”I was just thinking of how positively you, your charity & lovely members have made a change in my life. Not only is there our weekly activities on line, quizzes, keep fit, socials, choir & socialising. But then there are our cultural, learning, & fun outings. I cried when I got to sit in the London Palladium, for the first time in my life to see a play. I’m 60 years old & have been visually impaired since birth, I’ve never enjoyed myself so much in all that time as much as I am now. I so loved our trip to the comedy club and going to a noodle bar for delicious Chinese food. This charity has brought not only you into my life, but the lovely friends I’ve made. Thank you for starting this family & making Visually Impaired people like me the ability to feel like every other normal people. I love the way, you make sure that all your members get their trains/busses, taxis home before you get on your own train, you do this even though you are visually impaired yourself. Thank you for creating a place where we can have fun & make friends, thank you for creating this charity for us. ”
Eye Matter event, Tate Modern, 21 Feb 2024
”Spending the morning with Eye Matter at Tate Modern was a delight and really gave me a boost. It can be hard to engage with art as a totally blind person, especially when it was once a major part of your life, but I knew I was in good hands with Suzie and the team as they’re always so encouraging, supportive and understanding.
We met at Southwark station and were introduced to each other as people arrived which felt so welcoming. we then made our way to Tate Modern and were joined by the excellent Access Team. We started with introductions and as there were about 20 of us, all with different levels of sight, Tate gave us a room away from the main galleries which was great as there was a fair bit of distracting background noise. Anyone who needed a guide was paired up with a volunteer and we were all given audio headsets so once we went out into the busy building we could clearly hear what was being said. This was particularly important for at least one person who had significant hearing loss but so helpful for us all to be able to focus, not straining to hear if we were at the back of the group at any point in the tour.
We then went to the Turbine Hall to hear about Behind the Red Moon by El Anatsui, a complex installation made of 1000s of metal bottle tops. This piece fills the vast space and is in 3 sections so it was a bit like being shown 3 pieces of art. The describers had their work cut out, explaining the scale and form of it and did a great job. They told us about how the work was constructed alongside the concept and historical context which was fascinating. I particularly appreciated the time and effort put in to producing tactile boards which had small example sections of the artwork for us to feel. It allowed me to visualise the piece so much better and made me feel more connected to it. That was fantastic.
We then went to see Babel by Cildo Meireles which is a piece I’ve heard about but never experienced. We listened to the swirling sounds of the circular tower of radios and were told that the lighting in the room is kept very low so visitors focus on sound and can see the various coloured LED lights shining. It was so fascinating to consider how the tower was constructed (old tech at the bottom, changing to new tech as it rises) and what the artist was interested in conveying. We could hear a mix of constantly changing music and voices from all the different stations which creates a unique experience for every viewing of the piece. We then headed back to the room downstairs and a vintage radio was passed around for us to feel while we quizzed the knowledgeable staff about this exhibit. We stayed in the room for a bite to eat afterwards before heading home. What a wonderful event which not only got us thinking about art, history and culture, but got us chatting to new people and left us feeling enthusiastic for the next outing.”
”I was so energised and inspired by attending Eye Matter’s collaboration with Tate Modern in providing an audio-described tour of artworks by Ghanaian artist, El Anatsui, and Brazilian artist, Cildo Meireles . It was brilliant to meet other Eye Matter members at the barriers at Southwark Tube, and to walk the short distance to Tate Modern, where we were given a very warm welcome, and provided with audio-description headsets, and folding stools, if required, by members of Tate’s Visitor Engagement Team. They were all very accommodating and understanding of our access needs. It goes without saying, that there was much expertise in assisting all of us to get the best experience in being able to take in the depth of these brilliant artworks, through a variety of sensory approaches, and elevate our voices in rendering our own interpretations aloud, and having a group collaborative experience about what it all meant. It was fabulous. Tactile, touch objects were also provided to give an impression of El Anatsu’s creative approach to his art by providing an impression of these by touch. It was a fantastic experience. Whole-hearted thanks to Suzie, eye Matter , the sighted-guides and to the fantastic Visitor Experience and Access team at Tate Modern :)”
”Eye Matter does so very much for all of the VIPs who participate. Thanks!”
