"We remain fully focused on finding a cure for macular disease."

A message from our chief executive, Cathy Yelf:

"What an extraordinary time we are living through at the moment. I wanted to reach out to each and every one of you, not only to let you know how we are managing the charity day to day, but also to reassure you that we are here for you should you need us.

"Our head office is currently still open. However, in line with the government’s advice, we have reduced the number of people in the office – so it will take longer than usual for us to respond, but we will do so as soon as we can.

"I understand that with the social distancing measures put in place, if you are having injections you might be worried about keeping your appointments. Eye clinics are likely to be quiet at the moment with only essential appointments going ahead, and hygiene and patients’ safety will be their utmost priority. So unless you have coronavirus symptoms, or your eye clinic specifically asks you not to attend, you should attend your appointments as usual. You can find more information on this on our website on this news post about eye clinics. 

"It’s so important that we make sure our members, supporters and volunteers are all protected as much as possible, so for the time being we have suspended our face to face services. That means we recommend that our local support groups do not meet for now.

"However, we are still on the end of the phone – you can call us for support, advice, information, queries about membership or fundraising enquiries, we are all on hand to help. Our social media channels and website are being regularly updated, and of course you can contact us via email should you wish to.

"Our Advice and Information number is 0300 3030 111, or you can email help@macularsociety.org.

"If you are interested in volunteering, we always need more telephone befrienders – you can find more information about this by visiting the telephone-befrienders page

"Please be assured that no matter what, our work continues. We will keep raising funds for more research. We remain fully focused on finding a cure for macular disease.

"I sincerely hope that you, your families and friends are in good health and staying positive.

"Thank you for all your support for the Society in the past and now, through this challenging time.

"with my best wishes, Cathy"