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.
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:
Your local authority may 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. You can search for your local welfare scheme on the Child Poverty Action Group website.
If you live in:
Your local Education Authority can also give help with equipment and transport for educational needs.
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.
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.
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).
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 are specifically for people with sight loss.
The Turn2Us grants search tool provides a comprehensive and free way to search for grants online.
We have also 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 to find other charities that may be able to help you.