Formerly Blind Foundation
Autumn Outlook 2020
Shopping independently with blindness and low vision:
Finding shops • Inside the shop • The accessible future Feedback on our services
Blind Low Vision NZ is committed to providing high quality services. To provide feedback on our services, please contact Denise Kitto, Manager National Services, at [email protected] Or C/- Private Bag 99941, Newmarket, Auckland 1149. Please get in touch if your vision needs change on 0800 24 33 33. Cover photo: Jackson Paraha
facebook.com/BlindLowVisonNZ blindlowvision.org.nz
ISSN 2703-4216 The inside word Message from the Chair and Chief Executive • Covid-19 • Introducing our regional service model • Eye health 2 Aotearoa develops seven-point plan
Feature 13 Shopping independently with blindness or low vision.
People 18 Celebrating 130 Years
Everyday living Accessible religious content to practice your faith • 24 Sharing tips on personal grooming with vision loss
Community Life without limits around the country • Message from parents of Vision Impaired NZ (PVINZ) • Consumer 29 organisation contact details
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 1 The Inside Word Hello to All Welcome to the 2020 Autumn edition of Outlook, our flagship publication aiming to keep you up to date with what’s going on at Blind Low Vision NZ and to share helpful information and stories featuring some of the great people in our community.
Covid-19 Update Covid-19 Level Alert We want you to have the support Recovery Plan you need to get through the What it means for you: Covid-19 crisis. If your vision has worsened or you don’t have access Level 2 - Reduce: to the essentials such as food or The disease is contained, but the medicine, please get in contact and risk of community transmission we will help in any way we can – remains. 0800 24 33 33, • Essential services designation [email protected] now applied across the You may have been contacted by organisation. Operational a member of our team to check in decisions to be based on on your health and wellbeing and Alert Levels by a town, city, make sure you have access to the and territorial local authority, essentials. We want no one left regional or national level. behind during the Covid-19 crisis • Service delivery to a client will and we have joined with blind, low require approval. vision and deafblind organisations • All offices re-open to employees to make sure we are doing only, with limited numbers using everything we can to support you. social distancing and shifts. (This It has been an honour to be classed will vary depending on locations as an essential service and at Alert and buildings). Level 2 we can look at resuming face-to-face client visits.
2 Outlook • Autumn 2020 • Physical distance and infection Level 1 - Prepare: control guidelines followed The disease is contained in including PPE. New Zealand. • Contact tracing measures • All offices re-open to employees, established and implemented. members, volunteer groups and the public. • Individual client service appointments may occur in the • Meeting appropriate public office or offsite. health requirements, and health • All offices are closed to and safety requirements. members/clients, volunteer • No restrictions on gatherings. groups or the public. For the full recovery plan go to blindlowvision.org.nz
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 3 The Inside Word
Support in your local area waiting time, we have moved into Since starting at Blind Low Vision a regionalised structure. The idea NZ in August 2019, it has been full is that a supportive and local team speed ahead for Chief Executive structure will be better equipped John Mulka and the team. We are to respond to the specific needs pleased to share that we have for you and your area. Although made great progress in embedding we only officially moved to this a new approach to providing the model in March 2020, promisingly, service you are looking for. our data is already showing improvements in bringing you In the last issue of Outlook we service faster. shared information about our approach to service being person- We have a fantastic team directed, putting the people we supported by regional and area are here to serve firmly in the managers – a mix of new and director’s seat. Since then, in old faces from the organisation. order to better manage increased Find out more about them and demand for services and reduce our services areas on page 8. 130 years strong and looking ahead This year marks 130 years since we first formed as Jubilee Institute for the Blind New Zealand. Over this time our purpose has remained grounded in supporting people who are blind or have low vision, but the way we go about it is always evolving. The latest change to our name – now Blind Low Vision NZ – inclusively acknowledges the many people we are here for who identify as having low vision. The way we provide service is another striking example of how
