16/01/2026
A great start in Basingstoke!
Our first two weeks at the Community Connections pod have been busy, positive and full of brilliant conversations.
We’ve had such a warm welcome from the team at Basingstoke Voluntary Action – their support has been fantastic. Our launch event at the Apollo Hotel was a real highlight, with a powerful speech from Dana, one of our Basingstoke AAG members, helping to set the tone for what’s to come.
Since then, we’ve already:
- Completed our first Low Vision Assessment (with a very happy client)
- Connected with local organisations keen to refer people and spread the word
- Started conversations about transport to social groups
- Welcomed new volunteers
- Had a visit from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council
- Interviews with both Basingstoke Community Radio and That's TV Hampshire
It’s been a really encouraging start and we’re excited to see how the project grows over the coming months.
For more information check out our website: https://opensight.org.uk/community-connections-basingstoke/
Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far.
[Image description: The photo shows an OpenSight staff member (Storme) sitting at a small desk inside a dark green, high-backed privacy pod in a bright, modern community space. They are smiling at the camera and have a laptop open in front of them. Next to the pod is a tall OpenSight banner displaying the charity’s logo, a photo of staff supporting a family, and text about services including information, advice, support groups, a resource centre and benefits advice. Large floor-to-ceiling windows fill the background, looking out onto trees and greenery outside. The setting is inside Basingstoke Voluntary Action, with other seating visible in the wider room.]
