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Dorset Blind Association’s Portland Shop to Officially Open with Mayor’s Presence

The Dorset Blind Association, the independent charity serving the visually impaired community in Dorset, is delighted to announce the official opening of its Portland shop on March 7th, 2024, at 12.30pm. The grand opening will be graced by the presence of the Mayor of Portland, highlighting the importance of the event for the local community.

The Portland shop, located at 7 Reforne, Portland DT5 2AL, has already had a soft launch last year and has been warmly received by the local community. Zoe Coleman, who has been appointed as shop manager, has been instrumental in creating a warm and inclusive environment.

As well as being stocked with treasures waiting to find a new home, the shop will serve as a central hub for the local community. Jonathan Holyhead, CEO, commented, “Our shops add to, and directly support, the delivery of our community services across Dorset and they are vital to enabling those services to continue. Our shops are an important part of our service delivery, including a mini equipment and advice/resource centre making Dorset Blind Association even more accessible to the public”.

The charity is in need of donations. Quality, saleable items such as clothing, accessories, household goods, books and toys are welcomed and can be dropped off directly at the shop during opening hours. Unfortunately, they cannot accept furniture. Additionally, the shop is looking for volunteers to help with various tasks – hours to suit and full training will be provided. Join the friendly team in making a difference.

“We are thrilled to officially open our doors to the Portland locals”, said Zoe, the shop manager. “We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received so far and look forward to continuing to serve the community”.

The shop’s current opening hours are 9.00AM – 4.00PM, Monday – Saturday. For more information, please contact Zoe at portlandshop@dorsetblind.org.uk or call 01305 234270

In addition to Portland, Dorset Blind Association operates charity shops in Bridport, Broadstone, Christchurch, Ferndown, Parkstone, Southbourne and Weymouth

Dorset Blind Association has been providing practical and emotional support to blind and partially sighted people across Dorset since 1918. Their service is vital to the local community as there are now more than 30,000 people in Dorset living with serious sight loss. Proud recipients of the esteemed Queens Award for Voluntary Services, DBA help people come to terms with living serious sight loss and still live happy lives.

For more information about Dorset Blind Association, contact communityrelations@dorsetblind.org.uk, or call 01202 712865

www.dorsetblind.org.uk.

Dorset Blind Association Expands Presence with the Opening of 8th Charity Shop in Bridport

The Dorset Blind Association, the independent charity serving the visually impaired community in Dorset, is proud to announce the opening of its 8th charity shop in Bridport. This exciting addition further strengthens our commitment to providing essential services and support to visually impaired people across the region. The shop, located at 32 East Street, opened its doors just before Christmas and has already experienced a fantastic reception from the local community.

Picture of Shop Manager, Charley and Assistant Manager, Sarah, inside the new Bridport shop

Shop Details:

Location: 32 East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LF

Opening Hours: 9.30am – 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday.

Contact: 01308 805320

Email: bridportshop@dorsetblind.org.uk

Our new charity shop, the eighth in our expanding network, offers a diverse array of high-quality goods, from clothing to homeware, books to toys and many unique finds. As well as being stocked with treasures waiting to find a new home, we hope our shop will serve as a central hub for the local community. Our shops are an important part of our service delivery, including a mini equipment and advice/resource centre making Dorset Blind Association even more accessible to the public. The Bridport community has already warmly embraced our new charity shop, reinforcing the positive impact of community support.

Jonathan Holyhead, CEO, commented, ” Our shops add to, and directly support, the delivery of our community services across Dorset and they are vital to enabling those services to continue. We’ve been searching for the right premises in Bridport for some time, as we’ve been eager to establish a presence in this thriving, picturesque coastal town. We chose Bridport for its vibrant community spirit, and we are excited to extend our reach to this part of the county. We’re thrilled by the enthusiastic reception we’ve received so far”. 

Donations Needed: We gratefully welcome donations. Quality, saleable items such as clothing, accessories, household goods, books and toys are welcomed and can be dropped off directly at the shop during opening hours. Unfortunately, we cannot accept furniture. If you can’t make it to the shop on East Street, collections can be arranged! Call the store manager, Charley, on 01308 805320 to arrange a suitable time.

Volunteer Opportunities: Join us in making a difference by becoming a volunteer. We are actively seeking enthusiastic individuals to join our friendly team. Express your interest or enquire about volunteer opportunities by contacting the shop.

