The Vassall Centre is more than just a building, it’s a thriving hub of organisations working every day to support communities, champion inclusion, and create positive change.
In this series, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the incredible tenants based at the Centre, hearing their stories, celebrating their impact, and learning what makes this place so special to them. From long-standing charities to emerging grassroots groups, these interviews offer a glimpse into the heart of the Vassall Centre and the people who bring it to life.
One of these tenant organisations is Sight Support West of England, a charity dedicated to supporting people who are blind or partially sighted across Bristol, Bath and the West of England. Through practical advice, emotional support, information, activities and advocacy, the team helps people navigate sight loss with confidence and maintain their independence.
As part of our tenant spotlight series, we spoke to the team about the vital work they do, the difference they make to the lives of the people they support, and why being part of the Vassall Centre community is so important to them.
🏢 A) About Your Work at the Vassall Centre
Can you tell us a bit about your organisation and what you do here at the Vassall Centre?
Sight Support West of England supports blind and partially sighted people across Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, and South Gloucestershire.
From our base at the Vassall Centre, our team provides advice, digital skills support, social opportunities, and information to help people access the support that is right for them. We currently support more than 1,800 people across the region, including those newly experiencing sight loss, people with long term sight loss, and family members looking for guidance and support.
As well as our resource centre at the Vassall Centre, we run 19 community hubs and standalone social groups across the wider region, helping people access local support closer to home. Last year alone, our team provided more than 3,400 one to one support sessions.
We’re proud that 96% of people told us they felt better able to manage day to day after working with us. Whether someone is looking for help with daily living, emotional support, accessible technology, or simply the chance to connect with others, our aim is to help people feel informed, and less isolated.
🕰️ B) Celebrating the History of the Centre
How long have you been based at the Vassall Centre?
We have been based at the Vassall Centre since the charity was formed in 2018.
Over the years, we’ve seen the Centre continue to develop, particularly with the introduction of the community hub and improved outdoor spaces.
One of the benefits of being based here is being alongside a wide range of local charities and organisations. This creates opportunities to share knowledge, work together, and connect people with other useful local support where needed.
🌱 C) Looking Ahead – Hopes and Ambitions
What is happening for you over the next few months?
Over the next few months, we’ll be continuing to look at new ways to help blind and partially sighted people connect with others in their local communities.
This includes exploring how we can support people to start local groups and build peer connections around shared interests and experiences. We’re also looking at opportunities to develop face to face befriending support for people who would like more confidence or support to get out and about.
As a charity, we know that practical support and social connection can make a huge difference, particularly for people adjusting to sight loss. We’re excited to continue developing services that meet the needs of blind and partially sighted people across our region.
If you or someone you know could benefit from support, advice, or information, please contact them on 0117 322 4885 or visit our website to find out more. https://www.sightsupportwest.org.uk/
📍 Looking for a meeting room in Bristol?
The Vassall Centre offers flexible, fully accessible meeting and event spaces in a vibrant community setting. Get in touch to book your space today and become part of our thriving hub of organisations making a difference.
Find out more about room hire and join our community of changemakers. 💙
