Tag: Sight Scotland

Mr Lego: Visual Impairment Doesn’t Have to Hold You Back

Stewart Lamb Cromar, from Edinburgh, has achieved a lifelong ambition after Lego turned one of his designs into an official set.

It is a goal he has been working towards for more than a decade, and one he feared might never become reality after a detached retina left him with a visual impairment in 2020.

Lego has always been an important part of Stewart’s life. During some of the most difficult periods following his sight loss, the hobby helped him stay focused, motivated and creative. Today, Stewart is sharing his story to raise awareness of visual impairment and encourage others to seek support when they need it.

Living With Sight Loss

Stewart experienced significant sight loss after suffering a detached retina in 2020, a complication linked to his Type 1 diabetes. What followed was a series of surgeries and ongoing challenges, leaving him with permanent sight loss in one eye.

He explains: “I would love to raise awareness for people with visual impairment. Sight loss is an invisible disability, which is why it’s so important to talk about it, raise awareness of available support, and remind people they are not alone.

“Losing my sight meant having to adapt to a completely new reality, and I found that incredibly difficult. There were some very dark days when I genuinely wasn’t sure how I was going to cope. As everything changed around me, I started desperately searching online for advice, support and someone who understood what I was going through.

“Before my sight loss, I had never heard of Sight Scotland. During lockdown, when things were at their toughest, I found myself searching for Scottish charities that could help.

As my situation became more serious, I realised I couldn’t face it on my own. Making that first call wasn’t easy, especially when you’re feeling vulnerable and overwhelmed, but looking back, it was one of the most important decisions I made.

“That’s the message I want to share with anyone going through something similar: support is there and it can make a real difference, so don’t be too proud or too scared to ask for help.

“I had great support from my family, but I really needed to hear another voice who was removed from my inner circle but who genuinely knew what I was going through. I was really scared and felt so alone. When I made the phone call to Sight Scotland’s helpline and someone called me back, it made such a difference. Suddenly I found reassurance that help was out there, that I wasn’t alone, and that, yes, it was going to be hard but that I could get through it.

“I was still depressed, but I was given reassurance when I needed it most. They talked me through what I was going through, all the feelings I was experiencing, and told me about the help and support available. There was so much kindness and understanding from the support line. Finding that kind of support when you are struggling isn’t always easy, but it can make an enormous difference.

“Having someone listen without judgement, acknowledge what I was going through and reassure me that my feelings were normal helped me more than I can put into words. Looking back, I honestly don’t know where I would be today if I hadn’t made that call.

“A huge turning point for me was accepting that I needed a white cane and being shown how to use it properly. I kept bumping into things and walking into people who thought I was being rude, which I found really embarrassing.

It was difficult because using a white cane felt like a public acknowledgment of my disability. But it has huge benefits. It helps people understand that I have sight loss, even though it isn’t immediately visible, and makes everyday life much easier to navigate. Coming to terms with using a white cane was a significant step in accepting my visual impairment and adapting to a new way of living.

The charity also does fantastic work campaigning for change, from making streets more accessible for people with sight loss to helping secure free rail travel for companions of blind and severely sight-impaired people. Seeing the real difference it makes is incredible.”

Flora the Highland Cow

Known by many friends as “Mr Lego”, Stewart has built hundreds of models over the years and says his passion for Lego became even stronger after losing his sight.

“I have always loved Lego, and I was so worried that I would no longer be able to do it with my visual impairment. But in reality, it has driven me on.

“Lego is much more than a hobby for me – it keeps me moving forward. I’m always trying new things and pushing myself, and it is actually a really practical, tactile, activity for someone with sight loss.

“I build sensory models that people can touch and feel, and it has text-based instructions that can be read by screen readers. Through Lego, I’ve also met and helped other families affected by sight loss.

“At a recent exhibition, a young boy with a visual impairment kept returning to my display and, after speaking to his dad, I gave him some Braille Lego bricks. The boy could see that I was still creating all these models despite having a visual impairment myself, and it showed him that he could do it too.”

In 2026, Stewart achieved something he had been working towards since first submitting designs to Lego more than 10 years earlier.

His model, Highland Hike, featured a Highland cow called Flora and was inspired by childhood family holidays in the Scottish Highlands. The design was selected as a finalist in a Lego Ideas challenge before being put to a public vote. Stewart’s entry won, meaning Lego chose it to become an official Lego set.

