Visual impairment is when a person experiences some degree of irretrievable sight loss which cannot be corrected using glasses or contact lenses. There are two main categories of visual impairment – partially sighted, or sight impaired, where the level of sight loss is either moderate blindness. or severe sight impairment, where the level of sight loss is so severe that a person is unable to complete any activities that rely on eyesight
Being told you have a visual impairment that can't be treated can be difficult to come to terms with. Some people go through a process similar to bereavement, where they experience a range of emotions including shock, anger, and denial, before eventually coming to accept their condition
Guide Dogs UK ambition is to support every person with sight loss effectively so they have the confidence to live their lives to their full potential.
Blind Veterans UK offer support to any person who has served in the Armed Forces or who has done National Service. Their aim is to help anyone with a significant sight loss lead independent and fulfilling lives.
RNIB Cymru Visibly Better recognise that everyone’s experience of sight loss is unique. They offer help and support for blind and partially sighted people – this can be anything from practical and emotional support, campaigning for change.
Swansea Social Services has a Sensory Services Team which includes specialist social workers and care managers who support people with sight loss. Swansea Council can provide a range of information and practical support.
Deaf Blind UK support people with combined sight and hearing loss to live the lives they want. Whether you need support to get back on your feet after a diagnosis, a helping hand to do the things you love, someone to turn to when you low or for information and advice Deaf Blind UK can help
The Royal National College for the Blind (RNC), are the UK’s leading Further Education College for those aged 16 plus with visual impairment.
The NHS website provides you with free articles, videos, tools and advice to help you make the best choices in adapting to life when you are blind/visually impaired.
There is no need to face macular disease alone; Macular Society’s specialists provide one to one advice, Information, and guidance to anyone affected by central vision loss.
IGA provide information and support to glaucoma patients, the general public and professionals working in the eye health sector (eye clinic liaison officer, pharmacists, opticians, nurses, general practitioners, consultants).
Retina UK support people affected by inherited progressive sight loss and we invest in medical research to ensure that people can lead a fulfilling life.
RSBC provide a range of services across England and Wales for blind and partially sighted children and young people, their families, and the professionals who work alongside them.
