Hello to all friends of EYECAN.
There’s lots to tell you about in this edition of our Newsletter.
New CEO
Firstly, let me introduce myself; my name is Mark Coxshall and I’ve been EYECAN’s Chief Executive Officer since late July.
I’m delighted and privileged to be leading the EYECAN team. My initial impression of the Charity is very positive. I’ve really enjoyed meeting members and volunteers and have also met with other charities, as well as Government officers and private sector contacts, to investigate opportunities to further develop partnerships.
My previous career as Detective Chief Inspector with Jersey Police gave me good exposure to collaborative working and early indications show a real willingness for EYECAN and other charities and services to work together to improve the experience of Islanders with sight loss. Maintaining key relationships and expanding joint working opportunities will form an important part of my role as CEO.
Behind the role, I’m married to Emma, and we have one adult daughter, Chloe – and a tortoise (a real one!). I’m a keen runner and enjoy the occasional round of golf. I also enjoy paddle boarding, cooking, gardening (I’m very proud of my diagonal lawn stripes) and modern country music. One day I mean to dust off my saxophone and learn how to play it however I’m already a seasoned drummer and once considered joining HM Royal Marine Band.
Well, that’s enough about me. Here’s some other EYECAN news:
Staff member moving on
Sadly, Lisa Pert has stepped down from her role as Administrator to the Community Team after 6 years with the Charity. I didn’t have the chance to get to know Lisa but it’s clear staff and clients loved her and that she’ll be greatly missed. I’m sure everyone joins with me in wishing Lisa the very best for the future.
Art activities
Whilst EYECAN’s tortoise was on display in Voisin’s shop window our artists took to the road to admire some larger versions.
They also participated in an ArtHouse Jersey sensory workshop. Clients’ artistic responses to what they saw, smelt, heard, and touched on St Martin’s Village Green, were later used in a collage.
Social Club donations
Just a note to Social Club members – whilst meals and activities at Social Club are free, there will be opportunity to donate towards attendance throughout October. Donation buckets will be available in the main hall but do speak to staff if you want to donate by card.
Children’s Spectacles Voucher scheme
EYECAN’s admin team has been extremely busy since the eligible age for our Children’s Spectacles Voucher Scheme changed to under 12. Many thanks to all staff involved for your sterling efforts. We’ve received very positive feedback from participating opticians and during the Childrens’ Day event at Howard Davis Park many parents thanked us for the financial support our scheme provides.
Awareness events and public engagement
EYECAN’s children’s games and challenges proved very popular during Children’s Day. The public, particularly children, also engaged with sight loss challenges when we were in town to mark National Eye Health Awareness Week. We hope our tips will help keep Islanders’ eyes healthy.
Video magnifier scheme
I’m happy to report that EYECAN’s video magnifier distribution project is going well. A device is now available at Jersey Library. Do ask a staff member if you don’t know how to use it. It isn’t hard to operate and I’m sure you’ll find it useful.
White cane initiative
Our thanks to participating clients for their White Cane Awareness initiative. I went along to learn about the frustrations white cane users have experienced and how their space and independence should be respected by the public. Those who attended felt the event was such a success that they’re keen to repeat it annually.
Diaries and calendars
Here’s a prompt for all our forward-thinking clients – it’s not too soon to purchase large-print calendars and diaries for 2024. Contact us on Tel: 864689 or email info@eyecan.je to place your order.
Christmas raffle
Also, EYECAN’s Christmas raffle tickets are now on sale for £2.50 each. Please contact us to purchase tickets (contact details above). The Raffle, which is kindly sponsored by G4S Secure Solutions, will be drawn on 21st December at 1.30pm. The first prize is £1,000, the second prize £200, and the third prize £50. Good luck everyone!
EYECAN’s AGM
Finally, if you’re interested in attending EYECAN’s AGM on Wednesday 22nd November please let us know. The meeting lasts approximately 30 minutes at will start at 1pm, during which time Committee members are elected and the Financial and President’s reports are shared with the room. Once the business part of the meeting concludes, there will also be opportunity to chat with me and Committee members over refreshments, and to share your thoughts and ideas about EYECAN.
The last few months have certainly been busy, but I’ve had a fantastic induction into all things EYECAN. I really look forward to playing my part in helping the Charity to develop further.
Thank you for taking the time to read this newsletter.
All best wishes,
Mark Coxshall
Chief Executive Officer
