Sensory Impairment - What services are available for people who are blind or partially-sighted?

Do you have any difficulties:

• moving around your home safely;
• getting out and about safely and independently;
• preparing and cooking meals for yourself;
• using your kitchen appliances safely;
• maintaining your home; or
• reading or writing the printed word?

If so, Cumbria County Council's Adult Social Care service has rehabilitation officers (for visual impairment) who may be able to provide:

• an assessment of your needs;
• equipment, advice, training and support to help you maintain your independence;
• care services such as meals on wheels, home care and day care;
• one to one training in all aspects of daily living;
• training to help you travel safely indoors or out;
• training in typing skills, handwriting and Braille;
• advice and support in the use of magnifiers and lighting; and
• advice regarding registration as ‘sight impaired’ or ‘severely sight impaired’.

Adult Social Care also has social workers who can assess your needs for care services such as meals on wheels, home care and day care.

If you think we can help, contact your nearest Cumbria County Council Adult Social Care office (see address details at the back of this leaflet) and ask for an assessment of need.

Alternatively, if you have had an appointment with a consultant ophthalmologist, they may write to us on your behalf asking for a rehabilitation officer to visit you.