One of Oxfordshire’s longest-running charities gets a boost to tackle loneliness and isolation among people living with sight loss. MyVision Oxfordshire, a charity that has supported people living with full or partial sight loss in the county for 148 years, has been awarded a £1,000 grant from Oxford United’s Dreaming Spires initiative.
The funding will support MyVision’s Community Engagement Project, helping blind and visually impaired residents access vital services, including befriending schemes, social groups, and one-to-one technology training.
Founded in 1877, MyVision Oxfordshire works with over 3,000 people annually, providing practical advice, emotional support, and accessible tech education to enhance independence and life opportunities.
Margaret Hart, Fundraising Officer at MyVision Oxfordshire, said:
“Right now, there are 24,000 people living in Oxfordshire with full or partial sight loss, Many partially sighted people have lost part of their independence because of their condition.
“Sight loss can affect a person’s mobility, employment status and opportunities to socialise which are critical to our physical and mental wellbeing. It’s our goal to address these concerns and ensure as many people as possible living in Oxfordshire with sight loss can be the best version of themselves.
Tackling Isolation Through Connection
The grant will enable MyVision to expand its befriending services and local social events, designed to combat the loneliness and isolation that often accompanies visual impairment.
Margaret added:
“Behaviours most people take for granted in life such as sending a text message or preparing food can become incredibly challenging, which is where our team are able to help.”
“We’re so grateful to Oxford United for choosing our cause as one of the Club’s Dreaming Spires winners. These funds will have a direct impact on people living with sight loss across Oxfordshire and ensure our community engagement services can be tailored to suit a person’s individual requirements.”
The charity also offers:
- Accessible technology support
- Vision rehabilitation guidance
- Peer support and community-led activities
Dreaming Spires: Supporting Oxfordshire’s Community
The donation is part of Oxford United’s Dreaming Spires project, an initiative launched to make a lasting social impact across the county. The club has pledged to support local not-for-profits as part of its broader community-focused stadium development plan.
Adam Benson, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer at Oxford United, said:
“The Dreaming Spires project was launched to specifically address genuine local needs and for the benefit of our community.
“As one of the region’s longest running charities, we’re delighted to be able to support MyVision Oxfordshire and the incredible work they do to enhance quality of life for people living with full or partial sight loss.”
MyVision joins other recipients of the Dreaming Spires funding, including:
- Bicester Widows
- Chalgrove Cavaliers
- Emmaus Oxford
- Blackbird Leys Community Development Initiative
Each organisation selected demonstrated how a £1,000 grant would enable them to make a measurable difference in their communities, particularly in areas related to health, wellbeing, inclusion and accessibility.
About Dreaming Spires
Oxford United’s Dreaming Spires programme consists of five core focus areas:
- Opportunity
- Accessibility
- Mental Wellbeing
- Personal Development
- Local Legacy
It forms part of the Club’s plan to build a new 16,000-capacity all-electric stadium north of Oxford, which will include a 180-bedroom hotel, community plaza, wellness space, and education opportunities for local people.
In addition to funding, Dreaming Spires offers:
- Mentorships and work experience for young people
- Mental health support programmes
- Employment and apprenticeship pathways
Get Involved or Access Support
To learn more about MyVision Oxfordshire’s work — or to access support for yourself or a loved one visit myvision.org.uk or email: info@myvision.org.uk
Follow Oxford United’s Dreaming Spires updates at oufc.co.uk
