A NEW mobile outreach service is being launched by a York charity to offer advice, support and guidance to people affected by sight or hearing loss.

The Wilberforce Trust’s vehicle will act as an extension of its Yorsensory Hub, based at its Huntington headquarters, which aims to empower people living with sight or hearing loss to live independent lives by developing new skills and confidence.

A spokesman said the same high-tech equipment and service will be taken to where people need it most, in York and the surrounding area.

“The Hub provides advice, guidance, equipment and technology demonstrations – all delivered by highly trained professional qualified staff and dedicated volunteers,” he said.

“By launching the Outreach Mobile Unit, the Trust will be able to take the same high-tech equipment and service as at the Hub, on the road and to where people need it most.

“Starting in York, it’s hoped that the unit will travel to other parts of North Yorkshire in the coming months, partnering with community groups and healthcare professionals to engage with a diverse range of communities, and to raise awareness of sensory loss.”

Trust chief executive Philippa Crowther said the launch of the Mobile Outreach Unit was an ‘exciting milestone’ for the charity.

“This unit will be able to go into the heart of communities and offer the same first class service as the Hub,” she said.

“We look forward to working with our partners and healthcare professionals to identify areas which will benefit most from this fantastic new facility.”

She thanked supporters who had helped pay for the unit through fundraising activities.

The trust is one of York’s oldest charities, tracing its roots back to 1833 when the Yorkshire School for the Blind was first opened in memory of William Wilberforce. It now aims to promote independence to adults by living within their own community with confidence.