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July 2025 newsletter
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Welcome to the July edition of the Inclusion Barnet member newsletter!
It's packed with info on consultations, services, community events and ways to be heard. You'll also find some of the top local and national news affecting Disabled people including those with mental health issues and long-term conditions.
To find out more about each article, just click on its title.
Inclusion Barnet news
What a month it's been for Disabled people across the whole of the UK! Thanks to your incredible support and the hard work of ours and many other Disability organisations campaigning against benefit cuts, last week saw the Government agreeing to remove Clause 5 from their Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill.
They’ve also pledged more co-production with Disabled people and Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs)
This means there will be no immediate changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) eligibility for current or future claimants. Any potential changes to PIP are now postponed until after autumn 2026, when Disability Minister Stephen Timms is expected to conclude his review of the assessment process.
Crucially, this review will involve Disabled people, which we hope will make future cuts to PIP less likely.
This is a testament to what we can achieve when we stand together! Read more in this issue about our trip to 10 Downing Street to hand deliver our letter and response to the consultation.
However, the Bill still contains serious cuts to Universal Credit for new claims made by Disabled people, with its third reading scheduled for next Wednesday, July 9.
So, we've been actively engaging on this front, meeting with local MP David Pinto-Duschinsky last month (having already met Dan Tomlinson MP) and even Stephen Timms himself last week to urge the Government to co-produce the PIP review with Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs) and urging MPs to vote against the remaining cuts. We've also been contributing to the Charlie Mayfield review, which is focused on making the job market more accessible for Disabled people.
Closer to home we also got some difficult news late on Friday that the Government are closing down Healthwatch right across the country. Obviously, we will aim to be involved in what comes next, but this is very disappointing news for everyone involved in Healthwatch delivery. It’s not yet clear what the timeframe is. In the meantime, we’ll continue delivering services as usual and support our fantastic Healthwatch colleagues at what is now quite a difficult time.
In more positive news, we've provided input into the Barnet Economic Framework regarding accessible jobs and are collaborating with other DPOs across London to ensure lived experience informs local advice provision.
Finally, there are some vital consultations happening in Barnet right now. The potential closure of the Network Mental Health service is especially important.
Look at what we achieved nationally when we pushed back together; let's make sure our voices are heard locally too!
Claire Fisher
Head of Communications and Engagement
We took your voices directly to No 10 Downing Street
Earlier this week, our Campaign for Disability Justice hand-delivered an open letter to No. 10 Downing Street, signed by thousands of you, major charities, and organisations from across the UK. We also included our response opposing proposed benefit cuts.
Thanks to pressure from Disabled people and many MPs, the Government announced a late concession on Tuesday: any changes to Personal Independence Payment (PIP) will now be postponed until after autumn 2026 following a review by Disability Minister, Stephen Timms.
However, the Bill still includes serious cuts to Universal Credit for new claims made by Disabled people. Our work continues – do please sign up to support our Campaign.
Read more in our blog post or in the Barnet Post news online.
Inclusion Unlimited Focus Group
We’re running a focus group to hear about Disabled people’s experiences applying for social housing in London.
It will be a friendly, informal discussion where you can share your experiences, thoughts, and ideas about what works for you and what doesn’t. The focus group will be a virtual meeting (over Zoom).
We're looking for people who may have faced challenges in accessing information about properties they applied for, any issues they experienced with the application process, or viewing homes. We're particularly keen to hear from Deaf people, neurodivergent people, wheelchair users, people with learning disabilities and people who are blind or partially sighted.
You’ll be asked questions about your experiences applying for housing and any barriers you’ve faced, it will be a confidential and safe space to share your perspective. The meeting will be accessible, please share access or communication needs with us.
- Tuesday 22nd July 2-4pm, Virtual Zoom Meeting
- Everyone taking part will receive a £30 voucher to thank them for their time.
Complete this form to register interest
- If you have any questions or are unable to complete the form, contact us: info@inclusionunlimited.org.uk or 07402822024
Touchpoint
Our Benefit Advice Service is currently closed to all new referrals and enquiries. We recommend contacting alternative advice services, such as Barnet Citizens Advice Bureau or Boost, during this period. Updates on our reopening shall be on our social media and website.
