Walsall FC are delighted to announce a new partnership with Walsall Society for the Blind, the locally based charity providing expert support, advice and guidance to those affected by sight loss.
The charity has provided a lifeline to the visually impaired since 1885 and is based at Hawley House in the centre of town where, amongst many other things they produce a weekly talking newspaper and host a range of social activities for those in need across the region.
The charity hope the partnership will help raise awareness of the work they do and potentially could help identify support that might be needed for visually impaired family members, friends, neighbours or colleagues.
Saddlers CEO Stefan Gamble said: “Walsall FC takes great pride in representing its community and building relationships, none more so than with Walsall Society for the Blind.
“At this time where normal routines are altered and isolation can be prevalent we get an understanding how, for people with visual impairments these sorts of issues are a daily occurrence.
“We are delighted to be able to use our platform within the local community to shine a light on Walsall Society for the Blind and encourage our fans to support in whatever way they can.”
The charity will be visible in the matchday programme and with a pitchside advertising board throughout the season and during the season, volunteers from the charity will be present at selected home games to take donations. Supporters can of course donate financially or offer to volunteer at any time.
Amanda Reed, CEO of Walsall Society for the Blind said of the partnership: “There are over 9,000 people in Walsall affected by sight loss, many of whom aren't currently accessing the free support and advice available to them to help them maintain their independence.
“Covid-19 has made the incredible challenge of living with sight loss so much more difficult in every way. So much more isolating and so much more terrifying. Through our partnership with Walsall Football Club we hope to reach more local families affected by sight loss so that everyone with a visual impairment has the support they need right now to help them rebuild their confidence and to adapt their skills so that they can regain their independence during this difficult time.”
To find out more about Walsall Society for the Blind and the valuable work they do supporting the visually impaired community of Walsall, visit www.walsallblind.org or call 01922 627683.
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