Wiltshire Sight

20/04/2026

Always believe you can: Gavin’s story

At 21, Gavin’s life changed in an instant after being diagnosed with a brain tumour. Despite surgery, he lost 75% of his sight and was left to find his own way forward. Now, 30 years on, his story is not about what he lost, but what he chose to keep doing.

Fifteen years ago, Gavin took up golf, a sport that might seem unlikely for someone with severe sight loss. With no peripheral vision and relying on one eye, he often cannot see where the ball lands and has to concentrate intensely on every shot. But with determination, and the support of what he calls his “golfing family”, he has not only continued, he has excelled.

This year, Gavin won the Leprechaun Cup at Salisbury & South Wilts Golf Club, an achievement made even more meaningful following two hip replacements in recent years.

Beyond the course, Gavin also gives back as a fundraising ambassador for The Brain Tumour Charity and supports RNIB, using his experiences to raise awareness and help others.

His message is simple - “Always believe you can”, a phrase he has tattooed on his arm and lives by every day.

Stories like Gavin’s remind us that with the right support, community and determination, there are still so many possibilities. If you’d like to find out more about support available across Wiltshire and Swindon, we’re here to help.



Image description: Gavin stands on a golf course holding a golf club, wearing a quilted blue jacket. He is outdoors with trees and greenery in the background. He smiles towards the camera.

17/04/2026

Elections are taking place in Swindon on Thursday 7 May for Swindon Borough Council and all parish councils within the borough. If you are blind or partially sighted, there is a range of support available to help you vote confidently and independently.
At your polling station, you can expect:
• Large print copies of the ballot paper for reference.
• A McGonagle reader can be requested to help you access your ballot paper. These are not available in every polling station but can be brought to you on request. If possible, contact electoral services in advance to request a specific time. Email epaul@swindon.gov.uk by midnight on Monday 4th May.
• Magnifiers and additional lighting
• Support from staff if you would like guidance
• You can also bring someone over 18 with you to assist.
Contact Swindon electoral services:
Email: elecreg@swindon.gov.uk
Phone: 01793 464601
Other important deadlines:
• Register to vote by Monday 20 April www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
• Apply for a postal vote or postal proxy vote by 5pm Tuesday 21 April www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote
• Apply for a proxy vote by 5pm Tuesday 28 April www.gov.uk/apply-proxy-vote
• Important reminder – you now need to show photo ID to vote at a polling station. If you do not have an accepted form of photo ID, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.
The deadline to apply is 5pm on Tuesday 28 April. Apply here:
https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate
If you have any questions about access or need additional support, getting in touch with Swindon Council ahead of time can help make things smoother on the day.
Your vote matters, and support is there to help you take part.



Image description: A dark blue graphic with large white text reading “Swindon elections” at the top and “Accessible voting information” below. On the right side, there is a yellow circle with a tick symbol inside.

16/04/2026

Is Eye Can Swindon for me? If you’ve been thinking about coming along, the answer is very likely yes. Eye Can Swindon is for blind and partially sighted people, as well as anyone supporting them, whether that’s a partner, family member, friend or professional.

You might come along if:
• you’ve recently been diagnosed and don’t know where to start
• you’ve been living with sight loss for some time and want to explore new options
• you’re looking for equipment, advice or local support
• you just want to talk to others who understand

It’s a relaxed, welcoming space where you can explore over 25 exhibitors showcasing technology, equipment and services, listen to talks, chat with our advisors, or meet others.

Thursday 23 April
10am to 3pm (last entry 2.30pm)
STEAM Museum, Swindon

We’d love to see you there. You can just turn up on the day, but it helps us to plan if you can pre-register by calling us on 01380 723682 or using the Eventbrite booking link: https://eye-can-swindon-2026.eventbrite.co.uk



Image description: A photo of a previous Eye Can Swindon exhibition. The large hall has people walking around and speaking to exhibitors at tables. In the foreground, a large blue and yellow graphic reads “Eye Can Swindon” and “Thinking of coming to Eye Can Swindon?”.

15/04/2026

Pewsey Sight Loss Advice Hub

If you are newly diagnosed with sight loss, or have been blind or partially sighted for some time, and would like support, advice or a chance to meet others locally, our Pewsey hub is here for you.

You can drop in for advice, try equipment, or simply have a chat in a relaxed and welcoming space. Our team can support with things like reading, using your phone, getting out and about, and finding small changes that make everyday life easier.

Pewsey Hub
• Fourth Tuesday of each month, next date Tuesday 28 April
• Drop in for advice 10am to 11am
• Social group from 10am to 12pm
• Bouverie Hall, North Street, Pewsey, SN9 5EQ
Friends, family members and carers are very welcome.

