Get connected and join our Parent Network
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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
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…
Amazing opportunity for 14 to 29s to be part of our Hair and Care Workshop run by industry expert and stylist to the stars Anna Cofone!![]()
![]()
Anna’s workshop gives a fantastic opportunity to learn how to properly care for your hair, how to style it independently and how to use hair styling tools safely. Anna is a freelance hairstylist who has previously worked with celebrities such as Dua Lipa and Lana Del Rey and alongside brands such as Adidas and Topshop.![]()
![]()
Register your interest to take part here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/hair-care-workshop/
www.victa.org.uk
When: TBC Who: 14 to 29 years Location: Virtual and in-person sessions TBC Cost: Free Closing Date: TBC Do you have a passion for trying new hair styles? Do you want to learn some hair care tips from ...
Are you dreaming of summer? We have the perfect activity for the whole family to look forward to - the VICTA Summer Family Weekend!![]()
![]()
Families will come together at Condover Hall activity centre where they have an exciting range of activities to keeps the kids (and grown-ups) entertained! It's the perfect opportunity to make friends and watch your children grow in confidence.![]()
![]()
Applications are closing soon on 1 February, so please get your applications in soon to avoid disappointment.![]()
![]()
Find out more and apply here: ![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/summer-family-weekend-2022/
www.victa.org.uk
When: : 29 July to 1 August 2022 Who: 5 to 17 years plus immediate family Theme: VICTA at the Commonwealth Games Location: Condover Hall, Shropshire Cost: £60 per person, welcome price for new famil...
As the 2022 VICTA Science Fair approaches we'd like to help more families get hands-on with science! We currently have a free VI-child ticket offer for two incredible science centres, find out more by following the links below... ![]()
![]()
Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium:![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/winchester-science/![]()
![]()
Life Science Centre, Newcastle:![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/life-science-centre/
The latest employment webinar from Blindambitionlondon and RNIB runs tomorrow (18 January 2022). ![]()
![]()
The session will focus on your CV and getting you through the door for an interview. Blind Ambition and their team of experts have successfully helped blind people find careers and are now in their second season. ![]()
![]()
Find out more and register here: www.blindambition.co.uk/post/w9-4th-jan-2022-cv-preparation
W9 18th Jan 2022: CV preparation.
www.blindambition.co.uk
RNIB & Blind Ambition would like to invite you to Session 9 of Series 2, Employment webinars: CV preparation. How to build your CV, adapt it for the role, find the right format and show your skills. C...
Back in November the VICTA Student Portal had a brilliant chat to the very talented Grace Whitford about her journey to becoming a singer!![]()
![]()
Find out what inspired her to follow her dream path and Grace's advice on being determined and working hard to achieve your goals. ![]()
![]()
Watch the full interview here: youtu.be/N7ASr2ZdHpA![]()
![]()
Follow Grace's singing career here: Grace Whitford Music
Creative Arts - Singing - Grace Whitford
youtu.be
Grace Whitford initially came across some resistance against following her dream career as a singer. She talks to the Student Portal about discovering her lo...
All things Early Years from VICTA & the Parent Portal! ![]()
![]()
If you are the parent of an Early Years child (aged 0 to 4 years) with a vision impairment, we'd love to hear from you. ![]()
![]()
We have just updated our sign-up process so that you can let us know if you are specifically interested in our Early Years information. We have lots coming up that we are keen to share with you!![]()
![]()
If you'd like to connect with us and other families, please complete the short form via the link below.![]()
www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years-sign-up/
Charlotte recently chatted to Dave Steele, AKA The Blind Poet, about the launch of his new children's book, 'Austin's Amazing Adventures'. Dave is striving to have better disability representation in literature and his story follows a young boy who is slowly losing his sight.![]()
![]()
Dave tells us more all witting as 'The Blind Poet' and how he used poetry after his diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa to help shape the conceptions of living with sight loss. ![]()
![]()
Watch the full interview here...![]()
![]()
youtu.be/gV3QTptGwxE![]()
![]()
The Blind Poet Dave Steele #TheBlindPoet
Interview with Dave Steele aka The Blind Poet abut the launch of his new children's book
youtu.be
In this interview Dave talks all about the brand 'The Blind Poet' and how he has used poetry and his diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa to help shape the conc...
