Title:
Understanding the needs of blind and partially sighted people: their experiences, perspectives, and expectations.
Author:
SSMR at the University of Surrey.
Publisher:
SSMR, on behalf of RNIB.
Year of publication:
2009.
Background
The overall aims of the research were:
-
to gain an understanding of the experiences, needs and expectations of blind and partially sighted people
-
to explore ways in which they can be supported to lead independent and fulfilling lives; and to investigate how needs change over time.
This report presents a summary of information collected through in-depth interviews with people who are blind and partially sighted. Recommendations are also included.
Key findings
The report presents a wide range of experiences in the participants' own words. A overview of some of the themes explored includes:
-
Key life changes, especially the loss of independence.
-
Support received by participants, as reported.
-
Employment (challenges in obtaining work and receiving adequate support within work).
-
Emotional support.
-
Information needs (what information, where to obtain it, provision in suitable formats).
-
Transport (public services, cost, environment).
-
Education (mainstream, specialist, and further education institutions).
-
Enablement (making the most of residual sight and encouraging independence).
Downloads
Accessibility: this document was published by a third party and therefore It may not be fully accessible to RNIB's standards.
Executive summary
Full report
Additional information