Kirkcaldy lunch group builds bonds with veterans

Scottish War Blinded members in the Lang Toun, who are all veterans living with a vision impairment, have been getting to know Stephen Greig over the last few weeks.

He is one of 15 Scottish War Blinded outreach workers who provide free support to the charity’s members.

“I’m meeting lots of people with all types of stories,” Stephen said.

“I’m enjoying making a difference and having the tools and ability to make changes for the veterans I work with.”

Stephen is in regular contact with Scottish War Blinded veterans in Fife on a one-on-one basis to assess and provide the tailored support he, and the Scottish War Blinded rehabilitation team, can offer.

The aim is to enable each veteran to continue living as independently as possible, despite their sight condition.

Specialist equipment – from electronic magnifiers to kitchen aids – is available to members, free of charge, as well as expert advice and support from the Scottish War Blinded rehabilitation officers.

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As well as the monthly Kirkcaldy lunch group, Stephen holds another in Dunfermline, giving the charity’s Fife members a chance to meet fellow veterans for a friendly chat over a spot of lunch, provided free-of-charge.

The Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline groups are on the lookout to increase their numbers – and Stephen is encouraging any veteran with sight loss in Fife to reach out to Scottish War Blinded for free support.

Stephen said: “The lunch groups are about getting to know people and building relationships with others who live in the same area.

“They are both very relaxed, and carers and partners of our veterans are also very welcome to come along.

“I’ve been visiting quite a few veterans who live on their own, and things like the lunch groups also make a difference to help them get out and make new connections.”

Research carried out by Scottish War Blinded last year showed that two thirds of Scottish War Blinded members said their sight loss had resulted in them experiencing loneliness, and access to the charity’s services played the greatest role in helping them overcome social isolation.

It gives free support to former servicemen and women of all ages, no matter if they lost their sight during or after service.

Stephen’s Kirkcaldy lunch group meets on the first Monday of each month at The Waterfront Restaurant, High Street, from 12pm until 2pm. For more information, and to refer a veteran to the charity, call 0800 035 6409 or www.scottishwarblinded.org.