Inspired to give back
Royal Navy veteran Brian has been supported by Blind Veterans UK for over seven years. He has found a very creative way to show his appreciation.
Brian explains that our staff have supported him in a variety of different ways. Training sessions at our rehabilitation centre have helped Brian make the most of technology such as his iPad, which now keeps him organised at home. More recently, one of our Rehabilitation Officers visited him at home to help build his confidence using kitchen equipment, enabling him to cook independently. With just a few adjustments, Brian now confidently uses a microwave.
He says the support from Blind Veterans UK has been “brilliant, every time.”
But it's the craft kits that have brought the most joy to Brian.
Our National Creative Project kits are delivered directly to blind veterans like Brian, along with accessible instructions.
These projects include mosaics, painting, gardening and modelling. They help blind veterans rediscover hobbies they may have given up due to sight loss. Brian tried the kits and loved them.
Success with the kits gave Brian the confidence to design his own crafts. Drawing on his sailor’s knot skills from his Navy days, Brian makes beautiful bracelets. It’s extra special to see his Royal Navy past reflected in his creations. He also makes wooden bird boxes, using bright colours to make them easier to see.
Creative activities have brought joy and purpose to veterans like Brian, 91, all across the country. Brian loves being creative so much that he’s taken it a step further. He now sells his items and donates the proceeds to our charity.
Thanks to supporters like you, Brian can continue channelling his inner sailor - doing what he loves while helping others in the process. We think he’s truly amazing!
"I’ve had a lot of support - that’s why I wanted to give something back."
Find out more about the National Creative Project.
Read more
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Read about how blind veteran Peter introduced Bob to our charity and then marched at the Cenotaph together.
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