Blind Routes to Work Project-A new funding initiative for BlindVoice UK

BlindVoice UK have formally launched their new project that will support visually impaired people in the Tees Valley who are interested in finding employment. The £23,000 grant has come from the Tees Valley Delegated Grants Scheme administered by the Tees Valley Joint Strategy Unit and funded through European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Single Programme received from One North East via the Tees Valley Partnership.

BlindVoice UK Manager Christine Durnion said, "This is an exciting project we will be working together with a wide range of partners from education services and the employment sector to implement this project. The funding will enable us to support visually impaired people looking for employment. This support will include transcribing information into preferred formats for example Braille, audio and large print, confidence building courses, ICT courses delivered by Stockton Adult Education Service, tactile maps of work environments and whatever other support is required.

The Worshipful the Mayor of Stockton Councillor Jennie Beaumont and Dari Taylor MP will attend the launch event at the Castlegate Quay.

Stockton South MP, Dari Taylor said: "I am in an ongoing process of encouraging employers in the area to consider the employment of blind and visually impaired people. This funding is excellent news, as I want employers on Teesside to realise that this is a group of highly intelligent, loyal and committed people who - if given the employment opportunity - will receive support so that they can maximise their input into the organisation."

Anyone interested in the project or would like more information should contact Manager Christine Durnion or BlindVoice UK Employment Opportunities Officer Jill Campbell on 01642 803590 or e-mail jill.campbell@blindvoice.co.uk