The Royal Sheffield Society for the Blind was founded in 1860 as The North England Manufactory for the Blind but changed its name to The Sheffield Institution for the Blind in 1882. It offered practical trade education in basket and furniture making for blind people to assist them with employment. It became known as the Royal Sheffield Institution after a visit by King George V in 1921. Its mission is to offer services and support for people with sight loss by providing opportunities, support, friendship, and service.