4 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Autumn 2020 • Outlook 5 things have changed. Once, we only Strategic plan had one location – in Auckland. 2020-2024 Now we have offices in 18 locations We would like to thank everyone around New Zealand, and counting. who fed into the recent consultation Promisingly, our plans to further process for developing our next monetise our Parnell site to support long-term strategic plan. It’s service delivery are developing well. important we focus our efforts Out of this, clients will benefit from around what matters most to you, the brand new facilities developed our clients and family. as part of the retirement village joint venture. Early indications suggest you want us to be focused on advocating Plans to open an office later this for accessiblity, employment and year in West Auckland fit in with the technology. By the time you read long lens we are casting over how this our strategic plan will have we are ensure we are best placed to been finalised. You can find more serve clients in their communities. on blindlowvision.org.nz
6 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Meanwhile, we remain committed We wouldn’t be where we are and active in driving for systemic without the support of generous change with accessibility and eye New Zealanders who give their time health care in New Zealand. and money to making a difference for people who are blind or have On page 10 you can read more low vision. about our progress with Eye Health Aotearoa and the seven-point plan Nga Mihi, for action. You can also find out the latest on the Access Alliance’s campaign to introduce accessibility legislation in New Zealand. We are pleased with the progress, but we also cannot rest on our laurels to see it through to completion. Lastly, we would like to acknowledge and thank the many people who John has met over the past six months who have helped John Mulka him become acquainted with the Blind Low Vision NZ Chief Executive community. Having travelled the length of the country, it has been an insightful exercise to understand how Blind Low Vision NZ can best meet the needs of our clients and work together with the consumer groups in the wider community. Speaking of great people, a special congratulations goes to Pip McCann who received a Queen’s Service Medal in the New Year Honours list this year. Pip has dedicated many Rick Hoskin years of service to raising puppies Royal New Zealand Foundation of and funds in support of our guide the Blind (RNZFB) Board Chair dogs service, first in Auckland and then in Queenstown.
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 7 The Inside Word Introducing our regional service model In March 2020, we officially moved to a new model for delivering service. The idea of the new regional approach is that a supportive and local team structure will be better equipped to respond to the specific needs for you and your area.
Alongside this, our Primary Service expected of them to make sound, Providers (PSPs) based in all areas client centric decisions.” are your local point of contact responsible for arranging the services that can best meet your Dan Shepherd: Area Manager personal goals for living with Auckland and blindness or low vision. Northland
We are pleased to introduce you to our leadership team representing “As a part of the blind and low your local area. vision community myself, I am continually seeking ways to make Northern region a difference. This role allows me to be part of a Liz Ansell: team that shares that commitment Regional Manager and to deliver better quality service and support to clients.”
“The new model builds accountability and empowers local leadership to know what is 8 Outlook • Autumn 2020 serve. I am now in a position where Sefulu Calvert: I can lead and support a team of Area Manager highly motivated and committed Waikato and professionals so that the people we Bay of Plenty help continue to achieve their goals.”
“I aim to be principle centered as it Chloe Billington: applies equally to everyone; myself, Area Manager my team and the clients I serve. Nelson, Wellington Principles will never fail you.” and Kapiti
Central and In previous roles I’ve had Southern region the opportunity to meet representatives from Blind Low Vision NZ and have been amazed Bryce Tietjens: by your breadth of services. Regional Manager I am humbled and excited by the opportunity to join the team.”
“Since joining I have found the Carolyn Stiles: passion around Blind Low Vision Area Manager NZ - its people, volunteers and Christchurch, partners – to be just amazing. I Dunedin, have been blessed to have met Invercargill and many incredible people.” Timaru Israel Coello: “It’s all about our clients. And for Area Manager me, the key to that is working Gisborne, Napier, alongside local service delivery New Plymouth, teams and supporting them to Palmerston North deliver local solutions for clients in and Wanganui our communities.”
“Having formerly been an adaptive communications trainer, I have seen first-hand the tremendous impact our services have on the people we Autumn 2020 • Outlook 9 The Inside Word Eye health Aotearoa develops seven-point plan
In the previous issue of the Outlook magazine we reported on indications that New Zealand is facing a growing crisis in eye health, especially with age-related eye conditions.
