See and Hear Exhibition declared an outstanding success

Hundreds of people attended an event in Shropshire to discover more about the technology and support available to help people with sensory impairment.

The See and Hear Exhibition has become the biggest event of its type in the country, and saw dozens of organisations displaying information and equipment at Shrewsbury Sports Village.

People came from across the region to try equipment and learn more about the support on offer to help improve the quality of life for those with sensory impairment, such as hearing or sight loss.  The event also shared information and advice on the preventive role around health issues that could lead to avoidable sight or hearing loss.

The event, which took place on 14 May 2014, also aimed to increase awareness of what living with sensory problems is like, and featured the RNIB’s Eye Pod which simulates the four conditions that lead to sight loss.

Lee Chapman, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult services – transformation and safeguarding, said:

“It was a really excellent event, which was clearly very beneficial to everyone who came along.

“Some of the technology and gadgets on display were extremely useful and could genuinely improve someone’s quality of life, which was great to see.

“I would like to say a big thank you to Pauline Rose and all the organisers for the tremendous amount of hard work they put in to make the event such a success.”

The exhibition was organised by The See and Hear Shropshire Partnership, which includes Shropshire Council’s Vision Technology and Training and the Sensory Impairment Team, Sight Loss Shropshire, the Guide Dogs Association and the Rural Community Council.

Among the exhibits was a sensory tunnel which simulated what it is like to have limited or no eyesight, and people could take part in eye and hearing screening provided by the Local Optical Committee and Shrewsbury and Telford Audiology.

People were also given the opportunity to have a carer’s assessment by Shropshire Council, and there were sporting taster sessions, including the chance to use a climbing wall and try different types of bicycles.