Somerset 01823 333818 Insight Issue 68 September 2020 The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service

Nancy, one of our Service Users took up painting again during lockdown after watching Grayson’s Art Club on Channel 4. Be inspired by Nancy - join our Arts and Crafts Group today! We Are OPEN

The Resource Centre is now open every Thursday and Friday and will soon be open daily.

Please make an appointment for magnifiers, IT support, low vision aids or advice.

Call us on 01823 333818 We look forward to your visit very soon.

Don’t forget that our activities and socials are open too so if you wish to join please call us.

AGM Thursday 29th October 2020 at 11am Northfi eld House, Taunton TA21 1DG or Zoom dependent on Covid-19. Please RSVP as soon as possible, but no later than 15th October to [email protected] or call 01823 333818

2 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 3 SUBJECT TO COVID-19 Dates for your Diary RESTRICTIONS Ranscombe Great Wood walk followed by 9th September refreshments and cafe lunch at The Foxy Bean. Transport costs to be confirmed, lunch not included. Vision Aid and Dolphin Open day at Northfield 14th September House – appointment only 10am – 3pm

17th September Canoeing trip, Taunton 10am - 12pm £35 per person

17th September Hog Roast, Northfield House 12.30pm – 2.30pm £5

Forde Abbey trip. Admission price to the gardens is 23rd September £12.00 for a VI and guide or £9.00 for a single ticket. Professional Vision Services open day at Northfield 14th October House – appointment only 10am – 2pm

29th October AGM – Northfield House 11am

11th December Mulled Wine and Mince Pie Party 2pm

Somerset Sight “Step Out to Help Out” Scheme Somerset Sight has arranged 4 activities for you to enjoy in September. More will follow in October and November. We are offering up to £10 per person for each qualifying individual to attend one activity during these 3 months. This subsidy can cover travel, entrance and refreshment. Each person to qualify for one activity only. Please book now on 01823 333818. If you are unable to join us in September, please contact us now to register interest for October and November. These activities are open to all and you can join more than one - volunteer visitors are encouraged to bring their service users if appropriate to the activity. For more information call us on 01823 333818.

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 3 CEO Report

Somerset Sight services have times and have offered such been much in demand during amazing support and solace lockdown and staff have been to people living in lockdown. working throughout. Our face to face services, the signature Many of you, at the time when of Somerset Sight for the last uncertainty was at its height, century, quickly adapted into kindly supported us through our telephone support, both one to last magazine appeal, for which one, conference calls and zoom. I cannot thank you enough. Somerset Sight made more Despite your generosity, our than 5000 welfare and support income has nevertheless telephone calls in the first 3 collapsed – there have been months of lockdown to ensure no room lettings, little car park people had the help they needed. income, no training, fewer Volunteers and staff provided opportunities for donations and no essential emotional support, food community fundraising. This is an deliveries, medication collection, uncomfortable position. talking books and met numerous Pockets of funding came from other needs. Somerset County Council and from As things are easing, we are Somerset Community Foundation able to resume some face to face for which we are most grateful. support through the Volunteer More recently, financial recognition Visiting Service, on the MAS and of the amazing support offered at Northfield House and some by staff and volunteers to those social events have returned. with visual impairment in our People visiting the MAS and community, has come from Northfield House have said it is Government Funding from the their first trip out of the house for Coronavirus Community Support many months. Our new telephone Fund, distributed by The National support will remain, including Lottery Community Fund. This more than 60 weekly one to one support has been absolutely telephone calls and 14 weekly brilliant and crucial for the group conference calls, which are immediate wellbeing of Somerset growing by the day. My thanks Sight, but the future still remains go out to all our volunteers, staff extremely challenging. and Trustees who have been outstanding in these very difficult

4 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 5 What is the future? Our support with friends and family and by will continue to adapt to prevailing offering technology support we conditions – face to face, or are helping them to achieve this. utilising technology – we are Phone support and group calls supporting people to get on line are essential for wellbeing and to so they too, can make the most provide light relief and a laugh. of technology. We are reviewing, Please support us, using the form adapting and instigating new overleaf or by leaving a Gift in your support, so we can continue Will - your help now will ensure to assist people in the the future of our services over coming months. the Winter months to come and beyond. It is at times of uncertainty such as now, that smaller charities You will find the details of our AGM such as Somerset Sight, who on Thursday 29th October at are nimble, locally active on the 11 am and our Christmas Party ground and as a result locally well on Friday 11th December 2 - 4pm. supported, will prevail. We are I look forward to seeing as many not furloughing staff or making of you as possible subject redundancies - each member of to restrictions. our staff team is fully occupied directly helping our beneficiaries With very best wishes, or supporting our excellent and dedicated volunteers. Beneficiaries Jackie Sopwith need us now more than ever before – sight loss is always challenging and now, with social distancing and other restrictions it is even more so.

Please help us to continue to provide visits and telephone support to reduce the loneliness, isolation and uncertainty which COVID brings and to provide the essential emotional support needed in these challenging times. People want to keep in touch

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 5 Pull Out Donation Form I would like to make a donation to Somerset Sight.

