The wide range of specialist services available to people who are blind or have low vision across Newcastle and the Hunter region will be on display as Vision Australia Newcastle throws open its doors for a special open day.
The recently revamped centre will be open to the public from 9.30am-12.30pm on Thursday, February 22, with people encouraged to learn about all the leading blindness and low vision service provider has to offer.
Roger Danvers, Vision Australia regional client lead, said a diagnosis of blindness or low vision can be confronting, making the need for timely support an important one.
“Living with blindness or low vision can present some challenges, but with the appropriate support it’s not a barrier to an active and independent life. Unfortunately, we know some people are unsure of where to turn to for support and we want to change that,” he said.
“Whether it’s at home, school, in the workplace or simply being part of the community, we provide a range of services such as occupational therapy, orientation and mobility support and assistive technology advice to support people.
“Beyond that, we also sell a range of specialist technology and equipment to help people with daily living tasks, while our services such as the Vision Australia Library and Vision Australia Radio network are a great way for people who are blind or have low vision to access information and entertainment.”
Also on display on the day will be information about Vision Australia’s specialist paediatric services, Seeing Eye Dogs and low vision clinic service.
“We want people to come away with a real understanding of everything Vision Australia does, but importantly we want them to know we’re here to help,” Roger said.
“The quicker we can start providing support to someone who is blind or have low vision and their family or carers, the better.”
The Vision Australia Newcastle open day will run from 9.30am to 12.30pm at 7-9 Beaumont St, Hamilton on Thursday, February 22. To RSVP, email centralcoast.hunterregion@visionaustralia.org.