Third Sight Loss Council launches in London
We are delighted to announce the official launch of our third Sight Loss Council in the capital at the London Shard this month.
South East London Sight Loss Council (SLC) joins our existing London and South West London SLCs. SLCs have grown significantly and there are now over 20 SLCs across the country. We recently expanded into Scotland and plan to create further SLCs in England over the next three years.
Sight Loss Councils, funded by Thomas Pocklington Trust, are regional groups led by blind and partially sighted (BPS) people. Together, we work with organisations to ensure what they do is accessible and inclusive.
The launch was hosted by Peter Richardson at London’s iconic Shard. Peter is the Managing Director of International Insurance at Protiviti. He is also a trustee for Thomas Pocklington Trust.
During the launch, our members spent time getting to know each other and sharing their lived experience of sight loss – as well as some of the challenges they face in every day life. They discussed ideas for their national and local project, identifying what’s of particular importance to BPS people in South East London.
From left to right: Lucy Williams, Senior Engagement Manager for South England, SLC member Emilia, SLC coordinator, Liam, and SLC members Leanna, Steve, and Denise. Host Peter Richardson is kneeling on the floor with Guide Dog Dixie.
On their launch
Lucy Williams, Senior Engagement Manager for South England, said:
‘We are very excited to have launched our third Sight Loss Council in London, which will cover the six boroughs in South East London.
“It was brilliant to bring together new and existing volunteers to discuss issues in the area and what we would like to address in upcoming projects.
“It was also fabulous to launch at the Shard – one of South East London’s most iconic landmarks!’
Emilia Okoye, a South East London SLC member who attended the launch, said:
“I feel excited to be part of a group that is making a difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted people.
“I feel a sense of gratitude to be a part of SLCs and I look forward to sharing my experiences to create positive change.”
Leanne Best, South East London SLC member, added:
“Last week’s launch was a great success. It really was an enjoyable day – and I got to experience the Shard which I’ve never visited before.
“I joined South East London SLC because I want the satisfaction of raising awareness of, and making a difference to, the lives of blind and partially sighted people like myself.
“It means a lot to have so many opportunities to make change. I hope there will be many more in the future.”
Peter Richardson, Managing Director of International Insurance at Protiviti, said:
“It was great to host the launch event last week and offer our support to South East London Sight Loss Council.
“I would like to wish you every success in your work to increase accessibility for blind and partially sighted people across the capital.”
Join South East London Sight Loss Council
South East London Sight Loss Council is recruiting new members who live in the local area.
If you are blind and partially sighted and want to improve services for visually impaired people, we want to hear from you.
You’ll get the opportunity to create positive change for others, meet like-minded people, have a voice, receive training and enhance your skills.
Stay in the know
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Publication date: 06 February 2024