Sensory loss charity opens new hub in Perth

PERTH and Kinross’s only sight and hearing loss charity has officially opened its new hub, meaning it can offer more support to people in the area.

VisionPK’s new Sensory Hub in George Street, Perth, offers a new space for people with sight and/or hearing loss, their friends and families, and professionals who need the charity’s specialist advice and insights on sensory loss.

It includes a new digital and technology area, where people can try out a wide range of equipment to help them live independently.

These include smartphones, computers, hearing equipment and magnifiers. There is also a specialist training area for people to use computers and technology to access employment.
The hub also has a new training kitchen for people with sensory loss to practice cookery with a range of aids, and a social area for coffee and chats.

The hub has meeting rooms with specialist lighting and hearing loop facilities for groups and activities, and will also be available to rent out to organisations in the community.

There is also a large event space for up to 80 people with conference equipment and catering available.

The hub was opened by Perth and Kinross Provost, Xander McDade, at a celebration event recently, featuring a piper and refreshments.

More than 70 people came along to celebrate the landmark new facilities, enjoy a tour and find out more about the support on offer.

VisionPK is the only sight and hearing loss charity in Perth and Kinross and supports around 3,500 people every year.

It provides specialist services to allow people with sight and/or hearing loss to retain their independence and live, work, contribute to and participate in their local communities.

These include specialist rehabilitation services, equipment assessments, sight and hearing drop-in services, orientation and mobility training, low vision assessments, emotional support, and health and wellbeing activities such as swimming and music.

It also offers social and group activities in Perth and rural communities including Bridge of Earn, Comrie, Blairgowrie and Kinross, so people can socialise, pursue their interests and have fun.

VisionPK also provides statutory services on behalf of Perth and Kinross Council and holds and maintains the register for people who have been certified as having sight impairment or are severely sight impaired.

Established in 1866 as Perth and Kinross Society for the Blind to help blind people to read, the charity has evolved and adapted to meet the changing needs and aspirations of visually impaired people.

In 2016, it widened its services to include anyone with sight or hearing loss and changed its name to VisionPK.

Carol Dodd, who has a visual impairment and is supported by VisionPK, said:
“The sensory hub will make such a difference for people with sight and hearing loss. It is a great space and I am looking forward to coming along to groups and activities.”

Katherine, who is 42 and from Erroll, is also supported by VisionPK for her visual impairment. She said:
“I felt it was a warm and bright spacious building with a warm welcome, the kitchen equipment was helpful for me to see.”

Kate Charles, chief executive of VisionPK, said:

“We are all truly delighted to officially open the doors of our new hub in Perth. It means we can do more for the people we work for across Perth and Kinross, helping people with sight and/or hearing loss live their lives to the fullest, grow independent, and reduce isolation and loneliness.

“Our aim is to support the empowerment of people with a sensory impairment to take a full and fulfilling role in society and to help them achieve the personal outcomes they aspire to.

“Our new hub, with its dedicated training facilities and the latest technology, is a vital step in our overall mission to ensure everyone experiencing sight and/or hearing loss is able to live the life that they choose.

“Our work relies on volunteers and supporters, and we are hugely grateful to everyone who makes our work possible by sharing their time or donating money to ensure that people with sensory loss in the area can enjoy a really wonderful life doing the things that matter to them. If you would like to help, please get in touch.”