“I never thought this would be possible, I had been trying for so long. It shows what can happen if you keep going. The goal of having one of my models released as an official Lego set has been a genuine dream for over a decade. After all the setbacks, surgeries and difficult times, to see Flora become a real Lego set is incredible.”

Stewart hopes his story will encourage others living with visual impairment to keep pursuing the things they love.

“No one chooses to be visually impaired. It is vital to make peace with it, try to be optimistic and be honest about the hard times because that is normal. Reach out for help because you will need it.

“If I can help or inspire one person through sharing my story, that would be fantastic. Visual impairment doesn’t have to stop you achieving your goals.”

For more information please visit sightscotland.org.uk

Visually Impaired Secret Shoppers put Fringe accessibility to the test

Visually impaired secret shoppers are going undercover at Edinburgh Festival Fringe venues to put accessibility to the test, assessing whether training and awareness work are translating into a better experience for disabled audiences.

The volunteers, who have helped deliver accessibility training to Fringe staff and performers over the past two years, have been carrying out unannounced visits across the city to identify what’s working, highlight barriers, and help drive further improvements.

The secret shoppers, who are members of Sight Loss Councils Scotland and Sight Scotland’s Policy Group, have welcomed the progress made so far, highlighting accessibility training and stronger collaboration with venues as key drivers of change. However, they emphasise that accessibility must remain a year-round priority, with all venues continuing to build on recent improvements to ensure they are welcoming, inclusive and accessible to everyone.

Over the past two years, Callum Lancashire, Engagement Manager for Sight Loss Councils Scotland, who has macular degeneration, has helped deliver accessibility training to venues at the Fringe and at Glasgow’s Celtic Connections festival, helping staff develop the skills and awareness needed to better support visitors with visual impairments.

He explains: “We have seen first-hand how accessibility is improving, particularly when venues are willing to listen, learn and take practical steps to make a difference.

“Over the past two years, we have worked alongside our rehabilitation colleagues at Sight Scotland to deliver accessibility training for venues across the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, including the Pleasance, and it has made a big difference.

“What is really encouraging is that we don’t just deliver the training and walk away. Afterwards, our volunteers go back as secret shoppers, visit the venue, attend shows and experience the customer journey for themselves. That gives us a unique insight into whether the training is making a difference, and in many cases the impact has been huge.

“Many of the changes we’re talking about are simple to implement. Often, it’s just about raising awareness and helping people understand the small adjustments that can make a big difference. It’s about making staff aware of visual impairment, helping them understand the barriers people can face, and giving them the confidence to offer assistance when needed. Those aren’t major changes for a venue to make, but they can make a huge difference to somebody’s experience.

“Something as simple as clearly introducing yourself, offering sighted guidance, explaining the layout of a space, or proactively asking if someone needs help can completely transform a visit. It helps people feel welcome, included and able to enjoy the festival independently.

“We have now worked with venues across the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, supported organisations involved in Celtic Connections, and have a number of new partnerships in the pipeline.

“We know this approach works because we’ve seen the impact first-hand. More and more venues from across Scotland are reaching out to us to take part in our accessibility training and events, which is hugely encouraging.

“Accessibility is improving, but there is still more to be done. Every venue has a responsibility to make it a priority. A person with a visual impairment should be able to enjoy a show just as much as anyone else.”

Colette Walker, Co-Chair of Sight Scotland’s Policy Group and a guide dog user, adds: “This training is a gamechanger.

“By equipping frontline teams with the awareness, empathy and practical understanding they need, we empower venues to go far beyond basic compliance, to truly see people, anticipate barriers, and offer support that feels natural, respectful and empowering.

“For me and thousands of others with visual impairments, that means being able to walk into a festival venue with my guide dog, navigate with confidence, and enjoy every moment just like anyone else.

“It’s not just about ramps or wide doors, its clear information, thoughtful signage, straightforward ticketing, and staff who know exactly how and when to step in and use clear communication. These are often small, simple changes, yet they make a life changing difference: the freedom to choose, to attend independently, to belong.

“This builds powerfully on the findings from Sight Scotland’s Accessible Venues Report proving that when we listen, act, and design for everyone, we all win.”

Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans have also been working with Extant, the UK’s leading professional performing arts company of blind and visually impaired artists, to promote and celebrate visually impaired talent while advancing accessibility across the festival. 

