A new advocacy group, led by blind and partially sighted people, has launched in East Sussex and is inviting other visually impaired in the county people to join.

The new East Sussex Sight Loss Council (SLC), which also covers Brighton and Hove, will work to influence positive change across the region and tackle issues affecting blind and partially sighted people, such as cluttered pavements and inaccessible medical information.

East Sussex SLC funded by Thomas Pocklington Trust, joins a network of Sight Loss Councils across the country, working to improve access to products and services at a local and national level.

Dave Smith, Sight Loss Councils Engagement Manager (South East) said: “If you are a visually impaired person enthusiastic about advocating for change and sharing your stories with key decision makers, sign up to volunteer. You’ll receive training and support, have the opportunity to meet other people and play a real part in advocating for a more accessible world.”

Paul Goddard, East Sussex Sight Loss Council member said: 

“The reason I volunteer for Thomas Pocklington Trust is simply because it allows me to have the opportunity to raise the voice of visually impaired people, which often isn’t heard. I find that it gives us a platform to be able to challenge decisions and also shape and inform future decisions.You can help make that change to by becoming a volunteer, It’s really good fun.”

East Sussex Sight Loss Council will meet once a month and base its work on three priority areas: Employment and skills, Health and Well-being and Inclusive Communities.

To find out more visit: www.sightlosscouncils.org.uk/east-sussex.