Volunteer Spotlight: Barbara

For over two decades, one of our long-standing volunteers has been quietly transforming lives in Market Drayton through the local VIP (Visually Impaired Persons) Club, offering connection, support, and practical advice to people with sight loss in the area.

“It all began when my husband was supposed to set up the group, but he returned to full-time work—so I stepped into his shoes,” she explains. “At the time, I knew very little about the challenges people with sight loss face. I was really pleased to be invited onto the county committee, where I could learn more. That was one of the best things I did—it kept me informed and up to date on the services available across Shropshire.”

Since then, she has not only run the VIP Club—offering friendship, advice, and practical support to people living with sight loss—but has also been a long-serving member of our Sight Loss Shropshire Committee, helping to shape the direction of our services and ensure they reflect the real needs of the people we support.

“The club is a way of helping people come together to share experiences, learn about equipment and daily living tips, and find out where to go for help,” she says. “For some, it’s the only social event they’re able to attend—and without volunteers, it simply wouldn’t happen.”

Reflecting on what volunteering has meant to her, she shares:

“Volunteering is the most interesting, satisfying, and stimulating thing you can do with your free time. The rewards are unbelievable.”

We are incredibly grateful for her years of commitment, compassion, and insight—not only in her local community, but also in helping to shape Sight Loss Shropshire’s work across the county.

Volunteers like Barbara truly make all the difference.