Stand up to bullying - Stamp out hate!
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Sunday, 29 November 2020
Friday, 27 November 2020
27th November 2020 - Feeling Relieved
Thursday, 26 November 2020
Wednesday, 25 November 2020
David Di Palma resigns from Braunstone Town Council in respect of systemic bullying.
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Stamp Out Bullying - Councillor David Di Palma speaks out about systemic bullying.
I will always campaign to stamp out bullying.
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Thursday, 1 October 2020
Long time no hear
It has been a long time since we last posted but it has been a very busy few months in respect of supporting the communities of Braunstone Town and Leicester Forest East. The meetings of the respective Councils continue to be held via Zoom which is a format that I personally quite like. We have been busy recruiting another team member and I am pleased to say that Jude has joined our unique team. We are actively looking to recruit an additional team member to work evenings, so if you are looking to join a diverse and friendly team based on the Branstone Town/Leicester Forest East border please drop us a line. We look forward to hearing from you.
Best wishes
Jude on behalf of David
Monday, 17 August 2020
Tuesday, 11 August 2020
Complaint Investigation Team
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Monday, 10 August 2020
You Can't Mop it up
I’ve been paying close attention to the behaviour of my fish recently and they certainly appear to be spawning. According to the information I received, fish require something soft to lay eggs on. You can find a number of specialised nests in aquatic shops, but I’ve heard an idea of using a mop head instead. All being well, this isn’t a joke but a legitimate suggestion. If not, I am sure the fish will find some other use for it.
Today I’ve been busy in councillor mode
working on a complaint file on behalf of a parishioner. The complaint is complex,
but I enjoy the challenge and I will ensure that with the support of my team we will give the complainant the best possible chance of winning.
For the last few weeks, I’ve been busy working on the garden and planting flowers, fruit trees and shrubs. The garden is looking far more colourful than any of the previous years and now I’ve been here for 7 years. My garden definitely benefited from lockdown restrictions.
Luckily, garden centres remained open for most of the time during the Covid-19 pandemic
as visiting them is a therapeutic experience.
Monika on behalf of David.
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
For more blogs visit www.dipalmauk.com
Friday, 10 July 2020
Lockdown Part 2, Leicester, Weekly review Friday 10.07.2020
Weekly
review Friday 10.07.2020
Lockdown
Part 2, Leicester, Day 10
Just as
there was a glimmer of hope that life can return to a degree of normality,
Leicester and some of the neighbouring districts were placed under a second pandemic
lockdown.
For the
majority of people who closely followed the government advice in respect of
social distancing and cleanliness and all the restrictions imposed by the
government, we were hoping to be now moving forwards and returning to normal. But
the minority of people chose not to follow the rules and regulations and
consequently we are back in lockdown.
There are also
reports that outbreaks occurred in many of the 1500 clothing and textile factories within
the lockdown areas whereby people were either unwilling or unable to follow the
guidelines which therefore put everyone else at risk.
Yesterday
Support Worker Monika and I encountered a young couple sharing a romantic
moment (kissing) whereby one person lived on one side of the motorway bridge
which is in lockdown Leicester Forest East and the other person living in the
safe zone of Leicester Forest East as the M1 literally splits the Leicester Forest East area in half which is causing more anxiety and frustration amongst the parishioners I
have been elected to serve.
In other
news, this week my team and I continue to support a local businessman with a
problem and we have been liaising with other businesses and service providers to reach a
conclusion.
Tuesday, 7 July 2020
0700:- More Seizures Overnight
0700
Feeling exhausted. More seizures overnight. Keeping the curtains closed to help with the consequential migraine. Thankfully my Support Team will arrive soon.
David Di Palma Brain Injury Survivor.
Visit our website to discover more Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Friday, 3 July 2020
A Mountain to Climb
Weekly review 3rd July 2020
My team and I are currently representing a
local businessman with an ongoing dispute. I’m fortunate to have a very experienced
complaints handling and investigations team managing the dispute and therefore
my health status is being largely protected by my closest advisors.
The way in which my opponents underestimate
me always makes me laugh. They all too often assume that a guy with a brain
injury couldn’t possibly know very much. But I like a challenge and always feel
good when the opposition lose. As my team and I head towards an inevitable
victory, with the opposition having a white mountain (Mont Blanc) to climb just to reach
first base one can’t help but smile to oneself and be proud of one’s team.
Saturday, 27 June 2020
David Di Palma of Di Palma (UK) Ltd's educational videos. Warning contains scenes some may find upsetting
check out the video here
David Di Palma of Di Palma (UK) Ltd , raising awareness of hidden disabilities. Check out the video here - warning contains scenes of abnormal brain activity some may find upsetting
Up-In-Arms . Where's the Concrete Bollard?
I’m feeling
relieved today after Support Worker Claire and I managed to track down a friend
we have not heard from for a few weeks. We’re relieved to know that she is
alive and relatively well. We will sleep much better tonight knowing we’ll be
able to meet her again.
In other
news, the concrete bollard is yet to make an appearance in respect of
unauthorised and dangerous parking in the sheltered housing scheme where I live. Whilst it is
quiet at the moment, I don’t think it will be for long because the residents
who are up in arms campaigning against the installation of the concrete bollard, have got a petition against the bollard, but I don't think they have overturned the decision yet.
Personally,
I support the installation of the bollard because it is just a matter of time
somebody is struck by a car because the residents are driving their cars on the
area they should not be driving.
Monika on behalf of David
Monday, 22 June 2020
Business Support 22/06/2020
Monday 22/06/2020. Had an early start this morning supporting a local business man with a problem. Business owners continue to experience difficulties with the lasting impact of Covid 19 Corona Virus and my team and I are more than happy to support residents and business owners where we can. This afternoon I sustained a fall in-between Support Worker's shifs. My head is very sore this evening, mainly from seizures caused by working on our website. That's about all for now. Until next time citizens, take care and I'll catch up with you soon.