Supporting Our Vision: The Dorset Blind Association’s 8th charity shop plays a vital role in supporting our broader mission. By shopping with us, customers not only find unique gems at affordable prices but also directly contribute to funding essential services for visually impaired individuals within the community. Every purchase you make and every donation you give positively impacts someone’s life.

In addition to Bridport, Dorset Blind Association operates charity shops in Broadstone, Christchurch, Ferndown, Parkstone. Portland, Southbourne and Weymouth

Dorset Blind Association has been providing practical and emotional support to blind and partially sighted people across Dorset since 1918. Their service is vital to the local community as there are now more than 30,000 people in Dorset living with serious sight loss. Proud recipients of the esteemed Queens Award for Voluntary Services, DBA help people come to terms with living serious sight loss and still live happy lives.

For more information about Dorset Blind Association, contact sam@dorsetblind.org.uk or call 01202 712865

www.dorsetblind.org.uk.

Prestigious Dorset Blind Association Motor Show at Lulworth Castle Returns in May 2024!

Following the resounding success of the 2023 event, the Dorset Blind Association is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of the Dorset Blind Association Motor Show at the stunning Lulworth Castle on Sunday, May 12, 2024. This annual event, now in its 8th year, promises to be a memorable gathering of classic, sports, and supercar enthusiasts, all in support of a noble cause.

Ariel drone shot of Lulworth Castle with car exhibition on display

In 2023, the Motor Show at Lulworth Castle proved to be the South’s most picturesque automotive event, drawing over 5,000 attendees and raising an impressive £22,000. This remarkable achievement underscores the dedication of the Dorset Blind Association in our mission to support blind and partially sighted individuals across Dorset.

This exceptional event, the only Motor Show held on the Lulworth Estate, continues to grow in popularity year after year, consistently selling out. This year, more than 230 cars were on display, with club stands from the Jaguar Enthusiasts and Porsche Club GB adding to the excitement. The event not only brings car enthusiasts together but also raises vital funds and awareness for the Dorset Blind Association.

Gary Neild from Blue Sky Financial Planning, a proud sponsor of the event, expressed his enthusiasm, “Blue Sky Financial Planning are delighted to support the motor show once again at Lulworth Castle on the 12th of May. The 2023 show drew huge crowds and was an enormous success, and we are looking forward to being part of this wonderful event again next May. We admire the DBA team for their energy and passion, and the great work they do. They help so many people live a fulfilling life and that resonates strongly with our ethos at Blue Sky where we are focused on ‘what we cause and how we make people feel.’ Our relationship draws on many parallels, and we love working with a like-minded, enthusiastic team.”

Classic, sports, and supercar owners are invited to participate in this prestigious event on Sunday, May 12. Exhibitor bookings are already filling up, so early registration is encouraged.

The showground will open to the public free of charge from 10:30 am, offering a hugely popular family fun day with live entertainment, a kids’ fun area, street food, and stalls selling local artisan craft and produce.

Neal Burton, a car exhibitor, shared his experience, saying, ” A really great day run by a super team. The show is laid back with a diverse entry of vehicles, so there’s plenty to see. Set in a fabulous location, what more could you ask for from a car show that supports such a worthy cause. I’m booking in my 1964 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia for next year…see you there!”

Do you own a classic, sports, or other motor vehicle and want to be part of this unique event at Lulworth Castle? Entry is only £12 per person, including showground display, a breakfast roll, and a hot drink at registration, as well as entry to Lulworth Castle itself. Booking in advance is essential, as tickets are expected to sell out.

The Dorset Blind Association has been providing practical and emotional support to blind and partially sighted people across Dorset since 1918. Their services are essential to the local community, especially with over 30,000 people in Dorset living with serious sight loss. Proud recipients of the esteemed Queens Award for Voluntary Services, DBA helps people come to terms with living with serious sight loss and still lead happy lives. By attending this exclusive event, you are helping to maintain the services they provide in your local area, helping to reduce loneliness and isolation.

For more information about the Dorset Blind Association Motor Show, please contact us at 01202 712865, email communityrelations@dorsetblind.org.uk, or book tickets at https://DBAMotorShow2024.eventbrite.co.uk

If you would like to support the Dorset Blind Association by volunteering at the event or in support of the charity’s services, please contact Sam at communityrelations@dorsetblind.org.uk or call 01202 712865.

