Who we are
The Scottish Council on Visual Impairment (SCOVI) is an umbrella organisation committed to promoting equality and opportunity for people affected by serious sight loss across Scotland.
Its predecessor, the Scottish National Federation for the Welfare of the Blind (SNFWB) was formed in 1917 as a link between Institutions and Societies for the blind. For a short history see (link)
For information about our work, go to the What we do section.
Our membership
Our affiliated membership comes from organisations who provide services to the blind and partially sighted throughout Scotland. For example, disability groups, charities, local authorities and professional organisations.
Associate membership for individuals is available for those who support the objects of the Council.
For information on joining go to the Join us page and for a list of our current members, go to the Members page.
Governance and management
The Council is a Company Limited by Guarantee.
The Members’ Forum is made up from representatives of all affiliated members and meets five times a year.
Trustees, who are also directors of the company, are elected by the membership. The minimum number of trustees is 5 and the maximum is 10. The trustees meet on a regular basis to manage the business of the Council and make recommendations for discussion and ratification at the Members’ Forum.
The Scotsvip Group is a standing committee which meets on a regular basis to discuss new legislation, perceived gaps in service provision, and other areas of common interest and support. It is composed of direct service providers from both voluntary organisations and local authorities.
The Members’ Forum, Trustee meetings and Scotsvip group are served by a part-time Secretary/Treasurer.
For details of our office bearers, trustees and advisors go to the representatives page.