New additions include a cafe

Refurbished premises have been officially opend by the Royal National Institute for the Blind Scotland (RNIB) at Hillside Crescent in Edinburgh.

The office offers a modern and accessible space for the blind and partially sighted community, volunteers, supporters and staff to use.    

The Hillside office had temporarily closed for renovation in November 2023, although many of the charity’s services continued to operate throughout this period.

The refurbishment has been part of the charity’s continued work to ensure its support and services are robust, future-facing and consistently meeting the needs of people with sight loss. 

The facilities in Abbeyhill now include Café VI – a welcoming café serving the local community, a Product and Advice store offering accessible aids and equipment, and a multi-use community space which hosts various social, leisure and peer-support groups.   

The launch on 14 August saw a ribbon officially cut by Kirin Saeed, chair of the RNIB Scotland Advisory Group, following speeches from James Adams, director of RNIB Scotland; Matt Stringer, RNIB chief executive; and Sarah Boyack MSP.   

Saeed said: “Having an accessible space like this in the heart of Edinburgh makes a real difference. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee, getting advice on equipment, or meeting with others who share similar experiences, this hub brings people together and supports us in living independently. I can’t wait to meet new and old friends.”   

Later in the day, a smaller, private gathering marked the naming of the new Sandra Wilson Boardroom, in memory of Sandra Wilson, former Chair of RNIB Scotland (2015–2021), who passed away in August 2024.      

Matt Stringer added: “We’re delighted to open this fantastic new community facility in Edinburgh. It demonstrates RNIB’s ongoing commitment to delivering first-class services for blind and partially sighted people.   

“As a charity, we believe the world should be accessible to everyone. This investment reflects our values and our continued determination to help build a more inclusive society.”