Launch of Lancashire Sight Loss Council
Lancashire blind and partially sighted people have come together to increase the accessibility of services, through the launch of Lancashire Sight Loss Council.
Sight Loss Councils (SLC), funded by Thomas Pocklington Trust, are regional groups led by blind and partially sighted people. Together, they work with organisations to ensure what they do is accessible and inclusive.
SLCs have grown significantly and there are now around 20 SLCs across the country. We recently expanded into Scotland and plan to create further SLCs in England over the next four years.
Like our other SLCs, Lancashire SLC will work locally to address the accessibility of transport and street safety using the power of lived experience. Members are finalising details of their local project which will be announced shortly.
Left to right: Lloyd Sakr, David Parfett, Mohammed Salim Patel, Alison David, and Michael Parkinson, during their launch meeting
On their launch
Kelly Barton, Engagement Manager for the North West, said:
“Our first meeting was fantastic. It was great to hear the enthusiasm in the room and so many positive conversations about what everyone would like to achieve across Lancashire.
“We discussed everything from Blackpool Tower to Blackburn Bus Station, and how they could be more inclusive for blind and partially sighted people.”
Mohammed Salim Patel, Lancashire SLC member said:
“I can’t put into words how excited I am about joining Lancashire SLC. I have seen the superb work and differences that other SLCs have made, and I can’t wait for us to follow in those footsteps.
“I look forward to getting started and I have no doubt that we will improve the lives of all visually impaired residents in Lancashire.”
Lynne Rennison and Lloyd Sakr, Lancashire SLC members
University student Lloyd Sak, who is also an SLC member, added:
“I really enjoyed attending the first Lancashire SLC meeting where we discussed some great topics. I am really looking forward to getting things started with all our projects. These will have such a positive impact on the lives of blind and partially sighted people.”
Lynne Rennison, Lancashire SLC member, said:
“It was great to meet everyone at our first Lancashire Sight Loss Council meeting. You could feel the passion from everyone in the room – exciting times ahead.”
Lancashire Sight Loss Council will meet once a month to focus on national and local priority areas.
Lancashire SLC members Alison and Michael, sat with Kelly Barton, Engagement Manager for the North West
Join us
Are you passionate about making a difference? Do you want to influence positive change? Our Lancashire Sight Loss Council, led by blind and partially sighted volunteers, is recruiting new members. Join us today.
We use our lived experience to create positive change for others. Together, we tackle local issues and work with businesses and service providers to improve the accessibility of their services.
Join us to help ensure visually impaired people in your area can live the lives they want to lead.
Training and development
You’ll receive relevant training and the opportunity to learn and/or enhance your skills. Whether you’re interested in public speaking or honing your social media skills, there’s something for everyone to get involved in.
Stay in the know
If you want to stay up to date with news from the Sight Loss Councils, sign up to our mailing list.
Publication date: 23 October 2023