Sandwell Visually Impaired (SVI) officially opened its new offices at West Bromwich Town Hall with a special launch event.
Visually impaired people and their families and friends joined the celebration, which was also attended by local organisations, West Midlands MEP Sion Simon and Councillor Ann Shackleton, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for social care.
The new offices, off Lodge Road, provide a central location for SVI, helping the voluntary organisation to extend what it does for blind and visually impaired people.
From supporting people to use the gym at Portway Lifestyle Centre and swim at West Bromwich Leisure Centre, to holding a group for over-50s and a young people’s programme, SVI offers a wide range of services and support. SVI also sends out the free weekly Sandwell Talking Newspaper.
SVI chair Tony Averis said: “It was wonderful to officially welcome everyone to our new offices. It was a fun atmosphere, with some great entertainment too. I want to thank everyone who came along, including our speakers Sion Simon and Councillor Shackleton, and Tesco New Square which donated refreshments for the event.
“SVI has plans for the future and we want to do even more. We want to hear from visually impaired people about what services they want, what issues and concerns matter to them and how we can help.”
Councillor Shackleton said: “It was an honour to attend the event and welcome so many independent and positive users of SVI supported by many carers and volunteers, including the well-behaved guide dogs.
“From my tour of the new base I realised that the service would now be able to operate from a well-positioned central venue in the town hall with up-to-date equipment in light, airy accommodation with user-friendly facilities including signs and an entrance keypad in Braille.
“It shows that here in Sandwell we care and continue to ensure that people with a disability receive the support and guidance they need.”
Go to www.sandwellvisuallyimpaired.org.uk to learn more about the services and support SVI can offer to people living with sight loss and their families. Or call the office on 0121 525 4810.
