Principal activities of the company

Objectives and Activities OpenSight (Hampshire Association for the Care of the Blind) is a small, independent charity that makes a difference to the lives of hundreds of people with vision impairments in Hampshire every year. Our Mission is to provide a lifetime of support to people with vision impairments of all ages. Our vision is to provide a comprehensive and accessible range of practical and emotional support across the county that meets our service users’ individual needs and wishes. During the 2024/2025 financial year, OpenSight continued to deliver a wide range of interventions to those we support. Our staff and volunteers supported service users in a variety of ways, including: Independent living advice. An equipment service. Information hubs. Information days. Social clubs and activities. Benefit support. Child, young people, and family service. Active age groups and activities. Educational talks and interactive sessions. Bus travel awareness training. Education and employment mentoring. Access to our services is open to everyone through self-referral or via referrals from sensory services, adult social care, local Eye Clinic Liaison Officers (ECLOs), and other local sight loss charities. We work closely together to ensure the referral process is straightforward, supportive, and centred on each person’s individual needs, choices, and circumstances.

Company policy on disabled employees

OpenSight Hampshire is committed to fairness, respect, and inclusion in all that we do. We aim to ensure that no person is treated less favourably because of age, disability, race, sex, religion, or any other protected characteristic. Our recruitment and service delivery practices are designed to be inclusive and accessible. We value diversity as a source of strength and insight and welcome applications from all sections of the community, including people with lived experience of sight loss. Trustees, staff, and volunteers are responsible for upholding these principles, and our policies and training ensure that equality and diversity remain integral to our governance, culture, and daily operations.

