What is visual impairment?
Visual impairment is another term for being 'blind' or 'partially sighted' - in other words, you can't see at all, or your sight doesn't work as well as it should.
I've been asked if I am 'registrable'. What does this mean?
Being registered means easier access to a range of special services, advice and equipment provided by social services and voluntary organisations.
If you are eligible to be registered with your council, then you will automatically be qualified to claim for valuable financial benefits. These benefits are your rights - don't lose out!
How do I register as blind?
A person is registrable as blind if they can only see the top letter of the eye test chart at a distance of three metres.
You need to see your GP who will arrange a free registration examination with an opthalmologist, who is a specialist in eye conditions and eye care. He will sign the registration form if you are eligible, and send it to the social services department at your local council.
How do I register as partially sighted?
A person is registrable as partially sighted if at a distance of six metres they can only read the top letter of the eye test chart. You may still qualify for registration if you can read the next three lines down, but your field of vision is limited.
Do I have to register?
No, registration is voluntary. But you will find it easier to obtain financial benefits and services if you do.
Does the council visit me?
Each council will aim to arrange a visit by a specialist officer to assess your needs. However, research results in 2002 from one of our research studies on older people revealed that this often took a long time to arrange, or in some cases never happened at all, as social services departments are hard pressed. Our recommendation is to keep pestering!
Where can I get further help on registering and benefits?
More detailed information can be obtained from the Department for Work and Pensions website, or the RNIB. Also try the local Sensory Needs Team at your local council.
What are the most common eye conditions?
For detailed information on eye health, eye conditions and anatomy of the eye, please visit the Moorfields Eye Hospital website.
Useful photographs of the effect of most eye conditions on vision are published on the National Eye Institute (NEI) website, in the United States.
How can I, or somebody I know, get support?
There are several ways:
- From your local social services department
Contact your Sensory Needs Team who will assess your needs. If you have problems moving around safely outside your home environment, or carrying out tasks within your home, a Mobility Officer or Rehabilitation Officer may be able to provide you with some practical help and training.
- From voluntary organisations
These can be either on a general basis, such as local blind societies, or on a specialist basis related to a specific eye condition. See our useful links page which has contact details for support groups, sight loss charities, and other useful organisations.
Disclaimer: Pocklington takes no responsibility for the content, accuracy or accessibility of external websites linked to from within this site.