David
Saturday, 20 June 2020
Weekly Review - 20/06/2020
Saturday 20.06.2020
weekly review
This week
David and his support team have been very busy redesigning our website and
communications portfolio. These are vital elements of our business.
Communication is the key to success.
Unfortunately,
as I am sure you will have seen from previous videos and blog entries any
computer work that David undertakes causes seizures and abnormal brain activity
which concerns us all. It is very difficult to try and tell David that he
shouldn’t be doing something that has a negative impact upon his health
circumstances. But as a team we support David by keeping him safe and intervene
when David becomes ill.
To the
untrained eye David would appear normal but if you were to look closer you will
see and hear the signs that David is unwell. As a team we remain focus on
achieving our objectives to support David and the wider community.
From a
support worker’s perspective, it can be difficult to see David become
increasingly unwell through trying his best. However, David always reminds us
of his motto which is “To triumph over adversity is my greatest strength.”
Blog by Support Worker Monika
Thursday, 18 June 2020
Brain Injury Survivor - Seizures all Afternoon
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Saturday, 13 June 2020
Living with a Brain Injury - Relaxing by the Lockdown Project
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Sales & Despatch with David & Monika
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Wednesday, 10 June 2020
My All Time Proudest Moment
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Tuesday, 9 June 2020
In dispute with a Local Authority
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Read All About Di Palma (UK) Ltd
The Survivor & Author - 1968
Born in 1968 David is a brain injury and abuse survivor (sexual, physical and mental abuse). David’s motto ‘To triumph over adversity is my greatest strength’ is reflective of his resilience. David has kept diaries all throughout his life, the intricate and invaluable diaries detailing his experiences surviving; epilepsy, abuse in all forms, a brain injury and being an Independent Politician. Abusers were aware of David’s diaries and frequently searched for them in an attempt to locate and destroy the intricate works and catalogued evidence. David always tried to stay one-step ahead of the abusers by continually changing his hiding places and by producing back-up copies of everything. From a young boy, David was threatened to keep quiet about the abuse, David focussed on trying to protect his mother and sisters from the abusers and focussed on being a better person than his abusers were. David, the Survivor could so easily have taken an alternative path as many others have done, instead he committed his life to focus on supporting others through difficult times. The physical abuse David endured caused his first brain injury which caused epilepsy. Educated in mainstream schools, David left school at the age of sixteen; determined to improve his circumstances, determined to overcome the power and control the abusers had over him and to continue to support others David returned to higher educational establishments and studied Information Technology and Law. David, In later years, David, further continued upon his vocational educational path by securing a grade of Distinction in Inspecting Housing Services and further progressed to a higher level, by studying for Managing Housing Services, with the Chartered Institute of Housing, becoming a Housing Practitioner.
Award Winning Book - 2006 -
David’s writing career began in 2006 with the award-winning book - True Warrior. With the desire to inspire and encourage other survivors to excel in their endeavours, David wanted to share his story and he wrote his maiden title entitled True Warrior. True Warrior, focused on surviving epilepsy, corrective brain surgery, memory loss and abuse. Within the book he significantly understated the extent and severity of the abuse, because, at the time of the publication, some of the abusers were still involved with David’s life, therefore, David, remained at high risk of harm should he speak out. David went on to complete a follow-up book (2010) with further books being works in progress (2020). Now the main threat of the abusers has diminished, but not completely disappeared, David reveals all about the true extent of the abuse endured and the difficulties, including, the perpetrators. The forthcoming books are due for publication in 2020.
The Independent Politician – 2010 With the increasing desire to support many more people and to raise awareness of the difficulties people face on a much wider scale, David’s Independent Political Career began in 2010. David was frustrated with mainstream politicians from all political parties, with them not understanding the most vulnerable members of society and their needs. David, not one for sitting about doing nothing about it, set out on a mission to become elected and to ensure underrepresented groups are proportionately represented at every level of government and for reasonable adjustments to be made in accordance with legislation. In 2011 David secured his first victory when he was co-opted onto Glenfield Parish Council by his peers. Four years later at the Local Elections of 2015 David was elected to Glenfield Parish Council and to Braunstone Town Council in addition to nominated and appointed the candidate at Croft Hill (Blaby District Council); coming second to the blue candidate. In the Local Elections of May 2019 David was nominated and appointed the Independent Candidate for Winstanley Ward, Braunstone Town (Blaby District Council) defeating the Braunstone Town Mayor in the election and was elected to Leicester Forest East Parish Council and Braunstone Town Council respectively. To this day David continues to campaign to ensure that all councillors, regardless of political party membership, are given equal opportunities to make contributions and to represent their communities. Disappointingly the attitudes of some councillors in respect of equal opportunities is more challenging to overcome compared with other councils due to their lack of willingness to work with people with different viewpoints, different political persuasions, and different backgrounds.
The Community Campaigner &
Equality Rights Activist – 2014 to Present
In 2014 David identified the greater need to support the community at local, regional, and national level on important subjects including Housing, Disability Rights, Equal Opportunities, and Diversity. With his own personal funds, David established a Campaign Group, Radford United (Community Action Group). The Campaign group worked predominantly with senior citizens and hard-to-reach groups from a cross section of the community throughout Braunstone Town, Leicester Forest East, and across the District Of Blaby. Early successes included; securing positive changes to a housing development, a refund of service charges for residents of a Sheltered Housing Scheme, Improving Services for the Community and working with a number of agencies and Community Stakeholders including Leicestershire Police, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue, Leicestershire Scouts, Age UK and many more on initiatives including crime prevention, health, safety, physical and mental wellbeing, community development, running charitable events, social inclusion and community cohesion. In addition, Radford United established a Community Newsletter and Community Darts and Ten Pin Bowling Teams with the emphasis on Community Cohesion, Tackling Social Isolation and the promotion of Diversity, Equality and Freedom of Expression. Understanding the need to support the local community in the times of continuing financial cuts to local services and using the vast experiences gained from his varied roles.
