Forth Valley Sensory Centre Newsletter – Spring 2022

Newsletter, Spring 2022

Welcome!
Welcome to this Spring edition of our Centre Newsletter. I hope you enjoy reading about all the
exciting things that are happening at the Centre, and beyond.

New Faces!
We have two new starts at the Centre!

Thanks to funding from Blindcraft Trust, Laura Cluxton joins us as our Sight Loss Ambassador and will
be working in communities across Forth Valley and promoting the Centre and our work.

Despite being well known around the Centre and having supported
us for a long time, we are delighted to welcome Laura to our Staff
Team!

Laura was previously a Trustee on our Board and Chair of our Centre
User Group. She is a regular fundraiser for the Centre alongside
husband Joe and Guide Dogs, Pixie and Sadie.

Laura brings lived experience of sight loss to the role and is keen to
get out and talk about the challenges of living with sight loss.

Importantly, Laura will focus on what people can do, not what they
cannot. Laura’s own career as a Para cyclist, competing at the
Commonwealth Games in Glasgow as well as many other international events is a great example of
this.

If your school, community group or other organisation would like to book a talk with Laura or you
would like help to set up a group for people with a sensory condition in Forth Valley then please get
in touch with lauracluxton@forthvalleysensorycentre.org We are particularly looking to set up more
groups across Stirling and Clackmannanshire.

Some of you may be aware that our Employability Coordinator Kim Grant has finished up with us to
go on Maternity Leave.

Everyone at the Centre would like to wish Kim all the best as she awaits baby number two.

We are delighted to welcome Duncan McPhee to our staff team

as our new Employability Co-ordinator. Duncan, who previously
worked in Army recruitment, has been volunteering at the Centre
as a driver and handyman. Don’t worry, he won’t be asking
anyone to undertake an assault course but instead will be using
his knowledge of working practice to support people with sensory
loss to find jobs and to encourage employers to take on people
with sensory loss.

Duncan is now available to speak to employers about equality and the incentives available to help
employers make work places more accessible. There are lots of bright minds and skilled dedicated
workers out there who just happen to have hearing or sight impairments and we believe everyone
deserves the chance to work if they are able.

You can contact Duncan with your questions or employment requests via
duncanmcphee@forthvalleysensorycentre.org

New IT Suite Funding

Following a successful funding application to Falkirk
Health and Wellbeing Social Fund, our IT Suite has
undergone an upgrade. We now have eight, all in
one Dell PCs ready for use and IT Tutor Tom is ready
to help you get to grips with the digital world.

Our computers boast the latest Intel i7 chips, loads

of memory and crystal clear high definition 27 inch
screens (just over 68cm for those using modern
measurements), perfect for brushing up skills, or
learning to use websites like Zoom.

Whatever you would like to do, Tom will be happy to help. Classes are Tuesday, 1pm-3pm, and 3pm-
5pm, and Thursday/Friday 3-5pm. Classes cost £5.
Ready, Set Cook!
More amazing funding news as we secured money to refurbish our training kitchen from the Food
Futures Fund.

The Falkirk Food Futures funding, delivered by charity

Forth Environment Link (FEL) in partnership with NHS
Forth Valley, CVS Falkirk and Falkirk Council, will help
improve access to local food for local people. This
includes helping people to be more confident when
cooking food from scratch, an issue we have come up
against a lot within the sight loss community.

Our blind cook and accredited cooking teacher David

Black is on hand to provide practical tips and advice.
David’s cooking classes were very popular pre-lockdown, often with a waiting list of several weeks
and the new kitchen will provide a more accessible space to work in.

If you would like to sign up for a class, please register your interest with Linsey
(linseystocks@forthvalleysensorycentre.org) to be kept up to date and be one of the first to try out
our new kitchen!

New Groups!
Not only have we been able to restart many of our pre-Covid groups, we have also been able to
launch several new ones!

First of all, we have been holding Creative Writing classes on

Monday night. Initially this is a four-week taster, but if we get
sufficient interest we would like to make this a more regular
class. If you’d like to see this become a permanent fixture on our
class list, or if you’d like to suggest other new groups and
activities that people might enjoy, contact Linsey and let her
know your thoughts!

The second new group is our Sticky Toffee Pudding Social Club which we are hoping to run on a
monthly basis. The first meeting was Monday 28 th March, 12pm-1.30pm. We offer a main and a
dessert for £6.50! This relaxed group offers people who are blind, partially sighted, deaf or hard of
hearing an opportunity to get out of the house, have a nice lunch at a great price and meet other
people in a safe environment.

