VISUALLY-impaired people in Blackburn can join a new support group, launched to increase confidence and independence.

The Macular Disease Society (MDS) and Blackburn and District Blind Society have organised the group, which will meet on a monthly basis.

They aim to offer advice, encouragement and friendship to people affected by the condition, which can make everyday activities, such as reading, watching television, and even distinguishing faces, difficult.

The group will also raise awareness of the condition, have regular guest speakers, run social events, and arrange fund-raising activities.

Michelle Dutton, MDS group support and development manager, said: “When people are first diagnosed they often think they are the only one.

“The group gives them a great opportunity to meet others with the condition and get support.

“It’s good to be able to learn from each other’s experiences and get tips.

“The group can really help people increase in confidence and become more independent.”

Age-related macular degeneration is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK.

Macular degeneration and macular disease are terms for conditions affecting the central vision.

There are many forms of this type of sight loss, including juvenile macular dystrophies.

Janet Waring, of Black- burn and District Blind Society, will be helping to co-ordinate the group.

She said: “There is such a need for a local group.

“Sight loss can be isolating, with some people feeling like they can’t connect with others because of their condition.

“We hope the group meetings will strike the right balance between the social side of things, as well as education.”

A launch meeting will take place at 1pm on Friday, June 1 at the Independent Living Centre, in Mill Hill Street, Mill Hill, Blackburn.

The group will continue to meet on the first Monday of each month from 1pm to 3pm.