A Pembrokeshire man has described as “fantasmagorical” a project to help blind and partially sighted people regain their independence.

John Dix, aged 88, of Pembroke, said the My Guide scheme from the charity Guide Dogs Cymru had made a major difference to his life.

The scheme helps blind and visually impaired people to get out and about by pairing them with specially-trained volunteer guides in order to help them reach their mobility goal. This could be as simple as walking to the shops or a social club, or practising routes they have learnt with their rehabilitation officer. The aim is to increase mobility, confidence and independence.

John, a former submariner, had been reluctant to venture out due to his sight loss, but is slowly regaining mobility thanks to regular walks with 33-year-old volunteer Kylene Rafferty.

He said: “I can now go out and about where I couldn’t before, and meeting people is something I look forward to. I’m always happy when I know that Kylene is coming.”

He said the My Guide scheme had greatly improved his confidence, independence and mobility. “We converse together and meet other people as well, so the whole thing is fantasmagorical!

His wife, Daphne, said she also benefits from the service. “It gives John a break from me and he brings things back to me so we both share in it,” she said. “We are both very appreciative of the service.”

Kylene helped Guide Dogs to launch the project at Oriel y Parc, St Davids, in March 2014 while working as the charity’s Sighted Guide Ambassador. She said: “John is a lovely gentleman who I really enjoy being in a My Guide partnership with. He is great company and always brightens up my day with his upbeat personality and use of fun words.

“I genuinely get a lot out of volunteering for My Guide and always head home feeling as though I have made a real difference. It’s lovely just to go out for a relaxing walk in the fresh air.”

Ian Coxon, who took over the ambassador role from Kylene last year, said referrals are on the increase, with several clients waiting for guides to be trained. Identifying the right volunteers is vital, as the scheme involves working closely with adults who have a visual impairment.

He said: “We take care to get the right match of personality and interests. For example, a blind or visually impaired person may wish to work towards going to the football every week. A volunteer might only give an hour a week, but it needs to be a regular commitment.”

Volunteers receive specialist training in practical sighted guiding to enable them to form a successful and confident partnership with a visually impaired person. Further training focuses on improving communication skills and overcoming barriers to independence.

Ian added: “Volunteers say they get great satisfaction from helping a visually impaired person to become more mobile. They are giving something back to their community, and learning new skills that they can apply in day to day life. These are skills that transfer well to the workplace, and the qualifications can be added to a CV.”

Volunteers are currently needed for clients in Haverfordwest and Spittal. If you are over 18 and would like to know more, ring Ian Coxon on 07881 269572 or email [email protected]