THE Black Country’s leading sight loss charity has been awarded more than £300,000 from the Big Lottery Fund to help visually impaired people into work.

Over the next five years, Beacon Centre will receive £304,816 to continue and develop its hugely successful Beacon4Work programme, which has helped more than 60 people find jobs.

The new project will support those with a visual impairment to acquire the skills and confidence they need to live independently, become work ready and improve their well-being, tackling issues of isolation.

It is hoped around 600 people across the Black Country will be helped by the scheme over the coming five years.

Arwyn Jones, chief executive of the Sedgley based charity, said: “We would like to thank the Big Lottery Fund for its support in this vital project and it is a welcome boost of confidence in our work, in particular that with working age living with sight loss.

“Those living with sight loss of working age are often very keen to remain or get into employment and we want to help break down the barriers that may stop them from doing so.”

However Mr Jones said the cash would not replace the £250,000 the charity is set to lose each year due to cuts imposed by Dudley Council "as it is for a very specific project around employment".

He continued: "The Dudley Council funding supported elderly and more vulnerable people with sight loss to access our day centre services and help them live independently in their own home."

Anyone wishing to make a donation to the charity should email hbrown@beaconvision.org for more information.