Coping with sight loss

Recently diagnosed with a sight problem? Adapting to sight loss is our easy to read guide to getting the information and help you need, so that you can go on living your life to the full.

RNIB Helpline is your direct line to the support, advice and products you need RNIB and Action for Blind People to remain independent.

One of the things that can help is to make the most of your remaining sight by making things bigger, bolder and brighter - we offer useful tips for making things easier to see.

Losing your sight can have a huge impact on your life and some people struggle to come to terms with it. Our information about Emotional support and counselling can help you understand why you are feeling the way you do, and support you if are struggling.

If you have sight problems and need some assistance in your home, find out how to get help from a volunteer and what support they can offer.

Older people


If you are an older person, or feel unsafe when out and about, keeping your social life going can be difficult. Telebefriending keeps people in contact with one another through telephone social groups - find out about Talk and support.

Parents


Parent's Place is for parents of children with sight problems, whether they themselves a sight problem or not. Find out about:
  • coming to terms with your child's sight problem
  • living with a blind or partially sighted child and what you can do to support their development
  • the role of other family members such as brothers, sisters and grandparents
  • tips for getting the most from clinic appointments and a who's who of the different people working with children in health and social care
  • where to get practical support such as state benefits, respite, a Blue Badge for easy parking.
Our magazines and newsletters will help to keep you up to date with news and new products.

Young people and students


If you are a young person with sight loss, our Young people section is the place for you. With information on a wide range of issues including:
  • School life and planning ahead
  • Starting college or university
  • Leaving home
  • Starting work
  • Ideas of what you can do in your free time!
  • Gadgets and ICT
  • Tough times and emotional support
  • Mindseye blog
  • Inspirational Stories

This section of the RNIB website has been co-designed with young people across the UK. It includes a variety of individual experiences, case studies and information from young people at each stage of their lives.

RNIB Helpline

RNIB Helpline is your direct line to the support, advice and products you need from RNIB and Action for Blind People to remain independent.

Last updated: 29 April 2013

Make a donation

Right now we can only reach one in three of the people who need our help most.

Please make a donation and help us support more blind and partially sighted people.

Sightline Directory

Find services and organisations that help blind and partially sighted people in the UK.

Accessible places


From airports to zoos, Direct Enquiries helps you find accessible buildings and services throughout the UK.