2017 – Outstanding Achievement Awards In 2017, with the support of his Social Worker and Support Team David progressed and established Radford United (LE3) Ltd, a Private Limited Company. From his unique perspective David fully understands the impact of financial cuts to vital services such as Social Care, Housing, GP and Health Services, Community Transport and Supporting Vulnerable Adults. At the time of the Radford United Community Action Group Restructure, Radford United Community Action Group had been twice nominated for the Blaby District Council Prestigious Annual Community Awards in the category of Outstanding Achievement for a Community Group. The nominations were a recognition of the contributions to the community of David and his team.
2019 - I am a Survivor & Proud In 2017 David sought professional help with First Step (Leicester). First Step is a counselling service for male survivors of abuse. David attended the counselling sessions in a bid to overcome the lifetime of abuse and to better understand the impact of the abuse on his life. Unprompted, David travelled alone and revisited scenes of crime in the UK and Italy to try and come to terms with the past. David concluded counselling on 1/7/19 and now primarily focusses on inspiring other people to improve their personal and professional circumstances, and to further develop his potential.
2019 Di Palma (UK) Ltd (Independent Consultancy Services) Established.
2019 to present. Radford United (LE3) Ltd & Di Palma (UK) Ltd, with David and his Personal Support Team at the forefront, work with a diverse range of housing and service providers, community stakeholders, individuals, organisations, community groups and service users. Collectively they work with individuals and organisations in encouraging and supporting survivors and service providers to improve their personal and professional circumstances and the services they offer. They achieve these goals through different channels including and not restricted to –
Awareness Raising – Raising awareness of hidden disabilities and mental health problems and how they can be better understood through appropriate support, constructive dialogue and equal opportunities.
Through Education - Educating; service providers, community stakeholders and service users, improving relations between representatives of different political persuasions, working with hard-to-reach groups, in addition to sharing personal and professional experiences through open dialogue. In 2020 David’s goals as an elected representative and community campaigner are to support and develop the community at local, regional, and national level. To campaign for better opportunities for disabled people and to actively encourage service providers, community stakeholders , service users and individuals to better understand and improve their professional and personal circumstances, by embracing different techniques including S.W.O.T. Analysis, Reflective Practice and Personal Empowerment Processes.
Our combined professional services include and are not restricted to the following-
• Advisory and Advocacy
• Complaints Management and Conflict Resolution
• SWOT Analysis
• Engagement through open dialogue and presentations.
· Report Writing, Production & Distribution Services. Including and not restricted to; Diversity,
Equality, Inclusivity & Disability Awareness.
• Campaign Management and Promotions.
• Strategic; Reviews, Planning & Implementation
• Production and Distribution of Electronic and Paper Based Reading Products (inc. Books, Newsletters and much more)
• Promotional Services
Read all about Radford United LE3 Ltd
The Survivor & Author - 1968
Born in 1968 David is a brain injury and abuse survivor (sexual, physical and mental abuse). David’s motto ‘To triumph over adversity is my greatest strength’ is reflective of his resilience. David has kept diaries all throughout his life, the intricate and invaluable diaries detailing his experiences surviving; epilepsy, abuse in all forms, a brain injury and being an Independent Politician. Abusers were aware of David’s diaries and frequently searched for them in an attempt to locate and destroy the intricate works and catalogued evidence. David always tried to stay one-step ahead of the abusers by continually changing his hiding places and by producing back-up copies of everything. From a young boy, David was threatened to keep quiet about the abuse, David focussed on trying to protect his mother and sisters from the abusers and focussed on being a better person than his abusers were. David, the Survivor could so easily have taken an alternative path as many others have done, instead he committed his life to focus on supporting others through difficult times. The physical abuse David endured caused his first brain injury which caused epilepsy. Educated in mainstream schools, David left school at the age of sixteen; determined to improve his circumstances, determined to overcome the power and control the abusers had over him and to continue to support others David returned to higher educational establishments and studied Information Technology and Law. David, In later years, David, further continued upon his vocational educational path by securing a grade of Distinction in Inspecting Housing Services and further progressed to a higher level, by studying for Managing Housing Services, with the Chartered Institute of Housing, becoming a Housing Practitioner.
Award Winning Book - 2006 -
David’s writing career began in 2006 with the award-winning book - True Warrior. With the desire to inspire and encourage other survivors to excel in their endeavours, David wanted to share his story and he wrote his maiden title entitled True Warrior. True Warrior, focused on surviving epilepsy, corrective brain surgery, memory loss and abuse. Within the book he significantly understated the extent and severity of the abuse, because, at the time of the publication, some of the abusers were still involved with David’s life, therefore, David, remained at high risk of harm should he speak out. David went on to complete a follow-up book (2010) with further books being works in progress (2020). Now the main threat of the abusers has diminished, but not completely disappeared, David reveals all about the true extent of the abuse endured and the difficulties, including, the perpetrators. The forthcoming books are due for publication in 2020.
