A PROGRAMME of support helping Hampshire residents come to terms with sight loss is to be held at the end of May in Southampton.

Sight loss charities Action for Blind People and Southampton Sight have joined forces for a free two-day course at the Southampton Sight office in Bassett Avenue on Friday and Saturday May 30 and 31.

Called Finding Your Feet, participants will share experiences, supporting each other in regaining confidence and independence and helping them adjust to life-changing conditions.

Organisers stress that this programme, which runs from 9.30am to 4.30pm each day, is not just for those who are suffering from sight loss but also for their carers too.

Lizzie Abnett, from Action for Blind People’s regional team, said: “For any person, sight loss can be devastating. The Finding Your Feet course provides an opportunity for residents in Southampton and their families to share information, experiences and emotions with others in a similar situation.

“Participants realise they’re not alone and that they can adjust to the challenges ahead.”

Workshops about the range of services available to people who are losing their sight will be available on the course which will include mobility, emotional and technological support.

Guide Dogs for the Blind, the Royal National Institute for the Blind and the Macular Society, will be among the organisations providing information about the help they can provide.

A further course will be available at the end of the year.

For further information and to register for the course, call 01722 345440 or email salisbury@actionforblind people.org.uk