If you would prefer to book an appointment, or would like to find out more, contact Wiltshire Sight on 01380 723682 or visit our website to find a hub near you.



Image description: A Community Sight Loss Advisor sits at a table with a person, demonstrating a handheld device while they talk. Various items such as magnifiers and assistive equipment are laid out on the table. Below the image, text reads “Pewsey Hub” and “Drop in, chat, get support”, alongside the Wiltshire Sight logo.

13/04/2026

Fancy a fun night out with friends or family? On Tuesday 19 May, we’re hosting our Wiltshire Sight quiz night at Devizes and District Conservative Club.

Teams of up to four will compete across a mix of rounds, with a prize for the winners and a prize for whoever comes last. Tickets are £20 per team of four, with all proceeds supporting Wiltshire Sight and our work here in Wiltshire’s communities.

There will also be a raffle on the night, including a top prize of afternoon tea for two at Bowood House Hotel in Calne, along with many other prizes.

Tuesday 19 May
Doors open 7pm for a 7.30pm start
Devizes and District Conservative Club
30 Long Street, Devizes, SN10 1NW

Book your team here:
https://buy.stripe.com/3cIeVd4z0aS8e3d12l0Ny01

We’d love to see regular supporters, new faces, friends and family come along for a great evening.

Image description: A dark blue graphic for Wiltshire Sight. The words “Quiz Night” appear, with “Quiz” shown on colourful pinned notes in blue, green, purple and yellow. Below, text reads “Devizes • 19 May”. At the bottom, four coloured question marks are displayed. The Wiltshire Sight logo appears at the top.

10/04/2026

What talks can you attend at Eye Can Swindon?

Alongside the exhibition, there will be a programme of short, informal talks throughout the day. You’re welcome to join any that interest you.

10.30am
What digital technology can do for you
Explore how smartphones and online tools can make everyday tasks easier, including voice commands, text to speech and other accessibility features. You can also find out about the digital skills support available at our local hubs.
11.45am
Yahya Pandor: Seeing No Limits
Yahya is a counsellor and advocate who is blind himself. He will share his story, including his recent world record, and talk about his experiences. There will also be time for questions.
1pm
Ask the expert: Amar Shah
Amar, a Trustee for Sight Support West of England and an experienced optometrist, will answer your questions, challenge common myths and explain more about eye conditions, support and treatment.

Eye Can Swindon takes place on Thursday 23 April at STEAM Museum and is free to attend. To find out more or book your place, contact Wiltshire Sight on 01380 723682 or book using the following Eventbrite link: https://eye-can-swindon-2026.eventbrite.co.uk



Image description: A promotional image for Eye Can Swindon showing Yahya Pandor standing at the front of a room giving a talk to a seated audience. Below the image, bold text reads “Eye Can Swindon” and “Talks throughout the day”.

02/04/2026

Calne Sight Loss Advice Hub

If you’re living with sight loss and looking for support, advice or a chance to connect with others, our Calne hub is here for you.

You can drop in for advice, try equipment, or simply have a chat with others who understand. Our advisors can support with things like reading, using your phone, getting out and about, and finding small changes that make everyday life easier.

Calne Hub
• Fourth Thursday of each month, next date is 23 April
• Drop in for advice 10.30am to 11.30am, or call us if you would prefer an appointment
• Social group from 10.30am to 12.30pm
• Calne Leisure Centre, White Horse Way, Calne, SN11 0SP

If you’d like to find out more, book an appointment, or see if there is a hub closer to you, contact Wiltshire Sight on 01380 723682.



Image description: The top section of the image has a dark blue background with white text reading “Calne Sight Loss Advice hub” and “Here to support you locally”, alongside the Wiltshire Sight logo. Below, a photo shows an advisor and a visitor sitting at a table, looking at and discussing a range of equipment including magnifiers, glasses, a talking clock, and other daily living aids.

25/03/2026

What to expect at Eye Can Swindon

If you’re thinking about coming along but aren’t quite sure what it’s like, here’s what you can expect on the day.

Eye Can is a relaxed, welcoming exhibition where you can explore support, technology, equipment and services for blind and partially sighted people.
You can:
• Talk to a wide range of organisations in one place
• Try equipment and see what might work for you
• Ask questions and get practical advice
• Sit down and take a break when you need to
There will also be a small programme of short talks throughout the day, covering topics such as technology and hearing from people with lived experience.

There’s no pressure to stay for a set amount of time. You can take things at your own pace and focus on what’s most useful to you. If you’re unsure about coming, many people attend for the first time on their own or with family and find it a helpful and reassuring experience.

