At-risk Leicestershire sight loss charity a “cornerstone of the community,” AOP CEO says

A Leicestershire sight loss charity that is facing closure at the end of March unless £2 million can be raised to save it is a “cornerstone of the community,” AOP chief executive Adam Sampson has said.

When access to care is reduced, it is the most vulnerable who feel the immediate impact, Sampson emphasised.

“Eye care is fundamental to the health and independence of communities across the country, yet the services that provide it are increasingly fragile. When access to care is reduced, it is usually those who are most vulnerable who are affected first and hardest,” he told OT.

Vista has provided services to those with sight and dual sensory loss in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland for more than 160 years.

In January, the decision was taken to close the charity at the end of March unless a fundraising campaign to save it could reach £2 million.

The charity’s situation was highlighted by Shockat Adam MP, who is an optometrist and practice owner in Leicester, in the House of Commons on 25 February.

Adam told MPs that the charity’s closure would have a “devastating effect on the National Health Service and the social care service.”

Chair of Vista’s board of trustees, Jean Voller, told OT that the charity has been working through a downsizing strategy, including reducing staff and closing its residential care homes, but that it had ultimately “run out of time and money” to continue seeing its plans through.

The charity has 8000 active service users across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, and is the only charity dedicated to providing services for those with sight loss in the area, Voller said.

Sampson emphasised the wide impact that closure of services such as Vista can have.

“Charities such as Vista are a cornerstone of the community, serving not only the affected individuals but also their families, carers, and wider support networks,” he said.

“It is a lifeline of support, resources and companionship to those navigating sight loss. Losing these services is a dire outcome for vulnerable people.”

Sampson added: “Protecting and strengthening these services is not just important, it is essential. Improving access to eye care ensures that people can live independently, stay connected, and receive the support they need before issues become life-altering.

“Without sustained investment and attention, we risk leaving too many people without the care they depend on.”

Visting Vista’s fundraising page on JustGiving here.

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Leicestershire sight loss charity Vista at risk of closure at the end of March

The 160-year-old charity will close at the end of the month unless £2m can be raised