New Service Launched to Promote Independent Living

iSightCornwall have launched a new support service for visually impaired people living in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The service was introduced to promote independent living and deliver personalised advice and information about the services and resources that those living with sight loss could be entitled to.

Many visually impaired people living in rural areas face isolation due to lack of transport so with the appointment of new Community Development Officers (CDOs), iSightCornwall can offer a free home visiting service and enable more people across the county to access the information they need. They will also be running local community open days and supporting existing clubs and community groups.

Visually impaired people will be given personalised demonstrations of everyday living equipment that can help them lead independent lives such as talking clocks and watches, liquid level indicators and audio books. They will also be given advice and information on other services that may be appropriate such as Low Vision Clinics, specialist benefits advice, support with assistive technology and community support.

“We are delighted to offer this new service and it is clear from customer feedback that it is already having an impact.” Said Terri Rosnau-Ward, CEO of iSightCornwall. “This is just one of the new initiatives we are launching as we celebrate our 160th birthday and it’s a very exciting time for the charity.”

Debbie Vivian joined iSightCornwall last month as CDO for West Cornwall, having previously worked as a social worker. She said: “Visiting visually impaired people and their family members, in their own home creates a really exciting opportunity for our clients to talk about their needs but equally importantly, their goals and aspirations. It also enables me to give the best possible person centred, holistic advice and information.”

iSightCornwall is the only dedicated centre of resource for the estimated 20,000 people living with sight loss in Cornwall. The new community outreach service is just one of the steps the charity is taking to reach more of those people. Later in the year the CDOs will be popping up in community venues across the county to give people the opportunity to get hands on with the different products and speak directly to specialist members of staff.

If you would like to find out more about community outreach contact Debbie Vivian on 01872 261110, or dvivian@isightcornwall.org.uk.