Cllr Carolann Davidson, Labour & Cooperative Councillor for Paisley East and Central, recently visited Sight Scotland Veterans’ Hawkhead Centre to see first-hand the great work the charity does in supporting veterans with sight loss.
Cllr Davidson, who is the Renfrewshire Labour Group Spokesperson for Health, Disability and Carers, and who also regularly attends the Renfrewshire Visual Impairment Forum, says one of the big things we need to improve is public transport links.
She explains: “The work Sight Scotland Veterans does at its Hawkhead Centre is just so important. The charity does so much to combat loneliness and isolation, and for many veterans a visit to the centre is the highlight of their week. The activities they put on are just amazing, I even managed to play a veteran at pool and have a go of the VR headset.
“I really enjoyed my visit, and it was a great opportunity to meet many of the veterans who attend the centre and speak to them about how the charity helps them. They are all just so positive, it is a real inspiration. I try and do as much as I can to help people with vision impairment in our local area, and regularly attend the Renfrewshire Visual Impairment Forum to discuss what we need to do better in our local community.
Davidson adds: “One of the big things we need to improve is public transport. People with vision impairment rely on public transport, and need a regular, reliable service they can trust. Unfortunately, there has been several local bus routes either cancelled or reduced due to costing issues. This needs to be looked at again.”
Sight Scotland Veterans provides support to all veterans in Scotland who are experiencing changes to their sight. The Hawkhead Centre in Renfrewshire is an activity hub for ex-servicemen and women with sight loss. It’s a warm, welcoming place that brings veterans together. With a variety of activities and outings, the activity hub offers the means and support to adapt to life with sight loss and try new things. Many veterans who attend the centre say the things they do there and the connections they’ve made have transformed their lives.
For more information on Sight Scotland Veterans please visit sightscotlandveterans.org.uk or call our support line on 0800 035 6409.