Full Name Tel:

Address

Postcode Email:

Single donation: I enclose a donation of £…….... for Somerset Sight Please return form and send a cheque made payable to Somerset Sight Ltd or return form and pay via BACS (reference: Mag Donation) Somerset Sight Ltd; Account Number: 57387068 Sort Code: 77-50-01

Standing Order

Bank (e.g Lloyds)

Bank Address Postcode

Please pay Somerset Sight Ltd; Account Number: 57387068 Sort Code: 77-50-01

I would like to make a standing order of £10 £20 Other:

With the first payment on the ……… (Date) of ……… (Month) 20.... (Year)

Every Month Quarter Half Year Year

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Signature Date Thank-you Gift Aid – Boost your donation by 25p of Gift Aid for every £1 you donate. Gift Aid can be reclaimed by Somerset Sight from the tax you pay for the current year. Your address and postcode is needed to identify you as a current taxpayer. You must tick the box below. I want to Gift Aid my donation to Somerset Sight and any donations I make in the future or have made in the past 4 years. I am a UK taxpayer and understand that if I pay less Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax than the amount of Gift Aid claimed on all my donations in that tax year it is my responsibility to pay any difference. Date …………………………………. Please return to: Holly Sutton, Somerset Sight, Northfield House, 51 Staplegrove Road, Taunton, TA1 1DG Charity Registration Number 1154472 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 7 Bella Flood - Chair of Trustees Over the last few weeks, staff and volunteers have managed to resume some of their activities, visits and services. The Trustees are immensely proud that they have continued the work of our Charity during these difficult months. None of our staff have been furloughed; they have continued to work hard as a team from their homes and have also made over 5,000 telephone calls to offer support wherever possible.

This has, in part, been made possible by the increased use of technology to improve the quality of life for those with sight loss. In the last magazine I encouraged you all to contact our staff for help with the use of IT, and at the risk of repeating myself, I will do so again. They are continually updating and upgrading their knowledge. We know that it is no substitute for face to face contact, for the activities and other resources we offer, but it’s definitely worth getting in touch with Heidi, Kate or Liam so that they can advise you on the best approach for you, personally.

We hope you will come back and join in the activities and events we offer in safe and sensible circumstances.

With best wishes Bella

The Late David Asprey David sadly passed away on 10th June at Dunkirk Memorial House. David worked in the eye clinic at Yeovil District Hospital from 1997 as a sight loss adviser. This was pioneering work and David was well before his time in understanding the problems that sight loss brings and helping people to adapt. He was very generous to Somerset Sight with his time and knowledge and did a huge amount to support people, especially when they were recently diagnosed. David will be remembered as a charming, kind and understated gentleman who did so much to help others. Our thoughts go to his family and sons, Philip and Andrew.

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 7 The Bradbury Centenary Wing It seems extraordinary to recall that this time last year we were in the building phase of this project. How fortuitous was the timing, as this area easily allows us to socially distance albeit in smallish groups and will be invaluable during the months to come. We are looking forward to the arrival of our Yamaha Clavinova piano. Two of our members have helped enormously with the selection and financing of this piano for which I cannot thank them enough. Hopefully piano lessons will be available soon. I would like to thank all those who donated to the building project, as without your initial enthusiasm the project would just never have happened, and I look forward to being able to celebrate at the Grand Opening which I hope will be possible in 2021. Your donations enabled us to leverage additional funding from international national and other local supporters. Thank you all again for this fabulous facility which enables us to support people with visual impairment in comfort.

Zoom Cookery Class

By Liam Harkness each other because not only can you hear but also see who you are In June Somerset Sight held its talking to. I am very proud to say first Zoom cookery class with ten that everyone managed to access members. They not only had to Zoom and take part in the session put their cooking skills to the test which was fantastic. but also their technical skills as they had to use their smart phone Due to the scarcity of some or computer to join Catherine our ingredients Catherine chose to cookery instructor and myself on bake shortbread as it doesn’t Zoom. Zoom is an online video require so many ingredients. You conference call facility which can easily add extra ingredients has become very popular since like chocolate chips or raisins to lockdown. It is a great way for add variety to the basic biscuit. people to keep in contact with Catherine described each stage

8 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 9 of the preparation thoroughly, so session accessible for us. Also, it was very easy to follow along for kindly sending ingredients to with her. We also found it very people’s homes which many useful that she could see what we of us would have found very were doing which made it easy difficult to get at the time due to for her to put us right if we were the lockdown.” making a mistake. Catherine’s great cooking style is perfect for us We are looking at holding some as she measures out everything more Zoom cookery classes in the with spoons rather than using future so if you would like to take talking scales which we didn’t all part in the next one please contact have access to. By the sounds of us to book your place. all the munching going on I think everyone was pretty successful. It was very nice as we were tidying up our kitchens to be able to chat about what we had just achieved with some random topics thrown in, a lovely way to finish the session.