Dorset Blind Association hosts Low Vision Day on 18th November, with NHS Dorset County Hospital

Do you or a friend or relative have poor sight? Dorset Blind Association are hosting their ever-popular Low Vision Day at The Dorford Centre in Dorchester with NHS Dorset County Hospital.

Bigger and better than ever, this year’s event will have a packed schedule of expert speakers talking about various eye conditions as well as the emotional and practical impact of sight loss.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join DBA’s Community Support workers and NHS nurses from the Eye Department for advice and information on Saturday, 18th November. The event runs from 10 am to 2 pm and will have a range of low vision aids on display to explore. Talks from guest speakers will cover subjects including macular conditions, cataracts, diabetic eye conditions, Glaucoma, coping with the transition from sighted to visual impairment and more.

Come along and get help for yourself or someone you know on Saturday, 18th Nov.

Low Vision Day on Saturday, 18th November, 10 am – 2 pm

THE DORFORD CENTRE, BRIDPORT ROAD, DORCHESTER, DT1 1RR

For more information about this event, call 01202 712869.

For the event’s full agenda, and for more information about the Dorset Blind Association, please follow @dorsetblind on Facebook or Instagram, call 01202 712865 or email communityrelations@dorsetblind.org.uk.

Dorset Blind Association | Facebook

Date announced for our 2024 Motor Show!

Save the date!

We are happy to announce that we have confirmed the date for next year’s Motor Show.

We will be back in the stunning grounds of Lulworth Castle on Sunday, 12th May 2024

Please put it in your diary and join us for our 8th annual event and help make it our biggest and best yet!

New charity shop opens in Portland!

Dorset Blind Association opens its new shop in Portland, making 7 stores across the county.

Opening its doors for the first time on Tuesday 5th September, the new shop will help fund the charity’s services, which support the blind and visually impaired people of Dorset.

Portland’s manager, Zoe Coleman says ” We as a team are privileged and proud to bring DBA to the vibrant Isle of Portland. We are looking forward to becoming part of this friendly and warm community. Please support us by coming down to browse our wonderful goods and by considering us for donations of your unwanted quality items. We look forward to seeing you in our shop soon. Many thanks for the support!’

The shop also has a specialist equipment area for people with sight loss. 

Dorset Blind Association 
7 Reforne
Easton
Portland DT5 2AL

Tel: 01305 234270
e-mail: portlandshop@dorsetblind.org.uk

Opening hours are Tues-Sat 9.30am-4.30pm

Fantastic fundraiser completes Ironman for DBA

Duncan on completing the Ironman, crossing the finshing line

Wow! Duncan, our popular mobile equipment man, has well and truly smashed his first-ever Ironman.

The Ironman is an epic challenge which involves a 2.4-mile sea swim, followed by a 112-mile bike ride and then on straight into a 26.2-mile run (just to finish off with a MARATHON!!).

Not only did Duncan succeed in completing this mammoth task, but he came 6th place in his age category.

He has been fundraising for Dorset Blind Association. Let’s help him get closer to his target to make all the pain worthwhile!

Please, if you can, donate via his Justgiving page, and every penny will go to good use supporting our community.

Duncan Lane is fundraising for Dorset Blind Association (justgiving.com)

Duncan's race statistics. 6th place in his category, 75th place by gender and 77th place overall (out of 582). Duncan completed the challenge in 10hours, 6 mins and 19 seconds
Duncan in the bike leg of the race

Duncan in the run part of the race

We’re hiring!

We have 2 exciting roles at Dorset Blind Association. Please take a look if you want a fulfilling, varied role at a worthwhile local charity

We have a Community Support worker full-time role supporting working-age visually impaired members and also an Assistant Manager part-time role in our Weymouth Charity shop.

Please get in touch if you are interested or share with anyone who might like to join our team

https://uk.indeed.com/cmp/Dorset-Blind-Association-2/jobs

Record-breaking results from this year’s Motor Show at Lulworth Castle!

