At Independent Lives, we’re dedicated to supporting disabled people, older people, and carers to live independent and fulfilling lives. Through this newsletter, we will keep you updated on our training and events, as well as share stories from the organisations and communities we support.

Whether you are looking for advice, or to stay informed about what's going on, we hope you find this newsletter useful. As always, we would love to hear from you, if you have any feedback or stories to share, please get in touch.

We hope you enjoy this Winter Warmer edition.

Thank you for being part of our community.

We are delighted to announce George Dowell MBE, esteemed owner of Worthing Football Club and a prominent leader within our community, has accepted the role of Patron at Independent Lives.

George's remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to inclusion and accessibility have inspired many within Worthing and well beyond. His leadership both on and off the football pitch demonstrates a commitment to breaking down barriers and championing opportunities for all.

As our Patron, George will play a vital role in uniting Independent Lives, Worthing FC and our shared communities creating a strong partnership rooted in shared values.

Together, we will work to raise awareness around disability, independence, choice and control — not only for local Worthing residents, but also for our valued customers across Sussex, Wiltshire, and the London Boroughs.

Mandatory DBS Checks for New PAs working with adults in West Sussex

All new Personal Assistants (PAs) supporting adults in West Sussex must now have a new DBS check completed before starting work.

This replaces the previous rule, which accepted DBS certificates that were less than three months old.

We can support all PAs through the application process, but as a Direct Payment employer, you will need to send us your PA’s details as soon as they are offered the role.

This allows us to start the DBS application promptly and helps prevent any break in care.

We also recommend that PAs register with the DBS Update Service (£16 per annum).

This service keeps their DBS certificate current online and allows it to be reused for other roles requiring the same level of check within the same workforce (adult, child, or other).

Having an up-to-date certificate can make you available for new roles more quickly and give you a competitive advantage.

Do you, or someone you support, use Patient Transport Services?

Healthwatch in Sussex want to hear about your experiences of Sussex's Non-Emergency Patient Transport Services (NEPTS).

NEPTS takes people to their medical appointments and home again.

Let us know what you think via our survey. It should take around 15 minutes to complete. We will gather your views and ideas for improvement to share with the provider of the service. Closing date 30 November. 

Complete the survey and enter a prize draw to win one of five £25 gift vouchers!

• Friday 28th November 2-4.30, £30
• Suitable for any ability
• All materials provided
• Support from a team of friendly and caring creatives
• All profits go to our registered Charity (SVP 1053992) supporting our work with local older people
• Refreshments available
• Parking (request at time of booking)
• Fully accessible venue
• Friendly, relaxed and fun atmosphere! 

If you are a Direct Payment employer and looking for a safe and welcoming space to meet other employers, then our support groups are for you. They are a great space to share your thoughts and ideas and meet other people. 

The meeting dates for the remainder of this year can be found below. If you would like to join, then please get in touch by emailing advice@independentlives.org or phoning 01903 219482. 

📅 Wednesday 26 November 2025