The work we do is built on the belief that sight loss shouldn’t ever mean losing independence or connection.
Our team delivers services that support people living with visual impairments across Warwickshire, but much of our work simply wouldn’t be possible without the generosity and dedication of our volunteers.
Volunteers are, quite literally, at the heart of our organisation.
They not only bring their time and effort, but also kindness and a willingness to be there for others.
If you’ve ever considered volunteering but weren’t quite sure where you might fit in, or whether you had the ‘right’ skills or background, here’s an overview of some of the ways you can get involved.
The Many Ways You Can Help
Some of our volunteers support at our community-based Support Centres and Social Clubs. These gatherings are often a real highlight of the week for many of our service users as they get a chance to chat, take part in activities, access advice or simply spend time in good company.
Volunteers here might help set up the session, serve refreshments and offer a friendly conversation.
Others choose to support in a more one-to-one way, by becoming Home Visitors or Telephone Befrienders. For someone with sight loss, especially if they live alone, this connection can be truly invaluable.
We’re constantly looking at new ways we can support the visually impaired community.
We’re developing a brand new ‘Walking Befriender’ service and we’re on the lookout for volunteers who’d enjoy helping others get out and about.
It could be a gentle stroll, a breath of fresh air around the local park, or even a coffee and a chat at a local cafe. However it looks, it’s all about companionship, connection and a change of scene.
Full training will be provided ahead of the service launch, so if this sounds like your kind of volunteering, we’d love to hear from you.
We also have volunteer roles such as Transport Administrators and Drivers.
As a Driver, you’ll be helping members travel safely to and from our centres – a practical yet deeply rewarding way to support independence and keep people connected to their community.
Transport Administrators play a key role behind the scenes, coordinating which Drivers are available for each club and centre session.
And of course, volunteers can support us by raising awareness with the public, or fundraising much-needed donations so we can continue the work we do.
Whether you’re confident in front of a crowd or happy working quietly behind the scenes, there’s always a way to get involved.
The Difference a Volunteer Makes
Volunteering is not just about what you give, but what you become a part of.
For the people we support, volunteers provide far more than just an extra pair of hands. They bring energy, warmth and a sense of connection.
When someone loses their sight, be it gradually or suddenly, it’s very easy to lose confidence along with it. Our volunteers help people rebuild that confidence in ways that feel human, manageable and respectful.
Every hour gifted by a volunteer allows us to extend our reach, deepen our services and carry on providing support.
For the wider community, our volunteers help create a more inclusive and compassionate space where no one is left behind because of a disability.
Why People Volunteer
There are all sorts of reasons people choose to volunteer.
Some are looking to give back to their community, others may want to do something useful with a bit of spare time, and some have a personal connection to sight loss and want to support others going through a similar journey.
We find that, once involved, our volunteers invariably find they gain just as much as they give.
You don’t need to have experience, specialist knowledge or a background in health or social care, just a willingness to listen, a bit of patience, and an interest in people.
We’ll provide all the training and support you need, including sight loss awareness and safeguarding – and we’ll match you with a role that suits your availability, location and confidence.
Whether you can spare an hour a week or a few hours a month, that time could change someone’s day (and quite possibly yours too)!
How to Get Started
If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, we’d love to hear from you. We’re always happy to talk through the different roles available and help you find the right fit.
You’ll be joining a warm, welcoming team that makes a real contribution to people.
To find out more, call us on 01926 411331 or email enquiries@warwickshire.vision.
Alternatively, visit the volunteering section on our website to see what opportunities are currently available near you.