Local MP, Mims Davies, today visited The Yews Lunch Club to hear about the incredible work of 4Sight and learn about some of the issues affecting people suffering from sight loss.
The club, which is run by 4Sight Vision Support, is for blind and visually impaired people in the Haywards Heath Area. Members meet at the Yews Community Centre, Boltro Road, Haywards Heath on the 4th Friday of every month. Members can expect a two course lunch and a great community atmosphere. After lunch, volunteers usually put on some entertainment in the form of a quiz, bingo or raffle and quite often there are singalongs too!
The visit began with a talk by Mims about her job as an MP followed by a lengthy Q&A focussing on the action taken by the Government to further support people suffering from sight loss.
Mims reassured members that securing early diagnosis of poor eye health and reducing waiting times for eye care remain key priorities for the NHS. She also used the visit as an opportunity to relay updates from the Chief Exec of NHS Sussex concerning the provision of low vision services and health waiting lists in the local area.
Alongside greater funding to help tackle backlogs caused by the pandemic - including in ophthalmic services - Mims outlined the Government’s work to expand surgical hubs and community diagnostic centres that will help people to receive treatment quicker.
To ensure early diagnosis of eye disease, it is important that people are encouraged to get their eyes tested on a regular basis, with clinical advice stating that most people should get their eyes tested every two years. Free NHS eye tests are available for all children, for those diagnosed with diabetes or glaucoma and for those aged 60 or over. This helps to encourage people at particular risk of developing eye disease to have their condition checked regularly.
Speaking on the visit, Mims said:
I understand the extraordinary job that organisations such as 4Sight do in improving the lives of people whose disability so often cuts them off from their community. Support groups like The Yews Lunch Club allow people to stay informed with what is going on locally and helps them to engage with friends and family.
Earlier this week I was proud to become a RNIB champion to support blind and partially sighted constituents in our area. I will look forward to working more closely with them, as well as developing a greater understanding of the challenges facing those living with sight loss in our constituency.
4Sight create personalised support plans to help people access support and maintain their independence after a sight loss diagnosis. Using a holistic, person-centred approach, they provide advice, accessibility aids and a caring, friendly and inclusive community.
Crucially, no referral is necessary to access their support. For more information, advice or support call them on 01243 828 555 or email enquiries@4sight.org.uk