Powered by Everyclick, which since 2005 has raised over £2 million for charities, Give as you Live gives online shoppers the opportunity to donate to Henshaws when they check out, a percentage of the price will then go straight to Henshaws paid for by the retailer. The site also allows you to make wish lists for yourself as well as friends and family.

And this month Give as you Live have launched a new scheme in order to help Henshaws and other charities earn at least £3,000 this year!  If you sign up by 31st March 2012, Give as you Live will donate an additional £5 to us after you spend £10 or more through Give as you Live. This means that if we get at least 100 new shoppers, we could raise £3000 towards our services! But we need to get at least 25 shoppers before 31st March 2012, so to help Henshaws be in with a chance of raising £3000 please visit our page here on Give as you Live.

Ann’s commitment didn’t stop there, after deciding that she wanted to get more involved with the groups she was helping to transport to Henshaws, she was asked if she would like to take over the lead role in organising the groups and the activities.

“After working for the Health Service for most of my career, I knew that I would need something to not only occupy my time but which would also be helping others too, that’s why when I saw the advert in the local paper for Henshaws Volunteer Drivers I decided to apply.”

The group, which gives members an opportunity to meet and find out more information about the kinds of support they can access for their visual impairments, it is also a great opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences peer to peer.

Ann will be sad to leave her post, but retiring will mean that she has more time to dedicate to her family and endure less of a commute to Henshaws every week from Sefton. This won’t however, stop her from visiting the group, “It’s the members of the group that keep you coming, I’ve made some great friendships over the years and will be sure to pop in every now and again to see how they are getting on. Some of the group members only venture out once a week for this opportunity and really look forward to it, an

The establishment of the charity was from the generosity of Oldham businessman and philanthropist Thomas Henshaw (1731 -1810) who left a legacy of £20,000 which is equivalent to £1.1 million today.

Henshaw wanted “to maintain and afford such instruction to the indigent blind of both sexes capable of employment as will enable them to provide, either wholly or in part, for their own subsistence and to afford asylum to the impotent and aged blind”. As Manchester’s oldest charity and as a society as a whole, we are proud to have been helping blind and visually impaired people lead independent lives for over 175 years.

It took over 26 years to set the charity up because of circumstances surrounding Thomas Henshaw’s death – he was found drowned in a reservoir near his factory. The Will was contested by his Wife on the grounds that at the time of his death  “the Cause of his having so drowned himself was his insanity.”

In September 1834, after the final verdict was given by the Court of Chancery, a plot of land was bought next to the botanical gardens in Old Trafford and the ‘Asylum for the Indigent Blind’ opened its doors for the the first time in 1837.

Over the years, the name of the charity has changed three times from the ‘Asylum for the Indigent Blind, to Henshaw’s Institution for the Blind in 1921, Henshaw’s Society for the Blind in 1971 and Henshaws Society for Blind People in 2000.

In a tribute to our founder, Henshaws is still growing today and in 1971 we opened Henshaws College and in 1998 Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre. We like to think Mr Henshaw would be very happy with what we do today; we employ over 400 members of staff across the North of England, who each year help to support thousands of visually impaired and disabled people and their families, and all thanks to the generosity of one man back in 1810.

We will be celebrating the anniversary throughout the year with special events, including a heritage exhibition, “Henshaws: One Man’s Vision…” opening at Gallery Oldham, where you can find out more interesting facts and about Thomas Henshaw and the charity and an exclusive Anniversary Ball in Manchester, the city where it all began. 

To keep up to date with the latest on what we have planned for our 175th celebrations then please keep checking our events pages and news feeds!

Date: Thursday 16 February

Time: 7.30

Price: £14.50

There are over 50 nesting boxes to chose from which are all handmade by Art Makers as part of our Social Enterprise Handmade at Henshaws.

Themes and styles Include homes for Blue & Great Tits, Fly Catchers, Sparrow Terraces and Towers; houses for hedgehogs and lots of our famous Bug Boxes made from recycled/reclaimed timber and bamboo from our own gardens!

To find the perfect box for your garden visit the exhibition from 16th january to 24th February in the Main Gallery and Cafe.

This spring on 24th March, we are hosting a Henshaws’ Anniversary Ball, featuring a fabulous stage show performance from The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular!

For one night only, you are invited to enjoy an evening of live swing music performed in the intimate dining room at the Radisson Edwardian Hotel, Manchester where, in the company of no more than 200 guests you will help us celebrate our 175th Birthday.

On arrival you will be greeted with champagne and canapés followed by a three course dinner served in the Radisson’s elegant ballroom. After dinner our celebrity compere will host an auction featuring a wide selection of exclusive lots. The evening’s celebrations will climax with a stunning Vegas Spectacular performance from The Rat Pack, certain to get you all on the dance floor!