Anthony a new member said,” This is the first activity I have done with Somerset Sight and I can honestly say I enjoyed every minute of it. I am completely blind and haven’t cooked myself for many years. I am really grateful to Somerset Sight because not only have I learned how to use my oven which has certainly pleased my wife but also learned how to bake beautiful Shortbread biscuits which I have already made again three or four times since. I would love to take part in more classes or activities now.‘‘I would like to thank everyone for taking part in the class, especially Catherine for doing such a fantastic job of making the

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 9 Staying Connected

Did you know we can help you with your mobile phone or tech on our Mobile Advice Bus? Pop along and see Donna and bring your mobile phone fully charged and your passwords. Would you like to have internet access without all of the fuss? There is a solution! You can purchase a portable WiFi hotspot box from various providers and then you simply put a pre-loaded SIM Card inside. Please get in touch if you would like us to recommend a low cost one to you.

British Wireless for the Blind (BWFB)

As an agent for BWBF, Somerset The Concerto 2 comes in charcoal Sight can provide radio equipment with contrasting yellow controls to to anyone who is registered help those with residual vision. blind or partially sighted, over the It comes with a stereo DAB/FM age of eight, living in the UK radio, a CD, USB, and SD player and in current receipt of a all with bookmark facility, and a means-tested benefi t. stereo cassette player. If you meet the above qualifying criteria and think you would benefi t from a specially adapted set, please contact us for further information. The two most popular radios are the Concerto 2 and the Opus radios. Both of these radios are ideal for listening to audio books.

10 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 11 Amazon Echo

Would you like to become installation in their homes. They one of our growing number of are very simple and quick to install technology support volunteers? when you have vision and can access a smart phone or laptop. We are looking for volunteers who are interested in supporting The role would involve setting up our service users get to grips with an email address and an Amazon technology. If you are already account for the service user, using a smart phone or computer it then connecting Alexa with their is very easy to learn a few simple home Wi-Fi and ensuring they are techniques that can make a huge confi dent to use it on their own. difference to one of our service users, enabling them to continue If you are interested in with online shopping or staying in becoming a technology contact with friends or family using support volunteer, please social media. contact Liam for more details on 01823 333818 These fantastic and accessible pieces of tech for service users are not so easy for a visually impaired person to set up, so we are looking for some volunteers to help with

I want to call friends and family and use Zoom, but don’t know how to do it.

Our accessibility team can talk you through the simple steps to get on line and keep safe. They can assist you to set up your phone or iPad for your needs and set the screen for what suits you. It does not need to be confusing or complicated. You will quickly learn how to call friends and family. You can use zoom to join activities and talks on line. If you wish you can email too and do banking. We can install voice over, so however diffi cult your sight is, you can reach the people, and information you want.

Please contact Heidi to arrange a talk through.

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 11 SOMERSET SIGHT AND RETINA UK LOCAL PEER SUPPORT GROUP

TELEPHONE/VIDEO MEET UP TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 6.30-7.30PM

Do you live in Somerset or surrounding areas and want to meet other people with an inherited retinal sight loss condition?

Join us for a research update and opportunity to share experiences, tips and information.

If you would like to attend the meeting either by zoom or telephone, or you have any further questions, please contact Jacqui Wallace at Retina UK:

T: 07841 486008 E: [email protected]

Join our Facebook group: Retina UK Local South West England

Reg charity number: 1153851 12 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 13 Visually Impaired Bowls

By Paul Fellingham then we learn from each other Taunton Deane visually impaired as we go along. When we bowl bowling takes place at Taunton we have a string stretched down Deane Bowls Club based at the centre of the rink, this helps Blackbrook. We meet every those with no sight to know where Wednesday from 11am – 1pm. to start from and is a guide to help Unfortunately, we have not been with positioning of your woods. We able to meet since lockdown was also have helpers to assist imposed but we hope the club will us to bowl and to let us know re-open in the near future. how far we are from the Jack so that you can adjust your At the moment we have about 12 aim accordingly. members but not everybody bowls every week. We are of mixed As we are part of the Taunton abilities, some are experienced Deane club we must abide by their SOMERSET SIGHT AND bowlers and others have only rules and one of those is that no RETINA UK LOCAL PEER SUPPORT GROUP started bowling recently. We one can bowl on the rink without all have different standards of having previous experience or eyesight but we all bowl together. some coaching. If you do not have TELEPHONE/VIDEO MEET UP any bowls or appropriate shoes TUESDAY 22 SEPTEMBER 6.30-7.30PM If you go on to bowl in tournaments these can be supplied by the club or competitions your eyesight will for the first weeks to give you be graded from one to four by time to decide whether bowling is Do you live in Somerset or surrounding areas and want to meet other the national committee from one something you want to do. If you people with an inherited retinal sight loss condition? for someone with no or very little wish to continue then you will have eyesight to four for those who have to provide your own equipment. Join us for a research update and opportunity to share experiences, better eyesight. Apart from bowling We would welcome new members tips and information. at Taunton Deane there are local and national tournaments for both and if you wish to join us when we start bowling again. You can If you would like to attend the meeting either by zoom or telephone, visually impaired and disabled bowlers. Some visually impaired arrange contact through Somerset or you have any further questions, please contact Jacqui Wallace at Retina UK: bowlers even go on to Sight. We would be happy to hear represent their country at the from you and hopefully see you at T: 07841 486008 the club. E: [email protected] Commonwealth Games. Paul Fellingham Join our Facebook group: Retina UK We use aids to help us bowl and Local South West England if you have never bowled before coaching can be arranged and

Reg charity number: 1153851 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 13 At Home Exercises

Exercise 1: Single Limb Stance Stand behind a steady, solid chair and hold on to the back of it. Lift up your right foot and balance on your left foot. Hold that position for as long as you can, then switch feet.

