Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey officially opened its new centre in Ashtead, on Thursday 2nd July 2026, marking an important milestone in the charity’s mission to enable and empower children and adults who are blind, partially sighted, Deaf, hard of hearing, and deafblind across Surrey.
The new centre was officially opened by Christine Wilmshurst, Chair of Trustees, and Tim Hall, Chair of Surrey County Council (SCC), at a special event attended by supporters, staff, volunteers, and community partners.
The Ashtead centre will provide a welcoming and accessible hub where people with sight or hearing loss, and those with combined sight and hearing loss can access information, advice, support services, activities, and opportunities to connect with others. The facility has been designed to enhance the charity’s ability to deliver life-changing services and meet the growing needs of communities throughout Surrey.
Christine Wilmshurst, Chair of Trustees at Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey, said:
“The opening of our new Ashtead centre represents an exciting new chapter for the charity. It is a truly transformational time, and we could not have done it without the leadership, passion, dedication and hard work from everyone involved in the project. We are committed to ensuring that people living with sight and hearing loss have access to the support, resources, and opportunities they need to live independently and confidently. This centre will be a place where people can find practical help, social connection, and a strong sense of community.”
Tim Hall, Chair of SCC, said:
“It was a pleasure to help officially open this fantastic new facility. Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey provides invaluable support to residents across the county, and this new centre will strengthen the charity’s ability to make a positive difference in the lives of people with sensory impairments and their families.”
The opening reflects the charity’s ongoing commitment to improving accessibility, reducing isolation, and empowering individuals to live full and independent lives. The centre will host a range of services and activities, helping people navigate the challenges of sight and hearing loss while building confidence and connections within their local communities.
Sensory Services by Sight for Surrey enables and empowers 8,500 children and adults across the county every year through specialist advice, rehabilitation services, assistive technology support, social groups, advocacy, and wellbeing programmes.
Bridgehead House is owned, and was refurbished by, SCC.