”You already know how amazing I think that you are, and you are a true inspiration to every VI. out there. Wow, what an amazing year and look at just how much you have achieved with Eye Matter. You have truly changed our lives for the better and I cannot wait to proudly watch what the coming year has in store for you. I wish you every success for the future and thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything that you do for us all. ‘
”Since the pandemic 3 local groups have disappeared all of which offered social interaction, support and attending events for people who are blind and partially sighted. The only group that has actually expanded has been the Eye Matter group, brilliantly run and organised by Suzie Simons and her team with so many opportunities to meet online with a huge variety of different topics and subjects of interest for us all and even opportunities to meet up in person to attend outdoor events too. I always look forward to meeting the lively and hardworking Suzie and other members whether in person or online with opportunities to engage in creative activities such as performing live music etc.”
”My review on the Rocky horror show
That was a fabulous trip and touch tour. Really enjoyed it.
And Welcome collection the volunteers was absolutely engaging, friendly and made sure we got to the venue there and back!”
”I really appreciate the Eye Matter newsletters highlighting events. I’m pleased that there are options for weekend events as I work during the week. I enjoyed being part of the Eye Matter theatre trip to see guys and Dolls. The trip was well organised with sighted guides and Suzie gave the personal touch – giving out snacks to our party during the intermission. Very welcoming and I felt very much at home with the group.”
”I believe I heard about Eye Matter in 2019 when I heard Suzie on RNIB connect to radio talking about the group. My contacted the radio station and got her details and was looking to start such a group in Staffordshire with My ROVI and a third sector group. Unfortunately, the pandemic came along.
Anyone that knows, Suzie will know that not even a pandemic can stop her supporting people, and soon online groups became the golden thread that held me together. In fact, the groups grew, and grew in numbers, and in breadth of Topics and themes.
Life got very complicated for me, and I had to take a step back from the groups, but have recently rejoined and, wow, what an asset is to the VI community. The social sessions are always fun and supportive. The core team insure that we are always treated Fairly and respectfully but have oodles of fun. I can only attend the online groups at the moment but I am amazed to see the spectrum of in person events which are happening. It’s so important to understand what a juicy carrot an in person event can be to those of us who find mobility with VI challenge. We really need to want to attend and know that there is friendly support available to help us grow our confidence. That is where the magic Happens. The group is so supportive. One day I will surprise them and turn up in person. Until then I love tuning in online when I have the chance. I love the Victoria Hogg groups that I have been to which are new to me and the Steve wax group always provide a fun challenge even though my memory is not like it should be since having a stroke.
Keep doing what you are doing, dear Eye Matter.”
”I went on my first Eye Matter event on 14th December Winter Extravaganza. I was a little nervous but there was no need to be, everyone was so welcoming and friendly, I felt the event was very well organised a really lovely venue. Fantastic bunch of people and i had a brilliant day and I’m very much looking forward to going to future events and also get myself in zoom, and get to know other members better. I’m so pleased I found out about Eye Matter earlier this year as Sight Village exhibition. Well done Suzie, your enthusiasm is infectious!”
”Dear Suzie and the Eye Matter team. I thought I would write about my experience at Winsor Castle, having never visited there and always wanted to do so, I was able to go along with my sister, who had a birthday a couple of days before we went on December 1st.
It was a cold day we arrived before anybody else so we decided to head for the disabled toilet which was outside, Anne went first then myself and then we went back into the main reception area when we met up with Susie and we were allocated our guide who was really good. We started off by taking photos of both of us on our own phones then we moved on and found out about the history of the outer walls and its history.
After that we went in through a door which only vips used and we went into the castle and listened to the audio description of the Dolls house which had just been restored it was Queen Mary’s and it had just been opened the day before our trip, it was incredible how the rooms and the dolls were so good for their age. There was also a really large Christmas tree we felt the huge baubles on the tree and the lights were amazing as I only have light and dark perception, bright colours and outline I was able to see all of the bright coloured lights. We then saw where the late Queen used to her Christmas broadcast from as this is a working household Kind Charles will be doing his speech on Christmas day probably from the same place as his mum did it from.
