A 145-year-old charity has changed its name to better reflect the community it supports.

Oxfordshire Association for the Blind, which was established in 1877, has changed its name to MyVision Oxfordshire.

Staff at the John Radcliffe Eye Hospital found that when a patient was diagnosed with sight loss, they often were hesitant to be in touch with a charity for the blind, as going blind was what they feared the most.

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Mark Upton, the charity’s chief executive, said: “I’m so pleased we have a name we can be proud of, that doesn’t put people off at the point of diagnosis - when our support is needed the most.

“Being visually impaired doesn’t mean the end. With the right adjustments and support you can have a bright future and play a positive part in the community.

“My hope is that MyVision Oxfordshire is there for everyone who has a visual impairment wherever they are on that journey.”

 

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This story was written by Anna Colivicchi, she joined the team this year and covers health stories for the Oxfordshire papers. 

Get in touch with her by emailing: Anna.colivicchi@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @AnnaColivicchi