Samantha Cameron hosts No.10 reception for blind young Londoners

Samantha Cameron hosted a reception at No.10 Downing Street in aid of blind young Londoners who are struggling to overcome poverty, isolation and unemployment.

Last night, Samantha Cameron addressed supporters of the Royal London Society (RLSB) for Blind People who are raising money to fund a “Life Without Limits Centre” which will give blind children and their parents a place where professional support will be available and where they can meet up with others who are facing similar challenges.

Guests included the HRH Duchess of Gloucester, actress Anita Dobson, journalist Gary O’Donaghue and members of the RLSB Youth Forum who spoke to Mrs. Cameron about the importance of giving blind young people the right kind of support early on.

90% of those who lose their sight in youth won’t work for more than six months in the lives. Two thirds of blind people are living in poverty and over a third are depressed.

Amy Hawkins, 19, from Upminster said: “It’s great to know that Samantha is interested in people like me. I hope that the people here tonight listened closely to what she said about how hard it can be if you’re blind. I’ve been trying to get a job for two years but employers won’t take me seriously. It’s hard to keep positive. But with people like her [Samantha Cameron] supporting us, I know things will get better.”

ENDS