We are now getting back to normal in the Assist office after our most exciting conference yet. If you missed the event you missed a real treat we had speakers from DWP, DOH, DfT, Whizz-Kidz, our armed forces and our membership, all very topical and focused at the very fibre of our organisations. Responses from attendees were extremely positive with only one criticism that we did not send out details early enough. We will send you dates for your diaries earlier next year. Motability gave us an overview of the recent changes in the scheme and the background as to why they were necessary, answered questions from the floor and explained how the scheme meets the needs of all. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Motability for their continued support. My address at our AGM concentrated on the challenges for the future for our organisation and its members, we will listen to feedback and provide services within our resources.

It was suggested and I was charged with looking into the advantages of merging with like minded organisations this will give additional resources, avoid duplication whilst sharing skills and would be cost effective. We would however need to continue to provide for our mission and vision and the needs of our membership. We need to know your thoughts and opinions and we will be surveying and collecting this information to produce an option appraisal paper.

Since we lost our core funding last year we have embarked on a programme of funding applications the first of those came good last week with a grant of 10k from Awards for All to work with volunteers we are waiting to hear from many others but this is a very competitive market. Another venture is our links to the web, where we are promoting www.livingaidsdirect.co.uk Prices are competitive with an introductory 10% discount and donations on related sales given back to our organisation. We have produced a postcard to promote the scheme and looking for your help. We will send you a supply to distribute shortly. We have been asked to reflect the work we have been involved with recently:-

· I was filmed by the BBC for the programme ‘Rip off Britan’ in relation to doorstep selling;

· I undertook ramp testing on the London Underground in preparation for the Olympics;

· I met with Motability to discuss the recent changes to the scheme;

· I have been heavily involved in relation to the AQP (Any Qualified Provider) wheelchair meetings;

· I continue my work with DPTAC (Disabled Persons Transport Advisory Committee), and we have had recent meetings in relation to taxis and the Blue Badge scheme;

· I had a meeting with a Lord Skelmersdale in respect of the DLA (Disabled Living Allowance) reform;

· I was kindly invited to open the new Shopmobility scheme in the Trafford Centre;

· I attended a free seminar held by the Chamber of Commerce, Manchester on a ‘Business Growth hub’ at Manchester City’s ground;

· I visited the Ellesmere Port centre with Age Concern to discuss the possibility of a new centre in Mold;

· I met with Andrew Stephenson from NRS (Nottingham Rehab Supplies) at their base in Warwick to view their setup;

· I continue to be part of the D4D (Devices for Dignity) board;

· I attended an official opening day at Manchester Disabled Living where it was officially opened by Sir Alex Ferguson;

We are facing many changes and challenges with the reforms, and the white and green papers which are coming out of Parliament. Assist UK needs to be proactive in responding to the challenges. There will be many opportunities as the gaps in provision emerges, we need to be ready. There are many examples of good practice within our membership, this knowledge needs to be shared, it will be essential we have opportunities to network? I am looking for members to take the lead and help to organise regional meetings, if you are able to help contact me directly. We are coming to the end of winter and looking forward to spring, keep us up to date with your plans and activities we will promote them and attend if possible.