SERVICE DETAILS
No one should have to face sight loss alone. Sadly, veterans experiencing sight loss often tell us they have felt lonely or become isolated due to their visual impairment – particularly if they are older.
We understand the vital importance of social connections, and strive to bring people out of loneliness and social isolation.
Whether it’s sharing experiences of sight loss or time in the Armed Forces, or a friendly chat about something else entirely, engaging with others can make a big difference. Our social opportunities are the perfect way to get out and about and make new connections.
We know that by bringing veterans together with other veterans, we can break down fear and apprehension about life with sight loss. We provide opportunities to connect. Often, speaking to someone who has been through similar challenges can be reassuring.
Veteran Sight Support Groups...
Our Independent Living Workers and Rehabilitation Officers regularly facilitate group meet ups across Scotland, to provide on living safely and independently.
Meet other veterans who have sight loss, share experiences, tips for living well and hear from speakers. Meet ups generally run for a couple of hours and the structure and activities are decided by teh groups veterans, such as seated games and quizzes.
Get support to make new connections
Do you know a veteran with sight loss who'd like to meet some new faces? Complete our enquiry form at https://sightscotland.org.uk/veterans/support-for-veterans and we'll give you or them a call shortly.
The Linburn Centre, West Lothian...
Our centre is nestled on a beautiful rural estate with fully accessible garden areas adapted for people with sight loss. The building itself is modern and fully accessible. It’s the ideal place to bring our veterans together.
Facilities include:
- Woodwork workshop
- Arts and crafts room
- Skills kitchen
- I.T. suite
- Sports hall and gymnasium
- Archery club
- Outdoor bowling green
- Gardens and greenhouse
What we offer
- Door-to-door transport or support to get here.
- A dedicated key worker to guide you in getting to know the centre and what's on offer for you.
- A huge range of activities and outings.
- The chance to gain confidence and new skills.
- Social opportunities.
- Expert support to adapt to life with sight loss
Community and camaraderie
You’ll meet plenty of fellow veterans with sight loss of various ages at the Linburn Centre.
Every day the centre is abuzz with people making new connections, sharing stories and bonding over activities. Our friendly centre officers, instructors and support workers each bring their own specialisms to the table.
How do I get there?
For those unable to self-travel, free door-to-door transport in most local locations can be provided to our centres. Our staff will be able to discuss your travel options to the centre with you.
Come and stay with us
The Gardener’s Cottage is our fully accessible holiday cottage located in the Linburn Centre grounds. The cottage is available to all veterans supported by Sight Scotland Veterans and their families to stay and have access to the Linburn Centre’s facilities and opportunities. So no matter where you live in Scotland, there is the chance to join in and experience all the centre has to offer.
Don't lose sense of who you are because of changes to your sight
At Linburn we're here to support you in staying connected to the things that matter most, so that you can maintain you independence and thrive. Fill in our enquiry form at https://sightscotland.org.uk/veterans/support-for-veterans or give us a call on 0800 035 6409 to find out more about the Linburn Centre.
