A friendly sight: Our social groups for blind and partially sighted people
Our social groups support blind and partially sighted people, as well as family members and carers, to connect with others, share experiences, and build supportive networks in their local community.
Attending a social group might not be something you’ve considered, but many people tell us it makes a real difference to their lives. Our groups offer a welcoming space to spend time with others who understand the challenges that can come with sight loss. Alongside shared experiences and practical tips, social groups offer friendship, laughter, and a chance to feel less alone.
“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.”
Where we meet
Across the regions we serve, we run a wide range of local social groups, with new groups developing over time. Some are standalone groups, while many take place alongside our monthly sight loss advice hubs.
At hubs, there is usually a set time to speak with a Sight Loss Advisor, either by appointment or during a drop-in session. Social groups run alongside these hubs and are open for people to join at any point during their scheduled time. If you’re coming to a hub for advice, you’re very welcome to stay for the social group too.
Social groups are relaxed and informal. Partners, carers, and family members are welcome, and some people attend together. Friends who are interested in volunteering are also welcome to come along and find out more.
What to expect at a social group
Our social groups are supported by volunteers, many of whom have lived experience of sight loss themselves. You’ll be welcomed when you arrive, with someone on hand to introduce you to others and explain who is in the room.
Most groups offer refreshments such as tea, coffee, and biscuits, and you can join in at your own pace. Group sizes and atmospheres vary. Some are lively and chatty, while others are quieter and more relaxed.
Some groups include structured activities, such as guest speakers, discussion topics, or equipment demonstrations, while others focus simply on conversation and companionship.
If you’re attending for the first time and feeling a bit nervous, that’s completely understandable. Many people worry about things like where to sit or whether they’ll know anyone. If you let us know you’re planning to attend, we can help make your first visit easier by arranging for someone to greet you when you arrive.
“It was lovely to mix with other visually impaired people and after the session I really felt alive for the first time in ages.”
Virtual hubs: connecting from home
We know that attending an in-person group is not always possible. Travel, health, caring responsibilities, or confidence can all be barriers. We also offer opportunities to connect online, bringing people together from across our communities.
Virtual hubs provide a friendly, informal way to meet others who understand the experience of sight loss, without needing to leave home. Sessions take place online and are supported by volunteers, many of whom have lived experience themselves.
Our online social offer continues to evolve, and availability may vary. We recommend checking our event listings or getting in touch with us to find out what virtual social groups are currently running and what might be most helpful for you.
We’re always keen to hear people’s ideas, so if there’s a type of online group or shared interest you’d like to see in the future, please let us know.
Finding a social group near you
Details of upcoming social groups and social meet ups, including those linked to our sight loss advice hubs, are listed on our event listings webpage
You may also be interested in In good company: Building friendships with sight loss, which explores the importance of friendship and connection when adjusting to changes in vision.