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.
Residents with sight loss in Dumfries and Galloway will have the opportunity to receive expert advice at the launch of a new event for people with sight loss.
Four organisations providing support for those with sight loss in the Dumfries and Galloway area will come together to host ‘Vision Hub’ on Monday, December 3, 2018 at Castle Douglas Community Centre.
At Vision Hub, local representatives from Scottish War Blinded, Macular Society, Visibility and Deafblind Scotland will offer specialist advice to visitors on how each service can help people with sight loss to continue living as independently as possible.
Whether you have sight loss yourself, or you care for someone who does, anyone affected by a sight condition is welcome to drop in, meet the experts and find out what kind of support is available. The event will be an opportunity to meet others with sight loss and share experiences and tips.
Scottish War Blinded Outreach Worker for Dumfries and Galloway, Mick Seed, will be on hand to explain how he can support more veterans with sight loss. The charity provide lunch groups for military veterans in the area, in addition to support for individuals at home, including providing tablets and smartphones with training.
Rehabilitation officers will demonstrate a range of specialist equipment, which is available free of charge to veterans with significant sight loss.
The Macular Society's Regional Manager, Jamie Cuthbertson, will share information on local services and practical support, including the Information and Advice service, telephone counselling service, volunteer run services and support groups.
Visibility’s Craig McLagan will talk about the range of services that Visibility can offer people with sensory loss across Dumfries and Galloway, including seven monthly peer support groups and a ‘try before you buy’ equipment scheme. Staff provide home visits to discuss what might help with adapting to sensory loss, such as equipment and accessible technology.
Rebecca Barr, Director of Scottish War Blinded, commented: “We are delighted to link up with Macular Society, Visibility and Deafblind Scotland to showcase the incredible amount of support on offer to those affected by sight loss in Dumfries and Galloway.
“When it comes to a sight loss condition everyone’s experience is different, and we look forward to welcoming visitors at Vision Hub to ensure they are getting the best, most appropriate support available to them.”
The event will take place on Monday, December 3, 2018 at Castle Douglas Community Centre, Cotton Street, Castle Douglas, DG7 1AJ. Doors will be open from 10.30am to 2pm.
Tea and refreshments will also be on offer free of charge.
Call Mick Seed, Scottish War Blinded Outreach Worker, for more information on the event on 07718 486322 or email michael.seed@scottishwarblinded.org