Parents are likely to particularly relate to Nick Radford whose story is featured in a new RNIB film about registering sight loss.
Nick has retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic condition which leads to progressive loss of vision. In the film he explains that his vision has deteriorated significantly in the last six months and that he is now ready to seek some advice and support.
Nick’s initial reaction to the idea of registering his sight loss was less than positive: “When I was first informed that I could be certified as visually impaired I was in my mid-teens. My initial reaction was very negative and all I could think of was, ‘I’m not disabled, I’m not blind, I’m not going to put myself into that box.’ It was that psychological barrier of thinking that’s me admitting defeat.”
The film dispels myths about registration and clearly explains what’s involved and how it can lead to further support.
Lots of people are unclear about the difference between certification and registration, whose vision can be certified, the fact that registration is voluntary, and the advantages that come with it.
If you’re a parent you might feel wary of a “label” unless you can see some advantages for your child. Nick’s take on it is: “I began to realise that whether I’m certified or not, my condition is the same, but with certification come this whole heap of benefits and opportunities and support. As long as I don’t let that sort of define me then it doesn’t change anything, it just helps.”
“Registration” simply means being on your local social service’s register of people who are either severely sight impaired (blind) or sight impaired (partially sighted). The register is confidential, and entirely voluntary. Before someone can register, they need a certificate of vision impairment.
Having chosen to be registered Nick Radford comments: “I do regret that I didn’t do it earlier because there is so much help on offer… You don’t need to take any of it but my advice would be to just try and be as objective as possible. I understand the emotions and the fears, but they really are significantly outweighed by the benefits.” “Being registered can make life more affordable”
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