Partially sighted volunteer from Rochdale wins RNIB Excellence Award

Kieron Hurst, skydiving, has been recognised with an RNIB Award for Excellence in Volunteering

A 21-year-old IT worker from Rochdale who gives up his free time to volunteer for charity has been recognised with an award from the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

Kieron Hurst was recognised with an RNIB Award for Excellence in Volunteering for his determination to break down barriers for people with sight loss at a ceremony in the Lowry Hotel, Manchester, on Saturday 4 May.

Kieron is partially sighted and has a prosthetic left eye. He first got involved in volunteering for RNIB four years ago, when the charity supported him with gaining employment and helped him navigate the benefits system. Since then, he has held a number of diverse volunteer roles with RNIB, including helping blind and partially sighted people learn how to use accessible products and technology. He has also raised more than £500 for the charity by taking part in a sponsored skydive.

He said: “It feels great to have won this award, it’s really nice to have my volunteering work recognised. I have been volunteering for RNIB for the past three years and I have loved every minute of it. One highlight was the skydive I did last year; it was the best experience of my life!”

Kieron was one of seven RNIB award winners on the night, which were selected from 28 shortlisted nominees by a panel of representatives and volunteers from sight loss organisations across the North West of England. The inaugural awards formed part of RNIB’s celebration of 150 years in the region.

Andrea Glover, Network Manager for RNIB in the North West, said: “Our 150th anniversary provided a unique opportunity, not just to celebrate a milestone for our organisation, but also to celebrate the amazing achievements that have transformed the lives of blind and partially sighted people in the area.

“Kieron’s volunteer work is an example of such an achievement. What he has delivered has had a huge impact on the lives of blind and partially sighted people across the North West.

“Through his dedication to support the charity, Kieron has made such a difference and helped equip many people with the skills and training they need to use products and accessible tech. With this award, we are thrilled to be able to give Kieron’s hard work and dedication the recognition it deserves.”