The charities have also produced the Guide to Accessible Arts at the Edinburgh Festivals 2026 which can be found here: sightscotland.org.uk/influencing-change/our-campaigns/your-guide-accessible-arts-edinburgh-festivals.

England Women’s Blind Football Captain credits Royal Blind School for helping her score an MBE 

Samantha Gough, an inspirational visually impaired athlete from Edinburgh, has been awarded an MBE in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours for services to sport and to the visually impaired community.

Sam’s journey to becoming one of Britain’s most accomplished visually impaired athletes, excelling across multiple disciplines including blind football, goalball and rowing, has not been an easy one and it was only a few years ago she believed her sporting ambitions were over.

Born with cerebral visual impairment (CVI), Sam’s condition means that while her eyes are healthy, her brain cannot fully process visual information. Her sight deteriorated significantly in 2014, requiring her to relearn essential life skills, including mobility and independent navigation. She describes attending Sight Scotland’s Royal Blind School in Edinburgh as a real turning point in her life.

Sam, who will be 23 next week, explains: “This is a huge honour. I want to use it to highlight blind football and visually impaired sport, and to show others what can be achieved if you follow your dreams.

“I have struggled with my mental health and sport truly saved me, so I am determined to show others what can be achieved. I would never have believed this was possible, and to be recognised in this way is incredible. There is still so much more we can do to make sport accessible and inclusive, and I hope this helps raise awareness and open doors for more visually impaired athletes.

“It wasn’t very long ago that I didn’t think I could take part in sport at all. I went from being registered partially sighted to severely sight impaired and was basically excluded from all sport. Instead of asking how they could support me, I was seen as a problem. If you had told me then what I’d be doing now, I would never have believed you. It shows what can be achieved if you are given the right support.

“The Royal Blind School was a real turning point for me. I was given tailored support and the opportunity to learn vital independent living skills, which really helped rebuild my confidence.

“It also helped me accept myself and my disability, which was such an important part of my journey. Before I came to the school, I did not fully understand my visual impairment or how to explain it.

“Learning braille was another huge moment for me. I had lost the ability to read and write as my sight deteriorated, and braille helped me reconnect with that. It felt like I had found a part of myself again. The school also helped me develop everyday skills like cooking, going to the shops, and speaking up about the support I need.

2They also showed me how to use my white cane, which was a complete game changer. I then got my wonderful guide dog, Helga, last year, which again transformed my life and gave me even more confidence to get out and about.

“All the amazing things that have happened to me through sport and my advocacy work would not have been possible without the incredible teachers at the Royal Blind School. They believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself and gave me the skills and confidence to move forward. It quite literally changed my life.”

In 2022, Sam made history as the first-ever captain of the England Women’s Blind Football team, a landmark achievement that established her as a pioneer of the women’s game. She went on to lead the national side at the inaugural IBSA Women’s World Championships in 2023, guiding England in their first appearance on the global stage and helping to mark a defining moment for the sport.

Her success extends beyond football. In goalball, she became one of the UK’s top female goal scorers and represented Great Britain at the 2022 European Para Youth Games, where she secured a bronze medal. In rowing, she claimed gold at the 2023 British Rowing Indoor Championships and was selected for the Great Britain Para Rowing performance pathway.

Beyond her sporting success, Sam has also been recognised for her advocacy work. In 2023, she won a Midlothian Young People’s Award and was also commended in the UK Parliament for her achievements. She is also an ambassador for Sight Scotland, using her platform to promote inclusion and inspire others with disabilities to take part in sport.

Sam adds: “One of my life goals is to raise awareness of visual impairment and encourage people to embrace and accept it. I want to use my platform, whether through sport, social media, visiting schools to talk about my disability, or working with organisations like Sight Scotland, to show what is possible and help influence positive change.

“The support I received changed my life, and I would encourage anyone to reach out. There are people who understand and want to help, and it really can make such a difference.”

For more information visit sightscotland.org.uk.

Sight Scotland trains Polling Officers to deliver accessible voting for all

Ahead of Scotland’s Parliament elections on 7 May, Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans partner with the Electoral Management Board for Scotland to deliver accessible voting training to all Returning Officers and more than 900 polling staff, ensuring visually impaired voters can cast their vote independently and in secret.

Visually impaired voters face a range of barriers at polling stations, with a lack of staff training and confidence consistently highlighted as a major issue. Voters report that polling station staff do not always know how best to support blind and partially sighted people, leading to inconsistent use of accessible voting aids and uncertainty about the support available.

