Sight Action and the Western Isles Sensory Centre
24 May 2024 at 17:41:45
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar is pleased to announce that this vital
support for those with a sensory impairment will be reinstated, via
a new contractual arrangement with Highland Blindcraft and that the
Sensory Centre will be reopened, Monday to Friday 10.00 am -
2.00pm, offering information and advice, equipment and hearing aid
battery replacement.
At the end of March 2024, Sight Action Sensory Services ceased its
operation at the Western Isles Sensory Centre in Stornoway and also
its outreach work throughout the Islands.
As well as two Sensory Centre - based support staff, a further two
new Sensory Support Rehabilitation Officers have been employed, and
they will be available to carry out home assessment throughout the
Western Isles.
To coincide with this, a multi-agency umbrella forum called
'Western Isles See Hear Improvement Group' has been formed to
support Islands-wide partnership working around sensory loss. The
group membership includes, the Comhairle, NHS Western Isles
(Audiology) Third Sector Interface, Scottish Fire and Rescue
Service, Department of Work and Pensions, Highland Blindcraft and
'DHALIAS' (Deaf and Hearing Loss Isles Associated Support)
the newly established voluntary support group.
Graeme Miller, the Comhairle's Health and Social Care
Commissioning Services Manager, commented,
"We are pleased that we have been able to reinstate support services for people with low vision or hearing loss, with as little disruption as possible. From a safety perspective, I very much welcome the direct involvement of Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in installing emergency smoke sensors in people's homes."
Deirdre Aitken Chief Executive Officer at Highland Blindcraft Sensory Services added,
"Highland Blind Craft Sensory Services are delighted to have negotiated with stakeholders in the Western Isles to deliver dual sensory services from the Hub in Stornoway and outlying areas. We are looking forward to working in partnership with the stakeholders and a trained team of staff will deliver services to meet the needs of people with hearing and/or sight loss."
It is anticipated that the Western Isles Sensory Centre will
re-open week beginning, Monday 10th June.
For further Information please contact Highland Blindcraft Sensory
Services on 01463 210558