Exercise 2: Back Leg Raises Stand behind a chair. Slowly lift your right leg straight back – don’t bend your knees or point your toes. Hold that position for one second, then gently bring your leg back down. Repeat this ten to 15 times per leg.

Exercise 3: Toe Lifts Stand straight and put your arms in front of you, holding onto a chair. Raise yourself up on your toes as high as you can go, then gently lower yourself. Lift and lower yourself 20 times.

14 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 15 Exercise 4: Side Leg Raise Stand behind the chair with your feet slightly apart. Slowly lift your right leg to the side. Keep your back straight, your toe facing forward, and stare straight ahead. Lower your right leg slowly. Repeat this exercise ten to 15 times per leg.

Exercise 5: Single Limb Stance with Arm Stand with your feet together and arms at your side next to a chair. Lift your left hand over your head. Then, slowly raise your left foot off the floor. Hold that position for ten seconds. Repeat the same action on the right side.

Exercise 6: Clock Reach Imagine that you are standing in the centre of a clock. The number 12 is directly in front of you and the number 6 is directly behind you. Hold the chair with your left hand. Lift your right leg and extend your right arm so it’s pointing to the number 12. Next, point your arm towards the number three, and finally, point it behind you at the number 6. Bring your arm back to the number three, and then to the number 12. Look straight ahead the whole time. Repeat this exercise twice per side.

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 15 NHS Optima Low Vision Clinics Update

We are very pleased to inform you that the NHS Optima Low Vision Clinics have now resumed, with a few changes.

If you need an appointment and have seen us before please call Optima on 01803 864218, but if you are new to us you will need to be referred in, this can be done by your Optometrist, your GP, the Eye Clinic at the Hospital, Adult Social Care, or by Heidi at Somerset Sight.

In July the clinics were only being held at Somerset Sight’s Northfield House in Taunton and at Robert Frith Optometrists in Yeovil, because the hospital outpatient settings we also used to work at were not able to accommodate us.

In August we started back at Bridgwater Hospital and also a new clinic venue at Robert Frith Optometrists in Chard, instead of Chard hospital.

Only attend appointments if you have NO COVID symptoms, and wear a face covering, unless exempt, also please attend the appointment alone if possible.

We will be using face masks and visor, hand sanitiser and wipes, and we have booked extra time between patients so that we have time to sanitise items.

So please keep safe and well and we look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Julie Dyer

Low Vision Therapist

Optima 01803 864218

16 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 17 Mobile Advisory Service Dates

Sept 2020 - Dec 2020 SUBJECT TO COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS Mendip Area Date Location Time Glastonbury Wed 7th Oct Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm Mon 17th Nov Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm

Frome Mon 21st Sept Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Mon 26th Oct ASDA 10.30am – 3.30pm Mon 23rd Nov ASDA 10.30am – 3.30pm Mon 7th Dec ASDA 10.30am – 3.30pm

Shepton Tue 13th Oct Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm Mallet Wed 16th Dec Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm

Wells Thurs 8th Oct Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm Thurs 29th Oct Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm Wed 25th Nov Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm

Sedgemoor Area Date Location Time Cheddar Tues 22nd Sept Sainsbury’s 10.30am – 3.30pm Wed 18th Nov Sainsbury’s 10.30am – 3.30pm

Bridgwater Fri 4th Sept Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Fri 18th Sept Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Fri 16th Oct Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Tues 27th Oct Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm Fri 6th Nov Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Fri 20th Nov Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Thurs 26th Nov Morrisons 10.30am – 1.30pm Fri 4th Dec Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm PULL Mon 14th Dec Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm OUT AND Fri 18th Dec Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm KEEP!

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 17 Mobile Advisory Service Dates Sept 2020 - Dec 2020 Sedgemoor Area Date Location Time Burnham-on- Mon 7th Sept Kathleen 10.30am – 12.30pm Sea Chamber House Mon 7th Sept B & M 1.30pm – 3.30pm Mon 2nd Nov B & M 10.30am – 3.30pm Mon 21st Dec B & M 10.30am – 3.30pm

Cannington Wed 16th Sept By the brook 10.30am – 12.30pm Wed 9th Dec By the brook 10.30am – 12.30pm

Highbridge Thurs 17th Sept ASDA 10.30am – 3.30pm Thurs 12th Nov ASDA 10.30am – 3.30pm

Nether Stowey Wed 16th Sept St Mary’s Church 1.30pm – 3.30pm Wed 9th Dec St Mary’s Church 1.30pm – 3.30pm