Blind Low Vision NZ believes every Eye Health Aotearoa recognises that New Zealander should be able to the health system is facing complex access the eye care services they challenges, and its recommendations need to support the best outcomes accommodate for this environment for themselves. This means taking while seeking to increase equitable steps to address avoidable access to quality eye health for blindness, make the most of a New Zealanders. person’s remaining vision, and if “In setting out a seven-point plan needed, maximise the ability to for how eye health can begin live with sight loss. to be treated with the priority it In our work as part of Eye Health needs over the next three years, Aotearoa (formerly the Eye Health we identify three of these as Coalition), we are pleased to share especially pressing actions that that a seven-point action plan has we urge the government to act on been developed and presented immediately,” says Blind Low Vision to MPs to promote understanding NZ Chief Executive John Mulka. and action towards making eye health count in 2020. 10 Outlook • Autumn 2020 The immediate steps that need to happen are: 1) Put eye health questions back in the National Health Survey. 2) Action the Coalition Government’s commitment to the free annual health check including an eye health check for all SuperGold card holders this year. 3) Get the first national eye health survey underway. Simon O’Connor MP, and Louisa 1. Conduct the first ever Wall MP, Co-chairs of the National Eye Health Survey in Parliamentary Friends of Eye Health New Zealand, to inform future both acknowledged that it’s time planning and funding decisions. to band together to ensure that all New Zealanders can access 2. Educate the public about the equitable quality eye health importance of taking care of services and prevent avoidable their eyes. vision loss. 3. Provide funded examinations as The Seven-Point a first step to increase equitable access to eye health services Action Plan for SuperGold card holders and This plan has been carefully hard-to-reach populations. considered to be affordable and achievable, while significantly 4. Establish a “New Zealand improving New Zealanders’ Vision Bus” to deliver eye health and reducing costs funded comprehensive eye elsewhere in the health system. examinations to key groups. It targets high-risk communities 5. Provide timely access to quality who are unable to access eye treatment services to prevent or health services: slow down vision loss.
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 11 The Inside Word
6. Provide early support for people Trustee organisations diagnosed with eye conditions
or vision loss. • Blind Low Vision NZ
7. Ensure rapid access to • Glaucoma New Zealand comprehensive vision • Macular Degeneration rehabilitation, habilitation, New Zealand and low vision services. • The Royal Australian and What is Eye Health New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists Aotearoa? Eye Health Aotearoa is a • University of Auckland School of multi-sector collaborative of Optometry and Vision Science representatives from across the eye health sector. We’ve banded Supporting Organisations together to ensure that all • Retina New Zealand Inc. New Zealanders can access • Optometrists and Dispensing equitable, quality eye health Opticians Board services and prevent avoidable vision loss. Our plan is affordable and achievable. It will significantly improve New Zealanders’ eye health and reduce costs elsewhere in the health system. It targets high-risk communities who are unable to access eye health services.
To find out more about Eye Health Aotearoa, email us at [email protected] 12 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Feature Shopping independently with blindness or low vision Head into a modern shopping mall these days and more likely than not you will find accessible aids such as tactile markers at the end of escalators, and lifts incorporating braille and tactile print. These elements of accessible environmental design were once the exception, and now they are part of everyday life.
This progress can be applauded, Finding shops but there’s still a long way to go. Often, shops are clustered together Similarly, modern technology has in a strip mall (outdoor shopping empowered people with more area you find in a suburban place) options and access to information or a shopping mall. than ever before, but it’s no Adaptive Communications and silver bullet. Technology Trainer Chantelle In this article we take a look how Griffiths, points out that at accessible shopping is today for a general level, being blind people who are blind or have low means you may walk past shops vision, and share some advice regularly and not know what is for how to shop with confidence. there. “Incidental browsing is less Then, we outline progress towards accessible, but in some high traffic introducing accessibility legislation areas new GPS technology is that would ultimately redefine challenging this norm.” shopping experiences in the future. She explains that mobile phone
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 13 Feature
apps like BlindSquare can give regularly it is a good idea to book in audio prompts about stores around some time with someone from Blind you and points of interest as you are Low Vision NZ to help you become walking down the street, and these familiar with the route and make can be customisable so you can use of mobility aids.” filter for information that you care about (for example, coffee shops). Similarly, some large public spaces Try downloading such as train stations and airports and experimenting here in New Zealand are looking with apps like at supporting emerging BlindSquare and wayfinding technology. Seeing AI. In terms of getting around, Ask us for help in Blind Low Vision NZ Access and developing skills to Awareness Advisor Chris Orr independently use explains that while any route can be apps like these on learned, often strip malls are easier your phone. to negotiate because the shops are laid out in a line and smaller in size. Ask us for help “You’ve got landmarks and fixed in navigating items like walls to reference, new routes. whereas shopping malls aren’t intuitive and other clues like sound may be less useful because malls Inside the shop can be noisy spaces.” The good news for some shopping Chris says it is good to see the experiences now is that you don’t recently opened Westfield mall in have to physically go to a shop to Newmarket, Auckland, offering browse for the items you want and tours for people to help them learn make a purchase. the layout of the mall, which is “Some types of shopping, like another marker of progress. groceries, can lend themselves “Ultimately though, if there are really well to being done online. places you anticipate visiting We often work with clients who have
