Thousands helped by sensory loss charity during pandemic
North East Sensory Services quickly adapted to offer support remotely
Thousands of blind and deaf people across Scotland have been supported over the last year by a sensory loss charity.
North East Sensory Loss (NESS), who work in Aberdeen, Dundee, Aberdeenshire, Angus and Moray say 1,554 people have received mental health and wellbeing support over the last year.
They delivered hearing aid batteries and organising socially distanced hearing aid repair, maintenance and cleaning for 465 users.
NESS also delivered visual impairment/hearing equipment, signposted vulnerable people to foodbanks or supermarket services, advised on employment rights and run a British Sign Language group.
Overall, NESS say there are 3,000 cases where they've supported people – with some duplication across categories.
NESS Chief Executive, Graham Findlay said: "The past year has been incredibly challenging for people with sensory loss.
"At NESS, we adapted our lifeline services to support users, ensuring they could continue to make positive contributions to society.
"I’m incredibly proud of our staff and volunteers who have gone above and beyond during this difficult period.
"From cleaning hearing aids to friendly phone calls, we’ve helped tackle isolation and boosted people’s physical and mental health.
"We’re pleased that some face-to-face services are now resuming and look forward to a full resumption as restrictions are eased further."
The charity has re-opened its resource centres in Aberdeen, Dundee and Moray for appointments only, allowing users to see social and rehab workers and try out equipment.
Changes have been made to the resource centres, with screens between individuals, hand sanitiser, and strict guidelines for appointments and the number of people in the building.