Retina UK set to feature in BBC Lifeline Appeal

The appeal will demonstrate the great work we have done from 50 years ago to the current day, while also placing an emphasis on what we as a charity hope to achieve in the future.

Across the UK, 25,000-33,000 people are living with genetic conditions that cause progressive loss of vision, often leading to complete blindness. For many, Retina UK is a lifeline — offering expert information, emotional support, and hope for a future where these conditions can be treated or even cured. Through the Lifeline Appeal Retina UK aims to:

• Raise awareness of inherited sight loss and its impact on individuals and families.
• Showcase support services such as our helpline and peer support groups, that help people navigate the challenges of diagnosis, progression, and daily life.
• Highlight research investment that brings the world closer to effective treatments.

Retina UK’s services — including our helpline, peer support networks, and accessible resources — empower people with knowledge and enable community connection. Meanwhile, our commitment to funding groundbreaking research keeps hope alive for generations to come.

This is what community member Jay, who features in the Lifeline appeal, said about the work we do at Retina UK:

“I’d say the most valuable thing I’ve got from Retina UK is I’ve never felt alone. It’s ‘we understand’, it’s very caring and a brilliant ‘we’re here for you’ community. There’s nothing that I hold back with Retina UK in terms of how I’m feeling or what I need.

“It’s a very welcoming charity, which is really nice. Everyone else is going through the same thing. They’ve been really, really supportive and helped me map out plans for the future as well as just helping the now’’.

Members of the public can get involved by learning more about inherited sight loss, sharing the message, and supporting Retina UK’s mission.

Tina Garvey, Retina UK’s chief executive said: “We are incredibly grateful to the BBC for this opportunity to raise awareness of inherited sight loss conditions and support for our charity’s vital work. Thanks also to the wonderful members of our community who are featured in the appeal for their willingness to share their very personal experiences to make a difference for others living with these conditions.”

The film will be repeated on Friday 21 November at 12.20pm on BBC Two. You can also watch it on BBC iPlayer after 16 November.

For more information about the Lifeline Appeal and how to get involved, visit https://retinauk.org.uk/get-involved/donate/bbc-lifeline-appeal/ OR please contact Jane Russell, Communications Manager, 01280 821334 / 07719 967368 [email protected]