Community Services
Independence and friendship are at the heart of everything we do.
We work with people of all ages, both children and adults, living with sight loss and a range of other disabilities. We aim to empower them to take steps to change their lives for the better.
How can we help?
Through our Pathway to Independence programme, we tailor-make a bespoke package of support, activities and training which meet the needs of each person.
Our centres across Greater Manchester and Liverpool offer a range of services to provide visually impaired people with an improved quality of life, and our digital and phone services mean we can even support you from your home.
Our support covers all ages; from children and young people to adults (please note that in Liverpool we only support children and young people, whereas we support all ages across Greater Manchester).
In Manchester
Our community hubs are spread across Greater Manchester, where we offer groups and courses, counselling, Children and Young People’s services, advice and information, and hospital support.
In Liverpool
Our Children and Young People’s team are based at St.Vincent’s School in Liverpool, a specialist school for sensory impairments. We offer information, advice and guidance to families, activities, days out, and independence courses.
Knowledge Village
Our online resources including eBooks, videos and our blog provide free tips and information on living with sight loss, so you can access our help and advice no matter where you are.
First Step
Our First Step team are available for support on 0300 222 5555 for any information, advice and guidance you may need, and can support you in taking your next step.
Advice and information
Our First Step team can provide you with information, advice and guidance, as well as emotional and practical support, to help you overcome everyday challenges and take your next step. Get in touch on 0300 222 5555.
We also offer a Patient Support Service at Manchester Royal Eye Hospital and Altrincham Hospital for any age, providing someone to talk to in confidence, medical information explained in a clear way, and advice and equipment. Contact 0161 276 5515 or drop in to either hospital.
Independence matters groups
We have a number of groups to empower you to live an independent life, including learning braille, IT skills, and our Living with Sight Loss courses.
Friendship matters groups
Our social and support groups are the perfect opportunity to meet new people and get involved with activities including luncheon clubs, exercise classes and creative art groups.
Digital enablement team
Henshaws digital enablement team are here to find the solution that works for you, no matter what your sight level, age, or technical ability is. Our team in Greater Manchester provide assessments, training, groups and online resources on a number of digital products including JAWS, OrCam, Apple and Synapptic.
Get in touch to book a session with our digital enablement team by emailing info@henshaws.org.uk or ring 0300 222 5555.
Children and Young People's services
Our Children and Young People’s team specialise in working with children and parents with sight loss, often with complex needs and additional disabilities. We can support you in many ways including:
- Parent and Toddler groups
- Providing you with a network of other organisations for full support of you and your family
- Events and days out
- ‘I Can Do It‘ course for children and young people aged 8-12 and 13-18.
Get in touch with our team for more information on 0300 222 5555.
Keep up to date with all the events, news and stories from across our community hubs in a free quarterly newsletter
Download our newsletter 'Hello'"Before Henshaws I felt like I was stumbling around in the dark with nowhere to turn, but now I have a new-found confidence and a real zest for life!"
Peter, Manchester
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