This is compounded by physical barriers such as poor lighting, unclear signage and challenging layouts, as well as information about candidates and voting procedures not always being provided in accessible formats. Many visually impaired voters are also reluctant to ask for help if it risks compromising the secrecy or independence of their vote.

Working in partnership with the Electoral Management Board for Scotland, Sight Scotland has helped develop a training video for polling station staff, setting out the support they are required to provide to visually impaired voters. Members of Sight Scotland’s Policy Group and rehabilitation team played a central role in shaping the content, ensuring it reflects both lived experience and professional expertise.

Colette Walker, co-chair of Sight Scotland Policy Group, who is visually impaired and took part in the training video, comments: “As the election approaches in two weeks, Sight Scotland and the Electoral Commission are highlighting a major push to ensure every blind and partially sighted person can exercise their democratic right to a private, independent vote.

“Every adult has a democratic right to cast their vote in privacy. By breaking down these long-standing barriers, we are ensuring that visually impaired voters in our communities finally have the same say as everyone else. We hope to see a record turnout of blind and partially sighted voters in two weeks’ time, casting their vote, having their say in politics.”

Sight Scotland Policy Group member, Hussein Patwa, adds: “I was delighted to be involved in producing training videos that will be shown to polling station staff across Scotland before the parliamentary elections on 07 May.

“Featuring myself and other visually impaired people, they demonstrate, in real life, practical examples of the correct sighted guiding technique, how to assist with navigating around the polling station, providing clear explanations to aid with orientation and the procedure to be followed for those who wish the presiding officer to help mark the ballot paper on their behalf.

“I am positive this will make a real difference to visually impaired people’s experience at polling stations, encourage those who haven’t done so before to try voting in person and increase confidence for both voters and polling staff alike.”

Malcolm Burr, Convener of the Electoral Management Board and Returning Officer for Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, comments: “Returning Officers and Electoral Registration Officers put in place a range of measures to support voters with visual impairment.

“We want everyone to be able to vote independently and in secret. We have large print ballot papers, magnifiers, additional lighting, tactile voting devices, audio versions of the ballot paper and can help the voter fill in the paper if necessary.

“Members of the visually impaired community told us that a fundamental problem was staff at polling stations did not know how best to support blind and partially sighted voters. The video we have filmed with the help of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans is being used by Returning Officers across Scotland to train their hundreds of polling staff showing how to greet, guide and offer suitable assistance.

“Our polling staff are the public face of the election and the lessons in this video will help them as they prepare to welcome voters with visual impairment into the polling places on 7 May.”

Watch the training video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frVyMRCI2E8

For more information visit sightscotland.org.uk

Scottish Government announces free rail travel for companions of visually impaired people

Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans welcome the Scottish Government announcement today that free rail travel for companions of visually impaired people has been made a permanent policy across all ScotRail and Caledonian Sleeper services.

Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans have been campaigning for this ‘life-changing’ decision for over three years through its Fair Rail campaign. The call for a new national policy arose when veterans at Sight Scotland Veterans raised an equality issue: visually impaired people had to pay for a companion on every rail journey, making travel unaffordable, while travelling without support was unsafe. They also highlighted the confusing range of concession and companion schemes across Scotland.

This news means, that from 1 April 2026, anyone with an Eye Plus One National Entitlement Card (NEC) can now travel with a companion throughout Scotland at no extra cost.

The announcement follows a year-long pilot, during which feedback from over 1,500 visually impaired NEC holders was overwhelmingly positive. Among those who knew about the scheme and had travelled by rail:

  • 84 percent used it, showing how popular it became once people were aware of it.
  • Over 95 percent of users reported benefits across every area measured, including independence, mobility, confidence when travelling, travel costs, and feeling safer and more supported.
  • Nearly nine in ten said the scheme had changed how they use rail, with 84 percent taking more trips and 69 percent visiting new places they had not travelled to before.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “I’m pleased to confirm that from 1 April 2026, free companion rail travel for visually impaired people will become a permanent offering. This change will support around 8,000 visually impaired National Entitlement Cardholders who rely on ScotRail and Caledonian Sleeper services.