Established in 1837 by Oldham businessman Thomas Henshaw, we thought it only fitting to celebrate our 175th Birthday in style by hosting this celebration in the city where we were founded.

Tickets are available at just £75 per head, giving you the chance to join us on what promises to be a glorious night of entertainment and celebration.

We also have other packages and sponsorship opportunities available. For tickets and further information please contact Faye.wilson@henshaws.org.uk or call 0161 786 3693.

Held in Newcastle on Sunday 16th September, we have been lucky enough to secure 25 places for the 13.1 miles run. Entry fee is £48 and minimum sponsorship is £300.

To register your place the download the Great North Run Entry Form 2012 or contact Hannah Saxon on (01423) 814501 or email  hannah.saxon@henshaws.org.uk

Nick Marr, Henshaws Chief Executive, said: “We are shocked that someone would steal from a charity.”

Detective Constable Stephen Mathias, said: “It is shocking to think that burglars would go to such lengths to steal computers which that play a vital role in the education of blind children.”

If you or a company can help Henshaws replace these invaluable pieces of equipment so we can continue in our work to support people with visual impairments, then please contact us on fundraising@henshaws.org.uk or call 0161 872 1234.

Gill Jennison, Principal of the college said “I’m delighted that once again, we have gained a positive report from Ofsted, my thanks to everyone who contributes at the college, and also to the students themselves for their hard work.”

The CQC reports covering all of our community housing across the society were also very positive, providing no recommendations or statutory requirements from the inspectors and being judged compliant against all aspects including; respecting and involving people who use the services, care and welfare of people who use the services and safeguarding them from abuse, supporting workers and assessing and monitoring the quality of service provision.  

Frank Ward, Director of Community Housing said “The hard work and dedication of the staff has been a major factor in gaining these successful reports. Many practices and procedures which we have developed have contributed not only to gaining positive reports, but most importantly, to the happiness and wellbeing of our residents”

The reports are an excellent reminder that Henshaws remains to this day a caring organisation, helping people to live independent and fulfilling lives, something which Thomas Henshaw would have been proud of.

Danny Adams, member of the cast said: “It is always lovely to meet people from the community in Newcastle, especially when they have seen the panto every year over the past seven years – it is just really lovely to meet them and put a smile on their faces.”

The CD has been named in honour of John Metcalf, arguably Knaresborough’s most famous character. As well as being a renowned civil engineer and horseman, Blind Jack Metcalf was also a fiddle player. He  became completely blind at the age of 6 following small pox. The CD features a range of singers and musicians from across Yorkshire with all the tracks having relevance to Harrogate, Knaresborough and the surrounding area.

The CD was the brainchild of band member Mark Ellison who was so impressed by the services offered to visually impaired people by Henshaws that he decided to raise funds for the charity. Said Mark, “John Metcalfe  never let his disability shape his life- his achievements were truly remarkable by anyone’s standards and his triumph over adversity is an example to us all. Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre is very close to Jack’s birthplace in Knaresborough, and Henshaws College is in the Harrogate area where he played his fiddle at dances. The Blind Jack Band CD features the sort of music that would have been familiar to Jack and is in aid of a charity that I’m sure he would have approved of. Henshaws is well known for their good work with visually impaired people, helping them gain self-confidence and independence.”
 
The last remaining CDs are available from Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre in Knaresborough at the bargain price of £2. All profits will go to Henshaws Arts & Craft Centre.

Many people spoke very movingly about how Gary had touched their lives. The stories of how he overcame the challenges of his sight loss with such courage and energy and went on to gain his degree at Bolton University and to volunteer at the Imperial War Museum and Manchester Art Gallery were inspirational.  Other people talked of Gary’s great sense of humour and of the kindness and generosity that he showed to other people. His achievements are a fantastic role model, and show just exactly what people can achieve despite the hurdles that they face.

This short video shows Gary leading a group at Manchester Art Gallery, discussing the Holman Hunt painting, The Hireling Shepherd.

The collection from the memorial is very kindly to be donated to Henshaws.

Held in Newcastle on Sunday 16th September, we have been lucky enough to secure 25 places for the 13.1 miles run. Entry fee is £48 and minimum sponsorship is £300.

To register your place Great North Run Entry Form 2012 or contact Hannah Saxon on (01423) 814501 or email  hannah.saxon@henshaws.org.uk

Nathan is 9 years old, when he was born he was like any other child but as he grew up he started displaying signs of a disability and unfortunately even now, doctors have still not managed to diagnose his condition. He has been termed as having Cerebral Palsy and is a wheelchair user; he is also partially sighted, deaf and has learning difficulties.

None of this stops Nathan or his mother Julie from interacting with other children and being involved in all the activities that Henshaws has to offer. Nathan and his mum Julie love coming to the Henshaws resource centre where Nathan is the centre of attention; he is a social butterfly and hates missing out on anything. He is fiercely independent so refuses any help from his mum Julie. ‘ I am always on hand to help and support Nathan twenty four hours a day but most of the time he refuses to let me, he will never let his disability get in the way of him having a good time with his friends’.

