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Contact VICTA
VICTA
5 Douglas House
32-34 Simpson Road
Fenny Stratford
Milton Keynes
MK1 1BA
T 01908 240831
admin@victa.org.uk
victa.org.uk
Follow us online!
Add your information
We are always happy to share knowledge and point people in the right direction. If you are a charity or organisation that would like to be added to our resources, please get in touch at online@victa.org.uk
The VICTA Parent Network
VICTA started over 30 years ago as a local parent support network. Our reach has since spread over the entire country, but our original vision of bringing parents together for friendship and support hasn’t changed.
Here at VICTA, we have heard time and time again how the best advice has come from another parent, or how the Family Weekends we host give parents a chance to discuss issues and create solutions. It is vital in many aspects, not only for the child but also the parents, to be able to access the best possible information and we believe that parents are key to this.
We have therefore started our ‘Parent Network’. The aim of this project is to empower parents to support and advise one another, and run local events and groups to create networks of parents across the country. Our Parent Ambassadors that are part of this new scheme have first-hand experience living with and raising children who have a visual impairment. We believe that these are the people best placed to provide help and advice if you do have any concerns or encounter any problems.
To this end, we have a VICTA Parent Network Facebook group. This is a safe space for you as a parent to ask any questions or seek advice on any topic related to parenting a visually impaired child. Other parents and young adults in the group will provide answers, support and encouragement.
We currently have 8 Parent Ambassadors as part of the VICTA Parent Network. These Ambassadors are charged with being active members on the Facebook group, arranging local events for parents, and visiting schools and organisations as requested to promote the work of VICTA.
To become a Parent Ambassador, or for more information, please email parents@victa.org.uk
Live from the VICTA Facebook page…
We look forward to following this, good luck Kelsey!Ready to be inspired? The Rickshaw Challenge is back with an epic new route, a newly modified Rickshaw and, of course, an incredible new team, as announced live on The One Show. 👏
The annual challenge, now in its ninth year, sees a team of six young people - each who've been supported by BBC Children in Need funded projects and charities - get together to pedal the Rickshaw across the UK. Find out more about this year's riders, Adelle, Emma, Josh, Kelsey, Thomas and Uche in the coming days.
The team will be joined by The One Show’s very own Matt Baker, take on an arduous eight-day fundraising cycle.
This year's challenge begins on Friday 8th November. From a starting point in Holyhead, the riders will travel across Wales for three days before crossing over into England in Oswestry, and then making their way to the finish line at BBC Elstree Studios on Friday 15th November during our BBC One Appeal Show.
The team’s progress will be broadcast live on The One Show as Matt’s co-presenters back in the studio follow their progress, with plenty of on-the-road coverage to come across our channels.
This year’s route will see Team Rickshaw tackle the highest village in the UK - Flash in the Peak District, and the steepest street in the world in Harlech, Wales.
Last year, a new custom rickshaw was built by engineers at the McLaren Technology Centre to make the rickshaw accessible to a wider range of riders. An innovative seat-post system allowed team members with a range of mobilities to join the team.
This year, McLaren has gone one step further and created an innovative solution that enables visually impaired and blind riders to take part in the challenge. A recumbent guide-trike, which fixes to the front of the Rickshaw allows steering and braking to be managed by a guide rider whilst a visually impaired rider pedals from the main driving seat of the Rickshaw.
Since 2011, The One Show’s Rickshaw Challenge has raised over £25 million for BBC Children in Need, with donations going on to make a difference to the lives of children and young people across the UK who need it most.
In an exciting first for the fundraising challenge, The Hunter Foundation has pledged to give 40p for every £1 donated by the general public to the Rickshaw Challenge, helping to make the public’s generous donations go even further in making a difference to young lives.
Speaking of the pledge, Sir Tom Hunter said: “Every year I watch the Rickshaw Challenge and I can’t help but be inspired by the wonderful young people on the road and all of the support that I see from people across the UK getting together to fundraise and donate to BBC Children in Need. This year I’m looking forward to watching the whole nation get behind the team again and help us to raise even more money for such a worthy cause.
“At The Hunter Foundation we aim to maximise the impact that our money has on children and young people across the UK who are facing disadvantage, and working with BBC Children in Need enables us to do this. That’s why this year for every £1 donated to the Rickshaw Challenge we will donate 40p and make your donation go even further.”
