A big night was held for everybody with learning disabilities on a winters evening at the Beach Club on the seafront. This sometimes is the only evening out for them. They meet up with old and new friends. They came dressed up in their best clothes. There was singing, dancing, acting and someone read a poem, everything went down very well.

All the carers were there with their disabled people. I spoke to a few of them and they said it makes a difference being able to get an evening out. There was a gentleman called Simon Wilkinson who was taking a film of people dancing, which he put through a camera link via a PC to project on to a big screen on the wall. They loved seeing themselves up there on the screen. The whole evening finished at 11pm.

Don't forget that this group do have volunteers training programmes. There may be a course to suit you, so give them a ring on Brighton 234 734 or email: carouselcharity @ hotmail.com and their website address is: www.carousel.org.uk

Disability Awareness Group
This is a new group set up for the people of Whitehawk. We are here to offer help with your problems about adaptation and filling in forms etc. or to just listen to any concerns you may have. Some of you may remember the old B.H.A.T.D. group, well we are trying to follow on from that group as it has been disbanded. We would love to here from disabled people, carers and relatives of the disabled who may have worries. Give me a call on Brighton 677317 and ask for Margaret and let me have your name, address, telephone number, so we can build up a new mailing list. All your details will be kept in the strictest confidence by myself. If by any chance I am not in please leave a message on the answer machine as it will not bite you and I can then return your call.

There is a meeting on Wednesday January 29th, 2pm 'til 3pm, at Robert Lodge. We would love you to come along if you can or send a representative down on your behalf. See you there!

Did You Know?
Brighton and Hove City Council can provide Home Repair Assistance grants for people aged over 60. For further information call the grants team on Brighton 293164.

Don't forget that there is still time for people over 60 to apply for a Winter Payment of £200 per household. Call the helpline on 08459 151515.