Nathan recently attended a Flow Riding event run by Henshaws where he and other took to the water to learn how to surf. ‘Nathan has always liked being in the water, he was the first one up on the board and he loved every minute of it, it gave him the freedom from the confinement of his wheelchair, it can be very restricting for an active 9 year old boy’. Julie tries to do as much as possible with Nathan to ensure he is kept occupied however it can be hard ‘Without the great team and support network that Henshaws offers i would not be able to do many of the things i can now do with Nathan. We have been involved in a variety of activities from day trips locally to 3 day camping trips, just knowing that the team are on hand to support both myself and Nathan is priceless’.

If you want to find out more about our children and families service in the North East visit the web page or contact 0191 2759417

Henshaws was recently announced as one of the charity partners for the brand new Greater Manchester Marathon in Trafford, Manchester’s first marathon for more than a decade, alongside local charity The Christie.

The race will take place in Trafford on 29th April  2012 and will start and finish in Longford Park in Stretford. The five thousand runners expected to take part will pass iconic landmarks such as the Old Trafford football and cricket grounds and Dunham Massey Park over the 26mile course.

To be one of the first lucky 6 to gain free entrance to the Manchester Marathon (normally £48!), minimum sponsorship is £500, contact Hannah.saxon@henshaws.org.uk or call 01423 814501.

Good luck!

The dinner held at The Majestic Hotel in Harrogate was very well attended with over a 100 property professionals dining and chief executive, Gary Verity of Welcome to Yorkshire as the guest speaker.

Mr Alcock said: “The event was a huge success and we are delighted that so many familiar faces could gather together to raise so much money for such a worthwhile cause.”

You can shop at some of your favourite shops online; such as House of Fraser, Debenhams, and Tesco by either shopping at the Give as you Live store or downloading Give as you Live and raise money when you shop on their website directly.

Just follow these three really easy steps and start donating to Henshaws without spending more!

1. Sign up to Give as you Live here and shop online at all your favourite stores.
2. When you make your purchase the stores send Give as you Live a commission on anything you buy, at no cost to you.
3. Once payment has processed Give as you Live then sends that commission to Henshaws – it couldn’t be easier!

Many people suffering from RP do not become completely blind until late on in life, however, Andrew is one of the unfortunate few who, now at 37, no longer has his sight. Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is one of the most common forms of inherited eye disease with approximately 25,000 people in the UK suffering from it, there is, however, currently no cure.

Andrew’s Journey
When Andrew first learnt of his condition he had just completed his University degree and his unbelievable strength and determination is the only reason he has made it to where he is today, he was told that he would eventually lose his sight but could not be told how long it would be so he decided to take every opportunity he could, “I wanted to do my Accountancy qualifications, so I did, I wanted to travel the world, so I did, I wanted to help others in my situation so I did, I didn’t think I was invincible, I just realised how much I had taken for granted previously”.

After Andrews’s last travelling expedition 2 years ago he returned with almost no sight. He had already given up his job working at Cotrills as Head of Finance, which was a tough decision to take, and had to start facing the fact that normal everyday tasks were going to be a struggle. “I always knew this day would come but i hadn’t really thought about it all that much up until this point”. Andrew had to look for help from others and, after speaking to several organisations and not getting the type of help he needed, his mum suggested Henshaws.

How Henshaws helped Andrew
Andrew enrolled himself on the Skillstep course, a 12 week programme teaching all basic skills from IT to cooking. Andrew then went on to do an advanced IT course and has just started to learn how to read Braille. “I have to admit that the advancements in technology do help immensely, I’m a techno junkie and I like to keep ahead of the game when it comes to innovative new gadgets”.

The achievements he has made from first being diagnosed 16 years ago right up until today are inspiring. He has never let his situation get him down and he owes a lot of this to the people and the support network offered at Henshaws. “The staff at Henshaws would bend over backwards for anyone in need of their help and the people you get to interact with on a daily basis help to make you come to terms with the way your life will change and even offer some helpful tips for day to day life. Without their strength and support i could not have managed to get through this extremely difficult period in my life”.

Get in touch
If you need advice and support to cope with sight loss, please get in touch with us on 016 872 1234/ 0151 708 7055/ 0191 2759417

Alasdair and Jennie had qualified for the final thanks to the hard work of all the Henshaws Bowling Teams on many Tuesday nights in York.  On a weekend of new friendships formed and much fun had (as well as some serious bowling skills put to the test!), Jennie and Alasdair finished an amazing 2nd in the whole of the UK. They collected a trophy each and received a rousing round of applause for having finished so high as newcomers to the competition.