Look out for Team Rickshaw updates on The One Show and our channels over the coming days and weeks. And don’t forget, if you’re inspired you can support the team in changing young lives over at our site.
Panto season has arrived!
There's nothing like a pantomime to get you ready for the festive season. VICTA is pleased to offer tickets to three magical productions showing at Milton Keynes, Manchester and Exeter.
All of the performances are audio-described and promise to be packed full of the usual comedy, music, dancing, outrageous costumes and general pantomime silliness!
You will find all the details of the show dates and the links to apply below.
🌟🌹 Beauty and the Beast🌹🌟
Exeter Northcott Theatre
11 December 2019, 6pm
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/beauty-beast/
🌟🍎Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs🍎🌟
Manchester Opera House
19 December 2019, 7pm
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/snow-white/
🌟🧞♂️Aladdin🧞♂️🌟
Milton Keynes Theatre, 2.30pm
21 December 2019
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/aladdin/
Closing soon...
Join VICTA on a trip of a lifetime to Tokyo, Japan for the 16th Summer Paralympic Games!
Stay at the centre of one of the world’s most anticipated international sporting competitions. As well as taking in live sports action, you will also experience fan and spectator events in and around the city.
This trip will also connect you with Japanese young adults from the University of Tsukuba. In the months before we depart, you will be able to network with the students.
The itinerary will also take in typical and traditional Tokyo and Japanese highlights including Mount Fuji (the highest volcano in Japan), Tsukiji fish market (the world’s largest wholesale fish and seafood market) and a traditional tea ceremony.
There is so much to visit and do in Tokyo that the itinerary will have built-in regular free time slots, with suggestions of hidden gems and popular tourist attractions suitable for all budgets will be sent to you prior to travel.
Find out more and sign up here before Wednesday:
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/japan/
Tokyo 2020 – Paralympics and University of Tsukuba
www.victa.org.uk
When: 25 August to 4 September 2020 Who: 18 to 29 years Location: Tokyo, Japan Airport: Flying from London Heathrow Airport Cost: £2,000 Closing date: Wednesday 16 October 2019 VICTA is heading to ...To mark #WorldSightDay parent and film maker Hannah Lake has released a short film - Vision Without Sight.
Hannah's son Leo wanted to meet and talk to an adult who, like him, is visually impaired. In the film Leo meets David Blunkett, who shares positive advice and his personal experiences growing up with a vision impairment with Leo.
We were lucky enough to have an interview with Hannah to celebrate the release of the film.
Find out Hannah's motivation behind her film making and make sure you have a watch of this very moving film on our Parent Portal: www.victaparents.org.uk/vision-without-sight/
#VisionWithoutSight
There are some really important messages for young people in this post from Elin at My Blurred World, 'A letter to my younger self, you're going to be ok' #WorldMentalHealthDay
A letter to my 16 year old self: You're going to be ok - My Blurred World
myblurredworld.com
In this letter to my 16 year old self I'm taking a little look back at how my life then compares to my here and now, offering some advice to my younger selfIt was lovely to have Julie-Ann and Dexter pop into the office yesterday to share with us their new Braille book project for children - Scruffy the Uffy! The books are large print, brailled and embossed, to make them accessible for children and grown ups.
A great way to celebrate #NationalBrailleWeek and get little minds involved!
Find out more on their Facebook page: Scruffy the Uffy Books
Scruffy the Uffy Books
Today we fly to Lanzarote with a group of 18-29s for a cultural adventure exploring the volcanic landscape and local culture. We are looking forward to a fantastic week!
Congratulations to our Silver Duke of Edinburgh's Award group who have passed their Silver Expedition, a three day camping expedition in the Peak District. Great team work and individual determination!
VICTA is so excited to announce our big 18+ international for 2020 - a trip to Tokyo, Japan to coincide with the 2020 Paralympics! This incredible opportunity will also include discovering Tokyo's sights of interest and linking up with local students at the University of Tsukuba.
Applications are open to young adults aged 18 to 29 years who are blind or partially sighted and have previously attended a UK based activity with VICTA.
Applications close on 16 October and we expect it to be popular, so make sure you get your applications in soon!
