A new chapter begins for Sight Loss Groups in Shropshire
For more than 23 years, Community Resource has been proud to support Sight Loss Opportunity Groups across Shropshire. These groups have brought people together to share experiences, build confidence and form lasting friendships.
As we move into a new chapter, the groups have now transferred to Sight Loss Shropshire, who are well placed to continue and develop this important work. This change follows a period of funding challenges, alongside a shared commitment to ensure the groups continue in the strongest possible way for the future.
Looking back: laughter, friendships and shared experiences
Susann, who has led the groups over many years, shared some of her reflections:
“There are just so many memories, so many laughs, and so many moments I’ll never forget.
From exercise classes filled with cheeky comments before we’d even started, to Hilary’s famous baked nibbles that disappeared almost as soon as they arrived.
We’ve enjoyed horse riding, cooking, bowling, cycling, tai chi, yoga and much more.”
Over the years, the groups have been about much more than activities. They have been spaces where people feel comfortable, supported and understood.
Susann recalls moments that capture the spirit of the groups, from a 92-year-old keen to gallop on horseback, to guide dogs creating their own entertainment along the way. There have been laughs, shared challenges and everyday conversations that have helped people feel less alone.
“Through all the laughter, tears and conversations, I’ve seen such kindness, resilience and friendships being made. The support people give one another is so heartwarming.”
Volunteers have played a vital role in shaping these welcoming spaces, helping to create an environment where everyone feels included.
A message from Susann
As the groups move on, Susann shared this message with members:
“Living with sight loss can have its ups and downs, but it’s clear how much people simply get on with things, find what works for them, and keep going.
It’s been a privilege to work alongside you, and I’ll carry so many memories and lessons with me.
As we hand over to Sight Loss Shropshire, we do so with confidence for the future. The volunteers you know and trust will still be there, and the friendships and support that make these groups so special will continue.”
She also acknowledged the strength of the community that has grown over the years:
“A bit of support or a friendly word can make such a difference. Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey.”
Looking ahead with Sight Loss Shropshire
Sight Loss Shropshire will now lead the groups, with Activities Coordinator Penny supporting monthly sessions in Ludlow, Oswestry and Shrewsbury.
The groups will continue to offer a welcoming space for people living with sight loss to:
- stay active
- build confidence
- meet new people
- try new experiences
Sessions will include a mix of guest speakers, social activities and opportunities to connect with others.
Upcoming groups:
Ludlow
Third Monday of the month (excluding January and December)
Ludlow Library, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Oswestry
First Wednesday of the month (excluding January and December)
Oswestry Library, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Sight Loss Shropshire look forward to welcoming both familiar and new faces. You can find out more about the groups on Sight Loss Shropshire’s website.
A message from our CEO, Bev Baxter
Reading this, what strikes me most isn’t just the laughter (though I will never look at a guide dog and a frog the same way again), it’s what it says about the kind of space our Sight Loss Opportunity Groups became. Not a service people attended, but a community they belonged to.
None of that happens by accident. It’s down to Susann’s dedication over many years and to every volunteer who turned up to hold the reins, bake the nibbles and yes, sweep the hall. Thank you to all of them, and to every member who made these groups what they were.
As we hand this work over to Sight Loss Shropshire, we do so knowing the foundations are strong. The friendships, confidence and support built here won’t end with this chapter, we’re simply passing the baton to make sure they continue.
Continuing the journey
While this marks the end of Community Resource’s direct involvement in running the groups, it is not the end of the story.
The community remains strong. The friendships continue. The support is still there.
We are proud of everything that has been built over the past 23 years and grateful to everyone who has been part of it. We look forward to seeing the groups continue to grow and thrive in their new home.
