# Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross > Empowering individuals to live independently ## Pages - [Data Protection Statement](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/data-protection-statement/): Last updated: January 2026 CILPK (Centre for Inclusive Perth & Kinross) is committed to protecting the privacy and personal data - [Safeguarding](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/safeguarding/): Safeguarding Statement At the Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross (CILPK), we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, - [Toilets Around Perth Campaign](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/toilets-around-perth-campaign/): Lets Make a SplashWe now have a dedicated website for the campaign We have introduced a Toilet Awareness Campaign entitled - [Self-directed Support](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/self-directed-support/): Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross are a member organisation of SDSS ( Self Directed Support Scotland ) What - [Groups](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/groups-at-cilpk/): MembersAs a user-led organisation, we welcome the support of individuals and organisations through our membership programme. Read More Disability ChampionsA... - [Disability Champions](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/disability-champions-programme/): What is a Disability Champion? A Disability Champion is someone who helps make sure people with disabilities are treated fairly - [Members](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/members/): As a user-led organisation, we welcome the support of individuals and organisations through our membership programme. By becoming a member - [Safe Place Perth | Staff Guidance](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/safe-place/): Safe Place is a scheme in Perth that is designed to help vulnerable members of society lead more independent lives - [Liz's Story](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/lizs-story/): Check back for more about Liz, a valued member of Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross and also Co-Chair - [Trustees - Minutes, Reports and Information](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/trustees-minutes-reports/): This content is password-protected. To view it, please enter the password below. Password: - [Hear Our Roar](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar/): Hear our Roar is part of the Perth and Kinross National Involvement Network. Hear Our Roar : Over the past year, - [Meetings Calendar for Members and Trustees](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/event-directory/) - [Ticket Receipt](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/ticket-receipt/) - [Ticket Details](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/ticket-details/) - [Disability Champions Meetings](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/disability-champions-meetings/): This content is password-protected. To view it, please enter the password below. Password: - [Accessibility statement](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/accessibility-statement/): Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK) is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are - [News & Events](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/news-events/) - [Alison](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/alison/): Meet Alison – CILPK Member and Trustee My name is Alison Elizabeth Fisher I was born in Perth. As a - [Welcome to the Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/): Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross At Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK), we work with local - [Reports](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/reports/): Annual Report 2023 to 2024 Annual Review. 2023 - 2024 docx Annual Review. 2023 - 2024 pdfDownload - [Positive Behaviour Support](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/positive-behaviour-support/): COURSE ACTIVITIES Introduction Lessons https://cloudassess. com/course-library/positive-behaviour-support-people-disabilities (Image by www. freepik. com) - [Cindy's Story](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/cindys-story/): Cindy Godfrey-McKay our Current Chairperson - [Technology Guides](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/technology-guides/): Digital Unite’s award-winning range of 400+ how-to guides covers a whole host of digital topics. These guides are perfect for - [Autism Awareness](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/autism-awareness/): Online Help make the world a little more autism friendlyhttps://freecoursesinscotland. co. uk/autism/ - [Personal Assistants Resource Hub](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/personal-assistants/): This page serves as a Personal Assistants Resource Hub, listing information and resources that have been sourced by staff, people - [Georgie](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/georgie/): Disability Champion I’m Georgie. I’m 28 and I live in Perth . I have had Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy since I - [Cristina](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/cristina/): Disability Champion - [Evander](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/evander/): Trustee and Disability Champion - [Duncan](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/duncan/): Meet DuncanTrustee and Disability Champion - [Subscribe to our Newsletter](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/subscribe-to-newsletter/): * indicates required Email Address * Marketing Permissions Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross will use the information you - [Our Supporters](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/our-supporters/): Our Partners - [Access Audits](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/access-audits/): At Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross we provide walk-through access audits. Walk-through access audits are where members of - [Fundraising](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/fundraising/): What do we mean by “Fundraising”? Fundraising is when an individual or group gather voluntary contributions of money for a - [Support us your way](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/support-us/): Fundraise Would you like to Fundraise for us? We’re happy to support you through it! Get Involved Would you like - [Our Members Stories](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/our-stories/): Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross is a User-led organisation led by our Members. Click on the Members below - [Newsletters](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/newsletter-archive/): Newsletter Archive Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross September 2023 Newsletter Art Gallery Visit, Amanda’s Fundraising, Taxi Legislation, Library - [Our History](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/our-history/): Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross(CILPK) evolved from Perth and Kinross Access Group(PKAG), a user led disabled access organisation - [What do we do](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/what-we-do/): Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK), drives change by partnering with local services to break down barriers, improve - [Who are the Centre for Inclusive Living](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/who-we-are-2/): Chair and Trustees Office Staff - [Privacy Policy](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/privacy-policy/): Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross Our website address is: https://www. cilpk. org. uk. CILPK is committed to protecting... - [Useful Information](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/useful-information/): This page serves as a vital resource hub, delivering a wealth of information, services, and strategies tailored to enhance the - [Wheelchair Accessible Taxis](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/wheelchair-accessible-taxis/): Wheelchair accessible taxi services in Perth and Kinross, get in touch if you would like yours added to this list. - [Independent Living](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/independent-living/): Independent Living is a right shared by everyone in Scotland. It is a legal right and a human right. It - [Contact Us](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/contact-us/): Subscribe to our Monthly Newsletter: In our monthly newsletter, we might cover: If you would like to get involved as - [Get involved with us](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/getinvolved/): Becoming a Member As a user-led organisation, we welcome the support of individuals and organisations through our membership programme. By - [Our Work](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/our-work/): CILPK look to promote Independent Living in a wide range of ways including: Equality Issues/Advocacy We deal with individual and - [About Us](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/about-us/): Centre for Inclusive Living ( CILPK ) evolved from Perth and Kinross Access group which was founded in 1982 to ## Posts - [Discover Digital Workshop May 2026](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/discover-digital-workshop-may-2026/): This workshop was hosted by the Discover Digital project, Health Alliance Scotland, more info ... - [Opening Shot - Filmmaking Workshop](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/opening-shot-filmmaking-workshop/): The filmmaking workshop was genuinely fabulous—not just because of what people learned, but because of how thoughtfully it was designed. - [All Ability Cycling Sessions](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/all-ability-cycling-sessions/): Kinross-shire Tri-Shaws and Community Cycling SCIO There is now regular, free, tricycle sessions on offer. These are aimed at anyone - [Vision PK - Celebration Walk](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/vision-pk-celebration-walk/): Vision PK are holding a Celebration Walk on Thursday 23rd April at 11am. This is to raise awareness of VisionPK... - [Toilets Around Perth – Event Follow‑Up Post](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/toilets-around-perth-event-follow-up-post/): What a fantastic day of conversations, community insights, and shared passion for improving access to safe, clean, and inclusive public... - [Announcement Hear Our Roar – New Website Launch!](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/announcement-post-hear-our-roar-new-website-launch/): Hear Our Roar is excited to announce the launch of our brand‑new website — a fresh, accessible and engaging space... - [Personal Assistant Awards 2026 – What a Day!](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/personal-assistant-awards-2026-what-a-day/): We are thrilled to share that 22 Personal Assistants were nominated this year from 38 respondents, recognising the dedication, compassion,... - [Street audit - Spotlight on Scaffolding ](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/street-audit-spotlight-on-scaffolding/): Our street audit focused on scaffolding made the cover of the Perthshire Advertiser. - [Film Making Workshop](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/film-making-workshop/): Register now for this free film making workshop in April in Perth! Get in touch with info@cilpk. org. uk - [Spotlight on Scaffolding](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/spotlight-on-scaffolding/): Spotlight on Scaffolding: The Hidden Risks for People With Low Vision and Blind Pedestrians - [Milnathort Access Audit](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/milnathort-access-audit/): In partnership with Perth & Kinross Council, Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross along with 2 of its members... - [Personal Assistant Awards 2026](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/personal-assistant-awards-2026/): Its time to nominate who you think is deserving of the Personal Assistants Award 2026. - [Hear Our Roar February 2026 - Transport](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar-february-2026-transport/): Today we had Patrick from ScotRail who is the accessibility and inclusion manager at ScotRail. - [Discover Digital Workshop](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/discover-digital-workshop-2/): We have an exciting free workshop on May 21st 2026 that will be delivered by Alliance Scotland. - [Toilets Around Perth Event](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/toilets-around-perth-event/): A free event in the Perth Civic Hall that needs YOU to attend. As an organisational charity (user-led) operating in... - [Building better support together consultation](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/building-better-support-together-consultation/): Perth & Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership, along with our voluntary sector partners, are inviting people with physical, visual,... - [Learning Disability Party - Silent Disco](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/learning-disability-party-silent-disco/): With support from Perth & Kinross Council and the Community Engagement team we helped organise a Christmas party for some... - [Christmas Social](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/christmas-social/): What a fabulous and fun-filled time our Christmas Social was on December 17th 2025. - [Newsletter number 3 from Liz](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/newsletter-number-3-from-liz/): Liz has very kindly with the help of her assistant Amendra written another newsletter for us. This, her third newsletter - [Liz's Christmas Newsletter 2025](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/lizs-christmas-newsletter-2025/): For Liz, Christmas was not simply a series of events marked on a calendar. Each session, she attended and represented... - [Crafting at CATH CONNECT](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/crafting-at-cath-connect/): It was nice to work with local charity CATH (Churches Action for the Homeless) at their CATH CONNECT shop in... - [Our AGM 2025 - TeaCakes & Pie Charts](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/our-agm-2025-teacakes-pie-charts/): On November 30th 2025 Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross held their Annual General Meeting entitled TeaCakes & Pie... - [World Toilet Day - November 19th](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/world-toilet-day-november-19th/): Staff and members of Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross will commemorate this day by having time together reviewing... - [Hear Our Roar - October 2025](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar-october-2025/): This months Hear Our Roar saw us discuss Statement 6 in the Charter for Involvement. - [CareSound Radio Interview](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/caresound-radio-interview/): Our CareSound Radio Talkback host Caroline Cooper talks to CILPK to help raise awareness for their Toilets Around Perth campaign. - [Toilets Around Perth - Your Photos](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/toilets-around-perth-your-photos/): Send us your photos of toilets around Perth - [Get Online Week 2025](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/get-online-week/): Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross are hosting 2 events during Get Online Week which takes place October 20th... - [Moments that matter](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/moments-that-matter/): Welcome to the second edition of our newsletter, co-authored by Amendra Konara and Liz Donnachie. In this issue, we are... - [Learning Disability Week 2025 - Perth Civic Hall](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/learning-disability-week-2025-perth-civic-hall/): As part of Learning Disability Week 2025 we at Centre for Inclusive Living and a number of our members could... - [Home fire safety visits](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/home-fire-safety-visits/): A Home Fire Safety Visit is carried out by Scottish Fire Service staff for people at the highest risk of... - [Communication Access UK](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/communication-access-uk/): Millions of people across the UK experience communication difficulties every day. The Communication Access Symbol and training will support inclusive... - [Easy Read images](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/easy-read-images/): We want to hear your thoughts on easy-read images. These are pictures used in documents to help explain words and... - [Learning Disability