National exhibition for people with sight/ hearing impairments returns

Shropshire’s See and Hear Exhibition will again be hosting a fantastic range of events and activities for people with sight and hearing loss at Shrewsbury Sports Village on Wednesday 15 May 2019.

See and Hear

Now in its twelfth successful year, the free event has gained national recognition bringing together the very best in hearing and sight support from across Shropshire and the UK.

Julian Jackson

The event will be opened by Julian Jackson from Vision Bridge who last year completed his Big Blind Walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats. Julian will also be presenting a seminar on the day called “Sight Loss: A Clear and Present Danger”.

Shropshire’s See and Hear attracts over 800 visitors each year who come to see the latest in technology, equipment and services for people with a sensory impairment. This year’s sees over 75 exhibitors taking part and will showcase equipment and information from local, regional and national companies and charities, as well as public, voluntary and private sector services.

See and Hear

Activities at the event include:

• Over 75 exhibitors offering information and advice, and demonstrations of the latest technology. The full list of exhibitors can be found here
• Boccia Taster Sessions – hosted by Shropshire Disability Network
• Seminars and Workshops covering Hate crime and disability, mindfulness and tinnitus, introduction to basic sign language and more. Booking is recommended to ensure your place.
• All-ability cycling organised by Shropshire RCC
• Hearing Aid Maintenance Clinic, run by Shrewsbury and Telford’s Audiology Department – Sponsored by Salop Leisure.

See and Hear

British Sign Language (BSL), deafblind interpreters and sighted guides will be on hand to assist those with sensory impairments during the event, and light refreshments will be also be available to purchase throughout the day.

See and Hear

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care and climate change, said:-

“It’s amazing to see how See and Hear has gone from strength to strength and proud to say it’s now the biggest event of its type in the country. The exhibition offers a fantastic opportunity for those with sensory impairments, to find out what equipment, technology and support is on offer to enhance their quality of life.

“It’s also a great opportunity for organisations to network, gaining knowledge and sharing information with others.

“If you, or someone you know or care for, has a sensory impairment, I would strongly recommend taking the opportunity to come along.  We look forward to seeing you.”

Pauline Rose, manager for Vision Technology and Training Shropshire and organiser of the See and Hear event, added:-

“We hope plenty of people take the opportunity to come along, as it really is a great opportunity to see the support and information that’s available. There is no need to book for the exhibition – just come along between 10am and 4pm, unless you wish to attend the seminar for which you are advised to book.”

Shrewsbury Sports Village, in Sundorne Road, Shrewsbury, is fully accessible, with a free car park.  A free shuttle bus will run from Shrewsbury train station every 30 minutes starting at 9.30am.

For more information about the event visit www.shropshire.gov.uk/see-and-hear

You can also follow us on Twitter @VTTShrop or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VTTShropshire

To book a workshop or seminar email pauline.rose@shropshire.gov.uk.