Vision Web Sight: RNIB - in their own words

Following an invitation by VisionWebSight to contribute to this blog and outline what the Royal National Institute for Blind People (RNIB) do as an organisation, this is their response:

1. What we do

RNIB is a charity and we have three clear priorities: stopping people losing their sight unnecessarily, supporting blind and partially sighted people to live independently and creating an inclusive society.

We listen, campaign, work energetically with others and show what can be achieved. Our work includes:

Campaigning to ensure proven treatments for sight-threatening conditions are available on the NHS.

Offering emotional and practical support, products to make life easier and advice about money, eye health and local services.

Improving educational opportunities for blind and partially sighted children and adults, including those with complex needs.

Enabling people with sight loss to retain and gain jobs.

Working with transport operators, retailers and banks to enable more people with sight loss to travel, shop and run their own finances.

Influencing partners across the world to make computers, television, mobile phones and satellite navigation systems easier to use

for people with sight loss.

2. Our Helpline

If you, someone you know, or someone you support has a sight problem, RNIB can help.

Our helpline is your direct line to the support, advice and products you
need to remain independent. We're there to:

give you free information about your eye condition and availabletreatments

direct you to support available in your local area and beyond,

from RNIB and other organisations including Action for Blind People

let you know about any financial benefits and discounts that you could be entitled to

recommend everyday products that can help make life easier,

available from RNIB and other centres

suggest ways you can continue to enjoy your hobbies and leisure time

help you join and use our library service of over 40,000 titles in braille, moon, giant print and audio

let you know about employment, training and education opportunities

advise on housing options, whether staying in your own home or moving elsewhere

provide access to emotional support and counselling services

or simply to offer a listening ear.

Our specialist advice workers will spend time with you over the phone, making sure the support they give is right for you. We'll call you back a few weeks later to find out how you're getting on and what else we can do to help.

RNIB Helpline
Telephone: 0303 123 9999
Email: helpline@rnib.org.uk
Website: rnib.org.uk

What would you lose from your life if you lost your sight? RNIB helps people who have lost their sight to find their lives again. Right now we can only reach one in three of those who need our help the most. You can help us reach everyone. Visit rnib.org.uk/lost