Week](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/learning-disability-week/): Come along for a friendly chat, a cuppa, and the chance to share your thoughts. We want to hear from... - [Hear Our Roar - August 2025](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar-august-2025/): Keith and Asha from Perth Fire Station presented some safety information to the group in the form of an informative... - [Techy Tea Party](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/techy-tea-party/): We have a Techy Tea Party coming up on September 24th 11am-1pm, its FREE, there will be advice when exploring - [Living Streets Event](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/living-streets-event/): We have arranged for Robert Weetman from Living Streets Scotland to talk about pavement/road accessibility next Thursday, 21st August between... - [Newsletter from Liz](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/newsletter-from-liz/): We are pleased to introduce this new newsletter, which will be published every six weeks and co authored by Liz... - [Toilets Around Perth Campaign](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/toilets-around-perth-campaign-post/): We are introducing a Toilet awareness campaign within the Perth area for better facilities or existing ones to be re-opened... - [Social outing July 2025](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/social-outing-july-2025/): Social Outing - On a very hot July day we all met together by the new Museum. - [Disability Champions](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/disability-champions/): Normally within our Disability Champions meetings at the Centre for Inclusive Living (CILPK) we get round the table together with - [Hear Our Roar - June 2025](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar-june-2025/): June 11th represented 1 year of Hear Our Roar and so that meant balloons and cake! The members of the - [Discover Digital Workshop](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/discover-digital-workshop/): Back in May the Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross, in conjunction with the Health Alliance Scotland ran a - [PKC disability sports Badminton Championships 2025](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/pkc-disability-sports-badminton-championships-2025/): Registration is now open for the 2025 Perth & Kinross Disability Sport (PKDS) Badminton Championships - [Local Bus Services in Perth and Kinross and Limit of Taxi Licences in Perth - Survey](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/local-bus-services-in-perth-and-kinross-and-limit-of-taxi-licences-in-perth-survey/): Get onboard and help shape the future of your local bus and taxi services in Perth and Kinross. - [Nutrition and dietetic service for adults with a learning disability - 2025 Training](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/nutrition-and-dietetic-service-for-adults-with-a-learning-disability-2025-training/): Dundee Health & Social Care Partnership are delighted to announce their 2025 nutrition training package for paid carers of adults - [Trustee Vacancy in Perth](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/trustee-vacancy/): CILPK are in the process of recruiting new Trustees to join the board which currently includes 4 other people including... - [Help spruce up our office with your Photos](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/help-spruce-up-our-office-with-your-photos/): All of us in the office here at The Gateway Centre believe it’s a great place to work but I’m - [Personal Assistants Gathering & Awards 2025](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/personal-assistants-gathering-awards-2025/): We are so grateful to everyone who joined us for our very first Health and Social Care Personal Assistants Gathering - [Learn My Way invitation to Members](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/learn-my-way-invitation-to-members/): Learn My Way sessions are starting! We are happy to tell you that our Learn My Way sessions are starting - [Meet Rowan our Outreach Worker](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/meet-rowan-our-outreach-worker/): For those of you who may not know me, I’m Rowan Davidson and have been working at CILPK for just - [What does independence mean?](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/what-does-independence-mean/): Independence means being able to do things by yourself without needing too much help from others. It is about making - [Community Peer Research - reflections on the impact of ISPA](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/in-conversation-with-irene-dianne/): On seventh March, Community Peer Researcher (CPR) Irene and ISPA Research Fellow Dr Dianne Theakstone, co-presented at an International Women’s... - [Trip to CareSound Radio](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/trip-to-caresound-radio/): Various members and the office staff were treated today to a showround at CareSound Radio in Perth - [Deaf Awareness week May 5th-11th](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/deaf-awareness-week-may-5th-11th/): It is Deaf Awareness Week! This year’s theme is ‘Beyond Silence’ and encourages greater understanding of the diverse ways in - [Hear Our Roar - Chairperson Elections](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar-chairperson-elections/): Hear Our Roar Chairperson elections – February 2025 Below are some photos of the meeting we had in February 2025 - [Opening of Destiny Bridge - wheelchair users](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/opening-of-destiny-bridge-wheelchair-users/): The Destiny Bridge is due to open this Spring, there is a grand opening on March 31st, they are looking - [Circles of Support](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/circles-of-support/): There is a drop in session at The Y Centre, Atholl Street, Perth on March 4th 2025 for those with... - [Pavement Parking in Scotland](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/pavement-parking-in-scotland/): The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 makes it illegal to park on the pavement in Scotland, as well as parking at - [Free digital training for over 65s](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/free-digital-training-for-over-65s/): Need help with Emails or to order something online. - [Free support from AbilityNet](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/free-support-from-abilitynet/): AbilityNet offer free digital skills training sessions in partnership with BT - [Hear Our Roar - November 2024](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar-november-2024/): Today we are delighted to have Ali who is the Chair of the Dundee Local National Involvement Network - [Hear Our Roar - August 2024](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar-august-2024/): The subject for the group session this time was: 'What makes a good leader. ' - [Hear Our Roar](https://www.cilpk.org.uk/hear-our-roar-june24/): 1st Meeting - Hear Our Roar is a local initiative we have helped to kick off working in partnership with... # # Detailed Content ## Pages Last updated: January 2026 CILPK (Centre for Inclusive Perth & Kinross) is committed to protecting the privacy and personal data of everyone who interacts with us. This statement explains how we collect, use, store, and protect personal information in accordance with the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. 1. Who We Are CILPKWebsite: https://www. cilpk. org. ukWe are a charity organisation supporting people in the Perth & Kinross area. For any data protection queries, you can contact us at:Email: info@cilpk. org. uk 2. What Personal Data We Collect We may collect and process the following categories of personal information: Contact details (name, email address, telephone number, postal address) Information submitted through forms on our website (e. g. , support enquiries, membership forms, volunteer applications) Communication preferences Technical and usage information, such as IP address, browser type, and pages viewed (via cookies or analytics tools) Any additional information you choose to provide when you communicate with us 3. How We Use Your Data We process your personal information for the following purposes: To respond to enquiries or requests submitted through our website To provide information about our services, events, or activities (if you have opted in) To administer membership, volunteering, or support services To improve our website and its functionality To meet legal or regulatory obligations We will only use your personal data when we have a lawful basis, such as: Your consent Performance of a contract or service Compliance with a legal obligation... Safeguarding Statement At the Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross (CILPK), we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all disabled people who engage with our services. Our work focuses on empowering individuals to live independently, promoting equality, and breaking down barriers in the community. We take safeguarding seriously. Our team ensures that concerns are listened to, acted upon, and handled with dignity. Through advocacy, information, and accessibility work, we help individuals have their voices heard and access the support they need. If you have any safeguarding concerns, please contact us at:info@cilpk. org. uk | 01738 587282 Lets Make a SplashWe now have a dedicated website for the campaign Toilets Around Perth website We have introduced a Toilet Awareness Campaign entitled Toilets Around Perth. Project Purpose: To identify, map, and evaluate public toilet facilities across Perth, Scotland, improving access to information and encouraging upgrades and maintenance where needed. Being able to find a safe usable toilet while you are out and about is a basic human right. Disabled people and people with learning difficulties are often presented with less of these opportunities and especially at weekends. We (Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross) have introduced an awareness campaign within the Perth area for better facilities or existing ones to be re-opened and re-assessed for accessibility. Attached to this post is an image with a QR Code that you can scan. It will take you to a form where you can Rate a Toilet facility. In fact you might be in one while you read this so take the time now to fill out the form please as we need to start to gather the data from YOU! ! Link to Toilets Around Perth Survey Form Event at Perth Civic Hall in March 2026 If you have trouble scanning this then point your phone camera at the larger QR Code below to take you to the toilet survey. Flushing Out Accessibility: Toilets Around Perth Project – A Community Peer Researcher's audit of everyone's fave topic - public toilets! Looking at Perth, the blog reveals the hidden but crucial... Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross are a member organisation of SDSS ( Self Directed Support Scotland ) What is Self-directed Support (SDS) ? Self-directed Support (SDS) is an approach to social care that puts the person at the centre of the support planning process. It enables people, carers and families to make informed choices about their social care support and how it is delivered. The Social Care (Self-directed Support) (Scotland) Act 2013 ensures that when discharging their duty to support people in need, local authorities do so in a way which offers the person choice, control and flexibility to determine how they wish to receive support. It means that anyone (adult or child) being assessed for care and support via the local authority must be offered more choice about how they receive support. You can now choose from 4 different ways of getting support, these are called ‘SDS options’. What can you use Self-directed Support for? Self-directed Support can be used in many ways. You can get support to live in your own home, such as help with meal preparation, medication and personal hygiene. Out of the home, SDS could support you to go to college, to continue in employment or support you to start a job, or to enjoy leisure pursuits. You might be able to arrange support to help you attend local classes, go swimming, or be a volunteer helping others. SDS could also be used to pay for a short break (respite) or for equipment... MembersAs a user-led organisation, we welcome the support of individuals and organisations through our membership programme. Read More Disability ChampionsA Disability Champion is someone who helps make sure people with disabilities are treated fairly and have the same opportunities as everyone else. Read More Hear Our RoarPeople with learning disabilities have a strong voice, but they often face barriers and are not always taken seriously. Hear our Roar aims to change that. Read More What is a Disability Champion? A Disability Champion is someone who helps make sure people with disabilities are treated fairly and have the same opportunities as everyone else. What does a Disability Champion do? Advocacy: They speak up for people with disabilities to make sure their voices are heard. Support: They provide support and guidance to people with disabilities to help them access services and opportunities. Education: They help raise awareness and educate others about the needs and rights of people with disabilities. Accessibility: They work to make sure buildings, websites, and services are accessible to people with disabilities. Policy: They may work with governments or organisations to develop policies that promote inclusion and equality for people with disabilities. Who can be a Disability Champion? Anyone can be a Disability Champion! It doesn’t matter if you have a disability yourself or not. What matters is that you care about making the world a fairer and more inclusive place for everyone. Why is being a Disability Champion important? Being a Disability Champion is important because it helps create a world where everyone is valued and included, regardless of their abilities. By standing up for the rights of people with disabilities, we can create a more just and compassionate society for all. Your voice matters. Together, we can drive meaningful change by highlighting lived experiences, addressing health inequalities, championing human rights, and influencing policy. Join us and be part of the movement for positive change. Become a Member Below you will find... As a user-led organisation, we welcome the support of individuals and organisations through our membership programme. By becoming a member of the Centre for Inclusive Living, you’ll be part of a network dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities in Perth and Kinross. Your voice matters. Together, we can drive meaningful change by highlighting lived experiences, addressing health inequalities, championing human rights, and influencing policy. Membership is designed to be flexible—so whether you’re managing a busy schedule, living with a disability or long-term condition, or caring for someone, you can engage in ways that work for you. Join us and be part of the movement for positive change. Stay connected on your terms. Whether you prefer to receive updates via our newsletter, participate in group meetings, network with others, or share your experiences through our online groups, you decide how to get involved. For existing Members - Reports and Minutes Members Meeting Minutes and Chairperson/Manager's Report page - Password Protected Become a Member Below you will find in date order the news, events, outings and various other activities that are open to our members. Safe Place is a scheme in Perth that is designed to help vulnerable members of society lead more independent lives and feel safe while out in the community. As a Safe Place, what do you need to do? Offer assistance - whether this be a glass of water or phoning a trusted contact, or emergency services Let the person tell you what they need, at their own pace and in their own way Be kind and considerate :) The Safe Place Scheme helps make our communities safer and more welcoming for everyone. Shops, cafés, businesses, and organisations can sign up to be a Safe Place. This means if someone is feeling worried, lost, or upset while they are out, they can look for the Safe Place logo, go inside, and get help straight away. The scheme gives people peace of mind and helps them feel more confident and independent. To keep the scheme strong, we need kind and skilled staff in venues to join as members. By joining, your venue will be offering even better customer service. If you’d like to know more, get in touch to arrange a visit from our team. Your Safe Place will receive: a window sticker postcards a staff notice These will help you support the scheme. Check back for more about Liz, a valued member of Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross and also Co-Chair of Hear Our Roar. We have attached Liz's first newsletter that she has