Volunteers needed for sight loss befriending group

Volunteers for a new service which aims to beat isolation among those with sight loss are sought.

Warwickshire Vision Support is launching a walking befriender service, where people go on a walk with someone who is partially sighted, to help build their confidence.

Chief executive Keith Eales said he hoped it would make a difference to the 4,000 people the charity already supports.

"It might be a stroll around the neighbourhood, a walk to the local shops or a visit to a park or cafe. It's really about the companionship and helping someone feel confident, getting out and about," he said.

Michael Tayte from Southam already uses a walking befriender. He lost most of his vision 18 months ago due to diabetes and high blood pressure.

He said it had become difficult to walk around the town even though he was familiar with it.

"Before I lost my sight, everybody walks down a slope, it's not a problem.

"But when you can't see, it feels like a cliff. You're suddenly just walking down this slope and it sort of runs away with you, because you didn't know it was there."

Having access to a befriender had made a difference to his ability to come to terms with losing his sight, he said.

"I can't imagine being on my own and not having anybody to talk to, to discuss and moan to.

"So there are different aspects to it, not only the helping with the visual side, but discussing problems you've got, that they can help with."

Warwickshire Vision Support, founded in 1911 and whose current patron is Dame Judi Dench, said the demand for their services is growing.

"We're looking for friendly, patient people who enjoy meeting people and spending time outdoors. They don't need any specialist experience with sight loss (as) we'll provide training on how to guide someone," said Eales.

The charity hopes to get more volunteers for when the weather starts to improve through the spring.

Follow BBC Coventry & Warwickshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.