The Independent Politician – 2010 With the increasing desire to support many more people and to raise awareness of the difficulties people face on a much wider scale, David’s Independent Political Career began in 2010. David was frustrated with mainstream politicians from all political parties, with them not understanding the most vulnerable members of society and their needs. David, not one for sitting about doing nothing about it, set out on a mission to become elected and to ensure underrepresented groups are proportionately represented at every level of government and for reasonable adjustments to be made in accordance with legislation. In 2011 David secured his first victory when he was co-opted onto Glenfield Parish Council by his peers. Four years later at the Local Elections of 2015 David was elected to Glenfield Parish Council and to Braunstone Town Council in addition to nominated and appointed the candidate at Croft Hill (Blaby District Council); coming second to the blue candidate. In the Local Elections of May 2019 David was nominated and appointed the Independent Candidate for Winstanley Ward, Braunstone Town (Blaby District Council) defeating the Braunstone Town Mayor in the election and was elected to Leicester Forest East Parish Council and Braunstone Town Council respectively. To this day David continues to campaign to ensure that all councillors, regardless of political party membership, are given equal opportunities to make contributions and to represent their communities. Disappointingly the attitudes of some councillors in respect of equal opportunities is more challenging to overcome compared with other councils due to their lack of willingness to work with people with different viewpoints, different political persuasions, and different backgrounds.
The Community Campaigner &
Equality Rights Activist – 2014 to Present
In 2014 David identified the greater need to support the community at local, regional, and national level on important subjects including Housing, Disability Rights, Equal Opportunities, and Diversity. With his own personal funds, David established a Campaign Group, Radford United (Community Action Group). The Campaign group worked predominantly with senior citizens and hard-to-reach groups from a cross section of the community throughout Braunstone Town, Leicester Forest East, and across the District Of Blaby. Early successes included; securing positive changes to a housing development, a refund of service charges for residents of a Sheltered Housing Scheme, Improving Services for the Community and working with a number of agencies and Community Stakeholders including Leicestershire Police, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue, Leicestershire Scouts, Age UK and many more on initiatives including crime prevention, health, safety, physical and mental wellbeing, community development, running charitable events, social inclusion and community cohesion. In addition, Radford United established a Community Newsletter and Community Darts and Ten Pin Bowling Teams with the emphasis on Community Cohesion, Tackling Social Isolation and the promotion of Diversity, Equality and Freedom of Expression. Understanding the need to support the local community in the times of continuing financial cuts to local services and using the vast experiences gained from his varied roles.
2017 – Outstanding Achievement Awards In 2017, with the support of his Social Worker and Support Team David progressed and established Radford United (LE3) Ltd, a Private Limited Company. From his unique perspective David fully understands the impact of financial cuts to vital services such as Social Care, Housing, GP and Health Services, Community Transport and Supporting Vulnerable Adults. At the time of the Radford United Community Action Group Restructure, Radford United Community Action Group had been twice nominated for the Blaby District Council Prestigious Annual Community Awards in the category of Outstanding Achievement for a Community Group. The nominations were a recognition of the contributions to the community of David and his team.
2019 - I am a Survivor & Proud In 2017 David sought professional help with First Step (Leicester). First Step is a counselling service for male survivors of abuse. David attended the counselling sessions in a bid to overcome the lifetime of abuse and to better understand the impact of the abuse on his life. Unprompted, David travelled alone and revisited scenes of crime in the UK and Italy to try and come to terms with the past. David concluded counselling on 1/7/19 and now primarily focusses on inspiring other people to improve their personal and professional circumstances, and to further develop his potential.
2019 Di Palma (UK) Ltd (Independent Consultancy Services) Established.
2019 to present. Radford United (LE3) Ltd & Di Palma (UK) Ltd, with David and his Personal Support Team at the forefront, work with a diverse range of housing and service providers, community stakeholders, individuals, organisations, community groups and service users. Collectively they work with individuals and organisations in encouraging and supporting survivors and service providers to improve their personal and professional circumstances and the services they offer. They achieve these goals through different channels including and not restricted to –
Awareness Raising – Raising awareness of hidden disabilities and mental health problems and how they can be better understood through appropriate support, constructive dialogue and equal opportunities.
Through Education - Educating; service providers, community stakeholders and service users, improving relations between representatives of different political persuasions, working with hard-to-reach groups, in addition to sharing personal and professional experiences through open dialogue. In 2020 David’s goals as an elected representative and community campaigner are to support and develop the community at local, regional, and national level. To campaign for better opportunities for disabled people and to actively encourage service providers, community stakeholders , service users and individuals to better understand and improve their professional and personal circumstances, by embracing different techniques including S.W.O.T. Analysis, Reflective Practice and Personal Empowerment Processes.
Our combined professional services include and are not restricted to the following-
• Advisory and Advocacy
• Complaints Management and Conflict Resolution
• SWOT Analysis
• Engagement through open dialogue and presentations.
· Report Writing, Production & Distribution Services. Including and not restricted to; Diversity,
Equality, Inclusivity & Disability Awareness.
• Campaign Management and Promotions.
• Strategic; Reviews, Planning & Implementation
• Production and Distribution of Electronic and Paper Based Reading Products (inc. Books, Newsletters and much more)
• Promotional Services
About David Di Palma ... Read all about David Di Palma
The Survivor & Author - 1968
Born in 1968 David is a brain injury and abuse survivor (sexual, physical and mental abuse). David’s motto ‘To triumph over adversity is my greatest strength’ is reflective of his resilience. David has kept diaries all throughout his life, the intricate and invaluable diaries detailing his experiences surviving; epilepsy, abuse in all forms, a brain injury and being an Independent Politician. Abusers were aware of David’s diaries and frequently searched for them in an attempt to locate and destroy the intricate works and catalogued evidence. David always tried to stay one-step ahead of the abusers by continually changing his hiding places and by producing back-up copies of everything. From a young boy, David was threatened to keep quiet about the abuse, David focussed on trying to protect his mother and sisters from the abusers and focussed on being a better person than his abusers were. David, the Survivor could so easily have taken an alternative path as many others have done, instead he committed his life to focus on supporting others through difficult times. The physical abuse David endured caused his first brain injury which caused epilepsy. Educated in mainstream schools, David left school at the age of sixteen; determined to improve his circumstances, determined to overcome the power and control the abusers had over him and to continue to support others David returned to higher educational establishments and studied Information Technology and Law. David, In later years, David, further continued upon his vocational educational path by securing a grade of Distinction in Inspecting Housing Services and further progressed to a higher level, by studying for Managing Housing Services, with the Chartered Institute of Housing, becoming a Housing Practitioner.
