Today, in the post. My partner received a letter From the DWP "Jobcentre Plus". This followed a telephone call and supporting followup letter.
The initial problem was a change in his payment frequency. A letter was received, a few weeks ago. Stating that, as he had requested a change to the payment frequency, it was now changed. Of course, no change was ever requested.
So we telephoned them. There was some excuse given about his surname (it is hyphenated). We should point out that for the last seven years they have had his correct information. The excuse was suggesting he had just notified them of a "change of name".
Based on previous experience with the DWP. I decided to write a letter. I would advise you to always follow up a call to them with a letter. If only so an "audit" trail is created on your file, but I digress.
The response this morning blames "human" and "computer" errors.
The key bit of information and the reason for this post is :
"The initial problem arose following information downloaded to the Income Support (IS) Computer System from the Disability Living Allowance (DLA) Computer system. The DLA system currently holds your name correctly as a hyphenated surname, the IS system will not allow the name to be hyphenated. This resulted in your Income Support claim being suspended, incorrectly.
When Income Support was put back into the payment the computer system faulted and initially payments had to be made weekly."
This explaination completely different & much fuller than the initial phone call. We didn't know until this his benefit had been suspended.
I post this to show how the computer systems work. The potential problems that might arise. If you have a hyphenated surname "forewarned is forearmed".
On the DLA front. Further to previous posts. We are both still waiting to hear back from the DWP.
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Friday, 14 March 2008
Updates.
Well, Budget Day this week has started the debate on the Employment & Support Allowance. It has allowed us to get some idea of what, the powers that be, plan for those on Incapacity Benefit.
We have some more support from some well known faces. The last to sign was June Brown and the number of signatures continues to grow on the RPP petition.
Two weeks ago I emailed -MP’s & members of the W&P select committee. Vince Cable, Diane Abbott, David Cameron Ming Campbell, Jeremy Corbyn, Frank Dobson, Alan Duncan, Angela Eagle, George Galloway, Greg Hands, Glenda Jackson, Stephen Timms, Keith Vaz, Anne McGuire, Terry Rooney, Anne Begg, Harry Cohen, Michael Foster, Oliver Heald, Joan Humble, Tom Levitt, Greg Mulholland, John Penrose, Mark Pritchard, Jenny Willott.
I have had no response. I note that this week our issues have been picked up by the wider Budget debate, by some of the above. Am a great believer in "nothing ventured nothing gained" and doing something is better than not even trying.
I wrote to THR's Princes William & Harry. Prince Harry is very involved with HIV/Aids in Lesotho. I have received a response and will upload it to documents on the main web page.
The team, Tcell, is getting more organised. Working in the background to raise the profile of our issues. Thanks. More soon.
My partner is working on a new website to include this blog & forums. If there is anything you would like to see. Please email me. This is as much your resource as ours.
The GL 24 form from the DWP on how to appeal a benefit decision was added to Documents. Please read it it covers the route of appeals for all benefits and may prove useful elsewhere.
Note the responses to the polls, to gauge the picture of how this is affecting people. Thank you to all who have taken the time to vote & help with this data collection.
I note that of the 11 "votes" cast on the poll "I have had a decision on my DLA and.." - 5 people say it has stayed the same with 4 reporting a change.
Thank you to all who read this. I hope it helps. Thanks to all those who email & comment, sharing there experiences with us all.
We have some more support from some well known faces. The last to sign was June Brown and the number of signatures continues to grow on the RPP petition.
Two weeks ago I emailed -MP’s & members of the W&P select committee. Vince Cable, Diane Abbott, David Cameron Ming Campbell, Jeremy Corbyn, Frank Dobson, Alan Duncan, Angela Eagle, George Galloway, Greg Hands, Glenda Jackson, Stephen Timms, Keith Vaz, Anne McGuire, Terry Rooney, Anne Begg, Harry Cohen, Michael Foster, Oliver Heald, Joan Humble, Tom Levitt, Greg Mulholland, John Penrose, Mark Pritchard, Jenny Willott.
I have had no response. I note that this week our issues have been picked up by the wider Budget debate, by some of the above. Am a great believer in "nothing ventured nothing gained" and doing something is better than not even trying.
I wrote to THR's Princes William & Harry. Prince Harry is very involved with HIV/Aids in Lesotho. I have received a response and will upload it to documents on the main web page.
The team, Tcell, is getting more organised. Working in the background to raise the profile of our issues. Thanks. More soon.
My partner is working on a new website to include this blog & forums. If there is anything you would like to see. Please email me. This is as much your resource as ours.