Sounds like an exciting opportunity for anyone aged 18+!Could you help us to bring the #B2022 Opening and Closing ceremonies to life?![]()
![]()
We’re on the lookout for volunteer cast, athlete hosts, and existing choirs to be part of history.![]()
![]()
Apply now: www.birmingham2022.com/ceremonies![]()
![]()
18+, Limited Places, Eligibility & Selection criteria and T&Cs apply birminghamceremonies.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Volunteer-Cast-Pledge.pdf. Applications and selection for the ceremonies are managed by Birmingham Ceremonies Ltd. You can learn more about Birmingham Ceremonies Ltd at www.birminghamceremonies.com
Activity update! We have extended the age limit on our Go Ape day at Haldon Forest near Exeter. Young people aged between 10 to 17 can now apply to join us for this tree-top adventure! ![]()
![]()
Applications close on 4 February, so be sure to get your name down soon here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-haldon-forest/
If you are aged 11 to 29 years you can enter our competition to make a piece of art using braille. Take inspiration from the things you love, get creative and help celebrate #braille! There are great prizes up-for-grabs. Enter by 31 January 2022: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
Don't forget to get your entries in for our Braille Art competition! Can you think of a creative way to represent your name in braille? Children aged 0 to 10 years are invited to send theirs in for the chance to win! Entries close on 31 January 2022: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
The British Science Week 2022 activity packs are live! The theme is Growth, and the packs are filled with fun activities you can do in school or at home. ![]()
![]()
We are excited to be joining in once again with our VICTA Science Fair 2022! This year VICTA has provided one of the activities in the Community Pack 'Wake me up before you grow grow!' It should be a lot of fun to take part in, so make sure you download your pack and give it a try!![]()
![]()
bsa.sc/BSW22-activity-packs #bsw22
Early Years (0-4 yrs) Tiny Diggers activity at Jorvik DIG! Let your little ones explore their senses and archaeology in a sensory and tactile environment. Plus a chance for the grown ups to chat over coffee and biscuits!![]()
![]()
Find out more and apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/tiny-diggers/
Join VICTA and Stargardt's Connected for a day of family fun in Milton Keynes! ![]()
![]()
Our morning will be spent at Climb Quest where the children will have a go at their team ‘Mountain Challenge’!![]()
![]()
In the afternoon we will head to Bletchley Park to explore the home of the World War II codebreakers.![]()
![]()
Find out more and apply for your family's place here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/stargardts-family-day/
Joint Family Day with Stargardt’s Connected
www.victa.org.uk
When: Saturday 19 March 2022 Who: 5 to 17 years plus immediate family Location: Milton Keynes (Climb Quest and Bletchley Park) Cost: £5 per person (under 5s go free) Closing Date: Friday 11 February...
Another nice activity to share with you from MK Gallery for their Laura Knight Exhibition! ![]()
![]()
Sensory Exhibition Toddle Tour ![]()
![]()
Bring your little ones along to MK Gallery on Tuesday 18th January at 11am, for their fantastic artist-led Sensory Exhibition Tour. This multi-sensory experience will bring the paintings of their Laura Knight show to life, with music, smells, performance and dress-up, for a truly unique and fun family outing. Entry is free, but tickets must be booked in advance. Find out more and book your places here: ![]()
![]()
mkgallery.org/event/artist-led-sensory-exhibition-toddle-tour/
Artist-Led Sensory Exhibition Toddle Tour - MK Gallery
mkgallery.org
These artist-led tours will invite you to explore the sensory qualities of our current exhibition, Laura Knight: A Panoramic View. Our tours are specifically designed for those with additional needs, ...
MK Gallery would like to share with you their upcoming audio described exhibition tour which will be taking place on Saturday 5th February at 11am. ![]()
![]()
This is a bespoke artist led tour which will describe some of the key works on display in their current Laura Knight exhibition, as well as providing context about her life. The tour is free with a ticket for the exhibition. ![]()
![]()
Further information and a link to booking can be found here: mkgallery.org/event/laura-knight-audio-described-exhibition-tour/
Laura Knight: A Panoramic View - Audio Described Exhibition Tour - MK Gallery
mkgallery.org
These events are suitable for anyone, especially those who are blind or partially sighted, and are lead by a trained Associate Artist.
