A new Sight Loss Council launches in Northumberland
A new Sight Loss Council, led by blind and partially sighted people, has launched in Northumberland and is inviting other visually impaired in the county people to join.
Northumberland Sight Loss Council will campaign for positive change and tackle a range of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people, such as e-scooter safety and access to health and social care.
Northumberland Sight Loss Council, funded by Thomas Pocklington Trust, will join the network of Sight Loss Councils across the country, working to improve access to products and services at a local and national level.
Northumberland SLC member Jack Moffat from Northumberland said:
“Volunteering with Sight Loss Councils gives me a chance to use the empathy that I’ve developed over time to help other people. I’ve now come to a point in my life where I feel like I can actually help other people because I’ve made a big step with the acceptance of what I’m going through with my own sight loss. It’s great to be able to help other people – it enables you to grow as a person. It would be a great thing for anybody with a visual impairment to become an advocate for others.”
Engagement Manager Eamonn Dunne said:
“I am looking forward to working with our members and improving access to products and services for blind and partially sighted people in Northumberland.”
The Sight Loss Council will meet once a month and base its work on three priority areas: Employment and skills, Health and well-being and Inclusive Communities.
Northumberland SLC member Peter Hayton from Northumberland says:
“I want to highlight the issues blind and partially sighted people face in Northumberland and facilitate change that can benefit everybody. Because in a way, accessibility is for everybody, not just the people that it benefits.”
The council is still open to applications from new members. Eamonn Dunne adds:
“By joining Northumberland Sight Loss Council, you will have the opportunity to create real change in your community as well as develop your skills.”
Join Northumberland Sight Loss Council
Read our Volunteer Role Description and apply online. Make sure to select Northumberland Sight Loss Council when choosing which area to apply for.
If you have any further questions, please email info@sightlosscouncils.org.uk or call 020 8996 1937
Publication date: 25 November 2021