Macular Society
The Macular Society supports people living with macular disease and sight loss across Northumberland. Whether you've recently been diagnosed or have been managing a condition for some time, they offer local face-to-face support groups, a free helpline, one-to-one befriending, and access to counselling. There is also practical guidance on living well with sight loss, including low vision aids, benefits advice, and day-to-day tips. Support is free and open to people of all ages affected by macular disease, as well as their families and carers.
Remote
In-person
Further info
Face-to-face peer support groups meet regularly across the area. Local groups include:
- Tynedale Support Group, Corbridge Parish Hall: second Wednesday of every month, 1pm to 3pm
- Alnwick Support Group, Kingdom Hall: last Monday of every month, 10.30am to 12pm (not bank holidays)
- Newcastle Upon Tyne Support Group, Newcastle Vision Support, Suite 1, 6th Floor West A: third Wednesday of every month, 1.30pm to 3.30pm (not May, August, or September)
- North East WAYP Support Group (for working age and younger people): dates and times vary, usually at city centre restaurants. Contact the group leader for details.
For people who can't get to a group in person, telephone and online groups are also available. A free helpline (0300 3030 111, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) offers information, guidance, and a listening ear. One-to-one telephone befriending and access to counselling are also available. All services are free.
Visit the Macular Society website to find out more: https://www.macularsociety.org/
Who can use this service?
Anyone living with a macular condition, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Stargardt disease, diabetic macular oedema, and other conditions affecting central vision.
Support is also available for family members and carers. There is no referral threshold and no waiting list criteria: the service is open at any point after diagnosis, including to people who are newly diagnosed and looking for information and connection.
How are services delivered?
Face-to-face at the listed locations in Northumberland.
Telephone and online support for peer groups, helpline, befriending and counselling.
Locations