“Over the past year, the pilot has clearly shown the profound impact that affordable, accessible rail travel can have for blind and partially sighted people. We’ve seen people travelling more often, gaining confidence, and needing less staff assistance. Feedback from Sight Scotland, Sight Scotland Veterans, and – most importantly – passengers themselves has been overwhelmingly positive.

“By making this scheme permanent, we’re opening up greater access to work, education, communities, and everyday life in ways many of us take for granted. This decision strengthens independence, reduces isolation, and improves quality of life, and it reflects our wider commitment to ensuring Scotland’s railway is accessible, affordable, and welcoming for everyone who depends on it.”

Anne Dignan, from Edinburgh, who is deafblind and has macular degeneration, comments: “This news is genuinely life changing. Knowing that free companion rail travel is here to stay gives me confidence and freedom I didn’t have before.

“I can plan trips without worrying about the cost of a companion ticket, travel more often, and explore new places that I couldn’t before without the extra financial burden.

“Thanks to Sight Scotland, Sight Scotland Veterans and the tireless work of campaigners, free companion travel means independence, inclusion and the opportunity for people like me with sight loss to access rail travel right across Scotland.”

Agnes Houston, 76, a former army nurse from Coatbridge, who lives with both dementia and visual impairment, says: “I am overwhelmed by this news. It means so much to me.

“Over the past year it has genuinely changed my life, and I was becoming quite worried about the pilot ending. Because of my visual impairment and dementia, I can no longer travel alone, especially over long distances, and I simply could not afford to pay for a companion. The difference the free companion rail travel has made to my mental health is extraordinary.”

Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, comments: “We are delighted the Scottish Government has made free companion rail travel a permanent policy – a major step towards making train travel truly affordable and accessible for everyone.

“After more than three years of campaigning, this is a huge victory for our campaigners, service users, and our External Affairs and Campaigns team, whose hard work has made this possible.”

Phil Campbell, ScotRail Customer Operations Director, said: “We’re delighted the Scottish Government’s free companion rail travel scheme for visually impaired people is being made permanent and proud to be able to play our part in improving the customer experience for people who are blind or have a visual impairment.

“This is a major step towards empowering people to be able to travel with confidence and independence, making train journeys safer and more welcoming for everyone. ScotRail is committed to ensuring the railway works for all of our customers, and the scheme is part of our wider efforts to improve accessibility across our network.”

For more information visit sightscotland.org.uk.

Scottish Braille Press proofreaders retire after remarkable 82 years combined service

This month, Suzie and Brian Lewis will retire from the Scottish Braille Press after a remarkable combined 82 years of service.

Suzie, who has a vision impairment, joined the Braille Press in 1979, while Brian followed a decade later, starting on 19 June 1989, coincidentally Suzie’s birthday. The couple, who married in 1996, who are from Edinburgh, have worked alongside one another in various capacities over the years, providing invaluable contributions to accessibility in Scotland.

The Scottish Braille Press, part of the charity Sight Scotland, is a national leader in producing accessible formats including braille, large print, and audio. Its services ensure that blind and partially sighted people across the UK can access personal and essential information, including bank statements, benefit letters, exam papers and insurance documents. The Scottish Braille Press currently supports around 50,000 people and works with some of the UK’s largest organisations.

Reflecting on their careers, Suzie, and Brian shared memories of how much the industry has changed and how their roles evolved over time.

Suzie explains: “When I started, it was all manual. We hand-collated huge Braille documents, some up to 2,300 pages, and stitched them before dispatch. It was physical, team-based work, and we did it all by hand. I did that for about 14 years until technology changed things and demand for Braille reduced.”

Suzie transitioned into proofreading, a role she embraced thanks to her love of books: “It started with a couple of hours helping out, then became a full-time job. I’ve mainly focused on large print proofreading ever since. It’s incredibly detailed work, but so rewarding knowing how important it is for people to receive their information in a format they can access.”

Brian adds: “When I started, we were still using zinc plates to produce Braille, there were very few computers. A few years later we began investing in technology to meet growing demand for financial documents and mailing lists.

“We mostly check financial letters, bank, and pension statements. You must check every detail, even envelopes, to make sure the right person gets the right information. It’s about maintaining trust, privacy, and accuracy.”

Suzie and Brian have also provided unique support to each other throughout their working lives. Suzie shares: “We helped each other, as it should be. Sometimes we worked on the same job, reading different versions of a document. I’m registered blind and Brian has epilepsy, so being in the same space meant we could look out for one another.”

