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Theme: Bringing people together
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A4 Warwickshire Poster v2 indd.indd 1 16/10/2019 10:12:34 Contents Editorial...... 4 Focus on Health...... 5 Features...... 8 Spotlight on Equipment...... 18 Advice and Guidance...... 20 Events Round-up...... 26 News Round-Up...... 30 Volunteer Focus...... 32 Quiz Page...... 33
Acknowledgements Grateful thanks are expressed to Rosemary Went and Rosalie Visick and all contributors to the magazine. We also thank Kenilworth Talking News Association for producing the digital audio version of Warwickshire Vision. In the Focus on Health section, we acknowledge the use of information from: BBC News, the Daily Mail (Man regains sight after 20 years), The Guardian (Boy loses sight due to poor nutrition), Vision North Eyecare and eyesite.co.uk (Tips for preventing dry eyes) and Science Daily (Gene Therapy)
Front Cover Image: AGM 2019 by Jemma Davoudian
3 Editorial by Phil Arkell - CEO Welcome to Warwickshire Vision - the only county-wide Editorialmagazine for visually impaired people in Warwickshire. I sincerely hope you like our fresh new look. In this latest facelift of the magazine, so wonderfully spearheaded by Rosemary Went and Rosalie Visick for the last two decades, you will find a range of stories exploring how we, as a charity and you as a community, bring people together. We have also introduced some regular specialist columns covering areas such as IT, Rehabilitation and Money Saving Tips, as well as a Recipe page and a Quiz page. We hope you will enjoy these and look forward to your feedback. Of course, we are particularly interested in your stories, your experiences and the lessons you can share with each other. So, if you have a story to tell, then please get in contact with us. We are also looking for feature writers and contributors, so please contact us on 01926 411331 if you want to join the team. On behalf of everyone at Warwickshire Vision Support, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Thank You, Lesley Edwards At the AGM Lesley Edwards retired as Treasurer and Trustee from the Board of Trustees. Lesley has faithfully served the Charity for over 13 years, playing an important role in managing the finances of Warwickshire Vision Support. Lesley can leave in the knowledge that the Association is in much improved financial and structural health. On behalf of everyone at WVS we wish Lesley a happy retirement and thank her for her commitment and dedication. 4 Focus on Healthby Jemma Davoudian Boy loses vision due to poor nutrition A 19-year old teenager, who suffered vision began deteriorating soon after. permanent damage to the fibres Now legally blind, he agreed to have in his optic nerve, has an eating his story documented in the Annals disorder called ARFID (avoidant of Internal Medicine in order to raise restrictive food intake disorder), awareness.Focus on causing heightened sensitivity to It is well known that poor diet can certain food textures and smells. As a cause cardiovascular issues, obesity result, the young man survived on a and cancer.Health However, this case is a diet consisting of chips, bread, crisps sobering reminder that vitamin and and processed meat. mineral deficiencies can also cause At the age of 14, he started irreversible damage to the nervous experiencing hearing loss and his system. Tips for managing dry eyes Dry eye is a common and often • Wear sunglasses outdoors to chronic problem caused when reduce wind and sun exposure. tear production and drainage is • Nutritional supplements imbalanced. containing fatty acids can help Dry eyes can feel irritated, scratchy dry eyes, but always consult your or inflamed. Excess watering and optometrist first. blurred vision are also common in • Drink plenty of water throughout sufferers. Dry eye conditions are the day: aim for at least 8 glasses! often associated with ageing, gender (women are more likely to develop it than men), medication and medical conditions (e.g. diabetes, arthritis). There are many treatments available for dry eyes – including over-the- counter drops. However, there are some valuable self-care tips you can apply at home: • Increase the humidity of the air in your home.
5 1 Surgeons remove 3 Surgeons 5 After approximately one year, stem cells from remove scar Damaged Eye they insert a cornea from a James O’Brien’s tissue from James’ donor patient into the healthy left eye. damaged right eye. injured eye.
