Northumberland charity looking for volunteers to support its blind veterans

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com 
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Visit Shots! now
A military charity with a team across Northumberland is calling on locals to join its army of volunteers.

Blind Veterans UK is the national charity for vision-impaired ex-service men and women and supports around 4,000 veterans across the UK, including in Northumberland.

The charity is particularly looking for volunteers to support as, home-visitors, drivers, and telephone befrienders.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Blind Veterans UK’s volunteer support lead, Jess Wood, says: “Before the pandemic Blind Veterans UK had over 1,000 volunteers supporting our blind veterans but that number has now dropped to below 800. We have blind veterans in Northumberland that need help right now.

Volunteer Liam (left) with blind veteran Ken enjoying a cup of tea and a chat.Volunteer Liam (left) with blind veteran Ken enjoying a cup of tea and a chat.
Volunteer Liam (left) with blind veteran Ken enjoying a cup of tea and a chat.

“Our volunteers, particularly our home-visitors, telephone befrienders, and drivers make a real difference to our blind veterans. Our volunteers also say what a rewarding experience is for them too.”

Liam is a volunteer home visitor who has been supporting blind veteran Ken for over five years. He said: “I would recommend anyone who is interested in donating some of their time to make a difference to people who really need it to in their local community to get in touch with Blind Veterans UK and find out more about becoming a volunteer.

“I love the time I spend with Ken and I feel great knowing that I’m making a difference for him every week.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Jess added: “It doesn't matter who you are, what you do or what skills you have. Even if you don't have much time to spare, you could change someone's life by volunteering for as little as a few hours a month.

“By becoming a volunteer with Blind Veterans UK, you'll be part of an amazing nationwide team who are changing lives every day. And you'll get a chance to make friends and learn new skills too.

“We'll invest in you by providing training and development opportunities, and we'll reimburse you for out-of-pocket expenses such as travel costs.”

Blind Veterans UK supports thousands of blind veterans but knows there are many thousands more who still need its support to rebuild their lives after sight loss.

If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces, including National Service, and are now struggling with sight loss, then please get in touch. Call 0800 389 7979.

News you can trust since 1854
Follow us
©National World Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice