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Why is the CBA changing ?
It’s all change at the moment’ someone said to me the other day. Yes, Cornwall Blind Association is changing and developing but not for the sake of it.
It is so that we will be able to support more visually impaired people who will require our assistance in the coming years.
One change has been the opening of the new Penwith Sight Centre in February. The centre is providing a comprehensive mix of services as well as local help and advice which people previously had to travel to the Truro Sight Centre for, as well as local help and advice.
At the same time many new leisure activities are also being developed in the Penwith District.
This is a huge step forward and we are about to embark on developing similar new local services for the North Cornwall District before finally moving on to the Caradon District later this year.
These changes are about taking services closer to people’s homes and increasing the help and support that everyone said was so necessary.
The association is a county-wide charity and we are committed to making this a reality for people living in all parts of Cornwall.
An experienced and skilled fundraising team has been appointed and is based at the Truro Sight Centre. Tough targets have been set.
A major fundraising appeal will be launched during 2009, so that we can secure the funds to sustain the charity into the future, for another 150 years.
We need all of you to become personally involved in this fundraising effort and to encourage others to support us in any way they possibly can.
We cannot achieve this alone and volunteers will be a vital part of the future development of CBA. We simply could not achieve a fraction of what we do without the huge contribution that volunteers make to this charity. That is why we are investing in our volunteers and why we shall need to recruit even more volunteers for the future. We want volunteers to feel an integral part of the association and all our activities.
So there are many changes going on. It is a very busy time for our board and staff team. Important decisions have been taken about the strategies necessary to make sure we are able to meet the needs of more visually impaired people in the years ahead. The association has had to be courageous and bold in taking the right decision for the future.
We know that change is not easy and that is why we are committed to explaining and discussing these very positive developments with all of you through our regular communications and at face to face meetings.
It is your charity - let us have your comments.
Martin Pallett,
Chief Executive.
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INEW Vice Chairperson of Board of Trustees
We have great pleasure in announcing that Terri Rosnau is now the vice chairperson of the CBA Board of Trustees.
Terri first joined the Board in 2006 and sits on the Finance and Policy Group. Terri is a volunteer and service user, she has played an active role in promoting the CBA and raising awareness about blind issues within Cornwall.
Terri is outspoken and dedicated and will be a valuable asset to the association.
Terri would love to meet as many people as possible and give everyone the chance to get to know her.
She is planning to visit all the clubs and will be contacting the organisers in the near future.
In the meantime if you have anything you would like to ask Terri please e-mail her on enquiries@cornwallblind.org.uk
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New Arrivals
We are delighted to welcome on board the following new staff.
Alison Sullivan:
North Cornwall development co-ordinator.
Alison has a strong background with extensive experience in setting up new systems, establishing lines of communication, building trust and working with a wide variety of people. We are sure she will be a valuable asset to the team and will ensure that the North Cornwall ‘spokes’ are as successful as Penwith.
Patricia Fawcett:
volunteering and local services manager.
Patricia worked locally and has a strong record of working with volunteers. She will be a great asset to CBA and will help us to move volunteering forward and support the development of the ‘spokes’.
Some Farewells
With regret we say goodbye to some valued members of staff.
Michelle Robertson:
community fundraiser.
Michelle made the reluctant decision to leave after a sudden illness meant she felt she could not continue in her role. We are actively recruiting for Michelle’s replacement.
Paul Crossley:
volunteering and local services manager.
Paul decided that the role was not for him, he left the CBA on good terms and we wish him all the best for the future.
Jennifer Reid:
benefits advisor.
After careful consideration Jenny decided to resign from the position of benefits advisor as she felt she did not exactly fit the role. Jenny will be staying on with the CBA in a voluntary capacity to assist with benefits advice in her specialist areas.
A New Website for the CBA
After careful consideration the board decided to re-develop the CBA website.
A team has been brought together who will lead the development and ensure that the new site is fully accessible and meets the needs of clients, volunteers, fundraising and the wider public.
The team has been chosen to represent a cross section of views and to ensure that the development is achieved in the most efficient and cost effective manner.
The website redevelopment team are
Stuart Williams, (Volunteer and service user), Terri Rosnau (Vice Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, volunteer and service user), Zoe Weller (Trustee and service user), Rod Keat (CBA Access Technology Officer), Jackie Southon (CBA Fundraising Manager), Leah Mynett (Communications Manager).