N. Petherton Thurs 10th Sept Car Park 10.30am – 3.30pm Wed 11th Nov Car Park 10.30am – 3.30pm

South Somerset Area Date Location Time Bruton Mon 14th Sept Budgen’s 10.30am – 12.30pm Thurs 10th Dec Budgen’s 10.30am – 12.30pm

Castle Cary Mon 14th Sept Mill Brooke Car Park 1.30pm – 3.30pm Thurs 10th Dec Mill Brooke Car Park 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Chard Fri 11th Sept Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Mon 19th Oct Sainsbury’s 10.30am – 3.30pm Fri 13th Nov Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Fri 11th Dec Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Tues 15th Dec Sainsbury’s 10.30am – 3.30pm

18 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 19 Mobile Advisory Service Dates Sept 2020 - Dec 2020 Crewkerne Tues 8th Sept Henhayes Centre 10.30am – 1.30pm Tues 10th Nov Henhayes Centre 10.30am – 1.30pm

Ilminster Wed 14th Oct Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm Mon 30th Nov Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm

Langport Mon 12th Oct Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm Thurs 3rd Dec Tesco 10.30am – 3.30pm

Martock Wed 9th Sept Moorlands Car Park 10.30pm – 3.30pm Thurs 5th Nov Moorlands Car Park 10.30am – 3.30pm

Somerton Wed 2nd Sept Cox’s Yard 10.30am – 3.30pm Wed 28th Oct Cox’s Yard 10.30am – 3.30pm

S. Petherton Tues 15th Sept Hospital 10.30am – 12.30pm Mon 16th Nov Hospital 10.30am – 12.30pm

Stoke sub Tues 15th Sept Car Park 1.30pm – 3.30pm Hamden Mon 16th Nov Car Park 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Wincanton Weds 23rd Sept Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm Tues 17th Nov Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm

Yeovil Tues 1st Sept Hospital 10.30am – 3.30pm Tues 6th Oct Hospital 10.30am – 3.30pm Weds 21st Oct Hospital 10.30am – 3.30pm Tues 3rd Nov Hospital 10.30am – 3.30pm Tues 24th Nov Hospital 10.30am – 3.30pm Tue 1st Dec Hospital 10.30am – 3.30pm

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 19 Mobile Advisory Service Dates Taunton Deane Area Date Location Time Wellington Thurs 22nd Oct ASDA 10.30am – 3.30pm Thurs 17th Dec ASDA 10.30am – 3.30pm Wiveliscombe Tues 8th Dec Top Car Park 1.30pm – 3.30pm

West Somerset Area Date Location Time

Minehead Thurs 3rd Sept Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm Tues 20th Oct Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm Wed 4th Nov Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm Fri 27th Nov Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm Wed 2nd Dec Morrisons 10.30am – 3.30pm

Dulverton Tues 8th Dec Hanover Court 10.30am – 12.30pm

Williton Thurs 15th Oct Car Park 1.30pm – 3.30pm Fri 23rd Oct Hospital 10.30am – 1.30pm

Porlock Thurs 15th Oct One Stop 10.30am – 12.30pm

Watchet Thurs 24th Sept Coach Park 10.30am – 3.30pm Thurs 19th Nov Coach Park 10.30am – 3.30pm

Dates may be subject to change. If you are making a special journey, please call our office prior to your visit on 01823 333818.

20 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 21 A Socially Distanced Introduction

During the Covid 19 lockdown Somerset Sight’s Co-ordinators for the Volunteer Visiting Service were matching people up on the telephone with a view to volunteers starting visits once lockdown restrictions were lifted. One of these matches was made between volunteer visitor Simon and Patricia who has sight loss and hearing impairment, Trish had told Claire Packwood that she would very much like the regular company and help of a local volunteer. Simon and Trish immediately found things in common to talk about on the telephone including malt whiskey and Rumpole of the Bailey! Claire therefore arranged and to go out with as well, thank a socially distanced introduction you Somerset Sight for matching in July during which she found it us together!” difficult to get a word in edgeways A photograph is included of as Simon and Trish had so much the July introduction outside, to talk about! since further lifting of restrictions Trish said “Simon’s phone calls volunteers are now visiting inside made such a lot of difference to people’s houses with social me during the lockdown when the distancing and other precautions groups I used to attend were all in place as per government shut down. It was lovely to have guidelines. someone telephoning me regularly If you would be interested and we clicked straight away, in having regular visits from I have so looked forward to a local volunteer please do get in Simon’s calls and will now be touch with Somerset Sight on looking forward to him visiting in 01823 333818, this may even help person both for the company, help you to get out and about again!

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 21 Leave a Gift

Leaving a Gift in your Will to Somerset Sight

Somerset Sight is immensely grateful to everyone who leaves us a Gift in their Will. These gifts part fund existing services and enable us to plan ahead. Sight loss is isolating; our services, emotional support, training, information and resources for the newly diagnosed, the MAS throughout the County, the Volunteer Visiting Service, socials and activities, and our technology support help people to adapt and reduce the loneliness and isolation felt by many. Covid and beyond is challenging – we are instigating new services to meet these new needs. The outlook for statutory funding is unclear whilst demographics dictate that more people will need our help.

