Bradbury Fields

🚨 Important Announcement - Promo Event Cancelled🚨 Unfortunately, due to adverse weather conditions, we regret to inform you that the premiere of our promotional video organised for Friday 10th January will have to be cancelled. The safety of our attendees and team is our top priority, and we believe this is the best decision given the circumstances. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding. We’re working on rescheduling the event and will provide updates as soon as possible. Thank you for your support, and stay safe! #EventUpdate #SafetyFirst

Today, we bid farewell to an integral part of our charity family, Linda, our Finance Manager. Over the years, Linda has been a cornerstone of our team, bringing not only her expertise and dedication but also her compassion and tireless commitment to our mission. Her meticulous work behind the scenes has been the backbone of our operations, ensuring that we could continue to make a difference in the lives of those we serve. Beyond her professional contributions, Linda has touched all of us with her kindness and unwavering support. We are deeply grateful for everything she has done and know her next chapter will be just as impactful. Linda, you will be greatly missed, but we wish you every happiness in your new journey. Thank you for everything—you’ve left an indelible mark on this organization and all of us who had the privilege of working with you. We leave you with a quick message from Linda’s biggest fans, Woof woof! We just wanted to let you know how much we’re going to miss you. Who’s going to give us those extra treats when no one’s looking? Or scratch that perfect spot behind our ears like you do? You’ve always been our favorite human (don’t tell the others). We’ll miss the sound of your laugh, the way you always smelled like kindness, and how you made us feel like the most special pups in the world. Things won’t be the same without you around, but we know wherever you go, you’ll keep spreading the same love and warmth that you gave to us. Please don’t forget about us—we’ll be here wagging our tails, thinking of you. Big slobbery kisses and lots of love, Harmony, Dixie, Dottie, Hugo & Nicola. #GuideDogs #Retirement

Understanding Charles Bonnet Syndrome: What It Is and Why Getting Help Matters Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a condition that affects people with significant vision loss, causing them to experience vivid visual hallucinations. These hallucinations can be startling, but they are not a sign of mental illness. Instead, they occur as the brain adjusts to changes in visual input. Signs to Watch For: 1. Vivid Visual Hallucinations: People with CBS may see things that aren’t actually there, such as patterns, faces, animals, or even entire scenes. These visions can appear suddenly and may vary in intensity. 2. Awareness of Hallucinations: One key feature of CBS is that individuals are usually aware that the hallucinations are not real, which helps distinguish it from other conditions. 3. No Impact on Thinking: CBS doesn’t affect memory or cognitive functions. It’s purely a visual phenomenon. If you or someone you know is experiencing these types of hallucinations, it’s important to understand that they are related to vision loss, not mental health issues. Why Seek Help? While CBS can be unsettling, it’s important to seek professional advice if you notice any signs. Hallucinations can affect quality of life, causing anxiety, stress, or isolation. Early diagnosis and support can help manage these symptoms and reduce emotional distress. At Bradbury Fields, we offer support for people living with visual impairments, including tailored training and emotional support to help manage symptoms. We also connect individuals with a community of others facing similar challenges, so you don’t have to go through it alone. If you or someone you know is experiencing CBS, don’t hesitate to reach out for support from healthcare professionals or organisations like Bradbury Fields. Seeking help can make a world of difference in improving quality of life.

Today, Tuesday, 3rd December 2024, marks World Disability Day, a global observance dedicated to promoting the rights, dignity, and inclusion of people with disabilities. World Disability Day serves as an important reminder to challenge barriers, both physical and societal, that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in all aspects of life. It’s a day to celebrate the achievements of people with disabilities and to call for greater accessibility, inclusion, and opportunities for everyone. At Bradbury Fields, where we support individuals living with sight loss, we understand first-hand the profound impact that visual impairment can have on independence, self-confidence, and daily life; so for us, this day holds particular significance. Our team are deeply committed to empowering individuals with sight loss to achieve independence and realise their potential. Our work goes beyond simply providing support; we encourage and help individuals build the skills and confidence they need to succeed. Whether it’s through assistive technology, mobility training, or emotional support, we strive to create an environment where people affected by sight loss are empowered to reach their goals—whether personal, social, or professional. By observing World Disability Day, we reaffirm our commitment to encouraging a society that recognizes the value and potential of people with disabilities. It is a reminder that with the right support, inclusive practices, and a focus on abilities rather than limitations, every person has the potential to thrive. At Bradbury Fields, we will continue to champion the rights of people with visual impairments, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to live independent, fulfilling lives, today, on World Disability Day, and all other days!

Meet Dawn, one of our dedicated rehabilitation officers here at Bradbury Fields. Dawn is a familiar face to many, as she meets with individuals both at home and at our centre, specialising in low vision support and finding aids tailored to each person’s needs.   With her expertise, she helps individuals navigate the challenges of sight loss by identifying the best tools and techniques to maximize their remaining vision to continue living independently.   In the attached image, you can see Dawn surrounded by an array of handheld magnifiers, each designed to address different visual needs.   Magnifiers come in various strengths, sizes, and features, allowing each individual to find the right fit for their specific circumstances. Some magnifiers are simple, handheld lenses that provide a basic magnification boost for reading text or seeing small objects more clearly. Others are more advanced, offering adjustable zoom levels, enhanced lighting, and even customizable background colours to increase contrast, a feature particularly helpful for reading different types of printed materials.   For many, adapting to sight loss can be overwhelming, and learning to use these aids takes time and patience. But with Dawn’s guidance and support from Bradbury Fields, people can explore the options available and find solutions that work for them. Whether it’s learning new techniques, practicing with different devices, or simply gaining confidence, Dawn and the team are here to help every step of the way.