If anyone has any questions, comments or would just like to chat about the website then please contact Leah Mynett, Communications Manager on 01872 266713 or e-mail lmynett@cornwallblind.org.uk
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Update on WAMD treatment
Following the article in the spring issue of Outlook, the NHS Primary Care Trust (PCT) has issued guidelines regarding the treatment for wet age related macular degeneration from the current recommendations by National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE).
The following is an extract from a letter received from Ann James chief executive of the PCT, full details of the policy can be obtained from the Truro Sight Centre by contacting 01872 261110 or e-mail enquiries@cornwallblind.org.uk.
“I am please to advise that the PCT has a policy for funding treatment for wet age related macular degeneration. Applications are submitted to the PCT by the patient’s treating ophthalmologists.
If patients meet the criteria, funding is approved and the service is provided at the Royal Eye Infirmary in Plymouth or Torbay Hospital, Torquay.
The Royal Cornwall Hospital NHS Trust are in the process of considering a business case for the provision of the service from Treliske. The policy will remain in place until NICE issues its final guidance, which is expected very soon.”
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Free off Peak Travel on all Local Buses
As from the April 1, 2008, all over 60s are eligible to receive free off-peak travel on local buses anywhere in England.
Eligible Cornish residents will still be able to travel free on local buses in Cornwall at all times of the day.
Anyone with a current Buses in Cornwall or Cornish Key card will receive a new national pass in the post automatically.
New applicants should apply at their local library.
For more information visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/buses or call the Concessionary Fares Partnership on 01872 322003.
Fundraising
The fundraising team have been working hard to set up a wide range of fundraising activities for the up coming months; find the right one for you and join in the fun.
For further information, to make a booking, or sign yourself up for an event contact fundraising assistant Nikki Billing on 01872 266712 or e-mail nbilling@cornwallblind.org.uk
Children’s Christmas Card Competition
This year we are asking children to enter a competition based on the theme ‘a Cornish Christmas‘.
If you know a child aged between 6 and 14, why not get them to enter, if they win their category, their design will be made into cards. The cards will be sold in aid of the CBA.
The closing date for entries is July 25, 2008. Contact us now for an entry pack.
Pasty, Pint and Performance – Wednesday,
June 25
Come along with your friends for an evening of entertainment at the Skinners Brewery.
Your ticket price covers your first pint and a pasty (veggie ones as well). June’s performance will be provided by the Belfast Busker. Places are limited so book now to avoid disappointment.
The cost is £6 per person and the location is Skinners Brewery, Newham Road, Truro.
Dogs Fun Day Out
Later this summer, why not enjoy a fun day out for you and your four legged friends.
There will be a dog show with categories to suit all dogs from the shiniest nose to the waggiest tail. The Dogs Fun Day Out will take place at Trelissick Gardens. The event will take place on Sunday, September 14.
Tandem Parachute Jump – Saturday, September 6
If you have a head for heights perhaps this is the challenge for you.
This September take a leap and fundraise for the CBA by jumping out of a plane.
The event is already proving popular with staff and trustees rushing to sign up and take part.
Don’t be put off by the minimum sponsorship amount for this includes all the costs associated with the jump plus £140 for CBA – any additional money you raise contributes further to CBA.
The minimum sponsorship is £395 per person and the jumps will take place at Perranporth Airfield.
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Cornwall Corporate Games – Saturday 20 and Sunday, September 21
Do you fancy rowing!
We are looking for eight people to take part in the bell boat challenge, part of the Cornwall Corporate Games (supported by Cornwall Sports Partnership).
Join staff and supporters for a fun weekend and help raise funds at the same time. There are no age/sex restrictions and no experience is necessary. Go on we dare you!
The minimum sponsorship is £70, and the games will take place at Stithians Reservoir.
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Fire Walk November
Ever fancied walking on fire?
Now is your chance. Join students from University College Falmouth who are taking up the challenge and raising loads of money for the CBA.
Do you fancy having a go yourself? Then sign up for our hottest challenge.
The minimum sponsorship is £100 plus a registration fee of £15. The Fire Walk will take place at Falmouth, date and location to be confirmed.
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Thanks
We would like to say a huge thank you to all our fundraising volunteers and supporters, in particular the East Cornwall Fundraising Group for their recent efforts that have raised over £600 pounds.
This was achieved with two bingo nights and one quiz night at St Germans.
Six Triathlons in Six Months
Leah Mynett has decided to devote this triathlon season to fundraising for the CBA.
Last year Leah completed two sprint triathlons and a 10k run. This year she is more ambitious. Leah is taking on a sprint triathlon every month from May until October.