We have two Go Ape adventures now open for applications!![]()
![]()
10 to 13s can take to the trees at Go Ape Haldon Forest, near Exeter, Devon: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-haldon-forest/![]()
![]()
14 to 17s are invited to a tree top adventure in Coventry: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-coventry-2022/![]()
![]()
Be brave, bold and join us for some adrenaline-filled fun! Follow the links above to apply for your place before applications close on 4 February.
VICTA Go Ape Day, Haldon Forest
www.victa.org.uk
When: Friday 25 February 2022, 9.30am Who: 10 to 13 years Location: Go Ape Haldon Forest, Nr Exeter, Devon Cost: £5 Closing Date: 4 February 2022 Join VICTA in scaling new heights at Go Ape Haldo...
Harriet has a great love of braille and to help celebrate #WorldBrailleDay, she reflects on how it has changed throughout her life. victastudents.org.uk/changing-braille/![]()
![]()
Thank you to Harriet Smith for sharing her article with us! We'd love to hear your thoughts on braille and what it means to you in the comments.
How Braille has changed throughout my life
victastudents.org.uk
by Harriet Smith Thinking back over the years, it is interesting to see how braille has changed throughout my life. I don't remember learning braille, but I've been told that I used to feel and sort t...
Our Braille Art competition is back for its 3rd year and we can’t wait to celebrate Braille through creativity once again! ![]()
![]()
To mark Louis Braille’s birthday on 4 January each year, the world celebrates #WorldBrailleDay in honour of this incredible system that opens up the world to so many. We are launching our Braille Art competition to help show the world what braille means to us and give it the appreciation it deserves.![]()
![]()
There are two age categories in which you can enter, and we have prizes up for grabs for the winners. We can’t wait to discover what you create!![]()
![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
VICTA Braille Art Competition 2022
www.victa.org.uk
Our Braille Art competition is back for its 3rd year and we can't wait to celebrate Braille through creativity once again! To mark Louis Braille's birthday on 4 January each year, the world celebrat...
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at VICTA. We have an action-packed calendar for 2022 and hope to see you all soon for lots of fun and new adventures.![]()
![]()
Christmas office opening hours:![]()
Please note, the VICTA office will be closed for Christmas from Friday 24 December 2021 at 1pm and will reopen on Tuesday 4 January 2022. We will do our best to respond to emails and phone messages left during our office closure when we return to work in January. ![]()
![]()
Thank you and Merry Christmas!
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
Amazing opportunity for 14 to 29s to be part of our Hair and Care Workshop run by industry expert and stylist to the stars Anna Cofone!![]()
![]()
Anna’s workshop gives a fantastic opportunity to learn how to properly care for your hair, how to style it independently and how to use hair styling tools safely. Anna is a freelance hairstylist who has previously worked with celebrities such as Dua Lipa and Lana Del Rey and alongside brands such as Adidas and Topshop.![]()
![]()
Register your interest to take part here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/hair-care-workshop/
www.victa.org.uk
When: TBC Who: 14 to 29 years Location: Virtual and in-person sessions TBC Cost: Free Closing Date: TBC Do you have a passion for trying new hair styles? Do you want to learn some hair care tips from ...
Are you dreaming of summer? We have the perfect activity for the whole family to look forward to - the VICTA Summer Family Weekend!![]()
![]()
Families will come together at Condover Hall activity centre where they have an exciting range of activities to keeps the kids (and grown-ups) entertained! It's the perfect opportunity to make friends and watch your children grow in confidence.![]()
![]()
Applications are closing soon on 1 February, so please get your applications in soon to avoid disappointment.![]()
![]()
Find out more and apply here: ![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/summer-family-weekend-2022/
www.victa.org.uk
When: : 29 July to 1 August 2022 Who: 5 to 17 years plus immediate family Theme: VICTA at the Commonwealth Games Location: Condover Hall, Shropshire Cost: £60 per person, welcome price for new famil...
