A CINDERFORD woman who ‘saved’ Forest Sensory Services has been short-listed for a national award to recognise her achievement.

Just over a year ago the charity, for people with sight loss, faced closure due to a lack of funding. Jackie Frost took over the role as a centre co-ordinator to help keep the service open.

Jackie has now been shortlisted for the Royal National Institute of Blind People’s (RNIB) Vision Pioneer Award for Innovation, with winners due to be announced this week.

The award is presented to individuals demonstrating and applying a new product, technology, or service which has significantly benefited people who are blind or partially sighted.

As a trained community eye clinic liaison officer, Jackie works closely with community health and social care professionals, providing practical and emotional support to those recently diagnosed with a sight condition. While co-ordinating volunteers, transport, fundraising and organising classes and social events for the charity, Jackie also completed a management degree in her own time.

Jackie forged links with many organisations, helping to provide a complete range of services to the charity’s clients. Forest Sensory Services is now thriving and has extended its services to include people with dementia.

Jackie said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be nominated for this award. It’s a brilliant feeling to know that the sight loss and eye health sector values my commitment to supporting blind and partially sighted people.”

Sally Harvey, Chief Executive of RNIB, said: “When we set up the Vision Pioneer Awards we wanted to discover inspirational professionals, campaigns and projects that make a real difference to the lives of people with sight loss.

“All of those shortlisted demonstrate dedication and excellence, help to prevent sight loss or encourage and support blind and partially sighted people. We really value all of our finalists and the outstanding dedication they have shown.”