We then went upstairs in the lift because the stairs would have been too much for me especially with my legs , we went up and saw the state rooms absolutely amazing and we saw the chandelier was the only thing that didn’t get burnt in the 1992 it was started by a halogen spotlight that caught the curtain . The restoration of the rooms are amazingly good but the chandelier was the most impressive thing I have seen for many years.
We then left the state rooms and decided to go and spend some money but on the way we both needed to find the disabled loo which was on route then we entered the shop we had to ask for directions as there wasn’t anyone else to ask aparta member of staff helped us and we then went into the shop and spent an absolute fortune. A lot of things were on sale which wouldn’t normally be so Anne, my sister, and I bought a Christmas decoration which was a star with Kind Charles 3 on it really lovely gift, we also bought a keyring with Windsor castle, a soldier and a crown I was at the til and noticed that there was a commemorative coin so we both bought one each. The shop was really interesting, Anne smashed a magnet that was china which was funny, and the member of staff said don’t worry about it.
WE couldn’t have gone round Windsor castle without the wonderful support from our guide.
Thank you to Susie and the team for arranging this we now have a year pass and are hoping to take my support worker in the warmer weather.”
”It was lovely to meet you and the group on Thursday. It was my first in person event and the very early start, the slightly stressy journey and the very late finish were totally worth it. The event was well organised and I had a fabulous time meeting people and partying. Thank you so much, I am already looking forward to the next do.”
”Overall The events I have attended have been very well organised, Well supported. Accessible, You’re interesting and very.
I would not have done any of the things that I matter have put off my own back.
It enables people to attend Events in good company, And with friends, Who would usually be on their own.
With the aid of assisted travel I’d matter provides support and enablement for people who would normally struggle to get out and about.
I matter works to give us the best experiences without the usual costs involved. We are usually able to take advantage of added it extras such as touch tools, Audio description And save environments.
Although we all have varied site impediments and added disabilities, We are all enabled And included While having our individual needs met.”
”Trip to Windsor Castle
On the morning of Friday 1st December 2023 we met up at the Elizabeth Line barriers at Tottenham Court tube station. My volunteer guide for the day is Helen with whom I hit it off straight away. It’s a very smooth ride to Slough followed by a quick ride on the shuttle service from there to Windsor.
We spend a few hours trundling around the castle and Helen is much better at describing points of interest to me than the rather clunky device hanging around my neck.
After a restorative sit-down, drink and cake in the café, we head back to London having had an excellent day out. I’ve enjoyed my day out immensely in the company of my charming guide Helen, other Eye Matter members and volunteers.”
”I have attended 2 events in December, the first being the Christmas Concert at the Somers Town Living Centre organised by Eye Matter. This included choir and selection of Christmas carols which was excellent being the only opportunity for me to attend this kind of event at this time of year. The other event was the Christmas Extravaganza party at the Crown Hotel in Cricklewood with excellent food, raffle, quiz and dancing on the dance floor with a live band being a very rare opportunity not only to dance to good music but most importantly the exercise as a result of dancing was truly beneficial to my physical health and wellbeing. Also I felt totally at ease on the dance floor in the company of others who are also visually impaired. Again, this was brilliantly organised by Suzie Simons and the Eye Matter group team.”
”I wanted to thank the Eye Matter team for a hugely enjoyable outing to Windsor Castle on the 1st of December. The event provided a great opportunity to meet up with and socialise with other members, something that is not always so easy for those of us with sight loss. As ever the organisation was excellent with volunteer sighted guides for those who needed them and all the logistics worked well. I really enjoyed the visit to the historic Windsor Castle where the room wardens were very helpful and friendly, willing to engage in conversation and answer questions that blind people inevitably have! The only disappointment, in my opinion, was the audio description provided through the headsets provided by the Castle. These were a poor second compared to those we used at Buckingham Palace which is a great shame and is something that eye Matter might respectfully feed back to the Castle in the hope of improving the experience for others in the future. They do after all have fabulous in house resources, including Amy stocker of the RCT who regularly organises Zoom sessions for the visually impaired community to have audio described sessions on the wonderful art collection! I believe I have shared her email with you in case the sessions are of interest to other members.
Once again a big thank you to Eye Matter for a great day out.”