The GL 24 form from the DWP on how to appeal a benefit decision was added to Documents. Please read it it covers the route of appeals for all benefits and may prove useful elsewhere.
Note the responses to the polls, to gauge the picture of how this is affecting people. Thank you to all who have taken the time to vote & help with this data collection.
I note that of the 11 "votes" cast on the poll "I have had a decision on my DLA and.." - 5 people say it has stayed the same with 4 reporting a change.
Thank you to all who read this. I hope it helps. Thanks to all those who email & comment, sharing there experiences with us all.
Thursday, 13 March 2008
Terry Rooney MP mentioned today
Mr. Terry Rooney MP is the Chairman of the Work & Pensions Select Committee. You can find out some more information on him by clicking here. You will be aware I have written to him in the past.
I caught this by way of an interview on BBC News 24 with Aidan Hargitt of The Royal Association for Disability & Rehabilitation.
Though he spoke in the context of Incapacity Benefit & the incoming Employment & Support Allowance.
Mr Hargitt mentioned that Terry Rooney MP spoke in the House of Commons today. He mentioned that a recent survey showed that 70% of employers would not shortlist a candidate with a history of mental health problems.
{added 14th March 2008. you can read this debate by clicking here - you need to scroll down to this point.}
He did point out that those with "invisible impariments are liable to be most affected by any political drives to get people off Incapacity Benefits. Then this is very worrying. Because a 70% figure would suggest that there are many people out there who want to work but cannot" because of this barrier.
He went on to say that mental health problems are on the increase. That employers had undertaken some actions to deal with the issues raised but there was more work to be done.
As many people in DLA also claim Incapacity Benefit I thought this was worth posting for general information purposes.
We should be encouraged by organisations within the Disabled Community. Taking every oppourtunity to raise the common issues we all face.
You might also be interested in this story from the Times Online "Whitehall cannot afford to pay for incapacity benefit tests, say Tories"
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it as some may not have caught the story. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
I caught this by way of an interview on BBC News 24 with Aidan Hargitt of The Royal Association for Disability & Rehabilitation.
Though he spoke in the context of Incapacity Benefit & the incoming Employment & Support Allowance.
Mr Hargitt mentioned that Terry Rooney MP spoke in the House of Commons today. He mentioned that a recent survey showed that 70% of employers would not shortlist a candidate with a history of mental health problems.
{added 14th March 2008. you can read this debate by clicking here - you need to scroll down to this point.}
He did point out that those with "invisible impariments are liable to be most affected by any political drives to get people off Incapacity Benefits. Then this is very worrying. Because a 70% figure would suggest that there are many people out there who want to work but cannot" because of this barrier.
He went on to say that mental health problems are on the increase. That employers had undertaken some actions to deal with the issues raised but there was more work to be done.
As many people in DLA also claim Incapacity Benefit I thought this was worth posting for general information purposes.
We should be encouraged by organisations within the Disabled Community. Taking every oppourtunity to raise the common issues we all face.
You might also be interested in this story from the Times Online "Whitehall cannot afford to pay for incapacity benefit tests, say Tories"
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it as some may not have caught the story. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
Vince Cable, Treasury, Liberal Party - BBC News 24 today
From an interview with Vince Cable, Treasury, Liberal Party. On BBC News 24, concerning Incapacity Benefit.
You may also be interested in this story on the BBC News website - click here.
"He is calling for Support, and a flexible approach to those on Incapacity Benefit & "invalidity benefit". He mentions a "flexible" approach, needed to help people get back to part time work so that they are not penalised.
He picked up on the Mental Health issues.
He raised the issue of the medical tests. Over riding the judgements of GP's. People working to quota's as they already do for some of the disability benefits. Trying to get people off the lists but not actually solving the problem.
He was asked if it was his "gut instinct" or "worry" that this was just a ways of saving money.
He replied that it was. Though he acknowledged that some money could be saved. But that you have to "invest" to "save". That the money had to go in to help people that are disabled especially those with mental health issues.
He also said there were no short cuts here. That this wasn't going to happen quickly or easily."
I did email Mr. Cable as part of a cross party email I sent out about our issues. I have had no response. However his response above clearly indicates he is very aware of the problems we as part of the disabled community are facing.
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it as some may not have caught the story. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
You may also be interested in this story on the BBC News website - click here.
"He is calling for Support, and a flexible approach to those on Incapacity Benefit & "invalidity benefit". He mentions a "flexible" approach, needed to help people get back to part time work so that they are not penalised.
He picked up on the Mental Health issues.
