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When I had my accident and wanted to get out in the great outdoors again I naturally looked around for any organisations that might be able to give advice, practical help, disabled routes, anything that could make it a bit easer or offer a bit of reassurance
What I found was that there was lots of websites, glossy mags various leaflets, but nothing that catered for my particular needs. Or no real help.
So I decided to have a go and try to do something about it.
First stop was the National parks service where after much talking they agreed that there should be more available to the less than able. & how they were in the process of putting together a 5 year plan which would not only look at this short coming but also address this issue.
I was invited to join up and since then I have been working as a voluntary ranger with the Northumberland national park trying to do something about it.
Since then I have:-
Found suitable routes
Surveyed them and put forward changes to make it easer i.e. gates in fences ECT
Walking the routes several times (different seasons) to see if any extra safeguards where needed.
Gone out” trouble shooting” when report of vandalism or the path is not fit for purpose ECT
Led parties of “normal” walkers out on day trips.
I have given up huge amounts of my own time to attended various meeting (something I really dislike) normally fighting for disabled people’s rights with regard to open access here in Northumberland.
I have even taken on the highways departments over funding for routes.
I have done all of this for one reason only and that was if there was any amputees out there that wanted to go hiking and contacted the park , I would (if they wanted me ) go as an escort or leader . With the park supplying a full” back up service” if required.
I have taken on the limb centre just to put up some posters. (Something that took a lot of persuasion).
I had to retake my first aid certificate , then just to make sure that it was enough I went on an took an advanced level . (I can nearly do open heart surgery with nothing but a pen knife and plastic bag now)
Only to be informed that the date this was all supposed to kick off and go live with advertising posters internet billing ECT ECT has yet again been postponed.
I have come to the conclusion that it will never happen.
And I feel sick about it, the strange thing is every body I talk to all seem sick as well answer why: - red tape and the no win no fee culture that has sprung up in this country. It would appear the higher ups don’t want there departments to get sued.
So I have given up on it.
All I wanted to do was provide suitable walking routes with back up (if required) for any amps who like me love the great outdoors , especially those new one who might be under the false impression (like I was told) that getting out into the hills was a no go from now on.
So it’s down to plan b (unofficial)…………….More to follow.
.....................................Mick (feeling sick)
Page 1 of 1
I give up red tape
MultiQuote
#3
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Posted 13 March 2010 - 01:44 PM
Man, that just sucks.
What you are doing doesn't benefit the folks in charge directly. Doesn't get them a raise, paint them pretty, or make their life easier. So, it falls to the bottom of their list of priorities, IMO.
Maybe, take a little break. But not too long. Settle into an annoyance cycle. If you run the annoyance pattern long enough, maybe your project will then fall into the "make their life easier" catagory. And while you're working the annoyance pattern, be sure to always give a little attention to "paint them pretty." Your project is sure to make those "in charge" look good.
Any chance you could lead some very public amp/disability hikes at the proposed sites? Maybe get a little press coverage- if you do, be prepared to "work it." Also, i've found by accident, that you can get alot of free advertising if an event is a benefit or charity event.
To be VERY clear- i'm the type that hates politics. Problem is, the rest of the world isn't that way. So, i've just learned to adapt and overcome that, too- when i have to.
What you are doing doesn't benefit the folks in charge directly. Doesn't get them a raise, paint them pretty, or make their life easier. So, it falls to the bottom of their list of priorities, IMO.
Maybe, take a little break. But not too long. Settle into an annoyance cycle. If you run the annoyance pattern long enough, maybe your project will then fall into the "make their life easier" catagory. And while you're working the annoyance pattern, be sure to always give a little attention to "paint them pretty." Your project is sure to make those "in charge" look good.
Any chance you could lead some very public amp/disability hikes at the proposed sites? Maybe get a little press coverage- if you do, be prepared to "work it." Also, i've found by accident, that you can get alot of free advertising if an event is a benefit or charity event.
To be VERY clear- i'm the type that hates politics. Problem is, the rest of the world isn't that way. So, i've just learned to adapt and overcome that, too- when i have to.
visit my website: riderminus.com
"The concept of war is outdated. Through war, through violence, you cannot achieve what you want." - Dalai Lama
"Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery. None but ourselves can free our minds." - Bob Marley
"No, man. You gotta keep goin'. What am I gonna do? Quit? That's not an option. Life's a garden. Dig it? You make it work for you. You never give up, man. That's my philosophy." - Joe Dirt
"Why me? If it hadn't been you, then it may have been someone who couldn't handle it as well as you."
