Vision Support is a Regional Charity which exists to enhance the quality of life, promote the continuing independence and raise awareness of the needs of vision impaired people of all ages throughout our communities.
They run campaigning groups led by people with sight loss, vision impaired sports and recreational activities, peer support and social groups, befriending services, a home visiting service, digital inclusion training, and project to empower people to be more active in their communities. They help people like Chris.
Chris is totally blind and has some caring duties for his father who has Alzheimer’s disease. He hadn’t ridden a bike for many years due to his deteriorating eyesight and balance issues. Through a ‘Tandem Taster Day’ organised by the Charity, Chris was matched with Niall, a keen cyclist and a sighted volunteer, who wanted to get more use from his tandem bike.
Despite initial nerves, Chris now loves to cycle and has made fantastic progress. He and Niall ride up to 15 miles together and cycling has improved both Chris’s confidence and balance. The sessions also bring considerable enjoyment and much-needed respite from his caring duties.
Chris is not the only beneficiary, though! Friendship has now flourished between Chris and Niall, and Niall is grateful that the partnership has not only forced him to get out on his bike more but introduced him to a new good friend.
Grants from Cheshire Community Foundation have enabled Vision Support to continue to help their service users throughout the current crisis.