Staff
Jackie Powers
Chief Executive
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I am originally from Zimbabwe, where I trained and worked as a State Registered Nurse before moving to the UK. For over 30 years, I have worked within Southampton’s charity sector, developing services that help people live more confident and fulfilling lives.
As Chief Executive Officer of Southampton Sight, I am committed to ensuring that people with sight loss receive compassionate, respectful, and person-centred support. I believe the best outcomes are achieved through genuine partnership between organisations, professionals, families, and communities.
I also believe that every individual has innate strengths. With the right support and encouragement, people can move from dependence toward greater independence and confidence.
Mandy Swift
Finance Manager
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I’ve been part of Southampton Sight since 2009 and over the years I’ve had the privilege of working in many different roles — from front-line support to behind-the-scenes management. Each position has given me the chance to contribute to a charity that makes a real difference to the lives of those living with sight loss.
In January 2026, I reduced my hours and shifted my focus to my current role as Finance Manager and Company Secretary. Working remotely from home allows me to continue supporting the organisation while enjoying a more flexible lifestyle.
Outside of work, my husband Rob and I are looking forward to spending more time on the golf course, exploring the beautiful corners of the UK in our motorhome and heading across Europe on our motorcycle during the summer months.
Debbie Burbidge
Office Administrator
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I started work for Southampton Sight in Jan 2026. My duties are in admin / reception plus many other tasks. I work part time and have enjoyed my role so far.
I worked in recruitment for nearly nine years so this is a big change of direction for me!
My role can be varied from day to day which I love. I enjoy welcoming people to our lunches and other support groups. They are a great way to meet our members and look after them.
Outside of work I have a 5-year-old little boy, who started school last year and loves football and all things dinosaurs!
I enjoy cold water swimming and training / running in the evenings too. I am hoping to train for a 10k for Southampton Marathon next year!
Kimberley Boughey
Sight Loss Advisor
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I am very excited to join Southampton Sight as a Sight Loss Advisor Intern and to get involved in the amazing work the charity does to support those living with sight loss locally. I have received a very warm welcome and met some wonderful and inspiring people.
Although my background is in environmental science and communications, I am also passionate about helping other people with visual impairments reach their full potential and get the most out of life.
In my spare time I enjoy getting out in nature, doing yoga, reading and seeing all kinds of live music and comedy.
Kris Gibson
Sight Loss Advisor & Head of Income Generation
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I have been proudly supporting the local sight loss community here in Southampton for many years now, but am as committed and energised as ever. Through our close ties working with University Southampton Hospital, in particular developing and running the Sight Loss Nurse Advisors program, I feel proud to be one part of the amazing team here at Southampton Sight making meaningful, positive changes for our members.
Having some 40+ years of lived experience of sight loss, I understand the emotional impact and ongoing journey impairment brings. With our strong focus on emotional wellbeing and personal empowerment I am privileged to see first-hand the difference we make each and every day.
Alongside this, running several social groups, such as our Young @Heart V.I. and Working Age monthly groups, continues to not only bring the community together, but allows everyone involved, including me, to be exactly who they are – themselves. Creating spaces where people can connect, share experiences, and feel supported is a genuine pleasure.
In my own life I try and keep myself fit, despite the twinges of an ever-aging body, and continue to enjoy my lifelong love affair with reading, playing the guitar, and watching movies. Not always the typical hobbies associated with sight loss, I firmly believe in bucking the trend wherever possible.
Sonia Taulbut
Sight Loss Advisor
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I have been working at Southampton Sight since 2013. During my time here I have had a variety of titles and even though my roles have changed, what has remained constant is the satisfaction that I get to know that I may have made a positive difference to someones day.
My current role as Sight Loss Advisor means that I still do all of the things I did before but includes overseeing the Monday Activity Group means I have the privilege of spending time with our amazing members and wonderful volunteers.
