From talking air fryers to specialist mobility training, Guernsey Blind Association is quietly transforming everyday life for visually impaired islanders – but says too many people still don’t know the help is there.
It’s one of the reasons the charity has put raising awareness – and a continued focus on improving access to support – at the top of its 2026 wishlist, as they shared with Express…
Highlights
A spokesperson for the GBA stated that “One of the greatest charity achievements of 2025 was Chantelle Tucker qualifying as the island’s first and only Orientation & Mobility (“O&M”) Instructor, a major step forward for local support of visually impaired people.”
An O&M Instructor is a specialist who teaches individuals who are blind or partially sighted how to travel safely, confidently and independently.
The role involves teaching people who are blind or partially sighted how to safely travel independently.
“This includes learning to use a long cane, navigating indoor and outdoor environments, crossing roads safely, understanding traffic and environmental sounds and developing problem-solving skills for real-world travel.
“Chantelle’s qualification means that visually impaired islanders can now receive this life-changing training locally, reducing the need to travel off-island and greatly improving independence, confidence and quality of life.”
What has been the greatest challenge?
When it comes to challenges facing the GBA, the greatest problem they’re facing is getting people to understand that they’re able to help with practical support and gadgets to help in daily life.
The spokesperson continued: “The greatest challenge we continue to face is getting the word out about the support our charity provides, many people are still unaware that we are here to help. We are not a diagnostic service, but we offer a wide range of practical support and specialist equipment.
“Our well-stocked resource room includes everything from talking air fryers, magnification devices, home aids and adapted cooking equipment, all designed to make everyday life easier.”
For those unable to travel to the charity’s base of operations in St Andrews, there’s a range of options open including Home Visits, which can make accessing their support easier.
“Transportation is always a challenge for our service users to access our support and our Vision Support Advisor Debbie Clarke has increased her home visits, which are a hugely valuable service for our clients.
“Home visits allow Debbie to see firsthand the challenges individuals face in their own environment, enabling truly personalised support. For those who may struggle to travel, home visits also remove barriers to accessing support, ensuring no one is excluded due to mobility, confidence or transport issues.”
The 2026 Wishlist
Reaching more people, expanding and growing the support they can offer, and improving life for islanders with a visual impairment are all high up on the charity’s priority list.
The spokesperson continued: “For 2026, our wish list focuses on growing awareness, expanding services and strengthening long-term support for visually impaired islanders.
“A key priority is to increase public awareness so more people know that our charity exists, understand what we do, and feel confident to reach out for support earlier.
“No referral is needed to access our support – anyone is welcome to contact us directly to find out how we can assist them.
Growing relationships with people looking to donate their time to supporting and assisting the charity is also high up on the wishlist.
“We’re also hoping to welcome more wonderful volunteers in the next year ahead. We simply couldn’t continue to operate without the kind generosity of people giving up their time to support our cause. If you, or someone you know, would enjoy giving a little time to make a big difference, we’d love to hear from you!”