The added bonus is that the Bude Shoreline Triathlon on June 29, will be a team event with Cath Collier (trusts and grants fundraiser) swimming and Sunnie Jarvis (Development Worker) running.
Leah completed the Helston Triathlon without mishap in a total time of 2 hours 7 minutes. Lets see if she can improve on that as we go through the season!
Check out her Just Giving page for full details, updates and to sponsor her efforts.
www.justgiving.com/leahmynett1 .
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Penwith Sight Centre
The Penwith Sight Centre was launched on Thursday, February 28, and since then the centre has been open for callers on Mondays and Wednesdays, 10am to 4pm.
The centre has a variety of equipment to try out and catalogues for people to take away with them.
The Penwith Sight Centre does not have the facilities for selling items but can provide advice and assistance with ordering.
The Low Vision Clinic which takes place every other Tuesday is proving very popular.
To book an appointment call Linda Thomas on 01872 266702. Please note that due to the popularity of the Penwith clinic appointments are now being made for July onwards.
On the first Wednesday of every month Rod Keat, CBA access technology officer, offers a drop in session for people to find out about the latest technology.
Rod also offers the opportunity for people to book an individual assessment.
Accessible at the centre there is an internet-linked computer available for people to come in and use.
The centre will also be pioneering a new service where a volunteer will be available to teach computer skills including Guide, a programme which is suitable for all users and is quick and easy to learn.
Taking place outside the centre is a variety of leisure activities that are run by a fantastic team of volunteers. Regular groups currently include walking, swimming sessions and cooking lessons.
Carpet bowls will be the next addition as the centre has just secured funding but is still short of volunteers.
If anyone can offer any time, or know someone who can, please contact the Sight Centre.
Heather Collings, the Penwith co-ordinator, will be sending out a monthly newsletter to anyone in Penwith. If you would like to receive the newsletter, please let Heather know.
Finally there is always coffee and tea available, so do get in touch or just come along.
The Penwith Sight Centre is located next to Morrisons petrol station as you turn off to Long Rock on the outskirts of Penzance.
The number for the Centre is 01736 352007
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Technology Open Day
The next Technology Open Day takes place on Tuesday, July 22 from 10am to 4pm, at the Truro Sight Centre.
Arena Vision Services and DD Aware will be exhibiting their latest aids.
Arena Vision Services provide a range of equipment including the Eclipse Electronic Magnifier which has an extra large reading table, magnification range of 3x to 50x with full auto focus.
The Quicklook Portable Electronic Magnifier, which is lightweight at only 300 grams, has enhanced contrast and needs no monitor as it is built in. Also in the range is Prisma which is an easy to use product with variable magnification, full colour, collapses to 5cm in height and weighs less than 1kg.
DD Aware Limited supply and support a range of products to help people with many different disabilities with all aspects of their lives. They will be demonstrating the K-Sonar, the UltraCane, VideoSpec products and the Bierley Range of products.
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Shooting
I started shooting in 1999, at the St Austell shooting club and in 2001, a club was started in Helston run by Brian and Nancy Tuffill.
I have been shooting there ever since.
The system used for blind shooting consist of a normal air rifle with a sight that picks up a light reflected on the target which then converts the light into sound.
When you are aiming at the centre of the target there is a high pitched sound which gets lower as you move away from the centre.
A helper can load your rifle and help you point in the right direction but then it is up to you to stay on target, find the high pitch and shoot your gun.
There are two types of shooting; supported, where there is a stand to take the weight of the gun and unsupported in which you have to hold the gun and take the weight yourself.
Throughout the year we shoot in postal competitions and once a year we go to Wolverhampton for the English Open.
At this event we shoot 60 shots in one hour 45 minutes which, as you can imagine, is hard work especially when you shoot unsupported.
At the club we also try and have a bit of fun.
The shooting club couldn’t go on without our dedicated and loyal group of volunteers who do an awful lot.
They set up the range and then take it all down when we have finished shooting, collect the money for the range and lucky draw.
They help us on the range scoring our cards, sorting out the competition cards, organizing the competitions away and most importantly making cups of tea at tea time.
Joe Stinton
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Generous Donation for Computer Club
A generous donation from a former student has enabled the Computer Club to purchase copies of Guide Software for use within the club.
The donor, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “I want other people to be able to be given the care and help I have received, it has changed my life”.
Alison Griffin, the club tutor, told Outlook: “We are overwhelmed by this generous gift; it has the potential to benefit so many people and will enable us to purchase a product we have hoped to buy for a long time.