- Archie Floyd
"Not all who wander are lost."- JRR Tolkien
"For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin--real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way; something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. This perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one. Happiness is a journey, not a destination." -Father Alfred D'Souza
"The concept of war is outdated. Through war, through violence, you cannot achieve what you want." - Dalai Lama
"Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery. None but ourselves can free our minds." - Bob Marley
"No, man. You gotta keep goin'. What am I gonna do? Quit? That's not an option. Life's a garden. Dig it? You make it work for you. You never give up, man. That's my philosophy." - Joe Dirt
"Why me? If it hadn't been you, then it may have been someone who couldn't handle it as well as you."
- Archie Floyd
"Not all who wander are lost."- JRR Tolkien
"For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin--real life. But there was always some obstacle in the way; something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life. This perspective has helped me to see that there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one. Happiness is a journey, not a destination." -Father Alfred D'Souza
#4
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Posted 13 March 2010 - 05:39 PM
Well, I'm not bursting with ideas, Mick, but I certainly feel your frustration. (Ask me about the state of public education in California some time... 
)
Sounds like you've got a couple of "partners" here, though, so take advantage of them. And keep us all posted on "plan B"... there may be some more clever ideas out there for you in this little amp community. We're also a good place to "vent" when you need to.
We all know that we have to be strong and inventive to make it in this world...you're both, and you'll figure out a way to bring your project to a successful conclusion.
) Sounds like you've got a couple of "partners" here, though, so take advantage of them. And keep us all posted on "plan B"... there may be some more clever ideas out there for you in this little amp community. We're also a good place to "vent" when you need to.
We all know that we have to be strong and inventive to make it in this world...you're both, and you'll figure out a way to bring your project to a successful conclusion.
If you stumble, just smile and make it part of the dance.....
#5
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Posted 16 March 2010 - 04:32 AM
Thanks Lizzie,
Great idea have sent you a e- mail
Shane, I know where you are coming from but I just don’t know how or where to take it.
I would love to lead a group of amputees out for the day somewhere in the hills, not necessary for a days hiking but just to get them out there because …………….
Some time ago Natural England or some other big government body did a survey and several of the things that came out was that A large proportion of the disabled community felt unsure ,unwelcome, didn’t know what or where to go or even what to expect when they enter our national parks just like I did . I am now in a position to help remove some of these fears, certainly not from everybody but maybe from someone who was just like I was .five years ago.
However the sad fact is that I don’t really know many amputees
When I go to the limb centre I tend to get in early and out as soon as possible doing any testing out in the grounds rather than walking up and down some stuffy room. So I haven’t really got to know any one.
I do know that there are over 5000 amputees that attend the same lime centre as me
And getting the message to them is what I am struggling with.
It goes without saying that no one might be interested in getting out into the parks but at least I can say I am here if you want some one who has been through it to go out with you.
Sorry I am starting to go on a bit.
Cheryl
I have had an idea, I will pm you first in the next day or so.
Great idea have sent you a e- mail
Shane, I know where you are coming from but I just don’t know how or where to take it.
I would love to lead a group of amputees out for the day somewhere in the hills, not necessary for a days hiking but just to get them out there because …………….
Some time ago Natural England or some other big government body did a survey and several of the things that came out was that A large proportion of the disabled community felt unsure ,unwelcome, didn’t know what or where to go or even what to expect when they enter our national parks just like I did . I am now in a position to help remove some of these fears, certainly not from everybody but maybe from someone who was just like I was .five years ago.
However the sad fact is that I don’t really know many amputees
When I go to the limb centre I tend to get in early and out as soon as possible doing any testing out in the grounds rather than walking up and down some stuffy room. So I haven’t really got to know any one.
I do know that there are over 5000 amputees that attend the same lime centre as me
And getting the message to them is what I am struggling with.
It goes without saying that no one might be interested in getting out into the parks but at least I can say I am here if you want some one who has been through it to go out with you.
Sorry I am starting to go on a bit.
Cheryl
I have had an idea, I will pm you first in the next day or so.
#7
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Posted 16 March 2010 - 05:59 PM
Mick,
Gave up on said limb centre a year ago, now go elsewhere.
They wouldn't even let me put up a poster giving details of various amputee forums!
