Visual impairment support

Eye tests

It is important everyone has regular eye tests, especially if you have concerns about your eyes. You can find a local optician on the NHS website.

If you are unable to travel to an optician, it is possible to request an eye test at home. Housing Care has provided a list of opticians that offer Home Eye tests.

Blindness and visual impairment support

Experiencing a sight loss can result in every day tasks such as cooking, reading, going out and working, becoming quite difficult. The Visual Impairment Service assesses the needs of people with a long term or permanent visual impairment, or who have a dual sensory loss (both a sight loss and a hearing loss). Following the assessment of needs the following services may be provided:

• Loan or advice about equipment
• adaptations
• mobility training
• independent living skills training
• advice on a range of specialist services for visually impaired people

The team manages registration of visual impairment. You must be certified by an ophthalmologist, usually at a hospital. They will send a form to us so we can register you.

To request further help or advice, please contact the occupational therapy service.

Get a low vision assessment at the RNIB Low Vision Centre

The RNIB Low Vision Centre provides low vision assessments.

They can give information about sight loss, advise on adaptations and provide low visual aids.

They will tell you about other organisations who can to help you adapt and lead independent and fulfilling lives. This may include:

• rehabilitation services
• emotional support
• living with sight loss
• leisure activities

You do not need to be already registered as blind or partially sighted to have a low vision assessment.

To find out more and book an appointment, call 020 7391 2241.

Driving licence holders

In accordance with the advice shown on the driving licence, any driver with impaired vision should inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), who will consider each case on an individual basis.

Contact the DVLA on Tel No: 0870 600 0301.

Organisations providing support

For further support, you can contact:

• Haringey Citizens Advice – call 0808 278 7966
• Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) helpline – call 0303 123 9999
• Haringey Phoenix Group working with and for blind and partially sighted adults – 020 8889 7070