He raised the issue of the medical tests. Over riding the judgements of GP's. People working to quota's as they already do for some of the disability benefits. Trying to get people off the lists but not actually solving the problem.
He was asked if it was his "gut instinct" or "worry" that this was just a ways of saving money.
He replied that it was. Though he acknowledged that some money could be saved. But that you have to "invest" to "save". That the money had to go in to help people that are disabled especially those with mental health issues.
He also said there were no short cuts here. That this wasn't going to happen quickly or easily."
I did email Mr. Cable as part of a cross party email I sent out about our issues. I have had no response. However his response above clearly indicates he is very aware of the problems we as part of the disabled community are facing.
This entry is not an endorsement of any political party. I merely mention it as some may not have caught the story. If you are aware of positions taken by others please add a comment with details or email me.
Wednesday, 12 March 2008
Budget Day.
Today is Budget Day. It's very much the lead story on all UK based news channels.
You can get a copy of the full Budget Report (222 pages as a .pdf) from the BBC website by clicking here.
This will open a new page or attempt to download the document to your computer.
There is some information within this document relating to the introduction of the Employment & Support Allowance (EAS) that is replacing Incapacity Benefit, Income Support & Jobseekers Allowance in October 2008.
Most notable from section 4.5 page 59,
"To ensure this increased work focus benefits current as well as future claimants,
from April 2010 all incapacity benefits claimants who started their claim before October
2008 will be required to take the Work Capability Assessment."
At the moment if you are subject to an " exemption due to "that he/she is in receipt of the highest rate care component of disability living allowance"..". With regard to an Incapacity Benefit Claim. Click here for a previous post on IB. It is not clear if this will continue when the EAS is introduced.
If you receive the "personal care component" at a lower rate, by April 2010. It is not clear How DLA interacts with this. I will try and get an answer. If however you are able to shed more light on this please email me or comment to this post.
Doing a search, not exhaustive, I found the following interesting:
Search using the key word "Disabled"
Page 57 - Section 4 (4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, Table 4.1 ,4.13, 4.14, 4.36 : Page 97 section 6.31 : Page 115 table A.22)
Search using the key word "Disability Living Allowance"
Page 136 Table A 3.1.
By all means look through it for yourself. If I have missed something please add a comment.
"Forewarned is forearmed"
You can get a copy of the full Budget Report (222 pages as a .pdf) from the BBC website by clicking here.
This will open a new page or attempt to download the document to your computer.
There is some information within this document relating to the introduction of the Employment & Support Allowance (EAS) that is replacing Incapacity Benefit, Income Support & Jobseekers Allowance in October 2008.
Most notable from section 4.5 page 59,
"To ensure this increased work focus benefits current as well as future claimants,
from April 2010 all incapacity benefits claimants who started their claim before October
2008 will be required to take the Work Capability Assessment."
At the moment if you are subject to an " exemption due to "that he/she is in receipt of the highest rate care component of disability living allowance"..". With regard to an Incapacity Benefit Claim. Click here for a previous post on IB. It is not clear if this will continue when the EAS is introduced.
If you receive the "personal care component" at a lower rate, by April 2010. It is not clear How DLA interacts with this. I will try and get an answer. If however you are able to shed more light on this please email me or comment to this post.
Doing a search, not exhaustive, I found the following interesting:
Search using the key word "Disabled"
Page 57 - Section 4 (4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5, Table 4.1 ,4.13, 4.14, 4.36 : Page 97 section 6.31 : Page 115 table A.22)
Search using the key word "Disability Living Allowance"
Page 136 Table A 3.1.
By all means look through it for yourself. If I have missed something please add a comment.
"Forewarned is forearmed"
DWP "If you think our decision is wrong" Form GL24 DWP
If you are looking to understand what avenue's are open to you. Should you wish to appeal a decision for any benefit.
The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) have a information leaflet & form (GL24 DWP) that is available from the Jobcentre website.
For ease of access. You will also find this doument. In .pdf format. In the Documents section of the main website.
The Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) have a information leaflet & form (GL24 DWP) that is available from the Jobcentre website.
For ease of access. You will also find this doument. In .pdf format. In the Documents section of the main website.
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
BBC News website "HIV 'hides from drugs for years'"
FYI : you maybe interested in this story from the BBC news website today.
" BBC NEWS
HIV 'hides from drugs for years'
HIV can survive the apparently effective onslaught of antiviral drugs for years by hiding away in the body's cells, research shows.
The US National Cancer Institute found low levels of dormant HIV in patients seven years after they started - and responded well to - standard therapy.