14 Outlook • Autumn 2020 idea to try using both the website and the app and see what works better for you, because often the experience between the two can be quite different. Of course, there will always be items that are best considered in store – for example, you might want to physically experience a goal to learn to order groceries how an appliance works or try on online and while we can’t control clothes before making a purchase. when these companies might Chantelle recommends online make changes to the layout or research ahead of visiting a store functionality of their app or website, can be a helpful combination. our adaptive technology specialists “It’s really important to be able teach skills broadly applicable so you to access shopping in a way that can more easily adjust when they works for you as a person and to be do,” explains Chantelle. able to use the tools, resources and Chantelle shares that accessible support around you to get what you design is also becoming more need. Part of this is knowing what understood and naturally options are available for where you considered by web developers. live, for example you may qualify The bigger companies are more for assistance from people who will likely to have greater tech support help you do your shopping. at hand, while smaller businesses “It’s a massive boost in confidence with a more DIY approach might to do your shopping fully not realise that their website isn’t independently, and in some accessible. She says if a business circumstances it may take longer also has an app it can be a good but it’s achievable.”
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 15 Feature
Chris says that your experience inside a shop can be different if you Try using both the are blind or have low vision. For website and app those with some useful vision, having for a business and the right magnification aids at hand see what provides might make the difference in being a better experience able to find and choose the items for you. you are after. Generally speaking though, chaotic shop layouts that Seek advice from have tight aisles and merchandise Blind Low Vision all over the place are unhelpful. NZ on what the best magnification Both Chantelle and Chris aids are for you. recommend a combination of strategies for enhancing your Plan and research. experience in the shop. Don’t be afraid to Chantelle says, “Sometimes I will call make contact with ahead and tell the shop I’m coming the shop ahead of in so I can come at a time when your visit and be there’s fewer people in the shop. specific about your Calling beforehand helps them get preferences. a sense of who you are, gives you an Find out what opportunity to find out if they have other services what you want, and being specific may be available means you can be efficient with the to support your time spent. shopping needs. “If you’ve never been to the shop Ask your Blind Low before, it’s also useful to ask for Vision NZ primary someone to look out for you around service provider for the time you’re coming. For those further information who may not be experienced in and advice. serving people who are blind, it also gives you an opportunity to guide them on what is most helpful to you.” 16 Outlook • Autumn 2020 The accessible future Promisingly, the Access Alliance While Chantelle and Chris is continuing to advance the recommend proactivity as a good government’s commitment to approach to help your shopping designing an approach to achieve endeavours, they also recognise that a fully accessible New Zealand. in a perfect world this shouldn’t and This commitment was made in 2018, wouldn’t be required. after sustained pressure from the Access Alliance and our community “The fact is we still live in a world that of accessibility advocates. has some way to go to embracing accessibility and removing barriers for people who are blind or have low “ The fact is we still live in a vision. world that has some way to go We are working on changing this to embracing accessibility and from the top as part of the Access removing barriers for people who Alliance seeking the introduction are blind or have low vision. ” of accessibility legislation into the future,” says Chris. Chris He says in this future, shops would be designed so that all members of the You can lend your voice to the community would be able to shop campaign by getting in touch with independently. That would include your local MP candidate and letting staff awareness and training, as well them know what accessibility means as environmental design – which is to you. about straight lines and good colour contrast for people with sight loss. To stay up to date and for more He also imagines continued growth information on getting involved, in the capability of technology to visit accessalliance.org.nz or enhance shopping experiences. phone 0800 24 33 33
Aftershock headsets – enable you to listen to your phone speech while still hearing the sound around you.
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 17 People Celebrating 130 Years On 9 July 2020, Blind Low Vision NZ will celebrate its 130th birthday. We talk to Jackson Paraha, Nola Burgess and Shaun Johnson about their experience with our community, and how life has changed living with blindness and low vision over the years.
Did you know? Our name evolves with the times. We have had seven name changes since we were founded in 1890.
