The idea
Most of our visually impaired members had experienced isolation before coronavirus, but now it’s even worse. Many members live alone and have limited support around them. While restrictions have eased, the challenges social-distancing present for someone with sight loss, mean many members are worried about leaving their homes. Our members are becoming increasingly lonely and at risk of developing associated mental health conditions such as stress, anxiety or depression.
While we have been providing support remotely, offering advice on eye health, support with magnifiers and daily living aids and accessible technology training. We want to go the extra mile and send our members a surprise ‘Kindness Pack’ between June-July, to lift their spirits at this challenging time.
We all know how joyful it can be to receive an unexpected gift through the post. The items in the Kindness Packs have been carefully considered to help alleviate loneliness and improve mental wellbeing.
What we'll deliver
- 500 Kindness Packs delivered to people with sight loss in West Sussex
Why it's a great idea
This small gesture will make a huge difference; lifting our members’ spirits at a difficult time. Knowing that the local community has helped to fund these will make this even more special and let them know how much people care, too!
The items in the Kindness Packs have been carefully considered and we believe will support our members in the following ways:
Large print crossword book to improve mental health and keep minds active.
A pen with a broad stroke, which is easier to see for people with sight loss, to complete the crossword and use day-to-day.
Tea and biscuits to enjoy a virtual cuppa with friends, family or the 4Sight Community – bringing people closer together while they are unable to attend our social clubs or access other face-to-face services.
A poem written by the Blind Poet which may help to convey some of the feelings people with sight loss have at this time. We hope that this will help members feel they are not alone.
Steps to get it done
- Purchase the items needed for the packs once funding secured
- Arrange for envelopes to be addressed to members
- Post out packs to members
- Monitor feedback from members