Competitors quickly became friends and all the organisers were thanked for their hard work.  Roll on Crewe 2012!  A special thanks go to Julie Edwards of Henshaws for all her organisational work and enthusiasm and to Sharon Moncrieff of the NBTBA for making Jennie and Alasdair feel so welcome.

If anyone would like to contact the NBTBA directly please phone Norman Greenhalgh on 0151 639 6869 or visit their website on www.nbtba.org.uk

Philippa Taylor, Service Manager at Henshaws said “I have worked with Kurt since he took part in the Skillstep course, and we’re delighted that he’s going to be sharing his love of football with other VI children. We’re so proud that his passion and enthusiasm has enabled him to get funding for the team and hope that this will show other children with visual impairments that they too can get involved in the sport.”

Henshaws are now looking for children between the ages of 6 and 16 with a visual impairment to take part, and the first training session is on Wednesday January 11th from 5pm – 6pm at Benfield Sports Academy.

If you or someone you know want to be involved in the football team, please contact someone from the Newcastle office on 0191 275 9417 or email Newcastle@henshaws.org.uk

Kindly supported by:

David has supported Henshaws since the death of his mother, Constance Burt, in 1996. Constance was a staunch supporter of Henshaws for over 40 years and left a £1000 legacy for Henshaws in her Will. He wished to continue her good work and since her death has been a regular supporter of Henshaws himself, donating over £500 over the last 15 years and now, in her memory, has created the cast copper piece. The sculpture, which he has named ‘Helping Hands’ was created to reflect the spirit and values of Henshaws and features images of people who have used Henshaws services, is accessible and tactile and features the name of the piece in Braille at the bottom.

David says of his sculptures “Creating relief sculpture is a journey which sustains my spirit and gives me the feeling that I am leaving a creative expression of my feelings about a subject, which will be my thumbprint in a hundred years.”

The artwork, which he generously donated to Henshaws, is now on display in the Manchester resource centre for service users and staff to enjoy.

“We want to thank Mr Burt for creating such a unique sculpture for Henshaws. Both he and his mother have offered us great generosity over the years, of which we are immensely grateful.” Nick Marr, CEO of Henshaws

A marathon is a great goal to work towards, and of course a great way to raise money for Henshaws.

This is Manchester’s first marathon for over a decade and as Henshaws was chosen as one of the charity partners for the event, we’d love you to run for us!

The race will take place right on our doorstep in Trafford and will start and finish in Longford Park in Stretford (5 minutes away from our Manchester resource centre) You will be joining the 5000 runners expected to take part and will pass iconic landmarks such as Old Trafford football and cricket grounds and Dunham Massey Park over the 26 mile course.

There’s still plenty of time to start your training for the marathon – Coach Julie Fairclough has put together some fantastic training plans for everyone from beginners to experienced runners. Even if you have just a little experience in running, Julie is confident her training plans will help you to complete the marathon in a good time. http://www.greatermanchestermarathon.com/training/training-plans

We have a limited number of places available, but they’re going fast. If you want to take part in this landmark event and run for Henshaws, please book your place by contacting Hannah.saxon@henshaws.org.uk 01423 814501

Be part of this historic event and run for Henshaws!

 The group of ten visually impaired students who recently  completed their course, were delighted at the chance to go on an  adventure holiday.

 The motto of the Calvert Trust is ‘challenging disability through  outdoor adventure’ and they certainly did that, completing many  daring activities such as climbing and abseiling, high ropes course, zip wire, and canoeing , which they all loved!

“All the skillsteppers achieved something they never thought they would, and they all want to know when they can go again.” Philippa Taylor, Service Manager, North East

http://www.calvert-trust.org.uk/kielder/

The thought of losing your sight is terrifying, but learning that your child suffers from sight loss is indescribable. Our specialist Children and Families team help families to overcome the barriers that sight loss can cause. 

If you want to help, now is the time to do it, as this year for our Christmas appeal, we are teaming up with the Big Give to take part in their annual challenge. If you donate to us between 5^th and 9^th of December online The Big Give will

DOUBLE YOUR DONATION!  

If you can help us reach our target of £4,000 by donating during challenge week, the total will be doubled to £8,000 

This will allow us to provide 695 hours of specialist support and care to visually impaired children and parents, and without this support; many families would not know where to turn. 

If you donate £40 we will get £80

This will pay for a family with a VI child to join one of our day activities – which give families with visually impaired children the much needed support to enable them to do activities they wouldn’t ever think were possible 

If you donate £125 we will get £250

Which would pay for a volunteer to be recruited and trained to support our children and families team in the valuable work they do. 

The more you give the higher the final amount will be, so please consider making a donation to help families in need of support. Please visit our project page on the Big Give Website between the 5th and 10th of December to make your donation. 

Your money will help families like Kait’s recive the support they need

“I can’t thank Henshaws enough for what they’ve done for Oscar and our family. Oscar is a wonderful little boy, so full of life, interest and adventure. I know things aren’t always going to be easy for him but we’ve learnt how we can support him and I’m confident that he has a wonderful future ahead.”

