As well as grants from RNIB, there are a number of different charities and organisations around the UK that may be able to provide you with financial assistance if you are blind or partially sighted and on a low income.
Your local authority
We recommend that you always try your local Social Services department first. Whether you are registered with them or not, they may be able to give you help with:
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fees for residential and nursing homes
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telephone installation and rental
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equipment to help you in your daily life
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adaptations to the home
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holidays.
Your local authority should also have a hardship scheme to help people on low incomes afford everyday household items. You should contact them directly to find out their qualifying criteria and how much money is available, since it varies between local authorities.
Your local Education Authority can also give help with equipment and transport for educational needs.
Charities
If you apply to a charity, sometimes they will only accept application forms signed by or sent by a social worker or other professional. Each charity's rules are different, so always contact them first to find out more.
Local societies for people with sight loss
There are many local voluntary societies for blind and partially sighted people around the UK. These local societies can be a great source of information and support, and may also be able to give you small grants for equipment. Search the Sightline Directory to find out contact details of your local society and what help they can give you. You can also call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 for more information.
Other local charities
You may also wish to try your local branch of the Rotary Club (01789 765 411), Round Table (0121 456 4402) or Lions Clubs (0845 833 9502).
National charities for people in need
There are a range of charities in the UK that give grants to blind and partially sighted people. Some only give grants for specific types of items (such as computer equipment), some give grants to certain sorts of people (such as ex-service personnel) and some, such as the Royal Blind Society, are specifically for people with sight loss.
We have produced a factsheet that gives details of other charities that may be able to give you funding:
You can also call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 for help with finding other charities that may be able to help you.
Turn2Us
If you are a professional helping someone with a sight problem, you may find the Turn2Us website useful. Their website also offers the Turn2Us assisted self-search feature if you are looking for more information on grants which suit your particular needs.
Further information
If you would like more advice about sources of help for you, and benefits and concessions you may be entitled to, call our Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or email helpline@rnib.org.uk.