As National Eye Health Week (22–28 September) recently took place, we’re taking this opportunity to shine a light on a project very close to our hearts here at Tirweddau Cymru | Landscapes Wales. Our partnership with RNIB Cymru – See Cymru Differently – Hiraeth – is helping to transform the way we think about accessibility, inclusion, and wellbeing across our most treasured landscapes.
Launched in April 2025, this three-year project, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, is already inspiring meaningful change across Wales’ Designated Landscapes. The vision is bold, yet simple: to create outdoor spaces where blind and partially sighted people can enjoy meaningful, independent access to nature, while also raising awareness of eye health in rural communities.
Changing the Landscape of Access
At its core, See Cymru Differently aims to break down the physical, technological and social barriers that prevent visually impaired people from fully experiencing Wales’ National Parks and National Landscapes. The project includes a range of exciting initiatives, such as mapping accessible and sensory walking routes, exploring innovative tech solutions to improve connection with landscapes and visitor centres, and delivering sight loss awareness training for staff and volunteers.
It’s not just about improving infrastructure — it’s about changing perspectives. How can we design spaces with everyone in mind, from the outset? How can we make the natural world more inclusive, welcoming, and healing for people with different needs?
Raising Awareness in Rural Wales
Another key focus of the project is improving awareness of eye health and preventable sight loss in rural communities. With support from partners such as Yellow Wellies, Young Farmers Cymru, local vets, and farmers’ unions, the project team is delivering short, engaging training events throughout Wales.
Why is this so important? Because eye health is often overlooked, despite the fact that sight is the sense people fear losing most. Nearly 1 in 5 of us will experience sight loss in our lifetime — yet half of all sight loss is preventable.
This issue is particularly acute in farming communities, where access to healthcare may be limited. According to research by the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) in 2025, nearly 40% of farmers reported experiencing an eye injury at work within the past year. Simple interventions, education, and early detection can make all the difference — and that’s exactly what this project is here to deliver.
Eye Health: A Shared Responsibility
As part of National Eye Health Week, the See Cymru Differently team is encouraging everyone — especially those working outdoors or in rural settings — to take eye care seriously.
This isn’t about scaring people — it’s about empowering them to protect their eyesight and take action when needed. From wearing UV-protective sunglasses, to using the right safety goggles on the farm, to booking regular eye tests — there are simple, practical steps we can all take to look after our vision.
Looking Ahead
Over the coming months and years, the See Cymru Differently team will be out on the road, attending rural shows, visiting communities, and partnering with local opticians to offer free eye checks and practical advice. The aim is to create a stronger, more connected network of people who understand how to look after their eye health and support others to do the same.
A Heartfelt Thank You
We’d like to take a moment to recognise the incredible energy, passion and commitment of everyone involved so far — from project staff and partners to volunteers, farmers and community members. Gareth Davies, who leads the project on behalf of RNIB Cymru, has been deeply moved by the support received across Wales.
“As someone with lived experience of sight loss, I know just how important this work is — and how powerful it can be to feel truly seen and supported in the landscapes we call home.” – Gareth Davies
If you’d like to learn more about the project, or find out how you can get involved, please get in touch with:
📧 SCD@rnib.org.uk
or
📧 annaj@pembrokeshirecoast.org
Together, let’s make sure Wales’ most beautiful places are places everyone can enjoy.
With warmest thanks and appreciation,
Anna
Inclusion, Diversity and Governance Excellence Strategic Lead
Tirweddau Cymru | Landscapes Wales