Olympic organisers haven been working with the Guide Dogs charity to train Games Mobility volunteers to help them confidently assist blind and partially sighted spectators.
Around 1,500 volunteers were given Level 1 Community Sighted Guide training which was adapted to ensure it worked within the Games’ venues.
The training increases awareness of the impact and implications of sight loss and teaches sighted guiding techniques and best practice.
It is part of Guide Dogs’ ‘My Guide scheme’, a pilot service launched to help thousands more blind and partially sighted people become more mobile.
After the London 2012 Games, volunteers will also be encouraged to join a My Guide pilot scheme.
Games Mobility volunteers will be responsible for helping spectators make use of the Games Mobility Service – a free service located inside venues which will loan out manual wheelchairs and mobility scooters as well as guide visually impaired people to their seats.
Mark Todd, accessibility manager at London 2012 The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, LOCOG, said: “It’s been fantastic working with Guide Dogs and I’m thrilled with the training they have provided. Our Games Mobility volunteers will be able to provide the best level of service possible to any spectator who needs assistance with mobility.”
Kerry Tweed, sighted guide national manager at Guide Dogs said: “Becoming a sighted guide is a valuable skill for volunteers, making them an asset in their local community and workplace.”
As the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay draws to a close the preparations move into the final phase ahead of Friday’s Opening Ceremony. Photo: LOCOG
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