A CHARITY which provides practical help to visually impaired people has been awarded a grant by the High Sheriff of Essex at an annual ceremony.

Southend Blind Welfare Organisation has been given £1,000 by the High Sheriff towards their work with helping visually impaired people feel safe and confident in their homes.

The awards ceremony recognises groups and individuals all over the county for their work in the community.

The grants came from the High Sheriffs’ Fund, which was established to give credit to community initiatives which address crime, community safety and anti-social behaviour, and is managed by the independent charitable trust Essex Community Foundation (ECF).