written with the help of Amendra Konara who supports her. We are pleased to introduce this new newsletter, which will be published every six weeks and co authored by Liz Donnachie and Amendra Konara. Each issue will highlight the range of activities that Liz has recently participated in, showcasing the many opportunities available within our community. The purpose of this newsletter is to encourage and inspire others to take part in more activities, whether they relate to health and wellbeing, learning, volunteering, or community engagement. Liz-StoryDownload Liz's Newsletter Become a MemberWithin Liz's newsletter she highlighted some of the benefits of being a member of Centre for Inclusive Living, click the button to find out more. Read More This content is password-protected. To view it, please enter the password below. Password: Hear our Roar is part of the Perth and Kinross National Involvement Network. Hear Our Roar : Over the past year, Perth & Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) has been working closely with the Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK) to create Hear Our Roar, a group for adults with learning disabilities living in Perth and Kinross. Important InformationFor the most up to date information, meeting dates and places please go to our dedicated website for Hear Our RoarHear Our Roar website Chairperson Elections took place on February 12th 2025, we now have Chairs and Co-Chairs in place, voted by and taken up by members of the group. The goal of this group is to ensure their voices are heard People with learning disabilities have a strong voice, but they often face barriers and are not always taken seriously. Hear our Roar aims to change that. It provides a safe space for members to speak up, connect with leaders and influence decisions that affect their lives. From the start, it was agreed this group should be led by people with learning disabilities. After three successful meetings at the Y Centre in Perth, the first meeting of 2025 was a big moment—members voted for their new leaders! Hear our Roar is a safe space for people to share ideas, concerns, and opinions, ensuring that issues affecting people with learning disabilities get the attention they deserve. With our new leaders now in place, we’re excited to see what the future... Current Month juneChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth 11jun11:00 AM12:30 PMDisability Champions Event DetailsJune Meeting for Disability Champions Event Details June Meeting for Disability Champions Time11/06/2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM(GMT+00:00) LocationChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth Learn More CalendarGoogleCal Get Directions Address - Disability Champions Destination Address - Disability Champions july 09jul10:00 AM11:30 AMTrustees MeetingMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Event DetailsMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Event Details Mindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Time09/07/2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM(GMT+00:00) LocationMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. CalendarGoogleCal ChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth 15jul10:00 AM11:30 AMMembers MeetingAt the Chapterhouse Event DetailsChapterhouse, The Gateway Event Details Chapterhouse, The Gateway Time15/07/2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM(GMT+00:00) LocationChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth Learn More CalendarGoogleCal Get Directions Address - Members Meeting Destination Address - Members Meeting augustChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth 05aug11:00 AM12:00 PMHear Our RoarAugust Meeting at The Chapterhouse, St Ninians Cathedral - 11am Time05/08/2026 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM(GMT+00:00) LocationChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth Learn More CalendarGoogleCal Get Directions Address - Hear Our Roar Destination Address - Hear Our Roar 13aug11:00 AM12:30 PMDisability ChampionsMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Event DetailsMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. August Meeting for Disability Champions Event Details Mindspace Training Room, The Gateway. August Meeting for Disability Champions Time13/08/2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM(GMT+00:00) LocationMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Learn More CalendarGoogleCal september 10sep10:00 AM11:30 AMTrustees MeetingMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Event DetailsMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Event Details Mindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Time10/09/2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM(GMT+00:00) LocationMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. CalendarGoogleCal 16sep10:00 AM11:30 AMMembers... This content is password-protected. To view it, please enter the password below. Password: Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK) is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually improving the user experience for everyone and applying the relevant accessibility standards. We use the Accessibility Widget from called Ally by Elementor on our website. Conformance status The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) defines requirements for designers and developers to improve accessibility for people with disabilities. It defines three levels of conformance: Level A, Level AA, and Level AAA. Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross is making constant efforts to improve the accessibility of its site and services in the belief that it is our collective moral obligation to allow seamless, accessible, and unhindered use for those of us with disabilities. We aim to make all pages and content on https://www. cilpk. org. uk/ accessible, but some content may not yet fully meet the highest accessibility standards. This could be due to challenges in identifying the most suitable technological solution. We may revise this Statement periodically to reflect improvements or changes to our accessibility practices. Feedback We welcome your feedback on the accessibility of Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross website. Please let us know if you encounter accessibility barriers on our website: E-mail: info@cilpk. org. uk We try to respond to feedback within 3–5 business days. This statement was created on 19/2/2025. Meet Alison - CILPK Member and Trustee My name is Alison Elizabeth Fisher I was born in Perth. As a kid growing up in Perth, attended Caledonian Primary School and Perth High School. After leaving school I did work experience ( Youth Opportunities Scheme ) at Almondbank House in North Muirton which was a residential home for Adults with learning disabilities. For 2 years after my placement I continued for sometime doing voluntary work there while I was attending Perth College doing Pre Nursing, 2 year course. After I completed my course at Perth College, I got a job in North Inch House as a care assistant, which I did for about 3 to 4 years. In the late 80’s I got the chance to go to live in the United States of America as a nanny. I got the job through a contact my Aunt had as a hospice volunteer. I loved my job with my host family it was only short term job but it was a great experience and I still keep in touch with the family too. I saw them when I was over in September this year. I came back home to Scotland in the early 90’s and came back and moved back in with my Mum and in early September I got a job in Upperspringland Perth, Capability Scotland, as a support worker. It was a relief post at first but eventually I got a full time post. Over a period of time I... Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & KinrossAt Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK), we work with local services and organisations to improve access, enhance experiences, and help people with disabilities to live independently with the support they need. Hear Our Roar Toilets Around Perth Campaign Safe Place Members StoriesClick on the members for more Upcoming Meetings Current MonthjuneChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth 11jun11:00 AM12:30 PMDisability Champions Event DetailsJune Meeting for Disability Champions Event Details June Meeting for Disability Champions Time11/06/2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM(GMT+00:00) LocationChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth Learn More CalendarGoogleCal Get Directions Address - Disability Champions Destination Address - Disability Champions july 09jul10:00 AM11:30 AMTrustees MeetingMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Event DetailsMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Event Details Mindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Time09/07/2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM(GMT+00:00) LocationMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. CalendarGoogleCal ChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth 15jul10:00 AM11:30 AMMembers MeetingAt the Chapterhouse Event DetailsChapterhouse, The Gateway Event Details Chapterhouse, The Gateway Time15/07/2026 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM(GMT+00:00) LocationChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth Learn More CalendarGoogleCal Get Directions Address - Members Meeting Destination Address - Members Meeting augustChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth 05aug11:00 AM12:00 PMHear Our RoarAugust Meeting at The Chapterhouse, St Ninians Cathedral - 11am Time05/08/2026 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM(GMT+00:00) LocationChapterhouseSt Ninians Cathedral, Perth Learn More CalendarGoogleCal Get Directions Address - Hear Our Roar Destination Address - Hear Our Roar 13aug11:00 AM12:30 PMDisability ChampionsMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. Event DetailsMindspace Training Room, The Gateway. August Meeting for Disability Champions Event Details Mindspace Training Room, The... Annual Report 2023 to 2024 Annual Review. 2023 - 2024 docx Annual Review. 2023 - 2024 pdfDownload COURSE ACTIVITIES Introduction Introduction to Positive Behaviour Support Training Lessons Course Overview Understanding Behaviours of Concern Consultation and Intervention Implementing Behavioural Support Strategies Responding to Critical Incidents Monitoring Strategies for Ongoing Effectiveness Recognising and Reporting Changes https://cloudassess. com/course-library/positive-behaviour-support-people-disabilities (Image by www. freepik. com) Cindy Godfrey-McKay our Current Chairperson Cindy describes how her eyesight as registered blind with about 15% residual vision, depending on the light. During our interview, Cindy discusses her journey with her vision impairment and its impact on her career and family life. Following her secondary education at the Royal Blind School in Edinburgh, where she describes that she learned resilience and independence, along with her peers, that she feels she wouldn’t have got in a non-mainstream setting. Her family has a history of visual impairment, with both her parents and 3 grand parents registered blind. She says that she grew up in a very supportive, yet independent environment. Cindy gained wide experience in employment – including working as a shipping clerk, legal secretary, operations manager, and ultimately achieving her ambition to work as a qualified Chartered Physiotherapist. Cindy’s journey to becoming a physiotherapist involved overcoming obstacles, including a fusion operation on her toe which nearly resulted in its loss. Family Dynamics and Disability ExperiencesCindy’s parents were both registered blind and, along with many other relatives, attended the blind workshops in Dundee, highlighting a family history of visual impairment. Her 3 children, include 41 year-old Kerry, who, following her education at the Worcester College for the Blind has worked as a visually impaired teacher of mobility and daily living skills for over 17 years at The Royal National College for the Blind. Cindy’s middle child, 35 year-old Kay was diagnosed with ADHD and autism last year and now has her business... Digital Unite's award-winning range of 400+ how-to guides covers a whole host of digital topics. These guides are perfect for supporting others with digital skills or improving your own knowledge. https://www. digitalunite. com/technology-guides Computer EssentialsIt’s easier to get to grips with computers than a lot of people think. Here’s how to get started. View Guides Making and Saving Money OnlineThese guides will show you some safe and easy ways to make and save money online. View Guides Microsoft OfficeEasy-to-follow guides on using Microsoft Office programs including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Teams. View Guides Email and WhatsAppStaying in touch has never been easier or cheaper. These easy-to-follow guides will help you take advantage of email and WhatsApp. View Guides Using the InternetThese guides will give you all the tools you need to get online and become a confident internet user. View Guides Internet SecurityThese essential guides will help you understand the simple basic principles for staying safe online. View Guides Smartphones and TabletsSmartphones and tablets are the a handy way to get online. Our guides will help you get started with choosing and using these mobile devices. View Guides Health and FitnessThese guides will help you find out how to use the internet to help you with your health or fitness. View Guides Music and AudioMusic, audiobooks – you name it, it’s all on the internet and really easy to get hold of and download. Here’s how. View Guides TV and VideoIt’s now possible to watch TV programmes you’ve missed and... Online Help make the world a little more autism friendlyhttps://freecoursesinscotland. co. uk/autism/ This page serves as a Personal Assistants Resource Hub, listing information and resources that have been sourced by staff, people who need support and volunteers in the Perth & Kinross area. The information has been gathered in partnership with PKAVS and Support Choices. Local learningOpportunities for learning within the Perth & Kinross area. Read More National learningOpportunities for learning within Scotland. Read More TopicsVarious topics of interest to the PA Community. Read More Online coursesOnline courses to enhance personal development. Read More Digital skillsFree learning and How-to guides to enhance your digital knowledge. Read More Useful AppsApps that are useful, get in touch if you know any more. Read More Local Learning Opportunities HSCP on EventbritePerth Autism eventsAutism training HSCP Learning & Development Events - Upcoming Activities and Tickets | Eventbrite Perth Autism Support events Autism Training for Organisations National Learning Opportunities PA HandbookSDSS E-LearningPA Network ScotlandTraining Locator for PAsTraining for Care (TFC Scotland) courseAlzheimer's ScotlandDementia careAutism courseEpilepsy Awareness – The BasicsPalliative Care Learning Hub The Personal Assistants Handbook from Self Directed Support Scotland https://handbook. scot/the-pa-handbook/ Self Directed Support Scotland’s e-learning site https://learning. handbook. scot/ At PANS, you’ll find vacancies in your region, information about employment, training and your health & wellbeing as well as, special offers available only to members. Please note, you have to be working as a PA to apply for your FREE membership. https://panetworkscotland. org. uk/ We are now able to offer 10 core Certificated Awareness Modules for PAs across Scotland. These Modules have been chosen because our... Disability Champion I’m Georgie. I’m 28 and I live in Perth . I have had Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy since I was born so I’m quite used to having to adjust my environment to suit my needs. This is why I have enjoyed being part of the Centre for Inclusive Living group for many years now, where I am acknowledged to be an expert of my own experiences and my needs. I feel CILPK gives me a platform to raise awareness for the people in our community who live with disabilities. CILPK has given me a community of people who understand the access issues and inequalities I have faced; and a support network of people who are willing to work together to improve these issues. I am excited to continue working with CILPK to raise community awareness, challenge discrimination and ensure facilities are in place for people who have varying support needs. Outside of CILPK, I enjoy being involved with a few other volunteer groups. Since 2012, I have been a member of the Straight Talking Group- a research group at Dundee University, who work to improve communication skills of doctors, medical students and teachers; as well as providing insight on matters of complex communication needs to teams of P. H. D. students