Finally, we are delighted to announce the return of the Macular Society on Thursday 31 March.
Macular Society Co-ordinator Iona McLean will be on hand to meet everyone. The group will meet at
the Centre on the last Thursday of each month, 1:30-3:30pm along with guest speakers and support.
More information on our website www.forthvalleysensorycentre.org
Come and meet Flora!
As part of our assistive technology drive we have acquired
a number of ‘smart home’ gadgets which we are able to
demonstrate in our Technology Hub. As well as smart
lighting which can be controlled from your phone we also
have our robot vacuum cleaner, also known as Flora
available for demonstration. Judged as one of the most
useful gadgets for people with sight or mobility issues,
“Flora” can be set to give your home the once over while
you are asleep or be activated when needed. Once a
sweep of the floor is complete, Flora returns to the charging station ready for the next use! Come in
and ask Rowan at our Welcome Desk for a demonstration! E-mail
rowanferguson@forthvalleysensorycentre.org

It’s Kiltwalk Time!

The Kiltwalk is a fantastic fundraising opportunity for smaller charities like ours as The Hunter
Foundation adds 50 percent to every donation, so raise £100 and we get £150!

The first Kiltwalk is Glasgow on 24th April and there are three possible distances, Mighty Stride (22.7
miles), Big Stroll (14.37 miles) and Wee Wander (3 miles) and all qualify for the same top up. As well
as Glasgow, there is the Edinburgh Kiltwalk in September and after the success of the last few years
a Virtual Kiltwalk will also be held between 7 th and 9th October. This means you can cover the
distances at your leisure and in a park or streets close to home.

If you would like to sign up and walk for Forth Valley Sensory Centre, please speak to:
martinallen@forthvalleysensorycentre.org

Free Sensory Centre T-shirt for every entrant

For more information see www.thekiltwalk.co.uk or contact us to get a joining code.

Thank to our generous fundraisers!

Thanks to the generosity of local fundraisers, our Sensory Room has a brand new bubble tube!
Thanks to The Miller Family in Falkirk who raised £851 with their annual Christmas Sparkle, we have
been able to replace the old equipment with a great new feature!

Another fantastic fundraiser is Abbie

Anderson whose nephew Parker is deaf
and attends Audiology at the centre.
Abbie raised £910 running a 10k race in
Callendar Park, an absolutely amazing
amount that will be a big boost to our
groups. Parker dropped by personally to hand over the money and brightened up everyone with his
big smiles!

Finally, our Slimming World group accepted the Take on 250 challenge in January, losing a collective
402lbs in weight and raising £225 at the same time. The group are also hoping that the amount will
be doubled by a member’s employer! Fantastic and worth remembering! Does your employer
provide match funding or offer volunteer work time? If so, work with us to make the most of it! We
would love to hear from you. Contact our Fundraising Manager
martinallen@forthvalleysensorycentre.org for more ideas and information.

Afternoon Tea Dance 14th April

Our famous Afternoon Tea is back! This popular event is finally
back in the Centre. There are restrictions to ensure we stay as
safe as possible, so numbers are limited, but we promise you an
afternoon of fun, tea and lots of cake!

Tickets for the event are £15 for over 12s or £10 for age 12 and
under and the event takes place from 1-3pm. All welcome so if
you are looking for something interesting to do in the Easter
break, contact Rowan to reserve your ticket now! 01324 590 888 or
sensory@forthvalleysensorycentre.org

Summer Fayre 20th July 2022

Following the success of our Summer BBQ in the brief window last year we are hoping to hold a
Summer Fayre this year!

Our BBQ will take place on 20th July from 11am and everyone is welcome. We are finalising plans at
present but there will be BBQ food and drinks, entertainment and of course, seasonal stalls with
local vendors.

Check our website and social media for more information on the event as we firm up plans. If you
would be interested in hosting a stall at the event, please contact
sensory@forthvalleysensorycentre.org we will attempt to make sure that there are a wide variety of
stalls and vendors with lots to choose from!

Why We Sing – Focus on our Sensory Singers

Our Sensory Singers have been a favourite of the Centre for the past ten years. Importantly, the
group of blind, partially sighted and hard of hearing people, has never focused solely on the music, it
is very much about the camaraderie and the fun of taking part.
Founder members Laura, Lawson and Christine, who are all registered blind, say that for them, it is
the fact that singing, and being part of the choir makes them feel good, is a lot of fun and as result
means they leave happy is critical.

The Singers warm up ‘like a real choir’ but also practise a number of mindfulness techniques with
leader, Aimee Toshney, before they sign a note. Christine tells us this gets everyone “really focused
and in the mood the sing”. The vocal exercises also bring out the best in people and most of the
group, despite not having professional training, feel they can sing louder, clearer and reach new
notes when they are warmed up.

There is a real sense of achievement in the group when they perfect a particularly difficult song or
arrangement. As Laura says, “it is especially difficult to learn new songs when you can’t read the
words”. Luckily all three ladies are also members of our braille group and the Centre prints off song
lyrics in braille so they can be studied and learned at leisure, this is not the same for everyone
though so new routines can take many weeks to prepare. Christine tells us ‘Holy Night’ a festive
favourite, is one of the most satisfying and there is general agreement. Having taken a long time to
learn, to have “nailed it” in Laura’s words, is something special.

