ECLOs work closely with medical and nursing staff in the eye clinic, as well as the sensory team in social services, to connect you with the practical and emotional support you need to understand your diagnosis, deal with your sight loss and maintain your independence.
Most importantly, the ECLO has the time to dedicate to patients following consultation, so you can discuss the impact your condition will have on your life.
Where ECLOs exist, they quickly become central to the welfare of patients in an eye clinic by providing emotional support, detailed knowledge of eye conditions, rehabilitation services, local and national support services and support groups, as well as acting as the bridge between health and social services.
How can an ECLO help me?
The ECLO is there to offer you individual advice, emotional support and information at the time most helpful to you. This might be at your first clinic appointment, or you may decide to see the ECLO at a later date.
Where can I find an ECLO?
ECLOS are based in hospital eye clinics. Some may cover a number of clinics or be available on certain days and times - check with reception staff in the clinic. At the moment not all clinics will have this service. For a full list of the locations of ECLOs (and other Early Intervention Support) please see our 'Register of hospitals in the UK with eye clinic support' document below.
Register of hospitals in the UK with eye clinic support (Word, 371 KB)
What advice can an ECLO provide for me?
The ECLO is there to provide up to date information on local and national resources which you may need to know about. They will be able to tell you where to get the help you may need or will advocate for you by making referrals on your behalf.
Information will be available on a range of topics, including:
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eye conditions
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welfare benefits
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employment issues
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mental health
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physical disabilities
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children's services
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voluntary organisations and local support groups.
ECLOs are also able to explain to you the process of becoming registered as blind or partially sighted and the benefits to being registered.
Can my family or carers see the ECLO too?
If you give your permission for this, yes, the ECLO will welcome discussion with others who are affected by your sight difficulties.
Will the ECLO be able to talk to me about my eye condition?
ECLOS are well informed about eye conditions and will be able to provide you with information.
However, medical queries specific to your own eye problems will need to be answered by the doctor in clinic. The ECLO is able to advocate on your behalf if you need help asking the questions.
How are referrals made to the ECLO?
The ECLO may be asked to see a patient in clinic by the doctor, an optometrist or a nurse. You are also able to ask to see the ECLO yourself and we encourage patients to do this. The ECLO also receives referrals by telephone, email and letter.
The doctor in clinic advised me to see the ECLO - do I have to?
No the choice is yours, but if you change your mind later the ECLO will be pleased to see you when it is most helpful to you.
I am managing well now but what if I need help in the future?
If you have concerns about the future the ECLO will be able to advise you on what help may be available and where to go to get that help
The ECLO is there to offer you support at the best time for you as an individual. You may wish to discuss your needs with the ECLO now or at a future time if your situation changes or becomes more difficult.
English is not my first language - will this be a problem when seeing the ECLO?
If you need an interpreter the ECLO will be able to arrange this before seeing you and will then offer you an appointment to come in to the clinic to discuss your needs.
Does the ECLO see all age groups?
ECLOS are usually contracted to work with all age groups. (Some are contracted to work with a specific age group eg - older people.) However ECLOs will provide information and advice to anyone who requests their support
I have a problem with my employment because of my eyesight - can the ECLO advise me on this?
ECLOS can advise you where to get appropriate advice or information on employment and can put you in touch with the relevant professionals.
Can I see the ECLO about my child's difficulties at school?
Yes - the ECLO will put you in touch with sensory support services for children in your area.
Is the ECLO professionally trained?
ECLOS undertake the RNIB Eye Clinic Studies Course affiliated to the City University London, and are trained to a high standard. They are offered opportunities for continuing professional development to enable them to offer their clients the highest quality service.