Barclays' £100,000 funding boost to help deaf and blind people

A charity that helps to support people with hearing and visual impairments has been given a £100,000 funding boost from Barclays.

North East Sensory Services (NESS) said it will use the money to provide training in using accessible electronic devices to help keep deaf and blind people connected with family and friends.

It will also provide them with longer-term skills, such as using the internet for banking and shopping.

Graham Findlay, chief executive of NESS, said: “Those living with severe visual or hearing impairment, particularly the elderly, were already at a high risk of social isolation, but that’s been exacerbated by the pandemic.

“This generous funding from Barclays will allow us to continue to support vulnerable people in both Aberdeen and Moray to help them build friendships and stay in touch with loved ones.

“It will particularly help elderly people learn to use video calls and also increase their confidence when it comes to browsing, using email and accessing the internet for things like banking and shopping.

“All across the north-east there are thousands of people affected by sensory impairment, but with the right support they can take part in and contribute to society in the same way as anyone else.”

The money was awarded via Barclay’s Covid community aid 100×100 Programme.

Koral Anderson, head of Barclays Scotland, said: “With the long-term impacts of the crisis still being felt, Barclays continues to play a positive role in society.

“By working with charities like North East Sensory Services who best understand the needs of their communities in Scotland we can ensure help is getting right into the heart of society.

“We hope that by partnering with incredible local charities, we can continue to help people in need as they emerge from the crisis.”