North East Sight Matters

07/12/2023

As we celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), we are launching the newest version of Seeing AI, powered by the latest advances in AI at Microsoft, and sharing that it is now available for the first time on Android devices via the Google Play Store. With today’s Android...

07/12/2023

Our families are in for a treat tonight. ❤️

06/12/2023

Here are some more images of our twinkly night in Newcastle. Northern Lights Newcastle

06/12/2023

We are very grateful to The Chronicle Sunshine Fund for supporting our children and young people. Read about our latest news here....

The charity aims to enhance the lives of babies, children and young adults living with disabilities and terminal illnesses

04/12/2023

Sign up to easyfundraising today to turn your online Christmas shopping into free donations for North East Sight Matters. Plus, this month you can WIN £100 every day in the Advent Calendar prize draw. Join today:

Help us when you shop with 7,000+ brands. Join now.

03/12/2023

Our little tree in the snow. Standing strong 🙏

01/12/2023

This Christmas I'm raising FREE donations for North East Sight Matters when I shop using easyfundraising! Sign up today and they'll turn your online shopping into donations for them. There are over 8,000 brands to choose from including John Lewis, M&S, Tesco, Dunelm and more! Plus, in December they can WIN £100 every day in the Advent Calendar prize draw. Join today:

Help us when you shop with 7,000+ brands. Join now.

01/12/2023

30/11/2023

When you have a chance, please fill in the Hair & Care survey
here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PLJ7NZY

Your answers will be much appreciated and help to improve inclusivity in the hair and beauty industry!

Hair & Care are committed to empowering and enhancing the lives of blind and partially sighted community through their hair care and styling activity sessions. They create a nurturing and inclusive space where women and girls can explore the fundamental aspects of self-care and hair styling, understanding product use, tools including brushes, combs, accessories and heated tools.

28/11/2023

Did you know we offer other services in addition to our amazing activities and events?

We believe in the power of community and the importance of working together to achieve our goals. At North East Sight Matters, we empower individuals and communities to create lasting change. Explore our website to learn more about our mission and how you can get involved.

28/11/2023

For ALL our wonderful children and young people.......

24/11/2023

Our children, young people and their families had a very illuminating evening at Leazes Park, Newcastle. We certainly started to get into the Christmas spirit with a fabulous 1 mile walk through the first Christmas Light Trail at the park. With so many wonderful displays, music, rides and food village, we managed to forget about the chilly air.

A couple of lovely quotes from children were

“This night has made my heart happy” and “It’s my new happy place”.

I think we can safely say, it was a big, bright and beautiful success 💕⭐️ 🌈 💕

22/11/2023

And we’ll be there!!

22/11/2023

Thank you to our very kind supporter who has given us a very generous donation. This person wishes to remain anonymous.

21/11/2023

20/11/2023

We are planning some amazing events, don’t forget to keep checking our website for details! We are adding things all the time 😊

Below are our upcoming activities, events, and skills workshops. Once registered, you can use our online booking system to reserve a place on any of the events below. Alternatively, you can book and ask any questions regarding our events by contacting us. You will then receive a text or e-mail to co...

16/11/2023

Penny went to meet to Zoe, Co-op Community Champion and Michael, Store Manager - Wideopen today to thank them and also to all you wonderful supporters for an incredible amount of money raised over the past year £3,561.11 👏 👏 . Co-op

16/11/2023

16/11/2023

Two of our directors are Vision Rehabilitation Specialists, they also work across the North East with adults with sight impairments. Here is some useful information from RNIB explaining the rights and services people may be entitled to.

If you're affected by sight loss, we're here for you

15/11/2023

Our free online Expectations Exceeded Workshop is back by popular demand on Tuesday, 12th December 2023, from 5-6 pm.

This is an opportunity to gain insight into the education and employment journey of blind and visually impaired young professionals. This is a chance to hear their views and ask any questions about their education, finding work, technology, and more!

Everyone is welcome, we hope you join us!

Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/e/SJ0Ew92FfA

Location: Online

Date: Tuesday 12th December 2023

Time: 5-6pm

Contact: If you have any questions, please call 020 758 81885 or email: [email protected]

15/11/2023

Another opportunity. We have already had one success and work alongside TPT from time to time.

We're hiring!

Thomas Pocklington Trust (TPT) is proud to launch its new apprenticeship scheme for blind and partially sighted people, providing an opportunity to simultaneously work, train and gain a qualification.

Sight Loss Councils have an exciting opportunity for a Communications Apprentice to join our team, whilst TPT is looking for a Data Systems Coordinator.

Closing date: Sunday, 26 November 2023.

Full details can be found via the link: https://bit.ly/47bR1Sk

Image description: Two women sitting across from each other during an interview. They are sat at a round table in a window. They are talking, smiling at each other.

15/11/2023

Its beginning to look a lot like Christmas. We are looking forward to our visit next week ⭐️

NORTHERN LIGHTS CHRISTMAS TRAIL LAUNCHES IN NEWCASTLE THIS WINTER Northern Lights is a BRAND NEW light trail set in the heart of the city at Leazes Park. With immersive visuals and jaw-dropping illuminations, this after-dark experience will light up Newcastle like never before. Be inspired by origin...

14/11/2023

Even though these SLC’s are for adults it’s important for our young people to be aware of their existence. I work closely with Jack the North East Engagement Manager. We highlight and tackle issues that affect sight impaired people.

Northumberland Sight Loss Council (SLC) has celebrated its second birthday and its work to create change for blind and partially sighted people across the region.

Are you passionate about making a difference? Do you want to influence positive change? Northumberland SLC is looking for new members to join them.

