Lifestyle Newsletter October 2026
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Read 'Lifestyle Newsletter October 2026' article in fullMaking a visible difference for people with sight loss
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Since 1875
We’ve been here to make sure no one has to face sight loss alone. Whether you're just starting your journey or have been navigating it for a while, we can help you to live well with sight loss. We've been supporting people with conditions like Cataracts, Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Tunnel Vision, and Glaucoma for generations. Our vision? A world where everyone values and protects their sight, and where visual impairment is just a part of your story, not the whole story.
Learn more about sight loss and its impact on daily life on the Fight for Sight website.
- Cataracts
- Cataracts cause your lens to become cloudy, making your vision blurred. The condition can affect one or both eyes, and usually develops when you get older, worsening over time. In the UK, age-related cataracts affect around half of people aged 65 and above. It can also affect children, although this is rare.
- Diabetic Retinopathy
- Diabetic Retinopathy is a complication of diabetes, which is caused by high blood sugar levels damaging the back of the eye (Retina). It does take a few years for the condition to reach a stage where your vision is affected.
- Glaucoma
- Glaucoma is part of a group of eye conditions which result in damage to the optic nerve, resulting in loss of vision. It is the second most common cause of sight loss around the world, and the number of people diagnosed with the condition is set to spike due to an aging population.
- Macular Degeneration
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a condition which is normally found in people aged over 50. This condition means you lose your central vision, though you still have your peripheral vision.
- Charles Bonnet Syndrome
- Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) causes people who have lost some sight to see things that aren't actually there, also known as hallucinating. It is only caused through sight loss and isn't a sign of mental health problems.
- Retinitis Pigmentosa
- Retinitis Pigmentosa, also known as RP, is a group of eye conditions that are genetic and affect peripheral vision and night vision. RP causes permanent vision loss, which impacts the retina. How the condition develops in each person varies.
- Dry Eye
- Dry Eye is a common condition which is caused by your tears which are not able to provide adequate lubrication. Tears keep your eyes healthy and help you focus. Tears are made up of three films, including the mucin layer, watery layer and lipid layer.
Latest News & Events
Beacon Spooktacular Halloween Family Fun Day
Join Beacon for a FREE, inclusive Halloween Fun Day for children and young people with visual impairment and all disabilities. With a morning Halloween party, afternoon cinema screening, CYP sight loss drop-in and activities for the whole family, there’s something for everyone. Booking is required and places are limited.
Read 'Beacon Spooktacular Halloween Family Fun Day' article in full
Carols by Candlelight
Celebrate the magic of Christmas at Beacon’s first Carols by Candlelight. Join us in the beautiful surroundings of St Andrew’s Church for an uplifting evening of traditional carols, live music, and festive warmth, hosted by Dickie Dodd.
Read 'Carols by Candlelight' article in full