Coronavirus updates

Call the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 from anywhere in the UK and get the information and support you need. Where appropriate, calls will be referred to the specific services required across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales.

The voice command "Alexa, call RNIB Helpline" now triggers a new functionality on Amazon's service
31 March 2021
If you're in need of RNIB's services, support or advice, you can access our Helpline directly through an Alexa device.

Working in NI to ensure the vaccine programme is accessible for blind and partially sighted people
25 March 2021
Health Minister Robin Swann has praised RNIB's role in creating advice for staff involved with administrating the coronavirus vaccine.

RNIB's 'Living Well with Sight Loss: Focus on' courses include sessions dedicated to daily life during coronavirus
17 March 2021
Join these free and informal courses to learn more about social distancing guidelines, maintaining mental wellbeing, organisational support and more.

Coronavirus has caused many eye clinic appointments to be delayed for people with Glaucoma
12 March 2020
RNIB offers guidance and information for people with Glaucoma who may be experiencing appointment delays.

Care home providers in England issue guidance allowing visitors with sighted guides
11 March 2021
Care home residents are allowed one regular visitor but new CPA guidance clarifies that care homes can allow a blind or partially sighted visitor to “bring a sighted guide with them”, or the care home can provide “a member of staff to act as a sighted guide”.

RNIB asks for the needs of pupils with vision impairment to be considered as children return to school
11 March 2021
We have updated guidance that we produced jointly with NatSIP and VIEW about the return to school and how support for children with VI can be provided.

RNIB announces 13 June 2021 as new date for The Big Jump 
8 March 2021 
Our fundraising skydivers will be setting off from airfields across the UK.

Hackney Half Marathon confirms 26 September 2021 as new event date
24 February 2021
Sign up and join Team RNIB for the run.

Government makes major accessibility improvements to coronavirus home testing
15 February 2021
Coronavirus home tests are about to become far more accessible, after RNIB's campaigning and its work with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).

Calling for blind and partially sighted people to get priority access to coronavirus vaccination
10 February 2021
RNIB, Guide Dogs and Thomas Pocklington Trust have written to the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).

Research into improving accessibility of coronavirus home testing
21 January 2021
RNIB is supporting NHS Test and Trace research and looking for participants.

Free newspaper subscription for people with sight loss during coronavirus
20 January 2021
RNIB is offering a free subscription to a newspaper or broadcast guide via its Newsagent service during the coronavirus pandemic.

How we can help with home learning and other lockdown challenges
18 January 2021
We offer support with home learning and access to the food, services and information blind and partially sighted people need.

Answering your questions on the coronavirus vaccine programme
14 January 2021
Sight Advice FAQ provides information on when the vaccine will be administered and what happens when you get it.

RNIB shares activities and resources to support families during lockdown
13 January 2021
Advice on home schooling, online sessions, available resources and family-friendly activities are included.

Lockdown support and advice for parents and professionals working with children and young people
12 January 2021 
There's a range of help and resources RNIB offers.

Essential shopping information and supermarket updates
12 January 2021
For anyone struggling to secure essentials including food or groceries, please contact the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999.

RNIB offers various resources for mental wellbeing during coronavirus
05 January 2021
Whether you’re struggling with feelings of isolation and need to speak to someone, or want some tips on how to stay active and maintain your mental health, we can support you. 

Helpline opening hours for the festive season
21 December 2020
Call us to get advice and information during the Christmas period.

RNIB Scotland calls and groups during the winter
21 December 2020
We are holding group telephone calls throughout the winter months and everyone is welcome.

Connect with others this Christmas
21 December 2020
Our community-led groups offer a welcoming and supportive environment.

Asda pledges support to customers with sight loss
16 December 2020
We acknowledge Asda's support in circulating RNIB’s best practice guidance to 140,000 staff across 640 UK-wide stores, 23 depots and three home offices.

Government clarifies rules on sighted guiding during lockdown
19 November 2020
In response, we’ve updated our guidance on sighted guiding during lockdown in England.

Calling for better accessibility of public health information on coronavirus
10 November 2020
RNIB, with a group of leading disability charities, challenges Downing Street directly over the accessibility of coronavirus public health information.

Advice for the clinically extremely vulnerable during second lockdown
6 November 2020
Further advice from the Department of Health and Social Care, for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable, has been announced.