Lawson said, “it’s all about the endorphins. Singing as a group gives us a real sense of achievement,
it is very uplifting. If I had to choose between the singers and another activity, it would not be singing
that I would be giving up!”

Christine agrees, “you don’t have to be the best or want to be the best but it is amazing when it all
comes together.”

The pandemic hit the group hard as the singers were unable to meet and it wasn’t possible for the
group to meet online as several members are not online. Everyone missed being part of a team
Laura said it was not being able to do the regular Christmas fundraisers at local supermarkets that
she really missed, saying “it’s good to go out and perform. We work hard and we take a lot of pride
in what we do.”

So why do we sing? Because singing is uplifting. It provides joy to those taking part and to those
listening. It is open to all and builds a rapport between members similar to what you might find in a
winning sports team. Plus, it gives members something to look forward to.

Lawson sums it up, “if I wasn’t here I’d be sat at home. Singing makes a mundane Monday magical!”

The group is open to anyone, there are no auditions. If you would like to join contact:
linseystocks@forthvalleysensorycentre.org
You can watch the singers in action on our YouTube page here https://youtu.be/jojfDbGnxJw

Forging Academic Links

Technology has played a big part in helping us achieve our aim of encouraging people to be as
independent as possible. As a result, the Centre has been actively cultivating new links with
academic institutions, including Glasgow University, St Andrew’s University and Stirling University.

Perhaps most noticeably, our recent work with Glasgow

University and the Communication, Sensing and Imaging
(CSI) Research Group led to the visit of ‘guide robot’
Pepper who was programmed by a number of PHD
students to take visitors to different parts of the Centre.
Centre Users also got to try out a new ‘smart cane’
which uses vibrations to ‘spot’ objects and guide users.
There was an opportunity for testers to provide feedback on their experience as well as
outline other areas that technology might help in day to day life.
We are currently working with the University and some of our local BSL Community to help
develop virtual BSL interpreters.
We are in discussion with Stirling University about their navigational technology and how it
could help blind people. We hope to have more news on this soon.
Our work with Stirling University goes back a long way with student Nurses visiting the
Centre to learn about sensory loss as part of their Nurse training. These visits have been on
hold for the past few years but we are delighted to have re-established this link and once
again be welcoming students to the Centre.
Finally, we have been able to welcome some support from first year Medic Student Laura
Sargent. Laura is on placement from St Andrews University and is doing a root and branch
review of our website alongside the latest accessibility legislation to ensure that is as useful
as possible to all our stakeholders. Laura is also helping us refine the Volunteer Induction
process.

Volunteering
Volunteer Thank You Event
We never underestimate the contribution and
value our volunteers provide at the Centre and like
to make sure that they know it. Volunteer
Coordinator Hannah organised a Thank You
Afternoon Tea on March 18th which was attended
by eight volunteers.

One of the attendees said, "The afternoon tea was

so nice, it was minty fresh! I really enjoyed my
time meeting my fellow volunteers and I'm looking
forward to another meet-up in the future. It's not
why I volunteer, but I always appreciate when my
efforts are recognised like this. It makes me feel
supported and encouraged". 
 
Hannah added; “Thank you to everyone who was able to come along today and to the Café staff for
such an amazing catering job as always. We have a lot of work to do in terms of volunteering
because everything for the last few years has been virtual, plus, some volunteers have been
shielding themselves but it is great so many are still committed to helping us and we salute
volunteers everywhere!”

Sighted Guides Needed

Can you help us by volunteering to become a sighted guides for our blind Centre Users? We are
looking for support for a few hours on either Monday and Friday. Full training will be provided; no
experience is necessary.

Knowledge of the Stirling area would be an advantage as you’ll be helping our minibus driver collect
people from around Stirling and bringing them to the Centre for groups and activities. Duties include
helping the driver with navigation, assisting people on and off the bus and making sure people reach
their destination safely.

You’ll also need to be an animal lover as you may well be supporting people who have a Guide
Contact hannahwilson@forthvalleysensorycentre.org to register your interest!
Technology Training Day
Volunteers were involved in a training day with Sight and Sound Technology, looking at some of the
latest assistive technology available.
 
Sight and Sound have been supplying equipment for people with sensory conditions for a long time
and have recently been undertaking a series of online training sessions discussing different devices.
This included hardware like electronic magnifiers and software like the latest version of screen
reader, JAWS.