Optical Nerve Retina 4 They replace this with the Cornea 6 developed Months The new stem cells stem cells from 6 from the healthy eye the healthy ensure the cornea 2 Stem cells are eye. can properly function grown in a lab for up and sight is restored. to six months. Man regains sight after 20 Years A London man, blinded in one eye surgeons were then able to cut out during an acid attack in his teens, has the scar tissue from Mr O’Brien’s become the first patient to undergo damaged eye, and replace it with the pioneering stem cell treatment on newly grown stem cells harvested the NHS. from his left eye. James O’Brien, of south-east London, After a year, once the new tissue had had been blind in his right eye for 25 had a chance to mature and settle years, following a random acid attack down, a new cornea was implanted. when he was just 18. But now, thanks This was a harvested cornea from a to the work of doctors at Moorfields deceased organ donor. Eye Hospital in London, Mr O’Brien Now 44, Mr O’Brien is married with has gone from “near-blindness in this two young children, and feels blessed eye, to being able to see everything.” to be able to see his family with both Mr O’Brien’s treatment began in early eyes. 2018, with stem cells being extracted Sajjad Ahmad, the consultant from his healthy left eye. They were ophthalmic surgeon who performed then sent to a laboratory in Modena, the procedure, asserts that Mr Italy where they were grown under O’Brien “kindly accepted being contract to the NHS. Moorfields 6 6 What are stem cells? 1 Surgeons remove 3 Surgeons 5 After approximately one year, stem cells from remove scar Damaged Eye they insert a cornea from a Stem cells are simple cells which James O’Brien’s tissue from James’ donor patient into the have the ability to develop into healthy left eye. damaged right eye. injured eye. almost any type of specialised cell in the body. This means they can be used when replacing damaged Optical Nerve cells and tissues in many parts of Retina the body. 4 They replace this with the Cornea Gene therapy shows 6 developed Months The new stem cells promise for wet AMD stem cells from 6 from the healthy eye the healthy Researchers from the Department ensure the cornea of Ophthalmology at Weill Cornell Stem cells are eye. 2 can properly function Medical College in New York City grown in a lab for up and sight is restored. to six months. have gathered preliminary data which supports the effectiveness of gene therapy in six wet AMD the ‘guinea pig’ for this treatment. patients. The patients, who had Because of what he’s done, it will now previously undergone anti-VEGF enable us to offer it to everyone who injections to manage the disease, needs it.” have so far gone at least 6 months Mr Ahmad, along with his colleagues without requiring further treatment. at Moorfields, plans to continue Gene therapy is a promising developing the procedure so that alternative to anti-VEGF injections. patients blinded in both eyes The treatment involves an initial during acid attacks, or as a result of injection to insert a vector into the degenerative sight loss conditions, eye. This can funnel genetic material may have their sight significantly into the eyes, which then begins improved by it. The Moorfields team making the protein aflibercept has plans to operate on at least one (preventing the formation of patient per month. abnormal blood vessels). The procedure costs the NHS over In essence, instead of injecting a £90,000 per eye, however NHS vial of aflibercept protein into the England and the National Institute eye, your eye makes the aflibercept for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) itself - making it a potential one-off have approved the treatment for all treatment. eligible patients. Clinical trials are pending.
7 7 Sandra with her Home Visitor, Sally Thompson
Features
Me and My Home Visitors by Sandra Jones, Nuneaton Born and raised in Nuneaton you years old I was totally blind and was would think that I would have many registered as Severely Sight Impaired. friends and would be able to go out No longer able to see, I finally whenever I want to see someone or embraced Braille and within 6 to go to the shops. months had learnt how to read and My early onset Glaucoma diagnosed type in Braille. I kept very active when I was in my late teens prevents supporting the Nuneaton Branch me from having that freedom. I was of Warwickshire Association for the determined from a very young age Blind and was actively involved in that I would not let my deteriorating their ‘Listening Ear’ Project. For many eye sight stop me from living a years I supported what was then WAB fulfilling life. Despite the relentless and did not see myself as someone hospital visits and operations who needed their support - but, throughout my twenties and thirties for over 10 years now I have been a I lived independently, fell in love and service user. got married. By the time I was 32
8 8 The support I have received from occasionally see them socially, I have Warwickshire Vision Support has even arranged to visit the theatre been invaluable. In addition to with one of them. attending the weekly support All of the Home Visitor Volunteers go centre in Nuneaton I also attend the above and beyond, I look forward to monthly social club. For me though their visits and enjoy every moment I receive the most rewarding support of time spent with them. I feel more from the Home Visitor Service. Every connected to the local community time I want to leave the house I around me, so even though I do not have to organise a guide and plan get out as much as I used to, I do not transport. I am not able to live my life feel lonely as I always have a visit to spontaneously so for me the Home look forward to. The Home Visitor Visitor Service brings company and Service bridges the gaps that family conversation into my home. and friends would normally fill and Every other week I receive a visit ensures you never feel alone. from one of a number of Home Visitor Volunteers. They are all lovely Becoming a Home Visitor and I have become good friends by Sally Thompson with them, but they are also all very different and what they bring to the I have always lived around people service is different. I enjoy all their who have visual impairments due company but sometimes I appreciate to a condition that affected my just chatting and catching up on Dad’s side of the family. local gossip and events. Sometimes About 10 years ago, I saw an one will read my mail and assist me advert in a local paper asking for in completing some paperwork. I get volunteers to support what was practical support as well in the form then WAB to help set up a Home of labelling my tins and jars in the Visitor Service in Nuneaton. I kitchen cupboards. It might seem believed that was something I like a simple task but it ensures that could do and gave them a call. I can continue to cook and prepare 10 years on I am still volunteering food knowing what ingredients I and have formed lovely friendships am using. I am an avid knitter and with many of the visually impaired love to discuss knitting patterns people I visit. with Lesley House who visits me and I find volunteering rewarding and co-ordinates the Nuneaton Home enjoy the time I commit to each Visitor Service. Over the years I have visit. If my visit can make someone discovered many common interests feel less isolated and lonely then it with my Home Visitors and now has been worthwhile.
9 9 Sport for All Maggie Bowes is 69 years old, registered blind and runs marathons for fun. We share some insights from this inspirational woman. I have been running since I was a I am not a keen swimmer and knew child when I attended Exhall Grange that I would need to learn before School. In those days, there wasn’t a embarking on the challenge. I took proper track to run on and we were a 12-week swimming course, at the guided by sound a bit like clackers or end of which my instructor told me castanets but I just loved it. I had a how problematic my technique was. love for horses in my younger years I knew I was not the best but it did too and used to enjoy participating in not deter me and I set my sights on dressage competitions. swimming an iconic mile. Upon leaving school, I did not have As my swimming improved I entered the opportunity to start running my first duathlon in Coventry. I swam again until 1999 when I decided to 400m which was 16 lengths and ran join a gym. I said to one of the gym 2.5 miles. I then started developing staff who was a retired Army PT my cycling technique. I bought a Instructor, that I wanted to have a go tandem bike and set to work on on a treadmill and he took me under training - experiencing a good his wing. He was a gentle giant to my number of accidents and falls along petite frame. I regularly attended a the way. training session with the gentle giant In 2008 I was proud to represent often quite late in the evening after Great Britain at the Vancouver I had got home from work. My first Triathlon World Championships. It experience on the treadmill lasted was fantastic to be part of such a only a few minutes and learning to great team. run and build up stamina took time. My trainer suggested that I should enter the Coventry Fun Run and at the first outing, I won my class. I have not looked back. That same year I entered the Two Castles Run between Warwick and Kenilworth. As my fitness and running with a guide improved it was suggested to me that I might like to try a triathlon.