who seek to develop improved software and devices . We dedicate a lot of time to help to provide training to multiple groups on the issues that face people with complex communication needs. I also love to volunteer... Disability Champion My work life was mainly admin in various industries - game & venison; decorative glass and whisky. I loved my jobs, meeting people and learning new skills. However about 10 years ago, having no history of ill health I was diagnosed with MS! This was a hard thing to hear however although it was, I have challenged it - I have it but it doesn’t have me! Having had a long time off work prior to finishing & during the settling in period to my new life, I went on to volunteering following a course at ‘Mindspace’ & have never looked back - having completed many courses there, my favourite is Mindfulness. Then ‘Positive Choices’ (disbanded due to lack of funding but I still keep in touch with some of the members); ‘Independent Advocacy’ (advocacy trained); ‘CILPK’ (member, Champion & peer support); ‘Mindspace’ (volunteer facilitator, trained peer support worker); ‘Neuro Central’ (member and former Friends of Neuro Central ‘friends of... ’ coordinator) and latterly ‘Perthshire Welfare Society’ - formerly an ethnic minority group now open to the wider community creating a blended group of hope and positivity to eliminate loneliness/isolation. My interests are reading (nothing too heavy - my favourite author is Cecilia Ahern), wild swimming (all year and winter is my favourite season: breaking the ice), cooking, gardening and socialising. Sometimes I feel like a fraud until I’m late with my meds, then I get a reminder but I’m still standing! Trustee and Disability Champion "Various members of my family were born with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a disease that means the body produces faulty collagen. Then at 15 I was "lucky" enough to develop systemic lupus after a relatively mild flu! The lupus wasn't diagnosed until I was in my early 20s so things started looking up when I was finally on the right treatment. I went to the University of Glasgow to get my B. Sc. in anatomy and more recently completed my Masters in biomedical sciences. Unfortunately it has been very difficult finding work in my field with few enough hours that also meet my access needs. I got involved with CILPK almost by chance; I didn't know it existed until I heard about the Stagecoach open day in 2019 and met Mel and Gillian, and I was keen to get involved. Everyone has been so welcoming, and taking part in all sorts of activities with CILPK has worked wonders on my confidence. 10 years ago, I'd never have believed that I would be doing a lot of what I do with the group and certainly not becoming a trustee or treasurer! I am much more likely now to give new things a try. As well as knowing that we are making changes in Perth and Kinross, it has made a big difference to me to meet other local disabled people. As an autistic person, I found socialising very difficult as a teenager and young adult, and I think CILPK... Meet DuncanTrustee and Disability Champion Duncan joined the Centre for Inclusive Living over five years ago when his friend, Bob Bennett, encouraged him to come along to a meeting. He lives in Perth and is supported by a team of Personal Assistants. Duncan enjoys getting around and being as independent as possible. He uses a communication aid to have conversations and he has some of his stories saved ready to play for people he meets. Duncan is one of our Trustees and is always keen to raise issues and share tips with our other members. He has a lively sense of humour and finds the funny side of the many difficult situations he has found himself in. Duncan is keen to share some of his stories with everyone and so we are working on an article for our website together with his team, and will publish on our website soon. * indicates required Email Address *Marketing PermissionsCentre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing. Please let us know all the ways you would like to hear from us:EmailDirect MailCustomized online advertising You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at info@cilpk. org. uk. We will treat your information with respect. For more information about our privacy practices please visit our website. By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms. We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Learn more about Mailchimp's privacy practices. /* real people should not fill this in and expect good things - do not remove this or risk form bot signups */ National Lottery"We are grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact and extend our heartfelt thanks to the Community Fund" Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care PartnershipThe Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership is made up of representatives from Perth and Kinross Council, NHS Tayside and other community partners. The Gannochy TrustThe Gannochy Trust is a registered charity (SC003133) based in Perth, Scotland. Our Partners National Involvement NetworkThe National Involvement Network (NIN) is a network of people with additional support needs. Disability Equality ScotlandWe are a membership organisation for disabled people and disability groups/organisations. Support ChoicesWe give free and independent information and advice about getting social care and community support in Perth and Kinross. Self Directed Support ScotlandWe link national policy and local experience to improve the implementation of Self-directed Support. Health and Social Care Alliance ScotlandThe national third sector intermediary for a range of people and organisations who share our vision. PKAVSPKAVS is a large Perthshire charity helping people to flourish and communities to thrive throughout Perth & Kinross, for over 50-years. At Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross we provide walk-through access audits. Walk-through access audits are where members of Centre for Inclusive Living P & K accompanied by their staff walk-through and experience a space or environment. The Centre for Inclusive Living P & K staff take notes based upon the member's experience and findings. This type of audit generally takes two to three hours to complete, depending on the type and size of premises or venue being audited. Access audits can include Wayfinding: Directional signage, maps and guides, etc. Physical Features: accessible car parking, dropped kerbs, street surface, etc. Visual Features: Tonal contrast and pattern, lighting, crossings, etc. Example: The Golden Route On the 17th of May 2023, the members of CILPK met with Alan from Perth Kinross Council to look at the ongoing plans for the Golden Route. After our meeting, the organisation did an access audit of this Route. The Golden Route begins from Perth Train Station and ends at Perth Art Gallery. It is used regularly by locals and tourists alike. The Perth and Kinross Council’s objective is to create clear points of arrival, make use of natural assets to improve the overall quality of streets, public spaces and key landmarks. Centre for Inclusive Living P & K's contribution will ensure that accessibility be improved as regards to the Golden Route so that it is easy to navigate for all. Our members shared their valuable insight regarding the route and hope that the improvements pave... What do we mean by "Fundraising"? Fundraising is when an individual or group gather voluntary contributions of money for a non-profit making organisation. With the funds gathered the organisation is then able to continue their work or carry out new projects. What is the main purpose of Fundraising? The main purpose of a fundraising is to raise awareness and donations for an organisation's mission. Find out more about our mission at Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross: What we do We are grateful for your interest to fundraise for Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross! Whether it is your first time doing a fundraiser or you have run one before, CILPK is here to support you on your journey and help you to maximise your fundraising efforts. You can become one of our Fundraising Champions! Don’t hesitate to contact us with your story. We are happy to give you a big SHOUT OUT on our website, social media platforms, newsletter and at our meetings! Fundraise Would you like to Fundraise for us? We're happy to support you through it! Learn more Get Involved Would you like to be a member or a trustee for our organisation? Learn more Find out more about our SupportersGet in touch if you would like to support, fund or partner with us. Who are our supporters? Find out more Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross is a User-led organisation led by our Members. Click on the Members below to reveal more of their story. May 2026 Newsletter Shall we talk politics? May has been quite the political month in Scotland, the UK and the rest of the world which is why we are starting off this Newsletter with a link to ‘Everyone’s Vote Matters’ Read it here April 2026 Newsletter Phew, that was a busy March and April for us here at CILPK! Helping to organise 2 high profile events in Perth Civic Hall, the launch of 2 new dedicated websites, funding applications, end-of-year accounts, a scaffolding audit / Perthshire Advertiser article and to finish off a migration from Google to Microsoft! Read it here March 2026 Newsletter We are getting out and about this March with two events that we are heavily involved in. The Personal Assistant Awards for 2026 and our campaign for Toilets Around Perth driven by our very own Disability Champions. Read it here February 2026 Newsletter The sun is out as I write this and feeling hopeful for Spring which should be just around the corner. A relief after all this rain. At our last Hear Our Roar meeting we had Patrick, the Accessibility and Inclusion Manager at ScotRail who gave an excellent presentation. More information below about Accessible Train Travel aimed at people who need assistance. Two events that we are involved in are coming up in March. The Personal Assistant Awards for 2026 and our campaign for Toilets Around Perth driven by our very own Disability Champions. Both events are in Perth Civic Hall, so more details about them... Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross(CILPK) evolved from Perth and Kinross Access Group(PKAG), a user led disabled access organisation 1982PKAG founded in 1982 2010PKAG moved offices We moved to 90 Tay Street in 2010 with one employee August 2010Second employee recruitedWork increased within the charity July, 2012The organisation changed its nameFrom Perth and Kinross Access Group(PKAG) to Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross(CILPK). May, 2023CILPK moved officesFrom 90 Tay Street to The Gateway Centre at North Methven Street. CILPK are still the access panel within the area and also deal with equality issues and have taken on many projects relating to disability. CILPK are registered with Disability Equality Scotland, the umbrella organisation for the access panel network. CILPK, a membership organisation, aims to represent disabled individuals’ views in Perth & Kinross accurately. Our upcoming initiatives will focus on fostering independence by providing necessary assistance, ensuring that disabled individuals’ rights to fair treatment in all aspects of life are not merely discussed but actually accomplished. CILPK is dedicated to achieving meaningful outcomes! CILPK is an independent third sector organisation which liaises closely with a number of partners in the public, private and third sectors. Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK), drives change by partnering with local services to break down barriers, improve accessibility, and empower people with disabilities to live independently. We do not operate as a care provider delivering personal assistance, housing provision or health-related services. Our primary role is advocacy, information, and promoting independent living. Here’s what the organisation does: Advocacy and Equality Issues: We help individuals and groups raise concerns, campaign for accessibility, and promote equality across services. Information and Advice: We provide guidance on self-directed support (SDS) and help people understand their rights and options for care. Accessibility Work: We conduct audits, advise businesses and local authorities on making environments accessible, and run disability awareness training. Community Engagement: Organising campaigns, meetings, and social gatherings to amplify the voices of disabled people. We look to promote Independent Living in a wide range of ways including: Equality Issues/Advocacy We deal with individual and group issues that are reported to us to help promote equality across all areas. We also help support individuals with any issues that they have to make sure their voice is heard. Get in touch Self Directed Support We provide information to people wanting to know about self-directed support and help to people who have issues or questions regarding their care. Click Here to find out more about SDS Scotland Community access We work with public, private and voluntary sector organisations to advise them on the best ways to make their businesses accessible to all. We provide... Find out how to Get Involved Chair and Trustees Cindy Godfrey-McKayChairpersonMore about Cindy here . . Evander CobbanTreasurerMore about Evander here . . Dianne TheakstoneTrustee Duncan IrvineTrusteeMore about Duncan here . . Office Staff Sheila MackayManager Simon MurrayAdmin / Comms Rowan DavidsonOutreach Worker Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross Our website address is: https://www. cilpk. org. uk. CILPK is committed to protecting your privacy. We only collect the personal information we need to provide our services, respond to enquiries, and improve our website. We keep your data secure and never sell it to third parties. We may use cookies to help improve your browsing experience. You can manage these through your browser settings. You have the right to access, correct, or request deletion of your personal information at any time. This page serves as a vital resource hub, delivering a wealth of information, services, and strategies tailored to enhance the lives of people with disabilities in the Perth & Kinross area. Visitors can access in-depth information on various support services and initiatives that aim to promote accessibility, independence, and equality. TransportAccess various travel services for disabled individuals in Scotland, including bus passes, parking assistance, community car schemes, and passenger support for train travel. Read More ToiletsFind ways to access accessible toilets through schemes like the Radar Key, 'Can't Wait' toilet passes, and facilities offering toilet access without service usage. Read More StrategiesExplore initiatives like 'The Keys to Life' and the Physical Disability Strategy, addressing health inequalities, care contributions, and improving the lives of people with disabilities. Read More ActivitiesEngage in community discussions and activities, access an Access Guide, and benefit from the Cinema Card for enhanced participation and enjoyment. Read More AdaptationsAvail services like the JELS for equipment loans and the Community Alarm for emergency assistance related to physical disabilities. Read More InformationGain insights into laws like the Equality Act, human rights, and the Social and Medical Model, which address discrimination and societal barriers faced by disabled individuals. Read More Transport Bus PassBlue BadgeCommunity Car SchemeShop MobilityPassenger AssistanceThistle AssistanceMotaClarityTrainline Bus Pass - Bus pass for people with disabilities for free travel in and around Scotland. A companion concession card may be available for those requiring a companion for travel.   Blue Badge - The Blue Badge scheme is designed to... Wheelchair accessible taxi services in Perth and Kinross, get in touch if you would like yours added to this list. COMPANY PHONE NUMBER ENTRANCE for WHEELCHAIR Radio Taxis 01738 580058 Back JJ Tosh 07900 565652 Back Kevin Dickson 07727 625720 01738 630962 Back A and B Taxis 01738 446688 Side and Back Peter Milne 07738 121689 Back Ian Montgomery 07854 853169 Back Independent Living is a right shared by everyone in Scotland.   It is a legal right and a human right. It means we are all entitled to have choice, control, dignity and freedom over our own lives so that we can participate in society as equal citizens. That means disabled people and those with long-term conditions too.   However, many disabled people find it difficult or impossible to participate fully in society. Whether in learning, working, volunteering, taking part in politics or sport many disabled people are denied access to opportunities or do not achieve the same results as other people who are not disabled.   