In July I will be abseiling down the Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth to raise money for Southampton Sight (Southampton Society for the Blind )

Southampton Sight is a small local charity supporting people to live well with their sight loss. 2024 is their 125th year of delivering services in Southampton. To mark this incredible achievement, they are encouraging people (especially those living with sight loss) to partake in activities that may put them out of their comfort zones but also gives them a different experience of challenge and achievement – one they may never have felt before. The money raised will support more people living with sight loss to be able to have opportunities that support them to live fulfilled lives.

Not long after I moved to Hampshire, I was made aware of this small yet supportive charity in Southampton. I worked for them initially providing training to members in the use of access technology and have first-hand experience of witnessing people using technology to complete tasks such as contacting friends and family members independently for the first time in years and the changes in someone’s self-belief is remarkable. I then worked with colleagues and volunteers delivering sight loss awareness training to organisations and school aged children.

I am taking on this challenge because I see it as my way of giving back ; when I worked for the charity, I was given opportunities that changed my life and helped me to discover my passion for sailing. I want the charity to be able to continue its life enhancing work. Any sponsorship would be greatly appreciated. I know that even a small donation will help to change lives. Thank you.