1010 In 2015 I completed the London Marathon in 6 hours and 15 minutes. I get a lot of pleasure from running, it is good for both my physical and mental health and I enjoy the company of my running guides. My advice to someone who might consider taking up running would be to invest in a good pair of running shoes. They make all the difference and can save you from some injuries. I would also say that you should start off slow and steady with a combination of running for a minute or two and then walking. You do not necessarily need a trained guide to start with but a good friend will do, if they are patient and prepared to move at your pace. The Park Runs which take place at weekends are a great way to meet fellow runners and if you do want to buddy up with a guide, then people are often willing to help. They are free to enter, and timed, so you can Maggie Bowes with some see your improvement each week. of her Medals Once you start to run faster and feel you need to be guided more formally, feeling I get when I run makes them then communication is key to the all worthwhile. A good guide runner relationship between you and your will also give you confidence. I would guide. You need to be clear from the encourage anyone to start running outset what kind of instructions you - it may be a passion from the past want from them. For example, if the which you can reignite or a new surface is uneven and whether you venture for you to embrace, either need to raise your foot more, also way it will be a worthwhile one. clear left and right directions. I am 69 now and still look to get out a Whilst I have had my fair share of couple of times a week at least. Enjoy falls and trips over the years, the running for fun.
1111 Peter Wright with his CCTV
reading, writing and completing IT and Me daily tasks. Peter uses his CCTV unit by Jemma Davoudian to magnify things such as newspaper At Warwickshire Vision Support we articles, medication labels and letters. are passionate about ensuring our He is also able to write his own lists clients can access information in and memos using the magnifier their preferred format. For some, this screen. is the written word, and we work to I sat down with him to discuss how make this as accessible as possible. this equipment has impacted his For example, when we receive life, and whether he now feels more high quality equipment donations, connected to others. we pass them forward where How did you get the appropriate. equipment? Mr Peter Wright, of Leamington Spa, is one such client who has benefited Whilst attending the Leamington from the use of an electronic desktop Vision Support Centre (held magnifier, also known as a CCTV. on Mondays, 10am – 12 noon These magnifiers can be helpful for at Chandos Court), I had the
1212 opportunity to hear about electronic Do you feel more connected desktop magnifiers from one of the to others because of the regular exhibitors. I thought the equipment would be particularly tech? helpful because it would allow me Yes. I am now able to keep up to to magnify entire portions of text at date with local event listings, I can once, and I would be able to adjust chat with my friends about recent the brightness settings to suit my news articles and I feel far more vision. I was in the process of saving independent when it comes to up for the CCTV when Warwickshire writing shopping lists or memos. Vision Support let me know that they One unexpected benefit of the had a donated CCTV unit available. CCTV unit is that I am able to look at Not only did Warwickshire Vision appointment letters and my calendar Support help me to get a CCTV unit, and feel confident that I know what but they also helped set it up - for is coming up, or which important that I am very grateful. appointments I need to attend. What do you use it for? I feel so much more independent and connected to the world. I use it for reading all sorts - TV listings and newspaper articles are I can even write cards to my loved the big ones. Letters can be really ones! difficult to read when the print is small, and I worried I might miss important information before I was able to magnify them using my digital desktop magnifier. Filling in forms and writing lists has also become so much easier, as I can magnify as I write. I’ve also noticed improvements in back pain as I no longer have to strain to see writing with my magnifying glass. What is the hardest thing about using it? It is easy to use, but I do wish it was portable so I could use it throughout the house. Nevertheless, I am very pleased with it.
1313 Bringing people together by Phil Arkell Often when we talk about bringing the support of a small number of people together, we think of social other co-editors, they have created activities that provide an opportunity more than 50 magazine editions for us to meet new people, make comprising nearly 2,000 pages of friends and share our experiences. stories and almost half a million Our clubs, support centres and home words. visitors are excellent examples of Each of these stories was identified, how Warwickshire Vision Support researched, written, edited, brings us together. formatted and proof read before We also form communities in other making it into the final edition. In ways. Warwickshire Vision (formerly some cases, Rosemary and Rosalie WAB Mag) has been creating its own would take an article all the way community of readers and listeners through from start to finish and at for decades. We may not meet each other times, rely on their cohort of other face-to-face, but the magazine regular contributors who submit has enabled thousands of people to news stories, poems and creative receive advice and information, learn writing for consideration. about each other and, of course, Rosemary and Rosalie have met share the successes and challenges regularly on Monday mornings at facing us. the WVS office to review articles, It may surprise you to know, that for accepting some, rejecting or almost 20 years, the magazine has amending others until the magazine been produced under the Editorship slowly emerges. I could tell you that of Rosemary Went and her Co-Editor this has taken more than 5,000 hours Rosalie Visick. During this time, with of ‘office’ time, but then if I tell you
14 Rosemary Went Rosalie Visick that they both arrive with pre-edited News Association who produce articles then you will realise that the audio edition of the magazine. the number of hours they commit is Their expert team of readers and considerably more. technicians guarantees a quality Of course, the magazine is not just product each time, whilst Rosalie produced in large print. To ensure selects the musical interludes. that everyone has access to the Warwickshire Vision has become our gems inside, an audio edition is also standard bearer. An extra edition available. WAB Mag was produced celebrated our centenary back in on audio cassette until 2011 when 2011 whilst regular editions have Rosemary thought the magazine honoured our volunteers, recognised should ‘go digital’ and make the yours, and our achievements switch to memory sticks. and shared some of the major This process required considerable developments in eye health and research, resulting in a proposal for technology. We hope that there funds, the purchase of boom boxes is something for everyone in each and memory sticks for listeners and edition. a schedule of home visits to deliver Our future plans are to broaden our and demonstrate the new devices - community, reach more people and a monumental achievement. ensure that those people acquiring Of course, we must also recognise sight loss know to whom they can the volunteers at Kenilworth Talking turn when they need help.
