Overcoming Barriers

This page focuses on potential solutions to help Verna overcome the barriers she faces in accessing health and social care services. It provides a comprehensive list of strategies and resources to improve her situation.

Some key recommendations include:

1. GP referral for an exercise programme at local leisure centers, eliminating the financial barrier.
2. Participation in a Steady Steps programme for fall prevention, strengthening muscles and addressing mobility issues.
3. Consultation with a psychologist or counselor to address fear and anxiety (Secondary care provider).
4. Utilization of free public transport options, such as a disabled persons bus pass.
5. Accessing assistance for train travel, including staff help and step-free access to platforms.
6. Exploring community transport schemes like dial-a-ride services.
7. Considering the use of an electric scooter for improved mobility.
8. Applying for a Blue Badge for parking privileges.
9. Investigating the Motability scheme to help with the cost of buying a car.

Highlight: These solutions address various challenges faced by disabled persons and provide practical ways to overcome disability barriers.

Example: "Free use of public transport (disabled persons bus pass; between 09:30 and 11pm Mon-Fri, all day at wkends and bank holidays), must be accessible, use of priority seating, wide doors for wheel chairs."

Vocabulary: Motability scheme - A UK government-backed initiative that helps people with disabilities lease a car, powered wheelchair, or scooter using their disability benefits.

Barriers and Their Impact

This page delves deeper into the specific barriers Verna faces and how they affect her ability to access health and social care services. It also assesses whether her needs are being met and the consequences of unmet needs.

Key barriers identified include:

1. Physical barriers due to mobility issues
2. Financial barriers, such as the cost of gym membership
3. Psychological barriers, like avoiding leaving the flat due to fear
4. Geographical barriers, including living on the second floor and distance to the nearest bus stop

Highlight: These barriers significantly impact Verna's ability to access services, attend appointments, and maintain her overall health and well-being.

Example: Verna's mobility issues prevent her from regularly attending GP appointments, especially when the lift is broken and she needs to use a wheelchair.

The assessment of Verna's needs reveals that many are only partially met or not met at all. For instance:

• She is not doing any exercise, increasing her risk of weight gain and heart disease.
• Her condition is not being regularly monitored due to difficulty attending appointments.
• Social isolation may lead to depression and anxiety.

Quote: "Gets stuck in the flat, this could lead to depression and anxiety as she is not able to socialise easily and see people."