An Eye for Talent
13 Oct 2009
London, October 2009
Flight for Sight is a program run annually at the Merlin Entertainments London Eye as part of its charity involvement strategy. The attraction has been running an annual program on World Sight Day, for the past five years. As a visual attraction there is a strong link between sight charities and the London Eye and we are delighted to be able to offer sight charities the chance to fundraise or raise awareness.
World Sight Day (usually the second Thursday in October) is a day that many sight charities mark by hosting fundraising and/or activities to raise awareness. Previous recipients of the programme include Guide Dogs for the Blind, Action for Blind People and Royal London Society for the Blind.
On World Sight Day, 8th October 2009, Blind in Business will launch a year long campaign called An Eye for Talent, sponsored by Eversheds International, with a unique event on The Merlin Entertainments London Eye. Blind in Business will use 15 London Eye capsules to host mini-events where entertainment will be provided by blind or partially sighted musicians or artists. The musicians and artists taking part in this event are coming from across the UK, bringing their individual talents to demonstrate that visual impairment is not a barrier to achievement.
The Eye for Talent Campaign aims to raise awareness of the blind talent pool available to employers, thus increasing employment prospects for blind graduates. Whilst over 100 employers enjoy the panoramic views from 135m above London, they will have the opportunity to meet members of Blind in Business alumni, all of whom are successful in their chosen careers and an asset to their employers.
Rt Hon David Blunkett MP says, “Initiatives like the Eye for Talent Campaign, which will educate employers about the talent pool available, are vital if we are to change attitudes and improve the employment prospects of young blind people. It is shocking that two thirds of employers are unaware of Access to Work. However, through education we can help employers to overcome practical barriers and implement a ‘can do’ attitude regarding the recruitment of talented blind people.
Employers who fail to make their jobs accessible to blind and partially sighted people are missing out on a huge wealth of talent, and on a personal motivation and commitment to the work ethic.”
Nine-time Paralympic gold medalist, Chris Holmes MBE says, “Athletes have to undergo rigorous training to be the best. In today’s competitive job market, graduates must also undergo training and be highly committed to secure a job. This can be even truer for blind or partially sighted graduates which is why Blind in Business is so important – the work they do to train their candidates and educate employers means that blind graduates are given the best chance to compete effectively for employment. Through campaigns like An Eye for Talent, hopefully even more employers will be able to help even more blind graduates achieve their potential."
David Sharpe, Divisional Director London Midway Attractions said of the event “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Blind in Business for Flight for Sight this year. The London Eye is deeply committed to supporting organisations that work to promote and preserve sight, particularly on a local level. We are very much looking forward to welcoming the musicians, artists and guests to champion World Sight Day.”