The finding confirms patients must take drugs indefinitely, and that any break runs the risk of rekindling infection.
The study features in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
People with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus
Keith Alcorn
NAM
The researchers followed 40 patients infected with HIV for seven years.
Doctors do not usually record infection levels once the number of HIV particles falls below 50 per ml of blood.
However, the NCI team used highly sensitive equipment to measure infection levels below this threshold.
They found that the virus was still present at low levels in 77% of the patients.
The research suggests that although potent antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV infection to almost undetectable levels, it cannot eradicate the virus.
Renewed risk
The researchers said that even though levels of the virus that remain are low, they are high enough to rekindle infection if treatment is interrupted.
The risk of infecting others is low, but cannot be ruled out.
They believe HIV may be harboured by CD4+ cells, which play a role in the immune system.
These cells are most likely infected before therapy was initiated and the amount of virus they produce is small.
Researcher Dr Sarah Palmer said: "It is extremely important that new drugs are developed to eradicate HIV infection as the side effects associated with long-term HIV treatment can be severe."
She also warned that failing to take prescribed medication raised the risk that HIV could begin to develop resistance, rendering future treatment less effective.
Keith Alcorn, of the HIV information service NAM, said scientists were looking at approaches to treatment that could flush out HIV from cells.
He said: "This research shows that, for the time being, people with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus.
"If treatment stops, this pool of virus provides the basis for a rapid rebound in virus levels."
Mary Lima, a treatment advisor at the HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "This study only highlights the complexity of HIV and why it's so difficult for us to find a cure.
"It's important we find out as much as possible about how HIV acts over long periods of time, so we can continue to develop new treatment strategies to tackle it.
In order to keep people with HIV well for longer, we need to attack the virus at all stages."
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7287792.stm
Published: 2008/03/11 08:03:14 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
" BBC NEWS
HIV 'hides from drugs for years'
HIV can survive the apparently effective onslaught of antiviral drugs for years by hiding away in the body's cells, research shows.
The US National Cancer Institute found low levels of dormant HIV in patients seven years after they started - and responded well to - standard therapy.
The finding confirms patients must take drugs indefinitely, and that any break runs the risk of rekindling infection.
The study features in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
People with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus
Keith Alcorn
NAM
The researchers followed 40 patients infected with HIV for seven years.
Doctors do not usually record infection levels once the number of HIV particles falls below 50 per ml of blood.
However, the NCI team used highly sensitive equipment to measure infection levels below this threshold.
They found that the virus was still present at low levels in 77% of the patients.
The research suggests that although potent antiretroviral therapy can suppress HIV infection to almost undetectable levels, it cannot eradicate the virus.
Renewed risk
The researchers said that even though levels of the virus that remain are low, they are high enough to rekindle infection if treatment is interrupted.
The risk of infecting others is low, but cannot be ruled out.
They believe HIV may be harboured by CD4+ cells, which play a role in the immune system.
These cells are most likely infected before therapy was initiated and the amount of virus they produce is small.
Researcher Dr Sarah Palmer said: "It is extremely important that new drugs are developed to eradicate HIV infection as the side effects associated with long-term HIV treatment can be severe."
She also warned that failing to take prescribed medication raised the risk that HIV could begin to develop resistance, rendering future treatment less effective.
Keith Alcorn, of the HIV information service NAM, said scientists were looking at approaches to treatment that could flush out HIV from cells.
He said: "This research shows that, for the time being, people with HIV need to take treatment indefinitely because current drugs cannot reach this pool of dormant virus.
"If treatment stops, this pool of virus provides the basis for a rapid rebound in virus levels."
Mary Lima, a treatment advisor at the HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "This study only highlights the complexity of HIV and why it's so difficult for us to find a cure.
"It's important we find out as much as possible about how HIV acts over long periods of time, so we can continue to develop new treatment strategies to tackle it.
In order to keep people with HIV well for longer, we need to attack the virus at all stages."
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7287792.stm
Published: 2008/03/11 08:03:14 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
Freedom Passes.
Just to raise this as many are facing a renewal.
Whereas the first source of information should be your local council.
You may be interested in the Freedom Pass website run on behalf of all local councils
There are some "dead links" on this site and I have emailed them. Also I found myself being cut off before I could get to talk to someone. Just be aware if you call them.
It is worth noting that
"Q. I have a disability, can I apply for a freedom pass?
A. Disabled freedom passes are issued through your local borough council - contact them to apply. The councils follow the criteria set out by the Transport Act 2000 which outlines the 7 catagories of disability used to assess eligibility for a freedom pass.