There are lots of reasons for this including policies and practices that discriminate against disabled people, people’s attitudes and of course poorly designed and managed buildings, streets, buses and trains. The basic rights of independent living Human rights and rights to independent living mean that disabled people should be have access to the right support and practical assistance, at the right time, in order to participate in society. This support includes things like access to education and employment, accessible and adapted housing, technical aids, communication support, information, advocacy, personal assistance and full access to transport and the built environment. Working together In Scotland there is a movement of disabled people and their organisations, including Access Panels, which aim to work together to overcome these barriers. They also aim to help service providers to get better at what they do. There are many laws, regulations,... Mailing AddressCentre for Inclusive Living Perth and KinrossThe GatewayNorth Methven StreetPerth PH1 5PP Call or EmailCalls: 01738 587282WhatsApp and Texts: 07751559007Email: info@cilpk. org. uk Office Hours All calls, messages and emails are answered during work hours. Monday - Wednesday 9:00am - 5:00pmThursday - Friday 9:00am - 1:00pm Please note that some of our staff work on a flexible schedule part time and may be finished at 1pm. Subscribe to our Monthly Newsletter: In our monthly newsletter, we might cover: The latest news A summary of the month's past events Spotlight story articles on a CILPK member Upcoming local events and consultations Click here to subscribe to our monthly newsletter If you would like to get involved as a volunteer, member or trustee at Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross. Please do not hesitate to contact us. CILPK does not sell, trade or rent your personal information to others. Your details will only be added to our database for communication. Becoming a Member As a user-led organisation, we welcome the support of individuals and organisations through our membership programme. By becoming a member of the Centre for Inclusive Living, you’ll be part of a network dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities in Perth and Kinross. Your voice matters. Together, we can drive meaningful change by highlighting lived experiences, addressing health inequalities, championing human rights, and influencing policy. Membership is designed to be flexible—so whether you’re managing a busy schedule, living with a disability or long-term condition, or caring for someone, you can engage in ways that work for you. Stay connected on your terms. Whether you prefer to receive updates via our newsletter, participate in group meetings, network with others, or share your experiences through our online groups, you decide how to get involved. Join us and be part of the movement for positive change. As a member you could: Help us work on issues relating to disability inclusion and equality Carry out campaigns based on local issues Help deliver disability awareness training to improve local services Attend members meetings and social gatherings Newsletters If you would like to become a member, you can contact us directly via email or phone (07751 559007). We will help you fill out our membership forms. Become a member of the Centre for Inclusive Living Alternatively, you can fill out the Membership Form online, along with the Data Protection Form: Become a MemberClick Here to fill out the form, it's free... CILPK look to promote Independent Living in a wide range of ways including: Equality Issues/Advocacy We deal with individual and group issues that are reported to us to help promote equality across all areas. We also help support individuals with any issues that they have to make sure their voice is heard. Self Directed Support We provide information to people wanting to know about self-directed support and help to people who have issues or questions regarding their care. Community access We work with public, private and voluntary sector organisations to advise them on the best ways to make their businesses accessible to all. We provide audits and surveys of premises and work with the local authority to make sure new plans are accessible for all. Local Campaigns Issues are identified by our members and we help give them the platform to campaign and drive the need for change in the area. Campaigns have included parking and advertising boards 3rd Party Reporting People can report hate crime from the safety of our office rather than having to go to the police station. Keep Safe Scheme The Keep Safe scheme helps people feel safer and more confident when out and about in the community by having their own personalised cards and businesses displaying the logo and offering help. Awareness Raising and Training We provide disability awareness training to raise the understanding that people have of disabilities. Centre for Inclusive Living ( CILPK ) evolved from Perth and Kinross Access group which was founded in 1982 to promote access in all environments. The name was changed to Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross in July 2012 allowing the Centre to focus on all elements of a disabled person’s life and to promote Independent Living. Our History Timeline CILPK is a unique organisation as it is independent from all other organisations. It is user led by members who have a wide range of disabilities and their issues drive the centres work. This set up allows for the vast experience and knowledge of the members to be utilised in all the projects we do. Membership is open to all disabilities and agesto provide a unified voice to help promote and shape an environment that is inclusive to all. CILPK is an independent third sector organisation which liaises closely with a number of partners in the public, private and third sectors. What we do Our Vision To have a fully inclusive society for all Mission Statement The Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross is a user led organisation where the disabled members drive the need for change in society. Their specialist knowledge empowers them to make the difference in all aspects of life. Objectives The objectives of Centre for Inclusive Living are as follows: Promoting Independent living and inclusion for all disabled people Raising awareness and providing advice to relevant parties on alterations that should be made for... ## Posts This workshop was hosted by the Discover Digital project, Health Alliance Scotland, more info ... This workshop was hosted by the Discover Digital project, more info – https://www. alliance-scotland. org. uk/digital/discover-digital/ Kind thanks to Maisie Peebles for facilitating. Participants were introduced the following tools: Discover Digital Guide - a guide to help people understand and navigate digital health, care and wellbeing tools and services. TryATool resource guide - a booklet that lists trusted apps and websites that support health and wellbeing. Aging Well app - an app designed for people over 45 living with long term conditions. It supports brain health and managing wellbeing. ORCHA app library - an online library that helps people to find trusted apps related to health and wellbeing. Spot the AI - Online quiz to test your knowledge on spotting Artificial Intelligence (AI) in different forms of content (videos, text, speech). Euan's Guide - a website where you can search for information on accessible places. Including places to eat, visit and stay. MyCare. scot - New online platform in Scotland, where you can access health and social care information and services. Help and support here. The filmmaking workshop was genuinely fabulous—not just because of what people learned, but because of how thoughtfully it was designed. Thank you to Astar Media Thank you to Keri and Cara from Astar Media who provided the course so skillfully and thoughtfully, adapting it to the needs of our members. From the moment participants arrived, accessibility wasn’t an afterthought; it was built into everything. The space was welcoming and flexible, the equipment adaptable, and the facilitators clearly experienced in meeting people where they were, creatively and practically. What made the workshop shine was the way it empowered participants as filmmakers and storytellers. Instead of focusing on limitations, it centred on ideas, voice, and collaboration. People explored camera work, sound, scripting, and editing in ways that felt hands-on and achievable, with plenty of time to experiment. Support was always available, but it never felt patronising, participants were encouraged to take creative risks and make decisions that reflected their own perspectives. People worked together, shared feedback, and celebrated each other’s successes, whether that was mastering a new piece of kit or screening a finished short film. Feedback from Members thanks for my place in today’s session, it was good fun & informative. Cristina Laughter, focus, and pride filled the room. By the end, it was clear that the workshop hadn’t just taught filmmaking skills; it had built confidence, sparked new ambitions, and reminded everyone that powerful stories come from diverse voices—and deserve to be seen and heard. I felt it went really... Kinross-shire Tri-Shaws and Community Cycling SCIO There is now regular, free, tricycle sessions on offer. These are aimed at anyone that may find it difficult to pedal a standard two wheel bike. Full instruction is on offer and all rides are supported by trained volunteers. At present all rides are on the traffic free Heritage Trail. There is a variety of trikes with seats and saddles as well as a side by side tandem where all that is required is the ability to turn the pedals but with no effort needed - it can also be adjusted so that the other rider is sharing the cycling effort. Starts April 13th till May 29th: Mondays at 2pm, Fridays at 10am, 60 minute session. Plus special sessions, Saturday 2nd,16th and 30th May. Thursday ride: May 7th at 11. 30 Suitable for those with disabilities or health conditions. For more info or to book please contact allability@ktacc. org. uk www. ktacc. org. uk Vision PK are holding a Celebration Walk on Thursday 23rd April at 11am. This is to raise awareness of VisionPK and highlight the daily challenges of living with sight and/or hearing loss. This year, VisionPK proudly celebrates 160 years of service to people living in Perth and Kinross. Since 1866, we have been dedicated to supporting people with sight loss, providing advice, services and practical help to empower people to live full and independent lives. In 2016, we expanded our mission to include hearing loss support, ensuring that people with dual sensory needs or hearing loss receive the guidance and assistance they need to thrive in everyday life. As we mark this incredible milestone, we reflect on the staff, volunteers, and supporters who have shaped VisionPK over the years. Their dedication and compassion have been at the heart of everything we do, helping to create opportunities and improve the quality of life for thousands of people in our community. To celebrate, we invite you to join us at our celebration event on Tuesday 21st April, from 12pm - 2pm at our sensory hub in Perth. Come and share stories of the past, celebrate our achievements, and look forward to the future of VisionPK. Celebration Walk on Thursday 23rd April at 11am We will also be holding a Celebration Walk on Thursday 23rd April at 11am. This is to raise awareness of VisionPK and highlight the daily challenges of living with sight and/or hearing loss. We will start on the High Street outside Specsavers and walk 1. 60KM to the South Inch Park Pavilion Café. We want as many as possible to take part whether you can walk independently, use a cane, have... What a fantastic day of conversations, community insights, and shared passion for improving access to safe, clean, and inclusive public toilets across our city. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Toilets Around Perth event! What a fantastic day of conversations, community insights, and shared passion for improving access to safe, clean, and inclusive public toilets across our city. We were thrilled to see such an engaged group come together—residents, advocates, local organisations, and accessibility champions—all contributing ideas and experiences. Your feedback plays a crucial role in helping shape better facilities, better planning, and a more welcoming Perth for everyone. Key Highlights From the Event Great discussions about accessibility needs, signage, and locations Community suggestions on future mapping improvements Shared stories that highlight why toilet access truly matters Strong enthusiasm for ongoing collaboration What’s Next? We’ll be compiling your feedback and using it to guide the next steps in the Toilets Around Perth initiative. Stay tuned for updates, opportunities to get involved, and announcements about future workshops. Thank You! A huge thank‑you again to everyone who attended and contributed. Together, we’re making Perth a more accessible and supportive place for all. If you couldn’t make it and would like to share your thoughts, feel free to reach out—we’d love to hear from you. Hear Our Roar is excited to announce the launch of our brand‑new website — a fresh, accessible and engaging space designed to amplify the voices of people with lived experience and champion independent living. We’re Live! Hear Our Roar is excited to announce the launch of our brand‑new website — a fresh, accessible and engaging space designed to amplify the voices of people with lived experience and champion independent living. Hear Our Roar website Our new online home makes it easier than ever to:  Learn about who we are and the work we do Explore our activities and upcoming events Access resources designed to support and empower individuals Get involved — volunteer, collaborate, or share your story Stay connected with news, updates, and lived‑experience insights We’re incredibly proud of this next step and hope you love it as much as we do. A huge thank you to everyone involved in bringing this project to life! Come and have a look — Hear Our Roar is louder than ever. Photos from our Meeting on April 1st 2026 We are thrilled to share that 22 Personal Assistants were nominated this year from 38 respondents, recognising the dedication, compassion, and outstanding support they provide across Perth & Kinross. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Personal Assistant Awards 2026 — what a fantastic event and great partnership with Support Choices, PKAVS and CILPK We are thrilled to share that 22 Personal Assistants were nominated by 38 respondents this year, recognising the dedication, compassion, and outstanding support they provide across Perth & Kinross. Every nominee should feel incredibly proud of the difference they make in people’s lives. The event was very well attended, and it was wonderful to see such strong support from our community. A big thank‑you to everyone who came along, cheered on the nominees, and helped create such a positive and uplifting atmosphere. Thank you too to Mark Bates Ltd for their contribution to sponsoring. We’d also like to extend our appreciation to the organisations who joined us with information stalls, including Perth UHI, Unison Perth and Kinross, PA Network Self Directed Support Scotland and Heartland Cares whose presence added great value for PAs and attendees exploring training, learning, and development opportunities. Events like this remind us just how vital Personal Assistants are in enabling independent living — and how important it is to celebrate them. Thank you again to all nominees, attendees, supporters, and partners. We’re already looking forward to next year! Our street audit focused on scaffolding made the cover of the Perthshire Advertiser. On Disabled Access Day, 16 March, the Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK) conducted a street audit focused on scaffolding. Cindy and Richard Godfrey McKay joined me, along with our Outreach Worker, Rowan, Megan Campbell, PKC Equalities Officer, and Councillor Peter Barrett. We reviewed scaffolding at the Scott Street/South Street junction and later at the Kinnoull Street/High Street junction in Perth.   Both locations highlighted the concerns outlined in my original post. CILPK will continue to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people with low vision and other disabilities, and we look forward to working collaboratively with scaffolding companies in the near future.   Sheila Mackay, Manager at CILPK  Latest: We made the cover of the Perthshire Advertiser dated March 27th 2026 - thank you so much to Cindy and Richard for highlighting the issue for safe and standardised scaffolding best practice. The article which is published in the Daily Record can be seen here Register now for this free film making workshop in April in Perth! Get in touch with info@cilpk.org.uk Ever wanted to try filmmaking? No prior experience? Register for our free one-day workshop in April at AK Bell Library, The Moncrieff room which used to be the Cafe, Tuesday 21st April 10. 