Business Details
41 Years
experience
Expert Support for Independent Living in the North of England
Disability North has been championing independence, inclusion, and innovation for disabled and older people across the North of England for over four decades. Established in 1985, we operate as a user-led charity with a constitutional majority of disabled individuals on our executive committee, ensuring our services remain rooted in the lived experiences of those we support. Our free, impartial advice empowers disabled people, families, and carers to make informed decisions about welfare benefits, direct payments, personal assistants, and accessibility equipment.We deliver specialist training, community care guidance, and employment support while advocating for systemic change through policy work. With our headquarters at The Dene Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, we combine office-based operations with flexible remote working to better serve our community. Our commitment to quality is demonstrated through partnerships with healthcare professionals, statutory bodies, and public sector organisations, ensuring our expertise remains at the forefront of disability support.
Services
Independent Living Advice
Welfare Benefits Support
Personal Assistant Training
Equipment Assessments
Direct Payment Guidance
Community Care Advice
Payroll Services
Disability Awareness Training
Safe Reporting Procedures
Accessible Room Hire
Details
- Year established: 1985
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience supporting disabled people in the North of England
- Our user-led structure ensures services reflect the needs of disabled individuals
- We provide free, impartial advice on welfare benefits and direct payment management
- Our team includes qualified occupational therapists and specialist advisors
- We offer accessible training programs for personal assistants and healthcare professionals
What people say
Invaluable information
Reassuring service
Expert advice
Compassionate support
Practical solutions
Services
Independent Living Advice
We provide comprehensive guidance to help disabled individuals maximise their independence through tailored advice on equipment, adaptations, and community resources. Our qualified occupational therapists offer specialist assessments in bespoke demonstration areas. This service empowers users to make informed decisions about their living arrangements and support requirements.
Welfare Benefits Support
Our expert advisors offer one-to-one support with disability benefit claims, including PIP forms and tribunal representation. We provide clear information about eligibility criteria and help users navigate complex welfare systems. This service ensures individuals receive the financial support they are entitled to under current legislation.
Personal Assistant Training
We deliver essential training programs for personal assistants and healthcare professionals, including CPD-accredited courses. Our curriculum covers care techniques, professional boundaries, and support strategies. This service enhances the quality of care while ensuring compliance with employment regulations.
Direct Payment Guidance
Our specialist team provides comprehensive support for managing direct payments, including PA recruitment, payroll services, and budget management. We help users understand their employer responsibilities while maintaining compliance with statutory requirements. This service simplifies the administrative aspects of personal care management.
Community Care Advice
We offer personalised support for community care assessments and service access, including guidance on rights under the Care Act. Our advisors help users challenge inadequate support arrangements and connect with appropriate resources. This service ensures users receive appropriate statutory support.
Questions
What areas do you cover?
We primarily serve the North of England, including Newcastle upon Tyne, North Yorkshire, and East Riding.
Are your services free?
Most services are free, though there are charges for some direct payment and payroll support services.
How can I get benefits advice?
Contact us for one-to-one support with disability benefit claims, including PIP forms and tribunal representation.
Do you offer PA training?
Yes, we provide essential training programs for personal assistants, including CPD-accredited courses.
How do I access equipment advice?
Our qualified occupational therapists offer equipment assessments in our bespoke demonstration areas.
Can you help with direct payments?
Yes, we provide comprehensive support for managing direct payments, including recruitment and payroll services.
Reviews (2)
Joan Lister
Sep 26, 2023
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Directions to venue very good
Parking excellent
Assessor excellent - patient, helpful and very easy to talk to. Assessment process - test walk and question and answer session supportive and not too daunting
Parking excellent
Assessor excellent - patient, helpful and very easy to talk to. Assessment process - test walk and question and answer session supportive and not too daunting
Nicola Carpenter
Feb 12, 2023
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Everything was excellent, and the staff provided invaluable assistance in completing the PIP paperwork for my daughter.
