YOUR CHARITY MANAGER
Name: Alan Chappell Where do you live?: Macclesfield. Which charity do you support?: Macclesfield Eye Society; supporting people affected by sight loss across East Cheshire. Bio: I am the charity manager, and I’m responsible for the day-to-day running of the charity, strategic development as well as making more people across East Cheshire aware of the services and support they can receive from us. In order to support people affected by sight loss we provide advice and support with IT and equipment that might help make life easier, help people get access to training that might improve their confidence with technology that might be new to them, information and support about finance and benefits for people in work, unemployed or retired. We also provide free advice and support at Macclesfield Hospital, including a regular presence at the Eye Clinic, we run regular and one-off social groups and activities and can arrange home visits to discuss needs including a volunteer-led befriending service which can offer regular contact and emotional support for people who are predominantly housebound. What inspired you to do this?: I want to use my knowledge and experience to benefit organisations like charities that are supporting local communities, and had a particular interest in the work of Macclesfield Eye Society because I was aware of the effects of sight loss on a number of family members and friends. What do you enjoy most about doing this?: Meeting and working with a range of really nice people and being able to make a difference to people’s lives. Any plans for the future?: We are looking to provide a wider range of services to a greater number of people, making more people aware of what we do and hopefully encouraging more people to volunteer with us. We are running our third annual Vision Day at Macclesfield Town Hall on Friday, May 12 – a chance for people to come along free of charge to find out what services and support are available from local sight loss charities, organisations and equipment suppliers. Where is your favourite place in Macclesfield?: As a dog walker there are many places that are amazing around Macclesfield, but possibly the best is Teggs Nose Country Park. What was the best holiday you have been on?: I’ve recently been to Norway hunting the Northern Lights, which were absolutely amazing and stunning. What one piece of advice would you give?: Listen to advice, but make your own mind up and never regret your decisions. Macclesfield Eye Society: 15 Queen Victoria Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6LP. T: 01625 422602 info@macclesfieldeyesociety.org.uk Facebook – Macclesfield Eye Society Twitter @ MaccEyeSociety www.macclesfieldeyesociety.org.uk We are always pleased to hear from anybody who is interested in volunteering.