In Worcester, Sensory Matters is helping visually impaired people get active, build confidence and access inclusive physical activities thanks to a Public Health Community Wellbeing grant.
The funding enabled the organisation to launch a dedicated physical activity project, offering accessible sessions like Couch to 5K and healthy walks, and working with local leisure providers to ensure their facilities and programmes are welcoming to all. Training and resources are being developed for leisure centres, with BSL-translated materials to be hosted online for wider use.
The grant also supported the full internship of Millie, a physical activity intern with lived experience of visual impairment.
Millie shared:
“I’ve always had a visual impairment and over the years I’ve struggled with confidence and being physically active. This is so important to me—to show that people with visual impairments can be included.”
The project is also informing a new healthy lifestyles and physical activity programme for d/Deaf residents, building on the success and learning from the visually impaired initiative.
Millie added:
“It’s a great feeling knowing we are changing people’s lives by enabling them to engage with these activities.”
This inspiring project was showcased in our Community Stories 2025 Event, celebrating the incredible work of grant-funded organisations across Worcestershire.
To find out more about our Public Health Community Grants please visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/CommunityGrants
