30/01/2026
Thank you, Karen.
After nearly 10 years with Angel Eyes NI, we are saying a warm goodbye to Karen Wilson, who is moving on to pastures new.
When Karen joined us in February 2016, Angel Eyes NI was a very different organisation – a team of two, an administrator and our CEO, Sara. From day one, Karen rolled up her sleeves and set about building something better for children and young people with vision impairment across Northern Ireland.
Karen quickly upskilled in assistive technology, adapted resources, and developed and extensive knowledge in the statementing process, from annual reviews through to statutory assessments. She went on to lead the collaboration with Ulster University to develop the Level 4 accredited Classroom Assistant training – the first of its kind in the UK or ROI, specifically designed for assistants supporting children with vision impairment.
During COVID-19, Karen authored two pivotal reports examining the impact of the pandemic on children with vision impairment and the widening inequalities they faced.
Karen also played a central role in developing and delivering Angel Eyes NI’s Virtual Reality Sight Loss Simulator training, helping parents and professionals better understand children’s eye conditions and the impact of vision impairment on learning, alongside practical strategies to make learning and daily life more accessible.
She led on two Shared Island reports exploring support for children with vision impairment across Ireland and headed up major collaborative projects including the EqualEyes project with the Children’s Law Centre.
Above all, Karen was a hugely popular and hugely valued member of our team, and very much loved by the families she supported. Her impact on Angel Eyes NI and on the lives of children and young people with vision impairment will be felt for many years to come.
We want to reassure families that our Education Advocacy service continues as normal. Sarah Mathison, our Education Advocate, is supporting families with education-related matters and remains available to provide guidance, advocacy and practical support.
Thank you, Karen, for everything.
We wish you every success in what comes next.