Our Technology Hub is designed to be a space where people can try out new items of equipment
before they commit to buying. The training event introduced our volunteers Duncan, John, Peter,
and Kyle to demonstrate the latest iteration of the classic Ruby Reader, a Braille computer and
notetaker, a portable Braille input device, the Orcam and Google Glass smart glasses/cameras,
Samsung and Kapsys smartphones designed for those with low vision, the best visual aid apps on
iPhone and Android (Seeing A.I. and Lookout, respectively), and a binocular-like device that can help
some individuals see lost central vision in their peripheral vision! Quite a selection, I'm sure you'll
agree.
 
Graeme also left several devices to try, including the Hable One, a Braille input device that can be
used with any Bluetooth compatible phone or computer. Pop into the Tech Hub to speak with Peter,
John, Kyle on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, or Rowan on Monday and Friday!

Fundraising Group
Our fundraising group is back in full swing and will be helping pull together a number of great events
over the coming year. Centre User Fundraising supporters help us ensure that all funding is directly
related to Centre User needs as well as being as accessible as possible to all our possible donors

The group meets on the fourth Monday of each month and there is no need to commit to anything
beyond your enthusiasm and ideas. If you can spare just a few hours a month to help us shape our
fundraising events, it would be much appreciated. To find out more, (there is no requirement to be a
Centre User or have a sensory condition) contact: martinallen@forthvalleysensorycentre.org

Energy Redress Project

Winter Warmers
With energy prices seemingly hitting a new high each day and the rise in the energy price cap due in
April, our Energy Redress Project has never been more timely.

Project Coordinator Sara Burns provides accessible

energy saving and climate change talks to groups
across the area as well as one to one advice on how
to save energy and keep your home warmer.
Everyone attending a ‘Winter Warmer’ consultation with Sara will get a free pack with an insulated
flask, hot water bottle, gloves, a knitted hat and scarf, thermometer and a tin of soup to help you
stay toasty.

Sara commented: “Sadly there is little we can do to stop price rises for energy with the cap being
lifted. However, we can try to help you save more energy at home. There are a few simple steps we
can all take that will keep us warmer and lower our bills at the same time.

“I’m able to provide advice on support that people with sensory conditions might be entitled to”.

To arrange your energy advice meeting with Sara, simply email

saraburns@forthvalleysensorycentre.org or call 01324 590 888.

Getting to Know…. Rowan Ferguson,

Customer Engagement Assistant
Rowan is usually found at our Welcome Desk, greeting people
who visit the Centre as well as answering the phones, setting up
rooms, supporting our social media and loads of other
important tasks. Rowan is currently learning BSL. We asked her
to take time from her busy schedule so you could learn a little
more about her:

1. Classical Music, Pop or Rock?

I’ve never been a fan of classical music, my grandad used to
play it on the radio when he picked me up from school and I
remember thinking there was nothing exciting about it. If I had
to pick one, it would probably be pop.

2. Book or film and which one?

I’ve never been the best or fastest reader and tend to stumble over my words so I have only ever
read a handful of books. The books I have read are miles better than the films but for convenience
and action, films take this one. My favourite has to be Baby Driver which is very fitting for work as
the main character has hearing loss.

3. Takeaways, Chinese, Indian, Pizza or Chippy?

Chinese definitely, not that there is much choice in my house as my boyfriend loves BBQ ribs.

4. Top tipple?
I like rum and bourbons, my favourites are Jack Daniels and Havana Club with coke and lime.

5. Favourite Ice Cream Flavour?

I’m not a big fan of ice-cream unless I go to the cinema, I usually get strawberry or raspberry ripple.
If I was going for a sweet treat you can’t beat Asda’s chocolate cake and it is only £2!

6. Early Bird on Night Owl?

Always night owl, I’d love to be the kind of person who wakes up at 6am every day and goes to the
gym but I like my bed a little too much.

7. Who is your Hero?

I don’t really have a Hero but I do like the chocolate ones.

8. Best place to holiday?

Tummel Valley! I know it’s not very exciting and you don’t need a flight to get there but I go on
fishing holidays there and the weather is always lovely (even in the winter). I would love to have a
caravan there one day. 

9. Favourite colour?
Blue, I like pretty much all shades of blue and think it’s a very soothing colour.

10. What’s your top tip?

Try not to panic, things will always turn out as they are supposed to. It just might not be the way you
were expecting.

That’s all Folks

Thanks for taking the time to catch up on our latest news. Of course we can’t do any of our work at
the Centre without the support of all our Staff, Trustees, Volunteers, Partners, Donors and Funders
and the continued hard work and support over the past few years has been nothing short of
amazing. Thank you to everyone!

Tell Us What You Think!

We are always keen to get your feedback. Our Centre is run for the benefit of the sensory
community but we don’t like to rest on our laurels. We need to know what we can change, what’s
good or what new things you’d like to do.

Click the link to give us your thoughts totally anonymously!

https://forms.office.com/r/fa5MinXcrc