Current situation
The social care situation is failing blind and partially sighted people and things are getting worse rather than better. The support with everyday tasks such as shopping, cleaning and independent mobility that should be provided by local councils is being ever more tightly rationed. Faced by acute financial pressures, around three-quarters of councils now only provide services to people who have their needs judged as "critical" or "substantial". Those of us with sight problems do badly out of this, often because those assessing who is 'eligible' for care do not understand the impact of sight loss.
What is 'independent living'?
Independent living means those with disabilities enjoying the same choice, freedom, dignity, control and opportunities as people who are not disabled - at home, at work, and as members of the community. It does not mean individuals doing everything for themselves, but it does mean that any practical assistance people need should be based on their own choices and aspirations (Source: Disability Rights Commission (DRC)]
What does the Action for independent living campaign aim to do?
Access to high quality social care services at the time they are needed makes a major contribution to improving the quality of life of blind and partially sighted people and is essential to enable people to fulfil their own potential for independent living. The Action for independent living campaign aims to do two things:
Get local councils to recognise the severe impact that being or becoming blind or partially sighted can have on a person's life and
Ensure that local councils act on this recognition and improve what is on offer to blind and partially sighted people in their area.
How can I get involved?
RNIB is working to ensure that people with sight loss can access the support they deserve and need wherever they live in the UK. But we need your help. We've produced an Action for independent living campaign guide that gives you the information and ideas you need to argue, influence and fight for improved support and services in your area.
As well as the short campaign guide, RNIB has developed an Action for independent living campaign pack, which includes more detailed information about the campaign and a wide range of actions that you can take to support the campaign, regardless of how much or little time you may have. Please ask your Regional Campaigns Officer for a copy of the pack.
Your Regional Campaigns Officer is on hand to put you in touch with others who are taking action in your local area or to provide you with support to help you plan and take forward your own local campaign.
The RNIB campaigns toolkit offers tips and information for successful campaigning