VAO to debate policy change with objectors

Disillusioned members of Vision Aid Overseas (VAO) have been given another chance to debate the charity's decision to turn its back on recycled glasses and short-term eye camps.

A meeting has been scheduled for September 11 after an online petition against the strategy was signed by 98 people. The petition argued changes were 'in opposition to the wishes and needs of the poorest in some countries'.

VAO chairman Marcus Swalwell said there was a misunderstanding of its new model. He said the charity's focus on permanent vision centres and supplying new frames was presented to members last June through VAO roadshows in London, Leeds and Manchester. Although attendance was low, with around 30 of the charity's 800-strong membership attending overall, there had been no objections to the changes and 'huge support' since.