Open Sight Hampshire is delighted to announce Jane Brooks as its new Chair of Trustees.
Jane takes over the role from Sue Walker who has led the charity’s board of trustees for the past seven and a half years. She brings with her a vast array of experience of working in the NHS, initially as a nurse and more recently as project manager, of being a trustee with other charities, as well as living with a family member who was visually impaired.
Jane explained: “My mum was visually impaired from a very young age, eventually losing her sight completely, so I know how hard it can be to live with a visual impairment, and how accessible community support and helpful technology can provide a life-line to individuals and their families. I’m delighted to be able to work with Open Sight Hampshire and support the amazing work of our dedicated staff and volunteers.”
Open Sight Hampshire was established more than 100 years ago and provides a variety of services to help adults and children who have a range of sight conditions including, community-based Sight Hubs across the county offering technology support and independent living advice; and eye health awareness and sight loss prevention schemes in schools. The charity, based in Eastleigh, recently announced Chris Dixon as its new Chief Executive.
Jane Brooks and Chris Dixon, Open Sight Hampshire.
Jane, who lives in north Hampshire, added: “It’s an exciting time for the charity. There’s a lot more we could do better, to support the visually impaired community in Hampshire and I am proud to help drive this important work forward. On behalf of the trustees, I’d like to thank Sue for her years of service to Open Sight Hampshire. Her passion and dedication have helped so many people, especially through the pandemic and I wish her the very best for the future.”
Sue has been involved with Open Sight for nearly a decade, overseeing new services and taking part in fundraising events alongside her Chair role. She will continue to be involved in the charity.
She said: “It’s been an immense privilege to be involved in such a wonderful charity that has made a positive impact on people’s lives. I’ve had so many highlights, from securing a legacy donation that established the sustainability of the charity; to navigating the pandemic when we refused to furlough staff and instead adapted our offering to ensure our visually impaired clients still had a place to turn. But welcoming HRH The Countess of Wessex to our offices to celebrate our centenary year was perhaps the peak. I’ve never been so proud to see all our services and tireless volunteers under one roof. It really demonstrated the breadth and variety of support we offer. I wish Jane, the board, and Open Sight team a successful future.”
Chris Dixon, CEO of Open Sight Hampshire, added: “Sue has been synonymous with our charity’s success over the past nine years, her passion and commitment are inspirational, and I would like to sincerely thank her for everything she’s done. I’d like to welcome Jane to the Chair of Trustees position. I’m looking forward to working with her to ensure we continue to develop the services and support that enable those with a visual impairment to live their best lives.”