30 till 4pm. Learn new skills Get creative Collaborate with others Register now for this film making workshop! Get in touch with info@cilpk. org. uk Tea/Coffee is provided free. Spotlight on Scaffolding: The Hidden Risks for People With Low Vision and Blind Pedestrians Post by Sheila Mackay, Manager at CILPK Spotlight on Scaffolding: The Hidden Risks for People With Low Vision and Blind Pedestrians Scaffolding is a routine part of urban life. Whether buildings are being repaired, repainted, or entirely rebuilt, temporary structures appear overnight and often remain in place for weeks or months. For many pedestrians, scaffolding is an inconvenience that forces a slight detour or a moment of awareness. For people who are blind or have low vision, unsafe or poorly installed scaffolding isn’t simply inconvenient—it can be dangerous. This article highlights the key issues surrounding sub-standard scaffolding practices and why accessibility-minded design is essential for creating safe, inclusive public spaces. Why Scaffolding Matters for Accessibility People who are blind or have low vision rely heavily on the predictability of the built environment. Paths they navigate every day can suddenly change when scaffolding is erected, introducing: New barriers Unexpected obstructions Height hazards Changes in walking surfaces Narrowed or redirected walkways Without proper safeguards and clear cues, these changes increase the risk of injury and reduce independence. Common Safety Failures That Put Pedestrians at Risk 1. Low-hanging cross-bars and protruding poles Many scaffolding structures include horizontal bars at head level. For someone who cannot see them, these become serious collision hazards. Even a slight protrusion can cause head injuries or facial injuries. 2. Missing or inadequate protective padding Where impact hazards cannot be removed, padding must be added. However, padding is often: Too thin Weather-damaged Detached Only partially installed Without sufficient protection,... In partnership with Perth & Kinross Council, Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross along with 2 of its members conducted a street access audit in Milnathort. Accessibility in Milnathort: A Commitment to Inclusive Community Milnathort, a charming village nestled in the heart of Scotland, is renowned for its rich history and welcoming atmosphere. As a community that values inclusivity, considerable efforts have been made to improve disabled access throughout the village, ensuring that all residents and visitors can enjoy its amenities and natural beauty without barriers. International Day of Persons with a Disability In partnership with Perth & Kinross Council, Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross along with 2 of its members conducted an access audit in the village which has a population of around 2,000 people. We checked signage, dropped kerbs, pavement widths and conditions along with any other obstacles that can and should be improved with help from Perth and Kinross Council. We completed our report in December. Below is the report on our audit of accessibility on the streets of Milnathort, with some photos below. Accessibility Assessment Report - Milnathort CILPK Access Audit for Milnathort 3rd December 2025Download Its time to nominate who you think is deserving of the Personal Assistants Award 2026. Its time to nominate who you think is deserving of the Personal Assistants Award 2026. Celebrate the fantastic work that health and social care personal assistants do across our Communities in Perth & Kinross. Nominate someone by filling in the following form (you can vote more than once) - https://forms. gle/k2sciasKD4hmS7S4A Once you have nominated a PA or Carer let us know you will be attending the event, there will be refreshments. Go to our Facebook Event to register your interest. It's free. Join us at the Awards Event at Perth Civic Hall March 19th, 2-5pm. Today we had Patrick from ScotRail who is the accessibility and inclusion manager at ScotRail. https://youtu. be/P4KUxpdwPPY? si=CJupaBIG_gZDKdw3 Today we had Patrick from ScotRail who is the accessibility and inclusion manager at ScotRail. Patrick was able to give us a presentation on accessibility and passenger assistance from a disability perspective and all what ScotRail is doing to ensure Rail Travel across Scotland is accessible and inclusive. People who came to the meeting from Corbenic, Upper Springland and Gleneagles Day Centre found it to be informative and asked some questions to Patrick afterwards, who was able to answer really well giving us all insight and clarity to Scotrail's accessible train services. Here is the link to Accessible Travel on ScotRail And here is another link for Passenger Assistance We have an exciting free workshop on May 21st 2026 that will be delivered by Alliance Scotland. We have an exciting free workshop on May 21st 2026 that will be delivered by Alliance Scotland. The Discover Digital workshop is an effort to bridge the gap within the growing digital divide and is aimed at people who want to know more about how they can access Health based Applications and activities online. The Alliance in partnership with Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross, are passionate about promoting human rights in digital services, and amplifying the voices of people shaping Scotland’s digital health landscape. Self-service is an area of health everyone is expected to move into and there is a plethora of help available at the touch of a button when sometimes phoning or emailing someone gets you nowhere. ORCHA (Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps) – ORCHA has developed an app library where you can find trusted apps related to health and wellbeing.   There will also be an emphasis on being able to spot the use of AI. If you are interested and want to book your place and be reminded of the event then you can reserve your ticket at EventBrite. The workshop will be taken by the wonderful Maisie Peebles from the Alliance and will be held in The Y Centre, 19 Atholl Street Perth at 11am - 1pm. Please get in touch with us at info@cilpk. org. uk, Call or WhatsApp us on 07751 559007 if you are interested and we will put your name down. A free event in the Perth Civic Hall that needs YOU to attend. As an organisational charity (user-led) operating in and for the disabled community we need to highlight the need for more and better accessible public toilets in the Perth and Kinross area. Your support and attendance at this event can help be the push for change. Friday March 27th 11-2pm at Perth Civic Hall, 2 High Street, Perth. A free event in the Perth Civic Hall that needs YOU to attend. As an organisational charity (user-led) operating in and for the disabled community we need to highlight the need for more and better accessible public toilets in the Perth and Kinross area. Your support and attendance at this event can help be the push for change. We will have Giant Board Games World Café Discussions Information & Community Connections Book your place at the Toilet Event on EventBrite #letsmakeasplash Perth & Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership, along with our voluntary sector partners, are inviting people with physical, visual, or hearing to help shape the future of local support services. Building Better Support Together – We Want to Hear From You! Perth & Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership, along with our voluntary sector partners, are inviting people with physical, visual, or hearing to help shape the future of local support services. Join one of our relaxed, friendly workshops where we’ll chat in small groups over tea and coffee and share what really matters to you. Workshop Dates• 17 February 2026, 1:00pm–3:30pm• 24 February 2026, 10:00am–12:30pm LocationVisionPK, 17–19 George Street, Perth, PH1 5JY Please RSVP by 8 February 2026:via email - CommunityEngagement@pkc. gov. ukvia telephone - 07342 079 949 Please tell us your preferred date and any accessibility requirements. Prefer an online event instead? Let us know! Whether you can attend or not, you can still share your views through our online survey. Every voice matters! With support from Perth & Kinross Council and the Community Engagement team we helped organise a Christmas party for some of the Learning Disability Day Centres in the PKC district. What a Christmas party we all had in December 2025! Amazing. With support from Perth & Kinross Council Learning Disability staff we helped organise a Christmas party for some of the Learning Disability Day Centres in the PKC district. This was a continuation from an earlier get together - also at The Civic Hall where we had a Conversation Cafe as part of the 'I Am Here' (Learning Disability week back in June 2025). We hope to do more work and events like this in partnership with Perth & Kinross Council and the various centres in the district. Thanks also go out to staff that came from Gleneagles Day Opportunities, Upper Springland, Kinnoull and Blairgowrie. Click on the photos below to open in a Lightbox. More text under the photos. We were so thankful to have Haud Yer Weesht do a Silent Disco for all the people there. The event was a huge success and enjoyed by all who were there, we had refreshments, a Christmas Cake and did a Photo Wall where we took photos, printed them out immediately then hung on a wall. The prints could be taken away that day by the portrait subjects. Photos courtesy of Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross. What a fabulous and fun-filled time our Christmas Social was on December 17th 2025. What a fabulous and fun-filled time our Christmas Social was on December 17th 2025. Everyone had a great time and we all had a great laugh too and very thankful to the staff at Wetherspoons Perth for accommodating us. Many of our members have Power Chairs and not every establishment is accessible so we were pleased that no real difficulties occurred while we took over a large section of the pub. Very grateful to Wetherspoons and all the PA's that came too! Liz has very kindly with the help of her assistant Amendra written another newsletter for us. This, her third newsletter documents her 60th birthday and all the time spent with friends celebrating, in Cafe and Church with Cake and Faith! THIRD NEWSLETTER-LIZ DONNACHIEDownload For Liz, Christmas was not simply a series of events marked on a calendar. Each session, she attended and represented something much deeper For Liz, Christmas was not simply a series of events marked on a calendar. Each session, she attended and represented something much deeper, an opportunity to connect, to contribute, to express herself, and to feel valued within her community. These gatherings offered more than enjoyment; they strengthened confidence, encouraged independence, and reinforced a strong sense of belonging. Fourth Newsletter-Liz Donnachie February 2026. docxDownload It was nice to work with local charity CATH (Churches Action for the Homeless) at their CATH CONNECT shop in Perth High Street. It was nice to work with local charity CATH (Churches Action for the Homeless) at their CATH CONNECT shop in Perth High Street. Members were invited to participate in making Christmas decorations, here Cindy is being helped by Rowan, although Cindy is managing really well. On November 30th 2025 Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross held their Annual General Meeting entitled TeaCakes & Pie Charts. On November 30th 2025 Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross held their Annual General Meeting entitled TeaCakes & Pie Charts. After limbering up our physical muscles with some Boccia delivered by Graeme Doig of P&K Disability Sport we activated our brain into delving deep in to the numbers and facts that have made up our non-profit over the past year. Facebook, Financials and Food So it was Social Media and Membership Engagement followed by the financials delivered expertly by Evander then some food and fun for all. And yes, there was teacakes and so much more! Staff and members of Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross will commemorate this day by having time together reviewing a few of The Changing Places and Accessible Toilets in Perth City Centre and checking them for accessibility. Staff and members of Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross will commemorate this day by having time together reviewing a few of The Changing Places and Accessible Toilets in Perth City Centre and checking them for accessibility. Here are some of the photos of us out and about and what we came across by visiting the loo. https://youtu. be/cfnzzwtFUMU? si=yg_ssxQWQ7FjGRaM World Toilet Day has been a UN observance since 2013. It raises awareness of people living without access to safely managed sanitation. Access to sanitation and drinking water is a catalyst for every aspect of sustainable development and provides critical resilience against the impacts of climate change. Click the QR Code below to survey a toilet in or around Perth. Very short cord, nowhere near the ground even untied. Flush blocked by sanitary bin making it hard to reach. Paper towels to dry hands high above sink. Anonymous from Perth (toilet survey) This months Hear Our Roar saw us discuss Statement 6 in the Charter for Involvement. This months Hear Our Roar saw us discuss Statement 6 in the Charter for Involvement Statement 6:  “We want to give information and training to staff at all levels. ” What would you want people to know about you?   Have you had any problems whilst being out in the community?   What would you like to happen to make things better? What positive experiences have you had? Participants if they wanted could fill in the blanks on a sheet for Question 2 with PROBLEMS on one side and SOLUTIONS on the other. At the end of the exercise participants read out aloud some of the answers to these 4 questions - this is the heart of what Hear Our Roar represents - VOICES HEARD ! Our CareSound Radio Talkback host Caroline Cooper talks to CILPK to help raise awareness for their Toilets Around Perth campaign. Caresound Radio Supporting CILPK’s Toilets Around Perth Campaign We’re proud to be helping the Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross (CILPK) raise awareness for their Toilets Around Perth campaign. Our Talkback host Caroline Cooper talks to Sheila (CILPK Manager), Cindy (CILPK Chair), Evander and Dianne who are both CILPK Trustees. Listen on Catchup here at CareSound radio (hosted by MixCloud) The campaign aims to identify, map, and evaluate public toilet facilities across Perth, making it easier for everyone to access safe, usable toilets when out and about. Together, let’s raise awareness and encourage accessible toilet upgrades and maintenance where they’re needed most. Below are some photos taken by Sheila (CILPK Manager) of some of the signage and toilets visited around Perth in particular at the Perth Library, Bus and Train Station in Perth. Send us your photos of toilets around Perth Send us your photos of toilets around Perth. Here are some thoughts to get you inspired. Are they accessible What's the signage like Was it easy to find Is it on a map or App Was it free, if not, how much and was it easy to pay Was it a good experience Send your photos to info@cilpk. org. uk or if you are a member you can send them directly in the CILPK Members group WhatsApp chat. WhatsApp on 07751 559007 if you are not a member. This forms part of our 'Let's Make a Splash' campaign to draw attention to accessible or lack of accessible Toilets Around Perth. If you are on a desktop you can scan the QR code to get taken to the form or click this link to feedback on a toilet around Perth. All respondent answers are anonymously taken so you do not have to leave your name and you can fill in the form as many times as you like for all the visits you do. Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross are hosting 2 events during Get Online Week which takes place October 20th - 26th 2025. We are working in partnership with Vision PK Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross are hosting 2 events during Get Online Week which takes place October 20th - 26th 2025. We are working in partnership with Vision PK. The Campaign is organised by the Good Things Foundation and facilitating on the day will be Lead Scotland. Both events are FREE and will take place at Vision PK, VisionPK Sensory Hub, 17-19 George Street, Perth PH1 5JY - All Welcome but please contact us at info@cilpk. org. uk to register your interest. Some of the topics will be: Making your phone more accessible Using your phone/tablet as a magnifier Dolphin/guide connect software Using WhatsApp Alexa Siri synaptic Online shopping Joining meetings online Preparing a CV Applying for jobs online Session 1 will take place at Vision PK on Tuesday 21st October 2pm – 4pm. Session 2 will take place at Vision PK on Thursday 23rd October 11pm – 1pm. Further links Broadband Social Tariffs Welcome to the second edition of our newsletter, co-authored by Amendra Konara and Liz Donnachie. In this issue, we are pleased to share reflections on recent events. Moments that matter: Through Liz and Amendra's eyes Welcome to the second edition of our newsletter, co-authored by Amendra Konara and Liz Donnachie. In this issue, we are pleased to share reflections on recent events, highlight personal journeys, and explore the moments of growth and connection that continue to inspire us all. Liz Donnachie- Second NewsletterDownload As part of Learning Disability Week 2025 we at Centre for Inclusive Living and a number of our members could be seen at Perth Civic Hall. The theme this year at the Conversation Cafe was - 'I Am Here' As part of Learning Disability Week 2025 we at Centre for Inclusive Living and a number of our members could be seen at Perth Civic Hall. The theme this year at the Conversation Cafe was - 'I Am Here' The event was in the form of a pop up cafe with lovely bone china, tea, coffee, cakes and great conversation. It is a powerful reminder of what it means to be seen, heard, and valued. The theme “I am here” truly came to life through the voices, stories, and connections shared in every space. Thank you to everyone who organised, came along and took part. A special thank you to PKC and the Community Engagement team. A Home Fire Safety Visit is carried out by Scottish Fire Service staff for people at the highest risk of experiencing a fire in the home. Overview A Home Fire Safety Visit is carried out by Scottish Fire & Rescue Service staff for people at the highest risk of experiencing a fire in the home. These visits aim to support people to live more safely by working with them to reduce their risk of fire. During a visit, we can also help to address other risks of unintentional injury. What a visit includes During your visit, we will provide: identification of potential fire risks in your home information about bedtime routines help creating a robust escape plan advice and testing of smoke alarms Where applicable, we will also provide: onward referral to our partners for further support and advice (with your permission) the installation of smoke alarms in line with Scottish legislation Who can get a visit Not everyone needs an in-person visit from us. Our online Home Fire Safety Questionnaire helps to assess the level of risk within your home. At the end of the questionnaire, and if you are eligable, you will be offered a in-person Home Fire Safety Visit.   If you’re not eligible, we will provide you with a downloadable Fire Safety Plan. This will contain personalised fire safety advice and information. Go to the Scottish Fire & Rescue website to complete the referral questionnaire We (Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross) have postcards in our office from the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service if anyone would like one. You can also call 0800 0731 999 to book a FREE Home... Millions of people across the UK experience communication difficulties every day. The Communication Access Symbol and training will support inclusive communication for all. Millions of people across the UK experience communication difficulties every day. The Communication Access Symbol and training will support inclusive communication for all. Communication Access means supporting people with communication difficulties more effectively. All 3 of us here at Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross have undergone a short online course that accredits us with being Communication Accessible and allows us to display their symbol on our website. Why is Communication Access important? Communication is not simply about the ability to speak but also the ability to hear and understand what is said to us. This lies at the very core of human dignity. Millions of people across the United Kingdom have communication difficulties, including both adults and children. Communication difficulties can occur for a range of reasons and leave millions without a voice, denying them equality of access and opportunity. 1 in 5 of all people in the UK will experience a communication difficulty at some point in their lives Once an organisation commits to the free training and standards to become Communication Accessible, they will be included in the national directory. Organisations can then display the Communication Access Symbol. When people with communication difficulties see your organisation displaying the symbol, they will use your services with greater confidence. We want to hear your thoughts on easy-read images. These are pictures used in documents to help explain words and make information easier to understand. User Group Brief: Easy Read Images Purpose of the Session:We want to hear your thoughts on easy-read images. These are pictures used in documents to help explain words and make information easier to understand. What We’ll Talk About: What makes an image helpful or unhelpful? What types of pictures do you like or find easy to understand? Do certain images confuse you or feel unclear? How can pictures support easy-read information? Why Your Feedback Matters: Your ideas will help us create documents that are better and more accessible for everyone. We want to make sure the images we use are clear, helpful, and make sense to you. What Will Happen in the Group: We will look at some examples of easy-read images. We’ll ask what you think about them. You can share what works well and what could be better. Come along for a friendly chat, a cuppa, and the chance to share your thoughts. We want to hear from you about what matters most in your life. Join Us at Our Conversation Café! Come along for a friendly chat, a cuppa, and the chance to share your thoughts. We want to hear from you about what matters most in your life. At our Conversation Café, we’ll talk about: Living Well – What helps you feel happy, healthy, and safe? More Choices – Do you feel you have enough choices in life? Supporting Independence – What kind of help makes things easier for you? Learning – What would you like to learn more about? Connections – What helps you feel part of your community? General Feedback – Is there anything else you’d like us to know? This is your chance to have your say in a relaxed and welcoming space. Everyone’s voice is important, and your ideas can help shape better support and opportunities. Tea, coffee, and biscuits provided! Where: Perth Civic Hall, 2 High Street, Perth When: Thursday September 11th 11am -2pm Keith and Asha from Perth Fire Station presented some safety information to the group in the form of an informative quiz. Keith and Asha from Perth Fire Station presented some safety information to the group in the form of an informative quiz. All the members of the group had fun and learnt a lot from participating, complete with small prizes kindly donated by Perth Fire Station. Thank you so much to Asha, Keith and Perth Fire Station for your time with our Hear Our Roar group. Presentation from Liz and Amendra We learnt all about what Liz gets up to day to day, and the many activities and clubs she goes to. If you would like to read her newsletter you can go here. We have a Techy Tea Party coming up on September 24th 11am-1pm, its FREE, there will be advice when exploring Health based applications on your device. We will be providing Cake and Refreshments and the training will be delivered by the Health and Social Care Alliance Scotland Please get in touch with us at info@cilpk. org. uk to register your interest. We have arranged for Robert Weetman from Living Streets Scotland to talk about pavement/road accessibility next Thursday, 21st August between 11:00 and 12:30. We have arranged for Robert Weetman from Living Streets Scotland to talk about pavement/road accessibility next Thursday, 21st August between 11:00 and 12:30. https://www. livingstreets. org. uk/blog/but-there-s-already-a-walking-network/ Robert is more than happy for a small group of members to come along, so please do let me know if you're interested. We are pleased to introduce this new newsletter, which will be published every six weeks and co authored by Liz Donnachie and Amendra Konara. We are pleased to introduce this new newsletter, which will be published every six weeks and co authored by Liz Donnachie and Amendra Konara. Each issue will highlight the range of activities that Liz has recently participated in, showcasing the many opportunities available within our community. Click here to see more about Liz and the Newsletter(s) she is doing with some help from Amendra. We are introducing a Toilet awareness campaign within the Perth area for better facilities or existing ones to be re-opened and re-assessed for accessibility. Lets Make a Splash! We are introducing a Toilet awareness campaign entitled Toilets Around Perth. Project Purpose: To identify, map, and evaluate public toilet facilities across Perth, Scotland, improving access to information and encouraging upgrades and maintenance where needed. Being able to find a safe usable toilet while you are out and about is a basic human right. Disabled people and people with learning difficulties are often presented with less of these opportunities and especially at weekends. We (Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross) are introducing an awareness campaign within the Perth area for better facilities or existing ones to be re-opened and re-assessed for accessibility. Attached to this post is an image with a QR Code that you can scan. It will take you to a form where you can Rate a Toilet facility. In fact you might be in one while you read this so take the time now to fill out the form please as we need to start to gather the data from YOU! ! Link to Toilets Around Perth Survey Form Link to more information about the Toilets Around Perth campaign. If you have trouble scanning this then point your phone camera at the larger QR Code below to take you to the toilet survey. Flushing Out Accessibility: Toilets Around Perth Project – A Community Peer Researcher's audit of everyone's fave topic - public toilets! Looking at Perth, the blog reveals the hidden but crucial role of accessible facilities in enabling dignity, safety, and community... Social Outing - On a very hot July day we all met together by the new Museum. On a very hot July day we all met together by the new Museum for a social gathering of the members. 16 of us started by capturing QR Codes on our phones of the posters around the museum part of town. Most of the QR Codes were links and information to local businesses, shops and cafes in and around Perth city centre. A great exercise, as photographing QR codes can be a lot easier than trying to write down phone numbers, and web addresses. Travelling through the city we headed for the South Inch and all sat in the sun chatting, and doing lunch together at the Pavilion Cafe run by Blend. Thank you to them for accommodating us. Normally within our Disability Champions meetings at the Centre for Inclusive Living (CILPK) we get round the table together with an Agenda and discuss the topics and give light to new ones, including information, news and events that might be happening in and around the Perth and Kinross area and how they include or disenfranchise disabled people within the community. The members are able to discuss or help promote what's going on in the area or indeed highlight difficulties they are coming across and how that can be fed back to the relevant authorities so they can enjoy equality within their community. In our last meeting heard early June, we altered the format a little to discuss 3 separate projects that the Members were interested in. We met around different tables to discuss each of the projects. Group page is here. Toilets around Perth Disabled individuals are finding that there is a lack of facilities in the area, especially on weekends or evenings and some individuals are known to have preferred just to go home rather than face a struggle to find a toilet that can accomodate both them and sometimes their carer too if they need extra support and privacy. This is an area we are very keen to explore and we have some funding to do so. We would be very interested if any third parties would come forward who could suggest, help or even sponsor this project. Our initial campaign. Easy Read Centre for Inclusive Living have... June 11th represented 1 year of Hear Our Roar and so that meant balloons and cake! The members of the group also had a chance to look at photographic print outs of various locations around Perth, getting them thinking about what were their favourite places and why? Members thought about whether these places were friendly, easy to get to, accessible, interesting and fun. They were deciding on whether for them, places in Perth, such as Perth Theatre, The Concert Hall, The Museum, Perth Swimming Pool, the Parks ( North and South Inches) were deserving of 2, 3, or 4 or more stars. Members could also place a happy or sad face next to these places, or if they were able, to write out some detail or express to others, and the wider group via a microphone so they could be heard. “I like the South Inch because I don’t have to walk far” “I like it when people are nice and friendly to me” The group meeting finished with much needed cake to celebrate that Hear Our Roar had been going for 1 year. Back in May the Centre for Inclusive Living Perth & Kinross, in conjunction with the Health Alliance Scotland ran a free Digital Wellbeing Workshop at The Y Centre in Perth. Maisie Peebles, Discover Digital Development Officer was there to present the workshop and feedback seemed generally very positive from all who attended. The participants were introduced to three digital health tools and an overview of QR codes. The aim was to understand and use them to potentially improve one's wellbeing or that of someone they supported. Try a ToolThe Discover Digital team have produced a Try a Tool booklet to help you find digital tools to support your health and wellbeing goals. Read More The Jointly AppJointly combines group messaging and to-do lists with other useful features, including medication lists, calendar and more. Jointly makes communication and coordination between those who share the care as easy as a text message. Read More My House of MemoriesThe My House of Memories app, co-created with people living with dementia, is a digital collection of museum and everyday objects from across the decades that have been brought to life with sound, music and descriptions. The app allows people living with dementia and their carers to explore pictures of objects together and find things that resonate with them, encouraging connections and conversations. Read More In the workshop we also had a look at QR Codes (Quick Response) - two-dimensional barcodes that store data in a square grid of black and white squares. You can... Registration is now open for the 2025 Perth & Kinross Disability Sport (PKDS) Badminton Championships Registration is now open for the 2025 Perth & Kinross Disability Sport (PKDS) Badminton Championships, delivered in partnership with Glenearn Badminton Club, Badminton Scotland and Scottish Disability Sport. Saturday 8 November 2025 10am start Academy of Sport and Wellbeing, UHI Perth As always, No Cost to participate Online registration is here Get onboard and help shape the future of your local bus and taxi services in Perth and Kinross. Below are links to two separate consultation surveys for Public Transport in the Perth & Kinross area, one for buses and one for taxis. Limit on taxi licences in Perth – consultation closes 16 June Perth and Kinross Council wishes to hear what members of the public, as well as members of the taxi and private hire trade (also called ‘the Trade’) think about the number of taxis available in the Perth. Complete the consultation at Limit on taxi licences in Perth - Perth & Kinross Council Citizen Space - Citizen Space Shaping local bus services in Perth and Kinross – consultation closes 18 July We are carrying out this consultation to find out more about the public transport needs of residents throughout Perth & Kinross.   