Additional information

Introduction from Dr Jane Brooks, Chair of Trustees As detailed in this report, this has been another challenging year financially, but we remain committed to providing much-needed services for those living with a vision impairment across Hampshire. The Board of Trustees would like to acknowledge and thank all our exceptional staff for their hard work and dedication. We are proud of each member of our staff team, the excellent services they provide, and the impressive outcomes they achieve, which help make a significant difference to our service users. Additionally, on behalf of the staff and the Trustees, I would like to express our huge thanks to our wonderful volunteers. OpenSight continues to benefit from their hard work and unstinting support, and we are grateful to them for all that they do in support of the Charity. Amongst our valued volunteers are the Trustees of OpenSight, with whom it is my pleasure to work alongside. My thanks go to each of our Trustees for all their work, dedication, and commitment to supporting the Charity. We have seen the following changes to the Trustee Board this year: Appointed: Mark Oliphant Co-opted: Mohamed Oshallah We warmly welcome Mark and Mohamed to the OpenSight team. We would also like to thank all the organisations with whom we work in partnership, as well as our funders, for their very welcome support. As a Team, we are very much looking forward to the coming year and to further improving how we help and support those who need and use our services. We are always keen to receive feedback on our service provision and delivery. If you would like to share your views with us, please do not hesitate to contact us. Chief Executive Officer’s Review, Chris Dixon At our heart, OpenSight is a community, one comprised of passionate staff, dedicated volunteers, and inspiring service users. This year, that community has come together to start looking forward to how OpenSight can become even more innovative in the support it provides. Growing Our Team, Shaping Our Future This year, we welcomed new team members who’ve brought fresh energy, ideas, and drive to our work. Their contributions are already helping us reach more people and think more strategically about where we’re heading. One of the most significant developments has been a focus on Income Generation. For too long, we have been reliant on legacy income. This approach is unsustainable, and to safeguard the organisation's future, we have been focusing on generating revenue from multiple sources. This is not a quick solution, but by investing in our team and developing a fundraising and income generation strategy, we are becoming more focused on long-term growth and sustainability. We recognise the increasing demand for our services and must find ways to meet as much of that demand as possible. A New Look, A Clearer Voice Our rebrand has been a big moment for the organisation. We knew it was time to refresh how we present ourselves to the world, not just to look different, but to sound more confident, more inclusive, and more like the vibrant, modern organisation we are today. The response from our community has been overwhelmingly positive. People are proud to be part of OpenSight, and so are we. Alongside our rebrand, we launched a new website that’s not only more accessible but also more welcoming. It’s easier to navigate, more informative, and much better at showing who we are and what we do. For many people, it’s their first contact with us, and now it truly reflects the warmth, clarity, and respect we offer in all our work. Reconnecting With Our Roots Rebuilding stronger connections with our club network has been an absolute joy. These clubs are such a vital part of what makes OpenSight special, places where people come together to share, support one another, and feel truly seen. We’ve spent time listening, visiting, and rebuilding trust, and we’re seeing those relationships flourish again Partnership has also been a big theme for us. Whether working with local councils, health services, other charities, or corporate supporters, we’ve seen what’s possible when we collaborate. It’s clear that we’re stronger, and more effective, when we work together. Recognition That Matters Being nominated for a National Visionary Award in partnership with Southampton Sight was a real highlight. National recognition like this doesn’t happen by accident, it’s a result of the passion, innovation and dedication of our whole team and wider partnerships. Whilst we didn’t win, the nomination alone was a powerful reminder that we’re moving in the right direction, and that others are noticing the difference we’re making. Looking Ahead There’s still so much more we want and need to do, and head into the new year with confidence, clarity, and a renewed focus. Our priority is to develop and deliver our next three-year strategy, to achieve financial sustainability and realise our vision: to provide a comprehensive and accessible range of practical and emotional support across the county that meets each person’s individual needs and wishes. We’ve made great strides this year, and I’m grateful to everyone who’s helped us get here. To our staff, volunteers, trustees, funders, service users, and friends, thank you. This year has been a team effort, in the truest sense and together, I know we’ll continue to make a real and lasting difference. The year in numbers, and what they tell us The 2024/2025 financial year continued to bring challenges for people living with sight loss across Hampshire. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis and reductions in public funding have placed additional pressure on many households, and demand for OpenSight’s services remained high. Who we supported 2,630 people were registered in total with OpenSight, including 1,627 new referrals, evidence that more people are seeking our help at key moments of need. Of the people we support: 77% are aged 66+, highlighting the prevalence of age-related conditions such as macular degeneration, which remains the leading cause of sight loss in our community. 18% are of working age, reinforcing the importance of supporting independence and confidence for all, and where appropriate enabling people to enter, remain in, or return to employment. 