World Diabetes Day – A Reminder to Protect Your Vision Today, November 14, Bradbury Fields is joining the global community to mark World Diabetes Day, a time to spotlight diabetes and the serious risk it poses to eye health. Managing diabetes effectively and getting regular eye screenings can make a significant difference in preventing sight loss. Diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels become elevated due to insufficient insulin production or the body’s inability to use insulin effectively. Over time, high blood sugar can damage various organs, including the eyes. Diabetic retinopathy, for example, occurs when the blood vessels in the retina are damaged, leading to blurred vision or, if untreated, even blindness. Another risk is glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve, which can also result in sight loss. These conditions may start with no visible symptoms, making regular eye screening vital. Early detection offers a chance to manage and treat these conditions before they severely impact vision. For people with diabetes, regular screenings are a preventive measure that cannot be overlooked. At Bradbury Fields, we’re committed to supporting those experiencing sight loss due to diabetes or other causes. We provide a range of services, including rehabilitation and social support, to help blind and partially sighted people live independently. Our dedicated rehabilitation officers work closely with service users to rebuild skills and confidence, ensuring they can continue with the activities they love. If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, please reach out. We’re here to help every step of the way. #WorldDiabetesDay #EyeHealth #BradburyFields #SightLossSupport

For over a decade, Rose has been a valued member of Bradbury Fields. Her journey began at Christopher Grange, where she initially focused on developing rehabilitation skills. Transitioning to Bradbury Fields provided her with continued learning, a sense of belonging, and support that has deeply enriched her life.   Throughout her time here, Rose has acquired numerous techniques to adapt to living with sight loss. However, the journey hasn’t been without obstacles.   Due to a disability affecting her right hand, Rose found it challenging to learn Braille and struggled to use a guide cane, which impacted her confidence. Her guide dog, Ushie, became not only her companion but her lifeline. Now retired, Ushie guided her through both practical challenges and emotional hurdles, offering a constant source of support and companionship that words can scarcely capture.   Though Ushie is no longer a working dog, their bond remains as strong as ever. Ushie is never far from Rose’s side, a loyal friend who still shadows her every move. Rose speaks with heartfelt gratitude about the support Guide Dogs UK has provided throughout her journey, and she eagerly awaits a new guide dog to step into Ushie’s well-worn paws.   Adjusting to vision loss brought profound feelings of isolation for Rose. She recalls how drastically her social circle shifted, with many friends and familiar routines falling away. But finding Bradbury Fields changed everything.   The community offered Rose a sense of family, a place where people truly understand her journey. Surrounded by those who share similar experiences, she found not only support but genuine friendships that have helped restore her confidence and sense of connection.   Beyond her activities at Bradbury Fields, Rose is kept busy with her family, including her fifteen grandchildren, who bring her endless joy. Her story is one filled with emotions and gratitude, and we hope you enjoyed reading every bit of it.   In the below picture, Rose stands on the left with Ushie beside her, whilst Margie, one of Rose's friends at the centre, stands on the right with her guide dog, Bea.

Meet Margie, a vibrant member of the Bradbury Fields community. Margie’s journey has been anything but easy, but with determination, she’s turned challenges into opportunities for connection and growth. Losing her sight 20 years ago was life-altering; she’d always been blind in one eye, but when she lost sight in the other, navigating the world felt like an impossible task. She had worked in a hands-on, practical job role that made this adjustment even harder, but Margie is nothing if not resilient. Margie joined us at Bradbury Fields four years ago and hasn’t looked back since. What she loves most about Bradbury Fields are the people and the variety of activities that fill her days with joy and purpose. You’ll often find her there on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, and soon she’ll be adding Fridays to her schedule too. It’s a place where she can connect, learn, and feel supported, especially through sessions and clubs that give her a reason to look forward to each week. Two years ago, she began learning Braille. Though she’ll admit it’s no easy task, she finds the challenge rewarding and sees it as an essential skill for independence. Her guide dog, Bee, is always by her side, offering support, comfort, and a steady presence that Margie would be lost without. Outside of Bradbury Fields, Margie is all about family. She loves spending time with her nine grandchildren, and with a great-grandchild on the way, the family gatherings are set to become even more joyful. Trips and outings with her husband, who also volunteers at Bradbury Fields, are highlights in her week. The community, friendship, and sense of purpose that Bradbury Fields provides are invaluable to Margie, and her positivity shines through as she continues to embrace each day with enthusiasm and a heart full of gratitude. #BradburyFields #VisualImpairments

A Spooktacular Halloween Afternoon at Bradbury Fields Our Halloween tea afternoon was a frightfully fun event, with service users enjoying a delightfully eerie spread. The talented kitchen and club teams at Bradbury Fields crafted a feast of ghoulishly good cakes, eerie sandwiches, and scones to die for—all served with a warm cuppa and good conversation. With bats, cobwebs, and pumpkins decorating every corner, the atmosphere was both chilling and cozy, adding a touch of Halloween magic for everyone to enjoy. Take a look through the photos to experience the treats, laughter, and festive fun from our Halloween afternoon! #happyhalloween #bradburyfields

Our service users having fun with their guide dogs around the centre! 😀 #guidedogs #happypeople #bradburyfields #visualimpairment