RNIB Volunteers helping children with sight problems

31 May 2006

RNIB Cymru staff will be marking National Volunteering Week (1-7 June 2006) by giving up their time to volunteer across Wales.  They will be working with existing volunteers and taking part in a number of different activities so they can sample volunteering.

RNIB Cymru relies on volunteers to help provide vital services for
people with sight problems across Wales. Volunteers work with
blind and partially sighted people in their homes and the
community, as well as at RNIB and partner organisations' centres.
Some roles can be done from home or at the office.

This week many staff from the Cardiff office will be updating and redecorating the on-site Starting Right nursery garden with new tactile displays for the children to enjoy.  There will be themed sections, including outer space, a farmyard, a playhouse and a beehive, complete with handmade bees. 

The materials have been donated by businesses including Whitchurch Builders Supplies, Jewsons, Focus, Anca Industrial Supplies Ltd and Worleys.

Other staff will be volunteering with other voluntary organisations like the credit union and Ddraig Cymraeg blind bowling team.

Ruth Marks, Director of RNIB Cymru, commented “We are delighted to support staff in volunteering opportunities.  The benefits of volunteering include learning new skills, putting experience to good use, meeting new friends, and developing new interests.”

“RNIB Cymru is always looking for volunteers to help us extend our work in Wales.  We have many roles that people can get involved with including recording information onto tapes and CDs, befriending, administration, fundraising, driving and Talking Book volunteers.”