Eye Can Swindon
Thursday 23 April
10am to 3pm (last entry 2.30pm)
STEAM - Museum of the Great Western Railway, Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EY

Find out more and book your place via the link below.
https://eye-can-swindon-2026.eventbrite.co.uk



Image description: A four panel image for Eye Can Swindon. The top left shows a busy exhibition space where a person is demonstrating equipment to a visitor at a table. The top right panel is a dark blue background with white text reading “Eye Can Swindon”. The bottom left panel is yellow with dark blue text reading “An exhibition for blind and partially sighted people, 23 April 2026, STEAM Museum”. The bottom right shows a speaker presenting to a seated audience at a talk session.

18/03/2026

Thinking about coming to a Sight Loss Advice Hub?

If you haven’t been before, you might be wondering what to expect. Here are three questions people often ask us:
1. Do I need to book an appointment?
Some of our hubs are appointment only, and many offer a drop in session alongside bookable appointments. You’re always welcome to contact us in advance to find out what works best for you.
2. What kind of help can I get?
You can talk through anything you’re finding difficult, from reading and using your phone to getting out and about. We can also show you equipment and share practical tips.
3. Can I just come along for a chat?
Yes. Many of our hubs have welcoming social groups and people often come for the social side as well as the advice. It’s a relaxed space where you can meet others and enjoy conversation with people who understand.

If you’d like to find a hub near you, contact us on 01380 723682 or visit our website to see upcoming hubs. You can add your postcode to find your nearest one. https://www.sightsupportwest.org.uk/events/



Image description: A woman and an advisor sit facing each other at a table during a hub session. The woman, wearing glasses and a colourful patterned top, is speaking while the advisor listens. Large print materials and papers are spread out on the table.

17/03/2026

If you’re interested in trying something new, this local event may be of interest.

There are a few spaces remaining for this women’s golf session next week, offering a chance to try something different and meet others in a supportive environment.

You can find out more and book via the post below.

Final few spaces remain for our next Her Power Her Play event in Wiltshire! ⛳️

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to try golf, hear from empowering speakers, and connect with an inspiring community of women.

Whether you’re completely new to the game or played before, this is the perfect environment to get involved, meet like-minded women, and feel empowered through sport.

Secure your space today!

🎟 Book now via Eventbrite — https://herpowerherplaysouthwest.eventbrite.co.uk

05/03/2026

Many people tell us they know their phone or tablet has helpful accessibility features, but they’re not always sure where to start.
A reminder about our upcoming Digital Skills course this April.
If you would like to feel more confident using your phone or tablet, our two session Introduction to Smart Device Accessibility course may be helpful.
The course is designed for people who have some useful vision but are finding it harder to read text on their device, or who would like to better understand the accessibility features already available.
We’ll explore tools such as magnification and contrast settings, and introduce you to using digital assistants, so you can send messages, make calls, or ask questions using voice commands. Small adjustments can make a big difference to everyday use.
Places are limited, so please contact your local Wiltshire Sight team on 01380 723682 to register your interest.
Separate screen reader courses will be available later in the year.

Image description: A photograph of two older men sitting at a table, looking at a tablet together. One man is smiling and holding the tablet upright, while the other points towards the screen as if demonstrating something. A smartphone lies on the table in front of them. The lower part of the image includes text that reads, “Accessibility features already on your device” and “April & May courses,” alongside the Wiltshire Sight logo.

25/02/2026

Gather your team and join us for a fun evening in Devizes this spring.

On Tuesday 19 May 2026, we’re hosting our Wiltshire Sight Quiz Night & Raffle at Devizes & District Conservative Club, 30 Long Street, Devizes SN10 1NW. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start, finishing around 10pm.

Teams of up to four will compete across mixed rounds, with a prize for the winners and a light hearted consolation prize too. Tickets are £20 per team of four, with all proceeds supporting Wiltshire Sight and our work here in Wiltshire’s communities.

There will also be a raffle on the night, including a top prize of afternoon tea for two at Bowood House Hotel in Calne, plus many other prizes.

You can book your team here:
https://buy.stripe.com/3cIeVd4z0aS8e3d12l0Ny01

We’d love to see regular supporters, new faces, staff, friends and family come together for a great cause.

Image description: On a dark blue background is the Wiltshire Sight logo, with the words “QUIZ” appearing on four colourful pinned notes in blue, green, purple and yellow. To the right, white text reads “Night & Raffle.” Below, the text says “Save the date! Tuesday 19 May 2026 Devizes.”