St Dunstan’s is now called Blind Veterans UK, and the main reason behind this re-brand is the aim of reaching out to even more veterans in need of help.
The charity was established in 1915 and since then has supported over 35,000 people. Almost 100 years on, it now helps over 3,000 blind veterans throughout the UK. However the charity believes there are some 50,000 blind veterans who may also need its help, and aims to get the message out to them, their friends, families and neighbours.
Blind Veterans UK put much thought into their new name, and say:
“We know that not enough people are aware of us. And there are many other organisations called St Dunstan's, including churches, schools, colleges, therapists and dentists. We need to stand out. So we talked to our members, staff, supporters and potential supporters and did months of research into what makes us special. We've updated our whole brand: our name, the way we look and the way we sound - to make our purpose clear, simple to understand and easy to remember.”
Click here to take a look at the brand new Blind Veterans UK website.
The staff at Blind Veterans UK offer practical and emotional support, regardless of when people served or how they lost their sight. They aim to get their members back on their feet, recovering independence and discovering a life beyond sight loss.
The charity provides a wealth of guidance and support to veterans as they adjust to their loss of sight and regain their personal independence. This support is provided at three centres across the UK, and covers introductory weeks and assistance with welfare and rehabilitation, allowing members to understand and adjust to their vision impairments; along with helping them to enjoy life beyond sight loss, with sports and recreation, clubs and societies and arts & crafts.
Click here to find out more about the support Blind Veterans UK offers.