Award Winning Book - 2006 -
David’s writing career began in 2006 with
the award-winning book - True Warrior. With the desire to inspire and encourage other
survivors to excel in their endeavours, David wanted to share his story and he
wrote his maiden title entitled True Warrior. True Warrior, focused on
surviving epilepsy, corrective brain surgery, memory loss and abuse. Within the
book he significantly understated the extent and severity of the abuse, because,
at the time of the publication, some of the abusers were still involved with
David’s life, therefore, David, remained at high risk of harm should he speak
out. David went on to complete a follow-up book (2010) with further books being
works in progress (2020). Now the main threat of the abusers has
diminished, but not completely disappeared, David reveals all about the true
extent of the abuse endured and the difficulties, including, the perpetrators.
The forthcoming books are due for publication in 2020.
The Independent Politician – 2010
With the increasing desire to support many more people and to raise
awareness of the difficulties people face on a much wider scale, David’s Independent Political Career began in 2010. David was frustrated
with mainstream politicians from all political parties, with them not
understanding the most vulnerable members of society and their needs. David, not
one for sitting about doing nothing about it, set out on a mission to become
elected and to ensure underrepresented groups are proportionately represented
at every level of government and for reasonable adjustments to be made in
accordance with legislation. In 2011 David secured his first victory when he was
co-opted onto Glenfield Parish Council by his peers. Four years later at the
Local Elections of 2015 David was elected to Glenfield Parish Council and to
Braunstone Town Council in addition to nominated and appointed the candidate at
Croft Hill (Blaby District Council); coming second to the blue candidate. In
the Local Elections of May 2019 David was nominated and appointed the Independent
Candidate for Winstanley Ward, Braunstone Town (Blaby District Council) defeating
the Braunstone Town Mayor in the election and was elected to Leicester Forest
East Parish Council and Braunstone Town Council respectively. To this day David
continues to campaign to ensure that all councillors, regardless of political party
membership, are given equal opportunities to make contributions and to
represent their communities. Disappointingly the attitudes of some councillors in
respect of equal opportunities is more challenging to overcome compared with
other councils due to their lack of willingness to work with people with
different viewpoints, different political persuasions, and different
backgrounds.
The Community Campaigner &
Equality Rights Activist – 2014 to Present
In 2014
David identified the greater need to support the community at local, regional,
and national level on important subjects including Housing, Disability Rights,
Equal Opportunities, and Diversity. With his own personal funds, David
established a Campaign Group, Radford United (Community Action Group). The Campaign group worked predominantly with
senior citizens and hard-to-reach groups from a cross section of the community
throughout Braunstone Town, Leicester Forest East, and across the District Of
Blaby. Early successes included;
securing positive changes to a housing development, a refund of service charges
for residents of a Sheltered Housing Scheme, Improving Services for the
Community and working with a number of agencies and Community Stakeholders
including Leicestershire Police, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue, Leicestershire
Scouts, Age UK and many more on initiatives including crime prevention, health,
safety, physical and mental wellbeing, community development, running
charitable events, social inclusion and community cohesion. In addition, Radford United established a
Community Newsletter and Community Darts and Ten Pin Bowling Teams with the
emphasis on Community Cohesion, Tackling Social Isolation and the promotion of
Diversity, Equality and Freedom of Expression. Understanding the need to
support the local community in the times of continuing financial cuts to local
services and using the vast experiences gained from his varied roles.
2017 – Outstanding Achievement Awards In
2017, with the support of his Social Worker and Support Team David progressed
and established Radford United (LE3) Ltd, a Private Limited Company. From his
unique perspective David fully understands the impact of financial cuts to
vital services such as Social Care, Housing, GP and Health Services, Community
Transport and Supporting Vulnerable Adults. At the time of the Radford United
Community Action Group Restructure, Radford United Community Action Group had
been twice nominated for the Blaby District Council Prestigious Annual Community
Awards in the category of Outstanding Achievement for a Community Group. The
nominations were a recognition of the contributions to the community of David
and his team.
2019 - I am a Survivor & Proud In
2017 David sought professional help with First Step (Leicester). First Step is
a counselling service for male survivors of abuse. David attended the counselling
sessions in a bid to overcome the lifetime of abuse and to better understand the
impact of the abuse on his life. Unprompted, David travelled alone and
revisited scenes of crime in the UK and Italy to try and come to terms with the
past. David concluded counselling on 1/7/19 and now primarily focusses on inspiring
other people to improve their personal and professional circumstances, and to
further develop his potential.
2019 Di Palma (UK) Ltd (Independent Consultancy Services) Established.
2019 to present. Radford United (LE3) Ltd & Di Palma (UK) Ltd, with David and
his Personal Support Team at the forefront, work with a diverse range of
housing and service providers, community stakeholders, individuals,
organisations, community groups and service users. Collectively they work with
individuals and organisations in encouraging and supporting survivors and
service providers to improve their personal and professional circumstances and
the services they offer. They achieve these goals through different channels
including and not restricted to –
Awareness Raising – Raising awareness of hidden disabilities and
mental health problems and how they can
be better understood through appropriate support, constructive dialogue and
equal opportunities.
Through Education - Educating; service providers, community
stakeholders and service users, improving relations between representatives of
different political persuasions, working with hard-to-reach groups, in addition
to sharing personal and professional experiences through open dialogue. In 2020
David’s goals as an elected representative and community campaigner are to
support and develop the community at local, regional, and national level. To
campaign for better opportunities for disabled people and to actively encourage service providers,
community stakeholders , service users and individuals to better understand and
improve their professional and personal circumstances, by embracing different
techniques including S.W.O.T. Analysis, Reflective Practice and Personal
Empowerment Processes.