Kait Hughes, whose son Oscar is blind.

Save the date!

Remember, your donation will only be doubled if you donate here between 5th and 9th of December – so add the date to your diary and the web address to your bookmarks or please email – fundraising@henshaws.org.uk if you would like to recieve a reminder email on challenge week.

Thank you for your support.

 The students, two of whom are sight impaired, and their  teachers spent the day at the Malham National Park Centre  outlining what they would need to help them and others like  them to enjoy, explore and experience the area more easily.

And they had a chance to try out a range of interpretation equipment being developed including Braille labels and Pen Friends – audio tools that allow people with a visual impairment to independently listen to the interpretation around them in the National Park Centre.

Meghann Hull, the YDNPA’s Access Development Officer, said: “The Authority has made a lot of progress over the years improving the Rights of Way network in the National Park for people with limited mobility.

“The one thing we haven’t done much of, though, is reaching out to people with sensory impairments and providing them with opportunities to enjoy and experience the special qualities of the National Park.”

She and three colleagues have been working on a new project called Sense the Dales that is using Malham as a pilot location.

“If it is successful, we hope to establish it in other areas of the National Park and hopefully at our other National Park Centres,” Meghann said.

The students tested a new sensory audio trail that took them through the village and along the Pennine Way to Malham Cove – one of the most popular and accessible routes in the National Park.

The project aims to develop the trail and possibly to install some small interpretive plaques along the route that have raised images carved into them, representing various features of the surrounding landscape.

Taking place at the beautiful Manchester Cathedral on  Wednesday 14th December from 7:30pm, we are inviting you all  to join us in what promises an evening of magical performances,  mulled wine and mince pies.

In addition to traditional Christmas Carols, there will be performances from Chethams School of Music, Manchester University’s – The Cosmo Singers, Loreto Preparatory School, Soloist Jess Bennett and inspirational words from our service users and special guests to name a few.

Tickets are now available to buy for this year’s event and are priced at £10 for adults and £7 for concessions and OAPs. To book please call 0161 872 1234 or email fundraising@henshaws.org.uk

We look forward to seeing you there!

 The cake was cut by Julie Edwards, longest serving member of  staff in Yorkshire, Debbie Gill, longest serving member of staff at  Henshaws College and Luke Demaine, our youngest student  currently at college.

Ex-staff and students from the college were also invited to the party and asked to share their memories of times gone by. A special exhibition to mark the occasion had been set up at the college and will be added to throughout the academic year.

College Prinicpal, Gill Jennison, commented: “It was a wonderful occasion, full of happy memories. I was delighted to be able to welcome back so many ex-students and members of staff.”

Henshaw’s Blind Asylum was established in Manchester  in 1837 but in 1966 Harrogate was selected as the site for the new Henshaws School. The new school was opened in November 1971 by the Duchess of Kent.

In 1985 Henshaws School changed from a secondary school to a college, specialising in visual impairment and offering specialist further education to students with disabilities and learning difficulties aged between 16 and 25.

Other royal visitors to Henshaws College include Princess Dianna in 1989 and Princess Anne in 1992. 

The sessions last for 2.5 hours.  And as well as taking place at the Manchester and Merseyside Henshaws resource centre, take place in the following community venues;

Merseyside:

• Bootle Library, Stanley Road, Bootle, on Monday morning
• Birkdale Library, Liverpool Road, Birkdale on Wednesday morning and afternoon
• Knowsley (Bradbury Centre until New Year) Yuens Way on Thursday afternoon
• Ashville Lodge, Ashville Road, Birkenhead  on Thursday morning
• St Helens Millennium Centre, Corporation Street, St Helens,  on Tuesday morning and afternoon and Thursday morning and afternoon

Greater Manchester:

• Oldham Link Centre, Union Street, Oldham  On Wednesday morning and afternoon
• The Action for Blind people Centre, Albert Street, Eccles on Friday morning
• The Walkden Link, Smith Street, Walkden  Centre on Friday afternoon
• The Methodist Centre in Oldham Street Manchester City Centre on Thursday morning and afternoon
• Atherton House, Talbot Road, Old Trafford on Tuesday morning and afternoon and Friday afternoon

Bill Milner, Merseyside Area Manager, says the courses are great for people who are visually impaired, even those who have never used a computer before. “Being able to use a computer and surf the web is just as important for blind and partially sighted people as it is for anyone else. Whether it’s to look for a job, shop online or keep in touch with friends by email, these sessions will give people all the skills they need to use their computer with confidence.”

Anyone interested in booking a place or finding out more, can do so by phoning Neil Kynaston, Henshaws I.T. Training Manager on 0151 708 7055.

 The campaign which is a year-long event,
 encourages staff, community organisations and schools to don  their brightest clothes to raise money for Henshaws.  

