Adults, Life in General
Adults, Life in General
See here for more information.
See here for more information.
Having SMA and becoming a parent
Josh, Molly and Julian each share their experiences of having SMA and becoming a parent in our Community Voices.
All families have challenges, both practical and emotional. Ups and downs aren’t unusual, but if they’re feeling unmanageable, it may be helpful to talk with someone other than family or friends.
Online groups and forums can provide peer support, tips and ideas for parents who have SMA.
Young Minds – online information and resources for parents and phone helpline for parents worried about a child or young person under 25 years.
Relate – support people to make the most of family relationships. Help for people of all ages, backgrounds, sexual orientations and gender identities to strengthen their relationships; information and offer family counselling.
In a conversation about their lives called ‘Hitting Our Forties‘, Toby (SMA UK Trustee) and Andi (from TreatSMA) talk about getting kicked out of university, mental health, treatment, work, healthcare, support and more…
You can join the Adults’ Network to meet up with people. There are many other virtual groups and networks on Facebook, WhatsApp and Instagram. We have listed a number of these on this Online Communities page.
You can listen to, watch or read what young people, adults and others have to say in Community Voices, Podcasts, Videos and Stories. Find out more.
Popular with many adults and families in the SMA Community, an assistance dog could help you with practical tasks, such as:
- picking up dropped items such as your mobile, remote control or keys
- opening and closing doors
- helping with dressing and undressing
- helping with physiotherapy routines
- loading and emptying the washing machine
- pressing the button at a pedestrian crossing
- reaching up to shop-counters.
Registered assistance dogs should be allowed to go with their owner into many public places, such as shops, restaurants and to travel on public transport.
There is however a ‘but’, which is that an assistance dog is a serious commitment that needs a lot of thought and planning.
If you’re interested, there are several organisations that can give advice. Some train and provide their own dogs; others provide training for people who already have a pet dog. Each organisation has its own application process and training scheme and can give information and advice about the responsibilities of dog owners as well.
An assistance dog can provide loyal and unconditional friendship and company. They, and dogs in general, can also be a great ice breaker and way of meeting and talking to people when you’re out and about.
Animal Companions
You may decide that you don’t want an Assistance Dog but a well trained family dog can be a great addition and companion:
- Sunny Every Day
In March 2018, Martyn and his fiancée, Kasia, got their dog Sunny – find out why they decided to go for it and what Sunny means to them.
- Marni – with Dylan the Goldendoodle & Buttercup the Chihuahua
Marni, who has SMA Type 2, shares what Dylan and Buttercup mean to her.
- Ross & Ralph
Ross, who has SMA Type 2, introduces his golden cockapoo called Ralph!
Links to relevant sources of information, advice and support are given in the different sections of Living With SMA. Sometimes you may need extra advice, support or legal advice. There are website links below for some organisations which may be useful. We may be able to find other sources of support depending on where you live and your individual circumstances: contact Support & Outreach.
Advice & Advocacy Services:
Advocacy involves another person assisting you to find information you need, supporting you to express your views and wishes and to stand up for your rights. The person who supports you to do this would be your advocate; what they actually do depends on your situation and the support you want, but their role is always to support your choices. Some advocates are in paid roles, others are volunteers.
ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation, and Arbitration Service): advice and guidance on a range of employment related subjects for both employers and employees.
Advicelocal: information relating to: welfare benefits and tax credits; council tax, including exemptions and discounts; debt and money advice; housing and homelessness; employment and work issues; disability and social care; asylum and immigration. Search by postcode and topic for links to information for your area, including details of independent advice organisations.
Citizens Advice (CA): online information and advice on a range of issues including benefits, work, money, housing and the legal system.
Voiceability – NHS Complaints Advocacy: a free and independent service which supports patients in complaining about their NHS care.
Legal Advice and Services
The following provide information about legal aid and how to find a solicitor:
- England and Wales: Civil Legal Advice
- Scotland: Scottish Legal Aid Board
- Northern Ireland: Department of Justice
Law Centres Network: provide services for people who cannot afford a lawyer. Search to see if there is one local to you. They variously specialise in social welfare law, covering issues such as Welfare rights, Disability rights, Community care and more. All offer face-to-face advice to local residents and some run a phone advice line.