Find out more and apply here:
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/japan/
Tokyo 2020 – Paralympics and University of Tsukuba
www.victa.org.uk
When: 25 August to 4 September 2020 Who: 18 to 29 years Location: Tokyo, Japan Airport: Flying from London Heathrow Airport Cost: £2,000 Closing date: Wednesday 16 October 2019 VICTA is heading to ...To celebrate #NationalPoetryDay we'd like to share with you a poem by VICTA's Charlotte Mellor "I give you my eyes" written for her daughter Scarlett who is blind: www.victaparents.org.uk/world-poetry-day-i-give-you-my-eyes/
World Poetry Day - I give you my eyes, a poem for Scarlett
www.victaparents.org.uk
By Charlotte Mellor I give you my eyes, But it is you that helps me to see. I give you my eyes, But it is you who fully appreciates the tree. I give you my eyes, But it is you who can feel beauty in a...Last chance to apply for your family to join us at the VICTA Family Christmas party! Father Christmas has even messaged in from the North Pole to confirm he will be paying the kids a visit! Apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/family-christmas/
Charlotte is attending Sight Village North West in Manchester today. Make sure you pop by the VICTA stand and find out about all the services we have to offer!
Such an inspiring story about Alex and her medical studies in The Times: 'Healing touch of deaf and blind doctor‑to‑be': www.thetimes.co.uk/article/healing-touch-of-deaf-and-blind-doctor-to-be-60lpp7twt
Healing touch of deaf and blind doctor‑to‑be
www.thetimes.co.uk
There are many people who overcome daunting obstacles to achieve their dreams. Then there is Alexandra Adams, a 25-year-old medical student who is blind and deaf and on course to become an NHS doctor.Applications closing soon...
Don't forget to apply to join VICTA at our Christmas party for young adults aged 18 to 29 years, volunteers and VICTA staff.
Come dine, dance and feel generally festive!
Apply for your place here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/18-plus-christmas-party/
Felicity from the VICTA team is attending the Retina UK Professionals' Conference today and is looking forward to sharing information with over 170 delegates!
VICTA will also be there tomorrow for the Retina UK Annual Conference. If you are attending, please come and say hello and find out more about VICTA and all the ways we can provide help and support.We're excited to be welcoming more than 170 delegates for our first Professionals' Conference #RetinaUKProfs. Speakers include Prof Downes University of Oxford, Samantha De Silva Moorfields Eye Hospital and social worker/counsellor Barbara Norton
Also from Vision West Of England to share with you, VI swim sessions. Please see their information below. Thanks!More exciting #VI #sport coming to the area, this time in #SouthGlos
We are delighted to announce that Bradley Stoke Leizure Centre will be holding weekly swim sessions dedicated to #Blind and #PartiallySighted people starting this Septenber.
The poster is below and says
Visually Impaired Swim
Every Thursday 11.30am-12.30pm
Starts 12th September
2019at Active Centre Bradley Stoke
Members: free
Concessions with Active card: £2.20
(Active cards are free, please ask reception)
Assisting person: free
Non concessions: £4.40
Located at Willow Brook stop on M1 metrobus route
Hi everyone, Vision West Of England have asked us to share their VI football sessions in Bristol, please see their post below,
Applications are open for our VICTA Family Fireworks party! Get warmed up this autumn & enjoy the snap & crackle of our traditional bonfire. There'll be crafts, a guy making competition & warm food, all rounded off with our fireworks display! Apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/fireworks-party/
To stay up to date with VICTA’s latest activities and services to support you and your child, sign up here to receive email updates.
Contact VICTA
VICTA
5 Douglas House
32-34 Simpson Road
Fenny Stratford
Milton Keynes
MK1 1BA
T 01908 240831
admin@victa.org.uk
Follow us online!
Live from Facebook
We look forward to following this, good luck Kelsey!Ready to be inspired? The Rickshaw Challenge is back with an epic new route, a newly modified Rickshaw and, of course, an incredible new team, as announced live on The One Show. 👏
The annual challenge, now in its ninth year, sees a team of six young people - each who've been supported by BBC Children in Need funded projects and charities - get together to pedal the Rickshaw across the UK. Find out more about this year's riders, Adelle, Emma, Josh, Kelsey, Thomas and Uche in the coming days.
The team will be joined by The One Show’s very own Matt Baker, take on an arduous eight-day fundraising cycle.
