New look, same heart for VisAbility
![VisAbility began as the Ladies’ Braille Society in 1913. [Source: VisAbility]](https://agedcareguide-assets.imgix.net/news/articles/news/articles/visability.jpg?fm=pjpg)
Western Australian disability service provider VisAbility has unveiled a new look and website bringing the organisation “back to their roots”.
VisAbility, which began as the Ladies’ Braille Society in 1913, has been supporting people with low vision in WA for over a century.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Elizabeth Barnes says the change came about as part of a strategy of transformation that involved focusing on the people who mattered most.
“We spoke at great length with our community – our clients, their families and carers, staff and volunteers,” she says.
“Our exciting new direction brings us back to our roots. Our new brand leads the way in accessibility, primarily using black and white. This offers the highest level of contrast for people with low vision.”
“Of all the fantastic input, there was one clear, resounding response. VisAbility is for people with low or no vision. It was consistent with everything VisAbility does. From the services we deliver, to the people we support, to the staff we employ, and the facilities from which we deliver services, so it’s all-encompassing.”
VisAbility Youth Support Officer Ryan Honschooten, who is also a member of the blindness community, is embracing the new direction. He says it will bring about a number of positive outcomes for the organisation.
“It’s exciting to be re-connecting with our clients and their families, and with the broader blindness community. By seeking their input, we can structure what we do so it’s 100 percent tailored to their needs,” he says.
VisAbility’s new look and direction coincides with a new three-year partnership agreement with Blind Citizens Australia.
This collaboration ensures people who are blind or have low vision have a voice, helping VisAbility develop and deliver the right programs and services.
“Together, our combined knowledge will ensure we can develop initiatives in order to make a profound difference to people’s lives,” says Ms Barnes.
VisAbility services are available across a broad range of ages. Starting from early intervention, to the school years, progressing into adult therapies. VisAbility can provide support with assistive technology and employment, and also have a talking library and offer access support and guide dogs.
To learn more about VisAbility, visit their website.