This year’s Motor Show was a truly record-breaking event. We welcomed over 5,000 members of the public throughout the day, with 230 motors in our showground display! The day raised a fantastic amount of money, totalling over £22,000, all in aid of Dorset Blind Association
A huge thank you to our attendees, volunteers, stall holders, our sponsors at Blue Sky Financial Planning Ltd and Summit Land and Development, and to Lulworth Estate for giving us the opportunity to host this exclusive event once again.
There’s still time to donate to a genuinely worthwhile cause:
To donate £3 text BLIND to 70331
To donate £5 text BLIND to 70970
To donate £10 text BLIND to 70191
To look at our gallery of photos taken by the talented Yuugen Visuals, click here:


DBA Motor Show picture gallery 2023


Our Motor Show will return next year; watch this space for the release date, coming soon!
Thank you again, and we hope to see you all in 2024.

Lulworth Castle opens its gates for annual Dorset charity motor show and free family fun day!

Dorset Blind Association returns to Lulworth Castle on Sunday 21st May, with their annual motor show fundraising event, sponsored by Blue Sky Financial Planning. Hugely popular amongst car enthusiasts and the general public alike, the show promises to be a great community event for all the family with thousands expected to attend.

One of the South’s most picturesque automotive events returns to the magnificent backdrop of Lulworth Castle. The fabulous day out for car owners, families, tourists and locals aims to be bigger and better than ever.

Take a wander around the motor display, showcasing more cars than ever before. Over 250 vehicles will be set in front of the beautiful castle; classics to supercars, modified cars to motorbikes, Ferraris to Jaguars. Visitors will enjoy live music from The Land Girls, Guggee 2000 Band and The Rock Choir. Children will be entertained by the ever-popular Krazy Kev with performances and circus workshops throughout the day. They can also have fun in the kids area, with bouncy castle, rides, face painting and stalls.

The showground will offer a variety of artisan stalls selling local produce and handmade goods, food and drinks. A raffle will be held on the day, with some incredible prizes donated by local businesses; including lunch at Rick Stein restaurant, a Havvic changing robe, Sunday lunch for 2 at The Cliff, and much, much more!

Fred Potter who drives a Porsche R26 says, “We have attended the Dorset Blind Association Motor Show at Lulworth Castle for many years and is no doubt our favourite event in our calendar. Displaying our car in front of the castle is a unique opportunity and we love the atmosphere, plus it’s all for a great cause!”

James Weld, owner of the Lulworth Estate and President of Dorset Blind Association, generously donates the use of the grounds for this unique motor show – the only one held at the Castle. Dorset Blind Association, who have been supporting visually impaired people in the county for over 100 years, are hugely thankful to all their supporters and volunteers who make this event possible. The charity’s flagship fundraising activity aims to raise over £15,000 for Dorset Blind Association and raise awareness to over 3,000 people visiting the event.

Gary Neild CEO of Blue Sky Financial Planning, the event’s platinum sponosor said, “Blue Sky Financial Planning are delighted to once again support the Dorset Blind Association, this time at the motor show at Lulworth Castle on the 21st May.  What an enthusiastic bunch of people. We admire the DBA team for their immense passion for how they can help others live a more fulfilling life. Whilst we operate in a different sector, this resonates greatly with us at Blue Sky, as our main emphasis is focussed on ‘what we cause and how we make people feel’. A natural partnership I would say!”

A fantastic family day out not to be missed, with entertainment for all ages!  The Castle Showground will be open to the general public from 11:00am – 4:00pm. Entry to the public is FREE, however donations are greatly appreciated!

The need for Dorset Blind Associations services are ever increasing and with the number of people living with visual impairment due to hit 35,000 in Dorset alone, the demand is high. The charity hope to receive additional support with fundraising from this event, as well as the chance to raise vital awareness in the local community for sight loss. Currently, the charity support over 1000 visually impaired people every month which is powered by their 300+ volunteers.. Proud recipients of the esteemed Queens Award for Voluntary Services, DBA help people come to terms with living serious sight loss and still live happy lives. By attending this exclusive event, you are helping to maintain the service they provide in your local area, helping to reduce loneliness and isolation. 

For more information about the Dorset Blind Association Motor Show, please follow @dorsetblind on Facebook or Instagram, call 01202 712865 or email communityrelations@dorsetblind.org.uk

Dorset Blind Association | Facebook

Dorset Blind Association (@dorset.blind) • Instagram photos and video

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