This year's challenge begins on Friday 8th November. From a starting point in Holyhead, the riders will travel across Wales for three days before crossing over into England in Oswestry, and then making their way to the finish line at BBC Elstree Studios on Friday 15th November during our BBC One Appeal Show.
The team’s progress will be broadcast live on The One Show as Matt’s co-presenters back in the studio follow their progress, with plenty of on-the-road coverage to come across our channels.
This year’s route will see Team Rickshaw tackle the highest village in the UK - Flash in the Peak District, and the steepest street in the world in Harlech, Wales.
Last year, a new custom rickshaw was built by engineers at the McLaren Technology Centre to make the rickshaw accessible to a wider range of riders. An innovative seat-post system allowed team members with a range of mobilities to join the team.
This year, McLaren has gone one step further and created an innovative solution that enables visually impaired and blind riders to take part in the challenge. A recumbent guide-trike, which fixes to the front of the Rickshaw allows steering and braking to be managed by a guide rider whilst a visually impaired rider pedals from the main driving seat of the Rickshaw.
Since 2011, The One Show’s Rickshaw Challenge has raised over £25 million for BBC Children in Need, with donations going on to make a difference to the lives of children and young people across the UK who need it most.
In an exciting first for the fundraising challenge, The Hunter Foundation has pledged to give 40p for every £1 donated by the general public to the Rickshaw Challenge, helping to make the public’s generous donations go even further in making a difference to young lives.
Speaking of the pledge, Sir Tom Hunter said: “Every year I watch the Rickshaw Challenge and I can’t help but be inspired by the wonderful young people on the road and all of the support that I see from people across the UK getting together to fundraise and donate to BBC Children in Need. This year I’m looking forward to watching the whole nation get behind the team again and help us to raise even more money for such a worthy cause.
“At The Hunter Foundation we aim to maximise the impact that our money has on children and young people across the UK who are facing disadvantage, and working with BBC Children in Need enables us to do this. That’s why this year for every £1 donated to the Rickshaw Challenge we will donate 40p and make your donation go even further.”
Look out for Team Rickshaw updates on The One Show and our channels over the coming days and weeks. And don’t forget, if you’re inspired you can support the team in changing young lives over at our site.
Panto season has arrived!
There's nothing like a pantomime to get you ready for the festive season. VICTA is pleased to offer tickets to three magical productions showing at Milton Keynes, Manchester and Exeter.
All of the performances are audio-described and promise to be packed full of the usual comedy, music, dancing, outrageous costumes and general pantomime silliness!
You will find all the details of the show dates and the links to apply below.
🌟🌹 Beauty and the Beast🌹🌟
Exeter Northcott Theatre
11 December 2019, 6pm
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/beauty-beast/
🌟🍎Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs🍎🌟
Manchester Opera House
19 December 2019, 7pm
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/snow-white/
🌟🧞♂️Aladdin🧞♂️🌟
Milton Keynes Theatre, 2.30pm
21 December 2019
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/aladdin/
Closing soon...
Join VICTA on a trip of a lifetime to Tokyo, Japan for the 16th Summer Paralympic Games!
Stay at the centre of one of the world’s most anticipated international sporting competitions. As well as taking in live sports action, you will also experience fan and spectator events in and around the city.
This trip will also connect you with Japanese young adults from the University of Tsukuba. In the months before we depart, you will be able to network with the students.
The itinerary will also take in typical and traditional Tokyo and Japanese highlights including Mount Fuji (the highest volcano in Japan), Tsukiji fish market (the world’s largest wholesale fish and seafood market) and a traditional tea ceremony.
There is so much to visit and do in Tokyo that the itinerary will have built-in regular free time slots, with suggestions of hidden gems and popular tourist attractions suitable for all budgets will be sent to you prior to travel.
Find out more and sign up here before Wednesday:
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/japan/
Tokyo 2020 – Paralympics and University of Tsukuba
www.victa.org.uk
When: 25 August to 4 September 2020 Who: 18 to 29 years Location: Tokyo, Japan Airport: Flying from London Heathrow Airport Cost: £2,000 Closing date: Wednesday 16 October 2019 VICTA is heading to ...To mark #WorldSightDay parent and film maker Hannah Lake has released a short film - Vision Without Sight.
Hannah's son Leo wanted to meet and talk to an adult who, like him, is visually impaired. In the film Leo meets David Blunkett, who shares positive advice and his personal experiences growing up with a vision impairment with Leo.
