We were very moved to receive this heartfelt letter of support from the family of one of our members.
Dear Sandwell Visually Impaired
I am writing to express my sincere and heartfelt gratitude to you and your wonderful team for the extraordinary support you provide to my mother and so many others in our community.
Since my mother became involved with your group, a few years ago now, the difference in her overall wellbeing has been truly remarkable. What you offer goes far beyond practical assistance, you have given her a sense of belonging, connection, and renewed confidence. Knowing that she has a warm, understanding community around her gives our whole family tremendous peace of mind.
The activities you organise have been particularly wonderful to see her enjoy. Whether she is joining in at bowling or looking forward to curry night with her friends, she comes home happy, energised, and full of stories to share. These may seem like simple outings, but for my mother they represent so much more including independence, laughter, and the joy of being part of something. The positive impact on her mental health has been profound, and I truly believe these social connections are as vital to her health and wellbeing.
It is for this reason that I also feel compelled to raise how deeply concerned our family would be if this facility were ever to face closure. The Sandwell Visually Impaired Group is not simply a leisure service, it is a lifeline. For my mother and for so many others living with visual impairment, it provides structure, purpose, friendship, and a safe space where they are truly understood. To close it would be to take all of that away, and the consequences for the mental health and wellbeing of its members would be devastating and far-reaching.
I would urge the council to recognise the immeasurable value of this group and to do everything in their power to protect and preserve it. The cost of closure — in human terms — would far outweigh any financial saving.
Please pass on my thanks to every volunteer, coordinator, and member who contributes to making your group the special place that it is. The work you do, often quietly and without fanfare, has a profound and lasting effect on the lives of those you support, and on the families who love them.
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for everything you do.
Warm regards,
Carrie
Support Sandwell Visually Impaired: Read the Chair’s letter, learn more about the campaign and find out how you can help by visiting our Save SVI page.
