Telelink is a regular ongoing telephone based group program that is delivered via teleconference. It offers social and peer support, special interest and recreation activities for people who are blind or have low vision.
During January and July each year Vision Australia’s Telelink program also offers short one off special interest subject matter groups. These groups cover a variety of social, recreational and info-tainment themes.
Two new topics being explored on the special interest group program are LGBTI festivals and dating, called Table for One.
Telelink Program coordinator, Maria Markou, said Telelink is responding to the community it caters to.
"Dating is a topic that comes up all the time in our programs, especially in the younger social groups. But its (the program) is not about match making, it will be about the positives: building your confidence, shifting the focus from your disability to you as a person and how to disclose your eye condition so you feel comfortable," Maria says.
LGBTI Festivals program will feature an event coordinator from Melbourne’s Midsumma. They will discuss the range of events at the discussing the range of events at the festival and the accessibility and support for people who are blind or have low vision to participate and enjoy the festival.
"Midsumma is a well-known and fabulous all inclusive event. And we think it’s important that our community know it’s a space they can be a part of," Maria says.
LGBTI festival topic is specific to the LGBTI community or allies only.
Places are limited for the special interest programs but spaces will be reserved specifically for people who have never participated in a Telelink program before.
Here are some of the topics being offered this January 2020:
- Meditation
- Know Your Consumer Rights! Presented by NSW Fair Trading
- ‘Table for One’ - Dating can be complicated. Join other singles in this special interest program where we will explore aspects of pre-dating in this co-facilitated discussion group
- Vision Australia Store – latest products
- Visit Vietnam
- LGBTI Festivals
- Understanding Chronic Health Conditions (Stroke, Arthritis)
You can register your interest at telelinkinfo@visionaustralia.org
For more information, please head to the Telelink website.
Telelink sessions are one-hour duration, spaces are limited and all times are AEDT.