“I’m very proud of the work we’ve done. It’s changed so much over the years. With modern technology, new systems, but at its heart, the mission has stayed the same; to make sure people with sight loss can live independently and confidently.”

Brian continues: “We thought about working a bit longer, but we’re in a good position to retire now and enjoy the time together. It’s the right moment. We are looking forward to a cruise and stay in the Mediterranean in September, then we’re going to Canada in May next year.

“It’s been an amazing time working at the Scottish Braille Press, and I am sure Suzie will agree, I am the best birthday present she has ever had!”

Colin Hilditch, Head of Enterprise at Sight Scotland, said: “Suzie and Brian’s dedication has made a real difference to the lives of thousands of people.

“Their attention to detail, professionalism and teamwork have helped ensure the highest standards in accessible communication. We are hugely grateful for their service and wish them all the very best for a happy retirement.”

For more information visit sightscotland.org.uk.

Life-Changing Free Rail Travel for Blind Scots and Companions Launched

Sight loss charities have hailed the ‘life-changing’ pilot scheme that will provide free rail travel for companions of blind and partially sighted individuals on all Scotrail train journeys.

Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans highlight the profound impact this initiative will have in reducing loneliness and isolation, fostering independence, and enhancing mental well-being.

Minister for Equalities, Kaukab Stewart, officially launched the pilot scheme at Anniesland Station this week, and was joined by Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, along with representatives and campaigners from Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, both of which have driven the successful Fair Rail Campaign.

Under this new pilot scheme, individuals holding an eye +1 National Entitlement Card (NEC) will be able to travel with a companion at no additional cost starting 01 April 2025.

The pilot scheme, which will run for one year, aims to make train travel more affordable and accessible for blind and partially sighted passengers by introducing a consistent, nationwide policy for free companion rail travel, aligning with existing concessionary bus and ferry travel across Scotland.

Ms Stewart said: “I am genuinely delighted to be launching this pilot, which is testament to the hard work by all those involved in the campaign to bring this about.

“Making rail travel more accessible and affordable for people with sight loss is an important step in helping them access communities, education, and employment.”

Claire Dickie, ScotRail Commercial Director, said: “At ScotRail, we are committed to improving accessibility and ensuring that our services are as inclusive as possible for all customers.

“This trial initiative is an important step towards making travel easier for those who rely on assistance when using our services.”

Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, said: “We are delighted that the Scottish Government is introducing this pilot. After over two years of campaigning, this is a significant achievement for our Fair Rail Campaign.

“Thanks to collaboration with ScotRail and Transport Scotland, rail travel will become more accessible and affordable for people with sight loss across Scotland.

“For many visually impaired individuals, public transport is essential, yet travelling alone is often not an option, and the cost of a companion ticket can be prohibitive.

“This new policy will make a real difference, supporting rehabilitation, promoting independence, and ensuring that people with vision impairments remain connected with their communities.”

Joe Tottenham, a 92-year-old army veteran, who is supported by Sight Scotland Veterans, comments: “I’m so proud to be part of the Fair Rail campaign led by Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans who have campaigned tirelessly on this issue.

“Knowing no matter where I’m going in Scotland that my companion can travel with me at no extra cost will change my life. As a blind person, having someone to help me get on and off the train is vital – I’d be lost without them.”  

Colette Walker, who is visually impaired and co- chair of Sight Scotland’s policy group, adds: “This will make such a difference to me financially, as well as to my safety and quality of life.”

The Fair Rail Campaign was launched over two years ago, calling for a national policy to provide free rail travel across Scotland for the companions of those with a National (Scotland) Concessionary Travel for Blind Persons card.

Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans were approached by many individuals with sight loss who were concerned about rising travel costs and the confusion surrounding various concessionary schemes.

The charities brought the issue to the Scottish Parliament, where it was debated in a Members Debate brought forward by Graham Simpson MSP and considered in the Fair Fares Review, ultimately leading to this pilot scheme.

Mr Simpson commented: “I welcome the launch of the fair rail campaign pilot. This is long overdue after many years of campaigning by Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, who first brought the issue to my attention several years ago.

“I held a Members’ Debate in the Parliament on this issue in 2022. Last year, the Fair Fares Review made a loose commitment to a pilot project, so I am pleased to see that the Scottish Government is finally addressing this important issue.