1890-1932 2003 – 2013 Jubilee Institute for the Blind of Royal New Zealand Foundation New Zealand of the Blind 1933 – 1956 2013 – 2019 New Zealand Institute for the Blind Blind Foundation (legal name 1956 – 1971 remains Royal New Zealand New Zealand Foundation for the Foundation of the Blind) Blind 2019 – present 1972 – 2002 Blind Low Vision NZ (legal name Royal New Zealand Foundation remains Royal New Zealand for the Blind Foundation of the Blind)
18 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Jackson Paraha, 57 – Blind the first low vision member of the Low Vision NZ Client. Kapa Haka group. I really needed that support as a young Māori - it With the rollout of our new strengthened me and gave me the brand Blind Low Vision NZ, desire to learn more about who I Jackson Paraha, supported us was and where I was from - it was in a photography project. the start of my education and how His motivations were to raise I became who I am today. awareness of our services for Māori and anyone who needs our support.
Tell us about how you first became engaged with Blind Low Vision NZ? It was at primary school in Kaitaia that my eye condition was picked up. I wasn’t aware that I had a problem, I thought that I could see properly, I assumed I was like everyone else – but I was struggling through school. I moved from Kaitaia to Auckland to go to the Homai School for the Blind (now known as BLENNZ) which was a big change for a young Māori boy. Homai was awesome. I met so many new people and made so many mates from different tribal areas. There was a really strong focus on whanau. When I went from Homai to Manurewa High School I was
Jackson Paraha with his grandchildren.
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 19 People
What is it like living with Recently you took part in our blindness now compared to brand photography project – when you were younger? the purpose of which was to let Well Blind Low Vision NZ is still people know that we are here for supporting me today in my current everyone in New Zealand. role as a kaiako in Kohanga Reo Why did you agree to be involved (teaching Māori language and values and why is it important to you? to preschool children). They are It was really important that other helping me with training and getting young Māori or anyone who needs the right software to continue to do a support to make a better life for great job in my role. themselves know where to go. I have to be honest for a long time What are you hopes for the I wanted to be somebody I wasn’t, future for young blind people someone with full sight. I have in today’s society? accepted my blindness now but it’s I recently met a young Māori boy taken a while. For me from a Māori - about 18, who reminded me very perspective I may not have my much of myself when I was his age. vision but I have my reo [language]. He is really bright but doesn’t know where to get advice or support in So now, nothing is more important terms of employment or what to do to me than having some input in a next - there seems to be a gap from child’s growth in Te Reo. I want to transitioning from school to getting give back to my community and a job. I have two daughters of my especially the young ones. So I am own who have low vision and wish happy to support Blind Low Vision there was more support out there NZ get the message out to not only to help young people to access the Māori but everyone who needs services they need and to show the services. them the options that are available to them.
20 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Nola Burgess, 85 – Blind I got my first guide dog in 1982 and Low Vision NZ client and I have had four – it has meant that I have been able to hold down a volunteer for Gisborne job and get on with things. I have Community Committee. been on the Community Committee Awarded a Queen’s Service Medal in (formerly the Advisory Committee) 2018 for services to the blind and low for 39 years, at one stage I was the vision community, Nola’s journey with Chairwoman. We wanted a space Blind Low Vision NZ began when she where we could socialise and meet up became a client at aged 21. She went so I suggested we ask for a Gisborne on to become the Chairperson of the centre. People thought it would never Gisborne Advisory Committee (now happen, but in 1991 we celebrated known as Community Committee) the opening. I remember a member and paved the way for a local saying ‘now I feel like I belong’ and Gisborne office and community that’s what it’s all about. centre of Blind Low Vision NZ to open in 1991.
