Galloways

01/06/2026

As Volunteers’ Week begins, we’re joined by the CEO of Galloways and our Volunteer & HR Lead as they reflect on the incredible contribution volunteers make to our charity.

From supporting people living with sight loss to bringing kindness, companionship and confidence to those who need it most, our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do.

Throughout this week, we’ll be sharing stories from some of our amazing volunteers, as well as messages from staff, highlighting what volunteering at Galloways means to them and the impact it has on the people we support.

Thank you to every volunteer who gives their time, skills and passion to Galloways. Happy Volunteers’ Week! 🧡

30/05/2026

It’s important to stay safe, supported, and prepared at home all year round.

That’s why Electricity North West and SP Energy Networks offer 'Extra Care' – a free service providing extra support and peace of mind during unexpected power cuts.

Extra Care can offer:
✔ Priority support during power outages
✔ Practical energy-saving advice
✔ Confidential help with energy bills
✔ Guidance on financial support and benefits

Nearly one million households are already benefiting from this free service.

You can register yourself, a family member, friend, or someone you support.

Find out more or sign up today:
www.enwl.co.uk/extracare

Image description: Image description: Orange promotional graphic encouraging people to sign up for the free Extra Care service if they are over 65, have young children, a disability, a hearing or sight condition, or rely on powered medical equipment. The image also highlights the emergency power cut number, 105, and includes the website www.enwl.co.uk/extracare alongside the SP Electricity North West logo.

26/05/2026

The Summer edition of Bring Me Sunshine has arrived — and it’s the perfect excuse to take five, grab an ice-cold drink, and escape the heatwave for a little while.

Packed with real stories, helpful advice, and updates from across the sight loss community, this edition includes:

• An important feature on Charles Bonnet Syndrome
• Guidance on accessing benefits as a sight impaired person
• Tips on using colour contrast to make everyday life easier at home
• A simple explanation of those confusing prescription numbers, thanks to The Spectacle Factory
• Stories from the people we support and ways to get involved with Galloways

You can read or listen to the large print and audio versions here:
https://galloways.org.uk/bring-me-sunshine/

Prefer a free large print hard copy? Just get in touch and we’ll happily send one out to you.
For more information or to contribute to future editions: [email protected]

22/05/2026

Feel the adrenaline. Hear the engine. Experience the thrill of the track.

Join us on 8 July from 10:30am – 3:00pm for our Driving Experience Day for people with sight loss.
Location: Three Sisters Racecourse, Three Sisters Rd, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan WN4 8DD

Various Pick Up Locations Available:
Preston
Chorley
Lancaster
Accrington
Southport

This unique experience is suitable for all levels of experience. Whether you have never driven before or previously drove before your sight loss, you’ll have the opportunity to drive a dual-control car with the support of a qualified instructor in a safe and supportive environment.

You’ll also enjoy high-performance passenger laps in Porsches and a range of sports cars, making this an exciting and unforgettable day. Previous participants described the experience as “absolutely exhilarating” and said they “had an absolute ball.”

Cost: £80

There is a café on site where food and drinks can be purchased, or you are welcome to bring your own packed lunch. Picnic benches are available.

As the trackside area is outdoors, please wear weather-appropriate clothing.

Call 01772 744148 to book your place.

Full payment is required at the time of booking and all payments are non-refundable.

21/05/2026

Today is Global Accessibility Awareness Day!

At Galloways, accessibility means ensuring blind and visually impaired people can access information, support, and services in ways that work for them.

From large print and audio resources to assistive technology, mobility support, wellbeing services, and accessible online content, we’re committed to helping people live independently and confidently.

We’re proud to support blind and visually impaired people across our communities every day.

If you or someone you know could benefit from support, advice, or accessible services, visit us at galloways.org.uk

20/05/2026

We’re delighted to see The Eden Project: Bring Me Sunshine Garden debuting at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

The garden has already been awarded a Silver-Gilt medal and the Environmental Innovation Award — a fantastic achievement and a wonderful celebration of sustainability, community and regeneration in Morecambe.

Created with sustainability, resilience and community at its heart, the garden shines a light on hope, regeneration and the exciting future of Morecambe.

After Chelsea, the garden will continue its journey in Morecambe as part of the new Eden Project Morecambe community gardens — creating spaces for people to gather, grow and connect.

Voting for the RHS/BBC People’s Choice Award is now open and closes at 8pm on Thursday 21 May. We’d love to see our community get behind this fantastic project.

Vote here: https://www.edenproject.com/peoples-choice



Image description: The image showcases 'The Eden Project Bring Me Sunshine Garden' at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2026. A vibrant garden filled with naturalistic planting in shades of purple, blue, yellow and green surrounds winding pathways and large stone features. At the centre sits a modern circular pavilion structure elevated on angled supports beneath mature trees. The garden combines wild coastal-inspired planting with contemporary sustainable design, creating a calm and community-focused outdoor space.

Image credit: Studio Sylvie / Bronte Seller.

19/05/2026

The sun was shining as family, friends and supporters gathered for a surprise Poppy would never forget.

She had no idea what was waiting for her.

Thanks to the generosity of the members of Penwortham Golf Club and our Trustee John, Poppy was presented with a pair of Meta Glasses during an emotional afternoon at Galloways.

There were smiles.
There were tears.
There was excitement for the future.

The technology could help support Poppy’s confidence and independence in everyday life, helping with tasks many of us take for granted.

Watch the video below and read more on our latest blog to see the full surprise unfold: https://galloways.org.uk/meta-glasses-for-visual-impairment-poppy/

19/05/2026

Good luck to this brave team from our corporate partners and friends at Vincents Solicitors taking on Walk the Big One to support our services.

News is reaching far and wide now - thanks Blackpool Gazette for spreading the story!

“Walking The Big One pushes participants physically and mentally, making it a fitting way to support a charity that helps people overcome challenges every single day.”

14/05/2026

Today marks what would have been Eric Morecambe’s 100th birthday ☀️

Eric brought sunshine, laughter and joy to so many — and his legacy has a very special place here at Galloways.

Our café in Morecambe, Brew Me Sunshine, and our magazine, Bring Me Sunshine, were both named in tribute to that unmistakable warmth, humour and positivity.

So today, we’re raising a cuppa to Eric Morecambe — a true Lancashire legend whose sunshine still shines on.

Happy 100th birthday, Eric. 🌞

Today marks what would have been Eric Morecambe’s 100th birthday ☀️

Eric brought sunshine, laughter and joy to so many — and his legacy has a very special place here at Galloways.

Our café, Brew Me Sunshine, and our magazine, "Bring Me Sunshine", were both named in tribute to that unmistakable warmth, humour and positivity.

So today, we’re raising a cuppa to Eric Morecambe — a true Lancashire legend whose sunshine still shines on.

Happy 100th birthday, Eric. 🌞