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N.E. Region Visual Impairment & The Rothay Consultancy Tapes - Help and Information.

Rothay Consultancy August 2005 AGM: Notes

During the year 2005 the Trustees met on two occasions and additional contact between them on an ad hoc basis enabled the work to run smoothly.

The fading out of tape production by Manufacturers prompted the Trustees to consider other ways of continuing the monthly magazine. It was agreed that a transfer to CD reproduction should be undertaken. An application for a Small Lottery Grant [Awards for all] to meet the costs of recording and copying equipment was made. The application was approved and the necessary equipment and accessories purchased in accordance with the terms of the grant. Almost half of the listeners switch to CD and after several months trials with volunteer listeners the service began in September 2005.

Grateful thanks to Gordon Forster who runs the web site and keeping it up to date. Harry Beevers monthly Quiz continues to be popular and Sue Cowen’s review of RNIB items is being well received.

Donations from listeners continue to be received and such generosity is much appreciated. A Grant of £1000 was awarded from the Durham Masonic Benevolent Fund in token of copying done on their behalf during the last three years. This will be shown in the Accounts for 2006.

We have been fortunate in recruiting other readers to read on a regular basis. Their work has been much appreciated by many listeners. Grateful thanks are extended to these people for the time and devotion they give.

The number of enquiries received for additional advice averaged some three per week but it is felt that more people could use the expertise at our disposal.

Representations on behalf of several listeners were made to Hartlepool Borough Council and the City of Sunderland in respect of withdrawal and refusal of a one band reduction of Council Tax. After a series of meetings and protracted negotiations both Authorities accepted our argument resulting in those residing in Hartlepool having the concession restored and a prima facia case being agreed with the City of Sunderland for future applicants.

Several listeners in the Wear Valley and South Tyneside areas applied after receiving advice from us and were also successful

The possibility of extending the scope of our service delivery was pursued. Several Funders were approached and an application to LloydsTSB Foundation has been made and indications are that we will be successful.

We continue to give advice and direction to enquirers and in most cases agencies contacted have been able to assist. Preparations are in hand to effect the transition of equipment and set up an Office/Studio in the new premises of Low Vision Supplies.

To sum up the year has been one of consolidation and creating a foundation to further develop the work of the Trust.