Coronavirus and retinal screening for people with diabetes
4 November 2020
Read our latest information on coronavirus and retinal screening for people with diabetes.

What to do if you are worried about your vision during coronavirus
4 November 2020
Read our latest guidance on what to do if you're worried about your vision during lockdown or your local and national restrictions.

Accessing food and groceries while UK faces tougher restrictions
2 November 2020
RNIB can support blind or partially sighted people secure priority delivery slots from supermarkets.

Wearable aids launched for individuals who have difficulty social distancing 
29 October 2020
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme has launched a new range of wearable items that it hopes will help people who struggle to social distance.

225 Marathon Mates reach the finish line
23 October 2020
During lockdown in September, Team RNIB covered a total of 2,246 miles in our virtual event; raising more than £33,000 for RNIB. 

RNIB and Mind to offer emergency mental health sessions
10 October 2020
During these challenging times, it's extremely important to look after our mental health, and RNIB is here to help.

A Wales without barriers for sight loss
8 October 2020
The task ahead of this Senedd will be to build Wales back from the unprecedented events that we're currently all experiencing. 

RNIB Scotland calls for more inclusivity in A Vision for the 2020s
6 October 2020
RNIB Scotland asks all political parties to build on the greater social cohesiveness that the coronavirus pandemic has engendered.

Updates on sighted guiding and wearing face coverings in England
29 September 2020
We've updated two pieces of guidance following new government measures.

Please Give Me Space wearable launches
22 September 2020
The wearable should remind people to give space to keep each other safe.

It's National Eye Health Week
21 September 2020
Many eye care services that were put on hold during lockdown are now up and running again.

Supporting people outside of their home - guidance issued in England
4 September 2020
The government has confirmed that blind and partially sighted people in England can be guided by people outside their household.

Helpline opening hours revert to 9am-1pm on Saturdays and remain 8am-8pm on weekdays
1 September 2020
We can better serve our customers by redeploying our team to the busy peak times. 

Essential shopping information and supermarket updates
28 August 2020
Key information about supermarket priority delivery slots and new initiatives.

Advice on wearing face coverings when you have sight loss
20 August 2020
Our community shares some tips and recommendations.

RNIB and Guide Dogs launch social distancing guidance for NI
19 August 2020
We have developed guidance with a range of partners which has been issued in NI.

Our five fave Summer reads for 2020
13 August 2020
Why not read something that will transport your mind to somewhere new? 

Social distancing updates and useful links
12 August 2020
Sight Advice FAQ has useful information and links to the Government's card and badge downloads.

London Marathon 2020 cancelled
7 August 2020
London Marathon Events have confirmed that the 2020 London Marathon mass event which was due to take place on 4 October has been cancelled.

Oxford Half Marathon 2020 postponed to 2021
31 July 2020
The Oxford Half Marathon organisers have confirmed that this year's event will be postponed to 2021. The provisional new event date is Sunday 10 October 2021.

Government sets out list of face covering exemptions
24 July 2020
The Government has set out a list of face covering exemptions, which includes disabled people in some circumstances, as they become mandatory in additional enclosed spaces in England from today.

Manchester Marathon 2020 cancelled
17 July 2020
Next Manchester Marathon is on 11 April 2021

Going for an eye examination in England
10 July 2020
As lockdown eases, we explain what you can expect.

Update on glaucoma clinic appointments
10 July 2020
Read our update on routine clinic appointments and surgery as they resume.

RNIB launches Marathon Mates virtual running event for September
9 July 2020
Make your pair and sign up to run the distance of a marathon (26.2 miles) between you during the month.

Major brands back #WorldUpsideDown campaign on Piccadilly Lights
9 July 2020
Read about why they are supporting RNIB's new social distancing initiative.

RNIB NI warns of "double lockdown" for people with sight loss
9 July 2020
As lockdown eases, RNIB NI is warning that blind and partially sighted people’s independence is increasingly under threat.  

RNIB launches #WorldUpsideDown campaign with Piccadilly Lights takeover
6 July 2020
Explaining how hard social distancing can be for blind and partially sighted people. 

Social distancing with sight loss
6 July 2020
We are raising awareness of the difficulties and how the public can help.

