Pilot programme has put good eye health firmly on the agenda – Jennifer McCann
Sinn Féin MLA and Junior Minister Jennifer
McCann praised the RNIB's Community Engagement Project in West Belfast.
Speaking at an event to celebrate the projects achievements the West Belfast
MLA said:
"This project which was commissioned by the RNIB working in partnership
with the Upper Springfield Development Trust focused on raising awareness of
good eye health in West Belfast.
“The pilot's key objective was the
importance of regular examinations and prevention of sight loss with a
particular emphasis on glaucoma.
“It was a targeted approach identifying those groups most at risk of avoidable
sight loss including those who live in areas of social and economic
disadvantage.
“West Belfast was identified because it is highest
of all constituencies across the North in terms of multiple deprivation statistics.
“Through working at a local community level they successfully raised awareness
of good eye health and offered a support service for those who were already affected
by glaucoma.
“The pilot programme has put good eye health care firmly on the agenda and the
Community Engagement Programme hope to widen its remit to include all of
Belfast." CRÍOCH/END