Many businesses across Manchester and Yorkshire arranged events to coincide with World Sight Day on 13^th October, and defied the weary autumn weather by dressing in their brightest clothes.

Specsavers in Sale lit up their branch with vibrant wigs and fluorescent tutus whilst Manchester insurance company CBG donned pink feather boas and balloons. Julia Hamer from Specsavers said: “The best thing about this event is not only are you raising money for a good cause, it is so easy and simple. We found the more creative you are with your outfits the more staff and customers alike can’t help but donate!”

Money has been flooding in and these donations have already made a huge difference so we can continue their work to provide advice, services and support for visually impaired people.  CBG representative Vania Burnell said: “It is great to be involved with something so simple and fun, and for such a good cause as well. It not only raises money but it’s great for team spirit, everyone felt more positive and cheerful. We will definitely be doing it again!”

In Yorkshire alone we have raised over £1019.75 with huge donations from Hunters Estate Agents, Hookstone Chase Primary School and the Christ Church Youth Group.

Faye Wilson, Fundraiser at Henshaws, said: “Wear Bright for Sight is a fun way for everyone to get involved in supporting the work we do at Henshaws, and the campaign is a vital element of our fundraising drive.  The great thing about Wear Bright for Sight is that it is really easy to get involved and, of course, you can hold events at any time of year – not just October. You can fundraise in almost any way imaginable too, such as chest waxes, baby photo competitions or a cake bake.”

If you, your colleagues, friends and family would like to wear bright for sight then contact the fundraising office at Henshaws 0161 872 1234 fundraising@henshaws.org.uk or visit our get involved page.

 Jon Cove, a former student at Henshaws College, now lives in  one of our Harrogate based community houses and works at our  Arts & Crafts Centre four days a week, where he creates large  scale pieces using a combination of papier-mâché and  cardboard techniques.

Now, following the help and generous support of District Councillor Anne Jones, Jon will be able to continue his work at home.

Councillor Jones worked with staff at Henshaws to lead a project which saw the internal adaptation of the garage at Jon’s community house into a custom made studio. As well as making a generous personal donation to help fund the project, Cllr Jones also secured the support of LaRock Electrical who installed a wireless fire alarm system. A donation from Altro Flooring provided a suitable floor covering for the new studio.

Said Cllr Jones: “As the wife to a former Principal of Henshaws I have known Jon for over 20 years, he was one of the first deaf-blind students to come to the College. His disabilities make the intricacy and colour of his work even more remarkable and demonstrate the power of the work at Henshaws, which provides service users with skills and nurtures their creative talents. I am delighted that I have been able to help Jon sustain his raison d'être and his passion for his artwork. There is considerable goodwill for this very worthy charity throughout the District.”

 Andy, who is registered blind and has slight learning difficulties,  first came to “Henshaws School for the Blind” in September  1986 when he was 12 years old. When he left college, Andy  moved into Henshaws community housing and began attending  our Arts & Crafts Centre 4 days a week. At the centre he works in our music and textile production units, takes part in our Workout Wednesday fitness sessions and uses our multi-sensory room.

Andy is a keen cyclist. He owns a tandem and has taken part in marathons with the support of Henshaws staff. He also enjoys crime dramas!

A celebratory tea party, with friends and family, was held for Andy at the Arts & Crafts Centre in September.

As part of the research phase, we are having a consultation session at Henshaws in Manchester at Atherton House (5 mins from Old Trafford Metro station) next Wed 26th October from 10-2:30pm (lunch provided!) Please come along and share with us stories about Henshaws and visual impairment, your connections/experiences and what you would like to see in the exhibition. Even if you have never heard of us but like the sound of the exhibition, we’d love your input!

If you're interested then give Tori a call on 0161 786 3661 or email tori.moore@henshaws.org.uk

Henshaws staff, skillstep students and volunteers, shoppers and even a Storm Trooper pitched in with the cycling on the day and so far they’ve raised £874 which is the same as the amount of miles cycled! But the pledges keep coming in, so we’ll keep you updated with the final total. A massive well done guys!

Philippa Taylor Henshaws Service Manager said “The day was loads of fun, everyone pitched in to help including shoppers and it’s fantastic that we were able to raise so much money and awareness for Henshaws”

If you want to make a donation, please get in touch with our Newcastle Team on 0191 2759417 or email newcastle@henshaws.org.uk

The doe wool cloth, which is used to make the regiment’s scarlet tunics, was donated by the Yorkshire Mill Hainsworths. Art makers at the centre will use the cloth to make regal-themed products and art maker Jenna Foster, who specialises in royal-themed art & crafts, will use the fabric to make Prince William cards and collages.

The donation was organised by Leeds Fashion Works and Leeds, York and North Yorkshire Chamber as part of National Wool Week, a week long-celebration of wool in the UK. The centre was also visited by the sheep that provide Hainsworth’s with the wool used to make the cloth!

