When it comes to the visually impaired community of Southampton we are always striving to offer as much support as possible. Although only two months into the new year, our calendars have been bursting at the seams with fresh courses, ongoing activities, and a host of exciting opportunities.
The year began strong with another batch of nurses attending our 4-week Sight Loss Advisor training course. Aimed at empathy and understanding, our trainees graduated with a breadth of knowledge and experience which can only benefit their patients. From sighted guidance to cooking V.I., they ran the gambit of the sight loss assault course and came away with a fresh perspective on what it is to live life differently but positively. Based out of the Eye Unit they and their colleagues are always available to give any support or help if needed.
The end of January saw our first Looking Forward session, a day where those newly diagnosed with vision loss can come and find out what is available. Benefits, statutory rights, technology… the morning offers a one-stop shop of information and advice, all wrapped in an intimate and friendly space, coupled with a bite to eat for all attendees. Who says there is no such thing as a free lunch?
For those who are finding living with sight loss difficult we rolled out our Emotional Wellbeing course in February. Run over a total of 6 weeks, these once weekly sessions provide a safe environment where attendees can discuss their experiences, hear from others, and learn the tools which can help them move forward. An empowering and sometimes emotional course, the sessions have been both remarkable and empowering, fostering friendships and self-reliance throughout.
With looking forward in mind, so it was that we invited Seetec, a local employment agency, to visit. Specialising in helping those historically overlooked get back into work, their Pioneer program offers both employment coaches and brokers. With close links with many businesses throughout the city, the Pioneer team don’t simply aim to get people back into the workplace, but help with supporting clients, advocating on their behalf, and making sure the transition from home to job is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
February also saw the first of our once monthly Sight Loss Explained workshops. Focusing on age-related macular degeneration, the session unpicked the confusing web of misinformation and hearsay. Led by a trained dispensing optician and valued volunteer, attendees had the opportunity to ask the questions they had always wanted to in a relaxed, comfortable setting.
And of course, our regular social lunches on Mondays’ and Wednesdays,’ our monthly book club, and our working age and young V.I. social meetings, lane swimming and cooking with confidence sessions keep the staff here constantly on our toes. We wouldn’t have it any other way!
If you are interested in any of the above please call us on 023 8076 9882 or email us at support@southamptonsight.org.uk for further information.