If you are making a Will or thinking of amending an existing one, after family and friends have been provided for, please consider leaving a gift in your Will to Somerset Sight. Legacy gifts are a wonderful way of being remembered and they don’t have to be large. By leaving just 1% to us, or more if you are able, you can make a real and lasting difference to future generations of people who are blind or partially sighted through whose lives and achievements your memory will live on.

Leaving a gift in your Will is easy and may also reduce your tax burden. Your solicitor can give you details.

Just mention Somerset Sight and our Charity number 1154472

If you have any questions or would like to know more please contact Jackie on 01823 333818.

22 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 23 Team Success Swimathon

The Somerset Sight Swimmers donned their swimsuits and made a splash on Saturday 22nd February, to support the Taunton Soroptimist Swimathon at Taunton Prep School.

The team consisted of Captain Michele Edmonds, Visually Impaired swimmers, Kate McCallum, Mikey Contreras and David Ridgway. They were joined by Kate’s son, sister and nephew to make up the team.

Heidi provided much needed support and help throughout. Cup for the team who made the most effort, as chosen by the Some months later, once Swimathon Committee. lockdown was eased, the They are absolutely delighted team were surprised with the and are looking forward to next announcement that they had year already. won the C.S Williams Challenge

32nd Annual Swimathon 22nd & 23rd February 2020

This Certificate is presented to

Somerset Sight Swimmers

Winners of the C.S. Williams Challenge Cup

A special Award by the Swimathon Committee to the Team which made the most effort for the 2020 Swimathon

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 23 10 Hints and Tips for Visually Impaired people

The telephone cookery group recently came up with their top tips. We thought we would share them with you, in case you find some of them useful.

1. To assist you crossing the road put your hand underneath the control box and feel for a special cog. This cog spins rapidly when the green man is showing allowing you to cross safely and with ease. 2. Put toothpaste on your finger and then straight into your mouth rather than on the brush. 3. Use chopping boards that have a sticky bottom to stop them from moving. You can also get ones with spikes on to keep your food still. 4. Bumpons are great for marking settings on the washing machine, oven etc. 5. A Visually Impaired Person lanyard, clearly on view, can help other shoppers to assist you with social distancing. 6. Don’t move things! 7. Keep your hair brush or comb with the shampoo so that you can find it easily. 8. A Slow Cooker and Electric Steamer make cooking light work. 9. Colour detector is useful to help you work out what colour clothes you are putting on, and if they match. 10. Always keep your doors fully open or fully closed.

24 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 25 Heidi’s Update Providing long term emotional and practical support to our new and existing Members is something we are very proud of. We are only too aware how difficult, isolating and lonely it has been for those who have been unable to spend time with family and friends. Also, selflessly come forward to offer the impact of not attending our their support to our visually social and activity groups that had impaired service users. become integral parts of their lives. I’ve matched over seventy With this in mind, we have telephone support calls for a managed to successfully setup one to one chat with a volunteer. over a dozen telephone support I cannot thank everyone involved groups across the county these enough for giving up their time. include; Acoustic Rifle Shooting We’ve been fortunate to be club, Cookery, Craft group, approached by individuals and Seeing Life Differently Days, the Taunton Dean Rotary Club Frome, Ilminster & Chard, Street, who have all helped tremendously Wincanton, Yeovil group and more by giving up their time to support others, becoming a listening We’ve also organised new ear, lessening the isolation and telephone groups to give Members loneliness experienced by others. the opportunity to make new friends across the county too. That’s not all… we’ve also been The groups have been facilitated able to provide 1 – 1 telephone by one of our excellent volunteers. support and befriending calls. Due to their popularity they have This has been life changing for become a huge success and some people and it’s always will continue for as long as our wonderful when I receive an Members wish. Is this something update to say the volunteer and you might like to be part of? Service user plan to meet up when lockdown eases. Some really great I have been overwhelmed with and interesting friendships have the kindness and generosity formed and we are so pleased of new and existing Somerset something positive has come out Sight volunteers. Even in the of these difficult few months. most difficult times people have

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 25 An account of a Somerset Sight Volunteer

Severely visually impaired Percy, happened and gradually Percy a ninety-four-year-old widower calmed down. who lived on his own asked Paul, The nurse suggested that it was his Somerset Sight volunteer to best to leave the syringing for now accompany him on his visit to and make a new appointment for his local surgery to have his ears Friday. Paul continued to explain to syringed and his hearing aids Percy what was happening and to checked out. As it was his usual advise him that he was taking him Wednesday visit to help Percy home to rest in his own familiar with his correspondence, arranging surroundings. A strong coffee appointments, checking bills and always seemed to help! bank statements. Paul arrived a little early and drove him to the Friday came and both arrived surgery, arriving with time to spare. at the surgery. Once more, it’s Percy, was ushered in to the frustration for Percy as a specialist nurses’ room, while Paul stayed nurse is unable to unblock his ears seated in the waiting room. and advises him that he will have to continue having the drops for As time went on, Paul became a another seven days. little uneasy and was considering knocking on the nurses’ room door The Somerset Sight volunteer when it suddenly opened and the leaves Percy once again with a nurse emerged to ask him if he cup of strong coffee in his hand. could come inside. Percy was sat Says his goodbye and assures him in his chair, tears in his eyes, with that he’ll take him to the surgery his arms covering his head. She the following week. explained that the wax was solid Next week comes and both are and during her efforts to remove back, ready for the procedure. it some water had got under the With a smile the nurse wax causing a complete loss of welcomed them. hearing. That, coupled with his sight problem caused him to ‘Fingers crossed’ she said as she panic. While Percy, in his looked Percy in the eye and within frustration, continued to punch the seconds, the smile on Percy’s air with his hands, Paul asked for face confirmed her success as the a pen and paper. He explained to water and wax flowed from his ear. Percy, in capitals, what, to the Sure enough the ear drops had best of his knowledge, had done what she’d expected.

