Enfield, 30 January 2024 – Sensor solutions specialist HENSOLDT UK, is delighted to announce its ongoing commitment to supporting the Visually Impaired Veterans Ski Club (VIVSC), contributing to an extraordinary skiing experience for visually impaired veterans in Canazei, Italy every January.
Funding events like the VIVSC ski trip is no small feat, and the support from HENSOLDT UK has been instrumental. Having provided £2,000 last year, the company donated £4,000 this year, sponsoring the attendance of four veterans. This contribution aligns with HENSOLDT UK's dedication to the community and armed forces, earning them the Gold Employer Recognition Scheme Award.
The annual ski trip, spanning over 45 years, has been transformative for blind and visually impaired veterans, offering confidence and freedom on the snow under the guidance of experienced volunteers. The visually impaired veterans have varying degrees of blindness, making the experience both challenging and rewarding. Guides, all ex-military unpaid volunteers, accompany blind skiers of all age groups, ensuring a safe and life-changing adventure.
Marc Condon, Head of Internationalisation at HENSOLDT Optronics, was honoured to join the trip, gaining firsthand insights, and beginning training as a potential guide for the blind skiers. Sharing his experience, Marc stated, “Guiding was the true highlight of my week. Each veteran has a guide assigned to them, there are also guides at the back acting as blockers to ensure no one gets too close. Those that are totally blind ski in front of the guide under direction using headsets and those with some visibility will follow. The trust here is absolute. And trust is the only thing that gets these amazing men and women from top to bottom in one piece.”
Arthur Bloomfield of the VIVSC added “Marc Condon seamlessly joined our trip, demonstrating outstanding empathy and a caring attitude. His ability to identify opportunities to assist and make the day easier for the blind veteran was second to none. As a club we are grateful for the help HENSOLDT has given us over the last two years and hopefully for years to come.”
Peter Dillon, Managing Director of HENSOLDT UK concluded “We are pleased to continue supporting the armed forces, veterans, and their families. This sponsorship reflects our dedication to corporate social responsibility and showcases our commitment to initiatives that positively impact individuals facing challenges.”
About HENSOLDT UK
HENSOLDT UK is a global leader in the design, production and manufacture of maritime navigation and surveillance radar systems and solutions. Based in Enfield, North London, the company sets the international standard in solid state radar sensor technology with Kelvin Hughes SharpEye and its market leading navigation and tactical radar display systems. The flexible SharpEye technology is applied to a diverse range of applications, including naval navigation and surveillance, helicopter control, coastal and border surveillance, port VTS, critical infrastructure protection and other land-based security applications.
ABOUT VIVSC
The aims and ethos of Visually Impaired Veterans Ski Club are to help promote the core aspirations of living an independent life after sight loss by:
- Enabling once sighted skiers to continue enjoying their sport
- The introduction to novice skiers, after sight loss, to a new challenge
- Fostering an environment of friendship, camaraderie, and shared experiences
- The building of individual confidence and morale through the medium of sport and team work.
VIVSC intends to provide a life enhancing experience through Snowsports. Help build independence and maintain military camaraderie to improve confidence, lifestyle, and wellbeing both physically and mentally post sight loss.
Press contact HENSOLDT
Nicola Leigh
+44 (0)1992 805349
nicola.leigh@hensoldt.net