I understand your frustration, good luck with plan B, keep us informed.
Ann,
There isn't a user group, hasn't been one for several years.
Gave up on said limb centre a year ago, now go elsewhere.
They wouldn't even let me put up a poster giving details of various amputee forums!
I understand your frustration, good luck with plan B, keep us informed.
Ann,
There isn't a user group, hasn't been one for several years.
If you never try it, you will never know what would have happened, if you had.
#8
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Posted 16 March 2010 - 09:06 PM
Ann, I really wish that we did have a user group, it would make life so much simpler but as Lynne states there hasn’t been anything for years, I don’t want to write too much about it on here as I need the limb centre to come onboard with this other wise it will be the biggest non starter going.
I have got permission to put out the booklets in the waiting rooms and put up posters about it, but that was when it was all going to be done professionally & as I have found out that isn’t going to happen. So I don’t know what the response will be with me trying to set up a will be basically an amputee walking group on my own.
Lynne thanks for your good wishes. Will keep you informed but you know this limb centre better than me so you have a good idea what I am up against?
………………………………….Mick
I have got permission to put out the booklets in the waiting rooms and put up posters about it, but that was when it was all going to be done professionally & as I have found out that isn’t going to happen. So I don’t know what the response will be with me trying to set up a will be basically an amputee walking group on my own.
Lynne thanks for your good wishes. Will keep you informed but you know this limb centre better than me so you have a good idea what I am up against?
………………………………….Mick
#9
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Posted 16 March 2010 - 09:13 PM
QUOTE (mick @ Mar 16 2010, 09:06 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Ann, I really wish that we did have a user group, it would make life so much simpler but as Lynne states there hasn’t been anything for years, I don’t want to write too much about it on here as I need the limb centre to come onboard with this other wise it will be the biggest non starter going.
I have got permission to put out the booklets in the waiting rooms and put up posters about it, but that was when it was all going to be done professionally & as I have found out that isn’t going to happen. So I don’t know what the response will be with me trying to set up a will be basically an amputee walking group on my own.
Lynne thanks for your good wishes. Will keep you informed but you know this limb centre better than me so you have a good idea what I am up against?
………………………………….Mick
I have got permission to put out the booklets in the waiting rooms and put up posters about it, but that was when it was all going to be done professionally & as I have found out that isn’t going to happen. So I don’t know what the response will be with me trying to set up a will be basically an amputee walking group on my own.
Lynne thanks for your good wishes. Will keep you informed but you know this limb centre better than me so you have a good idea what I am up against?
………………………………….Mick
dare I say it Mick <grin> if there's no User Group ... maybe you and Lynne could start one up <grin> I think PCT's have a duty to involve service users these days.
Might be a good way for you to meet other amps etc. etc.
Good luck with your project anyway.
#10
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- Location:Buhl, Idaho
- Interests:I like to hunt, fish, cook and do crafts. I like to go boating and learned to kanski this last summer and loved it. Just getting my temp. prosthetic (gus) I am not able to do quit a bit but I know I will in time. I have always been an on the go person.. and stopping to heal and relearn is not easy for me.. But, I am learning.
Posted 07 May 2010 - 02:39 AM
mick, on 12 March 2010 - 01:02 PM, said:
When I had my accident and wanted to get out in the great outdoors again I naturally looked around for any organisations that might be able to give advice, practical help, disabled routes, anything that could make it a bit easer or offer a bit of reassurance
What I found was that there was lots of websites, glossy mags various leaflets, but nothing that catered for my particular needs. Or no real help.
So I decided to have a go and try to do something about it.
First stop was the National parks service where after much talking they agreed that there should be more available to the less than able. & how they were in the process of putting together a 5 year plan which would not only look at this short coming but also address this issue.
I was invited to join up and since then I have been working as a voluntary ranger with the Northumberland national park trying to do something about it.
Since then I have:-
Found suitable routes
Surveyed them and put forward changes to make it easer i.e. gates in fences ECT
Walking the routes several times (different seasons) to see if any extra safeguards where needed.
Gone out” trouble shooting” when report of vandalism or the path is not fit for purpose ECT
Led parties of “normal” walkers out on day trips.
I have given up huge amounts of my own time to attended various meeting (something I really dislike) normally fighting for disabled people’s rights with regard to open access here in Northumberland.
I have even taken on the highways departments over funding for routes.
