A CHARITY-RUN support group described as a ‘lifeline’ for visually-impaired people is on the brink of closure unless more funding is raised.

Wiltshire Sight holds two monthly meetings in Swindon and Wroughton, which attracts dozens of people with sight loss to share experiences and exchange tips on how to continue living independently.

However, this service is in danger of disappearing if the charity does not raise the £4,000 needed to keep the groups going for another year.

“They are a real lifeline to some of our clients who may not leave the house for long periods of time,” said fundraising manager Claire Neal.

“This way they can visit their local group and feel that they are not alone and belong to something.

“It would be a terrible loss if this service had to be withdrawn due to lack of funding”

Wiltshire Sight receives no statutory funding and has to raise all the money to support the services it provides. It also applies for grants, but it has been unable to find the funding to support these groups despite efforts from the whole team.

Irene Chalmers, is among those who attend the session at Wroughton Library on the first Monday of every month. The other session is held at Tesco in Ocotal Way on the first Wednesday of each month.

“It’s invaluable,” she said. “It is the fact we are here together sharing experiences and you’re with people of a like mind. Unless you are in this position you have no idea what it’s like. You can’t tell people’s body language or see their faces.

“We would miss it if it stopped, it has been running for two years very successfully.”

Ken Mardling, 81, another member, said: “I’ve never walked away from here without learning something. You always go away with a little snippet from somebody.

“I should be a little bit vacant if it were to no longer continue - it is the social contact and I look forward to it.”

Meanwhile Glynn Evans, 68, comes with his guide dog Tyler. He added: “I would feel very disappointed because it does a lot for people, we have a good laugh and a natter.

“I volunteer at eye clinic at Great Western Hospital and I always point people with sight problems to the charity.”

Some members, including retired hospital secretary Thea Gilliard, 88, who has macular degeneration, are calling for some joined up thinking with some of the other charities in the town and businesses to donate towards the sessions.

To offer support to Wiltshire Sight call (01380) 723682 or email info@wiltshiresight.org