About registration
Registering with your local council can make it easier to get practical support from your social services department. It can also be a 'passport' to getting concessions and benefits, such as travel, parking and TV licence concessions.
For example, as well as helping you get support with doing everyday tasks, becoming registered as blind or partially sighted entitles you to travel and other concessions such as the Disabled Person's Railcard and local travel schemes. If you are registered as blind, you are also entitled to a tax allowance worth £1,890 in 2009-10, free NHS sight tests, parking concessions and free postage on some items.
Being registered also includes not having to pay the VAT on applicable products within RNIB's Online Shop. Registration is voluntary but it can help you get the support you need. Find out more about the benefits of registration.
(It is important to note, however, that loss of sight in only one eye does not qualify you for registration unless you have poor sight in your other eye.)
How to get registered
If you are having problems with your sight, you should visit a high street optician (optometrist) or your doctor for a check-up. If necessary, they can refer you to an eye clinic for an appointment with an ophthalmologist (eye specialist).
Find out more about eye examinations.
A consultant ophthalmologist can assess whether you qualify for registration as either:
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sight impaired (partially sighted)
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or severely sight impaired (blind).
If they think you do qualify, the ophthalmologist will complete a certificate of vision impairment and send it to your local social services department.
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Social services will then contact you to find out what help and advice you need, for instance developing skills to help with remaining independent or with everyday tasks such as cleaning and cooking, keeping in touch with friends and family, or with transport.
Find out more about getting support from your local council.
Getting help before you register
If you are having difficulties because of your sight problem, it is important that you let social services know, and to ask for information and support at an early stage. Getting help and advice when difficulties first emerge can make all the difference to your independence. Getting help if you have a sight problem gives more information about this. You do not have to wait till you are registered.
RNIB Helpline is your direct line to the support, advice and products you need from RNIB and Action for Blind People to remain independent.
More information
Download our leaflet to read more about the registration process and the help and concessions you can get from being registered:
You can also call our Helpline for advice on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk.
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This information gives general guidance only and is not an authoritative statement of the law.