I have done all of this for one reason only and that was if there was any amputees out there that wanted to go hiking and contacted the park , I would (if they wanted me ) go as an escort or leader . With the park supplying a full” back up service” if required.
I have taken on the limb centre just to put up some posters. (Something that took a lot of persuasion).
I had to retake my first aid certificate , then just to make sure that it was enough I went on an took an advanced level . (I can nearly do open heart surgery with nothing but a pen knife and plastic bag now)
Only to be informed that the date this was all supposed to kick off and go live with advertising posters internet billing ECT ECT has yet again been postponed.
I have come to the conclusion that it will never happen.
And I feel sick about it, the strange thing is every body I talk to all seem sick as well answer why: - red tape and the no win no fee culture that has sprung up in this country. It would appear the higher ups don’t want there departments to get sued.
So I have given up on it.
All I wanted to do was provide suitable walking routes with back up (if required) for any amps who like me love the great outdoors , especially those new one who might be under the false impression (like I was told) that getting out into the hills was a no go from now on.
So it’s down to plan b (unofficial)…………….More to follow.
.....................................Mick (feeling sick)
What I found was that there was lots of websites, glossy mags various leaflets, but nothing that catered for my particular needs. Or no real help.
So I decided to have a go and try to do something about it.
First stop was the National parks service where after much talking they agreed that there should be more available to the less than able. & how they were in the process of putting together a 5 year plan which would not only look at this short coming but also address this issue.
I was invited to join up and since then I have been working as a voluntary ranger with the Northumberland national park trying to do something about it.
Since then I have:-
Found suitable routes
Surveyed them and put forward changes to make it easer i.e. gates in fences ECT
Walking the routes several times (different seasons) to see if any extra safeguards where needed.
Gone out” trouble shooting” when report of vandalism or the path is not fit for purpose ECT
Led parties of “normal” walkers out on day trips.
I have given up huge amounts of my own time to attended various meeting (something I really dislike) normally fighting for disabled people’s rights with regard to open access here in Northumberland.
I have even taken on the highways departments over funding for routes.
I have done all of this for one reason only and that was if there was any amputees out there that wanted to go hiking and contacted the park , I would (if they wanted me ) go as an escort or leader . With the park supplying a full” back up service” if required.
I have taken on the limb centre just to put up some posters. (Something that took a lot of persuasion).
I had to retake my first aid certificate , then just to make sure that it was enough I went on an took an advanced level . (I can nearly do open heart surgery with nothing but a pen knife and plastic bag now)
Only to be informed that the date this was all supposed to kick off and go live with advertising posters internet billing ECT ECT has yet again been postponed.
I have come to the conclusion that it will never happen.
And I feel sick about it, the strange thing is every body I talk to all seem sick as well answer why: - red tape and the no win no fee culture that has sprung up in this country. It would appear the higher ups don’t want there departments to get sued.
So I have given up on it.
All I wanted to do was provide suitable walking routes with back up (if required) for any amps who like me love the great outdoors , especially those new one who might be under the false impression (like I was told) that getting out into the hills was a no go from now on.
So it’s down to plan b (unofficial)…………….More to follow.
.....................................Mick (feeling sick)
Kelly
#11
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- Group: Members
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- Joined: 06-November 09
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- Location:Buhl, Idaho
- Interests:I like to hunt, fish, cook and do crafts. I like to go boating and learned to kanski this last summer and loved it. Just getting my temp. prosthetic (gus) I am not able to do quit a bit but I know I will in time. I have always been an on the go person.. and stopping to heal and relearn is not easy for me.. But, I am learning.
Posted 07 May 2010 - 02:41 AM
mick, on 12 March 2010 - 01:02 PM, said:
When I had my accident and wanted to get out in the great outdoors again I naturally looked around for any organisations that might be able to give advice, practical help, disabled routes, anything that could make it a bit easer or offer a bit of reassurance
What I found was that there was lots of websites, glossy mags various leaflets, but nothing that catered for my particular needs. Or no real help.
So I decided to have a go and try to do something about it.
First stop was the National parks service where after much talking they agreed that there should be more available to the less than able. & how they were in the process of putting together a 5 year plan which would not only look at this short coming but also address this issue.
I was invited to join up and since then I have been working as a voluntary ranger with the Northumberland national park trying to do something about it.
Since then I have:-
Found suitable routes
Surveyed them and put forward changes to make it easer i.e. gates in fences ECT
Walking the routes several times (different seasons) to see if any extra safeguards where needed.