We were lucky enough to have an interview with Hannah to celebrate the release of the film.
Find out Hannah's motivation behind her film making and make sure you have a watch of this very moving film on our Parent Portal: www.victaparents.org.uk/vision-without-sight/
#VisionWithoutSight
There are some really important messages for young people in this post from Elin at My Blurred World, 'A letter to my younger self, you're going to be ok' #WorldMentalHealthDay
A letter to my 16 year old self: You're going to be ok - My Blurred World
myblurredworld.com
In this letter to my 16 year old self I'm taking a little look back at how my life then compares to my here and now, offering some advice to my younger selfIt was lovely to have Julie-Ann and Dexter pop into the office yesterday to share with us their new Braille book project for children - Scruffy the Uffy! The books are large print, brailled and embossed, to make them accessible for children and grown ups.
A great way to celebrate #NationalBrailleWeek and get little minds involved!
Find out more on their Facebook page: Scruffy the Uffy Books
Scruffy the Uffy Books
Today we fly to Lanzarote with a group of 18-29s for a cultural adventure exploring the volcanic landscape and local culture. We are looking forward to a fantastic week!
Congratulations to our Silver Duke of Edinburgh's Award group who have passed their Silver Expedition, a three day camping expedition in the Peak District. Great team work and individual determination!
VICTA is so excited to announce our big 18+ international for 2020 - a trip to Tokyo, Japan to coincide with the 2020 Paralympics! This incredible opportunity will also include discovering Tokyo's sights of interest and linking up with local students at the University of Tsukuba.
Applications are open to young adults aged 18 to 29 years who are blind or partially sighted and have previously attended a UK based activity with VICTA.
Applications close on 16 October and we expect it to be popular, so make sure you get your applications in soon!
Find out more and apply here:
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/japan/
Tokyo 2020 – Paralympics and University of Tsukuba
www.victa.org.uk
When: 25 August to 4 September 2020 Who: 18 to 29 years Location: Tokyo, Japan Airport: Flying from London Heathrow Airport Cost: £2,000 Closing date: Wednesday 16 October 2019 VICTA is heading to ...To celebrate #NationalPoetryDay we'd like to share with you a poem by VICTA's Charlotte Mellor "I give you my eyes" written for her daughter Scarlett who is blind: www.victaparents.org.uk/world-poetry-day-i-give-you-my-eyes/
World Poetry Day - I give you my eyes, a poem for Scarlett
www.victaparents.org.uk
By Charlotte Mellor I give you my eyes, But it is you that helps me to see. I give you my eyes, But it is you who fully appreciates the tree. I give you my eyes, But it is you who can feel beauty in a...Last chance to apply for your family to join us at the VICTA Family Christmas party! Father Christmas has even messaged in from the North Pole to confirm he will be paying the kids a visit! Apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/family-christmas/
Charlotte is attending Sight Village North West in Manchester today. Make sure you pop by the VICTA stand and find out about all the services we have to offer!
Such an inspiring story about Alex and her medical studies in The Times: 'Healing touch of deaf and blind doctor‑to‑be': www.thetimes.co.uk/article/healing-touch-of-deaf-and-blind-doctor-to-be-60lpp7twt
Healing touch of deaf and blind doctor‑to‑be
www.thetimes.co.uk
There are many people who overcome daunting obstacles to achieve their dreams. Then there is Alexandra Adams, a 25-year-old medical student who is blind and deaf and on course to become an NHS doctor.Applications closing soon...
Don't forget to apply to join VICTA at our Christmas party for young adults aged 18 to 29 years, volunteers and VICTA staff.
Come dine, dance and feel generally festive!
Apply for your place here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/18-plus-christmas-party/
Felicity from the VICTA team is attending the Retina UK Professionals' Conference today and is looking forward to sharing information with over 170 delegates!
VICTA will also be there tomorrow for the Retina UK Annual Conference. If you are attending, please come and say hello and find out more about VICTA and all the ways we can provide help and support.We're excited to be welcoming more than 170 delegates for our first Professionals' Conference #RetinaUKProfs. Speakers include Prof Downes University of Oxford, Samantha De Silva Moorfields Eye Hospital and social worker/counsellor Barbara Norton
Also from Vision West Of England to share with you, VI swim sessions. Please see their information below. Thanks!More exciting #VI #sport coming to the area, this time in #SouthGlos
We are delighted to announce that Bradley Stoke Leizure Centre will be holding weekly swim sessions dedicated to #Blind and #PartiallySighted people starting this Septenber.
