Ryedale charity on the move to meet growing need

          Earlier this year Ryedale In Touch, a local charity which has for many years been meeting some of the social and practical needs of blind and partially sighted people, conducted a survey which showed a growing number of sight impaired people living in Ryedale who could benefit were unaware of their services. In discussions with the charity's trustees and users Janice Every, the Chief Officer, was able to identify some clear reasons why potential users were generally unaware or confused about the role of the charity, these included:

• Unclearness about what the charity did largely due to confusion about what 'In Touch' actually meant.

• Difficulty in finding and accessing  the charity’s current and largely unsuitable premises

• Not having a website

          This has led to a search for more suitable premises and for a name that better represented the charity’s role, along with development of a specially adapted and accessible website and new leaflets.

          The new name is Sight Support Ryedale, and the charity moved to improved premises at 39 Yorkersgate in Malton late last year. The telephone number remains the same, and a new website will soon follow. The charity plans to develop a small stock of useful aids, too, so that people in Ryedale can try out and buy some equipment locally rather than having to travel to York or Scarborough.

          Janice Every says, 'This is a really exciting and demanding time for Sight Support Ryedale as we move to meet the growing need to support blind and sight impaired people throughout Ryedale including many who often find themselves isolated and unsupported. We offer regular social groups in Malton and Pickering, a Book Group, Walking Group, Yoga, computer support, outings and an annual holiday, all specifically tailored for those with serious sight loss and fully supported by volunteer help. We have a great team of people volunteering with Sight Support Ryedale and we can offer activities, friendship and support to more people despite the current financial restrictions. If any readers are aware of people who could benefit please help them to get in touch with us.’ email sightsupportryedale@btconnect.com

 Janice Every.