A new service aimed at young people living with sight loss has been launched across Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin.
Sight Loss Shropshire is working in partnership with Telford & Wrekin Council to deliver a dedicated programme of activities designed for children and young adults. The service has a particular focus on those aged 14-25, a time when confidence and social connections are crucial.
Tackling Isolation and Building Wellbeing
The programme will deliver a range of supported activities with clear aims: to strengthen emotional wellbeing, build social confidence and reduce isolation among young people with sight loss.
Living with sight loss can have a significant impact during the teenage years and early adulthood. Confidence, independence and social connections can all be affected. This new programme recognises those challenges and provides opportunities for young people to take part in enjoyable activities alongside others who understand their experiences.
More information about the activities is available at https://sightlossshropshire.org.uk/our-services/young-peoples-activities/.
Shaped Around Young People's Interests
Activities will be inclusive, accessible and shaped around the interests of the young people taking part. Alongside the social opportunities, the programme aims to support participants as they navigate education, work and everyday life with greater confidence.
Swan Staar-Slogrove, Sight Loss Shropshire Manager, explained the thinking behind the initiative:
"This partnership allows us to reach more young people at a crucial stage in their lives. By providing safe, supportive and engaging opportunities, we can help young people with sight loss feel connected, valued and confident about their future."
Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People, Education, Employment and Skills, also welcomed the new service:
"We are really pleased to be working with Sight Loss Shropshire on this initiative, which we believe will help make a real difference to children and young people living with sight loss across the Borough."
Part of a Wider Commitment
The programme forms part of Sight Loss Shropshire's ongoing commitment to improving quality of life for people affected by sight loss. The charity, established in 1922, has long provided support at every stage of life.
This latest service is delivered in partnership with Telford & Wrekin Council's Sensory Inclusion Service. It has been made possible thanks to funding from Ulverscroft Foundation, Shropshire Community Foundation and The Powell Family Foundation.
How to Get Involved
Young people with sight loss, or their families, who are interested in finding out more about the programme can contact Sight Loss Shropshire on 07778 956 096 or by email at [email protected].
More information about the activities is available at https://sightlossshropshire.org.uk/our-services/young-peoples-activities/.