Charity Wishes: EYECAN, we can... Building a community for islanders with sight loss

Friday 03 January 2025

Following a year of activities that ranged from art to cycling and cooking, Jersey's key sight impairment charity has shared its key wishes for 2025.

Both a charity and community for people who are affected by sight loss, EYECAN helps all islanders with sight impairment, be it through activities, social events, or or tailored support.

What have been the highlights of 2024?

Leading a significant program of change, the EYECAN team, clients, and volunteers have contributed to growing our client base and diversifying our activities to nowinclude swimming, cycling, and cooking.

Pictured: Faithful helpers.

We achieved outstanding results in art activities at the 2024 Eisteddfod and have reconnected with 54 young families on the island who are living with sight loss.

It is truly inspiring to see the growth of our community, the friendships that have blossomed, and the achievements we have accomplished together over the past
year.

Our members and clients consistently demonstrate remarkable resilience, commitment, and determination in the face of challenges. This collective spirit
serves as a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together.

What has been the greatest challenge?

Securing a true understanding of the needs surrounding visual impairment remains a challenge.

Pictured: Meeting the Lieutenant-Governor this year.

We continue to work with the government to secure access to data, but we must also invest in developing partnerships aimed at pooling information.

This will allow for a broader understanding of needs, enabling us to adapt our services and better support the people who need us the most.

And what is on your charity’s ‘wish list’ for 2025?

Our goal is to empower all island residents by increasing their awareness and access to our services.

Pictured: One of the charity's craft workshops.

We are committed to building strong partnerships that enable us to collaborate effectively and create the best possible services for Jersey.

As Jersey's only visual impairment charity, we are dedicated to enhancing understanding of visual impairment and strive for a culture of accessibility and inclusion throughout island life, emphasising abilities and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.