Sight Loss Councils to launch in Dumfries and Galloway

Sight Loss Councils (SLC) Scotland will officially launch its Dumfries and Galloway council at a special event on Friday 5 September. The event will bring together local people, community organisations and prospective volunteers to celebrate the new council and learn more about the work of Sight Loss Councils across Scotland.

Sight Loss Councils (SLCs) in Scotland meet monthly and play a vital role in empowering people with a visual impairment, championing their rights, and helping to build a more inclusive and accessible society. Each council is made up of a dedicated group of volunteers with vision impairment who draw on their own lived experience to influence change at both local and national levels. Their work focuses on addressing key issues within the community, promoting accessibility, inclusion, and equality in everyday life.

Callum Lancashire, Engagement Manager for Sight Loss Councils Scotland, knows first-hand how important this work is. He lost his sight at fifteen after an accident caused macular degeneration. At the time, he had no support and struggled with his mental health. It was only when he met others with visual impairment and shared experiences that he realised he could still live a full and active life.

Callum adds: “With rates of visual impairment in Dumfries and Galloway comparable to or above the national average, there is a real local demand for a council like this. Our new SLC is an exciting opportunity to ensure the voices of visually impaired people are heard across the region. If SLCs are to make a real difference we need people to take part, and to achieve this we need to create a fun and supportive environment where members feel comfortable and empowered to share. If this sounds like something you would like to be part of, or if you know someone who might, please get in touch or come along to our launch event.”

You can find out more about Scotland's Sight Loss Council here.