A NEW support group is being launched in Minehead to help increase the confidence and independence of people affected by sight loss.

The Minehead Macular Society Support Group will meet for the first time on Tuesday, October 15 from 2pm to 4pm, and then on the third Tuesday of each month, at the Millbridge Evangelical Church hall in Parkhouse Road.

The support group has been organised by the Macular Society sight loss charity in partnership with local people.

Its ongoing aim will be to offer information, encouragement and friendship to people who are affected by macular disease and other forms of sight loss.

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK. Nearly 1.5 million people are currently affected and many more are at risk.

The disease can have a devastating effect on people’s lives, leaving them unable to drive, read or see faces. Many people affected describe losing their sight as being similar to bereavement.

There is still no cure and most types of the disease are not treatable. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common form of macular disease, affecting more than 600,000 people, usually over the age of 50.

Judy Pride, Macular Society regional manager, said: “We’re delighted to be working with local volunteers Dave and Mary Neighbour to launch this new group.

“The group is here for anybody affected by sight loss and we want to encourage people to come along. Friends and family are also very welcome.

“It’s good to be able to learn from each other’s experiences and get tips. The peer support can be so helpful. Our groups can really help people increase in confidence and become more independent.

“The group will invite guest speakers on a variety of subjects, including sight loss and its impact on our daily lives. The meetings are also social occasions where we can chat over a cup of tea.”

For more information about the Minehead group contact Judy on 07947 373 244 or email [email protected].

Information on macular disease is available from the Macular Society on 0300 3030 111 or email [email protected].