”I didn’t think you could make Eye Matter any better than the wonderful service, You offered us during the pandemic, but you have surpassed yourself. Amazing activities on offer and always the chance for a friendly chat together and to learn new skills, but also with something that is very difficult to obtain in person, let alone over a link, the meetings are fun and yet also administered so professionally. Everything has matured into an amazing, polished service that you should be very proud of.”
”I found Eye Matter when I didn’t even know I was looking for them. If it wasn’t for the sailing trip they put on in August when I was at a loose end, I’d still be none the wiser. Great service with really kind and friendly people. I look forward to more things now each week, so thank you Eye Matter!”
”I am severely sight impaired and came across Eye Matter through an event organised by Middlesex Association for the blind. Eye Matter is a wonderful charity that organises lots of activities on Zoom. These activities are designed to give practical tips ie cooking and travel tips. It is a wonderful platform for social get together where people can interact for fun events. It is excellent for emotional wellbeing. I attended a course on Living With Sight Loss which boosted my confidence. I also attended a voiceover training which assists me using my phone effectively. This has also helped me to access online banking which has given me financial independence. I am very grateful to Eye Matter.”
”Eye Matter is a wonderful mix of accessible outings and socialising, projects to empower and unique and innovative zoom activities with an added splash of fun as Suzie always injects her bubbly and charismatic personality into everything she does which makes my group interactions much more fun and enjoyable.”
“I am totally blind and had been looking for some time for a social group that put on mainstream activities. This was important as it allows me to connect better with other like-minded VI people and with the sighted community. Even though I have been a member for a few months, the activities that I have enjoyed have exceeded my expectations. I attend the singer group every Wednesday and it is one of the highlights of my week. We are so lucky to have a professional teacher to train us and to have the motivation to perform at a Christmas Concert at the end of the year. Also, it has been hugely beneficial for me that I have been able to be a part of this as an online activity, as it is extremely difficult for me to travel alone and so would have missed out.”
“Whenever, we go out on day trips organised by Eye Matter, I always feel safe and reassured that volunteers are always on hand to support. Knowing this definitely adds to the great time had by everyone as we do not have to worry about the help that we need and everyone understands our needs.”
“Any activity that I attend, online or otherwise, are extremely fun and Suzie is highly professional in keeping the sessions organised and to a high standard. She is very caring in her nature and always aware that everyone is included and happy. I love the fact that we always receive full details of any event and highly appreciate that we meet up at one designated spot and that Suzie asks us to check in with her that we have got home safely.”
“Joining Eye Matter has been one of the best things that I have done this year and hope that it continues well into the future. I have met some lovely people and have visited places that were not accessible to me before. For example, I have always wanted to visit Buckingham Palace and was able to do this on an audio tour for very little cost.
“Being apart of Eye Matter gives me something positive to look forward to each week and and it is great to know that there are daily online meetings that I can dip in and out of at leisure. I have grown in confidence and am thoroughly excited to be a part of the opportunities that Suzie works tirelessly for us to enjoy and that support us in our Sight Loss journey.”
“Thank you Suzie for everything that you do for us, it does not go unnoticed and is really appreciated by us all.”
“Eye Matter is like no other group that I know about, I have always avoided VI groups in the past as they have been really boring and poorly organised. If they are organised by sighted people, then just getting a bunch of blind people together is something that we are expected to be grateful for. So keep doing what you are doing, you’re brilliant!”
“Earlier this year I came across this group via an email sent out by London Vision and decided to see what it was all about. I am glad I did. Eye Matter is a fantastic group working very hard to keep its members connected and entertained during these current difficult times.”
“Suzie and her colleagues clearly go out of their way to find facilitators for the many varied and interesting events offered by the group. All available online and accessible to all too.”
“I am so glad I found this group of extremely friendly, enthusiastic, and welcoming people and cannot wait to get together with them in person when we are allowed to again. Well done Suzie and the gang!”
“I originally joined the Eye Matter group as a sighted volunteer but it has become an important part of my life as it has for those that are supported by the group. Just recently, two members have said that it is a session they look forward to even more than seeing close friends or family and I echo those sentiments. It’s become such a part of my life that I am so pleased to be part of the Eye Matter family and to have forged friendships with people from different ages and backgrounds to myself.”
