OSTLEY House has long been quietly going about its business helping those with sight loss with care, social activities, advice and support.

Across the area, an estimated 1,200 people are said to be living with sight loss with the Barrow and Districts Society for the Blind directly helping more than 800 people.

Dementia too is a significant issue now as more and more people live longer and the population becomes what is called 'super-ageing'.

When someone has suffered sight loss or dementia, the world must seem a very lonely place to live, even with family and friends.

But to have to endure both would be unimaginable to many of us.

Yet once again, this highly-deserving charity - rated good in all areas a year ago by the Care Quality Commission- is helping to put Barrow on the map with its state-of-the-art facilities.

It is reassuring to see that it is not standing still and is keeping pace with changing needs and demands.

Raising money as a charity is tough these days with literally hundreds of good causes competing for our donations.

Yet thanks to the commitment of the staff and board of directors, people in this area using these services can have life made just that much better.

The borough is a better place for Ostley House.