Each year we deliver hours of specialist care, education, therapy and other support to help our young people live their vision impairment and other needs.
Everyone’s aims and aspirations are different.
For a College student it may be learning the route into town, and having the confidence to catch a bus and use their long cane.
Some of our young people may spend time working towards being able to brush their teeth or take their medicine without support.
Whatever their individual goals and dreams, we want the impact of our work to mean that – in adult life – young people supported by InFocus are:
Living healthy lives with good mental health and emotional wellbeing
We recognise that everyone is different and has individual needs. That’s why we strive to ensure our young people are able to live healthy lives, caring for their emotional wellbeing and mental health.
Following their passions and doing things that they really enjoy
Encouraging our young people to follow their passions and do the things they love is something we feel strongly about. We understand that everyone has different interests and passions, so we provide a range of activities and support for our young people to find what they love doing and pursue it.
Advocating for themselves independently or with support
We work hard to ensure that our young people are equipped with the skills and confidence they need to stand up for their rights, express their opinions, assert their needs, and access the help they may need. Through a range of activities and supports, we help them develop their independence and resilience.
Able to use their money and to make decisions about spending to improve their lives
When it comes to money, we believe that our young people should be able to make their own decisions and take control of their finances. We help them develop the skills they need to understand the importance of budgeting, how to shop for value, and how to use money to improve their lives.
Living as independently as they are able, with the right level of support
Ensuring that our young people have the right level of support – whether they need help with daily tasks or more specialist guidance. We work closely with families and carers, helping them to understand the needs of their children and providing advice on how best to provide support.
In work, volunteer roles or engaged in valued activities
It’s not just about having a job – it’s about being engaged in meaningful activities. We help our young people develop their skills, build their confidence and find the right support to help them get into work or participate in volunteering.
Using technology effectively to support and enhance daily life
Technology plays a huge role in the lives of young people with vision impairment and complex needs. We take a holistic approach to technology, helping our young people get the most out of it and use it effectively to support their day-to-day activities.
Making choices about all aspects of their lives, to the fullest extent possible
We believe young people should be empowered to make their own choices and take control of their lives. We help them develop the skills, confidence and knowledge they need to make informed decisions about all aspects of their lives – from education, health care, leisure activities and more.
Maximising their functional vision
For many young people with complex needs and vision impairments, the right support can make a huge difference in helping them to get the most out of their functional vision. At InFocus, we provide both practical and therapeutic support to help our young people maximise their vision, so they are able to access all that life has to offer.
Being active citizens in their community
Young people should be able to take an active role in their community, and we are passionate about providing the right support and guidance for them to do this. Through a range of activities, we help our young people develop the skills they need to participate in their local community with confidence.
Travelling within their community, with just enough support
Travel can be a challenge for young people with vision impairments, so we provide the right level of support to help them get around their local area with confidence. We work closely with families and carers to make sure that our young people are well equipped to travel independently or with just enough support.
Enjoying relationships with family & friends & meeting new people through a variety of social opportunities
It’s important for our young people to have strong relationships with family and friends. We provide support and encouragement to help our young people stay connected with their families and friends, meet new people and participate in activities that they enjoy. We also provide guidance on how to navigate social media safely.
Using their voice about things that matter to them
It’s essential for young people to be able to use their voice and express themselves. We help our young people develop the skills they need to understand the issues that matter to them and how they can use their voice to make a difference.