Tell us about your early years with Blind Low Vision NZ. I’ve been a member since 1956. A social worker (now known as a service provider at Blind Low Vision NZ) used to visit twice a year. I remember they gave us a free walking stick (it wasn’t called a white cane back then), a free radio licence and a free braille watch. The talking book machine was a great big gramophone and played huge records – you could only listen to one book at a time because you needed several records per book. Nola Burgess and When it changed to cassettes, it was Governor General Patsy Reddy. an absolute lifesaver. Autumn 2020 • Outlook 21 People
You’ve done a lot to support the I want people to understand that community over the years – what blindness affects people from all drives you to give back? walks of life – you can’t put us in a I believe that when you lose your box. We’re just normal people only sight, you don’t worry about what our vision is impaired. We have you can’t do, you get on with what feelings just as everyone else – we you can. People say that I am an laugh and cry just like everyone else. inspiration, but that’s not my aim, I just get on with life and encourage others to do the same. Shaun Johnson, 75 – Have you experienced a change Resident at the New in attitude over the years towards people who are blind or have Zealand Institute for low vision? the Blind in Parnell, now Certainly – there is a lot more things known as Blind Low Vision available for people, a lot more NZ, 1950 - 1961. technology and equipment so that It is likely you can find Shaun you can gain employment, study, travel or do whatever you choose to Johnson, of Wellington, at the do. Once upon a time blind people James Cook Hotel. He has held a made baskets and that was it. I residency there for an incredible envy, but am happy for, the young 39 years playing the piano. He first people growing up today because learnt to play at the New Zealand they have many opportunities that Institute for the Blind where he lived I never had. for 11 years.
What are your hopes for the future? I would like to see people who are blind or have low vision carry on a normal life, as normal as they can.
22 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Tell us a bit about living at the What were the advantages New Zealand Institute for the of living there and the Blind in the 1950s? disadvantages? I was a boarder at Nathan House I didn’t see much of my parents in and went to school at the Institute. my first year until they moved up to I started in 1950 when I was six Auckland from Dunedin, but it was years old. There were about 24 boys where I learnt piano. there and the boys and girls were Music classes were compulsory separated. We slept there, we ate and if you were good at it then you there and we went to school there. carried on. I was also a member of As well as normal classes, there the brass band. Two people who got were also special classes where we me up to scratch to study music at learnt a hobby. university were teachers May Bray and Lilian Martin.
Have you experienced a change in attitude to people who are blind or have low vision over the years? I think now there is more of an acceptance in society and there is a lot more that a person who is blind or has low vision can do. What are your hopes for the future for people who are blind or have low vision? If they try and do something there is every chance that they will succeed – there is technology out there that means there are so many possibilities now.
Shaun Johnson at his piano.
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 23 Everyday living
Library: Accessible religious content to practice your faith Blind Low Vision NZ provides Kiwis who are blind or have low vision with the practical and emotional support to do the things they need and want to do, and this includes giving people access to the tools to practice their faiths independently. With this in mind, it follows that Provision of the Seekers and When religious content is a popular part the Moon Split in both Arabic and of our accessible library service. English, narrated by Qays Buksh. “We think it is important to provide “It’s really good because as a Muslim different religious material in an visually impaired person, we don’t accessible way, which provides [normally] have material like that in people with independence to audio format. You can listen to it in receive content about their faiths,” your own time and concentrate on says Blind Low Vision NZ Library what it’s saying.” Manager Geraldine Lewis, “Our He says listening to the recorded aim is to provide a collection that is material is a different experience current, relevant and responsive to than having someone read to you, the needs of our clients. because you can read it at your We encourage and track all client own pace and listen to sections over requests, and use these requests again to absorb it to its full extent. as the basis of title selection.” “After the Christchurch mosque Library member Naushad Ali, of shooting last year it is important, Auckland, appreciates the Islamic now more than ever, for people to content provided in audio format. have access to their faiths which We recently recorded two titles, at the heart of it comes down to 24 Outlook • Autumn 2020 compassion and kindness. The collection; however, we cannot get shooter thought he was going hold of the complete works. to tear people apart but it was Our producer Simon Lynch did actually the opposite, it brought research into this and calculated people closer together.” that it would take several years of his time to produce each version,” In the past two years’ the library says Geraldine. team has also added 650 Seventh Day Adventist titles and 2,100 “An idea we have is to ask whether Christian Blind Mission titles that people with some knowledge in were gifted to our collection. these areas and can speak Samoan or Tongan would like to record audio Looking for support to add the of religious text and provide it to us Samoan and Tongan bible to for our collection. If you or anyone our collection: you know may be interested in The team is continuing to diversify contributing, we would love to work the library’s religious content and is with you so please get in touch.” currently looking for help to narrate To access the library collection the Samoan and Tongan bibles. or express interest in narrating, “This is a popular request. We have please contact our library on searched for this audio material and 0800 24 33 33 or email have added what we can find to our [email protected]
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 25 Everyday living Sharing tips on personal grooming with vision loss Putting on make-up and shaving can be a challenge when you have low or no vision.
