Help with vision impairment and dual sensory loss

A visual impairment is when you have sight loss that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

We support children and adults who are:

• visually impaired
• living with dual sensory loss (sight and hearing loss)

We can help you to maintain independence, improve your quality of life, and safely manage daily activities.

How we can help

Vision Rehabilitation Specialists

Vision Rehabilitation Specialists (VRS) are trained professionals who provide practical support, advice and training.

They can help with:

Assessment

• assess your vision and how it affects your daily life
• identify your needs and goals
• work with other health and social care services

You may need a specialist assessment if you have dual sensory loss that affects your daily living, including:

• tasks at home
• getting out and about
• communication

Skills training

• daily living skills, such as cooking, cleaning and communication
• techniques to complete tasks safely and independently

Mobility and travel

• orientation and mobility training
• safe use of a white cane
• navigating your home and community
• using public transport

Assistive technology

• advice on specialist equipment and tools
• support to use devices that improve independence

Home assessments

• adapting your home, such as improving lighting
• ways to improve safety and accessibility

Information and advice

• signpost you to local and national services
• provide guidance on further support available

Registering as sight impaired

If you are having problems with your sight:

1. Visit your GP or optician
2. You may be referred to an ophthalmologist (eye specialist)
3. If eligible, you will receive a Certificate of Vision Impairment

This will be sent to Walsall Society for the Blind, who will contact you to discuss support.

Benefits of registration

If you are registered, you may be entitled to:

• travel concessions (for example, a Disabled Person’s Railcard)
• a Blue Badge parking permit (if registered blind)
• a discount on your TV licence

Visit the RNIB website (opens in new tab) for more information.

Get help

Contact us to find out more, or to get an assessment.

We provide audio recordings with information about local services, which you can listen to or download.