“For many blind and partially sighted people, having a companion can mean the difference between travelling or not travelling. This pilot is a step in the right direction, but I would urge the Scottish Government to get on with implementing a national policy that entitles the companions of people with sight loss to free rail travel, to make our rail network more equitable and accessible for everyone.”

For more information please visit sightscotland.org.uk.

Digital Hub transforms life of vision-impaired veteran who had been housebound for two years

A weekly phone call has had a life-changing effect on four vision-impaired veterans, including one who had not left his house for over two years following the loss of his wife and his sight loss diagnosis.

The four veterans, Ann McLean, Jack McVitie, John Barber, and Helen Bennett, meet virtually through Sight Scotland Veterans’ Digital Hub every Wednesday to chat, support each other, and take part in lively quizzes. For them, these calls offer much more than just entertainment; they are a vital source of connection, belonging, and emotional support.

For John Barber, 74, who lives in Dunfermline and has macular degeneration, the group has completely transformed his life. John, a former member of the Territorial Army, was devastated after the loss of his wife. His vision loss and grief plunged him into a cycle of isolation, leaving him housebound for more than two years.

John explains: “When my wife died, I was extremely lonely and isolated, I just didn’t know what to do. I had lost all my confidence and spent two years barely leaving my house, staring at the walls 24 hours a day. But Sight Scotland Veterans has changed my life. The Wednesday Digital Hub group is the highlight of my week. Before, I didn’t speak to anyone all week long. I was so low, but now I’ve made real friends.

“I honestly believe the charity saved my life. I feel like a different person now, even though I still have hard days. Knowing there are people who genuinely care about you makes all the difference. The calls and the quizzes are the highlight of my week, and I just would not miss them. The fun and laughter we enjoy during these calls, it’s just amazing and I can’t thank them enough.”

John recently visited Sight Scotland Veterans’ Linburn Centre in West Lothian to meet up with his Digital Hub friends face-to-face for the first time.

“It was the first time I’d left my house in years, and it was an incredible experience. Meeting everyone face-to-face for the first time was very emotional, I enjoyed it so much. The Linburn Centre was fantastic, and seeing all the ways they support everyone was really impressive.

“The friendships and support I’ve gained from the Wednesday calls have given me the courage to start living again.”

Since John’s first visit to Linburn, his life has completely transformed. He has moved into sheltered housing, returned to the Linburn Centre with plans to become a regular visitor, and even ventured out to his local pub!

Jack McVitie, a former police officer who lost his sight due to diabetes, agrees that the weekly calls have had a profound impact on his life. “The Wednesday call is chaotic and full of laughter, but most importantly, we support each other.

“Before the charity stepped in, I was suicidal, I had lost my sense of purpose. But Sight Scotland Veterans gave me my worth back. Curtis and Donna from the Digital Hub team have so much enthusiasm, and you can tell they genuinely care about what they do.”

Donna McIntyre, Digital Activity Worker at Sight Scotland Veterans, comments: “For these veterans, the Digital Hub is more than just a service, it’s a lifeline.

“It combats the isolation that so often accompanies vision loss and provides them with a sense of community, purpose, and belonging. It’s truly inspiring to witness the strong friendship these four have formed.

“It’s a reminder of how important connection is in life, and the camaraderie they’ve developed is nothing short of remarkable.”

Sight Scotland Veterans’ Digital Hub was created to combat loneliness and isolation and to help veterans connect, chat, and take part in fun activities. Every week, more than 90 veterans join the Digital Hub for virtual calls.

These aren’t just for entertainment; they’re opportunities to build friendships, share experiences, and feel part of something that’s both uplifting and meaningful.

The Digital Hub proves that technology can bring people together, no matter where you live.

For more information please visit sightscotlandveterans.org.uk or call 0800 035 6409.

Minister backs Sight Scotland’s push to break down accessibility barriers in Scottish venues

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart recently met with Sight Scotland’s Policy Group to discuss the importance of improving access and inclusion in Scotland’s venues. She stressed that everyone should have the freedom to enjoy life and visit places of their choice, such as theatres, cinemas, concert halls, galleries and attractions, without facing accessibility barriers.

Sight Scotland’s Policy Group, made up of blind and partially sighted members, released the ‘Enhancing Accessibility: Venues and Visual Impairment’ report last year. It highlights major accessibility issues in Scottish venues and calls for improvements to ensure equal access for all.