Adam Hainsworth, commercial director of Hainsworth Mill said: “The doe wool cloth is one of the country’s most iconic and instantly recognisable fabrics and visitors to the centre will now be able to buy their own piece of royal history. It will be fantastic to see what Jenna and the other art makers make with the fabric”.

The company has asked York-born Simon Haw to create a series of bespoke artworks to adorn the walls of one of its newest properties in Leeds. The prestigious development in the city centre will also exhibit Simon’s current collection of works.

Born in 1965, Simon was a tennis ace in his youth but aged 18 and not long after he began studying art, he suffered a severe head injury and damaged his sight in a road accident.

It left him with an eye condition called Myopia, which makes it easier for him to see objects that are near to him than objects in the distance and means he is registered as sight impaired.

Jason Stowe, managing director of Wilton Developments, said: “I was blown away by the quality of Simon’s artwork and inspired by how he has remained unperturbed from persevering with his life’s passion despite the difficulties he has faced.”

Simon’s paintings are awash with wonderful colour and graphic textures radiating from the central theme or focus. His distinctive meandering patterns often go beyond the picture plane and run over the edge of the canvas.

He makes direct links to his hometown of York, drawing from the castellation of the Bar Walls, and the image of a tennis player or of tennis balls appear in many of his works, harking back to his former hobby. Many works contain his name, not as signature, but as a bold statement proclaiming that, “This is me and I am here!”

 

 The Halloween Walk, which also featured grisly games and  spooky fairy tales performed by Harrogate Youth Theatre, raised  nearly £1600.

 Hannah Saxon, community and events fundraiser at Henshaws,  said: “Our Halloween Walk is a great opportunity for local children – and their parents – to get dressed up and show their support for Henshaws. Everyone enjoyed themselves despite the bad weather! It was fantastic that Harrogate Youth Theatre joined us for another year, they put on a fantastic show and we’d like to thank them for their support.”

This event was sponsored by: 

Best care worker, Ruth Bates, for her dedication to our residents at Yew Tree Lane since it opened, Best newcomer, Patrick Dixon – who changed careers to come to us and has developed some real innovative therapeutic ideas, and Best Team Overall, in particular for pulling together during the serious illness of a resident and working as a team to do their best for the people in their care.

Kerry also nominated the mother of one of our residents Jean Ashworth, as best unpaid carer and Jean also won a finalist award. Jean has worked tirelessly for many years to get the best for her daughter and has not been afraid to take on officialdom when she’s needed to.

Well done to Kerry and to the team.  The awards are well deserved and it’s fantastic that Yew Tree Lane have done so well at this national event.

 Kalpna has dedicated her life to community and voluntary work. She set-up Harmony in 1996 after being inspired by her daughter, Leena; who suffered a breakdown caused by girls bullying her at school. Harmony breaks down social and cultural barriers through the medium of music and dance.

Kalpna's workshop with our parent and toddler group included music with Jembe drums and a Sitar along with traditional dance. Children and Families Team Leader, Fiona Berry says “We are so pleased that Kalpna chose to mark her impressive 15 year milestone with our Parent and Toddler Group. The children really enjoyed playing all the different instruments she brought with her. On behalf of Henshaws we want to thank Kalpna and Harmony for supporting the work we do and wish them a Happy 15th Birthday!”

10th September 2011 – 28th October 2011.

A wonderful group exhibition of new watercolour work by Art Makers. Using colour directly applied with the brush, these works explore a joyous range of themes and textures.

All works are for sale.

Open Monday – Friday, 10am – 4pm.

Mine’s a Pint: another round at the Great Ouseburn Beer Festival

Following last year’s success, real ale enthusiasts will be able to get another round in at the second Great Ouseburn Beer Festival and sample the festival’s exclusive bitter – all in aid of Henshaws Society for Blind People and other local charities.

The festival, which will take place at the village hall on Lightmire Lane on Saturday 1st October, will showcase 30 ales, Yorkshire beers and various bottled lagers. A traditional beer has even been specially created to mark the occasion.

The bitter, called ‘Great Ouseburn Bitter’ was created for the event by Rudgate Brewery. It is described as a mid coloured premium bitter bursting with malt and hop aromas.

In addition to the many beers on offer, drinkers can enjoy refreshments including local Voakes pies and will be entertained throughout the day by The Hot Spots, Henshaws Arts & Crafts Centre’s in-house band, as well as other local music acts.

Stuart Dale, chairman of the festival committee, said: “The festival celebrates the increasing popularity of real ale and gives fans the chance to taste a range of quality beers from around the region just like last year. It will be a fantastic day packed full of delicious things to drink and eat, alongside excellent entertainment – it’s a great opportunity to eat, drink and be merry, all for a worthwhile cause!

“A big thanks must go to our generous sponsors and all the volunteers, without whom we would not have been able to stage such an event.”

