention, Toe nail cutting, befriending and ageing well exercise classes. We also hold consultation events and give talks and presentations.

Call or visit our website for more information. www.ageconcernsomerset.org.uk

Barnardos Somerset Inclusion Partnership

34 Wellington Road
Taunton
TA1 5AW

Tel: 01823 257917

sylvia.mcgrady@barnardos.org.uk sue.dennis@barnardos.org.uk

Services to support disabled children and young people to access social, educational and leisure opportunities and to support access and inclusion. www.barnardos.org.uk

BIBIC -  British Institute for Brain Injured Children

Knowle Hall
Bridgwater
TA7 8PJ

Tel: 01278 684060

info@bibic.org.uk

Many of us take learning for granted. From birth we discover new skills and develop a fuller understanding of the world around us. For children with a learning difficulty this process isn’t so easy. It can be difficult for them to make sense of the things others take for granted, BIBIC exists to help these children reach their full potential and live a fulfilling and personally more rewarding life. BIBIC’s involvement also benefits carers. www.bibic.org.uk

Burnham On Sea and District Hard of Hearing Association

66 New Bristol Road
Worle
Weston Super Mare
BS22 6AL

Tel: 01934 521425

Social Clubs for hearing impaired people in Burnham On Sea and Bridgwater. Visiting service to help people with hearing aids and other hearing problems. Talks to groups on resources and promotion of deaf awareness in the community. Transport can be provided to social clubs in conjunction with social services.

Bradninch Place
Gandy Street
Exeter
EX4 3LS

Tel: 01392 219440

info@equata.co.uk

Equata is the South West Disability Arts Development Agency which works strategically across the region with disabled people and arts organisations to develop disability arts practice by facilitating skills and knowledge exchange, the creating of new work and ways of working, fostering debate and developing models of best practice.www.equata.co.uk

34 Wellington Road
Taunton
TA1 5AW

Tel: 01823 331531

cathy@escape.com

ESCAPE Support Group is a Somerset based charity for special needs children and their families. Our prime aim is to extend opportunities and support to families to enable them to participate; in activities and events they may otherwise feel unable to undertake.

www.escapesupportgroup.com

Hestercombe House
Cheddon Fitzpaine
Taunton
TA2 8LG

Tel: 01823 410138

vnoyce@somerset.gov.uk

Integrated Youth Services is part of the county councils Young People’s Services Directorate. Our aim is to work with young people aged 13-19 years to help them to maximise their potential in a number of ways. We strive to ensure that SCYS centres and protects are accessible to young people with any additional deed. Cal or visit our website for more information.

www.somersetyouth.co.uk

Ground Floor
1 Friarn Lawn
Bridgwater
TA6 3LL

Tel: 01278 741174

west@involvesomerset.org.uk

Prescribed equipment: beds, chairs, mattress, and hoists.

Design and Install: bathrooms, kitchens and through-floor-lifts.

Matthewallen_1976@yahoo.co.uk

We aim to help vulnerable groups stay in their own homes by offering a handyperson gardening, decorating and stair lift service. We are a not for profit charitable organisation based in Shepton Mallet covering the Mendip area. We offer our services to elderly disabled + vulnerable people it is a chargeable service (nominal) www.mendipcareandrepair.co.uk

Mendip Housing Ltd

Kilver Court
Kilver Street
Shepton Mallet
BA4 5NF

Tel 01749 334455

Involved in providing sheltered and extra care housing and a wide range of support services across the Mendip region. Outreach support services include: Domiciliary care, providing personal and domestic care to residents in extra care housing. Support at Home, providing low-level support to any elderly or disabled person at risk of losing their independence without support. Helpline emergency call system and Road to recovery, helping people on their return home from hospital

'The Gables'
High Street
West Lydford
TA11 7DG

Tel 01963 240439

Mind in Taunton and West Somerset

The Market Building
Canal Road
Taunton
TA1 1PN

Tel: 01823 334906

jom@mindtws.org.uk

MIND campaigns for the right of people who experience mental ill health and emotional distress to be treated with respect, to be given equal access to services and opportunities in the community and to have control over their care and treatment. MIND aims to promote good mental health, encourage greater understanding, provide high quality services and support and encourages genuine user/survivor involvement and consultation in the development of the service. www.mindtws.org.uk

Grove Farm,Main Road
West Huntspill
Highbridge
TA9 3QZ

Tel: 01278 788776

The branch aims:

For further information, contact the Branch Officer

campbell.main@farming.co.uk

New Directions

17 Barclay Street
Bridgwater
TA6 5AT

Tel: 01278 446935

Di-monagham-newdirection@hotmail.co.uk

People aged 18-65 from the Sedgemoor area who are experiencing or have experienced emotional or mental health problems will find a friendly and supportive welcome here. Activities vary according to the priorities of the users but include a variety of social, leisure, educational and counselling opportunities. Housed a modern accessible building open 6 days a week

New Horizons Befriending Scheme

9/9a Market Place
Shepton Mallet
BA4 5AZ

Tel: 01749 347585

newhorizonsinmendip@hotmail.com

Offers support to people who are experiencing or recovering from mental health problems. A period of mental ill health can often leave people feeling isolated. Many people find they lack the confidence or motivation to get out and about or they may experience difficulty in making friends and socialising.  The scheme aims to combat these feelings by linking people with a befriender who meets them on a regular basis to offer companionship and support.

