Newham council and several partners including East London vision and health professionals, join together to promote the importance of eye health this week; for National Eye Health Week.

Staff from Newham’s Information and Equipment Demonstration Area, based at Chargeable Lane Resource Centre, will be visiting libraries and venues across the borough.

Councillor Clive Furness said: “We are happy to be working with our partners to support National Eye Health Week. Almost two million people in the UK are living with sight loss, yet over half of these cases could be avoided, so it is vital everyone takes care of their eyes.”

The events are for residents who want to find out more about maintaining good eye health, learning about the best way to look after your eyes, how good nutrition can support eye health and information about eye loss prevention.

Extra focus is being given to the over 60′s and residents who are partially sighted or blind, with information on how to manage at home with sight loss and treatment options.

Furness explained: “This is a great opportunity not only for people who want to know more about maintaining good eye health, it’s also great for residents who are partially sighted or blind who want to know more about managing at home with sight loss.”

The team are also promoting local walking groups, Zumba and keep fit classes as lack of exercise may reduce the risk of sight loss from narrowing or hardening of the arteries, high blood pressure and diabetes.