We hold a number of Social and Peer Support groups across North Staffordshire. These range from meet-ups in cafes, to groups with speakers and activities. We have found that opportunities to meet other people who understand because of their shared experiences can have a massive positive impact on emotional wellbeing and confidence.

One attendee of our Hanley group said:

“Staffordshire Sight Loss Association is an amazing charity that brings people living with sight loss together. It eradicates that awful, lonely feeling when you feel like the only person in the world affected by it. We meet every two weeks at our local library and if someone is having a problem with something you can guarantee someone else has gone through it and has a solution. Thank you Staffordshire Sight Loss Association for opening up a new world to me.”

Come along, meet others, share experiences and tips and make friends. Some groups have a small charge to cover refreshments or activities.

Hanley Group:

Our monthly Hanley social group meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at our offices on Albion Street in Hanley. The group meets from 10.30am till 12 pm. It is a friendly informal group of all ages and we often have speakers and activities chosen by the group.

In the past we have been visited by other organisations such as Guide Dogs and Vision Aid, we have had interesting talks around history and childhood memories. We have had activities such as crafts, gentle exercise, Thai Chi and drumming and we also have open discussion sessions that provide opportunities to discuss any challenges or to share tips and experiences. Suggested voluntary donation of £1 per person. Tea, coffee and cakes provided.

Dates can be found on our events calendar or you can receive updates on what is coming up via our quarterly newsletter.

Upcoming groups:

14th February 2022: a talk from Changes Health and Wellbeing

14th March 2022: a talk from Andy Woods, local Eye Clinic Liaison Officer from the Royal Stoke University Hospital

Newcastle Group:

On the last Tuesday of each month we have a group that meets at St Giles’ Church on Chuch Street in Newcastle under Lyme. The group meets from 10 am until 11.30am.

Suggested voluntary donation of £1 per person. Tea, coffee and cakes provided.

There are no planned speakers for this group at present as the group would prefer to chat and share information. We do however give an update about our activities and those of other organisations and sometimes we demonstrate equipment.

Weekly Braille class in Hanley

Would you like to learn or practice braille? We have a small friendly group that meets every Monday at 10.30 am at our offices on Albion Street in Hanley

If you are interested, come along on a Monday or get in touch to have a chat with our braille teacher Jennifer

More groups are coming soon…