Cumbria Sight Loss Charities: 2024 Partner Organisations Survey

The five Cumbrian charities for people with visual impairment are working together to increase support to people experiencing or at risk of crisis.

This could be when someone is first diagnosed, or when they are experiencing a major change, such as the loss of a partner or care giver. These times can be very frightening, as people worry about how they will maintain their independence and quality of life. How well people adapt to such situations can impact their health and happiness for the rest of their life.

1. Emotional support to help people come to terms with their new situation.
2. Practical help and advice on lighting, magnifiers, and other aids/technology.
3. Help to claim benefits/other entitlements, including signposting to other services where available.
4. Help to stay active and connected to the community, e.g., by attending social groups, activities and/or support groups, including affordable transport.
5. Volunteering and other opportunities that use people’s skills and build their sense of purpose.

We want to work with partner organisations, including the NHS, local authorities, and community groups to identify and support visually impaired people going through periods of change.