15 TitleOne Voiceto be placed in Public transport and the obstacles to participation Warwickshire Vision Support’s The travel company is now tailoring primarythis box objective is to improve the trips for guide dog users - which is lives of visually impaired people. great for Debbie as a regular user ThroughA look back advocacy at the past we work year providesto make whoalong is with planning mine to- David visit Blackpool, Adams, Alan ana reflection impact on of people’s significant daily progresslives. set Devon,Last, Sheila Ireland Venville and manyand Keith more Eales Pleaseout in theread 2018 Debbie’s strategic story review. and see One places.(ex-officio). In a further This bringsdevelopment, our visually howof our a keynegative objectives situation is to resulted improve in a sheimpaired has found trustees that to they four. are now positiveour offer outcome. to ‘hard to reach’ groups Lookingmore supportive ahead for with 2019/20 arranging , we plan and help reduce social isolation. Debbie’s story toaccommodation continue the enhancement to support her of We know from feedback from our ourrequirements. profile, improve our efficiency in Debbieservice usershad planned t This Annual a family Report holiday Thisservice small provision intervention and find by Vicky new hasways toaffirms the Cotswolds the im hat with our a Visionlocal travel made a real difference to Debbie and company.Support Centres As a guide (including dog user our her family who are now able to enjoy shenew requested pop-up centres) a seat beHome reserved short breaks in the knowledge that forVisitors Kayleigh, and support her service for Clubsdog. The their needs will be met. companyare significantly informed reducing her she the was requiredisolation toassociated pay for this with additional ageing seat.and vision Debbie impairment. requested the support 260 Thisof Warwickshire Annual Report Vision affirms Support. Words Vicky,the impact one of of our a change Vision Supportin Officers,management contacted structures the andcompany a on Debbie’srenewed behalffocus of and the advised board. themWe thathave under an operating the Discrimination surplus to Act 2005report and and Equality faster response Act 2010, time service dogsfor rehab are allowedservices. to We travel remain on public andthe key private link transportconnecting at visuallyno extra charge.impaired Also people that to a recentservices change and tosupport the law, in Warwickshire.to ensure the welfare of Ouranimals Board in transport,has also transformed requires service overdogs the to be past restrained year. We to said ensure a big their thanksafety. you and farewell to Jeff Perry to connect our service users to the Afterwho served this intervention, as Chair for Debbie the past was few services they need and to each other. ableyears to and go our on theTrustee coach and trip Company with her Many thanks to our volunteers, our familySecretary, and Kath Kayleigh Phelps, at no also additional rotated staff and our volunteer board for cost.off the board after completing three Debbieyour energy Tilson and commitment. and Kayleigh I am terms. We welcome five new faces looking forward to another year with 16 Me and My Dog by Christine Ramble, Trustee Guide dogs are often referred to as ‘life changing’ - in the year I’ve had my dog Sparks I’ve certainly found that to be true. I thought long and hard before applying for a guide dog: it is a big responsibility and a lot of work! I was managing fine with my long cane but began to realise that I was going out on my own only when absolutely necessary. A guide cane is a useful aid, but not what I’d choose for a pleasant stroll! All that has changed since I got Sparks. We enjoy going out together every day, and I know I can trust him to avoid obstacles and stop at kerb edges. He likes finding our usual shops where, seeing him, people are very helpful. He’s a seasoned bus traveller and there’s rarely a journey when someone doesn’t speak to us at the stop or on the bus. His favourite outing is, of course, the park when he has a free run and plays with his doggy friends - their owners usually stop for a chat too. I’ve started Christine and Sparks volunteering with Guide Dogs as an occasional fund-raiser and speaker always my much-loved friend and and enjoy the variety of people I’ve companion - my world would be a met through this, from pre-school darker place without him. children to business groups. May you all share in the warmth and Sparks has enriched my life in so affection of good friends at Christmas many ways: my guide outdoors and and in the New Year.
