Fife sight loss group launches free phone befriending service

Free support services from sight loss charity the Macular Society, includes telephone befriending.

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK.

Nearly 1.5 million people are currently affected and many more are at risk.

The disease can have a devastating effect on people’s lives, leaving them unable to drive, read or see faces. Many people affected describe losing their sight as being similar to bereavement. There is still no cure and most types of the disease are not treatable.

Earlier this year, the National Lottery Community Fund awarded the Macular Society £120,000 to deliver a programme of practical and emotional support services to people with macular disease over the next three years.

The telephone befriending service helps ease feelings of loneliness and isolation that people with sight loss may be experiencing as a result of the ongoing impact of Covid-19.

Volunteer befrienders make a regular phone call, which helps to reduce feelings of isolation, and can rebuild confidence and independence. The society aims to match people with a befriender who has shared interests, and understands what living with macular disease is like.

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Hazel McFarlane, senior regional manager Scotland, Macular Society, said: “Macular disease can be a cruel and isolating condition at any time, but for someone who is shielding during the coronavirus outbreak and isn’t having face-to-face contact with anyone, it can be extremely challenging.

“Our befriending service offers people with macular disease an opportunity to have regular interaction with someone who can provide a reassuring presence and a friendly ear.

"Our befrienders have macular conditions themselves, so they truly know what the person they’re speaking to is experiencing.

"But it’s also entirely user-driven and the calls don’t have to focus on sight loss – if you want to talk to someone with similar hobbies or interests, the society will do everything it can to find a befriender who’ll be a suitable match for you.”

In addition, the Kirkcaldy Macular Society telephone support group, is open to anyone with macular disease, including their families or friends.

Hazel said: “In an unprecedented situation like this, health and wellbeing must always come first.

"However, it’s absolutely vital that everyone who needs our support continues to receive it. Although our face-to-face services have had to be suspended for the time being, we are still on the end of the phone and would strongly urge anyone to call us if they do need our assistance.

“The support group offers help in understanding macular disease and coming to terms with sight loss; exactly the way that our face-to-face support groups do. It also helps us to ensure that everyone is kept up to date with all the current news and information.

"But, most importantly, the group provides people affected by macular disease the opportunity to take part in social activities, helping to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation during these times.”

For more information on local support, contact Hazel on 01292 314 822 / 07586 168 803, or email [email protected].

For information on other services, call the charity’s advice service on 0300 3030 111 or email [email protected]

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