26 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 27 After the procedure, the nurse ‘Taking the wife to the shops?’ escorted them back to the Percy inquired as Paul opened the waiting area. passenger door to let him on to the pavement outside his front door. ‘Just one question nurse, do Percy’s records clearly state that Paul looked up at the clear blue he is partially-sighted?’ sky. ‘I think I’ll take her for a drive down to the shoreline’ he joked. ‘They do indeed’ she replied ‘A walk on the beach…Much proudly. ‘Nothing is left to chance cheaper!’ at this surgery’

Craft Group Resuming

We are delighted that the Taunton Craft Group will be resuming their sessions on Friday 11th September. The group runs from 1:30pm – 3:30pm and is held at Northfield House, Taunton. If you would like to join, call us on 01823 333818

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 27 Inhouse Volunteer Feature By Joan Williams Having retired from Somerset the different types of eye conditions Library Services in 2010 I decided affecting people and the help I would like to do some voluntary available to the blind and partially work. sighted which is provided by Somerset Sight. I attended the Taunton Volunteer Bureau Office and was sent to Now that the Somerset Sight library Somerset Sight. I was interviewed users have increased I was invited by a lovely lady Jan Arnold. by the librarian Sue Walters to It was agreed I should work on a help out in the library- issuing and Thursday afternoon at Northfield discharging tapes and CD’s on the House on reception, answering computer. I was delighted to do so. the telephone, greeting visitors and general admin duties. For a In the 10 years that I have been few years I also helped with the volunteering at Somerset Sight craft class on a Monday afternoon. it has developed its services to include many activities and outings I have attended various courses for its service users and I feel proud which has given me knowledge of to be part of it.

TV Licence

If you or someone you live with is blind (severely sight impaired), regardless of their age, you could receive a 50% discount on the cost of a TV Licence. This concession will cover anyone living in the same household. People who are partially sighted or sight impaired do not qualify for this concession. A blind concession TV Licence costs £78.75 for a colour TV Licence and £26.50 for a black and white licence. If you already have a TV Licence, but it isn’t in the name of the person who is blind (severely sight impaired), you’ll need to transfer the licence into their name.

28 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 29 Max and Roger - a perfect match

I have been matched with Max for over 2 years now and I have never looked back.

I understand how difficult life is being visually impaired or blind and this was the reason I became a volunteer for Somerset Sight. I have never seen such a change in a young man as I have seen in Max. He is focused and determined in everything he attempts to do, from Acoustic Rifle Shooting Winning Bronze, Silver and Gold medals and also winning the Somerset Cup, to starting his degree. He has worked very hard times together from sneaking into to be accepted for a guide dog and the odd car in the Haynes Museum has finally been given Storm, his to planning for us both to approach new 4-legged guide. my car both carrying a white cane Only last week he moved into his and dark glasses. We just wanted new flat with help from our local to see people’s reaction when we councillor, Dean Ruddle. I fitted argued about who drove. his new blinds for his windows and I hope I have, in some small way looked after Storm while he moved helped Max achieve all this, but I in. We have had many amusing do know he has changed my life.

Lanyards

We have lanyards available for £2.50 each that are brightly coloured and say “Visually Impaired, I cannot see to socially distance” Adult and Children sizes available. Please call 01823 333818 to order.

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 29 Why I Became a Volunteer

By Sue D’Souza This also made me aware of the daily hurdle’s VIPs face in My desire to volunteer at daily living. Somerset Sight started by a small article in my local church During the lockdown I was weekly update, ‘Today’. allocated two people who were Somerset Sight were trying to shielding. My brief was to phone recruit new volunteers to support them on a regular basis and its work in helping VIPs in their make sure that all was well homes with regular visitors. during this difficult period. Following my interview, it was decided that I would be a Following the lifting of the greater asset as a weekly restrictions, one of my VIPs asked volunteer at the eye clinic in if I could visit him. This request Musgrove Park Hospital. set the ‘ball rolling’. I then went to visit him with the Volunteer Visiting I spent a few months each week Service co-ordinator for my area. talking to patients while they waited in the waiting area, to My first visit was successful. see the consultant in the clinic. So, I have come round the full This was interesting as I met circle. Applying to be a Volunteer people with varying types of Visitor, to a clinic volunteer, to a eye conditions. phone ‘befriender’ and now back to a Volunteer Visitor.