17 17 Howard Burgess Spotlight on Equipment The history of talking news and devices used to listen to it by Howard Burgess Audio recordings date back as far in Wales. In the mid 1980’s, the as 1877 when the phonograph was Talking News movement had spread invented. across the country. I, together with In thoseSpotlight days, recording was limited on some Equip fellow volunteers,- formed the by time, so poetry was recorded first. Talking News Service for Kenilworth. Full length novels were not recorded Using facilities at the Priory Theatre until mentthe 1930’s, that’s when talking books recorded on gramophone records were created in Britain. The average novel could fit on 10 records. By 1935 recorded books were posted out to visually impaired people, the first being an Agatha Christie novel. Propel forward to 1970 and the first Talking Newspaper was launched
1818 we produced our first recording in my community and I can form on cassette, reading news articles an opinion about it. This not only from the local paper. Of course, helps me to participate in local technology has now overtaken us decision making, but it also gives and USB memory sticks are used to me the information I need to be produce high quality digital audio able to engage in discussions with playback. These are played on what neighbours and friends about local we call ‘Boom Boxes’. events. The ‘Boom Box’ connects the listener One of the challenges of isolation is to the recording and thus to the that you can run out of conversation. outside world. lt makes local news Funnily enough, that is not a problem easily accessible, timely and keeps I have ever encountered, but I do them connected to their community. know that my Boom Box ensures I A USB memory stick can contain a am kept informed and ready with a newspaper, a compact disc or a book. comment or opinion on a local issue. I recall one lovely talking news For that, I thank Kenilworth Talking production which seemed like a live News for the high quality and variety report from Coventry Cathedral of of the stories they produce. the Maundy Money distribution. If you want more information I was convinced that the intrepid about receiving your local talking reporter had been inside the newspaper, please call WVS on 01926 Cathedral during the service due 411331 or call the numbers below: to the sound quality and ‘David Attenborough-style voiceover.’ The volunteer had in fact recorded Contact your local the service on the television and then Talking Newspaper recorded a commentary. lt blended so well that when listening you felt as Kenilworth & Mid Warwickshire: if you were inside the Cathedral. Teresa Adams: 01926 858199 I personally cannot live my life in Nuneaton & Bedworth: silence. I use my boom box to listen Sue Pendleton: 0247 649 1109 to the newspaper, my Daisy Player to Rugby: listen to books and my radio to listen Contact: 0779 307 2889 to Radio 4. I am surrounded by the Stratford & South Warwickshire: spoken word. Jacky Williams: 01789 295489 The Boom Box is particularly valuable Coventry: to me because access to local news 0247 671 7522 and select option 5 and events keeps me current. I understand what is happening
1919 Rehab Tips for safe independent travellers by Jane Thorn Darker, shorter days make travelling Remember, wind and rain mask the for VIPs trickier than usual. Here’s a sound of traffic. Remove any hat or few tips to help keep you safe whilst coat hood covering your ears whilst retaining your independence. assessing the traffic and crossing the road. SuitableAdvice clothing: hat, scarf, and gloves; layer clothing beginning Cross in a straight line: you are on the with wool or silk next to your skin, road for less time. followedGuidance by sweaters and a coat. Don’t cross a side street on the Don’t forget those UV shields or sun junction: walk a little way down the glasses to cut down glare. Give your side street away from the junction. cane a clean to keep it as reflective as Spinning Cone possible and remember your mobile phone. A backpack will leave your Do you know about the spinning hands free. cone on some controlled crossings? Press the button on the pedestrian Crossing roads lights then move your hand down to Always use your other senses when under the box. A fluted cone is there deciding to cross. See and be seen. for pedestrians who cannot see the green light or deaf/blind travellers. Remember the Green Cross Code? This cone spins when the light turns It still applies. green for pedestrians to cross. It Think! Is it safe to cross here? is not saying ‘it is safe to cross’, but Is there a safer place nearby: a that the green light is on to aid your footbridge, zebra or controlled decision. crossing? Stop before the kerb. Is the traffic in front of you slowing or accelerating? Be mindful of large mirrors on passing vehicles. Wait if you think a driver is signalling for you to cross. If you are uncertain, DO NOT CROSS; step back from the kerb - call the driver on with a hand movement. Be certain it is safe to step into the road. Look right, left and right again. 20 for safe independent travellers
IT Bits and Bytes by Ruth Okey Are you slow at typing? • Speak punctuation: for example, full stop (.) comma (,) question Why not try voice dictation? mark (?). Typing on touch screen keyboards • Speak line spacing: for example, on Apple and Android phones and new line, new paragraph. tablets can be slow to use and the text is difficult to see. To enter text Points to note: more easily use the voice dictation • Dictation may need to be enabled feature and talk to your device - you on your device. can even include punctuation. • Voice dictation requires an • Open the App you wish to use and internet connection unless off-line bring up the keyboard by selecting dictionaries have been installed. the text field you want to type in. • Speak clearly into the microphone. • Get your thoughts Voice dictation works best in a together and when quiet room. ready to dictate, select • Always check what you have the microphone key dictated. Voice recognition or icon. errors can lead to some very • Depending on your device, select embarrassing text messages. pause, keyboard symbol or the microphone key to stop.
21 Rosalie Visick
Super Saving Your guide to reducing costs by Kate Perkins Following our initial mailing earlier cheaper tariff later on if she chooses. this year, introducing our new At the same time, we registered ‘Supersaver Service’, Rosalie Visick, Rosalie for the Warm Home Discount one of our service users in Warwick and requested large print bills. who is severely sight impaired and a Rosalie also asked to be on E.ON’s regular attendee at the Leamington Priority Services Register - this is Support Centre, requested me to a free service for anyone who is review her gas and electric bill. vulnerable through age or disability. Rosalie asked for help as she was The Register means that you are receiving separate bills for her gas given advance notice of any planned and electricity at different intervals, power cuts and given priority despite both being from the same support in an emergency. supplier - thereby making budgeting Just recently I met with Rosalie again, that bit more difficult. this time to help with her phone bill. With Rosalie’s permission I phoned There had been some confusion over E.ON and managed to get both bills the contract when Rosalie switched in sync so they would arrive together. the contract from her late husband’s We also arranged a new fixed name to her own name. We rectified 2-year tariff with no exit fee - this this and at the same time, achieved reduced her bills whilst still keeping a slightly cheaper deal and a back- the freedom to switch to another dated refund on her bill.