The poster is below and says
Visually Impaired Swim
Every Thursday 11.30am-12.30pm
Starts 12th September
2019at Active Centre Bradley Stoke
Members: free
Concessions with Active card: £2.20
(Active cards are free, please ask reception)
Assisting person: free
Non concessions: £4.40
Located at Willow Brook stop on M1 metrobus route
Hi everyone, Vision West Of England have asked us to share their VI football sessions in Bristol, please see their post below,
Applications are open for our VICTA Family Fireworks party! Get warmed up this autumn & enjoy the snap & crackle of our traditional bonfire. There'll be crafts, a guy making competition & warm food, all rounded off with our fireworks display! Apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/fireworks-party/
The VICTA Parent Network
VICTA started over 30 years ago as a local parent support network. Our reach has since spread over the entire country, but our original vision of connecting parents for friendship and support hasn’t changed.
Here at VICTA, we have heard time and time again how the best advice has come from another parent, or how the Family Weekends we host give parents a chance to discuss issues and create solutions. It is vital in many aspects, not only for the child but also the parents, to be able to access the best possible information and we believe that parents are key to this.
We have therefore started our ‘Parent Network’. The aim of this project is to empower parents to support and advise one another, and run local events and groups to create networks of parents across the country. Our Parent Ambassadors that are part of this new scheme have first-hand experience living with and raising children who have a visual impairment. We believe that these are the people best placed to provide help and advice if you do have any concerns or encounter any problems.
To this end, we have a VICTA Parent Network Facebook group. This is a safe space for you as a parent to ask any questions or seek advice on any topic related to parenting a visually impaired child. Other parents and young adults in the group will provide answers, support and encouragement.
To join the group, visit: facebook.com/groups/VICTAParentNetwork
We currently have 8 Parent Ambassadors as part of the VICTA Parent Network. These Ambassadors are charged with being active members on the Facebook group, arranging local events for parents, and visiting schools and organisations as requested to promote the work of VICTA.
To become a Parent Ambassador, or for more information, please email parents@victa.org.uk
Live from the VICTA Facebook Page…
We look forward to following this, good luck Kelsey!Ready to be inspired? The Rickshaw Challenge is back with an epic new route, a newly modified Rickshaw and, of course, an incredible new team, as announced live on The One Show. 👏
The annual challenge, now in its ninth year, sees a team of six young people - each who've been supported by BBC Children in Need funded projects and charities - get together to pedal the Rickshaw across the UK. Find out more about this year's riders, Adelle, Emma, Josh, Kelsey, Thomas and Uche in the coming days.
The team will be joined by The One Show’s very own Matt Baker, take on an arduous eight-day fundraising cycle.
This year's challenge begins on Friday 8th November. From a starting point in Holyhead, the riders will travel across Wales for three days before crossing over into England in Oswestry, and then making their way to the finish line at BBC Elstree Studios on Friday 15th November during our BBC One Appeal Show.
The team’s progress will be broadcast live on The One Show as Matt’s co-presenters back in the studio follow their progress, with plenty of on-the-road coverage to come across our channels.
This year’s route will see Team Rickshaw tackle the highest village in the UK - Flash in the Peak District, and the steepest street in the world in Harlech, Wales.
Last year, a new custom rickshaw was built by engineers at the McLaren Technology Centre to make the rickshaw accessible to a wider range of riders. An innovative seat-post system allowed team members with a range of mobilities to join the team.
This year, McLaren has gone one step further and created an innovative solution that enables visually impaired and blind riders to take part in the challenge. A recumbent guide-trike, which fixes to the front of the Rickshaw allows steering and braking to be managed by a guide rider whilst a visually impaired rider pedals from the main driving seat of the Rickshaw.
Since 2011, The One Show’s Rickshaw Challenge has raised over £25 million for BBC Children in Need, with donations going on to make a difference to the lives of children and young people across the UK who need it most.
In an exciting first for the fundraising challenge, The Hunter Foundation has pledged to give 40p for every £1 donated by the general public to the Rickshaw Challenge, helping to make the public’s generous donations go even further in making a difference to young lives.
