A SPECIAL event went ahead at the Forth Valley Sensory Centre to mark Deafblind Awareness Week.

Service users from both the Deafblind centre the charity’s sensory team were treated to a fun day of activities, food and drink and entertainment.

The FVSC worked with Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership to hold the celebration at their Camelon hub.

Jacqui Winning MBE, Forth Valley chief executive, said: “This was a wonderful and successful event held in collaboration with Falkirk Council Sensory Team.

“The day was a huge celebration of the deafblind community and everything they do.

“We are really proud to play our part in the celebrations and would like to thank all our partners for their support.”

The Camelon centre was decorated in the deafblind colours of red and white, with decorations inside which were accessible and interactive for service users to engage with.

Service users got to enjoy playing tactile games and interactive activities, including a senses table with a selection of different plants from the centre’s kitchen garden to stimulate all five senses.

Entertainment was provided by a band from Falkirk High School, who played a number of traditional classics to keep people entertained.

David Black, volunteer and service user at the centre, added: “I enjoyed the event, it was very well organised and I was made to feel welcome.

“The food was lovely and as a lactose intolerant person, I was catered for and my meal was very enjoyable.

“The live band was very entertaining, and I also found the table with plants to simulate different senses very accessible and a joy to take part in.”

The FVSC supports people with sensory loss across central Scotland, focussing on Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire.

They have been active for more than 15 years, acting as a community hub offering support, advice, practical help and social opportunities.

They host regular events for service users, with Natalie McKechnie, the team manager at Falkirk Health and Social Care Partnership hailing the event as “unforgettable”.

She said: “Our Deafblind Awareness Week 2024 party, hosted by the Falkirk Sensory Team and FVSC, was a tremendous success.

“Our clients thoroughly enjoyed the celebration, filled with joy and community spirit, making it a truly unforgettable event for all.”