A MAN who can only see bright lights and dark shadows has forged a successful career as a mediator.

Ryan Compton has battled genetic glaucoma from a young age and undergone more than 180 eye operations.

He has now opened the Centre for Resolution after he said his condition had only fuelled his ambitions in both his personal life and his business.

Mr Compton, 32, said: “Although I can’t see I am able to communicate with people in other ways. I meet people at the worst times of their lives, I can connect with them in ways others can’t because I have to really listen to what they are saying. I am not distracted by what they are doing, I am concentrating on the feelings they are projecting.”

This year alone, Mr Compton has provided family mediation to over 100 separated families. He was also awarded Community Mediator of the year in 2018.

He set the company up in early 2016, delivering his services at community centres across Worcestershire. Wanting to support more families, Mr Compton saw the need to open his own centre.

He contacted Worcester City Council and successfully applied for a £3,000 business growth grant, which he matched with his own reserves.

“I’m delighted that we’ll now be able to meet clients in this new dedicated centre in Barbourne, with meeting rooms specially designed and adapted for mediation purposes. We are here to help local people through all the difficult times in life, when support is most needed,” said Ryan.

Mayor of Worcester, Allah Ditta, said: “The city council is delighted to provide a business grant to support the Centre for Resolution.”

“Mediation can be incredibly valuable to couples who are in conflict. With the support of a third party, issues such as access to children and financial arrangements can be explored and resolved, with the potential to reduce stress and cut legal costs further down the line.”

To find out more about family mediation contact Centre for Resolution by phoning 01905 330055.