A PROJECT which aims to improve the health of Bradford's visually impaired people has mounted an appeal for new members.

The Holme Wood Visually Impaired Persons group has been awarded £6,000 by the Big Lottery Fund to run its Inspired Project.

The weekly group looks to reduce social isolation in south Bradford and further afield and raise awareness of the disability within the community.

The group, which meets every Monday at Morrell Court, Hazelmere Close, Holme Wood, hopes to swell its ranks from among the more than 200 people registered as blind across the local GP practices.

A programme of new activities will start next month, including specialist cookery classes to help people improve their life skills, by enabling them to cook healthy meals with confidence instead of relying on ready meals.

Members share tips on how to adapt processes and household implements to meet their needs, or about specialist equipment that is available.

Craft classes, such as jewellery making, will also help to boost member's confidence and self-esteem and there will be a series of speakers covering a range of topics tailored to the group’s interests.

They also want to reach out to a wider mix of people so that everyone can benefit from the activities.

Previous activities have included holidays and trips to Llandudno, Bridlington and York and shopping days out.

Once a month the group goes on a stroll around the district's parks with NHS walking group Champions Show the Way.

The group is open to anyone aged 25 or over in the Bradford district with a visual impairment, or involved with someone who has a visual impairment.

Chairman Paul Robinson said: “The aim of the new project is to help people build their independence and we hope that, by joining in the activities, they will then gain the confidence to get involved in other aspects of community life.

“I first started coming to the VIP group when I knew I was losing my eyesight and found it a great support at a very frightening time. "Rather than dwelling on your problems, you are able to talk them through with other people in the same position.”

Carole Topham, VIP group treasurer, said: "As a blind person I felt very isolated, but I started going to the group.

"This gives us a release and makes us feel better about ourselves and our lives."

For those living near the centre there is an access bus to get to the centre and people from around South Bradford can call the VIP group.

Potential new group members from across the Bradford district are welcome but anyone coming from further afield should arrange their own transport.

For more information, call Mr Robinson on 01274 689335 or 07874 872897.