What help is available for me as the family/carer of a child or young person with a vision impairment?

Your child should be referred to a Local Authority Vision Impairment teaching service, (sometimes called Sensory Support/Specialist teaching service) by their eye clinic once they have been diagnosed with a vision impairment. A QTVI (Qualified Teacher of children with Vision Impairment) and Habilitation Specialist from the VI team can support and advise you about early learning and living skills such as feeding, eating, toys, play and mobility. They will also arrange support for your child in their nursery, school and college as they move through their education.

RNIB's Parent's Guide is a comprehensive manual about caring for and living with a child with a vision impairment. It contains eye information to help you understand your child's diagnosis, details of the professionals who can support you, information about home life in the early years, toys and play, development, securing the right support in nursery and school and considering social and leisure opportunities. You can also find lots of useful information on Guide Dogs Family Support webpages.

Consider contacting your Local Blind Society to check if they offer any services specific to children and families. You can find your nearest local society on the Sightline Directory by entering your postcode and the search words 'local society'.

For further information see Are there any activity or social breaks and events available for children with vision impairment?, How can I meet other parents and families in a similar situation? and What organisations provide services to help families of a child with a vision impairment?

What help is available for me as the family/carer of a child or young person with a vision impairment?

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