As the 2022 VICTA Science Fair approaches we'd like to help more families get hands-on with science! We currently have a free VI-child ticket offer for two incredible science centres, find out more by following the links below... ![]()
![]()
Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium:![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/winchester-science/![]()
![]()
Life Science Centre, Newcastle:![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/life-science-centre/
The latest employment webinar from Blindambitionlondon and RNIB runs tomorrow (18 January 2022). ![]()
![]()
The session will focus on your CV and getting you through the door for an interview. Blind Ambition and their team of experts have successfully helped blind people find careers and are now in their second season. ![]()
![]()
Find out more and register here: www.blindambition.co.uk/post/w9-4th-jan-2022-cv-preparation
W9 18th Jan 2022: CV preparation.
www.blindambition.co.uk
RNIB & Blind Ambition would like to invite you to Session 9 of Series 2, Employment webinars: CV preparation. How to build your CV, adapt it for the role, find the right format and show your skills. C...
Back in November the VICTA Student Portal had a brilliant chat to the very talented Grace Whitford about her journey to becoming a singer!![]()
![]()
Find out what inspired her to follow her dream path and Grace's advice on being determined and working hard to achieve your goals. ![]()
![]()
Watch the full interview here: youtu.be/N7ASr2ZdHpA![]()
![]()
Follow Grace's singing career here: Grace Whitford Music
Creative Arts - Singing - Grace Whitford
youtu.be
Grace Whitford initially came across some resistance against following her dream career as a singer. She talks to the Student Portal about discovering her lo...
All things Early Years from VICTA & the Parent Portal! ![]()
![]()
If you are the parent of an Early Years child (aged 0 to 4 years) with a vision impairment, we'd love to hear from you. ![]()
![]()
We have just updated our sign-up process so that you can let us know if you are specifically interested in our Early Years information. We have lots coming up that we are keen to share with you!![]()
![]()
If you'd like to connect with us and other families, please complete the short form via the link below.![]()
www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years-sign-up/
Charlotte recently chatted to Dave Steele, AKA The Blind Poet, about the launch of his new children's book, 'Austin's Amazing Adventures'. Dave is striving to have better disability representation in literature and his story follows a young boy who is slowly losing his sight.![]()
![]()
Dave tells us more all witting as 'The Blind Poet' and how he used poetry after his diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa to help shape the conceptions of living with sight loss. ![]()
![]()
Watch the full interview here...![]()
![]()
youtu.be/gV3QTptGwxE![]()
![]()
The Blind Poet Dave Steele #TheBlindPoet
Interview with Dave Steele aka The Blind Poet abut the launch of his new children's book
youtu.be
In this interview Dave talks all about the brand 'The Blind Poet' and how he has used poetry and his diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa to help shape the conc...
Sounds like an exciting opportunity for anyone aged 18+!Could you help us to bring the #B2022 Opening and Closing ceremonies to life?![]()
![]()
We’re on the lookout for volunteer cast, athlete hosts, and existing choirs to be part of history.![]()
![]()
Apply now: www.birmingham2022.com/ceremonies![]()
![]()
18+, Limited Places, Eligibility & Selection criteria and T&Cs apply birminghamceremonies.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Volunteer-Cast-Pledge.pdf. Applications and selection for the ceremonies are managed by Birmingham Ceremonies Ltd. You can learn more about Birmingham Ceremonies Ltd at www.birminghamceremonies.com
Activity update! We have extended the age limit on our Go Ape day at Haldon Forest near Exeter. Young people aged between 10 to 17 can now apply to join us for this tree-top adventure! ![]()
![]()
Applications close on 4 February, so be sure to get your name down soon here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-haldon-forest/
If you are aged 11 to 29 years you can enter our competition to make a piece of art using braille. Take inspiration from the things you love, get creative and help celebrate #braille! There are great prizes up-for-grabs. Enter by 31 January 2022: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