We are nursing care and support agency, providing care for people in nursing establishments as well as their own homes. We care for people with physical, emotional, mental health problems as well as for people with learning difficulties. We are able to provide our services for both children and adults. We can also offer holistic therapies such as aromatherapy, reflexology, Reiki and massage.

www.purplebalm.co.uk

RNID for deaf and hard of hearing people

Berkeley House
Lower Bristol Road
Bath
BA2 3BH

Tel: 01225 485765

libbie.Sheppard@rnid.org.uk

Provides information on all issues related to deafness. Speakers are available to talk to groups. Information includes equipment, deaf awareness, work related issues, benefits, hearing aids , campaigns, tinnitus and access to communication support. www.rnid.org.uk

"The Lions"
West Quay
Bridgwater
TA6 3HW

Tel: 01278 459009

mentalhealth@sedgemoorcab.org.uk

Mental Health Advice Worker offers general and more specialist casework to those experiencing mental health issues. Will accept third party + self referrals and will see clients at bureau or H/ if more convenient. Also can see clients at one of four outreach locations.

As a local authority we provide many services to the public, and work with all people in the community.

www.sedgemoor.gov.uk

Victoria House
Victoria Street
Taunton
TA1 3FA

Tel: 01823 448232

mdavis@seeability.org

www.seeability.org

SEEABILITY’S purpose is to see beyond disability and support the individual to achieve their full potential.

We aim to – enable individuals to maintain and develop skills which increase their choice, independence and quality of life

We exist to increase participation in and access to the arts in Somerset for disabled people. We also support disabled artists and performers in their career development.

cbeedell@tiscali.co.uk

Support and advice for people who have Spina Bifida or hydrocephalus.

Somerset College of Arts and Technology

Wellington Road
Taunton
TA1 5AX

Tel: 01823 366366

A range of courses from pre entry to degree level. Support available for learners with additional needs.

Some specialist supported courses available

www.somerset.ac.uk

Unit 1, Bay Brook Farm
Lower Godney
Wells
BA5 1RZ

Tel: 01458 833133

info@somersetcf.org.uk

Somerset Community Foundation was set up in 2002 to provide a new, independent funding body to tackle poverty and disadvantage through Somerset. We are a unique charity, and are able to support a very wide range of charitable causes, which means we can respond to the specific and changing needs of each community.

Somerset County Council – Equalities Team

County Hall
B1 East
Taunton
TA1 4DY

Tel: 01823 355656/6959

jxharris@somerset.gov.uk

Promotion of equalities and diversity within Somerset County Council and beyond including monitoring our compliance to our statutory duties (Race Relations Amendment Act, Disability Discrimination Act etc) and ensuring that we take positive action to eliminate discrimination. Working with our voluntary partners such as SAIN, SREC and Somerset Gay Health we aim to improve our service through effective consultation and to offer support to these groups when needed. www.somerset.gov.uk/equalopportunities

Somerset County Sports Association for Disabled promotes sport for all disabilities. They also hold two sports days in the year.

Promotes the interests of families of children with a disability or any special needs. Provides help, information and guidance to parents and carers and anyone who works with them. Acts as a link between health, education and social care services, voluntary organisations and parents, to encourage everyone to work together to improve services for families in Somerset. With a membership consisting of large national voluntary organisations, local parent support groups and individual parents, Somerset IMPACT promotes the rights of the child and support parental involvement in planning services. By working together we can , and will, make a difference. www.somersetimpact.org.uk

Somerset Total Communication (STC)

C/O Resources for Learning
Parkway
Bridgwater
TA6 4RL

Tel: 01278 444949

stc@somerset.gov.uk

STC is the joint total communication approach agreed between Somerset Health and Social Care Trust , Education and Social Services with Partner agencies. We aim to ensure that we are enable us to deliver a consistent approach to meeting the needs of all people with total communication requirements in all aspects of their lives

Tonedale Mill
Tonedale
Wellington
TA21 0AW

Tel: 01823 652406

Somerset Wildlife Trust is the county’s largest conservation and environmental charity with more than 19 500 members. Our core work is safeguarding the county’s wildlife and wild places for this and future generation. We deliver this work through conversation, wildlife information, lobbying, reserve management and education.

www.somersetwildlife.org.uk

South Somerset Disability Forum

Yeovil Day Centre
20 South Street
Yeovil
BA20 1QE

Tel: 01935 706766

ssdf1@hotmail.com

An independent campaigning charity aiming to improve access for all people to buildings, services and the countryside by the removal of physical and mental barriers to those with a disability, and by promoting equal opportunities. In practice we train and advise on disability matters, commonly in partnership with local authorities, hold bimonthly meetings and maintain a Yeovil office

Topsham Road
Exeter
EX2 6EP

Tel: 01392255428

info@stloyes.ac.uk

www.stloyes.org.uk

St Loye’s Person Centred Approach builds an individually tailored programme around the strengths and work ambitions of the trainee including the most suitable type of training and personal development. This approach provides support and guidance to enable trainees gain full-paid employment.

