Visually impaired people and their families across the county will get help and support thanks to Dorset Freemasons

We are thrilled to announce that thanks to a generous £36,000 grant from Dorset Freemasons, the Dorset Blind Association will be able to provide essential support and services to over 500 blind and visually impaired individuals across Dorset.

This funding will help us continue our mission to relieve loneliness and social isolation by supporting over 20 social and activity clubs for older blind individuals. These clubs are vital for creating a safe and supportive environment where members can connect, share experiences, and build friendships. The grant will cover venue hire, transport, and entertainment costs, ensuring our clubs can thrive for the next three years.

Our CEO, Jonathan Holyhead, shared, “We’re immensely grateful to Dorset Freemasons for their generous support. This grant will allow us to relieve the loneliness and isolation that is all too common among blind and visually impaired people. Our charity provides help and support in ways that make a real, positive difference in those people’s lives.”

Stephen James from Dorset Freemasons added, “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help the Dorset Blind Association with their hugely important project among visually impaired people from our community. Sadly, loneliness and isolation are all too common among people who have lost their sight, and it’s great that this wonderful charity is able to organize regular social activities and entertainment for them on a long-term basis.”

At Dorset Blind Association, we are committed to providing lifelong, tailored support to our members, ensuring they stay happy and healthy despite the challenges of sight loss. This grant is a testament to the power of community support and the incredible difference it can make in people’s lives.