22 are asked to confirm your details, Money Saving Tips then do so as quickly as possible. by Sue, Nuneaton If you are not eligible, you may be Keeping warm in winter able to apply directly to your supplier Did you know that a cold house can if you are on a low income for a affect your health? To keep warm, discount (PIP, DLA and Attendance dress in plenty of thin layers and if Allowance are not included in your you wear slippers make sure they income). are a snug fit with non-slip soles to Help with NHS costs reduce the risk of falls. An HC2 certificate reduces costs of The ideal living room temperature is NHS services including prescriptions, 21C whilst your bedroom should be dentistry, sight tests, glasses/contact 18C. lenses and essential travel to receive Winter Fuel Payment treatment. If you were born on or before 5th April You should qualify if your receive 1954 you are entitled to the Winter Income Support based Jobseeker’s Fuel Payment. You should receive Allowance, Pension Credit Guarantee it automatically, if you are eligible, Credit, or Universal Credit. Your and get the state pension or another earnings during your last complete social security benefit. assessment period must be below £435 (or £935 if you had a child Most payments are automatic and element or limited capability for th should be received no later than 13 work). You may also qualify if, as a January 2020. single person you have no more than Warm Home Discount £16,000 in savings, investments or property (not including the home You will qualify for a £140 discount if where you live), or £23,250 savings on 7th July 2019 you were in receipt for a couple. of the guarantee credit element of Pension Credit (even if you also The certificate is valid for 12 months. get Savings Credit) and your name You need to re-apply 6 weeks before (or your partner’s) appears on your your current certificate is due to energy bill. Your energy supplier expire. must be part of the scheme - the big To request an NHS low income six energy suppliers are all members. scheme HC1 form, phone 0345 603 Your supplier will send you a letter 1108 on the automated helpline. to confirm eligibility and apply the For the full article on money saving discount by 31st March 2020. If you tips visit www. warwickshire. vision
2323 Recipe - Winter Warmer By Andrew Baker Bacon Macaroni and Cheese One of the best ways to bring people If your sauce is still a little lumpy, together is over a meal. One of my just lift out the lumps with a spoon favourite dishes is Bacon Macaroni or fork - alternatively, pass the sauce and Cheese. This recipe serves 4 through a sieve. from just £2.40 or about 60p each, is Grate the chedder cheese and throw wholesome and tasty too. it in - the Stilton crumbles into the Ingredients sauce easily. Stir until melted. • 3 tbsp. butter or soft spread Add the pasta and put the bacon • 300g macaroni or other pasta back into the pan. Cook for 10 • 2 tbsp. flour minutes until the pasta is soft and • 500ml milk swollen – you may need to gradually • 100g cheddar cheese add a small cup of water, as the pasta • 100g Stilton or other blue cheese absorbs the liquid from the sauce. • 100g bacon As it cooks, the sauce will thicken. Method Season if necessary and serve. Melt 1 tbsp. of the butter in a pan on Andrew’s tips medium heat. Using scissors, cut the 1. Get everything ready before bacon into bite-size pieces and add turning on the heat to the butter. Season with salt and pepper, and cook on high heat for a 2. Use scissors to “chop up” bacon. It few minutes until the bacon crisps at is much more comfortable than the edges. Remove from the pan with using a knife a slotted spoon and set to one side. 3. Cheat, use cheese ready grated or Turn the heat down to medium, add use your hands to crumble it the remaining butter to the pan. 4. Serve from the pan to save Add the flour and stir briskly to make washing up a thick paste. Add a splash of milk 5. You can also freeze and warm up whilst stirring continuously. Keep in the microwave for later. adding milk, and stirring it in until it is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
2424 Photograph of Macaroni and Cheese by Hermes Rivera on Unsplash
Late News: Legacy Gift
We have just received notification of The Board of Trustees has decided a substantial legacy gift, generously that over the next 12 months, they left to Warwickshire Vision Support will: by one of our service users. 1. Explore how other charities have At present, we do not know the full maximised benefit from similar size of the bequest, but we can say windfalls that this legacy provides a really 2. Involve members, staff and strong basis for new and exciting volunteers in decision making opportunities. 3. Revisit and amend the Strategic However, it also calls for careful Plan within the context of new and measured decision making to resources ensure that the charity is able to derive the maximum benefit from This process can only start once this opportunity. the full details of the bequest are known.
2525 Wendy Pope, Derek Clark and David Bosworth at Nuneaton Carnival Events Round-Up Temperatures rise as challenge that visually impaired Carnival fever hits Nuneaton! people face when handling money. Sandra Jones produced name badges On a slightly overcast day in June in Braille using a Perkins Brailler and staff, volunteers and service users Wendy and Derek from the Nuneaton assembled on the AvenueEvents Road Gala vision support centre joined us too. Field in Nuneaton to set up a stall and prepare for the day’s activities. This year the Carnival Queen, Chloe Whilst the weatherRound-up might have tried Reubens, chose Warwickshire Vision to dampen spirits, the team remained Support as her charity to benefit from positive and put on a good show. the money raised. Chloe, who is 18, Volunteer Dave Bosworth handed is herself visually impaired and is just out balloons and drew in a crowd to about to embark on a drama degree participate in some sight awareness at university with a view to becoming activities. Carnival goers both an actress. young and old donned blindfolds On Thursday 19th September, Louise and proceeded to try to identify Jelley visited Nuneaton where she and count the coins given. This was presented with a cheque for activity demonstrated the everyday £550 by the Nuneaton Carnival Court.