Gone out” trouble shooting” when report of vandalism or the path is not fit for purpose ECT
Led parties of “normal” walkers out on day trips.
I have given up huge amounts of my own time to attended various meeting (something I really dislike) normally fighting for disabled people’s rights with regard to open access here in Northumberland.
I have even taken on the highways departments over funding for routes.
I have done all of this for one reason only and that was if there was any amputees out there that wanted to go hiking and contacted the park , I would (if they wanted me ) go as an escort or leader . With the park supplying a full” back up service” if required.
I have taken on the limb centre just to put up some posters. (Something that took a lot of persuasion).
I had to retake my first aid certificate , then just to make sure that it was enough I went on an took an advanced level . (I can nearly do open heart surgery with nothing but a pen knife and plastic bag now)
Only to be informed that the date this was all supposed to kick off and go live with advertising posters internet billing ECT ECT has yet again been postponed.
I have come to the conclusion that it will never happen.
And I feel sick about it, the strange thing is every body I talk to all seem sick as well answer why: - red tape and the no win no fee culture that has sprung up in this country. It would appear the higher ups don’t want there departments to get sued.
So I have given up on it.
All I wanted to do was provide suitable walking routes with back up (if required) for any amps who like me love the great outdoors , especially those new one who might be under the false impression (like I was told) that getting out into the hills was a no go from now on.
So it’s down to plan b (unofficial)…………….More to follow.
.....................................Mick (feeling sick)
What I found was that there was lots of websites, glossy mags various leaflets, but nothing that catered for my particular needs. Or no real help.
So I decided to have a go and try to do something about it.
First stop was the National parks service where after much talking they agreed that there should be more available to the less than able. & how they were in the process of putting together a 5 year plan which would not only look at this short coming but also address this issue.
I was invited to join up and since then I have been working as a voluntary ranger with the Northumberland national park trying to do something about it.
Since then I have:-
Found suitable routes
Surveyed them and put forward changes to make it easer i.e. gates in fences ECT
Walking the routes several times (different seasons) to see if any extra safeguards where needed.
Gone out” trouble shooting” when report of vandalism or the path is not fit for purpose ECT
Led parties of “normal” walkers out on day trips.
I have given up huge amounts of my own time to attended various meeting (something I really dislike) normally fighting for disabled people’s rights with regard to open access here in Northumberland.
I have even taken on the highways departments over funding for routes.
I have done all of this for one reason only and that was if there was any amputees out there that wanted to go hiking and contacted the park , I would (if they wanted me ) go as an escort or leader . With the park supplying a full” back up service” if required.
I have taken on the limb centre just to put up some posters. (Something that took a lot of persuasion).
I had to retake my first aid certificate , then just to make sure that it was enough I went on an took an advanced level . (I can nearly do open heart surgery with nothing but a pen knife and plastic bag now)
Only to be informed that the date this was all supposed to kick off and go live with advertising posters internet billing ECT ECT has yet again been postponed.
I have come to the conclusion that it will never happen.
And I feel sick about it, the strange thing is every body I talk to all seem sick as well answer why: - red tape and the no win no fee culture that has sprung up in this country. It would appear the higher ups don’t want there departments to get sued.
So I have given up on it.
All I wanted to do was provide suitable walking routes with back up (if required) for any amps who like me love the great outdoors , especially those new one who might be under the false impression (like I was told) that getting out into the hills was a no go from now on.
So it’s down to plan b (unofficial)…………….More to follow.
.....................................Mick (feeling sick)
Mick,
I too love the great outdoors.. and if I can help in any way let me know would love to be able to get around and see so much more of our country from outsidet the car window.
nae_danielson@yahoo.com
Kelly
Kelly
#13
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Posted 13 May 2010 - 06:34 AM
Lynne, on 16 March 2010 - 06:59 PM, said:
They wouldn't even let me put up a poster giving details of various amputee forums!
Lynne: not just that limb-fitting centre. I tried doing the same thing at mine (just an A4 poster detailing 2 or 3 message boards, including this one). No can do. Had to be put before management for approval. Management approved, but only with changes so that it was in management-speak rather than English. 'Message boards' had to changed to 'Advice centres'. And so on. Had to delete any reference to the limb-fitting centre in case people thought they were 'endorsing' specific websites. Etc.
I gave up.
Allen.
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