Local councils may at their discretion issue passes to disabled people that do not meet these criteria. For further details see the Department for Transport website."
this found on this website by clicking here.
Whereas the first source of information should be your local council.
You may be interested in the Freedom Pass website run on behalf of all local councils
There are some "dead links" on this site and I have emailed them. Also I found myself being cut off before I could get to talk to someone. Just be aware if you call them.
It is worth noting that
"Q. I have a disability, can I apply for a freedom pass?
A. Disabled freedom passes are issued through your local borough council - contact them to apply. The councils follow the criteria set out by the Transport Act 2000 which outlines the 7 catagories of disability used to assess eligibility for a freedom pass.
Local councils may at their discretion issue passes to disabled people that do not meet these criteria. For further details see the Department for Transport website."
this found on this website by clicking here.
Are you a member of a Trade Union
Thanks to Nigel, one of my Tcell colleagues for this. (the power of team work)
You may be a retired member of a Trade Union. Only you will know your membership status. Call them. They may still be able to help you. As a member albeit (retired) you still have access to the services of your Union. They may also have a "hardship fund" that you may be able to access.
Also if you consider work. Worthwhile joining a Trade Union to get the protections is affords. Trade Unions will only deal with issues you face after you have joined them by the way. There may also be a qualifying period before support is given. Check with the union directly.
You may be a retired member of a Trade Union. Only you will know your membership status. Call them. They may still be able to help you. As a member albeit (retired) you still have access to the services of your Union. They may also have a "hardship fund" that you may be able to access.
Also if you consider work. Worthwhile joining a Trade Union to get the protections is affords. Trade Unions will only deal with issues you face after you have joined them by the way. There may also be a qualifying period before support is given. Check with the union directly.
Monday, 10 March 2008
Education ....
Some have mentioned. That whilst they have been unable to work or secure a job because of the discrimination & stigmatism they have faced.
That they have undertaken various forms of study that they have been able to fit in around the day-to-day problems they face with their HIV.
Some have at least one, if not, more degree's.
Yet when they try an apply for any job. The fact they have this wealth of educational achievement. Once HIV is mentioned. This seems to fall by the wayside.
They also face the issue of being "over qualified" for certain jobs.
Just thought I would mention this as an issue as I haven't picked up on it so far. I is just another problem we might have to face.
Clearly this indicates that people are willing to improve themselves by undertaking such activities. Well done if you have managed to do this.
Trying to get access to education is slightly easier than trying to get a job. But can also raises some common issues.
Most educational establishments will understand you have "bad days". That this can mean long periods where you cannot study. Will be compassionate to your lack of attendance. As they will usually put in place processes to ensure you do not suffer adversely.
That they have undertaken various forms of study that they have been able to fit in around the day-to-day problems they face with their HIV.
Some have at least one, if not, more degree's.
Yet when they try an apply for any job. The fact they have this wealth of educational achievement. Once HIV is mentioned. This seems to fall by the wayside.
They also face the issue of being "over qualified" for certain jobs.
Just thought I would mention this as an issue as I haven't picked up on it so far. I is just another problem we might have to face.
Clearly this indicates that people are willing to improve themselves by undertaking such activities. Well done if you have managed to do this.
Trying to get access to education is slightly easier than trying to get a job. But can also raises some common issues.
Most educational establishments will understand you have "bad days". That this can mean long periods where you cannot study. Will be compassionate to your lack of attendance. As they will usually put in place processes to ensure you do not suffer adversely.
Saturday, 8 March 2008
Thanks to ....
On behalf of all the Disabled Community affected by the issues surrounding Disability Living Allowance.
We thank :
June Brown.
Actress - EastEnders,
for signing the 10 Downing Street petition on the Right Payment Program.
As always I link the name of our public supporters & friends to a site where you can see their body of work. Please take a moment to look.
From BBC news website ....
Concerning blood donation. I mention it as it might be of general interest.
The original story can be found http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7283541.stm
The main campaigning site is Bloodban
"Call to end gay donor blood ban
Campaigners are calling for tight restrictions on sexually active gay men donating blood to be relaxed.
The National Blood Service says clear evidence shows gay men have a greater chance of passing on HIV and other infections in donated blood.
However, campaigners say there are fewer restrictions on heterosexuals who have high-risk sex.
They want gay men to be judged individually according to their lifestyle, not as a homogenous group.
I just want to be equal - everybody should be judged on their personal activities
Russell Hirst
Currently, blood donated in the UK is screened for a number of bloodborne viruses, including HIV, and hepatitis C.