Don't forget to get your entries in for our Braille Art competition! Can you think of a creative way to represent your name in braille? Children aged 0 to 10 years are invited to send theirs in for the chance to win! Entries close on 31 January 2022: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
The British Science Week 2022 activity packs are live! The theme is Growth, and the packs are filled with fun activities you can do in school or at home. ![]()
![]()
We are excited to be joining in once again with our VICTA Science Fair 2022! This year VICTA has provided one of the activities in the Community Pack 'Wake me up before you grow grow!' It should be a lot of fun to take part in, so make sure you download your pack and give it a try!![]()
![]()
bsa.sc/BSW22-activity-packs #bsw22
Early Years (0-4 yrs) Tiny Diggers activity at Jorvik DIG! Let your little ones explore their senses and archaeology in a sensory and tactile environment. Plus a chance for the grown ups to chat over coffee and biscuits!![]()
![]()
Find out more and apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/tiny-diggers/
Join VICTA and Stargardt's Connected for a day of family fun in Milton Keynes! ![]()
![]()
Our morning will be spent at Climb Quest where the children will have a go at their team ‘Mountain Challenge’!![]()
![]()
In the afternoon we will head to Bletchley Park to explore the home of the World War II codebreakers.![]()
![]()
Find out more and apply for your family's place here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/stargardts-family-day/
Joint Family Day with Stargardt’s Connected
www.victa.org.uk
When: Saturday 19 March 2022 Who: 5 to 17 years plus immediate family Location: Milton Keynes (Climb Quest and Bletchley Park) Cost: £5 per person (under 5s go free) Closing Date: Friday 11 February...
Another nice activity to share with you from MK Gallery for their Laura Knight Exhibition! ![]()
![]()
Sensory Exhibition Toddle Tour ![]()
![]()
Bring your little ones along to MK Gallery on Tuesday 18th January at 11am, for their fantastic artist-led Sensory Exhibition Tour. This multi-sensory experience will bring the paintings of their Laura Knight show to life, with music, smells, performance and dress-up, for a truly unique and fun family outing. Entry is free, but tickets must be booked in advance. Find out more and book your places here: ![]()
![]()
mkgallery.org/event/artist-led-sensory-exhibition-toddle-tour/
Artist-Led Sensory Exhibition Toddle Tour - MK Gallery
mkgallery.org
These artist-led tours will invite you to explore the sensory qualities of our current exhibition, Laura Knight: A Panoramic View. Our tours are specifically designed for those with additional needs, ...
MK Gallery would like to share with you their upcoming audio described exhibition tour which will be taking place on Saturday 5th February at 11am. ![]()
![]()
This is a bespoke artist led tour which will describe some of the key works on display in their current Laura Knight exhibition, as well as providing context about her life. The tour is free with a ticket for the exhibition. ![]()
![]()
Further information and a link to booking can be found here: mkgallery.org/event/laura-knight-audio-described-exhibition-tour/
Laura Knight: A Panoramic View - Audio Described Exhibition Tour - MK Gallery
mkgallery.org
These events are suitable for anyone, especially those who are blind or partially sighted, and are lead by a trained Associate Artist.
We have two Go Ape adventures now open for applications!![]()
![]()
10 to 13s can take to the trees at Go Ape Haldon Forest, near Exeter, Devon: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-haldon-forest/![]()
![]()
14 to 17s are invited to a tree top adventure in Coventry: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-coventry-2022/![]()
![]()
Be brave, bold and join us for some adrenaline-filled fun! Follow the links above to apply for your place before applications close on 4 February.
VICTA Go Ape Day, Haldon Forest
www.victa.org.uk
When: Friday 25 February 2022, 9.30am Who: 10 to 13 years Location: Go Ape Haldon Forest, Nr Exeter, Devon Cost: £5 Closing Date: 4 February 2022 Join VICTA in scaling new heights at Go Ape Haldo...
Harriet has a great love of braille and to help celebrate #WorldBrailleDay, she reflects on how it has changed throughout her life. victastudents.org.uk/changing-braille/![]()
![]()
Thank you to Harriet Smith for sharing her article with us! We'd love to hear your thoughts on braille and what it means to you in the comments.