5% are children and young people, and our focus is on providing early intervention and supporting them and their families to navigate the challenges they may face with their vision impairment. Our reach remains strongest in South Hampshire (61%), which could be attributed to a mix of factors including population distribution, access to ophthalmic services, and local demographic characteristics. Among those we support: 44% live with Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) 8% live with Glaucoma 4% live with Diabetic Retinopathy, and 3% live with Retinitis Pigmentosa What difference we made Behind every referral is an individual story of adjustment, learning and resilience. Of the 1,627 who were referred to our services in 2024/2025: 647 people reported improved wellbeing, showing the emotional impact of being understood and supported. 416 reported increased independence, often linked to practical advice and assistive technology. Among service users who involve family members in their support, 260 families told us they felt supported by OpenSight. These outcomes are based on self-reported feedback, with individuals able to select more than one area of impact. Some accessed only one service, while others engaged with several, meaning the figures reflect the breadth of outcomes, rather than exclusive categories. Service Summary Child, Young Person, and Family Support Service Our early years group in Hilsea continues to grow from strength to strength, serving as a lifeline to many families. A second group in the north of the county is in development and is starting slowly. Our Moo Music sessions continue to grow steadily. We have also been able to deliver activity days, family outings and Christmas parties thanks to the generosity of our funders. The support these sessions and activities provide to children and their families is invaluable, fostering peer connection and emotional reassurance. Feedback highlights how much families value being understood and supported. Our one-to-one service complements this by offering personalised information, advice and advocacy, and received 82 referrals over the year. Growing Together . T’s Story T (name changed) is a bright and curious toddler living in Hampshire, diagnosed at just 21 months old with Oculocutaneous Albinism, a rare genetic condition that affects both skin pigmentation and vision. In May 2023, the Specialist Teacher Advisory Service (part of the Sensory Team at Hampshire County Council) referred T’s family to OpenSight’s Early Years group in Portsmouth. The Qualified Teacher of the Vision Impaired (QTVI) had recognised the emotional strain the recent diagnosis was having on the family and believed our group could offer much-needed support. Later that same day, we connected with T’s mum over the phone. She spoke candidly about feeling overwhelmed, isolated and disheartened after trying several mainstream early years groups, where she felt out of place and constantly compelled to explain why her child was "different." She agreed to attend the upcoming Early Years session just two days later, but unfortunately, the family had to cancel due to illness. The family first attended a group session in June 2023. Both parents and T arrived looking unsure but quickly engaged with the themed activities based on The Very Hungry Caterpillar. From creating salt dough creatures to connecting with others, they approached the session with warmth and openness, dad even turned it into a friendly competition! That moment marked the beginning of a heartfelt and enduring relationship with OpenSight. Fast forward 12 months and T’s family have become one of our most engaged and supportive. They’ve attended nine Early Years sessions, our Family Fun and Information Day, and even joined our virtual Christmas party. On one occasion, when both parents couldn’t attend, Mum made the journey alone, crossing the Gosport Ferry to reach us in Southsea, her commitment speaking volumes about how much the group now means to them. What started as a tentative step into an unfamiliar space has evolved into wholehearted participation. Today, this family are the first to greet new parents, sharing their journey and offering reassurance. They have moved from feeling isolated to becoming champions of inclusion, kindness, and peer support within the group. It hasn’t been without challenges. Ongoing genetic testing and new diagnoses have brought moments of uncertainty and emotion. But there have also been many joyful moments and visible progress. The presence of QTVIs at group sessions has strengthened that sense of wraparound support, helping the family feel truly seen and understood. T’s mum said it best in April 2024: “The group is a breath of fresh air for us. It helps us and my kids understand so much more about sight loss and eyesight in a positive light. The support from other parents is lovely. I privately message about five other parents, it’s lovely. The support from you guys is massive and goes a long way too.” This is what our Early Years service is all about, offering reassurance, creating connections, and helping families grow in confidence, together. Social Clubs Our focus this year has been to reconnect fully with our 13 social clubs throughout Hampshire. Each group has had a minimum of 2 visits from OpenSight staff. The aim is to provide stronger support for volunteers across the club network, including club leaders, while enhancing our connection with the service users who attend the clubs. These clubs meet regularly (every fortnight or month) and bring people with a vision impairment together for social and peer support. The clubs provide a safe environment, a program of activities, and a world where a vision impairment isn’t a barrier to friendships and companionship. Work began in 2024/2025 to rebuild engagement with our 118 social club volunteers, with a focus on renewed communication, recognition, and support to strengthen their connection with OpenSight’s work. Throughout the year, our volunteers have delivered 130 sessions across our 13 clubs, with an average of 15 people attending per club. Active Age Groups – (formerly Working Age Groups) During 2024/2025, we ran six groups across the county, welcoming between 40 to 50 participants each month and across these, 10 new members joined. Our focus continued to be on building self-leading, self-managing groups. The Basingstoke group is on track to achieve this, while Havant, Fareham and Portsmouth are being supported to become more self-sustaining. Looking ahead, a key priority for 2025 will be developing the new Farnborough group and helping it establish a strong foundation. Resilience and a New Vision for life. Neale’s Story When