Surrey Sight Loss Council launches to champion accessibility across the county
Sight Loss Councils are delighted to announce the launch of Surrey Sight Loss Council (SLC), the third SLC in the South East, and latest addition to our growing network across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Surrey joins a growing network of groups led by blind and partially sighted volunteers using their lived experience to improve accessibility and drive positive change in their communities.
Volunteers met for the first time at Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey’s new offices in Ashtead, where they shared their experiences, discussed local priorities, and began planning how they can work together to improve accessibility across the county.
Alongside our volunteers, we were delighted to welcome Clare Burgess, CEO of Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey, together with Hazel Drye, Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager, and Kathy Atkins, Communications Officer. We were also joined by Yasmin Broom, Involvement Lead at Surrey Coalition. Their support highlights the strong partnerships that will help Surrey SLC make a positive impact across the county.
Dave Smith, Engagement Manager for the South East, said:
“I’m genuinely excited to be launching our third Sight Loss Council in the South East and to welcome Surrey into our growing network of Sight Loss Councils.
“Sight for Surrey and Surrey Coalition already deliver a fantastic service for people with disabilities across the county, but there is always more that can be done. Establishing a Sight Loss Council in to Surrey will enable us to further support the great work already taking place and enable us to further improve access to goods and services to blind and partially sighted people who live, visit or travel through the county.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the volunteers who have already joined Surrey SLC. I can’t wait for us to get to know each other more and get started on some projects in the county.”
Clare Burgess from Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey said:
“I am delighted that a Sight Loss Council has been launched in Surrey. Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey delivers a wide range of services and support across the county, and we look forward to working in partnership with Surrey Sight Loss Council on key campaigns and issues that can improve life for blind and partially sighted people.”
Tackling the issues that matter
Surrey SLC volunteers will focus on the issues that matter most to blind and partially sighted people across the county. Initial projects will support national SLC priorities, which include transport, the built environment, and health. Additionally, Surrey SLC members will also choose a local project, focussed on either arts and culture or retail accessibility.
Justine, Surrey SLC volunteer, said:
“I decided to join Surrey Sight Loss Council because it was a new venture and, as someone with lived experience with sight loss, I felt I could help shape accessibility across the county.
“I don’t know many other blind or partially sighted people in Surrey, so I also saw it as a great opportunity to connect with others and share our experiences.”
Volunteers celebrate the launch of Surrey Sight Loss Council outside Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey in Redhill.
Working with Surrey Sight Loss Council
We welcome the opportunity to work with businesses, organisations and service providers across Surrey to improve accessibility and inclusion. Whether reviewing accessibility, gathering feedback from people with lived experience, or exploring new ways to improve inclusion, Surrey SLC can help organisations better understand the needs of blind and partially sighted people.
To find out more, contact dave.smith@pocklington.org.uk or 07970 725620.
Join Surrey Sight Loss Council
Surrey Sight Loss Council is still recruiting blind and partially sighted volunteers from across the county.
Our Sight Loss Councils are powered by people with lived experience who want to make a difference in their communities. Volunteers help shape local projects, work alongside organisations and service providers, and influence positive change for blind and partially sighted people.
Join your local Sight Loss Council today. Visit our Join Us page and complete an application form today.
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Publication date: 14 September 2026