The festival, which will run between 12 noon and 10.00pm, is being held to raise funds for Henshaws , in addition to local village organisations. 

Entry to the festival is £5 and includes a festival glass and programme.

Henshaws popular Halloween Walk is back for a fourth year and witches, ghosts and vampires will be descending once more on Harrogate’s Valley Gardens.

The event is on Saturday 29th October with walks available between 5.45pm and 8.30pm. Families will be led around the gardens, stopping along the way to watch Harrogate Youth Theatre perform fairy tales with shocks and surprises, written by the theatre, for children, especially for this event. Look out for Hansel and Gretal, Little Red Riding Hood and lots of other favourite fairy tale characters!

There will also be Halloween-themed games, and hot food and drinks will be available. Fancy dress is a must!

This is a fun and safe event suitable for all the family. Proceeds will go towards Henshaws – your local charity providing expert care, advice and training to anyone affected by sight loss and disability.

Call now to book your places!

This is a fun and safe event suitable for all the family. Places are limited and this event has sold out every year so early booking is advised. Admission is just £4 per person with all proceeds going to Henshaws.

Call our Fundraising Team on 01423 814501 or email fundraising@henshaws.org.uk to book your place.

For more event information click here

This event is sponsored by Mills & Reeve

 Ben only lost his sight a year ago when his Glaucoma became  unstable and inoperable.  As a result Ben had to relearn all his  subjects using Braille techniques in just 12 months. But he  achieved an incredible score of A*, 4 A’s, 3 B’s, 3 C’s & 3 other certficates at NVQ Level 2 passes. Ben said “I am extremely pleased that I have managed to pass. I have eye conditions Aniridia and Glaucoma that I was born with and my sight began to deteriorate when I was 12. It has been extremely hard to study as I had to relearn everything not only schoolwork but also daily living tasks. This put extra pressure on me in my studies.”

Whilst awaiting his results this summer Ben trained with his first Guide Dog Len , and is now ready to go onto college independently. When asked if he was proud of his results he replied “ I am proud of my results but mostly proud of passing partnership with my dog Len. It has been a great summer.”

Ben who attended mainstream school – St Edmunds Arrowsmith High. Is now enrolling at the Royal National College for the Blind in Hereford to study A level Media, ICT, Btec National Diploma in Radio Production alongside Braille Technology.

Joe who is also registered blind and suffers from the same conditions also suffers from severe Eczema /Cellulitis. Despite being in and out of hospital due to his conditions he achieved  an A*, A, 5B’s, 3C’s, and 3D’s. 

Joe is going on to the local college to study Travel & Tourism. He said “ I am really pleased with my results especially gaining a B in Maths. I found it hard work but I just pushed myself. I am going to a different college to Ben and it will be hard not being with my brother, but we are going on to do different things. Whilst awaiting my results during the summer I have been on the National Challenge Scheme (3 week course), a PGL scheme and attended the Children & Family Services at Henshaws, so it has been a good summer for me too.”

Proud Mum Wyn, who is also a regular attender of the Children & Family service and a member of Henshaws VIPAR (Visually Impaired Parents And Relatives) group and has done much volunteering for Henshaws over the years. “I am so proud of them as they have both had disruptive learning due to medical reasons. So even if they had gained all C’s I would have been pleased. But for Ben to have produced A’s when he had to relearn everything in Braille as well as cope with the emotional trauma of losing his sight ie exceptional. Their hard work and determination paid off; they are amazing.”

Henshaws would like to pass on their congratulations and wish them further success in their futures.

Tuesday 20th September 2011

Registration from 11:30am

12 noon start, followed by a buffet lunch.

The meeting will take place at our Manchester Office:

88-92 Talbot Road, Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0GS

Please let us know if you're planning to attend by:

Email: cristina.oreilly@henshaws.org.uk

Phone: 0161 872 1234

 We are looking for volunteers to take part in this fantastic event  with just a small registration fee of £20 and raising the  suggested sponsorship of £100.

No previous experience is required and with a bit of training the 5km or 10km distance should easily be within your capabilities. The spirit of the event is 'taking part' not 'winning' so you can run, jog, walk or hop -you decide!

With only 20 places available you should book early to avoid disappointment! Call our lovely Community Fundraiser Hannah Saxon for more details and how to register:- 01423 814501 or hannah.saxon@henshaws.org.uk

We now have 50 places available for just £41 entry fee and a minimum sponsorship of £500. If you would like to run with Team Henshaws and be part of the return of the Manchester Marathon, please contact Hannah Saxon for details, hannah.saxon@henshaws.org.uk or on 01423 814 501.

The race will take place in Trafford on 29th April  2012 and will start and finish in Longford Park in Stretford. The five thousand runners expected to take part will pass iconic landmarks such as the Old Trafford football and cricket grounds and Dunham Massey Park over the 26mile course.