Press Release BlindVoice UK

Stockton Based Charity Secures it’s Future

A support network for the blind and visually impaired people will expand its vital service as it shares £766,257 in grants with two other North East organisations in the latest round of awards from the Big Lottery Fund.

The money comes from BIG’s Reaching Communities programme that awards grants of up to £500,000 over five years to schemes that offer people better chances in life, build strong communities, improve urban and rural environments and promote healthy activities.
BlindVoice UK, an organisation that helps blind and partially sighted people integrate into the workplace and society, receives £241,844 to maintain its programme - Blind Routes to Independence - over the next three years.

Part of the programme prepares people for employment and includes courses on confidence building, IT training and life coaching. The funding will assist Stockton-based BlindVoice UK to expand a pilot project that offers emotional support to individuals and families who have been affected by blindness.

The project will also extend its transcription service that provides extra independence to people who are print disabled allowing them to make their own decisions and become more informed citizens.Manager Christine Durnion said: “We are excited that Big Lottery Fund has recognised the need to provide funding for the continuation of our existing projects. There is incredible competition in the voluntary sector for funding and we are extremely grateful that we have been given the opportunity to develop new and exciting services that meet the unique needs of blind people. We are dedicated to improving and making a difference to those with sight loss by breaking down the barriers, enabling blind people to realise their full potential.

’’James Turner, Big Lottery Fund Head of North East England, said: “ We are delighted to provide these groups from across the North East of England with the funding to enable them to make a big difference to people’s lives within their local communities.”
Anyone wanting to learn more about our new programmes which will be available in the autumn should contact Christine Durnion on 01642 803590 on e-mail christine.durnion@blindvoice.co.uk