We’ve been listening to working age blind and partially sighted adults about what they’d like to see from us. Many told us they wanted more chances to meet other people at a similar stage of life, with opportunities that fitted more easily around work, study, family life and other commitments.

That’s why we’ve introduced Local and Online Meet-ups for working age blind and partially sighted adults across our region.

Local Meet-ups

Our Local Meet-ups are relaxed evening get-togethers where you can enjoy a drink, chat and spend time with other blind and partially sighted people.

Monthly Meet-ups are now taking place in Bristol and Bath, with Salisbury, Swindon and Gloucester coming soon. There’s no formal agenda – simply come along, meet people and enjoy a relaxed evening.

Online Meet-ups

Our monthly Online Meet-ups bring people together on Zoom to explore a different topic each time. They’re relaxed, friendly conversations with guest contributors, practical ideas, shared experiences and plenty of opportunity to ask questions or simply listen.

Our first three topics are:

• October – The AI Frontier: exploring how AI is changing everyday life for blind and partially sighted people.
• November – Pack Your Bags: sharing experiences, questions and tips about travel and holidays with sight loss.
• December – Festive & Fearless: swapping ideas and experiences for navigating Christmas with sight loss – mince pies encouraged!

New topics will be announced as the Meet-ups continue.

Who can join?

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been blind or partially sighted for many years, our Meet-ups are for people who are broadly at a working stage of life.

You might be working, studying, raising a family, taking time out, looking for work or unable to work at the moment – whatever your circumstances, you’re very welcome.

Come along to one Meet-up or join us regularly. Share your experiences, ask questions, catch up with familiar faces or simply listen – it’s entirely up to you.

Browse upcoming Local and Online Meet-ups

Register your interest

Want to hear about new Meet-ups as they’re announced? Complete our short Register Your Interest form and let us know whether you’re interested in Local Meet-ups, Online Meet-ups or both.

We’ll keep you updated about upcoming sessions and send you the information you need to join in.

Register your interest in Local and Online Meet-ups

Could you help make our Meet-ups a success?

We’re looking for friendly volunteers to help our Meet-ups grow across the region. We’d particularly love to hear from blind and partially sighted people who would enjoy welcoming others and helping to create relaxed, inclusive spaces.

We’re recruiting for two volunteer roles:

• Local Meet-up Hosts – welcoming people and helping create relaxed, friendly social gatherings.
• Online Meet-up Co-hosts – helping our themed Zoom sessions run smoothly and encouraging conversation.

Full training and ongoing support will be provided, and sighted volunteers are welcome too.

Explore our Meet-up volunteer roles and find out how you could get involved.

Frequently asked questions

Who are Local and Online Meet-ups for?

Our Meet-ups are designed for blind and partially sighted adults who are broadly at a working stage of life. You might be working, studying, looking for work, taking time out, raising a family or unable to work at the moment – whatever your circumstances, you’re very welcome.

Many of our daytime social groups are popular with retired people, so these Meet-ups offer an alternative, with evening local gatherings and online discussions aimed at people at a different stage of life.

I’ve never been to anything like this before. Will I fit in?

Absolutely. You don’t need to know anyone before you come, and there’s no expectation that you have to contribute to the conversation. Join in as much as you like or simply listen. Our hosts and volunteers will be there to welcome you and help you settle in.

How can I hear about upcoming Meet-ups?

You can browse upcoming Local and Online Meet-ups on our Events page.

You can also register your interest and we’ll keep you updated as new dates and topics are announced.

Do I have to come to both Local and Online Meet-ups?

No. You can come along to Local Meet-ups, Online Meet-ups or both – it’s entirely up to you. Choose whichever suits your interests, location and schedule. You might join us for a particular topic or Meet-up, or come back regularly and get to know familiar faces.

Any other questions?

If you’d like to know more about our Local or Online Meet-ups, or aren’t sure whether they’re right for you, please get in touch. We’ll be happy to answer any questions.

Contact us