At the end of last year, blind and partially sighted people from Derbyshire were shocked to find they were facing cuts to the much-needed VI Rehabilitation service in Derby.
Supported by RNIB, Local Society Sight Support Derbyshire and Action for Blind People East Midlands, campaigners swung into action by challenging the Council's Equality Impact Assessment process and holding a well attended protest, gaining media support and support from local MPs.
The council's decision came just before Christmas, when they announced they would cut the rehab support from two specialist Rehabilitation Officers to just one. We believe that swift local action succeeded in retaining one post and ensured that the contract was extended to a year from just three months. But there is more to be done. It is now incredibly important that we keep the profile of this campaign high, as there is still a real risk of loosing the service altogether at the end of this year.
If you live in the Derby area and you want to support this campaign, or know anyone who might, now is the time to get involved! Over the next few months we will be asking for as many people as possible to meet with their MPs to emphasise the importance of this service and how it impacts on their lives. There will also be ongoing work with the Council to make sure that this matter stays at the front of their minds.
If you'd like any further information on this campaign please contact Regional campaigns officer, Claire Kay on
claire.kay@rnib.org.uk