A highlight for Healthy Heart last month was supporting the Wellbeing in the Park Hypertension event, supported by the Zen Project and Everglades surgery with Social Prescribers, attended by over 150 people. Peer Engagement Officers, Salna and Riffat joined the event and provided blood pressure monitoring and useful information and signposting to local services to residents. Additionally, they've continued to provide drop-in sessions to local libraries in Burnt Oak, Colindale and Golders Green.
The team also joined several other stall holders at Brent Cross Shopping Centre for Diabetes week in June, encouraging Barnet residents to take simple steps to reduce their risk of diabetes. The event run by Barnet Council, Public Health, provided the opportunity for the Healthy Heart team to talk to residents about early signs and symptoms of diabetes and making small lifestyle changes to prevent it such as eating well, moving more and managing your heart health.
Job Vacancy: Peer Community Organisation Support Lead
We're looking for someone who understands why it's important to demonstrate that Disabled people can take a leadership role in their communities, who also has a deep understanding of voluntary sector groups. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who would enjoy supporting small voluntary groups to reach their goals, and representing their views and needs to partners.
Closing date 10 July.
More information on Peer Community Organisation Support Lead and apply
FREE Tea & Coffee Mornings (ages 55+)
Join our libraries for FREE Tea & Coffee Mornings (for ages 55+). Free hot drinks and biscuits in a warm, friendly library space, and meet other local people.
South Friern Library: Wednesdays 11am to 1pm
New Barnet Library: Fridays 11am to 1pm
Please visit our website for library accessibility information.
Last month, we were sad to say goodbye to David Hart, who has done some fantastic work getting organisations to sign up for the Barnet Mental Health Charter, and wish him all the best for the future. We were also sorry to say goodbye to Johannah Read. We thank her for her hard work supporting our Touchpoint customers, and wish her the very best in her new role.
Opportunities to create change
Visit our consultations and campaigns page on the Inclusion Barnet website for all the latest opportunities to have your say on local and national issues that impact Disabled people in Barnet.
Did you know? Some local consultations receive as few as 14 online responses*. With just 15 members like you we can sway decisions on accessibility, support, and resources in Barnet.
Here's some of the top opportunities to get involved in this month:
Should “The Network” mental health support service be closed?
The Network, run by Barnet Council, is a support service for people with mental health needs that provides short-term wellbeing support (up to 9 months) for people who are experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression and post traumatic stress disorder. Use of the service has dropped by 50% since 2014. Have your say in the Council Consultation – closes 14 July 2025.
Domestic abuse and violence against women and girls strategy consultation
This consultation from Barnet Council is open to all Barnet residents, as well as people who visit or work in the borough. You do not have to have personally experienced violence or abuse to take part in the consultation. Feedback from organisations, community groups and local businesses is also welcomed to help make Domestic Abuse and VAWG everyone’s business.
The experience of domestic violence is profoundly different and more complex for Disabled people. We must ensure their perspectives are fully integrated into this consultation.
Closes 4 August.
Shape how our Council's Planning Authority engages with YOU!
This is our chance to ensure inclusion in the planning decisions that shape our neighbourhoods and our future. Get in early – have your say!
The council has a draft document called the Statement of Community Involvement. This document explains how they will talk to the community about planning. It's now open for your feedback, and this is our perfect chance to make sure that all future planning discussions are accessible for Disabled people.
Consultation closes 11 July.
We’ve drafted a short blog post about important things to think about when you share your views, especially concerning how the council gets input from Disabled people: IB blog post on the Local Planning Authority consultation.
More ways to get involved
- Find all of Barnet Council's consultations on the Engage Barnet website.
- Visit our consultations and campaigns page on the Inclusion Barnet website.
*For example: Barnet Council's proposed Fees and Charges 2024-25 for services, which got 14 online responses.
Local and London news and events
Your money, your way from Age UK Barnet
Monday 14 July (9.30am - 1.30pm) at the Ann Owens Centre, Oak Lane, East Finchley N2 8LT, for age 55+
There will be advice on making a will and power of attorney, paying for care and spotting a scam. Also information for people on low income and how to use the benefits calculator. Free refreshments. To register, email teresa.gallagher@ageukbarnet.org.uk or phone her on 07502 989 403
Access information: step-free access, accessible toilet
Disability Festival in the Park 2025
Wednesday 23rd July, 2025 - 12:00 to 19:00
Christchurch Green, Wanstead, London E11 2RH
This event is curated and staged with London’s Disabled community, for them, their friends and families to enjoy.
Includes accessible sports activities, comedy showcase, arts and crafts and much more.