2626 Leam Terrace Street Party Saturday 29th June, The New Inn Pub in Leamington celebrated its 3rd Annual Leam Terrace Community Street Party. This event was held in aid of two local charities, Castel Froma Neuro Care and Warwickshire Vision Support. Activities throughout the day included a cake competition, an auction, dog show, football shoot- out, hula competitions for both The proud owners of adults and kids, along with raffles Mark’s Bench and tombola. The auction included Speaking after the event, Phil Arkell, a remarkable selection of items Chief Executive of Warwickshire and events, ranging from a family Vision Support, thanked Mandy ticket to a Butterfly Farm, to a signed Beck, Trevor Jenkins and the England Rugby Kit worn by fullback amazing street party committee for Elliot Daley. a wonderful day and a remarkable One of the highlights of the day was donation that will help visually the auctioning of a hand-crafted impaired people in Leamington Spa. garden bench and table made by Coffee, Cake and 74-year-old Mark Liggins. Mark is a visually impaired service user Conversation who attends the Nuneaton Vision On Friday 26th July Edinburgh Support Centre. Mark was registered Woollen Mill in Stratford-upon- as severely sight impaired in 1951, Avon hosted a coffee morning in however, he does not let this affect aid of Warwickshire Vision Support. his love of carpentry. Over the years Throughout the morning customers Mark has crafted a range of products joined some of our service users including beds, cabinets, sheds, and volunteers who popped in and windmills and garden furniture. If took the time to enjoy mid-morning Mark isn’t at the support centre you refreshment. can normally find him working hard Louise Jelley was on hand to give in his shed on his latest project. advice and provide leaflets for people The bench sold for the amazing sum interested in our services. In total of £180. The day was a huge success £156.24 was raised. Thank you to raising over £7,000 for the two everyone who supported this event. chosen charities. 2727 Good Companions Railway Adventure Running in Aid of WVS! On Wednesday 10th June 2019, 27 This summer two members of the members of the Good Companions WVS community took part in running Club in Leamington Spa boarded the races in aid of Warwickshire Vision. Gloucestershire and Warwickshire On the 9th June, our Fund-raiser Steam Railway. Louise Jelley completed the Two The trip, arranged by Meryl Beck Castles Run between Warwick Castle and her team, included transport, and Kenilworth Castle, a total of a packed lunch and our own fully 10 Km and raised £616. accessible carriage. On Sunday 7th July our Chair, Liz The group was blessed with Thiebe completed the Leamington wonderful weather and of course Half Marathon raising £505. A enjoyed the ‘Good Companionship’ big thank you to everyone who of our club members. Meryl had sponsored both Louise and Liz. gone the extra mile to ensure that the trip would be accessible to every member of the group. It was a day of nostalgia, adventure and friendship. A real treat for those who have few opportunities for a day trip to somewhere completely different. Thank you Meryl for all your hard work. Liz Thiebe
28 Volunteer Excellence We are proud to announce that Meryl Beck and Andrew Harris were both recipients of external Volunteer Awards. On Monday 29th June the current High Sheriff of Warwickshire, Simon Miesegaes, presented Meryl Beck with a Certificate of Recognition for her contribution to Leisure and Sport in South Warwickshire. Meanwhile, Andrew Harris received his award from the Mayor of Nuneaton and Bedworth, Councillor June Tandy. Congratulations!
Thank You We would like to say a big thank you to Elaine Partridge, outgoing Lady Captain of Maxstoke Golf Club, who chose WVS as her Charity of the Year, raising a massive £7,250. Elaine has also volunteered to help at the Coleshill Club - welcome!