COVID-19 hit, I faced unexpected challenges. I had lived with diabetes for years, often managing it with the thought that it might “come back to bite me one day.” When the pandemic struck, that day arrived sooner than I’d ever imagined. I was furloughed, and my body seemed to shut down. A series of health issues followed, leading to a significant loss of vision. Losing my driving licence after 35 years on the road was a hard blow, but it was only the beginning of my new journey. Life turned upside down. Tasks that once felt second nature, like commuting to work or driving, became overwhelming. I began experiencing anxiety, something I’d never dealt with before. Even going on holiday presented obstacles I hadn’t anticipated, with narrow streets and bustling crowds triggering a deep sense of isolation. Yet in the face of these challenges, I found strength through the support of my family and community. One of the turning points in my journey was discovering the power of technology to keep me connected. I was introduced to tools that allowed me to enjoy football matches in a way I hadn’t been able to for years. Watching my beloved sport again brought me a sense of normality and joy. Adapting to life with vision loss hasn’t been easy, and the changes have impacted my entire family. My wife learned to drive, and both my daughters have stepped up to help me get around. It’s been a journey of resilience, adaptation, and learning to accept help. Through OpenSight, I have found a way to give back and stay engaged and I’ve also become a committed advocate for eye health. I’m particularly dedicated to raising awareness among young people, emphasising the importance of eye care and helping children understand the real impact of vision loss. My story is one of courage and the power of community support. OpenSight’s work in helping people like me is more important than ever. Information Days Each year, we deliver two Equipment and Information exhibitions at venues within Hampshire. These days bring people with vision impairment, existing and new service users, together with resource and support providers within the community. Together, this year's events were attended by 15 organisations and 203 people. Both events received excellent feedback from those service users who attended, demonstrating the positive impact of these events. Thank you to those organisations that supported the days. Eye Contact In September 2024, our biennial conference returned. This year, we held the event at St Mary’s Stadium and collaborated with Southampton Sight to deliver the day. The conference was attended by over 40 organisations and 362 individuals. With exhibitors showcasing equipment and community support, talks by Professor Andrew Lotery from the University of Southampton, Thomas Pocklington Trust, Southampton Sight, and the OpenSight team, the day was a complete success. Information Hubs We delivered free drop-in sessions at locations across Hampshire for anyone with a vision impairment. The sessions offered practical advice on all matters related to sight loss, including information on local services and support, equipment, and everyday items that can help maintain people's independence. They also provided details of local social clubs and active age groups. During the year, we delivered 90 sessions, welcoming 219 unique visitors, of whom 160 were living with a vision impairment. Notably, 31% of attendees were new to OpenSight, reflecting the continued reach of our community engagement. Among those with a vision impairment, 24% were referred for additional support, most commonly for Independent Living advice, followed by equipment guidance. This project has now come to an end following the successful completion of its National Lottery funding period. Low Vision Assessments We deliver low-vision assessments to individuals with vision impairments in their own homes. These sessions assess their use of magnification and offer a range of practical tools to support them in improving this and going about their daily life to the best of their ability. This year, we improved the management and delivery of our LVA visits. A change to scheduling and planning has allowed us to deliver a more cost-effective service whilst increasing delivery by 35% to 463 sessions. Smart Tech Tutorials Our Smart Tech Tutorials teach vision impaired service users of all ages how to maximise the functionality of their smart devices, including iPhones, iPads, Android devices, Echo devices, and their built-in accessibility features. This service receives referrals from several referring partners, including ECLO, Sensory Teams, Opticians, Self-Referrals, and other sight loss charities, both nationally and locally. During the year, we have delivered over 191 sessions (a mix of one to one and small groups), either in people’s homes, or at head office. This year also saw the introduction of tech sessions at Apple Southampton. Following conversations between Apple and OpenSight, a monthly session is held at the Apple Store in Southampton for individuals with a vision impairment. Support is available to help them maximise the use of their devices. We are pleased to be able to signpost people to this service. Benefits Our Benefits Officer supports people with a vision impairment to apply for Personal Independence Payments or Attendance Allowance once certified as partially or severely sight impaired. We have supported 137 individuals in receiving a total of £339,856 in benefits during the 2024/2025 financial year. The impact of this support is that individuals are better able to meet the additional costs associated with illness or disability, including sight loss. University Hospital Southampton Eye Unit Sight Loss Support Service We continue to work in partnership with the NHS, local sight loss charities, and social services to deliver this vital support. In 2024/2025, referrals came from adults aged 30–92, with 74% holding or awaiting a Certificate of Visual Impairment. Most sought help with daily living (39%), while others needed information (26%), equipment advice (23%), financial guidance (8%), or insight into their diagnosis (4%). Tailored support was provided, with key outcomes including information and advice (26%), daily living tips and equipment guidance (29%), and assistance with magnification, benefits, and technology (32%).

This report was approved by the board of directors on 21 November 2025
and signed on behalf of the board by:

Name: Dr Jane Brooks
Status: Director