Blind Chief Exec of London charity for blind children set to climb the O2 as part of campaign to raise £24,000 in 24 hours

Dr Tom Pey, Chief Executive of the Royal London Society for Blind People is set to scale the roof of the O2 in a bid to raise money for specialist support for families and children living in Greenwich, who are vision impaired.

The “Great Greenwich Give” campaign will host a number of fundraising events around the Royal borough on 24th July, working with businesses and local residents to raise £1000 an hour. This ambitious task will be kicked off with Dr Pey’s climb.

Dr. Pey went blind at the age of 39, at a time when he was a successful investment banker. “My life went into free fall when I lost my sight. It was a hugely traumatic event, that’s why I know RLSB has to be there to support families who are coping with sight loss.” Tom commented.

It is estimated that 1000 people in Greenwich are registered blind. Monies raised from the Great Greenwich Give will pay for a range of early year services for babies and toddlers, as well as education and employment for teenagers. Older blind people who are often very isolated will also benefit from the campaign, which will help fund outreach services operated by RLSB’s local partner, Blind Independence Greenwich.

Tom said of the feat, which will be organised by Up at the O2; “Let’s be clear, I am terrified of heights and apparently the only way I’ll know how high I am is by the wind. So if you hear a blind man crying on Wednesday, you’ll know who it is. But this is not about me, it’s about making sure RLSB is there for blind people when they need us.”

During the 90 minute climb Tom will be harnessed. He well on his way to hitting his personal fundraising target of £2400.





Editors notes
If you are interested in covering this story or interviewing Tom Pey following the climb on Tuesday 23 July then please contact Emma Thompson on 07884 493476 or on emma.thompson@rlsb.org.uk
RLSB (Royal London Society for Blind People) exists to empower blind and partially sighted young people to live life without limits. Through an expert blend of education, sport, creative and developmental services, we help the people we work with live and learn for the life they want.
For further information please call RLSB Press Office. Emma Thompson 0207 808 6172/07884 493476/emma.thompson@rlsb.org.uk