Vista can help you this winter

It's been a very difficult year and we are working hard to support people affected by sight loss and be here for you. Despite the challenges and restrictions of the Covid-19 pandemic, we continue to provide support to people of all ages who live in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland.  

We know that the last few months have been challenging for all of us, particularly those with sight loss, and that the thought of the winter ahead may be daunting. We can advise on staying safe and well, help you to get support if you are isolating or feeling vulnerable, or put you in touch with someone to talk to if you are feeling lonely. 

Here are a few of the other ways we may be able to support you. 

Short term stays with Vista  

Did you know that Vista operates 4 care homes for people of all ages and for people with complex needs? As you would expect our home staff are experts in caring for people affected by sight loss and we also specialise in dementia care. 

If you or someone you know would like a break from being alone this winter, we can offer short term stays in any of our homes. 

We have a wide range of activities planned and would love to welcome you into our home for a few days or a few weeks. A short stay can also be a great way to try out living with us if a more permanent move is something you are considering. 

In need of someone to talk to?  

Vista has launched a new telephone service to stay in touch with people affected by sight loss, especially those who are feeling alone and in need of companionship this winter. If you would like to receive a regular call from one of our volunteers please call us on 0116 249 8839. We will match you with a volunteer who will keep in touch over the coming months. If you would like to join our existing volunteers who make calls to people in need of support, we would also love to hear from you.

Staying safe this winter  

This year more than ever it is important that you keep yourself safe, well and warm during the winter. 

• Keep warm – make sure at least one room is over 18 degrees. Having a hot meal, wrapping up in warm clothes and regular hot drinks will help. If you receive a state pension or other benefits you may also be able to claim a winter fuel payment to help you stay warm at home. 
• Keep well – make sure you have your flu vaccination. If you feel unwell get checked out. Your pharmacy, NHS 111 or your GP can offer advice.
• Keep in touch – winter can be lonely, especially this year. Stay in touch with friends, family and neighbours and contact Vista if you need more support.

Do you need help accessing technology?

New technology and the development of accessibility features mean that digital devices can be a great help to people affected by sight loss. Getting more familiar with digital communication could help you to feel less alone this winter and more able to be independent and to stay in touch with friends, family and carers.

If you would like advice from our team on how to become more digitally savvy, need info about what kit to put on your Christmas list or would like to share tips with others please get in touch with us on 0116 249 8839.

You may also want to join one of our regular “tea and tech” online events to ask an expert, chat about what tech is available and used by others and connect with peers. 

We also have an online chat room where we can phone your home phone to join in, or get support with using technology from one of our one of our trained volunteers.

Volunteer with us

Vista’s volunteers are a vital part of our workforce, and we need them more than ever this winter. Volunteering is also a great way to stay busy and connect with other people - and you can even volunteer from home. 

Whether you are interested in becoming a telephone supporter, helping people to access digital services, driving for us, fundraising for us, joining our advice and information team, helping in our office, our shops or our homes we would love to hear from you! 

Get in touch with Ray, our Volunteer Development Manager on 0116 249 8839 or at volunteering@vistablind.org.uk for more information.