A friendly sight: Our social groups for people living with sight loss
Attending a social group might not be something you’ve considered, but people tell us it really makes a difference in their lives. Our social groups offer a welcoming space to connect with others living with sight loss who understand the challenges often faced. Beyond sharing experiences and helpful tips, these gatherings provide an opportunity to build friendships and enjoy good company. Plus, they’re a lot of fun!
Where We Meet
Across the regions we serve, we have nearly 30 social groups, with more added regularly. Some are standalone groups but many of these take place alongside our monthly sight loss advice hubs. While seeing an advisor at a hub may be possible by making an appointment or dropping in at a set time, all our social groups are open for you to drop in at any time during their scheduled hours. So if you’re attending a hub, why not pop into its social group? It’s a relaxed, friendly space where you can find both helpful support and peer connection. Partners or carers are welcome at all our hubs, as well as any friends interested in volunteering.
“It’s a weird thing but the only people who can make me laugh about being blind are the get-togethers with other blind and visually impaired people… I have often carried on laughing for a long time afterwards as well.”
What to Expect at a Social Group
Our social groups are led by dedicated volunteers, many of whom have visual impairments themselves. You’ll receive a warm welcome, with someone there to introduce you to the group, ensuring you know who’s present even if you can’t see them easily. You can relax, enjoy a tea or coffee and biscuits, and take your time getting to know others. Group sizes and atmospheres may vary, but whether lively or more intimate, you’ll always be met with a friendly face.
Some groups offer structured activities, like guest speakers, topics for discussion or specific equipment demonstrations from a supplier, while others are all about conversation and companionship. If you’re attending for the first time and feeling a bit nervous, don’t worry, we understand that anxiety of “where will I sit?” or “will anyone speak to me?”, but everyone is incredibly supportive and will make you feel welcome. Letting us know in advance if you plan to attend helps us ensure a smooth introduction and we can arrange for someone to greet you when you arrive.
“It was lovely to mix with other VI people and after the session I really felt alive for the first time in ages”
Virtual Hubs: Support from Home
We recognise that attending an in-person group isn’t always feasible. That’s why we’ve launched virtual hubs – online communities for specific user groups where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through, all from the comfort of your own home. These hubs meet via Microsoft Teams, and each session is hosted by a volunteer with lived experience of sight loss. You’re free to join whenever it suits you – there’s no pressure to attend every session.
We offer groups for different life stages such as young adults, working age individuals and parents of children with visual impairment. We’re keen to expand the options, so if you have suggestions for new specific interest hubs, let us know.
Find details of upcoming social meet ups on our event listings webpage