Our combined professional services
include and are not restricted to the following-
•
Advisory and Advocacy
•
Complaints Management and
Conflict Resolution
•
SWOT Analysis
•
Engagement through open
dialogue and presentations.
·
Report Writing, Production &
Distribution Services. Including and not restricted to; Diversity,
Equality, Inclusivity &
Disability Awareness.
•
Campaign Management and
Promotions.
•
Strategic; Reviews, Planning
& Implementation
•
Production and Distribution of Electronic
and Paper Based Reading Products (inc. Books, Newsletters and much more)
•
Promotional Services
Wednesday, 3 June 2020
Councillor David Di Palma A Wet and Busy Start to June
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Friday, 29 May 2020
Surprising Participants with Luke, Sophie and David
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Wednesday, 27 May 2020
It’s been a long day having first woken up at 00:30
Welcoming life despite difficulties
It’s been a long day having first woken up at 00:30 unable
to feel the right hand-side of my body. It was safe to remain in bed rather
than seek support by life line service.
I took this approach because when medics had attended
previously, it was decided that these experiences are common to myself and
therefore no further action is required. By around 2 am I managed to return to
sleep and being awoken by dawn chorus at 4:09 I stayed awake since.
At 9:30 my support worker Claire, arrived and we went on a
supportive trip to purchase supplies for my lockdown project. Those eagle-eyed
could have spotted it in the background of my video at 4:35.
Support worker Monika and I have discussed when the big
reveal will be for my lockdown project. Stay tuned to find out.
For more information visit our website www.dipalmauk.com
Tuesday, 26 May 2020
26 May 2020 Five Year Development Plan
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Saturday, 23 May 2020
Safeguarding David with Support Worker Monika
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Friday, 22 May 2020
Weekly Review - 22nd May 2020 - Supporting Residents Through the Pandemic
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Thursday, 21 May 2020
Don't be a Tool, Follow the Rule
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Wednesday, 20 May 2020
Off to a Bad Start.
Got off to a bad start this morning with a telephone appointment with the epilepsy doctor from the hospital. I didn't receive the news I was hoping for but one remains upbeat (what other choice does one have other than to remain upbeat?). I then went shopping with Support Worker Claire and returned some unwanted goods for a refund. The remained of the afternoon was spent in the garden until Support Worker Monika arrived at 18.30 for the evening shift. Monika and I spent the evening at the meeting of Leicester Forest East Parish Council of which I am an elected member. Monika finished work at 20.30, just as the Leicester Forest East meeting ended.
I end the day feeling tired and ready for an early night.
Stay tuned to this channel for all the latest developments.
Monday, 18 May 2020
Lockdown but not for much longer
Lockdown but not for much longer
Today I’ve been working on my lockdown project with the
support from Claire and encouragement from Monika. The lockdown project which
will be revealed soon is taking shape. My support dogs Sophie and Luke are
watching closely and supervise the work so it’s at a good standard.
We’ve had a lot of work to do which keeps us away from mischief.
Stay tuned to this channel to learn more.
Thursday, 14 May 2020
There’s no place like home
There’s no place
like home
I continue
to liaise with Leicestershire Police and other agencies in respect of incidents
across Winstanley Ward Braunstone Town. With their being no council meetings to
physically attend, all meetings are now being held by Zoom.
Monika and myself
have taken part in a number of practice meetings so all participants are
familiar with the software and as how to engage. I prefer meetings to be held
this was after my initial reservations. They are far more engaging as I feel
safe and much more relaxed at home.
Wednesday, 13 May 2020
If you think lockdown was bad, try living with Luke
If you think lockdown was bad, try living
with Luke
It’s been a busy few days. We’ve been
receiving several deliveries and the curtain twitching neighbours could think
something dodgy was going on in my garden. I have bought a lot of things on-line,
sometimes being stuck at home for half a day so as not to miss a 4-hour
delivery window. The deliveries were of the components for my special lockdown
project which will be revealed in a week or two.
In other news, I do wish Luke; the French
bulldog’s flatulence problems will be gone soon. You can smell him from 200 yards,
and it is one of the things I can’t escape from during lockdown. I love the dog
to pieces, but I do not want to share his personal issues. He does not
understand the concept of personal space either, I’d like him to keep his
bodily smells to himself.
I’m still missing going to the gym but
support worker Monika has been assisting me with health and fitness by assuring
I get a good deal of exercise in the evening by walking the dogs. Hopefully,
I’ll manage to keep away the 2 stones of weight I have lost recently rather than
putting them back on.
Wednesday, 6 May 2020
Coronavirus Lockdown Project
Coronavirus
Lockdown Project
It has been
an unusually warm day today looking promising for the first bank holiday in May.
According to the weather forecast it will be raining by Saturday. Therefore, I
made a good use of the weather by working on my Coronavirus lockdown project.
Keep following this channel to learn more.
Time
passed by so quickly that I forgot to eat my lunch and went for a walk with a
cracker in my hand when my support worker Monika arrived. We walked 2 miles or
more and together with the exercise I did in my garden working on my project, I
had a good work out without entering the gym.
With
regards to council business, I continue to liaise with Leicestershire Police
and other service providers working towards resolving issues across my ward of
Braunstone Town.
If I can
be of service to you, please don’t hesitate to contact me via email
always@vote4ddp.co.uk or telephone 07594419570.
Tuesday, 5 May 2020
Multi-Agency Working & the Randy French Bulldog
I have had a terribly busy day. I've liaised with many different external agencies.