Speaking of the pledge, Sir Tom Hunter said: “Every year I watch the Rickshaw Challenge and I can’t help but be inspired by the wonderful young people on the road and all of the support that I see from people across the UK getting together to fundraise and donate to BBC Children in Need. This year I’m looking forward to watching the whole nation get behind the team again and help us to raise even more money for such a worthy cause.
“At The Hunter Foundation we aim to maximise the impact that our money has on children and young people across the UK who are facing disadvantage, and working with BBC Children in Need enables us to do this. That’s why this year for every £1 donated to the Rickshaw Challenge we will donate 40p and make your donation go even further.”
Look out for Team Rickshaw updates on The One Show and our channels over the coming days and weeks. And don’t forget, if you’re inspired you can support the team in changing young lives over at our site.
Panto season has arrived!
There's nothing like a pantomime to get you ready for the festive season. VICTA is pleased to offer tickets to three magical productions showing at Milton Keynes, Manchester and Exeter.
All of the performances are audio-described and promise to be packed full of the usual comedy, music, dancing, outrageous costumes and general pantomime silliness!
You will find all the details of the show dates and the links to apply below.
🌟🌹 Beauty and the Beast🌹🌟
Exeter Northcott Theatre
11 December 2019, 6pm
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/beauty-beast/
🌟🍎Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs🍎🌟
Manchester Opera House
19 December 2019, 7pm
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/snow-white/
🌟🧞♂️Aladdin🧞♂️🌟
Milton Keynes Theatre, 2.30pm
21 December 2019
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/aladdin/
Closing soon...
Join VICTA on a trip of a lifetime to Tokyo, Japan for the 16th Summer Paralympic Games!
Stay at the centre of one of the world’s most anticipated international sporting competitions. As well as taking in live sports action, you will also experience fan and spectator events in and around the city.
This trip will also connect you with Japanese young adults from the University of Tsukuba. In the months before we depart, you will be able to network with the students.
The itinerary will also take in typical and traditional Tokyo and Japanese highlights including Mount Fuji (the highest volcano in Japan), Tsukiji fish market (the world’s largest wholesale fish and seafood market) and a traditional tea ceremony.
There is so much to visit and do in Tokyo that the itinerary will have built-in regular free time slots, with suggestions of hidden gems and popular tourist attractions suitable for all budgets will be sent to you prior to travel.
Find out more and sign up here before Wednesday:
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/japan/
Tokyo 2020 – Paralympics and University of Tsukuba
www.victa.org.uk
When: 25 August to 4 September 2020 Who: 18 to 29 years Location: Tokyo, Japan Airport: Flying from London Heathrow Airport Cost: £2,000 Closing date: Wednesday 16 October 2019 VICTA is heading to ...To mark #WorldSightDay parent and film maker Hannah Lake has released a short film - Vision Without Sight.
Hannah's son Leo wanted to meet and talk to an adult who, like him, is visually impaired. In the film Leo meets David Blunkett, who shares positive advice and his personal experiences growing up with a vision impairment with Leo.
We were lucky enough to have an interview with Hannah to celebrate the release of the film.
Find out Hannah's motivation behind her film making and make sure you have a watch of this very moving film on our Parent Portal: www.victaparents.org.uk/vision-without-sight/
#VisionWithoutSight
There are some really important messages for young people in this post from Elin at My Blurred World, 'A letter to my younger self, you're going to be ok' #WorldMentalHealthDay
A letter to my 16 year old self: You're going to be ok - My Blurred World
myblurredworld.com
In this letter to my 16 year old self I'm taking a little look back at how my life then compares to my here and now, offering some advice to my younger selfIt was lovely to have Julie-Ann and Dexter pop into the office yesterday to share with us their new Braille book project for children - Scruffy the Uffy! The books are large print, brailled and embossed, to make them accessible for children and grown ups.
A great way to celebrate #NationalBrailleWeek and get little minds involved!
Find out more on their Facebook page: Scruffy the Uffy Books
Scruffy the Uffy Books
Today we fly to Lanzarote with a group of 18-29s for a cultural adventure exploring the volcanic landscape and local culture. We are looking forward to a fantastic week!
