Vision North Somerset supports 1800 blind and partially sighted people in North Somerset

We provide a unique range of services including registration, rehabilitation and the provision of aids and equipment to people with sight loss. Staff often visit people at home to demonstrate the equipment and to advise on safety and lighting issues as many people are unable to attend our centre. We are also fortunate to have almost 100 volunteers who have a wide variety of roles, including running 6 social and activity clubs across the county, providing transport to them all for our clients.

Why the community needs this charity

1500 of our clients with sight loss are aged over 65. The vast majority are housebound, they cannot drive, go for a walk independently, do their shopping, pop out and visit friends, read a book or even see the TV screen. Many are isolated and lonely. We are currently raising money to provide a 'Companions Service'. This would entail recruiting and training volunteers to visit elderly people at home so they have a friendly regular visitor to look forward to.

Results and outcomes

By providing suitable equipment and dealing with safety issues we can encourage people to be independent, allowing them to stay in their own homes if they wish, with the confidence of knowing that being a local charity we are easily able to react to any problems experienced. By providing the companions service and a variety of social and activity clubs we will be able to address the biggest problem faced by elderly people with sight loss, that of isolation and loneliness.

Latest activities and projects

Andy Bartlett's Triathlon

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New Project

We have started to plan an exciting programme of events for younger people with sight loss, but need volunteers to help with a variety of sports; theatre trips; visits to National Trust properties, the seaside, a garden centre and even to the pub for a meal!! We are also need donations toward the cost of running the club! read more