Two former FlexIT students, Margaret Anne Elder and Anne Harrison, have set up a new support network for people with Fibromyalgia Syndrome. Edinburgh Lothian Fibromyalgia Service (ELFS) is currently the only support group in the Edinburgh area.

This condition causes widespread chronic pain and fatigue and cognitive dysfunction. It affects people in varying degrees, occurring mainly in women aged over 40. The condition affects 1% - 2% of the population with a woman to man ratio of 10 to 1.

At present the nearest groups are in Livingston, Glasgow, and Dundee. It is often difficult for people with the condition to attend meetings due to their ill health so a website would be an invaluable source of information and support.

If you would like more information or simply someone to listen, please call one of the numbers below. Calls cost no more than the price of a local call.

Call Margaret Anne on 0871 750 1720 or Anne on 0871 750 1721. Alternatively, you may contact ELFS by e-mail ELFS3@hotmail.com.

In compliance with recommendations made in a physical accessibility report by the Joint Mobility Unit, the centre is currently installing an Infra Red/Induction System for the deaf and hard of hearing. An Induction loop has been installed at the front reception desk and portable versions are available for use in the training rooms.

An induction loop is of great help to deaf people as it cuts out background noise and amplifies the sound making it clearer and easier to pick up.

Students who use a hearing aid can use the loop by setting their hearing aid to the “T” position or by using a loop listener. As the infrared systems are portable they can easily be used in different rooms.

The systems operate using portable transmitters and listening receivers. Students can use the system via specially designed headphones, under chin (stetoclip) receivers (for use without a hearing aid), or a neckloop receiver (for use with a hearing aid set to the “T” position).

Trainers will be able to communicate with deaf students using portable radio microphones which allow the trainer to move freely around the training room.

Nisus staff recently received training in using the equipment from Chris Reynard of the RNID. Further information can be found online at www.rnid.org.uk