However, if the donor has been newly-infected with these viruses, there is a "window" in which the tests do not work.
To reduce the risk of contamination, the National Blood Service does not allow sexually active gay men to give blood.
There are also restrictions on intravenous drug users, or heterosexuals who admit "risky" sexual practices involving prostitutes.
Russell Hirst was denied the chance to give blood when his sister was seriously ill.
He said that the ban on gay men was a lifetime ban, while bans on heterosexuals were much shorter.
He said: "I was very shocked when my sister was ill, needed a lot of blood, and I wasn't allowed to donate blood.
"I just want to be equal. Everybody should be judged on their personal activities.
"If a gay man says that he's had unprotected sex with a man, then he should not give blood for 18 months - but I don't see why it should be a lifetime ban."
He said that the reason the ban remained in its current form was to save money for the National Blood Service.
Risk present
However, a spokesman for the National Blood Service said that the ban was in place "for good reason", and denied there were financial reasons for a ban.
"We ask men who have had sex with men not to give blood because, as a group, they are known to be at an increased risk of acquiring HIV and a number of other sexually transmitted diseases, many of which are carried in the blood.
"While safer sex, through the use of condoms, can reduce the risk of transmitting infections, it cannot reduce this risk to such low levels as to make it totally risk-free."
He said that current donations were enough to meet the UK's needs.
Russell Hirst's campaign, "Bloodban", has started a petition and intends to pass this to Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7283541.stm
Published: 2008/03/07 13:37:29 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
The original story can be found http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7283541.stm
The main campaigning site is Bloodban
"Call to end gay donor blood ban
Campaigners are calling for tight restrictions on sexually active gay men donating blood to be relaxed.
The National Blood Service says clear evidence shows gay men have a greater chance of passing on HIV and other infections in donated blood.
However, campaigners say there are fewer restrictions on heterosexuals who have high-risk sex.
They want gay men to be judged individually according to their lifestyle, not as a homogenous group.
I just want to be equal - everybody should be judged on their personal activities
Russell Hirst
Currently, blood donated in the UK is screened for a number of bloodborne viruses, including HIV, and hepatitis C.
However, if the donor has been newly-infected with these viruses, there is a "window" in which the tests do not work.
To reduce the risk of contamination, the National Blood Service does not allow sexually active gay men to give blood.
There are also restrictions on intravenous drug users, or heterosexuals who admit "risky" sexual practices involving prostitutes.
Russell Hirst was denied the chance to give blood when his sister was seriously ill.
He said that the ban on gay men was a lifetime ban, while bans on heterosexuals were much shorter.
He said: "I was very shocked when my sister was ill, needed a lot of blood, and I wasn't allowed to donate blood.
"I just want to be equal. Everybody should be judged on their personal activities.
"If a gay man says that he's had unprotected sex with a man, then he should not give blood for 18 months - but I don't see why it should be a lifetime ban."
He said that the reason the ban remained in its current form was to save money for the National Blood Service.
Risk present
However, a spokesman for the National Blood Service said that the ban was in place "for good reason", and denied there were financial reasons for a ban.
"We ask men who have had sex with men not to give blood because, as a group, they are known to be at an increased risk of acquiring HIV and a number of other sexually transmitted diseases, many of which are carried in the blood.
"While safer sex, through the use of condoms, can reduce the risk of transmitting infections, it cannot reduce this risk to such low levels as to make it totally risk-free."
He said that current donations were enough to meet the UK's needs.
Russell Hirst's campaign, "Bloodban", has started a petition and intends to pass this to Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
Story from BBC NEWS:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/1/hi/health/7283541.stm
Published: 2008/03/07 13:37:29 GMT
© BBC MMVIII"
From the House of Commons, recieved today
Work & Pensions Committee. From the Clerk.
I received a response to my letter this morning it reads:
"Thank you for your letter of 16th February to Terry Rooney MP. Chairman of the Work & Pensions Committee, enclosing your letter to Anne McGuire MP, Minister for Disabled People, concerning the review of Disability Living Allowance.
I will circulate your letter to the Committee and I will be in touch if the Committee decides to pursue this matter
Signed by the Clerk of the Committee"
So we are making more people aware.
Letter is on the process of being upload to the documents section of the main web site.
So as not to fall foul of identity fraud. Mindful of the Human Rights Act. I have removed identities on the letter. The name of MP's are already in the public domain & thus expempt from this consideration.
