Blind photographer shortlisted for national sight loss award

 Dave Taylor, aged 53, has been shortlisted for the Royal National Institute of Blind People’s (RNIB) Vision Pioneer Award for Campaigner of the Year.

The award recognises individuals who have successfully campaigned for issues affecting blind and partially sighted people.

Dave was inspired to launch his own lottery-funded charity – Losing My Sight Magazine – after losing his own sight. The magazine provides a platform for people of working age in the Portsmouth area, recently diagnosed with a sight condition, to socialise and network with one another. Contributors are encouraged to participate in mini projects, becoming more involved in their community and introducing them to a network of people going through a similar experience.

RNIB’s annual Vision Pioneer Awards ceremony is taking place on Tuesday 12 December 2017, 1pm – 4pm, at the Royal College of Nursing (20 Cavendish Square, London, W1G 0RN). The ceremony celebrates good practice within the sight loss and eye health sector, and honours the achievements of professionals committed to supporting blind and partially sighted people. The event is being sponsored by SpaMedica.

Clarke Reynolds, who has been supported by Dave, said: “I have made some really good friends through this group, and can ask questions as I lose my sight.

“It helps when you are with people who have similar sight problems.”

Dave Taylor, Editor of Losing My Sight Magazine and a keen photographer, said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be nominated for this award. It’s a brilliant feeling to know that the sight loss and eye health sector values my commitment to supporting blind and partially sighted people.

“I’m looking forward to going to London to meet other people who are passionate about improving the lives and support available for people affected by sight loss.”

Sally Harvey, Chief Executive of RNIB, said: “When we set up the Vision Pioneer Awards we wanted to discover inspirational professionals, campaigns and projects that make a real difference to the lives of people with sight loss.

“All of those shortlisted demonstrate dedication and excellence, help to prevent sight loss or encourage and support blind and partially sighted people. We really value all of our finalists and the outstanding dedication they have shown.”

The six other Vision Pioneer Award categories are:

· Innovation Award

· Professional of the Year Award

· Teacher of the Year Award

· Team of the Year Award

· Voice of the Community Award

· Lifetime Achievement Award.

For more information about the awards, please visit: http://www.rnib.org.uk/professionals/vision-pioneer-award