Access information: fully wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, changing places toilet.
For more, email dafestivalredbridge@gmail.com
Exhibition at the Wellcome Collection
The Wellcome Collection is a free museum and library exploring health and human experience.
Zines Forever! DIY Publishing and Disability Justice looks at how zines have been used to share experiences of disability and disabled identity.
183 Euston Road
London NW1 2BE
Until 14 September 2025
Design and Disability at the Victoria and Albert Museum
‘Both a celebration and a call to action, Design and Disability showcases the radical contributions of Disabled, Deaf, and neurodivergent people and communities to design history and contemporary culture, from the 1940s to now.’
Free entry for Disabled people and a companion.
Open until 15 February 2026
Online and national resources
National Disability Arts Collection and Archive
The National Disability Arts Collection and Archive is a project that brings to life the heritage and rich history of the UK Disability Arts Movement, with an online catalogue of 3,500 images. You can also engage with learning resources, oral history films, learn about emerging Disabled artists, biographies of those who contributed to the Disability Arts Movement, and much more.
Get involved with NICE as someone with lived experience
Did you know National Institute for Health and Care Excellence recruits lay members to help develop guidance for NHS and care services, including people who use health and care services and carers? Serving as a member on a panel, committee or working group, your role would be to use your lived experience to help others.
There are currently committee vacancies including familial breast cancer and digital technologies for asthma self-management, and you can also apply to join the people and communities network where you can choose which opportunities to get involved with. Panel meeting attendance is normally paid at £300 for a full day and £150 for a half day, plus reasonable expenses. Current opportunities are participated in online. If you have access requirements, NICE can discuss this with you and make adjustments where needed.
For further information, you can either email pacn@nice.org.uk, call 0161 870 3020 or see the NICE website.
National news - local impact
Access Tips
Warning: This section includes mentions of suicide.
Request free IT support at home from AbilityNet
AbilityNet volunteers provide free IT (information technology) support to older people and disabled people of any age, anywhere in the UK.
Call their helpline 0300 180 0028 which is open 9-5 Monday to Friday except Thursday open 12-5 or fill out their online form.
‘Amazing for blind people’: app helps cricket fan find way around Lord’s (from the Guardian)
Wayfinding technology is intended to help partially sighted and disabled fans to better access live sports.
Read ‘Amazing for blind people’: app helps cricket fan find way around Lord’s
Suicide Prevention Stay Alive App
The Stay Alive app is a pocket suicide prevention resource, with information for those at risk of suicide and people worried about someone. It includes: strategies for staying safe, how to help a person thinking about suicide, and access to Barnet services and support.
Support with technology from Jewish Care
Jewish Care Explore offers support with technology to all adults within the Jewish community. Learn more about Jewish Care Explore's technology support.
Register for 999 text services
999 offers a text reporting service for members of the public who may be unable to call in an emergency. Text 'register' to 999, and then confirm 'yes' when you receive a response. Once this is complete, you will be able to text 999 in an emergency situation and the police will respond.
Be an inclusion champion
Make a difference to the Barnet community - become a Shared Lives Carer
Barnet Council are seeking people to give space in their home to an adult needing support in daily life, offering them a safe and nurturing environment to thrive in. Comprehensive training, ongoing support and competitive tax free allowances are offered in return for your work. Whether you have a spare room for live-in arrangements, can provide overnight support for a few nights, or offer your space during the day, your committed and compassionate help can make a big difference to an adult needing support.
For more information, call 0208 359 3576 or email shared.lives@barnet.gov.uk.
Join us
Share YOUR lived experience:
become a member of Inclusion Barnet
Individual membership is FREE and is for Disabled people, which may include long term conditions or mental health issues, and/or carers. Find out how being a member and sharing your lived experience can lead to positive change on our website.
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About Us
Inclusion Barnet is a Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisation (DDPO), based in Barnet, North-West London. This means that all of our Trustees and most of our staff have lived experience of disability. Learning to use lived experience for social change is a skill. We use this understanding to design and deliver higher quality, more person-centred services.
Support our national campaign:
Every sign up counts
We're calling on the Government to work with organisations led by Disabled people to make workplaces easier to access and to improve social security so that everyone can live a decent life, whether they’re in work or not.
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Did you know we run libraries, Barnet Voice for Mental Health, community organisation support, and more? Find all our services and other newsletters you can subscribe to, below.
