About
Who We Are
Sight Concern Bedfordshire is a local, independent charity with offices in Luton and Bedford. We were founded in 1999 through the merger of three well-established charities:
- Enterprises by the Blind
- Sight Concern (North Bedfordshire)
- The South Bedfordshire Society for the Welfare of the Blind
Together, these organisations had been delivering services for over 70 years before joining forces. In 2007, Sight Concern Bedfordshire became a Charitable Company.
Our Mission
We support people with sight loss, along with their families and carers, to live full, active, and independent lives. Our work is carried out by a Board of Trustee Directors, a small team of employees, and dedicated volunteers who work to provide services, practical support, and opportunities that make a real difference to the sight loss community in Bedfordshire
The Impact of Sight Loss
Key Facts
- Approximately 6,400 people in Bedfordshire and Luton experience moderate to severe sight loss (source: RNIB Sight Loss Data Tool).
- While sight loss can affect people of all ages, it is more common among older adults:
- 1 in 7 people aged 65+ live with sight loss.
- 1 in 3 people aged 85+ are visually impaired.
Personal Stories
If I hadn’t had Sight Concern in my life I would still be at home, doing nothing all day, not talking to anyone.
In the early days of my sight loss I didn’t have anything. Then I found Sight Concern. The thing I was looking for was Sight Concern.
Where else can I get help?
We’re here to support you, but we’re not the only organisation that can help. Below are some useful contacts and resources.
Eye Health
If you’re concerned about your eye health, contact:
- Your GP, optometrist, or local hospital eye clinic.
- Visit the NHS Choices website for local health information.
Social Care and Rehabilitation
Specialist Visual Impairment teams in Local Authorities offer support such as:
- Training to help with daily living tasks like cooking, making drinks, and using the phone.
- Mobility training to navigate routes independently.
- Access to specialist equipment and services.
Local Council Contacts:
- Bedford and Central Bedfordshire: Call 01234 718318 or email visualimpairment@bedford.gov.uk
- Luton: Call 01582 547659 or visit their online assessment.
National Sight Loss Organisations
The links below are to external sites for other sight loss organisations.
