Croydon Vision Shines Bright – A Proud Recipient of The King’s Award for Voluntary Service
Croydon Vision logo – Changing how we see
Croydon Vision celebrated its 100th anniversary this year and now amongst the 1st recipients of The King’s Award for Voluntary Service.
This is a very important milestone for a charity that has been working with Croydon’s blind and visually impaired community for the past 100 years.
A Major Milestone
This award marks a significant milestone in our history. It symbolizes the collective efforts of our volunteers, staff, trustees, and supporters who tirelessly work towards a more inclusive and supportive environment for the visually impaired community.
Our Strong Community
Croydon Vision is more than just an organisation. It’s a community of individuals bound by a shared commitment to make a difference. This award celebrates the vibrant community that stands with us, backing our vision to transform lives, from dependence to independence.
The start of something special
In July 1923, the Croydon Voluntary Association for the Blind (now Croydon Vision) was formed to work in co-operation with the Statutory Blind Persons Committee of the Town Council, its remit was to carry out the provisions of the Blind Persons Act, 1920. In 1982, Queen Elizabeth visited Croydon Vision to support the services and show appreciation for the volunteers who are at the centre of the organisation. The charity has been transforming the lives of people with sightloss in Croydon.
Today we continue to build on this foundation, smashing taboos and giving hope that there is life after sight loss. We focus on empowering people with sight loss (all ages), taking them on a journey from dependence to independence. We do this by providing practical support that leads to transforming lives. Furthermore, developing cross-sector collaboration and organisational development alongside Moorfields Eye Hospital, local businesses, and voluntary sector.
Voices from Our Members
Kwame Dartey, a member, and volunteer shares his journey, saying,
“I’ve gained confidence knowing that I’m not alone with my disability and found a new purpose by contributing as a volunteer. This experience has enriched my life.”
Similarly, Jim Smith, another long-time member and volunteer, expresses his appreciation for the organisation’s growth and activities. He says,
”I have been here for about 10 years and witnessed remarkable transformations. Our leader Susanette’s brilliant helm has initiated a myriad of events, excursions and classes making Croydon Vision increasingly accessible. It’s an organisation I love being a part of, spending 3-4 days a week here witnessing and contributing to the change.”
Finally, Christine Rose describes volunteering at Croydon Vision as a
“life saver,”
recommending others to share in the satisfaction of making a difference.
Susanette Mansour the Chief Executive of the charity said,
“This award is a testament to the transformative impact volunteer groups can have on society. It serves as a call to consider the role we can individually and collectively play in creating supportive and strong communities through giving back. To all Croydon Vision volunteers, staff, supporters, and community — this award is as much yours as it is ours. Let’s continue to be a light house, making our community a beacon of hope for all. Thank you for being an important part of our journey, and here’s to more achievements together!”
Building for the next 100 years
Historically we’ve heavily supported the severe sight community, whilst avoidable sight loss continues to rise. Now we want to widen our scope because every day, we see the prevalence of mild as well as severe sight loss increasing. In Croydon today, there are 10,500 people with sight loss, this makes up 1 in 37 people living with some form of sightloss. By 2032, this is projected to increase by 21%. We will continue to focus on our purpose as we accelerate growth in the coming year – from survival to thriving:
- Young people: Developing future leaders.
- Working age: Employment/entrepreneur.
- Over 65: Promotes well-being, volunteering, and giving back.
A Call to Action
Watch our video on YouTube and join our movement.
Website: https://croydonvision.org.uk/
Email: info@croydonvision.org.uk
Telephone: 0208 688 2486
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