Congratulations to our Silver Duke of Edinburgh's Award group who have passed their Silver Expedition, a three day camping expedition in the Peak District. Great team work and individual determination!
VICTA is so excited to announce our big 18+ international for 2020 - a trip to Tokyo, Japan to coincide with the 2020 Paralympics! This incredible opportunity will also include discovering Tokyo's sights of interest and linking up with local students at the University of Tsukuba.
Applications are open to young adults aged 18 to 29 years who are blind or partially sighted and have previously attended a UK based activity with VICTA.
Applications close on 16 October and we expect it to be popular, so make sure you get your applications in soon!
Find out more and apply here:
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/japan/
Tokyo 2020 – Paralympics and University of Tsukuba
www.victa.org.uk
When: 25 August to 4 September 2020 Who: 18 to 29 years Location: Tokyo, Japan Airport: Flying from London Heathrow Airport Cost: £2,000 Closing date: Wednesday 16 October 2019 VICTA is heading to ...To celebrate #NationalPoetryDay we'd like to share with you a poem by VICTA's Charlotte Mellor "I give you my eyes" written for her daughter Scarlett who is blind: www.victaparents.org.uk/world-poetry-day-i-give-you-my-eyes/
World Poetry Day - I give you my eyes, a poem for Scarlett
www.victaparents.org.uk
By Charlotte Mellor I give you my eyes, But it is you that helps me to see. I give you my eyes, But it is you who fully appreciates the tree. I give you my eyes, But it is you who can feel beauty in a...Last chance to apply for your family to join us at the VICTA Family Christmas party! Father Christmas has even messaged in from the North Pole to confirm he will be paying the kids a visit! Apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/family-christmas/
Charlotte is attending Sight Village North West in Manchester today. Make sure you pop by the VICTA stand and find out about all the services we have to offer!
Such an inspiring story about Alex and her medical studies in The Times: 'Healing touch of deaf and blind doctor‑to‑be': www.thetimes.co.uk/article/healing-touch-of-deaf-and-blind-doctor-to-be-60lpp7twt
Healing touch of deaf and blind doctor‑to‑be
www.thetimes.co.uk
There are many people who overcome daunting obstacles to achieve their dreams. Then there is Alexandra Adams, a 25-year-old medical student who is blind and deaf and on course to become an NHS doctor.Applications closing soon...
Don't forget to apply to join VICTA at our Christmas party for young adults aged 18 to 29 years, volunteers and VICTA staff.
Come dine, dance and feel generally festive!
Apply for your place here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/18-plus-christmas-party/
Felicity from the VICTA team is attending the Retina UK Professionals' Conference today and is looking forward to sharing information with over 170 delegates!
VICTA will also be there tomorrow for the Retina UK Annual Conference. If you are attending, please come and say hello and find out more about VICTA and all the ways we can provide help and support.We're excited to be welcoming more than 170 delegates for our first Professionals' Conference #RetinaUKProfs. Speakers include Prof Downes University of Oxford, Samantha De Silva Moorfields Eye Hospital and social worker/counsellor Barbara Norton
Also from Vision West Of England to share with you, VI swim sessions. Please see their information below. Thanks!More exciting #VI #sport coming to the area, this time in #SouthGlos
We are delighted to announce that Bradley Stoke Leizure Centre will be holding weekly swim sessions dedicated to #Blind and #PartiallySighted people starting this Septenber.
The poster is below and says
Visually Impaired Swim
Every Thursday 11.30am-12.30pm
Starts 12th September
2019at Active Centre Bradley Stoke
Members: free
Concessions with Active card: £2.20
(Active cards are free, please ask reception)
Assisting person: free
Non concessions: £4.40
Located at Willow Brook stop on M1 metrobus route
Hi everyone, Vision West Of England have asked us to share their VI football sessions in Bristol, please see their post below,
Applications are open for our VICTA Family Fireworks party! Get warmed up this autumn & enjoy the snap & crackle of our traditional bonfire. There'll be crafts, a guy making competition & warm food, all rounded off with our fireworks display! Apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/fireworks-party/
Over 4 year ago my best friend gave my baby bump a doll she called Scruffy the Uffy. Scruffy became…
With Scarlett being nine years old now, the thoughts and feelings that surrounded the terrifying registration process are well behind…
My name is Elin, I am a 19-year-old student and blogger from North Wales. I was diagnosed with a…