Employment after lockdown
26 June 2020
While the advice is still to work from home where possible, we have a range of fact sheets and information for employers.

Food service with support for shoppers with sight loss expands reach
23 June 2020
After successful trial Food Shop adds more distribution areas.

Supermarket priority slots now available in England
16 June 2020
People who qualify can be referred through RNIB’s Helpline on 0303 123 9999.

Eye health during coronavirus updates
16 June 2020
Advice about your sight or eye condition during coronavirus.

Diabetes Week 2020: how coronavirus is affecting screening
11 June 2020
A reminder on the importance of retinal screening for people with diabetes.

Trial shopping service with support for people with sight loss launches
9 June 2020
Food Shop is currently being trialled in Essex and Hertfordshire.

A big thank you to carers giving extra support to people with sight loss
8 June 2020 
It's Carers Week and we know the coronavirus outbreak is putting everyone under more pressure.

Staying connected - video tips for keeping in touch
5 June 2020
RNIB's Tech for Life team shares its insight in a short film.

Double Dash 2020 cancelled
3 June 2020
We are sorry to confirm that due to coronavirus, we’ve made the decision not to reschedule RNIB Double Dash 2020, which was due to take place on Sunday 31 May.

Hackney Half marathon postponed to 16 May 2021
1 June 2020
Register interest for the 2021 event with Team RNIB.

Northern Ireland: advice for blind and partially sighted people during coronavirus
30 May 2020
The devolved government and the community sector in Northern Ireland have issued a document with details of local support. 

Join our campaign for safe streets
26 May 2020
As the pandemic prompts changes, we ask people in England to write to their local councillor.

More good news on accessing groceries in Northern Ireland
26 May 2020
Four hundred and eighty seven SPAR, EUROSPAR, ViVO, ViVOXTRA and ViVO Essentials stores have pledged support.

Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 2020 is cancelled 
22 May 2020
Find out the latest from the Challenge events team.

Seven #InfoForAll achievements during coronavirus
21 May 2020
RNIB has been campaiging for every Government update to be accessible.

The importance of accessibility for all on Global Accessibility Awareness Day
20 May 2020
We are all staring at screens more and more, so GAAD is timely.

Government appoints national lead for accessible information on coronavirus
20 May 2020
Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, confirms a senior lead for accessible information following our letter to the PM.

Resources for mental wellbeing during coronavirus
20 May 2020
During this challenging time, it's vital we look after our mental health.

Supermarkets make changes in reaction to RNIB’s best practice guidance
20 May 2020
We've been working closely with several leading supermarkets to try to make sure they’re meeting the needs of blind or partially sighted customers.

RNIB Connect Radio puts focus on fraud prevention this week
19 May 2020
Recent reports detail how some fraudsters are exploiting the coronavirus situation - here are some tips on how to stay vigilant.

Government's SEISS for self-employed goes live 
13 May 2020
Essential information and links on Sight Advice FAQ site.

Five tips for working from home for people with sight loss
13 May 2020
Our employment team has advice people who are finding this a new way of working.

Take our survey: coronavirus and remaking our streets
12 May 2020
Let us know what you think as the Government seeks to encourage more walking and cycling.

Musgrave provides essential support for blind and partially sighted people
11 May 2020
RNIB NI has praised the food retailer for the measures it is taking during the coronavirus pandemic.

Funds made available to support blind and partially sighted musicians
7 May 2020
The Elizabeth Eagle-Bott Memorial Fund is asking blind and partially sighted musicians to apply for special funding during coronavirus.

First Minister letter and leaflet on COVID-19 in Scotland
6 May 2020
A text version of Nicola Sturgeon's letter and a link to an audio version of the Government leaflet.

RNIB joins the nation congratulating Captain Tom on his 100th Birthday
30 April 2020
Sooty has joined RNIB staff and supporters in a special birthday video.

RNIB reacts to Government’s plans to expand access to shoppers at risk of missing out
29 April 2020
RNIB, with other sight loss charities, has been calling for better supermarket access for people with sight loss.

RNIB moves coronavirus response to next stage as it urges more Government action
22 April 2020
Activity includes a national radio campaign, a petition to the Government, a letter to No. 10 Downing Street and high profile media opportunities.

RNIB sends supermarkets and retailers guidance on how to help blind and partially sighted shoppers
16 April 2020
Shoppers are urged to share tips and poster with local outlets.

