Please note that as of October 2020, we now operate as Sight Scotland Veterans. Our former name, Scottish War Blinded will appear in content, such as reports, produced before that date.
Veterans with sight loss took a march around The Kelpies, Falkirk, on Wednesday, May 15, as they clocked up steps as part of Scottish War Blinded’s 500 Miles Challenge.
Scottish War Blinded members of all ages have stepped into action in an almighty effort to collectively clock up 1,117,500 steps, equating to a 500-mile distance, over a six-week period.
The aim is to support Scottish War Blinded veterans in being more active, particularly those of older age, uniting them in exercise and proving sight loss is no barrier to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The challenge was born from an idea from World War Two veteran and Scottish War Blinded member from Edinburgh, 97-year-old Gordon Mills.
Veterans from the Falkirk area met up with fellow members who attend one of the charity’s activity hubs, the Hawkhead Centre in Paisley, to enjoy a group walk.
They were supported by Scottish War Blinded Outreach Workers, as well as Centre Officers from the charity’s Hawkhead Centre.
Scottish War Blinded veterans across Scotland are participating in the challenge, and have been provided with a talking pedometer to allow them to track their steps.
Rebecca Barr, Director of Scottish War Blinded, commented: “Many of our veterans are keen sportsmen and sportswomen and have been used to leading very active lives.
“For some of our older veterans especially, being outside and keeping active when you have a sight condition can at first feel very daunting.
“Our rehabilitation team, outreach workers and centre staff work with individuals each day to help our veterans build up confidence, get out and about and stay involved with physical and social activities in whatever capacity suits them best – anything from walking to archery, sailing, bowls and gym workouts.
“It’s brilliant to be bringing our nationwide members together in this way. Every step matters!”
Scottish War Blinded gives free support to ex-servicemen and women of all ages, no matter if they lost their sight during or after service.
For more information about the support offered to veterans with sight loss in the area and to refer a veteran to the charity, call 0800 035 6409 or get in touch online at www.scottishwarblinded.org.