The centre should come to be regarded as 'a single door' to needed support, ensuring proper co-ordination of matters germane to people's visual handicap, to save going from one service to another; yet without claiming to tackle each and every problem, or acting as a filter or intermediary on every issue.

• to be the resource centre in the Brighton and Hove community for visually impaired people of all ages.

• to be a forum for analysis and discussion of issues affecting the welfare of blind and partially sighted people.

• to be an independent voice and advocate on matters of visual impairment and the rights of visually impaired people.

• to encourage self help and mutual support among blind and partially sighted people in Brighton, Hove and Sussex where necessary.

• to provide services, activities, and support the Society considers appropriate.

Local societies for the blind offer an independent voice on matters relating to visual impairment, based on long-standing voluntary and charitable principles of community action. High managerial expertise is needed today to sustain a vibrant and efficient voluntary sector.