More than 500 blind and visually impaired people in Dorset will receive essential support and services thanks to a grant from Dorset Freemasons.

The grant of £36,000 has been given to the Dorset Blind Association charity and will fund social and activity clubs for older blind people, who very often have difficulty maintaining an active social life.

Dorset Blind Association provides over 20 social clubs and activity groups where people can meet regularly.

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These are integral in relieving loneliness and social isolation, offering support and providing a safe, supportive environment for individuals to connect with others, share experience and build friendships.

This funding will be primarily used to cover venue hire, transport and entertainment.

It will make a significant difference in the lives of their members and will be used to pay the operational costs for the social and activity clubs for older people for a three year period. 

Jonathan Holyhead, CEO of Dorset Blind Association, said: "We’re immensely grateful to Dorset Freemasons for their generous support.

"This grant will allow us to relieve the loneliness and isolation that is all too common among blind and visually impaired people.

"Our charity provides help and support in ways that make a real, positive difference in those people’s lives.”

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The charity provides practical help and emotional support to enable people with sight loss to stay happy and healthy.

The grant from the Freemasons underscores their commitment to supporting initiatives that make a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities.

Their contribution will enable Dorset Blind Association to expand their reach and impact, ensuring that more visually impaired individuals receive the assistance and resources they need to thrive.

Stephen James from Dorset Freemasons, said: “I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help the Dorset Blind Association with their hugely important project among visually impaired people from our community.

"Sadly loneliness and isolation is all too common among people who have lost their sight and it’s great that this wonderful charity is able to organise regular social activities and entertainment for them on a long term basis.”