It started with me having a seizure, not a
genuinely nice experience but one has to tolerate such situations (one uses the
word ‘tolerate’ somewhat loosely, what other choice does one have). I have
spoken on the telephone to the GP and I am now waiting for a telephone
consultation with the Neurology Consultant as my seizure frequency and severity have increased.
Thankfully, the seizures have been witnessed by my Support Workers and they are
keeping incident diaries which should help the medical professionals.
I have liaised with Leicestershire Police
in respect of an unpleasant situation on my
ward (Winstanley Ward, Braunstone Town Council ) and I have responded to emails
from constituents of Braunstone Town and Leicester Forest East,
my Support Team and I continue to support constituents through the Corona Virus/Covid 19 Pandemic. .
In addition, I have been discussing case work with the Social Services Safeguarding
Team at County Hall and have completed administration tasks and online shopping
with Support Worker Claire. Support Worker Monika has been busy this evening
and I have been liaising with Support Worker Julian by phone. My Support Dogs (Luke the
French Bulldog & Sophie the Jack Russell Terrier) have found themselves a
new friend in the twelve-month-old Cockapoo visiting my next-door neighbour. This
canine encounter is somewhat humorous as Luke is eighteen months old, is adventurous and has
reached sexual maturity, I’m sure you don’t need me to draw you a picture but
let’s just say that thankfully the Cockapoo bitch has been spayed and Luke
remains a cumbersome Frenchie virgin.
I end the day feeling somewhat unwell but reasonably
content.
For more blogs visit our website.
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Zooming Ahead…….
With us now being in full lockdown mode my team and I continue to train and improve our techniques in respect of video conferencing for remote working as per the government guidelines.
Last week I took part in the Policy and Resources Committee meeting of Braunstone Town Council via Zoom. The main topic on the agenda was Braunstone Town Covid-19 response.
It was an interesting experience which lasted a couple of hours. Surprisingly, a virtual meeting was easier for me to follow than the meeting in the council chamber as it was more controlled. Oftentimes Councillors have a tendency to talk over one another instead of allowing the speaking Councillor to finish expressing their opinion. In this instance I was able to express my opinion without anyone else speaking over me because their microphones were muted.
I look forward to more virtual meetings in the future because from a disability managed perspective such meetings allow me to contribute more freely without other Councillors talking over me or interrupting me without a good reason. Therefore I am able to serve my Parishioners better.
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise. Monika on behalf of David
click here to visit our website
Wednesday, 29 April 2020
Coronavirus lockdown update
Coronavirus lockdown update
Since the lockdown was put into place by
the government on 23rd of March David has found adjusting to life very
difficult just like the rest of the society have.
From the mental health perspective, it has
been extremely challenging because he is unable to go to the gym which was a
valuable source of mental and physical wellbeing as well as an opportunity to
socialise.
Being told you are only allowed to go out
once a day was also challenging for David experiencing brain injury
consequences and short memory problems.
The positives under lockdown are definitely
financial as David has not got as much opportunity to spend his money. He likes
to go out to the shops rather than shopping online which leaves him with a few
more pounds in his pocket.
Another positive aspect of lockdown is
embracing new technologies, trying out new software to organise video conferences.
Yesterday for example David tried Microsoft Team for the first time to have an
informal meeting with Leicester Forest East Parish Councillors.
The online meeting was successful despite the
fact that Luke, the French Bulldog, kept snoring in the background the whole
event. Sophie, the Jack Russel Terrier, did not find it fascinating either and
fell asleep on David’s lap. As a lady she minded her manners and did not make
any sounds.
Monika on behalf of David
visit our website for moreThursday, 26 March 2020
Covid 19 - The Silent Killer - Controversial to Say the Least.
Covid 19 - The Silent Killer
Controversial to Say the Least.
I’m supporting residents from home with the restricted movements and working from home rules now in force due to the global pandemic.
Whilst I do that in Warrior’s Retreat (my aptly named garden office) I think of the people who have lost their lives through the disease that has strangled the life out of so many. I think of the families and friends’ of the victims’ who have lost people to the disease. I think of the vulnerable people who are most at risk of (1) The disease (2) Changes to their care and support services, changes to services that they may not be able to cope with or wouldn’t be able to manage without.
I think of the people who are on the front line looking after the sick and the dying, then the key workers and front line service personnel keeping our country running at this time. I think of the councillors, government officials, local, National, and armies of volunteers. The unsung heroes, too many to list, I have admiration for them all.
But then I think of the greedy people and corporations looking to profiteer from people’s misery. The Sports & Leisure retailer billionaire who’s inflated his prices to cash in on the pandemic and the store owner over inflating prices on hand sanitiser because everyone needs it. The actions of the fraudsters who are quick to set up scams to fleece people when they’re at their lowest and most vulnerable. Those actions make me feel angry and upset me. The inconsiderate people who let their children out to play, putting their children and others at risk, the people who just carry on regardless because they think they’re invincible and without observing Social Distancing advice.
But then I think of the people who, through no fault of their own are now having to claim state welfare payments. It wasn’t that long ago that many of those new claimants, the people having to claim because they are unable to work because of the pandemic, would’ve been verbally attacking existing claimants for whatever reason. I clearly recall some political parties themselves would label claimants as ‘work shy’, ‘lazy’, ‘idle’ the list goes on. Whilst many from society would then call political parties the ‘nasty party’, ‘out of touch’ etc. the list goes on. Isn’t it ironic that the former attackers of claimants are now the claimants themselves in need of support because of a situation outside of their control?
The politicians are no longer attacking the weakest and most vulnerable members of society via cuts to care and support packages, cuts to welfare payments, but, be rest assured that will come when this pandemic is over, it always does. Because the weak and vulnerable are defenceless and easy to attack. Easy to target.
One hopes that this pandemic will change people’s opinions for the good for ever.
