Building Connection and Wellbeing This Winter

We’re delighted to share some positive news that will make a real difference to men living with vision impairment in Conwy this winter.

Thanks to new funding awarded through the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board Winter Wellbeing Fund, administered locally by Community and Voluntary Services (CVSC), Vision Support is expanding its much-valued Men’s Time To Talk group.

A Space to Talk, Connect, and Feel Understood

Men’s Time To Talk offers a safe, welcoming, and confidential environment where men with sight loss can meet regularly, share experiences, and support one another. For many attendees, the group has become a lifeline, helping to reduce isolation and improve emotional wellbeing.

As one participant recently shared, “You come in feeling depressed and leave feeling elated.”  That sense of connection and shared understanding is at the heart of what the group offers.

Growing to Meet Demand

The group has been successfully running at Kinmel Bay Library, but growing attendance means it’s time for a change. With this new funding, sessions will move to a larger, accessible venue at Abergele Community Action, ensuring everyone can continue to take part comfortably.

Community and Wellbeing Lead Gemma Edwards, who facilitates the sessions, said:

“It is a privilege to facilitate this group and see the connections, support, and relationships develop over time.”

Removing Barriers During the Winter Months

Importantly, the Winter Wellbeing Fund will also enable Vision Support to provide transport for participants for the three-month duration of the grant. This practical support helps remove one of the biggest barriers to attendance, particularly during the colder, darker winter months when isolation can feel more intense.

Supporting Independence and Wellbeing

Vision Support works across North East Wales and Cheshire to help people with vision impairment maintain independence, wellbeing, and social connection. Groups like Men’s Time To Talk play a vital role in supporting mental health and reducing loneliness, especially for those who may otherwise feel cut off from their communities.

We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and CVSC for their support, which will help ensure more men can access vital peer support this winter.

Get In Touch

If you, or someone you support, is living with vision impairment and would benefit from friendly peer support, we’d love to hear from you. Referrals and self-referrals to Men’s Time To Talk (or any of our other services) are welcome.

To find out more, or to discuss how to get involved, please contact Vision Support on 01244 381515, or email information@visionsupport.org.uk.