Lincoln and Lindsey Blind Society (LLBS) has been serving the community since 1921, working to improve the quality of life for blind, partially sighted, and visually impaired people of all ages and backgrounds.
The society’s mission is simple: to make life easier for visually impaired individuals by promoting independence and providing practical support.
Serving North and North East Lincolnshire, East and West Lindsey, and Lincoln City – spanning 1,600 square miles – LLBS operates with 12 staff members and 120 volunteers. Together, they support 1,500 visually impaired people by offering practical, everyday assistance that helps individuals remain as active and independent as possible.
Susan joined the society two years ago after being diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that blurs central vision. AMD occurs when ageing causes damage to the macula, the part of the eye responsible for sharp, straight-ahead vision. The macula is part of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
AMD is a common condition and a leading cause of vision loss among older adults. Although it does not cause complete blindness, the loss of central vision can make it more difficult to recognise faces, read, drive, or carry out close-up tasks such as cooking or DIY.
Susan’s mother had also lived with AMD, so she was familiar with the condition. However, the reality of the diagnosis struck her when her optician advised her to stop driving. The fear of losing her independence, combined with uncertainty about how quickly her sight would deteriorate, was overwhelming. She explained how even small tasks became challenging—for example, peeling a carrot, as the peel and vegetable are the same colour, making it hard to see which part has already been peeled.
Susan contacted LLBS, and Jennie, a sight impairment officer, visited her at home. Jennie demonstrated various aids to help around the house and assessed Susan’s vision, enabling her to provide a magnifier suited to her needs.
In addition to supplying equipment, LLBS offers a wide range of services, including technology and IT advice, talking newspapers and books, a befriending service, benefits advice, employment support, and social groups. Susan joined her local LLBS social group and has found great comfort in meeting others facing similar challenges. The group offers opportunities to share advice and tips and to participate in activities specifically tailored for people with visual impairments.
For more information about LLBS, please call 01507 605604, email info@llbs.co.uk or visit www.llbs.co.uk.