Tassia's story: proud to be a Shelter volunteer

Proud to be a Shelter volunteer

Tassia, who lost her sight in 2020, began volunteering at our King's Cross shop in 2024. Here's why every shift lifts her spirits. Tassia shares her story:

Hey, I’m Tassia! I’ve been a retail volunteer at Shelter since 2024. I’m registered blind (severely sight impaired).

In 2020, I lost my eyesight due to the rare genetic disease Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy. This resulted in the loss of my central vision. I have some peripheral vision which is now colour blind.

I can no longer see people’s faces, read, drive or use a computer without special software. Fortunately, my peripheral vision allows me to detect shapes and some colours!

I have been rebuilding my life with help from sight-loss charities, which give me comfort and inspiration.

I applied to volunteer for Shelter to contribute to causes outside of sight-loss. Shelter was the perfect fit – I love charity shops!

As a retail volunteer, I sort and quality check donations, ensure gift aid items have the relevant stickers and tag items for the shop floor!

I use my peripheral vision and rely on my hands to see and feel the quality and type of material.

I confidently, independently and safely use the gun to tag items for sale. Using my fingers, I feel where the tag’s small hole is and guide the gun with my other hand to the correct position. I then move my fingers, down the tag and gently push the gun through.

My favourite experience was volunteering at the Vintage Car Boot Festival. I enjoyed meeting and serving customers at Shelter’s stall. Exploring other stalls and soaking up the atmosphere was a bonus!

It may seem small, but volunteering at Shelter has helped change my life.

Losing my vision was isolating. I often felt lonely and excluded from society. So, for me, the best part about volunteering is the social aspect. The staff at Shelter King’s Cross are incredibly friendly and kind. Chatting with them during my shift always makes me happy and optimistic. Without fail, I walk home with a huge smile on my face.

For the first time in a while I have felt useful and purposeful. I’ve gained more confidence, independence and self-belief, adjusting to my new life as a visually impaired person.

Shelter’s impact goes way beyond helping to end the housing emergency.

I’m proud to be a Shelter volunteer.