How Braille has changed throughout my life
victastudents.org.uk
by Harriet Smith Thinking back over the years, it is interesting to see how braille has changed throughout my life. I don't remember learning braille, but I've been told that I used to feel and sort t...
Our Braille Art competition is back for its 3rd year and we can’t wait to celebrate Braille through creativity once again! ![]()
![]()
To mark Louis Braille’s birthday on 4 January each year, the world celebrates #WorldBrailleDay in honour of this incredible system that opens up the world to so many. We are launching our Braille Art competition to help show the world what braille means to us and give it the appreciation it deserves.![]()
![]()
There are two age categories in which you can enter, and we have prizes up for grabs for the winners. We can’t wait to discover what you create!![]()
![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
VICTA Braille Art Competition 2022
www.victa.org.uk
Our Braille Art competition is back for its 3rd year and we can't wait to celebrate Braille through creativity once again! To mark Louis Braille's birthday on 4 January each year, the world celebrat...
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at VICTA. We have an action-packed calendar for 2022 and hope to see you all soon for lots of fun and new adventures.![]()
![]()
Christmas office opening hours:![]()
Please note, the VICTA office will be closed for Christmas from Friday 24 December 2021 at 1pm and will reopen on Tuesday 4 January 2022. We will do our best to respond to emails and phone messages left during our office closure when we return to work in January. ![]()
![]()
Thank you and Merry Christmas!
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…
Amazing opportunity for 14 to 29s to be part of our Hair and Care Workshop run by industry expert and stylist to the stars Anna Cofone!![]()
![]()
Anna’s workshop gives a fantastic opportunity to learn how to properly care for your hair, how to style it independently and how to use hair styling tools safely. Anna is a freelance hairstylist who has previously worked with celebrities such as Dua Lipa and Lana Del Rey and alongside brands such as Adidas and Topshop.![]()
![]()
Register your interest to take part here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/hair-care-workshop/
www.victa.org.uk
When: TBC Who: 14 to 29 years Location: Virtual and in-person sessions TBC Cost: Free Closing Date: TBC Do you have a passion for trying new hair styles? Do you want to learn some hair care tips from ...
Are you dreaming of summer? We have the perfect activity for the whole family to look forward to - the VICTA Summer Family Weekend!![]()
![]()
Families will come together at Condover Hall activity centre where they have an exciting range of activities to keeps the kids (and grown-ups) entertained! It's the perfect opportunity to make friends and watch your children grow in confidence.![]()
![]()
Applications are closing soon on 1 February, so please get your applications in soon to avoid disappointment.![]()
![]()
Find out more and apply here: ![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/summer-family-weekend-2022/
www.victa.org.uk
When: : 29 July to 1 August 2022 Who: 5 to 17 years plus immediate family Theme: VICTA at the Commonwealth Games Location: Condover Hall, Shropshire Cost: £60 per person, welcome price for new famil...
As the 2022 VICTA Science Fair approaches we'd like to help more families get hands-on with science! We currently have a free VI-child ticket offer for two incredible science centres, find out more by following the links below... ![]()
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Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium:![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/winchester-science/![]()
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Life Science Centre, Newcastle:![]()
www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/life-science-centre/
The latest employment webinar from Blindambitionlondon and RNIB runs tomorrow (18 January 2022). ![]()
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The session will focus on your CV and getting you through the door for an interview. Blind Ambition and their team of experts have successfully helped blind people find careers and are now in their second season. ![]()
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Find out more and register here: www.blindambition.co.uk/post/w9-4th-jan-2022-cv-preparation
W9 18th Jan 2022: CV preparation.
www.blindambition.co.uk
RNIB & Blind Ambition would like to invite you to Session 9 of Series 2, Employment webinars: CV preparation. How to build your CV, adapt it for the role, find the right format and show your skills. C...
Back in November the VICTA Student Portal had a brilliant chat to the very talented Grace Whitford about her journey to becoming a singer!![]()
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Find out what inspired her to follow her dream path and Grace's advice on being determined and working hard to achieve your goals. ![]()
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Watch the full interview here: youtu.be/N7ASr2ZdHpA![]()
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Follow Grace's singing career here: Grace Whitford Music
Creative Arts - Singing - Grace Whitford
youtu.be
Grace Whitford initially came across some resistance against following her dream career as a singer. She talks to the Student Portal about discovering her lo...
