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Hello,
At SGDEN, we are always keen to provide a platform for local disability groups to share what they have been doing and events that they are running. If you would like us to share your story or event in the newsletter, please send details to news@sgden.org.uk indicating if your event is fully accessible.
Best wishes
Sarah
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SGDEN NEWS
We Need You – Our Chair, Berkeley Wilde Stepping Down
Date For Our AGM – Tues 2 Dec
Can’t Wait Scheme – Open To Individuals, Businesses and Communities
Experiencing Inequality? We Want To Hear From You.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Improving Mental Health in South Glos – IMHN Steering Group
Have Your Say On The Council Budget
Feedback On Alcohol Services in South Glos
NEWS & OPPORTUNITIES
Brandon Trust – Social Skills Workshops
West of England Sight Support – Advice For You
Citizens Advice – Food Bank Support
Work Well West – Help To Support You At Work
Christmas Cheer Project
Paul’s Place – Christmas Market & Santa’s Grotto
VOLUNTEERING AND PAID ROLES
Volunteer for us and find out about other opportunities
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It’s a voluntary role starting January 2026 and you will have plenty of support along the way. Lived experience of disability is very welcome but not essential.
Most of all, we’re looking for someone who believes in what we do and wants to help lead the way.
Please get in touch to express your interest or to find out more by emailing info@sgden.org.uk.
*This is a volunteer role*
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Call for New SGDEN Chair
Do you care about making South Gloucestershire more accessible and inclusive for disabled people? Are you a natural communicator, a good listener, or someone who’s great at organising? Then we’d love to hear from you!
South Glos Disability Network is on the hunt for a new Chair to help steer our group into the future. You don’t need lots of experience – just passion, energy, and a real commitment to disability rights.
As Chair, you’ll help run friendly quarterly meetings, keep things moving behind the scenes, and work with a lovely bunch of volunteers and community partners. We’re about championing disabled voices, sharing information, and making change happen.
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SGDEN AGM
Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place virtually on Tuesday 2 December at 4pm. This is a great opportunity for members, partners, and supporters to hear updates on our work, help shape our priorities for the year ahead, and connect with others committed to equality and inclusion in South Gloucestershire.
All are welcome to attend. To register email info@sgden.org.uk.
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By supporting the scheme, you will help people to be confident in getting out and about in South Gloucestershire.
To find out more by visiting our website or emailing info@sgden.org.uk.
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Can’t Wait Scheme
Do you know of any businesses/venues that would be interested in joining the Can’t Wait scheme?
Occasionally, people with certain medical conditions have an urgent need to use the toilet.
South Gloucestershire Council and South Gloucestershire Disability Equality Network are asking retailers, business owners and venue operators to show their support and understanding for people who ‘Can’t Wait’ by letting them use staff or customer toilets.
By signing up, you agree to display a poster in your premises and be featured in an online directory to let people know your business supports the Can’t Wait scheme.
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We want to hear about your experiences of inequality in South Gloucestershire
- Do you have experiences that highlight issues in the area?
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Please email your thoughts and comments to info@sgden.org.uk and we will include your feedback in our discussions with the Council and other community groups.
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Please email Catrin on: catrin.beynon@imhn.org for more details and to take part.
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Could This Be You?
The Independent Mental Health Network are looking to hear from people who live in the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire region to improve mental health services.
They are looking for participants with lived experience to join their monthly steering group.
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To take part in this consultation, visit the website to find out more.
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Have Your say On The Council Budget
Through this consultation, South Glos Council wants to provide a clear understanding of the financial challenges it faces, and the potential measures required to balance the budget.
** Have your say by Sunday 21 Dec **
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Have You Ever Accessed Alcohol Services?
Mental Health South Glos is seeking feedback to better understand the needs of people who are concerned about their drinking.
Participants receive a £50 voucher.
Email: mentalHealth@southglos.gov.uk
Call: 01454 868787
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* Learn how to have good relationships
* For one hour – choose the time
* Workshops are free
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Social Skills Workshops
Brandon Trust are hosting workshops for people with Learning Disabilities.
To book contact Sarah
Email: sarah.howard@brandontrust.org
Call: 07464 670364
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You can contact them with questions big or small – from understanding your eye condition to managing day-to-day tasks, exploring assistive technology or finding emotional support.
Visit the website for more information.
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Are you living with sight loss?
Sight Support is a local charity working with blind and visually impaired people and their families. They can tailor information and advice to you.
If you or someone you know is living with sight loss, they can help. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been living with sight loss for some time, the team is ready to provide friendly, expert support.
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Worried about being able to afford food as the colder months set in?
Visit Citizens Advice South Gloucestershireand ask to be referred to a food bank.
Usually an appointment will be made for you to discuss your situation with an Adviser, who will check if you’re eligible.
If you are, they will give you a voucher for your nearest food bank.
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Is Your Health Affecting Your Work?
Work Well West offers a helping hand if your health is affecting your work. A friendly coach gives free personalised support, advice and guidance at a pace you’re comfortable with. If you are over 16 years old and you have a health issue that affects your ability to work, Work Well want to help.
For more information, email: workwell@bristol.gov.uk, 0117 922 3623 or visit their website.
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Christmas Cheer Project 2025
The project is open for people who are experiencing loneliness and will not be seeing anyone on Christmas Day.
Visit the website for full details and also for eligibility criteria.
Last year they had over 150 volunteers making it happen on December 25th, mostly involved with driving to venue or doing doorstep visits for those unable to come out. They will be needing a similar amount of volunteers again!
Contact: 07566 244 788
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Fully Accessible Christmas Market
Bursting with local stalls full of gifts, crafts, decorations, and delicious treats.
Whether you’re shopping for unique presents or just soaking up the holiday cheer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
With a market, Santa’s grotto and an elf hunt too! To book your place, click here!
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VOLUNTEERING AND JOB OPPORTUNITIES
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VOLUNTEER FOR US!
We are seeking a volunteer to assist with our social media or newsletter. Monthly commitment would be around 6 – 8 hours.
Skills you could develop
Confidence, communication and planning skills, grow your marketing knowledge and social media planning awareness. Skills that could lead to a different career path.
What difference will you make?
Your support will help us reach a wider audience and allow us to share vital information with our members.
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SGDEN NEWSLETTER – Share your news and events
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At SGDEN, we are always keen to provide a platform for local disability groups to share what they have been doing and events that they are running.
If you would like us to share your story or event in the newsletter, please send details to news@sgden.org.uk
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