MP SHAILESH Vara has added his support to Deafblind UK, a national charity based in Peterborough with a shop in Yaxley, part of North West Cambridgeshire constituency. The organisation, founded in 1928, provides practical support and advice to individuals who are deaf and blind as well as training and support for their families and carers.
Chief executive officer Nikki Morris (pictured) explained the progress made by the organisation in recent years, most recently their plan to convert a former office building in Peterborough into high-dependency accommodation for people who are deafblind and have additional needs. Work on two further flats has started at Rainbow Court in Paston, a supported-living complex where people who are deafblind can live independently with specialist assistance when needed.
The charity shop in Yaxley helps with essential fundraising for this organisation whose work supports around 450,000 people across the UK. One of the latest projects is a schools' programme which aims to inform children about the charity's work and the important research being carried out to improve diagnosis and treatment.
Nikki said having the support of Parliamentarians such as Shailesh was critical in raising awareness at the highest level. "We are extremely grateful for his support which is most welcome and invaluable as we work together with others to meet the needs of increasing numbers of people living with deaf-blindness."
Afterwards Shailesh told us: "This is a wonderful charity caring for those affected by this life-limiting condition, some affected from birth as well as those born deaf who might develop blindness later. The support offered is vital for children and adults as well as those who love and care for them. I was greatly impressed by the progress that is being made and the commitment of Nikki and the whole team."
Photo: Shailesh Vara MP meets Nikki Morris BEM, chief executive officer of Deafblind UK