I received a response to my letter this morning it reads:
"Thank you for your letter of 16th February to Terry Rooney MP. Chairman of the Work & Pensions Committee, enclosing your letter to Anne McGuire MP, Minister for Disabled People, concerning the review of Disability Living Allowance.
I will circulate your letter to the Committee and I will be in touch if the Committee decides to pursue this matter
Signed by the Clerk of the Committee"
So we are making more people aware.
Letter is on the process of being upload to the documents section of the main web site.
So as not to fall foul of identity fraud. Mindful of the Human Rights Act. I have removed identities on the letter. The name of MP's are already in the public domain & thus expempt from this consideration.
Friday, 7 March 2008
RNIB advice that is helpful to us all
The Royal National Insitiute of Blind People have published on their website.
The RNIB can only give INDIVIDUAL advice to those with SERIOUS SIGHT LOSS. Please do not approach them otherwise. Like many they have limited resources.
Some advice & guidance on
Attendance Allowance
Advisor's guide _ how to claim Attendance Allowance - tips for advisors.
Disability Living Allowance
Challenging a Decision about DLA & Attendance Allowance
Though this advice is from a "blind person's" view point. The central themes & processes apply to anyone claiming either allowance.
I hope this helps and empowers you with your claim.
Thanks to Nigel (of the Tcell team) for his research here.
The RNIB can only give INDIVIDUAL advice to those with SERIOUS SIGHT LOSS. Please do not approach them otherwise. Like many they have limited resources.
Some advice & guidance on
Attendance Allowance
Advisor's guide _ how to claim Attendance Allowance - tips for advisors.
Disability Living Allowance
Challenging a Decision about DLA & Attendance Allowance
Though this advice is from a "blind person's" view point. The central themes & processes apply to anyone claiming either allowance.
I hope this helps and empowers you with your claim.
Thanks to Nigel (of the Tcell team) for his research here.
Comments are important....
Thank you to those that are contributing to this cause. At the bottom of every entry in the blog you will see the word "Comments" with the number of people who have left comments on a particular entry.
I would encourage you to read this.
I am always aware that some of this can seem frightening. I apologise for that. The intention is not to scare. However I cannot in all good conscience be anything by honest. This is a blog and as is the nature of the beast . It means it is based, largely, on the personal opinions .
Truth can be upsetting. However when the truth of a situation is revealed. It empowers us to make a postitive step forward. Difficult though that first step might be.
If you have been worried or upset by any content. Please feel free to email me. I won't be offended by any constructive criticism you have to make.
This is as much about you as it is me.
I would encourage you to read this.
I am always aware that some of this can seem frightening. I apologise for that. The intention is not to scare. However I cannot in all good conscience be anything by honest. This is a blog and as is the nature of the beast . It means it is based, largely, on the personal opinions .
Truth can be upsetting. However when the truth of a situation is revealed. It empowers us to make a postitive step forward. Difficult though that first step might be.
If you have been worried or upset by any content. Please feel free to email me. I won't be offended by any constructive criticism you have to make.
This is as much about you as it is me.
U+
Picked up from a NAM email. I hope they won't mind me replicating it here
"U+ is a new magazine for gay men with HIV produced by Terrence Higgins Trust. The magazine deals with the personal aspects of living with HIV.
Each issue covers a theme in depth and issue 2, which is out now, is all about recreational drugs. It gives clear, practical information to help you make your own choices. Topics covered include myths and facts about drugs, "preparing and repairing" for a big weekend and tips on reducing your drug use. We ask whether GHB is wrecking the gay scene, and cover the interactions between recreational drugs and combination therapy.
U+ is available in many gay bars, HIV organisations and HIV clinics. If you would like to be sent a copy, email your address to u+@tht.org.uk "
"U+ is a new magazine for gay men with HIV produced by Terrence Higgins Trust. The magazine deals with the personal aspects of living with HIV.
Each issue covers a theme in depth and issue 2, which is out now, is all about recreational drugs. It gives clear, practical information to help you make your own choices. Topics covered include myths and facts about drugs, "preparing and repairing" for a big weekend and tips on reducing your drug use. We ask whether GHB is wrecking the gay scene, and cover the interactions between recreational drugs and combination therapy.
U+ is available in many gay bars, HIV organisations and HIV clinics. If you would like to be sent a copy, email your address to u+@tht.org.uk "
Thursday, 6 March 2008
Info
http://www.tcell.org.uk will direct people to this site initially as another temporary web address. Of course http://www.hivbenefits.co.uk with always and continue to take you to the main website.
Eventually, when the organisation is sorted. These things take time. It will direct you the main site for our group. For which this is the first campaign/issue we are dealing/running with.