Volunteer Visiting Service Could you benefit from Somerset Sight’s Volunteer Visiting Service? Our befriending service provides fully trained and checked volunteers who visit sight impaired people on a regular basis to provide company and support. The ongoing help and friendship of a volunteer can make a lasting difference to a person’s quality of life. For more information call us on 01823 333818

30 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 31 Sudoku

1 9 9 2 3 5 7 9 6 3 8 2 4 7 8 9 7 6 8 5 1 6

All puzzle answers p.32

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 31 Crossword Large Print Crossword Puzzle : www.largeprintpuzzles.com

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Across Down 1 - Spring back (6) 2 - Space shuttle (7) 5 - Work of creativity (3) 3 - Educational institutions (8) 7 - Noble gas (5) 4 - Hero (4) 8 - Forgive (7) 5 - Excite (7) 9 - Arms and legs (5) 6 - Thin papers (7) 32 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 33 10 - Forms of payment (8) 7 - Dares (anag) (5) 12 - Farmer (6) 11 - Bodily (8) 14 - Tall structures (6) 12 - Chats (7) 17 - Moan (8) 13 - Belief (7) 18 - Connective tissue (5) 15 - Clothing (7) 20 - Robbers at sea (7) 16 - Great successes (5) 21 - Unpleasant giants (5) 19 - Thin cable (4) 22 - Male offspring (3) 23 - Chooses (6) Large Print Crossword Puzzle : www.largeprintpuzzles.com Large Print Crossword Puzzle : www.largeprintpuzzles.com

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Across Across Down Down 1 - Spring back (6) 1 - Spring back (6) 2 - Space shuttle (7)2 - Space shuttle (7) 5 - Work of creativity (3)5 - Work of creativity (3) 3 - Educational institutions3 - Educational (8) institutions (8) 7 - Noble gas (5) 7 - Noble gas (5) 4 - Hero (4) 4 - Hero (4) 8 - Forgive (7) 8 - Forgive (7) 5 - Excite (7) 5 - Excite (7) 9 - Arms and legs (5) 9 - Arms and legs (5) 6 - Thin papers (7) 6 - Thin papers (7) 10 - Forms of payment10 (8) - Forms of payment (8) 7 - Dares (anag) (5) 7 - Dares (anag) (5) 12 - Farmer (6) 12 - Farmer (6) 11 - Bodily (8) 11 - Bodily (8) 14 - Tall structures (6)14 - Tall structures (6) 12 - Chats (7) 12 - Chats (7) 17 - Moan (8) 17 - Moan (8) 13 - Belief (7) 13 - Belief (7) 18 - Connective tissue18 (5) - Connective tissue (5) 15 - Clothing (7) 15 - Clothing (7) 20 - Robbers at sea (7)20 - Robbers at sea (7) 16 - Great successes16 (5) - Great successes (5) 21 - Unpleasant giants21 (5) - Unpleasant giants (5) 19 - Thin cable (4) 19 - Thin cable (4) 22 - Male offspring (3)22 - Male offspring (3) 23 - Chooses (6) 23 - Chooses (6)

All puzzle answers p.34

Working with people who lack sight, not vision 33 Puzzle Answers Sudoku & Wordsearch

7 3 1 8 4 5 6 9 2 4 5 6 7 2 9 3 8 1 8 2 9 6 1 3 4 5 7 2 8 7 9 6 1 5 3 4 5 9 3 4 8 2 7 1 6 6 1 4 3 5 7 9 2 8 9 7 8 1 3 6 2 4 5 1 6 5 2 9 4 8 7 3

Large3 Print 4Puzzles 2 - www.largeprintpuzzles.com 5 7 8 1 6 9

B O U N C E I A R T R O R A D O N I A B S O L V E O I S I L A L I M B S S T I P E N D S A U E G S C T E G R O W E R T O W E R S O P S C R A S I C O M P L A I N S I N E W U O M I I I P I R A T E S P O G R E S A N S O N E E L E C T S

34 Somerset Sight 01823 333818 Working with people who lack sight, not vision 35 Christmas Cards

We have two Christmas card Inside reads: Merry Christmas designs available this year. and Happy New Year.

They are £5 for a pack of ten Please call Holly on 01823 and can be collected on the 333818 or email holly.sutton@ Mobile Advisory Bus/from somersetsight.org.uk to order Northfi eld House or posted to you.

Christmas Party 2020

Friday 11th December 2-4pm Northfield House, Taunton TA1 1DG Christmas Party Mulled Wine, Mince Pies and Carols 2019 Service Users: £3 - Volunteers: Free

RSVP to [email protected] by 1st December for Catering Purposes Friday 11th December Working with people who lack sight, not vision 35 2-4pm Northfield House, Taunton TA1 1DG Mulled Wine, Mince Pies and Carols Service Users: £3 ~ Volunteers: Free RSVP to [email protected] by 1st December for catering purposes. Christmas Card Competition Winners

www.somersetsight.org.uk Charity Number 1154472