Sight loss statistics:

  • Numbers of people with sight loss are expected to double in the next two decades.
  • In Britain 1 in 60 people have a sight impairment that cannot be corrected by glasses or lenses.
  • Sight loss is the most common disability in the world and it is set to grow in the UK as the population ages. 
  • Over 20,000 children in the UK have a sight impairment, and are more likely to have another disability.
  • Only 2% of people with sight loss are able to use a guide dog. 
  • In a survey conducted by RNIB, 9 out of 10 people would rather lose any other sense than their sight.

 

The Beacon Centre's purpose:

To help people with sight loss in Wolverhampton and the Black Country live fuller and independent lives by offering them the finest facilities and the most caring support. Our services include a mix of residential, day care and community services, and we continually look for ways to improve what we do.

Our range of services are available to people who are registered as blind or partially sighted and are living in our catchment area which covers Wolverhampton, Dudley, Sandwell and South Staffordshire. 

 

Key facts:

  • The Beacon Centre is totally independent of any other charitable organisation.
  • Our patrons are Sir Jack Hayward OBE and Lady Hayward.
  • Our chief executive is Ian Ferguson.
  • We employ 104 members of staff.
  • We have achieved Investors in People status.

 

History:

1875: Wolverhampton Society for the Blind created, visiting blind people in the area

1892: Acquires a house where five blind men can work

1899: Has workshops and a retail outlet selling woven baskets, chair seating and mats

1925: Centralises operations in the Central Arcade

1926: Changes name to Wolverhampton, Dudley and Districts Institution for the Blind

1961: Purchases seven acres of land in Sedgley

1963: Opens new centre including concert hall, canteen, handicraft centre, Braille library, offices and workshop building

1965: Industries for the Blind and Disabled created

1968: New fund established for residential home

1973: Beacon House home opens, one of workshop buildings converted into day centre

1976: 27 purpose built bungalows opened, funded by Sir Charles Hayward

1991: Name changed to Beacon Centre for the Blind

2003: Workshops closed

2007: Work begins on completely rebuilding the Centre