RNIB's Connect Radio gives essential daily updates
16 April 2020
The Daily Connect is live at 10am with a two hour show.

Key shopping FAQs: how do I get my shopping delivered and more
15 April 2020
Details of how supermarkets are prioritising and helping those with disabilities through their online delivery services.

Free newspaper subscription for people with sight loss during coronavirus
14 April 2020
RNIB is helping people with sight loss keep up to date during the coronavirus pandemic by offering a free subscription to a newspaper or broadcast guide via its Newsagent service.

RNIB launches urgent fundraising appeal
9 April 2020
Blind and partially sighted people need information and support more than ever.

Frequently asked questions and answers for parents of children with vision impairment
7 April 2020
We have compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions in relation to the coronavirus by parents of children with vision impairment on Sight Advice FAQ.

Calling out inaccessible coronavirus information
6 April 2020
We’ve been challenging organisations to make sure their information relating to Covid-19 is accessible for all, and already we’ve seen some positive changes.

RNIB calls for better supermarket access during pandemic
2 April 2020
Thousands sign petition asking Government and supermarkets to work together to give blind and partially sighted people access to priority delivery slots. 

The Prime Minister's letter to the nation on coronavirus
30 March 2020
We have reproduced the letter as an accessible Word document for anyone to download, and in full on our page about the Prime Minister's letter.

Advice factsheet for people who are waiting for cataract surgery
30 March 2020
Delays in routine surgery due to the current situation with coronavirus could mean that if you are waiting for cataract surgery, your wait will be extended. While this is unavoidable, the following information may help you to cope while you wait. 

What to do if you are worried about your vision during the coronavirus pandemic
30 March 2020
If you have vision symptoms that you are worried about, our advice may help you.

RNIB NI urges public bodies to ensure important information is accessible for blind and partially sighted people
30 March 2020
RNIB NI has published a guide to help.

Working to ensure vital information about public health is accessible 
25 March 2020
How RNIB is supporting the NHS, Government and businesses with accessible communications. 

Eye Clinic Support Service in Scotland: update
25 March 2020
ECLOs are working from home and continuing to deliver our service.

How we are helping parents of children and young people with vision impairment
25 March 2020
The combined impact of school closures, social distancing and self-isolation presents unique challenges to our community and we're doing all we can to help the parents of children and young people with vision impairment.

Essential sight advice FAQs - from shopping to eye health and key sources of help
25 March 2020
Key information to help blind and partially sighted people follow Government guidance and get support.

RNIB schools and colleges update
24 March 2020
Sunshine House School is currently closed until further notice and RNIB Loughborough College is open at limited capacity.

Coronavirus: Four ways you can help people with sight loss
23 March 2020
If you're interested in giving a helping hand to people with sight loss during the Covid-19 pandemic, read our tips.

Coronavirus: Five ways to look after your mental health
23 March 2020
As many go into self-isolation, we have listed our five top tips for maintaining your physical and mental health.

Video message from David Clarke, RNIB Director of Services
21 March 2020
Our eye clinic staff are working hard to continue to be there for blind and partially sighted people, even in the most challenging of circumstances.

Video message from Matt Stringer, RNIB Chief Executive
20 March 2020
Our Chief Executive explains how blind and partially sighted people can access support and services we offer during this challenging time.

Coronavirus: Five ways RNIB services can help
19 March 2020
Our teams are working hard and we aim to increase our support for blind and partially sighted people over the coming weeks.

RNIB Products for Life stores closure
19 March 2020
We have closed our Products for Life stores in response to the coronavirus situation, but you can still order items from our Online Shop.

Suspension of disability benefit assessments
17 March 2020
Face-to-face assessments for disability benefits have been suspended for three months in light of the coronavirus outbreak. This will apply to claimants of Personal Independence Payment, Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit, and also recipients of Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit.

Coronavirus update
17 March 2020
RNIB is putting the welfare of its customers, volunteers and employees first and is following the UK Government’s advice with regard to coronavirus. We have suspended most face-to-face activities, including groups and events, until further notice. In the meantime, we will offer telephone and online alternatives where possible.

Challenge events and coronavirus update
16 March 2020
We are sorry to confirm that due to coronavirus, we have to postpone or cancel some of our challenge events.