Sight Matters
People: Improving people’s mental wellbeing
We would like to expand our Younger Members Group, so that more blind and visually impaired children can enjoy the kinds of activities available to sighted children.
About this cause
Sight Matters looks after the interests of more than 500 people with serious sight loss on the Isle of Man. A small, friendly team of staff, along with more than 200 volunteers, provide a comprehensive range of services and support. From our purpose-built headquarters in Onchan, Sight Matters offers a wide range of services, including a talking book library, a recording studio producing a weekly audio news service, computer training, specialist equipment room and resource centre and weekly social groups. We also provide home and hospital visits and additional social events off premises throughout the year. Apart from a subsidised charge for lunches, services are all provided free.
How this cause brings people in the community together
Children experiencing sight loss are often unable to take part in activities available to children with sight. It is well documented that blind and visually impaired children already experience significant life challenges due to their sight loss, including being bullied, being isolated from friends and a general sense of unhappiness. Sight Matters Younger Members Group formed in 2018 with the specific aim of enabling visually impaired children to meet, form lifelong friendships, enjoy new experiences, learn new skills and make happy memories.