SIGHT LOSS VETERANS INSPIRE CHARITY TO OPEN ITS DOORS

Sight Scotland Veterans is opening its doors to the local Renfrewshire community this September as part of the national Doors Open Days festival.

The charity was inspired to take part in the Doors Open Days festival by its veterans, who are keen for family, friends, and members of the local community to see all the inspirational activities that take place at the Hawkhead Centre in Paisley.

The Hawkhead Centre Doors Open Day is taking place on 02 September 2023 between 10am and 3pm.

In Scotland, Doors Open Days is the largest free festival that celebrates places, history, and culture. The festival offers free access to over a thousand venues and events across the country throughout September every year. Doors Open Days provides access to buildings not normally open to the public.

John Reilly, Senior Centre Officer at the Hawkhead Centre, explains: “We are delighted to be taking part in the Doors Open Days festival which celebrates our local community. Our participation in Doors Open Days was inspired by our veterans who were very keen to show their family and friends all the great activities they take part in at the Hawkhead Centre. Each day our expert teams coordinate activities for veterans to explore interests, reconnect with their passions, develop new skills, and meet new friends in a safe, welcoming environment. Our activities include archery or acoustic shooting, using the gym, making a bird table or bench in woodwork, arts and crafts, music, I.T, virtual reality headsets, the list is really endless.

“The camaraderie and friendship which is formed at both our centres is a joy to behold and you can see the difference it makes to many of our veteran’s lives. They love coming along and it is so nice they want to share this experience with family and friends. Hopefully as many people as possible come along on the day to see what we do and have some fun by taking part in some of our activities and workshops.”

Sight Scotland Veterans supports veterans living with significant sight loss. Our support equips people to rediscover and maintain their independence and to improve their quality of life.

The Hawkhead Centre is an activity hub for ex-servicemen and women with sight loss, which provides a safe and welcoming space for veterans with sight loss to re-engage in the local community, rebuild confidence, and regain or maintain their independence. It’s a warm, welcoming place that brings veterans together, with many veterans who attend the centre saying the things they do there and the connections they’ve made have transformed their lives.

For more information please visit sightscotlandveterans.org.uk or call 0800 035 6409.