Sight loss charity's Enfield support group appeals for volunteers

The Macular Society Enfield Support Group helps people affected by macular disease, which is currently incurable and “has a devastating impact”

Old people enjoying a cuppa — credit Macular Society

A sight loss support group in Enfield is appealing for new volunteers.

The Macular Society Enfield Support Group, which helps people affected by macular disease, gets together every second Wednesday of the month from 10am-12pm, at Trinity Church Hall in Gentleman’s Row.

The group is welcome to everyone, be that new or existing members, those newly diagnosed with macular disease, their family, friends and carers.

Volunteers help to run and co-ordinate the group meetings, such as arranging guest speakers and days out. The group is particularly appealing for a treasurer and a member to help organise entertainment and guest speakers.

Long-term volunteer Linda Stevens started supporting a friend at the group eleven years ago. She soon stepped in to help with the teas and coffees and has continued to help ever since.

Encouraging new volunteers to step forward, Enfield resident Linda said: “We’re a very friendly bunch and once they get to know the group well, we are all good friends.

“When people who have a diagnosis first come to the support group they feel like they’re the only person in the world with macular disease. Then they spend time with others in similar positions, and they realise how everyone continues to get on with their lives.

“There is so much support to be felt and had at our group.”

Dr Lorna Fenwick McLaren, volunteer support officer at Macular Society, said: “The difference that our volunteers make to the lives of many macular disease patients is really beyond measure. Training is provided, and expenses are covered. So, if you have some free time and would be willing to help out, we would love to hear from you.

“We know the peer support can be so helpful and our groups can really help people increase in confidence and become more independent.”

Along with the loss of central vision, macular disease is a currently incurable disease that has a “devastating impact” on other aspects of people’s physical and mental wellbeing.

Nearly 1.5 million people are currently affected and many more are at risk. The disease can leave them unable to drive, read or see faces. 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 700,000 people, usually over the age of 50.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer:
Call 01264 560 259
Email [email protected]

For more information about other Macular Society services available:
Call 0300 3030 111
Email [email protected]

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