“Without it, lockdown just would not have been the same!”
“The difference that Suzie’s group has made to me is amazing. I have filled my time usefully and enjoyably.”
“I have enjoyed taking part in activities that I wouldn’t usually have access to such as comedy workshops, body conditioning and brain training.”
“I have met a wonderful group of people who I now consider to be friends and who I feel I can share my feelings with.”
“Suzie keeps us informed of other interesting opportunities and through being part of the group I have attended virtual theatre, comedy and information sessions.”
“We have FUN”
“By adapting to these difficult times of pandemic, Suzie has shown that she will always take a positive, solution focused approach to the circumstances which arise and has the interest of the beneficiaries as Centre consideration.”
“I would like to thank Suzie and the Royal free hospital for enabling Eye matter to help us.”
“In March 2020 Lockdown happened. It was quite a scary and lonely time. And when Suzie started Eye Matter Zoom , it was a God sent gift. Meeting on line filled the gap and we felt companionship and support from each other. During our sessions we have informal discussion and every week we have a different professional visitor conducting keep fit, quiz, comedy etc.”
I would like to express my gratitude to Suzie for setting up Eye Matter Group in the first place and taking it so far.”
“Suzie Simons is the founder and driving force of Eye Matter, providing an outstanding service supporting blind and visually impaired people. Her energy and enthusiasm is the creative force behind the regular program of events ranging from Comedy Nights to Concerts, Music classes as well as body conditioning, brain conditioning and cookery. Eye Matter sessions brightens lives, uplifts and educates many VI people bringing them together and improving their well-being and reducing the isolation that many suffer from. Suzie deserves recognition for her immense contribution and hard work.”
“Suzie and Eye Matter on Zoom has to be one of the positives of the pandemic. Many members, including me could easily have felt more isolation during these terrible times however, the regular Eye Matter sessions have definitely helped to pull me through. I especially like the cabaret, comedy and concert nights, as it’s great to see the talents of the other group members and just have a bit of fun without having your front door. I also like the variety of activities that Suzie organises. There is something for everyone and if there’s a suggestion she’s more than happy to look into it. I am a big advocate of peer support and this is what Suzie and Eye Matter is all about.”
“In February 2021, I lost the majority of my vision. As a previously sighted individual, my new situation hit me harder than a freight train. I was plunged into an emotional rollercoaster, trapped within the eye of the storm and felt as though dark angry waves we’re trying to pull me under.
However, through the darkness shone a light. That light was due to meeting Suzie and her eye matter group. I have heard many people, who are shipped wrecked, are relieved when they see the Lighthouse up ahead. Meeting Suzie and the Eye Matter group was a kin to a failure, feeling hopeless and adrift, catching a glimpse of the Lighthouse and the light that project is it from it.
There are no words, in any language, that will ever describe how grateful I am to Suzie and Eye Matter. I can truly and honestly say that Eye Matter has become my second home and Suzie a member of the family.
You could say that Suzie and Eye Matter have provided a lively, informative, friendly and supportive network
I am so glad that I am a part of the group
As I always say; I may have lost a lot but I gained so much more. Thanks to Suzie and Eye Matter.”
“It was an eye opener to meet like-minded people like Suzie of Eye Matter who wants to make a difference for the VI community. I thought I was one of the very few Voluntarily running platforms for VI people. Well, Eye Matter is also there to give platforms for people in isolation and it is so satisfying to know that Suzie has great plans to continue to help those in need and take Eye Matter a long way”
In February 2021, I lost the majority of my vision. From that day forward, I was plunged into an emotional rollercoaster, tossed about by dark and angry waves that threatened to pull me under and had to adapt my life to my new situation. As a previously sighted individual, my life was busy and full of excitement. I felt in February 2021, that I would never be able to do the things I did previously. However, whilst being tossed about by said dark waves, I was introduced to Susie and the Eye matter group. I have often described this meeting, and introduction to the Eye matter group,
‘’Dear Suzie,
I wanted to write to you at the end of the living well with sight loss course last week but ran out of time. A happy coincidence as it turns out. Yesterday I went on the underground unaccompanied for the first time and made use of the assistance that I heard about on the course. It was absolutely fantastic! Travelling on the underground was something that I thought I would not be able to do again.
