Services for Visually Impaired Adults

• In Brief
• In Detail
• Get in Touch

• Money, benefits and income

  There are no automatic entitlements to benefits if you are registered. However there are some benefits and concessions which you may be entitled to.

• Transport and travel

  There are a number of transport schemes available to the registered disabled or partially sighted.

• Employment and training

  Your local Jobcentre can assist you in your jobsearch.

• Newham Library Service and reading support

  Our library service stocks a wide range of large print books, story cassettes, music cassettes and compact discs at all of our libraries. There are also reading machines at Plaistow and Stratford libraries, which can transfer printed documents into speech and Braille.

• Where do I go if I'm having problems with my eyesight?

  The first contact for most people will be with their optician or local optometrist. It is important to have regular examinations.

• What if I'm not registered but still having problems?

  You don't have to be registered as blind or partially sighted.

• Support and rehabilitation

• Other social services / council support

  As part of the assessment, it may be identified that other support may be of benefit, such as additional care support or alternative equipment.

• Banks, bills, phone and postal services

  The Disability Discrimination Act now means service providers are required to make reasonable adjustments to ensure their services are accessible.

• Managing sight loss - national and local support

  The impact of sight loss is unique to the person who experiences it. The Sensory Disability Team can assist with practical matters but sometimes the emotional impact can be overwhelming. It is therefore particularly important to know what help, support and advice is available locally and nationally.

• Registration for blind and partially sighted adults

  Newham Council offers registration for blind and partially sighted people with the department.

• FAQs