Time to focus on sight loss in Falkirk as charity sets out new vision

One of our Sensory Centre Partners has launched a new name and vision as it publishes research, which shows a growing number of people living with sight loss.
Someone in Scotland starts to lose their sight every hour – including an increasing number of people in Falkirk. 
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has officially launched the change of historic charity Royal Blind’s name to Sight Scotland and its sister charity Scottish War Blinded changing to Sight Scotland Veterans.
Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans have also published new research, which shows that more people in Central Scotland would fear developing blindness or sight loss than dementia, deafness or loss of mobility. 
John Kerr is a Sight Scotland Veterans outreach worker based in Forth Valley Sensory Centre. John Kerr said: “Sight loss affects every individual differently, which makes the tailored support that Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans can provide to people living with visual impairment vital.
 
“The pandemic has sadly meant we have had to postpone our local lunch clubs and social activities for veterans with sight loss, and this has been tough for many who enjoy the new connections and support these activities provide. While working from home, we are still keeping in touch regularly with the veterans we support via telephone and email. We are keeping spirits high with an all-important social chat and listening ear, and ensuring they continue to receive our expert advice and any help they might need in order to maintain their independence at home. With the right support, the challenges that sight loss can bring can be overcome.”