About Us
A Short History Lesson
Somerset Sight (formerly Somerset Association for the Blind) was founded in February 1919, at much the same time as many other counties were establishing similar societies, in response to the needs of wounded soldiers returning from the first World War.
The organisation has had many addresses but in 2000 we moved to our current site at Northfield House in Taunton.
The aims of the organisation have always been the same since its foundation - to relieve the needs of the blind and partially-sighted, to promote their health, and to promote their education so that they might lead a full life in the community.
To this end Home Teachers were appointed in the early days, to look into the specific training needs encountered by blind and partially-sighted people.
Social support and advice were also provided, particularly during the war years when help was required with gas masks, blackout precautions, rationing and so on. These Home Teachers were in fact the original Social Workers for the Blind, and were employed by the organisation but funded with a grant from the County Council,
Working In Partnership
We have always valued our links with other organisations and have a good working relationship with Somerset County Council who provide us with funding for our Visiting service among other areas.
We have good links with other organisations for the Blind including RNIB and Action for the Blind. As an independent local charity we are members of NALSVI (National Association for Local Societies for the Visually Impaired).
For more information about nalsvi click here
Charity Registration Number 203296
