Focus Birmingham unveils bold new look with inspiring film “More than we see”

Focus Birmingham staff, volunteers and the people they support celebrate the launch of the charity’s new brand with a burst of confetti outside its day centre. Holding the laptop is CEO, Cate Burke.

Focus Birmingham, a Birmingham-based charity providing specialist support for people with sight loss and those with complex needs, has unveiled a bold new look. The rebrand, launched this month, is designed to reflect the people it supports and its modern services. At the heart of the change is the charity’s belief that everyone deserves the chance to live life to the full and unlock their potential, no matter their care and support needs.

The rebrand was premiered through More Than We See, a film led by 91-year-old Jill, a regular at Focus Birmingham’s Sight Loss Support coffee mornings. Jill’s opening words, “You must think we sit around all day doing nothing, that we don’t lead active lives, but we do, in our own way”, challenges assumptions and shines a light on the strength, joy and potential of the people the charity supports.

The rebrand comes at a crucial time, as older people with disabilities face growing social isolation and the danger of being excluded from community life. Focus Birmingham’s refreshed identity is a reminder that meaningful support is close at hand – but also a call for greater public backing to keep that support in place.

Every day, the charity supports people with sight loss and those with complex needs to build dignity, connection and confidence. Its Low Vision Clinic, accessible buses, day services, counselling and skills classes all help people live life their way. CEO, Cate Burke, explained: “Our new identity is inspired by the people we support every day - people like Jill, who bring so much character and resilience to our community. 

“We know that older people with disabilities are three times more likely to feel lonely than the general population, and nearly two-thirds struggle to access digital technology. Too often, people with disabilities feel disconnected from society, excluded by visible and invisible barriers, and unable to access the care and support they need. That’s why it’s so important for people to know that Focus Birmingham is here for them, whenever they need us.”

Focus Birmingham is a registered charity providing tailored support for adults aged 19 and over who are living with sight loss or complex needs. Jill herself summed it up best: “Being able to stay independent while chatting with like-minded people makes a big difference - not just for me, but for many of us here.”

Focus Birmingham depends on community generosity to keep its services free and accessible. Supporters can make a difference by donating, attending events such as the Christmas Fair on the 6th of December, or giving directly through the charity’s Amazon Wish List - helping people like Jill continue to live life to the full.

The film More Than We See is available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSmA1uimEFQ. To learn more or to donate, visit www.focusbirmingham.org.uk. 

PR support by Reeves PR agency in Birmingham.