During our Open Days you can meet current trainees, staff and a Disability Employment Advisor to discuss the wide range of programmes, support services, personal development and employment opportunities. Details are on our website.

Belvedere Road
Taunton
TA1 1HE

Tel: 01823 356476

Mr E J Norton works for a Local Authority and is involved in access issues over the whole of the authority. His role is mainly for the use of TDBC, but he does get involved in advice to charitable organisations on Access.

e.norton@tauntondeane.gov.uk

The MS Society are looking to support all those affected by Multiple Sclerosis in the area through advice, exercise classes, talks, social events and financial support where this is needed, or which is unavailable through other means.

The Apollo Swimming Club for The Physically Disabled ( of Yeovil and Sherbourne ) provides swimming and sailing for the pleasure and rehabilitation of it’s members. The club also organises a host of social events throughout the year such as Gala’s Christmas Parties, Meals Skittle Evening and Outings.

The Brewhouse Theatre & Arts Centre

Coal Orchard
Taunton
Somerset
TA1 1PU

Tel: 01823 274608

emily.bull@thebrewhouse.net

The Brewhouse offers an inclusive programme insuring That the arts are accessible to all and eveyone can participate. The Brewhouse has disabled parking accessible facilities and a cafe and bar every season. The Brewhouse programmes at least three shows that are audio described Signed and are constantly looking to develop and improve the inclusion of the arts.

For more information to book tickets call 01828 283244 or www.thebrewhouse.net

The Orchards Bungalows
Timberscombe
Minehead
TA24 7TF

Tel: 01643 861778

goodajo@aol.com

Bradley Hosue
Harrier Way
Exeter
EX2 7HU

Tel: 01392 447364

Provides non medical advice and support to stroke sufferers and their families.

ccrowther@stroke.org.uk

The Wessex Autistic Society provides Residential and Day Services to adults with autism.

Ups and Downs South West

Knoll Hall
Bridgwater
Somerset
TA7 0LQ

Tel: 01278 685731

info@upsanddowns.fsnet.co.uk

Support for parents, carers and professionals involved with the care of children who have Down Syndrome. Able to provide up to date information and advice on the care and education of these children as well as emotional support, friendship and help with benefit claims/forms and statementing. Annual conference for parents and professionals and in service training for mainstream schools

User Participation in Somerset

Ground Floor
1 Friarn Lawn
Bridgwater
TA6 3LL

Tel: 01278 42303

Krista@smhupc.freeserve.co.uk

Supporting mental health service users to have their voices heard. Helping you make the most of your services

VISTA

Unit 5, Great Bow Wharf
Bow Yard, Bow Street
Langport
TA10 9PD

Tel: 08453580372

angela@vistaproject.org.uk

Vista is voluntary sector learning consortium that specialises in providing education and training for staff and volunteers of voluntary and community sector organisations and community learners. We also deliver capacity building programmes and other services for the voluntary and community sector. ViSTA has recently ViSTAjobs (www.vistajobs.org.uk ) and is the host of the Somerset Fundraiser’s Group. For more information and contact details, please visit www.vistaproject.org.uk

Wessex MS Therapy Centre

Bradbury House
The Avenue
Warminster
BA12 9AB

Tel: 01985 217728

info@wessexms.co.uk

Offers a variety of therapies, help and support for those diagnosed with MS and their families

Western Lupus Region

Gardeners Cottage
Manor Lane
Kingsdon
Somerton
TA11 7JZ

Tel: 01935 840132

Linda@rumbles.uk.com

A support group to help people with systemic & Discord Lupus and those who have been newly diagnosed. There is a team of contacts who talk to sufferers, fund raise, hold local meetings and generally help spread awareness to both the public and the medical profession. www.lupusuk.org.uk

West Somerset Advice Bureau

Market House Lane
Minehead
TA24 5NW

Tel: 01643 704624

advice@wsab.freeserve.co.uk

A free confidential service for residents of West Somerset. Gives advice on topics such as benefits, employment, housing and consumer disputes. Open Monday to Friday 10am – 3pm (Closes at 1pm on Wednesday) Home visits can be arranged for those who are housebound

West Somerset Disability Association

The Sea Horse Centre
Stephenson Road
Minehead
Somerset
TA24 5EB

Tel: 01984 641197

wsomersetdisability@tiscali.co.uk

IT for the disabled and partially sighted. Meet monthly on the last Monday of the month (except Aug/Dec). Arrange trips to the theatre/shows, cream teas, fish and chips etc and are hoping to include the London Eye and sailing at wimbleball soon.

Since West Country Training & Consultancy Services was founded in 1991 we have developed innovative ways of working with disabled people to maximise the opportunities available to them in education, training & employment. Our staff have a wide range of skills in areas such as; vocational advice & guidance, rehabilitation& work, preparation services for people with disabilities, management strategy & policy, staff training & development, equality & diversity awareness, research into employment & training related issues, disability issues & organisational change. www.wtcsltd.co.uk