Kevin Bull has been on an inspiring journey through his time on the BBO (Building Better Opportunities) project after coming to terms with his sight loss and mental health. National Eye Health Week is not just about raising awareness around eye health but also about living with sight loss and making the best of your opportunities. This is why the BBO project was set up, to help those living with sight loss and other disabilities realise their full potential and support them through their journey – whatever their aims.
Before Kevin’s VI condition developed, he used to be a driving instructor in his local area and being a family man, his job was his bread and butter. Not being able to work due to his sight loss is something which made him feel low in confidence. A key challenge for Kevin was looking for work around his condition which was a big challenge for him. This also led to other knock on affects. His self-belief was low and he didn’t feel like he had a good chance of getting back into employment.
Ever since joining the BBO project at Beacon the team has invested in his training and qualifications – as well as building his confidence back. The former driving instructor has completed counselling qualifications, voluntary work, Mental Health First Aid training and lot’s more. This has helped him immensely and he has now found full time work as an intervention worker.
Kevin explains: “After getting back into work I am more motivated in everything I do; my confidence is back and I feel valued. But none of this would be possible without the support of the BBO team. They supported me step-by-step and never rushed me. There was no pressure to reach a target and they always considered my sight loss – and adapted to my needs.
Kevin, adds: “I would like to thank the BBO team for their continued support around my mental health wellbeing and personal development. Thank you for your encouragement which helped me stay focused and determined. I would recommend anyone who is finding it hard to get into work and living with a disability to contact the team at Beacon. There is no harm in asking how they could support you and you are under no obligation or pressure.”
If you would like to find out more about Beacon and how we support visually impaired people, please read more on our website or get in touch via: enquiries@beaconvision.org