The Kilmarnock Visually Impaired Social Group has been helping people who are blind or visually impaired since the late 1970s. One of their important services is the weekly “talking newspaper” service that they provide to their members.
However, there is hope that the talking newspaper service may continue as a new nonprofit.
Kilmarnock and Loudoun District Social, Recreational, and Communication Services for the Blind was the original name of the organisation when it was founded in the late 1970s by the late Jim Bircham, a committed rehabilitation officer.
Jim’s vision and commitment enriched the lives of members across Ayrshire through a variety of events, activities, holidays, and day trips that fostered connections and camaraderie.
One of Jim’s enduring contributions was the launch of the talking newspapers in 1983, known as the Kilmarnock and Loudoun District Tape Service for the Blind.
For individuals unable to attend club meetings, this creative service offered essential information and enjoyment through recorded church services and items from local newspapers.
After Jim passed away in January 2022, his son-in-law Rikki Farquharson assumed leadership of the club with the goals of bringing it back to life, growing its membership, and carrying on the tradition.
The club’s goal of helping the visually impaired population was shown by Rikki’s commitment to producing the talking newspapers alongside a group of volunteers.
However, in recent years, fund-raising events were necessary to maintain the organization’s building’s integrity.
“We regretfully announce the closure of the Kilmarnock Visually Impaired Social Group, an organisation that has been a cornerstone of support for the visually impaired community for nearly five decades,” Rikki said, expressing a range of emotions.
Serving those who are blind or visually impaired and carrying on Jim’s legacy have been a joy and a passion of mine.
“Jacqueline, Jim’s late wife, his daughter Lorna, and his granddaughters Natalie and Ashley make up the family I married into. I’ve been actively participating in the club’s operations ever since, particularly with the talking newspapers.
“Many people are profoundly disturbed by the sudden dissolution of the Kilmarnock Visually Impaired Social Group. Many have voiced tremendous disappointment, citing the club’s particular value to Jim’s family and the larger community.
“Despite this closure, efforts are under way to re-register the charity status to ensure the continuation of essential services like the Ayrshire Recording Services (Talking Newspapers for the Visually Impaired).”
“We celebrate the enduring impact of the Kilmarnock Visually Impaired Social Group as we bid farewell to this chapter of our history,” Rikki continued.
“As we begin new paths of community service for the talking newspapers, we will be inspired by the legacy of compassion, friendship, and support that distinguished this institution.
“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who has helped the Kilmarnock Visually Impaired Social Group succeed over the years. Our community will never forget the commitment and encouragement you have given us.
“Thank you for your understanding and continued support.”
