THE latest community news from Dolgellau

Macular Support Group

THE Dolgellau-based support group, which helps to help increase the confidence and independence of people affected by macular degeneration, will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, 17 October.

The group, which is organised by leading sight loss charity the Macular Society in partnership with local people, will meet from 1.30pm until 3.30pm, at Theatr Fach, Stryd Glynd?r.

The group will then meet at the same time and location on the third Wednesday of every month, offering information, encouragement and friendship to people who are affected by macular disease.

Age-related macular degeneration affects the central vision and is the most common cause of sight loss in the UK, affecting more than 600,000 people. More people are affected as our population ages.

Marian Williams, Macular Society regional manager, said: “The Dolgellau Macular Support Group is here for anybody affected by macular degeneration – we want to encourage as many people to come along as possible. Friends and family are also very welcome.

“It’s good to be able to learn from each other’s experiences and get tips. The peer support can be so helpful. Our groups can really help people increase in confidence and become more independent.

“The group often has guest speakers on a variety of subjects, including macular conditions and their impact on our daily lives. The meetings are also social occasions where we can chat over a cup of tea.”

In Wales, the Macular Society has been able to establish and run new sight loss support groups and recruit volunteers across the country thanks to more than £340,000 of funding from the Big Lottery Fund, made possible thanks to National Lottery players.

For more information about the Dolgellau Macular Support Group, please contact Marian Williams on 07495 054053, or email [email protected]

For more information on macular degeneration, call the Macular Society’s Helpline on 0300 3030 111 or email [email protected]

If you’re a member of a club, society or group, send your news to [email protected]