£50.00
could fund a kayaking trip for two blind & visually impaired children, enabling them to enjoy a new and exciting adventure
The Greater Manchester Vision Appeal
Standing with blind and visually impaired people across our communities. Right now, more people than ever are facing life with sight loss across Greater Manchester. Over 3,600 blind and visually impaired people in Manchester need support, and that number is growing.
Every single day, 250 people across the UK begin to lose their sight. For many, it’s not just their vision that changes. It’s their independence and their connection to the world around them. No one should have to face that alone.
Nicolette’s story
Nicolette had been managing her eye condition, keratoconus, with lenses. But when her left cornea collapsed, leaving permanent scarring, everything changed. After a cornea transplant, she realised she could no longer rely on correction alone and needed support to adjust to life with reduced vision.
When Nicolette connected with Henshaws through Gail, one of our Patient Support Officers, she was feeling vulnerable and unsure what came next. Our team listened and helped her access support, including digital skills training, counselling and our Living Well With Sight Loss course.
At first, Nicolette had been isolating herself and avoiding conversations about her sight loss. Through the course and peer support, she began to open up, rebuilding her confidence and learning new ways to adapt. She started using technology in ways that worked for her, while counselling helped her process the emotional impact.
Since then, she has travelled abroad independently, delivered a large conference at work, and taken up new hobbies including joining a choir and salsa classes.
“I can laugh at myself more. I’m re-learning about myself and finding a love for adventure again.”
Nicolette now feels more confident, adaptable and open to new experiences, showing how the right support can help someone rediscover their independence.
Transform a child’s life
Through practical skills, peer support and a strong sense of community, we help children with sight loss build confidence, independence and thrive.
Hear from Alfie and his family about the difference early support can make.
Why your support matters
Demand for sight loss support is rising across Greater Manchester, with more people like Nicolette and Alfie turning to us for the specialist advice and guidance that helps them stay independent. Many individuals reach us at turning points in their lives; after a diagnosis, during a period of isolation or while trying to regain control of day‑to‑day tasks.
What your gift can do
Your donation today will help someone in Greater Manchester feel supported, informed and in control.
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£100.00
could provide digital skills training for an individual to build their independence
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£500.00
could fund an enablement officer to deliver personal action plans to over 10 individuals helping people to achieve their goals with tailored information, advice & guidance
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£1,000.00
would fund the cost of one person attending a full course of counselling and getting the mental health support they need.
Make a difference today
Your donation to the Greater Manchester Vision Appeal ensures that blind and visually impaired people have someone to turn to, not just in the moment, but for as long as they need.