Our Adaptive Daily Living Instructors process to prevent makeup help people to learn tricks for residue from rubbing off on your adapting to sight loss. Read on for face, clothing, and upholstery. some top tips from the experts, as well as tips that you have shared You say: with us on our Facebook page.
Makeup We say: 1. “Use a short eye pencil and 1. Use a headband mascara with a short wand when applying makeup to pull and use your fingers to apply your hair away from your face. eyeshadow.” – Dena Harnett. This is especially helpful when 2. “Get yourself a magnifying ring applying foundation and eye makeup. light mirror or get a compact mirror you can hold in your hand 2. You can also use a magnifying close to your face while using the mirror with an adjustable arm to other hand to apply makeup.” enlarge the image of your face – Kelly Brown. and head. 3. Keep a wet washcloth, wet wipes, 3. “After putting foundation on with or paper towels nearby to remove your hands/brush, use a beauty makeup from your fingertips. blender type sponge to make Clean your hands and fingertips sure it’s all rubbed in.” after each step in the application – Wainui Witika-Park. 26 Outlook • Autumn 2020 We say: Shaving: three minutes now. Shaving is all about feel - honestly, that’s it. 1. You can determine the areas that require shaving (such as your The best advice I can give from face, legs, or underarms) or the my own experience is to start location of a nick or scratch by slow, use plenty of gel or shave using your sense of touch. foam and just feel the grip of the blades and smoothness of the 2. Wash the area to be shaved with finish and you’ll be shaving in soap and water, and pat dry. the dark in no time!” This will soften your hair, which makes it easier to shave cleanly – Rob McGoram. and safely. In reply to Rob: 3. Use shaving cream or lotion if 3. “Legend mate. I too am partially you use a safety razor. It will blind, hardly ever have I needed protect your skin and help you to rely on mirrors to shave, and better locate the areas you’ve I agree ‘it’s all about the feel’. already shaved. Practice makes perfect, confidence strengthens You say: independence.” – Murakareke Roretana. 1. “I go to the barber shop now, got exhausting trying to see one side of my head with tunnel vision.” – Terry Richards. 2. “I’m partially blind, use razor blades and I’ve never once used a mirror to shave. I shave in the shower before dawn and often don’t have the bathroom lights on. I haven’t nicked myself in years and I can full-face and Paveen Shakar shaving with a razor. neck shave in under Autumn 2020 • Outlook 27 Everyday living
Items to help with personal grooming available in our shop. We stock a wide range of products for people who are blind or have low vison. Here are a few you might be interested in: 10x Compact Round rimless hand held Magnifying Mirror 2x magnifier with LED light This compact mirror is This hand held 2x magnifier perfect for in your handbag with light, has a round, rimless or around the home and has 110mm lens for non-distracted two optical quality glass viewing. It is powered by two mirrors which give a clear, super bright LED lights that undistortedimage and do can last up to 5000 hours. not scratch. Batteries are included.
Client price: $29 Client price: $32 Full price: $34 Full price: $36
To learn more about these products and to browse more items, visit blindlowvision.org.nz/shop or call 0800 24 33 33 and speak to our equipment specialists.
28 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Community Life without limits around the country Please note at the time of writing, community events are on hold due to the Covid-19 public health crisis. Check our website for the latest updates. We hope to be back on board as soon as possible, and in the meantime, here are some highlights from earlier:
South Island Tramp, Central Otago, 8 - 9 November, 2019 Ten clients returned from a South Island tramp happy, windblown and more knowledgeable about the great New Zealand gold rush. They had a wonderful time and finished their walk by sampling of Clients, volunteers and staff in front local wine at a member’s vineyard. of an historic run in Welshtown.
Taupo Kids Camp, The theme for the camp this year 12 – 17 January was ‘Superheroes’ so the grand Zip lining, martial arts, archery, finale was a heroic costume morning yoga and making rocky parade, followed by a talent quest. road were just some of “During their time at camp the the activities at the kids camp kids were presented with many at MiCamp near Taupo. opportunities to step outside Autumn 2020 • Outlook 29 their comfort zones, build on their independent living skills, and gain confidence in their social and physical abilities. The icing on the cake was fun and friendship experienced by all who attended,” says Micky Gunn, Blind Low Vision NZ Recreation and Community Advisor. Taupo Kids Camp. 12-17 January 2020
Red Puppy Appeal, 13 – 14 March More than 1800 volunteers hit the streets to raise money and awareness for Blind Low Vision NZ Guide Dogs with our Red Puppy Appeal street collection. Thank you to everyone who supported the appeal! $250,000 was raised to breed and train guide dogs.
