I was registered blind in 1986 and, shortly afterwards, became a member of the local Society for the Blind, what is now, Sight Advice South Lakeland (SASL).

In 2003 SASL appointed an Information Technology Advisor. This appointment completely changed my life.

I was, by then, in my late 60s I knew absolutely nothing about computers, the internet and so on. I was totally unaware of all the technology that is available and accessible to blind and visually impaired people.

For example without SASL’s IT Advisor I would not have been able to write this letter, in this way, let alone email it to you - and there is so much more.

I also know I am not, by a long long way, the only one who has benefited, beyond belief, from this appointment. There are also blind people leading independent, self-sufficient and interesting lives who couldn’t do so without such IT training.

Unfortunately, this advisor is retiring in June and SASL will, I hope and pray, be looking for a replacement and I am hopeful one of your readers may be able to help. Someone with good IT skills; perhaps recently retired, who would like a part-time job while, at the same time, making daily life so much easier, interesting and enjoyable for visually impaired people. Just think of the job satisfaction.

Working with blind people, and the use of dedicated, accessible, software and other specialised equipment may sound a little daunting. However, visual disability awareness training will be available as well as help with the use of up to date equipment and software.

If anyone is interested, and would like more information, do, please, contact SASL regarding the position - email info@sightadvice.org.uk or telephone 01539 769055 saying you are interested in helping with IT advising.

Michael Hartley

Kendal