Matty Bolam recently joined Northumberland SLC. He said:

“I just want to help people who are blind or partially sighted to be treated as equals. Being an SLC volunteer gives me a sense of pride. I am trying to help make a difference.

“I would encourage others to join our Sight Loss Council to help make a difference for others in the local community."

Read the full story via the link: https://bit.ly/3QXYmzB



Image description: Darren Cook, SLC member, Jack Moffat, Engagement Manager for North East England, and Alison, Northumberland Vision volunteer.

13/11/2023

This popped up on Facebook! Funny how things do when you’ve mentioned them 🤫

13/11/2023

Our regular parent/carer meeting had a brand new visitor today. We welcomed ‘Bonnie’ who is officially the youngest member of NESM 👶

11/11/2023

Remember ❤️

09/11/2023

We need your help! Please vote tonight - this closes TOMORROW!!

We could receive £5,000 in the Movement for Good draw.

08/11/2023

We had a wonderful time there. Another session for families with children who need something a little quieter. 💕

Lilidorei Quiet Session 🎄

📆Tuesday 14th November, 5pm-7pm

This dedicated session is for families with children living with additional sensory needs. This specially allocated time allows more freedom, and an even more enjoyable experience of Lilidorei, away from the crowds 💫

During this time, the volume on the speakers will be lowered throughout the village, there will be reduced capacity and our team of Secret Keepers will not approach any visitors without being prompted by the guardians.

Please note that after 7pm the volume will be returned to its usual volume.

Tickets for this can be purchased here https://accessvam.accessacloud.com/AlnwickGardenBookings/BookTickets.aspx?eid=0156 💫

📸Ben Hines

06/11/2023

The next application deadline for our Amber Music Services is the 30th of November.

Our Music Services are open to all blind and partially sighted children and young people in the UK up to the age of 18, who may also have other disabilities or special educational needs:

Little Amber – for babies and children until the age of 5, including those with additional disabilities

AmberPlus – for children and young people aged 5 – 18 with additional complex needs.

Amber Music Awards – for children and young people until the age of 18, who may also have other disabilities. (New applications must be made before the young person's 18th birthday. For current Music Award recipients, Amber will consider reapplications if the young person is already 18 years of age, supporting them until their 19th birthday.)

If you are reapplying for an award, your child’s music teacher must also complete Amber’s online music report by the deadline.

Visit the relevant Music Services page on our website to apply:
ambertrust.org

Image description:
[‘Application Deadline – The next application deadline for our Music Services is 30th November: Little Amber, AmberPlus, Amber Music Awards.' Photos of a violin and a drum with drumsticks on top surround the text.]

06/11/2023

This is a great opportunity to have a go at Cricket.

02/11/2023

Despite the ghastly weather we had a great time with our friend DJ Gav Higham Discos, 'The Childrens Entertainers'
Lots of games, great music, fabulous costumes, Halloween crafts and spooky sweeties.
There is only one person who would turn up in a coffin!! The winner of the fancy dress our fabulous Teddy 🤣🤣🤣

02/11/2023

Getting ready with DJ Gav for our Halloween Disco 👻 🎃

02/11/2023

Something to watch on Netflix tonight!

Last night was the premiere of "All The Light We Cannot See," a touching Netflix original set to release this Thursday 2nd Nov. Sharing my excitement on my stories, I was overwhelmed by the messages of support and appreciation for Netflix's commitment to inclusivity. ✨

Netflix really does shine in its dedication to accessible events, working closely with various communities to ensure that no one is left behind. This screening was beautifully audio described, and what's even more awesome is that the lady behind the audio description is also blind. They also cast talented blind actors, debunking the trend of able-bodied actors in disabled roles.

It's about time we celebrate the incredible talent within the disabled community, and Netflix is leading the way in embracing inclusivity. Huge thanks to my incredible friends at the RNIB for their hard work and to both and for extending this invitation.

Photo Description: Claire stands on the vibrant red carpet against a backdrop of deep black, adorned with the words "ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE" on the left and a Braille version on the right. She wears striking bright red wide-legged trousers paired with shiny black boots. Her attire includes a black wrap blouse adorned with feathers on the cuffs. She confidently poses, holding her white cane, "Rick the Stick."

02/11/2023

Cobolt are taking pre orders for this now.

02/11/2023

Elf Academy

01/11/2023

At NESM we consider that just because young people have a sight impairment doesn’t mean they can’t be given some basic first aid and life saving skills. Today some of our young people have learned about infection control, the circulatory system, and feeling for pulse points. The trainer Mary adapted the training and used sound and tactile elements to distinguish breathing and the heartbeat. They all practiced chest compressions and were instructed to use a defibrillator. They even tried the Heimlich manoeuvre.
All the young people said they had enjoyed the practical hands on side and felt more confident about what to do and how to help in a potential emergency situations. Thank you to N-Lighten - North East Limited

31/10/2023

Today we had a very unique experience. A sound bath. Lisa our therapist guided the hour long session using various instruments and singing bowls. Working on energy and chakras everyone was able to relax. To maintain dignity we didn’t photograph people as a few were so chilled out they had a little nap!💙💗💜💛💚

30/10/2023

There were no tricks today but some rather nice treats at our kitchen skills class.
Our young people made some spooktacular halloween cup cakes.
Using talking scales to measure ingredients, learning how to crack an egg (yes there is a technique) and dycem mats to hold mixing bowls steady. They learned oven management and tried out the air fryer as an alternative. And even doing washing up is all part of our independent skills development. Making hot drinks was easy with the ‘hot cup’ as an alternative to using a liquid level indicator.
New friendships have also begun.
RSBC