Research shows that older people with sight loss are three times more likely to experience depression than people with good vision.

The COVID -19 pandemic has increased the emotional impact on people with sight loss, so in November 2020 Devon in Sight set up a new Emotional Wellbeing Programme. This starts with a phone call where people can talk specifically about how they are feeling about living with sight loss – often for the first time - and to explore what support they would find most helpful. People can be signposted to a befriending service for regular support, receive our regular news bulletin in audio or large print, and attend regular telephone ‘Sight Loss Speaker Events’. These interactions are all designed to improve people’s wellbeing and increase their connection to others.

In time we hope to re-start some of our ‘pre-COVID’ local Talk and Support Groups which provide a chance for people to meet others and learn about new services, equipment and assistive technology.

To Access Devon in Sight’s Emotional Wellbeing Service please ring our Helpline on 01392 876 666 or for more information visit our Feeling Well, Keeping Well page

For more information about Mental Health Awareness Week please visit:
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week