One hopes this because at this moment in time everyone is vulnerable to attack from this deadly, silent assassin, Covid 19, Corona Virus.
Some are more vulnerable than others but we’re all vulnerable.
Covid 19 is nasty, unrelenting and can, as we’re witnessing all over the world, choke the life out of many. Covid 19 doesn’t discriminate. The rich, poor, healthy, unhealthy, Covid 19 doesn’t discriminate, working people, unemployed, self-employed, sick, disabled, fit and well, Covid 19 doesn’t discriminate. Covid 19 the silent assassin that shouldn’t be underestimated.
But when this is all over, which it will be. When Covid 19 has been controlled and defeated, which it will be. I hope and pray that from now on we are all kinder to one another. For the future I hope that political Parties/Groups/Independents speak to one another in the National and Local Interest. Political Parties/Groups/Independents should talk to each other wether those groups be in your local Village, Town, District or County. I hope that we (society) never return to attacking, in whatever form, welfare payment claimants ever again. To attack them as society did should be considered a Hate Crime. I hope we are more considerate of other’s needs. The panic buying that occurred at the beginning of the crisis was an embarrassment in itself. There are many in society who have nothing to eat on a daily basis, without Covid 19 being in existence let alone now! It’s indescribably overwhelming that volunteers have offered themselves to support vulnerable members of the community whilst Covid 19 spreads like a silent cloud of carbon monoxide from an invisible source. But, when this is over we (society) shouldn’t just conveniently forget the vulnerable people we’re keen to support now and at Christmas, but, we should continue to support anyway and be kind always. Vulnerable people need you every day of the year not just now. They need you more now but they need you every day.
My name is David Di Palma. I’m a Brain Injury Survivor. My seizures have increased through stress associated with aspects of this situation but I don’t care about myself, I care about every single one of you. Wether you be my next door neighbour or the woman who told me to eff off yesterday because I waved and said hello, I care about you and I’m here to support you. I’m an elected Councillor at Braunstone Town and Leicester Forest East and I care about you and I’m here to support you with the support of my support team. If there’s anything we can do to support you please let us know. Thank you.
Yours sincerely
Councillor David Di Palma Cert. CIH
Winstanley Ward, Braunstone Town.
Leicester Forest East.
Monday, 16 March 2020
The Invisible Man
Monday 16th March 2020 – The Invisible Man (A Survivor’s Inner Strength)
06.30.
I’m Not feeling particularly well. I’m having difficulty communicating, my speech is slurred & I cannot find the words I need. I’m feeling numb down the right side of my body. The numbness spreads from my head to my toes. I lost my balance a short while ago and fell, banging my head, but with no visible sign of injury I’m not going to worry about it. I made it to the toilet and back without getting caught short, a victory in itself.
I’m back in bed now but will get out of bed again soon.
I’ve no visible injuries apart from a large scar to my scalp from neurosurgery but not all disabilities are visible or fit into a tick box.
I can neither make myself, nor my circumstances nor my disability disappear.
I’ve no visible injuries apart from a large scar to my scalp from neurosurgery but not all disabilities are visible or fit into a tick box.
I can neither make myself, nor my circumstances nor my disability disappear.
My mindset is positive and determined.
My name is David Di Palma, I’m a Brain Injury Survivor and Proud.
More diaries about survival coming soon in my new book….
David J. Di Palma – Surviving One Day at a Time. click me to discover more
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
Abuse - I’ll probably be better off dead.
Monday 16th March 2020 - 0200 (Contains content some may find distressing)
Abuse - Sometimes I think I’d be better off dead.
The time is 0200. My head hurts, it’s excruciatingly painful. The pain caused by another episode of illness. It’s worse at night. No one is around to support at night. I don’t know if I’ve had a seizure but the searing heat located in the right temple and the agonising pain sends my memory back to the time when my father would repeatedly strike me around the head with his hands. Just one of many ways he would hurt me. This incident is being recorded on my digital voice recorder. I’ll play it back later and type the notes up from the recordings as I often do. I don’t know what I did to deserve the frequent hurt and beatings my father used to inflict upon me, I haven’t got any children but I know if I did I wouldn’t hit them. My bed is wet, I don’t know if that’s perspiration or I’ve passed urine. According to my father I was a worthless, useless, person who would never amount to anything. That’s all he ever told me. He was probably right. What use am I to anyone? I try to convince myself that I’m useful. Parishioners nominated, selected and voted for me in the local elections after all. Hence why I won more votes than the former Braunstone Town Mayor. My dogs love me (I think) but dogs love anyone who takes care of them. It wouldn’t matter to my family if I were dead. I very rarely hear from family unless they want something. Of course they had me labelled as a troublesome person out to cause mischief but none thought that I was having difficulty expressing myself and trusting people because some vile people closest to me were actually abusing me in the most horrific ways. So horrific that I was forced to be silent about it because I was repeatedly told that my mother and sisters would get hurt if I told anyone about it. I protected my family from the truth for over forty years. But no more. I’ve gone through counselling, I’ve spoken to some of my family about the abuse, the ones that would speak, most are in denial but the ones that have had a brief conversation with me have told me that they witnessed certain events going on, but yet did nothing to stop it! I’m crying now. For over forty years I thought I was protecting family from the truth, but, for over forty years they knew about some of what was going on? The question is… How much did they know and what type of abuse did they know about?
Sometimes I think I’d be better off dead. I certainly used to think that when my father was alive.
Well, soon the whole world will know the truth.
I’m holding nothing back anymore, there’s no need to.
My new book will reveal all.
Coming Soon….
David J. Di Palma – Surviving One Day at a Time. visit our website for more information
Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
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Stand up to bullying - Stamp out hate!
Stand up to bullying - Stamp out hate! Expressing the personal views of David Di Palma unless stated otherwise.
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