All things Early Years from VICTA & the Parent Portal! ![]()
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If you are the parent of an Early Years child (aged 0 to 4 years) with a vision impairment, we'd love to hear from you. ![]()
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We have just updated our sign-up process so that you can let us know if you are specifically interested in our Early Years information. We have lots coming up that we are keen to share with you!![]()
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If you'd like to connect with us and other families, please complete the short form via the link below.![]()
www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years-sign-up/
Charlotte recently chatted to Dave Steele, AKA The Blind Poet, about the launch of his new children's book, 'Austin's Amazing Adventures'. Dave is striving to have better disability representation in literature and his story follows a young boy who is slowly losing his sight.![]()
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Dave tells us more all witting as 'The Blind Poet' and how he used poetry after his diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa to help shape the conceptions of living with sight loss. ![]()
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Watch the full interview here...![]()
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youtu.be/gV3QTptGwxE![]()
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The Blind Poet Dave Steele #TheBlindPoet
Interview with Dave Steele aka The Blind Poet abut the launch of his new children's book
youtu.be
In this interview Dave talks all about the brand 'The Blind Poet' and how he has used poetry and his diagnosis of Retinitis Pigmentosa to help shape the conc...
Sounds like an exciting opportunity for anyone aged 18+!Could you help us to bring the #B2022 Opening and Closing ceremonies to life?![]()
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We’re on the lookout for volunteer cast, athlete hosts, and existing choirs to be part of history.![]()
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Apply now: www.birmingham2022.com/ceremonies![]()
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18+, Limited Places, Eligibility & Selection criteria and T&Cs apply birminghamceremonies.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Volunteer-Cast-Pledge.pdf. Applications and selection for the ceremonies are managed by Birmingham Ceremonies Ltd. You can learn more about Birmingham Ceremonies Ltd at www.birminghamceremonies.com
Activity update! We have extended the age limit on our Go Ape day at Haldon Forest near Exeter. Young people aged between 10 to 17 can now apply to join us for this tree-top adventure! ![]()
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Applications close on 4 February, so be sure to get your name down soon here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-haldon-forest/
If you are aged 11 to 29 years you can enter our competition to make a piece of art using braille. Take inspiration from the things you love, get creative and help celebrate #braille! There are great prizes up-for-grabs. Enter by 31 January 2022: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
Don't forget to get your entries in for our Braille Art competition! Can you think of a creative way to represent your name in braille? Children aged 0 to 10 years are invited to send theirs in for the chance to win! Entries close on 31 January 2022: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
The British Science Week 2022 activity packs are live! The theme is Growth, and the packs are filled with fun activities you can do in school or at home. ![]()
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We are excited to be joining in once again with our VICTA Science Fair 2022! This year VICTA has provided one of the activities in the Community Pack 'Wake me up before you grow grow!' It should be a lot of fun to take part in, so make sure you download your pack and give it a try!![]()
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bsa.sc/BSW22-activity-packs #bsw22
Early Years (0-4 yrs) Tiny Diggers activity at Jorvik DIG! Let your little ones explore their senses and archaeology in a sensory and tactile environment. Plus a chance for the grown ups to chat over coffee and biscuits!![]()
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Find out more and apply here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/tiny-diggers/
Join VICTA and Stargardt's Connected for a day of family fun in Milton Keynes! ![]()
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Our morning will be spent at Climb Quest where the children will have a go at their team ‘Mountain Challenge’!![]()
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In the afternoon we will head to Bletchley Park to explore the home of the World War II codebreakers.![]()
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Find out more and apply for your family's place here: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/stargardts-family-day/
Joint Family Day with Stargardt’s Connected
www.victa.org.uk
When: Saturday 19 March 2022 Who: 5 to 17 years plus immediate family Location: Milton Keynes (Climb Quest and Bletchley Park) Cost: £5 per person (under 5s go free) Closing Date: Friday 11 February...