We want to create a brand around what we do. One that is respected. But more about his later....
Any questions as always please feel free to email me to john@hivbenefits.co.uk
Eventually, when the organisation is sorted. These things take time. It will direct you the main site for our group. For which this is the first campaign/issue we are dealing/running with.
We want to create a brand around what we do. One that is respected. But more about his later....
Any questions as always please feel free to email me to john@hivbenefits.co.uk
10 Downing Street Petitions..
There are two petitions I want to bring to your attention. If you want to help our cause please sign both.
10 Downing Street petition on the Right Payment Program.
This is the primary petition I would encourage you to sign. It is the one signed by the supporters mentioned on this page.
Looking at the existing DLA petitions. They were all either on a specific point of the DLA or for a specific medical condition.
As we are trying to achieve fairness for all, including ourselves. That none of the existing petitions mention the impact of the review. To also lend publicity to our cause.
I have started our own petition.
It can be found at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/DLAEquity/
I know these things if high in number can become lost in the mire. But our petition is unique in content.
Thanks.
10 Downing Street petition on the Right Payment Program.
This is the primary petition I would encourage you to sign. It is the one signed by the supporters mentioned on this page.
Looking at the existing DLA petitions. They were all either on a specific point of the DLA or for a specific medical condition.
As we are trying to achieve fairness for all, including ourselves. That none of the existing petitions mention the impact of the review. To also lend publicity to our cause.
I have started our own petition.
It can be found at http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/DLAEquity/
I know these things if high in number can become lost in the mire. But our petition is unique in content.
Thanks.
Not another blog John!
I have started another blog - Johns Background & Personal Thoughts.
I wanted to share the experience & lessons I have learnt personally as a result of starting this blog & website. The "journey" of my personal growth. I hope it inspires.
It is a place for the information not directly relevant to the DLA review. On that score, I will always post here.
However if you want to know why I started the blog, what motivates me regarding this etc.. this blog covers that.
I am a great believer in empowerment. Of encouraging and empowering people to deal and take ownership of the issues they face. I understand that not everyone can do this. Thats partly why this site exists. But where they can I hope this site helps.
If this inspires one person with the confidence to deal with their own issues than I will have achieved my goal.
The reality of the situation is. With funding being cut. With existing services completely stretched. It maybe that you have to rely on yourself more as time goes by. Channel your feelings, fear & frustration, into empowering yourself & others. You will feel better & it is very rewarding. It will certainly improve your personal well-being.
I wanted to share the experience & lessons I have learnt personally as a result of starting this blog & website. The "journey" of my personal growth. I hope it inspires.
It is a place for the information not directly relevant to the DLA review. On that score, I will always post here.
However if you want to know why I started the blog, what motivates me regarding this etc.. this blog covers that.
I am a great believer in empowerment. Of encouraging and empowering people to deal and take ownership of the issues they face. I understand that not everyone can do this. Thats partly why this site exists. But where they can I hope this site helps.
If this inspires one person with the confidence to deal with their own issues than I will have achieved my goal.
The reality of the situation is. With funding being cut. With existing services completely stretched. It maybe that you have to rely on yourself more as time goes by. Channel your feelings, fear & frustration, into empowering yourself & others. You will feel better & it is very rewarding. It will certainly improve your personal well-being.
Spreading the word .....
The HIV community is not alone in this cause. What we do through this web portal. Has a direct bearing and the experience & information given. Can and should be used by the wider disabled community. We are all in the same "boat" here.
To that end.
I interact with the wider community via The Benefits & Work website. .
I have a forum on the site - DLA Review & the HIV+ Community, How our community is coping. At time of posting this forum has recieved 1000 hits.
Please take some time to familarise yourself with this website.
Thanks to Steve the owner of the site for his continued good will and support.
This site is a resource that you should use if you are trying to empower yourself to deal with any benefit issue. It does cost. However it is a good investment. We don't cover everything here, in detail. Also I will not replicate any of Steve's work on here for free. He deserves our support.
To that end.
I interact with the wider community via The Benefits & Work website. .
I have a forum on the site - DLA Review & the HIV+ Community, How our community is coping. At time of posting this forum has recieved 1000 hits.
Please take some time to familarise yourself with this website.
Thanks to Steve the owner of the site for his continued good will and support.
This site is a resource that you should use if you are trying to empower yourself to deal with any benefit issue. It does cost. However it is a good investment. We don't cover everything here, in detail. Also I will not replicate any of Steve's work on here for free. He deserves our support.
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