New social group for visually impaired in Lochgilphead
A social group for the visually impaired is being set up in Lochgilphead by a Mid Argyll man with significant sight problems in the hope of meeting people with similar issues and constraints.
David Bowen is organising the group alongside the Argyll and Bute Sensory Impairment Team, and plans to start meeting monthly at the MS Centre on Campbell Street.
Meetings will be at 2pm on the second Monday of each month at the MS Centre, starting Monday May 13.
David has suffered from age related macular degeneration (AMD) for more than five years and receives regular treatment in Lochgilphead.
He said: “Having AMD has impacted on my everyday life in a variety of ways.
“It is impossible for me to see print without magnification and I use a digital reader to read out anything in print.
“My distance vision is not as badly affected and I still ride my bike, but do not drive the car anymore.
“It would be good to meet other people who have visual impairment and so the seed has been sown to start a locally based social group.”
It is hoped the group can provide opportunities to listen to speakers from medical, technical, and counselling services, as well as being a social hub.
Anyone interested in joining this group, can contact David Bowen on 07729478482 or Eilidh Fitzpatrick on 01369 707149.
Community projects receive grant funding
Tayvallich Initiative is one of nine projects to receive funding from Argyll and Bute Council’s Vibrant and Living Spaces grant. The community trust has received £10,045 towards its Tayvallich Grows project.
Also receiving grants were Benmore Gardens with £50,000 for the first phase of its walled garden redevelopment project and Dunoon Community Development Trust received £17,120 for its Grow Food Grow Dunoon at Struan Lodge. Councillor Jim Lynch, council leader, said: “These projects will provide new and improved facilities that will support communities and help our local economy to thrive.”