| r
|
Presentation to Wales Eyecare Conference 2024
This booklet explains the different formats you can get information in such as large print, audio and
braille. As well as how to use lighting and
technology like magnifiers and
eBooks.
The report has been developed to support all those working in library services to develop their knowledge and understanding of how best to support people with
visual impairment and sight loss in their communities.
Visually impaired children and
young people across Wales have access to The Low Vision Scheme which provides low vision aids, free of
charge. There are 170 accredited high street
optometrists and dispensing
opticians located across Wales who offer low vision aid
assessments free of charge. Under the scheme currently, only low tech low vision aids (such as optical magnifiers) are available. There is a growing concern that children and young people are not using their optical magnifiers, mainly because of their distasteful designs and limited magnification capabilities.
The number of people with sight loss in Wales is expected to rise by 30 per cent by 2030 and double by 2050. Yet in recent years, we have seen a decline in the Vision
Rehabilitation Specialist workforce needed to provide the right level of support to this growing cohort. Due to the system being under-resourced, too many blind and partially sighted people are not receiving vision rehabilitation support in a timely manner. This shortfall in support increases the pressure on other services in health and
social care, and many local authorities have no clear
plans for workforce renewal.
A group of documents giving guidance on the CVI and
Referral letter. Applies to England, although documents state that the
Welsh government was consulted in their production.
In recent years, we have seen a decline in the number of vision
rehabilitation officers in Wales. As a result, many blind and partially sighted people are failing to receive the vision rehabilitation support that they need in a timely manner. This crucial support reduces the pressure on other services such as health and wider
social care services. We are already under-resourced in this field and there are no clear
plans for workforce renewal. With the number of blind and partially sighted people expecting to increase by 32% by 2030 and double by 2050 this situation will worsen dramatically if no action is taken. It is essential that local authorities invest in this workforce now. This paper outlines the problem in more detail and asks that Local Authority Social Care departments address the situation as a matter of urgency.
This guide aims to give you clarity over your rights, and more confidence while travelling.
An investigation into the problems faced by
bus passengers who are blind or partially sighted and the isolation caused.
Roundup is a quarterly newsletter produced by Wales Council of the Blind. It is distributed to over 1200 individuals and professionals working in the field of
vision impairment.
