Berkshire Vision is pleased to announce the appointment of three new trustees to its board. Their expertise and commitment will help drive Berkshire Vision to empower visually impaired individuals to lead independent and fulfilling lives.
The new trustees bring a wealth of experience across various sectors, further strengthening the leadership of Berkshire Vision. With the number of people living with sight loss in Berkshire predicted to increase by around 25% by 2032, their diverse skills will support the charity’s strategic growth, enhance service delivery, and ensure that visually impaired people across the local community receive the vital support they need.
Clare Baldwin is the Operations Director at Newmedica Berkshire and Director of software company Quantum Health Solutions Ltd. Clare brings over 25 years of experience in delivering healthcare in the NHS and private sector. She has a clinical background having trained at the University of Liverpool as an Orthoptist and worked clinically diagnosing and treating ocular motility conditions.
Chris Owen is Reading born and bred and has lived in and around the Tilehurst area for most of his life, now with his wife and two children. Since graduating university in 2002, Chris has worked in project delivery across many industries including utilities, telecoms and, most recently, automotive finance where he specialises in developing and maintaining a suite of contract management systems. In 2018, Chris discovered he had a rare form of genetic macular disease called Cone Dystrophy. In 2021, Chris was registered Severely Sight Impaired and in 2023 got his first assistance dog, who is always by his side, no matter where he goes. Chris is an active blogger and shares many of his experiences on his website, podcast and social media under the name “Blind Man with a Backpack”.
Gavin Miller lives near Windsor. His career and background lie in larger commercial enterprises including BBC Worldwide and Universal Pictures as well as leadership roles in several SME B2B media, marketing, content, and digital businesses. Since 2022 he has worked as an independent consultant, helping companies connect business strategy and marketing with sustainability and ESG, balancing change, transition, and growth. Joining Berkshire Vision Board of Trustees has personal reasons for Gavin: “Berkshire Vision was there to support my late mother when her eyesight deteriorated. They provided advice, support and gadgets to support her day to day and I know she appreciated it.”
Chair of Trustees, Janes Veys welcomed the new trustees, saying:
“We are thrilled to have Clare, Chris and Gavin join our board. Their expertise and passion for making a difference will be invaluable in shaping the future of Berkshire Vision. With their support, we can continue supporting and advocating for the needs of the increasing number of visually impaired people in our community.”
As Berkshire Vision continues its vital work, the addition of these trustees will help drive forward initiatives that promote independence, accessibility, and inclusivity for those with sight loss.
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