Today I am on the train heading for Manchester to see family. With the help of the living well with sight loss course I was confident enough to take the underground to Euston and had arranged for assistance. Everything went smoothly and I felt very safe but really independent.
This is such a major achievement for me and I’m finding it hard to express my gratitude to you and Kevin for starting my confidence growing. It started with the holiday but I was accompanied at every step of the way and at the moment I feel that I can go anywhere!
Thank you for all the sessions. They were all so informative and fun. For me it feels as though a new dawning has begun.
Hope to see you soon and thank you once again,’’
I’m writing again but hope I can recapture the joy I felt.
Thanks to you and the living well with sight loss course that I have just completed I was able to go on a journey unaccompanied for the first time since losing my sight.
I had assistance at the underground station as had been explained by the rep from TfL and I had booked mobility assistance at Euston and Manchester Piccadilly. It all went so smoothly, everybody was in the right place at the right time and, without exception, all the staff were warm and respectful.
I remembered you saying many times that we have to self advocate and I was able to do that having had your encouragement. I felt so much more confident to articulate my needs.
I cannot express how exciting and affirming this adventure was and I know that I could not have done it before undertaking the course.
Thank you again for all the information, all the tips and all the laughs. You’ve made a big difference to my new life.
Hi Eye Matter,
I cannot believe how quickly the time is flying!
It has already been 2 weeks since Susie and I attended MAB’s Centennial Birthday Bash, and one week tomorrow since you wrapped-up the ‘Living Well with Sight-loss” Course that I virtually attended and got so so much out of. Thank you so much.
And I absolutely wanted to give you some feedback on the Course…
Here goes…
I am entering my 4th year of living with sight-loss and deafness, as well as impaired mobility. The latter I am able to work on improving and it’s getting better, but to improve my physical and mental health and mobilityI need to get out more. To this end I have been participating in a lot of collaborative activities, particularly with other people with differing disabilities, and particularly with sight-loss, because all groups of disabled people can relate to one another’s struggles and challenges, and truly advocate for one another and champion “accessibility” in a very ableist and visual world. That said the sight-loss sector is a bit of a jigsaw puzzle, and in some cases can be quite antiquated and focus on the medical model of disability, in its approach to blind and partially-sighted people. This has made me hesitant, in the past to attend one of these courses, as I would to want to ensure a “progressive” and enabling approach to such a course. Then, a few months ago, I chanced across Eye Matter, when referred by my low vision officer and also my ECLO, i can’t remember which… i think they may have both so helpfully referred me…
And there’s been no looking back!!! Eye Matter is a special place, where so many VI people come together to engage, support one another, share tips and hacks to make each others’ lives a little better. And all calls are so well hosted and moderated by Susie, Kevin and other volunteers. There is truly a sense of kinship, camaraderie and belonging amongst the diverse group of VI people that attend virtually. It’s phenomenal.
So when I heard that Eye Matter were hosting “Living Well with Sight-loss,” I didn’t hesitate to sign-up. And was not disappointed. In fact, it exceeded my expectations! There were approximately 10 people that religiously attended each week for 6 weeks, and we felt a bit like family by the end. One particular participant, who was very new to sight-loss had bloomed in confidence by the end, which we all loved add which was beautiful for alto see. Everybody learned so much from this course, and readily engaged and felt part of something. There were speakers that were so informative about where and how to get help in everyday interactions.
It was wonderful and has given me anew lease of life!
Thankyou so much, Susie, Kevin and Eye Matter!!!!
just keep going, it’s absolutely fabulous what you’re doing.
The fun and laughter your have os brilliant i always fill better afterwards and suzie does a good job looking after everyone and making sure we get all the information we need.
Eye matter is very good
Eye Matter provides an invaluable resource and fills a huge gap left by other organisations with paid staff who have failed to support their blind and partially sighted service users during these challenging times. They have not done enouogh to adapt and provide activities virtually, which Eye Matter has proved is possible and vital. I so admire what Suzie and her team achieve on a daily basis.