Pop-Up Vision Support Centres Thanks to a grant from Warwickshire Alcester, Bidford, Warwick, County Council, we will be offering Kenilworth, Harbury, Southam, ‘pop-up’ vision support centres in Studley and Henley. remote locations across the county. We have many more planned for By the time we go to print, we next year. To find out when we are will have held events in Hartshill, coming to your town, please call the Bedworth, Shipston on Stour, office on 01926 411331. 29 News Round-Up Annual General Meeting We are very pleased to report that Liz also made a presentation to our AGM, held on 18th October, was a Lesley Edwards who is retiring after resounding success with more than 13 years of service on the Board of 50 service users, volunteers, trustees Trustees. and staff in attendance. Phil Arkell (CEO) presented a progress The event was designed not simply report and invited questions from the for WVS toNews share information Round-Up about floor. Issues raised included: our activities, but perhaps more • The cost and value of WVS importantly to receive feedback from pursuing ISO9001 accreditation our service users and volunteers. This was first and foremost a listening and • The need for WVS to develop learning exercise. services for younger people Participants were welcomed by Liz • Some members also shared some Thiebe, Chair of the Board of Trustees. very personal and humbling Liz also confirmed that Keith Eales experiences about how WVS had had been elected to the Board and helped at a time of need. that Richard Orme and Heather Following the Q&A session, the Fairbairn had been re-elected for a participants went into their pre- further term. allocated table groups relating to 30 their own expertise and experience IT Training to give honest feedback about that • Need to expand to meet demand particular service. • Introduction to IT sessions at They were asked two questions: Vision Support Centres • Problem of interruptions during 1. What are we doing well? sessions 2. What can we improve? • Broaden scope to include Here is a brief summary of the technology such as Alexa and outcomes: more basic devices Vision Support Centres Volunteering • Change table layout for more • More group discussions interaction • Volunteers to be given all role • Introduce Suggestion Boxes descriptions so they can branch • More say in event selection out Clubs • Volunteer Co-ordinators are a • More activity choices really useful point of contact • Information sharing between • More information about Pop-up clubs events and clubs • Introduce club for younger people Thank you to everyone who made Home Visiting the day a great success. • Invaluable, friendly service • More training and support for Home Visitor volunteers 31 Volunteer Focus Place your nominations for our Volunteer Awards In June we celebrated the amazing makes your particular nominee stand work our volunteers do every day. out. We are now planning our Volunteer A nomination form is enclosed with Awards for 2020 and would like this edition of Warwickshire Vision. In to give you the opportunity to order to make your nomination: nominate a volunteer who, in your opinion, makes a real difference. • Complete the form and return to Someone who goes the extra mile us via mail or at a vision support and is worthy of recognition. centre • Call us on 01926411331 to make For the 2020 Awards there will be five your nomination or Awards, one for eachVolunteer geographical • Email [email protected] area; South Warwickshire, Mid- vision giving full details of the Warwickshire, Rugby, Nuneaton & name of the volunteer and the Bedworth and North Warwickshire. reason you are nominating - what Anyone can make a nomination but makes them special. because all volunteers are amazing The closing date for nominations is people, make sure you tell us what Friday 27th March 2020.
Volunteer Training Update Staff Changes We have now completed two First Since our last edition we have Aid Courses in Rugby and will be welcomed Ebony Rushforth and expanding this to our club volunteers Jemma Davoudian to the Admin across the county in 2020. Team; Ruth Okey has joined us We are also rolling out a new as Technology Officer, Harjeet one-day training programme for Matharu as Volunteer Coordinator all volunteers. This training day working alongside Del Hobden and will cover an Overview of WVS Maria Dela Cruz has now become Services, Sight Loss Awareness and Assistant Vision Support Officer Safeguarding. after being both a volunteer and We want all our volunteers to feel Rehab Student. Welcome! confident that they have the skills I would like to wish Imogen and knowledge to perform their Edwards and Liz Rosewell who roles. Training will take place at have both left us, a very successful various times and locations to be future. confirmed.
32 Christmas Word Search Z C W O S T U F F I N G R H S G E O E C U A S D A E R B N T W H C O I R E T T U B Y K F E B G S U K T A Y U U R M D A K A K N E A I X I R L A U S X N E X QuizR I J SPageE K K P N L P S A T K E P D P Y S E G D L I T L A G A E F D J R Y O Y E C U B L Z O C A E U O R L O D E O N O J F N T K E P U E T W D R I C W P I G I I B M L B I T P S O H A M N G U U Q U Z N E S G H C N U P N E R P Y L E A H I C Q T X Z C G Z F H B P L R P M S Y M A R Z I P A N S F C C
BEEF BUTTER SPICED TEA MINCE PIE PIGS IN BLANKETS EGGNOG BRANDY CHOCOLATE SPROUTS MULLED WINE PLUM PUDDING FRUITCAKE BREAD SAUCE COOKIES STUFFING NUTS PUNCH MARZIPAN CRANBERRY SAUCE
33 NOW WITH VOICE INPUT
Simple Talking Technology For Sight Loss
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OpenHand-Mag-GuideConnect_A4.indd 1 07/10/2019 10:22:40 Portable HD Desktop Magnifier on the go! Amigo, your portable HD video magnifier on the go, displays amazing crystal clear HD images with vibrant images on a large 7” widescreen LCD. So lightweight and simple to use, you will never want to be without it. Place it directly on your reading material or hold it up to view an item away from you. Hobbies are simple with Amigo HD’s adjustable viewing stand. Adjust magnification and contrast with an easy press of a button. Read price tags, menus, labels, street signs and more, anywhere! Serving people living with sight loss in Warwickshire
Chandos Court Every Monday Leamington Chandos Street 10 am - 12 noon Leamington Spa CV32 4YU
Newtown Community Centre Every Thursday Nuneaton Newtown Road 10 am - 12 noon Nuneaton CV11 4HG
Rugby Baptist Church Every Wednesday Rugby Regent Place 10 am - 12 noon Rugby CV21 2PJ
The Christadelphian Church Stratford- Every Tuesday Rother Street upon-Avon 10 am - 12 noon Stratford CV37 6LU
North ‘Pop-Up’ events at multiple Call 01926 411331 for Warwickshire locations more details
‘Pop-Up’ events scheduled Call 01926 411331 for Smaller Towns throughout the year more details
Warwickshire Vision is available free to people living with sight loss in Warwickshire. This publication is also available in digital audio and by email. For more information, please contact: Warwickshire Vision Support 5 Charles Court, Budbrooke Road, Warwick CV34 5LZ 01926 411331 Email: [email protected] Website: www.warwickshire.vision
@warksvissupport
Warwickshire Vision Support is the operating name of Warwickshire Association for the Blind. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales Number 6511954, Charity Registration Number 1123220