Another nice activity to share with you from MK Gallery for their Laura Knight Exhibition! ![]()
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Sensory Exhibition Toddle Tour ![]()
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Bring your little ones along to MK Gallery on Tuesday 18th January at 11am, for their fantastic artist-led Sensory Exhibition Tour. This multi-sensory experience will bring the paintings of their Laura Knight show to life, with music, smells, performance and dress-up, for a truly unique and fun family outing. Entry is free, but tickets must be booked in advance. Find out more and book your places here: ![]()
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mkgallery.org/event/artist-led-sensory-exhibition-toddle-tour/
Artist-Led Sensory Exhibition Toddle Tour - MK Gallery
mkgallery.org
These artist-led tours will invite you to explore the sensory qualities of our current exhibition, Laura Knight: A Panoramic View. Our tours are specifically designed for those with additional needs, ...
MK Gallery would like to share with you their upcoming audio described exhibition tour which will be taking place on Saturday 5th February at 11am. ![]()
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This is a bespoke artist led tour which will describe some of the key works on display in their current Laura Knight exhibition, as well as providing context about her life. The tour is free with a ticket for the exhibition. ![]()
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Further information and a link to booking can be found here: mkgallery.org/event/laura-knight-audio-described-exhibition-tour/
Laura Knight: A Panoramic View - Audio Described Exhibition Tour - MK Gallery
mkgallery.org
These events are suitable for anyone, especially those who are blind or partially sighted, and are lead by a trained Associate Artist.
We have two Go Ape adventures now open for applications!![]()
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10 to 13s can take to the trees at Go Ape Haldon Forest, near Exeter, Devon: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-haldon-forest/![]()
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14 to 17s are invited to a tree top adventure in Coventry: www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/go-ape-coventry-2022/![]()
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Be brave, bold and join us for some adrenaline-filled fun! Follow the links above to apply for your place before applications close on 4 February.
VICTA Go Ape Day, Haldon Forest
www.victa.org.uk
When: Friday 25 February 2022, 9.30am Who: 10 to 13 years Location: Go Ape Haldon Forest, Nr Exeter, Devon Cost: £5 Closing Date: 4 February 2022 Join VICTA in scaling new heights at Go Ape Haldo...
Harriet has a great love of braille and to help celebrate #WorldBrailleDay, she reflects on how it has changed throughout her life. victastudents.org.uk/changing-braille/![]()
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Thank you to Harriet Smith for sharing her article with us! We'd love to hear your thoughts on braille and what it means to you in the comments.
How Braille has changed throughout my life
victastudents.org.uk
by Harriet Smith Thinking back over the years, it is interesting to see how braille has changed throughout my life. I don't remember learning braille, but I've been told that I used to feel and sort t...
Our Braille Art competition is back for its 3rd year and we can’t wait to celebrate Braille through creativity once again! ![]()
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To mark Louis Braille’s birthday on 4 January each year, the world celebrates #WorldBrailleDay in honour of this incredible system that opens up the world to so many. We are launching our Braille Art competition to help show the world what braille means to us and give it the appreciation it deserves.![]()
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There are two age categories in which you can enter, and we have prizes up for grabs for the winners. We can’t wait to discover what you create!![]()
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www.victa.org.uk/victa-calendar/braille-art-competition-2022/
VICTA Braille Art Competition 2022
www.victa.org.uk
Our Braille Art competition is back for its 3rd year and we can't wait to celebrate Braille through creativity once again! To mark Louis Braille's birthday on 4 January each year, the world celebrat...
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at VICTA. We have an action-packed calendar for 2022 and hope to see you all soon for lots of fun and new adventures.![]()
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Christmas office opening hours:![]()
Please note, the VICTA office will be closed for Christmas from Friday 24 December 2021 at 1pm and will reopen on Tuesday 4 January 2022. We will do our best to respond to emails and phone messages left during our office closure when we return to work in January. ![]()
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Thank you and Merry Christmas!
Dad’s Voice, by Dave Wood Being the parents of four means a busy life. We have three girls and a…
When I was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa aged six, three years after my initial symptoms were noted, the life…
By Louise Gough I am by no means an expert. I am a parent, who has learnt without a manual….