Find something that suits you. Would you like to get involved with a recreation or a community event? Get in touch on 0800 24 33 33 or go to our website blindlowvision.org.nz and check out the events section to find something that suits you in your local area
30 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Message from parents of Vision Impaired NZ (PVINZ) Tēnā koutou katoa, I haere mai ōku tūpuna i Kōtirana No Kirikiriroa tāku papa kainga Kie Waikato-Tainui ahau e noho ana Ko Parents of Vision Impaired tāku mahi Ko Lily te pōtiki ana tāku kotiro te kanohi atarua Ko Rebekah Graham tāku ingoa.
Kia ora, my name is Rebekah and the respective issues we face may I am the new Executive Officer change (depending on the ages for Parents of Vision Impaired NZ and stages of our children), the (PVINZ). My journey into PVINZ need for support and advocacy began seven years ago, with the does not. birth of our fourth child, Lily. Our Many of us are learning on our feet initial ophthalmologist appointment about our child’s needs and the quickly provided a diagnosis, support they need. Children born followed by a prognosis, and then with congenital vision conditions a cheery “see you in two years”. I often have additional challenges was left with little idea of what to and disabilities. This means that expect, no clue as to what services parents must manage multiple existed, or where to go to find out! health professionals and various After posting on Facebook, a friend appointment times, work with of a friend put us in touch with a schools to develop educational mutual friend who then put us in and safety plans, and deal with the touch with PVINZ – and the rest, as vagaries of MSD, Work and Income, they say, is history. and service providers. In coming to know parents through Educators, health professionals, PVINZ I have noted that while and even service providers can Autumn 2020 • Outlook 31 be unaware of the specific needs It also means that we can continue of blind, low-vision and vision- reducing societal barriers to impaired children. This leaves inclusion while ensuring blind, low parents in the unenviable position vision and vision-impaired children of having to educate those around get the support they need to enjoy them – which is particularly and participate in society as equals challenging in environments where at every stage of their life. parental concerns are minimised, Ngā mihi disparaged, and/or dismissed. Rebekah Graham PVINZ aims to walk alongside parents as they navigate all these For more information visit: challenges. Having other parents www.pvi.org.nz who ‘get it’ provides space to We are also on Twitter: debrief and find encouragement @PVI_NZ and reassurance. A listening ear Or you can contact me alongside advocacy and support (Rebekah) via services means that parents feel Phone: 0226215740 or less isolated. Email: [email protected]
Rebekah’s daughter Lily on a horse.
32 Outlook • Autumn 2020 Blind Low Vision NZ is proud New Zealand Vision to support and partner with Impaired Empowering organisations directly representing Women (NZ VIEW) the interests of Kiwis who are blind National President: Janet Palmer or have low vision. 04 476 7329 [email protected] Contact details Parents of Vision Impaired New Zealand (PVINZ) Inc. Albinism NZ Executive Officer: Dr Rebekah Graham (06) 367 5900 022 621 5740 [email protected] [email protected] albinism.nz pvi.org.nz Blind Citizens NZ Mail: PO Box 7144, Newtown, Retina New Zealand 0800 569 849 Wellington 6242 [email protected] 0800 222 694, or 04 389 0033 retina.org.nz [email protected]. Search Retina New Zealand or blindcitizensnz.org.nz Retina Youth to find them on facebook.com/BlindCitizensNZ social media. Blind Sport New Zealand (09) 930 1579 Support and Education [email protected] for our Youth, their Families blindsport.kiwi and their Friends 021 0235 4395 Deafblind Association of NZ [email protected] Charitable Trust 0800 450 650 These details are correct at the [email protected] time of printing. Please check Deafblindassociation.nz the Blind Low Vision NZ website for updated details Kāpo Māori Aotearoa and more information at 0800 770 990 [email protected] blindlowvision.org.nz kapomaori.com
Autumn 2020 • Outlook 33 The gift of a life without limits
Receive an information pack today about how a gift in your will can make a profound and lasting difference. Please contact Supporter Care on 0800 366 283 or blindlowvision.org.nz