West Cumbria Society for the Blind was established in 1990 to promote the welfare of blind or partially sighted people. The overall aim of the Society is to support people of all ages and backgrounds who live in Allerdale or Copeland whose lives have been affected by sight loss or blindness. This aim has been achieved mainly with the help of grants from The Big Lottery Fund to purchase a Resource Centre and employ staff. We are also helped by other donors.
There are over 7,000 people in West Cumbria with sight loss. With the right support and guidance, people with sight loss can live safer more independent lives. To achieve this aim, we have developed a range of services specifically to help blind or partially sighted people. At present our services are funded by The Big Lottery Fund
1) Our High Street Resource and Information Centre
We stock a wide range of specialist independent living equipment and safety equipment. These include: anti-glare glasses, lighting solutions, magnifiers, large print and Braille materials, specialist kitchen equipment, talking watches / clocks, big button telephones, CCTV’s Reading Machines AND MUCH MORE!.
2) Our Home Support Service for Housebound Visually Impaired People
Our Home Visiting service provides emotional support, access to specialist equipment, advice and guidance to visually impaired people who are housebound due to sight loss.
3) Social Groups and Outings
Marie organises regular social groups and outings.
4) Telephone Befriending Service.
Carried out by volunteers to give additional emotional support to visually impaired people who don’t require home support.
5) Low Vision Clinic Workington Community Hospital
The NHS Low Vision Clinic is held monthly and is by appointment only. We have a help and information desk in the clinic where our staff provide advice and guidance to visually impaired people.