idea magazine

Torch trust raises awareness of difficulties of navigating snow for blind or partially sighted people

Blind and partially-sighted people have special difficulties navigating snowy conditions. Torch Trust, a Christian charity based in Leicestershire whose aim is to overcome sight loss as a barrier to finding a personal faith in Christ and living a fulfilled Christian life, has recently launched an initiative to raise awareness of the needs of blind people called Foursight for the Church. Already nearly 600 churches have signed up to receive a free pack to help them.

The four steps Foursight aims to cause a change in thinking, leading to a desire to tackle the potential barriers which may prevent blind and partially sighted people being fully included within the life of the church.

Sheila Armstrong is blind and relies on her guide dog Mist to help her get to the office and back. She says: "A lot of blind people just won't go out in snowy weather and I understand why," she said. "[Mist] doesn't always understand that I need to walk more slowly, especially crossing icy roads.'

John Fuzzard, a cane user, agrees: "The snow is also very disorientating; blind people often rely on the sounds in their locality, but in the snow sounds are different, muffled. Finding kerbs can be hard anyway, because they are often different heights. But in the snow it's often not possible to know where the kerb is." John has experienced offers of help with shopping from church friends.

"It's all about a little extra awareness and a willingness to serve people just as Jesus did,' said Dr Gordon Temple, CEO of Torch Trust. 'Generally, churches have become very vigilant about the needs of elderly folk in their communities, but are not always as aware of the needs of disabled people. Giving a bit of practical support need not be costly or time consuming.'