Thanks ever so much to the Eye Matter because I’ve got believing and trusting to my self own I can communicate with people more easily. It’s helping me a lot. I don’t have any more depression and other things.
I didn’t know what to expect on my first zoom meeting and thought I would leave after a 15 mins.I shall actually not forget the first meeting it was just the best.I mostly listened everybody are just so funny.Oh boy I didn’t I could look forward to this group each week.Just fantastic
Being a part of eye matter has helped me except my site loss and understand that it’s okay to be different so I am extremely thankful
Eye Matter is an extremely welcoming and inclusive group which offers so much supportive companionship and organised activities and events and seems to go from strength to strength. I am extremely glad and fortunate to have discovered Eye Matter and make so many new friends who, I know, will become long term friends. The energy that Suzie puts in to Eye Matter is amazing and I can’t speak highly enough of her or Eye Matter.
Eye Matter makes me feel less isolated.
Attending Eye Matter Zoom Meetings has givens me something to look forward to. I look forward to hearing and engaging with other members. And the facilitators / founders are upbeat, realist, understanding and engaging. And willing to act as signposts were appropriate. EM like All new things has teething problems. But, regardless of that I look forward to seeing the group/ organisation grow in strength and size from a seedling into a formidable tree / force / voice.
Eye Matter is very popular amongst its growing community who regard it as a new family
A wonderful friendly and inclusive organisation
Can the Zoom meetings carry on after lockdown please?Maybe 5 or 6 a week will not be necessary but they are a boon for those who can’t or are nervous about travelling.Having said that, I personally can’t wait to get out and do stuff!
Eye Matter has made many VIP realise that they are not alone. They are part of a community. And support is out there. Be that info or for socialising We are Not Alone.
wonderful active and effective organisation
It’s just wonderful,cheerful,funny.I can’t say in words how great I feel after each meeting the group of people and Suzy are lovely
Keep up the Good work!
Eye Matter has changed the lives of many of its participants in such a positive way. It is a group that provides friendship and support to people who may otherwise feel vulnerable and isolated.
the group is a great group and all the events are great. I really enjoy being part of eye matter
Eye Matter hold a weekly program of events and activities online. Despite making this accessible to many, it is only due to work commitments that I find I am unable to attend activities. There are a variety of interesting activities to participate in, it is good to know that there is a way to connect with others in a accessible way. I enjoy the idea that I don’t have to navigate public transport or travel issues in order to engage with others who are also living with sight loss. Events such as these that Eye Matter offer, I needed and necessary. For connection, empowerment, and well-being, and, more over to feel supported in one’s sight loss journey.
Keep up the excellent work.Rarely has an organisation been run for it’s members so tirelessly and selflessly.
During Covid-19 and Lockdowns I felt alone and Isolated from my friends, my community and my normal support systems. Attending Eye Matter events and listening to others experiences, receiving info and laughing made me realise that even though it felt like it I was not alone. And during bouts of depression this group was one of the few things that made me keep going.
‘My husband was the only person who deeply understood my situation and needs obviously no one can replace him but you are truly a blessing for me that has been sent at the perfect time. I’m not saying this to charm you it’s an honest feeling thanks Suzie.’
Dear Suzie
I just wanted to thank you for organising such a great event on Monday at the Arts Theatre in Leicester Square. The show was great and we really enjoyed it.
Most importantly I felt really welcomed into the group and felt comfortable getting around central London with my limited vision and the help of your staff. It feels a bit daunting walking in Leicester Square with the crowds of people but it was such a happy atmosphere which made everything feel relaxed.
Looking forward to the next one.
Thank you for your hugely valuable work which makes a massive difference to so many.
I am so glad that I attended living with sight loss course
It was informative and lots to learn too
Kevin and Terry were excellent facilitators and they made it enjoyable too
It was great to connect with other visually impaired people on the course
Hi Suzie
I wanted to say yet again how great the trip to the theatre was last Friday 9 December 2022.
You organised everything flawlessly and we felt really looked after – the audio description headphones were great, and the staff from the Old Vic were so friendly.
I found A Christmas Carol really emotional and really set us up for Christmas.
We especially enjoyed the snow falling in the theatre!
Eye Matter meetings are the best organised VI meetings I’ve ever known and lots of fun too