Introduction

On this webpage we have signposted to our sight loss information sheets. They tell you about organisations that can help and advise you, as well as what support we can give.

The information sheets are in PDF format so that you can save them or print them. If you click on the name of the information sheet you want, it will open for you.

If you would like them in a different format, such as on tape or Compact Disc, in Braille or in a different language, please contact us and we will send them to you. Each information sheets have a code number so that it is easier for you to refer to, or ask for if you contact us.

We hold a register of all blind and partially sighted people in Somerset who have chosen to be registered. If your sight is very poor, a hospital consultant may recommend that you register with us. Your doctor can make an appointment for you to be seen by an eye consultant at the hospital who will decide if you can be registered.

Depending on your degree of sight loss, your consultant will certify that you are ‘sight impaired or partially sighted’ or ‘severely sight impaired or blind’. If the consultant decides that you are eligible for registration, they will complete a form called a Certificate of Visual Impairment which you will have to sign. A copy will be sent to you, your doctor and Adult Social Care.

After your consultation, a social worker who specialises in working with visually impaired people will visit you to tell you about the services available and the advantages of having your name on the register. They can add your name to the register and you will then receive a registration card. There is no charge for registration. Registration is voluntary and you do not need to take it any further if you do not want to. You will still be able to receive some equipment and services even if you decide not to be registered.

Contact us and we will help you find the right information or put you in touch with one of our sensory loss workers.

Sensory loss workers may make phone contact or advise a visit to a Somerset Independent Living Centre to provide help and advice about problems of daily living, such as:

• cooking and household activities
• communication (referral to the low vision service, and talking books, as well as Braille and keyboard skills)
• getting around safely
• employment and leisure

There are no charges for an assessment or any advice given. The cost of equipment will vary depending on what is needed.

Rehabilitation Officers for Visual Impairment can offer training to support you to live independently at home for example using mobile phones, tablets and computers, building confidence preparing and cooking meals and confidence getting out and about outdoors.

Advocacy

An organisation called Swan Advocacy provides an independent advocacy service in Somerset.

Swan Advocacy contact details:
Somerset office
Hi-point, Thomas Street, Taunton, TA2 6HB
Phone: 03333 44 7928
Email: Somerset@swanadvocacy.org.uk
Website: swanadvocacy.org.uk

Somerset Sight may also be able to help.

Benefits

There are a variety of benefits available – some are given as a right, while others are paid depending on your circumstances.

There is no additional pension for a registered severely sight-impaired, blind, sight-impaired or partially sighted person. But there are other benefits and concessions available which you may be eligible for. A sensory loss worker for visually impaired people can give advice about these. Or you can contact the Action for Blind People Welfare Rights Unit or Royal National Institute of Blind People for information.

Income Tax Relief

An increased personal allowance is given to people registered severely sight-impaired, blind, sight-impaired or partially sighted.

Blue Badge

People registered as severely sight-impaired or blind automatically qualify for parking concessions under the Blue Badge Scheme. Please contact us for details.

TV Licence Reduction

People registered as severely sight-impaired or blind are entitled to a 50% reduction in their TV licence on production of proof of registration. You can find more information and apply at GOV.UK