Whilst Guide is not suitable for everyone it will provide an excellent alternative to Dolphin. Guide is potentially suitable for more senior students and also for those needing a more prescribed form of access to computers and the internet.”
The Computer Club members feel that they would like to raise money to repay half of the donation in order that the money could be used again for other good causes.
To this end the students would welcome any unwanted goods in saleable condition which could be resold to raise money.
It you would like any further information about the Computer Club or if you are able to donate any goods please telephone Alison on 01726 842573 or leave a message for her with the CBA.
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Carers Support Group
Is anybody who cares, looks after, or helps someone with a sight problem be interested in joining a club for carers?
It would meet once a month to allow sight loss carers to discuss problems and share hints. It would be light hearted, social and,
most of all, helpful to all who attend.
If you are interested please contact the Truro Sight Centre on 01872 261110 or e-mail enquiries@cornwallblind.org.uk
Proposed Poetry Group in Penzance
Poetry can be about any experience.
Here is one from Harry Cater about an eye operation.
Harry will be leading a poetry group starting late summer at the Penwith Sight Centre. Beginners are welcome, all you need are feelings!
The format will depend on the feedback. To plan this group, please phone Harry on 01736 330956
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Cataract
Eye made immobile. Unflinchingly I look up and see with my amazing eye a coiled image I knew was the surgeon’s lamp – then when it pulsed I knew I’d seen to my heart.
When the surgeon cuts the lens I see pink and blue abstracts – sunsets – which could be the last ones that I see before my flight into the night.
Black humour as the surgeon says it’s like a bathing pool in here and washes my blood away.
I think of Gloucester swimming in his pool, each socket site empty of light, though flood-full filled with pain.
Safe, back in the ward, the phrase vile jelly is not heard –this is the theatre where poor spent eyes are pared.
Note: In Shakespeare’s King Lear, Gloucester has his eyes gouged out and while this is being done the expression out vile jelly is shouted by the perpetrator.
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Boat trip
Picture this: it’s a sunny July evening and you’re sat on a boat on the river Fal, pasty in hand, a light breeze blowing through your hair, just letting the world sail by.
The Cornwall Blind Association is again this year working with Enterprise Boats of Falmouth to provide a trip up the river Fal for visually impaired clients and their friends and families.
The event will take place on Thursday, July 10, departing from the Prince of Wales Pier in Falmouth at 6.30pm returning at 9.30pm.
The cost of the trip will be £10 per person and will include a pasty supper.
If you are interested in attending the trip, please contact Kerry Keast on 01872 266708.
Places are allocated on a first come, first served basis so don’t wait until the weather gets better, put your faith in the fact that in previous years we have always had good weather for the trip!
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Cornish Talking Newspaper
The Cornish Talking Newspaper is a 90 minute, weekly cassette tape of local news, features and short stories, available free of charge to anyone who is blind or visually impaired.
If you would like to receive a copy or would like more information please contact the secretary Louise Perry on 01872 273806.
Large Print and Audio Books
Traditionally, large print and audio books have been hard to find, and even harder to buy. No longer, as a specialist internet bookshop for visually impaired people, selling only large print and audio books has been recently launched.
The website has been designed for maximum accessibility and provides a comprehensive list of books which are available in large print, in the UK and the USA. www.largeprintbookshop.co.uk claim to have the largest database of large print and audio books available in the English language.
Why not visit the website for further information and browse their extensive range.
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Share Your Views
Do you have a favourite book in large print or audio, would you like to share your views by writing a review? Why not send us a review and we will include it in the next edition of Outlook.
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Soccer Sight at Plymouth Argyle
The RNIB, British Blind Sport, the Football Association and Plymouth Argyle have just embarked on a new initiative aimed at making football more accessible to the visually impaired.
The first part involves a specially trained commentator delivering match commentaries via a small headset to fans who can now, because of this new system, sit anywhere in the ground.
The second part is aimed at young people who want to play the game.
For more details contact Barry Hardman at the club on: 01752 562561.
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FOR SALE
TVi Colour: £175.
An electronic magnifier for people who need text and photos magnified.
Rainbow Pro Aladdin CCTV. Paid £1,400 two years ago, now £800.
Eclipse –15 inch Flat Panel Electronic Magnifier, as new – £800 Mrs Doris Lott, 01288 381383
Talking Scanner in cabinet. A scanner that allows you to have your text based materials (letters, recipes, instructions etc.) read back to you through synthesised speech feedback.
Contact Rod Keat (access technology officer) at the CBA on 01872 261110.