Armed Forces Day highlights life-changing rehabilitation delivered in Sussex
A pioneering rehabilitation programme delivered in Sussex is helping blind and vision-impaired veterans rebuild their independence, regain confidence and return to meaningful employment.
Run by national charity Blind Veterans UK at its Rustington centre, the Working Age Rehabilitation Program is transforming lives for ex-service personnel adjusting to sight loss. As the country marks Armed Forces Day, the charity is highlighting the impact of the programme on veterans from across the UK.
Funded in part by Specsavers since 2024, the intensive five-day programme provides practical skills, tailored support and peer connection, enabling veterans to regain control of their lives and look ahead with renewed purpose.
Designed specifically for working-age veterans, the programme focuses on developing the skills needed for independent living and sustainable employment. From assistive technology training to confidence building and career planning, participants are supported every step of the way.
Crucially, the programme is delivered by staff who understand the challenges of service life and transition to civilian life.
Steven Dixon, 47, who served with the 1st Battalion, The King’s Regiment, experienced a devastating deterioration in his eyesight in 2015, eventually leading to him being registered blind.
At the same time, he was going through a divorce, leaving him struggling with both his mental health and his sense of direction.
After connecting with Blind Veterans UK, Steve received specialist equipment and ongoing support. But it was the Working Age Rehabilitation Program in Sussex that proved a turning point.
Through the programme, he rediscovered the transferable skills gained during his military and civilian careers and rebuilt his confidence.
Today, he is back in employment, working in retail.
Steve said:
“Just because I am blind doesn’t mean that I can’t get out there and do my part.”
For former combat medic Shavita Kerai, sight loss came suddenly in 2019 following complications accessing treatment during the pandemic, resulting in the permanent loss of vision in one eye.
Shavita, 49, lost her job and confidence, describing her life as “just existing”.
Everything changed when she was introduced to Blind Veterans UK in 2025 and attended the Sussex-based programme.
Through practical training in IT and accessibility tools, alongside peer support, she rebuilt her independence and confidence.
“I didn’t have a voice before. No one was listening. Being there, I was getting heard.” she said.
Shavita has now returned to employment, working with her local Association of Disabled People, supporting others facing similar challenges.
“I feel independent. I feel I can have a future again,” she added.
Delivered at Blind Veterans UK’s Rustington centre in West Sussex, the programme is making a tangible difference to veterans nationwide while strengthening the charity’s connection to the local community.
The charity says Armed Forces Day (Saturday 27 June) is an opportunity to recognise not only those who serve, but also the ongoing support veterans may need long after leaving the military.
The programme is supported by Specsavers, a long-standing partner of Blind Veterans UK.
Marc Breton, Senior PR Manager at Specsavers, said:
“Specsavers is committed to changing lives through better sight and hearing and has partnered with Blind Veterans UK for over ten years.
“We’re proud to support their Working Age Rehabilitation Program, helping veterans overcome the challenges they face with sight loss.”
Blind Veterans UK says the success of the programme shows that sight loss does not have to mean the end of independence, ambition or employment.
With the right support, veterans can rebuild their lives and continue to thrive.
Blind Veterans UK supports thousands of blind veterans like Steven and Shavita, but knows there are many thousands more who still need its support to rebuild their lives after sight loss.
If you, or someone you know, served in the Armed Forces, including National Service, and are now struggling with sight loss, then please get in touch. Call 0800 389 7979 or visit blindveterans.org.uk/apply
