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A selection of British banknotes in various denominations spread out.

Aug 4 2023

Join the Independent Lives cost of living steering group

We’re looking for people to take part in our cost-of-living steering group. In April, Independent Lives was awarded funding by NHS Health Education England to look the inequalities faced by disabled people and carers in West Sussex because of the cost-of-living crisis. We want to make sure that the people affected have a say in
Two ticket vending machines with options for cash and card payments at a station.

Jul 18 2023

Government plans to close nearly every railway ticket office in England

The bad news continues for disabled train passengers with the Rail Delivery group (RDG) announcing the potential closure of 1000 ticket offices across the country within the next three years. As part of their plan to ‘modernise’ the railway, the RDG states that most transactions at ticket offices last year could have been done online
A group of individuals in white t-shirts with rainbow logos holding pride flags, standing in front of a banner with the words 'Excellence', 'Inclusion', 'Innovation', and 'Person centred'.

Jul 7 2023

Independent Lives joins Worthing Pride 2023 to celebrate Disability Pride Month

Staff from Independent Lives will be taking part in Worthing Pride 2023 on Saturday 8 July, transforming the event into a celebration of inclusivity and support during Disability Pride Month.   Disability Pride Month, observed throughout July, highlights the achievements and struggles faced by individuals with disabilities. The month-long initiative aims to challenge societal norms, raise
Young professional man with a pleasant expression sitting in a modern workspace.

May 9 2023

Friends of Independent Lives membership study launched

Independent Lives is proud to launch the Friends of Independent Lives membership study 2023. The study gives a snapshot of the key issues impacting disabled people and carers in 2023. The study brings together views and experiences from 52 members of the disability and caring community. The study has been explored in a 28-page report revealing common
Diverse team in a collaborative office environment with bright yellow accents.

Apr 28 2023

Have your say: supporting peoples employment and volunteering journey

As part of ongoing work to co-design a new offer for day, employment and volunteering support, West Sussex County Council are holding two in person meeting for service users focussed on supporting people’s employment and volunteering journey. The meetings are aimed at people with support needs related to learning disabilities, autism and acquired brain injuries.
An audience member actively participates in a conference, raising a hand among the crowd.

Apr 11 2023

West Sussex Adult Services Conference

West Sussex County Council are hosting its Adults’ Services staff conference on Monday 24 April at the Avisford Hotel, Arundel. The event will bring together 250 staff, customers and carers, to celebrate and recognise our achievements, with a strong focus throughout on wellbeing and resilience. The programme will feature the Leadership Team, the Cabinet Member
Close-up of a person's hand inserting a coin into a blue piggy bank.

Mar 23 2023

April pay increases for personal assistants on national minimum wage

We want to make sure you are aware that starting from 1 April 2023, if you pay your personal assistants (PAs) at the current National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage, you will need to increase their pay, as the rates are increasing. The amount you will need to pay varies depending on your PAs
The Brighton i360 observation tower against a blue sky with clouds.

Mar 14 2023

Independent Lives raises funds for community hub with Drop 360 event

Employees and friends of Independent Lives will be experiencing a taste of the high life this June with a unique fundraising event. 30 fearless folks will be lowered 138 meters from the top of the iconic i360 in Brighton to raise funds for the Worthing-based disability charity. The funds raised will be used to support
An older couple enjoying a leisurely walk together in a sunlit park.

Feb 16 2023

Independent Lives announces continuation of carers respite service

Independent Lives is proud to announce the continuation of its ‘Short Breaks’ respite service. This service has been providing carers of people with dementia with much-needed respite and day trips since 2018 and will now run until 2026. The service, which is funded by West Sussex County Council, provides activities for older people, people with
Close-up of a hand holding a modern digital utility meter displaying water and electricity usage.

Feb 10 2023

Charities call for a social tariff on energy

Over 100 organisations have written an open letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer calling for a social tariff on energy. The cost-of-living crisis has affected millions up and down the country this winter. And while most are having to choose between heating and eating, disabled families are having to choose between heating, eating and