Using real experiences, the report identifies common barriers, including poor communication, inaccessible booking systems, lack of audio descriptions or touch tours, untrained staff, and design flaws like low colour contrast, missing tactile elements, and unclear signage. It also shares best practices to inspire venues to improve accessibility for visually impaired visitors.

Equalities Minister Kaukab Stewart said: “I was delighted to discuss what actions we can take to strengthen accessibility standards for visual impairment with members of the Sight Scotland team and their policy group.

“Although it’s clear that many barriers remain, I was inspired to hear how blind and partially sighted people are working closely with Sight Scotland and range of other partners to deliver best practice building on the Accessible Venues Campaign and Report.

“Across government we’re working to embed equality and inclusion across all areas of life, including the arts and culture. One way we’re doing this is through All In – a new access scheme for creative and culture in the UK and Ireland.

“It’s being developed as a partnership between Creative Scotland and the arts councils of England, Ireland, Northern Ireland and Wales to improve access and remove barriers for deaf, disabled, neurodivergent and visually impaired people in creative and culture spaces.

“Although our power to legislate on equality is limited, we’re working to drive positive change for disabled people in Scotland including investing an additional £2 million to enhance our Disability Equality Plan.”

Sight Scotland Policy Group member, Amanda Whitfield, from Edinburgh, who was diagnosed with Stargardt disease in 2016, comments: “It was wonderful to welcome the Equalities Minister to our policy group and discuss with her the accessibility challenges that blind and partially sighted people face when trying to access venues.

“I absolutely love music and going to concerts, but booking tickets feels like an impossible task. Sight loss is an invisible disability, and it often feels like I’m being excluded from enjoying live music like everyone else.

“Everything is done online or digitally – from booking your ticket to even ordering drinks on the night. You can’t just speak to someone and explain your needs.

“Instead, you’re stuck in long virtual queues, forced to choose a seat from a visual plan, and often left to struggle with inaccessible websites that don’t support zooming or screen readers.

“It’s frustrating, disheartening, and it shouldn’t be this hard for people with vision impairment to enjoy live events.”

Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, said: “We’re grateful to the Minister for meeting with our Policy Group and helping to highlight the daily accessibility challenges faced by people with vision impairment.

“Inaccessible venues exclude those with sight loss from arts and cultural events, increasing isolation and loneliness.

“Our Accessible Venues Report outlines key issues and calls for improvements such as a standardised booking system for accessible seats, audio descriptions, touch tours for all performances, and mandatory visual impairment awareness and sighted guide training for staff.

“Small changes can make a big difference to inclusivity.”

Download the Enhancing Accessibility: Venues and Visual Impairment report here: 

https://sightscotland.org.uk/accessible-venues#AccessibleVenuesReportDownload  

Sight Scotland launches new strategy to transform lives of people with sight loss

Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans have unveiled an ambitious new three-year strategy, aiming to transform the lives of people with sight loss across Scotland. The strategy focuses on building an inclusive future where people of all visual abilities can thrive.

With over 180,000 people in Scotland impacted by vision impairment, the charities are determined to extend their reach, support, and influence to ensure no one faces sight loss alone.

Craig Spalding, Chief Executive of Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans, said: “We’ve been supporting people affected by visual impairment for over two centuries, but we know we can do more.

“Our new strategy is about building on our proud history to make sure we are ready for the future. Our vision is an inclusive Scotland where everyone, regardless of their sight, has the opportunity to thrive.

“By focusing on prevention, support, research, and campaigning, we will deliver real change for people impacted by sight loss, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.”

Over the next three years, Sight Scotland and Sight Scotland Veterans will focus on five key areas:

  1. Investing in impactful support that will prioritise initiatives that make the biggest difference to people living with vision impairment while securing the organisation’s long-term sustainability.
  2. Putting its community at the heart of what it does by listening to and empowering people with lived experience of sight loss.
  3. Campaigning for positive change. The charity will raise awareness of sight loss at both political and local levels, pushing for meaningful societal change.
  4. Accelerating prevention and treatment by advocating for more investment to prevent avoidable sight loss and improve treatments.
  5. Fostering a collaborative culture of innovation by investing in its workforce and fostering collaboration, the organisation will drive innovation and maximise its impact.

Craig Spalding continued: “We owe it to future generations to continue evolving. We want to reach more people, champion their needs, and invest in research that can transform lives.

“This strategy is our commitment to doing just that.”

For more information visit: sightscotland.org.uk