Visual Impairment

Support groups

Source: NHS

In this topic (7)

If you're blind or partially sighted, you may find it helpfulto contact a support group for people with visionloss.

Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)

TheRoyal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)is the UKs leading charity for people with vision loss, and it has a useful page on its website about coming to terms with sight loss.

The RNIB's helpline is open Monday to Friday from 8.45am to 5.30pm. The number is 0303 123 9999, with calls costing no more than a standard rate call to an 01 or 02 number. You can alsoemail helpline staff (helpline@rnib.org.uk).

The RNIB's website is specially designed for people with sight loss and provides a wide range of useful information and resources, including an online community andonline shop.

Action for Blind People

Action for Blind Peopleis another national charity that provides blind and partially sighted people with practical help and support.

For example, the charity can provide you withsupport and information about the day-to-day practicalities of living with a visual impairment, such as adjusting your home to make it easier to get around.

Other national charities

Other national charities that specialise in vision loss and you may find useful include:

Local organisations

There are also many local voluntary organisations around the country that help and support people with vision problems. You can search by postcode on a website called Visionaryto find local support organisations near you.

Articles for Visual Impairment

Changesto your home

Most visually impaired people can continue to live at home. However, you'llprobably need to makesome changes to your home, particularly if you live on your own. Below is a list of someimportant pieces

Employment

If you're currently employed and have recently been diagnosed with a visual impairment, you should contact theAccess to Work scheme. Access to Work is a scheme run by Jobcentre Plus that provides advi

Getting around

There are several different methods you can use toget around independentlyif you have a problem with your vision. Long cane You may find a long cane useful when travelling. These type ofcanes are usua

Information and advice for people with vision loss

Information for people with vision loss including details of support organisations, plus advice about specialist equipment, home modifications and mobility.

Reading and writing

There are several options available if you're having problems reading standard text in books, newspapers and magazines. One of the simplest options is to usea magnifying device that can make print app

Registering as blind or partially sighted

If your vision has deteriorated to a certain level, you may choose to register as visually impaired. Depending on the severity of your vision loss you'll either be registered as sight impaired (previo

Support groups

If you're blind or partially sighted, you may find it helpfulto contact a support group for people with visionloss. Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) TheRoyal National Institute of Blind