We want to know how well passenger needs are being met by existing bus services and, how we can shape services for the future. The consultation is aimed at passengers who use, have used or would like to use local bus services. Complete the consultation at Help shape local public transport - bus passenger needs - Perth & Kinross Council Citizen Space - Citizen Space Dundee Health & Social Care Partnership are delighted to announce their 2025 nutrition training package for paid carers of adults with a Learning Disability (LD), including a dedicated session for senior staff and managers of LD services. Individuals with a LD are at greater risk of being underweight and obese. In addition, the life expectancy of women with an LD is 27 years shorter, and for men 22 years shorter than the general population. (BDA, 2020). It is essential that carers have an understanding of evidenced based nutrition, and provide support and guidance when appropriate to do so. Our training will provide participants with the skills, knowledge and resources needed to do so. For more information contact tay. lddietetics@nhs. scot Please find the below PDF which outlines the dates for the training courses. LD Training Programme, 2025 with linksDownload CILPK are in the process of recruiting new Trustees to join the board which currently includes 4 other people including a Chairperson and a Treasurer. At Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (CILPK), we work with local services and organisations to improve access, enhance experiences, and help people with disabilities to live independently with the support they need. We look to promote Independent Living in a wide range of ways, including: Equality Issues/Advocacy We deal with individual and group issues reported to us to help promote equality across all areas. We also help support individuals with any issues they have to ensure their voices are heard. Self-Directed Support We provide information to people wanting to know about self-directed support and help to people who have issues or questions regarding their care. Community Access We work with public, private and voluntary sector organisations to advise them on the best ways to make their businesses accessible to all. We provide audits and surveys of premises and work with the local authority to make sure new plans are accessible for all. What will you be doing? CILPK are in the process of recruiting new Trustees to join the board which currently includes 4 other people including a Chairperson and a Treasurer. What does the role entail?   The role of Trustee will consist of: Working closely with the Chairs and Treasurer, you will be responsible for:  Attending Trustee Board meetings, which are every two months. Helping to sign off on decisions of an ethical, financial and/or HR nature. What are we looking for? Essential: Some experience and knowledge of supporting meetings and decision-making. Can use Microsoft or... All of us in the office here at The Gateway Centre believe it's a great place to work but I'm afraid our office needs cheering up a bit. So here is where our Members come in! ! If you are a member of the Centre for Inclusive Living then we would like you to help us decorate it with your photographic skills. All you need to do is take a photo with a camera, phone or device and send it to our CILPK Members WhatsApp Group, or if you prefer email us. If the photo can not be of people, your pet is fine, or a snap from a holiday, a landscape, nature shot, an abstract, close-up or even a photo you have taken while out and about in the Perth & Kinross area. Try not to get peoples faces in the shot, especially if they are close up portraits. We will then print them out and put a selection of them in our office, here at The Gateway. Hopefully you can pop round and see your photo on the wall. We are so grateful to everyone who joined us for our very first Health and Social Care Personal Assistants Gathering March 27th at the Civic Hall! Special thanks to all the amazing stallholders who gave their time and energy throughout the day—your presence made the event such a success. Here’s a shout-out to each of you: PA Network (https://panetworkscotland. org. uk/)Mark Bates Insurance (https://markbatesltd. com/)Dunkeld and Birnam Trust (https://www. dbdtrust. org/)PKC Training & Development Team (https://www. pklearning. org. uk/)Trading Standards (https://www. pkc. gov. uk/article/15220/Trading-standards)UHI Perth (https://www. perth. uhi. ac. uk/)Support Choices (https://www. supportchoices. co. uk/) Big thanks also to the Civic Hall staff for their support on the day, and to our brilliant partners Centre for Inclusive Living Perth and Kinross (https://www. cilpk. org. uk/) and PKAVS (https://www. pkavs. org. uk/) for teaming up with us to make this happen. Fifteen PAs were recognised for their outstanding work. We were all so touched reading the beautiful words shared about them—you are truly inspiring! We were thrilled to see David Melville and our very own Colleen nominated, along with Arron Bryce, Nicola Boyne, and Elizabeth Bridge, who was awarded the top prize—a £50 M&S voucher generously donated by PKAVS, and a mega bottle of fizz kindly donated by Mark Bates Insurance. Mark Bates also generously donated a large box of chocolates and beautiful flowers, which went to our two brilliant runners-up. After reading Elizabeth’s nomination and having spoken to her, we all felt she was so deserving of this recognition and... Learn My Way sessions are starting! We are happy to tell you that our Learn My Way sessions are starting soon. These FREE sessions will help you: Learn more about using computers, phones, and the internet Feel more confident with technology. Each session lasts one hour They are for everyone – whether you are just starting or want to learn more. Come along and give it a try! To book a session, please email outreach@cilpk. org. uk or get in touch by phone or WhatsApp at 01738 587282 For those of you who may not know me, I’m Rowan Davidson and have been working at CILPK for just over a year. Up until February, I was the organisation’s Keep Safe Coordinator, helping to run the Keep Safe Scheme in Perth and Kinross. However, I have moved on from that role and am now CILPK’s Community Outreach Worker. CILPK are very thankful to the National Lottery and Gannochy Trust as funders for my post. Outside of my job, I’m working on getting my English and Creative Writing degree at the Open University. Independence means being able to do things by yourself without needing too much help from others. It is about making your own choices and taking care of yourself. For example, tying your own shoes, choosing what to eat, or deciding what to do in your free time are all ways of being independent. Independence does not mean you never ask for help. Sometimes, everyone needs support, but it means you can try to do things on your own first and make your own decisions when possible. On April 2nd at The Y Centre we (Centre for Inclusive Living P&K) in partnership HSCP (Health & Social Care Partnership) Perth & Kinross held our 2nd Hear Our Roar meeting which has an open invite to those with learning difficulties. Those taking part were able to express via words and symbols what independence meant to them and after the exercise they could feedback to the whole group using a microphone. Thank you also to the Carers from Corbenic Camphill, Upper Springlands and Gleneagles Day Opportunities who came and assisted, we appreciate you all so much! ! Below are some images from the day. On seventh March, Community Peer Researcher (CPR) Irene and ISPA Research Fellow Dr Dianne Theakstone, co-presented at an International Women’s Day In Conversation with Irene & Dianne, reflections on the impact of Intersectional Stigma of Place-Based Ageing upon everyday life. Introduction On seventh March, Community Peer Researcher (CPR) Irene Johnston and ISPA Research Fellow Dr Dianne Theakstone, co-presented at an International Women’s Day celebration held by Gender Equality Perth. Both ladies have significant social anxiety, and in preparation for the event they wanted to support each other sharing their lived experiences of gender, ageing and disablement. In this ‘In Conversation With’, Irene and Dianne reflect upon their involvement in ISPA and how it has opened up new opportunities and possibilities. Irene Johnston, ISPA Community Peer Researcher Irene: It was a year ago when you spotted an advertisement for presenters to take part in a celebration within a supportive environment. Somehow, you persuaded me to co-present – there may have been lots of cake involved here! So, we put in a joint application to Gender Equality Perth who were holding the event. Dianne Theakstone, ISPA Research Fellow Dianne: We didn’t make it last year, but I was determined that we should try again and this year our application was accepted. There was a new theme so it was a case of thinking what we could do and talk about. We decided on a slightly different approach to the presentation. We recorded interviews where we outlined our backgrounds and connections to gender, ageing and disability. Then, we used poetic transcription to turn our interviews into poems. We also talked a bit about our... Various members and the office staff were treated today to a showround at CareSound Radio in Perth As part of Disability Access Day (promoted by Euans Guide) various members and the office staff were treated today to a showround at CareSound Radio in Perth. Hosted by John Watson, Caroline Cooper (Thank you so much) and Georgie who is one of our members, it was a fascinating insight in to Hospital Radio and how it all works today. Hoping we can do some broadcasts with them in the near future. It is Deaf Awareness Week! This year's theme is 'Beyond Silence' and encourages greater understanding of the diverse ways in which Deaf and hard-of-hearing people communicate. This includes British Sign Language (BSL), lip-reading, written communication, and assistive technology. For deaf awareness tips, visit Deaf Action. Beyond Silence Deaf Awareness Week is an annual event that aims to raise awareness about the Deaf community, our language, culture, and history. It is a time to celebrate Deaf identity, promote Deaf culture, and advocate for equal access to communication and services for the Deaf and hard of hearing. This week-long event provides an opportunity for individuals and organisations to come together and support the Deaf community, learn about their experiences, and work towards a more inclusive and accessible society. Deaf Awareness Week is a time to celebrate diversity, promote understanding, and build a more inclusive world for all. The theme for Deaf Awareness Week 2025 is "Beyond Silence". This theme focuses on breaking down barriers to full accessibility for individuals with hearing loss, celebrating the diverse ways Deaf people communicate, and highlighting the richness of Deaf culture. Hear Our Roar Chairperson elections – February 2025 Below are some photos of the meeting we had in February 2025 where we had elections for the Chair and Co-Chairpersons. It was a fabulous day where the group members were able to elect a Chair and Co-Chair and therefore have a greater voice in the local community. Thank you so much for all who took part from Upper Springlands and PKC Health and Social Care. The National Involvement Network (NIN) is a network of people with additional support needs. We have been meeting since 2007 to promote involvement and share ideas about things that matter to us most. We wrote the Charter for Involvement and are now working to promote it across Scotland. Below are some photos of the meeting we had in February 2025 The Destiny Bridge is due to open this Spring, there is a grand opening on March 31st, they are looking for wheelchair users to be there, so Perth Transport Futures would love volunteers. Centre for Inclusive Living are looking in to logistic facilities for getting there like transport. If there are any accessible taxi services out there please get in touch to help, it will be a great publicity opportunity. The £150M Cross Tay Link Road project, will officially open on 31st March 2025 at approximately 12 noon. The project centres around Destiny Bridge – a three-span structure crossing over the River Tay; and the New Kingsway - a six-kilometre stretch of new carriageway linking the A9 to the A93 and A94. It also includes two kilometres of realigned dual carriageway on the A9 just north of Inveralmond Roundabout. The opening ceremony will be led by First Minister, John Swinney, and Perth and Kinross Council Leader, Grant Laing. Olympic medallist, Eilidh Doyle, who hails from the area, will also lead a parade of local people including joggers, wheelchair users and cyclists to commemorate the new Active Travel Path Network opening alongside the road infrastructure. Councillor Laing commented, “After many years in the planning and delivery residents, visitors and businesses will soon be able to cross Destiny Bridge and the New Kingsway following the official opening on 31st March 2025. “While the scale of the building project itself is immense, it’s what happens next that offers the real success story. By providing... There is a drop in session at The Y Centre, Atholl Street, Perth on March 4th 2025 for those with a learning disability or Autism. Event organised by Equal Futures There is a drop in session at The Y Centre, Atholl Street, Perth on March 4th 2025 for those with a learning disability or Autism. It is at 11am and free food and drink provided! To register your interest contact Donna McCallum on 07921 397615 or email her at donna. mccallum@equalfutures. org. uk The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 makes it illegal to park on the pavement in Scotland, as well as parking at dropped kerbs and double parking. From 11 December 2023, local authorities will have procedures to follow to allow them to enforce this law. Ignoring this means you could be fined up to £100. ¹ Many people face daily difficulties with pavement parking. It is dangerous and frustrating, especially for those with impairments or limited mobility and with mental health challenges. Pavement parking has serious consequences and can force people to take unnecessary risks. For example: The Pavement Parking campaign aims to inform the public of the changes ahead of the enforcement coming into effect and ensure our pavements and roads are safer and more accessible to all.  The national campaign is live from 20 November 2023 and runs on radio, digital and outdoor channels, supported with a PR and social media campaign. ¹(reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days). CILPK Members involvement Evander, Cindy, Ian and Alison, will greatly benefit from the upcoming enforcement of the new law on banning pavement parking. They’ve shared how pavement parking negatively impacts their daily lives, turning simple outings into dangerous challenges. Imagine having to navigate around parked cars on the pavement, being forced to put yourself into danger by moving onto the road and oncoming traffic. https://youtube. com/shorts/yDuLsfn1DOc? si=gv_kkfg6QwXYcYNW This is the reality for many of our residents with mobility issues, visual impairments, and parents and carers with pushchairs. Pavement parking is unsafe,... Need help with Emails or to order something online. Need help with Emails Want to book a GP appointment online Want order something from a shop Need to know how to stay safe from scams. AbilityNet offer free digital skills training sessions in partnership with BT AbilityNet offer free digital skills training sessions in partnership with BT, either for adults 65+ or adults 18+ will a disability. This could cover a range of topics from getting to know your smartphone, online banking, or accessing public services. Today we are delighted to have Ali who is the Chair of the Dundee Local National Involvement Network Today we are delighted to have Ali who is the Chair of the Dundee Local National Involvement Network and Reece who is the co chair of the Aberdeenshire Network to to tell us all about what it is like to be leaders and what they do and how some of you can get involved too. Without further ado I would like to ask Ally and Reece to take the floor. What do you do in your role as chair and co-chair. What do you enjoy about the role? How does it make you feel? Are there any challenges or barriers we need to think about. Do you have any top tips. The subject for the group session this time was: 'What makes a good leader.' In this meeting, time was spent in re-capping events from the 1st ever meeting of Hear Our Roar in June 2024. Attendees of the first meeting had expressed 'What matters to them. ' For instance: Telling people what I think and feel Being Included Having a job Having fun The subject for the group session this time was: 'What makes a good leader. ' The intention here was to build up to a time where members of the group could elect a Chairperson an Co-Chair. After going over some group roles attendees signed consent forms. 1st Meeting - Hear Our Roar is a local initiative we have helped to kick off working in partnership with Perth and Kinross Health and Social Care Partnership. It is part of the National Involvement Network run by ARCS June 2024 - 1st Meeting Where is it: The Y Centre, Atholl Street, Perth If you or anyone you support has a Learning Disability please feel free to come along and join us. Alternatively for further information please contact info@cilpk. org. uk Below are some photos of the meeting we had in June 2024